South Korea's first AI-heavy feature film "Run to the West" has sparked discussion about the balance between cutting-edge technology and compelling narrative. The action-fantasy movie's marketing campaign has emphasized its groundbreaking use of artificial intelligence in visual effects rather than its storytelling qualities, leaving audiences to focus more on technical achievements than plot development.
The film's unusual promotional approach was acknowledged by the cast themselves during a press conference held at CGV Yongsan IPark Mall in Seoul on Monday. Lead actor Byun Yo-han humorously remarked that he felt like he was attending "some kind of a scientific hearing" and that he feels "like I need to prove something here." His comments highlighted the technology-focused nature of the film's presentation to the public.
The movie follows Jang-won, portrayed by Byun Yo-han, a national intelligence officer whose mission is to protect Jae-beom, played by Yang Se-jong. Jae-beom is a presumed billionaire who built his wealth through illegal gambling operations in the Philippines. The story takes a supernatural turn when the characters become involved in a car chase that ends in a devastating accident.
Following the crash, Jang-won, Jae-beom, and other survivors find themselves mysteriously transported to "the intermediate world," a Buddhist concept that describes the liminal space where souls reside after death while awaiting their transition to the next life. This otherworldly setting serves as the primary backdrop for the film's action sequences and supernatural encounters.
In this chaotic in-between realm, the protagonists face relentless pursuit from Grim Reapers who are determined to eliminate these wandering souls in order to restore balance and order to the spiritual world. These supernatural antagonists are uniquely depicted as the 12 zodiac animals dressed in black-hooded gowns, all created using advanced AI technology.
The film's most visually striking sequence takes place at Jogye Temple in downtown Seoul, where the Grim Reapers encounter powerful opposition. The Four Heavenly Kings, who serve as guardian deities protecting the world and upholding Buddhist Dharma, suddenly appear to confront the supernatural pursuers. Additionally, the mythical Haetae, also known as Haechi—a legendary creature from Korean folklore believed to ward off disasters—joins the battle. All of these fantastical beings were brought to life through AI-generated visual effects.
Despite being marketed as the country's first feature film to extensively incorporate artificial intelligence technology, the visual results demonstrate that there is still significant room for improvement in AI-assisted filmmaking. The technology, while innovative, has not yet reached the level of seamless integration that might be expected from traditional visual effects methods.
Beyond the technical limitations, the film struggles with fundamental storytelling issues that detract from the overall viewing experience. The narrative lacks logical coherence and fails to provide adequate explanations for crucial plot developments. Viewers are left confused about key story elements, such as the sudden decision by the Four Heavenly Kings to engage in battle with the Grim Reapers, or the mysterious identity and motivations of a small but extraordinarily powerful elderly man who effortlessly destroys these supernatural beings.
Director Kang Yun-sung, who previously helmed successful projects including "Long Live the King," "The Outlaws," and the Disney series "Low Life," appears to have prioritized technological experimentation over narrative structure. The film's brief one-hour runtime and abrupt conclusion suggest that it was designed as the first installment of a potential franchise, deliberately leaving numerous plot threads unresolved.
The movie may appeal to specific audiences, particularly fans of fantasy creatures and action sequences who are also curious about the current state of South Korea's artificial intelligence capabilities in filmmaking. However, even these viewers will likely leave the theater with more questions than answers about both the story and the characters' motivations.
"Run to the West" opened in local theaters on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the integration of AI technology in Korean cinema, even as it highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing technological innovation with compelling storytelling.
