As a fan of actor Ma Dong-seok, whose previous works include stellar performances in films like “Train to Busan,” “Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds,” and “Along with the Gods: The Last 49 Days,” I had high hopes for “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil.” Fortunately, this gritty Korean thriller did not disappoint.

Plot Overview

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In “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil,” a 2019 South Korean action thriller directed by Lee Won-tae, the plot revolves around three central characters: a serial killer, a hardened gangster, and a determined cop. Jang Dong-soo, a ruthless crime boss, becomes the target of a killer, leading to a brutal encounter that leaves both injured. Detective Jung Tae-suk suspects the work of a serial killer, but his superiors remain skeptical. Reluctantly, Tae-suk and Dong-soo form an uneasy alliance to capture the elusive killer, each motivated by different goals—justice and promotion for Tae-suk, and revenge for Dong-soo. As they navigate a dangerous criminal underworld, the film is punctuated by intense hand-to-hand combat and knife fights, culminating in a high-stakes showdown. “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil” offers a unique resolution that challenges traditional crime thriller narratives, making it a standout entry in the genre with compelling character dynamics and thrilling action sequences.

A Gangster You Can’t Help but Root For

Ma Dong-seok’s portrayal of Jang Dong-soo, the gangster entangled in a deadly game with a serial killer, was nothing short of exceptional. It’s a testament to his acting prowess that I found myself rooting for the gangster more than the cop. Dong-seok’s charismatic presence adds depth to his character and elevates the overall viewing experience. His fight scenes are undeniably the highlights of the film; he embodies the role of a powerhouse, requiring multiple adversaries to take him down, much like a formidable tank in the midst of battle. Notably, Dong-soo’s introduction scene, where he knowingly unleashes his strength on a punching bag concealing a person inside, left a lasting impression, effectively setting the tone for his character’s unyielding nature. Moreover, his strict adherence to his own set of principles, akin to the famous “professionals have standards” meme, showcases the layers within this gangster persona, making him a standout and intriguing figure in the movie’s narrative.

Combat, Korean Style

One notable aspect of “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil” is its approach to action. Unlike many American films that rely heavily on gunfights, this Korean thriller delves into hand-to-hand combat and knife fights, which I personally find more engaging to watch. The fight choreography is executed with precision, adding intensity to the action scenes.

One of my favorite fight scenes was when the gangster and cop find themselves forced to team up in a high-octane fight against a rival gang. This unexpected alliance brings a unique dynamic to the action sequences. There’s a moment in the midst of the chaotic brawl when tensions run so high that the gangster and cop nearly attack each other.

During the climax of this scene, the cop accidentally kills one of the attackers, leading to a profound dynamic and comparison with the gangster. The gangster, with a calm assurance, steps in to handle the situation and clean up the mess, highlighting the contrast between their roles and moral codes. The cop, unable to accept his action’s is left desperate and with no other choice than to let the gangster handle the cleanup. This moment adds depth to the characters and elevates the stakes of the action, making it not only visually appealing but also emotionally charged, further enhancing the overall impact of the film.

A Unique Resolution

What sets this film apart is its ability to keep viewers guessing. Before they even caught the serial killer, I found myself pondering possible solutions where both sides could emerge victorious. To my satisfaction, the film’s conclusion offered a unique resolution. The serial killer is sent to prison, and the gangster, too, ends up behind the same bars.

In most of his scenes, the killer is seen smiling, adding an eerie and unsettling element to his character. Yet, as he observes the gangster being led into the very same prison he occupies, the killer’s smile finally fades. This subtle yet impactful shift in the killer’s demeanor signifies a turning point in the narrative. As is often the case in prison dramas, it leaves you with a sense of poetic justice, where the characters’ fates become intertwined in a way that challenges their initial positions and expectations, ultimately delivering a satisfying and thought-provoking conclusion.

Final Verdict: 4 out of 5 Stab Wounds

In the end, “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil” offers a thrilling and unique cinematic experience. Ma Dong-seok’s standout performance, combined with the film’s focus on hand-to-hand combat, creates a memorable viewing experience. The movie’s ability to keep you engaged and guessing makes it a worthy addition to the crime thriller genre. I would confidently rate it 4 out of 5 stab wounds, a testament to its ability to captivate and surprise.

If you’re a fan of action-packed crime dramas, enjoy films that challenge traditional narratives, or simply appreciate a movie that keeps you on your toes, “The Gangster, The Cop, The Devil” should be on your watchlist. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of South Korean cinema, known for its ability to craft compelling stories that leave a lasting impact.