Performance & Direction: Open City Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Open City (2008) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Open City features a noteworthy lineup led by Son Ye-jin . Supported by the likes of Kim Myung-min and Kim Hae-sook , 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: Open City
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2008, Open City is a Action, Crime film directed by Lee Sang-gi. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Son Ye-jin.
Ending Explained: Open City
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Lee Sang-gi, Open City concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension involving Son Ye-jin, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Open City reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Open City Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Open City incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, crime film directed by Lee Sang-gi, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Son Ye-jin's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Open City adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Open City?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Son Ye-jin or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Open City
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $11.1M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Top Cast: Open City
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Open City Online?
Streaming HubOpen City Parents Guide & Age Rating
2008 AdvisoryWondering about Open City age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Open City is 112 minutes (1h 52m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.8/10, and global performance metrics, Open City is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2008 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Open City worth watching?
Open City is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.8/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Open City parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Open City identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Open City?
The total duration of Open City is 112 minutes, which is approximately 1h 52m long.
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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.
