Plane-hijacking action movies aren’t anything new. They were popular in the ’90s (like 1997’s Air Force One) and early 2000s, some even had outrageous premises (2006’s Snakes On A Plane). South Korean movie Hijack 1971 is the latest in those lines of films and it’s an action thriller drama based on true historical events.

Airborne

The issue with movies based on or inspired by true historical events is that they lose some of the fun and tension because we already know what’s going to happen. That being said, a good film will still be able to be thrilling and entertaining, despite being predictable. Hijack 1971 is one of those films. Even if you have prior knowledge of what really happened, Hijack 1971 managed to still be filled with tension and drama, keeping me invested on the edge of my seat and immersed from start to end.

Thanks to the movie’s brisk pacing, Hijack 1971 never has a boring moment. The movie is well-paced with a strong first act introducing us to the main character, Ha Jung-woo as pilot and First Officer Tae-in, where we learn about his past and what drives his motivations. His performance is definitely the highlight of the movie, and the ending even made me tear up due to how powerful it is. The supporting cast is also a strong one, and each of them has distinctive character traits that make them easy to remember.

Another aspect of the movie that captivated me was how Hijack 1971 felt like a fascinating time capsule or blast to the past. The attention to detail, from things like pilots being able to smoke in their cockpits to seat reservations not being a thing yet so passengers had to frantically literally run to the aircraft when the airport gate opened if they wanted the best seats. And of course, airport security was so lax back then (pre-9/11, when plane hijackings were still prevalent) that it feels jarring and interesting to see it through a modern lens. And of course, the geopolitical tension between North and South Korea plays a large role in the plot.

There isn’t really anything too negative to say about Hijack 1971. It’s certainly everything you would expect from a movie like this. It doesn’t do anything new, shocking or innovative but it’s the great performances and the little historical details from its unique 70s setting that carry the movie. If there is one thing, Hijack 1971 is not an ‘easy’ watch, as most of the movie has a serious and emotionally heightened tone, so don’t expect much jokes or humour since this isn’t that kind of action movie.

Prepare For Landing

Hijack 1971 is thrilling and entertaining from beginning to end. If you’re looking for intense action and drama (also a plus if you’re a history or military buff), this is the movie for you.

FINAL SCORE: 80/100

We attended a press screening of Hijack 1971 courtesy of Sony Pictures Malaysia. Hijack 1971 premieres in Malaysian cinemas on 1 August 2024.