Kickstarting a plan to mop up the mob in one clean sweep!|Oct. 03, 2017|South Korea|121 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Crime;K-Drama
Description: “The Outlaws” (2017) is a gripping crime drama that, while lacking the refinement of high-end arthouse films, captivates audiences with its intense narrative and dynamic performances. Notably, Dong-Seok Ma shines as Detective Seok-do Ma, a no-nonsense serious crime officer whose robust and commanding presence anchors the story. The film’s raw energy and compelling characters make it a standout choice for fans of Asian genre cinema, suitable for both festival screenings and theatrical releases. Its vibrant tone and immersive storytelling would particularly resonate with an engaged audience.
The film opens with a scene that perfectly encapsulates Detective Ma’s unconventional approach to law enforcement. Amid a chaotic street brawl between two armed men, Ma enters the frame, casually talking on his phone while delivering his signature open-handed slap to defuse the situation. This moment sets the tone for his unorthodox yet effective methods throughout the story. Known for his roles in *Train to Busan* and *The Good, The Bad, The Weird*, Ma carries the film with charisma, surrounded by a cast of colorful and extreme characters.
Ma’s interrogation tactics are both brutal and efficient. When faced with uncooperative suspects, he simply shrugs and declares, “To the truth room”—a secluded corner of his office where he enforces his own brand of justice. The line between law enforcement and the criminals they pursue is razor-thin, as Ma and his team navigate a world of ruthless Chinese gangsters who have infiltrated Korea. These cold-blooded newcomers are portrayed as some of the most vicious criminals ever depicted, capable of gruesome acts of violence.
“The Outlaws” is a gritty, fast-paced crime thriller that offers a fresh perspective on the genre, driven by its strong central performance and unrelenting narrative momentum.
Cast director: Kang Yun-sung
Cast actor: Ma Dong-seok, Yoon Kye-sang, Jo Jae-yoon, Choi Gwi-hwa, Lim Hyung-jun, Jin Sun-kyu, Heo Dong-won, Ha Jun, Kim Sung-kyu, Yoo Ji-yeon
Original name: 범죄도시