Jo Pil-ho: The Dawning Rage

This movie definetly deserves more than 6.2 (at he the time of this review). It's an ok movie up to a certain point. Probably the first 2/3 of the movie. Then it gets better. The last scene "made me" rate this movie with an 8. The acting is great (this is obviously just my opinion)

Movie buffs, all around the world will agree unconditionally to the fact that for the past two decades, the hardworking Korean cinema has carved a special respect in their hearts. Their unique treatment to their movies, literally stands apart among movies from lesser know countries on the world cinema map. In addition to their long list of impressive movies on the world stage, Akjilkyungchal is a new addition to the long list, that deserves all the attention. The movie may have a clichéd story and ordinary characters on the surface, but through the course of the film the very same characters laced with some hilarious black comical dialogues, pack a big punch to make the movie an enjoyable affair.

Cinematography is a hallmark for any Korean film and Akjilkyungchal is no exception. Screenplay and storyline is definitely inspired from movies all over the world but thanks to the director Jeong-beom Lee's vision, Akjilkyungchal becomes a different beast altogether and is quite different. Production design, music, costumes and makeup are very good. Editing might be a small letdown, as 126 minutes felt too long in my opinion. On the acting front, Sun-kyun Lee as the corrupt cop delivers a fine performance that is both entertaining and enjoyable, ably supported by other actors.

Overall, If you are a fan of Korean cinema or like cop dramas, Akjilkyungchal is a tailor made film for you. The movie is high on entertainment and is very enjoyable as the characters are extremely delightful, that you will love to see as a viewer. Akjilkyungchal on the whole is much more than a cop drama and a commercial cinema, that will stay inside the mind of the viewer for a long time. 7.1 stars out of 10 for refining a regular cliched story and selling the same to even the most seasoned movie buffs around the world.

Everyone is on the take in this Korea from the Chaebol, to government officials, cops and doctors. The 2014 MV Sewol ferry sinking serves as a backdrop for what the youth see as adult failure. Grab what you can and force deals as needed, nice guys are losers. The cop is caught in the middle as his own small scam intersects with a really big one. Some inventive fight scenes, the lead henchman is a terrific menace. The protagonist gets his redemption arc but all in all a grim story.

Good movie. It's labeled as action, but it feels more like a crime drama. There is some action of course, but not too much. I wasn't entirely happy with some of the movie's events, but still, I liked it. Good plot. Also, the ending song is beautiful, someone please tell me the name of the song so I can look it up! I replayed the credits 3 times just to listen to the song!

A great mixture of action, comedy, drama and thriller.

At times this feels like it's a little too much all in one movie, but the film manages to keep the balance between these elements pretty well. Perhaps the main character could have had a little more depth. But overall I really enjoyed it. You definitely won't get bored.