Bedevilled

Synopsis

Bedevilled (2010), originally titled 김복남 살인사건의 전말, is a gripping South Korean thriller that delves into the dark undercurrents of a seemingly idyllic island community. The film follows the story of a woman who returns to her isolated hometown to reconnect with an old friend, only to uncover the brutal realities and social oppression faced by the island’s residents, especially the women. Combining intense drama with social commentary, Bedevilled explores themes of abuse, vengeance, and the human spirit’s resilience. With powerful performances and a harrowing narrative, the movie portrays the chilling consequences of silence and societal neglect in a suspenseful and emotionally charged atmosphere.

Cast

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  Seo Young-hee

  Kim Bok-nam

• 

  Ji Sung-won

  Hae-won

• 

  Baek Su-ryeon

  Dong-ho's Grandmother

• 

  Park Jeong-hak

  Man-jong

• 

  Bae Sung-woo

  Cheol-Jong

• 

  Oh Yong

  Deuk-soo

Reviews

Bedevilled has garnered critical acclaim for its intense storytelling and profound thematic depth. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive 89% approval rating, with critics praising its raw portrayal of violence and social injustice. The consensus highlights the film's unflinching narrative and compelling direction. IMDb users have rated the movie at 7.2/10, reflecting a generally favorable reception though noting the film’s distressing content might not be for everyone. Metacritic does not list a score for this film, but many reviewers emphasize its effectiveness as a feminist thriller and its stark depiction of rural alienation. Critics from The Guardian lauded the film's bold approach to horror and drama, marking it as a standout in contemporary Korean cinema, while some reviews mention the graphic violence as challenging but necessary to convey the story’s message. Overall, Bedevilled is recognized as an unsettling yet powerful piece of filmmaking that leaves a lasting impact through its combination of social critique and cinematic intensity.