The formula for "buddy movies" is quite familiar here: Two good-looking actors who at first don't get along come together as they tackle some kind of problem or project. But whatever the problems, you can be sure of a "feel good" ending that ties things up.
The new crime thriller "Running Wild" (Yasu), which deals with the relationship between a tough detective and cool-headed prosecutor, could have stayed within these conventions, but towards the end its director takes a sudden unexpected turn in a darker direction.
Because of the rush to a stylish yet tragic conclusion, the dark turn causes moviegoers confusion and gives them a sense of emptiness rather than taking the film to a higher level than the average buddy movie.
Starring the nation's top heartthrobs kwon Sang-woo and Yoo Ji-tae, the movie depicts how men's violence and ruthlessness can turn into weapons of self-destruction.
The movie teams up detective Jang Do-young (played by Kwon) and a bright prosecutor named Oh Jin-woo (Yoo), to take on crime boss Yu Kang-jin (Son Byeong-ho).
Jang prefers fists to logic when handling criminals while Oh is meticulous to catch Bad Guys, emphasizing the importance of data and evidence.
But one thing that Jang and Oh share is a strong desire to pay back Yu. Jang's younger brother is killed by a hit man from the gang because he tried to blackmail Yu, and Oh was once pushed aside while investigating Yu who has numerous connections with politicians.
However, despite their teamwork, they slip into trouble as Yu's connections help him set a trap for the two.
The film's Korean title "Yasu'' means beast, in reference to the two characters becoming beasts when forced to the edge, and there is an implication that violence can be the only solution to defeat their enemy.
Before taking a sudden turn, the movie gradually builds up tension and offers action-packed scenes that are enjoyable moments for action movie fans.
The two actors also perform well. Kwon, especially emerges successfully from his typical roles that appeal mostly to teenage female fans.
If the movie had developed such elements, the film would have been much more enjoyable as an "OK" action buddy movie if it hadn't finished with such a vague ending.
English 
US$5 off (order min. US$5)
