In particular, the cinematography is rock solid. The shots inside the Kurosawa house are some of the most gorgeous and use interesting angles to bring out the dark veil hanging over the place. Beyond those deliberately called attention to by the story, decorations and objects often appear in the same frame as characters--acting as mute symbolism for the person or their situation. This aspect is easy to miss the first time around and is a good reason for a re-watch. Some viewers might find them unsettling or even irritating, but occasionally disturbing clips and images appear between stops in the action. I find them instrumental to the feel of the story.
Music is also masterfully utilized, with the orchestrations displaying delicious moodiness. Vocal tracks will be easily recognized by most everyone, as the bulk of them are classics. The lyrics of these songs (like Paint it Black by The Rolling Stones or Nirvana's Smells Like Teen Spirit) could not have suited the situations they were used in better. Honestly, the first time Paint It Black played over a scene, goosebumps came. I also need to give a special mention to the sound effects team, because sometimes a noise would halt the music. For instance, when Isao is talking to Mitsuru at the bar, the sound of his glass settling on the table signals an eerie silence.
All of the brothers were played well, each actor filling their role believably. If I had to pick a favorite though, Ichihara Hayato would win the contest by miles. His portrayal reminds me of a tragic hero from a Gothic romance, tortured and barely keeping it together; but on the outside he's everything you'd want your son to be, handsome, elegant, and successful in his career. Ichihara-san is especially good at acting with his eyes and often made incredible blocking choices in his scenes. It'll be a blessing if he can get more meaty roles like this; he's a magnetic presence on the screen. On the other side of the spectrum is the cartoon-ish detective, who unfortunately was present during all of the scenes inside the interrogation room. His voice drove me crazy, because he kept speaking in this strange purr that sounded more suitable for a villain in a child's anime.
I'll end by saying that while this is a story of pain, abuse, and ultimately murder, it's an easy watch...if you can handle that. The episodes are short and hook you in, especially if this genre is your bag. If you're anything like me, you'll end up eager to get to the end and watch most of it in one go; once you're there, you might just not see the end coming.
Was this review helpful to you?
I think Ishihara Satomi was spectacular as Konno Ecchan. She has that bubbly personality that fits the character. Her laughs always made me laugh, they are so silly and contagious. Her clothes were beautiful and fit her like glove. I love the various hairstyles and accessories she wears throughout the episodes. Since I am a huge fan of nail art, I was a bit disappointed to see that her nails were simple done, nothing fancy. I get that her character is based on a girl who loves fashion, but it was also a bit unrealistic that she wears a different outfit every day, wears a different piyamas every day, and has a elaborated hairstyle every day. Oh well, at least she repeats the shoes...
But more than anything, I liked how hard she worked (even though Proofreading wasn't her vocation) and how her work inspired her co-workers to give it all. Maybe Proofreading is a bit tedious, and I don't think it involves all the research they did, but I wanted so much to work in that Editorial, it looked so much fun. Reading books and researching, to check that all facts were correct. With a calm work group and a nice boss. What more to ask??
There is more romance than I thought it would be, but I wouldn't watch this for it (in my humble opinion, I think she falls for the wrong guy...not that he is a jerk, quite the contrary, he is the nicest, but she has more chemistry with another guy). The beauty of this show is the characters and the the motivation to and for work.
I loved the OP sequence and song, catchy and fun and kinda girly.
Was this review helpful to you?
Mind-blowing
First, the cast and the acting are superb. Truly, Gong Yoo is perfect for the role of goblin(Kim Shin). The other characters have also shown their charisma. Moreover, I'm in a love with its OST. The OST will definitely touch your heart. Also, This is not only full of sad romance and emotional feelings, but the comedy used in this drama was also epic. Especially, the plot or storyline of the story is so much interesting and heart-touching. I will give thanks to Kim Eun-Sook for writing this mind-blowing drama. I cried more than thrice while watching this drama. Also, I laughed countless times. I have watched many dramas but still, it is a drama which I can't forget just for a moment. You should obviously watch this drama at least once.Was this review helpful to you?
If I'm being perfectly honest I mostly watched because Go Ara was in it, I loved her character, she was easy to fall in love with. But wow, the rest of the cast floored me. The drama and intrigue was off the charts. Jung ll Woo was amazing, you really felt his burden and sincerity throughout. Kwan Yool was hilarious as well. I also have a soft spot for Nam Ki Ae as Queen Inwon, what a sweety and what a wonderful smile.
I actually really loved, especially toward the end, the relationship between Jung Moon Sung's character Prince Milpoong and Bae Jung Hwa's character Bok Dan. I know I was supposed to hate them but I just felt sorry for them, it just seemed so tragic.
The story was fantastic and you really were on the edge of your seat from week to week. I just loved the ending.
I definitely recommend this drama!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
This drama is so good. Looking at the summary it has nothing to do with the story like only 1/100. In order for some people to watch this I will explain it more without spoiling ... Chi Mo is a rich CEO who has the normal average drama annoying CEO type of role. But, after meeting a girl named Hao Chong Min his mental activity changed. His other personality came out also known as Song Xiao Xiao who is the complete opposite of him. Fun, outgoing, and Loving. Not only does this other personality remembers some details of what had happened in the car accident, he also falls in love with Hao Chong Min. But, the conflict occurs when Song Xiao Ciao and Hao Chong begins to have a relationship. The main problem is that the original master of the body is Chi Mo and he has more control of it then he does. Chi Mo is angry that he has two personalities and also can't remember anything the other personality did and thought. The other problem is to find out who was the person who caused the car accident and why.
Of course I can't say everything because then it would be a spoiler but this is what overall the summary should say. There is stuff in it like any other drama like ex girlfriend, a mom who doesn't want the love to continue, and humor.
I hope whoever notice this review to please watch this drama. Not only does it have short 20 something minute episodes that are addicting, the cast grows into you too. Though I had trouble finding the drama, it was worth it and really good. Just saying if you don't understand mandarin then you are doomed because the only thing that worked for me was all mandarin without subtitles. Either you learn some mandarin or try interpreting this a drama, it is worth it and should be watched.
Hope you like this cute humorous loving drama! The main leads are OTP and I wish they can make more dramas together.
Was this review helpful to you?
The acting is great, I have no complaints about any of it (:The guy who plays Tian Kuo, Peng Eddie, does a good job, his character was so cute! And the actresses who played the girls were also good, it makes me wonder if they actually knew sign language or just learned the parts they needed to know for the movie.
I enjoyed the music that was played throughout the movie. Although I don't know the names of the songs, they were nice (:
I can see myself watching this movie again sometime, so my rewatch value for it is high (:
Overall - I think this movie is worth watching (: It's a cute, not too dramatic, nice story. It gives you a break from your typical love story and instead provides something a little less complicated but just as enjoyable (:
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Best Melodrama of 2021!
I never thought that I would enjoy this drama as much as I did. I went into this entirely for Lee Do Hyun, but now I am in love with all of the actors/actresses in this drama! Everyone really became their characters and left such a strong and deep impression on me as a viewer. Lee Do Hyun also definitely did not disappoint with this drama! Such a TALENTED ACTOR!! I've watched 3 of his works now and he never fails to further amaze me with his acting skills. I can't wait to see his next work. I am addicted to his precious smile and I am so missing Hee Tae right now T_T Go Min Si also was AMAZING! She conveyed the emotions incredibly as Myung Hee and it was so sad to see what ultimately was her end. I already expected the drama to be sad, but it was sadder than I expected. I can dare say that it is the best melodrama of 2021 so far! Definitely recommend it!!As for the plot and script, it was written very well throughout the entire 12 episodes. I think I wouldn't have minded if it was a 14 episode drama just to get to see more of Hee Tae and Myung Hee be happier and not suffering. The story was paced extremely well and developed steadily each episode, and it was easy to follow along. It actually felt quite fast-pasted and there were no filler scenes to drag the drama out. The characters were well written and viewers can see their progress and changes clearly. The relationships were also expanded on nicely, making viewers able to get attached to each character and their ultimate end. I particularly liked seeing Jung Tae and Hee Tae clear up their misunderstandings and having Jung Tae run to save Myung Hee. I'm so sad to say goodbye to all of them- Hee Tae, Myung Hee, Jung Tae, Myung Soo, etc. It's such a shame that the ending couldn't have been a happy one for Hee Tae & Myung Hee, but their story was wrapped up nicely at the end with their 2021 selves. It was also ended nicely for the other supporting roles, but I wished that I got to see more of what happened to Jung Tae, Myung Soo, Soo Chan, and Soo Ryun at the end. Although it was a really cool and nice transition of seeing each of them in 2021 and their younger selves transition in the scene. I am also so curious about what happened to the evil Hwang Gi Nam at the end because we are left not knowing exactly how it ended for him after Jung Tae.
NOW THE ROMANCE WAS AMAZING! I absolutely loved Hee Tae and Myung Hee together! They had so much chemistry together and just fit together like two pieces of a puzzle. Hee Tae's smile always brightened up my day and ugh, he was just amazing. Hee Tae is such an ideal boyfriend- so sweet, considerate, and caring. I so wished that Myung Hee and he didn't suffer so much and enjoyed happier times. It was absolutely heartbreaking when Myung Hee insisted on waiting at the hospital after Hee Tae was taken by his father because that's where he knew where to look for her. But, there were so many other sad moments like this in the drama that it really just breaks my heart. Their only truly happy moments before the chaos were their 3 dates :(( I'm devasted that they didn't get their happy ending together and it hurt so much to see Hee Tae so broken after Myung Hee disappeared. Such an ill-fated couple. :( I hope to see them as a happier couple in another drama one day.
Was this review helpful to you?
If you are looking for something different, funny and deep at the same time: watch Pegasus Market! The deepest parts of the show are not precisely in the beginning, but you will be definitely touch when you'll see these emotional parts . Just how life isn't predictable, so is this comedy drama, full with wide and different emotions, be ready to be surprised, to be sad and empathetic and of course to laugh.
Was this review helpful to you?
This story is based on actual historical figures of China. The story is simple but its crafting is done by some skillful hand. It’s genius and witty story. The way story flows makes this story a masterpiece. You can’t tell its specific genre, It’s full of comedy, suspense, some action, romance and melodrama and it’s all about power. It’s unique in its own way and totally unpredictable. This is a serious tale about power struggle in corporate world. It is all about serious corporate battle but it has killer funny scenes that’ll make you laugh hard and you’ll shed tears by laughing and there is also balanced melodrama. And for romance fans there are sweet romantic scenes too.
Casting is brilliant. There aren't any flat or one-dimensional characters, all characters are dynamic. The relationship between four main characters is really interesting. It’s very unusual kind of relationship. Here you won’t find any female lead quivering in fear; female leads are hot-shot. And supporting characters and side characters are also great. You may find one or two characters bit stupid at first but it’s because of story and they’ll develop in strong characters later. It’s really hard to pick a favorite character, including supporting characters because I also loved all supporting characters including villains.
Other interesting thing is that every episode has something to learn…You’ll also learn many things from Korean sayings.
One of the best things about this drama is....ending of every episode!! Don’t miss them!!
Soundtrack is also very good and well matched with all situations. It’s catchy. And also dance in war background is extremely funny.
I definitely recommend this drama even if you don’t like corporate plot. If you are bit interested in comedy then you’ll like it because it’s "LOLIEST" drama till date. I changed my opinion for BEST OF 2012, now best of 2012 is HISTORY OF THE SALARYMAN!! DO NOT MISS IT!!
Was this review helpful to you?
The movie is about the life of inmates who are inspired to show their talents to other people outside the jail.
I was carried away by the great acting of the actresses especially the main ones, Kim YunJin of Lost, and Na Moon Hee of Padam Padam. The drama of this movie works because it builds emotion right up until the end and it shows how prejudice people are on inmates. I give this movie a perfect 10 because it is superb!!!
Was this review helpful to you?
Being in TV Tokyo’s midnight slot is absolutely one of the reasons that made this drama appealing in its own way. That timeslot always witnesses some pretty cool dramas that usually go unnoticed – unfortunately. Even though this drama follows the usual episodic pattern, it managed to deviate its investigation procedure from an episode to another. It always managed to draw attention to every guest’s issue.
The cases in this drama aren’t mind-boggling or deep. They’re usually simple cases about finding people or looking them up, it may sound boring at first sight but everything becomes different when darkness sneaks in many of those cases. Sometimes, a certain case leaves a deep impression and confusion that’s beyond description. I believe that’s what differentiates this drama from its fellow Japanese detective production; it seeks depth instead of solving a case then getting over with it. There’s absolutely no drop cheesiness and happy-ever after clichés in this drama. However, it’s true that not all 12 cases were interesting.
The cast was pretty well fitting. Odagiri Joe as the main lead was such a master stroke. I am not only saying that because he’s one of my favourite actors but this type of role suits him very well. You can clearly see the actor’s traits through his performance: lazy, calm and with a mysterious charismatic vibe. The other two main characters were in a great harmony with our main lead; an old man who’s supposedly in charge and a sexy assistant to turn the detective agency into a welcoming place.
The majority of the guest characters left a good impression; of course some of them were stronger than the others but overall they were well-suited for the drama’s general atmosphere.
I became a fan of One Hitoshi’s screenwriting and directing style after last year’s great piece “Mahoro Ekimae Bangaishi” and now, I am even more impressed with him. He surely knows how to make a simple piece sound very special. Whether it’s the camera angles, the dark cinematography, the characterization or the choice of music; he did it all! I will have to stalk that screenwriter from now on. Although, I rarely care about directing in dramas but he totally made me interested in his style.
Watch if:
-You like different types of detective dramas.
-You like short dramas (27 minutes per episode).
-You like Odagiri Joe because he’s in top form here.
Do not watch if:
-You can’t handle episodic detective dramas.
Despite being simple, River’s Edge Okawabata Tanteisha managed to grow into a very special piece due to One Hitoshi’s irresistible style.
Was this review helpful to you?
Amazing chemistry & original storyline makes this one stand out
The storyline:The storyline is very original and refreshing. I’ve never seen a drama that had one of the main leads be obsessed with an idol and make that one of the focal points of the drama. But this drama does it and it does it really well. The female leads whole family has OCD but their obsessions are how they deal with a past trauma. So the story is much deeper than it looks like from reading the synopsis. It’s a light feel good drama that touches on some deeper subjects like child abandonment, loss of a child/sibling and OCD without getting too deep and angsty. It delves into those subjects enough to peak your interest and make you want to watch more but it doesn’t make you too sad or upset. It also delves into the world of art and museums as the main leads work together at a museum. So I liked that they gave us a very unique work setting that I hadn’t seen before which was enjoyable.
The acting:
There’s some really good acting here. You can’t help but love the female leads quirky best friend and their crazy relationship. The idol in the drama is just too adorable and pulls off the cute little puppy look perfectly. I wasn’t crazy about the owner of the museum, her acting didn’t impress me. But the main leads steal the show with their acting skills. Overall I’d say the acting in this drama is way above average.
The romance:
The chemistry is on point with this one. If you liked “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” then you’ll love this drama. It has the same female lead and this girl knows how to do an onscreen kiss right. She sizzles here as does the male lead. It has lots of real kisses and skinship too. There is a slight love triangle. I say slight because it’s one sided for the second male lead. But fortunately, the main leads only see each other.
What really makes this drama shine is how it could touch on some deeper sadder subjects then pull us out of the sad moments and right into something that would make us smile or laugh so seamlessly. I like that the comedy and touching romantic moments were interwoven throughout the angst ridden moments so that things didn’t get too anxious or upsetting. It’s definitely a sweet romcom but it goes deeper than expected and touches your heart. This drama has everything. It’s funny, very romantic, sad, thought provoking, sexy, and cute. It takes you through a range of emotions but leaves you feeling happy and satisfied. I liked learning about idol fans and seeing things through their eyes. I also liked the unique work setting and learned a lot about art and museums. But what I liked best is how this drama touches your heart and makes you want to go back and watch it all over again.
Was this review helpful to you?
One enormous difference from other South Korean programs becomes apparent even before the series starts. Friend, Our Legend holds the distinction of being one of relatively few pre-produced dramas in that country. Free from pressure brought down by viewer feedback and ratings, no sudden crises could derail the vision. The effect is immediately noticeable when a story is told as intended.
On the surface, the aforementioned story appears to be nothing special. It is “merely” the tale of four close friends, whose troubled lives follow very different (and sometimes tragic) paths. Instead of falling into pitfalls of humdrum cliche or weepy melodrama, Friend, Our Legend elevates itself to an almost epic human story. Perhaps the plot moves slowly at times, but a subdued pace allows for the greatest understanding of characters and their circumstances. Viewers follow them through their lives, watching through childhood, right into high-school and adulthood. This aspect creates the sensation of knowing everyone in the drama intimately. Above all, realism might be the best thing Friend, Our Legend has going for it; even gangster culture is portrayed violently and without glamour…as it ought to be.
There’s always a catch, of course. Friend, Our Legend hurts to watch. Rather badly, in fact. I cannot, in good conscience, recommend this series to any empathetic or sensitive viewers. It is a violent and tragic experience, grim and heartrending. Bright spots exist in the narrative, but one always senses the storm will soon return. One should not expect to walk away from this experience smiling, but that isn't always the point. Sometimes the point is to become wholly immersed, to be affected, to think and feel deeply.
Actual problems do exist. One thing which didn't work for me was the unique flashback technique used in initial episodes. These sketch out the end-game of the drama, supposedly to drum up interest for the “how” of events rather than the “what.” This smacked of gimmick, as a linear telling would have done the trick without any of the added confusion. There was enough foreshadowing in the main body of the drama anyway. At the very least, it does not detract from enjoyment.
Are you a fan of Hyun Bin? If you said “No,” sit down with this and you will be. If your answer was “Yes,” tune into Friend, Our Legend immediately. Han Dong Soo might be the greatest role of his career thus far. “But what about Secret Garden?” you might ask. As well as Hyun Bin performed in that lovable drama, consider it a mere shadow of his work here. An actor might search his entire life for a particular character, a complicated and difficult one, the true challenge. Hyun Bin not only found his in Dong Soo, but completely inhabited and owned it. How incredible to watch a character as he evolves so completely.
Talented Kim Min Joon, who seems to catch my eye often nowadays, also captivated me as Lee Joon Seok. He might be chronically plagued by bad hair and fashion crimes throughout, but the character allowed him to showcase enormous range. Working with co-star Hyun Bin, he made me believe in the friendship between Dong Soo and Joon Seok...and many other things besides. In the form of Choi Jin Sook, Wang Ji Hye finally strikes a role to impress. My estimation of her rose from a pleasant presence to serious artist, all within the span of a few episodes. Though she leads a harsh existence, her Jin Sook displays strength and individualism that never allow her to be just "the love interest." This can be attributed to Ji Hye as much as the script.
Of the supporting cast, Seo Do Young fills up the roster steadily, while Lee Shi Yun refreshes with much-needed comic relief.
I loved the majority of the soundtrack to the depths of my heart and back. Other than some dated misses, especially suspense and gangster-centric sequences, everything fell mostly on point. Emotional scenes were often accompanied by mellow violins or a quiet, nostalgic female vocal, lifting them to new heights. Among the many fantastic inserts are “Closer” (Alex), “Can’t Have You” (Hyun Bin), and “Go and Erase Your Tears” (SS501’s Heo Young Saeng). Fans of Big Bang will also recognize “Friend,” (Tae Yang and T.O.P).
Was this review helpful to you?
Mr.queen is a MUST watch drama!!!
This is one of a kind historical drama. and I should say it's been such along time since I watched such a good historical drama.From the acting to the production to the script , everything is just perfect. 20 episodes and you won't feel time passing by.
Usually dramas that starts with comedy tend to end up not being so hilarious until the end. But Mr.queen managed to maintain the humor along with the suspense and the thrill. The story is light but you will find yourself laughing, cringing and at times even crying. This is a drama that will definitely keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end.
This drama brings out various emotions and mixed feeling and explore an area in historical dramas that were never explore before.
And as always actress Shin Hye Sun did an amazing job and so did the rest of the cast. Plus the OST!!!loooved it!!
Was this review helpful to you?
The story itself it very dark because it is based on true events (and partly fictional). So the story in this movie is unique. But because of the fact that it is based on true events it wil emotionally move you. I cried, sat on the tip of my seat, held my breath and I could feel the despair and anger.
The cast did an amazing job. It was almost like they were the ones who had been trough this all. Their emotions were acted in an excellent way.
The music they had chosen fit every scene.
I think everyone should watch this movie. It has suspense, drama, romance and so much more. It is definitely not a waste of your time, please watch this movie!
Was this review helpful to you?
