The Great Battle

I'm a fan of historical Korean films, but it took me a while to watch this one because it's not available in Prime Video for Philippines.

Having its ties with Jumong, my all-time favourite, set incredibly high standards for the film. In my opinion, Jumong series stands as a remarkable masterpiece in the Korean entertainment industry.

However, The Great War didn't manage to inspire the same level of thrill and amazement. The battle scenes were, indeed, engaging and compelling from start to end, confirming it as an enjoyable watch and definite entertainment.

Although, if one attempts to match this to the epic loftiness of the Jumong series, they might find it falling short.

Chinese Emperor Tang defeats a Korean army of 150,000, leaving only 10,000 survivors. The battle scene has horses in armor. In his way is the Ansi Fortress, defended by 4000 Koreans. The movie shows the battle in epic proportions, in a way that is seldom seen in movies. It is a Chinese period piece, and in checking out one historical website, the battle for the fortress unfolds basically as depicted in the movie. There is plenty of action, plenty of carnage, and the role of the Korean Commander, Poong, is very well cast. He comes across as a very brilliant tactician. There is a betrayal that adds interest to the movie at the right point. If one wants a movie with a lot of action and bloodshed, this movie will check all the boxes.

The Great Battle (2018 Korean movie streaming currently on Hi-Yah) is a gem of a picture got a very limited US release (at the same time as Venom). It is hard to find , but worth tracking down. This is the Korean version of 300 mixed with Braveheart. What it may lack in historical accuracy it makes up for in style and jaw dropping battles many of which rival the Two Towers

It is visually appealing, packed from top to bottom with action and combat, dressed in appealing costumes, and backed by a stirring soundtrack by Yoon Il-sang.

With stunning cinematography, awesome visuals and incredible photography during the epic battle scenes, what more could one ask for in a war movie? The battle scenes are quite spectacular.

South Korea once again showcases an excellent war film. In-sung Jo is very good as Commander Yang Man-chun, a caring and likable protagonist, who's main concern is the well-being of his people. The rest of the cast is very good, as well, and there's sweet moments between some of the characters, and also a nicely set-up romance. This is a top-notch production.

Giving this an '8', although parts of the film were definitely a '10'. Early in the film, I was confused by who was who, and which side was which. Possibly this is not an issue for Korean viewers, as it is part of their history.

Non-Asian speakers have to keep glued to the subtitles, which is not a huge big deal but can occasionally distract you from the characters. Acting is quite good; you really come to have great respect for the defenders of Ansi.

Estimated budget was $15 million; if done in Hollywood, would have been closer to $200 million. Outstanding battle scenes!