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A satisfactory spin-off for returning audiences
I strongly encourage people to watch the first movie, Kill Boksoon, first. They're both great, memorable films to me.
Mantis isn't just another all-action movie, but displays the humanity that still exists behind these killing machines, these assassins. It follows the same tone as Kill Boksoon, exploring the dynamics and the emotions that exist between the characters. The action is great, but is not the main genre fueling the progression of the movie. I recommend this more for people who want a focus on the characters and their backstory---the reasons for coming into this killer world behind their grand name.
Mantis focused on the hidden jealousy, the hidden feelings, the narcissism of Mantis and the inferiority complex of Jaeyi that led to the inevitable rivalry between our two leads. HOWEVER, I love that this was only the surface level characterizations. Deep down, Mantis genuinely cares and wants Jaeyi to shine, and Jaeyi knows her skills and never once believed she was under someone else.
I still found flaws in this sequel like I did in Kill Boksoon, which was the lack of exploration of the other characters besides just our 2-3 main leads. They exist, but only to propel the story of the main cast. In Mantis, I definitely wanted to learn more about Sumin, how she got caught in this business, and where she learned her skills (and why she's so loyal to Mantis).
That's why...I wish this was a series instead, but I'm always looking forward to learning more about this universe---it feels like a breath of fresh air from your typical Hollywood action movie.
Mantis isn't just another all-action movie, but displays the humanity that still exists behind these killing machines, these assassins. It follows the same tone as Kill Boksoon, exploring the dynamics and the emotions that exist between the characters. The action is great, but is not the main genre fueling the progression of the movie. I recommend this more for people who want a focus on the characters and their backstory---the reasons for coming into this killer world behind their grand name.
Mantis focused on the hidden jealousy, the hidden feelings, the narcissism of Mantis and the inferiority complex of Jaeyi that led to the inevitable rivalry between our two leads. HOWEVER, I love that this was only the surface level characterizations. Deep down, Mantis genuinely cares and wants Jaeyi to shine, and Jaeyi knows her skills and never once believed she was under someone else.
I still found flaws in this sequel like I did in Kill Boksoon, which was the lack of exploration of the other characters besides just our 2-3 main leads. They exist, but only to propel the story of the main cast. In Mantis, I definitely wanted to learn more about Sumin, how she got caught in this business, and where she learned her skills (and why she's so loyal to Mantis).
That's why...I wish this was a series instead, but I'm always looking forward to learning more about this universe---it feels like a breath of fresh air from your typical Hollywood action movie.
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