‘I, the Executioner’ Review: A South Korean Serial-Killer-Action-Comedy Sequel

As a movie buff who’s seen more films than I can count stars in the night sky, I must say that “I, The Executioner” is a rollercoaster ride of action, suspense, and introspection. Ryoo Seung-wan has outdone himself with this sequel, taking us on a journey that’s as dark as Gotham City’s alleys but just as captivating.


Ryoo Seung-wan’s sequel to his 2015 action-comedy ‘Veteran,’ titled ‘I, the Executioner,’ reduces the humor from its predecessor to delve deeper into and scrutinize the brutal actions of its police characters. While still engaging, this new film is also thoughtful, unfolding a serial killer mystery that offers an unexpected reflection of the series’ main character.

Detective Seo Do-cheol, played by Hwang Jung-min, makes his return in a thrilling start, with the camera moving swiftly through (and even above) an underground casino, capturing a police raid in progress. Lighthearted action unfolds, echoing the energetic, impactful scenes of the original film, while maintaining the central theme: Seo and his unique, unpredictable team can be either incredibly proficient or comically inept, depending on what the story requires. At times, they exhibit both traits simultaneously, as the opening scene offers a taste of the familiar.

Moving forward, “Veteran” and its socio-economic themes served as a strong foundation for the film’s explosive scenes (the main plot didn’t start until about 45 minutes in). However, “I, the Executioner,” unlike “Veteran,” delves into the concept of justice right from the beginning, with a chilling murder driven by vengeance. In South Korea, it was marketed as “Veteran 2,” but its international title is borrowed from the 1968 Japanese neo-noir thriller, “I, the Executioner,” which follows police investigating a string of vigilante killings targeting criminals. Although these films share only a broad premise, the introduction of a darker, more somber tone – in stark contrast to the generally upbeat first “Veteran” film – is instantly noticeable and intentional.

With an increase in vigilante murders being exposed, these acts are focused on criminals who managed to evade the legal system’s grasp. Online personalities have affectionately nicknamed the anonymous avenger from the movie as “Haechi,” after a legendary lion-like creature from Chinese and Korean folklore known for meting out justice to sinners. However, these killings are not far removed from Seo’s own brand of violence, which often operates outside the law. This type of violence has been a recurring theme in police action films worldwide, such as “Dirty Harry.” Introducing a villain with such striking similarities to the hero is reminiscent of comic book superheroes, fitting given Ryoo’s gritty portrayal of modern South Korea resembles the dark underbelly of Gotham City.

The character portrayed as “The Executioner” cleverly employs red herrings, introducing a novice police officer named Park Sun-woo (played by Jung Hae-in) within the main cast. His admiration for Seo, though somewhat unnerving, borders on fanaticism. Known as the “UFC policeman” online due to his forceful apprehensions, Park seems to have adopted some of Seo’s questionable tactics, which becomes increasingly intriguing as the film suggests a possible connection between Park and Haechi. The movie consistently oscillates regarding its murderer’s identity; however, it remains consistent in portraying Park as Seo’s disquieting mirror image. This dual role challenges the antihero detective to re-evaluate his approach, all while managing personal issues at home.

Regrettably, despite trying various adjustments, the movie’s concluding part struggles to maintain its profound ideas and instead shifts towards a plot reminiscent of “Saw”, which seems inconsistent with the previously established motivations of the antagonist. However, it’s during this section where the series’ unique blend of action and humor resurfaces prominently. The film, titled “I, the Executioner”, offers plenty of high-octane action – a fight on a rain-soaked rooftop being one such instance, showcasing intricate close-quarters combat as characters struggle to maintain their footing – but its poignant final scenes serve as a fitting resolution following the movie’s numerous gloomy digressions. In these crucial moments, Ryoo delves into his comedic arsenal once more, displaying his knack for delivering humor effectively.

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2024-09-17 05:46