The Roundup: No Way Out (2023)

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars)

The Roundup: No Way Out" is the third installment in the Korean cop thriller franchise that follows the adventures of Ma Seok-do, played by the charismatic Ma Dong-Seok, also known as Don Lee. The movie continues the formula of its predecessors, delivering episodic thrills and plenty of slapstick violence. However, the film heavily relies on Lee's presence, as any scene without him feels like a waste of time.

One of the strengths of the film is Ma Dong-seok's ability to make the audience root for his loutish character. He effortlessly takes down villains with his impressive physicality, and his character's lack of explanation or adherence to police procedures adds to his charm. In "The Roundup: No Way Out," Ma faces off against the Japanese yakuza, who are trying to collect a stolen shipment of an addictive new club drug. He discovers that a corrupt cop is aiding the criminals, leading to a predictable twist.

While the action sequences and car chases in the movie are engaging, they tend to drag on, and the choreography could have been tighter. Ma Dong-seok's ability to toss around physically imposing heavies is still a spectacle to watch, but it can get repetitive. However, his knack for making even flimsy expository dialogue compelling is commendable.

The film attempts to introduce more screwball-type gags and exchanges, adding a comedic element to the formula. While these moments are mostly fine, they can only do so much in another cookie-cutter cop vs. thugs caper. The characters and their problems are as insubstantial as expected from this genre.

Overall, "The Roundup: No Way Out" doesn't bring anything new to the table compared to its predecessors. It relies heavily on Ma Dong-seok's signature schtick, and fans of his previous works will likely enjoy this outing. However, for those looking for a fresh and innovative take on the genre, this film may fall short. It offers the expected blend of action, comedy, bloodletting, swearing, and leching that caters to simple summer movie pleasures.

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5 stars)