When you find a movie, most of the time, the description is what draws you in. Train to Busan is an exception. The detailed visuals on the poster leave you curious and almost emotional. At first read, the description may not catch your eye, it may even seem like another far-fetched zombie movie with bad acting. But do trust me, the description doesn’t do justice to this masterpiece! Train to Busan is a Korean horror/action film. It is about a young girl, Soo-Ahn, and her career-minded father, Seok-Woo. As they travel to Busan, they come into contact with virus-infected zombies who only want to kill. As they advance across the train’s carts, the two meet parents-to-be, Sang-Hwa and Sung-Gyeong. Sang-Hwa is strong-willed and will one hundred percent put others first when it comes to a dangerous situation. Sung-Gyeong is a strong-minded woman who can run like the wind even while she is pregnant. Sang-Hwa and Seok-Woo get off on the wrong foot but Sung-Gyeong makes it her mission to keep an eye on Soo-Ahn.
The actors that take part in the movie are excellent at conveying their emotions and very good at making the audience feel. Gong-Yoo, who plays Seok-Woo, is amazing at showing multiple feelings without letting one overcome the other. At first, Seok-Woo will come off as cold and almost grumpy, but as you watch, you realize how much love he has for his daughter. Kim Soo-Ahn, who plays Soo-Ahn, is the real MVP of Train to Busan. She depicts such a strong and brave little girl who must have had so many emotions running through her brain with everything happening. She lost so much yet continued to stay determined to make it to the end with her father. Even when she gets separated from her father, she continues to be strong with the people she’s around. Soo-Ahn’s chemistry with the other actors really completed the story. Hands down, she is the BEST part of this movie.
Starting in Seoul, the scenery was very city-like. There were many people at the start compared to the end of the film which shows how much the virus has affected the cities. When you see Busan, there is little to no life in sight. There is lots of military gear and it is quiet. Throughout the film, and even as scenes are changing, you will notice the contrast between light and dark and how that connects into the storyline. Especially in the beginning scenes, where it is night time, and the ending scenes, where it is day time, you are able to see a clear difference between dark and light. Not only does it help depict the confusion that the characters were going through, but it also makes you realize that through all the darkness that the zombies brought, there is still a little light. Train to Busan is very creative when it comes to context clues and hidden messages. The foreshadowing leaves you curious and even shocks you towards the end of the movie. You should definitely keep an eye on the characters and their actions towards the beginning.
Another admirable part of the whole production is the special effects makeup. As you take the time to look closely at the dead, you will realize that every part of their skin is covered with makeup. When you watch, you are able to see the transition from human to zombie. You are able to observe the way the zombie’s physical features slowly take place. There is a big difference between what they looked like before and after they have been bitten by a zombie. Maroon veins and pale skin become more visible while red blood stains their bodies as they become hungry. This definitely made the film as a whole, more realistic!
Every little detail you view brings the whole production together. As you are taken on the journey, you will realize that this movie isn’t actually too scary but more thrilling, and will leave you wondering what is happening next. You may or may not find the ending shocking but regardless, emotion will run through your body no matter how many times you watch it. This has become my favorite movie and I’ve watched it countless times. It has honestly made me cry more times than I can count. I would 100% recommend Train to Busan to anyone who likes horror, action, thriller, or even people who like drama. I have shown this to many of my family members and friends and they all believe it is amazing! For those who like Train to Busan, I recommend watching the sequel, Peninsula, which is already out!
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