The Outlaws

The ratings for this film doesn't do it any justice. The acting in this film is incredibly strong with the return of Ma Dong Seok with the lead role as a strong minded Police officer. The movie revolves around the 2004 gang conflict in Seoul, South Korea which was a conflict between a local Korean based gang and a Chinese gang known as the Heuksapa. The movie keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole time and the atmosphere and acting really capture the mood for this movie. This is the first IMDb review I am writing as I usually don't bother but this movie made me write this. Its performance can be shown through its massive success at the Korean box office. I recommend it 100%, you will not regret it.

Newb Korean filmmaker Yoon-Seong Kang's writing and directing is worthy enough to embarrass some seasoned Hollywood filmmakers flops I've seen lately. Based on true events, this is the first film in the Crime City series franchise starring the amazing Don Lee. The drama, comedy and action was all top-notch. This is how a blockbuster action comedy is made. All casting and performances were outstanding. The 121 min runtime didn't feel as long with the decent pacing and excellent story-telling. It's a near perfect film. The second installment The Roundup is even better and a perfect film in every aspect. I can't wait for the third film The Roundup: No Way Out. Yoon-Seong Kang should be very proud of his first ever dabble into filmmaking. It's a well deserving 9/10 from me.

In the past when my wife and I would see it's an Asian movie we're about to watch we lowered our expectations immediately. But there is one exception on this rule and that is Korean movies. Koreans know how to make movies and they are by far the best Asian movie producers. The Outlaws (or Beomjoidosi) is again a good Korean movie. This time it's an action/crime movie based on true events. There is also some light comedy present and that's something rare in Asian movies. Dong-seok Ma is playing the main character Seok-do Ma and sometimes he reminded me as a modern Bud Spencer, smacking and slapping people around like it's his daily job. The Outlaws is well made, with good actors and with a story that is not too serious but entertaining. Another winner from South-Korea.

I am european and not familiar with asian cultures...which means i probably lost a lot of the humor and details, but i ve always been fond of these kind of movies. The actors succeed in standing out and building report with the viewer. The plotline is nothing new butt the setting and unfolding is well done and the two hours passed by as if it was a blink of the eye. I hope to see something new from this director and lead-actor soon.

The story is built around the sturdy main character accompanied by graphic violence and dry wit. Based on a true event, the film is action-packed but never over-the-top. The final showdown is one of the most enjoyable come-uppances I have seen. I don't know why, but it was very satisfying.

This is a well-made, tight Korean cop thriller that I would definitely recommend.