Reviews

A good but not great drama that is more political than wuxia.

Completed - 5/18/2022

"Who Rules The World" was my most anticipated drama in 2022 because I am a fan of Yang Yang, Zhou LuSi and wuxia dramas. Though I wouldn't say the drama exceeded my high expectations, I thoroughly enjoyed it for the most part. At first glance, this seems to be a wuxia drama (or it's advertised as such), but it's actually more political.

What I Enjoy:

1. Smart Characters - It's rare to find a drama where almost all the main characters are smart and strong (emotionally and physically) from beginning to the end. Our Black (Hei Feng Xi) and White (Bai Feng Xi) lead characters are established and well-known martial artists in the pugilistic world. We don't have to wait for them to grow stronger throughout the drama. They are already two of the most powerful people. This creates an interesting dynamic between the two that is fun to watch as they compete and fall in love. We also have a strong supporting cast in Feng Qi Wu (badass female general), Huang Chao (intelligent and cunning crown prince), and Yu Wu Yuan (the two-faced Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of the drama). No one needs to be saved all the time, and no one becomes dumb all of a sudden. I wish there are more dramas out there with such strong and intelligent characters.

2. Mature Main Romance - It's fun to see our leads bicker all the time, yet slowly fall in love. I quite enjoy watching our ML being the smartest cookie in the show, yet so clueless when it comes to courting our FL. A shy and embarrassed Yang Yang is a treat. This is a romance without misunderstandings, break-ups, or evil unrequited love rivals. Our leads love, support, and trust each other. A comfortable romance to watch and one to die for.

3. Costumes/Styling - I am usually not a big fan of the bun hairstyle for the male characters in historical dramas. But in this drama, I would say almost all of the guys look pretty dashing in their costumes. I think Yang Yang looks the best when he's ill with his hair down. He even looks great with white hair! Zhao LuSi is made for historical dramas. She is so beautiful here and her particular hairstyle as Bai Feng Xi suits her so well. All the ladies have beautiful dresses and hair accessories. Nothing is too overdone, but just natural and complementary. I also like how they color coordinated ML and FL's costumes in many scenes when they are together.

4. Acting - Though many criticize Yang Yang's acting and his role selection, I do feel that his role here provided him the ability to be cool, sweet, romantic, serious and heartbroken. He might not be as amazing as he was in "Glory of Special Forces", but he's not bad either. He's great in Ep 28 - heartbreaking palace scene with the emperor. Zhou LuSi can also be typecasted into the cute female lead. Similar to Yang Yang, her role here also provided her an opportunity to show the different sides of Bai Feng Xi - from the carefree girl, to the elegant queen, and finally as a commanding ruler and soldier. The rest of the supporting cast is pretty good as well.

What I have mixed feelings about:

1. Leads Chemistry - For some reason, I don't feel that Yang Yang and Zhao LuSi have amazing chemistry in this drama. They seem like good friends or siblings. Maybe because their romance is so calming and understanding? There's no sizzle, no longing, no real heartbreak or super fluffy moments? Perhaps that's why I am not feeling it quite as much, even though they have some romantic, fun bickering and cute moments.

2. Fight Scenes - I was quite happy with the first few episodes of the drama. It was so fun to see FL fighting with that long ribbon. The fan that ML uses might not be as entertaining but the fight scenes are pretty good with no slow motion movement or posing. But the number of fight scenes decreases throughout the drama when the plot becomes more political. The few fight scenes that we got are short and not well-done at all. The last two big fight scenes in ep 39 and 40 - war battles and the final one in the palace - are just actors flying here and there with very little actual fighting.

3. Sets/Props/Lighting - This is a very subjective category and it probably only bothers me. I am expecting a pretty decent, if not big, budget production where money could be spent on props and sets. For some reason, it was irritating me throughout the show to see 'fake' sets and props. The color of the furniture/decorations and inside the palace don't seem right, compared to other historical dramas or similar caliber, such as "Novaland: Pearl Eclipse". I am not expecting the quality of "The Rebel Princess" but still, something is off and it bothers me. Another area that bugs me is the lighting of the drama. I am not expecting awesome lighting or cinematography like in "Luoyang" or "The Longest Day in Chang'an", but the drama could use more candles and lanterns for NIGHT scenes, instead of bright light from the window or artificial lighting. On the positive side, there are many beautiful aerial shots over different kingdoms.

4. Pacing - I would have placed this in the "What I Like" category if not for the last few episodes. For most of the drama, the pacing is really good and the story moves along smoothly. I was not bored and the drama kept my attention for the most part. However, in the last 5 episodes or so, there are many war battle scenes. I get confused about the city names and the repeated back-and-forth advancing and retreating, making these episodes feel rushed. I think the two time skips also affected the pacing as well.

Other Random Observations:
1. No one commented that the eldest prince (ML's older brother) can walk again?
2. Songs are not overplayed in this drama.
3. Does anyone find Zhao Lu Si's weirdly-shaped eyebrows distracting? No? Maybe it's just me. LOL
4. Where did teenage Han Pu find ingredients to make drugs in the war zone?
5. It's cool to see the soldiers waving the flags in a battle to communicate war strategies.
6. CGI is not good.

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Remarkable drama! One of the rarest and best for me. Drama which deeply touched my heart and I know it'll stay with me forever. Everything, absolutely everything was just perfect. Honestly, I personally can't believe how much I cried and cried, smiled and smiled for this drama. I was invested in its story and characters I believe more than 100%. So I had to write a review, first for me and my emotions and then for you my beloved friends.
Story is one of the bests in a history of sageuks dramas. A hero kind drama with a beautiful bromance between Dong Soo and Woon, unforgettable friendship between all characters, mesmerizing sceneries, full action. In the beginning I didn't believe I will enjoy this much, but once I get into it, which didn't take me long, believe me I just couldn't stop watching it. I wanted to see more and more. Amazing twists, best villains, fighting, all that was perfectly combined leaving me no time to even think about something else. Every scene and every second was precious to me. Why it needed to move me so deep, just why?

Oh how many awesome, amazing characters are in this drama. In fact, that is the essence of this drama. Characters, their interactions with each other, characters developments, choosing their own paths of life, forgivness, regrets, sadness, repentance, happiness. And that's what moved me to the bones. I became very attached to characters, that I asked myself if I am okay, that it's just a drama, but something more in me was telling me that this is not some ordinary sagaeuk drama I used to watch most of the time. It is something different, very different.
Dong Soo is a hero, a protagonist of this drama. In fact, the are two. Dong Soo and Woon, since their lifes are followed from the younger days to the adult ones. Dong Soo choose to became a kind and persistent man towards his dream to become the best Swordman of Joseon, while Woon who wanted to end his unfortunate life, choose an easy way and became an assassin (I called it easy because it was the easiest way, he just wanted to escape the unhappiness he had no matter where and what). And from that moment on their lives became one cruel fate which they couldn't avoid.
Jin Joo was an amazing character! I loved her so much. Brave, strong and independent. Her sad life was indeed sad. I became so attached to her that I could feel what she felt, like her character was alive and was standing beside me telling me about her shitty life. Her fate really played with her, but she couldn't escape it.
That monk girl or Ji Sun - no comment. Seriously. I felt like she was there just like that.
Besides main leads, there are many stellar actors and characters. Whom I loved the most are definitely Cheon Soo (Sky Lord), Ji and Swordmaster. Cheon was a BEST villain ever, although I never felt like that, since his story was very moving and sad, that I just couldn't hate him. His love towards Ji was a painful, unrequited one which was just sad and I cried and cried. She loved Swordmaster, but never had a courage to actually go to him, because she knew what her fate is. Their story was really painful and it touched me to the core. I'll NEVER EVER forget them, their longing, regrets and sadness. I swear, I've never in my life cried this much for a drama, never. I guess this drama stroke me right in the heart!!!

************* SPOILERS******************* ABOUT: Jin Joo; Woon

Okay, I personally believe Jin Joo's ending was some kind of a ridicilous one. It seemed like writers forced a painter on her, just to pair her up with someone. Even now I can't understand how Dong Soo forgot when she kissed him and asked him to marry her when they were younger. And the beginning of their story was leading that they'll end up together, but when they got older he fell in love with that monk girl. It does not make a friggin' sense to me, seriously. She was a brave, strong and kind character and I just adore when a girl knows how to fight. She is not hiding behind someone, waiting to someone protect her and that's what I respected the most about her character. Also, I somehow, without knowing became very attached to her character, that when first she lost her mother I cried a river, then when she lost her father I cried a river again. She just ruined me emotionally. I loved how she, the only one didn't hate Cheon, she considered him a friend, and he liked her too. I loved her when he called her "child", but when he died my heart broke. When she cried for him I cried with her together. Hehehe you can imagine how 'beautiful' sight it was. :P
Oh and how much I have to say for Woon-a. I FRIGGIN' LOVE HIM! He was the most unselfish person I've ever seen in my life. His endless love for a Dong Soo and Cho Rip really never ended. But that animal Cho Rip betrayed him. Ufff I hated him at the end I wish he was dead instead of my beloved Woon. He choose his life path and became an assassin, but he never felt like he belongs in Hok Sa Cho Rong. His body was there, but his heart and mind was with Dong Soo, Captain and Swordmaster. His character was the strongest. I actually felt his pain, longing and love that he missed. Plus, his performance was phenomenal, even though he was 18 years old back then. JUST BRAVO!
In the last episode, I knew that something will happen to him and I was praying that everything goes well, but that curse that followed him right from the time he was born did really take his life. Oh how much I cried when he said to Dong Soo: "You were my safe place, you've always been Dong Soo-ya. Now you don' t suffer anymore because of me." With those painful, tearful, sad words and the moment when he throw those swords and let Dong Soo kill him, I just couldn't take it anymore and bursted in tears, and cried who knows how long after that. One more precious moment is after that when Dong Soo is drinking and trying to forget about him, but in every new glass he sees him, more vividly than the previous one. Those moments are the ones I'll never forget in my life.

**************SPOILERS END***************

Although this drama had a million sad moments, moments that simply brake your heart, I didn't regret one thing. I simply lived with this drama.
Also OSTs are amazing. For every scene they put the right ones. Epic for epic, sad for sad, happy for happy ones. Oh and I think that each song is connected to some characters. Just by looking at its lyrics you can connect and say " Oh that song is meant for this and that character." I'm still listening the whole album and keep rememebering how precious moments are in this drama.

I'd gladly rewatch it, even I know I'll go through the same pain again, but nothing will stop me to rewatch this masterpiece. All in all, this drama showed me how strong and powerful friendship can be, and that the one who loves more is the weaker one. Unwritten rule, but totally true. This drama will always, I mean always have a special place in my heart.

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On a super crazy Yamapi nostalgia which propelled me to re-watch almost all he's been acting in, I have finally come around to watch this movie. I was hesitant because, honestly, among all the combat sports, boxing is definitely not my favourite.

Being the movie adaptation of a legendary manga, the plot of this live action would need a 1 page discussion at least. But here's the rub! The movie does absolutely no justice to the cultural reality it was born in. Tomorrow's Joe is originally a story of social redemption that features a very self destructive antihero; it's not your average story of poor guy becomes rich and popular thanks to his fists and strength of will. It is, or I'd better say it SHOULD BE, the mirror of a period, a true social condemnation embodied by a derelict guy who can express himself only on the ring. This is where the film fails big time. The character of Joe is so scantily written one needs to be a seer to understand his motives – unless you've read all 20 volumes of the manga, in which case you'll probably be disappointed anyway by its brevity.
The direction seems to have been so preoccupied with the tiniest visual detail that it completely forgot to tell a story. The same applies to all the characters, whose arc is touched so superficially I had to appeal to my imagination to fill all the glaring voids.

Not to mention the boxing aspect itself. While the actors have done an amazing job at preparing for a difficult athletic task, the combats themselves are visually beautiful but tremendously repetitive. Since so much time is dedicated to the fight, I was hoping for more moves and tricks that never came. Once again, in their anxiety to be loyal to the manga they concentrated on the outer picture, instead of creating a movie which could stand on its own feet, for viewers who weren't yet born in the 60ies or have never heard of Yabuki Joe.

So why am I giving this film such a high overall rate?
Let's say this is my way to pay homage to the cast, mostly Tomohisa and Yusuke Iseya, and the director of photography. As you may have inferred from the premise of this review, I do not belong to the group of those who think Yamapi's just another pretty idol who can't act. On the contrary, I maintain he has what in theatre jargon is called the "physique du role", regardless of the part he plays. He does not express much with his face, he actually uses his whole body to enter the character. From Akira who flaps his arms like a weird butterfly to the über cool flying doctor, from the basketball court to the boxing ring he's always extremely believable. I could mention more roles, but it won't be necessary, I stand my ground: here, he IS Joe. If he had been given the chance, he would have created an unforgettable character.
Iseya did an amazing job too, despite the sad lack of depth the character he portrays is condemned to by the terrible script.

As for photography, it's absolutely stunning. Colours, angles, close-up shots and flashbacks are spot on. It does have a flaw, though, directly related to the abovementioned necessity to stay visually true to the manga: at times it looks as though the story took place in the 20ies, when in fact it's the 60ies and 70ies, as proved by the fact that people watch television, among other things.
The music falls into the same trap, but I'm willing to forgive this detail, since it's very beautiful and suits the atmosphere perfectly.

I may rewatch this movie in the future, just for the visual. I'm not sure I'm willing to recommend it, unless you're familiar with the characters and don't care for the plot.
Let's say that this movie has done nothing to ignite my interest for the sport, but it has confirmed my undying love for Yamashita Tomohisa – as if that ever needed validation.

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DISCLAIMER: I have never seen the other versions of You're My Destiny.
Honestly, this is one of my new favorite dramas. The acting, direcing, writing, sets, costumes-- all stunning. We finally got a few REAL kiss scenes from Bie (who's a great kisser) and Esther (who's a good kisser compared to just about every other Thai actress).
STORY: Amazing. The storytelling was consistent, thoughtful, and heartfelt. I usually find melodramas cheesy (let's face it, You're My Destiny is a melodrama), but this one was able to make me laugh and cry without overdoing anything. I especially loved the character development in the last four episodes; it's obvious that both Wanida and Pawut changed, but they were still fundamentally the same people. The family values were sweet, and Taya was totally hot (poor second lead...). And no NANG RAI!!!! Thank goodness, everyone in this drama were logical, NORMAL people and not crazy psychopaths!
The story was a little out-there, but that's the point of You're My Destiny; Pawut and Wanida were brought together by fate.
The only complaint I have was with the ending. Sure, everything was satisfactorily wrapped up, aside from the aunt and her son (I'm not really even sure why they were in the drama... even the other characters seemed to forget about them), but the way it was wrapped up felt very abrupt. They should have split some of the wrap-ups between the last two episodes instead of spending three episodes being completely unproductive story-wise.
ACTING/CAST: I mean, Bie's cute, but I honestly think Esther and Taya were the standouts in this drama. Esther often plays the innocent pushover role, but when she transformed into the later Wanida who wasn't a pushover and who was willing to fight for her man, that's when her acting really shone. Taya was adorable and hot for one, but he also did a very good job of portraying his one-sided love for Wanida. You could tell he had feelings for her just by the way he looked at Nid. And his abs...
MUSIC: Lots of variety to this soundtrack, great OST by Bie. I especially loved the "Smile" song that Bie sang in English... that one made me bawl my eyes out when they played it at the end of episode 13, which is a first for me.
REWATCH VALUE: I would definitely rewatch this one, in spite of the slightly disappointing ending. The acting, directing, and story are just too good to limit to one watch.
I HIGHLY recommend this drama for anyone who enjoys beautiful dramas that avoid the Thai drama stereotypes, and loves heartwarming stories with happy endings.

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Enemy to the heart, turns out the direction to become lovers isn't too far.

Since I have nothing better to do, why not make a whole review revamped about my favorite lakorn Jark Sadtroo Soo Hua Jai (English Translation: From Enemy to the Heart)

Something to make clear: This is a slap kiss lakorn but sometimes people don't think so, imo definition in slap kiss there are forced kisses, forced seduction, and some sort of makjang, male chases female first. Don't turn back though, since you'll find yourself relaxed even if there are forced kisses, the slap kiss level on this is medium (more bolder than Kluen Cheevit, but less than Hua Jai Sila). So don't get warned with all of the slap kiss tags on there.

I'm deciding to make my review medium sized since it was a long one and I decided that making another review for my favorite lakorn is the best.

One word since I'll use this A LOT: Chemistry.

That's right chemistry makes it. The chemistry between Aum and Mik is burning hot that it burned my soul and body. They have the best chemistry in Channel 7 and though this is subjective, many people did love their chemistry and I might be the number one fan that loves the chemistry, of course again chemistry is subjective and people may have their picks.

If you somehow decide to torture yourself and miss out on this lakorn, by dropping it don't. Stay until at least episode 7 and if you don't feel the chemistry, your a tortured soul (Just Kidding, Am I? LOL).

Mik Thongraya as Jett I'll give 5 words since this is supposed to be a short review: Caring, Protective, Possessive, and madly in love with the female lead, oops I went over limit.

Aum Patcharapa as Sophita this time I will really give 5 words: Cold, Protective, Business Minded, Family Minded and oh a professional in rejecting Jett's feelings. (Just so you know there is a good 10 episodes where she decides that she likes the male lead, while he falls first in episode 5 or you think of it as 1 LOL).

Both of them have done the best, of course many Aum lakorns aren't subbed but she is the queen of lakorns in Thailand I don't know how well she acted in other lakorns but to this day I consider this as her best lakorn and Mik's as his best and my favorite, along with their best performance to date of what I saw with them. Mik thongraya is my second favorite actor in Thailand, and Aum is one of my favorite actresses due to this lakorn, that's how much chemistry lasts.

I don't think anyone could replace their chemistry and they are my top OTP in lakorn land and one of my top's in all of Asian drama land.

Supporting characters did what did they, gave us relief since there were many intense moments here. The villain's were stiff although I'd say Rawin did make a impact on me with his acting, and the twist to the villain is great. Rin did a great job as well.

Even after this airing in 2020, and now 2021 I still think this has a very unique plot, I LOVE IT! Hmu if you find something like this.

There were many sweet moments between the leads and I would say this did really focus on romance but with a touch of the action with the side. Jett imo, is a very twistable character so if you get annoyed or fearful of him at the start, understand that he is nothing compared with normal lakorn male leads, despite the forceful kisses and there isn't rape here although a uncomfortable almost willing.

The music is chef's kiss like the lakorn is, the title song represents the lakorn. The song by Nam Kula I had it on repeat, the first one just showed that Jett felt like he was in a one sided love waiting and waiting for the Sophita, and I outright loved it. The song by Lula shows Sophita's wavering in hate from love and I loved it.

This has a happy ending and I don't want to spoil more I already gave off plent.

Watch this give this a try, it's my favorite lakorn it can become yours too. There's nothing wrong with trying this, I mean I even made a review twice you can see my dedication into getting you to watch this, and usually Moonlight is the laziest person on earth.

I've rewatched this about 30 times so far and yes I'm crazy, I feel shy admitting this, I need wine now. The rewatch value is high for me and the chemistry doesn't die down EVER, oh and this has steamy kisses in lakorn world where we get half as**d kisses.

Have a glass of vodka because the starting is very hyped up and enjoy watching!

(Wait this got too long, OH SORRYZ (it was supposed to be short at first T-T)

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This is one of those dramas that is truly flawless.

Watashitachi wa Douka Shiteiru (aka Cursed in Love) is a drama based on the manga of the same name. It tells the story of a girl named Nao, who enters Kogetsuan, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop, under a false identity in order to investigate her mother’s death and prove her innocence.

Honestly, I was initially reluctant to give this drama a chance, as I’m generally not a big fan of J-dramas. Plus, I wasn’t sure how the story would unfold or if it would be worth my time. But I finally gave in, and once I started watching, I just couldn’t stop. This drama was so addictive that I watched seven episodes in one sitting, which was a first for me.

What I especially liked about this drama is that it offers a little bit of everything—romance, murder mystery, a strong female lead, interesting side characters, and an evil matron. On some levels, it feels like a typical soap opera, but what makes it truly stand out is the way it was executed. The plot, the cast, their chemistry, and the overall pacing were all just perfect. Plus, if you're into kimonos and Japanese cuisine, you’ll enjoy this show even more. Kudos to the entire cast, crew, and writers of Cursed in Love for creating such an amazing drama.

Finally, this drama is probably one of the BEST Japanese dramas out there, and I can definitely see myself rewatching it in the future. To anyone contemplating whether to watch or not—definitely check it out. I'm sure you won't regret it.

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Wuxia show featuring friendships, youth and ethics

I loved this show so much, i was watching it on VIKI and then paid subscription to YOUKU so i could watch the latest episodes! The actors playing the characters did a great job, and I enjoyed all the fight scenes/CGIs. Every episode has been nail biting and i havent felt it has dragged on at all. I usually fast forward drama shows with annoying jealous 3rd parties thankfully theres none of that here. The show focuses on friendships, integrity and forgiveness towards self and others.

I feel the romance between Qianluo and Xiao Se is a bit extra, not feeling any chemistry between them. Ao Ruipeng is the perfect actor to play the gullible but loyal Lei Wujie. Li Hongyi captured Xiao Se's disdainful looks and elegance well. Lie Xueyi gave a moving portrayal of Wuxin, who is plagued with a troubled past. Some scenes really moved me, like when Wuxin saw his master before he departed for good. There seemed to be many lessons on life in this show. All the side characters and stories enriched the show without being too long/complicated either.

Overall a great show which i had stumbled upon and im so glad i started watching it!

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No exaggeration. This is the best historical drama that I have ever watched. To be honest, I am not a fan of historical dramas though I love history but sometimes it really makes me bored. The last historical drama that I have watched that I only liked was Queen Seondeok. So, I will slice the review in all aspects.

Casting 10/10
Yes, I will give a high rating for the casts since everyone was an effective actors. I really felt all kind of emotions while watching this and that was because of the actors. They surely gave all their best in this drama. From Goo Hae Ryung to Sam-Bo to Min Ik-Pyeong. From the protagonists to antagonists to the supporting roles, they all mattered. Also, they're all perfect the roles and the chemistry, do I need to say more? 10/10

Story line 10/10
YES. I LOVE THE PLOT. I love the fact that they made Goo Hae-Ryung a brave woman who doesn't fear anyone even the king - not because she lacks respect but because she knows what she needs to fight for. I love how the story is fast paced but they made sure that the viewers will still follow. I love how the characters did not let the villain step on their dignity. It wasn't boring in fact the comedy part really made me laugh a lot. The drama was captivating. I must say that for me, the romance was just a bonus. I loved Cha Eun Woo with Shin Se-Kyung but I was really more focused with the political and all that kind of drama. But, the chemistry of these two, I must say they really made me smile! Salute to the writers of this drama!

Music 10/10
Even the songs in this drama contributed to my emotions. It also moved me and it really compliments the storyline.

Favorite Part (spoilers alert)
My favorite part was from the last episode, the banquet part. It really got exciting when Goo Jae-Kyung, Hae-Ryung's "brother" started to fight for justice by doing what he needs to do. When the historians fought for their rights (don't really wanna spoil how or what they did.) I also love the fact that the Crown Prince also fought for justice. Slowly, each officials pleaded the King as well, THAT REALLY MADE ME CRY. This banquet scene really is the best, all of the actors really showed their emotions and it also moved me.

I am so happy with the ending. I really love this drama and I must say that after Queen SeonDeok, no drama can change my mind. Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Ryung, aja! ♥

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JUST WATCH IT..

jst try watching once ,
at first i thought ok only seven episodes ,will they be able to convey the story nd all within nd tht too it's 45 min nd stuff but once I started watching omg it was perfectly done nd i wanted more of it .
The acting is jst best , cinematography the best , everything is done so well , the cast nd music is too good , u can feel the emotions of them in thier acting. I jst wanted more nd more nd more of it..

if u still don't watch ur gonna be missing a huge thing , yea some people who are unique may not like it but I guess nd wish most people will like this.

Only thing is i cried many times hah.
hope u watch this nd enjoy cry nd feel the emotions through out it , thank you :)

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Warning

This review is full of spoilers.

Korean crime drama all have the same trajectory - crime gets committed by good main characters which becomes entangled into something more evil, and then the real evil people are only there to justify the main characters role because 'I'm bad but not that bad' and then naturally they'll meet another character, possible shipping couple, and then you get unpalatable amounts of lecturing along the same lines 'don't do crime kids' and then the villain gets their comuppence. Everything from Watchers, Voice, to Psychopath diary, to Gap Dong, ALL follow this same pattern and no one besides me gets bored? Lol i dont understand!

The only ones that broke the mold -- WHITE CHRISTMAS. And HELLO MONSTER to some extent because at least it was obvious Jang naras character was being judgemental and self-righteous to some kid who grew up thinking that killing was the norm. But Seo in Guks character DID NOT which makes more sense and is more realistic because things change drastically when a sibling you think of as your own baby becomes a murderer. Even DUEL was extremely nuanced. Save Me. Children of Nobody. The Smile Has Left Your Eyes.

But that was years ago!

These dramas had nuance and complexity. I see this frequently in Jdramas like off the top of my head Aku No Hado, SCAM (Scum), Todome No Kiss, death note, Bokutachiga yarimashta, and even DYING EYE , again most of these are CURRENT DRAMAS or a year old at most.

But this preachy self-righteous lecturing really isn't the mature way to do things imo.

So, naturally this drama was no exception.

That said I was truly entertained watching this drama and Lee Ji Hoon s characters death gutted me. As did pretty much all the cast performance at some point. So I will say this, acting and direction was great no doubt. But the script was really just a very typical Korean crime drama.

So, not terrible but nothing memorable either. They kept killing people off because the story was just so bland so all the death of the brother and Lee Ji Hoon was so pointless! No character acts the way they were set up and the so called 'growth' felt more like the characters doing something really convenient to bring about a plot twist. Eh. Okay I'm done lol

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In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to choose your line.

So much was happening, but also nothing was happening, and how is that even possible?

If we talk about the actual events, this is a 40 minutes movie at best. Exorcism, chat, death, chat, exorcism, chat, exorcism - more or less the plot. But if we take into consideration the topics introduced in said chats - that's a one semester lecture for you. Lack of faith in the men of faith. The misogyny in church and the lack of equality between men and women. Nuns doing tarot readings? Sure. Also power team of nuns and schaman doing exorcisms. I guess. Then we have illness, I guess shame, but that was no explained at all. One could say this was a women empowerment movie, but was it really? And then the whole final sequences, as beautiful as it was, it was also painfully dumb.

Even Song Hye Kyo was a hit or miss depending on the scene. Her nonchalant and confident scenes were great, but every time she tried to be more angry domineering and scream it just felt painfully flat. I feel like at least for some lines, if they switched her raised voice to really chilling whisper with the music going quiet, it would have far more impact.

Moon Woo Jin did amazing job holding back laughter, because that performance was just ridiculous. In a good way. It was exactly what the director and writer wanted, that's clear.

Lee Jin Wook was there, acted like an asshole. Was gone. He is not the main role, that I can tell you, and Jeon Yeo Been while definitely more prominent, had to somehow deliver character that brought nothing on the screen.

What's good? The movie was beautiful. Quite a few breathtaking scenes and good use of special effects.

Overall, pass - in both senses of the world. I'm not mad I watched it, it passed. But also, don't waste your time, pass.

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I don't know what it is about Japanese movies, but I seem to really get into them. This movie is no exception. I like how it is kind of light hearted, but has a deep meaning in it. You have to find your own way and be happy within yourself. I really like that kind of message especially since this seems to be geared toward young people just starting out in life. A little struggle all wrapped up in a beautiful ending.

Mukai Osamu is really adorable and his acting isn't bad either. I like how his character George seems to be comfortable with himself and makes the people around him comfortable. Kitagawa Keiko as Yukari (Caroline...lol) was just beautiful and I really felt the character's struggle to find herself. Did I mention she is gorgeous??? The other actors were great also especially Igarashi Shunji as Isabella. I absolutely adore Isabella.

The music is really good too.

I will probably rewatch this at some point.

I recommend this to everyone. :-)

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Few Korean dramas get better as they go along. Live shoots, script changes, and attempts to milk ratings tend to sabotage the second halves of shows. It is therefore remarkable that Mixed-Up Investigative Agency actually improves with every episode. It starts out low rent and silly, with broad acting and chintzy production values, but around the halfway mark, it morphs into a moving, tightly written meditation on friendship, life choices, and the way that the past always literally or figuratively haunts the present. Characters who initially seem like caricatures become multidimensional and unpredictable, with especially lovely turns by Ye Ji Won as a crackpot psychic, Park Hee Soon as an enigmatic gangster, and Ryu Seung Soo as an apathetic manhwa vender.

Off-kilter visuals, clever dialogue and ingenious music choices provide plenty of humor (don't miss the little bonus scenes tacked on at the end of each episode), but they’re in the service of serious themes. Without ever becoming overly didactic, the show notes the fragility of life and the importance of embracing the here and now. The protagonists may long for extraordinary riches (in this case, tons of hidden gold), but their everyday interactions are where true value lies. For the viewer, though, the biggest prize is getting to savor this underrated gem of a show. Like all treasures, it may be hard to find, but you’ll be well rewarded if you seek it out.

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