This review may contain spoilers
Big Feels, Bigger Twists (Freaks Shouldn't Have Power)
It's honestly fascinating that in today's world, with everything going on, we got a kdrama like Tempest, one that basically shows how dangerous it is when “freaks” hold power. For me, the drama often felt like a mirror of our own reality, highlighting just how destructive it can be when weapons fall into the wrong hands.
The plot was strong. The pacing? Yeah, sometimes a little slow, but never to the point of being boring, EVERY single episode left me wanting to click next. Jun Ji Hyun has mentioned she's always admired Kang Dong Won, so I can only imagine what a dream it was for her to act alongside him in something this good. Their chemistry was flawless, and honestly, they need to team up again. The entire cast delivered too; no character felt wasted, whether they had a big role or a small one.
Seo Mun Ju was such a competent character in everything she set out to do, even in her own suffering. Strong, sharp, and straightforward, Jun Ji Hyun played her with so much grace and nuance. At times, I almost believed she really could bring world peace. Baek San Ho, meanwhile, was absolutely fascinating (Calm down, I love Seo Mun Ju as much him loves her): layered, complex, and unwavering in his devotion to Seo Mun Ju. His final scene with Madam President only deepened that complexity.
Political storyline >> Aside from a couple of generalizations, I thought the political side of the story was really good. And honestly, just look at the news around us, and you'll get exactly where the characters' motivations came from.
Romance >> The drama never promised romance, but somehow it delivered. The moments were short, yes, but full of meaning and chemistry. Definitely unexpected, but definitely WORTH IT.
The Finale >> I wasn't disappointed at all. For weeks I'd been convinced the drama would keep us on edge, making us believe until the very last second that our anti-hero, Baek San Ho, was doomed to die. But he didn't, that open door on the ship basically screamed that he was still alive. His final moment, alone in the desert, looking at Polaris while burying Seo Mun Ju's necklace where he always dreamed of taking her, was deeply symbolic. To me, it was him putting his own happiness to rest (or keeping it safe) while letting her move forward. Realistically, their romance could never work with him alive beside her while she's running for president and fighting for peace. And he knew that. So he sacrificed it (I'm guessing here).
Conclusion >> I really think Tempest was a unique kdrama, with great acting, powerful scenes, and a storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat every single week. Loved it.
90/100
The plot was strong. The pacing? Yeah, sometimes a little slow, but never to the point of being boring, EVERY single episode left me wanting to click next. Jun Ji Hyun has mentioned she's always admired Kang Dong Won, so I can only imagine what a dream it was for her to act alongside him in something this good. Their chemistry was flawless, and honestly, they need to team up again. The entire cast delivered too; no character felt wasted, whether they had a big role or a small one.
Seo Mun Ju was such a competent character in everything she set out to do, even in her own suffering. Strong, sharp, and straightforward, Jun Ji Hyun played her with so much grace and nuance. At times, I almost believed she really could bring world peace. Baek San Ho, meanwhile, was absolutely fascinating (Calm down, I love Seo Mun Ju as much him loves her): layered, complex, and unwavering in his devotion to Seo Mun Ju. His final scene with Madam President only deepened that complexity.
Political storyline >> Aside from a couple of generalizations, I thought the political side of the story was really good. And honestly, just look at the news around us, and you'll get exactly where the characters' motivations came from.
Romance >> The drama never promised romance, but somehow it delivered. The moments were short, yes, but full of meaning and chemistry. Definitely unexpected, but definitely WORTH IT.
The Finale >> I wasn't disappointed at all. For weeks I'd been convinced the drama would keep us on edge, making us believe until the very last second that our anti-hero, Baek San Ho, was doomed to die. But he didn't, that open door on the ship basically screamed that he was still alive. His final moment, alone in the desert, looking at Polaris while burying Seo Mun Ju's necklace where he always dreamed of taking her, was deeply symbolic. To me, it was him putting his own happiness to rest (or keeping it safe) while letting her move forward. Realistically, their romance could never work with him alive beside her while she's running for president and fighting for peace. And he knew that. So he sacrificed it (I'm guessing here).
Conclusion >> I really think Tempest was a unique kdrama, with great acting, powerful scenes, and a storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat every single week. Loved it.
90/100
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