The Subversion (Korean: 마녀) is a 2018 South Korean

Review: The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018) – A Gritty, Action-Packed Thriller with a Supernatural Twist  

The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (Korean: 마녀) is a 2018 South Korean action-thriller film directed by Park Hoon-jung (*New World*, *I Saw the Devil*). Though marketed as a standalone movie, its title suggests potential for sequels, making it a "Season 1" in spirit. The film blends sci-fi, brutal action, and psychological drama, anchored by a stellar performance from Kim Da-mi in her breakout role.  

Plot Summary  

The story follows Ja-yoon (Kim Da-mi), a seemingly ordinary high school girl living in the countryside with her adoptive parents. Suffering from memory loss, she struggles with violent nightmares and unexplained physical abilities. When she participates in a televised talent show for a cash prize, she attracts the attention of a mysterious organization that claims to have created her. As her past unravels, Ja-yoon is forced to confront her true nature—a genetically enhanced "witch" trained to be a lethal weapon.  

Strengths  

• 1. Kim Da-mi’s Electrifying Performance – The film’s biggest asset is Kim Da-mi, who effortlessly transitions from an innocent teenager to a terrifyingly efficient killer. Her physicality and emotional range make Ja-yoon a compelling protagonist.  
• 2. Brutal, Well-Choreographed Action – The fight scenes are visceral and intense, with a mix of hand-to-hand combat and gunplay. The climax is particularly gripping, showcasing Ja-yoon’s ruthless efficiency.  
• 3. Mystery & Pacing – The first half plays like a psychological thriller, slowly revealing Ja-yoon’s past. The second half shifts into high-octane action, keeping the audience engaged.  
• 4. Villains & Supporting Cast – Choi Woo-shik (*Parasite*) plays a memorable antagonist, while Jo Min-soo and Park Hee-soon add depth as key figures from Ja-yoon’s past.  

Weaknesses 

• 1. Predictable Twist – The central revelation about Ja-yoon’s identity isn’t entirely surprising, especially for fans of the genre.  
• 2. Underdeveloped World-Building – The film hints at a larger conspiracy but leaves many questions unanswered, likely saving them for a sequel.  
• 3. Uneven Tone – The shift from slow-burn mystery to all-out action may feel jarring for some viewers.  

Verdict

The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion is a thrilling ride with a standout performance from Kim Da-mi. While it doesn’t break new ground in the super-soldier genre, its execution—especially the action and lead performance—makes it a must-watch for fans of Korean thrillers.  

Rating: 8/10

Recommendation: If you enjoy films like Hanna (2011) or Lucy (2014), this will be right up your alley. A sequel (*The Witch: Part 2*) was released in 2022, expanding the story further.