Review of Biseuti boijeu

This film, also known as "Beastie Boys", is a rather frank depiction of the host/hostess industry in Seoul. We have a big brother and little brother relationship in the two main characters as they "entertain" wealthy, older women in Seoul. As we follow these leads, they start off charming, if flawed. They're cool. They flirt with women, wear expensive clothes, and seem to not have a care in the world as they smooth-talk their way into the lives of their clients. Their shallow and materialistic lifestyles eventually catch up to them, however. We eventually get to see the uglier and more violent side of these men. One is addicted to gambling and lies. The other begins a rather unhealthy relationship with a call girl. Eventually, both of these stories come together.

While Korean dramas can possibly be seen as melodramatic to Western audiences, this film delivers a strong, emotional punch that never seems forced or unrealistic. At the same time, the movie can be slow in spots, but it is certainly worth a rental.