When I absolutely love a K-drama I wait before I write a review. The reason I do this is I know repeated viewings often change my opinion of the drama after the newness has worn off. For this reason, I waited a LONG time before writing my review for The Red Sleeve. I wanted to see if once the newness wore off I would feel the same, and I am happy to say after repeated viewings I still love "The Red Sleeve".

Seriously, there is just so much to like in this drama. The music is sublime The scenery is vivid and stirring. The acting takes you to another level, and the chemistry between the ML and FL is so potent you will feel it!!! Particularly, the scene where Jun Ho confronts Doek Im in a fit of jealous rage in the library. That scene set the internet on fire because it was 🔥🔥🔥 Seriously the chemistry between Jun Ho and See Young was so potent I frequently rewatch that scene for the buzz of their chemistry.

But... what makes this drama great is the addition of other fine actors who fill their roles capably and evoke presence and gravitas when they are on your screen. Lee Doek Hwa is a joy and terror to watch. Jang Hee Jin is powerful, while being understated in her role as Queen. Plus, the humorous presence of other side characters, like Doek Im's friends and the Prince's scheming aunt--who gets the shit slapped out of her--makes this a joy to watch on several levels.

One of the beauties of The Red Sleeve is it played up the dramatic politics of the women within that era while never overshadowing them with larger male-dominated political plots. You understand why every character does what they do because there are no villains or heroes. It's just people trying to live and love as best they could during a very turbulent period.

Is "The Red Sleeve" perfect? NO...it's not, but it's damn near perfect, and entertaining on so many levels that it is worth your time, and I highly recommend it.