Is 1987: When the Day Comes Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)
In January 1987, a 22-year-old college student dies during a police interrogation. Under the orders of Director Park, the police request the body to be cremated in order to destroy evidence. Public Prosecutor Choi, who was on duty on the day of the incident, denies the request and calls for an autopsy. The police maintain the lie that the death was a simple accident, resulting from shock. The autopsy results, however, point to torture as the cause of death. Yoon, a journalist following the case, reports that the death was a result of asphyxiation during torture. Director Park attempts to conceal the truth by ending the case, arresting two detectives including inspector Cho. While in prison, inspector Cho reveals the truth to prison guard Han Byung-yong, who embarks on a dangerous mission to relay the information to an opposition politician through his niece, Yeon-hee.
✨ The Quick Verdict
If you are a fan of Drama, History, Thriller cinema, then 1987: When the Day Comes offers a fresh and engaging experience that justifies its existence in the 2017 landscape.
👥 Target Audience
📔 Detailed Analysis
The Narrative Arc & Core Premise
Debuting in 2017, 1987: When the Day Comes represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Drama, History, Thriller category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In January 1987, a 22-year-old college student dies during a police interrogation. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama, History, Thriller are tested.
The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "In January 1987, a 22-year-old college student dies during a police interrogation. Under the orders of Director Park, the police request the body to be cremated in order to destroy evidence. Public Prosecutor Choi, who was on duty on the day of the incident, denies the request and calls for an autopsy. The police maintain the lie that the death was a simple accident, resulting from shock. The autopsy results, however, point to torture as the cause of death. Yoon, a journalist following the case, reports that the death was a result of asphyxiation during torture. Director Park attempts to conceal the truth by ending the case, arresting two detectives including inspector Cho. While in prison, inspector Cho reveals the truth to prison guard Han Byung-yong, who embarks on a dangerous mission to relay the information to an opposition politician through his niece, Yeon-hee."
Artistic Execution & Performance Study
A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Kim Yun-seok, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Drama. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.
The direction by Jang Joon-hwan is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 129 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.
Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch
Is 1987: When the Day Comes truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, History, Thriller, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.
The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8.1/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.
Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision
At a deeper level, 1987: When the Day Comes explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Jang Joon-hwan respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.
The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.
Final Editorial Recommendation
Ultimately, 1987: When the Day Comes is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Kim Yun-seok or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, 1987: When the Day Comes is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.
⏳ Time Investment
At approximately 2.2 hours, the film requires a standard time commitment.