: Reviews were mixed but generally leaned positive toward the performances. Some critics from Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb praised the intense acting and suspenseful climax. Others, such as reviewers at the Los Angeles Times , found the plot generic or repetitive.
: The narrative leans heavily on the irony of prisoners being the only people who "can't" be suspects because they are technically locked up. Critical and Commercial Reception
: While Yoo-gun appears to join Ik-ho's syndicate to survive, it is eventually revealed that he is on a dangerous undercover mission to expose the organization and uncover the truth behind his brother's death. Themes and Atmosphere The Prison(2017)
: The prison is depicted not as a place of reform, but as a hub for flawless criminal operations where the system itself is the primary enabler of crime.
: The cinematography was highly regarded, particularly the visually striking climax featuring a burning prison building. The Prison (2017) - IMDb : Reviews were mixed but generally leaned positive
: Characters must constantly navigate shifting alliances and brutal fights to maintain their status or simply stay alive.
: Yoo-gun initially struggles as he is surrounded by criminals he personally put behind bars. However, his fearless nature catches the attention of Ik-ho. : The narrative leans heavily on the irony
The story follows (played by Kim Rae-won), a former police officer known for a 100% arrest rate who is incarcerated for hit-and-run and evidence tampering. Inside, he encounters Jung Ik-ho (played by Han Suk-kyu), the undisputed "kingpin" who rules the prison through a vast network of bribes involving the warden and guards.