Sirenas

This is one where you will lose sleep over because it's just that binge-worthy. Unlike endless other palace dramas out there, this one is particularly unique. So much so that I decided to redo my original review after another re-watch.

While you still have your typical treachery occurring within the palace, it doesn't have the same incessant evil cringe moments as most others do. The main focus is around a Queen who is does her best to manage her role while being a mother to her five children. This may sound boring in writing but the dynamics of the relationship between her and her children are both realistic, intriguing, and heartwarming. It is also quite special to finally see brothers with very different personalities that are strongly bonded with one another instead of the typical infighting. The Queen, of course is the main star of the show and her sons are a great reflection of her character.

There are many familiar faces in the series for me and they all did an incredible job in their roles. You felt every emotion even when they were silent. They played their roles so well that it's one of those where you feel your heart breaking with theirs and you can't seem to stop the tears from falling. Even after a second watch, it still had me in tears all over again.

But don't get discouraged from the tears mentioned above, the series did such justice to truly being able to balance the somber with plenty of lightheartedness. You'll laugh and smile just as much. This is really unlike many historical k-dramas out there. There is no melodramatic moments, no long-winded moments, no sappy romances, no annoying characters... and man, the pacing leaves little room for you to be disengaged. I really hope more series follow suit with this style and serious kudos again to the actors.