1This review may contain spoilers
Where it is particularly dark, even a tiny little bit of light appears immensely bright...
I ended my review about the first seasons with the conclusion: "I only recommend "The Escape of the Seven" if the mood is right - one that demands unfathomable beastliness down to the blood. If we get involved in this KDrama, then we will uncompromisingly be catapulted into a world in which a search for the good guys could very well be in vain..."And obviously, things can always get even worse. At the same time, a wink of a conscience is actually making itself known here and there… very quietly, though. Regret and shame become concepts that are though stumbling trying to make themselves be heard. It's evidently not that easy, but maybe, who knows, it might not be impossible…
Still, the Seven can't easily get out of their skin. It´s way too serious what they had done and must be held accountable for. Even if they all go through their own processes and would perhaps like to choose a new path in some way (fortunately, people have the potential for healing and transformation), they can neither run away nor undo what has happened. In addition, they have made a pact with the devil... No matter which devil you get involved with, it rarely goes well...
The second season cleverly manages to build on the first one with fresh dynamics, while still giving the emotional rollercoaster ride a new direction. Sophisticated dramaturgical twists included. It's amazing to notice ourselves suddenly sympathizing with one or the other of the loathsome Seven...
In addition, the KDrama is vividly displaying the frighteningly diabolical (not too distant) future scenarios of our increasingly digitally depending information society, that in the worst case scenario, could become completely helpless in its interconnectedness...
Overall, I think “Escape of the Seven” is even winning with its second season. It offers a special KDrama experience that has it all - for all those who don't shy away from the abysm of the human species. And as is well known, where it is particularly dark, even a tiny little bit of light appears immensely bright...
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Surrealistic Brilliance: Pure Chaos Orchestrated from the Start—Crazier, Wilder & Braver Than Ever
~ This review covers both seasons ~Season 1 (War for Survival) : ~ Hell came on the day the rain of lies fell ~
Season 2 (Resurrection) : ~ Born again from lies ~
(Posters translation)
First things first, it has to be your kind of crazy, so that you can embrace it all. It's basically the definition of excessive art, as it presents drama in its purest form. Therefore the drama introduces viewers to a world where logic takes a backseat to spectacle. Epic, endlessly and effectively pushing boundaries to a new level where anything is possible, making the immersion simply divine. Outlandish, exaggerated and absurd, yet meticulously crafted in style and tone, perfectly serving the narrative. One thing's for sure, you will either find the drama fascinating, impressive and imaginative or simply unwatchable.
Another thing I deeply appreciate is the diversity of the characters.
Inspirational References (Official):
Dante's Divine Comedy: From the very first episode, the drama evokes the atmosphere of Dante's work, especially with its theme of a 'bloody revenge resembling divine punishment.' This connection is fundamental to the premise of the story.
The Count of Monte Cristo: The drama draws from this classic work, adopting the framework of a modern picaresque narrative.
The Avengers / Marvel / The Boys: Lee Joon once mentioned that the drama felt like a comic book, and I completely agree. There's a distinct sense of a vast, interconnected universe, much like the Marvel or The Boys franchises. If you look at dramas like Penthouse and The Last Empress, you can feel that same grand, epic scale. The mention of Marvel within the drama itself only adds to the sense of it being larger-than-life. While I didn’t see this explicitly noted on Namu Wiki (perhaps I missed it), there's no doubt that the parallels with The Boys and The Avengers were intentional. If you're familiar with The Boys, you’ll immediately recognize the comparison, especially when considering ‘The Seven’. (You can explore this further in this article: https://www.cbr.com/the-seven-vs-avengers). The playful self-awareness and creativity in the drama are palpable. Thor, perhaps, could even be considered a hidden main character.
On a side note, the number "Seven" could be an allusion to the Seven Deadly Sins, tying in with the larger thematic elements of sin and retribution.
More potential references are incorporated into the work, enriching it with even more layers.
The initial concept of the drama centers around seven villains, whose fates are intertwined in a cycle of condemnation. Their lives become dramatically entangled with that of a girl, whose life turns into a living nightmare before she disappears from the world. Bound together by life—or rather by death—the journey of the Seven begins.
To top it off, you even get to witness a real-life battle royale. Talk about greatness. In fact, it is even greater as it offers such a fresh and unique experience that completely blurs reality and our own vision along with that of the characters.
The first episode alone is enough to determine if this drama is for you. While Penthouse may appeal to many, 7 Escape is on an entirely different level. The plot is raw, brutal, and ruthless, offering an intensity that I found utterly gripping. The drama dives deep into themes of survival and psychological extremes, making it an exhilarating experience.
In terms of social status and backgrounds, 7 Escape is already different. The characters aren't meant to be rich like in Penthouse, and it's not the same kind of very classy drama. Look at the posters, compare this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/eYlLlY_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/p3ZzD_3) and this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/QJdAJ2_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/ENb8O_4). It's obvious right? You can also click on my profile, I have all posters displayed.
Anyway, I want to clarify that your opinion of Penthouse doesn't necessarily matter. I had a hard time getting into the latter, but this one immediately had me hooked. There is also my friend who watched 7 Escape with me who didn't make it past the fifth episode of Penthouse, but I knew he would love this one.
Advices: Always watch the intro, the end-of-episode visuals accompanied by the music and the closing logo, and the credits at the end of each season. The only thing you can skip is the preview for the next episode. In addition, I’ll share some links in the comments. A cool detail to note: the logo features a dual design, with one side displaying the title of the first season and the other side showing the title of the second season. I discovered this neat touch in a video, the link is included. Also, don’t miss the bonus scenes in Season 2. (They do not appear after the previews, of course.)
Do I need to talk about the biblical and mythological references in S2's opening? Simply insane.
Regarding the soundtrack, it's a brilliant blend of classical and modern music—much like the drama itself—which makes it easily my favorite OST album.
The introduction presents a very intriguing foreshadowing, followed by an incredibly fast-paced, event-packed, and dramatic narrative that embraces the chaotic nature of its own creation along with every aspect of the production. The way the characters are introduced is already one hell of an experience. In fact, the entire journey is so cinematic and immersive that you'll want to be prepared for it. At least for me, it was ecstatic. It’s the definition of incredible, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
The sets and costumes also deserve commendation, as they splendidly reflect the drama's grandeur and extravagance. It is interesting to note that the drama has an impressive world-building, too.
One point worth mentioning is how it differs from its predecessors, Penthouse and The Last Empress. While both adopted a huit-clos-like setting, 7 Escape moves beyond that, yet still maintains the same oppressive atmosphere. Additionally, the drama sets itself apart with its distinctive twists and turns as well as its characterization of the protagonists. I’d say that, of the three, this one stands out as the most distinct and serves as a magnificent conclusion to the trilogy.
If the Seven aren't your cup of tea, you will most likely not enjoy the drama, or not to its full extent at least. The drama has such a strong aura, but you either savour it or hate it.
Kim Soon Ok has become the screenwriter I respect the most, and I wish I could thank her in person. Extremely creative she is, even the most creative, but also extremely sensible and spiritual. I could tell by the script that she's a really fun and witty individual more than I could in Penthouse. If I were to compare the dark humor and comic relief characters in both dramas, my preference would strongly lean towards 7 Escape—as it does with everything else. I don't have anything against Penthouse though, I also think it's a masterpiece.
Be warned, Season 2 is more serious and less fun than Season 1—I was in tears. Yet, that's what makes it so refreshing, and it feels like a natural progression given the ending of Season 1. The new season adopts a more somber tone, contrasting with the first, while introducing different vibes, new dynamics, a new main character, and plenty of cool scenes to explore. Naturally, with a poster like that—hands down the best ever made (after the ones for S1)—the aesthetic is bound to be top-notch, on top of everything else.
I'm not great at explaining technical details, but you'll definitely notice a difference in the writing, screenplay, cinematography, and sound design. Pay attention to how everything, including the characters, has evolved. Season 1 is vibrant, colorful, and flashy, while Season 2 is mystical, vivid, and visually stunning in its own way. Overall, it creates a cold and mysterious atmosphere.
Theatrical, chaotic yet intelligent, psychotic and toxic, twisted—dynamic, modern, and even futuristic with a dystopian edge. It's relevant, meaningful, complex, and unconventional, offering limitless, provocative, and unpredictable elements. The production, the writing, the acting, it's absolutely mind-blowing. I barely could handle so much goodness from the start. There's just so much passion put into this rollercoaster. Expect the beginning to be particularly chaotic, there are a lot of characters and storylines. Besides, the out-of-the-box storytelling (like the premise) only made me fall in love more with the drama.
The story is so huge and complicated, I don't know how Kim Soon Ok wrote that but she did anyway. The pacing is also terrific. All I can say is genius. Even more so because managing to write the most inhumane and humane, soulless and soulful, hopeless and hopeful plot all at the same time is certainly something to achieve. Hence, while it may be the ultimate escape from reality, it also brings you back to it in the most powerful and impactful way, and that's where all its beauty lies. Indeed, if there is one thing that's realistic, it is the overall psychological aspect, as well as other themes, even with the over-the-top nature of the piece.
Maybe you need to be unhinged and sadistic to truly and fully enjoy this... I mean, I do feel bad for fictional characters, but here it's not the same and I can only say that I had a blast. I loved these villains from the start and the first episodes were already a delight to watch.
As entertainment, it definitely serves, but it is so much more. Like my favorite reviewer said, if you are not afraid of diving into the abysm of the human species, 7 Escape is right here for you. Moreover, in a world where the truth is increasingly an abstract concept, the drama does an excellent job at conveying that.
For its innovation, originality, and boldness, along with its clear passion for art and creativity, 7 Escape proves itself as a thoughtful, transcendent work that goes beyond realism or mere entertainment. It is truly interesting in a way that has never been done before and won't be able to be recreated in the future. If you expected a simple thriller, you will be proven wrong. I see it as a true tribute to artistic freedom and expression.
Overall, it has some of the coolest concepts I have ever seen, and I am personally in love with the execution. Everything seemed to be designed for me including the characters and that's why this drama is now my all-time favorite and a dream come true. I was not that shocked at the madness because this is what I wanted and always dreamed of, I was more like shocked at how good it was because it kept exceeding my expectations. Sincerely the best gift that I could've had.
7 Escape is, in conclusion, Korean dramaturgy in all its glory. I'm sorry if you don't feel the same way as I do towards it, but if you enjoy it that's enough for me. And if you love it, almost or as much as I do, I'd be the happiest.
Before finishing, I would like to say that in terms of content, it is the richest drama ever made. From the themes of justice, technology, societal decay, revenge, to so much more.
Final words: In the end, can you escape your sins?
Thank you for reading!
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Fake news, questionable morality, and troublesome technology
"7 Escape" was an organized mess. It had all the "charm" of a sinking ship. There were plenty of moments that threatened to send me scrambling for the nearest escape route (the poor character development, repetitive conflict, pseudo-romantic encounters, rushed redemption arc), and plenty of others that managed to serve up food for thought on the human conditionOne moment of revelation was the ill-fated character "K," who was swapped at birth and brought up in a wealthy household. After discovering his origins, he was discarded by his once-doting family. K's words, "noone can be family unless you're related by blood" (episode 12, 32:34) and "since I was young, I was the one to entertain and serve Father, why am I the fake son?" (episode 12, 39:25), invite us to question society's obsession with "biological lineage." Far too often, adoptive families or children are seen as "less worthy." The pursuit of a biological "mini-me" takes precedence, as if blood were the determinant of familial bonds. This skewed perception belittles the love, commitment, and joy found in adoptive families
Another moment was the dichotomy between "the real and the fake" (episode 12, 39:00). The drama reminds us that no matter how convincingly something mimics reality, there will always be a distinction. Even if it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it might not be a duck
Finally, the dangers of technology wielded by those ignorant of its potential. "7 Escape" considers our unhealthy relationship with technology and the ramifications of unchecked technological advancements. It draws attention to humanity's "vulnerability" to the influence of fake news (episode 12, 15:16), a significant issue in the modern, tech-driven society
In conclusion, "7 Escape" was a blend of misguided, cringe-worthy storytelling and surprising insight. It had both irredeemable and redeeming qualities
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Can't escape your sins
The most anticipated sequel of the year, for me at least, is finally back. It must also be said that you have to watch the first part before this one to know the characters and the references to all the previous events that this one continues with. This is a series where almost everyone is a lead because of how everyone is involved and tied to each other.More revenge than ever happened before. Offers more grand battles between these 7 and its opponents. In addition, it contrasts even more, evenly and constantly. No quiet moment at all between everything that happens. You hardly have time to blink before the next thing happens. In addition to all the revenge, we get their other sides to their motives. All the characters are well thought out and stand for their temptations and trials.
The series shows the worst side of man, regardless of social class. The status of hunting, material assets and more to justify oneself. At the same time as they stand against each other to claim their right. Fascinated by the dynamic between the characters, they are constantly at each other's heels and still persevere.
They fool each other like true opportunists, no opportunity is wasted. The ambushes become obvious to each other like dominoes falling one after the other, one by one. Lots of clever tricks to reveal each other which is very entertaining.
What is a life?
Can one be forgiven for one's sins?
Is there restoration and repentance?
What is truth?
Season 2 explains everything that happened before on a deeper level. The music and cinematic complete the experience from start to finish. It is very dramatic, contains a lot of tension and everything in between seasoned with dark humor. Reflected from lovable beauty to full brutality in a very distinctive way. Everyone is well dressed in an extremely glamorous way as a sign of the high status everyone carries and has. It is both wild and soft in a well-balanced way and the depth of the characters fascinates me so much, you get to see both hard and soft sides of everyone. The quality is as high as a well-produced film. The best series of the year in my opinion. It constantly surpasses itself time and time again. This is a makjang that contains everything from complicated family relationships, psychological thriller, action with a bit of romance. A big compliment to the children who contribute a lot to everything. I'm happy for this year, all the other series are a bonus for me, so satisfied right now. A magnificent masterpiece.
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Ridiculous but fun
This is my first review ever and í like this show, from the face mask to the multiple resurrections from death to the unfairness of Bang Da Mi's death, it was an exciting messy watch.Nothing is serious in this drama and its better to not take the drama seriously and just use this as a dinner watch.
Will I watch this show again? No.
Will I remember every detail? Absolutely not. So much insane bs happened in this show. There's no way one can remember all.
Did i enjoy watching this show? Absolutely. No show of 2024 was as fun as this.
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SUPER FUNNNN
I can honestly tell you that makjangs are super fun dramas 😅Can't really explain it but my fellow makjang lovers would agree 😂
This drama started out with the most inane plot twists and oh man they just kept one-upping it.. And I have loved every second of it.. Every episode is just pure fun..
But really it's just depends on your own perspective 😊
I particularly love how I can appreciate this drama without getting attached to any of the characters and just watch it as it is.. A drama.. An act..
I honestly love how I didn't have to take a side in this drama because everyone was equally bad 😅
It was kind of a worry-free drama for Me..
I was just so chilled watching it.. because everybody deserves what is happening to them here..
And the MOST FUN part you may ask??
The FOUR-people confusion - K, Matts, HS and JS
Oh god I tell you.. I had so much fun watching this drama because of these 4 people 😂😂😂😂
(oh wait I have created a 5-people confusion now because who is Matts lol) 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
you know what I mean, right? 😂
Makjangs will always be my favorite and I am so soo happy I got to see my favorite ensemble cast once again 😍
I hope they continue to work together and bless us 😍
All the best to anybody who is just starting this drama.. just don't take this drama seriously.. that's what makes it fun 😅 I hope you also enjoy watching this drama 😄
And to all of us who have watched it, WHOA what a crazy ride it has been 🎉🎊🎉🎊
Such a wonderful ending.. loved it.. 😇
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This review may contain spoilers
VILLAIN'S END SHOULD BE SATISFYING
Over all, I think the ending suck. The people who killed other people to gain fame, power, money ended up having good lives in the end seems unfair. Sure, la hel and K had a bad end, along with the police, but why do mone gets another chance in life? She started everything. The story begins with her greed and vanity and she killed people too. Honestly, none of them deserves a good ending. The female doctor killed dami's grandfather remember? Giving them another chance because of their regret and conscience is the same thing as telling people that it's okay to commit a crime as long as you feel bad about it in the ending. Over all, I'm giving it 3.5 for their looks and their ability to act out their roles but story wise, it's a 0.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
One of my favourite dramas,the story in both seasons is good enough to make me remember it for a long time. Every actor from season 1 had much better performance on season 2 and i was surprised that i liked all of them. A really interesting drama something unusual i would say for me one to remember and stay on top of my watched dramas. Plenty of good things about drama starting with story, kinda sad about Mone-Do Hyuk ending it was bittersweet for me and it broke my heart, i really hope to see Lee Yu-Bi And Lee Yoon together again in another drama as they are one of my fav couples. Whole season was really good but i dont know what happend in last 2 episodes compared to the whole show, looks rushed af and i would give them like 6/10 didnt really enjoy them tbh mostly because of ending but if u gonna jump on this drama enjoy and have fun! Was this review helpful to you?
Not Good Enough
Korean Drama '' The Escape of the Seven: Resurrection '' is the second season of the makjang that gives the conclusion to the story.The drama was over the top, as was expected from a drama of that genre, but, still, there were some elements that just got too far and ended up being cringey. Also, the plot got boring at times, as the twists were stale.
There were some characters that did get a big change of character, even though that didn't redeem them from what they did to Da Mi.
Also, the romance was okay, but the characters didn't have any chemistry, nor there was any romantic scenes, so there was not point in the whole ordeal.
Finally, the performances were enjoyable.
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This review may contain spoilers
One of the best drama for 2024!
Following the story from season 1, everyone became different from how we saw them in the last season. The dramatical story and action scenes were 10/10 and the plot about Medusa was such a great idea. Geum Ra Hee trying her best to seek revenge for Dami, even when this means to take her own life without regrets. The fight between Min Do Hyuk and Matthew/Shim Joon Seok/K was something that turned the story into something completely new and with unexpected turns. After all the revenge for Dami was successful and K got what he deserved. And the other characters did great job with redeeming themselves. This drama was really something that I wanted to see. Of course we got a happy ending for Hannah which I was extremely happy about, considering what a really young child had been through. Great story, written and played well!Was this review helpful to you?
Does everyone, ESPECIALLY the ML, have Amnesia?
I just have one question. Did season 2 just happen to erase the ML's memory of season 1? Like did he forget what his love interest did to Li hwi so's daughter? On about some I owe li hwi so my life and then goes on jumping roofs and riding bikes for mone who was no 1 reason (other than K and Geum La hee) why dami died?The whole season 2 was on something, trynna make Mone the FL. I dont know what redemtion arc they were trynna pull but before gal even showed an ounce of regret or redemption the show trynna paint her as the damsel in distress. Was it just me or did like the legit first 10 eps ofthe show just felt like the directors/producers forgot han mone was the bully?? Did everyone just all of a sudden start rooting for the bully's love line. Like what happened that I was unaware of. Or is this just their way of portraying a morally grey ML. Like what is going on please. I KNOW it wasnt just me who found the ML to be the biggest hypocrite. BUT SERIOUSLY what in the world happened to season 2. ATP i wasnt even rooting for ML, i genuinly could not care if he failed or succeeded. I'm so confused as to why no one else is saying anything.
I get that everyone else was having their redemption arc moment, but please the rest of them didn't get the protagonist privileges TILL they started being all like "omg what have i done to Da Mi, I wish i could turn back time". Why was Han Mone the exception. I genuinly want to know if I was the only one that saw this.
But the best thing about this show was the acting imo, the acting was so nice I finsihed the whole thing. all be it the story dragged on for too long so even though the acting was great one could only take so much of the same story. I also have querrels about why all the other villains got to live such a nice and decent life after saying okay lets just kill the guy that killed Da Mi and say we are sorry for our crimes, spend some time in jail, and come out nice and happy. FR the shit they pulled in season 1 definitlyyyy wasnt worth just some jail time. They on something fr. But nothing sucked more than the inconsistency of suddenly making han Mone the FL. Kinda wish they thought of something that was befitting of the shit that went down in s1.
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