A Shop for Killers (2024)

An ELECTRICFYING THRILLER WITH STUNNING STYLISH ACTION ! SOLID and GRIPPING ! Need Season 2

Guns Gadgets Gangs Bombs Foes Alliance !!

" A Shop for Killers" is a stylish new wave action kdrama about the survival of his nephew "Jian," who was targeted by suspicious killers after her uncle's death " Jin Man " .

This was a really excellent action thriller with amazing fight choreography, suspense, and action sequences. Each episode that is DARK, violent, psychotic, and wants to kill everyone, survival. The cast gives outstanding performances, and the plot is gripping and interesting overall. Each actor gives excellent performances as their respective characters.


LET'S SEE WHAT MADE THIS DRAMA IS AN UNIQUE ACTION DRAMA STANDOUT MODERN CLASSIC ACTION THRILLER --- 9.5/10

Modern style explosive action sequences :-

Unlike other classic K Action dramas using feasts in high-voltage action, I'm sure this drama standout as a modern classic action drama with complete new Action sequence adaptation like Modern age guns, Drones, Robots, and other modern fire arms. Kdramas are well known for best filming locations that we explore new places in S Korea through the kdramas freely, but in this drama the most important point out aspect is " Singular location story telling " this makes A Shop for Killers as an unique action thriller in classic K Actions.

Director completely adopted modern machine attacking style ( drone bombs, automatic machine guns carried by drones and ' DRONE GUN TACTICAL ' realistically advanced and exaggerated cinematic scene featuring bombs, drones, and a highly skilled Sniper attacks on Jin-man's home that whole scene is really terrific, warehouse underground technology. Close combat action scenes just wow !!

SUSPENSE DEVELOPMENT/BUILD-UP :-

the first four episodes focus on introducing the viewers to the characters, setting up bonding between uncle Jin-man and Ji-an, and establishing the relationships between other supporting characters and Ji An. This drama takes its time with its delivery of story progression, so it allows us to get to know Ji An's life with her uncle, her childhood and build the mystery surrounding Jin Man.

SINGULAR LOCATION STORY TELLING :-

It is rare to see simply because being in a singular location is not exactly a cinematic experience (to some watchers) and it can be extremely challenging to tell an entertaining story from primarily one place. But, when it is done right, and a director nails the blocking, and shot design, and there is a compelling narrative, it can create some of the best cinematic experience out there, so just trust the director work here before dropping the drama. Also for me this is the first time I'm watching a singular location story telling in K drama ( watched in movies ), For me the director and cinematographer succeeded in this aspect providing a gripping story telling with quality camera work and good colour grinding.

WRITING & DIRECTION :-

Directing writing is error-free - Though it's an eight-episode drama, some characters aren't given enough screen time. Overall, however, the drama's creators did an impressive work of presenting it, keeping the action and suspense at the same level from start to finish. In Singular location story telling Cinematography plays a crucial part ' Quality work of Cinematography and Camera work shines in every scene. And the director writer's excellent effort Brightens in every episode, amazing story telling with flashback connects to present story, outstanding screenplay that helps to understand the story progression easier.


CHARACTERS/ACTORS :-

Lee Dong-wook as Uncle Jeong Jin Man who played perfectly as an elite mercenary and an uncle who hides secrets throughout the eight episodes. Unlike the soft and witty appearance he showed in his previous works, Lee Dong-wook gave freshness with a normal but mysterious and sometimes grim face.

After watching Kingdom, Connect, it's normal to anticipate same level of quality acting from Kim Hye-joon and she delivered exactly what I expected perfectly, outstanding performance. The relationship between uncle and niece was attractive, fun and emotional. She gave an excellent performance in both action-packed scenes and deeply emotional ones.

Seo Hyun Woo ( Flower of Evil ) heated screen with his dark role, this is my first to see him in dark roles, never expected from him, i think he's perfectly fit to dark roles, i want to see him again as a Antagonist.

Such cool acting. Park Ji Bin watched his previous Drama ' Blind ', he got same type of role here but well performance by him as Jung Min.

Geum Hae-na as So Min-hye is a top-tier assassin with stunning action sequences created a great impression on her character role, she impressed me more after Jin Man.

Jo Han Sun as Bale as psychopath mercenary, He got less screen time but whenever he appears on screen it's just a firing moment, especially his eyes are really scary.

Child actor Ahn Se Bin impressed me more, she perfectly captured micro emotions of her character and same perfectly conveyed them.

FINALLY :-

As an action fanatic, I relished each and every action scene, delivering the ultimate action dramatic experience. In addition to having an action plot, it also shows a strong emotional connection between every character, which captures our interest in drama.

I enjoyed 8 eps, the plot not only focuses on the Ji-An survival and on her uncle Shop as primary story ( black market selling weapons and arms) but also drama runs with revenge plot in secondary story.
The eight episodes were masterfully directed, providing a compelling story. The plot and how it develops are what matter most, considering all the thrilling and suspenseful aspects of A Shop for Killers make you the best dramatic experience.

Just go watch and enjoy the drama.

If you are looking for fast paced action thriller you will binge to watch this drama !!

----------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------

ENDING + SEASON 2 CHANCES

Where is Jinman vs Bale story ?

In the meantime, Jeong Jin-man's biggest enemy, Bale, has yet to make any moves to carry out his threat to murder Jeong Jin-man's relatives and friends.
Yes, there is no specific ending of Bale like Seong Jo. Now everyone's question is Where is Bale? What happened to Babylon ? He's the main guy for the whole consequences, but the drama ended without his ending, so they will cover these questions in season 2 ? although ending is just perfect for every character who died and who is alive.

It's also unclear what made Jin-Man to supposedly die and then reappear, where he's hiding till to end ? So many unsolved questions left in 8 eps. These all led to the possibility of a potential season 2 with big story like Babylon, Bale and new enemies, I hope makers will plan to bring after they left us in a middle of puzzlement.

(Personal review) - Shinnosuke_Lee

Read More

If you want to watch it, do it !!!!

It was a masterpeice !!
I really liked this drama and I will surely watch it again. From the music to the acting everything was a 10/10. All the characters were well played and were relevant to the story and the focus on the story of Jeong Jinman and his niece was well done and the end of each episode leaves you on your couch wanting more. The action scenes may be a little bit too violent for those who aren't at ease with this type of scene but they are very well done. This is the 1st time I watch a kdrama made by Disney + and Hulu and I think it was very well made . So, If you still haven't watched it, you should watch it and you will not regret it !

Read More

One Tough Cookie Brought Up By a Mysterious Uncle: Thrilling With Suspension of Disbelief

My final review of what I believe is the first season of this thriller drama (although no announcement of a sequel at the time I was writing this review). This plot is about the survival of the Female Lead Jeong Ji An, being targeted by professional killers, taking shelter in her uncle's house. How and why it happens is slowly unraveled through past events. Warning: this is not a comedy like the parent story.

STORY:

First of all, I didn't watch the parent story The Killer's Shopping List, nor read the novel under the same title "The Killer's Shopping List" (살인자의 쇼핑목록) by Kang Ji Young (강지영). Some comments said that there is no connection between this drama and the so-called parent story, only written by the same author. This is a survival story of our heroine, Jeong Ji An (Kim Hye Joon), because of what happened to her supposedly dead uncle Jeong Jin Man (Lee Dong Wook). Since little, after the deaths of her grandmother and her parents, Jeong Jin Man has been her sole guardian. He brought her up with a survivalist mind and tough love. During her grandmother's funeral, he made her watch a gruesome TV scene of a lion killed by a group of hyenas: "Only the weak bark, the strong don't. You must become strong to make your opponent bark. Don't be scared. Whatever makes you scared keep your eyes open and face it." When Jin Man took Ji An in after her parents's death and she fell on the ground, he didn't pick her up but said "Listen up, Jian. I'm not your parent and I can never be. Which means I can't do the things your parents did for you."

The fact that Jeong Jin Man prepares his niece in such a way as to be strong, independent, and capable of guarding herself makes sense later as the drama title is explained. Jeong Jin Man established an underground online business as the title says, a shop for killers. He not only sold guns but other weapons and chemicals as well. Jin Man was very secretive about himself and his customers so he gave them codes and even put himself and his niece in a special code: Code Green (I will describe the codes in the end under the spoiler).

I'm usually a generous rater, and am easily pleased, as long as a drama wowed me from the beginning till the end, I will rate it 10 (you can find out the dramas I rated 10 in my custom list). The reason I only gave this drama a 9.5 is because of the questionable details I saw along the way. If this is a fantasy genre I will ignore it, but the fact it builds upon modern survival and mercenary plots, it's dubious. I won't spoil them to you for this final review, you just watch the drama to find out. Basically, if you want to enjoy this story, you have to suspend your disbelief.

I will put the spoilers at the bottom of my review (you need to scroll down if you want to know, otherwise stop after the Visual)

CHARACTER AND ACTING:

Lee Dong Wook played the mysterious Uncle Jeong Jin Man with his usual traits: cold, aloof, but charming. We see more of Jin Man's actions in past flashbacks.

Kim Hye Joon played the survivalist niece Jeong Ji An. I stated above how her uncle brought her up, so we see the same cold and aloof trait in his niece. Some comments on the drama page stated that Ji An is too stupid when reacting to the attacks, but I have to defend her since she is not professionally trained and practically implemented for all that happened. Even all she did for survival is just based on her instinct to stay alive while remembering what her uncle and her master taught.

I won't spoil you with information on the supporting characters. The drama is too short to show much more about them. We learned about their background and how they came to know Jin Man, but the info about them is not enough to show that they are three-dimensional characters. I would love to see more (perhaps in the second season) about how Jin Man brought up Brother, Pasin's life (how a Thai man came and worked in South Korea), Min Hye's life after she was saved (her interactions with Jin Man, Honda, Brother, and Pasin) and how she got to know the villains, etc.

VISUAL (CINEMATOGRAPHY, COSTUME, MAKEUP, SET)

As usual, the Kdrama visuals for this dark thriller are amazing: the daring escapes, the gunfire and bomb explosions, the bullet movements, etc. Even the hyena CGI is acceptable. I kinda questioned Jin Man's home which seems so normal and humble but its walls, windows, and furniture are strong enough able to hold the gunfires and bombs to a certain degree. I assume Jin Man fortified his home strong enough for survival, perhaps having an underground bunker, too.

I will put spoilers down below about the Codes and the ending.

SPOILERS (Scroll down below)


















CODES:
- Code Red: for killers (assassins) - they can only buy guns, weapons, bombs, and poisons.
- Code Purple: for spies (buy and sell info) - they can only buy listening devices and cameras. Also, simple weapons to be used to kill themselves when their cover is blown.
- Code Yellow: for clean-up crew - they can only buy drugs, detergents, and cleaning tools needed for body disposal and clean-up, and administrative service to evade the law.
- Code Green: for Jin Man and Ji An (though she didn't know before) - the other codes could never attack them. If they did, other Code holders have to risk their lives to protect Code Green.

ENDING:
- Ji Ahn and her uncle are alive. As I suspected, Jin Man faked his death (though are not shown what he did to 'kill' himself and why he did it if not just leave his niece to have her own show). He shows up in the end riding a taxi. He's all wound up, probably he had a duel with the top killer.
- A bunch of killers are dead. The top killer Bale and the Babylon company head are (probably) still alive if they want to make Season 2.
- Pasin and Brother are alive. Min Hye is probably alive, only shown her gun came off her hand but doesn't mean she's dead. I believe if watchers found her too attractive and charismatic to be dead, the screenwriter will revive her for Season 2.

Read More

Non linear storytelling at its best (with few "flops").

Undoubtedly thrilling and unique story that does not give you a minute of a break - fast paced, well packed with both the plot and the action. Cleverly showing you just bits and pieces of a larger context, uncovering the whole story with each and every episode. While A Shop for Killers had a few issues, it’s still a title worth checking out - perfect for weekend binge watch.

One could say it opens like a fish out of the water type of scenerio. Not quite. From the start we can see that Jung Ji Ahn is far from being a defenseless young woman, even if she herself is not quite aware of it. Personally, I found the story of her growing up under the careful watch of Jeong Jin Man the best out of the whole show. The bizarre, but obviously strong bond they had, the silent understanding. It was amazing to watch her connect the weird training from the past with her current situation, and use said lessons to survive.

At the same time, Jeong Jin Man’s past seemed a bit messy and did not get the conclusion that fitted the initial tense atmosphere surrounding it. By the end of episode 8, I had to rewatch certain scenes just to make sure I did not miss anything. Where are the answers?

Another aspect that was a bit frustrating was how they at times utilized the non linear storytelling, by repetitive usage of scenes. The show was short. There were some scenes where they truly expanded on what was previously shown - giving us the whole context and full story. At the same time, there were some moments where the “already shown” part was simply too long. I’ve already watched these scenes one episode ago, you do not need to show it to me from the start again. I could not stop myself from skipping minutes of the drama, just to get to the point where the story moves forward.

Performance wise? Amazing. Some actors were a bit typecast, which made it easier to guess the characters' intentions and possible actions, nonetheless - everyone delivered. Personally, I am a fan of Lee Dong Wook in dark roles, so this one hits the spot perfectly. Jung Jin Man is obviously not a good person, not a good character, but there is good in him and that’s what differentiates him from some of his, let’s say “co-workers”. Seeing these detailed differences was an interesting experience. They are both bad, but are they equally bad? How much of someone's actions is understandable, can be explained and excused, where is the line that should not be crossed?

Kim Hye Joon was amazing as Ji Ahn. Well executed character development. oved the strong and raw emotions she was able to present when Ji Ahn was cornered and truly exhausted with the dangerous situation she got dragged into. Loved the more soft scenes of her as a carefree child and teenager. Love how Kim Hye Joon was able to present the duality of the character in such a great manner.

Shoutout to the cute guy who helped Ji Ahn when she was a child, if you watched, you know.

Production was great - the soundtrack was full of bops, the fighting scenes had amazing choreographies, the practical effects of blood and other painful “things” were on point.

Overall, left a lot to explore, by the end felt like a borderline bait for possible second season with quite a few aspects not being fully explored. And yet, I’m not mad. It was highly entertaining, had many interesting characters on both the good and the bad side (and let me tell you, the bad side is BAD). Keeps you interested and engaged from episode one till the last scene of episode eight.

Read More

Unveiling Shadows: Deciphering the Intrigues of 'A Shop for Killers

A Shop for Killers," a gripping Korean drama released on Disney+ on January 17, 2024, emerges as a noteworthy addition to the platform's original content in South Korea. Adapted from Kang Ji-Young's acclaimed novel, the series is directed by Lee Kwon and No Kyu-Yeob, with a screenplay crafted by Lee Kwon and Ji Ho-Jin. At its core, the narrative revolves around college student Jeong Ji-An, portrayed by the talented Kim Hye-Jun, thrust into a perilous world of assassins and secrets following her uncle's mysterious demise.

Episode 1-2: A Prelude to Intrigue

The inaugural episodes lay the groundwork for the series, introducing viewers to Jeong Ji-An's tumultuous journey. We witness her abrupt confrontation with skilled assassins, propelling her into a realm of danger and uncertainty. However, the decision to curtail action sequences raises questions, potentially hindering the immersive experience for some viewers. Moreover, the narrative's sporadic editing may disrupt the flow, necessitating further observation as the story unfolds. Despite these minor setbacks, the portrayal of advanced drone technology adds a layer of authenticity to the storyline, enhancing its allure.

Episode 3-4: Escalating Tensions

As the plot thickens, Ji-An finds herself embroiled in a labyrinth of deceit and treachery. The narrative delves deeper into her uncle's enigmatic past, unraveling layers of intrigue and suspense. However, the erratic editing persists, occasionally detracting from the episode's impact. Nevertheless, the series maintains its grip on the audience, delivering captivating performances and pulse-pounding action sequences.

Episode 5-6: The Battle Intensifies

In the midst of escalating conflict, Ji-An confronts formidable adversaries, testing her resolve and resilience. The episodes offer a glimpse into the character's growth and development, culminating in riveting showdowns and unexpected revelations. Despite occasional lapses in coherence, the series captivates with its intense narrative and compelling character dynamics.

Episode 7-8: The Final Confrontation

As the series reaches its climax, Ji-An's fate hangs in the balance, her courage tested like never before. The concluding episodes deliver a satisfying resolution to the central conflict, albeit with lingering questions and unresolved plot threads. While the series falls short of perfection, it succeeds in delivering a thrilling and emotionally resonant narrative that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Analyzing the Military Aspects

Throughout the series, the portrayal of military equipment and tactics adds depth to the storyline, lending an air of authenticity to the action sequences. However, certain discrepancies, such as the portrayal of drone technology and firearm handling, may raise eyebrows among more discerning viewers. Despite these minor inconsistencies, the series effectively integrates military elements into its narrative, enhancing its overall realism and impact.

Exploring Character Dynamics

Central to the series' success are its well-developed characters and their intricate relationships. Ji-An's journey of self-discovery and resilience forms the heart of the narrative, complemented by compelling supporting characters like Jeong Jin-Man and Min-Hui. Each character brings a unique perspective to the story, enriching the viewing experience and elevating the series beyond mere action-thriller tropes.

Conclusion: A Compelling Thriller

In conclusion, "A Shop for Killers" emerges as a captivating and enthralling drama that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and action with compelling character dynamics. While not without its flaws, the series succeeds in delivering a riveting narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. As the credits roll on the first season, viewers are left eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for Ji-An and her allies in Season 2.

Read More

Unique and very twisty!

After being traumatized by her parents' death, Jian was raised by her uncle Jinman (Lee Dong Wook). Years later, Jian (Kim Hye Joon) receives a call from local police informing her that Jinman is dead, so she's left on her own. She's about to investigate who is responsible for his death but has to defend herself from an unknown enemy who's suddenly attacking her. Will she survive and discover the truth?

This drama has a very unique storytelling and the characters setup. The cool thing about Jian is that she has the ability to think and act in crisis, even though she was a normal girl who live with her uncle who isn't the most loving-parent figure. Jinman demanded her to be very independent on her own.

The first two episodes were purely shown through Jian’s perspective, focusing on a big mystery surrounding her uncle. At first, I was feeling a bit lukewarm to how they're playing with time, switching between present and past without knowing the full context of the story (and gunfight scenes are not really my taste, but they’re actually very cool to watch if you’re a fan), but I’m fully on board later in episode 3, when they showed twists and clues about Jinman and the other supporting characters. Some scenes were gory, mind you, but it doesn’t really detract me from watching. The suspense and the intrigue are compelling enough to feel connected to the story, that the journey to revealing what's going to happen is just as enjoyable as the final reveal.

-Jan 2024, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

Read More

Vale a pena cada segundo do seu tempo

Hoje, concluí a imersão no envolvente dorama estrelado pelo carismático Lee Dong Wook, conhecido como o tio mais gostoso da dramalândia. Em "A Shop for Killer's", Wook continua a surpreender ao interpretar Jeong Jin Man, um tio de natureza única que repudia injustiças. Apesar de sua profissão questionável e um shopping peculiar, ele assume a missão de treinar sua sobrinha para um futuro ataque, de maneira tão sutil que se torna imperceptível, quase militar, enquanto a jovem permanece alheia à intensidade do treinamento.

O dorama é uma montanha-russa de adrenalina, prendendo o espectador do início ao fim, impossível de abandonar por um segundo sequer. As cenas são eletrizantes, por vezes brutalmente impactantes, e o suspense te deixa sem fôlego. A narrativa é intrincada, com várias camadas que se desdobram, cada uma mais fascinante do que a anterior.

O desfecho da história deixa um sabor de querer mais, e já estou ansiosa por uma segunda temporada, com minha pipoca 🍿 pronta para a próxima sessão. A nota que atribuo é estratosférica: 1000/10. Este dorama é perfeito para assistir com um namorado, marido, filho ou sobrinho que não é aficionado por doramas, pois oferece uma experiência repleta de ação e isenta de romance; afinal, doramas vão muito além do convencional romance. Prepare-se para uma jornada cinematográfica que transcende expectativas e promete uma experiência única e envolvente.

Read More

Assassin's Riddle

So this is a gripping story that follows Jian, a college student, who finds herself in the midst of murder and mystery after her uncle's suspicious death.

The plot is filled with action, including gunfire, murder drones, and a group of assassins targeting Jian for unknown reasons. Trapped in her uncle's home, Jian must use the unique training he gave her to stay alive.

The series combines suspense with humor and features impressive action scenes. The storyline is full of unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged.

And let's not forget, Lee Dong Wook's performance is outstanding.

"A Shop for Killers" will leave you wanting more, and trust me when I say it's clear that a second season is a must for fans of the show!

Read More

Let him cook!

Whew! What a ride!!

I feel high on andrenaline watching this drama. The story, pacing and main good characters were well done and written.

For most of the drama, Jian dissapointed me as the main lead of the show. I felt her abilities lacking giving the upbringing she had. I don't expect her to be the most badass fighter or cold killer immediately, but i was expecting her to be a little bit more street smart/hard whereas she came across as being soft (though she definitely had moments where she used her brain), which was a letdown after seeing how her uncle brought her up, the various training she was fortunate to get, and the experiences she's been through from a young age. Aside from her, every other character was great. Minhye - bestest most badass girl ever, Pasin - coolest muay thai soldier, Brother - adorable but highly capable computer genius, Honda - Mother! Loyal, Warmest heart ever, and last but not least Jinman - if only he was my real life uncle gahh.

In terms of the villains, I actually enjoyed the whole setup of it all! I absolutely loved seeing the backstory on why they were so against Jinman and hell bent on coming for him. Although their reasonings for doing so were frustratingly hypocritical!

I hope a Season 2 is in works because I definitely will be interested in seeing a sequel that focuses on Jinman's point of view!

Overall, this was a highly entertaining and to-the-point short thriller drama.

Read More