The great Song Kang-ho delivers a deft tragicomic performance in this lovably goofy sports comedy and character study. He stars as Dae-ho, a timid, put-upon bank clerk who finds unexpected respite from his soul-sucking professional life as a masked professional wrestler whose gimmick is employing absurd ways to cheat in the ring. As Dae-ho gradually finds success at his new pursuit, he is emboldened to take risks in every aspect of his life—with decidedly mixed results. Offering a sly commentary on the toxic effects of South Korea’s high-pressure work culture, The Foul King is a classic root-for-the-underdog tale with an offbeat twist. A 2001 ND/NF selection.