Movie Digest
Yeon-Hee always wanted to be an action star since she was a child. Despite her incredible swordsmanship, the reality of achieving her dream is too much for her to endure. She is hired as a stand-in for an action film one day and arrives on set, only to be transported to a lawless parallel universe where people possess swords and slaughter one another without retaliation. She is welcomed into the hamlet as their protector almost immediately, and the villagers respect her. And, like a heroine, she proceeds to fight against the villains to save the peasants.
The Feel-Good Part
Although it is an independent film, it has the sense of major Korean studio production. The production qualities are excellent, as they are in most Korean films. A tiny set with solid performances and engaging characters tells an enjoyable, but not original narrative. Films that explore parallel universes, particularly those in which the main characters are placed in an unframed and must rely on their wits to survive.
The Disappointing Factor
The world-building characters, story, and acting are all excellent, but the action is mediocre. The swordfights are brief and awkward, resembling a low-budget action scene rather than a legitimate sword fight, and the ending adds to the mystery surrounding her absence in the real world.
In-Depth Analysis
Yeon-hee is desperate to star in an action film. When she finally gets her big break, albeit as a stunt double, she appears on set only to be whisked away to a parallel realm ruled by an evil monster who commands the most powerful fighters and steals anything he desires.
The lord of the village misidentifies her as the Soul Slayer, and realizing that this is her chance to finally be the hero, she accepts the role, battling for the village’s and villagers’ safety as the true Soul Slayer looks on, bewildered by who she is. You could see this film as a subtle satire of individuals who believe they don’t need to work hard to achieve their goals. That they should be handed stuff without having to work for them. That their perceived achievement, or lack thereof, is all in their heads.
Star Power
Ji-Hye Ahn, playing the role of Cha Yeon-hee showed great swordsmanship in the movie. Even though the movie had its plot holes, Ji Hye’s acting saved the movie to an extent.
Overall Opinion
They’re minor quibbles that don’t distract from the overall enjoyment that may be experienced with this film.
It gets a thumbs up for amusement, especially if you’ve been investigating Korean cinema for a while and are eager to see films that transcend studio limitations while still feeling familiar.
The film is a must-see due to its length and performance. If you only have a limited amount of time and are looking for some action, this film appears to be a good fit.
