Review of The Gingko Bed

I wasn't sure what to expect from The Gingko Bed, but I will say this: the film completely defied whatever expectations I had. The film begins with a closeup of what seems to be a family photo with accompanying sombre voice-over, and it would seem we're heading for an angst and/or guilt ridden character study. Cut to two hyperstylized trees in the countryside, which change colors, drop leaves, and get hit by lightning whilst a hawk watches from nearby. Then we're in modern day South Korea, and a tall man rips the heart out of a would be rapist, suggesting that this is going to be a film about a vengeance seeking spirit ala The Crow. Then...well, you'd better watch the film to find out what happens next. Amongst the elements are a handcarved bed with a history, a beautiful ghost, and a man who donates his eyes to science--whilst he's still alive. A superb soundtrack by Dong-Jun Lee is the final icing on this rather surreal cake--a unique, horror-romance-art film that will definitely keep your attention.