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V.I.P.

Name: V.I.P.
Director: Park Hoon-jung
Released: 2017
Duration: 128 min

Representation Score

5.4/10

Fair

2017

Not Rated

Director

Park Hoon-jung

Runtime

128 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

V.I.P. is a gritty crime thriller that delves into psychological complexity and the breakdown of authority. While it falls short in representing women and LGBTQ+ individuals, it excels in its critical examination of systemic corruption. The film's strength lies in its rejection of simple 'good vs. evil' narratives. Instead, it presents a morally complex landscape where state institutions are shown to be inherently flawed and motivated by self-interest. Ultimately, the work prioritizes a deep, cynical exploration of geopolitical and institutional power over demographic diversity, focusing on systemic failures rather than social inclusion.

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Category Breakdown

Does V.I.P. have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships. It adheres to a traditional framework that assumes everyone is straight.

How does V.I.P. portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses mainly on male characters, such as intelligence officers and political figures. Female characters are limited to supporting or domestic roles within the political context.

How racially and ethnically diverse is V.I.P.?

Fair

The film centers on Korean identities, examining the geopolitical tensions between North and South Korea. It highlights the conflict between two different political systems of the same ethnic group.

How does V.I.P. represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film effectively critiques state power and institutional corruption. It challenges the idea of a just state by showing how political interests overshadow moral principles.

Does V.I.P. include disability representation?

Limited

Psychopathy is used as a plot device to create tension rather than a detailed look at neurodivergence. The film uses psychological issues primarily to build suspense.

Present on Screen

Sophisticated deconstruction of state legitimacy and institutional power.
Nuanced exploration of the geopolitical tensions between North and South Korean identities.
Rejection of binary morality in favor of complex, systemic moral relativism.

Limited or Absent

Lack of meaningful representation for female characters beyond supporting roles.
Absence of LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships.
Use of psychological dysfunction primarily as a plot device rather than a nuanced character study.

Official Synopsis

A son to a high-ranked official in North Korea commits a series of murders going across the countries around the world. The movie depicts the following events as South Korea, North Korea and Interpol start chasing down after him.

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