Yeok-rin

This is another movie that takes place during the Joseon Dynasty. However unlike certain Korean dramas that takes on this premises. This actually way more fast-paced. The movie revolves around a King, spies, assassins, treason and love affairs. And for the most part it's actually blended in quite well. The twist and turns actually makes this one quite immersive, despite some of the twist being quite predictable and all. My one main disappointment is how certain characters and story structure builds up and at the end, it just seems to fall short with it's development. In another words, the good build up seemed a bit disappointing, because of the weak ending that just felt a bit abrupt. It's a movie that is worth the attention though.

7.6/10

Wow! Beautifully shot and compelling actin from all involved. Hyun Bin as King Jeonjo is so intense. His eyes and voice hold all the expression. Very restrained and all the better for that. I've seen reviews which said he didn't show any emotion- really? What film were you watching! Han Ji-Min is great too. Really nasty character - so well done. I think it's my favourite role for her. This is my first Korean historical film and really enjoyed it. Cinematography is stunning.

I watched "The Throne" (check So Ji Sub's filmography) yesterday and after watching, I tried to read what actually happened to King Jeongjo and his father, and I found this title with Hyun Bin (wow!) in it. This movie is a great continuity (although it's not meant to be that way) to "The Throne" movie. Great props and sets, very2 talented actors, photography is soo on point, my 2 hrs 15 mins felt so worth it. Most korean historical movies are so good to watch. Thumbs up to the director.

FATAL ENCOUNTER 2014

A real-life assassination attempt on King Jeongjo, portrayed by Hyun Bin. This was his first role in a period drama and first acting project after being discharged from mandatory military service.

Loyalty. Friendship. Power. Betrayal. Family. Truth.

This is an intense film. My Binnie perfectly portrayed his role as King Jeongjo. I felt his sense of authority on every line he uttered and on every emotion his eyes made.

What it lacks in script development, the film makes up for in its execution. All actors were awesome and its cinematography was amazing! I love how they put emphasis on the supporting actors' lives. Make sure to focus as there are loads of flashbacks.

Ruminate on this, guys: "Do your utmost even in trivial things. From that you can gain sincerity. This sincerity becomes apparent. From being apparent, it becomes manifest. From being manifest, it becomes brilliant. Brilliant, it affects others. Affecting others, they are changed by it. Changed by it, they are transformed. It is only those with complete sincerity who can transform everything... It will change. If you do your utmost, one by one, the world will change.' (King Jeongjo's final words combined with the Doctrine of the Mean, Chapter 23)

#HyunBin #FatalEncounter

Watched it last night. At first, I thought it would be another colossal Korean movie, but after a few minutes, I was intrinsically interested with the directing, editing, scoring, and how the story evolving.

The characters, all have their magnetic personalities that trapped me into liking almost each of them. Especially the little girl, her acting is impressive. And the king, don't let me start. Even the antagonistic Queen.. she's magnetically impressive as well.

Heck, even the quiet killer, and the clash with his old buddy, seemed interwoven sweetly.

I have been a kung-fu movie fan since decades ago, but I must say, this one Korean movie is a great masterpiece that I have never seen before during my fan-girling all Chinese, Hongkong, or Japanese movies.

OK, except for HERO. I think they almost have the same depth of quality.

Utterly recommended.