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The Worst of Evil (2023)

TV show

CTV score8.2/ 10

Where to watch The Worst of Evil in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About The Worst of Evil

Set in the 1980s, a husband and wife, both detectives, infiltrate a massive criminal organization responsible for the illegal drug trade between Korea, China, and Japan.

Year
2023
Genres
Drama, Crime
Seasons
1

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

The Worst of Evil is a compelling addition to the crime drama genre, set against the backdrop of the 1980s drug trade in East Asia. The film follows a husband and wife, both detectives, as they infiltrate a sprawling criminal organisation. The narrative deftly intertwines their personal lives with the high-stakes world of undercover work, creating a palpable tension that keeps viewers engaged. The performances are particularly noteworthy; the chemistry between the leads adds depth to their characters' struggles and moral dilemmas. Director Kim Soo-hyun has crafted a visually striking film, with cinematography that captures the gritty essence of the era. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the action. While the film does tread familiar ground in its themes of loyalty and sacrifice, it executes these ideas with a fresh perspective. Overall, The Worst of Evil is a well-crafted film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

The Worst of Evil attempts to weave a thrilling tale of undercover detectives, but it sometimes stumbles in execution. Set in the 1980s, the film showcases a husband and wife duo diving deep into the murky waters of a criminal organisation. While the premise is intriguing, the pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary. The performances are solid, yet at times, they don't fully capture the emotional weight of the characters' experiences. The visuals are impressive, but they sometimes overshadow the narrative's depth. There are moments that shine, especially when the couple confronts their own moral boundaries. However, the film occasionally falls into predictable tropes of the genre, leaving viewers wanting more innovation. For those who enjoy crime dramas, The Worst of Evil offers some engaging moments, but it might not leave a lasting impact.

How viewers describe this

  • gripping
  • intense
  • thought-provoking
  • engaging
  • predictable
  • solid performances
  • uneven pacing
  • emotional weight
  • visually striking
  • thrilling
  • moral dilemmas
  • must-watch

The Worst of Evil seasons

Streaming Charts

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Got a question about The Worst of Evil?

Is The Worst of Evil worth watching?

Yes, The Worst of Evil is worth watching for its gripping narrative and strong performances. Set in the 1980s, it offers a thrilling exploration of a husband and wife's undercover mission in the dangerous world of organised crime. The film's engaging plot and character development keep viewers invested throughout.

What is The Worst of Evil really about?

The Worst of Evil follows two detectives, a husband and wife duo, as they infiltrate a vast criminal organisation involved in the illegal drug trade across Korea, China, and Japan during the 1980s. The film delves into the challenges they face, both in their mission and their relationship, highlighting themes of loyalty and sacrifice.

Is The Worst of Evil suitable for children?

The Worst of Evil is not suitable for children due to its mature themes, including drug trafficking and violence. The film contains intense scenes that may not be appropriate for younger audiences, making it more suitable for adult viewers who can handle its serious subject matter.

Is there a sequel to The Worst of Evil?

As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a sequel to The Worst of Evil. However, the film's success and compelling storyline may inspire further developments in the future.

What happens at the end of The Worst of Evil? (Spoilers)

At the end of The Worst of Evil, the couple's mission reaches a critical climax as they confront the leaders of the criminal organisation. Their choices lead to unforeseen consequences, testing their loyalty to each other and their duty as detectives. The film closes on a tense note, leaving audiences contemplating the moral complexities faced by the characters.

What films are similar to The Worst of Evil?

Films similar to The Worst of Evil include 'The Departed', which also explores undercover operations in the criminal underworld, and 'Infernal Affairs', the original film that inspired it. Other comparable titles include 'Narcos', which delves into drug trafficking, and 'Training Day', focusing on moral ambiguity within law enforcement.

Is The Worst of Evil scary?

While The Worst of Evil is not a horror film, it does contain intense and suspenseful moments that may evoke fear or anxiety in viewers. The film's exploration of crime and betrayal creates a tense atmosphere, making it thrilling rather than outright scary.

What is the critical reception of The Worst of Evil?

The Worst of Evil has received generally positive reviews from critics, who praise its strong performances, particularly from the lead actors, and its engaging plot. The film's direction and cinematography have also been highlighted, contributing to its overall impact as a gripping crime drama.