A fierce competition of concessions over the 'boss' seat that determines the organization's future 'Boss'. Blending comedy and action with finesse, a pleasant work has been born that the whole family can laugh and enjoy together during the holidays.
The film 'Boss', opening Oct. 3 (director Ra Hee-chan, produced by HYBE Media Corp., supplied/distributed by HYBE Media Corp. and Mindmark), is a top Chuseok must-see that brings together Korea's representative character actors Jo Woo-jin, Jung Kyung-ho, Park Ji-hwan and Lee Gyu-hyung, as well as Lee Sung-min, Hwang Woo-seul-hye, Jung Yoo-jin and Go Chang-seok. HYBE Media Corp., which sparked a comedy craze with Handsome Guys, produced the film, and Ra Hee-chan, director of Live Right, took the helm.
The greatest strength of 'Boss' is without a doubt the actors' performances. The organization's second-in-command and head cook Suntae (Jo Woo-jin), Kangpyo (Jung Kyung-ho), who refuses the boss seat and pursues his dream of being a tango dancer, and Panho (Park Ji-hwan), who charges forward wanting only the boss seat. The three characters' personalities and backstories are vivid, allowing the audience to become easily immersed.
Jo Woo-jin perfectly pulls off the dual charm of his main role as the organization's second-in-command and his side job as the head cook, and the couple dynamic with Hwang Woo-seul-hye and the family narrative with his daughter quickly endear the character. Park Ji-hwan explains Panho at a glance with his unique energy and injects tension into the film. Lee Gyu-hyung transforms into undercover policeman Taekyu, delivering a pleasant yet unpredictable performance.
In particular, Jung Kyung-ho shows a new side in this work. Even in scenes with few lines, he makes Kangpyo shine with his own charm and comic energy, and his willingness to look ridiculous in the tango scenes leaves the audience with strong laughter. In addition, the solid performances of the supporting actors stand out, leaving a deep impression despite limited screen time and helping to balance the film.
In the most important comedy department, the laughter 'Boss' offers is far from uncomfortable. Instead of humor that belittles or forcibly brings someone down, laughs naturally erupt from the irony of the situations themselves. As a result, a comedy that people of all ages can comfortably enjoy has been completed.
Even within the comedy, the action is by no means light. Battles using the terrain and set-piece fights featuring large numbers of gang members are executed with breathless intensity despite their high directorial difficulty. Serious action and pleasant comedy coexist, satisfying genre entertainment at the same time.
Above all, the film's charm lies in its level and tone suited to holiday theaters. While avoiding gory brutality, the action remains serious and the laughs are balanced at a level everyone can enjoy together. It is perfect as a light "killing-time" movie to enjoy with family.
'Boss' combines the flawless back-and-forth of its actors, situational comedy and serious action to deliver a powerful burst of laughter to audiences this Chuseok. It is one of the most pleasant choices to see in theaters this fall.
Opens Oct. 3, rated for ages 15 and up, 98 minutes.
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