‘Bogota: City of the Lost’ Netflix Movie Review - Song Joong Ki Back with a Banger

I am always excited to watch Song Jung Ki on big screens, and this time, he graced us at the start of the year itself. Set against the backdrop of Colombia in the 1990s, Bogotá: City of the Lost is a gripping crime thriller that masterfully explores ambition, survival, and the dark underbelly of power struggles within an immigrant community. Directed by Kim Seong-je, this film offers a raw and immersive experience, blending historical elements with nail-biting action and intense character development.

The story follows 19-year-old Guk-hee (played by Song Joong-ki), who relocates to Bogotá with his family after the devastating 1997 Asian financial crisis. Seeking a fresh start, they are instead met with hardship, forcing Guk-hee into a relentless fight for survival. His breakthrough comes when he crosses paths with Sergeant Park (Lee Hee-jun), a former Vietnam War veteran and an influential figure in the Korean Merchants’ Association. Recognizing Guk-hee's unwavering diligence, Park entrusts him with a high-risk smuggling operation involving clothing—an initiation test that pushes him into the perilous world of underground commerce.

As the operation takes a dangerous turn, Guk-hee proves his mettle by safeguarding Park’s goods from a near-fatal interception by Colombian customs. His daring act not only solidifies his place in Park’s circle but also catches the attention of Soo-yeong (Kwon Hae-hyo), a cunning customs broker. Soo-yeong presents Guk-hee with an enticing yet treacherous proposal—one that could alter his fate and reshape the Korean community’s standing in Bogotá.

Kim Seong-je’s direction brilliantly captures the chaotic, lawless atmosphere of late 20th-century Colombia, a setting that mirrors Guk-hee’s own turbulent journey. The cinematography immerses viewers in the raw and unfiltered reality of immigrant struggles, painting a visually stunning yet harrowing portrait of crime-infested streets and clandestine dealings. The film’s pacing is tight, ensuring that every twist and turn in Guk-hee’s ascent is met with palpable tension.

Song Joong-ki delivers a standout performance, effortlessly portraying Guk-hee’s transformation from a desperate youth to a formidable player in the underworld. His nuanced acting—ranging from quiet determination to explosive outbursts—adds depth to a character teetering between survival and moral ambiguity. Lee Hee-jun’s portrayal of the authoritative yet shrewd Sergeant Park provides a commanding presence, while Kwon Hae-hyo’s Soo-yeong introduces an unpredictable element that keeps audiences on edge.

Beyond its crime-thriller elements, Bogotá: City of the Lost delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the cost of ambition. The film critiques the harsh realities immigrants face, exposing the moral compromises they must navigate in pursuit of stability and success. Guk-hee’s choices, fraught with peril and consequence, highlight the blurred lines between survival and corruption.

Overall, Bogotá: City of the Lost is a compelling, high-stakes drama that delivers both adrenaline-pumping sequences and thought-provoking storytelling. With stellar performances, gripping narrative arcs, and a richly detailed setting, the film cements itself as a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and character-driven narratives alike.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times