Just watched “The Merciless,” a South Korean crime thriller that’s as much about slick suits and betrayal as it is about friendship and survival. I have to admit, when I first saw the trailer, I thought, “Here we go again, another shoot-em-up gangster flick.” But, boy, was I wrong! This movie is like a well-seasoned pot of köttbullar (meatballs)—you think you know what you’re getting, but there’s always that secret ingredient.

Now, I won’t spoil the plot (I’m no spoiler-Johan!), but what stands out is the dynamic between the two protagonists, Hyun-soo and Jae-ho. The film dives deep into their relationship, adding layers of complexity that reminded me of late-night conversations with old friends over a kopparberg cider. You know the kind, where you’re not sure if you’ve crossed the line into betrayal or just plain honesty. The tension feels real, like a rainy November day in Stockholm.

And the cinematography! It’s got that gritty, urban vibe—kind of like walking through Gamla Stan in a drizzle. You can almost feel the damp cold seeping through your jacket. Director Byun Sung-hyun paints with shadows and neon, making every frame a piece of art.

But let’s be real, the storyline has its moments where you think, “Why are they doing this again?” Some plot twists are like the mystery meat in a school canteen—unexpected and slightly dubious. Yet somehow, it adds to the charm.

I felt a bit torn, to be honest. While the film intrigued me, there were moments I caught myself glancing at my wristwatch, wondering if they’d drag a scene too long. Overall, though, it’s worth a watch, especially if you enjoy delving into human complexities.

If you’ve ever pondered the grey areas of loyalty or just fancy a good crime romp, I reckon you’ll enjoy this ride.

Have a look at the trailer here: The Merciless