Review of War of the Arrows (2011) by Jarrett M — 21 Jun 2012

Not until the end of the movie did I realize I was rooting AGAINST my people (Qing Dynasty) wishing for each and every soldier to be shot dead with Nam Yi's bow and arrow with his precise deadly aim.

This is no typical period piece that gets weighted down with gratuitous scenes of blood, gore and the artillery of warfare. No, this is a time when men were real men - who can run like the wind for several miles and perform such physical feats as leaping across creeks from one cliff edge to another while still being able to kill with deadly precision via their bows and arrows - and when promises are kept, no matter what, even if it means risking death.

The story of Nam Yi's allegiance to his sister was riveting and pulsating. The action, suspense and the "mano to mano" via bows and arrows combat were absolutely riveting down to the very last scene - kudos to the cinematography and art direction.

I was cheering and fist pumping all the way through! Definitely one of the most satisfying Korean films I've seen to date; no wonder it's a multi award winner.