---
title: "Oldboy"
year: 2013
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/oldboy-2013"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 87516
imdb_id: "tt1321511"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 104
community_rating: 5.9
vote_count: 2158
content_rating: "R"
---

# Oldboy (2013) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/oldboy-2013

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

"Oldboy" is a mystery film that follows the story of a man who has been imprisoned in a nondescript room for an extended period of time. The man is given a limited amount of time and resources to uncover the reason behind his imprisonment. He has only a short time to discover the truth, as his time is running out. The film's plot revolves around the man's efforts to uncover the mystery surrounding his imprisonment. The story explores themes of confinement, isolation, and the search for answers. With limited resources and time, the man must navigate his situation and uncover the truth about his past. The film's narrative is driven by the man's desperate attempt to understand his circumstances and find a way out of his confinement.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A man races against time to uncover the reason behind his two-decade captivity."

### Why Watch
- Compelling countdown premise
- Atmospheric thriller mood

### Caveats & Content Note
- Mixed critical reception
- May feel bleak for some viewers
- Tone & Suitability: The film features intense thriller content and may be unsettling for sensitive audiences.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: thriller, mystery, countdown, intense

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | The Roku Channel | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads | None | Google Play Movies, CosmoGo, YouTube |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Spike Lee
- **Networks / Studios**: 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, Vertigo Entertainment, Good Universe

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Josh Brolin** as *Joe Doucett*
- **Elizabeth Olsen** as *Marie Sebastian*
- **Sharlto Copley** as *Adrian Pryce*
- **Samuel L. Jackson** as *Chaney*
- **Michael Imperioli** as *Chucky*
- **Pom Klementieff** as *Haeng-Bok*
- **James Ransone** as *Dr. Tom Melby*
- **Max Casella** as *James Prestley*
- **Linda Emond** as *Edwina Burke*
- **Elvis Nolasco** as *Cortez*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was Oldboy (2013) released in the United States?
It was released theatrically in the United States on November 27, 2013.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The film runs for 1 hour 44 minutes.

### Q: What genres does Oldboy (2013) belong to?
It is classified as a thriller and mystery.

### Q: What is the basic premise of the movie?
A man has three and a half days and limited resources to discover why he was imprisoned for 20 years.

### Q: How was the film received by critics?
It received mixed reception, with many critics offering varied opinions.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*