The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil Reviews
The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil (2019) is a South Korean crime thriller directed by Lee Won-tae. Starring Ma Dong-seok, Kim Mu-yeol, and Kim Sung-kyu, the film blends action, suspense, and noir elements to deliver a gripping cat-and-mouse chase. With a unique premise that brings together an unlikely alliance between law enforcement and organized crime, the movie stands out as a fresh and intense take on the crime thriller genre.
The story revolves around three key figures: Jang Dong-soo (Ma Dong-seok), a feared crime boss; Jung Tae-seok (Kim Mu-yeol), a determined cop; and Kang Kyung-ho (Kim Sung-kyu), a ruthless serial killer.
After barely surviving an attack by Kyung-ho, Jang becomes the only known survivor of the elusive murderer. Despite their opposing natures, Jang and Jung form an uneasy partnership—Jang seeks revenge, while Jung wants to bring the killer to justice. As they navigate a world of corruption, power struggles, and violence, their conflicting interests create a tense dynamic, making the hunt for the serial killer all the more thrilling.
Strengths
Compelling Performances
– Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee) steals the show as Jang Dong-soo, portraying him as a charismatic yet brutal crime boss. His screen presence is commanding, and his action scenes are both brutal and exhilarating.
– Kim Mu-yeol delivers a strong performance as the relentless detective Jung Tae-seok, balancing his character’s sense of justice with a willingness to bend the rules.
– Kim Sung-kyu is chilling as the silent yet deadly serial killer, making his character genuinely menacing despite minimal dialogue.
2. Engaging Story & Pacing
The film maintains a tight narrative, with well-paced action sequences and a gripping game of strategy between the three main characters. The unusual alliance between a gangster and a cop adds a fresh twist to the crime genre.
3. Stylish Action Sequences
The fight scenes are raw and intense, particularly those featuring Ma Dong-seok’s signature brawler style. The brutal hand-to-hand combat and high-stakes chases keep the adrenaline pumping.
4. Dark and Gritty Atmosphere
The cinematography and direction create a tense, noir-like atmosphere. The streets feel dangerous, and the film’s dark tones amplify the sense of dread surrounding the serial killer’s actions.
Weaknesses
– Predictability in Some Tropes
While the film introduces an intriguing premise, it still follows some common crime thriller conventions. The cop-and-criminal partnership has been explored before, and the storyline unfolds in a somewhat expected manner.
– Limited Depth for the Villain
The serial killer, though menacing, could have been given more depth. His motives remain vague, making him feel more like a plot device than a fully fleshed-out antagonist.
The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil is an intense and stylish crime thriller that thrives on strong performances, brutal action, and an engaging storyline. While it doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, its unique dynamic between the protagonists makes it a refreshing and entertaining watch. Fans of gritty action films and South Korean thrillers will find plenty to enjoy.
