Netflix’s latest South Korean historical epic, “Uprising“, delivers a powerful tale of friendship and betrayal set against the backdrop of one of the most tumultuous periods in Korean history, the Imjin War (Japanese Invasion of Korea, 1592-1598). Directed by Kim Sang-man and co-written by the acclaimed Park Chan-wook, the film combines breathtaking action, emotional depth, and historical accuracy to create a must-watch experience for fans of war dramas.
Basic Information
- Title: Uprising (전,란)
- Director: Kim Sang-man
- Writers: Park Chan-wook, Shin Chul
- Genre: Historical drama, action, war
- Running Time: 126 minutes
- Release Date: October 11, 2024
- Platform: Netflix
- Age Rating: R (for intense violence and war themes)
Key Characters and Cast
- Chun-young (Kang Dong-won): A nobleman with exceptional sword skills who longs for freedom and joins the war as a medic.
- Jong-ryeo (Park Jung-min): The son of a prominent Mushin family, he befriended Cheon-young as a child, but after his family’s deaths, he became obsessed with revenge and turned against Cheon-young.
- King Seonjo (Cha Seung-won): King of Joseon during the Imjin War, he is portrayed as abandoning his people and taking refuge during the war, and is focused on restoring his kingship.
- Beom-dong (Kim Shin-rok): A strong-willed medic who is willing to stand up for his beliefs even in the midst of war.
- Kim Ja-ryung (Jin Sun-gyu): A military captain from Yangban who stands with the people and leads them.
- Genshin (Jung Sung-il): A brutal leader of the Japanese army who recognizes Chun-young’s exceptional sword skills.
Plot
“Uprising” follows the journey of Cheon Young (Kang Dong-won), a former slave, and Jong-ryeo (Park Jung-min), the heir of a prominent warrior family, set against the backdrop of the Imjin War’s devastation. Once close childhood friends who defied societal norms with their bond, they find themselves on opposing sides of the battlefield, their reunion fueled by grief, betrayal, and a thirst for vengeance. Chun-young serves as a medic, earning a reputation as the “Sword God of Blue” for his exceptional sword skills, while Jong-ryeon joins forces with the Japanese army, determined to avenge the death of his family. Their fateful confrontation reveals the tragedy of war and the complexity of human relationships.
Why “Uprising” Resonates
A Unique Take on War Films
Unlike Western war epics that often glorify victory, “Uprising” delves into the human toll of war. It offers a deeply emotional exploration of loyalty, revenge, and survival, making it relatable and thought-provoking.
Cinematic Excellence
The film’s stunning visuals and meticulously choreographed battle scenes bring 16th-century Korea to life. The large-scale war sequences are reminiscent of Braveheart and Gladiator, but with a distinctively Korean cultural flavor.
Complex and Relatable Characters
The emotional struggles of Cheon-young and Jong-ryeo resonate universally, as their choices reflect timeless moral dilemmas.
A Glimpse into the Production
The collaboration between director Kim Sang-man and writer Park Chan-wook elevates the film to an art form. Known for his visually rich storytelling (The Handmaiden, Oldboy), Park’s influence is evident in the intricate character arcs and atmospheric tension throughout the film.
Filmed across South Korea, the movie brings the 16th century to life with stunning attention to historical detail, from traditional hanbok costumes to the chaotic yet mesmerizing battlefields.
Why You Should Watch “Uprising”
If you’re a fan of epic war dramas like The Last Samurai or character-driven stories like 12 Years a Slave, “Uprising” offers the perfect blend of action, history, and heart. It’s more than a war movie—it’s a tale of humanity, resilience, and the complex ties that bind us.
Stream “Uprising” now on Netflix and experience one of the most powerful historical dramas of the year.