King Jeongjo assumes a special position in the history of Joseon. He became famous in his later years by strengthening the royal authority and implementing a number of beneficial policies. However,he was at a fragile status when he first came to the throne. Those who killed his father were so afraid of possible revenge from King Jeongjo that they even tried to assassinate the new King. This historical drama is a result of adding cinematic imagination to the historical assassination attempt in the first year of King Jeongjo. The King is not very popular among his family and courtiers. His grandmother conspires against him to assume the power, while opponents hire a secret group of assassins. The film dramatizes multifaceted aspects of the 24 hours of the assassination day. While the conspiracy proceeds with escalating suspense, the King’s right-hand man reveals his true identity, and the King’s mother is driven into a corner. This is the first feature film by director Lee Jae-kyoo, who made many popular TV series including Damo and Beethoven Virus. This is also the first film of actor Hyun Bin after his discharge from military service. (NAM Dong-chul)