Title:Kingdom: Ashin of the North  
Director:Kim Seong-hun  
Genre:Historical Drama, Horror, Thriller  
Release Date: July 23, 2021  
Duration:93 minutes  


Plot Summary


Kingdom: Ashin of the North serves as a prequel to the popular series Kingdom. The film delves into the backstory of Ashin, a mysterious character introduced at the end of Season 2. Set in a border village, the story follows young Ashin, whose life is upended by tragedy and betrayal. Driven by a desire for revenge, she discovers the mythical resurrection flower, saengsacho, which has the power to bring the dead back to life. The film explores Ashin's journey from a grieving daughter to a vengeful warrior.


Themes


The film explores themes of revenge, loss, and survival. It delves into the moral complexities of vengeance and the lengths one might go to for justice. The resurrection flower symbolizes both hope and destruction, highlighting the duality of life and death.


Character Development


Ashin's character is meticulously developed, showcasing her transformation from an innocent girl to a fierce avenger. The film provides a deep dive into her motivations and the emotional turmoil she endures. Supporting characters, while not as fleshed out, serve to highlight Ashin's journey and the harsh realities of her world.


Director's Style


Kim Seong-hun's direction is marked by a blend of suspense and emotional depth. His ability to weave historical context with supernatural elements creates a gripping narrative. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for a slow build-up of tension that culminates in a powerful climax.


Performances


Jun Ji-Hyun delivers a standout performance as Ashin, capturing the character's vulnerability and strength with nuance. Her portrayal is both haunting and compelling, making Ashin a memorable character. The supporting cast, including Kim Roe-ha as Ashin's father, provides solid performances that enhance the story's emotional weight.



Technical Aspects


The film excels in its cinematography, with stunning visuals that capture the bleak and beautiful landscapes of the Korean wilderness. The makeup and special effects are top-notch, particularly in the depiction of the undead. The sound design and musical score effectively heighten the tension and underscore the film's darker moments.


Strengths


  • Strong central performance by Jun Ji-Hyun.
  • Engaging plot that adds depth to the Kingdom universe.
  • High-quality production values in cinematography and special effects.
  • Effective blend of historical drama and supernatural horror.


 Weaknesses


  • Slower pacing may not appeal to all viewers.
  • Supporting characters lack depth compared to the protagonist.
  • Limited zombie action, which might disappoint fans expecting more horror elements.


Overall Impact


Kingdom: Ashin of the North is a compelling addition to the Kingdom series, offering a rich backstory that enhances the main narrative. While it may not have the same level of action as the series, its emotional depth and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch.


Recommendation


For fans of the Kingdom series, this film is a must-watch, providing crucial context and character development. Even for newcomers, the film stands on its own as a gripping historical thriller with supernatural elements. Highly recommended for those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling and strong character arcs.


Rating:✩✩✩✩✩ (7.0/10)


References:


Kingdom: Ashin Of The North (2021) On IMDB

Kingdom: Ashin Of The North (2021) On Wikipedia