Is The First Issue Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The First Issue is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 118 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The First Issue Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2019, The First Issue emerges as a significant entry in the Drama domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of The First Issue is composed of five short films created between 2016 and 2018: "The Designated Driver", "Let's Get Divorced", "Ambivalently Yours", " Sorry", and "The Congressman". Unlike standard genre fare, The First Issue attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Ji Il-ju, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Drama elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The First Issue features a noteworthy lineup led by Jung Hyung-suk. Supported by the likes of Moon Jong-won and Jo Dal-hwan, the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes. However, the sheer charisma of Jung Hyung-suk, Moon Jong-won, Jo Dal-hwan manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2019 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Drama space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, The First Issue is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of The First Issue follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 118 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, The First Issue resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Drama landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 7/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, The First Issue is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the complexity of relationships. The First Issue is composed of five short films created between 2016 and 2018: "The Designated Driver", "Let's Get Divorced", "Ambivalently Yours", " Sorry", and "The Congressman".
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The First Issue (2019) is overwhelmingly generally positive. With an audience rating of 7/10 and strong performance metrics in the Drama categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Jung Hyung-suk, Moon Jong-won, Jo Dal-hwan or the visual majesty of its technical execution, The First Issue is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2019. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The First Issue has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, The First Issue stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The First Issue movie hit or flop?
The First Issue is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is The First Issue worth watching?
Yes, The First Issue is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
Where can I watch The First Issue online?
The First Issue may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
Synopsis
The First Issue is composed of five short films created between 2016 and 2018: "The Designated Driver", "Let's Get Divorced", "Ambivalently Yours", " Sorry", and "The Congressman".