Song of the Bandits is a South Korean action drama series that just premiered on Netflix. The series stars Kim Nam-gil as Lee Yoon, the leader of the bandits, Seohyun as Namhee, a mysterious woman with a hidden past, and Yoo Jae-myung as Heo Soo-tae, a Japanese governor who is determined to crush the bandits.
Welcome to the frontier, a lawless town, the world of renegades with a dark past where, without justification, we are all guilty. Welcome to a turbulent land in an unstable situation, after a war or on the brink of another.
Nothing matters in “Song of the Bandits” but survival.
Synopsis
The series is set in the 1920s during the Japanese colonial rule of Korea and tells the story of a group of bandits who fight to protect their homeland.
Review of “Song of the Bandits”
If you’re looking for a truly good series, with well-defined characters and good storytelling, with a classic construction that also knows how to play with the modern, “Song of the Bandits” offers all of that. It will give you a chance to lose yourself in another world this weekend: with gunslingers, street gangs, and lawless cities. It’s like a Western, but in the land of Gando where a group of people with a turbulent past form a peculiar group made up of outlaw, and that fights to merely survive.
“Song of the Bandits” is cinematically well-crafted, especially in terms of aesthetics: a series with dark photography, reminiscent of “Unforgiven”. It is visually enjoyable, with its framing and sequence construction, which counts on a very good editing rhythm. With well-defined characters, each carrying their own stories, and a development within the plot.
Now, if there’s one thing that stands out in “Song of the Bandits”, it is the ambience of a classic western it so well conveys, with a story of outlaws and bandits. It manages to capture that environment, were the “outlaws” rule, and has all the required elements (music, atmosphere, and especially characterizations), bringing about a result that is truly appealing to the viewer.
Is it a series not to be missed? I suppose that’s a matter of personal taste. If you don’t like Westerns, it may still convince you based on its cinematic and aesthetic aspects.
For lovers of classic cinema, of films from the 60s, it will be a delight, because it is aesthetically well-crafted and knows how to combine the modern infusing it with a classic flavor.
Our Opinion
A very good series to enjoy on Netflix that may not be gold in everything it produces and airs, but occasionally surprises us with good productions like this one.
Release Date
September 22, 2023
Where to Watch Song of the Bandits
The Cast
Kim Nam-gil
Kim Nam-gil, a multi-talented individual from South Korea, has made a name for himself as an actor, producer, singer, and philanthropist. Born on March 13, 1981, he has garnered recognition for his remarkable performances in various genres. Notably, he has taken on leading roles in notable films such as the disaster blockbuster “Pandora” (2016), the gripping crime thriller “The Shameless” (2015), the thrilling adventure film “The Pirates” (2014), and the captivating period drama “Portrait of a Beauty” (2008).
However, it was his portrayal of Bidam in the immensely popular television period drama “Queen Seondeok” (2009) that truly catapulted him to stardom. This breakthrough role showcased his exceptional acting skills and garnered him widespread acclaim.
Outside of his successful acting career, Kim Nam-gil is also a compassionate individual who strives to make a positive impact on society. He is the founder and CEO of Gilstory, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving cultural heritage, promoting the arts, and raising funds for special purposes. Through his philanthropic efforts, he aims to contribute to the betterment of society and make a lasting difference.
Seohyun
Seo Ju-hyun, also known by her stage name Seohyun, is a talented South Korean singer and actress. She gained popularity as a member of the renowned K-pop girl group, Girls’ Generation, and later became a part of the group’s first sub-unit, TaeTiSeo (TTS). In addition to her group activities, Seohyun embarked on a successful solo career, making her debut as a solo singer with the lead single “Don’t Say No” and releasing a mini-album of the same name.
Aside from her musical endeavors, Seohyun has also showcased her acting skills in various productions. She has notably appeared in popular musicals such as “Moon Embracing The Sun,” “Gone With The Wind,” and “Mamma Mia. Her versatile acting talents have also been recognized in television dramas like “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” and “Private Lives. Most recently, Seohyun captivated audiences with her performance in the Netflix romantic comedy film “Love and Leashes.
Yoo Jae-myung
You Chea-myung, also known as Yu Jae-myeong, is a highly acclaimed South Korean actor. With an impressive career spanning several years, he has gained recognition for his exceptional performances in various television series. Notably, he captivated audiences with his roles in the popular series Reply 1988 (2015), Stranger (2017), and Life (2018). For his outstanding talent and dedication to his craft, he was honored with the prestigious Best Supporting Actor award at the 6th APAN Star Awards. Yu Jae-myeong’s versatility and undeniable talent have solidified his position as a prominent figure in the South Korean entertainment industry.
Lee Hyun-wook
Lee Hyun Wook, a talented South Korean actor, first graced the screen on June 17, 1985. He embarked on his acting journey with a modest role in the renowned 2014 television drama series called “3 Days. Since then, Lee Hyun Wook has captivated audiences with his exceptional skills in various films and television dramas. Notable among his works are the 2016 drama series “Mrs. Cop 2” and the 2017 production titled “Fake”.
