Product of horrific writing ✍️
Plot spun in circles for episodes on end. Villains were non-factors. Characters were never in danger which kills the drama for me. Comedy was hit and miss. Rules change at the drop of the hat to fit the story the main character Mun was too naive to be the leader and he had a horrific case of white knight syndrome. It was a shallow story that started out interesting enough with evil spirits eating and obtaining powers of counters however they quickly became a non-issue by episode 4ish when he bodied the main bad guy with little to no difficulty. The use of telekinesis was extreme but the lack of use to prevent someone from getting away bothered me a lot which pulled my enjoyment out of the show by episode 9 I was watch purely to finish the show so I could give it a proper review.Was this review helpful to you?
This is just not it, So disappointed!!
The Uncanny Counter Season 2: Counter Punch was a huge disappointment compared to the brilliant first season. The plot was dull and illogical, the characters were poorly developed and the music was lackluster. From the beginning, I felt something was off and it never got better until the end. The show wasted the potential of the Counters, who were once intriguing and badass demon-hunters, and turned them into clowns or sidekicks. The new counter, Jeok Bong, was annoying and useless. The show failed to deliver any suspense, humor or emotion. It was a painful and boring watch that I regret wasting my time on.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A Disappointing Follow up to a Alright First Season
I had my problems with the first season of Uncanny Counter due to various reasons but it finished off strong towards the end. That had given me the wish for more of the story and the whole universe surrounding the concept of Counters. And somehow my wish was granted, a second season was announced with the entire cast which I loved, would be returning. I don't know if the wish and the hype for a second season led to this being a disappointment but throughout the entire season something always felt off about this drama.The one major issue the second season had was its failure to commit to a specific tone. Going from a super violent scene to a goofy fight in a barn filled with poop gave me whiplash trying to figure out what the writers were trying to establish with the second season. The first season was able to perfectly keep in sync serious and comedic bits throughout it's run but the second season failed to follow the formula that it's predecessor set. Another problem was the new counter that was introduced.
When it was announced that the cast was adding another counter to the team I actually thought it was going to be a great idea. However they completely dropped the ball with Yoo In Soo's character Jeok Bong. With the season being cut to only 12 episodes compared to the first's 16 episodes, leaving his introduction until the season episode was a horrible idea. On top of that, the drama spent too much of the time on him being an annoying crying fool all the way up until around Episode 9. I understand they wanted to introduce a totally different personality to the Counter team but they spent far too much time on establishing that he's a bumbling fool and only gave his character a chance to shine toward the very end with 3 episodes to go.
The one good thing the second season had over the first was it's villain cast. The Evil Spirits group lead by Kang Ki Young's character Hwang Pil Gwang was absolutely fantastic. Kang Ki Young played a fantastic villain, I looked forward to each scene he was in as well as his accomplices, Gelly and Wong. Jin Seon Kyu did a perfect role in portraying a fallen hero/anti-hero/villain with his portrayal of Ma Ju Seok. His ability to show the conflict inside of the character was top tier drama acting, I really hope he get's more main roles in his future because he definitely deserve it after this wonderful performance.
There really isn't much else to say about this disappointing second season, after hoping for a second season with the first, I truly hope this is the final for the Uncanny Counter's series. I love the characters and everything about the concept, but the writer's have shown they didn't care for their own work that they established themselves.
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appreciate well-crafted character-driven dramas
"The Uncanny Counter" has returned for its second season, solidifying its status as a remarkable Korean drama. This season reaffirms the show's quality, with its compelling characters and stellar performances. The actors are fantastic, and the introduction of new characters as leads adds depth to the narrative.While I'm not particularly drawn to action-packed dramas, I couldn't help but appreciate the gripping storyline. Admittedly, I fast-forwarded through some of the action sequences, but that didn't detract from the overall enjoyment. What sets this drama apart is its exploration of the challenges of maintaining one's goodness in a frustrating and often morally ambiguous world. It delves into the inner struggles of the characters, highlighting the internal conflicts they face while fulfilling their otherworldly duties.
The character development remains a strong suit, making viewers genuinely care about the protagonists. The way they grapple with their own humanity in the face of adversity adds depth to the narrative. The second season not only lives up to the expectations set by the first but also takes the story to new heights, making it a must-watch for both fans of the genre and those who appreciate well-crafted character-driven dramas.
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Disappointed by main storyline, stayed for characters, cast and some great shonen action moments
The season 2 of this drama was a bit disappointing to me compared to season 1. The scenario was quite a miss for me as its defaults outweigh its qualities. I foremost found the pacing of the show really not good: it took so much time to get to the point, when it was very clear from start what was going to happen. The fact that the series is centred around one particular storyline (with the fireman) did a disservice to the drama. It was not surprising and rather expected, so it felt a bit of a shame to spend so much time on it rather than to develop more secondary storylines.There was still some nice elements to the story. I really enjoyed to meet again those characters which I found super likeable as a group. I even appreciated the new addition to the team, as it added some novelty to their dynamics and despite the fact that he might be at some point kind of annoying. Another aspect of the story I appreciated is to have an overpowered hero: after being beaten pretty thoroughly in season, I found really satisfying to see him doing so good and some of his fights gave me all the feel of a shonen manga. I also enjoyed the cartoonish atmosphere with the super villains, they really bring intensity and craziness to the show and made it overall more fun.
The casting was still doing a good job as in season 1. I think they were a bit let down by the script but they did what they could with the material given. I particularly enjoyed the performance of Kang Ki Young and Kim Hi Eo Ra, I'm pretty sure that without them the show would have been less colourful and tamer...I am also strongly hoping to see Cho Byeong Kyu as a main lead again, he did so well!
The production was good. There were some pretty great action sequences with a lot of fun and variety in the scenes. They manage to not make the fights too redundant while still keeping some common framework to be consistent with the mythology of the show (with the developments of some powers as well as the territory concept and so on). The soundtrack was quite good and catchy, it hyped the action scenes well.
I would recommend this to people that enjoyed the 1st season and want to see more of the "counters". I think if you like the characters and the mythology of the story, you might enjoy it. However, the story is clearly weaker than in season 1, if you do not find interesting the main storyline followed through this second season (like it was my case), you might be disappointed.
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*ANGELS* AND THE EVIL SPIRITS??
Alright,this is super duper drama with great story line and amazing actors.First of all,the story is actually great considering they were able to follow up with the first season perfectly,you won't miss anything.
Secondly,since it's the same casts from season 1, everything flows naturally.
Well,for action lovers like me,you can go ahead and watch it,you won't be bored.
It's rare to see Kdramas with so much action scenes.
From the first season to this one,every moment was worth it, I've personally enjoyed every moment of it.
it's 8.5 overall for me!!!.
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does not live up to season 1
The characters are still as lovable as in the first season and I acknowledge that they tried to pull of an interesting and emotional story like in the first season - the problem is that they tried to outdo everything, like the fights, the stunts, the evil spirits - everything. And on top of that everything feels uninspired, the music is not fitting in the slightest, the fights remind me of hollywood and the new character is.. I'm sorry but I do not like him; to me he does not add very much value to the team. Overall I was kind of bored a lot. I know I _should_ have enjoyed watching it since I love the characters and that they tried really hard but all the overdoing of the skills.. the first ep with the schoolbus, like wtfWas this review helpful to you?
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Most disappointing Season I Watched
I do not want to take away others' enjoyment of this drama, but just wanted to share my thoughts. I love the first season of this show and highly recommend it. This season was personally one of the most disappointing seasons I watched. The reason being, is the aspects I really liked about season 1 seemed to have vanished in this season and aspects that I hope would be diminished from season 1 were enhanced in this season. I really loved the mixture of dark tone, realism, fantastical, spiritual, and even religious facets in the first season. It felt like the characters can actually live in real life hidden from public view. This season, the tone felt too goofy where the serious and intimate moments of the first season were diminished or not utilized to the fullest potential. There is a plot twist in this season I was so excited for but then it is resolved in just one episode with no noticeable change for the characters except the "we are a family" line. I was so excited to see how characters would interact with one another after being challenged with how different their beliefs can be when facing adversity. But then it gets resolved so quickly where I start questioning on what is the purpose and meaning of the drama if it gets resolved so quickly and cheaply.Personally, I really like the idea of the uncanny counter squad not being a "found family" like how So Mun said at the end of season 1. One of the aspects I loved about the first season was how characters can still be connected with their actual family living or dead to develop more intimate relationships with others to help heal the community and personal trauma. This season, it felt like the main characters actual family with his grandparents are completely forgotten as well as his relationship with his friends from high school. I loved how Season 1 had a story where the antagonists related to physical/spiritual corruption happening within one's own hometown/city that affected all of the characters and community at large. This season, there were villains who were more global villains that nobody in the community seemed to have heard about except for the counters and specific police members.
I usually do not write reviews, and love to appreciate any sort of drama. I just wanted to share my thoughts as a huge fan of season 1 that helped me get interested in South Korean pop culture. Thank you for reading and do not take my rating too seriously. It is mainly to communicate how I would recommend season 1 to others as a standalone series. You can watch season 2 if you like and you may enjoy it :)
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An Unsettling Balance: Review of The Uncanny Counter Season 2
The Uncanny Counter Season 2 takes a leap from its predecessor, attempting to elevate its characters and storyline to new heights. While Season 1 laid the foundation for an intriguing narrative, Season 2 falls short of replicating its success in terms of character depth and balance.One of the standout elements of Season 2 is undoubtedly the exceptional acting prowess of Kim Se-jeong and Cho Byeong Kyu, who carry the weight of the show with their compelling performances. They breathe life into their characters, infusing the narrative with a depth that is sometimes lacking elsewhere. Unfortunately, this season fails to effectively utilize the ensemble cast, leaving many characters feeling lackluster and underdeveloped.
The introduction of Na Jeok Bong, a character added to the mix, leaves much to be desired. Regrettably, Na Jeok Bong's inclusion disrupts the fantastic family dynamic that was a highlight of Season 1. The attempt at humor falls flat and feels forced, ultimately detracting from the overall viewing experience. It's a puzzling choice that does more harm than good.
Despite these shortcomings, the storyline in Season 2 shows promise by delving into side plots that help develop the characters further. The exploration of each character's background and personal struggles adds a layer of complexity to the overall narrative. The semi-villain character of Ma Ju Seok injects an intriguing element into the plot, preventing the show from becoming overly cliché.
In summary, The Uncanny Counter Season 2 does have its merits, notably the improved storyline and the compelling performances by Kim Se-jeong and Cho Byeong Kyu. However, the glaring issues with character development and the ill-fated addition of Na Jeok Bong hinder the overall quality of the season. Here's hoping for a more balanced and engaging experience in future seasons, as the series continues to evolve.
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Make you miss S1
Everything felt differentActing was still ok but the connection didn't feel as strong. Was there really feel of character development? Not really to me.
New addition was a fail. He wasn't funny and maintained his annoying status all the way through.
Evil characters - they out acted the good characters. I really enjoyed them actually. Kim Hieora played a crazy one eyed b*8ch really spiced up the show. I absolutely loved her acting. Kang Ki Young (one of my fav. supporting characters) who always played as the comedic supporting role really pulled off the evil role.
The story had too many loopholes that makes you ask why didn't ... that happen? Made no sense. Sloppy writing honestly.
Still semi enjoyable. if you just focus on the stunts and action. Prob should quite at S2.
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Aside from SoMun getting hotter, a lot could be better
Halfway through and I still don't feel as attached as I did in season 1. I expected a fleshing out of characters by this time, but they still haven't even shown the main villains' back story and how they ended up together. In S1, I saw how the characters grew. So Mun getting more powerful, Hana, Motak and Mae-ok becoming more at peace with their past, So Mun's friends overcoming bullying, CheongSin becoming evil to please his "father" and so on. But in S2, I didn't see any character growth at all, even with the new counter. As for Ma Juseok, the main focus of this season's hullabaloo, his becoming evil just doesn't flow smoothly as it did with CheongSin, I don't feel his conflict as a good person with the evil spirit within him. If the story don't improve by the next episode, I will surely drop this.Was this review helpful to you?
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Good or Bad???-
I waited since season 1 ended for this still I'm not entirely sure if it was warth it or not...It was good like the 1st session?? Definitely not but it wasn't horrible!
Things I liked:
- The all the cast did a great job with their characters, but honestly Kang Ki Young was breathtaking. I already knew that he was a very good actor (I've seen pretty much all of his dramas) but with this role, that is so different from what he usually plays, he showed us how much of an amazing and versatile actor he is. His acting is 100/10. He was a pleasure to watch!!
- also almost all the new characters were very good.
- I really loved how SoMun trusted MaJuSok till the end and never gave up on him. Even at the end he knew that it wasthe evil spirit and the PG and not MJS the one that was doing all the horrible things and the he could still be saved.
- the love and faith they have for each other as a team. And how they all are still there for another team member when he/she is having a hard time, but they are also there to make fun of someones situation (in a good way) and tease them...although they aren't all close in age, they have such a deep and genuine friendship that the age gap disappears.
- they added some good and powerful evil characters that the show needed.
- I also liked that we got to see more of Mr.Choi I really enjoyed his character.
- thay are still a bit rebellious and they don't always follow the rules / instructions given to them.
- MaJuSok's addition in the drama, I liked his character a lot.
- The last battle between the counters and PilGwang (in MaJuSok's body)was good, I really liked how SoMun killed/summoned PilGwank and saved MaJuSok.
- it had good effects/CGI
- it had some funny scenes...
What I didn't like:
- In some parts the plot seemed boring, not to much excitement in the drama.
- as I said before I really liked all the cast additions but in YooInSoo' case, although I love the actor, I didn't like not even one bit his character.I mean what the f- was even that??I found him very annoying and immature plus he didn't bring anything in to the plot. Because I really like his addition as an actor in the series I think that the writers needed to make a much better role for him. He couldn't even show his real skills as an actor with this role.
- we didn't see much of the counter spirits (Yung) especially WiGen. I really like her character, I find her very interesting.
- yes we saw that SoMun is stronger since s1 but still I wanted something more, I didn't see something that wowed me.
- I also said before that the addition of a powerful villain was needed and good but some times (meaning: in the most parts of the drma) the villain was a bit too powerful and the counters looked like a joke, and we felt awkward & hopeless...it was very frustrating...
- all the new characters were good and I liked their part in the plot coz they made it more interesting like the first person ChuMaeOk saved and HaNa's crush. In the beginning it was good but then it's like they hit dead end and (writers) we don't see them or hear of them until the end.The writers could have done much more with their characters. I really liked JaeYoul's character, I wanted to see more of him.
- also I would've liked to see some familiar faces, except the leads and the grandparents, they could have brought 1 or 2 more characters from s1.
- and the grandparents they were here and there but they warent really involved in the plot, they were just appearing out of the blue.
-we also saw that GaMoTak became a cop again, they didn't show us the how and they didn't even do much with it.
Pretty much, the actors did a great job and the writers/directors blew this drama up...?
Overall it wasn't all that bad but it could have been better...
Out of all the episodes I think the last one was the best!!
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