Really strong film with amazing action sequences that masterfully blend traditionally fast‑cut choreography with more innovative, experimental uses of slower frame rates, even during quieter stretches. This is paired with engagingly experimental sound design that draws you into the world of our deaf protagonist, Lu (Lee Shin‑young).

The acting is consistently strong, but special mention goes to Kim Myung‑min as the Master assassin. His mix of stoicism and deadpan detachment when he slips into killing‑machine mode is extremely satisfying. It even provides some great laughs, as do several other moments achieved through both dialogue and editing, particularly those showing people interacting peacefully with the good‑natured Lu.

Another aspect deserving praise is how, despite the story sounding convoluted on paper, with multiple factions and involved parties, the film presents everything with clarity and ease. It reflects a confident command of story, structure and pacing from writer‑director Park Hoon‑jung.

Nonetheless, while the narrative is clearly delivered, the emotional depth of the relationships, especially those involving Lu, would benefit from further exploration. At key moments, the emotional weight feels diluted when it could have been more poignant had those connections been developed more fully. This also affects the ending, which, although still offering solid action, feels predictable, slightly ridiculous and a bit over the top, even within the film’s already heightened tone.