Be an even bigger bitch.
Even though it only has 6 episodes, each almost an hour long, Aema turned out to be a surprisingly rich and revolutionary story above all, about women embracing their rights in a market where they were constantly reduced to sex symbols.
What caught my attention the most was the relationship between Jeong Hee ran and Shin Joo ae. At first, it seemed impossible to believe they’d ever get close: every time they met, they’d throw insults at each other, basically calling each other “bitch” non stop, and Hee ran never missed a chance to humiliate poor Joo ae. But out of that very hatred, out of those slaps and fights, an unexpected bond was born something like sisters, partners, accomplices. Because sometimes, the best friendships are born out of hate.
Another strong point was how the series didn’t stay in the realm of pure fiction. Madame Aema was a real figure, a box office sensation, and the leading name behind Korea’s first big erotic film. It emerged during the so-called “3S Policy” (Screen, Sex, Sports) implemented by the military regime in the 80s. While the people were stripped of political freedom and living under repression, the government “fed” them erotic cinema,
entertainment, and sports as a form of social control. That explains why, when Koo Jung ho disgustingly insisted that nudity was essential, it seemed absurd at first but later became understandable in that historical context. And it made Hee-ran’s fight for freedom to make a film without being sexually exploited, just like so many rookie actresses even more powerful.
Despite the heavy themes, the show balanced everything with sharp humor. Some scenes were simply hilarious, not forced at all, and genuinely made me laugh out loud.
The acting was another highlight. No complaints there. I recognized a few new faces, but most of the cast were veterans and everyone delivered. As for pacing, it was spot on. Not rushed, not dragged, just the right amount of development for a 6 ep run. Regarding the nudity, some viewers might find it uncomfortable, but personally, I didn’t mind at all. On the contrary, it fits perfectly with the story, since the whole narrative revolves around the rise of erotic cinema in Korea.
The 80s setting was another huge bonus. I always get excited when a series nails that decade, and here the aesthetics, the costumes, and the atmosphere were all on point.
In the end, this drama was such a pleasant surprise. I loved the story, their fight, and how it wasn’t just about Jeong Hee ran and Shin Joo ae it was about all the women in that environment. Realistic, not everything tied up neatly (just like real life), but revolutionary in the courage they showed. Because, honestly? The two of them were badass bitches.
Was this review helpful to you?
Treasure hunters or just a bunch of con artists?
Low Life is one of those underrated shows that go unnoticed which is pretty ironic, considering the entire plot revolves around a lost treasure at the bottom of the sea. But what many people don’t realize is that the real hidden gem is the show itself.The premise: a group of people half misfits, half dreamers (or just completely lost, to be honest) are chasing a lost treasure: valuable ceramics that sank with an old imperial Chinese ship off the coast of South Korea. Sounds epic, right? And it is... just not in the way you’d expect. These “treasure hunters” aren’t glamorous, they don’t have futuristic gadgets or a brilliant plan. What they do have are debts, flashy clothes, questionable ideas, and a natural talent for trouble.
Right from the start, what caught my attention most was the setting. Low Life takes place in the 1970s, and I have to say: the production work is simply impeccable. From the retro home decor to the colorful clothes, the slicked-back hair to the thick regional accents everything feels very authentic. As someone obsessed with vintage aesthetics, I felt right at home.
I’ll be honest: the first few minutes left me a bit lost. A bunch of characters are introduced all at once, with names I couldn’t keep track of yet, and the narrative doesn’t hand everything to you on a silver platter. And yes, I was bored at first. But it was a necessary kind of boredom. Because when I finally gave it my full attention, I began to realize that each character has something unique to offer. It’s like watching a big game board being assembled: each piece, no matter how random it seems, is there for a reason. And everyone, without exception, is involved in some kind of crime whether out of desperation, cunning, or pure greed.
The humor is another strong point. The show has moments so absurd I couldn’t help but laugh. Nothing feels forced: the situations are ridiculous on their own, the characters get themselves into trouble thinking they’re being clever, and the comedy flows naturally. Many times I found myself thinking, “There’s no way they’re this dumb” and yet, I kept rooting for them. Because Low Life knows exactly what it is: a story about a bunch of lovable idiots, and it embraces that wholeheartedly.
Starting with episode 5, the show begins to slow down to introduce the characters more calmly. Each episode tends to focus on one person or duo, gradually revealing who they are, what they want, and how far they’re willing to go for this so called treasure. This pacing might bother those expecting a fast-moving plot, but personally, I found it bold. The story is simmering on low heat, and it’s clear it knows exactly where it’s headed.
But what really makes Low Life interesting is how it tackles serious themes without losing its light tone. Corruption, inequality, blind ambition, the desperation for quick cash all of these are present, but wrapped in humor and driven by characters who are both tragic and hilarious. Yes, there is social commentary but the kind that catches you off guard, in the middle of a laugh or while you’re wondering if you would have done the same thing that scammer in the suit just did.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. But not to everyone.
Low Life is for those who enjoy unconventional narratives, large chaotic ensembles, and stories that seem aimless at first but gradually prove to be tightly woven. If you like dark comedies, well crafted historical settings, or simply want to watch a group of grown men fighting over antique ceramics, this show might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Was this review helpful to you?
A good thriller, but a complete mess
At first, I was really drawn into the story it started off like a typical thriller, but it still managed to feel tense and engaging. The investigation into the murders kept me watching, but the moment they started visiting Shin Hyun in prison while the killings continued outside was by far the most compelling part. That’s when the movie really built suspense and made you wonder just how much control he had, even behind bars.After that, though, the film kind of fell apart. Scenes jumped around abruptly with no clear connection, and a lot of events happened with no explanation at all. The plot was full of holes, and it often felt like the movie was more focused on shocking visuals than actually telling a coherent story. By the time the ending arrived, the so-called big reveal didn’t land at all, partly because earlier scenes had already hinted at it, including that random bloody scene that appeared with zero context.
Despite these issues, there are still moments that work the tension during the prison visits, the psychological element of Shin Hyun’s influence, and the darker atmosphere all make parts of the movie engaging. But overall, it’s hard to shake the feeling that the film could have been much stronger if the narrative had been more cohesive. As it stands, it’s a thriller with an interesting premise that ultimately gets lost in its own messy execution*-*
Was this review helpful to you?
