Ballerina ★★★

SOUTH Korean action thriller Ballerina is a frustrating watch.

The first act, even of an action film, is meant to establish characters and narrative, but a half hour in I was none the wiser of exactly who main character Jang Ok-ju is and her motivations other than a simplistic out for revenge.

That may satisfy for an outright action film, but director Lee Chung-hyun’s 2023 release is well made enough to have greater aspirations.

Ok-ju is a bodyguard for private clients whose best friend dies after being victimised and extorted by a sex trafficker. In tracking down the man Ok-ju is joined by another young victim.

There isn’t much more to the story I’m afraid, but the cast energetically throw themselves into the roles and there are plenty of strong action sequences.

It’s a good calling card for a director that should progress.