Haeolbin

Harbin...A work of astounding mastery! The actors did a fantastic job in every scene, the breathtaking cinematography, and the chills I felt were unbelievable. CG is not used in the landscapes or backgrounds. You will probably appreciate it more if you remember that. If you watch the movie while following the characters' emotional journeys-especially Ahn Jung-geun's-I think you'll be able to enjoy it more. To me, the film seems subdued yet profound. After viewing it, you will remember the lesson General Ahn Jung-geun wanted to convey: we should remain courageous and positive while taking things one step at a time.

Hyun Bin's portrayal of Korean independence leader Ahn Jung-geun is a sophisticated portrait of what it takes to be human in an inhuman situation. The war they fight is brutal, the Japanese are unrelenting, the landscape and weather are harsh. Ahh struggles to lead, knowing choices he has made have cost the lives of his comrades. He faces an impossible dilemma: to give up and live with guilt of failure or to carry on, risking more deaths and more failure. This film uses stunning cinematography to highlight the bleakness and intensity of the independence fighters' world. This isn't an action film of set-piece stunts and thrills, but an intelligent and moving film of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.

Japan's strained relationship with Korea goes back to the 16th Century. The occupation of Korea by Japan in the 20th Century was among the worst examples of colonial brutality of modern times. It is the events surrounding the 1910 Annexation of Korea by Japan, and the Korean resistance, that is the subject of this powerful movie.

This is a movie based upon historical events. Therefore, the strength of the movie is not in the surprise reveal of the plot's climax. That could easily be explored with the stroke of a computer key. The strength of the film is in the gripping execution of the storytelling. The filmmakers have done a masterful job injecting the viewer into the story. While many of the details of the interactions of the characters may be fictionalized, this in no way diminishes the appreciation for the real life struggle of the Korean people to overthrow their oppressors.

The Japanese Occupation lasted until the end of World War II. Soon after Korea was plunged into its own conflict, leading to the division between North and South, which exists until this day. The fact that Korea has catapulted to becoming a first world nation is a testament to the resilience of the Korean spirit in overcoming such great and sustained national adversity.

Woo Min-ho's Direction is Oscar worthy. He manages to move the story along with a swift pace, with great attention to detail, and not get bogged down in too much detail as to turn the film into a documentary. This is crisp, dramatic storytelling.

The acting by the entire cast is superior. There is no particular standout in this ensemble cast. Whether part of the Korean resistance, the Japanese military, or Japanese hierarchy, the performances are engaging and thoughtful. They are played with great depth. There are no stereotypical archetypes here.

While the film is not rated, it is intense and, somewhat, brutal at times. None of the brutality is gratuitous, however. The violence and brutality here supports this dramatic story.

While the film is a historical drama it is also a top notch spy thriller, which will keep the viewer engaged and intrigued throughout. The historical and thriller elements are beautifully woven together to enhance the viewing experience.

Harbin is a powerful movie and I highly recommend it.

Watch it in Korean, with English subtitles.

As someone who isn't Korean, I won't venture into the accuracy of the film's historical portrayal. However, I was genuinely impressed by its remarkable production quality, masterful cinematography, and meticulously paced narrative. The story unfolded with precision, allowing each scene to breathe while building toward a climax that was both impactful and flawlessly executed. The musical score complemented the visuals beautifully, and the performances of the cast far surpassed my expectations, leaving me utterly captivated as the credits rolled.

As a devoted enthusiast of Korean cinema, this film distinguished itself as a singular experience, blending all the essential elements of a truly memorable movie. Beyond its artistry, it offered me a profound glimpse into a chapter of Korean history I had not previously known, enriching both my understanding and appreciation for the culture.

Harbin is a movie that portrays a group of korean independence activist going on a dangerous mission to gain independence for their home country korea in 1901.

Roles were played perfectly by each actor and there were many plot twists in the movie that builds tension and suspense for audiences, the climax does not disappoint as well. Ending was very unexpected but it does not disappoint you. In my opinion, this movie was one of the best i have ever watched and might be the greatest war related movie other than hacksaw ridge. To sum up, I really recommend people to watch this movie as it provides a good representative of a war movie. I would rate this a 10/10!!!!