Park Chan-wook's "Eojjeol Sugaepda" critiques capitalism in its Seoul setting

South Korean director Park Chan-wook's new film, "Eojjeol Sugaepda," a satirical thriller, has been released. The film, an adaptation of Donald Westlake's novel "The Axe," was featured at the Venice Film Festival and is South Korea's Oscar submission. The movie is the second adaptation of Westlake's 1997 novel, following Costa-Gavras's 2004 film "The Axe." Park's version, like the original and the previous adaptation, explores the social relevance of its plot, set in the suburbs of Seoul. The film's protagonist, a serial killer, is portrayed with a dark humor that blends Korean and globalist elements. The narrative critiques capitalism and its impact on individuals, leading to a personal war against society's victims.