one-time-watch for the sake of the talented Shin Hye-Sun & Unique Story/Concept

What Worked: The story/concept | The brilliant FL | Mystery of Past Lives | Supporting Actors | Romance (ML/FL & SML/SFL)
What Did Not Work (for Me): The casting of the ML (-2 points) | The rushed ending (-1 point)
Final Rating: 7/10

PROS:
Kudos of the original & refreshing concept goes to the webtoon, but even the screenplay was executed beautifully in these 12 episodes and the mega-talented Shin Hye-Sun simply shines! The story focusses mainly on the romance of the main leads & the mystery of the past lives and both are interwoven well with strong cinematography!

Special Mention of FL:
I have been in love with Shin Hye-Sun since I saw her in supporting roles in She was Pretty, Legend of the Blue Sea, Stranger. Was eagerly waiting for her to make a big breakthrough as a female lead in a popular drama cause her talent deserves that recognition. Mr. Queen happened, and the rest is history. So when June came by, I was eagerly waiting for this drama because I wanted to see more of her and the story was exciting and she has delivered in every scene, every minute of the show! Here's looking forward to more of her works and excellent acting!

CONS:
The story pace could have been more even and wrapped up in 10 episodes. Right now for me, it dragged at the start (Ep 2-6) and rushes at the end (Ep 8-12). The drag made me put this show on-hold until it finished airing, and the rush at the end did not do full justice to certain characters (the second pair, family of the ML and FL and consequences of their actions) and the overall mystery of why these past lives occur.

Further the cast of ML is not to my liking - this is first drama of his that I have seen completely. I dropped the other titles, as he was not a very convincing actor & very lethargic; I felt the same here which makes him pale further in front of the vibrant Shin Hye-Sun.

OVERALL:
It is a good watch for the unique story-telling, the mystery , the FL and the romance. Some wholesome moments as other relationships are also explored in respect of the FL and cute moments of the second pair that make you feel good and giddy with happiness. Had the pacing been more tighter and equal weightage given to all characters, then it would have been an 8 or 8.5 for me (can't go further as the ML still drags the show for me).

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Love, in its purest form - can create Miracles ❤️

What is a miracle? One of the answers could be: finding love that is selfless and pure, especially in today's world. Which is why movies like this make such a deep impression on you & tugs at your heartstrings!

Story-wise: An intellectually-challenged man & his daughter live happily in their own world. However, their lives are disrupted when the father is wrongly accused of a heinous crime & sent to prison. Fellow prisoners & the warden mistreat him, given the gravity of his crimes - but over time, they realize their mistake & conclude that the man is framed. To make amends - they try to unite him with his daughter within the prison cell and in doing so - experience a Miracle that will last them all a lifetime! ❤️

Within this straightforward narrative lies a tapestry of powerful emotions:
• Anger/Frustration: when you witness the injustice.
• Happiness: when you see the love between - father/daughter, fellow prisoners, warden and officers
• Sadness: when you realize that there are somethings beyond you & you give in
• Hope: when you know even when everything seems lost and at the end, that is when miracles happen! ❤️

I know the focus was the above, but I wish they had shown the wrong-doers getting punished & accepting their mistakes in front of the main leads.

Overall: Highly recommend this to ALL. I myself held off watching it since long as I knew it would be a tear-jerker. Late to watch it, but glad that I did not miss this gem - one of the greatest film experience of our times, that has become a classic. In case you have not seen it yet - don't wait, keep a tissue box handy & watch the miracle unfold! ❤️

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Beautiful Tales Celebrating Life & Death with underlying Rom/Mystery

It is a very mature and well-written drama where a heavy mystical element of life/death blends in beautifully with romance & mystery. At end of every track - romance, the stories of the departed, accident/murder mystery - you get absolute closure, and there is a sense of understanding more than any other emotion.

Brilliantly narrated the different stories of the 21 souls who have passed away but momentarily resurrected by the FL's gift/curse to share their regret/last wishes. Each story is heart-warming & provides closure not only to the bereaved but at times are the missing pieces of the underlying mystery that impacts the lives of the main & supporting characters of drama.

The romance and mystery element are synced perfectly with these stories and at no point you feel like they are parallel tracks.
Very rarely you get dramas where they are able to seamlessly blend such a heavy subject of life/death with romance. The mystery also was not dragged but done neatly, leaving you with a heavy heart cause in the end you must learn to forgive & move on for the sake of the departed.

Would highly recommend watching it for the following:
• Great storylines - amazing mix of heavy topics of death, romance, mystery, comedy! For this seamless blend it is a 10/10.
• The acting by all but especially - ML,FL, FL's father & uncle. ML's uncle is top-notch.
• I am giving it 8.5: only cause in some instances for the last episodes I felt the pace dipping & [minor spoiler] I wish the ending case could be someone else. Not a masterpiece, but almost perfect!

❤️ Special mention for Lee Jun Young
Hyeri (FL) is already known for her work & as an idol. Many would also know Lee Jun Young but he is still called an upcoming actor. I think in 2024 we should declare him a superstar - cause the man has got it all - the looks, the talent (Acting and Singing), he's a complete package. I have been following him from some time now & the range he has in acting, who'd say he is an idol-actor? Only wishing him more success & can already see he has many projects planned!

❤️ [WILD SPOILER] MAN CAN KISS!
Omo, Omo, Omo! In a land of cardboard and fish kisses, this man make your toes, feet, arms, body curl & tingle in ways I never thought was possible with the way he kisses. Like seriously, he is already panty-dropping hot and handsome but the moment he kissed that was just another level. I literally choked on my spit - Hyeri you lucky woman! ~(˘▾˘~) New watchers you have been warned, LOL!

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Interesting Plot, Great Acting - just the drama pace can bother some (like me)

I was drawn to this drama given its premise - the focus on greed, class system (gold vs dirt spoon) and how far can humans go to achieve their desires and call it justifiable. And the storytelling was honest in depicting all the above while tying to a supernatural element : the magical golden spoon. Overall it is a decent drama - with the right amount of mystery, strong cast and acting, little bit of romance and cool soundtrack. There were only 3 things that I did not like in the drama and hence rated it 7/10.

WHAT WORKS:
✦ The Concept:
We see the drama through mainly through the lens of the male characters that are either dirt poor or drowning in riches. The protagonists in each class looks at the other and longs for what the other has - one hopes for the riches, while the other hopes for love/family. So it gets interesting to see the choices they make which then propels the story forward when their fates get twisted using the golden spoon. Now that both have what their heart desired - would they be content or long to be back to their original selves?

It was interesting to see the choices of the main leads as well as that of the supporting characters. We discover that the magical spoon is not unique and more common. There are others who know its secrets and have it in their possession so it is interesting to see how they have used it and whether they have achieved their goals or not.

✦ Yook Sung Jae:
Technically this is my first drama of YSJ. I have seen him before in Goblin and Mystic Pop Bar - but in both he did not have that much screentime as this one. Have always known that he is a good actor, but this drama proved it. He lives both the characters - rich or poor to perfection, and makes them believable, you will feel the angst and cry with him when he is poor and well as love the suaveness when he plays the rich guy.

I personally though that since he is baby-faced, like other actors of similar appearance it might be that he just a pretty face and not have the acting chops to boot. But am happily going to admit that I am wrong and will now definitely not think twice before picking any of his work. He carries 80% of the show and delivers in every single second/frame of the drama.

WHAT DOES NOT WORK (hence minus 3 from my rating):
✘ The pace: (-1 point)
I personally think if dramas have a revenge plot, or power play. politics or mystery element it should keep you at the edge of the seat. Also the ending of one episode should give you sleepless nights and make you watch another episode and another just to know what happens next. Personally I did not feel this throughout the drama - it was there in the beginning and ending, but the middle plateaus a bit. Not in a bad way, just not to my preferred liking speed. Hence I feel a few elements and golden spoon swaps could have been avoided and the drama could have been more enjoyable had it been of 10 or 12 episodes.

✘ The ending of the last episode & overall handling plot twists (-2 points)
They could have avoided it altogether. We had our happy ending in the middle of the last episode, but then they added an unnecessary twist. While it overall did end well, it was completely unnecessary. In fact this is true for some other twists in the show - it was unnecessary - but overall you won't mind it.

Had the above been not there the rating for this drama would be more - cause it has it all: a good refreshing plot with a message, great cast and acting/cinematography and soundtrack - the whole pack. But these make it a little lower than being a good/great drama and recommended as a one time watch!

Summary:
If the plot interests you like it did for me, I would ask you to go ahead and watch it one time. Maybe on 1.5x speed and with an open mind that the mystery will not blow your mind but would be nice. And of course, watch it for Yook Sung Jae and Choi Won Young characters' secrets and acting! ♥

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Brilliantly acted, heart-tugging & transcendent love story of a Beauty & Beast!

An almost-silent film whose beauty lies in simple narration & brilliant acting making it a must-watch classic. The story is of star-crossed lovers overcoming their differences through a common bond with limited/no words exchanged but acts of kindness; helping them grow individually while falling in love. Outside forces threaten their union, forcing them to make hard emotional choices that tests their fates. The film's themes are Beauty meets the Beast, their love transcends time & leaves you with the lingering question of who truly is a monster? (yes, I am looking at us - humans!)

Best Parts of the Movie:
+ emotionally gripping love story between two very different people (with elements of supernatural)
+ simple storytelling & pace (even when shifting between 2 timelines)
+ brilliant acting! (a lot is said with almost no/limited words)
+ feel good factors (comedy, good-triumphs-over-evil, nostalgic elements of childhood, warm family & neighbors relations)

Some Minor, Minor Flaws:
- Origin of the male lead/wolf-boy is only hinted, not explained in details
- Background of Antagonist's motives: he does evil stuff, but why?
- What became of a certain support character (Mr. Jeong) in the end?
(Not plot drivers nor do they impact the overall story. But had they been there, it would have made the film perfect)

Overall:
I maybe in the minority of people watching this film in 2023 but I highly recommend all to watch it at least once to experience the beautiful tale & brilliant acting. Just keep some tissues handy. Do not drop it thinking the picture quality would be bad. While it is not the best compared to the present works, I truly believe it is one of the gems of K-movies, deserving all the accolades it got.

SPECIAL NOTE: Acting by the main leads is class-apart!
+ Song Joong Ki's role IMO is his best acting till date as he solely expressed his character with his face & body, only.
+ Kudos to brilliant writing, cause when he finally spoke, the scene is poignant, piercing your heart.
+ Park Bo Young is amazing throughout, but steals the moment specifically in a gut-wrenching scene towards the end.

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Sublime Sensuality, Exciting Paced Drama but Mediocre Revenge Arc!

This Drama is for YOU - If You LIKE:
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♥ Sublime Sensuality:
I love when romance is built up without excessive acts of service, nudity/sex scenes. To me this drama also was about second chance at love. The main characters are distrustful of being hurt again; hence their romance is built with less words, but rather care, understanding. The sensuality/sexual tension is palpable but not in your face. The leads did not even have a single kissing scene but their moments together were charming. Areumdaun/Beautiful (아름다운) to the core!

♥ Acting par Excellence:
As expected of actors in their caliber - all the characters irrespective of the script, played their characters to perfection.
Kim Hee Sun needs no words, she is flawless. Cha Ji Yeon, Park Hoon, Lee Hyun Wook - I have literally seen them in just one other drama respectively where even their minor roles they had left quite an impression. This drama was even better as they had more screentime to show their talent. I personally will now look up their other works & watch especially for - Lee Hyun Wook! Jung Eugene - I have seen her in many dramas, but she was not memorable until this antagonist role. She brings life to the character that is truly despicable. You'll want to pull her hair, bitch-slap her & hope karma hits her hard - which is only the result of her embodying the character to perfection. Kudos!

♥ Beautiful Cinematography, Screenplay & OST:
Costumes, locations, make-up - everything was minimalist but luxurious & the music is hauntingly beautiful & hypnotic. Both interweave with the scenes & characters perfectly enhancing the viewing experience. The screenplay/pace of drama - is not neck-breaking, but you cannot help but end up watching just one more episode. Inconspicuously, all these factors aid in making this makjang drama keeping it thrilling & (almost)-unpredictable.

What MIGHT BOTHER You:
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✘ The Revenge Served is Very Cold. Almost Frozen.
Given the initial build-up & despicable antagonist(s), I thought the revenge was average. Not unsatisfactory, but neither leaving me with a triumphant feeling as a viewer. I blame the script for weakening it, even though I appreciate that it was not draggy & the 8-episode format is a satisfactory timeframe for this story to conclude.

P.S. I do not want to detail the ending, cause that will spoil it - but it came quite unannounced with no preamble to the twist they gave. Again it is satisfactory cause everyone is hoping for it but an explanation would have been nicer, even if it had been in form of a flashback between the characters.

✘ Some Support Characters felt unfinished
Not sure if there will be a Season 2, but there were some characters like the SML & the owner of Rex whose stories felt rather unfinished. I say rather, cause you can be contend with their ending, but personally I had questions on what will happen to them now that the main plot is resolved.

OVERALL: almost Perfect, succinct thrilling makjang! 8/10
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✦ The above negatives are not deal breakers, but it would have made it a perfect 10/10 drama had they been there.
✦ I am slowly getting into makjang dramas, this being my 3rd after Penthouse & Perfect Marriage Revenge. I did not know I would enjoy this genre as much as I do, but if the quality/story is anything like this one- I cannot help but keep binging!
✦ Remarriage & Desires is special cause it is short & beautifully executed. I even rewatched some episodes, as soon as I finished the drama for pleasure viewing (Scenes like the masquerade, yacht, initial tension between the main leads)
✦ For those who enjoy this genre, or want to explore it (like I did) you should not miss this one.
✦ Will recommend watching the drama first to like the OST more, but here is YT link. Memorable piece as is the drama!
Seori - Wicked: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcKMeqRej1g

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A mild thriller - Not an on-the-edge-of-your-seat/nail-biting drama

Why I Started this drama?
→ Interested in Crime/Mystery/Thriller
→ This drama is highly rated across sites, and on lists of must-watch series

My humble Opinion: Expectations Unmet
→ Usually crime dramas, have a sense of urgency - mystery of who-did-it?
→ It is more preachy rather than something like stories of Sherlock/or gripping like Signal (2016)

What Works: The Acting
→ Jo Seung Woo - as an apathetic prosecutor is the first role I am seeing him in, and after this series and a little wiki info on him, I know I will see all his work soon.
→ Lee Joon Hyuk - probably the best, showing signs of a corrupt official, trying to come on the right track - but till the end we don't know whether he is actually good/bad? He is in my opinion, a survivor trying to be on the winning side to live.
→ Yoon Se Ah - she played a small support character, but delivered her twisted personality well (and her arc of mystery probably kept audiences guessing - whether she murdered someone or no?)

What Does Not Work: The Story (and pace)
→ The story was average, nothing unseen/unexpected and like a web was slowly revealed to us but we know from the get-go who is the final culprit.
→ This drama is slow paced, building out the characters and storyline but without any cliffhangers, unexpected reveals that would make you stay up all night to watch just one more episode to know what is the end.

Summary:
Forest of Secrets in an apt title - as this drama slowly showcases how deeply rooted the corruption becomes - instigated by people in power and when justice system turn a blind out to it, making the common folks suffer. Like a seed of injustice once laid, becomes a forest overtime, and ultimately harsh measures are needed to cut it down - but then again, can it be fully uprooted?

It is more suited for regular seasons, where the team tries to solve different cases than the usual single-season-wonder. (Maybe that's why there is a season 2 which I will watch).

Also in case you're wondering how I rate dramas since this is an unpopular opinion - please see my profile: https://mydramalist.com/profile/omo-omo-omo (am always up for a healthy discussion on dramas as well!)

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Perfection - you'll be grateful for watching this drama & love every second spent on it!

WARNING! After watching this drama:

• You will be grateful for being born and privileged to have seen this drama
• You will feel like taking a plane to South Korea and hugging the drama creators and actors for existing and bringing you such joy
• You will thank the inventor of electricity, and the internet + whoever is paying those bills (Extra hugs, if it is you)
• You will comeback and rewatch the scenes from this drama or whole, when you are feeling down/happy/unsure of which drama next.
• Maybe you'll thank me as well - or whoever suggested that you watch this drama!

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I have been watching dramas since 2011, and I can proudly say that this drama is close to perfection.
Just for one thing (read: the cousin/second lead ending) it would have been a 10/10 - masterpiece. But it still is in all the other ways and has become my go-to drama to uplift my mood/when I don't know which new drama to start.

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• The Story
It flows like a river or poetry. In just 10-15 minutes, we get the background of what happens in the present world and what kind of a guy, Jang Bong Hwan is. And after that, is just a roller coaster. All emotions ✔ - laughter, sadness, jealousy, anger, happiness - as the story progresses. It has romance, comedy, mystery, politics and action sequences.

• The Characters

♥ The FL/Mr Queen - Shin Hye Sun, I have been waiting for her to get a lead role after I saw her act as a petty-turned-good character in She was Pretty (Still 17 and Angel's Last Mission was close, but this has established for the world to see what a great actress she is.

From the first episode, her stance (keeping her legs apart like a man, shaking her feet, trying to find her Dragon) were such quirks - the body language brought out the comedy. Then the angst she shows when she discovers it was the King who tried to kill her, and when the young maid was punished to be killed. The romance - which she didn't want but still happened with the king (trying to assess whether she is a man/hormones have overpowered her) as well as flirting with the maids and Bin were such brilliance. And all in all - she kept true to her profession, playing her cards right - using her culinary skills to win them all as well as her wit to navigate through the dirty politics (Cue: 2NE1's I am the Best)

While the voiceover over Choi Jin Hyuk brought out a lot of nuances in her character, Shin Hye Sun shone the brightest of them all. I know this would be the benchmark and one of the highest points in her career, but I wish her the best and wish we get to see her brilliance in more dramas of such caliber that do justice to her art.

♥ The ML/The King Cheol Jong
This is my first drama watching Kim Jung Hyun - and man I am in love. (Waikiki, School 2017 and Crash Landing ? would be next).

His switch from acting like a fool to being cold and cunning - his eyes becoming slits and that unamused smile *shivers down the spine*. But then as we get to know his agenda to be a better king, the action sequences and his gradual but sure way to love his wife - just melted me away. What a great way to showcase - how a person can carry so many emotions and be a different person as situation demands.

The way your eyes slowly tear up - if you start getting angry or reflect upon something of the past, if a male actor can do it brilliantly - always scores a high point in my mind (the first one to do was Lee Min Ho as Gu Jun Pyo for me - when he decides in his car that he must marry the other girl - Ep 14/15 I think). Kim Jung Hyun does it too and wow - just moves you.

♥ Court Lady Cho | Hong Yeon | Kim Hwan [Byung In's cousin] | Grand Queen Dowager Sunwon | Man Bok [Royal chef]
While all characters did their part well, these support characters stole the show for me - and are worth mentioning. Most of them are seasoned actors and some new and young, but they were all well thought out, adding their value to the story. They are characters who actually supported the mains - while establishing themselves and carving a spot in our minds of their own accord.

♥ Na In Woo as Kim Byung In/Second-Lead
While Na In-Woo was good as the conflicted cousin/lover, trying various ways to show his love and protect the FL, it was all great except the end. The scene (Ep 9) when he finds the main leads kissing, that anguish and helplessness was palpitate and moreover, he was asked to keep watch (uff, burn).

The ending though was non-sensical. Had he not been killed (in the most weird manner, may I add - seemed like a desperate attempt to remove the SL and add tears) - he could have taken So Yong to safety to the camp along with the King, joined the rebellion and fought alongside them to help the King. Later on, he could have made peace when he would have seen So Yong is back in her body - and left to another place than the capital as a minister, or left altogether on good terms. (cause he ultimately wanted So Yong to be happy). Or stayed back and been alive. This plot line is the only reason that makes me give the drama a 9.5/10. ?

• The OST - 10/10
From the comic songs to the soft romantic ballads to the brilliant action background score (Remember that lantern scene in Ep 3 - WOAAAHH - Goosebumps!) - Masterpiece and deserve a place in your music playlist!

• The clothes, the set, the direction - the pace, the apt cliffhangers - all done tastefully - making you click that next episode button automatically cause you just can't get enough of this drama!

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To all my new chingus and old drama-lovers, if you are reading this - just watch it, and come and thank me later!
I am controlling myself and not going overboard to just sing praises and write on and on about this sheer brilliance.

MR QUEEN - is a benchmark for years gone by and yet to come in the world of K-DRAMAS

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Average, Over-Hyped Drama: Recycling Fantasy/Makjang Storylines

Being a Netflix production, this drama already had created a buzz even before airing. Now at the end, the only thing that worked for it were the stunning visuals, addicting main OST & chemistry of the main leads. It had created a great build-up of the mystical element but loses it with the lackluster revenge plot, unnecessary past life stories and conclusion that was just there cause happy ending is needed. Had already posted about it but this drama should have just kept with the modern story and wrapped up in 10-12 episodes. But alas - they stretched it so much that what was initially exciting became super boring & you just fast forward to finish it out of frustration than eagerness.

What Worked:
• Stunning visuals & chemistry of the main leads
• Initial, good build up of mystery around Demon & FL (power-exchange) and family fighting for power
• Cha Chung Hwa as Noh Sook Nyeo- just because she is a fantastic actress!

What Did Not Work:
• Unnecessary inclusion of past lives (the historical era of the main leads).
• Antagonists were not written well. Felt they cropped up randomly only to be beaten up by an OP character & just lost with no conclusion.
• What was the SML doing? What was his need - unnecessary love triangle to be written off easily?
• Comedic elements that just don't work & were not needed (the office workers, the gangsters, the secretaries & ML/FL's futile attempt at it)

The show borrowed a lot from fantasy and makjang dramas given it was centered around a mystical character & family fighting for power. But rather than taking it to another level or giving its own flavor/twist, it fails to bring anything unique and becomes dragged+ boring. What initially excited me: Love story of Demon & Human amidst Family Feud, gets stretched to a point that it breaks and is not digestible. It would have been better to end in the modern setting with his powers returning & discovering the identity of the antagonist(s). Extremely disappointing - especially since I had high hopes with the premise & this is my first drama of Song Kang.

My verdict to Binge or Skip? SKIP IT!
It is an average drama - so my advice is to skip it and use your time to rewatch your favorite fantasy dramas or something else with a better story.

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Magical Story with a Poetic Ending - Prime Showtime!

SHORT REVIEW

♥ Plot:
The show uses the background of past and present lives mixing in, as a haughty magician and honest policewomen join forces with ghosts to fight evils of society. With each episode you get to discover the main leads past lives, the ghosts' lives and how they overcome their regrets, deepest wishes and have a happy ending.

♥ Recommended:
Definitely worth a one-time watch if you like comedy, mystery, mythology, historical elements - all tied in a magical story and great acting!

LONG VERSION

♥ Notable Characters:
• Haughty magician ML who disregards his roots of being a shaman and employs ghosts as his apprentices for magic shows (also disregarding labor laws :P ). Over the course of the story, with help from people around him, especially the FL - he realizes his destiny, how he cannot live alone and must protect the ones he cares for.

• The FL is vivacious and honest policewoman, who is on her own revenge path, but meets the ML and his ghost apprentices - ultimately realizing how she is a part of the past life, falling in love with ML, avenging her father and continuing to help people around her. She is the moral compass which keeps this Magic Factory going in the right path.

• The Helping Ghosts & Spirits: Initially provide a comedic relief and bring the ML and FL closer, but overtime, we see their own stories, their own desires and the unfair hand they were dealt. But in spite of that they did not resent their fate, but chose to rise above it and truly attained Nirvana.

Special mention of Ah Reum - she herself was shown to be specially abled in her life, and so thought to help people around her as she got help when she was alive. Alas, her death was unfortunate, yet she does not resent any of it - instead chooses to help people as ghost and as her last wish!

♥ Random Notes:
• I always wanted to see PHJ in action, always knowing he is a good actor but dropped the idea after seeing him in Cheese in The Trap (blame the story execution). Finally glad that I watched this drama and saw his acting skills.
• Love Jin Ki Joo - beautiful and what an amazing actress. Other recommendation: The Secret Life of My Secretary, Midnight
• I saw Jung Joon Ho, first and last in True Beauty as father of the ML, and that was nothing in comparison the great actor he is.

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Directionless Plot & Main Leads

I had wanted to watch this drama since the time it had come out, but had been putting it off cause of the mixed reviews. Finally decided to pick it up but could not go beyond Episode 10. I have not seen the movie or read the webtoon, so my opinions are completely based on this series.

Issues:
1) Why is the ML like this? He is not a black and white character, but nor is he a gray one. Just don't know why and what is he doing? The purpose or why he is the way he is did not come out, neither does it seem justified early on, which made the plot drag and slow. Plus he looked pained/constipated rather than cold and creepy. (When I see cold and creepy, it would be like Strangers in Hell characters, or Yoo Ji-tae in Old Boy, Park Solomon in The Guardians etc.)

2) Why did the ML like the FL? That progress, that gradual story development was missing. It is not a Hate-turned-Love, but just randomly one day ML decided FL is like him, when there is nothing for audience to see and understand.

3) Why is Baek In Ha like that and why does everyone let her get away with it?

There are just so many questions and I was hoping there would be answers as we progress ahead but none.

The Saving Graces:

1) Baek In Ho (Seo Kang Joon) - because of his gorgeousness, acting as a wild hot blooded second lead yearning to chase back his dreams. (You can feel that yearning at times, sense of loss at times). His affection towards the FL were cute, but not oh-so-swoon worthy.

2) Hong Seol is good in terms of the puppy character look she pulls off, but she seems aimless for someone who is supposed to be hardworking and go-getter to be employed ASAP. And all of a sudden, she fell for the ML when she knows there is something off about him and he hated her a year earlier. Like why? Why would you do that? Especially when she is supposed to be smart :(

3) The friends, especially Nam Joo Hyuk - plays the character like you'd usually expect him to (read: Weightlifting Kim Bok Joo, side character in The Idle Mermaid).

4) Oh Young Gon (Ji Yoon Ho) - he plays a good twisted, narcistic and obsessed character quite well (as far as I could see till Ep 10)

I know it is supposed to be a slice-of-life, coming of age drama - but the message didn't come across at least till now.

Suggested Alternatives:
1) Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
2) True Beauty
3) My ID is Gangnam Beauty

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Vengeance can give Justice, but real peace comes from forgiveness!

⭐PROS:
The story's main theme is vengeance by a mother who lost a child and a child who lost a parent - who make questionable decisions while blinded by anger & grief, unaware that there is a bigger mastermind behind the injustice they are going through. As the drama progresses & unravels the mystery - it beautifully showcases characters coming to terms with their loss, grief, loneliness & finally peace - in varying degrees.

The latter is a great point shown in the drama - cause while the incident (loss of a dear one) may have been a common point for many characters involved, each of them has their own way of coping with it. And in doing so it shows the growth and strength of that character. Love the ending - I like how realistic they kept it without making it flowery in the end, cause such stories are raw emotions throughout which you cannot tie the ends with a flower and bow. Really likes how each character comes to together in the hour of need - in spite of the bad blood they had before.

⭐CONS:
The story is not new - and while the actors are all great names of the industry and deliver their role well, it was not remarkable/memorable for me. I have seen all the actors in other dramas and know how powerful they can be - here they felt weak in comparison. Not that they are bad - just that they are doing this for the sake of it - they are actors here, they did not live the characters - as per me.

Also, the pacing of this drama was a con for me, and this is a personal opinion. I'm someone who enjoys dramas having breakneck speed, but I believe while this drama maybe tagged as thriller, mystery - it was that but also healing and wholesome, hence for many the pacing would not be an issue but rather a very emotional ride.

⭐OVERALL:
Hence, rating this is a 7 - which in my books is a good drama. Not a masterpiece or something I'll watch again, or recommend greatly to anyone. But rather it is a good watch one time watch if these are the themes that interest you.


⭐ MILD SPOILER - to highlight some great work / small things but went a long way:

- Love how the son-in-law comes to take care of the mother-in-law. And even before that while his mother was earlier a cold character, it is amazing to see how in her heart she actually a warm person and is just looking out for her family - immediate and in-laws too.
- The sisters, tbh, it would not work the way it did in real life; but it was a beautiful relationship and very well done by both the actresses.
- The brother-in-law had a very minimal screentime, but still was so crucial at important change of scenes. Usually in dramas crucial information is lost because main characters "miss" each other and then cause a lot frustrating misunderstandings. I like how here the brother-in-law was the narrator in a way who kept the information flowing from one character to another. Eg: how he tells his sister-in-law about the reality of Cha Eun Woo's character. Also how in the end - he tells his sister-in-law about Eun Woo's mother etc. Also his mother acted as a conduit to relay the information to her elder son about his mother-in-law 's dementia.

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Started Out Great - Made Average by Past Life Story & Airing Schedule

This was one of my highly anticipated dramas of 2023 cause of the story & Cha Eun Woo. The downfall of this drama was its airing schedule (frustrating) & the past life storyline in last 4-5 episodes (complete snooze-fest). The drama starts off very well - with the mystery of the FL's dog curse, romance & comedy that plays out as she tries to break the curse with the ML & the supporting characters who add to the crazy, witty and cute storyline. They should have stopped it with the curse breaking & modern love story - cause the historical/past life was just unbearable. It was the same old story of revenge/past lovers/misunderstandings and executed very poorly (I literally 2x speed watched it).

❤️ What I Liked:
- Modern Storyline has a good mix romance, comedy & mystery (FL's dog curse, ML's fear of dogs & how they come together)
- FL's Acting is Amazing: even her human personality was dog-like which made it endearing, believable & not over-the-top.
- Main Leads have good chemistry & great visuals (making you scream internally at the cuteness)
- CGI was remarkable, one of the best technology + acting harmony!
- Support Characters are good, not overshadowing the main plot or leads but doing what they should: support & did it well!

? What I Didn't Like:
- Past Life/Historical Storyline: Complete snooze fest, did not even excite or intrigue me
- Past Life Characters: Because of the storyline, their presence seemed not required.
- Airing Schedule: It won't matter for the new watchers, but this was a very big factor cause the continuity was broken. So all the feelings that I felt - excitement, suspense, cute/happy were lost cause the wait was too long, frustrating.

⭐OVERALL:
- Good one-time watch, cause the plot is nice and delivered well (modern > historical)
- My rating is low cause it is not a earth-shattering-never-seen-before story + last episodes & airing schedule made it worse.
- Hence, 6/10 | Above Average Drama for me. Would have been a 7-7.5 had it aired more frequently, or binged it at one-go.

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Nearly Perfect Drama, Reaffirming the message "Life is a Gift. Don't Take it for Granted"

Death's Game on face-value may seem like a thrilling survival game between the human & the supernatural but is in fact a humbling take to address the rising suicide rates, especially among the youth and the impact it has on everyone. It is not an easy topic to address, therefore I must praise & thank everyone involved in this show for their brilliant writing, direction & acting to depict this difficult message. I have not read the webtoon hence my anticipation was exceedingly high with this drama given the premise & talented cast it signed on (The latter delivering more than what they promised). The drama is brilliant start to 2024, my only minor complaint remains with the ending episodes which makes is "Nearly Perfect"

❤️ The drama is literally flawless 10/10 for PART 1 & till Ep 6 and half in PART 2:
With its gripping narrative as we see how the ML tries make the best of each new life he is given, banter with Death and tries to beat the game. It slowly takes the shape of a revenge plot, as the ML realizes all these different lives are in fact connected to a single antagonist, who also had an impact to his life & those who he holds dear.

✘ Issue 1:The revenge plan that takes up half of Ep 6-7:
The conclusion is satisfactory cause it is another good vs evil battle. But the execution of it seems over-the-top heroics, illogical explanations & just too basic especially for a plot that had build up the expectation for a grand conclusion, to fall flat at the most important moment.

❤️ Ep 8: Mixed Feels, Predictable & Confusing Ending:
The last life might have been done as a shock-factor, but by now we can see it coming. It is still powerful in driving across the messages of - how our actions in life & death impacts others, how time is never enough to express your love to those you care about, how some people even in the face of adversity keep trying harder while others give in. Again - this is a grey area, but the drama delivers it with a heart so kudos!

✘ Issue 2: The Last Scene
We are at the finale - hoping that the ML finds redemption & has a happy ending. But the way it is executed feels very rushed, with no preamble whatsoever and basically goes against Death's initial words/rules? I know that this drama addresses a social problem, but the ending left me crushed/puzzled than feeling good. Guess I will read the webtoon in case there is an alternative ending, but the drama ending had a meh effect for me.

❤️Overall: 9/10 (Part 1 is 10/10, Part 2 is 8/10)
Personally it is one of the genres that I enjoy along with a cast that I love. The BGM score is too addictive & I hope to discover it soon in a music app. The stories individually are a mystery & when tied together overall and with the ML's life it just takes it to another level. Wish the issues that I had were not there, and it would have been simply flawless. But even that, it is one of the best dramas I have seen for 2023/2024.

If not the whole series, I will definitely rewatch the episodes/scenes where the characters gets their way through wits or action, making you pump your own fist in the air for their wins!

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Promising Premise & Cast - Plot/Writers Failed to Deliver

I had picked this drama for the fresh storyline, promising cast and hint at the mystery element. It never started off on a ground-breaking level but was decent till the first half. Post that is when it went downhill - in terms of romance and mystery which even the good actors could not salvage. Sharing my take - short and detailed review, on whether you should binge or skip it ....

❤️ Nutshell Review:

My Lovely Liar is a drama about a woman who can hear lies and runs a successful business to help people detect lies and save themselves from fraud. Despite her unique abilities, she struggles with trusting people – unable to make friends and form relationships easily. She meets a famous music producer with a mysterious past who she is attracted to. She is wary of starting a relationship with him but to her surprise, the guy is genuinely very truthful making her comfortable and they embark on a relationship while growing individually. But their relationship is tested when in a turn of events the guy shares about his past – which rings a bell (quite literally) in the girl’s ears, which can only mean one thing - he is lying!

The drama goes on to explore how the woman understands this guy (her Lovely Liar), investigating the mysterious past with him while discovering the nuances of her unique ability. Together they also navigate romance, past relationships, family, friends, new acquaintances and how it all shapes up their lives for better or worse…

❤️ What is Worth Watching:

♥ Good-Looking Leads: Kim So Hyun and Hwang Min Hyun
♥ Depiction of how social interactions and power of belief helped the main leads overcome their inhibitions

(works only for the first half though - the above formula cannot save the whole drama)

❤️ What Does NOT Work:

✘ Second Half of the Drama
✘ Wasted opportunity to utilize a good cast
✘ Wasted effort on romance and mystery – directionless since second half.
✘ Missed using drama to drive a social message on – habitual lying, frauds, dirty games in politics, police, music/media industry, journalism etc.

❤️ My Call - Binge or Skip:

SKIP IT! - Unless you have started it already and want a closure – then finish it (on 2x speed, maybe?)
OR you are a fan of any of these actors and just want to watch it for their sake.


---------------------------------------------------- ✧❅✦ DETAILED REVIEW ✧❅✦------------------------------------------------

✧❅✦ WHAT WORKS ✧❅✦

♥ Good-Looking Leads: Kim So Hyun and Hwang Min Hyun
♥ Depiction of how social interactions and power of belief helped the main leads overcome their inhibitions

(works only for the first half though - the above formula cannot save the whole drama)

They are a good-looking pair and delivered well from their end (can’t help if the writing is poor). Kim So Hyun is renowned for her acting skills, but this was my first time watching the ML. To me like many idol-turned-actors, he is not just a pretty face but was decent. Not groundbreaking but not a carboard cutout either. Sure, he has room to grow, I will not watch any new work of his solely for him, but he is someone who can do well given a good plot and directions.

Through each other and the support from friends and acquaintances, the main leads see that while there is still a lot of bad in the world, they can still open to each other and many more and not everyone will betray them. They grow as individuals as they support each other, get support from some people around them and in turn manage to support others who can use their respective talents.

✧❅✦ WHAT does NOT WORK ✧❅✦

✘ Second Half of the Drama
✘ Wasted opportunity to utilize a good cast
✘ Wasted effort on romance and mystery – directionless since second half.
✘ Missed using drama to drive a social message on – habitual lying, frauds, dirty games in politics, police, music/media industry, journalism etc.

The first half was decent & I expected it to get better, but rather it gradually becomes worse with the last 2 episodes just being super-meh, Especially feel bad for: Kim So Hyun (FL) | Seo Jung Yeon (ML Mother) | Ahn Nae Sang (FL Father) | Park Kyung Hye (FL Friend & Tarot Reader) | Jin Kyung (ML Mother) – because they are popular and some senior talents of the industry.
Also, Ha Jong Woo, Lee Si Woo – they were new for me but under-utilized else had so much to offer.

Worst misuse of Yun Ji On's talent: Have seen him in Tomorrow and he was remarkable. He was going to be here as well but the writers did him dirty with the latter half and ending.

✧❅✦ My Take on Themes ✧❅✦

Like countless recent dramas, the story progresses quite well in the first half (till Ep 8) and goes downhill after that in terms of writing. Therefore, even good/decent performances of the cast are not able to leave an impact both in terms of romance and mystery, which I felt were the two focus themes of this drama. Given the fresh storyline and some renowned names in the cast lineup, the expectations and excitement were high, but the bad writing could not sustain it and hence the ending was weak.

• Romance - 6/10

Could be an unpopular opinion but I liked the romance build-up in the first half. Not everyone can have the heart-and-flowers, bring you the moon kind of love story. I liked that the protagonists were wary of romance given their past experiences, but eventually believed in each other. They were awkward at first but that added to the charm. Neither were they boring as we witness some hot kisses (well, thankfully they were not the usual fish face/cardboard kisses of drama land).
But perhaps the writers & audience wanted more in terms of toe-curling, fluff romance and that is what degraded the romance angle for me as it lost the point how they were as individuals, and it looked very out-of-character to me. Even the romance of the supporting characters seemed strained and forced. Rather the writers gave us romance where it was unnecessary (parents of FL, other store owners) and forgot where required (ML/FL, Syaon/Chi-Hoon).

• Mystery - 4/10

The title "My Lovely Liar or Useless Lies" initially intrigues with questions like: who is the liar? what is he lying about? is her power foolproof? What is the past incident? But the initial anticipation dwindles after Ep 8, with random cliffhangers, changing suspects, plot twists deviating from the who-dunnit theme and making it boring. Even when the curtain is lifted to reveal the culprit & motive; it does not have a shocking impact, rather is quite expected at this point and therefore dull.

Hence Final Verdict:
SKIP IT! :(

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