Song of the Bandits – Unspoiled Review
Song of the Bandits
♥ Aired: September 22, 2023
♥# of Episodes: 9
♥Where to Watch: Netflix
♥Genre: Historical Action Drama
♥Starring: Kim Nam Gil and Seo Hyun
The Story
In the 1920’s, many displaced Koreans made their way north to Gando. In a territory full of outlaws and desperate poverty, a rumor of a suitcase of money traveling through the area by train draws the attention of many, hoping to steal the money and finally strike it rich. Among them is one brave activist, who lives posing as a Japanese government employee. She intends to take all of the money and deliver it into the hands of the Korean army for independence. And she will enlist the help of a hardened gun for hire and a jaded leader of bandits to get the money safely delivered to those who need it most.
Should I Watch
“Song of the Bandits” is the Korean equivalent of a spaghetti western, in this case happening in the rugged territory of Gando, or Manchuria. If you have been following many Netlfix kdramas, it will not surprise you that this one is excessively violent. While the music and cinematography is sweeping and beautiful, the storyline is muddled and incomplete. And I don’t seem to be the only one to think so, since the actors have given interviews to voice their own displeasure at the finished product. If you are looking for a series full of gun fights and action, and don’t mind a lot of blood, you may enjoy this one. The action is thrilling and well filmed, and the drama does look and sound impressive. But don’t expect to fall in love with the story, the romance, or the ending. If you haven’t seen it yet, I would put this one on the back burner and watch “Mr. Sunshine” instead…or again! I give “The Song of Bandits” a 7 out of 10 ramen.
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