Thank you for your comment, bmore! I actually have those three shows: My Mister, Misty and Sky Castle in my PTWL!…
I agree that reading reviews has it's drawbacks, which is why I always read more than one. I try to read one that has given the show a high rating, a low rating one and then a middle/average rating one. That way it'll help me get a clear picture of the good and the bad. I also tend to read longer reviews over shorter, since that means the writer/viewer put in more effort into organizing his/her thoughts and, as a result, I will get a better perspective. However, I only do this if I'm on the fence about whether to watch a specific drama or not.
I'm a lot more relaxed with movies. If the premise is interesting, I'll watch it without checking any reviews, since at worst I would have lost two hours of my life. With a drama, however, you can lose way way more time.
With stories based or inspired by history, I tend to go in without any prior info. If the movie/drama was interesting enough, that's when I go fact checking, lol.
First of all I want to applaud the effort that went into this article. I had a joyful ride reading it and loved…
I haven't watched Queen Seon Duk but anything with a strong or/and interesting female protagonist is something I am more than happy to watch! So I will add it to my PTWL!
I am not surprised you hadn't heard about this drama. It did flew under the radar, which is what prompted me to write this article. So long as you don't expect too much from the romance, you will be satisfied. Especially if you watch it for the FL and her growth.
Honestly, I wish I had respected my first intuition on episode one and dropped it. I can give you one reason not…
I agree that the extension did it a lot of harm, but there's still enough good to make it a worthwhile watch. I do believe that Na Wang Sik could've had a better ending, even if the actor wasn't present. So it's beyond me why they decided to write him off so... Badly. Nobody even goes to visit his grave at the very least, or mourn him!
Like I mentioned to atslipinbag down below: EN 8
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5 Reasons to Watch "The Last Empress" (2019) by 3GGG, February 26, 2019 1.4K 24 42
For those unfamiliar with the show, The Last Empress could be described as a light, PG-13, scaled-down version of "Game of Thrones". In broad terms, you get a group of people (mostly women) fighting for the throne of Korea. Alliances are forged and broken; friends turn into foes and foes may become reluctant allies. In the end, characters evolve alongside the story, giving it a fluid pace that never drags.
But if that general gist left you confused, perhaps the following synopsis will give you a better idea of the kind of story you can expect.
THE PREMISE It's 2018 and Korea is a constitutional monarchy led by Emperor Lee Hyuk and his family. Used to a loose and irresponsible way of living, Lee Hyuk gets into an accident which results in someone's death. Rather than face the consequences, Lee Hyuk covers up the crime with the help of a trusted ally.
Assuming everything's dealt with, Lee Hyuk is surprised when a man starts loudly clamouring for justice. That thorn on his side is Na Wang Sik, a hurting man unwilling to stop until justice is served. But his trust in the law gives Wang Sik a harsh wake-up call. Knowing only he can do what needs to be done, he sets out on a mission of revenge.
Actress Oh Sunny, meanwhile, has been trying to make a career out of her passion. As destiny would have it, the Emperor comes in to sweep her off her feet. But little does she know what lies inside his cold heart. And as she's pulled into the Imperial Family's power struggle and swept into Wang Sik's revenge, Oh Sunny will have to figure out a way to outlive and outmanoeuvre those who wish her harm. And while she's at it, she'll be forced to make a decision. She can either escape while she can, or stay to crack open the skeleton closets hidden within the Palace's walls.
If the premise hasn't convinced you, let's look at five reasons why you might want to give this drama a chance. I'll add some things to consider (flaws, doubts and everything in between) to paint a better picture of the good and the bad the drama offers. For those who dislike spoilers, I'll hide additional information which may clarify some points but might also give away key plot-points.
While this point may be irrelevant to some, I felt the need to highlight it because the drama's main setting (the palace) is quite pleasing. Although I've seen shows with better cinematography, there are a few things this drama offers that you'll want to keep an eye on:
Mirrors & reflection are used as motifs within the narrative with great success. So watch out for those scenes. Remember that, in this drama, mirrors (water and reflective glass as well) are treated as "windows into a characters' soul". So when a character is about to reveal or change in an important way, a mirror might be present. It's also important to add that a mirror can also symbolize a crisis of identity, especially because most of the characters you'll meet are actually hiding behind a mask.
Grouping and dividing visual cues are seamlessly integrated into the narrative to offer insight into the interpersonal relationship between the characters. If you'd like to learn more about these, check out my Popular Cues Found in K-dramas article. That way you'll be able to keep track on with whom a character's loyalties lie.
The Dutch angle (tilted camera) is prevalent when it comes to externalizing the war waging inside some of the characters; the Emperor chief among them. Think of the camera as a character's state of mind. If it tilts, it means he or she is having a "mental breakdown" or they are struggling to come to terms with something. I'll cover the dutch angle in more detail in an upcoming article (Popular Cues Found in K-dramas, Part 3). ╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭ Though the scenography is pretty compared to the average drama, there's still a good number of exquisitely beautiful dramas which put this one to shame.
If there's one thing this drama sets out to prove, is that things can change in the blink of an eye. Or as one character eloquently put it...
"As you know, the power in the palace can change in a moment. So eat while you can and enjoy it while it lasts. Since you never know when it might end." Min Yu Ra to Seo Kang Hee, episode 43 Humans are complex creatures. We trust when someone's kind and lash out when someone's mean. If someone betrays our trust, we become colder, more careful and wiser. If someone helps us, we grow vulnerable, kinder and warmer...
So it stands to reason that relationships should change as characters face revelations, betrayals, and strife. The Last Empress doesn't just excel at building mutual alliances, but also at building showdowns and delivering epic backstabs.
Since I want to avoid spoilers, I'll leave you with these last words: you'll probably enjoy the showdown between the antagonists much more than those against the leads. Though that's not to say that Oh Sunny doesn't get to show she's not to be trifled with (more on this later on). ╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭ Some alliances are questionable and I had to wonder why certain characters (who were supposedly very smart) didn't take better precautions. Wang Sik really needed to work on his poker face. I was surprised nobody was suspicious of his motivations when he got questioned by other characters. Like in all dramas, characters make questionable decisions. Like it's the standard when the leads aren't detectives, the police are incompetent in this show. Incompetent and corrupt. There was a character that was frustratingly easy to manipulate. Namely, the Emperor. Not that this is in any way important, but my favourite alliances were: Wang Sik/Oh Sunny | Loved the power dynamic and how each brought something to the table, making it a mutually beneficial relationship. Oh Sunny/Min Yu Ra | Despite greatly disliking her at first, she became a great ally later on. So much so, I could see a hint of friendship or at least a bridge of respect forming between them.
The romance plays a significant role in this drama without feeling forced and, best of all, it's not only complex but dynamic. Meaning, it was an interesting part of the narrative which shifted and changed as the plot progressed.
Furthermore, the show earned extra points because it didn't depict the romance as only nice, warm and innocent. Instead, it sometimes leaned into its darker side, embracing lust and possessiveness, which made it crueller and grittier. The saying "relationships are messy" seems the perfect choice of motto for this show.
Additionally, this is one of the few shows where I didn't mind the love triangles/squares since they contributed to the plot in important ways. Like in real life, the characters' relationships towards one another evolved organically as the characters made decisions and faced consequences.
Despite the many different love triangles (and trust me, there were many!), I'm only going to focus on the one between our main protagonists. But before that, I should briefly introduce our male leads in more detail, shouldn't I? (Since Oh Sunny, gets a section further down this article, I'll omit her for now.)
NA WANG SIK THE BODYGUARD, CHUN WOO BIN
LEE HYUK THE EMPEROR
Na Wang Sik is a good-hearted man who, betrayed by those he trusted, sets off on a path of revenge. With patience, effort, and ingenuity, he becomes the Emperor's bodyguard and, beyond that, a close friend and confidant. Lee Hyuk is a man weighted down by inner demons who allow him little to no real respite. Though he craves power, he does so for self-preservation more than ambition. Because if he has power, then who would dare to hurt him? Yet behind Chun Woo Bin's carefully constructed loyalty, lies Na Wang Sik's rising wrath.
"You're in the palm of my hand now, got that?" And the more secrets he discovers inside the palace, the angrier he becomes. But... will his thirst for blood override his gentle heart?
Yet an ever-present feeling of inadequacy has set him on a self-destructive and down-spiralling path.
"I am obligated to protect the Imperial Family!" Emotionally stunted due to his harsh upbringing, the outlet of his pain and vulnerability result in outbursts of violence and cruelty. When the time comes to act, who will he become? Will he stay true to his character as he fights to ensure justice? Or will he become a reflection of the monsters he's trying to tear down? But should someone who is hurting be given a free pass and be absolved of all his crimes? Can regret pave the way for redemption? And, perhaps most importantly... can a tiger really change his stripes? THEIR ROLE IN THE RELATIONSHIP THE SHINING KNIGHT THE BROKEN MAN Wang Sik takes the role of a knight in shining armour. He's kind, gentle and protective of Oh Sunny. Every time he's pushed or forced to hurt her, he's consumed by guilt and struggles to swallow his remorse. Lee Hyuk takes the role of a broken man who craves love and companionship. He's aggressive yet childish; hostile yet eager when it comes to dealing with his emotions. Though he dislikes Oh Sunny at first, he has a change of heart later on.
For him, Oh Sunny is a friend, a moral compass and the only person who could make him step off the train of vengeance and walk the path of justice.
For him, Oh Sunny becomes a light in the dark. She's the only person he believes isn't trying to take advantage of him and represents an opportunity at a new beginning. ╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭ Like I mentioned before, there are quite a number of love triangles/squares/pentagons in this drama. So if you're put off by those, this drama might test your patience and tolerance. Though the romance is weaved exceptionally well into the plot, it's not the focus of the drama. So if you're looking for a lot of fluff, this one will not satisfy you. That's not to say that there aren't cute scenes, just that they are sprinkled in at appropriate times. There's contention within the community about who's the ML and who's the 2ML. Choi Jin Hyuk (who plays Wang Sik) had very little screen time for the first quarter of the drama. Though he had his fans, I still found Lee Hyuk's character irredeemable. Though I'll admit Shin Sung Rok (who plays him) sold his character's pain much better than Choi Jin Hyuk. Shin Sung Rok's acting sometimes came across as cartoony, especially towards the second half of the drama. The result was sometimes hilarious but at other times it was downright cringy. Due to scheduling reasons, Choi Jin Hyuk couldn't film the last four episodes (since the drama got extended). Commendable as it was for the director to keep the character of Na Wang Sik in the show via a double, Choi Jin Hyuk's absence was glaringly obvious. And, unfortunately, the band-aid solution couldn't fix the gaping wound in the narrative, which left some of us (I'm sure I'm not alone) dissatisfied (especially in regard to how they dealt with Wang Sik). Just for this reason, I had to deduct a point. For those who prefer knowing the ending... if you're looking for a fairy-tale romantic ending, this is not it. The ending is more in the realm of bittersweetness.
Probably one of my favorite things about this show has been the number of powerful women actively involved in the plot. It's rare to see any show (Korean or otherwise) where the ratio of important male to female characters is turned on its head.
That's not to say that there aren't any male characters, because there are. But rather, we are getting a story where important female characters outnumber the males. And these characters aren't just there to decorate the scene! Instead, the writer has fleshed them out as complex and autonomous human beings. They make decisions, spring into action, weigh consequences and take risks in an effort to accomplish their individual goals and dreams; all of which are unrelated to any male character!
Having raved about that, let's take a brief look at the prominent female characters. GRAND EMPRESS DOWAGER JO
"If one has committed a crime, one must be punished accordingly." The woman who takes Empress Sunny under her wing and shows her moral compass is intact. Once she discovers she's been kept in the dark, she will stop at nothing to set things right. EMPRESS DOWAGER KANG "I'll teach you a proper lesson, to help you come to your senses." The woman who doesn't balk at using her own son if it means securing more power. She's someone so sure of herself, she doesn't even think or care to wear a mask to hide her ambitions behind.
EMPRESS OH SUNNY
"I will shatter that arrogance of yours." The woman who breaks out of the role of pawn imposed by Lee Hyuk, and embraces the Empress within. She's not interested in making ripples, she's here to make waves. THE PRINCESS' NANNY, SEO KANG HEE "You made a mistake. You can't get rid of me once I'm no longer useful." The woman who hides her ambition under the love of her child. She's the dark horse and silent threat, who knows patience, and not speed, is what'll get her the throne.
PRINCESS AH RI
"Does it makes sense that I, a genius, can't understand?" The girl who, despite her age, has proven she has the wits, courage, and sass to put some of the grown-ups in their place. She's not without her faults, but Ah Ri has proven that she'll never let pride get in her way of learning and reflecting.
THE EMPEROR'S SECRETARY MIN YU RA "You should've known better. Even I don't know what I'll do." The woman who, unable to accept her humble beginnings, decides to acquire wealth and power by any means possible. If she must make the ladder she's on with bones for rungs, then so be it.
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭ Not because these women are strong does it mean you'll like them. Be prepared to detest some of them as much as you admire the rest. You'll need a well of patience to refrain from screaming, "You, B***H!" You can expect some catfighting between them which, though extremely satisfying for me, may deter some of you. Some of these characters are easy to manipulate and will sometimes show a lapse of common sense. Thankfully, the latter moments are few and far between. Seo Kang Hee and Min Yu Ra are very similar characters. So much so that if we weren't looking at them, we would probably confuse them. Basically, they came across as the "cookie cutter" version of an arrogant and detestable character. There's a certain character (Min Yu Ra) that gets a scar (a burn across her face, no less!) which is later magically removed (no way surgery could get those results and less so in a matter of a few days). I really hated that, especially because why give her the scar in the first place? It just felt lazy and a choice that made budget constraints pretty obvious. Unfortunately, I found the Emperor's sister unbearable towards the end (I didn't mention her above because she's a minor support character). I also felt that she offered very little to the story. However, the comments in the drama's page suggest some people really liked her and found her antics fun to watch, so take my comment with a grain of salt. There's a reveal towards the end involving a character (Grand Empress Dowager Jo's "murder") that I hated because it wasn't properly thought out. BIG SPOILER: Why did she kill herself to "open the family up to investigation" when she could've just followed her own plan and out her daughter's & grandson's crimes? So many things could've been avoided that way, which makes her death not only useless, but irrational. And let's not forget that several innocent people had to pay for her absurd decision with their lives. This made me deduct points... The ending of some of the characters felt anti-climactic.
As common as a strong or interesting male protagonist is, we all know that's not the same for their female counterparts. One out of every five dramas will boast a complex, interesting, consistent or active female lead. But very rarely will it have all of those things.
Sometimes, if she's lucky, she gets stuck in a support role that contributes something of real importance to a story. At other times, the writer will reduce her to a cheerleading role with very little to offer. If she's truly unlucky, she'll be little more than eye-candy.
Whether the problem lies with not giving her a "sense of agency" or because her contribution serves only to help the male lead (which typically includes being his: healer, moral compass, damsel in distress, and/or trophy), a female lead is rarely given a chance to grow --let alone pose a real threat to the antagonist!
Oh Sunny, however, is all that and more. Which is why I'm including her at the biggest reason why you should watch this show.
But what makes Oh Sunny a strong protagonist? Let's briefly analyze her character through four parameters that'll allow us to measure how strong a protagonist is. SENSE OF AGENCY
This parameter relates to how important or impactful her character is within the story.
The mere fact that the show would change drastically without Oh Sunny's involvement and contributions prove she is indispensable. She may have been pulled into the story as a pawn for others to use and benefit from. But Oh Sunny demonstrated that she not only deserves the title of Empress, but she's not afraid to earn it!
She may have been brought into this war by someone else, but she definitely chose to stay and fight.
PARTICIPATION Oh Sunny is not a passive character. Yes, things do happen to her, but she reacts and makes choices rather than wait for other characters to get her out of a pinch. She then goes further and steps up to the occasion, showing she's not afraid to take charge. Even better, she learns from her mistakes and has shown a remarkable capacity to think on her feet and adapt to her situation. BALANCE & CONSISTENCY
For a character to be relatable, it needs to have a balance of strengths and weaknesses, which is the case with Oh Sunny.
She's not perfect. Far from it, she makes mistakes, stumbles, falls and gets up. She's kind but unforgiving; idealistic but harsh; vulnerable but strong. For every virtue, she has a flaw.
However, a list on paper may be disproven by actions and this is where consistency comes into play. Consistency is achieved when what we're "told" match what we're "shown". In the case of Oh Sunny, she has shown steady consistency. Even her acting skills are implemented into the narrative when it matters. Her naivety made her an easy mark, but her self-judgment and reflection made her shed that innocence and grow a hard shell.
But credit where credit is due, I thank the writer who never forgot to have Oh Sunny use all of the assets/skills in her arsenal to pull herself out of a bind. GROWTH Character growth is a staple of a good writer. Like in real life, events, experiences, mistakes, and consequences help shape the person we become. The easiest way to figure out if a character has grown is to compare who they were and how they acted in the first episode to who they became on the last. In that regard, Oh Sunny excels. Her growth was organic. Things happened to her and who she was changed as a result.
Events and people who caused her pain left psychological scars on her, which in turn, shifted her from a naïve and soft character into someone more cynical and harsh.
That's not to say that she strayed from her nature, which is to be kind and justice oriented. But rather that she learned to be careful with her trust and to sharpen her claws when her enemies venture near.
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭ Oh Sunny is the perfect example of a character who grows into her power in an organic and consistent way. She starts off as the typical K-drama female lead: optimistic, painfully naïve and willing to forgive anything in order to keep a guy around. However, if you keep watching, you'll see she's worthy of tagging her as a strong character. Oh Sunny does require saving every now and then (especially at the beginning). However, rather than a damsel in distress, she would fit the "badass in distress" trope. Which makes sense considering that when she needs help, it's because it has to do with something physical. However, she does her fair share of saving as well. Unfortunately, Oh Sunny didn't have the stage presence other female characters had. Min Yu Ra always managed to "out badass" her.
Unfortunately, I think the extension did this drama more harm than good. Choi Jin Hyuk's absence was not only glaringly obvious, but it also played a role in the disappointingly anti-climatic last couple of episodes. It almost felt like an entirely different show, to be honest.
But while the show had its flaws, I'm still rating it with an 8/10 because it is a good watch overall. A one time watch, mind you, but an entertaining one nonetheless. Although, full disclosure, I gave the show brownie points due to the superb integration of artistic motifs (the mirrors, the usage of colors and the Dutch angle) that really added weight to the narrative.
In short, if you enjoy a strong female protagonist surrounded by other strong and ambitious female characters, then you'll definitely in for a treat. If, however, you're looking for a romance-centric show, this might not be a show you'll enjoy.
Btw, for those who have seen the drama, there's an alternate ending that got released on youtube and which you can find here. Personally, I prefer the ending, but it's a cute video nonetheless. A heads up, when you switch on the subtitles, pick the "Indonesian" option, as that one has the English subs.
Thank you for reading this article! I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments down below. Here are some questions to get a conversation started:
FOR THOSE WHO'VE WATCHED THE DRAMA:
Did you enjoy it? Who was your favorite character and why? Which character did you hate the most? Who do you think had the most growth? Did you enjoy the love triangle(s)? Was there someone you rooted for? Do you agree with my take on the show? And if so, why or why not? Is my rating fair? What rating did you give the show? Have you watched the alternate ending? Which ending do you prefer?
FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T WATCHED THE DRAMA:
Has this article helped you make a decision? Why or why not? What part are you most looking forward to? review currently watching reasons to watch analysis choi jin hyuk the last empress drama recaps jang na ra lee elliya shin sung rok Hide ads with VIP
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Aya97 37 minutes ago First of all I want to applaud the effort that went into this article. I had a joyful ride reading it and loved how detail-oriented it was. I am quite surprised I haven't heard of this drama till now. I don't think it was so hyped as others. The plot seems really interesting and what I am most curious is the dynamic between the characters. From your description it reminds me of Queen Seon Duk. There as well, we had 2 amazing female characters that grew along with the show and were a joy to watch! I think I will give this drama a try. It seems like a breath of fresh air compared to everything I've watched lately. Thanks again for writing this article and I can't wait to see your future ones!
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Booklover_95 2 hours ago Kudos for an amazing and detailed article. I enjoyed reading it :)
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purplenette VIP 4 hours ago Honestly, I wish I had respected my first intuition on episode one and dropped it. I can give you one reason not to watch it...they extended it and fucked it up royally. One of the main characters is never seen again and no one gives a shit, because they drew it out and he had a scheduling conflict and couldn't be in the show anymore. Stupid writer/director basically destroyed everything. The ending is horrible. Theydrew it out to the point where I could have cared less if they all died.
Plus, what part of this ended up being comedy besides the beginning? Unless you count the exaggerated acting.
Good article though and a lot of your points are valid. I just didn't feel everything that you felt. I guess it really is based on preference.
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I agree that the extension did it a lot of harm, but there's still enough good to make it a worthwhile watch. I do believe that Na Wang Sik could've had a better ending, even if the actor wasn't present. So it's beyond me why they decided to write him off so... Badly. Nobody even goes to visit his grave at the very least, or mourn him!
I kept thini
silent_whispers 14 hours ago I've really wanted to give this show a go, but the pacing issue scares me. K-dramas are the worst for dragging things out and making me drop them. I mean only K-dramas can make 16 episodes feel like an eternity when once enjoying the show. It would drive me crazy to get so far and have to dump it!
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3GGG 7 hours ago I can totally relate! I always feel rom-com are the biggest offenders when it comes to dragging things out. Thankfully this show focuses on the shifting alliences and showdowns, so things are always happening, thereby helping it feel like the narrative is moving forward. Like I replied on your other comment, I think this one has a great pace up until the last 4 episodes, where it kind of drags. Although the episode before last, does have a good pacing. So it's actually 3 episodes that drag (but I usually find last episodes - - when you are wrapping up and showing what the characters are doing-- drags, so take that with a grain of salt).
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silent_whispers 4 hours ago Well thanks for the longer response! ^_- Maybe I will be brave and eventually give this one a whirl! I love the sound of the female lead's character.
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3GGG in a few seconds She is the highlight of the show, for sure! If you do end up watching it, let me know what you think about it!
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atslipinbag 19 hours ago Yup agree.
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3GGG 19 hours ago ＼（＾○＾）人（＾○＾）／
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atslipinbag 19 hours ago Share 2 Reply
3GGG 6 hours ago Share 0 Reply
atslipinbag 2 hours ago @3GGG
Really that is so pretty and unprofessional if the writer really did that . But again , the scene when they captured na Wang shik in the car , I could not believe he was so easily taken over ! while throughout the drama after he trained under the previous empress father, he was invincible at fighting
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3GGG 5 minutes ago Exactly. The extension resulted in the drama losing consistency, especially when it came to Na Wang Sik. And killing him in the explosion was too much.
I expected that, after he'd been caught, he would end up in the hospital and they would remove his bullet (we wouldn't even need to see the actor, so it could've work). That would also give the director an excuse for the character not being present. At the end, we could just see Sunny entering his hospital room and smiling. It would've been a good ending with an open interpretation that could've worked despite CJH's absence.
Yes, really unfortunate! The extension hurt the drama, IMO, and felt unnecessary given how they wrapped everything…
Exactly. Although I still don't understand how the Emperor had so many fans. But I do agree that a pre-approved story would work much better in keeping things consistent.
No for alternate ending I was hoping for romance between sunny and na Wang shik but I knew that was too much to…
Exactly. The extension resulted in the drama losing consistency, especially when it came to Na Wang Sik. And killing him in the explosion was too much.
I expected that, after he'd been caught, he would end up in the hospital and they would remove his bullet (we wouldn't even need to see the actor, so it could've work). That would also give the director an excuse for the character not being present. At the end, we could just see Sunny entering his hospital room and smiling. It would've been a good ending with an open interpretation that could've worked despite CJH's absence.
No for alternate ending I was hoping for romance between sunny and na Wang shik but I knew that was too much to…
Fully agree! I hated how they dealt with Wang Sik's character. He was the ML in my eyes and I really liked him and found it as complex as the Emperor. With the exception that Wang Sik never crossed the line the Emperor did. I have no idea why Oh Sunny wasn't even shown "going to Wang Sik's" grave at the very least! I mean, she even promised herself that she would protect him. But, as you said, there was no mention or memory of him left.
Which makes me wonder if the rumors of the fallout between Choi Jin Hyuk & the writer are true. And, if so, then the writer was just being spiteful towards the actor and ended up doing a disservice to his character and, as a result, the show as a whole.
Thank you for your comment, bmore! I actually have those three shows: My Mister, Misty and Sky Castle in my PTWL!…
My list just keeps growing at a faster rate than I'm watching, lol. Which is why I sometimes check the reviews to see whether to keep it in my PTWL or just delete it for now.
Thank you for your comment, bmore! I actually have those three shows: My Mister, Misty and Sky Castle in my PTWL!…
I'm of the belief that age is meaningless and it's a matter of whether you feel old or young! For example, here you are, nearing 70 yet still avid to learn more about what you love. Yet, I've also met teenagers who believe that "it's too late to learn a new language". I think one grows old when one stops wanting to learn new things. So in that regard, you are 70 years young :).
I've attempted two 50+ episodes Chinese series. The first was "Love O20" which I dropped because I didn't like it. The characters just felt so disconnected to reality. The second was "Legend of Fu Yao" which, though it had it's weak moments, was still a very entertaining series and I finished it! Interestingly enough, I've felt 16 episodes K-dramas dragged more than that show.
Of course, I still have American shows I also watch with it's multiple seasons, so 50+ episodes shouldn't scare me as much as they do.
Thank you for reading, ClaudiaMz! I'm going to enjoy this new discussion for sure! >Death NoteYou know, I actually…
I like fights that are very artistic, of course. So I enjoyed almost all of the ones in Legend of Fuyao as well as the Chinese movies I've watched. Netflix's "Marco Polo" had some great fights as well.
But a director gets my utmost respect when the fight is shown in a long shots or with very few editing. Because that relies more on coordination and coreography. Netflix's "Daredevil" has some of the best fights. And "John Wick" has some of the best gun fights! To name a few. I did also like the fights in Cruel City as well.
Yes, really unfortunate! The extension hurt the drama, IMO, and felt unnecessary given how they wrapped everything…
I wonder if the Emperor really had more fans than Wang Shik and that influenced the writer. It really felt like they were trying to redeem him but I never bought it. Yes, he suffered as a child, but that doesn't give him a free pass. It really shows when a K-Drama writer is writing as the show airs, because the story starts to take weird twis s and turns most of the time.
I've really wanted to give this show a go, but the pacing issue scares me. K-dramas are the worst for dragging…
I can totally relate! I always feel rom-com are the biggest offenders when it comes to dragging things out. Thankfully this show focuses on the shifting alliences and showdowns, so things are always happening, thereby helping it feel like the narrative is moving forward. Like I replied on your other comment, I think this one has a great pace up until the last 4 episodes, where it kind of drags. Although the episode before last, does have a good pacing. So it's actually 3 episodes that drag (but I usually find last episodes - - when you are wrapping up and showing what the characters are doing-- drags, so take that with a grain of salt).
Good catch on the last question, crystalstars! That's all on me, since I added that probably hours before it got…
I loved Feel Good to Die! It was definitely a character driven show which was executed well for me. My favorite thing was that characters were always held accountable for their actions. I even wrote an article about that show as well!
I haven't watched any Thai dramas, so unfortunately I cannot guarantee it wouldn't be like those shows. I can…
Because the alliences are always shifting, the pacing is actually very good. Up until the last four episodes. That's where I felt it dragged a bit for me.
Thank you for your comment, bmore! I actually have those three shows: My Mister, Misty and Sky Castle in my PTWL!…
I like to watch dramas while they are airing because then my viewship is controlled and I can reflect on each episode. When I binge watch them, I sometimes feel tired or I end up feeling like a drama is dragging. Plus I don't take the time to really reflect on what I have watched. Since I will be taking notes while watching Sky Castle, it I will help me to control my pacing (hopefully).
Good catch on the last question, crystalstars! That's all on me, since I added that probably hours before it got…
Oh, I hadn't heard about this one! Sounds interesting + someone added "Feel Good to Die" to the Recommendations so I'm sold! I'm going to watch it once I get the chance!
1 
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I'm a lot more relaxed with movies. If the premise is interesting, I'll watch it without checking any reviews, since at worst I would have lost two hours of my life. With a drama, however, you can lose way way more time.
With stories based or inspired by history, I tend to go in without any prior info. If the movie/drama was interesting enough, that's when I go fact checking, lol.
I am not surprised you hadn't heard about this drama. It did flew under the radar, which is what prompted me to write this article. So long as you don't expect too much from the romance, you will be satisfied. Especially if you watch it for the FL and her growth.
Like I mentioned to atslipinbag down below: EN
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5 Reasons to Watch "The Last Empress" (2019)
by 3GGG, February 26, 2019 1.4K 24 42
For those unfamiliar with the show, The Last Empress could be described as a light, PG-13, scaled-down version of "Game of Thrones". In broad terms, you get a group of people (mostly women) fighting for the throne of Korea. Alliances are forged and broken; friends turn into foes and foes may become reluctant allies. In the end, characters evolve alongside the story, giving it a fluid pace that never drags.
But if that general gist left you confused, perhaps the following synopsis will give you a better idea of the kind of story you can expect.
THE PREMISE
It's 2018 and Korea is a constitutional monarchy led by Emperor Lee Hyuk and his family. Used to a loose and irresponsible way of living, Lee Hyuk gets into an accident which results in someone's death. Rather than face the consequences, Lee Hyuk covers up the crime with the help of a trusted ally.
Assuming everything's dealt with, Lee Hyuk is surprised when a man starts loudly clamouring for justice. That thorn on his side is Na Wang Sik, a hurting man unwilling to stop until justice is served. But his trust in the law gives Wang Sik a harsh wake-up call. Knowing only he can do what needs to be done, he sets out on a mission of revenge.
Actress Oh Sunny, meanwhile, has been trying to make a career out of her passion. As destiny would have it, the Emperor comes in to sweep her off her feet. But little does she know what lies inside his cold heart. And as she's pulled into the Imperial Family's power struggle and swept into Wang Sik's revenge, Oh Sunny will have to figure out a way to outlive and outmanoeuvre those who wish her harm. And while she's at it, she'll be forced to make a decision. She can either escape while she can, or stay to crack open the skeleton closets hidden within the Palace's walls.
If the premise hasn't convinced you, let's look at five reasons why you might want to give this drama a chance. I'll add some things to consider (flaws, doubts and everything in between) to paint a better picture of the good and the bad the drama offers. For those who dislike spoilers, I'll hide additional information which may clarify some points but might also give away key plot-points.
While this point may be irrelevant to some, I felt the need to highlight it because the drama's main setting (the palace) is quite pleasing. Although I've seen shows with better cinematography, there are a few things this drama offers that you'll want to keep an eye on:
Mirrors & reflection are used as motifs within the narrative with great success. So watch out for those scenes. Remember that, in this drama, mirrors (water and reflective glass as well) are treated as "windows into a characters' soul". So when a character is about to reveal or change in an important way, a mirror might be present. It's also important to add that a mirror can also symbolize a crisis of identity, especially because most of the characters you'll meet are actually hiding behind a mask.
Grouping and dividing visual cues are seamlessly integrated into the narrative to offer insight into the interpersonal relationship between the characters. If you'd like to learn more about these, check out my Popular Cues Found in K-dramas article. That way you'll be able to keep track on with whom a character's loyalties lie.
The Dutch angle (tilted camera) is prevalent when it comes to externalizing the war waging inside some of the characters; the Emperor chief among them. Think of the camera as a character's state of mind. If it tilts, it means he or she is having a "mental breakdown" or they are struggling to come to terms with something. I'll cover the dutch angle in more detail in an upcoming article (Popular Cues Found in K-dramas, Part 3).
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭
Though the scenography is pretty compared to the average drama, there's still a good number of exquisitely beautiful dramas which put this one to shame.
If there's one thing this drama sets out to prove, is that things can change in the blink of an eye. Or as one character eloquently put it...
"As you know, the power in the palace can change in a moment. So eat while you can and enjoy it while it lasts. Since you never know when it might end."
Min Yu Ra to Seo Kang Hee, episode 43
Humans are complex creatures. We trust when someone's kind and lash out when someone's mean. If someone betrays our trust, we become colder, more careful and wiser. If someone helps us, we grow vulnerable, kinder and warmer...
So it stands to reason that relationships should change as characters face revelations, betrayals, and strife. The Last Empress doesn't just excel at building mutual alliances, but also at building showdowns and delivering epic backstabs.
Since I want to avoid spoilers, I'll leave you with these last words: you'll probably enjoy the showdown between the antagonists much more than those against the leads. Though that's not to say that Oh Sunny doesn't get to show she's not to be trifled with (more on this later on).
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭
Some alliances are questionable and I had to wonder why certain characters (who were supposedly very smart) didn't take better precautions.
Wang Sik really needed to work on his poker face. I was surprised nobody was suspicious of his motivations when he got questioned by other characters.
Like in all dramas, characters make questionable decisions.
Like it's the standard when the leads aren't detectives, the police are incompetent in this show. Incompetent and corrupt.
There was a character that was frustratingly easy to manipulate. Namely, the Emperor.
Not that this is in any way important, but my favourite alliances were:
Wang Sik/Oh Sunny | Loved the power dynamic and how each brought something to the table, making it a mutually beneficial relationship.
Oh Sunny/Min Yu Ra | Despite greatly disliking her at first, she became a great ally later on. So much so, I could see a hint of friendship or at least a bridge of respect forming between them.
The romance plays a significant role in this drama without feeling forced and, best of all, it's not only complex but dynamic. Meaning, it was an interesting part of the narrative which shifted and changed as the plot progressed.
Furthermore, the show earned extra points because it didn't depict the romance as only nice, warm and innocent. Instead, it sometimes leaned into its darker side, embracing lust and possessiveness, which made it crueller and grittier. The saying "relationships are messy" seems the perfect choice of motto for this show.
Additionally, this is one of the few shows where I didn't mind the love triangles/squares since they contributed to the plot in important ways. Like in real life, the characters' relationships towards one another evolved organically as the characters made decisions and faced consequences.
Despite the many different love triangles (and trust me, there were many!), I'm only going to focus on the one between our main protagonists. But before that, I should briefly introduce our male leads in more detail, shouldn't I? (Since Oh Sunny, gets a section further down this article, I'll omit her for now.)
NA WANG SIK
THE BODYGUARD, CHUN WOO BIN
LEE HYUK
THE EMPEROR
Na Wang Sik is a good-hearted man who, betrayed by those he trusted, sets off on a path of revenge. With patience, effort, and ingenuity, he becomes the Emperor's bodyguard and, beyond that, a close friend and confidant.
Lee Hyuk is a man weighted down by inner demons who allow him little to no real respite. Though he craves power, he does so for self-preservation more than ambition. Because if he has power, then who would dare to hurt him?
Yet behind Chun Woo Bin's carefully constructed loyalty, lies Na Wang Sik's rising wrath.
"You're in the palm of my hand now, got that?"
And the more secrets he discovers inside the palace, the angrier he becomes. But... will his thirst for blood override his gentle heart?
Yet an ever-present feeling of inadequacy has set him on a self-destructive and down-spiralling path.
"I am obligated to protect the Imperial Family!"
Emotionally stunted due to his harsh upbringing, the outlet of his pain and vulnerability result in outbursts of violence and cruelty.
When the time comes to act, who will he become? Will he stay true to his character as he fights to ensure justice? Or will he become a reflection of the monsters he's trying to tear down?
But should someone who is hurting be given a free pass and be absolved of all his crimes? Can regret pave the way for redemption? And, perhaps most importantly... can a tiger really change his stripes?
THEIR ROLE IN THE RELATIONSHIP
THE SHINING KNIGHT
THE BROKEN MAN
Wang Sik takes the role of a knight in shining armour. He's kind, gentle and protective of Oh Sunny. Every time he's pushed or forced to hurt her, he's consumed by guilt and struggles to swallow his remorse.
Lee Hyuk takes the role of a broken man who craves love and companionship. He's aggressive yet childish; hostile yet eager when it comes to dealing with his emotions. Though he dislikes Oh Sunny at first, he has a change of heart later on.
For him, Oh Sunny is a friend, a moral compass and the only person who could make him step off the train of vengeance and walk the path of justice.
For him, Oh Sunny becomes a light in the dark. She's the only person he believes isn't trying to take advantage of him and represents an opportunity at a new beginning.
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭
Like I mentioned before, there are quite a number of love triangles/squares/pentagons in this drama. So if you're put off by those, this drama might test your patience and tolerance.
Though the romance is weaved exceptionally well into the plot, it's not the focus of the drama. So if you're looking for a lot of fluff, this one will not satisfy you. That's not to say that there aren't cute scenes, just that they are sprinkled in at appropriate times.
There's contention within the community about who's the ML and who's the 2ML.
Choi Jin Hyuk (who plays Wang Sik) had very little screen time for the first quarter of the drama.
Though he had his fans, I still found Lee Hyuk's character irredeemable. Though I'll admit Shin Sung Rok (who plays him) sold his character's pain much better than Choi Jin Hyuk.
Shin Sung Rok's acting sometimes came across as cartoony, especially towards the second half of the drama. The result was sometimes hilarious but at other times it was downright cringy.
Due to scheduling reasons, Choi Jin Hyuk couldn't film the last four episodes (since the drama got extended). Commendable as it was for the director to keep the character of Na Wang Sik in the show via a double, Choi Jin Hyuk's absence was glaringly obvious. And, unfortunately, the band-aid solution couldn't fix the gaping wound in the narrative, which left some of us (I'm sure I'm not alone) dissatisfied (especially in regard to how they dealt with Wang Sik). Just for this reason, I had to deduct a point.
For those who prefer knowing the ending... if you're looking for a fairy-tale romantic ending, this is not it. The ending is more in the realm of bittersweetness.
Probably one of my favorite things about this show has been the number of powerful women actively involved in the plot. It's rare to see any show (Korean or otherwise) where the ratio of important male to female characters is turned on its head.
That's not to say that there aren't any male characters, because there are. But rather, we are getting a story where important female characters outnumber the males. And these characters aren't just there to decorate the scene! Instead, the writer has fleshed them out as complex and autonomous human beings. They make decisions, spring into action, weigh consequences and take risks in an effort to accomplish their individual goals and dreams; all of which are unrelated to any male character!
Having raved about that, let's take a brief look at the prominent female characters.
GRAND EMPRESS DOWAGER JO
"If one has committed a crime, one must be punished accordingly."
The woman who takes Empress Sunny under her wing and shows her moral compass is intact. Once she discovers she's been kept in the dark, she will stop at nothing to set things right.
EMPRESS DOWAGER KANG
"I'll teach you a proper lesson, to help you come to your senses."
The woman who doesn't balk at using her own son if it means securing more power. She's someone so sure of herself, she doesn't even think or care to wear a mask to hide her ambitions behind.
EMPRESS OH SUNNY
"I will shatter that arrogance of yours."
The woman who breaks out of the role of pawn imposed by Lee Hyuk, and embraces the Empress within. She's not interested in making ripples, she's here to make waves.
THE PRINCESS' NANNY, SEO KANG HEE
"You made a mistake. You can't get rid of me once I'm no longer useful."
The woman who hides her ambition under the love of her child. She's the dark horse and silent threat, who knows patience, and not speed, is what'll get her the throne.
PRINCESS AH RI
"Does it makes sense that I, a genius, can't understand?"
The girl who, despite her age, has proven she has the wits, courage, and sass to put some of the grown-ups in their place. She's not without her faults, but Ah Ri has proven that she'll never let pride get in her way of learning and reflecting.
THE EMPEROR'S SECRETARY MIN YU RA
"You should've known better. Even I don't know what I'll do."
The woman who, unable to accept her humble beginnings, decides to acquire wealth and power by any means possible. If she must make the ladder she's on with bones for rungs, then so be it.
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭
Not because these women are strong does it mean you'll like them. Be prepared to detest some of them as much as you admire the rest.
You'll need a well of patience to refrain from screaming, "You, B***H!"
You can expect some catfighting between them which, though extremely satisfying for me, may deter some of you.
Some of these characters are easy to manipulate and will sometimes show a lapse of common sense. Thankfully, the latter moments are few and far between.
Seo Kang Hee and Min Yu Ra are very similar characters. So much so that if we weren't looking at them, we would probably confuse them. Basically, they came across as the "cookie cutter" version of an arrogant and detestable character.
There's a certain character (Min Yu Ra) that gets a scar (a burn across her face, no less!) which is later magically removed (no way surgery could get those results and less so in a matter of a few days). I really hated that, especially because why give her the scar in the first place? It just felt lazy and a choice that made budget constraints pretty obvious.
Unfortunately, I found the Emperor's sister unbearable towards the end (I didn't mention her above because she's a minor support character). I also felt that she offered very little to the story. However, the comments in the drama's page suggest some people really liked her and found her antics fun to watch, so take my comment with a grain of salt.
There's a reveal towards the end involving a character (Grand Empress Dowager Jo's "murder") that I hated because it wasn't properly thought out. BIG SPOILER: Why did she kill herself to "open the family up to investigation" when she could've just followed her own plan and out her daughter's & grandson's crimes? So many things could've been avoided that way, which makes her death not only useless, but irrational. And let's not forget that several innocent people had to pay for her absurd decision with their lives. This made me deduct points...
The ending of some of the characters felt anti-climactic.
As common as a strong or interesting male protagonist is, we all know that's not the same for their female counterparts. One out of every five dramas will boast a complex, interesting, consistent or active female lead. But very rarely will it have all of those things.
Sometimes, if she's lucky, she gets stuck in a support role that contributes something of real importance to a story. At other times, the writer will reduce her to a cheerleading role with very little to offer. If she's truly unlucky, she'll be little more than eye-candy.
Whether the problem lies with not giving her a "sense of agency" or because her contribution serves only to help the male lead (which typically includes being his: healer, moral compass, damsel in distress, and/or trophy), a female lead is rarely given a chance to grow --let alone pose a real threat to the antagonist!
Oh Sunny, however, is all that and more. Which is why I'm including her at the biggest reason why you should watch this show.
But what makes Oh Sunny a strong protagonist? Let's briefly analyze her character through four parameters that'll allow us to measure how strong a protagonist is.
SENSE OF AGENCY
This parameter relates to how important or impactful her character is within the story.
The mere fact that the show would change drastically without Oh Sunny's involvement and contributions prove she is indispensable.
She may have been pulled into the story as a pawn for others to use and benefit from. But Oh Sunny demonstrated that she not only deserves the title of Empress, but she's not afraid to earn it!
She may have been brought into this war by someone else, but she definitely chose to stay and fight.
PARTICIPATION
Oh Sunny is not a passive character. Yes, things do happen to her, but she reacts and makes choices rather than wait for other characters to get her out of a pinch.
She then goes further and steps up to the occasion, showing she's not afraid to take charge.
Even better, she learns from her mistakes and has shown a remarkable capacity to think on her feet and adapt to her situation.
BALANCE & CONSISTENCY
For a character to be relatable, it needs to have a balance of strengths and weaknesses, which is the case with Oh Sunny.
She's not perfect. Far from it, she makes mistakes, stumbles, falls and gets up. She's kind but unforgiving; idealistic but harsh; vulnerable but strong. For every virtue, she has a flaw.
However, a list on paper may be disproven by actions and this is where consistency comes into play.
Consistency is achieved when what we're "told" match what we're "shown".
In the case of Oh Sunny, she has shown steady consistency. Even her acting skills are implemented into the narrative when it matters. Her naivety made her an easy mark, but her self-judgment and reflection made her shed that innocence and grow a hard shell.
But credit where credit is due, I thank the writer who never forgot to have Oh Sunny use all of the assets/skills in her arsenal to pull herself out of a bind.
GROWTH
Character growth is a staple of a good writer. Like in real life, events, experiences, mistakes, and consequences help shape the person we become.
The easiest way to figure out if a character has grown is to compare who they were and how they acted in the first episode to who they became on the last.
In that regard, Oh Sunny excels. Her growth was organic. Things happened to her and who she was changed as a result.
Events and people who caused her pain left psychological scars on her, which in turn, shifted her from a naïve and soft character into someone more cynical and harsh.
That's not to say that she strayed from her nature, which is to be kind and justice oriented. But rather that she learned to be careful with her trust and to sharpen her claws when her enemies venture near.
╮("╯_╰)╭ THINGS TO CONSIDER ╮(╯_╰")╭
Oh Sunny is the perfect example of a character who grows into her power in an organic and consistent way. She starts off as the typical K-drama female lead: optimistic, painfully naïve and willing to forgive anything in order to keep a guy around. However, if you keep watching, you'll see she's worthy of tagging her as a strong character.
Oh Sunny does require saving every now and then (especially at the beginning). However, rather than a damsel in distress, she would fit the "badass in distress" trope. Which makes sense considering that when she needs help, it's because it has to do with something physical. However, she does her fair share of saving as well.
Unfortunately, Oh Sunny didn't have the stage presence other female characters had. Min Yu Ra always managed to "out badass" her.
Unfortunately, I think the extension did this drama more harm than good. Choi Jin Hyuk's absence was not only glaringly obvious, but it also played a role in the disappointingly anti-climatic last couple of episodes. It almost felt like an entirely different show, to be honest.
But while the show had its flaws, I'm still rating it with an 8/10 because it is a good watch overall. A one time watch, mind you, but an entertaining one nonetheless. Although, full disclosure, I gave the show brownie points due to the superb integration of artistic motifs (the mirrors, the usage of colors and the Dutch angle) that really added weight to the narrative.
In short, if you enjoy a strong female protagonist surrounded by other strong and ambitious female characters, then you'll definitely in for a treat. If, however, you're looking for a romance-centric show, this might not be a show you'll enjoy.
Btw, for those who have seen the drama, there's an alternate ending that got released on youtube and which you can find here. Personally, I prefer the ending, but it's a cute video nonetheless. A heads up, when you switch on the subtitles, pick the "Indonesian" option, as that one has the English subs.
Thank you for reading this article!
I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments down below.
Here are some questions to get a conversation started:
FOR THOSE WHO'VE WATCHED THE DRAMA:
Did you enjoy it?
Who was your favorite character and why?
Which character did you hate the most?
Who do you think had the most growth?
Did you enjoy the love triangle(s)? Was there someone you rooted for?
Do you agree with my take on the show? And if so, why or why not?
Is my rating fair? What rating did you give the show?
Have you watched the alternate ending? Which ending do you prefer?
FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T WATCHED THE DRAMA:
Has this article helped you make a decision? Why or why not?
What part are you most looking forward to?
review currently watching reasons to watch analysis choi jin hyuk the last empress drama recaps jang na ra lee elliya shin sung rok
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Aya97 37 minutes ago
First of all I want to applaud the effort that went into this article. I had a joyful ride reading it and loved how detail-oriented it was. I am quite surprised I haven't heard of this drama till now. I don't think it was so hyped as others. The plot seems really interesting and what I am most curious is the dynamic between the characters. From your description it reminds me of Queen Seon Duk. There as well, we had 2 amazing female characters that grew along with the show and were a joy to watch! I think I will give this drama a try. It seems like a breath of fresh air compared to everything I've watched lately.
Thanks again for writing this article and I can't wait to see your future ones!
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Booklover_95 2 hours ago
Kudos for an amazing and detailed article. I enjoyed reading it :)
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purplenette VIP 4 hours ago
Honestly, I wish I had respected my first intuition on episode one and dropped it. I can give you one reason not to watch it...they extended it and fucked it up royally. One of the main characters is never seen again and no one gives a shit, because they drew it out and he had a scheduling conflict and couldn't be in the show anymore. Stupid writer/director basically destroyed everything. The ending is horrible. Theydrew it out to the point where I could have cared less if they all died.
Plus, what part of this ended up being comedy besides the beginning? Unless you count the exaggerated acting.
Good article though and a lot of your points are valid. I just didn't feel everything that you felt. I guess it really is based on preference.
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I agree that the extension did it a lot of harm, but there's still enough good to make it a worthwhile watch. I do believe that Na Wang Sik could've had a better ending, even if the actor wasn't present. So it's beyond me why they decided to write him off so... Badly. Nobody even goes to visit his grave at the very least, or mourn him!
I kept thini
silent_whispers 14 hours ago
I've really wanted to give this show a go, but the pacing issue scares me. K-dramas are the worst for dragging things out and making me drop them. I mean only K-dramas can make 16 episodes feel like an eternity when once enjoying the show. It would drive me crazy to get so far and have to dump it!
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3GGG 7 hours ago
I can totally relate! I always feel rom-com are the biggest offenders when it comes to dragging things out. Thankfully this show focuses on the shifting alliences and showdowns, so things are always happening, thereby helping it feel like the narrative is moving forward. Like I replied on your other comment, I think this one has a great pace up until the last 4 episodes, where it kind of drags. Although the episode before last, does have a good pacing. So it's actually 3 episodes that drag (but I usually find last episodes - - when you are wrapping up and showing what the characters are doing-- drags, so take that with a grain of salt).
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silent_whispers 4 hours ago
Well thanks for the longer response! ^_- Maybe I will be brave and eventually give this one a whirl! I love the sound of the female lead's character.
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3GGG in a few seconds
She is the highlight of the show, for sure! If you do end up watching it, let me know what you think about it!
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atslipinbag 19 hours ago
Yup agree.
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3GGG 19 hours ago
＼（＾○＾）人（＾○＾）／
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atslipinbag 19 hours ago
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3GGG 6 hours ago
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atslipinbag 2 hours ago
@3GGG
Really that is so pretty and unprofessional if the writer really did that .
But again , the scene when they captured na Wang shik in the car , I could not believe he was so easily taken over ! while throughout the drama after he trained under the previous empress father, he was invincible at fighting
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3GGG 5 minutes ago
Exactly. The extension resulted in the drama losing consistency, especially when it came to Na Wang Sik. And killing him in the explosion was too much.
I expected that, after he'd been caught, he would end up in the hospital and they would remove his bullet (we wouldn't even need to see the actor, so it could've work). That would also give the director an excuse for the character not being present. At the end, we could just see Sunny entering his hospital room and smiling. It would've been a good ending with an open interpretation that could've worked despite CJH's absence.
BTW, did you see the alternate ending which got released? Where he becomes an actor under Oh Sunny?
I expected that, after he'd been caught, he would end up in the hospital and they would remove his bullet (we wouldn't even need to see the actor, so it could've work). That would also give the director an excuse for the character not being present. At the end, we could just see Sunny entering his hospital room and smiling. It would've been a good ending with an open interpretation that could've worked despite CJH's absence.
Which makes me wonder if the rumors of the fallout between Choi Jin Hyuk & the writer are true. And, if so, then the writer was just being spiteful towards the actor and ended up doing a disservice to his character and, as a result, the show as a whole.
I've attempted two 50+ episodes Chinese series. The first was "Love O20" which I dropped because I didn't like it. The characters just felt so disconnected to reality. The second was "Legend of Fu Yao" which, though it had it's weak moments, was still a very entertaining series and I finished it! Interestingly enough, I've felt 16 episodes K-dramas dragged more than that show.
Of course, I still have American shows I also watch with it's multiple seasons, so 50+ episodes shouldn't scare me as much as they do.
But a director gets my utmost respect when the fight is shown in a long shots or with very few editing. Because that relies more on coordination and coreography. Netflix's "Daredevil" has some of the best fights. And "John Wick" has some of the best gun fights! To name a few. I did also like the fights in Cruel City as well.