Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions in Citizen of a Kind, the latest directorial masterpiece by Park Young-Joo. This film offers an enthralling yet heartwarming retelling of a real-life story from 2016, when an ordinary laundry shop owner took on a dangerous criminal syndicate. Blending elements of detective drama, comedy, and heartfelt inspiration, the film introduces Deok-hee, played by Ra Mi-ran, in a story that will have you rooting for her until the end.
Plot and Key Characters
The film begins with Deok-hee, a middle-aged single mother, struggling to keep her family afloat after a tragic accident. She works tirelessly at a local laundry shop, borrowing money to make ends meet. Just when things seem like they can’t get worse, she becomes the victim of a voice phishing scam. A fraudulent bank manager, Mr. Son Jae-min (Gong Myung), tricks her into transferring all her savings, and in an instant, Deok-hee loses everything. The police, overwhelmed with similar cases, offer no help, and Detective Park (Park Byung-eun) dismisses her case, leaving her to fend for herself.
The story takes a thrilling twist when Deok-hee receives a phone call from none other than Mr. Son himself, confessing to the scam. But there’s more: he claims to be a captive in Qingdao, China, held by a criminal organization running a massive fraud operation. Son reveals that he is desperate to escape and willing to expose the entire operation, igniting the spark of a high-stakes investigation. This moment combines the film’s detective and comedy elements as Deok-hee embarks on a mission to recover her money and seek justice, with the help of her loyal friends, Bong-rim (Yum Hye-ran) and Sook-ja (Jang Yoon-ju).
Deok-hee’s Journey to China
Deok-hee’s journey to China is where the film’s detective element truly shines. Determined and undeterred by fear, she enters a world full of danger and suspense, tracking down the criminal syndicate with only her instincts and her fragile alliance with Mr. Son. The scenes set in Qingdao are a whirlwind of tension, as Deok-hee and her friends navigate an unfamiliar and menacing landscape, piecing together clues to locate the so-called “fraud farm” where Mr. Son is being held captive. Ra Mi-ran’s portrayal of Deok-hee captures the character’s psychological conflict perfectly: her fear and hesitation are palpable, but her resolve to bring the criminals to justice never wavers.
Humor Amidst Suspense
The film masterfully balances suspense with comedy, especially through the antics of Bong-rim and Sook-ja, who provide much-needed levity. Their presence underscores the theme of solidarity, as their humorous mishaps in China highlight the importance of friendship in overcoming the impossible. One particularly memorable scene shows the trio in a chaotic chase through the streets of Qingdao, blending slapstick humor with high-stakes drama.
Stellar Performances and Direction
Ra Mi-ran’s performance is nothing short of outstanding. Known for her versatility, she breathes life into Deok-hee, balancing vulnerability with fierce determination. Supporting actors Yum Hye-ran and Jang Yoon-ju bring warmth and humor to the friendship dynamics, making the trio’s quest both gripping and entertaining. Gong Myung, as the remorseful scammer, and Park Byung-eun, as the dismissive detective, add depth to the narrative, highlighting the film’s layered storytelling.
The film’s editing and art direction elevate the viewing experience, with smooth scene transitions that keep you on the edge of your seat. The depiction of the fraud factory in Qingdao is visually striking, showcasing the dark underbelly of organized crime in a haunting yet captivating way. Every frame tells a story, making Citizen of a Kind a must-watch for anyone who appreciates masterful filmmaking.
Critical and Box Office Success
Citizen of a Kind has proven itself a box-office sensation, topping the South Korean charts with more than $3.58 million on its opening weekend. Critics and audiences alike have praised Park Young-Joo’s direction, calling it a successful commercial debut. The film’s unique approach to a real-life event has earned it screenings at prestigious festivals like the Udine Far East Film Festival, captivating audiences worldwide.
Ready to experience this remarkable journey of justice, courage, and humor? Don’t miss out—click here to watch Citizen of a Kind now and immerse yourself in Deok-hee’s unforgettable adventure.