[Review] Before 'Seoul's Spring' Arrives... 'Assassin(s)', Once Again, Ignites the Screen

*This content was translated by AI.

The screen heats up once more. The film 'Assassin(s)' brings another chapter of Korea's history to the audience following 'Seoul's Spring', which ignited screens at the end of 2023. It is a story we thought we knew but actually did not fully understand. Whether you lived through that era or saw it only in a book's page or a documentary scene, everyone is drawn in with passion.

'Assassin(s)' traces the suspicions and figures behind the shocking assassination of the First Lady that shook South Korea on August 15, 1974. Set during the peak of the Yushin dictatorship in 1974, it dramatizes the assassination of Mrs. Yuk Young-soo at an August 15 commemorative event held at Jangchung-dong National Theater, blending fact with fiction. This story takes place before the military coup on December 12, 1979—the backdrop of 'Seoul's Spring'.

A Japanese resident affiliated with Chongryon (General Association of Korean Residents in Japan), Mun Se-gwang, attended the ceremony and fired a pistol at the podium where Park Jeong-hui (President) was delivering a speech. However, Park (President) remained unharmed, while Mrs. Yuk Young-soo was shot in the head and died. At the time, this incident completely reversed the domestic atmosphere. Protests opposing the Yushin dictatorship turned into anti-communist demonstrations, anti-Japanese sentiment surged, and protests demanding truth and an apology from Japan continued. Although many suspicions surrounded the of this incident, it was ultimately concluded with Mun Se-gwang being executed, yet the case remains a mystery to this day.

'Assassin(s)' brilliantly brings this historical event to the screen. It follows Police Officer Cheol-gu (played by Yoo Hae-jin), who witnessed the assassination from the crime scene; Young-il (played by Lee Min-ho), who reported on it firsthand and saw the incident with his own eyes; and Jae-hwan (played by Park Hae-il), a journalist working for media outlet Jeong Chi-bu (Director) during the Yushin dictatorship, writing reports. The film weaves their stories together as they pursue the truth behind the incident. Among the five bullets fired by the assassins, one was accidental and one failed to fire, yet six bullet marks were found at the scene—how this happened becomes a fascinating mystery. Beyond Mrs. Yuk Young-soo, the story also includes the death of a female high school student who died at the scene that day.

'Assassin(s)' touches the audience's emotions through its portrayal of the Yushin dictatorship era. The film avoids being too dry by relying solely on facts, nor does it descend into melodrama by appealing only to sentiment. Instead, it moves forward with simplicity over a runtime exceeding 130 minutes. Director Heo Jin-ho's direction anchors the film, guiding the audience from beginning to end. Once again, the phrase "Director Heo Jin-ho" naturally comes to mind.

The highlight of the film lies in the actors' performances. In particular, Park Hae-il stands out with his expressive face and understated acting. He portrays a journalist during the Yushin dictatorship, upholding journalistic integrity and fighting for ethical reporting, thereby anchoring the film's core. He depicts Jae-hwan neither too hot nor too cold, embodying both an individual living through that era and a professional. As the story progresses toward the latter half, his performance reveals profound depth. The cast, including special appearances, carries the film's weight, supporting other actors while delivering shining performances whenever they are in close-up. Park Hae-il, who reunited with Director Heo Jin-ho for the first time in 10 years since 'Deok-hee', delivered perfect synergy.

Yoo Hae-jin is simply Yoo Hae-jin. Having already met 16 million viewers through this year's film 'The Man Living with the King', he appears poised to firmly solidify his title as a national actor with 'Assassin(s)'. With his distinctive voice and acting, Yoo Hae-jin pursues the truth alongside the audience.

Lee Min-ho shines on screen after a long absence. He embodies a confident character, holding his own among formidable senior actors. Initially appearing like a "parachute" appointment in the early part of the film through his Young-il character, Lee Min-ho gradually shows growth as the story unfolds. Capturing both his characteristic cunning and sincere demeanor, he adds unique charm to the movie.

The film features an impressive number of actors. Supporting roles, special appearances, and guest spots bring familiar and welcome faces that draw attention. While some actors enhance the film's power, others may elicit unexpected reactions.

After watching the film, the question of why the title is 'Assassin(s)' rather than simply 'Assassin' or 'Assassins' becomes clear. It is a title that accurately captures the direction the film seeks to convey.

After viewing 'Assassin(s)', 'Seoul's Spring' naturally comes to mind. Produced by HYBE MediaCOP, the studio behind 'Seoul's Spring', this prequel story prompts us to reflect on the democracy we now take for granted as naturally as air. In the latter part of the film, scenes of journalists sacrificing themselves for the "Declaration of Free Press" mirror today's reality, prompting self-reflection. It feels as though scenes once confined to slogans and history books have come alive before us, making our hearts burn with emotion.

The 131-minute runtime flies by without a hint of boredom. The well-crafted film 'Assassin(s)', featuring excellent direction and talented actors, is expected to deeply resonate with many audiences during this year's Chuseok holiday.

Released on September 23. Rated for viewers aged 12 and above.

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*This content was translated by AI.