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Phantom
Movie

Phantom

2023 • Action, Crime, History

Woke Score
5.2
out of 10

Plot

An action, spy film set in the backdrop of the Japanese colonial era.

Overall Series Review

The film is a Korean period spy thriller set during the Japanese colonial occupation of the 1930s. The plot centers on five suspects, including two prominent women, who are detained and interrogated by the Japanese colonial authorities to root out a Korean independence spy, known as 'Phantom'. The narrative is driven by intense action and the high-stakes game of survival and national resistance. The core themes revolve around loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for national freedom against a foreign oppressor. The film features highly skilled female protagonists who are central to the resistance movement and are depicted with great competence and ability. A significant part of the character dynamic involves a same-sex romantic relationship between two of the primary female characters, which is a major element of the character motivation. The primary conflict is fundamentally political and nationalistic, focusing on the Korean desire for independence from Japan.

Categorical Breakdown

Identity Politics7/10

The plot is entirely built upon the conflict between the Korean and Japanese identities during the colonial era. Character motivations and allegiances are drawn strictly along the lines of national and ethnic identity, with the oppressed (Koreans) being the moral force and the oppressor (Japanese officials and collaborators) being the villains. The story relies heavily on this immutable characteristic (ethnicity/nationality) as the primary engine for all action and morality.

Oikophobia1/10

The film's entire purpose is the celebration and defense of the home culture and nation (Korea) against a foreign colonial power (Japan). Characters risk their lives to protect their heritage and nation's future. The narrative frames Korean national identity as righteous and worth fighting for, opposing the civilizational self-hatred trope.

Feminism8/10

Female characters are the central figures in the spy action, dominating the scenes as highly capable and instantly perfect operatives. They drive the plot, are physically formidable, and outperform their male counterparts, aligning with the 'Girl Boss' trope. Their competence is presented without a clear arc of training or struggle, which places them in the 'Mary Sue' category.

LGBTQ+8/10

The story centers a same-sex relationship between two of the lead female spies. This romantic connection is a key emotional driver and motivation for the actions of one of the main protagonists. The inclusion and centering of this alternative sexual identity as a major plot element moves beyond the traditional normative structure.

Anti-Theism2/10

The movie is a spy thriller focused on political resistance and colonial struggle. The narrative does not focus on or critique religion, Christianity, or any transcendent morality. Faith is not a central theme, and there are no instances of religion being framed as the root of evil.