Swing Kids (2018) User Reviews (33)

Swing Kids taps its way into your heart

[eelen-seth · 8/10 · 14 August 2019]

Based on the Korean musical Roh Gi-soo, Swing Kids is a war drama filled with lots of tap dancing directed by Kang Hyeong-Cheol. It's the 1950's, the Korean War is raging on and we take a look inside the Geoje prison camp in South Korea, under command of the American army. The African-American Sergeant Jackson (Jared Grimes) gets constantly discriminated by caucasian soldier and feels less and less that he belongs here. What many also don't know is that he's a talented tap dancer who used to "Happy Feet" his way around Broadway. He's also of perfect use to the general, who wants him to create a dance group out of prisoners to show the public nothing is as bad as it seems.

Auditions start not soon after, and although Jackson isn't that confident he will succeed in finding a group of talented individuals. The successful applicants are more or less discovered when he least expects is. The few individuals he brings together, consist of Yang Pan-rae (Park Hye-soo) who's been helping Jackson translating, Kang Byung-sam (Oh Jung-Se), a man who accidentally got imprisoned when looking for his wife, Chinese soldier Xiao Fang (Kim Min-Ho) surprises with his moves but has acute angina which makes him not as strong as he could've been. The other main character, who later also joins our group of dancers, is Roh Gi-soo (Do Kyung-soo), a man so loyal he never knows what to do to make his country and family proud, but loves to dance.

Swing Kids shifts genres multiple times and succeeds. It's very different from Western cinema, where genres tend to stick to one thing and don't divert. Having recently watched Parasite (who might just end up being the best film I've seen in 2019), I think genre bending can be done if done in the right way with a proper vision and script. The film is heavily influenced by music, a high dose of tap dancing and often funny too. The dancing is impressive and I found myself tapping my feet multiple times throughout the film - it is that infectious. Kyung-soo and Grimes coming from a professional dance background, are perfectly cast in their roles. On the other hand, the story does go very dark - especially in the second half - when Korean prisoners fight back in order for freedom.

The film gets a bit messier in the more action-filled scenes which are related to the raging war. It surprised me on multiple occasions, which is why I do recommend watching it, even just for the many talent you see on screen. Swing Kids taps its way into your heart.

Ideology swings and roundabouts

[ian-39125 · 8/10 · 14 July 2019]

A little slow in the beginning but this movie builds to a big climax. It's interesting to see a view of the North v South Korea conflict from Korean eyes. This ain't MASH. It's not a war epic, it's more nuanced than that. It's more about ideology conflict than the physical battles of war, but there's a taste of that too. It's based in a prisoner camp that in real life was run by the UN. As for whether this particular story is true or not I can't be sure. What I do know is that it's a far more interesting film than it promised in the opening credits. If it is true it's another shameful episode that hopefully helps both sides do better next time. A forelorn hope perhaps but a powerful outcome of seeing this film. There's a taste of every emotion on offer.

A really really Great movie but they screwed up the ending Big time.

[nvazi · 8/10 · 29 April 2020]

Excellent, Wonderful, gets you feeling all kinds of mixed feelings - all characters were superb, BUT they messed up the ending Big time.

Too good to be true

[soniavilla · 10/10 · 5 January 2019]

Fresh plot. Fresh cast!! Loved this movie!! The soundtrack was amazing. Doh Kyungsoo has really grown as a actor. The movie was hilarious when it needed to be but I suggest to bring tissues nonetheless, it was a true tear jerker. If I could watch again, I would, but the viewings were limited.

Good Enough

[PennyReviews · 9/10 · 11 February 2019]

Major warning: Do not take the tragedy element too lightly. This story is so strong, packed with emotions and dancing, relaying the message of freedom and breaking down the barriers that are set for you by society. Each character of the swing team was unique, fighting their own demons and trying to survive through impossible situations. The plot was original, yet it followed lightly the pattern of a war drama movie, with the ending devestating, breaking down the "the hero's passion can do anything" protocol that other war movies follow. The performances were splending as well. The actors and actresses displayed great emotions and painted the drama beautifully. Another note is that their dancing skills were realistic, as they didn't display extrordinary, out of the blue, talent. Rather, they seemed to enjoy themselves and improve their skills under the circumstances that they were under. Also, the soundtrack was to the point! My only concern about this movie was the presentation of the events when it came to the pace. Other than that, this one is a really powerfull movie.

Tap Dancing as a Means to Break Down Societal Barriers

[andrewestrella · 16 January 2019]

After watching Ben is Back, I needed to find a film that could soothe my aching heart. I scrolled through the list of films that were playing at the particular AMC in Monterey Park, and I noticed several South Korean films that were playing. I ended up finding out that this theater plays a lot of Asian cinema here, so I plan to be back. Anyways, I saw the film Swing Kids was playing, and based on the description, I knew it would be the opposite of heartbreaking, right?

Wrong, but not in a bad way, because this film brings the audience a whirlwind of emotions that I was not prepared to feel. Swing Kids is a film that takes place during the middle of the Korean War in the Geoje Prison Camp in South Korea. As the South Koreans and the American soldiers kept the North Korean communists as prisoners of war, there was down time that would be used for recreation. Well, an African American United States soldier decides to start a tap dancing group, and both North and South Koreans (communists and anti-communists) join. As tensions are prevalent immensely at first, all three groups learn to love each other as family, and they ultimately realize that ideology is the only thing that ever separated them.

I thought the script of this film was absolutely incredible. The commentary on the ridiculousness of ideology really made me think about all of the times in history that human beings have rejected other human beings solely because of their culture, religion, political ideology, or race. This film shows us that we need to stop putting labels on each other to differentiate us, but we should all just put on those tap dance shoes and start dancing.

Swing Kids had a lovely mixture of comedy, sadness, drama, and genuine horror as well. The film may have been a little too oversaturated with comedy in the first half because of how radical a shift the second half of the film takes, but I think it was purposeful due to how quickly motivations change in real war scenarios.

It disappoints me that this film is hardly getting any recognition, because I thought it was incredible. Jared Grimes, Hye-soo Park (from Age of Youth), and Kyung-soo Do were amazing here. Their dancing skills and heartfelt dialogue really sold me in their performances.

Absolutely lovely film that all of you should check out.

brilliant showcase of a heartbreaking event

[aminifatimaaa · 7/10 · 12 June 2019]

Swing Kids is a remarkable and unsettling fusion of brackets, philosophies and cultures. The impactful cinematography, the painstakingly choreographed tap dancing, and the hilarious sprinkles of visual humour that work so fantastically. It also flaunts the horrors of war and celebrates the pledge of freedom and collective suffering through friendship. Completely blown away.

Wonderful movie!!

[karinailyanna · 9/10 · 15 January 2019]

This movie is will truly brings you to a roller coaster ride. You'll be laughing your heart out at first,but then you'll be crying afterwards. The plot is amazing, and the presentation of the characters are wonderful. After the movie, it makes me keep thinking about the movie. There's more twist towards the movie than you can imagine. It's a movie that I definitely recommend.

Good and Bad

[wordweaverlh · 7/10 · 5 October 2020]

I loved D.O. as Roh Gi-soo, and generally the main characters were well acted, danced with pizzazz, and had enough character development for me to care about them. Their situations were difficult and compelling, and I wanted to see what would happen to them. Parts of the movie were really enjoyable, and while American characters were pretty universally caricatured as oblivious, stupid, and/or unbendingly prejudiced, particularly the white ones, that didn't initially stop me from liking the story. Because really elements of storytelling are where I think this fell short. A good story arc gives clues along the way that even if you can't predict exactly how it will end, you can see them in retrospect, so it's ultimately a satisfying ending (even if it's not a happy one). This one didn't do that. There were a couple of clever plot twists, but I feel like it started out as one movie and finished as a completely different one. I can't go in-depth without giving spoilers. It also had a lot more pervasive profanity and violence than I'd have expected in a TV-14 movie, and I'm really not sure they dropped the F-bomb quite *that* regularly in the 1950s, so is it even historically accurate?

GOOSE BUMPS

[nidiaramadhani · 10/10 · 9 January 2019]

This movie truly amazing. Romantic, comedy, heart touching. You should watch this. Like what Do Kyung Soo said "Tap dance really make people go crazy". And yes that's true. Cinematography so warm. Makes your eyes widen while watching it. Seriously. Good Job Director Kang Hyeong Chul and for all staffs who worked really hard in this movie!

One word: BRILLIANCE

[chaelann_07 · 10/10 · 14 February 2019]

I, sure, have read reviews for this movie before I've finally got the chance to watch it. Almost all of it were positive and persuasive saying that the actors are commendable and that the songs and choreography used were impeccable. It'll leave you wondering how good it is to be able to gain positive response from the crowd. And truth be told it was mind blowing. Watching war movies are never easy; it'll tear something inside you. If I'd be honest, I watched this movie because of Doh Kyungsoo. But after the movie, I ended up clapping for everyone. All the actors compliment each other. This movie is a complete package of humor, drama, passion, talent, and patriotism which will give you goosebumps and tears. Hats off, Swing Kids cast. 👏👏

As for you my fellow Kyungsoo fans, when you think you've seen all of Doh Kyungsoo's potentials, well think again. You'd never look at him the same way again after watching this. It's just really amazing. I can't really wrap my head around it. For those of you who haven't watched it yet, spare some time. It'll be worth it. Just bring tissues.😭😭 I guarantee cusses (and tears) after. Believe me.

AWESOME

[mudahlola · 10/10 · 16 January 2019]

A really good movie ! Got you into mix feelings watchin it . All elements is played soo well . You will laugh, cry, feel heartwarming, in a serious mood also you gonna feel wanna dance with them ! Kyung So grow so well as a actor and I'm so proud of you ! Good job to all actor who pull off the character so good and the team . A very successful movie !

Amazing movie!!

[endlix-75117 · 10/10 · 17 January 2019]

This is one of the best movies I've seen so far. Breathtaking cinematography, superb acting, great music and touching story. You'll feel all kinds of emotions watching this movie, from joy to despair. Definitely a must watch movie. I'll watch it again and again.

Absolutely Breathtaking!

[raenikkay · 10/10 · 30 January 2020]

This movie is far too underrated. The cinematography, artistry and performances were all gorgeous. It took me to a roller coaster of emotions, it had the right amount of sadness, surprise and soul to it. You will not regret watching this movie, at all. I would give so much to watch it like it was the first time again. I began watching at first because of kyungsoo, but he was such a splendid actor and amazed me in so many ways! I forgot about him being an idol, because his acting was simply magnificent. The acting and dancing of all the cast were amazing, and the tap dancing scenes simply left me in awe. Beautiful. Indescribably beautiful. I've never loved tap dancing more.

An ambitious mix of genres

[gorotto · 10/10 · 16 February 2020]

After so many movies that use the same recycled plot and premise, it is very refreshing to see swing kids, a korean musical set in a pow camp. The whole movie is directed in a comical almost theatrical way, the pacing is briliant, and it has just the right balance between comedy and tragedy. Its the kind of movie that makes you awe inspired and keeps you at the edge of your seat during the first viewing, and lets you relive and appreciate the bombastic moments during the second, and third. Finally, the talented, multilingual cast that also tap dance make this movie one of the best that i've seen

A Masterpiece of Drama and Art

[StanleyDWilliamsPhD · 9/10 · 12 October 2019]

Philosophy tells us that art can lead us to both truth and peace, if we will "listen" to it, and contemplate the face of a creative God in true art's presence. But the problem we all face are the evils associated with bigotry and it's sister prejudice and how they can escalate less disciplined minds and fall into identity politics, hatred, and war. SWING KIDS is a movie that explores such an intersection in a ming boggling display of artistic filmmaking, story telling, raw talent, and subversion. Although, at times it was hard to follow because the characters always spoke in their character's language (Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and English) with subtitles that often went by too fast to read and comprehend. The historic camp they are in, is also a bit confusing, as I was never quite sure if the American's were prisoners or guards, or how the POWs gained access to resources to cause havoc. IT is clearly a WAR drama, with the blood and violence that goes along with it. But the movie is also a dazzling display of tap dancing, and filmmaking which does not disappoint. The cinematography and editing are amazing, as is often the staging, blocking, and art direction. It was disappointing that a few of the characters (like Brigadier General Roberts) were stereotype cardboard cutouts of bad behavior. But the five dancers, especially Jared Grimes and Hye-soo Park were incredible. Hats off to visionary writer-director Kang Hyeong-cheol.

You will watch a good movie!

[fatmas-43864 · 8/10 · 18 February 2020]

This movie is really good one! You can feel the pain of to be in the middle of a meaningless war. We're watching the people who are not responsible for their life circumstances and who are trying to do what they want to do just for a second.

It's becoming much complicated more than need sometimes but still good. And the whole cast are really successful.

And I'm just wondering, how can not you be a fan of Do Kyung Soo after this movie guys?

Enjoyable and strangely relaxing for a war setting movie

[at_RivyuwMamak · 8/10 · 4 May 2019]

Im not familiar with korean war. So i cant really comment on that. But aside from that, this movie was fun and engaging. I enjoyed the dance battles and I even held my breath when they were on stage. The chemistry between characters were great. And one more thing, DO is for sure multi talented!

DESERVE MORE

[mencygrande · 10/10 · 20 March 2021]

This deserve more recognition!! The story, the cast did a freaking great job in this movie.

Dramatic

[joanne-78049 · 10/10 · 28 February 2019]

Very good story and acting was brilliant do is amazing in this

Brilliant Korean tap dancers!

[balletteacher · 10/10 · 21 February 2022]

I got curious to see this movie because of its title: SWING KIDS. What? In a POW camp?? I was immediately taken in by this gem of a film. The writing, directing, cinematography were amazing! Juxta-posing a tragic theme of war and its ugliness...and tap dance...BRILLIANT, without being tacky.

Multi-talented cast, led by Kyung-soo Doh (100 Days My Prince and lead singer of EXO) and American Broadway star, Jared Grimes. The dancer-actors who played the "Swingers" were so good in their own techniques. Hye-soo Park, who taps very well, also sang with conviction. The American cast included dancers playing soldiers. WONDERFUL!!!

I won't go into the synopsis as most every review talks about it. I highly recommend this film for dance lovers everywhere. Fans of D. O. Will love him even more here. Aside from his amazing vocals, I had no idea this actor was also a dancer par excellence. Bravo!

Makes you google history of Koje POW camp.

[KdramaInStudio · 10/10 · 6 May 2021]

I didn't know about this island POW camp and I can't be alone. Background info. On the camp would of been helpful to understanding the cause and meanings of the riots. The Americans were caught off guard in the movie and in real life. I think we're one of the more generous nations with POW camps and abiding by international rules that is how we were on the loosing end with safety.

The movie dance story shows across nations how the love of dance, the beat, is universal.

The movie also shows that each individual in war has their own desires in their struggle to achieve their goal.

It's a strong film with several messages. After you watch it- look up the history of the camp and all the battles it had and why.

A true masterpiece

[josepaul-68510 · 9/10 · 5 December 2020]

The cast, the story, the direction, the message, everything is just perfect. It's a must watch Korean movie for all movie lovers out there.

Beautiful, tragic. Don't watch if..

[pjdruck · 10/10 · 18 December 2020]

Don't watch this movie if you are expecting Happy go Lucky movie with dance competition theme. Cuz it's not that. As its set in the POW camps.

This movie is about freedom and the price you pay for it. And Love, not just for a person, but for your Passion.

Watching this was an experience. Great performance by everyone. And even though the movie has a War setting, it's actually quite fun and has a not so serious vibe. But mind you the whole movie has a very grim undertone to it.

Fair warning though, There are some instances of violence but they are very deliberate and not there as a hack.

You'll laugh, you'll smile and you'll cry.

When two sides are fighting, let's dance in the middle

[IamROCKAS · 8/10 · 29 June 2021]

Swing Kids is a movie that meddles both with saddening violence and happy feel-good dancing sequences. Usually, these two are not mixed in the same cauldron but the Korean director Kang Hyung-chul decided to make this move and it paid off.

In the midst of the Korean War, a POW camp is formed that receives the Geneva convention blessing and acts foreground to lure the prisoners to seek capitalism. One of the protagonists is a North Korean soldier, who's known as a hero and a defender of communist ideas but we soon learn that he also has a different affiliation - his love for tap dancing. He rejects it at first as it is a dance, created by capitalists but it doesn't take long for his love for tap dancing to triumph over his hatred for the invading powers. Ideology takes the center stage as the topic here as ideology leads them into this war and ideology kept our protagonists from pursuing what they actually liked. Ideology left people separated, left people losing their loved ones and left people to not think about pursuing their dreams, for our main protagonist - it even led to rejecting those dreams as they were provided by a different ideology.

Even though dancing connected our protagonists and happy thoughts like going on tours and tap dancing in different cities of the world kept them inspired, the reality was that they were still in a middle of a war, backed by two superpowers. That lead to one of the saddest endings I've witnessed in recent history. At points like this, you come to wonder how many young talents were forced to put their dreams aside just to fight for their country and possibly die for it because of ideological wars. How many of those were just innocent people that got caught in the crossfire. Mark Rober once said that it's a statistical certainty that Albert Einstein wasn't the most intelligent human, it was some random person you've never heard of, probably born a long time ago, who spent most of their daily energy just trying to survive. I think war is similar in this sense, as it strips people of their dreams and makes them focus on their ideologies instead of their ambitions.

The only thing that was a bit harder for me to digest here is the comedy. It wasn't always a miss but it looked or sounded so bizarre at some points. For example, the effects of when our main protagonist was doing the Kalinka, the traditional Russian dance, just looked ridiculous. The dance battles with the American soldiers also seemed out of place, though entertaining at certain aspects, they just really didn't fit the war theme. Some of these scenes were reminiscent of Bollywood-level action. I'm starting to get an idea that Korea is known for its own version of Bollywood-like action that isn't as popular in the depths of the internet. Can't say it's existent in every Korean production as I don't remember seeing anything like that in Parasite (2019) but Fabricated City (2015) definitely had that vibe.

Overall, this movie is really good. Korean war is not touched by popular cinema as much as the World Wars or other conflicts that occurred during the Cold War. There's an idea that wasn't touched in the movie as it focused on a specific aspect of this war but it is said that the Korean War prevented WWIII from occurring. Around the same time, there was a conflict spewing in Yugoslavia and the Soviet forces were preparing to intervene, which would likely create a backlash from Western Europe. The only reason why the Soviets didn't intervene was because they saw Korea as a threat to communism and decided to relocate their forces there, instead of sending them to Yugoslavia. With that point aside, I love how indirectly capitalism and communism manifest in the movie. Nobody is portrayed in the right and the whole point of the message that they tried to send with the dance was spot-on in my book. A definite recommendation to everyone.