“Two rookie cops. One kidnapping. No backup.”
Midnight Runners (2017) is a South Korean action-comedy film directed by Kim Joo-hwan, starring Park Seo-joon and Kang Ha-neul. The film follows two students at the Korean National Police University who witness a kidnapping and decide to take matters into their own hands when bureaucracy slows down the investigation.
Story Overview
Ki-joon (Park Seo-joon) and Hee-yeol (Kang Ha-neul) are best friends and police academy cadets, though their personalities couldn’t be more different—Ki-joon is impulsive and street-smart, while Hee-yeol is analytical and cautious.
One night, while out on leave, they witness a young woman being abducted. They report the crime, but due to legal red tape and slow police procedures, no immediate action is taken. Frustrated, they decide to investigate on their own, using their limited police training and pure determination.
Their search leads them to a human trafficking ring, where women are kidnapped and exploited. As they dive deeper, they realize they are outnumbered and outmatched, but their sense of justice pushes them forward. With no weapons, no backup, and no official authority, they must rely on wit, courage, and teamwork to take down the criminals and save the victims.
Themes and Symbolism
- Friendship and Loyalty: Ki-joon and Hee-yeol’s bond is tested as they face danger together.
- Justice vs. Bureaucracy: The film highlights the flaws in law enforcement, showing how red tape can delay urgent action.
- Action and Comedy Balance: The film blends intense fight sequences with lighthearted humor, making it both thrilling and entertaining.
Why It Stands Out
- Dynamic Duo: Park Seo-joon and Kang Ha-neul’s chemistry makes the film engaging and fun.
- Fast-Paced Action: The film delivers exciting chase scenes, hand-to-hand combat, and high-stakes tension.
- Social Commentary: It sheds light on human trafficking and the challenges of law enforcement.
Reception and Legacy
Released on August 9, 2017, Midnight Runners was a box office success, grossing $39.7 million against a $7 million budget. It was praised for its action, humor, and strong performances, holding a 7.2/10 rating on IMDb.
Where to Watch
You can watch Midnight Runners on Phimkeo or find more details on Wikipedia.