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Release Date: October 14th, 2005 (NYC-ImaginAsian and Cinema Village) by Kino International. The Cast: Song Jae-ho, Han Suk-kyu, Baek Yun-shik, Jeong Won-jung, Jo Sang-geon, Kim Sang-ho, Kwun Byung-gil. Directed by Im Sang-soo. In Japanese and Korean with subtitles. BASIC PREMISE: In 1979, the Korean Central Intelligence Agency (KCIA) plans an assassination on President Park Chunghee. Loosely based on a true story. ENTERTAINMENT VALUE: This stylish assassination film takes a while to get going, but once the assassination gradually takes place, it becomes more stylish in a violent way—very much like Kill Bill. The two members of the KCIA who plan his assassination are chief secretary (Byung-gil) and bodyguard (Won-jung). The first half of the film is mostly drama with a little dark comedy mixed in. There is an obvious sense that everything will lead to a chaotic, bloody scene. Director Im Sang-soo is not afraid to show a lot of blood and guts---splattered on the wall and spilling onto the floor. Despite all of this violence, there is still plenty to be entertained by, especially if you like very dark humor. It is funny how the KCIA forgets about two girls on an upper-level floor who hear all of the gunshots. In another scene, as a chef is about to be killed, he begs for his life by promising to make better food. Fortunately, this film never truly takes itself seriously, which is precisely what makes it so much fun! SPIRITUAL VALUE: None is required or desired. INSULT TO YOUR INTELLIGENCE: None. NUMBER OF TIMES I CHECKED MY WATCH: 1 THE BOTTOM LINE: A darkly humorous and extremely violent film—Kill Bill-style! It’s a true guilty pleasure! RECOMMENDED WAY TO WATCH: Those with a weak stomach- VHS/DVD Everyone else- Movie Theater (1st Run) Main Page Alphabetical Menu The "P" Menu ______________________________________________________ |
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