FACE

A surprisingly successful merging of the detection/crime and supernatural genres, Face interweaves the story and stylistic conventions of film noir and the occult thriller, resulting in a unique (if not always successful) blend. Attempting to honor the inherent structural formula and thematic values of both genres, this movie occasionally falters in its moodily lit transitions between crime and ghost story, confused as to where it's headed from one moment to the next. Regardless, and despite an occasional lack of story believability that suggests that the writers worked quickly without as much attention paid to continuity as might have been, the film is a refreshing hybrid combining terror and suspense in a story of oddly touching love and tragedy.

Hyun-min (Hyeon-jun Shin) is a brilliant, emotionally troubled facial reconstruct aiding the police in a case that threatens to undermine their effectiveness, and which grips the community in a stranglehold of fear. The case centers on a serial killer who burns off the flesh of his victims with acid, leaving only bones behind, thereby making it difficult to gather forensics evidence. Hyun-min is tiring of the case and his lifestyle, desiring more time with his daughter, who he loves but is estranged from. He is particularly nervous for her well being after the heart transplant she received the year before. A former forensic sculptor, Hyun-min allows the bones of the latest victim to be stored in his house, which results in his daughter suffering nightmares and disturbing visions. When he himself begins to suffer from ghostly visions of a long haired specter, he races to discover the answers that can save his daughter's life and free them both from spectral visitations. In the meantime, the police investigation points increasingly towards the heart surgeon who operated on his daughter . . .

While many would expect a film at least partially about serial killers to feature graphic violence -- or at least some violence -- Face features very little. In fact, it doesn't feature many scares either -- at least not directly. Instead, the fear, like the violence, is implied. This won't make it a favorite amongst slasher fans, but its restraint and suggestive qualities do make it more believable. A ghost story finding the meaning of life, and stressing its value, Face is intelligent and sensitive. The supernatural elements are integral to the story, and while not providing the expected shocks, they work on a classically unnerving level, harkening us back to the more restrained chills of Victorian and Edwardian supernatural literature. The supernatural appearances of the ghost, which appear to both Hyun-min and his empathetic daughter, are less frightening by far than the insane atrocities committed by the very real, very human madman that the plot focuses on. Most admirable, Face finds love at its brightest when covered by the shadow of the grave.

Face is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen, and while the picture is acceptable, the quality of the transfer seems less perfected than their other titles. A degree of picture softness washes out the clarity of the image, removing something from its depth. The overall transfer is fine besides this, without blotching or grain. Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks are included, with equal distribution between dialogue and effects, and with optional English subtitles. Extras feature insightful if not enthusiastic interviews with the director, cast and crew, and outtakes that, while appreciated, add little meaning or subtext to the feature.

Review by William P. Simmons