Thomas Ahn Joong-Keun
Thomas Ahn Joong-Keun

Movie spotlight

Thomas Ahn Joong-Keun

2004
Movie
88 min
Korean

Nine a.m. October 26, 1909, six gun shots ring out at Harbin station in China, followed by a cry in Russian saying "long live Korea".Ahn Jung-geun one of the leaders of the independence movement had shot Ito Hirobumi, the first Japanese resident general in Korea. He hears while being questioned that Hirobumi had died, and he thanks God. He confesses that he had shot Hirobumi without ever having seen his face, which surprises the investigators. And they wonder about the 7th bullet that Jung-geun had left unfired.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Director: Jang Sun-wooGenres: Drama, History

Plot Summary

This historical drama chronicles the life and martyrdom of Ahn Jung-geun, a Korean independence activist who assassinated Itō Hirobumi, the first Prime Minister of Japan. The film delves into his motivations, his time in prison, and his unwavering commitment to his country's freedom. It highlights his transformation from a hunter to a national hero in the face of Japanese colonial rule.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with praise for its historical portrayal and Park Joong-hoon's performance, though some critics found its pacing uneven. It was noted for its respectful depiction of a significant figure in Korean history.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive handling of a pivotal historical figure.

  • Park Joong-hoon's performance as Ahn Jung-geun was widely lauded.

  • Some critics noted a deliberate, perhaps slow, pacing.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Actor (Park Joong-hoon) at the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in Manchuria and Korea, aiming for historical accuracy in its locations and settings.

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