Movie Digest
A South Korean film set in 2020 about an assassin who is abruptly sent to Thailand to investigate a kidnapping case, and whose last assignment makes him and a female the target of an outraged sibling. Our anti-hero is given the task of assassinating a Japanese Yakuza sect head, which he accomplishes with quiet efficiency in the film’s opening scene.
The Feel-Good Part
The cinematography and directing were flawless. The colors, shots, and angles from the camera were all excellent. The writing was great, especially for an Asian action picture. A fascinating story that tries to be as genuine as possible while remaining true to the fabric of fiction.
In a film dominated by psychopaths of various degrees, the protagonist is intrinsically imbued with a modicum of morality and is hit with a gust of hope, especially at a juncture in his life when he has no utility of hope.
The Disappointing Factor
Though the action is fantastic, with some great stagehand-to-hand combat reminiscent of Extraction and John Wick, the suspense element falls short. A film about a contract killer on his final job shouts familiarity, and it plays out exactly as one would expect. Kidnapped children are thrown into the mix, although they are rarely investigated.
In-Depth Analysis
In-Nam, a Korean hitman, has completed a job in Japan, killing a Japanese mobster. Young-Joo sends her daughter Yoo-min to school in Thailand, telling her that a babysitter will pick her up after school, while she meets with real estate agents for a golf course investment. Yoo-min gets off the school bus later, and the babysitter brings her to her husband’s car instead of returning home.
Young-Joo reports Yoo-min missing to the police and contacts Chun-sung to ask In-nam for assistance, which In-Nam refuses. In-nam receives word from Chun-sung the next morning that Young-Joo has died. Take a trip back in time to when Young-Joo and In-Nam were in love. In-nam was ordered to leave Korea without her.
Star Power
The star power in this film was Mind-Boggling with Hwang Jung min and Lee Jung Jae, two of the most versatile actors in South Korea. With their tremendous terrific performance, these two actors once again demonstrate why they are some of Korea’s finest performers. Yui is a scene-stealer.
Overall Opinion
Another excellent Korean action thriller. Hwang and Lee give standout results. Action moments are also spectacular. It is well worth your time and will not let you down.
