They pi$$ed off the wrong kid.
KAOTN is part of the popular Kingdom franchise. It is a prequel to season one, and it ties in seamlessly.
The filming is gorgeous, though tense and creepy feeling- exactly as it should be.
We follow Ashin over several years as she plots revenge against the murderers of her family. Members of the Pajeowi were found dead in Joseon. The Josean officials informed the Pajeowi that a tiger killed all 15 of their brothers. Ever skeptical of Joseon, the Pajeowi don't believe that.
They take their revenge on the first village they encounter, which is Ashin's village. She is left with nothing. She agrees to work (slave) for the Josean officials as long as they help her avenge her father.
Kim Shi-ah, as young Ashin, is fantastic. She was around 12 when this was filmed. The anger and the determination of her character is palpable. Her performance is arresting: She's that good. "I didn't want Asin to look weak," she said in an interview. "I thought the eyes were important to show a strong figure, and I tried to convey that solidity with my eyes." We need to keep an eye on her career. We can expect her to just gobble up her roles.
Ashin works hard as she grows. When she's not serving the Kingdom of Joseon, she is sinking her teeth into perfecting her archery and fighting skills. It will all come in handy later. We watch Ashin close in on her prey like The Terminator, or a zombie. She won't turn to the left or the right. She consumes. She. Won't. Stop.
The creators continue with the same theme started in season one. The acting and special effects of the 'attackers' are excellent. This crowd was designed to startle the viewer, and they fulfill their purpose.
While KAOTN can stand on its own, it would be better to also watch seasons one and two of this mystery/horror saga.
Yes, it's classified as horror. The focus is not all blood and guts, however, especially compared to a Hollywood production. The horror is real, but it's constructed in the viewers mind, as much as it's performed for the viewer's eyes. Fundamentally, this is just good drama.
The film does incite thought about the concept of mercy. Should Ashin relent and show some mercy toward her enemies? Do any of them merit that?
You'll have to take the solitary and painful journey with her to sort it out.
We are still in want of a season 3. Until then..... Enjoy this snack.
IMHO...
🎬7 🤔7 🎭8 ⚡7 🎨7
Suggested Age 15+
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