Okja
Performance & Direction: Okja Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Okja (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Adventure.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Adventure is often anchored by its ensemble, and Okja features a noteworthy lineup led by An Seo-hyun . Supported by the likes of Tilda Swinton and Paul Dano , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Okja
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2017, Okja is a Adventure, Drama, Science Fiction film directed by Bong Joon Ho. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving An Seo-hyun.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. A young girl named Mija risks everything to prevent a powerful, multi-national company from kidnapping her best friend - a massive animal named Okja. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. An Seo-hyun's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Thematic Depth
The film operates on multiple levels, using its genre framework to explore deeper themes about human nature, society, and the choices that define us.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Solid execution of genre conventions
- Engaging moments that showcase the creators' vision
- Competent performances from the cast
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Some narrative choices that feel predictable
- Occasional pacing lulls in the middle act
Ending Explained: Okja
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Bong Joon Ho, Okja resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to adventure resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving An Seo-hyun, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the adventure themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Okja reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Okja?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Adventure films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of An Seo-hyun or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Okja
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $50.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Okja Budget
The estimated production budget for Okja is $50.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Okja
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Okja Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixOkja Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Okja age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Okja is 120 minutes (2h 0m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, Okja is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Okja worth watching?
Okja is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Adventure movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Okja parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Okja identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Okja?
The total duration of Okja is 120 minutes, which is approximately 2h 0m long.
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How Okja Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Okja
Bong Joon-ho has brought us yet another masterpiece. Before viewing Okja, I was a little concerned that it would be just a sappy feel good family film about a kid that developed too much of an attachment to a farm animal. Now, I'm simply amazed at how Bong manages to always give us such emotionally and politically complicated films. If you understand his style and knack for subtle commentary, then you will see this as another excellent film in the same vein as The Host. The obvious commentary is clear but not overwhelming and the subtle bits are in true Bong style. I think many may misinterpret some of his choices, particularly with Gyllenhaal's character and performance, but if you grasp Bong's social and political stances then you'll appreciate the choices. For anyone who is unaware, all of Bong's movies contain certain elements. There are the overt elements that include humor (sometimes within the least humorous of situations), suspense, emotional connection, the folly of man and a lack of responsibility on the part of a government or corporation. But these elements are supported by subtle inclusions which are dotted throughout his movies like little watermarks and always serve to say the things that should be said without saying them. Besides these factors, and for those less inclined towards analytical movie watching, there is always a great story and magnificent cinematography. Okja is no exception. The only disappointing aspect of this movie is that it just came out, I've already watched it and now I'll have to wait another 2-3 years for another Bong movie to enjoy. I have seen The Host at least 10 times and I could watch it again right now. I'm certain to see Okja at least two more times with those with whom I enjoy seeing his movies and I don't think it'll feel like a chore either. In my opinion, Bong is one of the most consistent filmmakers to have ever made a movie and that streak remains unbroken with Okja.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
