I Saw the Devil Ending Explained, Plot, Cast, Where to Watch and More
by Kavitha
Updated Dec 08, 2023
I Saw the Devil
"I Saw the Devil" is a 2010 South Korean action-thriller film directed by Kim Jee-woon and written by Park Hoon-jung. Starring Lee Byung-hun and Choi Min-sik, the movie tells the story of NIS agent Kim Soo-hyun, played by Lee, who seeks revenge after his wife is brutally murdered by the psychopathic serial killer Jang Kyung-chul, portrayed by Choi.
The film had its premiere in the United States at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and later had a limited theatrical release in the U.S. Overall, "I Saw the Devil" received generally favorable reviews from critics.
Choi Min-sik's role in the movie was significant as it marked his return to a major role following changes to the Korean screen quota system. The storyline revolves around Kim Soo-hyun's quest for vengeance, highlighting the intense and suspenseful cat-and-mouse game between him and the sadistic killer. The film explores themes of morality and the consequences of seeking revenge, making it a gripping and thought-provoking action thriller.
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I Saw the Devil Ending Explained
"I Saw the Devil" unfolds as a harrowing Korean revenge thriller, exploring the repercussions of vengeance through the lens of National Intelligence agent Kim Soo-hyun. When his fiancée falls victim to sadistic killer Jang Kyung-chul, Soo-hyun's grief propels him into a relentless pursuit of retribution. The film's narrative challenges the Nietzschean warning that fighting monsters risks becoming one, as both protagonist and antagonist see the devil within each other.
As Soo-hyun descends into darkness, the movie questions the morality of his quest. Initially seeking justice, his actions become increasingly extreme, leading to collateral damage and blurring the lines between right and wrong. The climax takes a shocking turn when Soo-hyun, enraged by Kyung-chul's ruthlessness, devises a cunning payback. Relying on Kyung-chul's family, he inflicts emotional anguish, culminating in a gruesome outcome.
"I Saw the Devil" defies simplistic categorization as torture porn, offering a nuanced exploration of moral complexities. Director Kim Jee-woon challenges the conventional narrative of revenge thrillers, presenting a thought-provoking case against vigilantism and violent retribution. The film's haunting portrayal leaves viewers grappling with the true cost of seeking justice through destructive means, underscoring the devastating consequences of a descent into darkness.
I Saw the Devil Plot
The story of "I Saw the Devil" begins with a school-bus driver named Jang Kyung-chul meeting a woman named Jang Joo-yun. Instead of helping her with a flat tire, he beats her and takes her to his home, where he dismembers her. The police find her body parts, and her father, Squad Chief Jang, and fiancé, NIS officer Kim Soo-hyun, are devastated. Soo-hyun decides to seek revenge against the murderer.
Soo-hyun interrogates suspects and finds Joo-yun's ring in Kyung-chul's home. Instead of killing Kyung-chul, Soo-hyun forces him to swallow a tracker, allowing him to follow his movements. Soo-hyun starts torturing Kyung-chul, wanting to make him suffer for as long as possible.
Kyung-chul, a cruel killer, seeks refuge with his friend Tae-joo, a murderer and cannibal. Soo-hyun discovers their hideout, incapacitates them, and arrests Tae-joo and his girlfriend. Despite their injuries, Soo-hyun and Kyung-chul avoid the police with the help of Soo-hyun's subordinate.
Kyung-chul, overhearing a conversation about the tracker, steals laxatives to excrete it. Soo-hyun learns Kyung-chul's plan to target Squad Chief Jang and his other daughter. Enraged, Soo-hyun kidnaps Kyung-chul in front of the police. He tortures him, setting up a guillotine trap.
In a final, intense moment, Kyung-chul panics as his abandoned family arrives. Soo-hyun leaves him holding a rope in his teeth, triggering the guillotine to behead Kyung-chul in front of his family. Soo-hyun, overwhelmed with emotions, walks away in tears. The movie explores themes of revenge, morality, and the dark consequences of seeking vengeance.
I Saw the Devil Cast
The tabular column below represents the cast for “I Saw the Devil”:
Choi Min-sik
Jang Kyung-chul
Lee Byung-hun
Kim Soo-hyun
Oh San-ha
Jang Joo-yun
Jeon Gook-hwan
Squad Chief Jang
Kim Yoon-seo
Jang Se-yun
Chun Ho-jin
Section Chief Oh
Choi Moo-sung
Tae-joo
Kim In-seo
Se-jung
Nam Bo-ra
Section Chief Oh's daughter
Jung Ji-yoon
Junior high female student
Chae-young Yoon
Small town nurse
Ha Seung-ri
Junior high female student
Cast
Character
I Saw the Devil Review
"I Saw the Devil" is a South Korean film directed by Kim Jee-woon, characterized by operatic violence and a revenge-driven narrative. The story revolves around Soo-hyun (Lee Byung-hun), a government agent seeking retribution for his fiancée's gruesome murder by the psychopathic killer Kyung-chul (Choi Min-sik). The film is noted for its graphic violence, with heads rolling and a dark, Nietzschean tone.
The New York Times review acknowledges the movie's violent nature but describes it as a droll Nietzschean fable, recognizing its lapses into absurdity. The narrative unfolds through a cycle of catch, torture, and release, showcasing the toll revenge takes on both characters. Despite its sanguinary elements, the film is commended for its control of tone, from an unexpectedly moving first act to a hilariously disgusting encounter with Kyung-chul's cannibal friend.
Choi Min-sik's on-screen presence is highlighted for its implacable durability, emphasizing his resilience through the film's various beatdowns. The review appreciates the directorial control of Kim Jee-woon and cinematographer Lee Mogae, who navigate the film's fluctuating tones and set pieces with skill.
While acknowledging contemptuous elements and a noticeable focus on violence against women, the review ultimately characterizes "I Saw the Devil" as a film with impressive set pieces, maintaining control over its narrative tone and embracing its Nietzschean influences. The movie's blend of gore, revenge, and absurdity contributes to a unique cinematic experience.
Where to Watch I Saw the Devil?
You can currently watch "I Saw the Devil" on Amazon Prime Video. Simply visit the platform to stream this gripping Korean thriller. Amazon Prime Video offers a convenient and accessible way to enjoy the movie from the comfort of your own home. Just search for "I Saw the Devil" on Amazon Prime Video, and you'll be able to watch it at your convenience.
I Saw the Devil Trailer
I Saw the Devil Ending Explained - FAQ
"I Saw the Devil" is a South Korean action-thriller film directed by Kim Jee-woon, following NIS agent Kim Soo-hyun's quest for revenge against the psychopathic serial killer Jang Kyung-chul.
The film premiered in the United States at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and had a limited theatrical release. It was originally released in South Korea on August 12, 2010.
With a budget of around US$6 million, "I Saw the Devil" achieved box office success, earning US$12.9 million.
The film explores themes of revenge, morality, and the consequences of seeking vengeance through the intense and suspenseful cat-and-mouse game between Soo-hyun and the sadistic killer.
You can currently stream "I Saw the Devil" on Amazon Prime Video, providing a convenient option for enjoying this gripping Korean thriller at home.