The End of April

The End of April 2017 is a South Korean psychological thriller that delves into the uncanny, the terrifying, and the eerie silence that drapes over an everyday life setting. The end of April creates an unsettling atmosphere by providing a glimpse of the subtle undercurrents of violence that lie beneath the veneer of normality. Directed by Director Kwang-Bok Kim, the plot subtly weaves its narrative in a suspenseful crescendo, consistently challenging your perceptions and expectations, resulting in a captivating cinematic experience.

The movie features an intriguing ensemble of characters played by talented actors Ji-Soo Park, Bit-na Lee, and Jang So-yeon. The different personalities and complexities of these characters are exposed throughout the plot, revealing their strengths, vulnerabilities, fears, and secrets, contributing to the overall chilling atmosphere.

Ji-Soo Park plays Hyun-jin, an undergraduate student studying for the civil-service exam, gearing her up for a secure future in a government role. She leads a solitary existence, immersed in her competitive study regimen, exemplifying the struggle of countless South Korean students. Through Ji-Soo Park's nuanced performance, audiences witness a quiet determination; yet, her isolation resonates deeper into a sense of unease as the plot unfolds.

Bit-na Lee plays the enigmatic and peculiar woman who moves into the low-cost residence next to Hyun-jin's secluded rooftop room. Her arrival in the vicinity puts forth a new unsettling dynamic in what used to be a quiet, reserved neighborhood. Bit-na Lee's compelling portrayal of this eccentric and seemingly troubled woman gradually unfolds in layers, increasing the tension and suspense within the plot.

Jang So-yeon takes the role of Hyun-jin's friend, who seems fairly regular on the surface but soon reveals her own oddities, adding to the movie's overall eerie aura. Her friendship with Hyun-jin is a prominent subplot and significantly impacts the path the story takes.

Hyun-jin's peaceful life soon takes a dark twist with the arrival of her peculiar neighbor and the repeated, mysterious wedding ceremonies held in the apartment complex's basement, which are triggered by the landlord. As she grapples with unusual noises, uncanny incidents, and terrifying dreams, she gets entangled in a horrifying reality that blurs the lines between sanity and madness, interlacing fear and curiosity.

Contrasting elements of normality and abnormality, The End of April uses an ordinary setting to unfurl an extraordinary narrative. Striking a balance between horror tropes and thriller elements, the movie delves into psychological terror and contains social commentary, highlighting the pressures and anxieties of modern-day Korean society, particularly those faced by the youth.

The often gloomy cinematography brilliantly captures the strange occurrences and eerie ambiance, while the shuddering silence and unpredictable soundscape only escalate the discomfort and suspense. The camera work plays a significant role in heightening the chilling atmosphere, focusing on daunting shadows, the claustrophobic interiors, and the gloom-enshrouded exterior scenes. The director, Kwang-Bok Kim, uses these elements to keep viewers on their toes, often encasing them in minimalistic elegance dipped in terrifying subtlety.

The movie shines in its ability to cultivate an ominous environment without resorting to classic horror film tropes like overtly grisly images or shock hats. Instead, it relies more on psychological underpinnings and disquieting implications to create dreadful sensations.

The End of April is a film that pushes the boundaries of the psychological thriller genre. Its exploration of anxiety, fear, and isolation in the midst of ordinary lives brings forth a chilling narrative interspersed with unsettling twists and turns. This film is a must-watch for enthusiasts who prefer psychological horror that transcends mindless jump scares, valuing narrative depth, character evolution, and thematic resonance.