My Dear Desperado (2010) User Reviews

a film which defies my initial expectations to become something better

[redrummy · 8/10 · 14 December 2010]

Glancing at the cover, I expected it to be a typical korean romcom but found traces of both but not enough to be either. To be honest, I wasn't expecting much but was left surprised as it draws away stereotypes and clichés and brings a interesting take on a love story. The plot is built around Sae-Jin and her progress through the world of unemployment tasting the lows of unemployment and society's look on them. Inevitably she meets Dong Chul who's a gangster and also her neighbour but is wiser than he looks and inevitably a love grows between them. Yet their lives play out only intertwining when Dong Chul begins to help Sae Jin in her quest for employment and his deeds begin to grow until the satisfying end in which I was taken back somewhat as the film that started slowly and slightly disjointed became something greater. As a huge fan of korean cinema, one weakness is often the ending doesn't quite live up to what preceded it, yet My Dear Desperado's ending is up there with films like JSA and Memories of Murder, though not in the same tone, you can't help yourself but smile

Surprisingly way better than I thought it would be

[KineticSeoul · 7/10 · 28 August 2015]

I thought this movie was going to be a very barely movie to pass the time. To my surprise, it turned out a lot better than I thought. The premise might not be all that original, but the build up is actually entertaining and romantic at the same time. It follows the formula of going in the romantic comedic direction for the first half than serious and shows pain through the characters for the second half. But in this movie it really works. I really like the interaction between the two leads. One being a low life thug and the other being a woman who is looking for employment. I was surprised at how much I was into and enjoyed the quirky elements in this film. The relationship in this movie really does work and it's actually quite realistic when it comes to attraction. Not only that, they are a likable duo. Overall this is a film that I surprisingly enjoyed way more than I thought I would.

7.5/10

Nae Kkangpae Kateun Aein

[losriley-1 · 9/10 · 29 September 2010]

I really like this film. It has a good comedic thread and still maintains a great drive and occasional authenticity. I really love the scene on the train when the couple are travelling to her folks. The close up of the carriages moving at the start of the scene is so wonderful and pure cinema.Does anyone know the image of Che Guevara behind the gangster bosses room? It is so funny when he tries to imitate it.I would love to be able to access this image.I like that we get to see the brutal side of the gangster figure when he is goaded into a fight.This film overall is light and redemptive and very funny. Cheers and enjoy the movie.

A gangster turns into a good guy (SPOILERS)

[aglobalcitizen · 21 August 2010]

My title says it all. It is a romantic encounter between one not very lucky yet deep down kind-hearted gangster and a nice girl from the country.

By the way, if you search the net, this movie is listed under many other titles, such as Gangster Love, Gangster Lover, My Dear Desperado, etc.

I recommend this movie for those who like light romance, but no deep passion. So if you liked "Mr. Handy/Mr. Hong", "Lost and Found", "Temptations of the Wolves", this is your type of movie (plus some violence).

The story is quite simple and predictable, thank God there are no deadly diseases and nobody dies (only the bad guy). I found the plot compelling and sweet. It is not a tear jerker, just a movie that will leave you with a nice uplifting feeling and a positive message.

I would change the ending though. I would make them get married or move in together - just one more final scene to make sure that everyone is happy (including female viewers).

Overwhelmed at this gem of story.

[cadadmail · 9/10 · 26 July 2011]

Love this story so much! Seeing a different side of life, as no one is rich or lucky or other movie standards. The hero is not adept or handsome but THERE. (That's important, to her.) The pace of the story was so perfect. Again no standard movie "happiness". The interaction between the leads made me root for them to succeed, both in their career and as a couple. Well written story!

The twist at the end made me SO happy!, I was wary of a crouching tiger, etc ending (deeply mystical/Asian) but was amazed - it's so good.

Oh, how amazing tough to find work - well in this movie - especially for women! (she gets beaten down) but keeps fighting!

The sites of Korea, Seoul, and her home town are amazing, for one never traveling again.

The other reviews state my feelings better so please read them! I really enjoyed this story and hope you will also.

The subtitles are clear and easy to read. I watched this gem at: http://www.dramacrazy.net/korean-movie/gangster-lover/ - again I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. ***this movie has many titles*** "Gangster Lover" is one. "Nae Kkangpae Gateun Aein" gets you into IMDb, lol!

Peace!

A great Korean movie

[MovieIQTest · 20 July 2022]

This movie should be overlooked as an ordinary gangster or regular Korean romance. It's actually deeper than both. It also portrayed the difficult situation for the young people who have to deal with the hardship of finding a decent job not just in Korea but all over the world. There are so many pitfalls when they try to find a job, especially for the young and pretty college graduates. This movie is well scripted with twists that only you've invested your time and patience to keep watching, then you'd be awarded with a heartfelt warm feeling in the end.

The leading male actor is indeed not quite handsome as the Korean used to cast, instead, he's quite ugly in general standard, but he's such a good one who's like the Beast, and the lovely young actress is the Beauty. This is a different Korean version of "The Beauty and The Beast", very unique and well done. Highly recommended.