A not-so-cozy mystery/thriller!

More on the light-hearted end but perfect for fans of Beyond Evil, Sell Your Haunted House and He Is Psychometric.

This series is a fabulous blend of romance and mystery. Right from the first episode, you see the actual mystery (and I mean MURDER mystery) unfold in no time! This drama is fast-paced and speculative. The opening scene is indeed very gripping. However, the main characters' encounters seem too cliche, abrupt and convenient—basically, there's too much plot convenience!
But if you are here for the thrill, the guessing game and can pull through a few cliches, STAY! It seems like we have an exciting mystery brewing. The past and the present follow two separate suspicious disappearances, so let's see if they tie together at the end. I like the alternating timelines, the flashbacks add multiple layers to the story. There is an equal degree of suspense surrounding the other people living in the neighbourhood whose past connects them all to each other. With so many characters to account for, the possibilities are endless. You can't help but keep speculating and theorizing.

The actors have such great on-screen chemistry and the acting is like—chef's kiss (get the reference?) Their relationship has the ideal amount of pushing and pulling, ideal amount of pining and ideal amount of jealousy and love.

The music also seems quite promising for this one, so look forward to the OST's!

Read More

Feels like this drama is going to be universally cherished, an instant 10!

I have rarely rated k-dramas as 10 because those kinds are truly top-tier and close to my heart. This one feels like one of them. The character is a lawyer and on the autism spectrum which the drama takes utmost care in addressing. As a psychology student myself, I can tell that its neurodiverse representation is done right in many ways, exploring many facets of ableism. (Also, it's got amazing LGBTQIAP+ rep!)

The drama portrays how her co-workers are more or less 'accepting' of her but you may observe some forms of microaggressions towards the character even from their end. She receives pity and judgement in plenitude. Hence, it would be nice to see this show explore how people around her take efforts to address and overcome their prejudices in future episodes. The series even touches upon the capitalization of women's bodies in episode 2, so look forward to that because it highlights a great narrative on intellectual and body autonomy.

Love how each episode is dedicated to a new case. This format is crucial for addressing a wide range of social aspects and the show sets out to do exactly that. It leaves you to think about a lot of its themes, about the nuances and perspectives one can use to interpret certain scenes which are all equally valid.

Read More

We could have done without the teacher-student relationship, honestly!

The drama's aesthetics are pretty and well done, especially the scenes where Seung-yoo stares at the scenery and you can see a multitude of numbers and equations from this perspective. Honestly, a brilliant portrayal of the mathematical view that pulls us, viewers, in too. The subject matter also seems very well researched and applied in the scenes. Personally, I'm not very happy with the pacing of the episodes. Believe me, the story is perfectly paced but the pace of the scenes in the episodes itself seems a little off. Some scenes are too in-depth when not required and others have not been properly elaborated.

We all thought that they would show the time skip sooner but it makes sense to build upon their past first. Seung-yoo almost gave up on math. Without giving a proper resolution to this personal conflict with his mathematical abilities, we will not get him as a competent math teacher in the future. It was a good decision to expand this arc because there is a lot to unpack even in terms of the ongoing corruption at Asung. Only then can we see the two leads fight together against the authorities in the future.

Secondly, there is a long thread of causes behind their scandal, one that involves many of the other characters and their reactions. Especially Sung Yerin who seems the most affected by Seung-yoo's performance. I can't help but appreciate how beautifully her character's personality and context have been written and portrayed. It truly shows that what fueled her revenge was the extreme pressure and expectations imposed on her by the adults. Then we have the Principal at Asung and her need for power and dominance over her own sister. We are only 5 episodes in but the birth of that scandal was likely a joint effort. So far, this extended arc from the past has given us well-explained reasons for their actions because let's admit it, there are multiple people (in positions of power) that feel threatened by the two leads. In this process, the show has also grabbed the opportunity to discuss the modalities of privilege! I can see why Im Soo Jung must have chosen this drama.

Regarding the whole controversy about the age difference, I think the drama cuts it too close by romanticizing a teacher-student relationship. Based on the events of Ep. 5, Seung-yoo was the one who had romantic feelings for his teacher and they seem unrequited. But the whole vibe of some of their shared scenes, suggests otherwise. Regardless, it's an adult's responsibility to sit the kid down and explain to him why it's wrong (since adults are the ones in power in any relationship involving a minor).

Read More

The synopsis does not do it justice!

It will surely pique your interest if you enjoyed 'Lovers of the Red Sky.'

A historical drama with a dynamic female lead! The magic system in this fictional place called Daeho is very very... petrifying (pun intended).

The storyline really pulls you in, especially the whole context behind the female lead's soul and reason for vengeance. The male lead is endearing in a way that does not let him outshine Naksu/Mu Deok Yi, which I genuinely appreciate. Overall, this drama's cast is one to watch out for. There are so many promising actors and their interactions are super adorable. The special effects have been elegantly carried out and the action sequences have been skillfully enacted, further complimented by the exquisite production quality. It all ties together handsomely, showcasing a superior level of storytelling. It does not follow the most cliched plot (although a few cliches were necessary) or have plot armour. This enhances its shock elements. The soundtrack is also very catchy and has a modern touch to it! Look forward to hearing a sageuk rendition of Oh My Girl's 'Nonstop.'

I came in with little expectations, but this has turned into one of the most anticipated historical dramas of 2022 for me.

Read More

A chaotic, star-studded romance.

This honestly seems like fanfiction where everyone falls in love despite the need for professionalism in the entertainment industry.
Plenty of heart-fluttering moments, along with some cringy ones. The main characters seem to have fewer scenes of bonding at the beginning, due to which their romance seems rushed. But when they do get together, it is absolutely adorable! The actors seem dedicated and passionate about their roles which is really commendable. The plot is not heavy on action, except for a few conflicts introduced later in the show, most of which are predictable. Yet, it still does a good job of keeping you engaged and curious. The direction of the scenes has been very thoughtful, especially in terms of the set design and colour tones used in certain frames. I think this drama could have been wrapped up in 12 episodes but by extending it to a 16-ep run, they invested in building the relationships of all characters alike. That's beautifully done.
I would definitely recommend it if you enjoy the enemies-to-lovers trope!

While this drama exceeded my expectations, I do have two points to critique here: *MILD SPOILERS, BUT VERY IMPORTANT*
1. The representation of African people was inaccurate, or controversial even. Portraying it as an underdeveloped continent only functioned as a device to further the storyline of the male lead.
2. There is a scene in episode 2 where the male lead almost unbelts his trousers to prove a point in front of the female lead which feels too exhibitionistic and icky.

Also, please be mindful and grounded while watching if mentions of suicide are triggering for you.

Read More

I didn't expect this show to play with my heart like this!

Albeit a diamond in the rough, the concept of this drama is so well thought out. The storyline and the post Covid setting have been so relevant to the current global scenario. I think that adds to the thrilling experience of the ride it takes you on. The characters and their crisis-driven actions are beautifully illustrated and it really brings out their fatal flaws with clarity. Moreover, (omg) the main couple has such a wonderful dynamic throughout the show. You will love the energy Hyo Joo and Hyung Sik bring through their characters. It was refreshing to see a platonic take on their profound relationship.

I was a bit disappointed with the ending because it seemed a little rushed and I would have liked to see a more detailed picture of how they all bounced back from the quarantine and this proliferating virus. Yet, this show will totally leave you satisfied in the end, you'll never regret watching it! Also, props to the beautiful soundtrack which provides an immersive experience!

Read More

I will defend this movie with my WHOLE HEART... and with my credible degree in Literature.

I just finished it and came here to look through the reviews, expecting more people to understand how brilliant Kill Bok Soon is but alas, not many have interpreted the intricate plot and characters as positively. Now, let's look at what this movie was actually aiming to portray.

The characters are quite well-written. They have justifiable motives that drive their actions. Their interactions with Boksoon are not only complex and multidimensional but also reflect the realistic strained relationships one would encounter in professional and personal life. The dialogues very much support their respective obligations or responsibilities or values and function to corroborate their further actions. You could say, it was all so carefully crafted because each plot point, character, and dialogue served its intended purpose.

A major portion of this movie revolves around a mother-daughter relationship and while people would say that it depicts the struggles of a single mother, I think it goes way beyond that. It shows the juxtaposition of the mother's struggles as opposed to her daughter's, indirectly expressing how they both can only partially fathom where the other comes from. At the same time, over the course of the movie, you would see them communicating yet, also delivering so much more nuance by just being there, waiting for the other to open up, and eventually, hearing each other out. They both make space for each other and also respect as well as encourage what the other values. This movie is very much about the unspoken secrets and truths that linger in familial relationships. It is also about staying true to yourself despite what a harsh world's norms expect out of you.

Beyond that, it minimally shows the boundaries and expectations drawn out for women but nothing we don't already know of. I am glad it does not spare too much time for it because there was so much to show rather than simply recounting the ever-existing and glaring sexism. A more specific example would be the fact that Boksoon kills some very unlikeable characters for very clear reasons. She severed toxic professional relationships for positive and valuable ones which shows her development as a character who kills not only for a purpose but also to uphold her principles and morals.

I don't want to spoil anything beyond this but please look out for the underlying messages that the movie delivers.

Read More

No thoughts, head-empty... but seriously, what is this romantic relationship?

I think creators need to uphold moral responsibility while designing their characters. This felt like a horrible attempt at creating a 'badass feminist woman' because there is nothing badass about victim-blaming and acting crude towards survivors of sexual assault and/or individuals who are at risk for suicide.

And need I even get into the relationship dynamics of the two leads? We really did not need a student-teacher relationship. The professor obviously holds more power and authority, while the student just keeps invading her privacy. It is almost uncomfortable to watch because I just can't see those two bonding under any circumstances. Additionally, they keep repeating similar scenes, especially the one where Soo Jae gets in trouble and calls Gong Chan who rushes to save her. I have literally seen this at least thrice in the first seven episodes. Please stop this misery.

This drama could have focused more on courtroom cases and addressed the struggles of women in breaking the glass ceiling. Yet, it chose to divert all its attention toward some poorly formed romantic relationship that thrives in every conflict.

Read More

Messy writing, even messier storyline

Review for Money Heist Korea: JEA (Part-1; Ep.1 to Ep.6)
Right from the first episode, this show feels rushed. The whole scene of the team coming together for the first time is very abrupt. It would have been nice to get some of their backstories at the beginning, to understand how the Professor found them. Although the show tried to elaborate on their stories in the later episodes, they were nothing more than a few flashbacks, thereby hindering the characters from reaching their full potential. More elaboration would have allowed viewers to bond better with the characters had their arcs been developed intricately. The dialogues were also vaguely written at the beginning which made it confusing to keep up with the plot.

Coming to the plot, it is a little convenient for various reasons and some scenes seem stretched out and unnecessary, whereas some other scenes that required more focus, that could have included other characters' monologues (not just Tokyo's) were just never given to us. For example, a scene about Moscow's strategy behind digging the escape route and how he would have mapped it all would have been a good addition. Overall, they could have dedicated a few more episodes to smoothen such discrepancies out. Additionally, the lack of female characters was something they could have made up for in this remake. But you can already tell this was written and directed by men since many scenes are depicted through the male gaze.

This show can be enjoyable for those who haven't seen the OG La Casa de Papel. I would recommend checking this out first before you see the original Spanish show. For Money Heist Korea, we have six more episodes to go, which should give them another chance to redeem and improve the storyline in some way. Let's see how that goes!

Read More

A hidden gem of 2024!

The story is so fast-paced and the moment you anticipate it to follow a certain trajectory that most sageuk dramas would, it defies your expectations. The acting is so precise, especially from the ML who has a very expressive face and portrays multiple emotions and two personalities distinctively. The fight scenes are quite well-executed too, love the FL's parkour!

The entire ordeal of the ML having two identities approaches very close to discussions around dissociative identity disorder. Although portraying it as an evil spirit entails misrepresenting a stigmatized mental health disorder, I think in the historical context it is still very accurate since medical research had not expanded on it back then and many disorders were confused with spiritual possessions. I like that the drama could express this type of narrative so well.

Watch this drama, if you like:
- Main leads defying gender roles
- Good fight scenes
- Witty dialogues and communication between characters
- Fast-paced stories with cliffhangers in every episode

Read More