Dogani

Silenced has such a strong story that it almost overshadows all the other qualities of the film (and there are plenty). It gave me goosebumps and I felt a huge sense of helplessness with them. The most important part of it, of course, is the human side of it, and the fact that something like this can happen at all. And any film that can point to something like that and move people's hearts with its treatment deserves an award. But as I said, the film has other qualities as well. The child acting is incredible, Yoo Gong is as always a quality actor (at least for me), and that beautiful chilling music... 5 stars (01.11.2012)

I thought it would be a proper drama, but in the end I didn't get burned, and thanks to the interesting subject, the film reaches into thriller territory and we get some really gritty, emotional, vicious and cruel stuff. An excellent story that pulls you into the plot and makes you go through different phases where you cheer, believe, pray, hate, scream, curse and cry. Yes I don't remember a film resonating with me that strongly and the fact that this one is spiced up with a trial, which I, as a lover of legal thrillers, welcome with open arms, the rating was decided long ago. The fact that the film is based on true events that lead to changes in the Korean constitution is just a nice cherry on an already quite excellent cake. 100% (12.07.2015)

The Koreans once again reached to the world cinematography and all those movies that record the stigmata of the nation and once again moved it to another, yet unexplored direction. Everyone should agree with me that it is so considering just the premise. During watching it I was feeling very unwell. Moreover I had a feeling that justice and judicial system in South Korea don’t exist at all. That’s the only way to explain what was happening in this movie. Indifference, anger, hatred – all of those are present in this movie. If you ever complain about the judicial system of your country, having a feeling that you have been wronged, you should watch this movie. You have never seen such an injustice. (07.10.2020)

Well, that was one unsettling movie. I'm not naive about how a civilized society operates, but when it's presented to me so starkly, it still manages to shake me. The filmmakers here tackled a theme that is, unfortunately, all too relevant. From its unquestionable position of authority, the theme feels even more chilling and dangerous. The Koreans really got under my skin with their portrayal, evoking a lot of uncomfortable feelings. It's clear they went about it the right way. / Lesson learned: If you have an appetite for very young prey, either seek help or get yourself castrated. (21.03.2022)

If you were in a good mood before watching Silenced, be prepared to feel the most bitter taste in your mouth after the credits roll! This film truly grabs your heart. It’s a masterful piece of filmmaking in every respect; you can see the work of a master behind the camera in every shot. Add to that such a serious topic based on real events, and you have a genre-defining hit! The main character is extremely sympathetic, and you empathize with him throughout the film, shaking your head in disbelief at the corruption of the entire system, reaching up to the highest levels. It’s an emotionally overwhelming experience; the naturalistic scenes of the abuse of deaf children will resonate with me for a long time. And the ending? Words fail me; the injustice here was literally palpable! Let’s hope that the judicial system in South Korea has changed because of this case. Let’s hope... A cinematic gem. 9/10 (20.09.2021)