Another jewel in the historical genre in the Korean dramas
Combined review for Part 1 & 2What made this show largely watchable?
The material alone guaranteed a well-explored fictional story about the dynamics of love, heroism, politics, persecution, and oppression during the early times when the old Korea was under the control of another country.
The whole cast was amazing. Each character big or small showed a dedicated portrayal of the trace of life back then and can’t help but be affected by their sufferings while watching. Namkoong Min nailed it. I was in awe of his performance here. I had seen him many times in other dramas and with my standards of good looking, I found him a little unattractive before. But my opinion of him changed like a turn of 360 degrees after the show. He got me with that unspeakable charisma in the way he delivered all his dialogues. Indeed he was the best of choice for the role. His leading lady, Ahn Eun Jin, was equally notable. I thought it would be challenging for them to look good together on screen but I find it amusing that their chemistry was building up in every episode and that was something very distinctive about this show also. And those scenes with little pauses or moments of quietness before saying their lines among the main leads were another commendable element of the show.
Like other historical dramas, it practically walked us around again that leading a nation is one gigantic responsibility and it requires a genuine compassion for your people. If you become bound by the greed of the throne and power, destruction follows. Regardless, of whether you have the position or are just an ordinary person, if you’re hoping for a change, take courage and leap that step so others may follow.
I felt sort of on a journey watching this show because of the sophisticated layering of the conflicts and how it was refined in the end. Really one heck of a great show!
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Riveting Romance and Resilience
"My Dearest" is a captivating Korean drama that skillfully blends romance, drama, and character growth. From the very first episode, the series hooks its audience with an engaging storyline and richly developed characters, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.The drama follows the intertwined lives of two protagonists whose unexpected meeting sets the stage for a deep and evolving relationship. Their journey is marked by heartwarming moments and harrowing challenges that test their resilience and commitment to one another. As they navigate their personal struggles and external challenges, their bond is tested and strengthened, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers invested.
Lee stands out with their complex blend of strength and vulnerability. Their journey of self-discovery and growth is a central pillar of the series. The actor's nuanced performance brings depth and authenticity, making the character's experiences and emotions highly relatable.
Yoo character defined by their intelligence and unwavering loyalty, they complement Protagonist A beautifully. Their interactions are a highlight of the series, filled with chemistry and emotional resonance. Their development throughout the series adds an extra layer of intrigue and depth.And The supporting cast is equally impressive, each contributing to the richness of the story with their unique backgrounds and subplots. Their interactions and relationships with the main characters enhance the overall narrative, providing a well-rounded viewing experience.
**Visual and Sound Design:**
The cinematography of "My Dearest" is nothing short of stunning. Each scene is meticulously crafted, capturing the beauty of the settings and the subtleties of the characters' emotions. The vibrant settings serve as a dynamic backdrop, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the series. The visual aesthetics are complemented by a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that perfectly underscores the drama's emotional highs and lows..
"My Dearest" is a standout in the world of Korean dramas, offering a blend of heartfelt romance, gripping drama, and profound character development. Its strong performances, beautiful visuals, and emotional depth make it a series that resonates long after the final episode. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Korean dramas or new to the genre, "My Dearest" is a series that should not be missed.
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Once in a year drama
How can I start describing this marvel of a gem?I am mostly used to kdramas who are pretty much same story lines, although entertaining and fun to watch, they are always familiar and loveable. Whether it is a legal drama, rom com, comedy or thriller.
Rarely we get kdramas that distinguish themselves very different from what we usually watch. Misaeng, my liberator notes, my mister, weak hero class 1, etc. Now you know what kind of drama I am speaking about.
My dearest, isn't a drama, it like watching a well written novel. Each and every part of the drama, every second of it is not wasted on unnecessary filler just to drag till 16 episodes. Every episode is like a chapter of a book, every character is unique, each distinguish themselves and sets them apart uniquely. Whatever things they and whatever choices they make won't seem random, because each character was given personality and not just dialogues that sum up a story.
And the most incredible thing is, both ML and FL characters are inspiration from Gone with the wind. But I have to say entire drama doesn't copy gone with the wind, but often times you get those vibes especially in the beginning. ML and FL, are complicated characters and Fl shows incredible character growth and is so unique. Fl is a brat, selfish and entitled at beginning, but she grows so much as a person in a ways that very admirable. Mi Jung from my liberation notes, hye jin from hometown cha cha cha, deok im from red sleeve are the recent kdramas that had such determined unique females who had incredible character changes, this drama does the same.
As for love story part, this drama isn't about romance or a simply historical romance story. It's main theme is love story but it is a very realistic drama, so it takes every other element that belongs to part of life of that era, and a characters thought processes, their personalities into consideration.
A must watch kdrama.
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EMOTION
The exceptional melodrama, "My Dearest." With each episode, this remarkable series evokes a unique spectrum of emotions.The drama's consistent portrayal of pain is interwoven with diverse themes, creating a captivating narrative that resonates deeply with viewers. As the story unfolds, it takes us on a journey of emotional growth and self-discovery.
Your emotions rise with every episode and in the end it floods.
As an individual who is deeply attuned to emotions, I found an immediate connection with "My Dearest." It has become a part of my life, and I cherish the impact it has had on me.
I want everybody to please refrain themselves from comparing "MY DEAREST" with other works.
"My Dearest" exists in a realm of its own, OFFERING profound emotional experience.
While there is much I could express, I believe the single word, "emotion," encapsulates the essence of this extraordinary drama.
Furthermore, I would like to highlight the exceptional characterization of Lee Jang Hyun.
THE BEST CHARACTER ONE CAN WRITE, I ADMIRE HIM THE MOST.
NAMKOONG MIN WAS THE GREAT CHOICE FOR LEE JANG HYUN.
The slow motions used between episodes to express emotions were particularly effective.
I COULD LITERALLY FEEL MY HEART BEATING LOUDLY.
THIS REVIEW IS FOR BOTH PARTS
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A love that is true but keeps tumbling over.
[I'm aware that the ending is one of the heated topics right now but I'm going to try to keep this review as spoiler-free as possible.]Whew.... this drama was BRUTAL.
It is so rare nowadays to find a drama that you get so into it and y'know what makes it better? 'My Dearest' was not entirely a predictable story even though we were all made aware that it wasn't going to be a jolly one.
A story of two imperfect people who are in love but due to their circumstances and unresolved misunderstandings, their love keeps tumbling over. Yoo Gil Chae and Lee Jang Hyun have such a gosh darn sickeningly, amazing and addictive oozing chemistry that whatever awful thing hit the fan, I found myself rooting for them. Truly great performances from Ahn Eun Jin and Namkoong Min.
I was in for a treat when I realised just what I got myself into: pure but beautiful angst. At first, Gil Chae was that character that I found entertaining, might be a bit immature and full of herself. Yes, she has the milkshake that brings all the boys to the yard. And damn right, it's better than yours. However, she totally bloomed into a strong and reliable character that I grew to love. Even then, she has always been a woman that was capable. Is she perfect? No. She has her issues but they're also understandable. For Gil Chae's case, she couldn't accept that the man in her dreams could be someone else other than Yeon Jun. While I know many might disagree with me, I personally like that the drama highlights that feelings for someone don't shift that fast. If this turned out to be like any other romance drama out there, it would no longer have a unique perception of a romance story. Maybe I'm just a masochist but it's nice to see something different for once.
The drama has some really nice screenshot-worthy moments (most of the time). I really like the camera angles and editing on this one. It adds details to the scene and makes me want to tear up even more. The music was not bad too. The cast was amazing. Not one person here missed. If I were to nitpick, I think the timeline was a bit weird on the last episode. Overall, the production quality for this one was pretty good imo.
By the way, can we appreciate that the women here are not fighting against each other but instead are standing up for each other? We don't get to see that in dramas very often and I genuinely appreciated that the writers didn't create unnecessary drama between my girls, Eun Ae and Gil Chae. They had the most precious bond in this drama despite Gil Chae's feelings for Yeon Jun.
This drama doesn't shy away as it is quite realistic in terms of how the war affected people. The women who had to go through so much hell, the grief people had for their loved ones, how prisoners were tortured and the bitter truth that the poor suffered harder than the rich. In addition, the annoying ones who take credit when they haven't done a single thing for the country.
The great contrast of past scenes to the current one makes up for a good way to show the viewers a clear picture of the situation that the characters in.
I'll try to be as discrete as possible but I believe the ending had a lot of weight more on Gil Chae than Jang Hyun. Are we not going to talk about how difficult Gil Chae's situation was? She has so much that she'll be leaving behind while Jang Hyun has the freedom to go as he pleases. Personally, I also found the guilt tripping and Jang Hyun being inconsiderate of her situation quite frustrating. I'm not ignoring the hurt that Jang Hyun feels but it felt like he was being selfish for not thinking about her case. Both Gil Chae and Jang Hyun were not aware of what went down from their last meeting which caused a lot of misunderstandings. This is also what I like about the ending because usually, in dramas, these misunderstandings might get fixed in a flash but here, it was much more complex and interesting.
I will not mention the person but we all know who to blame. I couldn't accept it at first because I got attached to this character. It is obvious that it was out of jealousy but it was not right. I'm highkey scared of what they'll do next.
In conclusion, I will forever not be over this drama. I was super invested every Friday and Saturday so I'll miss the fun (pain) I had. I'm sure there will be more heartbreak for Part 2 so better brace yourselves. I stand with my rating of 10. After the number of times I suffered, swooned and was treated like a punching bag, it's safe to say that this drama still became one of my top dramas this year.
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Worth Watching Again and Again
This Kdrama had a very strong male lead and a very strong female lead. There was so much action and fight scenes. There was two people growing up from the childish wasy they were at the very beginning. It is very enjoyable. The right people caring about and protecting others who cannot protect themselves. I binge-wateched this drama because ti was so good. Watch the show and enjoy!Was this review helpful to you?
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Fate is about timing
Where do I begin?!I've heard of this saying (fate is about timing)..this series had me in a chokehold from the 1st episode, it was beautifully written and the brilliant actors was ????
our main couple meet by chance shortly after the FL had had a dream about our ML, and it was love at first sight for our ML(she?..not so much) but that did not deter our ML(even after learning of her crush to someone else) in that time period she was considered (brash,loud mouth, forward) amongst other things. Our couple is then taken on a journey like no other and we get to see them in different stages of the their lives during the war and their timing being off(frustratingly so), which led to her getting married
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Biggest disappointment, last 2 episodes ruined the drama
At this point, dramas that fumble the ending just feel like a disrespect to the audience who invest hours into these shows. I'm shocked that people praise Gil Chae's actions as 'realistic' and 'powerful' when, for me, her actions seem pathetic. The root of her choices stems from her unwavering view that Jang Hyun is a womanizer who is unfaithful, it kills me to the core that even by the end she still doubts him. Of all the people I'd expect her to realise how true and deep his love for her is. This man went through physical torture when he was captured, for her sake. He would've never risked his life or joined the war if it wasn't for her sake, yet she has the audacity to say that he left her?? That he's always leaving her? The whole marriage plot at the end was so unnecessary and stupid. Ryum Eu's lie hits the nail on the head as another useless obstacle placed at the end for the sake of drama. I was hoping he'd develop a little, Ryum Eu, since he saw firsthand how much Jang Hyun risked for Gil Chae's sake, but for him to remain as stubborn and cruel in the end made me lose any form of respect I had for him.I absolutely love Jang Hyun, he's a very nuanced character. First, he's known as a man who doesn't agree to marriage (finding that during that era many marriages were superficial) he comes across as a shallow man, but later on we realize that his love for Gil Chae changes his outlook on his stance, he finds true love and completely commits to it. I also understand why he didn't tell Gil Chae that he saved her, he wanted for once Gil Chae to want him for him, not because she felt indebted to him. It's like throughout the whole drama Gil Chae never matured enough to realize that she can love Jang Hyun because he's a kind soul who would sacrifice anything for her-instead she's always looking for reasons to doubt him, and when she finds any reasons (grasping at straws) she sticks with it.
Gil Chae only ever loves Jang Hyun when he's not with her. She's too immature to communicate her frustrations with him when they are face-to-face. It creates a predictable cycle where, only when, Jang Hyun leaves does Gil Chae realize how much she loves him and takes him for granted. Then when they are back all they do is argue, mostly because of Gil Chae's dobutfulness.
I'm so disappointed in Gil Chae's character development, it really felt like in episodes 6-8 she was finally realizing how wrong she had been in the past, and then in episodes 9-10 she reverts to her naive self who lacks communication. In the beginning, Gil Chae isn't a good person either, she manipulates the men around her for her benefit. Then when war breaks she's forced to mature and realize who she cares about. Yet every time she had any semblance of peace, she goes back to her naive self--finally, she breaks out of that when she realizes she does love Jang Hyun. So WHYYY in the last two episodes does she once again reverts to her immature self, it's just frustrating.
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I CAN HEAR THE SOUND OF THE FLOWERS
STORYTHIS was a heartfelt story of two people that can not really understand themselves the story is really captivating and you will not get bored. It's truly out of this world. It does not on me have romance but they is also action and very realistic and dad moments .
Characters
1 What can I saw about the character I loved each one of them so very much but my heart leans more toward the main male lead Lee Jang Hyun ( Namkoong Min) that man character was out of this world. He is so true to his feelings and he was good perfect man in everyway. The way he spoke to the female lead all the time and you could see his love for
Yu Gil Chae in the way he looked at her. His courage to wear his heart on his sleeves was truly amazing.
2 Yu Gil Chae she is one of my fav female lead in k drama because she was not the typical nice, loving kind of lady. Her personality is strong and she fights for 2hat she wants but when it comes to following her Harry she is just not good at that which is really sad
Overall I love all the characters and they way they the make the story come to life
MUSIC
I love the ost so very much I think it goes very well with the story.
CONCLUSION
I feel like overall the whole drama is a must Whatch it makes you feel so many emotions. Without giving to much it really shows that feeling are very hard to express and act on it shows that sometimes our heart wants one thing but the head wants safety
Should Whatch
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Elegant and Graceful
My Dearest (2023)With some Korean actors, you just learn to trust their judgement in picking great Korean Dramas in which to act. I took on this drama ‘My Dearest’, because of the actor Namkoong Min. Within minutes of viewing, I knew that I made the right decision for me.
The period covered in the story, pasted around actual factual history, is 1636-1659 CE. ‘My Dearest’ starts out in 1659 and goes back to 1636 for the backstory. Lots of period Korean culture is on display in this drama, including historic instrumental music. The historian for this drama did a great research job.
Joseon gets embroiled between the Chinese Jin and Ming Dynasties, plus the Japanese. The Chinese barbarians, with a huge military force, declares war on Joseon. The Chinese are a skilled fighting force. They come up against the drafted Joseon intellectual and political elite who seem as rag-tag against this dominating military presence. Based on this backdrop is a beautifully emerging story of forever love.
Quote: “Have you ever heard the sound of flowers in bloom? I heard that rare sound today (when he first met her).” Male Lead gazing into the eyes of the Female Lead.
The Male Lead character Lee Jang-hyu is arrogant and worldly-wise. The Female Lead character Yoo Gil-chae is very conceited and forceful. This is a playful match. ‘My Dearest’ is such a realistic Korean Drama, with realistic people who have huge faults. In addition, much attention is paid to building these characters, each with unusual personalities. ‘My Dearest’ is rich storytelling, unique dramatization blended into historical facts. Many are going to find this drama intriguing. There is sword fighting in this drama.
I think that ‘My Dearest’ could be an Insta-Classic at its present meteoric ratings pace.
Two really good actors stack the cast. Watch for their facial expressions, those little nuances which raises an actor above the crowd.
Namkoong Min (Hot Stove League, Remember: War of the Sun) playing Lee Jang-hyu is a dubious and mysterious nobleman. Ahn Eun-jin (More Than Friends) playing Yoo Gil-chae is an erasable spoiled Aristocrat. They are a hot couple who will draw you right in. This Korean Drama is a go for me.
Chinese comparison Drama is Love Like the Galaxy.
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An intense ride
I binge-watched this drama in one day and was clenching my chair by the last episode. The acting is absolutely flawless, and for ten episodes, I felt like the story not only flowed at a perfect pace, but the intensity of the characters and their stories held me for the entire drama. Also, kudos to the writers because they unfolded the story of war and the repercussions endured by those who are helpless to fight or run.Namkoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin are flawless in their roles, and their chemistry, especially in the last episodes, was off the chart. The dynamic of unsurity between the two characters is methodically played out to the very end, and the next season cannot come fast enough. Good, bad, happy or tragic, I'm all in for the ride.
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EPIC DRAMA
The most beautiful roma;nce and action drama. The plot was stormy and original enough, not to get bored, but made you can not stop watch it. For me it is difficult to watch fast or focused, but this one was the only drama that I loved so much. Charactes and cast was amazing, especially the protagonists. Everyone could feel the love of main lead, because was infinite. I was disappointed about the music. The only thing that I didn;t like was music and the artists of music. Of course, I will watch it again. Now I cannot watch other drama because I can't overcome this plot and this excellent acting.I recommend it safely, it was the most unexpected excellent historical drama, that I have ever seen.
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