Exhume ( 2017 )

Unearthing the Past: An In-Depth Look at the Korean Occult Thriller Exhuma

Exhuma (2024), a South Korean occult mystery thriller directed by Jang Jae-hyun, has captivated audiences with its intricate plot, compelling performances, and exploration of Korean folklore, history, and the lingering impact of unresolved trauma. The film, starring Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun, weaves a complex narrative involving shamanism, geomancy, and the rediscovery of a dark secret buried beneath a remote village. This article delves into the various aspects of Exhuma, analyzing its plot, themes, characters, and cultural significance, providing a comprehensive understanding of this critically acclaimed film.

Plot Summary: Disturbing the Ancestral Grave

The film opens with a wealthy Korean-American family in Los Angeles experiencing a series of inexplicable and terrifying events. Their newborn baby suffers from a mysterious illness, and strange occurrences plague their household. Desperate for help, they consult young shaman Hwarim (Kim Go-eun) and her apprentice Bong-gil (Lee Do-hyun). Hwarim quickly identifies the source of the trouble: the restless spirit of their ancestor, specifically the grandfather, whose grave in Korea has been desecrated. She recommends exhumation and reburial as the only solution to alleviate the curse.

To carry out this delicate and potentially dangerous task, Hwarim enlists the help of Kim Sang-deok (Choi Min-sik), a renowned geomancer with decades of experience in reading the land and identifying auspicious burial sites, and Ko Young-geun (Yoo Hae-jin), a mortician who specializes in preparing bodies for burial rites. Initially skeptical, Sang-deok is eventually convinced by the hefty fee and the urgency of the situation. The team travels to a remote village in South Korea, where the ancestral grave is located in a secluded and ominous area.

The exhumation process is fraught with tension. As they dig, they uncover a series of disturbing artifacts and rituals performed around the grave, hinting at a troubled past. The unearthed coffin is unusually heavy, and the remains inside are far from what they expected. The air is thick with malevolence, and strange occurrences begin to plague the village. Despite Sang-deok's warnings, Hwarim, driven by her desire to help the family, insists on proceeding with the reburial.

However, the reburial only intensifies the supernatural activity. The team discovers that they have unwittingly unleashed a powerful and vengeful entity, a malevolent spirit bound to a metal stake buried deep beneath the original grave. This entity, far more dangerous than the ancestral spirit, begins to wreak havoc, targeting not only the family in Los Angeles but also the village and the individuals involved in the exhumation. The team must now confront this ancient evil and uncover the secrets of the past to save themselves and the community from destruction.

Characters: A Convergence of Beliefs and Expertise

Exhuma features a cast of compelling characters, each with their own unique skills, beliefs, and motivations. Their interactions and individual journeys contribute significantly to the film's overall impact.

The dynamic between these characters is one of the film's strengths. Hwarim's youthful energy and spiritual conviction clash with Sang-deok's pragmatic skepticism, creating a compelling tension. Bong-gil's unwavering faith and Young-geun's grounded perspective provide balance to the group, forming a cohesive team that must rely on each other's skills and strengths to overcome the challenges they face.

Themes: Unearthing Korea's Buried Past

Exhuma explores several interconnected themes, delving into the complexities of Korean history, folklore, and spirituality.

The Weight of History and Ancestral Trauma

The film is deeply rooted in Korean history, particularly the period of Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945) and the subsequent Korean War (1950-1953). The malevolent entity unleashed from the grave is revealed to be connected to the legacy of violence and oppression inflicted upon the Korean people during these tumultuous times. The film suggests that unresolved trauma and the failure to properly address the past can have lasting and devastating consequences, manifesting as curses and supernatural phenomena.

The Power of Shamanism and Geomancy

Shamanism and geomancy, ancient Korean spiritual practices, play a central role in the film. Hwarim's shamanic rituals and Sang-deok's geomantic knowledge are presented as powerful tools for understanding and interacting with the spirit world. The film portrays these practices not as superstitious beliefs but as legitimate systems of knowledge that can provide insight into the unseen forces that shape our lives. The film also highlights the importance of respecting these traditions and understanding their cultural significance.

The Interconnectedness of Life and Death

Exhuma emphasizes the interconnectedness of the living and the dead, suggesting that the spirits of the deceased can have a profound impact on the world of the living. The film explores the idea that proper burial rites and ancestral veneration are essential for maintaining harmony between these two realms. By disturbing the ancestral grave, the characters disrupt this balance, unleashing a chain of events that threatens to engulf them all.

National Identity and Reconciliation

The film can be interpreted as an allegory for South Korea's ongoing struggle to come to terms with its past and reconcile with its historical wounds. The exhumation of the grave represents the process of uncovering hidden truths and confronting uncomfortable realities. The film suggests that true healing and progress can only be achieved by acknowledging the past, honoring the sacrifices of previous generations, and striving for a future free from the burdens of history.

Cultural Significance: A Reflection of Korean Identity

Exhuma has resonated deeply with Korean audiences due to its exploration of culturally significant themes and its depiction of traditional Korean beliefs and practices. The film's success can be attributed to several factors:

Authentic Representation of Korean Shamanism

The film's portrayal of Korean shamanism is considered to be remarkably authentic, thanks to the consultation of real-life shamans during the production process. The rituals, costumes, and language used in the film are meticulously researched and accurately depicted, lending credibility to the supernatural elements of the story. Kim Go-eun's performance as Hwarim has been particularly praised for its nuanced and respectful portrayal of a shaman's role and responsibilities.

Exploration of Historical Trauma

The film's exploration of historical trauma resonates deeply with Korean audiences, who are acutely aware of the lingering impact of Japanese colonial rule and the Korean War. The film's depiction of the suffering and resilience of the Korean people during these periods evokes strong emotional responses and sparks reflection on the importance of remembering the past.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

While rooted in historical events, Exhuma also touches upon contemporary issues facing South Korea, such as the decline of traditional beliefs, the rise of materialism, and the challenges of maintaining cultural identity in a globalized world. The film encourages viewers to consider the importance of preserving their cultural heritage and connecting with their ancestral roots.

Symbolism and Motifs

Exhuma is rich in symbolism and motifs, which contribute to the film's overall meaning and impact.

Directorial Style and Cinematography

Jang Jae-hyun's directorial style is characterized by a slow-burn approach, building suspense gradually and creating a palpable sense of unease. He skillfully blends elements of horror, mystery, and thriller to create a unique and compelling cinematic experience. The cinematography is particularly noteworthy, utilizing atmospheric lighting, haunting visuals, and effective camera angles to enhance the film's mood and amplify the sense of dread.

The use of sound is also crucial in creating the film's unsettling atmosphere. The sound design incorporates traditional Korean instruments and chanting to evoke a sense of ancient ritual and spiritual power. The film's score, composed by Kim Tae-seong, is equally effective in creating tension and amplifying the emotional impact of key scenes.

Critical Reception and Awards

Exhuma has received widespread critical acclaim for its intricate plot, compelling performances, and exploration of Korean cultural themes. The film has been praised for its effective use of suspense, its atmospheric visuals, and its thoughtful exploration of historical trauma. The performances of the cast, particularly Choi Min-sik and Kim Go-eun, have been singled out for praise.

The film has also garnered numerous awards and nominations, including:

Conclusion: A Haunting Exploration of the Past

Exhuma is a compelling and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of Korean history, folklore, and spirituality. Through its intricate plot, compelling characters, and atmospheric visuals, the film offers a haunting exploration of the lingering impact of unresolved trauma and the importance of confronting the past. Its success is a testament to its ability to resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level, sparking reflection on the significance of cultural identity and the enduring power of ancestral connections. Exhuma is not just a horror film; it is a powerful and meaningful work of art that offers a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of South Korea.