[Anchor] As we come once again to the weekend, it’s time to take a look at what new movies are out in Jeju theatres. Here is this week’s edition of Film Focus.
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A long holiday weekend is always great, but sometimes, it might just be a little too long. While spending time with family is definitely a highlight, for some, a little time away could be just what the doctor ordered.

This week, take a trip back to the old west in The Magnificent Seven, and then spend an afternoon out with your kids checking out Rock Dog.

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Mike Laidman

Welcome to another edition of Film Focus. I’m Mike Laidman.

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The Magnificent Seven (2016, Antoine Fuqua)
7 gun men come together to help a poor village against thieves.

There have been sequels and remakes aplenty this summer, and to cap things off, here is The Magnificent Seven - a modern vision of a western classic, first released in 1960.

With the town of Rose Creek under the deadly control of industrialist Bartholomew Bogue, the desperate townspeople employ protection from seven outlaws, bounty hunters, gamblers and hired guns. As they prepare the town for the violent showdown that they know is coming, these seven mercenaries find themselves fighting for more than money.

People are coming down on both sides of the fence on this one, with some finding that, while the movie is enjoyable and full of action, there isn’t really that much going on that is truly ‘magnificent.’ Others, though, appreciate the group dynamics the seven leads have, the vision of director Antoine Fuqua, and how the movie informs, slipping in new ideas and redefining expectations.

The final takeaway is that if you at all enjoy westerns, then you could do much worse than go see The Magnificent Seven.


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Rock Dog (2016, Ash Brannon)
A dog leaves home to fulfill his dream of becoming a musician.

Also opening up this week is Rock Dog, which is definitely seeking attention from kids dragging their parents to the theatre.

It tells the story of Bodi, a wide-eyed Tibetan Mastiff, who is expected to become the next village guard for a group of fun-loving, countryside sheep. However, he fears he doesn't have the passion to assume the role from his dad, Khampa. Everything changes when a radio literally falls out of the sky and Bodi hears a song by rock legend Angus Scattergood, opening his heart to a musical world he must explore. Leaving home to chase his destiny in the big city, Bodi attracts the attention of Khampa's nemesis Linnux, the leader of a hungry wolf pack. It is up to Bodi to save his family and friends from harm without giving up his newfound dream.

The movie has had a storied production, being completely Chinese-financed and made in America. It features some impressive voice talents, and should entertain children well enough.