Mercy For None Review: Jo Ji-Sub stands out in this vendetta drama that impresses in parts

The new Netflix Korea release of the week is Mercy For None. It is a limited series with just eight episodes. Actor Jo Ji-Sub is the main male lead. Mercy For None is a vendetta drama packed with a lot of action. Jo Ji Sub plays Nam Gi-joon who wants to avenge the death of his brother, Nam Gi-seok. Fans can also see stars like Huh Joon-ho who just delivered a fantastic performance in Buried Hearts as Prosecutor Yeom Jang-seon. Here is our review of the series.

The Plot

The show starts off on an intriguing note with the death of Nam Gi-Seok (Lee Jun Hyuk). His brother who stays away from him is back in Seoul to avenge his death. The main culprit seems to be Joon – mo played by Gong Myoung. But there is more than what meets the eye. Slowly, we delve into the world of an application that supplies small-time goons to cover up for big crimes. As Nam Gi-joon sets off to seek revenge, hidden truths come to the fore, and relationships are questioned.

What's hot

Jo Ji Sub is in top form of Nam Gi-joon. He is effortless as cold, ruthless, menacing elder brother with a violent history. The actor who is known as one of the best acting talents of South Korea dominates every frame he is in. Though he has a small role, Lee Jun-Hyuk stands out as a shady mercenary working as a corporate executive. Huh Joon-ho does a great job as Lee Joo-woon who is caught in a moral battle. The photography and lighting is first-rate capturing the grim nature of the show. The sound effects and BGM work well too. It is a noir Korean action drama and the violence is just brutal. The combat scenes shot in tiny spaces are riveting. If you do not mind the blood and gore, this is a fun ride. The series reminds you of John Wick movies.

What's Not

Despite some excellent performances, Mercy For None does not score much on the novelty factor. The first two episodes are written in a very hackneyed manner saved only by the powerhouse actors. The story gets better as the series progresses. Since the identity of the killer is revealed early on, there is no mystery and suspense either.

Verdict

Mercy For None has its moments but wobbles due to the lacklustre script. However, the performances make up for the same.