[Movie Review] Extreme Job 극한직업 鸡不可失 - A Korean Action Movie That Builds Up In Excitement

What's a recipe for a comedy? A group of detectives working undercover at the chicken stall and having to perfect the fried chicken recipe? Sure, why not?

That was what I thought when I first watched the trailer for Extreme Job 극한직업 with my grandma at the cinema during the trailers before a movie started.

The Chinese title 鸡不可失 is even more memorable as it plays on the idiom 机不可失 (meaning an opportunity not to be missed) but changing 机 to 鸡, which means chicken. This certainly relates directly to the movie's main plot.

Despite not being able to read 100% of the  subtitles, my grandma's laughter made me decide to bring her to watch this movie. I certainly (die-die must watch this movie or in other words) could not miss this.

The Good

Content

- Unique story plot: Plots revolving around detectives going undercover are relatively common. But opening a fried chicken stall? I think not. 

   

- Comedic moments which funny trigger points people can relate to

For example, when the detectives introduced themselves as husband and wife to the original fried chicken stall owner, without knowing that, the captain introduced himself as the female detective's husband accidentally. He had to correct himself confidently as the ex-husband instead haha. Another scene was when the maknae (youngest detective) became a "drug addict" temporarily and acted weirdly but it was quite hilarious :P

- The movie included many action scenes, where the detectives fought with the drug dealers. However, it was good that they were not gory but more of entertaining.

- Satisfying ending: at the start, the junior who got promoted before the captain and roasted the captain, the caption got his "revenge". The team could roast the other team back after nabbing the major drug dealers. They also got a nice ending where they were promoted and rewarded after their hard work and disapproval from their superior.

Cast

Actors had convincing acting and were not just cast for their looks. Each had their unique personality and skills to bring to the table and were fit for their roles.

Technicality

Lighting was consistent and the movie used a variety of shots. For example, the scene was shot from high angle when showcasing the road intersection where many cars collided together and also close-ups of each character when they were fighting against the drug dealers.

To Improve

- Plot pacing: The start was a bit slow, as I understood they were giving context and background about the characters and what spurred them to eventually open the chicken shop. However, perhaps the introduction part could have been more succinct. Fortunately the movie built up in momentum and excitement, saving the best bits for last. They did not make the audience anticipate for them to be left in disappointment.

- Can expand upon romance between the male and female detective. The movie always paired them up but they weren't many scenes to show their in-depth interactions. When they suddenly were certain of their feelings for each other near the end, we kind of knew it was coming but it's still quite sweet haha!!

Conclusion

Overall, the movie is well executed and entertaining. It is not just a plain action movie but shows the spirit of not giving up and when you've hit the rock bottom, the only way is up. There is always a silver lining in every grey cloud. Hence, Extreme Job is definitely a suitable choice for friends, family or anybody to watch together during any occasion!

P.S. What was my grandma's verdict of the movie? She enjoyed the movie a lot though she fell asleep at the start due to fatigue. She said although it's an action movie, it's nice to watch. XD

Cheers,
Glissie