It was a time of darkness for Joseon people, each of them barely enduring the harsh Japanese in their own way. Some became pro-Japanese. Most just focused on hiding in the shadows. But a few courageous people stood up against the Japanese, carrying out secret operations against wicked officials. Many movies and shows tell the story of Ahn Jung-geun, the heroic independence activist who assassinated Japanese politician Ito Hirobumi. And since Koreans are already familiar with Ahn's history, it may have been tough to exceed people's expectations. Also, it was disappointing that actor Hyun-Bin didn't resemble Ahn at all. Despite the odds however, Harbin turned out to be a fine masterpiece. The movie is characterized by its coldness. Every scene looks stiff and rigid. The overall lack of warmth with no exaggerated vitality is rather new, yet more convincing. Tears are still shed, but not for long. The feeling of sadness and anger is too familiar to be overw...
