Let’s start by introducing the man from the title: Dr. Cheon (Gang Dong-won). Dr. Cheon (“DC”) is a pretend shaman/exorcist, who doesn’t believe in ghosts and the heir to a shamanic family legacy. With the help of his trusty sidekick, DC runs an online exorcism channel and demonstrates an extraordinary insight into people, alongside, of course, some pretty entertaining theatrics. One evening a woman named Yoo-kyung (Esom) arrives at his office and requests his assistance in a matter troubling her and her family. Dr Cheon initially refuses but is persuaded to help when presented with and promised large sums of money. So, our rock star shaman accepts the case and heads to her home in the countryside. However, what he encounters on this assignment is a genuine case of demonic possession- a case much beyond anything he has experienced before.
Dr. Cheon and the Lost Talisman, is the directorial feature debut from Director Kim Seong-sik, who has previously worked as an assistant director on some highly regarded films including Parasite (2019) and Decision to Leave (2022). Based on a webtoon, DCATLT, blends reality and fantasy (with the help of modern technology) to create a feature film that all the family can enjoy. It is funny, serious, witty, just the right amount of scary (for this viewer at least) moments that make one jump – unless you have issues with possessed children and feel sensitive about the threat to fingers and eyes – and features a really great film score that compliments exactly what is occurring. There is also a really great villain and a surprise cameo casting from the very beautiful Jisoo of Blackpink fame, who luckily for viewers found time to film during her world tour.
When DCATLT was released in Korea earlier this year, the audience reaction was good. Talking of this in the post-screening Q&A, Kim joked that he has seen the film many times and thinks he could have done better – but that is the nature of creating things. Whilst there may be ways in which it might have been improved, it is a really good first film and very enjoyable to watch. It’s exciting, and lovingly made. Kim thanked the audience for giving up their precious time to watch the film. He felt honoured by this. Kim is an exciting director, and this viewer is looking forward to what he produces next. He is currently writing script for a sequel!
Fun fact for film lovers: The actors that played the affluent couple at the film’s beginning also played the basement couple in Parasite. Kim joked that he must have overly sympathised with their situation.
Question: Did anyone else wonder how much more it would have cost had Jisoo spoken during her cameo?
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Trailer: