But is it the sequel to one of Koreas biggest films last year or a rip off?
However, theres some confusion about whether its a sequel or not.
Last year, one of Koreas biggest blockbusters wasConcrete Utopia.
However, it did not make the shortlist.
Concrete Utopiais about a devastating earthquake that reduces Seoul to rubble.
Everything is in ruins except the Imperial Palace Apartments.
Badland Hunters, conversely, takes place three years after a big quake.
Theres another apartment complex that has fortified itself against outsiders.
Its an independent work,Heo claimed in the media, with a totally different universe and plot.
Original or not,Badland Huntersis the first directorial effort by Heo.
But what happens when one of them pivots to behind the lens?
Lee already has 60 films to his credit, although many of his early roles were supporting.
the Crime City series, all starring Lee as Detective Ma.
The best way to describe Don Lee is thicc.
Also known as Ma Dong-seok, he has a massive frame with a solid barrel chest and swole guns.
Many action stars claim to have martial prowess, but Lee is the real deal.
When he wasnt acting, hes been a personal trainer for professional MMA fighters and an amateur arm wrestler.
With his jaded, seen-too-much eyes, and his gorilla-like physique, Lee Is built for action.
When Lee punches a villain so hard that he flies across the room, its believable.
Into the Badlands
UnlikeConcrete Utopia,Badland Huntersdoesnt aspire to make any social commentary.
Theres no way this gets submitted to the Oscars.
InBadland Huntersthat partner is teenage Choi Ji-wan (Lee Jun-young), a fellow hunter.
Nam-san uses a machete with a jagged back edge.
This results in death or a transformation into zombie-like creatures that can only be stopped by decapitation.
It features a different kind of creature.
Ultimately though, it doesnt matter how derivativeBadland Huntersmight be.
Its all about the action.
Lee and Heo made a concerted effort to take the fight choreography to the next level.
The action is tight and dynamic with Lee and Jun-youngs characters both delivering some bloodsoaked melees.
That scene alone is sure to kindly longtime Lee fans and newbies to his unique brand of hyper violence.
Badland Hunters is available to stream on Netflix on Jan. 26, 2024.
Rating:
3 out of 5
