Courtesy of Showbox

Director Jang Jae-hyun's latest occult mystery film, "Exhuma," features a cast of esteemed actors, including Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun. Jang expresses a desire to delve into Korea's traumatic history through the symbolic act of exhumation portrayed in the movie.

"Exhuma" unfolds as a group of exorcists, an undertaker, and a feng-shui specialist embark on the task of relocating the tomb of a wealthy family. The film is divided into two main parts, with the first part exploring the events during the relocation process, and the second part narrating the mysterious occurrences as the group uncovers a hidden secret beneath the tomb. 

▲ A scene from "Exhuma" / Courtesy of Showbox

Selected for the Berlinale’s Forum section, the film commenced its 10-day run on Thursday, gaining attention for its exploration of historical trauma through supernatural elements.

Director Jang Jae-hyun reflects on the act of exhumation as a metaphor, considering whether digging up a grave and cremating the coffin holds deeper significance. He shares that, while personally witnessing the process of exhumation, he felt as though they were uncovering something amiss from the past. Jang aims to depict and entertain viewers with the concept of exhuming the traumatic events in the land's history.

▲ A scene from "Exhuma" / Courtesy of ShowboxChoi Min-sik, playing the lead role of Sang-deok, a feng shui specialist responsible for finding the optimal location to relocate the tomb, expresses his motivation for joining his first occult film. He appreciates the values embodied by his character and the overarching message Director Jang seeks to convey. Choi also acknowledges Jang's continuous questioning of concepts such as shamanism and religion, feeling that these themes have become underrated in society.

"Exhuma" is scheduled to premiere in local theaters on Thursday.

Sayart 

Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com