[FILM REVIEW] HI-FIVE (2025)

Hi-Five just hit cinemas in Singapore, and it is the film to watch!

With a fresh twist on the superhero genre, this 2025 Korean action-comedy delivers a unique blend of heart-stopping action and lighthearted humour. Directed by Kang Hyeong Cheol, known for hits like Scandal Makers and Sunny, the film opens with ordinary individuals who gain extraordinary abilities through organ transplants.

The film centers around five ordinary people who, after receiving organ transplants, discover that they have gained superpowers connected to their new organs. This inventive premise provides a fun twist on the typical superhero origin story, exploring themes of identity, fate, and the unexpected consequences of second chances. As they navigate their newfound abilities amidst petty quarrels and late-night suppers, the plot thickens when the group learns about Young Chun (Park Jin Young), a dangerous cult leader who also gains powers through a pancreas transplant — specifically, the ability to absorb youth and vitality from others. Young Chun claims to be a healer for the suffering, but in reality, all he is after is to be God and to be worshipped by many.

Young Chun becomes the primary antagonist, battling the five superheroes as he advances his sinister ambitions. Superheroes fighting is not an uncommon scene, yet the film cleverly mixes action sequences with comedic moments, offering lighthearted relief without undermining the tension. It is a well-balanced comedy-action film that touched on deeper ideas, such as the ethics of power and what it means to truly change as a person.

What makes Hi-Five especially engaging is how the characters grapple with the fact that they are no longer ordinary. Each member of the group comes with a dark past and struggles to adapt to but eventually learn to cope with their newfound abilities. Starting as ordinary as possible and going through the lows of life, such as bullying, unemployment, betrayal, and struggles with mental health, their backstory helps the audience connect with them on a human level, balancing the film’s fantastical elements with relatable emotions.

The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, with Lee Jae In portraying Wan Seo, a character who gains superhuman strength and speed after a heart transplant. Ahn Jae Hong, Ra Mi Ran, Kim Hee Won, and Yoo Ah In also shine in their respective roles, bringing lighthearted humor and warmth to their characters with ease. The film provided history without going into the details of the characters’ personal struggles and vulnerabilities, making their powers both a blessing and a burden.

The most memorable character had to be Young Chun. Park Jin Young’s portrayal of the antagonist marks his first role as a villain, as he was known mostly for more charming or heroic roles. Jin Young’s take on Young Chun added tension and depth to the film’s dramatic stakes, and his performance was a refreshing change from his usual roles, proving his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of Young Chun brought a compelling intensity and layered complexity to the character, standing out as a formidable and memorable presence amidst the ensemble, making the sheer presence of Young Chun chilling, yet menacing and oddly charismatic.

Finally, the closing moments of Hi-Five offer a hopeful yet realistic resolution — the characters don’t just become traditional superheroes. After defeating Young Chun, their friendship strengthens and they find strength in their connection and newfound purpose.

As a veteran director, Kang Hyeong Cheol’s pacing of the movie ensures the film remains engaging throughout for the audience, as he seamlessly blends humor and action without missing out on conveying the moral core of the story. The action sequences are exciting and well-choreographed, while the comedic elements are naturally woven into each scene, enhancing both the development of the characters and the premise. Visually, Hi-Five impresses with its dynamic cinematography depicting the use of superpowers. The camera work balances intimate character moments with high-energy action sequences, creating a visually engaging experience. The use of lighting and color palettes subtly enhances the film’s tonal shifts, from comedic beats to suspenseful encounters.

Hi-Five combines thoughtful storytelling, strong performances, and striking visuals to deliver a superhero film that is both entertaining and meaningful. It delivers a balanced mix of action, humor, and heartfelt moments, making it an enjoyable watch for both genre fans and general audiences alike.

Running Time: 119 minutes
The Seoul Story’s Rating: 4.5/5

Written by: Amber
Photos by: Purple Plan SG

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