97 reviews
A film to make you review your own life...
- paulclaassen
- Jun 3, 2018
- Permalink
The Seven Trials
When the fireman Kim Ja-hong (Tae-hyun Cha) dies during a rescue operation in a fire in a building, his guardians Kangrim (Jung-woo Ha), Haewonmaek (Ji-hun Ju) and Dukchoon (Hyang-gi Kim) guide him to the afterlife. They explain that they will defend him in seven trials with seven gods in seven hells along forty-nine days to disclose how he spent his life. Ja-hong, who is considered a model citizen, will reincarnate if his guardians are well-succeeded in their defense. However, there are disturbances in the afterlife caused by a Revengeful Spirit and Kangrim goes to the World of the Living to investigate what is happening. Meanwhile the prosecutors find problems in the relationship of Ja-hong and his mother and brother and Haewonmaek and Dukchoon are surprised by the discoveries. Will Ja-hong´s soul be saved?
"Singwa hamgge", a.k.a. "Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds", is a delightful fantasy about reincarnation with funny and melodramatic moments. Jung-woo Ha steals the movie with a great performance but the cast also shines. The top-notch special effects is another attraction. My vote is eight.
Title (Brazil): Not Available
"Singwa hamgge", a.k.a. "Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds", is a delightful fantasy about reincarnation with funny and melodramatic moments. Jung-woo Ha steals the movie with a great performance but the cast also shines. The top-notch special effects is another attraction. My vote is eight.
Title (Brazil): Not Available
- claudio_carvalho
- Apr 10, 2018
- Permalink
A fireman has to undergo several trials in the afterlife before reincarnating, but a disturbance in the human world threatens to wreak havoc to his journey.
- pal05052003
- Jan 15, 2018
- Permalink
A touching film
This film tells the story of a firefighter who dies while saving a girl in a fire in a skyscraper. He is led by three grim reapers who guide him through the seven trials in the Afterlife.
The story initially is predictable, as he breezes though the initial trials. Then the film gets increasingly engaging and captivating. The final trials are not predictable anymore, and there is much suspense. The visuals are great, and there is clearly a lot of thought going into the visuals. The ending is very touching, particularly when viewers understand the Oriental culture about filial duties. Lots of tissues were used in the cinema!
The story initially is predictable, as he breezes though the initial trials. Then the film gets increasingly engaging and captivating. The final trials are not predictable anymore, and there is much suspense. The visuals are great, and there is clearly a lot of thought going into the visuals. The ending is very touching, particularly when viewers understand the Oriental culture about filial duties. Lots of tissues were used in the cinema!
It was ok.
This movie portrays a series of trials that people must stand in the afterlife to be granted reincarnation, according to Buddhist beliefs. So far, so good. It's an interesting plot, more so if, like me, you don't know much about those beliefs.
What I liked, and I think it should be noted: Emotional scenes are on point. I almost cried several times. It's very touching, even if it is not noticeable at first glance.
What I didn't liked: Bad comedy. And it's not that I don't get the jokes because I'm westerner, they are just not funny. I don't know how to put it, they are jokes a child would make. Plus, they are extremely out of place ("Thor: Ragnarok", if you know what I mean).
I also need to point out that some court scenes are ridiculous.
All in all, it's "watchable". Entertaining, if you have nothing else to do/see. Definitely not more than a 6.
What I liked, and I think it should be noted: Emotional scenes are on point. I almost cried several times. It's very touching, even if it is not noticeable at first glance.
What I didn't liked: Bad comedy. And it's not that I don't get the jokes because I'm westerner, they are just not funny. I don't know how to put it, they are jokes a child would make. Plus, they are extremely out of place ("Thor: Ragnarok", if you know what I mean).
I also need to point out that some court scenes are ridiculous.
All in all, it's "watchable". Entertaining, if you have nothing else to do/see. Definitely not more than a 6.
an amazing plot meets an amazing CGI, Bravo
The cinematography is amaaazing, it is what made me watch the movie in the first place,, but then got to engage with the plot which was tight, organized and well distributed over the whole two hours of fantasy.
The story is just emotional in all levels , the guy has to pass through the 7 judgments to decide whether he's guilty of sins or not,, but over each one of these heartwarming memories they present they add a sprinkle of light comedy ,, this made the movie look even more appealing.
The cast were all perfect,, it's not the first movie i watch for Tae-hyun Cha ,, i saw him before in Hello Ghost and My Sassy Girl , and he was hilarious,, here they tuned down the comedy to make the character look more miserable and "dead" ;D and of course Jung-woo Ha was amazing too.
Final thought,, the movie is really good,, the screenplay is definitely a 10 and the story leads to a "confirmed" sequel probably coming by the end of this year.. so start watching.
The story is just emotional in all levels , the guy has to pass through the 7 judgments to decide whether he's guilty of sins or not,, but over each one of these heartwarming memories they present they add a sprinkle of light comedy ,, this made the movie look even more appealing.
The cast were all perfect,, it's not the first movie i watch for Tae-hyun Cha ,, i saw him before in Hello Ghost and My Sassy Girl , and he was hilarious,, here they tuned down the comedy to make the character look more miserable and "dead" ;D and of course Jung-woo Ha was amazing too.
Final thought,, the movie is really good,, the screenplay is definitely a 10 and the story leads to a "confirmed" sequel probably coming by the end of this year.. so start watching.
- Aktham_Tashtush
- Apr 8, 2018
- Permalink
worth to wotch once
I think this whole 7 trial story based on Mahayana Buddisum .
i havent much experience about that .
but film say
for every action we make in this life has consequence in afterlife .
that is strong word .
worth to watch at least once in life
worth to watch at least once in life
- kusalmaduranga
- May 11, 2018
- Permalink
Sudden discovery
Throughout the film, it was just an interesting and pleasing picture, with an inherent style of Asian films. But the last part of the film, surprisingly, turned out to be very strong, and directly pulled the overall impression to a higher level.
I highly recommend to watch this movie to everyone, including those who usually bypass Asian films.
- SilverOrlov
- Apr 17, 2019
- Permalink
A Hollywood blockbuster with Korean actors
Awesome
The story is clear and emotional. The CGI is really exciting and Jung-woo Ha did a great performances.The ending makes me want to cry. Great movie.
- justinovoo
- Jan 21, 2018
- Permalink
Good stuff!
After dying unexpectedly, firefighter Ja-hong is taken in the afterlife by three guardians. There are seven trials he has to go through: Betrayal, Violence, Filial Impiety, Murder, Indolence, Deceit, and Injustice; and proving he lived a noble life will he be able to reincarnate.
When was the last time you watched a movie about Gods and afterlife? Been a while for me, therefore it was nice to watch something that wasn't a crime-drama, an action thriller for a change. This movie was also a visual treat, please watch it on a good screen, hell watch it on your phone if you have to so that you can enjoy the colors.
The movie, at the crux of it, is about how life is shorter than we think, about family, about choice and consequences, sins and redemption, pretty much about living a meaningful life. At least, the movie makes you take a step back and look at how you've lived your life so far, and that's not something we all consciously do regularly.
The movie does get melodramatic but if you're the kind of person who likes 'feel good movies' that make you cry, this would totally be one of those movies.
When was the last time you watched a movie about Gods and afterlife? Been a while for me, therefore it was nice to watch something that wasn't a crime-drama, an action thriller for a change. This movie was also a visual treat, please watch it on a good screen, hell watch it on your phone if you have to so that you can enjoy the colors.
The movie, at the crux of it, is about how life is shorter than we think, about family, about choice and consequences, sins and redemption, pretty much about living a meaningful life. At least, the movie makes you take a step back and look at how you've lived your life so far, and that's not something we all consciously do regularly.
The movie does get melodramatic but if you're the kind of person who likes 'feel good movies' that make you cry, this would totally be one of those movies.
- TreeFiddy53
- Aug 16, 2023
- Permalink
Better than Last Jedi...
The CGI can be really mind-blowing at times and some strong performances by the guardians, but what really holds it together is the family drama under the fantasy elements. Definitely worth watching.
- IMDBreview2017
- Dec 28, 2017
- Permalink
A good drama/action movie (minor spoilers)
- keithomusic
- Feb 10, 2023
- Permalink
I can understand where the appeal for this movie is coming from, but for me the plot is too dramatic and the acting painful to watch.
This movie has really good premises, the plot seemed interesting and I liked the idea of Kim Ja-hong in the Afterlife, trying to find redemption for the wrongs that he did in his life. However I never felt that the protagonist was in danger, because he was always protected by his "lawyers" during the different trials and they always managed to win, even though it seemed impossible. Every mistake made by Kim while alive is exaggerated. The story of the firefighter is indeed dramatic, but it needed to be balanced better. Everything is over the top, the acting is at times incoherent and nonsensical. Ju Ji-Hoon, who was supposed to be the comedic relief, was just cringey and I could not stand him. The film was filled with useless and boring dialogues that either repeated information that the audience already apprehended or that led absolutely nowhere. Two hours and a half for a movie like this one is definitely too much. Screenwriters and the director needed to keep things simpler and cut some scenes.
I understand where the appeal for this movie is coming from, the photography is beautiful, visual effects look good and the general concept is interesting, unfortunately the execution, not so much. I had to watch this movie in three different instances because either I was getting bored or falling asleep.
I understand where the appeal for this movie is coming from, the photography is beautiful, visual effects look good and the general concept is interesting, unfortunately the execution, not so much. I had to watch this movie in three different instances because either I was getting bored or falling asleep.
Superb entertainment that will make you reflect upon your life
I like putting movies into Venn diagrams and I have special categories always swimming in my head like "movies with a great final shot" and "movies that showcase traits I would like in my future partner". Then there is that one category that doesn't have many movies - "movies that can make you reflect upon one's life". Along with The Gods: The Two Worlds slips in there ever so surreptitiously.
I didn't figure the Korean blockbuster to be a tearjerker, but it most certainly was. All through the screening, I could hear people around me sniffling and wiping their tears away unabashedly, me included. The movie doesn't even try to be subtle in this aspect and I must say every rivulet of my tears was earned.
Yet the story is also fashioned as a fast-paced pulsating adventure ride and it scores top marks in this aspect too. My eyes blinked in disbelief and my mind boggled in awe as the twists and turns become wilder and twistier, but never losing its grasp on the audience. This is high concept done well, every far-fetched notion perfectly digestible. There is superb verve in its storytelling. Nothing is truly what it seems.
Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds is a film that is solidly cast. I don't get the Korean names very well, but I watch a lot of Korean cinema and TV dramas and instantly recognised all the familiar faces. Cha Tae Hyun is perfectly cast as the good-natured Paragon with a well of secrets that threaten to derail his chances at reincarnation at every trial. The casting of the 3 grim reapers is also spot-on with differing dynamics that lend propulsion to the story.
There is some amazing world building here, every level of hell is well-rendered and nothing for this reviewer feels repetitive. The CGI work here is top-notch, considering 90% of the movie is probably done to a green screen. IMHO CGI is just a means to an end and the end must always be to serve the story. The story is so strong here that the CGI disappears into the background.
Exposition is always a tricky business in storytelling and Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds is practically all exposition. But the intrigue and suspense build-up through character motivations constantly draws one deeper into the proceedings. My senses hinged closely on the afterlife guardians' explanations at every turn as I got ready for the next trial. Even with the advance preparation the trial still puts me in a tailspin with some shocking revelations. Director Kim Yong Hwa even takes a 2-pronged narrative trek midway with both narrative trajectories dovetailing in the final act effectively.
The story resonates on God levels here. It is a rip-roaring adventure action film, but it also scores as an examination of the complexities of life lived in whatever station you are in. I shuddered in my seat as the end credits ran, wondering if I will see another movie that is as thrilling and heartfelt as this or can I even pass the seven trials right at that moment. Movies should do this - move you and make you want to become a better person. In a year you can count on the fingers of one hand, movies that can perform this feat successfully.
PS - a cameo during the ending threw me into a loop. I only found out later that this is the first of a 2-part epic, the concluding chapter will open in the summer of this year. Oh yeah! I am ready.
I didn't figure the Korean blockbuster to be a tearjerker, but it most certainly was. All through the screening, I could hear people around me sniffling and wiping their tears away unabashedly, me included. The movie doesn't even try to be subtle in this aspect and I must say every rivulet of my tears was earned.
Yet the story is also fashioned as a fast-paced pulsating adventure ride and it scores top marks in this aspect too. My eyes blinked in disbelief and my mind boggled in awe as the twists and turns become wilder and twistier, but never losing its grasp on the audience. This is high concept done well, every far-fetched notion perfectly digestible. There is superb verve in its storytelling. Nothing is truly what it seems.
Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds is a film that is solidly cast. I don't get the Korean names very well, but I watch a lot of Korean cinema and TV dramas and instantly recognised all the familiar faces. Cha Tae Hyun is perfectly cast as the good-natured Paragon with a well of secrets that threaten to derail his chances at reincarnation at every trial. The casting of the 3 grim reapers is also spot-on with differing dynamics that lend propulsion to the story.
There is some amazing world building here, every level of hell is well-rendered and nothing for this reviewer feels repetitive. The CGI work here is top-notch, considering 90% of the movie is probably done to a green screen. IMHO CGI is just a means to an end and the end must always be to serve the story. The story is so strong here that the CGI disappears into the background.
Exposition is always a tricky business in storytelling and Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds is practically all exposition. But the intrigue and suspense build-up through character motivations constantly draws one deeper into the proceedings. My senses hinged closely on the afterlife guardians' explanations at every turn as I got ready for the next trial. Even with the advance preparation the trial still puts me in a tailspin with some shocking revelations. Director Kim Yong Hwa even takes a 2-pronged narrative trek midway with both narrative trajectories dovetailing in the final act effectively.
The story resonates on God levels here. It is a rip-roaring adventure action film, but it also scores as an examination of the complexities of life lived in whatever station you are in. I shuddered in my seat as the end credits ran, wondering if I will see another movie that is as thrilling and heartfelt as this or can I even pass the seven trials right at that moment. Movies should do this - move you and make you want to become a better person. In a year you can count on the fingers of one hand, movies that can perform this feat successfully.
PS - a cameo during the ending threw me into a loop. I only found out later that this is the first of a 2-part epic, the concluding chapter will open in the summer of this year. Oh yeah! I am ready.
Good Enough
The only problem with this movie is it's length. Two hours counting is way too much. Kind of got a bit tiring after a while. The special effects were a problem at the begining, but they got really better after a while. The performances were good as well and the story was touching and emotionaly, especially the brother's story. The guy was a bit too much of a mama's boy, but it wasn't that big of a deal breaker. The action scenes and the costumes, finally were good as well. Lastly, my fav actor, Kyungsoo did well and had good drama scenes. So, 7 out of 10.
- PennyReviews
- Feb 15, 2018
- Permalink
Stoning
The film focuses on the inner story and the scenery of the protagonist who is transformed through seven trials. When a moment supports the ordinary character, at a certain moment, audiences put themsleves on the life of each person. As a result, this vast fantasy that transcends the boundaries of life and death between the world and hell, takes a leap into the tectonics of human life and death, the meaning of life and death, and the value of a given life.
- sungminseancho
- Dec 27, 2017
- Permalink
good!
The cgi is great , the main actors are great (especially the ending part), the story line is great. the only problem is the length of the movie. there is no climax (for me) to thrill the viewers so i got bored watching this.. and i got really annoyed with the part were this one character want to say something and the guardian have to repeat what he say. i think this is great as a series,,
A must-watch movie
I rarely cry while watching a movie but this one is really amazing. It made me cry two times or maybe more, in the middle and at the end of film, it also taught me a lot and I have to review my lifestyle after watching this film, about the truth, betrayal, deception. Such things I should be away in my life. Furthermore, the most important thing should be respect for our parents, who always love us and give us everything without taking back. Lots of tissues were used in the cinema (copy from the last reviews)
- hoangquandn
- Mar 8, 2018
- Permalink
I wasnt expecting that much from this movie
I watched this movie with very litttle expectations but I swear I ended it with crying.At some time it was one of my most favourite movies
- Shayankhan-7526
- Feb 6, 2021
- Permalink
Take it as it is, don't focus on length.
Screenplay is great, really, the way it unfolds. Performances are also good. Watch it, I bet it'll be worth your time.
- nikhilraj1990
- Apr 24, 2018
- Permalink
Defending Your Life, Gangnam Style
I love South Korean crime movies because they are over-the-top nuts. So, apparently, are South Korean fantasy/scifi movies because, Holy Hannah, this one is nuts. A South Korean firefighter dies on duty and must undergo a series of trials before he is allowed to reincarnate. Man, Buddhism is tough. And complicated. I thought my (WARNING! Shameless self-promotion ahead!) Ship to Look For God trilogy set in Heaven was complicated but this one wins. It's a bit tough figuring out who's who and what's doing what to what but worth it. The CGI and swordplay alone make it worth it.
The worthest movie I ever seen
This film has great story line which is the emotional connection between main character and his family.In addition, It contains strong feeling to touch audience's heart from every character.I look forward to seeing the next episode on this summer.After movie,I suddenly realized that we should treasure relative and friendship,do something want to do before too late.
Action fantasy to thrill you and make you cry as well
Enjoy this if you are a fan of the male lead of "My Sassy Girl". He has acted with his all, there is no need to be a college student for being a protagonist after all.. He almost made us forget all this with his much older movies. This movie is very entertaining for others too
The movie begins in an unusual way, so do not expect anything usual in the rest of the film. Some parts are indeed cheesy and overly melodramatic, explaining the lower ratings. However, the movie is very entertaining and not annoying as most emotional scenes are well placed. The powerful support cast also makes this a huge success. In fact, the movie can be said to have four to five main characters and not just one. In the second part of this movie, you will understand why
The best part of the movie is the entertaining design of the fantasy world, with elements of Buddhist theology. We are never made to feel this, as the sequences feel logical and the actors do not get preachy.. Instead, the progression of story is driven through every part of this setup. There are some questions left unanswered, yet done exceedingly well in the second part. The success of this movie lies in the fact that this is a completely wholesome movie even on its own separately.
The movie begins in an unusual way, so do not expect anything usual in the rest of the film. Some parts are indeed cheesy and overly melodramatic, explaining the lower ratings. However, the movie is very entertaining and not annoying as most emotional scenes are well placed. The powerful support cast also makes this a huge success. In fact, the movie can be said to have four to five main characters and not just one. In the second part of this movie, you will understand why
The best part of the movie is the entertaining design of the fantasy world, with elements of Buddhist theology. We are never made to feel this, as the sequences feel logical and the actors do not get preachy.. Instead, the progression of story is driven through every part of this setup. There are some questions left unanswered, yet done exceedingly well in the second part. The success of this movie lies in the fact that this is a completely wholesome movie even on its own separately.
A silly take for an important issue
This movie was a total waste of time. Reincarnation and Karmic cycles shouldn't be approached in this superficial way. I don't mind comedy even with such a topic but not in that cliché take.