Gangnam Blues (also known as Gangnam 1970) is a gritty neo-noir action film set in the turbulent backdrop of 1970s Seoul, chronicling the underbelly of political corruption and land power struggles that laid the foundation for today’s Gangnam district. Directed by Yoo Ha, this film marked a dramatic departure for Lee Min-ho—breaking away from his “pretty boy” image into a tough, emotionally complex role.
Plot Summary
Two orphaned street survivalists—Kim Jong-dae (Lee Min-ho) and Baek Yong-ki (Kim Rae-won)—find themselves swept into violence when their makeshift shelter is destroyed to clear land. As they join rival gangs and wrestle with ambition, loyalty, and betrayal, Seoul’s power brokers manipulate the chaos to profit from the impending real estate boom in Gangnam.
Highlights
- Lee Min-ho transforms his image, delivering a raw and charismatic lead performance that earns respect beyond his earlier romantic roles.
- A compelling tale of brotherhood turned rivalry, with Kim Rae-won providing a solid counterpart to navigate ambition and downfall.
- Stylish neo-noir cinematography and authentic period design vividly depict the violent underbelly and moral decay that fueled Gangnam’s development.
What Could Be Better
- The sprawling scope and multitude of characters can dilute the emotional focus on the central relationship between Jong-dae and Yong-ki.
- Despite its visual power, some critics felt the film lacked a lasting emotional impact after the credits rolled.
Verdict
Gangnam Blues is a bold and gritty cinematic effort that challenged Lee Min-ho’s star image and solidified his abilities in dramatic, intense roles. While its dense narrative can feel overwhelming, the dive into historical corruption and its emotional center make it a compelling piece—especially for fans eager to see the actor push his boundaries.