El hombre del presidente

I remember seeing another historical Korean movie on people's riot. Same as this time, some story lines are hard to understand. Luckily as long as there is LBH, I have nothing to lose.

As good as expected. Powerful performances, tense, good pace, very well shot, magnificent use of shadows and dark scenarios in line with the theme.

Koreans know how to tell the stories of their history. I would be so proud if Portugal was capable to do something similar with our rich history...

The possession of power often leads people to lose their way and forget their initial intentions. In the movie, through Lee Byung-hun's internal struggle, it highlights how those in power can become wrapped up in their position, eventually feeling that they are the most important. They start expecting others not to betray them, displaying a certain level of selfishness. While there are quite a few movies about political maneuvering, this film also gives us insights into Korea's historical background. It really reminds me of China's ancient emperor system and the ongoing military conflicts in many countries. The truth is, people often don't ask for much, but someone always climbs up and becomes a leader, managing the masses. It's a reflection of both human nature and animalistic tendencies.

You know when they say that good intentions can go wrong? What if you can't actually tell if they went wrong? Who is to say what right and wrong is anyway? I wouldn't dare say I understood every little bit of history that was presented here (this is one of those cases where it makes sense, at least afterwards) to get into what the movie was about. Yes this is based on real characters and events - and yes it can be confusing to a degree.

Especially because of all the grey areas this covers. And power grabs and jealousy, rivalry and pure horror/fear inside ones mind. To at least a certain degree, things displayed here, would be things you'd attest or expect from North Korea(n goverment), not from the one in South Korea. But when not all is developed yet, when people have to go to the streets to protest for certain things and rights ... well things get and are complicated.

So this is very well made and really amazingly acted. If political thriller/drama is in your "playlist"/something you enjoy watching, this is definitely worth watching. Otherwise you may have issues with it and it's pacing ...

It wasn't boring for Koreans, the director approached the case with a neutral standard, and this film re-evaluated the character Kim Jae-gyu.