The Mayor

The Mayor (2017), directed by Park In-je, is a compelling South Korean political drama that provides an eye-opening insight into the world of politics, showcasing the struggles and ambitions of people in power. With a strong cast consisting of Choi Min-sik, Kwak Do-won, and Shim Eun-kyung, the film presents an intricate portrayal of power dynamics, moral dilemmas, and political manipulation in contemporary Seoul.

The movie revolves around the charismatic and cunning Mayor of Seoul, Byeon Jong-gu, brilliantly portrayed by Choi Min-sik, who is seeking his third term in office. He's ruled the city for eight long years but is willing to tread any path necessary to secure another term and further his political goals. His charm and a knack for politics make him a formidable character on screen.

Byeon's journey towards securing his third term is laden with ruthless strategic challenges that make the storyline intriguing. As the election nears, he is helped by a team of sharp, intelligent, and dedicated individuals who devote their lives to manipulating the public opinion in his favour. They employ various campaigning tactics, some ethical and some not, to ensure his victory.

Kwak Do-won plays Shim Hyeok-soo, the ambitious, determined, yet somewhat naïve political strategist and campaign manager for Byeon. Kwak offers a well-rounded performance as he journeys through political warfare, maneuvering through dilemmas and conflicts, and understanding the harsh realities of politics.

A significant character in The Mayor is Park Kyung, a young, idealistic intern played by Shim Eun-kyung. She is torn between her admiration and dedication to Byeon and her unwavering integrity. Shim’s innocent charm is juxtaposed against the harsh political world, providing a fresh perspective on the political machinery in the film.

The Mayor of Seoul's visual storytelling is as compelling as its narrative. The film unearths the dark back-alleys of politics through sleek cinematography and tight editing. The soaring skyline of Seoul, presented through panoramic shots and time-lapse sequences, ironically stand as silent testimony to the murky politics being played beneath it.

The film is not just a political drama, but also an engaging character study that addresses corruption, deceit, and the thirst for power that can blind the most rational of individuals. It poses questions on morality, career ethics, and human nature. The characters in the movie are not simply black and white; they are a complex blend of grey, which makes them appear more realistic and relatable.

Despite its political undertones, The Mayor is highly accessible to a global audience. The universal themes of ambition, sacrifice, and manipulation make it an engaging watch, even for those unfamiliar with Korean politics.

Choi Min-sik, a renowned veteran in Korean Cinema, delivers a memorable performance as Mayor Byeon. His multifaceted portrayal of a charismatic leader, whose voracious ambition often blurs his moral compass, is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the movie.

Kwak Do-won, who has established himself as a reliable actor in Korean Cinema, offers an empowering performance as Shim. His journey from a confident campaign manager to someone exposed to the underbelly of politics is enthralling to watch.

Meanwhile, Shim Eun-kyung gives a compelling performance as the young, idealistic intern. Her portrayal of a person caught between her duty and her conscience adds a subtle nuance to the political drama.

The film’s score is equally impressive, using music to build up tension and evoke the right emotions at pivotal moments. The clever use of sound effects, too, amps up the impact of certain scenes.

In summary, The Mayor is an insightful and entertaining film for those who are fascinated by politics and power-play. The screenplay is tight, the performances are powerful, and the plot progression remains unpredictable till the end. The movie is proof that Korean Cinema is not just confined to traditional themes but is also capable of exploring intricate subjects like political machinations.

The Mayor is a cleverly crafted movie that is sure to leave you pondering. It isn't just a movie about politics – it's a movie that reveals the human nature involved in politics. It's about the ambition, the power, the deceit, and the decisions that all play a part in the game of power.

Overall, while The Mayor is a political drama at its core, it also serves as a thought-provoking social commentary. The interactive performances, somber mood, and compelling characters enrich the film’s narrative, making it a must-watch for any ardent fan of Korean cinema, or for anyone looking for a memorable film experience.