Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• SlowNeptune

  Overall 8.5

  Story 9,  Acting 9.5,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 6

  Got the chance to attend the Gala Premiere and boy, was it a wild ride! This movie had me on the edge of my seat with its perfectly shot scenes, and the blend of humor and suspense was absolutely on point. Let's talk about the cast! Hwang Jung Min deserves a standing ovation for his incredible performance, and can we please give a round of applause to the adorable little girl who played his daughter? She stole the show! From start to finish, I was...

  completely engrossed in the story. Before the movie started, Song Joong Ki and So Ji Sub told us to forget about politics and just immerse ourselves in the experience. It all made sense once I dove into this incredibly political-based show. So, forget about your own political leanings and just enjoy this rollercoaster of a show! I must say, though, this is not a show you'd want to rewatch over and over again. The suspense is the best part, and once you know all the twists and turns, it loses a bit of its charm. But trust me, the first watch is an absolute blast!

• SillyChoe1

  Overall 9.5

  Story 9,  Acting 9,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 10

  So, you gotta check out this TV series, guys! It's got some seriously talented South Korean actors in the lead roles, and let me tell you, the story is no joke. It sheds light on some dark and brutal history - Japan's atrocities in Korea, like enslavement, rape, and mass murder. I mean, it's like what they did to Nanking, China too. And get this, most Americans don't even know about it!
  
  Now, I gotta mention that there are a few moments where the plot gets...

  a bit fuzzy and the editing seems a bit off. You might feel like some scenes were just cut and pasted together. But honestly, I still think it's worth watching. The themes are powerful, with a mix of history and drama that'll keep you hooked. Plus, there are so many twists, betrayals, and acts of heroism that you won't know what's coming next.
  
  The film starts and ends in black and white, except for one part at the end that'll give you chills. It's this haunting burst of color followed by the anguished face of a child. And let me tell you, it comes right after a thrilling yet heartbreaking action sequence. But the ending, oh man, it's bittersweet and filled with triumph, yet soaked in grief. What can I say, it's a war story, after all.
  
  You know, there's a reason why Asian movies, especially Korean ones, are making waves while Hollywood sometimes falls flat. They've got an incredible amount of talent, imagination, and brilliance. And let's not forget their thousand-year history of culture, ideas, and experience. They're just that good, you guys!

• MightyViola

  Overall 7

  Story 7,  Acting 7,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  So, I had really high expectations for The Battleship Island because it stars Song Joong Ki, So Ji Sub, Hwang Jun Min, Kim Soo Ahn, and Lee Jung Hyun - all of whom I absolutely adore. But I have to admit, I was a little let down.
  
  First off, props to the film for its amazing technical aspects and the realistic portrayal of Hashima Island. The action scenes, especially So Ji Sub's public bath sequence, were pretty impressive. And the cast itself is a dream...

  - you've got seasoned veteran Hwang, the talented So, the heartthrob Song, the multi-talented Lee, and the up-and-coming Kim.
  
  But here's the thing, the movie lacked depth and tension. It had its moments, like So Ji Sub's action sequence, but overall, it just didn't have that same edge as other films set during the Japanese occupation. Those movies, like Age of Shadows, The Handmaiden, and Assassination, may have tackled similar themes, but they managed to bring something fresh to the table.
  
  The characters in Battleship Island felt flat, and even the ones with some substance didn't make it to the end. It all felt a bit too dramatic and over-the-top for my taste. I hate to say it, but Song Joong Ki and So Ji Sub's performances felt a bit repetitive. So's character had potential, but it wasn't fully developed, while Song seemed to be playing a variation of his character from another popular drama. Hwang did an okay job, although he was a tad too dramatic at times. Lee did fine too, but her character lacked substance. Kim, on the other hand, delivered a better performance, although she cried a bit too much for my liking.
  
  In movies like this, the characters really drive the story more than the actual plot. You can have a simple war story, but if the characters are boring, it falls flat. And unfortunately, the ending didn't leave me satisfied either. It showed the horrors of war, but it lacked that extra something to make it truly memorable.
  
  On a positive note, I have to give credit to director Ryoo Seung Wan for his use of gritty tones, spatial movements, and slick sequences. They really added to the war aesthetic of the film. Plus, the use of music to portray irony was a nice touch. Although, I must say, the love story (if you can even call it that) felt unnecessary and confusing. It just didn't make sense in the grand scheme of things.

• livelyben

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 9.5

  Attention all history buffs and war film enthusiasts! Buckle up for a thrilling and eye-opening ride with this mind-blowing movie! Brace yourselves, because "Battleship Island" is here to rock your world!
  
  Now, let's talk about this flick without giving away too much. Set during the infamous World War II, this film dares to shine a light on a lesser-known part of history – the Asia and Pacific theater. While textbooks often focus on the European side, "Battleship Island" fearlessly dives into the chilling reality faced by...

  the Chinese and Korean people under ruthless Japanese rule.
  
  The heart of the story centers around the Hashima coal mine and the unimaginable horrors endured by the Korean workers enslaved there. Picture this: men toiling away in sweltering temperatures deep underground, while women are subjected to unspeakable acts of violence. It's enough to make your hair stand on end!
  
  In the midst of this bleakness, a ray of hope emerges in the form of Park Moo Young, a Korean operative with ties to the American OSS. He's given the mission to help Yoon Hak Chul, a high-ranking Korean official, escape this living nightmare. But hold your horses! Things take a wild turn when Park stumbles upon evidence of Yoon's treacherous actions. Who knew betrayal could be so evil, right?
  
  Meanwhile, we meet Lee Kang Ok, a doting father, and his adorable daughter, So Hee. Initially, they pin their hopes on Park Moo Young for a way out. But guess what? Nothing is ever that simple! Park's orders only permit him to aid Yoon Hak Chul. However, once the true extent of the Japanese's murderous plans is revealed, Park throws caution to the wind and takes on a Herculean task – saving every Korean soul he can find.
  
  Now, the escape sequence will keep you on the edge of your seat! Imagine Koreans desperately fighting to rescue women, children, and the injured, all while dodging trigger-happy Japanese guards. It's like a heart-pounding scene from "Saving Private Ryan," where survival is uncertain, and the tension is palpable. Whew!
  
  As for the cast, let's give a thunderous round of applause to Hwang Jun Min, Song Joong Ki, and Kim Soo An! These actors truly shine, especially Hwang Jun Min, who shares a remarkable on-screen chemistry with Kim Soo An. Just be warned - prepare your tissues, because the ending will tug at your heartstrings like crazy.
  
  Can we take a moment to appreciate Lee Kyung Young's unforgettable performance as Yoon Hak Chul? He's known for portraying villains in the K-Drama world, so when he appeared on screen, our jaws dropped in disbelief. But hey, he nails it and proves that he's got the acting chops to tackle any role.
  
  It's disheartening that the Japanese government has yet to acknowledge the atrocities committed at Hashima mine. Unfortunately, there are countless dark chapters in history that remain hidden. Nevertheless, "Battleship Island" delivers a poignant and unflinching portrayal of war's brutality, serving as a stark reminder to prevent such horrors from repeating.
  
  This film resonates deeply, reminding us of the unwavering bravery that lies within us all. It's an ode to those who have fought and sacrificed everything so that others may live. So gather your courage, rally your friends, and head to the nearest theater for an unforgettable cinematic experience with "Battleship Island"!

• mightybladerunner

  Overall 8

  Story 9,  Acting 9.5,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8

  Once upon a time, there was a highly anticipated movie that I had been eagerly awaiting since the day I caught a glimpse of its teaser. Naturally, my expectations were sky-high. So, did this movie manage to live up to my lofty hopes? Well, the answer is a bit complicated. I wouldn't go as far as to say that the movie was bad, but it didn't quite reach the levels of greatness I had anticipated.
  
  The first time I watched it, I enjoyed it. There was...

  something captivating about the story, especially since it was based on true events, although the narrative itself was fictional. One of the shining aspects of this film was the exceptional cast. Hwang Jung-min, who portrayed the lead character, delivered an outstanding performance alongside his onscreen daughter, Kim Su-ahn. Their chemistry was palpable, and their acting talents were truly awe-inspiring. On the other hand, I must admit that So Ji-sub's performance in the beginning did leave me a bit bored. However, he managed to redeem himself as the movie progressed, particularly in the last few minutes, where his acting was truly heart-wrenching.
  
  Now, let's talk about Song Joong-ki. How he ended up on the island in the first place remains a mystifying and unanswered question. While his role may have been relatively short compared to the other four main characters, his character, Park Moo-young, unquestionably took center stage in the final moments of the film. Despite his limited screen time, he left a lasting impact with his remarkable portrayal.
  
  Then there's Lee Jun-hyun, who was an absolute delight to watch. From the moment she graced the screen, I found myself rooting for her. Her performance was simply captivating, and she effortlessly drew me into her character's world.
  
  In terms of action, this movie truly rivaled some of Hollywood's best. The adrenaline-pumping scenes were executed with such precision and intensity that I couldn't help but be thoroughly entertained.
  
  However, I must admit that there were a few areas where the film fell short. The screenplay could have been tightened up, especially in the beginning, and some scenes felt a bit disjointed. Additionally, the editing left something to be desired. Despite these flaws, I believe that the movie is still worth watching. Its story carries an important message, and the extraordinary cast brings it to life in a truly commendable way.