Details

  • Last Online: 1 day ago
  • Gender: Female
  • Location: Somewhere in Africa
  • Contribution Points: 2 LV1
  • Roles:
  • Join Date: December 22, 2018

nfabjoy

Somewhere in Africa

nfabjoy

Somewhere in Africa
Alchemy of Souls korean drama review
Completed
Alchemy of Souls
0 people found this review helpful
by nfabjoy
Aug 17, 2024
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed
Overall 7.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 1.5

Saved by a stellar supporting cast and supporting story

Alchemy of Souls offers a really compelling fantasy world with impressive world-building and a particularly stellar supporting cast that carries much of the show's weight. While the main leads often feel bland and uninspired making me wonder at one point why they even had a romantic story line , the supporting characters more than make up for it, bringing depth and nuance to the story.

To be really honest , most of the episodes have a repetitive feel, with similar set pieces and stakes, making the middle of the series drag a bit. However, the drama really picks up in the last few episodes, delivering an engaging finale that redeems some of the earlier pacing issues. It’s a bit like those singers who mumble through the verses but nail the chorus—slow to start, but worth it in the end. I kind of resent the drama for this but I did enjoy the dramatic whiplash in the last 5 episodes.

One of the more intriguing aspects of the series is its exploration of power and morality. The drama delves into how those in power construct the logic and rules of what is considered right. When they fall, the next group does the same, raising the question: what truly defines logic and righteousness? The show suggests that if your rule serves the best interests of a large collective, then your logic is justified. But only for now- I particularly loved how the drama leaves you pondering the true nature of power and justice.

All in all, Alchemy of Souls is a solid fantasy drama with enough strengths to outweigh its flaws, and it’s easy to see why it’s garnered the hype it has.
Was this review helpful to you?