Sometimes it seems like I’m constantly seeking out depressing movies, but the truth is, they usually fall within the comedy genre and end up being an exquisite form of mental torture. I’ll clarify right away: that’s not the case with The Grand Heist. This film is packed with humor, intrigue, and action in equal measure.
When I first read the synopsis, it was described as a Korean version of Ocean’s Eleven. That made me hesitate since I never really enjoyed any of the American versions of that franchise. But after watching the trailer, my perspective completely changed. Yes, at its core, the story revolves around a group of people coming together to pull off a massive heist. However, as always with Korean cinema, the characters are deeply developed, the cinematography is flawless, and the performances are exceptional.
The Story – Ice, Power, and Revenge
Set during the Joseon Dynasty, the film revolves around the control of ice—a precious resource used to endure the scorching summers. Initially, ice was distributed equally to the people by the King. But a powerful family, led by the ruthless Jo Young Cheol, aims to monopolize the ice trade, charging exorbitant prices and leaving the poor as well as elite families who refuse to submit to their whims with no options.
The main character, Duk Moo, is a book merchant and the illegitimate son of a nobleman and his now-deceased concubine. Because of his birth status, he has no chance of inheriting a noble title, but despite their limited interactions, he maintains a good relationship with his father. That bond is shattered when Young Cheol accuses his father of treason, exiling him to the countryside. At the same time, Duk Moo and his friend are imprisoned under suspicion of distributing books that expose the corrupt dealings of the Jo family.
Thanks to his father’s influence, Duk Moo is eventually released. That moment sets him on the path toward a daring plan—to rob the royal ice vaults during an extravagant banquet hosted by the Jo family. But such an ambitious heist requires a team of skilled misfits, each with a crucial role to play. This is where the film’s massive and charismatic cast comes into play.
Cast of The Grand Heist (2012)
Cha Tae Hyun (My Sassy Girl, Jeon Woo Chi, Champ) as Duk Moo, a carefree idealist who suddenly finds himself on a near-suicidal mission to avenge his father and restore ice distribution to the people. It’s been years since My Sassy Girl, but Tae Hyun’s comedic essence remains intact.
Oh Ji Ho (The Queen of Office, The 3rd Hospital, Super Rookie) as Dong Soo, a strong military officer dedicated to enforcing the King’s laws—until he gets tangled in the Jo family’s corruption. Stripped of his title, he dedicates himself to rigorous training before being recruited by Duk Moo.
Min Hyo Rin (Romance Town, A Millionaire on the Run, Sunny) as Soo Ryun, Dong Soo’s sister and Duk Moo’s impossible love interest—at least until fate brings them together for the mission.
Sung Dong Il (Children…, The Suicide Forecast, Jang Ok Jung) as Jang Soo Gyun, a shady merchant who ends up bankrolling this crusade for justice.
Shin Jung Keun (Secretly Greatly, Runway Cop, Masquerade) as Seok Dae Hyun, the explosives expert—a mad scientist type who must push his creativity to invent never-before-seen gadgets.
Go Chang Suk (Ad Genius Lee Tae Baek, Good Doctor, Monstar) as Hong Seok Chang, an expert thief and tunnel digger responsible for the underground work. This guy can make me laugh just by walking. Impeccable performance.
Song Jong Ho (Answer Me 1997, The Princess’ Man, Cain & Abel) as Kim Jae Joon, the resident con artist. He infiltrates elite households, using his connections with Young Cheol’s concubine to gather intel. A master of disguise, his skills are vital to the plan’s success.
Kim Gil Dong (God of War) as Cheol Joo, the logistics guy—a strongman obsessed with his transport wagons. A relatively unknown actor, but he serves his role well.
Lee Chae Young (Secretly Greatly, Miracle, The Birth of a Family) as Yoo Sul Hwa, a spy infiltrating lavish parties to extract crucial information about the Jo family’s plans.
Kim Hyang Gi (The Queen of the Classroom, A Werewolf Boy, Hero, Bad Couple) as Nan Yi, Sul Hwa’s constant companion and right-hand assistant.
Cheon Bo Keun (The Queen of the Classroom, Gloria, Spy) as Jung Goon, a boy who accidentally gets caught up in the heist and, unexpectedly, finds his purpose.
Final Thoughts – A Must-Watch Heist Comedy
With such a dynamic cast, it’s impossible for this movie to fail in terms of chemistry or pacing. The Grand Heist is hilarious, fast-paced, and full of surprises—despite everything I’ve described, it still manages to catch you off guard.
Oh, and keep an eye out for the final cameo, which will definitely put a smile on your face. A very familiar face, now serving in the military, makes an appearance.
So, if you’re looking for a fun, clever, and visually stunning period heist film, add The Grand Heist to your watchlist. You won’t regret it.