What do you get when a tech genius, a relentless cop, and a charming con man collide?

The answer lies in the 2016 heist thriller,Master.

TheSouth Korean filmisn’t your typical collage of action and sleight of hand.

Custom image showing ensemble cast of Master (2016)

Image by Nimesh Niyomal

It gives viewers front-row seats to a slick takedown of greed and corruption wrapped in an entertaining package.

Anyone whos into films likeCatch Me If You CanorThe Usual Suspectswill enjoyMasters clever plotting and bold commentary.

Perhaps the true beauty in the duality of this story is how it balances style with substance.

Close up of Lee Byung-hun as Jin Hyun-pil in Master

Image Via CJ Entertainment

“Made it, Ma!

Top of the world!”

Its all so convincing that its easy to forget its built on lies.

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His relentlesspursuit of justicegives the story a raw edge.

It equally reminds viewers that this isnt just a game and people need to be held accountable.

Sure, hes a cop, but its clear that his methods arent what youd classify as squeaky clean.

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This further raises the question of whether the end justifies the means.

Instead of practicing standard police work, Kim hits Jang-goon withpsychological warfare.

He doesnt just demand cooperation, he ends up weaponizing the young mans insecurities as well as ambitions.

Headshot Of Lee Byung-hun

As a result, he leaves Jang-goon with no choice but to flip sides.

Theres no doubt it is, but its also a little unsettling.

Whats clear here is that Kims approach is more about brutallyignoring rulesthan bending them.

Cast Placeholder Image

In another tense moment, he uses fabricated evidence to lure Jins team into a trap.

Master