In a time of political unrest, Harbin harkens to a time of historical darkness
Everything is so, so dark. In lighting, wording, theme. Because we’re talking rebel army here, of course, most of the action takes place in the shadows, making it tough to see who’s saying what, especially if you can’t distinguish your Korean words from your Japanese.
As for dark, Korean history is like that, particularly when considering its fractious relationship with Japan. Led by Hyun Bin as Ahn, renowned for bringing accessible Korean rom-coms to fans around the world in the form of Crash Landing on You among others, Harbin tells the story of freedom fighters on a mission to assassinate the first Prime Minister of Japan, Ito Hirobumi, to prevent Japan from taking over Korea.
If you were compelled by Mr. Sunshine, Chicago Typewriter, or The Last Princess, you’ve already got an idea of how things went down during this volatile period in history. Set in 1909, Harbin zeros in on the mission itself and how that played out for its leader and originator, Ahn Jung-geon.
Completely dedicated to the idea of not only a free Korea but also a united East Asia, this is the story of a man who took a hit for his country to make a point. And for how many times other characters ask: ‘Where is Ahn Jung-geon?’ it could be a great soju-forward drinking game too.
Currently in cinemas and helmed by period film veteran, Woo Min-ho, who also directed a bevy of impactful historical drama films like Academy entry The Man Standing Next, The Drug King and Inside Men, Harbin spends its 113-minute runtime fighting against the darkness.
Early in the film, after a brutal battle scene depicting hand-to-hand combat including a Japanese soldier slicing off a Korean fighter’s head, we find a sympathetic Ahn who sets Japanese prisoners free so they can care for their wounded. Even though his colleagues greatly protest, Ahn is determined to uphold international law in the treatment of POWs, believing killing them would be akin to killing themselves.
But the very same enemy performs exactly as predicted, later attacking the hideout and killing everyone while Ahn goes for supplies. Rather than appreciating the gift, a vengeful Mori received his pardon as an insult, committing him to a remaining life without honor. This same lieutenant general proceeds to chase through Russia and China to find the offensive Ahn.
Forty days later, under the scrutiny of the Resistance Army, Ahn is asked whether he’d make the same choice again. Accused a spy, Ahn describes his wish to die but because of his dedication to the cause, returns to live for his fallen comrades. He cuts off a piece of his finger to prove his commitment to Korean independence.
As a last team member arrives, there’s a pervading thought that one of these late-comers could have been turned by the Japanese. When Lieutenant General Mori continues to appear in their way, the members start to believe – maybe there is a turncoat among us. As plans are swapped to confuse the mole, it’s the title that gives the story away – even with the intentional misdirection, we know something will go down in the city of Harbin.
Dramatic settings, including scenes of pre-WW-era Russia, the Manchurian desert and that train through China and Russia – reminiscent of the anime film, Demon Slayer: Mugen Train – keep the film watchable, a relief from all the blacks and greys. Clever references to Yi Sun-sin, Korea’s greatest warrior and the man who knows strategy, are a notable reference to Korea’s previous long-shot wins.
Subtle acting by Hyun Bin as well as Lee Dong-wook (Tale of the Nine Tailed, Bad and Crazy, Single in Seoul) as Chang-seop, Jo Woo-jin (Gangnam B-Side, Narco-Saints) as Kim Sang-hyeon, Park Jeong-min (Uprising, Decision to Leave) as Woo Deok-soon and an incredible cast is in line with the serious subject matter.
As with so many Korean histories, it’s about the little engine that could. Which seems about right for a small country on a rocky peninsula. No one expects them to fight back. Yet Harbin demonstrates that might isn’t everything. Like Chang-seop says, ‘Spirit matters more than numbers.’
Prime Minister Ito had initially been resistant to annexing Korea because while the leaders are easy, the people are ‘troublesome.’ How poignantly that aligns with today’s political news.
Did you enjoy #Harbin? Got questions? Check out our Harbin Ending Explained.
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Thanks @WellGoUSA
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Verdict: - 7/10
7/10