Seoul Vibe

I mean I absolutely adore kdrama but this movie feels just a korean version of every single american movie about cars and racing that has ever existed. Even the plot is just the same as many other movies. ( even the music are all 80's American hits)

Korean dramas have something unique and special about them and they have gained a lot of popularity in the last few years because of that. You can usually experience their culture through the screen but everything that makes people fall in love with korean shows and movies is missing here.

I have watched the leads in many dramas and I know how good they are ( specially Yoo Ah-in which completely transforms in each role).

The movie, regardless of everything is entertaining enough and it's fast paced but I was expecting more.

1988. It is indeed impressive how the setting of the movie took us back to 1988 in a beautiful way to portray the modernity in Seoul, the capital of South Korea.

It is a mixture of political events unfolding in speedy action rhythm, with not much car races but races with a lot of purpose! Blended with comedy! There is no other creative way to display it beautifully more than this!

Each character have their own charm, but what made me pleased and happy is actress park juhyun as the biker Yoonhee because this character may sound sassy, courageous character in our age but at that time she was viewed as a rebellious woman, and its a good reminder to not forget how women were looked at in the late 80s. However, she represents the bravery of a lot of Korean women who have been fighting for their dreams, the way they want to dress since the 80s. Women in South Korea still suffer from how the society want them to be, so looking at this character, it is such a great addition from the writers because we need more characters like her, to remind the world that, unfortunately, things might have changed, but discrimination against women still exists.

Overall, I give the movie 10/10 because they managed to transform many genres like how a painter mix their oil colors in a smooth way, a must watch? Definitely!

What can I say...

First off the movie is too long yet they are able to make the ending feel rushed. Draggy storyline yet filled with many loopholes. Somehow the main characters who claim to be "normal" people are able to pull off their plans with ease.

Secondly, there is too much subpar/low quality CGI that makes you wonder whether this movie is not only set in the 80s but also produced in the 80s. Too unrealistic driving CGI that even makes Fast & Furious feel legitimate. Footwork camera scenes are ridiculous.

Last but not least, the amount of promotion for the American dream/American related subjects makes this movie feel much like a propaganda. Again, it makes one wonder if this is a Korean movie or an American movie.

OMG!! It captivated both eyes and ears.

It's a film of perfect material for entertainment.

The clumsy characters who aim for American culture are so cute.

By combining hip-hop, fashion, and music in 1988 Korea, the eyes and ears of the audience were entertained.

I think I've never seen a Korean movie with this kind of material.

The scenes of car-chasing in the old car are amazing and it's killing me.

People who have only seen serious and message-filled Korean movies will be surprised to see this movie.

It's a great movie to laugh and enjoy.

I hope these kinds of movies come out often in Korea.

I recommend it to everyone who needs a laugh.

As "Seoul Vibe" (2022 release from South Korea; 140 min) opens, it is "1988 Saudi Arabia", and two guys are driving a Jeep in the Saudi desert, delivering cases of weapons. The two guys then return home to Seoul just as the Olympics are about to open. As they are picked up at the airport, it seems they are followed by "men in black". At this point we are 10 minutes into the film.

Couple of comments: as the movie unfolds in the first half hour, this results in an easy comparison of the wanting to be the Korean version of the "Fat & Furious" franchise, and in and of itself, there is nothing wrong with that, if this version is compelling in its own right. Alas, that is where the movie falls way short. The multiple street car chases, which form the core of the movie, are okay at best. I can't help but think back to that other Korean action movie that was recently released: "Carter", Korea's version of "Mission Impossible", and a movie that absolutely blew my mind on every level. Compared to "Carte", "Seoul Vibe" is a poor third cousin once removed, if you know what I mean.

"Seoul Vibe" opened this past weekend on Netflix, and the New York Times had an interesting review on it. That was good enough for me to give it a chance. I must say, I was quite disappointed when all was said and done. Of course don't take my word for it so I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.