Cast
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Jang Dong-gun
as Lee Jin-tae
Won Bin
as Lee Jin-seok
Lee Eun-ju
as Kim Young-shin
Gong Hyung-jin
as Yong-man
Lee Young-ran
as Mother
Jang Min-ho
as Old Lee Jin-seok
Jo Yoon-hee
as Jin-seok's Grandaughter
An Kil-kang
as Sergeant Huh
Park Gil-su
as Excavation Team Leader
Jung Jin
as Pfc. Im
Jo Woon
as Platoon Soldier #1
Hwang Taek-ha
as Platoon Soldier #2
Cho Won-hee
as Battalion Commander
Yoon Hee-won
as Platoon Leader
Jeon Jae-hyeong
as Yong-seok
Crew
Director
- Kang Je-kyu
Producer
- Lee Seong-hun
- Lee Se-ho
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Kang Je-kyu brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 148 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 206 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 307 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, which focuses more on action than character development, Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Raiders of the Lost Ark and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom explore similar territory, Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of War stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 5, 2004
- Runtime: 2h 28m
- Budget: $1,500,000
