Imagine you killed a dangerous criminal who deserves death. Are you a God or a Sinner? It’s a universal doubt that divides people in half, as some support the intentions while others say, “A crime is a crime for anyone”. So, which side are you? Confused! Well, a Netflix show is trending on this concept, “A Killer Paradox”, that can give answers. Let’s see if it’s a hit or miss!
Morality vs Justice
The story revolves around Booksmart Lee Tang, aka Choi Woo Shik, a part-time worker at a convenience store. When he gets badly assaulted, he accidentally kills the man. To our surprise, the victim is a psycho killer, and the whole scenario changes when there is no evidence or witnesses, raising his inner morality. He then continues to perform a series of criminal killings until a crooked detective starts investigating. Detective Jang delves into the serious details of our hero, causing a large cat-and-mouse chase. Thus, questioning the balance of justice and law in today’s society.
Vibe: Taking Justice Into Hands, Not a Bad Thing
The director Lee Chang Hee did a decent job of utilizing intense camerawork. He raised the temperatures in the first three episodes with a very tightly sealed story. They’ve opted for more slow-motion sequences, match cuts, and perspective-focused scenes to create a high-suspense feeling and visual experience. Thus, developed a unique style to explore more of the protagonists’ mindset, his take on morality, and death.
Well, the show slowly explores on hero’s newly induced mindset to kill every evil person to ensure peace. His ethical intentions may pull out weeds, but in law, he is a murderer, despite any arguments. But in the end, we understand that everybody has that instinct to kill, but only one takes the shot, so the detective doesn’t press charges against him and he flees the country like a hero. It is unrealistic, but you might like it in context.
Crafting Characters
As usual, Choi Woo Shik gives a wonderful performance as a villain-like hero, shining from portraying a top student to a violent vigilante. It’s supported by Son Suk Ku’s virtue and wit as a confident detective. He also explores his flashbacks, discovering his father to be a corrupted police officer, and he is no better than any criminal. Next, we have Lee Chon, aka Lee Hee Joon former detective & Kim Yo Han playing crucial supporting roles in the plot. They did decent acting, not many noteworthy scenes.
Soundtrack and Slowmotions
The music score is composed by the famous “Dalpalan”, known for his works: The Wailing, Phantom, A Bittersweet Life, & more mini-series. He has created thrilling tunes to match the dark elements & complex situations of the show. Even though it doesn’t carry his significant mark, it works for the viewers to indulge and contemplate it.
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Final Verdict
A Killer Paradox is a gripping, suspense-action-packed film, promising a good cast and interesting plotlines with dark comedy. However, later episodes feel like dragging with no substance, and subplots steal the direct attention from the purpose, which becomes predictable and dull. But overall, it is above average and deserves a one-time watch. So go ahead, open your Netflix, and watch right now!
IMDb: 7.1/10 Â Â Â Â Â Â Rotten Tomatoes: 100%Â Â Â Â Â My Rating: 4/5
Written by: Meghana Pinninti