In a review for the Korean Film Council , Yi Ch ' ang-ho described '' Once Upon a Time '' as being " technically excellent " and " a well balanced heist comedy , " also praising the film for its use of music and portrayal of 1940s Korea . Yang Sung-jin of '' The Korea Herald '' commended the " solid performances of the leading characters , " while also giving credit to the comic relief provided by supporting actors Sung Dong-il and Jo Hee-bong . Susan Yoon of the '' Korea JoongAng Daily '' noted that although the film shows the harsh realities of life under Japanese colonialism , it could also be enjoyed as a comedy " because it focuses on personal journeys , not just historical events , " and that the film was " Funny from beginning to end , " with " a delightful finish . " James Mudge of ''BeyondHollywood.com '' regarded Jeong 's direction as being " slick and confident throughout , " and commented that while the film lacked originality , " it stands as a solid , entertaining action comedy that should be enjoyed by all . " Lee Bo-young was nominated for Best New Actress at the 44th Baeksang Arts Awards . Yang Min-hye was also nominated for Best Costume Design at the 45th Grand Bell Awards
45th Grand Bell Awards
45th Grand Bell Awards
Once Upon a Time (2008 film)