I recently had the pleasure of watching “The Roundup: Punishment,” and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. Directed by Heo Myung-Haeng and starring the charismatic Ma Dong Seok as the hulky Detective Ma Seok-Do, this fourth instalment in the popular Roundup series is an actionpacked thrill ride that will keep you entertained from start to finish.
From the get-go, “The Roundup: Punishment” sets the tone with its high-energy action sequences and clever comedic bits. The film follows Detective Ma Seok-Do as he takes on an illegal online gambling organisation exploiting and killing teenagers. The plot might sound intense, but the film balances this with plenty of humour, making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Ma Dong Seok brings a unique blend of physical dominance and endearing charm to the role. His ability to deliver powerful punches while also eliciting laughs is unmatched, making him the heart and soul of the film. It’s easy to see why he has become synonymous with this franchise; his presence alone is enough to keep viewers glued to the screen.
Well-choreographed fight scenes showcase Lee’s martial arts prowess. The steady cam style popularised by films like “John Wick” is employed here, allowing audiences to fully appreciate the stunt work and combat sequences. Whether it’s a close-quarters brawl or a wide shot of a chaotic fight scene, the film delivers adrenalinepumping moments that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The excellent script is one of the standout aspects of this movie in its ability to blend action with humour seamlessly. The interactions between Detective Ma and his comrades provide a lot of comic relief, and their camaraderie feels genuine and heartfelt. Park Jihwan, as the former casino owner Jang Yi-soo, brings an additional layer of humour to the film. Their exchanges are not only hilarious but also add a layer of authenticity to the film, making it relatable despite its over-the-top action sequences.
Addressing real issues, “The Roundup: Punishment” . the film touches on the dark side of online gambling and cryptocurrency scams, adding depth to its otherwise straightforward plot. This blend of topical relevance and entertaining action makes for a movie that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The portrayal of white-collar crime intertwined with brutal physical confrontations highlights the multifaceted nature of modern crime, providing a fresh take on the genre.
The villains in the film, particularly Baek Chang-gi (played by Kim Mu-yeol), a former mercenary who was kicked out of the special forces for his brutal killing spree, are compelling and formidable, providing a worthy challenge for Detective Ma. Baek’s cold, ruthless demeanour and brutal fighting style make him a credible threat, adding tension and excitement to the story. His character’s depth is enhanced by his strategic mind and physical prowess, making every encounter with Detective Ma a high-stakes battle. The film does an excellent job of building up the antagonists, giving them enough screen time to establish their motives and methods, which makes the eventual confrontations even more satisfying.
Heo Myung-Haeng’s direction is commendable, especially in the way he manages to keep the pace brisk without sacrificing character development. The film’s runtime of 109 minutes feels just right, packing enough action, humour, and plot twists to keep the audience engaged throughout. Cinematography captures the gritty essence of Seoul, with its bustling streets and neon lights adding to the film’s atmosphere. The action scenes are meticulously crafted, with each punch and kick delivered with precision and impact.
The soundtrack, featuring an accelerating jazz score, is another highlight, adding an unexpected but fitting backdrop to the film’s highoctane sequences. It’s an unusual choice for an action film, but it works remarkably well, enhancing the tension and excitement. The music complements the on-screen chaos perfectly, making the action scenes even more exhilarating.
“The Roundup: Punishment” has achieved significant milestones since its release. Selected in the ‘Berlinale Special Gala’ section at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival, it was screened on February 23, 2024. It was released on April 24, 2024, in IMAX and 4DX formats, receiving positive responses from critics. As of June 12, 2024, the film has grossed USD 79.7 million with over 11.4 million admissions, making it the secondhighest-grossing Korean film of 2024 and the eighth-highestgrossing film in South Korean history.
