Based on a novel of the same name by Kim Hoon, The Fortress depicts a harsh winter for the Joseon court while seeking refuge in Namhansanseong during the Second Manchu Invasion in 1636, King Injo’s 14th year. Minister of Interior Choi Myung-kil advocates for appeasement with the Qing Dynasty while Minister of Rites Kim Sang-hun insists that they fight for their honor. King Injo does nothing while his court is thus divided, and meanwhile, the emperor of China arrives in Samjeondo and delivers an ultimatum. As a last resort, Kim Sang-hun sends blacksmith Nal-soi to use the king’s letter to recruit loyal forces. The film is centered around the conflict between Choi and Kim, who both love their country but in different ways. The director does not add or reinterpret the events, but simply reenacts the dry and edged style of the original work, building emotions while keeping a distance from characters and events in this “song of the land.” It is a well-made, elegant historical drama true to the basics. (Song Kyong Won)