KT

The story is pretty much based on true events and most of the characters actually existed. The acting from the lead and supporting casts are all fine. The atmosphere suits the topic and events well and the director's portrait of both sides, the Japanese and the South Korean seems even handed.(both were following instructions from the US rather then their own) It's hard to appreciate this film since there are too many sides involved plus the complex relationship between the Japanese and Korean. It's almost necessary for the audience to take a political side at the beginning of the film and follow it to the end. There seems to be 4 sides, pro-Japanese (Japanese), Pro-unification of Korea (Most Koreans), Anti-Unification (US, Japan) and Pro-US. Also you need to have some background knowledge on the relationship between Japan, Korea and the US. Otherwise you may quickly loose the the plot and begin to find this movie boring. Especially for western audiences who may not be able to tell the difference between the Japanese and the Korean.

it is a good political/espionage thriller, based on a real kidnapping incident of Korean politician, Kim Dae-Jun. it covers a lot of sensitive issues in japan and korea - tension between korea and japan after WW2, feelings of japanese-korean, political movements in 70s (red purge), and most importantly, identity problem of JSDF (Japan Self Defence Force). if you like Oshii Mamoru films like Akai Megane, you will enjoy it a lot.

another thing i noted was that the picture is carefully trying to recreate landscapes in 70s. it is rather difficult thing to do as a lot of landscape changed in tokyo. i was amazed to see lots of vehicles from 70s. kudos to art direction guys!

i gave a 9/10 vote.