최종병기 활 (Choi-jong-byeong-gi Hwal), War of the Arrows; Directed and Screenplay by  Kim Han-min, 2011, Korea

“War of the Arrows” is a 2011 South Korean historical action film starring Park Hae-il, Ryu Seung-ryong and Moon Chae-won. Set after the Second Manchu invasion of Korea, the film is about an archer who risks his life to save his sister from slavery under Prince Dorgon’s rule.

Praised by critics for its fast pacing and combat sequences, the film drew an audience of 7.48 million, making it the highest grossing Korean film of 2011. It was also honored at the 48th Grand Bell Awards and the 32nd Blue Dragon Film Awards, including Best Actor for Park, Best Supporting Actor for Ryu, and Best New Actress for Moon.

Note: I happen to be a great fan of Korean martial arts and detective movies. I find them exciting, full of action, great stories with great actors. I put this movie on my list of best movies. Most martial arts movies involve action with blades; but this movie is about a mostly overlooked martial art: archery. Great action scenes with unbelievable arrow shots. I also give it many stars just for the starring actor Park Hae-il, a great actor.