lareddepathways.com – Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum (곤지암; Gonjiam) is a 2018 South Korean found footage horror film directed by Jung Bum-shik. The film draws inspiration from the real-life Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital, a now-abandoned building that has become a popular subject of urban legends and ghost stories in South Korea. Gonjiam capitalizes on this existing lore, creating a chilling and immersive horror experience for viewers.
A YouTube Horror Crew Ventures into the Unknown
The film follows a group of seven internet broadcasters who run a horror-themed YouTube channel called “Horror Times.” Seeking to boost their viewership and create a truly terrifying live stream, they decide to explore the infamous Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital. They plan to enter the supposedly haunted building and broadcast their experiences live to their online audience.
Setting the Stage for Terror: Gonjiam’s Dark History
The film effectively establishes the ominous history of Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital. Rumors and local legends paint a grim picture of the institution, with stories of patient mistreatment, unexplained deaths, and paranormal activity. This pre-existing lore adds a layer of authenticity and dread to the film, making the setting itself a character in the story.
Found Footage Format: Enhancing the Immersion
Gonjiam utilizes the found footage format, meaning the film is presented as if it were recorded by the characters themselves. This technique creates a sense of immediacy and realism, drawing the viewer into the characters’ experiences. The use of multiple camera perspectives, including body cameras, static cameras, and drone footage, further enhances the immersive quality of the film.
Building Suspense and Delivering Scares
The film effectively builds suspense as the group explores the darkened corridors and decaying rooms of the abandoned hospital. The initial exploration is filled with nervous excitement and playful banter, but as they delve deeper into the building, strange occurrences begin to manifest. The film delivers a mix of jump scares, atmospheric tension, and unsettling imagery, creating a consistently chilling atmosphere.
A Descent into Madness and Fear
As the night progresses, the group’s carefully planned live stream descends into chaos. They encounter increasingly disturbing phenomena, and their fear escalates as they realize they may not be alone in the hospital. The film captures the characters’ growing panic and desperation as they try to escape the terrifying forces they have awakened.
A Popular and Effective Horror Film
Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum was a commercial success in South Korea, attracting a large audience and generating significant buzz online. Its effective use of the found footage format, combined with the existing lore surrounding Gonjiam, resonated with viewers seeking a genuine horror experience.
