Hansan: Rising Dragon is a historical epic directed by Kim Han-min, set during the 1592 Imjin War when Korea faced a brutal invasion by Japan. This prequel to The Admiral: Roaring Currents (2014) focuses on the legendary Korean naval commander Admiral Yi Sun-sin and the pivotal Battle of Hansan Island. The story highlights Yi’s brilliant strategy involving the use of the turtle ships (geobukseon), innovative armored warships that played a critical role in defeating the superior Japanese fleet.
Park Hae-il delivers a powerful performance as Admiral Yi, portraying the leader’s strategic genius, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his nation. Opposing him is Byun Yo-han as Wakizaka Yasuharu, a formidable and cunning Japanese general. The film is filled with intense naval battles, showcasing a mix of CGI and practical effects to bring the chaos of 16th-century sea warfare to life.
Beyond its action, the movie delves into themes of leadership, sacrifice, and patriotism. With meticulous attention to historical detail and an engaging narrative, Hansan: Rising Dragon is both a thrilling spectacle and a tribute to one of Korea’s greatest historical heroes. It’s a must-watch for fans of war dramas and historical cinema.
Hansan: Rising Dragon (2022) Review
“Hansan: Rising Dragon” is a visually stunning historical epic that immerses viewers in the Battle of Hansan Island, a pivotal moment in Korea’s naval history. Directed by Kim Han-min, the film serves as a spiritual successor to The Admiral: Roaring Currents (2014) and chronicles Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s tactical brilliance in the face of overwhelming Japanese forces during the 1592 Imjin War.
The narrative centers on the development and deployment of the iconic “turtle ship” (geobukseon), blending historical authenticity with gripping drama. Park Hae-il delivers a commanding performance as Yi Sun-sin, embodying the admiral’s stoic resilience and intellectual acuity. His measured portrayal contrasts with the fiery determination of his adversaries, creating compelling tension throughout the film.
Visually, the movie is breathtaking, with sweeping sea battles rendered through impressive CGI and meticulous attention to period detail. The choreography of naval warfare is both thrilling and cerebral, highlighting Yi’s strategic genius. However, the film occasionally falters in its pacing, with dialogue-heavy moments that disrupt the narrative flow.
Despite these minor flaws, Hansan: Rising Dragon is a captivating tribute to Korean history, blending action, strategy, and patriotism in equal measure. It stands as a worthy continuation of Yi Sun-sin’s cinematic legacy.
Hansan: Rising Dragon (2022) Trailer
Hansan: Rising Dragon (2022) Screenshot
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