juteralabs.com – “Alienoid” (외계+인 1부), a 2022 South Korean science fiction action film directed by Choi Dong-hoon, delivers a wildly ambitious and entertaining blend of genres, seamlessly weaving together martial arts, science fiction, and historical drama. The film tells a complex story spanning centuries, involving aliens, time travel, and ancient artifacts.
Two Time Periods Collide: Present Day and the Goryeo Dynasty
The film’s narrative unfolds across two distinct time periods: present-day Korea and the late Goryeo Dynasty (1391). In the present, aliens have been secretly imprisoned in human bodies for centuries. A special agent named Guard (Kim Woo-bin) is tasked with managing these alien prisoners.
Meanwhile, in the Goryeo Dynasty, a group of Taoist sorcerers is searching for a legendary divine blade. These two seemingly disparate storylines become intertwined when a time portal opens, connecting the two eras.
A Complex Web of Characters: Heroes Across Time
“Alienoid” boasts a large ensemble cast, each playing characters crucial to the film’s complex plot. In the present, we have Guard and his robot companion Thunder, who are responsible for containing the escaped aliens. In the Goryeo Dynasty, we meet the bumbling but skilled Taoist Do-sa (Ryu Jun-yeol), the mysterious woman with a hidden agenda, Lee Ahn (Kim Tae-ri), and the powerful sorcerer Jajang (Kim Eui-sung).
The film skillfully juggles these multiple characters and storylines, gradually revealing the connections between them and the overarching narrative.
Blending Genres: Martial Arts, Sci-Fi, and Historical Drama
One of “Alienoid”‘s greatest strengths is its seamless blend of genres. The film features exhilarating martial arts sequences reminiscent of classic Hong Kong action films, combined with futuristic science fiction elements like spaceships and advanced technology. It also incorporates elements of historical drama, depicting the customs and culture of the Goryeo Dynasty.
This unique combination of genres creates a fresh and exciting cinematic experience. The film’s action sequences are dynamic and visually stunning, while the historical setting adds a unique flavor to the science fiction elements.
A Time-Traveling Conspiracy: Unraveling the Truth
As the two timelines converge, the characters discover a conspiracy that spans centuries, involving the aliens, the divine blade, and the fate of humanity. They must work together to uncover the truth and prevent a catastrophic event.
The film’s plot is complex and intricate, requiring the viewer to pay close attention to the details. However, the gradual unveiling of the conspiracy keeps the audience engaged and invested in the story.
Part One of a Larger Story: Setting the Stage for More
“Alienoid” is explicitly presented as “Part One,” indicating that it is just the beginning of a larger story. The film ends with several unresolved plot threads and sets the stage for a sequel that will further explore the characters and the complex mythology.
While the film’s open ending might leave some viewers wanting more, it effectively generates excitement for the next installment. The film’s ambition and its successful blend of genres make it a worthwhile watch for fans of action, science fiction, and historical drama. It’s a unique and entertaining cinematic experience that promises an even more expansive story in the future.
