Officer Black Belt is a South Korean crime action film directed by Kim Joo-Hwan. This Netflix release stars Kim Woo-bin, Kim Sung-kyun, Kim Yo-han, Kang Hyoung-suk, Cha Wang-hyeon, and Lee Hae-young. Can this 109-minute film provide a fresh take on the typical plot genre that has been widely released on the market?
In South Korea, after a prisoner completes their sentence, they undergo a probation period supervised by a special task force, such as the police. The prisoners are fitted with motion detectors on their feet, which are monitored from a central office. These officers face high risks, especially with repeat offenders. The story of this film focuses on the phenomenon of sexual violence against women and children in South Korea.
Lee Jung-do (Woo-bin) is a tough young man with black belts in taekwondo, judo, and kendo. While helping out at his father’s restaurant as a food delivery person, Jung-do intervenes to help a special officer being abused by a client. His actions lead to an offer for a temporary job to replace the officer who is on leave. Jung-do finds a new identity in this challenging role. After several cases in the field, Jung-do and his senior, Kim (Sung-kyun), are assigned a special mission to supervise a notorious prisoner who is causing a national commotion.
The premise of the plot may feel fresh because it offers the perspective of a field officer/supervisor, a role rarely explored in this context. However, it is unclear whether official officers like this can recruit anyone they want without certain qualifications or standards. Jung-do’s recruitment seems to be based solely on a recommendation, raising questions about the process, especially considering that this program receives government funding. The bureaucracy and certification standards typically associated with government programs are not addressed.
The plot itself remains close to the formulaic gangster crime films, featuring the classic detective versus gangster dynamic often seen in films starring Ma Dong-seok, with all his great action. This time, the story is viewed from a different angle. Independent investigations, collective fights (i.e., ganging up), and intense action are staples of this subgenre. Despite the familiar elements, Officer Black Belt maintains an intense narrative throughout, making each moment engaging. The film also incorporates the usual comedic and humanistic (dramatic) touches that South Korean films are known for.
As for the action, the protagonist’s expertise in three types of martial arts is prominently displayed in the choreography. This aspect is particularly interesting for fans of these sports. Several action sequences are tense, especially before the third act, and the climax is both satisfying and, at times, brutally intense. The cat-and-mouse dynamic between criminals and officers, though familiar, remains entertaining. South Korean films are renowned for their effective casting, especially in depicting cruel and ruthless antagonists. One drawback, however, is the absence of a female protagonist, despite the story touching on issues affecting women.
Officer Black Belt follows the typical pattern of the crime-gangster genre but delivers enough intense action and a compelling story to satisfy genre enthusiasts. South Korean films excel in this subgenre, offering a combination of hot-button issues, impressive choreography, comedic elements, charismatic protagonists and antagonists, brutal scenes, and touching drama. Officer Black Belt adds a noteworthy entry to its genre amidst many similar films.
