'Masterpiece' thriller with 99% score hailed as 'best mystery horror movie of all time'

A "masterpiece" thriller is hailed by fans as the "standard that every movie should follow" and boasts a near-perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes. The Wailing (2016) is a South Korean psychological horror film that focuses on policeman Jong-goo (played by Kwak Do-won) who is investigating series of strange, gruesome deaths in a remote village.

But the mysterious and disturbing phenomenon gripping the settlement soon hits closer to home and Jong-goo faces a race against time to find out what's causing it. The film was written and directed by Na Hong-jin, and is hailed by critics for its intriguing mix of genres and immersive tension.

One fan on IMDb called it a "masterpiece", writing: "All I can write after watching this movie is that this is actual cinema this is the standard that every movie should follow.."

Another writing on Rotten Tomatoes held it up as the "best mystery horror movie of all time".

A third added: "Absolutely beautifully shot, beautiful scenery, was engaged and entertained throughout the whole movie. Interesting story and well acted. I'll more than likely watch this a second time this week."

A fourth added said, "Hollywood this is how you make a masterpiece" and the "ending was one of the best I have ever seen in a horror movie".

A fifth said the film is a "slow burn", but "it's got a lot to offer" for those willing to be patient. "It's not your typical horror flick-it's more psychological, almost dreamlike at times," they added.

"The story follows a woman dealing with a tragic past and a mysterious presence that may or may not be real. It's more about dread than scares, and it really leans into the emotional side of horror."

The film has a superb 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes' Tomatometer, reflecting an overwhelming majority of approved critics who have given it a positive review.

It's also got a strong 82% score among general audiences.

The movie has a 15 certificate and contains strong language, violence, gory images, and brief sexual images - so viewer discretion is advised.

The Wailing is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video. It's also available to rent or buy on YouTube.