What price freedom? Its an individual as much as a collective question. That's the context "The Battle: Roar to Victory" resides within.
This is an unambiguously patriotic film but its clearly defined reason to be, put it head and shoulders, above films that talk about patriotism but fail to explain its purpose.
In this instance, its the Japanese Empires imperial ambitions. Invading Korea and as this film shows, brutally subjugating its people. An historically accurate representation of, at times, harsh policies, that continued into WWII where often forced Korean recruits, were used, essentially, as canon fodder.
This film is, unsurprisingly, not an easy watch. Its visceral at times and that bloodiness extends to civilians, as well as those who have taken up arms. What it does demonstrate emphatically, is why these people fight and what they are fighting for. Of course, what is asked, is how much are they as individuals and a group, willing to sacrifice?
Military action is non stop, frenetic, brutal, interspersed with moments of deeply felt emotion and courage. Cinematic's are remarkable, bringing the battle scenes, that define this film, to life. I found it at times a mesmerising watch that drew me in and held me till the closing credits.
Another film for South Korea to be proud of. 9/10 from me.
