Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Kingdom: Ashin of the North is a South Korean historical horror film and a prequel to the popular Netflix series Kingdom. Released in 2021, the film is directed by Kim Seong-hun and explores the origins of the mysterious Ashin, a character introduced in the series.
Plot Summary
Set in 15th-century Korea during the Joseon Dynasty, Kingdom: Ashin of the North delves into the backstory of Ashin (played by Jun Ji-hyun), who was initially introduced as a mysterious figure with a deep connection to the zombie plague central to the Kingdom series.
The film follows Ashin, a member of the northern Baekje tribe, who faces a brutal invasion and betrayal. Her family and tribe are devastated by the corrupt actions of the ruling class, leading to Ashin seeking revenge and uncovering dark secrets. Central to the plot is the origin of the resurrection plant, a mystical herb that causes the dead to rise, and its connection to the zombie outbreak in the Kingdom series.
As Ashin embarks on her quest for vengeance, the film explores themes of loss, betrayal, and the consequences of seeking power. The story provides insight into the background of the resurrection plant and sets the stage for the events of the main series.
Critical Reception
Kingdom: Ashin of the North received praise for its compelling story and strong performances. Here’s a summary of the critical reception:
Strengths:
- Performance: Jun Ji-hyun’s portrayal of Ashin is highly acclaimed. Her performance adds depth to the character and effectively conveys Ashin’s emotional journey and complexity.
- Atmosphere and Setting: The film is praised for its atmospheric setting and attention to historical detail. The historical backdrop and traditional Korean aesthetics contribute to the film’s immersive experience.
- Connection to the Series: The film effectively expands the Kingdom universe by providing valuable context and background information. It enhances the overall narrative of the series and adds depth to the lore.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some critics found the film’s pacing to be uneven. The story may take time to build momentum, which could affect the viewing experience for some audiences.
- Standalone Value: While the film is a valuable addition to the Kingdom series, viewers who are not familiar with the series may find some elements confusing or less impactful.
Overall, Kingdom: Ashin of the North is appreciated for its engaging story, strong performances, and its contribution to the Kingdom universe. It stands out as a compelling prequel that enriches the lore of the series.
Themes and Analysis
Kingdom: Ashin of the North explores several key themes:
- Revenge and Justice: The film centers on Ashin’s quest for revenge against those who wronged her and her tribe. It examines the motivations behind seeking justice and the consequences of vengeance.
- Loss and Betrayal: Ashin’s journey is marked by personal loss and betrayal. The film delves into the emotional impact of these experiences and their influence on her actions.
- Power and Corruption: The film addresses the theme of power and its corrupting influence. The actions of the ruling class and their exploitation of the resurrection plant highlight the dangers of unchecked power.
- Survival and Resilience: The story showcases the resilience of Ashin and her determination to survive despite the challenges and adversities she faces. It reflects the broader theme of survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Where to Watch Kingdom: Ashin of the North Online
If you’re interested in watching Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021), here are your options:
1. Streaming Services
- Netflix: Kingdom: Ashin of the North is available for streaming on Netflix. As a prequel to the Kingdom series, it can be found alongside the other entries in the franchise.
Conclusion
Kingdom: Ashin of the North (2021) is a compelling and atmospheric prequel to the Kingdom series. Directed by Kim Seong-hun, the film offers a deeper look into the character of Ashin and the origins of the zombie plague that features prominently in the series.
With its strong performance by Jun Ji-hyun, immersive historical setting, and engaging story, Kingdom: Ashin of the North enhances the lore of the Kingdom universe and provides valuable context for fans of the series. Available on Netflix, the film is accessible for those looking to explore the expanded world of Kingdom.
