When I say that this film is a GONE WITH THE WIND,
I don't mean that it entails civil war or slavery. Instead I'm talking about a
story that seems to dwell forever and feels like the entire 154 minute length
it runs. With a little trimming this film could have been better but at that
length, while still a good movie, it seems a bit over the top.
The story revolves around a television program in Korea, a
show where the producers try to bring together the toughest street fighters
they can find. Week after week they bring out both forgotten heroes from the
past and new toughs trying to make a name for themselves. Unfortunately the
ratings are beginning to fall, especially with the same names appearing week
after week.
That changes when they discover Deok-kyu, an ex-Olympic
contender who disappeared and now runs a noodle shop that's about to go under.
Raising a child on his own he's done everything he could to steer clear of the
fight circuit. But with some cajoling by the producer and with the enticement
of a $200,000 top prize, he's drawn back in.
Not only is Deok-kyu brought back but so are two friends
from his past. Jae-seok was the friend that never quite made it to the top and
is now a low level gangster. Sang-hoon is an executive now whose boss wants him
to take the top prize and represent the company at the same time. Each has a
reason for wanting to win. Each reason is something personal to the individual.
Just who will rise to the top waits to be seen until the very last battle.
Unlike most movies in this genre there is more story here
than you usually find. The tale of Deok-kyu is heart wrenching at times, giving
his choices more substance than in the usual martial arts film. And yet the
story of his ex-friends and their need to win also draws you in. The fact that
a movie like this offers that much in the way of plot sets this movie above
many that have been released.
If you're a fan of martial arts films then this is a must
see film. If you've never given them a chance then this one is worth watching. You'll
get more from this than most and in the end that's a good thing.
Click here to order.
No comments:
Post a Comment