---
title: "The Wailing"
year: 2016
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-wailing-2016"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 293670
imdb_id: "tt5215952"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 156
community_rating: 7.4
vote_count: 2099
content_rating: "NR"
---

# The Wailing (2016) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-wailing-2016

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The Wailing is a 2016 film centered on the arrival of a stranger in a small village. Shortly after this individual appears, a mysterious sickness begins to spread throughout the local population. The narrative follows a policeman who finds himself drawn into the escalating incidents occurring within the community. As the situation develops, the officer is compelled to investigate the mystery in a desperate attempt to save his own daughter. The film documents the unfolding events as the protagonist navigates the strange circumstances surrounding the illness and the newcomer. By focusing on the policeman's personal stakes and his efforts to uncover the truth, the story explores the tension and fear gripping the village. This production highlights the intersection of an external arrival and a domestic crisis, forcing the lead character to confront unknown forces to protect his family. The film remains focused on the policeman's journey as he works to resolve the dangerous mystery before the sickness causes further harm to those he loves.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A remote village faces a deadly mystery after a stranger’s arrival."

### Why Watch
- Chilling, unsettling horror atmosphere
- Intriguing mystery that blends detective work with supernatural elements

### Caveats & Content Note
- Leaves many plot questions unanswered
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains intense horror imagery and unsettling themes, making it appropriate for mature viewers.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: unsettling, slow-burn, mystery, horror

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | fuboTV, Philo, YouTube TV, Fandor Amazon Channel, Screambox Amazon Channel, Rakuten Viki, Hi-YAH, Midnight Pulp Amazon Channel, Hi-YAH Amazon Channel, Bloodstream | Rakuten Viki | Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Bloodstream | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Rakuten Viki, Bloodstream | Rakuten Viki | Google Play Movies, YouTube |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Na Hong-jin
- **Networks / Studios**: Fox International Productions, Ivanhoe Pictures, Side Mirror

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Kwak Do-won** as *Jong-goo*
- **Hwang Jung-min** as *Il-gwang*
- **Chun Woo-hee** as *Moo-myeong*
- **Jun Kunimura** as *The Stranger*
- **Kim Hwan-hee** as *Hyo-jin*
- **Heo Jin** as *Mother-in-Law*
- **Jang So-yeon** as *Jong-goo's Wife*
- **Kim Do-yoon** as *Yang Yi-sam*
- **Cho Han-cheul** as *Detective*
- **Son Kang-gook** as *Oh Sung-bok*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What genre is The Wailing?
It is a Korean horror mystery film.

### Q: What is the basic premise?
A stranger arrives in a remote village, a mysterious illness spreads, and a policeman investigates to protect his daughter.

### Q: How long is the film?
The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes.

### Q: Is the film in Korean?
Yes, it is a Korean-language film.

### Q: Does the film provide clear answers to the mystery?
The film is noted for offering more chills than answers, leaving many aspects ambiguous.

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