The Roundup: No Way Out (2023): "Ma Dong-Seok One Man Show"

Director: Lee Sang-yong
Starring: Ma Dong-seok, Lee Joon-hyuk, Munetaka Aoki, Ko Kyu-pil
Producers: Kim Yong-ho, Jang Won-seok
Production House: ABO Entertainment, Plus M Entertainment
Music Director: Mok Young-jin
Cinematography: Lee Hyoung-deok
Editor: Heo Sun-mi
Language: Korean
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Runtime: 1 hour 45 minutes

Plot:

Detective Ma Seok-do (Ma Dong-seok) is back in action, this time facing a new and dangerous enemy in the form of a ruthless drug cartel. The story unfolds as Seok-do is drawn into a complex web of crime involving drug trafficking and corrupt cops. As he pursues the criminals, he faces brutal challenges, but his relentless determination and powerful presence make him a force to be reckoned with. With intense action sequences, sharp wit, and a touch of humor, Seok-do leads his team on a thrilling chase to bring the villains to justice. The plot is straightforward but keeps the audience engaged with its fast-paced narrative and engaging character dynamics.

Performances:

Ma Dong-seok:
Ma Dong-seok’s presence and aura as Detective Ma Seok-do bring pure goosebumps. As always, he carries the role with swagger, and his action sequences are thrilling and a highlight of the film.

Lee Joon-hyuk (The Villain):
Lee Joon-hyuk portrays the drug dealer and corrupt police officer with a very good performance. He carries the role well, using his expressions effectively to enhance his character.

Ko Kyu-pil:
Ko Kyu-pil's presence and comic timing are wonderful. His character brings a lot of joy and generates very good comedy throughout the film.

Supporting Cast:
The supporting cast, including the detective team and other characters, provide great support with their performances. They all contribute significantly to the film, delivering strong and engaging performances.

Technical Aspects:

Director:
Director Lee Sang-yong offers a short and simple storyline but keeps the movie engaging with a good pace, superb action sequences, and well-placed comedy.

Music Director:
Music Director Mok Young-jin elevates the action sequences, particularly with a strong background score that adds intensity to Ma Dong-seok’s scenes.

Cinematography:
Cinematography by Lee Hyoung-deok is good, capturing the action and drama effectively.

Editor:
Editor Heo Sun-mi does a very good job, maintaining the movie's feel and ensuring the pace remains consistent.

Strengths:

• Ma Dong-seok
• Action Sequences
• Comedy
• Pace

Weakness:

• The story could have been more interesting.

My Personal Take On Cinema:

‘The Roundup: No Way Out’ is an entertaining movie with engaging action sequences and well-placed comedy. Although the storyline is short and simple, the director maintains a good pace throughout, avoiding unnecessary drama and keeping the focus on the action. The cinematography is solid, and the music enhances the scenes effectively. Ma Dong-seok is the standout, delivering a one-man show with his intense and captivating performance. Overall, ‘The Roundup: No Way Out’ is an enjoyable and entertaining watch for action lovers.

Rating: 

3/5