It's important to understand how different Asian movies are affected by which country they actually come from. Since this is a Korean movie, you're going to have a primarily Tae Kwon Do-based flim. Lots of straightforward kicks, spinning kicks, and simple hand techniques. But it's not HK, so you're not going to have kung fu and an overabundance of flying around and gymnast-esque moves. Similiary, not being a Thai flick, you won't get the all out Muay Thai elbows and knees like Tony Jaa.

I only mention this because some people are specifically looking for one type of martial art without realizing it. Most people want kung fu after the rise of "The Matrix" and Jet Li, Jackie Chan, and Donnie Yen in the west. This is not that. It is more straightforward, less acrobatic and showy than kung fu, but also more brutal. There's one fight sequence that's reminiscent of "The Warriors", just a big ole brawl between the main characters and a bunch of "themed" gangs. And the final fight is something to behold. Just a beatdown of the most epic variety in size and brutality. It puzzles me that one reviewer called the final fight "illogical". Isn't that the crux of all martial arts films? That one or two people can take down legions of baddies with just their bare hands?

The story is well-paced and interesting while the action is brutal and well put-together. I very much recommend this movie for anyone looking for a solid action/martial arts title. If that's what you're into, then this is a perfect choice.

"City of Violence" is at its core a really tight revenge flick that plays out kind of like "Four Brothers" meets "Kill Bill" with, of course, a fairly standard twist. The martial arts aspect of the film is first class with Tae Kwon Do being showcased as an all purpose weapon that is clearly more vicious and functional amoung the people who originated it. The fights had true grit and a rawness that was mixed well with plenty of flash that gave them a distinct flavor. As for the end fight finale--it will knock your wobblies around. Wall to wall style and substance with a good story told in a good way using good talent.

If at this point you are still not interested in giving this movie a chance then fine but please move to the back of the bus and don't say shit when we pass your stop. Thanks for reading and remember nothing says "happy Easter" more than strippers and crack. I gotta go, the warden's coming.