Volcano High is a reboot of the classic coming-of-age story of a martial arts prodigy coupled with the intricacies of Korea's stringent educational system. The film has become somewhat of a cult classic that has heralded a new breed of martial arts school dramas.
There are quite a number of works in this underrated sub-genre, of which recent k-drama Moorim School serves as the latest addition. I see plenty of similarities in both from the main guy's bleached blond hair to the foreshadowing of an immense power, which enticed me to re-watch Volcano High more than a decade later.
Volcano High was released in 2001 starring top Korean actors of today such as Jang Hyuk, Shin Min Ah, Kwon Sang Woo and Gong Hyo Jin who were likely to be only in their teens or early twenties when the movie first came out.
Plot Summary: Volcano High / Hwasango / 火山高校 / 화산고 is in essence a school for the gifted. It is set during a time when the schools are in a constant state of chaos. Teachers and students alike participate in a never ending fight for supremacy and it is said that whoever acquires the Secret Manuscript can put a stop to the discord.
The story revolves around Kim Kyung Soo, a problem student who has been expelled from over 8 schools and sent to Volcano High as a last resort. Contrary to common perception, Kim Kyung Soo is actually a kind-hearted kid who is non-confrontational in every way if not for a freak accident that changed his life . As a newcomer, he attracts the unwanted attention of the school's most powerful clans where he must learn to survive.
Comments: If you like anime, wuxia or just action movies in general, then I highly recommend Volcano High.
Jang Hyuk's character as Kim Kyung Soo borders on comical from his every gesture to his exaggerated expressions, which he manages to pull off with style. I really enjoyed his acting, over-the-top yet not overdone.
As the protagonist, his journey is the most intriguing as he overcomes innate insecurities to become the hero that he was meant to be. The rest of the cast does an equally amazing job bringing their respective characters to life. I will never forget Icy Jade Chae-yi, hot-headed Jang Ryang and the epitome of cool Song Hak Rim. Not to be left in the cold are the band of evil teachers because I loathe them (and that's a good thing).
Overall, I liked the darker tone used throughout the entire film and thought that the dimly-lit scenes fit well with film's the doom and gloom vibe. After all, despite its ability to not take itself too seriously, it is still a martial arts movie where the stakes are always high. This is a film that is one for the ages, executed with flair and simply cool.
My Ratings: Must-watch (5/5)
For more movie recommendations, click here. Because I couldn't resist, a movie recap is in the works.