Synopsis
Rebuilt after a devastating war, the world of 2080 has given rise to advanced technologies including the creation of cyborgs. Created with artificial intelligence (AI), human-like emotions and great strength, they serve one master for their entire lifespan. When the cyborgs revolt, R (Yoo Ji-tae)and Noma (Yoon Chan), Rs best friend and commander, lead an elite military squad ordered to eliminate the rebellion. Unbeknownst to anyone, R has fallen in love with Ria (Seo Rin), his cyborg, and is illegally harvesting AI chips from dead cyborgs in order to save her life. Torn between his love for Ria and the battle to save mankind, humanitys fate hangs in the balance.
Theatrical Trailer
The spirit (if not the soul) of "Blade Runner" hangs so heavily over NATURAL CITY that this South Korean sci-fi/romance never takes off on its own. Filled with interesting--if derivative--visuals, a great looking cast and enough plot for a couple of movies, director Byung Chun-min finally seems most interested in slo-mo action sequences and bloodletting (the fight scene finale goes on WAY too long) rather than anything perceptive or deep about the characters.
Everyone here is a "type"--from the cute little boy to the good/bad MP to the various females (cyborg, worker-in-love-with-boss, prostie with a heart of brass). While there are a number of fine scenes and moments, the movie never quite jells. There's enough here to keep sci-fi/action fans glued, I guess, but if you demand a bit more, you'll be taking your chances with this one.
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