“Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance” (“복수는 나의 것”, pronounced “Boksu Neun Na Eui Gut”, translates to “Vengeance is Mine”), is Korean film director Park Chan-Wook’s 3rd film, and first of his ‘Vengeance Trilogy’ series. At the time, it was Park’s passion project and one that he was able to get independently funded after his commercially successful 2nd film, “Joint Security Area”. This film however, was a commercial flop and its international circuit was also riddled with negative reviews. But despite its mainstream reception, “Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance” developed a cult following, recognizing Park for his stylistic & daring directing choices. The “Vengeance Trilogy” has played an important role in Korean international cinema. It has served the director in honing his chops, and as its first installation, “Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance” showcases Park’s style at its rawest.
