What this movie is, is a compact version of other modern Hollywood action movies. And that isn't necessary a good thing. I could tell they were aiming to make a great action movie and I really could see the effort, especially when it comes to the cinematography. Even if the camera work is all over the place, especially during the action sequences. The thing is, if you are a audience member that is already in tune with most Hollywood action movies will see a lot of similar bits in this one. Especially the "Bourne" movies which I actually saw quite a bit of similarities from. Yeah, some of the action set pieces was cool to watch, but nothing really new and it has been done before. Even the character interaction and acting does come off a bit pretentious and over the top. Like they were trying so hard to mimic characters from Hollywood movies. I could tell the director is a fan of Hollywood action movies, but this one does come off as a mediocre emulation at best. When it came to the drama aspect of the movie, it felt way too drawn out without development that made me care. The effort for substance just wasn't effective. Overall, this is a watchable action flick but nothing original. Yes, you can emulate while having originality. I thought the cinematography for the most part was topnotch for a Asian movie.
5.5/10
5.5/10