HOPE

Hope (2026)

Directed by: Na Hong-jin

Total duration of 2 hours and 36 minutes is unnecessary. Most parts are stretched for too long. Even though they already established early on the situation, they keep on repeating scenes like it never happened.

The overall appearance of the creature is deliberately being hidden on the first part — just to drag out the mystery. Once it’s finally revealed, it’s not even worth the wait.

The creature looks fake. Seeing them on IMAX makes it more obvious. They’re like characters straight from a game console. The more you look at them, the less scary they become.

A lot of movies might come to mind, such as 𝘑𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘤 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘬, 𝘈𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘢𝘳, 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳 𝘞𝘢𝘳𝘴, or something with zombies, predators, and aliens. The movie can’t seem to find its own unique identity.

Wounds found on both the animal and human aren’t disgusting but fascinating. The mood isn’t quite thrilling. It’s usually the musical scoring, and not the scenes, that creates a sense of tension.

Some characters are trying to be funny. While their humor helps break the ice, it disrupts the overall tone of the movie, making things feel light and unserious when it’s completely not.

Even though it’s impossible to survive in their situation, the lead stars are immune to death. This leverage also lessens the thrill of following their run and chase, since you know they’ll survive no matter what.

Other characters disappear from the screen for so long that you almost forget they’re still in the movie.

As they try to learn more about the foreign entities, that’s when it gets interesting. Though the information isn’t mind-blowing, at least the plot is moving forward.

It’s frustrating how the humans handle the information they know about the creatures. It makes no difference because they keep doing what they have been doing since the first scene. Their lack of critical thinking and compassion toward the situation makes the movie feel hopeless.

War is prolonged. Reconciliation is delayed. Character development is being put on hold just so they can have a sequel. The ending isn’t really exciting. Little emotional connection is established among the characters, and it isn’t enough for you to look forward to the next part.

Given the movie’s long running time, one can only hope it was utilized well. Unfortunately, that hope remains just that — a hope.

𝐇𝐎𝐏𝐄

Cast: Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Hoyeon, Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, Taylor Russell, Cameron Britton

Screenplay by: Na Hong-jin

Presented by: Forged Films, Plus M Entertainment, Westworld

Release Date: August 26, 2026 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews