Movie Review: The Witch: Part 1 – The Subversion (2018)

Genre: Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Director: Park Hoon-jung
Starring: Kim Da-mi, Choi Woo-shik, Jo Min-su, Park Hee-soon
Runtime: 2 hours 5 minutes
Language: Korean

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⭐ Overview

The Witch: Part 1 – The Subversion is not your typical coming-of-age thriller. Directed by Park Hoon-jung, the film weaves psychological suspense, brutal action, and a slow-burning mystery into a gripping narrative. It explores the story of a seemingly ordinary teenage girl with an extraordinary and dangerous past that unravels layer by layer. With a standout debut by Kim Da-mi and a scene-stealing performance by Choi Woo-shik, the film takes the viewer on an unpredictable and chilling ride.

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 Acting and Performances

Kim Da-mi’s portrayal of Ja-yoon is nothing short of mesmerizing. She transitions effortlessly from an innocent, soft-spoken high school student to a terrifying force with deadly powers. Her emotional depth, restraint, and explosive transformation anchor the entire film. It’s a rare debut performance that feels both mature and hauntingly memorable.

Choi Woo-shik, known globally for his role in Train to Busan and later Parasite, adds another dimension to the film with his intense and charismatic antagonist. His now-iconic line, “You better get home. Godspeed,” and his eerie presence in the train sequence left a lasting impression on audiences. He radiates menace without ever needing to overact, proving his range as an actor.

The supporting cast, including Jo Min-su and Park Hee-soon, provide strong backup and bring gravitas to the sinister undercurrent of the story. Each character is well-etched and convincingly performed.

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易 Storyline and Writing

The narrative begins deceptively simple: a girl living a quiet rural life with her adoptive parents begins experiencing strange symptoms and memory flashes. But the film gradually reveals a much darker, genetically-altered past, turning a serene slice-of-life drama into a full-blown science-fiction action thriller.

The storytelling is carefully paced—slow enough to build mystery, yet fast enough to maintain intrigue. As secrets unravel, the stakes grow, and by the second half, the film delivers one electrifying reveal after another. It’s this structural contrast that makes the twist all the more effective. The writing keeps you guessing without feeling convoluted.

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 Direction and Visuals

Park Hoon-jung shows masterful control in blending genres. He directs with purpose—never wasting a shot, and always keeping the tone atmospheric and brooding. The cinematography is sleek and stylized, with stark contrasts between the calm countryside and the chaotic, high-tech labs and fight sequences.

The visual effects are subtle yet effective, enhancing Ja-yoon’s powers without overpowering the human drama. Fight choreography is precise, brutal, and memorable, especially during the climax.

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 Suspense and Action

This film thrives on building tension. Whether it’s Ja-yoon’s gradual discovery of her past or the moment her hidden abilities explode into the spotlight, there’s a palpable sense of suspense throughout. The action sequences are dynamic, tight, and satisfyingly choreographed—never just violence for its own sake, but storytelling through motion.

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溺 Themes and Symbolism

Beyond the thrills and bloodshed, the film delves into questions of identity, control, and scientific ethics. Ja-yoon’s struggle to understand who she truly is becomes a metaphor for agency in a world where people are manipulated and controlled—physically, psychologically, and genetically. There’s also an underlying commentary on the exploitation of children and the loss of innocence.

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✅ Strengths

Outstanding performances, especially by Kim Da-mi and Choi Woo-shik

Gripping plot with an excellent twist

Visually compelling, with stylish action sequences

Emotionally resonant, despite the sci-fi setting

Smart pacing, balancing character development with intense moments

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❌ Weaknesses

The first act may feel slow for viewers expecting immediate action

Some secondary characters could be more fleshed out

Ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, which may frustrate viewers unaware that it’s part of a series

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 Verdict

The Witch: Part 1 – The Subversion is an enthralling mix of mystery, action, and science fiction that punches far above its weight. It’s not only a showcase of rising South Korean talent but also a refreshing take on the superhero origin trope—dark, grounded, and thought-provoking. Whether you’re in it for the suspense, the plot twists, or the explosive action, this film delivers with style and substance.

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⭐ Final Rating: 9/10

Highly recommended for fans of thrillers, sci-fi, and Korean cinema. A slow-burn gem that rewards your patience with unforgettable intensity.