Starring Hwang Jung Min and Jung Hae In, the sequel to the 2015 hit Korean film, Veteran hits Philippine theaters on September 25.
I, The Executioner follows veteran detective Seo Do-cheol, played by Hwang Jung Min, and his dedicated team, now joined by rookie officer Park Sun-woo (Jung Hae In), as they hunt a serial killer wreaking havoc across the nation.
Currently the top-grossing film in Korea, I, The Executioner has already drawn over four million viewers just six days after its September 13 release. Director Ryoo Seung-wan, who also helmed “Veteran,” expresses his deep connection to Seo Do-cheol, stating, “My affection for the character has only grown, and I always envisioned continuing his story.”
Hwang Jung Min, who recently won the Best Actor Award at the Baeksang Arts Awards for 12.12: The Day, is excited to reprise his role. “I’ve wanted a sequel since we filmed ‘Veteran’ and have eagerly awaited this moment. Even after nine years, I hope audiences see that Seo Do-cheol remains unchanged and that the energy from the first film is preserved.“
A standout element of I, The Executioner is the introduction of rookie detective Park Sun-woo, who is inspired to join the force after witnessing Seo Do-cheol’s bravery. Jung Hae-in notes, “The film offers many realistic stories, prompting us to reflect on various contemporary issues.”
The sequel delves into contemporary issues, exploring the pervasive influence of social media and the dangers of fake news. The film offers a thought-provoking commentary on the impact of these forces on society and the challenges faced by law enforcement in the modern age. Director Ryoo’s examination of a world shaped by algorithm-filtered information resonates with the film’s core narratives, highlighting the evolution of crime-action dramas.
“We will witness a more serious and darker side of crime through this film,” Ryoo asserts. Art director Han Ah-reum adds, “‘I, The Executioner’ showcases the duality and dangers of media, tackling social issues of our time with Ryoo’s signature action style.”
Catch I, The Executioner in cinemas starting September 25, distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures.
