The reason behind the popularity of Korean films throughout many Asian countries is evident in this sensational comedy action flick that will sadly only get one screening in Adelaide this month.
Blending moments of extreme comedy and sublte light moments with scenes of extreme action and violence, Veteran is a high-octain crime thriller that balances the two beautifully, often catching you off-guard with unexpected laughs or shocking twists.
Frustrated cop Do-Chul Seo is faced with internal blocks against prosecuting a rich playboy and discovers that, to bring the wealthy to justice, he will have to go it alone. The object of his obsession is Tae-Oh (sensationally portrayed by Korean TV hunk Ah-In Yoo). Tae-Oh is a psychotic, spoilt rich kid attempting to run his family’s business. He holds everyone in contempt, knowing that he can buy his way out of any situation.
Yoo is stellar as the insane brat, providing a real sense of danger for the hero. Jung-Min Hwang plays Do-Chul with equal alacrity and is an absolute star. Both balance the action and comedy beautifully, but the latter is the true leading man, with shades of Jackie Chan cheekiness and a sharp delivery of lines and punches.
Caught in the middle of these two is Tae-Oh’s long-suffering but obsessively loyal personal assistant (nicely realised by Hae-Jin Yoo) who is forced to forever cover for his boss and take the falls when needed.
Writer and director by Seung-Wan Ryoo has delivered a tight script and an intense story. The fight and stunt choreography is spectacular with the finale car chase almost worth the ticket price alone.
As an introduction to Korean cinema, it would be difficult to surpass Veteran for a helluva good time. For those already inducted into the well-earned reputation of Korean cinema, Veteran is sure to please.
All films in the Korean Film Festival screen with English subtitles.
Reviewed by Rod Lewis
Twitter: @StrtegicRetweet
Rating out of 10: 9
Veteran will screen on 17 September only as part of the Korean Film Festival in Australia (KoFFIA), running 15 – 18 September 2016 exclusively at the Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas.
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