Review: Peninsula (2020)

As a follow-up to the widely praised Train to Busan, Peninsula had some big shoes to fill. Released in 2020, this South Korean action-horror film directed by Yeon Sang-ho tries to carve its own path while staying connected to the zombie universe established in its predecessor. The film swaps the claustrophobic tension of a train for the open-world chaos of a dystopian landscape. For collectors and fans of the zombie genre, Peninsula offers a different flavor of thrills that could be a unique addition to any collection.

Plot Summary

Peninsula takes place four years after the events of Train to Busan. South Korea has been overrun by zombies, and the peninsula has become a no-man's-land. The story follows Jung-seok, a former soldier who narrowly escaped the initial outbreak. He is tasked with returning to the quarantined zone for a mission that promises riches. Once back, he encounters survivors who have adapted to the harsh realities of their new world. The film quickly becomes a high-octane survival tale as Jung-seok and his companions face not only the undead but also human adversaries who have become as ruthless as the zombies themselves.

Performances

The cast of Peninsula brings a solid array of performances, with Gang Dong-won leading as Jung-seok. His portrayal of a man burdened by the past and faced with new challenges is strong enough to keep viewers invested. Lee Jung-hyun also delivers a strong performance as Min-jung, a fierce survivor who adds depth to the narrative. The supporting cast, including child actors Lee Re and Kwon Hae-hyo, provide a decent balance of tension and emotion. While some might argue that the characters lack the depth seen in Train to Busan, they still provide enough to keep the story moving forward.

Direction and Craft

Director Yeon Sang-ho takes a different approach with Peninsula, leaning more into action elements than horror. The film is filled with high-speed chases, explosive sequences, and a more extensive use of CGI to create its zombie-infested world. While this shift might not sit well with purists expecting a horror-first approach, it does add a layer of spectacle that feels more akin to a summer blockbuster. The decision to focus on broader survival themes rather than intimate horror moments marks a clear departure from the original's style.

The film's production design effectively showcases a post-apocalyptic world, with desolate streets and abandoned cities that lend an atmosphere of decay and danger. The special effects and makeup teams do a commendable job in maintaining the grotesque appearance of the zombies, which is crucial for any film in this genre. However, some sequences may rely a bit too heavily on CGI, which occasionally breaks the immersion.

Collector's Verdict

Peninsula is a film that polarizes audiences, especially those who hold Train to Busan in high regard. For collectors who appreciate the zombie genre or who are fans of South Korean cinema, it represents a blend of action and horror that is both familiar and distinct. While it may not have the critical acclaim of its predecessor, it stands as an interesting part of the expanding universe.

The best format to own Peninsula in would be Blu-ray. It provides the high-definition quality necessary to appreciate the detailed production design and fast-paced action sequences. In terms of rarity, Peninsula is relatively common, making it an accessible addition to most collections. For fans of zombie thrillers, Peninsula is a worthwhile addition to your collection, especially if you already own Train to Busan.