Seobok, the South Korean film released in 2021, takes us into a fascinating and disturbing world where the discovery of eternal life through genetic cloning redefines the boundaries of humanity. The clone named Seobok, with his miraculous marrow that can heal, becomes a savior as well as a threat. When enemies attack, a former secret agent offers protection in exchange for a place in the clinical trial. Each character, including Seobok, faces moral dilemmas and the consequences of what he brings to our species.
- A fascinating detail is that the film was inspired by a historical figure, sent by Qin Shi Huang, the first Chinese emperor, in search of the plant of eternal youth. Therefore, "Seobok" provokes deep philosophical reflections on the future of humanity and sends a clear message: the unlimited ambition of man can have unpredictable and dangerous consequences.
For the most part, i can say that it is an original and captivating story, with a generous dose of mystery and action, with complex characters and explored moral dilemmas that evoke strong emotions and provoke individualistic reflection. I recommend with confidence.
Park Bo-Gum gives a memorable performance as Seobok, a clone with a paradoxical existence. Although he has a 20-year-old body, his life experience spans only a decade, making him a child trapped in an adult's body. The fascination grows when we discover that this fragile being is weaponized, with enhanced cells that give him protection but isolate him on a psychological level.
Alongside Seobok, we find Gong Yoo, known from acclaimed productions such as "Coffee Prince", "Train to Busan" and "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God". He plays a former secret agent with an imminent death sentence who accepts the mission to protect Seobok in exchange for the chance to participate in a clinical experiment.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates intelligent sci-fi with a generous dose of philosophy and emotion.
