Narco-Saints

South Korean cinema and television continues to impress with NARCO-SAINTS, a retitling of THE ACCIDENTAL NARCO now showing on Netflix. Like SQUID GAME before it, this is a limited TV miniseries which has the production values and expense of a movie, and it looks absolutely fantastic too. It tells the true story of a Korean pastor in Suriname who turned out to be a drug lord on the side. Hard to believe, but this perfectly-paced thriller packs in the realism for a gritty and suspenseful adventure. Ha Jung Woo is the perfect lead and supported by a couple of Korea's hottest stars, and together they shine, their performances underpinning typically exciting action bits.

Don't expect the original Narco's series level of production, but Saints was entertaining, and largely as it was based on a true story, held my interest. It gets more interesting as the episodes evolve, but good that it was kept to 6 episodes.

I could hear in the first couple of episodes particularly some strains of background music very reminiscent of the Narcos themes. Thought that was funny, but this ain't that series. If you go in expecting that you'll just be disappointed.

You'll also have to stretch sense of belief to a rather large degree as some action events are rather not quite realistic or believable, forget feasible.

But it's an intriguing story you might enjoy watching.

I think I watched half of this series with my eyes closed since I don't really like to watch violence, but I do like true stories so wanted to see it. Even with my eyes closed at some of the most violent scenes, the grotesque audio was enough to visualize in my head what was happening. The true story in itself is indicative of what really does go on out there, and unfortunately in this instance a private citizen unwittingly gets himself involved in a huge US DEA kingpin/drug bust operation because the Korean (lead male) went to the country innocently with his buddy to export/import some skate (seafood that looks like a stingray) which is a delicacy in Korea but gets thrown away in the South African country. They wind up getting getting caught in a scheme and getting involved in this operation when one of the investigation officials involves them w/o their knowledge with drugs on their boat. Of course they get caught and now they are in it for real. This was an operation that was reminiscent of the El Chapo bust. The characters were cast perfectly and the ending was satisfying.

Once you pass the 1st episode which is a bit too long (but helpful to understand the main character's personality and motivation) the series gets better and better with a great finale which keeps you on the edge of your seat for 60 minutes. The 6 episodes format is perfect as it allows to develop the story enough while being crisp at the same time.

The story is well built and well paced, the acting very good - not surprising as the show features some top actors from the Korean movie.

Hwang Jung Min nails it as per usual in his role as the ruthless, devilish drug king and finds perfect chemistry with Ha Jung Woo who is equally impressive in this guy-next-door-turned-hero.

Great suspense and action, a must watch for fans of the genre!

Narco Saints Is Next Sensational HIT FROM KOREAN INDUSTRY!!

I love the casting they picked for this show and the actors did a great job. It never got boring and always had you waiting to see what happens next!

. .

I can recommend this show to anyone thinking about watching it! Go watch the show and I think you will love it.

. .

If you like character chemistry, good pacing, lighthearted dry humours, all while delivering dark and well written script, this is an original to see.

A mix side after watching it.. .

Inspired by some events, this is well written and engaging.

Last i will definitely recommend.