SEOUL: “Amazon Bullseye,” a comedy directed by Kim Chang-ju, attempts to blend cultural humor with an inspiring sports storyline but falls short of delivering originality. The film centers around Cho Jin-bong, played by Ryu Seung-ryong, a former national archery medalist facing job restructuring, who finds himself coaching an archery team from a fictional South American country.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jin-bong’s unlikely journey begins when he is assigned to lead the archery team of Bolledor as part of his company’s gold mining project. This leads to a crash landing in a remote Amazon village, where he encounters three indigenous warriors with exceptional archery skills. Seizing this chance, Jin-bong persuades the Bolledor government to let the warriors compete in an international archery event in Seoul, promising that a medal win could secure protection for their threatened homeland.
The plot unfolds with comedic elements arising from cultural clashes and the challenges faced by the Amazonian war
riors and their Korean-Bolledor interpreter, Bbang-sik, as they adjust to life in modern Seoul. Despite its predictable nature, the film offers some laughs and a heartwarming narrative through its portrayal of the team’s training and bonding over five months.
While the movie follows a conventional sports film structure, the performances of Ryu Seung-ryong and Jin Sun-kyu bring charm and occasional humor, maintaining the audience’s engagement. The ensemble of Brazilian actors playing the warriors adds to the film’s dynamic, creating a decent group chemistry.
In summary, “Amazon Bullseye” provides light entertainment with a simple, feel-good story, though it may fall short for viewers seeking a more original or profound experience. The film is scheduled for release on October 30.