Once upon a time long ago in Korea, the Minister of Defense, Piljoon Song, gets rid of his political opponent and assumes complete control of the armed forces. He goes on to produce counterfeit money. As soon as it goes into circulation, prices skyrocket and the common people are thrust into extreme hardship. Meanwhile, the royal court grants Minister Song free reign to resolve the political crisis, thereby speeding him on his way to absolute power.
Detective Namsoon goes undercover with her partner Detective Ahn to investigate the counterfeit money. But when all the prime suspects are killed, the case becomes a much deeper mystery. She discovers one loyal henchman, Sad Eyes, a beautiful swordsman with a pale, blank face, is covering up Minister Song’s tracks.
Namsoon and Sad Eyes confront each other in a series of duels – tirelessly chasing, being pursued and dodging each other. Inevitably, they fall headlong in love – and their forbidden enchantment blossoms. Each struggles to reconcile the desperate conflict between love and obligation to duty, as they square off to meet their fate in one last duel.
The Duelist opens in UK cinemas on the 9th March 2007 - and watch out for our interview with the director soon!
