[Review] Who Are You, Veteran 2? Hwang Jeong-min's Fist Hits Hard, Action Moves Fast

'Hyung and Different Awoo' with a Sense of Theme
'Villain' Chaebol Jo Tae-o Leaves, Detective Park Seon-woo Arrives
Ryu Seung-wan: "A Story of Clashing Justice and Beliefs"
Old Humor and Weak Narrative Are Regrettable

Movie 'Veteran 2' Still Photo [Photo by CJ ENM]

A detective disguises himself as a customer to enter an illegal gambling den. Soon, the detective's identity is exposed, and the scene turns chaotic. As people flee shouting "Save me," Seo Do-cheol (played by Hwang Jung-min) and the detectives calmly round them up. Despite being chased, the gamblers are kind enough to worry about the detective in danger. The movie Veteran 2 opens with slapstick action. It is a 'chaotic' scene that highlights director Ryoo Seung-wan's signature exhilarating and rhythmic action.

The 2015 film Veteran, watched by 13.41 million people, returns with a sequel after nine years. It is notable for breaking away from the previous format and establishing a new structure. While the original delivered satisfaction through the showdown between detectives and the conglomerate heir Jo Tae-oh (played by Yoo Ah-in), who stood above the law, the sequel questions 'true justice' in a chaotic era. At the press screening of Veteran 2 held on the afternoon of the 9th at CGV Yongsan in Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, director Ryoo said, "I wanted to create a structure where justice and conviction clash rather than a simple battle between good and evil."

The film bluntly exposes the raw face of Korean society. Criminals who kill but receive only three years in prison due to diminished mental capacity, cyber wreckers chasing only issues?voices advocating private revenge grow louder in this chaotic world. One day, a university professor sexually assaults a student, who then takes her own life, and soon after, the professor is murdered. The serial killer accused of the murder continues to kill, seemingly punishing those who have committed evil acts. Detectives begin their investigation, and mocking them, the serial killer releases online trailers naming future victims. Park Sun-woo (played by Jung Hae-in), who catches Seo Do-cheol's eye, joins the violent crime investigation team, and the investigation takes a new direction.

Movie 'Veteran 2' Still [Photo by CJ ENM]

Movie 'Veteran 2' Still [Photo by CJ ENM]

The film boldly changes the existing formula. While the first installment emphasized a clear confrontation between good and evil, the second portrays the concepts of good and evil in this era as mysterious. Seo Do-cheol's punches have grown heavier, matching the weight of the film's themes. Audiences expecting the genre thrills of the first film might find themselves somewhat puzzled. Instead, it encourages reflection on 'justice' and 'violence' in our society, which is commendable. How this attempt will resonate with viewers is intriguing. The action is excellent. The intense vertical action in the Namsan chase scene and the rooftop underwater scene effectively convey the thrill of action. The film shows careful attention to spatial utilization and action choreography. Jung Hae-in, appearing as the 'villain,' reveals a new side of himself. While not as impactful as Yoo Ah-in's Jo Tae-oh in the previous film, his performance is impressive.

On the other hand, there is a somewhat outdated feel. The comedic moments are less frequent than in the previous film. Several scenes seem to replicate somewhat predictable jokes that might have been funny nine years ago. Some characters, including the detective played by Jang Yoon-joo, are functionally underutilized. The flimsy narrative is also disappointing. Due to weak plausibility, the story lacks the stamina to wrap up the built-up plot.

"Adventure Instead of Rehash"... Ryoo Seung-wan's Decision

Actors Hwang Jung-min and Jung Hae-in face off as detectives with differing convictions. The cast also includes Jin Kyung, Jang Yoon-joo, Oh Dal-soo, Oh Dae-hwan, Kim Si-hoo, and Kwon Hae-hyo. Director Ryoo revealed that the English subtitle was initially "I Execute." At the film press conference, he said, "Because the villain in the first film was so strong, I was often asked who the villain in the second film was. In this movie, the actions and motives of the villain are more important than who the villain is. I wanted to ask the audience about 'punishment' and provoke discussion, aiming to arouse curiosity rather than provide clear answers."

Returning as Detective Seo Do-cheol, Hwang Jung-min said, "The line 'Is there such a thing as bad murder and good murder?' was impressive. He has a rough mouth but lives well. I acted with the thought that it would be reassuring if there was at least one righteous person like Seo Do-cheol around."

Jung Hae-in reunited with the production company Wayna Entertainment and the film Start-Up (2019). In Veteran 2, he reveals a new face never seen before. Director Ryoo said, "Because the character believes his convictions are right, I needed an actor with credibility. Despite being young, he has a solid and calm presence, which I liked." He added, "I was surprised during editing. Sometimes he looks kind, but at other times, he seems empty and has various expressions in his eyes."

Director Ryu Seung-wan Photo by Yonhap News

Veteran 2 will be released on the 13th, just before the Chuseok holiday. It is the only major Korean film tentpole release during this period. Director Ryoo said, "This is my first time making a sequel for a theatrical film, but I didn't want to just 'rehash' success. That's why it took so long." He emphasized, "If you cherish this universe, it makes sense to take a different adventure. That was the thought I had when finishing the first film."

The first film attracted over 10 million viewers, becoming a 'ten-million movie.' This sustained public interest also brings box office pressure. Director Ryoo said, "I am someone who makes popular films, not just commercial films," and added, "Box office results are not the ultimate goal of making a film." He continued, "It's good to succeed commercially, but I don't want to set numbers as a goal." The director tries to shake off the pressure, but the burden on Veteran 2 is heavy. There are virtually no competing films during the Chuseok holiday. It debuts in a period with no major commercial film releases. Many are hoping the film will become a savior to lift CJ ENM's slump.

Running time: 118 minutes. Rated 15 and over. Opens September 13.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.