“Ballerina” (2023) | Movie on Netflix. Review: An intelligent film that succeeds in certain sequences

Ballerina is a South Korean action thriller film directed by Lee Chung-hyun, starring Jun Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hun, and Park Yu-rim.

“Ballerina” is a stylish revenge thriller with a changing pace and a solid performance by Jun Jong-seo, who leads the cast in this film of villains and heroes with a satisfying final sequence.

While this well-executed film achieves its goals, it fails to truly shine among similar revenge thrillers. However, it does entertain and boasts strong direction, particularly in terms of aesthetics.

The film demonstrates the wisdom of restraint.

Plot

Ok Ju has a violent past that she has forgotten until one night when she discovers her friend, who has committed suicide. Everything leads her to a man who abuses girls, records them, and threatens to release the videos.

But she only has revenge on her mind.

About “Ballerina”

If it were the first of its kind, it would have left a lasting impression because it has a well-choreographed final sequence, featuring a spectacular display of gunfire and action. The problem, however, is that within the framework of these films, we have already seen too many with the same style and nearly identical storyline. Nevertheless, supported by the theme of friendship (or something more), it manages to be a good film.

But not a brilliant one.

“Ballerina” is entertaining, with impressive shots, and at times gracefully fluctuates between dreamlike tones and action-packed thrills, without fully committing to either. It is an enjoyable film, almost without any further depth, providing amusement when necessary and occasional violence, albeit with restraint, almost as if afraid of not being suitable for all ages when dealing with a subject matter that is not suitable for all ages.

The film excels in its aesthetics, as well as its production, featuring strong cinematography. However, it falls short in terms of the screenplay, particularly with the character of Choi Pro, who, despite being an extremely villainous character, fails to evolve or move beyond the archetype of a deranged psychopath.

Jun Jong-seo effectively portrays a mysterious character through her expressive gaze, taking it to the extreme and behaving accordingly.

Our Opinion

A classic revenge film that lacks brilliance but still manages to entertain and shine in certain sequences that, while not necessarily memorable, are enjoyable enough to warrant a viewing.

And this Friday, it is the best choice to watch, at least on Netflix.

Release Date

October 6, 2023

Where to Watch Ballerina

Netflix

Movie Trailer

Director

The Cast

Jun Jong-seo, born on July 5, 1994, is an actress from South Korea. She gained recognition with her debut leading role as Hae-mi in the film Burning (2018), directed by Lee Chang-dong. Born in Seoul, she grew up as the only child in her family. During her childhood, Jun and her family relocated to Canada. She completed her middle school education there before returning to Korea. Jun graduated from Seoul Arts High School and subsequently enrolled in Sejeong University, where she pursued a major in film. In 2018, she temporarily paused her university studies to focus on her acting career.

Kim Ji-hoon is a renowned South Korean actor who has gained recognition for his performances in romantic comedies on television. Some of his notable works include The Golden Age of Daughters-in-Law, Love Marriage, Stars Falling from the Sky, and My Cute Guys. In addition to his television appearances, he made his presence felt in the film Natalie in 2010, as well as the cable mystery series Unsolved.