[FILM REVIEW] THE BOX (2021)

Described as a “feel-good” musical film by many, The Box stars Park Chanyeol and Cho Dal Hwan who embark on a busking road trip. Chanyeol is a member of boy group EXO and is well-known to all as being one of the rappers in the group. He has acted in several dramas like Missing Nine and Memories of the Alhambra. Back in 2018, it was revealed that Park Shin Hye recommended that he be in the drama.

Now, fans are able to delve into another world with The Box, which showcases Chanyeol’s husky voice and talent when it comes to playing various musical instruments. Cho Dal Hwan shot to fame back in 2002 with the movie Sex is Zero. Ever since then, he has been in several dramas and movies like My Lawyer, Mr. Joe 2, Trap, Justice and Intimate Strangers.

Busker and producer on the move

In the film, Ji Hoon (Chanyeol) charms the hearts of many with his husky voice and enthralling charisma. Ji Hoon is a talented musician who has stage fright. He is then scouted by Min Soo (Jo Dal Hwan) a producer who is hungry for success. The both of them embark on an enlightening road trip together. Min Soo sees a lot of potential in Ji Hoon, though there is just one setback.

When Ji Hoon is forced to face his fears an incident occurs — threatening to break his resolve. As someone who is comfortable with singing in a box, getting out of his comfort zone means having to make himself vulnerable to the audience. A lot of people may be able to relate to the way he feels, while some may not. Others may want to give up and leave their dreams behind, but Min Soo stays by Ji Hoon’s side to help him sort out his feelings. Though, will Min Soo always be there when he needs him?

Is talent enough?

Min Soo helps set the stage for Ji Hoon’s performances, liaising with musicians to ensure Ji Hoon receives the opportunity to showcase his talent. However, there is a catch. Ji Hoon has to perform in a cardboard box, as it is where he feels free from judgement and from the eyes of strangers. He is still not ready to face his fears and is contented with singing from inside a cardboard box. Viewers will see the box as both men lug it everywhere with them on their road trip.

The movie centers around Ji Hoon eventually facing his fears as he makes his way busking in different parts of South Korea with Min Soo as his support system. Viewers can expect to see covers of various artists — some of which are Billie Eilish’s Bad Guy, Louis Armstrong’s What A Wonderful World and Pharrell Williams’ Happy. Chanyeol’s baritone singing voice shines throughout this film.

Enjoying a jukebox musical film

Fans of Chanyeol and movie-goers who are interested to watch a different side of him are sure to enjoy the light-hearted musical film. As a jukebox musical film, songs are played almost back-to-back. It is definitely a different experience compared to the usual movies that are on the screens right now.

A particularly spectacular scene which is bound to capture everyone’s attention is when Ji Hoon covers Coldplay’s A Sky Full of Stars. An original movie soundtrack called Break Your Box is revealed at the end of the movie, and fans of Chanyeol can expect to see a little behind-the-scenes action.

Viewers can expect to see various moments of Chanyeol singing in both English and Korean, as the movie centers around him. While some may be of the opinion that the storyline is too predictable, fans may beg to differ. Excitement has been bubbling in the air after it was revealed that Chanyeol was starring in a movie and that he was going to be enlisting soon, all at the same time.

Chanyeol’s singing will trap viewers’ hearts, but his devastatingly good looks also radiate and will have everyone enamoured. Curious? Do head down to the nearest theatre right now to watch the movie!

Running Time: 94 minutes
The Seoul Story’s Ratings: 4/5

We would like to extend our huge thanks to Purple Plan for the invite!

Written by: Aqilah