Ma Seok Do (Don Lee) returns to pursue criminals in the fourth installment of The Roundup series, titled The Roundup: Punishment. After battling Japanese gangsters, this time the detective confronts ruthless former special forces operatives.
Several new characters are introduced to enhance the narrative. So, does The Roundup: Punishment offer a more thrilling story than its predecessors? Let’s explore the pros and cons of the film first.
Warning: Spoilers Ahead!
1. Fresh Plot and Intense Villains:
Ma Seok Do investigates a murder case involving a software developer in the Philippines. However, the investigation reveals ties to Korea’s largest illegal online gambling organization.
Recognizing his lack of digital expertise, Seok Do assembles a cyber investigation team consisting of IT experts Han Ji Su and Kang Nam Su. Further revelations uncover that the organization is led by former special forces operative Baek Chang Gi.
Baek Chang Gi’s formidable skills enable him to dispatch his opponents swiftly and mercilessly, adding a new dimension to the sequel. Every encounter with him is tense, particularly his one-on-one showdown with Seok Do.
2. Sharper Action and Balanced Comedy
The Roundup: Punishment delivers well-executed action sequences that pack a punch. Viewers will find themselves on the edge of their seats throughout.
Despite the intense action, the film maintains its comedic elements, seamlessly blending humor with the adrenaline-fueled scenes. Director Heo Myung Haeng strikes a perfect balance between the two, keeping audiences engaged without sacrificing the storyline.
Additionally, the film’s music score evokes powerful emotions and subtly introduces viewers to traditional Filipino culture.
3. Repetitive Storytelling
While The Roundup: Punishment introduces new characters to enrich the narrative, it still heavily relies on Ma Seok Do’s character, leading to a sense of monotony, especially for marathon viewers.
However, Don Lee’s compelling performance as Seok Do and the introduction of a formidable adversary mitigate this issue. Audiences will be captivated by the intense showdown between Seok Do and Baek Chang Gi, offering a fresh perspective on Lee Dong Hwi’s portrayal as a villain.
Are you ready to witness the brutal clash between detectives Ma Seok Do and Baek Chang Gi? Don’t miss this thrilling installment of The Roundup series!