Hands down, this film is a MASTERPIECE!...but that's just what I think.

Here's why...

1) The diversity!

It's not every day that you come across a film that features SIX different languages...yes, six. There's Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Russian, German, and English (a tiny bit) O_O
It was an amazing experience to see the perspectives (somewhat--it's literally not much) of different nations during WWII with the progression of the film. What I really liked about that, is that by doing so, no one nation was definitively tacked as the "bad guy," because this film's purpose is not to show that; rather, it is about two rivals and their trials through war, and ultimately the bond they form.

2) The effects!

There was not one second my eyes were not glued to the screen. 'My Way' is a war movie, as in LOTS of fighting scenes, people being shot--death, explosions...you know ;) Now, if that kind of scares you, no worries, this is not a gore-type war film. There's no flying limbs or guys lying around with half of their body still intact while you see all their insides pouring out >:p yuck! Although, there was one incident--I won't say exactly, but it has to do with pus *cringes*. TBH, other than that, just expect blood and dead bodies.
As far as explosions go...superb. Scenes with airplanes...well done.
Anytime there was fighting, I found myself holding my breath, because it was so hectic and unpredictable...really captured the feeling of war. There were numerous occasions when I was chanting "Please don't die!" in my head with my fingers crossed haha ;)
The effects are awesome, but I should add that you'll see a lot more than just "war effects," since the film begins before the characters go off to war.

3) The characters!

What can I say? I mean from the main cast to the supporting cast, each character had an understandable motive and development, because all the characters were affected by WWII. I found it fascinating just to see all of these characters change over time due to the war and the fear of dying.
The character, Hasegawa Tatsuo, is definitely my favorite from the film. You'll see him as a kid, as a teen and as a man, and will never wonder (perhaps like me) why he is the way he is...that's really thanks to an incredibly written story.

Which brings me to...

4) The story!

It's based on a true story, which is why it comes across as being so realistic.
Although this is a war film, that's just the setting, the story itself is very heartwarming. I cannot say enough how much I loved it...I really did. For a film that's over two hours, it's unlikely that you will ever feel bored. I mean, if you heart is not pounding from the action, it might be breaking during the emotional scenes. I really want to say more, but I don't know how to without repeating the synopsis or spoiling the film for you, so I'll just say this; look forward to watching a darn good film :D

5) The acting!

Trust me it's outstanding. These actors aren't rookies; they know what to do, and they do it well. Plus, it's Jang Dong Gun as a lead, as well as Joe Odagiri of which I am now a fan. These two leads and the excellent supporting cast make this film well worth watching.


So, I feel like I've written quite a lot, but have said just as little; hopefully not too little, because I hope that I've said just enough to encourage you to watch My Way. If I am not helpful (at all D:) do please look up a better review, because I really think this film is good enough to deserve a view :)

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Had all the action, a good looking cast, and a story with potential; unfortunately, it was told quite poorly.

The good...

1) Wu Chun and Han Geng

Need I say more? *_*...oh I do...okay...

Coming into this film I had never seen any of Wu Chun's or Han Geng's previous work, so I literally had no idea what to expect as far as their acting abilities go. With that said, I found their performances rather captivating. Their acrobatic/fighting skills alone were top notch, and their abilities to act out emotions, I found convincing—I liked it. To be honest, these two leads were the main appeal of the film for me, besides its historical 1920s Shanghai feel and the fact that it is a martial arts-type film. If there is anything that can take away from Wu Chun’s and Han Geng’s performances, I would say it’s the story itself.

2) The Production

From the sets to the intricately detailed costumes and make-up, I think as far as visuals go, My Kingdom was filmed very well. The acrobatic/action sequences were well choreographed and performed perfectly by the cast members.
Can’t really hate on the music...it served its purpose; highlight action sequences and emotional moments.

The bad...

1) The Story

Flat out poorly written...really. The story's biggest problem was the fact that it had too many revenge plots and failed to eloquently sustain them all. At first it was just the brothers (Yilong and Er Kui) seeking to avenge the humiliating defeat of their master, then it took a sharp turn into two other plots, ultimately fish tailing the story into incoherence.

The potential for a masterpiece was there—I mean I can understand where the writers wanted to take the film; they just failed to map it out well. That is partly due to how a lot of elements were implied throughout the film, brushed under a rug, and then magically appeared before my eyes like BAZINGA!!--which pretty much include specific characters’ motives and development. As in, there will be an instance in which a character does something/behaves in some way, and you’re left wondering “WTH?”

Now, there are some good points in the story too--some very fascinating points, but it is unfortunate they our outweighed by the bad.

Overall, not that bad of a film, but I wouldn’t be in a rush to watch it. I’m not saying to skip it or anything; rather, give it a chance, but don’t expect much.

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