Company Man 2001
Directed by
Peter Askin
Made by
Intermedia
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Company Man (2001). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Ji Hyeong-do, a skilled assassin, operates under the pretense of running a metal fabrication firm, crafting a dangerous alias that has solidified his status as a highly respected hitman. However, everything changes when he’s ordered to eliminate his young protégé, Ra-Hun. This pivotal assignment ignites a journey that forces Hyeong-do to reassess his identity and the very nature of his grim profession.
During a visit to Ra-Hun’s residence, Hyeong-do encounters the enchanting Yu Mi-Yeon, a former singer and now Ra-Hun’s mother. This unexpected meeting between Hyeong-do and Yu Mi-Yeon triggers a series of events that will deeply impact both their lives. Simultaneously, turmoil brews within the company as a grieving colleague, struggling with the recent loss of his son, begins to question the moral implications of their line of work and seeks a discussion with Hyeong-do.
With tension rising, Hyeong-do is caught in a conflict between his obligations to the company and the budding relationship with Mi-Yeon. His boss, Kwon, disapproves of this emotional shift and the ensuing friction becomes critical when Hyeong-do is ordered to take action against his distraught coworker.
As pressure mounts, Hyeong-do must face the reality of his life choices. Defying the company’s mandates propels him into a fierce struggle for survival against former allies. In a desperate attempt to build a future with Mi-Yeon, Hyeong-do embarks on a treacherous path leading to an intense confrontation where only one side can prevail.
After the dust settles, Hyeong-do emerges from the chaos, wounded yet resolute. With law enforcement closing in, he finds himself with no option but to submit to the consequences of his past actions. While the curtain might seem to close on his career as an assassin, for Ji Hyeong-do, this marks the beginning of a new journey — one that will be shaped by the love he experienced with Mi-Yeon and the quest for redemption.
Timeline
Track the key events of Company Man (2001) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Ji Hyeong-do's dual life
Ji Hyeong-do is a highly skilled assassin who successfully hides his true profession behind the facade of running a metal fabrication firm. This duality has allowed him to build a respectable reputation while engaging in a dangerous and morally ambiguous lifestyle.
The fateful assignment
Hyeong-do receives a chilling order to eliminate his young protégé, Ra-Hun. This unexpected task forces him to reflect on his choices and the implications of killing someone he has trained and mentored.
Meeting Yu Mi-Yeon
During a visit to Ra-Hun's home, Hyeong-do encounters Yu Mi-Yeon, Ra-Hun's mother. This enchanting former singer captivates him and begins to alter his perception of his current life and the decisions he faces.
Colleague's grief and moral questioning
A colleague at Hyeong-do's company, still reeling from the recent loss of his son, approaches him to discuss the ethical consequences of their work. This conversation highlights the conflicting feelings Hyeong-do has about his profession.
Growing tension with Kwon
As Hyeong-do develops feelings for Mi-Yeon, his boss Kwon notices the emotional shift and grows increasingly uneasy about it. This friction creates a divide between Hyeong-do and the company, complicating his loyalties.
Conflicting obligations
With the pressure mounting, Hyeong-do struggles between following orders from Kwon and nurturing his relationship with Mi-Yeon. This internal conflict intensifies when he is forced to confront his troubled coworker.
Defiance against orders
Deciding to break away from the company's directives, Hyeong-do chooses to protect his colleague instead of following through with the orders. This act of defiance plunges him into violent repercussions.
Struggle for survival
As he acts against his former allies, Hyeong-do finds himself in a fierce struggle for survival. The consequences of his decisions lead to dangerous encounters that test his skills as an assassin.
The intense confrontation
Hyeong-do embarks on a treacherous path that culminates in an intense confrontation with his former allies. Here, the stakes are high, and only one side can emerge victorious from this deadly showdown.
Aftermath of the chaos
Following the confrontation, Hyeong-do is left wounded but more resolved than ever. Despite the perilous situation, he begins to envision a different life, one shaped by love and the pursuit of redemption.
Facing the consequences
Law enforcement begins to close in on Hyeong-do, forcing him to confront the fallout of his past actions. This tension marks a crucial turning point where he must reckon with his choices.
A new beginning
As his life as an assassin appears to come to an end, Hyeong-do sees this as the beginning of a new journey. Influenced by the love he found with Mi-Yeon, he seeks a path toward redemption and healing.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Company Man (2001) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Ji Hyeong-do
Ji Hyeong-do is a complex character who embodies the duality of a skilled assassin and a man in search of redemption. As he grapples with the orders to kill his protégé, he begins to question his life choices and the morality of his actions. Hyeong-do's transformation is catalyzed by his interactions with Mi-Yeon, showcasing his inner conflict and humanity.
Yu Mi-Yeon
Yu Mi-Yeon is a former singer who represents a life of dreams and aspirations, contrasting sharply with Hyeong-do's dark world. Her strength and resilience shine through her caring nature, especially as a mother. Mi-Yeon's character serves as a beacon of hope for Hyeong-do, compelling him to reconsider his values and the path he's on.
Ra-Hun
Ra-Hun, as Hyeong-do's protégé, symbolizes youth and the potential for change within the assassin's life. His innocent demeanor and close bond with Mi-Yeon create a heartfelt connection that influences Hyeong-do to reflect on his choices. Ra-Hun's character is essential in triggering the moral dilemmas faced by Hyeong-do throughout the film.
Kwon
Kwon functions as the antagonist who embodies the ruthless nature of the assassination business. His disapproval of Hyeong-do's emotional evolution creates tension and drives the narrative forward. Kwon's character serves to highlight the internal struggle between obligation and personal growth within a morally ambiguous setting.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Company Man (2001), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The film operates in a contemporary setting where traditional values clash with modern dilemmas. The fast-paced life of the protagonist highlights the moral complexities faced by individuals in today’s society, particularly those entangled in crime. The narrative reflects themes of personal struggle and moral ambiguity prevalent in modern crime dramas.
Location
Ra-Hun's residence
Ra-Hun's residence serves as a crucial setting in the film, as it marks the turning point in Hyeong-do's journey. It is a place of personal encounters, filled with emotional weight due to the connections that intertwine the characters' lives. The home stands out as an emblem of warmth and familial ties in contrast to the cold world of assassination.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Company Man (2001). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Redemption
The quest for redemption is central to Hyeong-do's narrative. As he navigates the violent expectations of his profession, Hyeong-do's encounters with Mi-Yeon and the implications of his actions inspire a deep yearning for change. This theme emphasizes the possibility of transformation and the fight against one's past mistakes, setting the stage for potential renewal.
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Conflict
Conflict arises not just externally with the people in Hyeong-do's life, but also within himself. The struggle between loyalty to the company and his feelings for Mi-Yeon forces him to confront his values and responsibilities. This delicate balance highlights the intense interpersonal drama that unfolds amid the backdrop of a dangerous profession.
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Family
Family plays a significant role in the film, showcased through the relationship between Ra-Hun and his mother, Mi-Yeon. The emotional turmoil faced by the characters underscores how family dynamics can influence personal choices and reveal deeper truths about one’s identity. The connections between family members deeply impact the protagonist's journey toward self-discovery.
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