Netflix has revealed the first poster and trailer for its highly anticipated action film Mantis, a spin-off of the acclaimed Kill Boksoon. Directed by a visionary team, this gritty thriller dives into the chaotic world of contract killing, spotlighting a fierce battle for supremacy among elite assassins. Starring Yim Si-wan, Park Gyu-young, and Jo Woo-jin, Mantis promises a high-octane blend of stylish action, intense rivalries, and a gripping narrative set to captivate global audiences.
At the heart of Mantis is Han Wool, portrayed by Yim Si-wan, a top-tier assassin known by his chilling moniker “Mantis.” After a prolonged hiatus, Han Wool returns to the hitman industry only to find it in disarray following the death of the CEO of MK ENT, South Korea’s largest assassination organization. The company teeters on the edge of collapse, with its hierarchy shattered and its killers vying for dominance. Han Wool, an A-class operative, steps back into this anarchic landscape, wielding his signature sickle-shaped weapon—a nod to his lethal reputation and the ominous meaning behind his nickname, derived from the Chinese characters for “death,” “demon,” and “spirit.”
The film’s newly released poster sets a striking tone, featuring Yim Si-wan’s Han Wool in a bold, blood-red outfit, exuding both menace and charisma. The poster prominently showcases his deadly weapon, hinting at the brutal action sequences that await. Accompanied by the tagline “A new generation of rising killers,” the visual underscores the film’s central theme: a ruthless power struggle in a lawless world where alliances are fragile, and survival hinges on skill and cunning.
The trailer amplifies this tension, opening with the authoritative voice of MK ENT’s CEO, Cha Min-gyu (played by Sul Kyung-gu), outlining the rules of the contract killing trade. It quickly shifts to introduce Han Wool, whose exceptional talent is matched only by his rivalry with fellow trainee Jae Yi, portrayed by Park Gyu-young. Their dynamic is fraught with both camaraderie and competition, as evidenced by Jae Yi’s provocative taunt, “Am I not above you now?” and Han Wool’s icy response, “Is that why you wanted to kill me?” These exchanges highlight the delicate balance between friendship and betrayal that drives their conflict.
Adding to the chaos is Dok Go, played by Jo Woo-jin, a retired legendary killer whose return to the battlefield sends shockwaves through the industry. As the three assassins—Han Wool, Jae Yi, and Dok Go—collide, their pursuit of the coveted No. 1 spot ignites a deadly war. The trailer teases meticulously choreographed action sequences, with each assassin showcasing their unique fighting style and motives. From precision takedowns to high-stakes confrontations, the rhythmic intensity of the action promises a visually stunning experience.
Yim Si-wan, known for his versatile performances in dramas like Summer Strike, brings a layered intensity to Han Wool, blending cold calculation with flashes of vulnerability. Park Gyu-young, fresh off her role in A Good Day to Be a Dog, infuses Jae Yi with fierce ambition and sharp wit, making her a formidable rival. Jo Woo-jin, a seasoned actor, lends gravitas to Dok Go, whose storied past and unexpected comeback raise the stakes for all involved. Sul Kyung-gu’s commanding presence as Cha Min-gyu ties the narrative together, grounding the film’s anarchic energy with his portrayal of the industry’s embattled leader.
Mantis builds on the gritty, stylish foundation of Kill Boksoon, expanding its universe with a fresh cast of characters and a deeper exploration of the assassin world’s power dynamics. The film’s blend of sleek visuals, intricate character relationships, and relentless action positions it as a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Mantis is set to premiere globally on Netflix on September 26, 2025.
Sources: Naver, Netflix
