The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil (Korean: 악인전; Hanja: 惡人戰; RR: Ak-in-jeon) is a gripping South Korean action thriller film directed by Lee Won-tae. This enthralling movie stars Ma Dong-seok, Kim Mu-yeol, and Kim Sung-kyu, and takes you on a thrilling journey of a gangster and a cop teaming up to catch a notorious serial killer. However, they face numerous challenges from their enemies along the way.
The film was released in South Korea on May 15, 2019, and received critical acclaim. It was also showcased at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival and the Fantasia International Film Festival. With its unique blend of humor, hard-hitting action, and unexpected plot twists, The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil is an absolute must-watch for fans of the genre.
A Tale of Intrigue and Suspense
The story revolves around Jang Dong-soo, a crime boss, and Jung Tae-suk, a determined cop. Their paths cross when they become targets of a cold-blooded serial killer. After surviving separate attacks by the killer, Dong-soo and Tae-suk join forces to catch the elusive murderer. Dong-soo wants revenge, while Tae-suk aims to solve a series of connected murder cases and earn a promotion.
Image source: The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil
However, their mission becomes more complex when Dong-soo's right-hand man is killed, and evidence points to the killer as a serial murderer. As suspicion grows and the stakes rise, Dong-soo and Tae-suk find themselves entangled in a thrilling cat-and-mouse game that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Critically Acclaimed and Highly Entertaining
The film has received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. With a score of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil is hailed as an inventive and action-packed thriller. It combines humor, intense fight sequences, and stylish production values to deliver a captivating cinematic experience.
Leslie Felperin of The Guardian describes it as a "real kick in the head" with its inventive plot twists and slick production. Jessica Kiang of Variety praises the charisma of star Ma Dong-Seok and the film's energetic sensibility. Cary Darling of Houston Chronicle applauds director Lee Won-tae's pacing and describes the movie as a "cats-and-mouse game" that showcases the emerging talent of South Korean cinema.
A Remake with Star Power
Such is the appeal of The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil that Hollywood has taken notice. Sylvester Stallone and Braden Aftergood, through their Balboa Productions, have announced plans to produce the US remake of the film. Ma Dong-seok will reprise his role and serve as a producer for the English-language adaptation.
Final Thoughts
With its compelling storyline, thrilling action sequences, and outstanding performances, The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil stands as a testament to the excellence of South Korean cinema. This action-packed film will keep you engaged from start to finish, leaving you craving for more.
So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in this riveting experience that combines the best elements of crime thrillers and action movies. The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil is a must-watch for all fans of the genre, offering a memorable and entertaining cinematic journey.
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