I can't really understand the low ratings or the people who did not like it. Maybe Korean history is not their strong suit and thereby did not understand some events and aspects of the movie, or maybe they are not used to the style of Korean cinema in the early 2000s. Or maybe they just have different tastes.
STORY
The plot is ambitious, groundbreaking, well developed and leaps unexpectedly from action thriller to sci-fi drama without losing sight of the humanity beneath the nationalism. It's executed in a particularly emotional fashion, leading to some outstanding scenes that are hard to forget. I don't have anything negative to say about the story or its execution. My only possible complain is that we've never seen it in a drama.
ACTING/CAST
The acting was superb. Jang Dong Gun stands out both in the Japanese and Korean aspects of his character, and captures the cluster of emotions and internal conflict of his character perfectly. The acting of Japanese actors, especially Nakamura Toru, was also excellent. All main characters are deep and well developed, and all actors did a great job in their respective roles.
MUSIC
The OST was outstanding! It not only did its job by beautifully completing the scenes, but also stood out as one of the elements that make this movie great. Appropriate for every scene, emotional and beautiful.
WATCH/RE-WATCH VALUE
Should you watch this movie? YES, YES and YES! It's one of the best Korean movies I've ever watched, and I recommend it to anyone who likes the genre.
The re-watch value is also very high. I have watched this movie three times and I will probably watch it again in the future.
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