10/41
Rookie detective Park Sun-woo and Seo Do-cheol, a veteran of the Violent Crimes Investigation Unit team, chase down a serial killer who turns their world upside down… Next up is Veteran (2015). Veteran is an action comedy that pits a seasoned detective, Seo Do-cheol, against a young and arrogant chaebol heir, Jo Tae-oh, who is involved in various criminal activities. The film is packed with fast-paced action scenes, but what sets it apart is its humor and the skillful way it handles social commentary on the corruption of the rich. Hwang Jung-min’s portrayal of the relentless detective is fantastic and brings intensity and humor to the role. The hand-to-hand combat and chase scenes are energetic and grip the audience. What makes Veteran particularly enjoyable is the tension between Seo and Jo. While Seo represents justice and courage, Jo embodies the entitled, untouchable elite who think they can get away with anything. The film subtly critiques the power imbalance in society, while also being a thrill ride filled with great fight choreography. The action and moral message combine to make it one of the standout Korean action films of the decade.
