Rampant

Rampant, directed by Kim Sung-Hoon and released in 2018, is a South Korean blend of period drama and zombie horror, combined to create an adrenaline-fueled gore-fest that has us hurtling through the dust-blown courtyards and closely-packed streets of an isolated fortress city during the Joseon era. Its setting is thoroughly historic, yet its horror elements are distinctly modern, creating a unique juxtaposition that discards convention and traditions of historical dramas or undead scare flicks.

The film features an impressive ensemble cast, the cream of South Korean cinema, and its led impeccably by Hyun Bin who plays the role of Prince Lee Chung. Lee Chung is a skilled fighter, but he is also known as a troublemaker that does not respect tradition or have any interest in political matters. He left Joseon years ago after having an intense rivalry with his half-brother, the odious and power-hungry Crown Prince, who is skillfully portrayed by Kim Joon Han.

The plot of Rampant kickstarts when the Prince, who has been living in China's Qing dynasty, is called back to Joseon after his elder brother, the Crown Prince, commits suicide under mysterious circumstances. What he discovers when he returns is not familiar Joseon, but a kingdom drowning in political conspiracy and ravaged by a dreadfully mystical affliction. A subject that might sound absurd in theory, the dreaded demonic infection which brings the dead back to life, is treated with utmost severity.

Lee Chung soon finds himself dealing with night demons or ‘Night Ravagers’, human beings turned into flesh-eating monsters that are dormant during the day and rampant at nightfall. These monsters are unlike your typical zombies; they are faster, more agile, and more dangerous, rampaging through the city streets with ferocity and leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. Seo Ji-Hye, playing the role of Deok-Hee brings in a rider that gives the sense of female empowerment in an otherwise male-dominated world.

While the central conflict of the film transpires through Prince Lee Chung's attempts to understand, resist, and destroy the nightmarish creatures threatening his kingdom, the film simultaneously unwraps the political machinations and power struggles that simmer within the Joseon royal court. It examines the weighty issues of decisions and sacrifices in times of war, framed within the chilling threat of the impending zombie apocalypse.

The setting of the movie is a feather in its cap, as Director Kim Sung-Hoon and Production Designer Lee Hwo-Kyung bring Joseon era to life with intricately detailed sets, rich textures and colors, and expansive landscapes that beautifully juxtapose the ugliness of the zombie onslaught. The cinematography and the overall visual aesthetics of the film are stunning, enhancing the viewer experience.

The Mastermind behind the fight scenes and the zombie attacks is Action Director Jung Doo-Hong. The choreography of the fight sequences between the humans and the ‘Night Ravagers’ is slick, violent, and fast-paced, matching the intensity that you would expect from a zombie-horror film. The special effects employed for the ‘Night Ravagers’ and the action sequences are top-notch, providing a visual feast that is violently beautiful.

Rampant is not just a no-holds-barred horror action flick; it also showcases South Korea's traditional and cultural backdrop. The screenplay effectively blends horror elements with an intriguing narrative about power and corruption. Amidst the chaos and gore, the film slows down at times to focus on the tender emotions of the characters, offering a provident break in the otherwise high-octane storyline, and thus, keeping the viewers engaged.

Furthermore, the film’s score is formidable and brilliantly complements its visual aesthetics. It’s hauntingly beautiful, taking a tense situation and amplifying that fear, yet subtly shifts to a more melodic, melancholic tone during emotional scenes.

Rampant is a cinematic roller coaster, a genre mash-up that takes you on a thrilling ride through the Joseon era filled with intense action, monstrous creatures, and deep-seated conspiracy. Thanks to its well-rounded performances, mesmerizing special effects, and a compelling narrative, the film offers a horror experience that is terrifyingly enjoyable and uniquely Korean. Undeniably, it's an interesting addition to the ever-growing genre of zombie flicks.