Mantis is a spin-off set in the same hired-assassin universe as the successful 2023 film Kill Boksoon. This time, the story focuses on Han-ul (Im Si-wan), an elite assassin who returns to the business under the alias “Mantis” after retirement. His comeback takes place during a time of chaos and anarchy in the hitman world, triggered by the downfall of the corporation that once ruled it.
The film unfolds as a thrilling power struggle where three assassins, each with their own skills and ambitions, compete for the title of number one. Alliances are fragile, betrayals are constant, and the old rules no longer apply, plunging the audience into a violent, dark world.
The movie delivers intense, well-choreographed action sequences, a hallmark of South Korean thrillers. Park Gyu-young’s performance as the ambitious Jae-yi stands out for its strength and complexity, offering a more compelling character arc. The premise of a war between assassin factions fighting for control of the market is an intriguing one.
However, the film suffers from pacing issues and a script that stalls while building toward the inevitable final showdown. The tone can also feel inconsistent, shifting between serious drama and forced humor. And while visually stylized, it never quite reaches the elegance or emotional impact of its predecessor.
In summary, Mantis is an entertaining action thriller that expands the Kill Boksoon universe with a story of intrigue and rivalry, even if it doesn’t achieve the same level of impact. It’s a recommended pick if you enjoy brutal action and stories about power struggles in the Korean underworld.
The film unfolds as a thrilling power struggle where three assassins, each with their own skills and ambitions, compete for the title of number one. Alliances are fragile, betrayals are constant, and the old rules no longer apply, plunging the audience into a violent, dark world.
The movie delivers intense, well-choreographed action sequences, a hallmark of South Korean thrillers. Park Gyu-young’s performance as the ambitious Jae-yi stands out for its strength and complexity, offering a more compelling character arc. The premise of a war between assassin factions fighting for control of the market is an intriguing one.
However, the film suffers from pacing issues and a script that stalls while building toward the inevitable final showdown. The tone can also feel inconsistent, shifting between serious drama and forced humor. And while visually stylized, it never quite reaches the elegance or emotional impact of its predecessor.
In summary, Mantis is an entertaining action thriller that expands the Kill Boksoon universe with a story of intrigue and rivalry, even if it doesn’t achieve the same level of impact. It’s a recommended pick if you enjoy brutal action and stories about power struggles in the Korean underworld.
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