rashemamelson.org – “Rampant” (Korean: 창궐; Changgwol), released in 2018, is a South Korean period action horror film directed by Kim Sung-hoon. Set in Joseon Korea, the film presents a unique twist on the historical drama genre by introducing a zombie outbreak amidst a backdrop of political turmoil. “Rampant” combines thrilling action sequences, gruesome zombie horror, and palace intrigue, offering a high-octane and visually impressive cinematic experience.
A Kingdom on the Brink: Political Instability and a Mysterious Plague
The film is set during a time of political instability in Joseon. King Lee Jo (Kim Eui-sung) is weak and manipulated by the ambitious Minister of War, Kim Ja-joon (Jang Dong-gun), who plots to seize power. Amidst this political tension, a mysterious plague begins to spread across the kingdom, turning people into bloodthirsty creatures.
Lee Chung: The Prince Returning to Chaos
Lee Chung (Hyun Bin), a prince who has been living as a hostage in the Qing Dynasty, returns to Joseon upon hearing of his older brother’s death. He arrives to find his homeland overrun by the infected and caught in the midst of a power struggle within the royal court. Initially uninterested in the affairs of the kingdom, Lee Chung is forced to take up arms to protect his people and confront the growing zombie threat.
A New Breed of Historical Action: Zombies in Traditional Attire
“Rampant” distinguishes itself by placing the zombie horror genre within a historical setting. The sight of traditional Korean clothing and architecture juxtaposed with hordes of ravenous zombies creates a visually striking and unique aesthetic. The film effectively blends the familiar elements of zombie horror with the conventions of historical action films, resulting in a fresh and exciting take on both genres.
Thrilling Action Sequences: Swords vs. the Undead
The film features numerous action-packed sequences showcasing intense battles between humans and zombies. The fight choreography is dynamic and visceral, with characters utilizing swords, bows and arrows, and other traditional weapons to combat the undead. The large-scale battle scenes, featuring hundreds of extras and impressive special effects, are particularly memorable.
Themes of Duty, Leadership, and Social Commentary
“Rampant” explores several themes beyond its surface-level action and horror:
- Duty and Responsibility: Lee Chung’s journey is one of accepting his responsibility as a prince and protecting his people. Initially reluctant to engage in the affairs of the kingdom, he ultimately embraces his duty and becomes a leader in the fight against the zombie horde.
- Leadership in Times of Crisis: The film examines the qualities of effective leadership in the face of a national crisis. Lee Chung’s decisive actions and unwavering commitment to his people contrast sharply with the self-serving actions of the corrupt officials.
- Social Commentary: While not overtly political, the film can be interpreted as a commentary on social inequality and the vulnerability of the common people during times of crisis. The spread of the plague disproportionately affects the lower classes, highlighting the social disparities of the time.
Visual Spectacle and High Production Value
“Rampant” boasts high production values, with impressive set design, costumes, and special effects. The film’s visual style is both gritty and stylish, effectively capturing the atmosphere of a kingdom under siege. The zombie makeup and creature design are also well-executed, adding to the film’s horror elements.
A Blend of Genres with Mass Appeal
“Rampant” successfully blends the genres of historical drama, action, and horror, creating a film with broad appeal. Its thrilling action sequences, combined with its unique premise and high production values, make it an entertaining and engaging cinematic experience. While some critics pointed to a lack of deeper character development, the film’s strengths lie in its visual spectacle and fast-paced action. It provides a thrilling ride for fans of action and horror genres, while also offering a unique take on the historical period setting.