The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil

This movie is somewhat alike Bad Guys (2014), with the surprising association of a cop (Kim Mu-yeol) and a gangster who heads a local mafia (Ma Dong-seok) in order to track down side by side a villainous serial killer (Kim Sungkyu). An extremely unorthodox attempt but, after all, the end justifies any mean, doesn't it? In spite of a few far-fetched scenes, the dynamic tandem is excellently interpreted and this efficient film is globally based on a breathtaking scenario, spectacular fights and a dark atmosphere.

The film tells quite a unique story of cops joining forces with gangsters to go after a serial killer.

If you single out all these elements (cops, gangsters, a serial killer, a cop teaming up with a gangster), then I've seen and enjoyed them many times before and yet, I don't think I've ever seen them all come together like this.

So, a unique story that relies on well known archetypes. I thought it handled them well enough.

However, if you're looking for a very plausible story line and a masterful intricate plot, well that's just not what this is about. It's more of a fun, entertaining and somewhat gritty movie that mostly revolves around the dynamic between the cop and the gangster. As such, it was also my main source of enjoyment while watching it.

I also liked the cinematography, the acting (cop, gangster and serial killer), action sequences and fight choreographies. It also has a comedic aspect to it, which surprised me but was very welcome and appreciated. Ma Dong-seok's character was the one that stood out the most to me, then the cop. Like I said, the main strength of the film is the dynamic between them. At least that's how I experienced it.

One thing that frustrated me during this film is the dynamic between the cop and his superior. The dialogues were overly repetitive and I think that this is a good example of where the film is lacking. There isn't a lot of depth in this movie and it suffers from it. Especially when you start to stray away from the dynamic duo (cop and gangster).

That's about it. I had a good time watching it and I'd recommend it to those who enjoy these kinds of detective stories and want to have some fun but don't expect exceptional writting and depth.

I give it a 7.5

This movie was such a treat, it engages you from the first minute till it's last scene. Ma Dong-Seok's performance was extraordinary and impressive. It's not one of those dark serial killer movies that Korean cinema is known for, however it's a great movie filled with great chases, tense moments, laughs and but will surely keep you on the edge of your seat. Furthermore what makes it more interesting is that it's based on true events. If you are into Korean cinema, this movie is a must watch.

As an entertaining movie this film stood out pretty well and with some added bonus of captivating performances it has surely caught my attention! The technical sides were well executed too. Especially the cinematography and the overall tonality helped to set the mood. Background score was fitting with the vibe. The action scenes aren't much but They have been presented and choreographed by expert hands. Really liked the leads here the cop and the gangster guy. As a foreign audience I don't know much about them but they must be Pro in their fields; judging by the sheer intensity they represent on screen. Although I must say as much as I adored the performances but didn't really like chemistry build up thing. Their chemistry in-between didn't feel authentic and seemed too uncanny in certain situations. Their friendly gestures towards each other; I still don't get why and how? I mean the gangster guy was ruthless, feared among his men and doesn't like someone who crosses his line but still he was absolutely fine with the cop guy's constant banters and interruptions. That's something I couldn't really relate. Special mention goes to the serial killer guy; he gave a sensational performance. I wished the film have focused more on his backstory or explored in depth with the character rather than giving all attention towards the gang rivalry. A wasted opportunity I reckon. The emotional side was never there, it could have been, if the makers hadn't ignore the antagonist and his nurture as a character.

09/10/2019 (3) The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil (2019) 7.3/10

Non-spoiler-ish review :)

A serial killer with a heartless soul roaming around towns. A cop that is dedicated to catching him at all costs. And a gangster leader with a special mission to annihilate this serial killer.

This piece of work has more goods than bads. I would start off by stating the fact that the idea of the movie is fairly original or at least, well-executed.

There was a mutual relationship that gives viewers comedic relieves every now and then. This light up the mood of the movie in lots of times.

There are some acts of the movie that felt rushed. Some Infos seem to be setting up plot lines and major future reveals but they weren't. There were characters that seem to be important but then forgotten.

The director and the writers have good directions in the dialogues and setting up motives for characters. However, some of the scenes were strolled by too quickly for me to feel the burden or the punishment level of certain actions.

Nevertheless, the movie is pretty alright alright. Some flaws every now and then but overall, quite entertaining and satisfying. A good thriller/action flick.

For this year, I was pretty impressed with suspenseful/ action-comedy Korean movies like Parasite and the Hit-and-Run squad. They were both pretty good and worth mentioning really.