i'd start off with the flaws.
- the initial theme of this drama is about this mortals counters who are bound to catch and summon evil spirits. however, i feel like the drama focus much about politics and corruption other than catching spirits. although there's a connection between those spirits and politics, i was just hoping that they kinda stayed true what they are supposed to be. i think they didn't even catch more than 5 spirits? since they focused more on catching Cheong-sin and the girl. i wished they were just more.
- i wasn't too heartbroken by the punishment that they receive because they've violated too many rules even though they have reasons. at some point, the rules that Yung created seems to be mere decoration. although they were punished for violating them, it just feels as if they were beginners to ignore too many rules. but i'm glad that it served as a lesson for them to be better esp Mun since he was getting out of hand at times.
so far those are all the flaws that really bothered me. there are actually more smaller plotholes but i don't want to mention them yet as i'm hoping that they'd be answered by the second season.
moving on to the good points.
- THE WHOLE TEAM. yep. that's right. the best thing in this drama is the whole team and the way that their characters were fleshed out. it's just so rare to see a main lead having such a great chemistry with everyone, may it be Mo Tak, Ms. Chu, Mr. Chairmain and of course, Ha Na. and these people interact with each other in such a heartwarming-- aaaaa, i can't even describe. i want to each and everyone of them safe.
- Hana and So Mun. my god, i can't believe i'm watching an OCN drama. i feel like they're spilling us too much with these heaven sent chemistry that it's starting to make me feel anxious with what they have in their sleeves for the next season. please don't break them apart. come on, OCN, just give it to us for the next season. kidding aside, that subtle teasing and gestures and actions of the two, my god i'm melting. i love the fact that Ha Na's character develop, being more open to people, smiling, remembering her family and of course allowing someone to touch her finally-- yes i'm talking abut So Mun, thank you very much.
- the oh so satisfying revenge and catching ghost scenes. i can't stop myself from laughing whenever they catch those bastards.
- the ending. damn. that start of episode 16? that was the thriller that i've been waiting for in this. i've pinched my sister so hard that we almost end up fighting. lol. that was the best and one of the most satisfying thriller scene, ever. i love the fact that they put back So Mun's limp as he beat the hell out of that devil. and the rest of the episode? one of the best and most satisfying ending ever. i dn't care if it looks like a fan service with all things too good, i think it just stayed true to its theme as this is not like the usual dark and twisted OCN. i couldn't ask for more with that ending.
i've never had the urge to rewatch a drama after watching this (i don't rewatch). and i will surely be waiting for the second season, hoping that it would focus more on them catching ghost and some progress *ehem* Ha Na x Mun *ehem*. this is definitely a drama for you if you're looking for something suspenseful but lighthearted and comedic toned.
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A full package of action-supernatural!!
TUC is one of the action-supernatural dramas that I would recommend to anyone. From the beginning till the end, the storyline was written flawlessly except for the ending which may look slightly different (Some comments said they changed the writer in the last few eps because of conflicts, idk much about that). Furthermore, the drama's highlights were the cast's performance and the chemistry between each character. Even the antagonists did an outstanding job. I was so impressed by Lee Hong Nae's acting. I hope to see him more in the future. And as for Its OSTs, they were average for me apart from Meet Again by Kim Sejong and No Problem by Dvwn.So overall, you MUST watch it at least once!! Don't miss out on such an action-supernatural pack!!
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This review may contain spoilers
Recommended, But with Reservations (Mild Spoilers, nothing too revealing!)
I've never been more conflicted on scoring a K-drama series. My watching partner (aka wife) and I are also divided on this score, which is very unusual. In the end, I had to look at how we'd scored other series and let my personal tastes have more of an influence than usual.[Note: Using MDL spellings for names rather than Netflix's. Apologies for throwing in many Japanese manga/anime terms, but I can't find the Korean equivalents relevant to manhwa.]
Good:
Great cast and acting, good story overall, decent VFX and production values, some really great, memorable characters, a very fun watch, a lot of action.
I loved that the core team is an age-diverse group of unique characters with good motivations and backstories. They reveal much more about themselves as the story progresses. I actually could have used a lot more of just them casually interacting in the noodle shop, teasing each other, training, whatever.
Not-so-good:
A hero who's a bit too prone to completely falling apart, a few underdeveloped or weak supporting characters, some side stories that aren't as interesting as others, the overall concept has a lot of holes and inconsistencies, the ending and resolution are very weak and dragged out, some very inconsistent depictions of main characters, some missed opportunities.
(Light spoiler, but kind of funny: It really seems at one point that the MC, So Moon [Cho Byeong Kyu] is trying to exploit a sick child for BTS tickets. Dude. No.)
Do Ha-Na's (Kim Se Jeong) temperament is a bit all over the place. Her backstory is never fully realized, but plays a big part in the main plot. She is a great character (classic tsundere) and Kim Se Jeong is great. The script lets her down a bit. Her story could have been left open for a possible Season 2, but there is a lot of teasing and partial reveals that don't work well enough to support her behavior.
In the supporting cast, Kim Jung Young (Choi Yoon Young) has a key role, but her character is disappointingly bland and ineffective, even compared to many much more minor characters. She's so poorly depicted, I often felt bad for Choi Yoon Young for having to go through the motions of playing the role.
Similarly So Moon's friends feel like they were copied and pasted from a show with a total different tone. This makes some of what happens to them rather disturbing. It's also a bit weird that Im Joo Yeon (Lee Ji Won) is clearly the only actual teenager playing a student, and is surrounded by actors almost twice her age. It's common to have actors play many ages, but throwing someone so conspicuously young into the cast makes the difference very noticeable.
Normally, these issues would have been enough for me to score Uncanny Counter in the 7.0–7.5 range.
But… This one has specific appeal for me:
Uncanny Counter has a plot and premise very similar to many popular Shonen manga and anime (as well as manhwa influenced by those, including the original UC webtoon). It should be very familiar to fans of Bleach, Rin-ne, Yu Yu Hakusho, Soul Eater, and dozens of other "empowered people have to fight corrupted souls/spirits and send them to an afterlife dimension" titles. It takes a lot of cues from these, and the hero arc is similar to almost all of them. There are also quite a few Matrix references, even what appeared to be some Wes Anderson visual references.
So, basically, the roots of this drama are all things I love and was happy to see in this show.
At this point, how I feel about Season One may change after viewing Season 2, coming in 2022. If it offers better story resolution, a tighter script, and giving some characters the attention they deserve, I'd keep Season 1 at 8.0. If many of the first season faults carry over into the next, it may be downgraded to a 7.5.
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It was fun, i'll love you forever kim sejeong
It was my first time watching an action focused kdrama, and it was great!I decided to watch this only because I love kim sejeong. Her performance on business proposal was great, her solo music is good, and she has a fun personality. Even though she was the reason I started watching this, I stayed because of the performances of the rest of the cast, specially the protagonist and the main villain, i now stan them.
Anyway, it would've been a 10/10 kdrama for me, but:
-1 pt for some plot inconsistencies, and because it drags a little in the last episodes, like 30 minutes or so were kind of unnecessary.
-1 pt because of Yoo Joon Sang (ga mo tak) performance. His character had many sad scenes, but it didn't move me like it was supposed to.
+0.5 pt I laughed so hard with wi gen, whenever she was shocked or something, she made a weird face like she was horny or something i don't know how to explain it, it was weird ksjdksjd.
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This show is amazing.
THIS SHOW IS AMAZING!!!Coming from someone who generally doesn’t see the appeal of action/fantasty kdramas, (or just TV shows in general) Uncanny Counters is one of the best kdramas I’ve ever seen.
The storyline, the actors, everything is amazing. It has mystery, thriller, action, drama, romance, etc. anything you could ever want in a show. The emotional connections that I had with each character thoroughly surprised me, as i’m not someone who cries very easily or gets sad because of a show. But when I tell you, Tears. Every. Episode. because this show is just that good at making you feel what the characters are feeling!!
Give this show a shot, even if you don’t think you’ll like it (like I thought) you might surprise yourself. This show is a MUST WATCH 100%. There’s also a second season out now, which i’m going to watch after I leave this review. :) Please, do not have any doubts about watching this, i’m sure you won’t regret it.
p.s. Sejeong is amazing!!!!!
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Predictable but still a lot of fun
I was very surprised at how good this show was. I had it on my list of shows to watch for a while, but I kept putting it off because I didn't think it would be that good. Definitely one of the better dramas I've seen in a while. The story is interesting enough to keep you hooked even though it is rather predictable (I actually enjoyed the predictability of the show, made it more of an easy watch and just pure entertainment).The characters are fantastic, and all of the actors and actresses did a great job playing their roles. The relationships between the characters seemed very genuine and the chemistry between the lead cast was great. One of those shows with character relationships that just makes you smile. Also teared up a few times watching, there are some very emotional moments.
Overall, somewhat underrated drama with great characters and an easy-to-follow plot. If you're looking for a good drama to just watch and have fun, definitely check this one out. Excited for a season two!
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Super entertaining
The Uncanny Counter was really a drama that made me feel thrilled and kept me on the edge of my seat. I could not stop watching once I finish an episode, that is how entertaining it was. Nice choice of actors also. I think their diverse characteristics and traits complemented each other. I don't know about the webtoon so I can't compare the two and how they differ but this one is well-made. Despite being not a big fan of action filled dramas, this one hits different as it added a different flavor to it, which is the realms outside and beyond what humans have. It was interesting, intriguing, thrilling, and sometimes emotional too. Props to the actors for playing their roles well, specially Jo Byeong Gyu. Although has some flaws and slight nonsensical moments, I could easily overlook them because of how good the story and action went. Looking forward to a second season if there's one. Definitely something worth your time, so consider checking this out.Was this review helpful to you?
Crime, humour, emotionally intense, all together!
The Uncanny Counter is a drama focused on a group made up of those who were previously in coma, given a chance to fight evil spirits. When So Mun gets included in the group due to special circumstances, things really begin to happen. With more than just how he joined the group being what’s mysterious about him, we’ve a lot to find out. From a political corruption arc to evil spirits being utilised by them, we see our group get pulled into setting things right.What did I love about this show? The first half was quite well done, the pace was perfect to the story and we got to the intense parts while keeping up with the humour. I also loved the wholesome relationships the group shared. They weren’t one dimensional characters — I loved Ha Na the most. She appears closed off and could be generic cold because of how she is, but with her people we are expressing emotions and being soft. The women in the show aren’t deprived of their feminity to make them appear strong. I also loved Mun’s relationship with his friends — that was another wholesome trio! I’m looking forward to see the young actress who plays his best friend in more dramas. I enjoyed the evil spirits arc for majority of the show. Absolutely loved the dynamics between the crazy female spirit and contract killer spirit, they were the highlight for me I think! I would love to see these two actors in another drama — maybe retaining their characters a bit.
What did I dislike in the show? As the show moved into the second half, there was a certain out of pace-ness in few episodes. Some random ridiculous things happen which make you roll your eyes. I wish So Mun’s powers were more fleshed out. I didn’t get the point of Yung either — there isn’t much information on what they do or what the extent of their jurisdiction is. The way they admonish their counters felt a little stupid, like there aren’t really fixed rules. The development between counters and their yung counterparts could have been much better — especially So Mun and Wigen’s. I also didn’t like how certain characters were introduced or their conflicts were resolved only to be killed.
Overall, this is a fun show. It covers trauma to an extent, there’s bullying as well (what’s a high school oriented drama without bullying though, right?) but there’s humour which balances it. A fun show to watch if you’re in hero saves the day content.
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Why does this show only have an 8.8 rating?
I adore this show, so so much. I truly enjoyed it so much and had practically no grievances with it. The one or two I have are truly opinion-based and I don't truly consider them as flaws. Shall I begin?Story, 10/10:
Where to begin? I think the supernatural element of this show is really interesting and I enjoy true crime so I liked that aspect as well. The group of ghost hunters isn't a new concept but I think the way it's done in this show is really fun. My two grievances fall into this category so I'll say it now. 1. I wish they'd kept So Hun disabled and he had learned to fight well despite it. I am most definitely biased since I myself am disabled and walk with a limp. Mine isn't injury based so it's a little different but still. My second and last grievance is that I wish they'd focused a tad bit more on the supernatural parts. They did in the beginning and don't get me wrong, I enjoy the true crime element quite a lot but I would've enjoyed a bit more evil spirit hunting. Also, the evil spirit villain in this show is scary as hell and I hate that high-pitched giggle he does.
Acting, 10/10:
I found absolutely no issues with the acting. I thought everyone was superb and I can't think of anyone whose acting I disliked. My favorite acting probably would come from the guy who plays the evil spirit villain. He is so scary and I get anxious every time I see him on the screen.
Music, 8.5/10:
The soundtrack was good but I wasn't blown away. I've heard better but I've also heard worse. This is on the higher end of the averageness scale. If you want to hear some good drama music, try watching Doom at your service or Hotel Del Luna. Both are killer though I prefer DAYS over HDL.
Characters(I know it's not a category but I'm including it anyway):
My favorite character is So Hun, no competition. He has such a sweet personality and I truly relate to him. I am really emotional and I am disabled so I clicked with him instantly. My second favorite character is Ha-Na, she is so badass. She is also really pretty. My third favorite is a tie between the former policeman and the healer lady. I hate that I forgot their names but that doesn't mean I don't care for them. I hate the villains so much, I can't pick who is more loathable. Also, So Hun's friends are great and I like them a lot.
Rewatchability, 9/10:
I don't tend to rewatch things and I doubt I will rewatch this but that is just me. For anyone else, I think watching a second time would be pretty fun. Not as fun since the suspense would be gone but it would still be fun.
Overall, 10/10:
Please, please, please watch this show. It is really good and I wish more people were talking about it. It is one of the best drama's I've watched and I hope you'll like it as well. But a bit of a warning, it can be a bit gruesome and bloody but nothing too gratuitous.
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This review may contain spoilers
BRILLIANT SHOW!
Should you? Would you? Could you?You should watch this one (YES! )
You would recommend this to others. (YES!)
You could watch this again. (Not really as it’s a mystery)
Ending: Satisfactory
This is a South Korean tv series based on the webtoon Amazing Rumor by Jang Yi. There is only one word to describe it and that’s “BRILLIANT”.
While the plot is very interesting (The protagonists running a noodle shop in the day and demon hunting in the night), it’s always the characters who make it come alive.
Everyone has acted brilliantly: the 4 core members (the counters who are the demon hunters), the spirit council, the supporting cast, and the different sets of villains that we encounter. Each counter has a special skill which when coming together as a team, makes a formidable force to reckon with.
In fact, the actors chosen as the evil spirits are just brilliant and lead the show. Lee Hong Nae as Cheong sin is brilliant as the evil spirit. That laughter is so spine-chilling and those eyes...... whew! I liked the fact that they showed a humane side to him at the orphanage but his cruel upbringing is what makes him what he is ultimately. Ok Ja Yeon as the female evil spirit is brilliant too!!!!!!!
SPOILER:
I loved the way the plot changes the game in episode 12 to beat the evil with their own weakness - money and with the concept of divide and rule. This is some good writing here.
While I missed “ Cheong Sin” as the level 3 spirit in the last 3 episodes, Mayor Shin as the evil incarnate is just top-notch.
The character development of So Mun is gradual and portrayed very well - From a soft-hearted person with a disability to a soft-hearted but strong-willed person with a sense of purpose. Even his concern for the Mayor’s son who was a bully to him shows his strength of character. The final episode with So Mun’s reunion with his parents' spirit is very heart rendering.
There is a lot more to this drama. Each character has his or her own journey and I like the way it has been shown while being interwoven within the big plot.
I absolutely loved the background score. It adds so much to the scenes.
There is blood and gore. There are likable characters who get killed. But it's worth seeing this one if you haven’t as yet.
It’s a fast-paced one. Finished it in 3 days. No fast-forwarding in this one. Looking forward to Season 2.
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This review may contain spoilers
A fun and interesting action, supernatural drama that'll keep you hooked!
I wasn't going to watch this at first, however, after seeing the many positive reviews about this drama I decided to give it a try. And I definitely did not regret it!In the beginning of the drama, I was sorta confused with what is going on, however, it started to make sense as the story progressed. The friendship between all four characters was definitely real. They really care about each other and would do anything to save each other. However, it was disappointing that Mun and Hana never got together even though they hinted small bits of romance between them. However, this drama doesn't revolve around romance but more of the friendship between all four. There was a lot of funny scenes in here too which made it better!
I don't watch a lot of supernatural/ghost spirit kind of dramas. But this one was definitely an interesting one that kept me hooked the whole time. The drama was nothing too complicating, it was straightforward and easy to understand. Nothing was dragged on because every scene was relevant that connects to the story. Mun lost his parents at a car "accident" which left him disabled. However, once he gained superpowers, he found out his parents were actually murdered by an evil spirit and the political higher-ups were somehow involved in it too. AND his parent's souls were taken by the evil spirit, Cheong Shin, who has also killed and taken many other people's souls to make him stronger. Therefore, Mun and the rest of the members had the mission to stop and summon the evil spirit out of this dude in order to free all the dead souls (including Mun's parents) to ascend them peacefully to heaven. Interesting plot right?
The action scenes were one of the best highlights of this drama. The action looked SO REAL! And it's brutal too like damn! I give so much kudos to all the actors/actresses for taking part in such brutal scenes. Kim Se Jeong (Hana) surprised me the most with her martial arts skills. I never imagined she'd be in this type of drama nor see her do these types of strenuous action scenes that maybe not a lot of idol girls can do. She definitely stood out in this drama and give her high compliments.
The antagonists were just brutal and toxic as hell LOL. Like they really hit a nerve that makes you just so frustrated because of the never-ending killing of multiple innocent people. Cheong Shin had a broken childhood and unfortunately got an evil spirit in him. Even though he was dead-beat evil, he showed some soft normal side of himself when he went back to the orphanage to watch the kids play and even defended one of them when one of his mates was about to kill him. It's confusing but at least good i guess to see there's some human side left in him, but he was still dead ass evil and needed to be jailed. But he killed himself so LOL.
The last episode where Mun finally reunited with his parents got me really emotional and teary-eyed. What I love about that scene is that they really made it believable enough to get viewers to feel emotional because it is such a special heartbreaking scene of a kid and their parents reuniting after 7 years from a tragic accident. One thing I was disappointed with was that they didn't really go into much of Ha Na's story. Like yeah we know her family died and she didn't but like.. is that it? We got into the back story of the other three characters and had some resolution to it but nothing very much on Ha Na's part. Or maybe that scene when she was fighting that lady when she "saw" her family was a closure? Idk, but that was just me. I guess she had closure that she is fine but just didn't really show it much on here.
Other than that, the whole drama was great and entertaining in general. I would definitely watch this again and highly recommend it to anyone!
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Speaking of Shin Hyuk Woo, I loved that he got a believable redemption arc at the very end and I cross my fingers that we get to see him again in S2. His character, now that he turned a new page, could be so interesting!
I loved all the main actors, they were amazing, and their characters’ arcs were so marvelous. But who caught me totally by surprise was Lee Hong Nae who played Ji Chung Shin, the big bad of a demon. He was absolutely ah-mazing! He actually felt terribly scary to me. And I do hope that, after showcasing his acting skills here, he will receive many more interesting parts in the future. He sure deserves it!
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