7.0/10
97% Critics / 94% Audience
The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil (Korean: 악인전), released in 2019, is a South Korean action-thriller directed by Lee Won-tae and based on a true crime case. The film blends high-stakes tension, brutal fight choreography, and unlikely character chemistry into one of Korea’s standout crime dramas of the decade.
Starring Ma Dong-seok (also known as Don Lee), Kim Mu-yeol, and Kim Sung-kyu, the movie showcases an unconventional alliance between a criminal kingpin and a relentless detective — both determined to capture a sadistic serial killer, albeit for very different reasons.
The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil – Official Trailer
What Is The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil About?
In the heart of Seoul, a brutal serial killer is leaving behind a trail of bodies. His modus operandi is simple yet chilling: cause a minor car crash and then slaughter his victims under the cover of the accident. One night, he makes a mistake — he picks the wrong target.
Jang Dong-soo, a feared gangster boss, survives the attack and becomes the only person to live through an encounter with the murderer. Now, Dong-soo wants revenge. Enter Detective Jung Tae-suk, a hot-headed but righteous cop who has been trying to convince his superiors that a serial killer is on the loose.
Though on opposite sides of the law, cop and gangster form a tense alliance. Tae-suk wants justice and career advancement; Dong-soo wants vengeance and personal closure. Together, they hunt the killer — each planning to get to him first, for very different reasons.
What unfolds is a gripping, bloody game of cat and mouse. As they draw closer to their quarry, both must confront their values, limits, and the price of justice in a system tainted by corruption and power struggles.
Is The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil Worth Watching?
Absolutely — and here’s why:
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- Ma Dong-seok delivers a powerhouse performance, oozing raw charisma and physical intensity. He is both terrifying and sympathetic.
- The film breaks genre stereotypes by teaming up a law enforcer with a criminal boss, creating a tense dynamic filled with mutual contempt and grudging respect.
- The action sequences are gritty, realistic, and viscerally satisfying. From street fights to high-speed chases, every frame crackles with tension.
- It’s a crime thriller with emotional weight, examining justice, revenge, and the blurry line between good and evil.
Whether you’re a fan of Korean cinema, crime dramas, or psychological thrillers, this film is an intense, well-executed addition to the genre.
Where to Watch The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil?
The film is widely available on digital platforms and streaming services depending on your region. It was also released on Blu-ray and DVD with English subtitles.
It premiered internationally at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival in the “Midnight Screenings” section, gaining attention from critics and fans alike.
The Ganster, the Cop, the Devil – Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil based on a true story?
Yes. The story is loosely based on a real-life serial killer case in South Korea, adding a layer of authenticity and unease to the fictional dramatization.
Who plays the serial killer?
Kim Sung-kyu portrays Kang Kyung-ho, the mysterious and emotionless killer whose silence is more terrifying than rage.
Is there a Hollywood remake?
Yes. In 2019, it was announced that Sylvester Stallone would produce a Hollywood remake, with Ma Dong-seok reprising his original role in English.
Does the film have a sequel?
No direct sequel has been announced, but the story’s conclusion leaves behind a strong impression — both satisfying and haunting.
Critical Reception
The film received widespread acclaim, especially for its unique setup and the performances of its lead actors:
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- Rotten Tomatoes: 97% approval based on 34 reviews
- Metacritic: Score of 65/100 (generally favorable reviews)
Critics praised the film’s stylistic action, neo-noir visuals, and fresh take on familiar genre tropes. While some reviewers noted its structure could feel uneven, most agreed it delivered a gripping, brutal, and entertaining ride.
Highlights from critics:
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- “This pulpy crime thriller from Korea is still a real kick in the head.” – The Guardian
- “Fast-paced, stylish, and consistently entertaining.” – Little White Lies
- “A great idea with solid execution… genre fun with emotional bite.” – /Film
Final Thoughts: Justice Beyond the Law
The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil is more than just a gritty action flick — it’s a study in moral complexity. The film explores what justice means when the law fails, and how blurred the line becomes between hero and villain when both are hunting a greater evil.
With explosive action, memorable characters, and a true story at its core, this film represents the boldness of Korean crime cinema at its best. It’s a thrilling, morally murky ride that’s not just worth watching — it’s worth remembering.
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