Heracin

I loved this drama : it is an incredible multilayered story that I binge watched over the course of a week-end. It brought me a lot of emotions as well as of thinking as the scenario unfolded and I was trying to figure things out following the clues laid out by the writing. I am greedy so I wish that they had more episodes to explore the lore and all they hinted in the last episode. Having said that, the ending was satisfying and the doors opened in the last episode are rather fun than frustrating.

This drama is an adaptation of the webtoon "Shop of the Lamp" by Kang Full. After Moving, his collaboration with Disney proves once again to be super successful : he is definitely a screenwriter upcoming star I want to keep following closely. In addition to a strong writing, this drama features a gallery of characters portrayed by a very good ensemble cast. There were definitely some outstanding performances (such as the one of Ju Ji Hoon that I will not forget) but overall acting is constantly good on all the parts.

The production was very good: there are a few scenes and images that will remain I feel in my memory for a very long time. The special effects were excellent and there was an interesting unnerving tension in the way the scenes were filmed. The soundtrack was perfectly fitting the heavy atmosphere. The making really participated in the feeling of oppression I felt while watching the show. I think the editing though could have been improved between some of the episodes. Some great cliffhangers were often followed not directly which was a bit anticlimactic in the moment, even if it was often done for very good reason in terms of storytelling.

I would recommend this to people that are looking for a thrilling series with a great gallery of grey and interesting characters. It is not for the tender hearts as I feel there are some horrific elements that can be tough to go through and you may want to check the triggers if you have any. I really think it is a worthy watch that will take the viewer on an emotional rollercoaster. It might need a bit of time for the viewer to connect all the pieces of the puzzle together, but once you got there, it is immensely rewarding.