Harbin

It's almost like watching a film noir in the 50s. Limited sources of light and shadow create a mysterious and suspenseful vibe. Low-key lighting and toned-down colors and even a little bit of melancholy. 'Harbin' narrates the story in a slightly detached and aloof manner.

Film noir is the right 'form' to maximize 'the content'. The director wants to describe a human Ahn rather than a hero Ahn. His anguish, doubts, and mistakes are all included, and it's not a story of a hero who saves the world. He's a human who carries out the responsibilities given to him at a difficult time in history. Ironically, after seeing him as an ordinary human being, the audience respects him more because one begins to feel closer and more attached to Ahn.

For example, for the battle scene in the beginning, Ahn's army does not fight with refined techniques or delicate choreography. It's a street fight and gang fight, throwing punches in the air and covered with mud. That feels more real and more down-to-earth the same as how the director wanted to portray Ahn.

The only weakness is that the storyline is too lineal and simple. It's not like there are no dramas in the movies, but it does not feel dramatic not even once.

Harbin...A work of astounding mastery! The actors did a fantastic job in every scene, the breathtaking cinematography, and the chills I felt were unbelievable. CG is not used in the landscapes or backgrounds. You will probably appreciate it more if you remember that. If you watch the movie while following the characters' emotional journeys-especially Ahn Jung-geun's-I think you'll be able to enjoy it more. To me, the film seems subdued yet profound. After viewing it, you will remember the lesson General Ahn Jung-geun wanted to convey: we should remain courageous and positive while taking things one step at a time.

A masterwork beyond belief! Every moment was brilliantly performed by the actors, the cinematography was breathtaking, and the chills I got were unreal. There is no CG in the backgrounds or landscapes. Keeping that in mind will likely help you appreciate it more. I believe that you will be able to appreciate the film more if you watch it while following the emotional journeys of the characters, particularly Ahn Jung-geun. The movie seems serene but powerful to me. After seeing it, you will carry with you the lesson that General Ahn Jung-geun wished to get across: we should stay brave and optimistic and take things one step at a time. Unvel.

Harbin Movie Review

Harbin is a disappointing cinematic experience that fails to live up to its potential. Despite the visually stunning direction and well-crafted atmosphere, the film struggles to maintain interest due to its sluggish pacing and lack of emotional depth.

The most frustrating aspect is Hyun Bin's performance, which stands out as the film's weakest element. His portrayal lacks the intensity and charisma required for such a role, making it difficult to stay invested in the story.

While some supporting actors, particularly Jo Jung-min, manage to deliver strong performances, they aren't enough to salvage the film. Harbin had all the ingredients for success but ultimately falls flat, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.

Hyun Bin's portrayal of Korean independence leader Ahn Jung-geun is a sophisticated portrait of what it takes to be human in an inhuman situation. The war they fight is brutal, the Japanese are unrelenting, the landscape and weather are harsh. Ahh struggles to lead, knowing choices he has made have cost the lives of his comrades. He faces an impossible dilemma: to give up and live with guilt of failure or to carry on, risking more deaths and more failure. This film uses stunning cinematography to highlight the bleakness and intensity of the independence fighters' world. This isn't an action film of set-piece stunts and thrills, but an intelligent and moving film of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.