Japan's strained relationship with Korea goes back to the 16th Century. The occupation of Korea by Japan in the 20th Century was among the worst examples of colonial brutality of modern times. It is the events surrounding the 1910 Annexation of Korea by Japan, and the Korean resistance, that is the subject of this powerful movie.
This is a movie based upon historical events. Therefore, the strength of the movie is not in the surprise reveal of the plot's climax. That could easily be explored with the stroke of a computer key. The strength of the film is in the gripping execution of the storytelling. The filmmakers have done a masterful job injecting the viewer into the story. While many of the details of the interactions of the characters may be fictionalized, this in no way diminishes the appreciation for the real life struggle of the Korean people to overthrow their oppressors.
The Japanese Occupation lasted until the end of World War II. Soon after Korea was plunged into its own conflict, leading to the division between North and South, which exists until this day. The fact that Korea has catapulted to becoming a first world nation is a testament to the resilience of the Korean spirit in overcoming such great and sustained national adversity.
Woo Min-ho's Direction is Oscar worthy. He manages to move the story along with a swift pace, with great attention to detail, and not get bogged down in too much detail as to turn the film into a documentary. This is crisp, dramatic storytelling.
The acting by the entire cast is superior. There is no particular standout in this ensemble cast. Whether part of the Korean resistance, the Japanese military, or Japanese hierarchy, the performances are engaging and thoughtful. They are played with great depth. There are no stereotypical archetypes here.
While the film is not rated, it is intense and, somewhat, brutal at times. None of the brutality is gratuitous, however. The violence and brutality here supports this dramatic story.
While the film is a historical drama it is also a top notch spy thriller, which will keep the viewer engaged and intrigued throughout. The historical and thriller elements are beautifully woven together to enhance the viewing experience.
Harbin is a powerful movie and I highly recommend it.
Watch it in Korean, with English subtitles.
