Soulèvement

An issue with historical fiction mediums is that they can either bend too far and become so detached from the period that you don't feel connected. The other side is that they can be so rigid, sticking to the history, that it struggles to be a narrative. I find Uprising to be a beautiful blend. Whereas the series Kingdom deals with the Imjin War (the invasion of the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi) with a mix of zombies, Uprising looks at the issues of a top-down power structure in human terms. Honestly it helps one to see how and why the top views the people as near less than human -- while also wholely calling it evil.

That aside, I love single-shot action sequences. There are two, looking from either perspective, that are right next to one another. I was squealing with delight. The scenes were absolutely heavy, but I'm also a fan of the Berserk manga by Kentaro Miura, so it's my safe space.

The storytelling, action sequences, choreography, and even the English dub all are great. Highly recommended.

Uprising delivers a thrilling cinematic experience, particularly with its exceptional fight sequences. Showcasing not only physical prowess but also the emotional stakes of each battle. Each clash is intense, capturing the energy and desperation of the characters fighting for their freedom.

The cinematography during the fight scenes is remarkable, utilizing dynamic angles that heighten the tension.

What sets these fight scenes apart is how they intertwine with the story, highlighting the characters' motivations and the gravity of their struggles. Each skirmish feels earned and significant, rather than just a display of martial arts.

The performances are also compelling, Supporting actors also shine, delivering nuanced portrayals that enhance the overall narrative. Their chemistry adds layers to the relationships depicted on screen.

This movie follows the story of a slave named Cheon Yeong and his young master, Lee Jong-Ryeo. They grew up as companions, but a series of events turned them into enemies.

Set during the Japanese invasions of the Korean empires, the premise is simple and somewhat clichéd, yet it still holds enough promise to be a solid action movie. The early portion of the film portrays the young Cheon Yeong and Lee Jong-Ryeo well, effectively establishing their bond as they train in swordsmanship together. The shift from friendship to enmity occurs when Cheon Yeong demands his freedom and Lee Jong-Ryeo fails to secure it for him.

The story includes compelling elements, such as the revolt of the slaves, Lee Jong-Ryeo's misunderstandings fueled by rumours about Cheon Yeong, confrontations between Cheon Yeong and a Japanese general, and the conflicts faced by the rebels against the Korean king. However, the execution on screen is mediocre. The first hour flies by with no distractions, while the second hour becomes a slow burn, dragging on with clichéd character portrayals and story arcs. The climax feels unnecessarily prolonged. Nevertheless, the film's action sequences stand out, except for the climax fight.

The actors perform their roles decently, but the lack of character depth and development limits their contribution. The visual effects are impressive, enhancing the film's set pieces. The music is also effectively integrated, adding to the overall experience. If the story and character arcs had been better developed, this could have been a much more engaging action movie.

In conclusion, I appreciate the film mainly for its action scenes rather than its storyline. I would recommend it to those looking for exciting action sequences, but not for those expecting a strong narrative.

"Uprising" is a gripping and intense film that delves into the complexities of rebellion and the fight for freedom. Set against a backdrop of political turmoil, the movie masterfully captures the raw emotions and sacrifices of those who dare to stand up against oppression. The screenplay is well-crafted, weaving together personal stories with larger historical events, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking. The protagonist's journey is particularly compelling, showcasing the internal and external struggles faced by someone caught in the crossfire of revolution. Overall I think it's a well watch.

There are good things to enjoy about this. The action is well realised, the plot provides some pace and the actors make their characters come to life.

So if all that adds up to a film you might enjoy then give this a go.

However, much of it fails to ring true, meaning I never got beyond knowing this was a story made up in an attempt to entertain me. At no point were my emotions engaged in the characters. Their predicaments did not move me. Their actions and reactions carried very little weight.

Nevertheless I did gain some enjoyment from it. Keep your expectations low and you might well too.