I'm A Cyborg [2006] [DVD]

I have to confess that, after losing myself in Park Chan-Wook's vengeance trilogy in HD and enjoying "Thirst" just as much on its own discrete and perverse merits, I had been somewhat reluctant to watch my copy of "I'm a Cyborg" on blu ray in case it did not reach those challenging, but ultimately rewarding, highs. Last night, I opened up a can of ice-cold Polish beer, loaded the disc, turned off the lights and just watched it. I need not have harboured any concerns as it turned out. The opening credits alone are a thing of pure beauty and contain more creative and innovative nous than any pre-digested, recycled, items of pseudo-cinematic interest that Hollywood has offered me for years. The transfer flaunts a clarity and tapestry of hues that are, arguably, some of the most overwhelming that I have experienced recently. This alone, matched to a plot that subverts expectations and veers of at abrupt angles, would have repaid the initial investment ten-fold. That is merely the start though. Add in some breathtaking performances by the young Korean leads, backed up splendidly by some of the director's stalwart repertory company of established character actors and the delirium continues.I went to bed with the imagery of the film seasoning my brain and tenderising my imagination. I woke up this morning, made a brew and, as it was still dark, I watched the film again.It gave up yet more of its imaginative treats. There are more to follow I am sure. Funny, disturbing, emotionally rich, evocative, intelligent, awkward, discretly erotic and charming, this film (despite a psychiatric ward setting that might scare off some overly sensitive types)is a rare find. I adore it and, if you bemoan the brainless, pastry-cutter style of contemporary mainstream fantasy and give this a spin yourself, you might enjoy it just as much. I hope so.

Its not as good as I thought. Maybe it need another watch. I would recommend buying the dvd rather than renting like this. It's a bit pricey. However, it is good to have the choice of watching a film when you wish and DVDs may be pricey and take a while fo arrive. It's not as good as Old Boy, if you're to compare the director's works. But then, it's a completely different film

This is Park's best movie imo. The action takes place in a mental hospital. The protagonist is a young girl who thinks she is a cyborg, and a patient who tries to "cure" her by using his and her imaginative powers. Like Lady Vengeance the film is visually stunning, and the use of CGI is wonderful. Also, this film is more on the comedy side than his earlier, even if the reality behind the games, dreams and illusions can seem disturbing and harsh as it touches upon themes like neuroses, anorexia and alienation. But above all it is a film about the power of imagination. Also the transfer on the Tartan DVD is really good. Strongly recommended!

I'm A Cyborg shows a completely different side to the director of some of Korea's most disturbing psychological thrillers including the critically acclaimed Old Boy and Lady Vengeance, both from Park Chan-Wook's Vengeance Trilogy.Beautiful cinematography and fascinating characters keep this madcap fantasy alive and you are kept on your toes whilst following the plot as there are many digressions into the surreal. I have a large Tartan Asia / Tartan Asia Extreme collection and this film really takes pride of place and is one of my top 5.

A rare film that becomes more delightful on repeated viewing. Even as a cynical twenty something, when I first saw this movie, I was spell bound. Now, as a rather more sentimental thirty something, it is one of my favourite movies ever.This is a genuine delight, a happy, simple, surreal little comedy that doesn't let reality or cynicism get in the way. Warm, funny and kind. Do yourself a favour and watch this.

Following his very dark revenge trilogy Park has made a comedy set in an asylum and while there are some inspired sequences I found the overall film to be rather dull, silly and unfunny. The character's quirks quickly became irritating and the story, such as it was, did not hold my interest. Like all his films the cinematography is great and it has artistic value but feels like a miss-step. I was also disappointed by his first US film, Stoker, which was also beautifully made but very dull. Hopefully Park will get back to making films like Lady Vengeance and Thirst, both of which I love.

If you are fan of Park Chan Wook's work, then this is a real treat. Equal parts original and charming.

A beautiful and delicate view. A little ray of light to pop into your brain every now and then. I hope that like me when people see this film they share it amongst friends.