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Uprising, a South Korean historical war action film directed by Kim Sang-man, delves deep into the chaos and turbulence of the Japanese invasions of South Korea. Released on Netflix on October 11, 2024, after its debut as the opening film at the 29th Busan International Film Festival, the movie has garnered much attention.
Starring notable actors like Gang Dong-won and Park Jeong-min, it promises an intense and gripping narrative. But does Uprising live up to the hype? The film opens with the story of Cheon Yeong, a slave with extraordinary swordsmanship, and his former master, Jong-ryeo, the son of Joseon’s highest military official.
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The two, once bound by hierarchy and circumstances, find themselves as adversaries in a war-torn world. The central theme revolves around their relationship, exploring the scars of servitude, rebellion, and the fight for freedom during one of the most tumultuous times
Uprising review: A clash of power, loyalty, and social struggles
At the heart of the movie Uprising lies the relationship between Cheon Yeong (Gang Dong-won) and Jong-ryeo (Park Jeong-min), two childhood friends forced into opposing sides of a brutal war. Cheon Yeong's life takes a harsh turn when, as a young boy, he is taken into slavery, largely due to the rigid social structure of the time.
He spends his youth being beaten in place of his master, bruised and scarred, yet growing into a man with formidable martial prowess. Jong-ryeo, on the other hand, is raised in luxury and sheltered by his privileged status as the son of a military officer. Despite his higher social standing, he bonds with Cheon Yeong, often relying on him to help him succeed, even using him to pass a crucial military exam.
However, the imbalance in their relationship is undeniable, as Cheon Yeong is still bound to Jong-ryeo by chains of servitude, even as they grow closer. The narrative takes the audience through multiple phases of war and rebellion. The two protagonists are caught in misunderstandings, betrayals, and shifting allegiances.
Cheon Yeong, now grown, becomes a soldier in the Righteous Army, a volunteer militia fighting against the Japanese invaders. At the same time, Jong-ryeo, still loyal to the King, remains trapped by the hierarchical power dynamics.
Uprising brilliantly captures the spirit of revolt—not just against the external threat of Japanese invaders but against the internal social structure that binds individuals like Cheon Yeong to a life of servitude. The film paints a vivid picture of a world where a slave’s fate is sealed from birth.
Even when Cheon Yeong’s father argues that his son should be considered a commoner, the rigid system refuses to acknowledge his humanity. The revolt is not just physical but emotional as well.
Cheon Yeong’s journey from being a submissive slave to a fierce warrior mirrors the larger rebellion in the country. His internal conflict, torn between loyalty to his master and the desire for freedom, adds depth to the story
Director Kim Sang-man delivers visually stunning sequences, especially during the intense battle scenes. The sprawling landscapes, combined with the chaotic energy of war, create a sense of grand scale. The action choreography, particularly the sword fights, is a highlight, showcasing Cheon Yeong’s martial prowess in a way that feels raw and powerful.
However, beyond the action, the film’s emotional core resonates deeply. Cheon Yeong’s internal struggles and Jong-ryeo’s eventual realization of the weight of his privilege culminate in a heart-wrenching conclusion.
Jong-ryeo, in his dying moments, finally acknowledges his wrongdoings and apologizes to Cheon Yeong. The raw emotion of this scene, where Cheon Yeong mourns his friend, is one of the film’s most poignant moments.
The film subtly critiques the ruling elite and the rigid class structure of the Joseon era. King Seonjo, played by Cha Seung-won, represents a monarchy that is out of touch with its people. As the King and his court scramble to rebuild their palace, they ignore the suffering of the common people, including the slaves who rise in rebellion.
Uprising also explores the broader theme of unity, as reflected in the final part of the movie, where Cheon Yeong leads the people of Pan-Unity. This world, which is envisioned as one where everyone is equal, is the antithesis of the hierarchical and oppressive world depicted earlier in the film.
Is Uprising worth watching?
Uprising is a gripping, emotional, and visually stunning film that delves deep into themes of loyalty, rebellion, and the human cost of war. While the narrative can be heavy at times, with moments of emotional intensity and brutal action, it effectively captures the essence of a country in turmoil.
The tension between the two leads drives the story forward, making their journey one worth following. If you're a fan of historical dramas with a strong emotional core and compelling action sequences, Uprising is worth a watch. It provides a powerful reflection on friendship, betrayal, and the fight for justice in a time of upheaval.
Uprising is available for viewers to stream on Netflix.
