Movie: Devils Stay (English title) / Three Days (literal title)
Director: Hyun Moon-Sub
Cast: Park Shin-Yang (Cha Seung-Do), Lee Min-Ki (Priest Van), and Lee Re (Cha So-Mi)
Release Date: December 06, 2024
Runtime: 95 min.
Distributor: Well Go USA
Language: Korean
Country: South Korea
When Seung-do (Shin-Yang ), a dedicated heart specialist, and his wife notice their daughter So-mi (Re) displaying increasingly bizarre symptoms, desperation drives them to attempt an exorcism. Priest Ban (Min-Ki) arrives, certain that a dark entity has taken hold of her, and the ritual seems to succeed—until it ends in So-mi’s sudden death. However, as her funeral unfolds, Seung-do discovers unsettling signs on her body and becomes haunted by an unshakable belief: So-mi may not be gone, and her heart might still be beating.
Exorcism movies have become a trend in recent years, with Russell Crowe starring in The Exorcism (2024) and The Pope’s Exorcist (2023)—both forgettable entries in the genre. Enter Devils Stay, a fresh Korean horror film by newcomer Hyun Moon-Sub, whose unique approach to exorcism and cultural themes sets it apart.
The film explores not just the supernatural but also Korean funeral traditions, which can last three days, adding cultural depth. With psychological scares, strategically placed jump scares, and three compelling story arcs, Devils Stay delivers a layered narrative. The most impactful arc follows Cha Seung-Do, played masterfully by Park Shin-Yang, as he battles guilt and clings to hope after believing his deceased daughter, So-mi, might still be alive.
The cast delivers top-notch performances, making the events feel authentic and emotionally charged. Hyun Moon-Sub skillfully balances horror and drama, immersing audiences in a chilling yet heartfelt journey that highlights how a different culture tackles themes of death and the supernatural.
Though the reviewed version includes English subtitles, they are well-executed, ensuring accessibility. Devils Stay is a standout entry in the exorcism genre, offering a fresh perspective infused with Korean cultural elements. Fans of possession films looking for something unique won’t want to miss this.
Release Date: December 06, 2024
