Netflix has unveiled an electrifying historical thriller from South Korea, crafted by none other than Squid Game’s leading man Lee Jung-jae.
The film plunges viewers into the heart of three pivotal events from the 1980s, offering a high-octane journey through one of Korea’s most volatile eras.
In the wake of President Park’s assassination in 1980, the Korean Spy Agency is thrown into disarray, grappling with trust issues as North Korea infiltrates their ranks with a mole.
Touted as one of South Korea’s finest action films of the decade and a tantalising treat for Squid Game aficionados, this movie is a must-see.
Lee Jung-jae not only directs but also shines on-screen as Foreign Unit chief Park Pyong-ho, who teams up with Domestic Unit Chief Kim Jung-do (played by Jung Woo-sung) to track down the elusive North Korean spy known as Donglim.
Hunt, which premiered in South Korea in 2022, is now making its UK streaming debut on Netflix, and it’s already being hailed as unmissable by fans.
One glowing five-star Google review raves: “One of the greatest Korean action movies so far, from my POV. It caught my attention from the very first thrilling, suspense action scene till a surprising ending that is pretty convincing.
“Besides, an amazing making of the film is composed of an impressive cast, great directing, stunning cinematography, awesome screenplay.
“In general, it’s a strong recommendation to draw attention to those who haven’t tried enjoying a Korean movie.”
Another raved about the film, saying: “It’s fantastic, thrilling, keeps you on the edge and the entire movie is quite intense from the beginning to the end.
“One of the best Korean movies I have ever watched. Before watching the movie, I read about the historical events of the 1980s in Korea and was able to understand the context of the movie a little bit better.
“Great cast, acting, action, and screenplay. A must-watch entertainer!!!”
Defending the narrative against common critique, a review pointed out: “People say the story is confusing but I think it captured the complexities in politics and the fight for reunification of Koreans perfectly.”
The defence continued, highlighting its intricate plotting: “It is exactly like it is ‘confusing’ and ‘complex’. It captured the spies and patriots brilliantly. I couldn’t tell who is who due to such a big operation at the highest level and purpose. Outstanding film.”
Cinema devotees on Letterboxd shared their fervour with one comment noting: “Lee Jeung-jae stars and directs this spy action drama like the best of them! This is action with potency, style and purpose.
“Two agents hunting a mole inside South Korea during the 80s. The two agents will clash once they start mistrusting each other’s spy tradecraft. Nice machine gun action, very well staged and filmed.
“Brutal story doesn’t let up ever. Not for a minute. Brilliant opening action sequence and an equally brilliant closing action sequence, of course! A masterclass in action filmmaking.”
So, brush up on your South Korean history and prepare yourself for a thrilling journey this weekend.
Hunt is available to stream on Netflix.
