'Hi-Five' (2025): A Superpowered Leap into Korean Cinema
South Korea's cinematic landscape welcomes a fresh blend of action, comedy, and fantasy with the release of Hi-Five (하이파이브) on May 30, 2025. Directed and written by Kang Hyeong-cheol, renowned for his work on Sunny and Swing Kids, the film introduces audiences to an unconventional superhero narrative rooted in human emotion and unexpected camaraderie.
Plot Overview
Hi-Five centers on five ordinary individuals who, after receiving organ transplants from a man with psychic abilities, acquire unique superpowers. These newfound abilities thrust them into a confrontation with a group intent on stealing their powers, leading to a tale of self-discovery and unity.
Ensemble Cast
The film boasts a stellar cast, including:
-
Lee Jae-in as Park Wan-seo, a Taekwondo enthusiast who gains superhuman strength after a heart transplant.
-
Ahn Jae-hong as Park Ji-sung, an aspiring writer who can hold his breath indefinitely following a lung transplant.
-
Ra Mi-ran as Kim Sun-nyeo, a yogurt seller who becomes a healer after a liver transplant.
-
Yoo Ah-in as Hwang Ki-dong, an unemployed man who can see electromagnetic waves post-corneal transplant.
-
Oh Jung-se as Park Jong-min, Wan-seo's father.
-
Park Jin-young as Seo Young-chun, a cult leader with a pancreas transplant from the psychic donor.
Production Journey
Filming commenced on June 1, 2021, across locations like Incheon and Seoul, concluding on November 7, 2021. Initially slated for a 2022 release, the film faced delays due to controversies surrounding cast member Yoo Ah-in. After internal deliberations, the release was rescheduled, with Yoo Ah-in excluded from promotional activities
Box Office Performance
Upon its release, Hi-Five soared to the top of the South Korean box office, surpassing major contenders like Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One. The film garnered a 95% rating on the CGV Golden Egg Index and a 9.48 viewer rating on Naver, reflecting its widespread acclaim. Global Release
Recognizing its international appeal, Hi-Five is set for a global rollout across 13 countries, including:
-
Cambodia: June 6
-
Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Brunei: June 12
-
Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and East Timor: June 13
-
Hong Kong & Macau: June 19
-
United States & Canada: June 20
Critical Reception
Critics have lauded Hi-Five for its heartfelt storytelling and character development. While some reviews note a departure from intricate world-building, the film's emphasis on personal growth and unity resonates deeply with audiences.
Conclusion
Hi-Five stands out as a refreshing take on the superhero genre, intertwining humor, action, and emotional depth. Director Kang Hyeong-cheol's vision brings forth a narrative that celebrates the extraordinary within the ordinary, making it a must-watch for fans of innovative cinema
إرسال تعليق