Vincenzo (2021)

The Best Crime-Dark Comedy Drama I've Ever Watched

If Flower of Evil is the best Crime-Romance drama ever, I would like to put Vincenzo in the "best crime-dark comedy drama" category. It deserved to be in the top Korean dramas.

Pros:
- Song Joong Ki. Yeah, I know most ppl anticipated this drama because SJK is the main lead. But, I have to admit that he's really good at playing in comedy-dramas.
- The comedy is always on point. It will make you laugh in every episode.
- The twists are so smooth that you can barely notice them and they're always wrapped with comedy.
- It shakes your entire(?) body. It heats your anger up.
- It actually tells about psychopaths without putting it in the drama's main topic so no one realized that this is a psycho-drama.
- The plot is so solid that it satisfies me. No duration-eater crying and romance scenes. I love how romance being the least portion of the drama genre. Many crime/action dramas are overshadowed by romance scenes and it's terribly annoying.
- I don't speak Italian, but the Italian words used in this drama are really ear-blessing 😂 I would like to learn those words too!
- I usually watch a drama because there's/re my fav actress, but Jeon Yeobin really stole my heart in this drama. I honestly think there's no other actress who could fit the role. She's not cool and badass enough, but I think that is to balance the action and comedy aspects. If her character is the same as SJK's, the comedy won't blend well with the crime-action aspects.

Cons:
- Ep 19 will make you facepalming 🤦‍♂️The most common mistake in the action drama, just like what happened in Flower of Evil.
- The anticlimax plot is too short/too fast that I found it unsatisfying.
- The romance scenes in the last episode are unnecessary tbh.

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High quality drama with an incredible cast

The plot of this drama is amazing, and so are the score and the action sequences, but the best part of it is most definitely the cast! It has so many supporting characters, yet all of them get their time to shine and somehow have an important role in the main story.

Every single scene with the tenants was so wholesome, and I thoroughly enjoyed the villains as well. I was so impressed with Taecyeon's acting in this - after watching "Bring It On, Ghost", I was expecting something simple, with either very few facial expressions or weakly executed ones. But I am confident this role is a massive turning point in his career, as he was PHENOMENAL in it. Naturally, so was Song Joong Ki, but he proved himself long ago.

Vincenzo had several moments that were tough to watch. There are many deaths, a lot of blood and overall cruelty, so I couldn't really binge watch it. I also expected more romance than I got (fair warning: this drama has close to zero romance), but its value isn't in that anyway, so it didn't make a difference to me. My mother and a few friends also watched it, and we all agree it's an excellent drama.

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"Romance"

I had heard a lot about this drama when it first aired the first episodes, but I usually wait until all episodes are out and that was what I did time as well.
It is not often that I watch the trailer or read the description of the drama, I didn't this time eihter.
But there are a few things I do want to know, and I do scim through some recensations.

I just wanted to share something I would have liked to know about this drama.
That would have made my experience watching it more enioyable.
I feel like the information I found about the "romance" in the drama was misleading and it made me annoyed at times.
It had a lot of potential, it could have been really good, but now I feel pretty disappointed when I finished it.
I think there was great chemistry, there were a few teasers, but the season was 20 episodes long and there was only 2 kiss scenes.
So don't go in to this drama expecting romance because that is not what it's about at all.

(I truly liked the characters/the actors, it was entertaining)
(I haven't ever rewatched a drama yet, so that rating has nothing to do with the k-drama itself)

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Hilarious, heartwarming, and so much fun to watch!

Vincenzo is truly a dramedy - dramatic, extra af and full of little gems of comedy that combined make for a really good time.

The acting is phenomenal, and as the show progressed you really learn more about the different characters and they keep showing new sides to themselves. When I first started watching the show, the FL reminded me a lot of Fiery Priest - and then I found out later that it's actually the same director, so if you loved that show you'll love this one too.

The show centers around a Mafia lawyer Vincenzo Cassano (aka Mr. Corn Salad) who comes back to Korea and ends up entangled with the tenants of Geumga Plaza, which is on the verge of being demolished by a big (and bad) corporation fittingly named Babel Group. The acting in the show is just spectacular, not just from the ML and FL but also from the tenants of Geumga Plaza and the various guest stars that appear.

Kim Sung Cheol (from Prison Playbook) appears in a few episodes and is SO funny. There's a scene where Taecyeon sings the Produce 101 song and the comedic timing was so good, I had to replay it for the laughs. There's a subtle nod to Sungkyungkwan Scandal in one of the episodes (one of the earlier shows that Song Joong Ki was in, and one of my early favs) and the plot keeps everything moving quickly. I can't even choose one favourite character because I liked so many of them.

Did I mention everyone is secretly a badass? I love it.

Vincenzo is easily one of my favourites of 2021 so far.

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Unexpected

I truly appreciate the humor in this otherwise dark drama. I have to say that I was a bit worried seeing the total number of episodes and how each episodes average around 80 mins, that it would drag in the middle. Happy to say that I didn't find myself being bored with this drama. Overall, it was a fun watch, and I'd happily recommend this to people who would enjoy such humor and wasn't looking for anything too serious (it's almost cartoon-ish, which I don't mind every now and then).

There are a few things that bug me while watching this drama. Story wise, they're ok, some plot holes, but I can brush it off. I think I'm more annoyed with the little details. One of them being the believability that Vincenzo was basically an Italian local by the time he came back to Korea in the drama. Coming from someone who speaks English as a second language and have spent more than half of my life in an English speaking country, but still speak my native tongue every now and then with friends and family, I speak more English than I do my native tongue, I even think and have my inner monologue in English. When I go home for holidays, it would take me about a week or two to be fully acclimatised to my native language and local dialects, as well as catching up with the new slangs, etc, and I even speak a hybrid of English with my own language. So to find Vincenzo was fluent in Korean like a local right off the bat was not that believable, considering that he spent time in Italy since he was a young kid, and assuming that he retained his ability to speak Korean somehow, he would have needed time to get used to it again. However, I just want to say, kudos for Song Joong-ki, as it's very hard to perform with a foreign language. Then also with the instant coffee.... I get that it was product placements, but for a character who has such a refined taste and was basically raised in Italy, a country with long history of coffee and strong coffee culture, I very much doubt he'd touch instant coffee even if it means risking migraines from the lack of caffeine intake (I live in a city with a very strong coffee culture, and I know so many people who would not touch instant coffee). I also didn't know what the point was to have Luca came to Korea, it didn't make sense since what he did while he was in the country could have been done via a phone or video call. Then there is the "indestructible" Vincenzo.... I'm not sure I like how almost god-like the drama made him seem, because it's always that everything has been planned, like nothing could go wrong, and no matter what situation he ended up in and how dire it is, he gets out of it somehow (seriously, a flock of pigeons?).... and speaking of pigeons, what ever happen to Inzhagi? I love that bird and would have loved to see more of it at the end. Also worth mentioning, how many zippos does Vincenzo actually have? Seems like he's throwing them away like they're nothing, but considering how much he fiddles with it throughout the drama, I find it doesn't make sense for him to have a collection of them and throw one away every time he wants to turn up the heat.

I LOVE the Geumga Plaza crew, they're so colorful and quirky, and they're always exciting. I also appreciate that the romance isn't at the fore front of this drama, but instead, bubbling in the background and occasionally comes forward. I did, however, find that Vincenzo had stronger chemistry with other male characters than he did with Cha-young. Then there is the duo that is Han-seok & Myung-hee... WHAT A PAIR!! They're ruthless, and I just love the contrast between these two and Han-seo & Seung-hyuk. However, I have to say that the villains were shallow and one dimensional, perhaps it's to do with Han-seok's mental state, but still, it would have been great to see more layers to Myung-hee. In saying that, I absolutely loved Han-seo, he was a character that captured my attention somewhere near the middle of the story and I ended up rooting for him as much as I did for the Geumga crew.

The drama itself is actually quite dark, and the comedic elements of this seems to mask the degradation of the Geumga Cassano Family's moral compass, from being the one being walked over to the people delivering these "punishments". Granted, ultimately it was still Vincenzo himself delivering these punishments with help from the crew, but the fact that Cha-young was okay with going through with their plan knowing the ultimate outcome, as well as everyone else who seems to be fully aware what Vincenzo's intentions and still went ahead, kinda didn't put them in a better place than the "bad guys".

So anyway, yes, it was an enjoyable watch, just don't take it too seriously :)

PS: MDL didn't let me not have any ratings for the rewatch rating so I put it at 1- just fyi, I almost never rewatch anything.

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one of a kind revenge plot

for the haters out there - this show is supposed to be a ridiculously absurd and unrealistic revenge plot. especially with the insane amount of plot armor present, i wouldn't blame people if they find it boring. but the show is messy and over the top because that is what makes this show so much more fun to watch. i admit, it's not for everyone, but once you start watching, don't stay to criticize what is right or what doesn't make sense or what isn't possible. just stay for the incredible rollercoaster of whatever the heck these awesome characters want to do in order to avenge justice. comedy, crying, with a mix of cassano!!!

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A powerful man

"Vincenzo" is a captivating and unique drama that is sure to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. Starring Song Joong-ki as the eponymous Vincenzo, the show follows a Korean-Italian lawyer who becomes embroiled in a battle for control of a lucrative piece of real estate.

One of the most striking aspects of "Vincenzo" is its blend of genres. At times a comedy, at times a thriller, the show deftly balances its various elements to create a wholly unique viewing experience. With a sharp script and top-notch performances from the cast, "Vincenzo" is a masterclass in the art of storytelling.

The character of Vincenzo is a standout aspect of the show. Song Joong-ki brings a level of nuance and complexity to the role, portraying the character's cunning and ruthlessness with a deft touch. As the show progresses, viewers are drawn into Vincenzo's world, rooting for him as he takes on his enemies and comes to terms with his own past.

The supporting cast of "Vincenzo" is equally strong, with notable performances from Jeon Yeo-been as Hong Cha-young, Vincenzo's sharp-witted and tenacious partner in crime, and Kwak Dong-yeon as Jang Han-seo, the privileged and ambitious heir to the Babel Group. Each character brings a unique perspective to the story, and the relationships between them are a highlight of the show.

But what really sets "Vincenzo" apart is its exploration of themes such as justice, morality, and the nature of power. Through Vincenzo's battles with the corrupt Babel Group, the show poses questions about the true cost of success and the lengths that people will go to in order to maintain their power. It's a complex and thought-provoking look at the darker side of human nature, and it's sure to leave viewers pondering the themes long after the show has ended.

In conclusion, "Vincenzo" is a must-watch for fans of Korean dramas and anyone looking for a show that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its unique blend of genres, standout performances, and thought-provoking themes, the show is a testament to the power of great storytelling.

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My favorite corn salad! Vincenzo is GOLD!

This one will definitely and will surely entertain you. No dull moment. All episodes are fun and intense.

You'll be so in love with Song Joongki!!! He was born to wear expensive suits. No, I mean, expensive suits are made for him!

Every end of each episodes made me think that 'this episode is the funniest' or 'this is the best episode'. Then after watching another episode I'll be like, no this is the funniest/ no this is the best. *haha mamamia*

I love how it has everything. I love how Family/ friendship have developed between Vincenzo and the Geumga Plaza Gang. I love that there were a lot of comedic scenes. I love the fighting scenes. And I love how Vincenzo almost always have the upperhand. In other Kdramas Villains always have the upper hand but this one is different.

Of course there is no perfect Kdrama and there are still plot holes, but it's fine. We watch it to be entertained anyway.

Plot is not really that amusing. But I love most of the plot twists. The writer is so brilliant. I actually don't like dramas with a lot of action and grotesque scenes but scenes here makes sense. And Song Joongki is effin hot.

All actors did great. You'll grow to love the Geumga Plaza Gang.

I am really satisfied with what happened or on what Vincenzo did to the Villains. I'm like, every Kdrama Villains should be treated the way Vincenzo treated the Villains here. Do it in Vincenzo way.

But the ending as a whole is not so satisfying. It's just so-so. It will leave you with a lot of questions. Though the Drama as a whole is GOLD! Love it!

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This drama is such a fresh take on villain protagonists. Song Joong Ki is perfect as the badass consigliere who takes justice in his own hands. Vincenzo has one rule: do not punish the innocent. Contrary to this rule are the corporate vile monsters who won't stop at nothing (even stoop to murder) to reach their goals. The acting is phenomenal, especially by Taec Yeon as the psychotic genius behind Babel. Not many Korean crime dramas infuse it with dark humor, although yes, sometimes it can be over-the-top and cringey. The funny scenes, I believe, try to give some humanity in a drama that showcases evil, nefarious deeds.

The juxtaposition of comedy and cruelty works well in this case, the comedic relief mostly provided Vincenzo's oddball crew, namely the tenants of Geungnam Plaza, who have different quirks that may look ridiculous in most instances but their heart in protecting their building and their earnestness in helping other victims of corporate greed are endearing.

There's not much to be said about Vincenzo in the romance department though, as Song Joong Ki seemed to have more chemistry and more skinship moments with the other male actors than with Jeon Yeo Been. Even Inagzhi the pigeon has more chemistry with Joong Ki so if you are looking for romance, this isn't the right show for you, But if you want to see hotness in the form of a Mafia kickass-master flicking a lighter in every episode, then this is a must-see if you try to overlook some loopholes.

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I love this over-the-top series but...

I thought it was a straight-up gangster drama bec of the 1st scene but it wasn't and i liked it like that.
What i loved:
The tenants. Weird and flawed but they could go up in arms to defend Vincenzo.
The younger Jang brother. Man, he had the greatest likeability factor in this show with his character devt!
SJK. I mean, who doesn't want to see that face on tv? Even 4k tv could not find a single blemish on his face 🙂
Romance was in the back seat. I liked that love angle was not front and center of this show. But the writer just couldn't help it and forced it in the end ugh!
What i hated:
Romance in the most impt back seat. Damn! All i can say is that Vincenzo in love was a helpless, prideless, undeserving-of-a-brother's-love prick. Have you seen it? Well?
And the kisses...whose blood was it that was wasted so you can have those kisses with the (weird) lawyer lady?
The brother's blood that was wasted unnecessarily. I still can't get over that fact.
Still, i loved this series despite the last episode. Flawed but powerful.

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My Favorite Part Just Might Be the Familial Bonds Created

So as I stated in my "review" for Island, I keep notes on a show as I'm watching it, to help me write a review later on. But just like Island, I think instead of writing an actual review, I'm just going to put my notes into here. Maybe someone who's seen the show will find my random upset commentary hilarious. There are, of course, spoilers in here.

The tenants have nothing but your word to go on. Why on earth would that be? He's a lawyer. Why would there not be a written agreement? Make it make sense.

The daughter is insufferable. I get she's supposed to be, but she really is just unbelievably selfish.

I cannot believe the dad actually died. I legit cried. It's not bad enough that that fat, nasty grunt killed him and the only remaining researcher, but she made sure to smear him with all of the crimes they were committing?

I get the concept that they have all this money and power, but you're telling me the original complainant suddenly states that he was lying all along, then 14 researchers die in an explosion that would be easy to discover was arson, then another researcher turns up dead as well as the opposing counsel and no media or citizens or anything find it odd?

I'm super disappointed in Vincenzo's reaction to Yu Chan's death. I get he's cold and that's his thing but it would be nice to have seen a moment when he awoke, just him by himself, clearly reflecting. I know they had that moment a bit when the car hit them and he was laying there looking at Yu Chan, but still.

Why is prosecutor lady acting shocked that bodies are stacking up when she started this shit? Oooooh I love her being locked in the laundromat with the white truck flashing lights at her. SOOO SATISFYING.

Omg... he's the villain!? Okay it's a day later and I'm back to watching but I'm so confused because Jun Woo does seem to actually care about Cha Young. Like laughing at her getting out of the car blowing kisses and jumping up when she passed out. Like, those things seemed beyond the fake pretend stuff he does with others?

Cha Young is doing a terrible job of pulling off this trial crap. Her smiling and looking smug when the lights go out and stuff is annoying.

Okay so Jun Woo is clearly insane but so weirdly charming. Also, Ok Taec Yeon's English is great. I love that they keep sprinkling it in there. "STAY... IN... THE... CAR!!!!"

The prosecutor and all the victim's families all at the same time in addition to the other hundreds of bodies and NO ONE is suspicious!?

I know Jun Woo is a psycho but man that dinner scene where he makes his brother cut his throat is wild. I've thought for awhile that surely at some point Han Seo is going to turn on his brother because he'll eventually reach his breaking point but if that didn't do it, nothing will.

Ahn finally getting to reveal who he is to save Vincenzo is so great. He's so extra, I love him.

I know she is meant to be a villain but Myung Hee is legit the most evil villain in a kdrama that I can recall. Legitimately. She's not just vile, she's disgusting. Just everything about her. Her face, the way she dances, the way she eats, her attitude, just all of it. I CANNOT wait for her to get what's coming to her.

I know he's also a bad guy but I almost feel bad for Han Seo because they're about to go hunting and I don't see this going well for him.

As soon as they got down to the gold I knew dude would try something. Wait, one gold bar? Oooooh the file!

You know what else is super annoying? How Myung Hee bosses her literal boss around. She'd still be a gopher at the prosecution if it wasn't for him.

It took way longer for Han Seo to attempt to turn on Han Seok than I thought. I also cannot believe that Seo Woong Ho (the prosecutor working with them) is also actually working against them. I get that no one can be trusted in this show but wtf!

Okay so I kind of love the couple that was meant to get engaged at the art gallery. I also love how much fun they're having at Geumga P. All of them together having fun is so cute.

Okay the pigeon thing was cheesy but I LOVED IT. Btw, if a pigeon saves my life, he's now my new roommate. The room is his. I'll sleep on the couch.

So this newspaper guy has been following all the Babel drama so closely so his newspaper can put a spin on things but he doesn't recognize Vincenzo or Cha Young? lol

Man, I'm actually rooting for Han Seo to team up with Vincenzo and Cha Young.

Okay finally found a plot hole. How on earth would Vincenzo be guilty of killing Mr Oh when his dead body fell from the rooftop while Vincenzo stood IN FRONT of police as they all watched him fall. Make it make sense.

Myung Hee is pathetic. Why on earth is she willing to throw herself under the bus for Han Seok? I mean, she's always been pathetic but come on.

I'm actually going to be so upset if Han Seo dies.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! Tell me Han Seo is not really dead!! Omg that pisses me off so bad.

Myung Hee's death was brutal. Most importantly, that was his favorite lighter and he just tossed it and left! Noooo not Mr. Lee!!! Also, I still miss Han Seo.

EDIT: How'd he get the lighter back? lol

Mr Lee is alive!!!?? I love that! I just wish we'd find out Han Seo actually lived and they pretended he didn't to protect him from Han Seok until Vincenzo could take him down.

I'm disappointed with the ending. I get it, but I'm disappointed.

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This over the top action, black comedy spoof was my cup of tea.

I loved how Vincenzo Cassano coolly handles all that is thrown at him whilst sporting bespoke Italian suits. From airport muggers, cooing pigeons, betraying partners, corrupt officials ....... the list goes on.

He seems an unlikely thug with his neat appearance yet he handles the fight scenes with aplomb. Using his Mafia savvy he outsmarts and out fights his way whilst plotting how to remove tons of gold from under a building.
His running mate is thrust into her role and it is a radical about face for her after her father is is murdered. The role is tough and she pulls off the about face realistically. Together they make a formidable team.

There are numerous excellent actors in the ensemble and scary violence is juxtaposed with slapstick humour, this may not appeal to all, I liked it. I was pulled along by the rocking pace and unexpected cliff hangars that were resolved with quirky twists.

Expect lots of laughs, murders, violence and law breaking it is a hell of a ride.

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