Now that's a proper revenge story.
Actual, visceral and nasty revenge that feels earned.It's a slow burn at first, I must confess, but when the shit hits the fan… oh boy does it hit.
I really like the Korean show Kingdom and this is a great prequel. Of course do not watch this without having seen the first 2 seasons or you might be completely lost. Or ignore this and do so as it could be a fun little experiment? It kinda stands on its own but the shift near the middle part might prove to be quite the huge whiplash for viewers not familiar with the show.
Anyway, bold of Jun Ji-hyun to portray a role such as this.
Looking forward to seeing what happens next!
Was this review helpful to you?
Where's Season 3 Please
The wait is really worth it. As someone who loved Kingdom Season 1 and 2, this is a mich awaited prequel side story about the new character introduced just before Season 2 ended.I was excited for 2 reasons: First, it's Jun JiHyun. I have seen most of her dramas and movies from comedy to action she's able to portray wide array of genres and always justifies the characters she play so when I saw her at the end of Season 2, I am already expecting a lot and yaz gurl she didn't failed my expectations and delivered the role of Ashin excellently. Second, Kingdom Season 1 and 2 left me with too many questions in mind. I watched both seasons in one go (because I was late on the trend and only watched it when Season 2 was released) so I really want the Season 3 to be out as soon as possible. Although no talks about it is still confirmed (as of writing), this movie somehow fed some of my curiousity. (But I still want the Season 3 ASAP) This movie introduce us to Ashin, the character who is shown at the end of Season 2 who is actively distributing the resurrection plant that brought pandemonium to the Joseon Kingdom.
I am not a fan of zombie movies or shows because most of the time it bores me but Kingdom really kept my blood running. There's always that flavorful something in its story that you can't help but ask for more. Maybe because there were lots of things going on but it's not too complicated and you still understand the story and it allows you to connect the pieces together. I rarely recommend any shows related to zombies but Kingdom is definitely one of a kind. The cinematography and the sound architecture is well made. Every element of this film complements each other and I can't really ask for more.
I highly suggest that you watch Season 1 and 2 first so that your curiosity will build up and somehow Kingdom: Ashin of the North will be like a supplement to feed your curiosity. I feel like I appreciated this movie more because I have already watched Kingdom.
Was this review helpful to you?
Watch it for the story.
I have to say this movie focuses more on story rather than character. Even if a side character makes 5 minutes appearance on screen they don't waste it.The story slowly builds up to the point where Ashin becomes who she is at the end.
I personally felt like she became a antagonist character at the end based on her dialogues but I have to see it in season 3 of kingdom. But if what I guess is true, than I have to say this is one of the greatest character development for an antagonist in the history of movies ever.
The story doesn't have our main heroine till the second half, but this doesn't mean boring, the first half focuses on building the story for our heroine to enter.
The movie all along shows the subtleness how dangerous is getting revenge, how every action has a consequence, it did a tremendous job in that aspect.
I am deducting one star because I thought this movie would explain the existence of our zombie plant, but it didn't much, but still this special episode is really worth it.
Was this review helpful to you?
I don't want to spoil anything so long story short I didn't expect Ashin to be an antihero in a way. But I totally loved her girlboss moments. 😌
One thing that was really confusing to me were all the tribes and the names of them and the different provinces, I could not remember them although they were narrated and explained in the beginning.
I give the rating 8.5/10.
Was this review helpful to you?
It was beautiful in a cinematic sense but frightening in real life.
First things first, have you seen Netflix's Kingdom? The zombie series currently has two seasons released in 2019 and in 2020. I ask because Kingdom: Ashin of the North, a bonus tale of an untold backstory is now streaming on Netflix.You can watch it even if you have not seen the original series; however, I do not recommend it. If you are a new viewer, I feel it would be best to be familiar with the series before delving into Ashin's tale.
Moving on. Kingdom: Ashin of the North, or rather, Ashin gave the words tragedy, betrayal and vengeance a whole new meaning. Seeking and knowing the truth is her breaking point. And revenge is the only thing someone who is in Ashin's situation can desire. It was beautiful in a cinematic sense but frightening in real life.
With the direction and execution, Kingdom: Ashin of the North is able to support the series and excite the viewers. I honestly can wait for the third season.
Was this review helpful to you?
A bad spinoff
I really liked their gradual introduction to the theme and the zombies but this kind of introduction felt too long and lasted for several episodes without any pieces moving in the story. It was a bit obvious this was done on purpose to delay progress for Season 2. Meanwhile, Season 2 took a step back and tried to develop its characters even though there was no room for that. Although Kingdom as a whole is relatively short but it needed a more precise cut to suit what we've been presented. Maybe cutting it down to 8 episodes in total would be ideal. The slow atmospheric shots with eerie background music were pleasant at first, but they quickly became overused to death and an abrupt change was needed but never happened.The movie Ashin of the North was an unnecessary addition that felt empty, out of place and was missing something to make us care. In traditional Netflix fashion, always make sure to lay the groundwork for endless possible future seasons/iterations at the end of every turn. Despicable greed!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Brilliant medieval epic. 9/10.
Get ready to don your armor and go on a wild ride with this epic medieval masterpiece! This show gets a 9/10 in my books, and for good reason.Unlike some other medieval-themed shows (*ahem* Kingdom 1 & 2. both are at best 7/10), there's no annoying plot armor here. You won't have to roll your eyes every time the hero miraculously escapes certain death. Nope, this show keeps things real.
But it's not just the lack of plot armor that makes this show great. The background score sets the perfect tone for the intense and gripping storyline. You'll be on the edge of your seat the whole time, not just because of the zombies (although they do add an extra element of excitement).
All in all, this is a truly well-crafted piece of television that deserves your attention. So don't hesitate to dive in and experience the thrill for yourself!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
With movies such as Train to Busan (but also another very underrated comedy called Zombie on Sale) and the Kingdom series, South Korea is proving that no one is really doing the zombies as well and them right this moment. Ashin of the North is not the much anticipated third series of this hugely popular kdrama Kingdom, but a kind of prequel to a character we will get to know better in the third series. When we get to do that we will have to wait a bit more to find out.Ashin is dark, not only in terms of it’s story and the subject matter of the story, but also in how it was shot. There were scenes, that were supposed to take place at night, where I did not see properly. That got on my nerves, but nothing that completely ruined the story for me or anything.
Personally, I would have liked to get a good three episode arc from Ashin and not this one and a half hour movie that we got. I thought the story was a bit hasty in parts and maybe a bit rushed in the first half and I really would have wanted a whole episode just to set things up and spend more time with the characters. Really explore the people’s actions and the consequences that came with that later in the story. And I would have liked more screen-time with the adult Ashin and her thirst and drive for revenge.
Getting a good two episodes where more character focus and a nicer buildup to the escalating tension would have been nice. Because I felt it was a little lacking. And I was expecting more of a connection to the previous season of Kingdom and perhaps more answers regarding the plant that is the root of this all. There was not much information we were getting from this story in my opinion.
Except for Ashin’s revenge of course, which will come to play later on. The revenge and how it all comes about is still a really cool and interesting, dark plot twists and what I enjoyed the most within the story. It wasn’t until that section came about where the story caught my attention.
Ashin is dark and thrilling in parts so if you’re just going into this to experience some excitement and a bit of zombie horror then Ashin manages to be completely satisfying. Maybe Ashin falls into the trap, like the first series Kingdom did for me, of being just an introduction or the beginning of something and not telling a whole story. Perhaps I will not really manage appreciate its genius until I finally see the third series and where the story will take the character of Ashin and the conclusion it might give to that story.
If Ashin was supposed to be something to quench my thirst for the third series, then I did not think it managed that as well as it hoped, although it is very good entertainment and a thrilling ride with some good twists. I just wanted a better buildup to things and character work. Had fun watching it though. Just didn’t leave as much as I wanted behind.
Was this review helpful to you?
Superb thriller
This part of Kingdom series is soooo very picturesque.. the story is extremely intriguing.. you can fewl the thrill while watching it ..certain scenes gives you goosebumps.. they dont have much dialogs in these series.. you juat need to keep hooked on television and watch evey scenes carefully... jun ji hyun is fantastic actress she has proved that again... but let me give 10* to cinematography.. superb locations.. it scares the hell out of you.. too good.. dont miss it.. it is on complete different level than usual kdramas.. go for it.. muat watchWas this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Wish this was a Series!
Introduction:"Kingdom: Ashin of the North" serves as the prequel movie to the popular Korean zombie series Kingdom Season 1 and 2. Set before the events of the series, the film follows Ashin, a young girl who witnesses the massacre of her village by Japanese soldiers.
Plot Overview:
Ashin, seeking revenge, initially aligns herself with the Joseon people. However, as she uncovers their involvement in the tragedy, her quest for justice transforms into a desire to destroy the world, leading to the inception of the first surge of zombies
Acting Performance:
Jung Ji Hyun's portrayal of Ashin is nothing short of phenomenal. From conveying grief to intense fighting moments, her expressions are powerful and authentic. The young actress portraying the younger version of Ashin deserves praise for delivering emotional scenes convincingly.
Story Depth and Connection:
The film not only provides the backstory of the first zombie apocalypse but also intricately weaves connections with Kingdom Season 1 and 2. The revelation that Ashin sold the resurrection flower to physician Lee, triggering the second zombie apocalypse, adds a layer of complexity to the overall narrative.
Creative Writing and Compelling Narrative:
Despite the limited runtime of 1.5 hours, the movie succeeds in delivering a compelling narrative. The creative writing effectively communicates Ashin's story, evoking empathy for her actions given the immense loss she suffered and the manipulation she endured.
Conclusion:
"Kingdom: Ashin of the North" stands out as a powerful prequel, expanding the series' lore while maintaining a tight and engaging storyline. Jung Ji Hyun's exceptional performance, coupled with creative storytelling, makes this film a must-watch for fans of the Kingdom series.
Was this review helpful to you?
The perfect appetizer for season 3
I am reminded once again why I love Kingdom--there's no shortage of surprise elements. This special episode is a must-watch.This movie provides more context to the current situation in the main series and I love seeing that unfold. It's an amazing villain original story too. I can't wait to see her dynamic with our protagonists in season 3. Another great addition to the cast! The actress did an amazing job. Although I wish I had seen more inside Ashin's psyche considering her methods became quite extreme--or rather, disproportionate to be justice for the wrongdoings she faced. Still, terrifyingly amazing antagonist to have.
The music and production were of extra high quality. My favourite thing about Kingdom is that you can feel being pulled into the world because it's been so meticulously crafted--from the sets to costumes. Can you even imagine the budget? I can't.
Note: I also do recommend googling some historical facts before watching the episode as it helped me understand the political background better :) Happy watching.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Thrilling Ride
As a huge fan of Kingdom seasons 1 and 2, I wasn't very excited for this as I was expecting a whole third season and not a mere special episode. I was sad that this spinoff had a completely different cast but that's understandable because it's supposed to be a backstory to the first two seasons. This spinoff is centered around Ashin, who was very briefly introduced at the end of season 2. I was sad about not seeing my favorite cast members but oh boy, I was not disappointed by this episode at all.The stunning quality of the visual effects, cinematography, and overall production shouldn't come as a surprise if you've seen the earlier seasons. The acting was great as to be expected from Jun Ji Hyun although she didn't have much lines. She also appears rather late in the show but I didn't really mind it since I loved watching the young Ashin. Such an amazing actress at such a young age. Lastly, the plot was nicely written and served its purpose of filling the viewers in on the history of the plague. I had some unanswered questions until the very end but it's not really over until it's over. You have to watch until the very last minute!
If there is one thing you can expect from this spinoff, it's the same high-quality production as in the first two seasons. I keep talking about the earlier seasons but honestly, anyone can watch this without having seen the rest of the series. Overall, this is a brilliant special episode and I want to give props to the whole Kingdom crew for once again living up to its hype.
Was this review helpful to you?
