Decibel (2022)
A pulse-pounding action thriller where sound triggers deadly bombs. Former Navy commander Kang Do-young races against time to save lives and confronts buried secretsDecibel—more than explosions, it’s emotional resonance.
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[addtoany]Info
| Original Title | 데시벨 |
|---|---|
| Tagline | It will explode if it exceeds 100db. |
| Formats | Streaming |
| Duration | 110 mins |
| Status | Released |
| Year | 2022 |
| Release Date | November 16, 2022 |
Trailer
Synopsis
A former Naval officer with a dark past must face off against an insurgent with a sound sensitive bomb.
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Editor's Review
A Taut Action Thriller with Emotional Depth
Decibel, directed by Hwang In-ho and co-written by Lee Jin-hoon, is a Korean action drama that packs a punch. While it may appear to be a typical thriller with explosions and a race against time, it delves deeper into the human psyche, exploring how trauma and loss shape our choices.
The film centers around former Navy commander Kang Do-young (played by Kim Rae-won), who retired after a tragic event wiped out a significant part of his crew. On the anniversary of this catastrophe, he receives a mysterious call from an unseen voice (portrayed by Lee Jong-suk) warning him of a bomb planted in the area. The twist? This bomb is activated by sound, and any noise above a certain level accelerates its countdown.
As more bombs appear in public spaces like children’s playgrounds and swimming pools, Do-young faces a daunting task: defuse the explosives and unmask the hidden terrorist. The tension builds as the clock ticks down, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
What Sets Decibel Apart?
While the action sequences are technically well-executed, it’s the emotional scenes that truly shine. Lee Jong-suk and Cha Eun-woo deliver powerful performances, infusing the film with depth. Their chemistry adds layers to the story, making us care about the characters beyond the adrenaline-fueled moments.
Director Hwang, known for the 2014 film Monster, balances suspense with introspection. The mystery surrounding the terrorist’s identity intertwines with Do-young’s guilt and inner turmoil. Unable to explain himself to the villain, Do-young grapples with ambiguous culpability. Kim Rae-won portrays this internal struggle subtly, but the focus on defusing bombs sometimes distances us from his character.
Themes of Survival and Sacrifice
Decibel isn’t just about action; it’s a human interest story. It highlights the sacrifices made by those in uniform, emphasizing camaraderie and duty. The boys in uniform face danger head-on, and their resilience becomes a central theme. The film asks: How far would you go to protect others? What choices do survivors make when faced with impossible odds?
Final Thoughts
Decibel keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, balancing heart-pounding moments with poignant reflections. It’s a reminder that trauma leaves scars, shaping our responses even in life-threatening situations. As the bombs tick down, we’re left contemplating the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit.
In summary, Decibel is more than explosions—it’s a pulse-pounding thriller with emotional resonance. Lee Jongsuk and Cha Eunwoo’s performances elevate it beyond the genre’s conventions, making it a standout addition to Korean cinema.