The actors chemistry for this drama was perfection, they gelled so well and the stories intertwining with one another was amazingly well written. I wasn't as keen on the Grim Reaper at the start but I warmed to him as the drama continued and he became a firm favourite, although in fairness, I loved them all, apart from that Aunt and her kids, they can go away! Although a lot of it is serious and deals with a lot of difficult subjects/themes, there's a lot of hilarious moments too and you get to witness budding friendships between an unlikely group of characters which also results in some very funny sections of the drama.
The story is full of twists and turns which leave you at the edge of your seat, I for one am SO glad that I didn't watch this whilst it was airing where I'd have to endure waiting for the next episode week to week, it would have been torture!
I've only watched 23 dramas, giving 2 including Goblin a 10 (the other being "It's ok, that's love" because of the difficult topics it deals with incredibly well) but honestly, I'd give Goblin a 100+ if I could, I've never laughed and cried so much for one drama. You will feel happiness, sadness, elation, loneliness, grief and heartache at various stages of this but it's worth it thousands of times over. I'd rewatch this over and over again when I need a good dose of feels or just a laugh at a certain secretarie's dance moves and super serious bromance moments.
The OST is beautiful and I have got it all saved on my Spotify for when I need a Goblin moment! It captures the mood of the drama so well, it's worth a listen away from the drama to fully appreciate it.
I've seen people complaining about the age gap which I can kinda understand but at the same time, in this day an age there being an age gap in a relationship isn't uncommon, she's 19/20 in this, I don't see it as being particularly 'creepy' as her character is immensely mature and has a lot of depth. Love isn't confined to age.
There has also been criticism of product placement but it doesn't bother me anywhere near as much as the obvious sticky tape over brand labels that I see in man other dramas. I'm so used to product placement in TV shows and movies that it doesn't really bother me, some of the placements were quite funny anyway. If anything, Goblin has done a great job at making me want to go back to visit Canada again ;3
I held off from watching this for ages as the plot sounded a bit weird but I regret not watching it sooner as I would have been able to re-watch it a few times by now so if you are hesitating, please just go and watch it and you will understand what all the fuss is about.
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the story is lovely, I cried right away in the first episode. When I started to watch, I just could not stop watching! I shivered every time the opening begins, and even today when I hear this same song from the opening, my heart is filled with joy. I tell all people that goblin is a work of art, it is almost impossible to stop watching after you start.
the actors are captivating, you learn to love them more and more throughout the episodes and then you feel miss them when you finish watching all the episodes. the friendship between the goblin and the reaper is really something from another world, I love it when characters create sympathy throughout the episodes and create a bond of strong friendship. in general, the relationships in this drama are well thought out and everything was thought out very well.
the scenarios and soundtrack of the drama really are good, I listen to the soundtrack every day, I feel so happy listening to these songs. All the scenarios and the palette of drama's colors are magnificent. All the people who worked on this drama deserve the congratulations, it really looked very beautiful and I will never forget this drama.
And concluding: Goblin is first on my list of favorites, I'm completely in love with this drama, I want to be able to re-watch this drama all my life lol. Deciding to watch goblin was one of the best drama choices I've had
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It's gonna be worthit and watchable
Goblin: The Lonely and Great God - ReviewGoblin: The Lonely and Great God (2016) is one of South Korea's most iconic and beloved dramas, written by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Lee Eung-bok. With its unique premise, breathtaking visuals, and a star-studded cast, the show effortlessly blends fantasy, romance, and heart-wrenching drama into a timeless masterpiece.
Story and Themes
The drama revolves around Kim Shin (played by Gong Yoo), a goblin cursed with immortality, who longs to find his bride to end his eternal life. The story takes a turn when he meets Ji Eun-tak (Kim Go-eun), a cheerful high school girl who claims to be the "Goblin's Bride." Intertwined with their love story is the mysterious Grim Reaper (Lee Dong-wook), who shares an unexpectedly hilarious and touching bromance with Kim Shin. Themes of life, death, fate, and redemption are explored in poignant ways, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
Performances
Gong Yoo delivers a masterful performance, portraying the centuries-old goblin with depth, charisma, and vulnerability. Kim Go-eun's portrayal of the optimistic and resilient Eun-tak complements Gong Yoo's character perfectly, adding warmth to their chemistry. Lee Dong-wook and Yoo In-na (as Sunny) steal the show with their subplot, a bittersweet love story that captivates viewers. The bromance between Gong Yoo and Lee Dong-wook provides much-needed comic relief while also tugging at heartstrings.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography of Goblin is nothing short of stunning. From the sweeping landscapes to the intricate details of historical flashbacks, every frame feels like a piece of art. The use of lighting and symbolism enhances the show's ethereal quality, creating an immersive experience.
Music and OST
The OST is a standout feature of Goblin, with tracks like "Stay With Me" by Chanyeol and Punch, and "Beautiful" by Crush becoming instant classics. The music not only enhances the emotional depth of scenes but also adds to the drama's iconic status.
Strengths
A richly layered story that balances humor, romance, and tragedy.
Stellar performances by a talented cast.
Exceptional cinematography and production design.
A memorable and emotionally resonant soundtrack.
Weaknesses
While Goblin is widely acclaimed, some viewers might find the pacing in the middle episodes slightly slow. Additionally, the show's heavy focus on fate and destiny may feel overly dramatic to certain audiences.
Final Thoughts
Goblin: The Lonely and Great God is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and romance. Its unique story, unforgettable characters, and emotional depth make it a benchmark in K-drama history. Whether you are drawn to its supernatural elements, heartwarming relationships, or philosophical reflections on life and death, Goblin has something for everyone.
Rating: 9.5/10
A near-perfect blend of fantasy and reality, Goblin is a show that will linger in your heart long after the credits roll.
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I've rewatched this drama a countless number of times without finding substantial flaws, even if I'm being nitpicky. You'll love these characters and their relationships (be it romance, bromance, or friendship) long past your first time watching it, and you'll remember their most iconic quotes, too.
Goblin is a masterpiece with gorgeous cinematography, writing, and one of the best OSTs I've ever heard. Not only that, but it's completely different from any other drama out there while being down to earth and heartwarming as well.
The only reason I would not recommend this drama is if you have never watched a KDrama before- Goblin is so perfect that once you've seen it, most any other drama will be lackluster thereafter.
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After this, I watched lots of k-dramas, so I guess this show is to blame that now I'm a k-drama addict. And even having watching so many of them, anything could be compared to Goblin. Without any doubt it's the best drama I've ever seen in my entire life.
Everything is wonderful. The story (from a non-used to k-dramas point of view) is kind of unusual. The photography, the settings (oh, Quebec, one of the most wonderful places I've ever been), the dialogues, the humor, the bromance, the romance...
I love Gong Yoo in every one of the things he has done, but here he is amazing as the lonely tokebi. For the rest of the casting, they are all perfect, overall Lee Dong Wook as the Grim Reaper (his bromance with the Goblin is mythic, so funny!)
Other thing that I really liked in this show is that you don't have a love triangle, nor the tropes so used in other dramas, and you have the opportunity to see the evolution in both couples.
The only thing I complain is that the main couple does not have much explanation time at the ending as they should have. There were too much time to explain the Grim Reapers and Sunny (not Sun Hee) future and not so much for the main couple... Dommage!
This show taugh me so many things I could continue for hours explaining why everybody should watch it.
I have read some bad reviews explaining that it's so slow that is boring. I don't know but for me it wasn't slow at all. It had the right pace for a perfect development of the story and the characters.
Music: loved it. One of by k-drama OST.
Rewatch value: I've watched this show three times already and I watch it every now and then while I deciding what to see next.
So, last advise, DON'T MISS IT, BEST DRAMA EVER!
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Also, I was quite surprised with the characters. In spite of the hate that the main couple receives because of their 12 year difference, I kind of get where the writer was going. Also I didn't find the relationship between the 2 awkward, and I loved the fact that Eun Tak acted as her age and didn't try to be more mature, despite of what she has gone through in her life. I was a big fan of her character and her positive and brave personality, the fact that she didn't hide her feelings for the Goblin was quite fresh and helped in avoiding not needed drama to the series.
In my case, I love the Grim Reaper the most. Also his character is the most interesting one in whole bunch. Lee Dong Wook is such a talented actor, especially when it comes to emotional scenes, he has one of the best crying faces in the industry. I love the complex story that surrounded his character and how he comes in term with it.
Goblin is really a beautiful drama. It deals with reincarnation, a theme that is not really used, and if it is, usually is some kind of subplot. It's interesting to see how souls can recognize each other, and how there stories can tangle up again and again. It will make you curious of your own world, our world, and make you think of moments that maybe you felt and instant connection with someone. It may be fantasy but who really knows, reality is that we ourselves don't know the mysteries that are attached to life and death or what is beyond it.
I recommend you to watch this drama with an open heart, ready to be surprised and question it. Truth is we all like some miracles in our life, and this drama is good in that aspect, it is full of miracles and topics that weren't discussed before.
So enjoy the ride and let it make you fall in love with it and its characters!
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The combination of the breathtaking way scenes were filmed, and the wealth of heart Goblin possessed was enough to pull me in. I don't usually talk about editing but I have to say that Goblin's editing and stylistic filming are one of my favorites out of all dramas. I love the historic backstory, sometimes even more than the present. The historic story was the anchor of the emotional resonance of the present timeline.
Goblin's world of fantasy was fun, woven well, and interesting. The rules aren't always the most clear but I can accept that. The core of the story lied in the actions and consequences of the Goblin, and the lives he touched. Of course, the bromance between the Goblin and the Grim Reaper is my favorite relationship by far. The dry insults they pass back and forth amongst themselves are the best because under the insults lies affection, as much as they hate to admit it.
The romance in Goblin wasn't the most important to me until the second half of the drama, when the stakes were raised higher and the emotions felt heavier. Admittedly, I didn't love the romance between the Kim Shin and Eun Tak in the beginning because their relationship seemed to be more of a lost soul to lost soul connection, and not a romantic one. It wasn't until later did I finally feel their subtle chemistry, then I fell head in for them in the second half. Disclaimer: I cried so much, so freaking much. Be prepared to cry in the latter half of the drama. (This is a good thing, I think!)
The romance between the Grim Reaper and Sunny is poignant and heart wrenching. Their history lent their romance more weight but their present romance is filled with charged, tense chemistry all on their own. I loved them together honestly! SO much chemistry.Everyone's performance was fantastic. I have no complaints.
The soundtrack is AMAZING. OST's of a drama are so important to me in creating a more emotional bond with the scene and Goblin's is just on point in every take. Every song is utilized so well in the dramas and just add so much depth to the scenes.
Now, the not so good:
As I mentioned in the beginning, the drama did tend to linger and prolong many moments, which made them feel long. There were also times, especially in the beginning, where I feel like the plot became a little repetitive. However, the drama definitely became better and faster as the episodes went by, maybe because I got used to the length of it, but the plot also got tighter and more emotionally thrilling.
The ending, to me, felt very bittersweet. I cried loads and I feel somewhat unsatisfied. It is very memorable though, so there's that.
I definitely recommend Goblin to everyone, if anything, at least to try to see if it fits their taste. Disregarding the complaints about this drama, especially about the age gap controversy, I still think Goblin is a drama for everyone to at least try because Goblin is so much more than just the romantic relationships.
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I have been very critical when it comes to sci-fi and supernatural dramas and movies because they have one of the most confusing timelines and stories. That's why when I watched Goblin, I have expected a lot from it. And, honestly, I have my ups and downs as I watch this show. Nevertheless, this is a unique masterpiece that viewers need to see as Asian dramas continue to go through paradigm shift.
Story: It started really well. AS IN REALLY WELL HAHAHA. The first episode topped most of the movies and other dramas' first episodes that I have watched. I have continued to like it as it shows the development of the characters and the relationships that they're in. However, I felt a lack of depth (just a little) to the story as I reached the half of it, and also, as I continued to watch it, questions about the characters, their statements, their actions, and their memories have risen. I wanted them to redeem the show, and guess what? THEY DID. The story ended not as big as the start of it, but it ended with a touch in the heart. My questions were also answered, komabta!
Ending: I really liked it. Especially the ending for Sunny and Grim Reaper. :D
Acting/Cast: The actors were good. However, I only want to mention these three characters that I salute, and the actors that have portrayed the role: (1) Kim Woo Bin/Wang Yeo/Grim Reaper. He's my favorite because of his sense of humor and how this sense opposes his being the deliverer of dead souls. Lee Dong Wook is really gooooood! I can't think of others who will fit the drama more than him. (2) Lee El. HUHUHUHUHU :'( every scene that she's in, I was very happy. Her character shows that we are never alone in this world. And Lee El is really fit for this role huhuhu she's so beautiful btw. And last, (3) Sunny. Her chemistry with Grim Reaper is daebak!!! Their pair is, by far, one of the best. I liked her innocence and at the same time, her strong personality. In Na is realllllllly beautiful omo please be with me hahaha I am not biased with her, but she's so good here haha.
All in all, the cast displayed a wonderful performance.
Music: UNDERRATED! IT SHOULD BE 14/10 HAHAHAHAHA THE MUSIC IS ONE OF THOSE THAT DROVE ME TO WATCH THIS SHOW. I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY. OSTs here are the best (my opinion)
Rewatch Value: Worth watching again.
Overall: Dramas have flaws. I believe that there is no perfect drama. But what makes an excellent drama is its consistency and its heart. I believe that this drama has both. And even when people bash this because of the lack of chemistry ( I admit that there is a lack but not too much) or the confusing facts ( But they explained it at the end well), I personally want to recommend it to other people.
The effects were great, too. I also liked how the camera captures the scenes, especially the close-up ones. I think they did a pretty good job in terms of editing.
A GUY'S CONCLUSION 101: I don't want to forget. Oblivion may be a grace, but forgetting goblin, her bride, grim reaper, sunny, goddess of birth, deok hwa and everyone of them would bring me more pain.
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1Story
I didn’t have a problem with the age difference. The ML is 939 years old. Anyone under 800 wouldn’t have anything in common with him. But seriously, the ML and FL have been touched and in their eyes cursed by the supernatural, so these are not two ordinary people. Most importantly, she is the Goblin’s bride, not wife. She has one job and I won’t spoil it here but it is not to warm his bed. He never comes across as some old geezer trying to seduce her. Even by Kdrama standards, this one is chaste.
The Goblin knows what her job is, anticipates and accepts it. But the moment she brings hope and light into his life the conflict within him and the story explodes. As he watches her and feels his heart begin to beat again the poetry that springs forth from him was so beautiful it gave my brain a little orgasm.
The conflicts in this story are mostly internal but the stakes are high.
I usually skim the secondary characters’ stories because too often they seem like filler and distract from the main storyline. Not this time. The Reaper’s and Sunny’s stories were seamlessly interwoven and integral to the main story.
The bromance between the Goblin and Reaper is legendary so I won’t go into it.
I watched every minute of this drama, savoring each one. Forgiveness plays a big role in this story. Our characters find it is not easily earned or given, whether it be for the self, others, or The Powers That Be.
Acting
This was my first time for all these actors and I wouldn’t make a single casting change.
Gong Yoo did an amazing job as ruthless warrior, tragic guardian angel and Oscar to the Reaper’s Felix.
Kim Go Eun did a good job as the girl both afflicted and blessed by her special case.
The secondary characters were all spot on and Lee Dong Wook has to be one of the most beautiful criers in the business.
OST
I don’t normally pay attention to the music unless I love it or despise it. The music in Goblin enhanced the story without distracting from it, a difficult task. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The cinematography was stunning. I had to shush my photographer husband who kept commenting on it. Which brings me to the rewatch value.
Rewatch Value
My husband who has only watched a few scattered episodes of Asian dramas sat down and watched this with me on my second go around. We laughed and cried together (damn allergies!). I will watch it again. And again.
This story of love, family, friendship, redemption, and forgiveness is definitely worth a try.
***November 2024 rewatch thoughts:
Still
I continue to love this drama, even after 5 years. The bromance was still excellent. The iconic scenes still moved me, even though numerous dramas have since tried to copycat them. Sunny and The Reaper were still heartbreaking. Lee Dong Wook is still the most beautiful crier I've seen. The OST is still one of my favorites and gives me goosebumps when I hear it. The umbrella scene that spawned a jillion others is still the best. Gong Yoo in Goryeo costume and wig is still a ferocious beast.
The humor was still cringey and the age gap when veering into the romantic could be as well. Kim Shin acting like a 939-year-old skittish virgin still boggles the mind. Overall, it kept me emotionally engaged, something few Kdramas have been able to do in recent years. Oh, and Gong Yoo still has it, aging like a fine wine.
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I will never get over this kdrama ❤️?
Bro, I watched this kdrama like 5 or 6 times, actually I’m rewatching it again now and is still gets me hyped 😭✨If you haven’t watched it already, go and watch it…여기서 뭐 해? bro fr 😭😭✨ IS A MASTERPICE ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Not to mention the actors, they stole my heart❤️🔥😭 I fell in love with the characters so fast, thanks to their acting skills. I was not watching the kdrama, I was living it 😭❤️🔥
And the OST is so perfect, even now when I hear it, I get chills ❤️🔥
✨완벽해✨
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