The Worst of Evil (2023)

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 t ... Show more >> 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. Show less

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 ... Show more >> 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. Show less