Netflix just dropped Bogotá: City of the Lost, and as loyal K-entertainment addicts, we had to watch it. I mean, how could we not? Song Joong-ki in a gritty crime thriller set in Colombia? Sign us up! So, was it worth the hype? Did our boy Song Joong-ki deliver yet another unforgettable performance? And most importantly, how does this compare to his previous crime masterpiece, Vincenzo? Let’s dive in—spoilers ahead, you’ve been warned!
The Story: Crime, Survival, and… Capitalism?
Our protagonist, Guk-hee (Song Joong-ki), arrives in Bogotá as an immigrant with his family in the 1990s. With zero connections, no money, and nothing but pure survival instincts, he climbs his way up from an underdog to a major player in the city’s black market. It’s a classic crime drama structure—humble beginnings, rapid rise to power, inevitable betrayal, and an explosive climax. Think Scarface, but with a Korean cinematic edge.
While the storyline is engaging, let’s be real—it felt a bit short. Not in the “I want my money back” way, but in the “Wait, that escalated quickly” kind of way. 1 h 49 is not a lot of time to build an empire, but somehow, the film pulls it off without making it feel completely rushed.
Song Joong-ki’s Performance: From Mafia Boss to Business Shark
If you thought Joong-ki was a legend in Vincenzo, prepare yourself—he’s just as ruthless, calculating, and dangerously charming here. But instead of being a polished, high-class mafia consigliere, Guk-hee is a scrappy, street-smart hustler. He doesn’t start with power—he earns it, and you feel every bit of his struggle.
One thing Joong-ki does exceptionally well? Expressing emotion without overdoing it. There are scenes where he barely speaks, but his eyes scream betrayal, ambition, and raw pain. (Yes, we’re looking at you, final confrontation scene.)
Action and Cinematography: A Whole Vibe
The action sequences? Brutal. The cinematography? Stunning. The way the camera moves through the chaotic streets of Bogotá makes you feel inside the film—like you’re dodging bullets alongside Guk-hee. It’s got a different flavor from Vincenzo, which was all about elegant destruction. Here, it’s gritty, messy, and real.
Bogotá vs. Vincenzo: A Quick Comparison
- Crime Hierarchy: In Vincenzo, Joong-ki’s character was already a big deal in the mafia world. In Bogotá, he starts from nothing and hustles his way to the top.
- Tone: Vincenzo had dark humor and stylish, well-planned crime. Bogotá is raw, desperate, and has little room for laughs (unless you’re the kind of person who laughs at chaos—no judgment).
- Action: Both films have chef’s kiss action, but Bogotá‘s fights feel more personal. There’s no over-the-top explosions—just street-smart survival.
- Best Joong-ki Look: Tough call, but Vincenzo’s suits still win. Sorry, but the mafia boss drip is unbeatable.
Should You Watch It?
If you love Korean crime thrillers, intense character growth, and Song Joong-ki looking dangerously good, then YES. While the story could have used a little more time to breathe, it’s still an epic ride from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5 Stars)
What’s Next for K-Movie Fans?
If Bogotá got you hooked on the K-thriller world, here are some other must-watch Korean crime/action films:
- Night in Paradise (if you want more tragic gangster drama)
- The Outlaws (for action-packed fights)
- A Dirty Carnival (for another rise-to-power crime story)
- My Name is Loh Kiwan (a gripping new film with rave reviews—this one’s next on our list!)
Netflix is slowly but surely becoming K-entertainment heaven, and we are HERE for it. Now, over to you—what did YOU think of Bogotá: City of the Lost? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s fangirl/fanboy together!
Hi, I’m Shola, a bilingual web content writer fluent in French and English, known for bringing personality and flair to every project I work on. Whether it’s humor, sarcasm, or a touch of playful provocation, I infuse my unique voice into content that not only grabs attention but brings ideas to life. With a genuine passion for what I write, I specialize in creating blog posts, articles, and product descriptions that connect with audiences, spark interest, and leave a lasting impression.
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