Memories are a Powerful Tool

Should a person's memories be toyed with lightly?

Initially, I thought this drama was a carbon copy of He is a Psychometric (2019), but it is nothing like it. It takes us into a head-scratching world of a labyrinth of mazes with no escape. The first few episodes were a hurdle for me, and then it was a cat and mouse game until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, but some subplots felt out of place, yet it somehow came full circle connecting the dots. Serial Killer dramas are a hit or miss sometimes easily predictable that the suspense falls flat. Many people will criticize this work as an overused, unoriginal plot, and too many cliches, but I did not think so. Memorist was not your typical Serial Killer Drama by no means, and it kept up the tension.

At first, I debated how the drama would reach sixteen episodes because of the wild ride we take as the viewer. Some people mentioned it the plot might have switched last second towards the backend of the drama. I was losing my patience with the first-time screenwriters, but I persevered through the hidden walls in the mazes the screenwriters set for us. I will miss this little gem. Dramas are without their faults. My biggest pet peeve was the Female Lead wearing heels when she went out in the field pursuing a suspect, but she put herself in those situations.

I had the privilege to see the growth of Lee Se Young and Yoo Seung Ho from child actors to the young actors today in my seventeen-year K-Drama journey and counting. Lee Se Young’s character is smart and resourceful, that makes you believe she knows her criminology. The character development is well-paced, but someone viewing should expect road bumps crafting a story. A little tip self-educate yourself if you did not so already: The caliber of the character you hunger is not flawless. You may enjoy few shows from a select few screenwriters.

Yoo Seung Ho did a phenomenal job as a person with supernatural powers. The Director and Screenwriter put their twist on the Supernatural genre that intrigued me to some degree. Dong Baek is a character drama lovers will come to love and hate because of the screenwriting. He had a strange aura about him that almost screams danger approaching. In my opinion, A tremendous supporting cast that held up pretty well throughout. The drama based on a webtoon that I have not read, so I can comment on how closely it follows the webtoon.

I did not love the music as sometimes the OST fell flat or was unnecessary in the early episodes and scattered, later on, but I did not mind it. I especially liked one of the songs at the end of one of the episodes I felt appropriate called, "The End of the Story." The cinematography was above par to very good at times that kept me engaged the whole time, but you should not focus too much on the cinematography. I say go for it. I mean it a lot, but do not expect too much, and you get rewarded at the end. Preserve through the first five episodes, and you might end up relishing this TVN show. The world would be a colorless place without criticism.

My Final Rating: 8.63
Rewatch Value: I rewatched this twice already. Maybe watch it when there is a chill in the air.

What would you do if you cannot remember your past, but have Supernatural Powers?

Read More

I never Knew Dreams Can Be this Real??

The mystic and ecstatic elements are held in abeyance ingeniously devised by Screenwriter Ha Yoon Ah and Director Jun Chang Geun. I cannot comment fully on the similarities to the 2017 webtoon of the same name, but it appears the Screenwriter tempered wonderfully warm melodic moments with a keen sense of humor.


It was Jun Chang Geun's first project since The Package (2017) that I flat-out enjoyed the beautiful scenery and famous landmarks in that show. Mystic Pop-Up Bar does not disappoint, but there will always be a select few people that will bash this show and nothing we can do about it. By this point, have we not seen all that we will see in the fantasy aspect, maybe not. Yes, we pine for originality in the script, but do the actors catalyze more visionary thinking in each other that this drama expertly displays.


The location of the outdoor drinking establishment lures individuals from all backgrounds that were the main focal point. The viewer invested by the average individuals' problems the Mystic Pop-Up Bar soothes the pain and suffering. The soft and upbeat music, along with the light clinking of glass, was soothing to my ears when drinking occurred, and the main leads entered the dream world. The Directing Style aided to the storytelling because we see a different side to what the director contributes to this Depleted Genre that I have trust will be in good hands for the future.

Acting:

Every character imparts much liveliness to the scenes. Hwang Jung Eum's tone and expression did not awake an old, unwelcome feeling that her other works sometimes did. I think Park Shi Eun's depiction of the younger Weol Joo was a significant reason why I overlooked the deficiency of her acting style. She has retained a certain mystique, which makes her such a compelling character.


Choi Won Young's heartening rendition of his character was something special as his dilated pupil and eyebrow expressions in a bunch of scenes caught my undivided attention. Also, he imparts strength and provides an air of talisman of protection. Yook Sung Jae timid, yet bubbly persona was too wily, unfailingly tactful, an adept with the touch of his hands. I especially cherished Jung Da Eun's role as a Security Guard, her metamorphosis of a resigned face to an alight face from the first episode to the last episode. YSJ and JDE are too adorable together.


I would have liked a little more character development from the villain. Still, writing this review, I reflected on the villain's role, and what they did was not bad considering tropes run rampant in every drama—a bittersweet story of the villain trapped by the flaws in his character.


Conclusion:

It had the right amount of episodes to enjoy every episode. If you have any doubts, I say watch the first two episodes and make your decision. I conclude I have a fondness for close contact with someone after viewing this show. The show elicits an aliveness we crave in this Coronoviris Pandemic once everything settles back to normalcy; Human Interaction and affection.



Final Rating: 8.75/10
Story: 8.57/10
Acting: 9.68/10

Rewatch: I will watch this again for sure. Four Thumbs Up.

Read More

Takahata Mitsuki's Singing Stands Out

There are No Spoilers

Watch this at your discretion. Everybody has different viewpoints, and this is mine. I was anticipating this live-action film last year because I loved the manga and anime. After viewing the Musical as it is a Musical more than a Live-Action Adaptation, the Director disregarded the original intent of the manga. I think it's appropriate for people who don't understand the manga should not make a live-action movie. Fukuda Yuichi is better at directing dramas/TV shows, so he should stick with that; he is better than this.

I cannot comprehend why a musical element was applied. The Director's attempt at connecting episodes from the manga/serialization was too long and dull. The Director should have utilized the music Niconico Suite or something else if he valued a musical piece. I initially thought to construct musical scenes for Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku was a great idea.


The Director was thinking outside the box, but the musical scenes poorly edited it would have been better if the song and dance had been a little shorter and had a sense of speed. Side note Ms. Takahata's singing was too good; I did enjoy her voice; if it's a bit of a treble. The repeated singing and dancing scenes, the shape of the characters became infinitely shallow, including the two main characters for me. I can't empathize with this, and I did not enjoy it. You may have a different experience when watching it.


Takahata Mitsuki's character does not feel a sense of incongruity. Her acting is incredible, trying her best at a weak script putting her talents at work. I appreciated Jiro Sato drunken performance that will force a laugh or two. Nanao's role as Koyanagi Hanako was exciting to a certain extent, and she is beautiful, but sometimes I felt like where did she go? Tsuyoshi Muro's strong acting stood out to me. Now, Yamazaki Kento's character is expressionless from beginning to end that I think it was fun with an easy-to-understand role; a world Fukuda created himself.


I loved the characters, but it was the dances and songs that diminished my viewing experience. The content of the story is a little thin for my taste. What happened to the depiction of the birch flower? I kept thinking to myself I love this game, I love this game, so I compelled myself to finish the movie. Maybe it is not a good idea for a person who has read the manga has a little million thoughts circling his head.


The one good thing is the Otaku-like expression is not much different from the manga. I am not going to bore you on every little detail. It was a feature film for the masses that did not honor the work of illustrator and writer Fujita. Critics of movies can be wrong too. I am not sure if Fukuda Yuichi did not have the budget or resources available to him to edit this Live-Action Musical. It would have aided big time. Some people will want a Sequel, and others will be like me. In my opinion, this movie is just for the sake of seeing its cuteness.

Final Rating: 6.05/10
Acting: 8.68/10

I am not rewatching this. I cannot. Some of you may find it a great film, and worth rewatching.

Read More

What is TRUE PATRIOTISM?

The influence the PRESS wields exhibits the tenacity that TRUTH and JUSTICE might TRIUMPH in a civil society. The film reminded me of The Pentagon Papers (2003) about the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Seismic social changes do not come about immediately as negative sentiment must first build throughout the years, and citizens grow agitated by their public officials.

Brief History

Korean History 101, Democracy embedded itself in South Korea culture years before Park Chung-hee assassination occurred on October 26, 1979, rejuvenating the democratic movements in South Korea, silenced initially under Park's Dictatorship regime. May 18, 1980, Gwangju Uprising was the beginning of a more unpopular oppressive military regime under Chun Doo-hwan leading up to the June 1987 Democratic Movement changing the fate of a Nation's political landscape.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Director Jang Joon Hwan's documentary touch paints the perfect image of South Korea, the repression of civil discord within the year 1987. The viewer concentrates on watching the film conveying a story with a palpable tempo, to pull it off with suspense, to appeal to emotion, and to entertain. It is a film that wept tears of human horror, moved by the courage of those who pursue the truth. Most people will wallow in this film, but few people will rebuff it and say it is biased.


With the word "Communist" by a single word, the whole state persecutes ordinary people. On the contrary, the same persecution was happening in a socialist country. When a nation uses its "enemies" to inflame its people, it is better to be careful before the persecution. Jang Joon Hwan's micromanaged the word "Conscience" introspectively. What is TRUE PATRIOTISM?


In my book, Kim Yoon Seok pitches in an Oscar-worthy performance with his cold-eyed gaze. In the first encounter with KYS's character, the audience perceives the warped and distorted view of PATRIOTISM through his mindset. Ha Jung Woo's role may not have had the screentime he merited, but what an energetic rendition of a Prosecutor's unwillingness to bend to his Superiors wishes.


Kim Tae Ri depicting a university student swallowed up in the Democratic Revolution contributed to the turbulent climate of the period. Lee Hee Joon's portrayal of Reporter Yoon furnishes tenacious energy to his purpose ductile like iron. It is such a story that the audience thinks of the nameless predecessors who fought to protect the rights of the people who are today, as most actors depict fictional characters. All the actors do a marvelous job except I would have liked to see more from the people's side. The one complaint I have about this film the music and shouting sometimes drown out the dialogue between the actors. Other than that, unheralded film.


South Korea attained what the 1989 Tiananmen Square protesters could not Democracy with free and fair Presidential Elections not favored for one party or one candidate. Corruption will exist in politics for eternity, but the right to choose your elected officials' and hold them accountable is a blessing. The tyranny of the regime silently; it becomes a problematic situation.


I think back on the 2016-2017 Candlelight Revolution Movement against the unpopular President Park Geun-Hye (2013-2017), the daughter of dictator Park Chung-hee, eventually impeached for the corruption of bribery sentenced to 25 years in prison. Democratic values have wavered, but Standing Up for Truth and Justice has not fluctuated since 1987.


Final Rating: 8.59/10
Acting: 9.60/10
Story: 8.98/10

Rewatch Value:
I have watched this film three times, so it is rewatchable for anyone able to stomach the subject matter - based on True events.

Read More

Not that Scary

Moviegoers should go into this film with minimum expectations. I might be of the minority who have seen the majority of veteran actor Ha Jung Woo's films since his early days of acting, but he does not disappoint in this outing. It is not his worst project. He teamed up with a well-rounded actor Kim Nam Gil and a relatively new director and screenwriter, Kim Kwang Bin directing his first motion picture film.

Sometimes, I like to watch first-time directors see if they might have potential or exceeded my expectations. In my personal opinion, the special effects (CGI) was above par for a horror film that makes use of it put in motion. The birds (crows) scene shot and edited nicely to give the impression of the dreary, isolated area. The costume designs are nothing special as when you see over a hundred horror films, it becomes a blur.

The directing style was unique, which tried to be as original as possible, delving into the topic of strained relationships when it comes to losing a loved one, but it ends up falling flat. In the beginning, Ha Jung Woo and child actor Heo Yool's relationship generate white heat that the audience sensed the strong chemistry on-screen but it dissipated quickly. Some people might not like or understand Park Sung Woong's small appearance in the film, but I think his role is significant.

The first time Kim Nam Gil's character introduced to the audience, the viewer senses a connection with him, but as the film moves forward, the coldness between the two actors becomes apparent. Some people might disagree and find his character interactions with Ha Jung Woo's character are sufficient. A critic dissembling this film I observed abnormal friction between the two lead actors in some scenes.

It is an all-around enjoyable entertainment, the fun ride the director takes us on. It is a script with holes in it that will give you thrills, excitement, and poltergeist moments, but for me, it is not a classic horror film. In the end, I will not be afraid of my closet, but I will be wondering the script could be improved here and there. I will have to use my imagination while watching this very average to a good film.

Final Rating: 7.79/10
Final Rating for Story: 7.789/10
Rewatch value is 7, which I would watch this again next year or in the years to come. Maybe...

Read More

Conquering your Past, Moving Towards your Future

When I first heard about this show, I was disinterested in the plot. I have viewed many Memory related dramas and movies, contemplating whether it is WORTH THE TIME. I am a person who studies and examines a broad array of topics, and Hyperthymesia (HSAM) piqued my interest. Superhuman intelligence or unique, supernatural powers is a common thread among Asian dramas. HSAM is unlike Eidetic Memory (Photographic Memory) because people with HSAM (less than 10 in the world) can remember and recall specific events in their life vividly like it was yesterday. Find Me in Your Memory is an appropriate title as the synopsis described the Main Leads' predicament.

The plot is full of clichés and things you have not seen a million times before except adding HSAM to the script that I have witnessed before Remember: War of the Son (2015) and other dramas. It is unique, but I found some of the subplots a bit boring and repetitive that does not add anything substantive to the main story. It did not take away from the story as a whole, but I thought it bogged down the story just a tad in the middle and towards the end of the drama. It has romance, a little mystery, steady character buildup, and fantastic chemistry between the ML and FL that kept the drama from sinking. You might be like me and feel the sparks whenever the ML and FL smiles, cries, or even look at each other. There were no cringe-worthy moments for me.

Lee Jung Hoon is an admirable character as the story progresses, and we learn about his condition and his job. A few people hated KDW because of his age, but age had nothing to do with the character. No matter the person who depicted Lee Jung Hoon, he would have to act as a person who has HSAM. KDW did a terrific job, especially considering what his character goes through daily, except I am a little disappointed the script did not go far enough regarding living with HSAM. I mentioned above, the few people who are living or have lived with HSAM can recall specific events in their life vividly. The first few episodes do a marvelous job regarding HSAM condition, but then it gets off track from the HSAM standpoint only for a couple of episodes.

Some people mentioned his character memorizes news articles and scripts, but it does not necessarily depict HSAM. They are partially right and wrong as people living with HSAM can memorize information in bulk but to some degree. Their brain takes information in rapidly like a running film of a movie, but it is nonstop. In the drama, we would see him gazing off in the past, reliving a memory like it was yesterday.

Moon Ga Young is a great actress. The character she portrays is beautiful and loveable, not without flaws, though. It is difficult to pull off a memory loss role (Amnesic), especially in this drama. Some people will criticize her because memory roles are repetitive and overused, but if you are like me, who the bleep cares, whether it is a memory, disability, scheming, hidden identity role. She is an interesting character as we understand her background and personality little by little. She is tall and well-built. Some people may find her personality off-putting at times, but do not let it influence your decision to watch this great show.

I have not watched all of the screenwriter's works, but she delivered on a couple of decent dramas like Duel (2017) and Nine: Nine Times Time Travel (2013) that gave me pause to consider Find Me In Your Memory. Screenwriting is a tough job as they have to research and do several revisions before the final draft. I was pleased with the performances of the supporting cast except for Yoo Tae Eun's father, a professor, and a few episodes scattered here and there as expected. I never anticipate polished acting with no flaws. I was annoyed with Yoo Tae Eun's father for questionable decisions because he is a Professor of Psychology/Neurology Department, but it is not called a drama for anything.

The OST is catchy; it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it works nonetheless. Some scenes the music was uncalled for, yet oddly I am drawn to it. I especially like the song "Here We Are" by Jooyoung. For the most part, the cinematography was not bad. You will fall in love with the main leads stories. Some dramas you binge-watch, while other dramas not so much. Do it at your discretion. Here is a tip if you like the first 30 minutes, watch the next 30 minutes, and so on—little at a time. The Last scene gave me butterflies of the film Notting Hill (1999) - Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, but Korean Style.

Final Rating: 8.33/10 stars
Story: 7.93/10 stars
My rewatch value varies on any given day, but I will come back to this drama in the future.

Read More

One in a Thousands of Stories like Ounie Lecomte

Abandonment ambushes when you least expect it, crushing all hopes and dreams. We encounter thousands of stories resembling Ounie Lecomte abandoned at orphanages everywhere. Ounie Lecomte's auto-biographical story sows within the audience the agonies of great denial and depression but beyond lingers hopes and answers.

Kim Sae Ron's commanding presence deserves recognition for eternity. We see it in her eyes, and her actions distressed and frustrated with the man she called father amidst all that's occurred. The Director's long takes allow the audience to recognize how long the time in the orphanage seemed for Jinhee, the relatively small amounts of dialogs of Kim Sae Ron's character. Cinematography mastery.

Park Do Yeon's portrayal of an 11-year old orphan girl named Sookhee befriends Kim Sae Ron is nothing short of exceptional. She might come across a little untrustworthy at first, but deep down is empathic towards others. The camera shots did not resemble an amateur director's work. The bleak tone setting of the orphanage shows the sadness of this place very understandably. It is a visual account of Lecomte's childhood that she incorporates into this feature film.

How music geniuses compose is incomprehensible because they create beauty with so few instruments. It is astounding. One scene can have such a strong response from me because the music heightens it.

I come to share in the struggles, pain, and a new life that awaits the orphans as the film left a heartrending imprint. I will miss this film, viewing it for a second time, but I will find my way back eventually. If you are on the fence, look on the bright side, it is an hour and thirty minutes long. It may not be for everyone, as the genre might not suit you. There may be an actress or actor you identified in the film that piqued your interest. In the end, it is a film with a strong message overlooked for years.

My Final Rating: 8.78/10
Story: 9.18/10
Acting: 9.64/10
Rewatch Value: 6.5/10
It is a challenging film viewing the horrors of a brutal topic. I may hold off viewing it another eleven years before I watch it again.

Read More

AI Let Me Introduce You to Osawa Takao

NO SPOILERS

It is social suspense depicting hope and threat by"AI(artificial intelligence)," which is now infiltrating reality. It is different from what we usually see in Japanese films. The realistic approach in the Sci-Fi Genre, "What happens to AI if the reality that we live now becomes ten years later as it is." AI is crucial for deep learning. That's why medical AI is a dream-like development, and that needs to research daily continually. At the same time, the film reminds us it is very likely that we will become dependent on AI because of the realization one day, and if AI runs amok, we will fall into havoc exposed to the risk of life.

Matsushima Nanako's small role was impressive but significant to the backbone of the story. The actor that was amazing in this movie, Iwata Takanori, he brilliantly played his character to perfection. Miura Tomokazu's performance as the old school detective was neat. Osawa Takao's role is not what he had in Kingdom (2019, but he did not overdramatize scenes drowning me out but instead a worthy performance.

In this movie, AI for police investigation force called "Hyakume" will come out, but this is a setting that will occur in 10 years, unlike the anime "PSYCHO-PASS" that comes out in the civic system, so I think that challenges will be possible here as well.


What can I say I loved the design of the server room where "AI Nozomi" housed, it was cool. In addition, the fly-type investigation camera that the "Hyakume" utilizes had a decent design. There's a question of what happens to the battery, but the mini size makes it captivating to be able to fit anywhere.

The movie is excellent because it makes you think a lot, but unfortunately, there are some issues and pitfalls in this movie that will stand out. It is not clear whether this is a bad point, but the story had similar vibes to "Terminator," "Minority Report," "Platinum Data." I am okay with that. The battle for Privacy will be a new war ,or has it begun already??

It is a movie I will give a thumbs up to watch. See it. Either way, you will love it or hate it. When humanity is ready for AI, lets, HOPE we do not succumb to our creation and selfishness. Do you need AI for AI in reality?


Final Rating: 7.89/10
Acting: 9.20/10

Rewatch: I would rewatch this in the future.

Read More

Value of a Sad and Pseudo-Life

Screenwriter Lee Woo Jung brought us a near-perfect script compounded by the Director’s vision revolving around the daily occurrences within a hospital setting of the value of a sad and pseudo-life. Shin PD and Lee Woo Jung are inseparable since 2012 as I like to call it the Shin PD/Lee Woo Magical Express-Down Memory Lane ride. The writers of Reply 1988 and Prison Playbook bashed it out of the park with a visual treat to be sui generis.

First, if you do not like this screenwriter, then I will save you the time, do not see this show. Every episode is about an hour fifteen to forty minutes long. It is the one drawback and only drawback to a drama with steady character development from the main leads. Read on if you are willing to maybe think about viewing Hospital Playlist, aka Sage of Life.

What is the reason why so many people were enthusiastic, ‘sad and happy? It was not your typical backstabbing hospital politics drama. It was a medical drama that broke the traditional framework and made us more aware of humanism; we called it empathy rather than a doctor's story. It was different from Life (2018), Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim (2016), or Chocolate (2019). The Director’s passion for editing without an editor was to complete a drama full of detail, and the nostalgic playbook of the Yoo Jung artist formed a sympathetic band beyond generations. I give kudos to the cinematography. Of course, it would be a drama for nothing without clichés sprinkled into the story.

First-rate acting at its finest. Actor Jo Jung Seok demonstrates his irreplaceable presence through his character Lee Ik Jun. Without spoiling when it occurs, I am naming the comical scenes his role creates with his company alone. He made some humorous scenes, “Das Vader, Pick Me dance, Frog King eyes, and subway guide,” which had become a central topic of discussion throughout the drama. One word his character generates DE-STRESS situations.

Jo Jung Seok’s whole character’s essence is the ability to mingle with several surrounding characters, focus on their work, and relieve them of their presence. Jo Jung Seok has developed a unique sense of life-tight acting, giving him persuasion and empathy for the situation and engaging in Anbang Theater style with a friendly fascination that we see with the ambassador in the show. It may be offputting, but his role intended to engage in comical antics.

If that is not enough, Kim Joon plays the winning and always hungry son Lee Woo Joo of Jo Jung Seok. His eyes are beguiling that can manipulate you to no end in sight. He is an impressive child actor who I am looking forward to in the coming years.

The heroine of the show actress Jeon Mi Do was phenomenal her first time on screen portraying a Professor of Neurosurgery. She has a unique screen presence and acting style from her critical success attributed to Anbang Theatre and Musical Theatre. The real eye-opener in the drama, not that she cannot act far from it; it is she cannot sing. Granted, we do hear her angel voice on the OST, but there is a stark difference, which the writers hit on this early. The chemistry with her co-leads is natural that a month or two months of acting cannot teach, but her years of stage/music theater taught her well. She did not appear stiff, which I consider that a plus.

Yoo Yeon Sook, Jung Kyung Ho, and Kim Dae Myung were equally impressive in their roles. You know the Director and Screenwriter did a marvelous job when the viewer can connect with working individuals in a demanding profession that do not get the respect they deserve every day. You will fall in love with Kim Da Myung’s stoic facial expressions/antisocial nature, Yoo Yeon Sook's kindhearted nature, and Jung Kyung Ho’s grave but tenderhearted answers to the patient's family. They are all talented gifted with musical talents, not just acting from the soul.

There were so many new and old faces; they all did a great job on screen. I am no medical expert, but in my eyes, the surgeries performed looked realistic to a certain extent, but like all medical shows bound to be slipups. You may find a slipup here and there, but do not let it discourage you from watching this extraordinary show. The only negatives are there is no real story. The story revolves around the lives of five friends working at a Medical Hospital, but do not let it influence your decision.

The OST was a hit in South Korea, and I, for one, liked the music choices. Every episode, the band the five friends meet once a week or when their schedule is not chaotic to perform a particular song. I viewed every episode at least two times, and the get-togethers are an intricate part of the story. What I got out of this drama, which I hope Season 2 continues this extraordinary story, friendship should not stop at College but extend into our workplace or virtual workplace long after we form attachments. Bonds damaged and amended along the way. One thing I am looking forward to how Season 2 OST will top Season 1 OST.

It is maybe not Bing-Worthy material, but savoring every minute may be an episode every other day. Watch the first fifteen minutes of the first episode if you like, watch the next fifteen minutes. It is all around a tremendous enjoyable show that will have you laughing, maybe tearing up, or cursing. I recommend this show even if it is a one time watch for you. Hop on the "Shin PD/Lee Woo Magical Express-Down Memory Lane ride."


Final Rating: 9.20/10
Story: 8.90/10
Acting: 9.76/10

Rewatch Value: I would rewatch it again in a heartbeat.

Read More

Finding Oneself

Read at Discretion:

How South Koreans name titles it is a mystery to me? The story itself is intriguing that keeps you glued to the screen. I would recommend everyone willing to see it. The title Nobody Knows or No One Knows a curious title for SBS Drama, and without realizing the viewer’s attention is gazing, not following the scenes as we are absorbed in a web of entanglements.

A director’s effectiveness to depict a story depends on the actors, locations, visuals, and what type of music he or she mixes into the scenes depending on the kind of drama. In this case, the viewer is captivated from the start in the Detective's search for answers. It is not flawless by no means, but it takes you on a steady journey through the compelling character studies from episode one to sixteen.

Director Lee Jung Heum had the fortunate pleasure of working with a few of the actors in his previous projects while it was his first time collaborating with screenwriter Kim Eun Hyang. Actress Kim Seo Hyung was a perfect choice for the apathetic character Cha Young Jin she portrays on camera, but we soon learn about the inner demons facing her regularly. Her character is easy to identify with; her role briefly and meaningfully without warning touches on serious topics. People interact with characters on various levels like myself, but if you find yourself drawn into the story, all the characters have splashy attributes.

Young Actor Ahn Ji Ho whose character Go Eun Ho has a longstanding relationship with KSH character is an incredible talent. He truly is a remarkable kid. The collaboration of talented actors draws us into their world of sorrow, enjoyment, and all the emotions mounting up every episode. Whoever sees, but does not observe the little intricacies involved are missing the grand scheme of things. The crime and mystery aspect holds up well, which keeps the watcher engaged.

Every character shot is necessary for the desired effect towards the end. I am not a particular fan of Park Hoon’s, but wow, he deserved credit for his acting skills. I am figuring out Jang Young Nam acting can blow me away sometimes even if it is a minor role or a significant role, either way, I am satisfied by her. The music deserves recognition like a lot of K-Dramas, but there are soundtracks out there that blend perfectly into the background of scenes like Nobody Knows. I will be adding the OST to my playlist. It is a compliment to the quality of music utilized.

The cinematography is breathtaking as the cinematographer or director artistic decisions utilized in the way of combining a dark mood and light mood for the viewer when it calls for it. I will mention this again, but everybody has different tastes in dramas, so it might not be for you. If you like to watch a well-crafted story unfolding slowly, yet a little predictable, I guarantee it will at least be an average to good crime, mystery, thriller drama. Again everything does not have to be realistic. It can stray a little from reality. It is a rarity for me, but below:

Final Rating: 9.14
Rewatch value is 7.48, as I need time to recoup maybe a year before I watch this excellent crime drama again.

Quick Note: Do not have high hopes watching this; instead, expect the least and you will be pleasantly surprised by this gem.

Can we truly be Saved under the right circumstances!!!

Read More

Dreaming of the Stars

The 96% Male Cast might distress you, but the excellent acting by the Two Male Leads convivial gatherings struck a chord with me. The film depicts King Sejong, aka (Sejong the Great) stargazing, from the use of Macro focusing, at heart his love, and support for his subjects.


The Director Heo Jin Ho is no stranger to Korean Cinema. He teamed up with screenwriter Lee Ji Min for a second go-around, first-time collaborating on The Last Princess (2016). His professionalism is brilliantly denuding the facial expressions of the characters in this psychological Bromance affair; A scientist of Peasant Birth and the King of Joseon Dynasty of Korea. The storytelling not on par with the warm-hearted Jang Young Shil (2016) drama paralleled to a darker tone in this film drama.


Historical inaccuracies will show its face, but it is Han Seok Kyu's reprisal as King Sejong, eight years apart from his portrayal in Tree with Deep Roots (2011) with apprehensive curiosity. Choi Min Shik has reached the pinnacle of success in the South Korean Film Industry sparking my vested interest in the Duo of these two actors. It's been twenty-six years since HSK and CMS worked together on the drama The Moon of Seoul (1994). Of course, I might come off a little bias.


The Forbidden Kingdom (2019) is like meeting the existential figures of Sejong and Jang Young-Shil directly with Han Seok-Kyu and Choi Min-Sik's acting styles. The powerhouse working in this film impressed me with the ability to tell stories with one line. You will have to view it to detect the context of the line. HSK and CMS approached this project with equal gusto to a somewhat monotonous plot with the limitations of HSK and CMS's characters.


Even though there was a lot of Star Power in this film from Heo Joon Ho, Kim Tae Woo, Kim Won Hae, their characters' washed away from the overpowering acting of HSK and CMS. The music did not impress me, but it did not hold me back from watching this film.


After viewing this film, I covet a friend who can see the dream I envision and talk to daily. Even though I do not shed tears, the film intimidates me to have someone who can share tears with like Sejong and Jang Young-Shil. Watch this film if you want to see Stellar Acting by the Male Leads on a day you have nothing to watch.


Final Rating: 7.96/10
Story: 7.48/10
Acting: Han Seok-Kyu and Choi Min-Sik's acting 9.7/10, Rest of Cast: 7.40/10, Overall: 8.51/10
Rewatch Value:
It is rewatchable.

Read More

Korean Politics through Turbulent Times

I hope more drama lovers would stumble upon this old classic K-Drama. Everyone can see why Sandglass is a highly respected formative K-drama that sets the bar high for other dramas to follow once watched. Today's modern Romantic-comedies, melodramas, and Flower Boy Shows have omitted a lot of Korea's important history that shaped the nation they are today that Sandglass can fill you in on.

It was the second collaboration of director, Kim Jong Hak, and screenwriter, Song Ji Na working together. The first instance occurred on the project of Eyes of Dawn (1991) that dealt with the turbulent times of the Japanese Colonial period to the Korean War. The director interfuses real events filmed during these turbulent times spanning two decades into the filming of Sandglass to give the show added authenticity. The show received high ratings during its run averaging 50.8%.

I would recommend viewers watch it at their discretion considering the violence and rollercoaster of emotions throughout the drama. The actors put the script in action, expertly depicting the journey of pain, sorrow, and redemption they take. Their paths are different from what they ever imagine. You can say it is a little overacted, but the characters are like real people with real-life troubles coming alive on the screen. I especially enjoyed the music, but some people might find it cheesy. The costume sets were a bit average than I expected, but I do not care for 100% authenticity. They depicted the periods correctly, so it did not detour from the viewing experience. Last note, watch this gem if you are into politics, and you want to learn little bit about Korea's history.

My Final Rating: 8.49964.
It is a rewatchable show, but I have seen this three times, so it takes me years before I can watch a gem like this again, so do not be fooled by 6.5.

Read More

Running Towards Your Past

Stop and Take a Breather for a minute. Are you out of breath? We are always thinking and Running away from something. The Liberation and solidarity at the same time lag when coming to a vague sense of loss. Not everyone has an innocent and carefree youth to cherish and look back on. There are individuals everywhere that walk in the same footsteps of the character Jin Soo. We might not see it occurring in our daily lives. The film has that ambiance of a true story.


Relatively new Director Oh Won-Jae did a professional job mixing addicting and compelling background music with the bleak winter cold backdrop of the countryside. Oh Won-Jae has worked as an assistant director and director of several independent films, including "Bad Boy" and "Hunting." His low-budget independent movie "Land of Stranger," gaining praise at the 19th Jeonju International Film Festival competition, caught the attention of Jang Dong Yoon. JDY elected to collaborate with this director for his next project, coming off his highly successful drama, The Tale of Nokdu of 2019.


Jang Dong-Yoon's glowing appearance was memorable. A movie that reminds you of your memories of school days, a film that draws on the darkness of wandering youth with an overarching gaze. It will connect with individuals who had similar experiences, but anybody can reminisce about an old friendship that feeling of hubris in their life. Seo Byuk Joon's presence perturbs and comforts Jang Dong-Yoon character a great deal hence what the movie revolves around. The actors' ages should not sway your decisions to stay away. Han Yi Jin depicts a delinquent crude High School youth appearance. All the actors do a marvelous job in this low budget independent film.


The warmth, sadness, freedom of the Jang Dong Yoon running scenes percolated through the audience. It is not a perfect film, but people will respect the high-quality edited shots in creating this feature film. I believe this filmmaker has a bright future with unlimited potential. The piano music will yank you into this story, but every person is unique so that it might detract you away. You never know. Give this a chance, and you might have found something that you might enjoy.

Final Rating: 8.55/10
Acting: 9.22/10

Rewatch Value: I will watch this again when time permits itself still. In my eyes an excellent movie.

Read More

Love for Family

Moviegoers should think about watching this film with a relative or somebody you know because it is a charged fairytale story of Cardinal Kim Souhwan's childhood that might force a tear or two. It is a faith-based film, so some of you may forgo this work of art. It is a slow-moving but rewarding message. The film, based on the work of the late Jeong Chae-Bong, well-known for his children's stories, depicts the poor environment Cardinal Kim Souhwan grew up but do not let the rich scenery trick you.


The film captures the beautiful images of the natural landscape with vast fields, clear skies, and lush green mountains within South Korea's countryside. The cinematography paints a portrait of the 7-year old Kim Souhwan who wanted to become a ginseng seller rather than a priest for his parents. Circumstances in his life sown in the process of finding his faith and encouraging hope, justice, and religions have no walls in South Korea. He was an imperfect human being who had faults and regrets of not doing enough to combat poverty in South Korea.


The young actor who portrayed the 7-year old Kim Souhwan, Lee Kyung Hoon, was his first significant role. He depicted the young Dong Baek in Memorist. His pure appearance, innocent smile touch the viewer's soul. The message that the audience asks with a warm gaze what is bone-wrenching introspection and the heart's genuineness about the ego.


Lee Hang Na, who has has been active in feature films, and dramas superb as Souhwan's mother. She had a difficult mother's look that revealed the despair and hope. She was loving and caring that you may connect with her character. It was a turbulent time under Japanese Occupation, exposing the halves and have-nots. I cannot imagine living in such times, especially the underground Christians persecuted in the 1800s, South Korea, which the film lightly touches.

Other Prominent actors Ahn Nae Sang, Kang Shin Il, Song Chang Eui, Lee Yul Eum, and others no matter the small role or significant role they played in this film took upon themselves to depict the struggles we all must fight within us.


The music livens the shots that may appear like a sermon, but its nothing like that. People will struggle and fight their way through life, but family is the backbone.

I do not consider these spoilers since anybody can read about the history of the Japanese Rule of South Korea. The film fails at capturing the cruelty of the Japanese Occupation that the movie exposes the Japanese Rule to a certain extent.

It is a fairytale-like production so I can rationalize why they cut his siblings from seven to one. These are the only two things I took offense with, but it is understandable.

Watch this with a family member. Please do not go into this film already prejudging it. Cardinal Kim Soohwan once said, "I raised a special seed in my heart; it was the love of my family."


Final Rating: 8.23/10

Acting: 9.07/10
Rewatch Value: 5/10

It is a moving story, but one that I may not be able to watch again for a long time.

Read More

WDH's Appealing Facial Expressions

No Spoilers

Inside this parallel universe screenwriter, Kim Eun Sook penned a hidden gem that I cannot find my way back. It had an excellent premise that fell into limbo. At times, I felt like I was viewing an AD commercial in some scenes, and other times it was deft scriptwriting and acting buried underneath all the mess.

The writer's incoherent complexity strained the audience's patience. It exploits the same paradox elements in Nine: Nine Times Times Travel (2013). Maybe if you turn your brain off and try not to think everything will make sense to you. The Director who brought us Secret (2013) and Descendants of the Sun (2016) I was expecting a tightly knit plot, but instead got stunning visuals; nothing else.


Woo Do Hwan was the beaming light of TKEM. His dual role as Jo Young and Jo Eun Sub was visually sublime. Woo Do Hwan's perspicuous rapport with Kim Yong Ji, had me on the edge of my seat, hinting at the fervidness. I got to shout out to the roles of the Jo Eun Sub's twins siblings, for they were a time-out in so much occurring.

Kim Go Eun is an amazing actress except for her character in TKEM was dull and one dimensional. You may have a different opinion that would not be so cryptic to me. One Korean actor that is loved and hated Lee Min Ho. His potential appears to have a set limit because the characters he portrays in dramas fall short on many fronts; It is my opinion.

I am not going to explain it in detail. Yi Gon is an engaging character that suited Lee Min Ho, but the inconsistencies in the plot threw the chemistry of the leads off for me. The intenseness of the romance scenes between the LMH and KGE was muddy from the staggering plotholes.


The supposed villain of this drama wasted potential. The character development was weak on all fronts, causing me problems. It is a simple story dragged out a few episodes too long. The music was not bad, helping me through this show even though it was not original.


Watch this if you have nothing else to watch, and you might like it or might hate it. Even though I was not too fond of it, it does not mean you might not like it. If you have the willpower to propel through sixteen plus hours, You have the final say. Will the King solve his Mathematical problem/equation?


Final Rating: 5.28/10
Story: 5.26/10
Acting: 5.69/10

Rewatch Value: I would rewatch it, but a long way down the road when I have nothing to view, maybe on a rainy day or snowy day. Perhaps an episode here or there I would see, WDH scenes.

Read More