Korean director Na Hong-jin's new film 'Hope' combines breathtaking action with less convincing CGI, following its release amidst high expectations.
Anticipation and Setting
Since 2016’s 'The Wailing,' fans have eagerly awaited Na Hong-jin's next film. 'Hope' arrives with an international cast and Korea's largest film budget to date. Set in Hope Harbor, South Korea, during the late '80s, the film opens with police chief Bum-seok, played by Hwang Jung-min, investigating a mysterious cow mutilation. Hunters led by Sung-ki (Zo In-sung) suggest a tiger is the culprit, but it soon becomes clear that a more formidable creature is at large.
Action-Packed First Hour
The film's first hour is a whirlwind of action and humor, with Na's direction and Hong Kyung-pyo's cinematography delivering a visually stunning experience. The chaos, reminiscent of Westerns and 1950s sci-fi, sees characters like Officer Sung-ae (Hoyeon) executing daring maneuvers as they confront the monster.
Character Dynamics and Humor
The film's strength lies in its character interactions and comedic moments. Bum-seok, alongside a grizzled elder, mistakenly shoots a local butcher, adding to the chaotic narrative. The film cleverly balances human drama with monster-driven action, despite some subplots feeling unnecessary in the film's 160-minute runtime.
Monster Reveal and CGI Issues
The monster, played in motion capture by Cameron Britton, finally appears, but its CGI design clashes with the film's otherwise stylish aesthetic. The middle section drags as hunters explore the forest, but the film regains momentum with an exhilarating highway chase. Despite CGI flaws, the film's humor and stunts offer entertainment, with the quirky residents of Hope Harbor providing comedic relief.
While 'Hope' lacks deep thematic elements, it succeeds as an entertaining action film. The casting of international stars like Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, and Taylor Russell as aliens offers a subtle nod to Hollywood's casting practices, but the film's strength remains in its human elements.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/reviews/hope-review-na-hong-jin-1236750496/
