In the gripping psychological thriller "Oldboy," directed by Spike Lee, we are introduced to Joe Doucett, portrayed masterfully by Josh Brolin. After spending 20 agonizing years imprisoned in an unremarkable room without any clear justification, Joe is suddenly released back into a world that has changed beyond his recognition. As he attempts to grapple with the trauma of his past and the bewildering new reality he faces, he quickly realizes that he has been thrust into a deadly game, where time is not on his side. With only three and a half days at his disposal, Joe embarks on a harrowing quest for the truth behind his unjust captivity.
The urgency of Joe's journey escalates as he is compelled to confront the mysteries surrounding his imprisonment. In this labyrinth of deceit and vengeance, he encounters Marie Sebastian, played by Elizabeth Olsen, who becomes an unexpected ally in his desperate search for answers. Together, they navigate the dark underbelly of the city, piecing together clues that could unveil the motivations of his enigmatic captor. Their relationship not only adds emotional depth to the narrative but also highlights Joe's struggle for redemption and his thirst for revenge against those who wronged him.
"Oldboy" is not just a film about confinement and revenge; it delves into themes of isolation, anguish, and the yearning for justice. As Joe races against the clock, his relentless pursuit leads to shocking revelations that challenge his understanding of morality and revenge. With its captivating storytelling, intense performances, and a haunting atmosphere, the film invites viewers to reflect on the nature of suffering and the lengths one might go to reclaim their life. The relentless pace and psychological complexity of Joe's odyssey make "Oldboy" a memorable piece of cinema that lingers long after the credits roll.
Main Cast of Oldboy
Josh Brolin
Joe Doucett
Josh Brolin deliveres a visceral and emotionally charged performance as Joe Doucett in Park Chan-wook's "Oldboy," a role that demands both physical transformation and psychological depth. Brolin embodies the character's complex journey from a brash, self-destructive advertising executive to a man consumed by a quest for vengeance after being inexplicably imprisoned for 20 years in a private jail. His portrayal is a masterclass in intensity, as he navigates the labyrinthine mystery of his captivity, with each revelation peeling back layers of his tormented psyche. Brolin's ability to convey simmering rage, fragile vulnerability, and a relentless drive for answers makes his rendition of Joe Doucett a standout performance, anchoring the film's exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the corrupting power of vengeance. His raw and unflinching portrayal is a testament to his range as an actor and solidifies the character of Joe Doucett as one of the most memorable in his career.
Elizabeth Olsen
Marie Sebastian
Elizabeth Olsen delivered a compelling performance as Marie Sebastian in Spike Lee's 2013 thriller "Oldboy," a remake of the South Korean cult classic by Park Chan-wook. Olsen brought depth and vulnerability to the role of a young social worker who becomes entangled in the dark and twisted tale of Joe Doucett, played by Josh Brolin. Marie's initial compassion and empathy for Joe's mysterious plight evolve into a complex relationship that tests her moral compass and personal safety. Olsen's portrayal of Marie is nuanced, balancing the character's inherent kindness with a burgeoning resilience as she confronts the grim realities of Joe's past. Her performance is a standout element in the film, as she navigates the treacherous narrative with authenticity, showcasing her range as an actress and adding a layer of emotional resonance to the film's violent and chaotic world.
Sharlto Copley
Adrian Pryce
Sharlto Copley's portrayal of Adrian Pryce in Spike Lee's "Oldboy" is a chilling embodiment of vengeance and affluent malevolence. Copley brings a layered complexity to the role, imbuing Pryce with an air of sophistication that thinly veils his deep-seated resentment and psychopathic tendencies. His performance is marked by an unsettling intensity, as he seamlessly transitions from a suave, almost charming demeanor to one of deranged fury. Copley's Pryce is a formidable antagonist, orchestrating an intricate plot of retribution with a meticulousness that reflects his character's immense wealth and resources. The actor's ability to convey the character's internal struggle between his desire for revenge and the grotesque consequences of his actions adds a disturbing depth to the film. Copley's depiction is both repulsive and captivating, leaving audiences with a lasting impression of a man consumed by his own twisted sense of justice.
Samuel L. Jackson
Chaney
Samuel L. Jackson delivered a chilling and memorable performance as Chaney in Park Chan-wook's psychological thriller "Oldboy." As the antagonist, Jackson brought a sadistic and menacing presence to the role, masterfully portraying the complex layers of Chaney's vengeful nature. His character, driven by a deep-seated desire for retribution, orchestrates the elaborate imprisonment and psychological torment of the protagonist, Oh Dae-su, played by Choi Min-sik. Jackson's Chaney is both calculating and unhinged, displaying a charismatic yet terrifying demeanor that keeps the audience on edge. His rare moments of restraint contrast sharply with his explosive outbursts, highlighting Jackson's ability to convey a wide range of emotions. With his distinctive voice and commanding screen presence, Jackson's performance as the vengeful puppet master is not only integral to the film's tension but also serves as a haunting embodiment of the twisted themes of revenge and fate explored in "Oldboy."
Michael Imperioli
Chucky
Michael Imperioli's portrayal of Chucky in Spike Lee's "Oldboy" is a significant departure from the character's iconic depiction in the original South Korean film by Park Chan-wook. Imperioli brings a unique energy to the role, infusing Chucky with a menacing and unpredictable quality that is all his own. His performance is marked by a chilling calmness, often juxtaposed with sudden outbursts of violence, which serve to emphasize the character's underlying instability and malevolence. Imperioli's Chucky is both articulate and brutish, a blend that makes his presence in the film both unsettling and captivating. With his sharp features and piercing gaze, Imperioli embodies a character that is not just a physical threat but also a psychological enigma, keeping the audience on edge as they try to unravel the depths of his motivations and the extent of his involvement in the film's complex narrative of revenge and redemption.
Pom Klementieff
Haeng-Bok
Pom Klementieff delivers a compelling performance as Haeng-Bok in Park Chan-wook's psychological thriller "Oldboy." As the enigmatic and pivotal character in the film's complex narrative, Klementieff brings a nuanced portrayal of vulnerability and resilience that is both captivating and essential to the film's emotional weight. Haeng-Bok is a crucial figure in the protagonist's journey, and Klementieff's ability to convey a sense of deep-seated yearning and sorrow through her restrained yet powerful screen presence adds multiple layers to the already dense tapestry of the plot. Her scenes, often laden with subtext and tension, showcase her talent for silent expression and her capacity to hold her own against the intensity of her co-stars. Klementieff's performance is a testament to her range as an actress, as she seamlessly navigates the intricate emotional landscape required for Haeng-Bok, leaving a lasting impression on the audience and contributing significantly to the film's enduring impact.
James Ransone
Dr. Tom Melby
Max Casella
James Prestley
Max Casella is an American actor. He is known for his roles on the television series The Sopranos, Boardwalk Empire,...
Secondary Cast of Oldboy
Phyllis Montana LeBlanc
Grace
Lennie Hsiao
Souvenir Vendor
Violet Hill
Mia (10 Years Old)
Shannon Rockweiler
Aerobics Instructor
Louis Tucci
Bohemian Artist #2
William J. Vines
Bohemian Artist #3
Shelton Alexander
Construction Worker
Mary Glackmeyer
Yoga Instructor
Brianna Nowlin
Exercise Video Model
Alexa Kobylarz
Sexy Calisthenics Instructor
Donna Crump
Dancer #4 / Zumba Leader
Catherine Caldwell
Zumba #1
Niki Kleinberger
Aerobics #2
Peryn St. Raymond
Aerobics #3
William D. Green
Willie Green
Crew of Oldboy
Full backstage crew list →