Synopsis
In a society of hatred, people spout all sorts of criticism and animosity towards others, while hiding behind anonymity. Socialphobia by Hong Seok-jae is a kind of realistic and harsh report about the new hell-like modern society, where people use social network services and the internet to consume others’ misfortunes, and for a window of excretion without any feeling of guilt. Ji-woong and Yong-min get involved in a suicide case while participating in an online livestream show for fun. Although they are preparing to join the police force, they harm others in anonymous cyber space with no feelings of guilt. Their ironic behavior is a reflection of those who consume others’ misfortunes like a virtual game, and it also becomes a genre tool to develop the narrative, solving a mystery related to the suicide. Socialphobia was made 8 years ago, but the questions asked are still valid. The potential of the actors Byun Yohan, Lee Ju Seung and Ryu Jun Yeol, who are leading the present Korean film industry, is revealed in this film. (MO Eun-young)