Review of Okja (2017) by Kevin M — 08 Jul 2017

Okja takes the meaning of "man's best friend" to new heights: except this time the man is a young Korean girl, and the best friend is a massive factory-made super pig. On top of that, the supporting cast is nothing short of spectacular and star studded, with names like Jake Gyllenhaal, Tilda Swinton, Paul Dano, and Giancarlo Esposito.

Gyllenhaal plays an eccentric scientist who studies the evolution of the pigs. This is one of the most bizarre and funniest characters he's ever embodied (closely tied with Nightcrawler). Paul Dano's performance, also impressive and likable, takes the form of the leader of an oppressive movement to preserve animal rights (similar to PETA).

Combined with jaw-dropping effects, stunning cinematography, colorful performances, and an emotionally ravaging script, Okja is the most impressive Netflix original film to date.