The God (2025)
A Surprising Box Office Hit with Dark Magic, Power Struggles, and Sharp Social Commentary
After just two weeks in theaters, The God has earned a cumulative ₩5.61 billion (approx. NT$121 million) and attracted over 190,000 moviegoers—a remarkable achievement for a low-budget fantasy horror film. Though it hasn’t cracked the year’s top 10 box office list yet, the film’s strong word-of-mouth and controversial themes suggest its numbers may continue to grow steadily.
A Viral Hit with Depth
More than just another horror flick, The God has sparked intense discussion in South Korea due to its explosive subject matter and bold metaphors, with many speculating it draws inspiration from real political figures. Its unique premise has made it one of 2025’s most talked-about genre releases.
Plot Summary:
At the heart of the story is an ambitious woman obsessed with witchcraft. From a young age, she discovers that magic can give her what life and society have denied her. As her powers grow, so does her hunger for influence.
Realizing the power she holds over men, she begins to use any means necessary to climb the social ladder—undergoing plastic surgery, faking her identity, and even forging educational backgrounds to infiltrate the upper class. She marries into wealth and power, but that isn’t enough.
Her ultimate goal? Control the political landscape of the country by manipulating her powerful husband behind the scenes.
The film draws inspiration from real-life historical events, adding an eerie layer of realism to the supernatural horror. Beneath its genre surface lies a chilling reflection of class ambition, gender dynamics, and corruption.
Why It Stands Out:
- A rare female-led horror film with political overtones
- Metaphor-rich script that blends folklore, social critique, and suspense
- Bold commentary on class mobility and power dynamics
- A rising box office star despite being a low-budget production
Verdict:
The God isn’t just a horror film—it’s a razor-sharp story about ambition, manipulation, and the terrifying cost of power. With growing buzz and a unique blend of genre and realism, it’s shaping up to be one of the most intriguing Korean films of the year.