Kcdramamusings
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A Captivating Tale Between A King & His Favorite Baduk Player
Dynasty politics isn’t something new when it comes to Korean historicals. We always have a group of power hungry officials, who are either related to the Queen or the Queen Dowager, trying to force their opinions on the King. Corruption becomes the main subplot in these storylines; as such “Captivating the King” was no different. King Lee In/Grand Prince Jin Han ascends the throne when his elder brother (the former King) is poisoned. The only catch, King Lee Sun names his only son as the heir to the throne. Unbeknownst to others, Lee In masks this royal decree and ascends to the throne himself. While his power hungry mother and uncle barter for dominance, Lee In plays mind games with them to protect the young Prince (his nephew). Starring Jo Jung Suk & Shin Sae Kyeong in the lead roles, the show uses the backdrop of the baduk game as an intelligent ploy for the plot and the schemes, that the King devises to fool his corrupt opponents. Both main leads give exceptional performances, heralding the narrative in an intriguing direction. Let’s sit down to talk about their distinct portrayals!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/03/05/captivating-the-king-series-review/
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An Interesting Reverse Harem Romance
Chinese heartthrobs Bai Lu & Zhang Ling He are in the news for all the right reasons. Following the success of her Xianxia romance “Till the End of the Moon” and her current on-air drama “Only for Love”, Bai Lu is obviously a fan favorite. Similarly, Zhang Ling He has been riding high on the heels of his recent IQIYI releases “My Journey to You” & “Tiger and Crane”. Adapted from the web novel “Kun Ning” (坤宁) by Shi Jing (时镜), “Story of Kunning Palace” depicts an arrogant Queen’s journey as she falls from grace, commits suicide and transmigrates to the past to redeem herself. Surprisingly, both Bai Lu and Zhang Ling Zhe are playing roles that are morally grey. Bai Lu’s character in “Story of Kunning Palace” might seem quite similar to her portrayal in “Till the End of the Moon”. But Jiang Xuening is definitely different from any of her previous renditions. Zhang Ling Zhe recently played a grey character in “Tiger & Crane” and his “Xie Wei” has similar dark undertones. It seems both actors wanted to try their hands at playing shady characters and, shockingly, they are good at it. Directed by Chu Yui Bun, the show has a star-studded ensemble and is based on the concept of a reverse harem. Yes, that’s right. Jiang Xuening has quite a few admirers in this storyline and the show majorly focuses on her burgeoning relationship with each of them.Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/11/10/story-of-kunning-palace-first-impressions/
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An Unlikely Romance Between a True God and The Pheonix Queen
Adapted from the novel “Hidden God” (神隐) by Xing Ling (星零), WeTV’s latest adaptation “The Last Immortal” shares a close connection with the popular fantasy romance “Ancient Love Poetry”. Starring Zhao Lusi and Wang Anyu in lead roles, the show recently premiered to high expectations and is making waves throughout. I have been reading a lot of contradictory comments on MDL about this show; some like this drama immensely (like me) whilst others aren’t exactly enamored with Wang Anyu’s acting prowess. I had the same reservations, when I started with the first episode. His expressions seemed to mechanical and paired opposite a phenomenal actress like Zhai Lusi, his act was indeed disappointing. The show takes sometime and effort to get used to; I was mainly focused on the mystique surrounding Zhao Lusi and that was the only reason, why I persisted. But overtime, Wang Anyu’s Gu Jin slowly grows on you. Before going into too many details, let’s reminisce and rejoice!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/12/15/the-last-immortal-first-impressions/
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An Exciting Crime Thriller
How often have we questioned the leniency of the judicial system?Adapted from the webtoon, “Vigilante” ( 비질란테) written by CRG and starring Nam Joo Hyuk in the lead role, Disney+ latest psychological thriller answers this question and some more. After “The Worst of Evil”, I was expecting another exciting ride and “Vigilante” doesn’t disappoint. It is a rather fast-paced crime thriller that will instantly grab your attention and make you venture a guess about the protagonist’s thoughts. It is indeed a dark sojourn, no prizes for guessing that. Frankly, “Vigilante” represents all those victims who failed to gain justice against their evil perpetrators. It is gusty, violent and likely justified, even though there might be many who can’t accept the brutality extended by the main lead towards various assailants. The main character’s duality and his complex emotions form the gist of this storyline. What I loved about this show is that the script doesn’t shy away from using violence as a viable means to punish outlaws who escape punishments using the loopholes in the judicial system. Nam Joo-hyuk’s uncanny transformation from a romantic hero to an action hero delivering justice is surprising and shocking. The first two episodes project an anti-hero in the making, who hightails as a police academy student on weekdays and as the “Vigilante” on weekends.
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/11/09/vigilante-first-impressions/#more-285
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The Most Awaited Release of 2024
Adapted from the manhua “Hu Yao Xiao Hong Niang” (狐妖小红娘) by Tuo Xiao Xin (庹小新), “Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact” is one of the most anticipated releases in 2024. The first part of the trilogy, starring Yang Mi & Gong Jun in titular leads premiered to high expectations. Whether the expectations were fulfilled or not? That remains to be seen, the show seemed quite intriguing from the trailers that IQIYI had been stockpiling for a month or so. The promotions were in full spring and the show hit high reservations even before its premiere. The show was kind of slow paced in the initial episodes so there were many comments about the lack of intrigue. Frankly, I felt the same but it seemed to pick up recently. There isn’t much mystery involved when it comes to guessing the main antagonist. But the characters themselves are quite riveting and each have their own backstory. Let’s sit down and rewind through the initial episodes that are streaming on IQIYI!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/05/28/fox-spirit-matchmaker-red-moon-pact-first-impressions/
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The Most Amusing & Entertaining Adaptation Ever
Adapted from the webtoon “A Good Day to Be a Dog” (오늘도 사랑스럽개) by Lee Hey (이혜), this is one of those shows that leaves a memorable impression in your minds. MBC’s latest fantasy romcom is a rustic mix of intriguing characters, riveting storyline and a cute dog that you can’t hate. I was actually apprehensive about watching this drama; the only reason to start this show was Cha Eun Woo. Yup, I have been his huge fan since I saw his high school romance, “True Beauty”. “Island Season One & Two” has further cemented my obsession; so here we are. The pilot episodes do a decent job of introducing the characters while neatly weaving the unbelievable yet hilarious fantasy element. Well, you don’t have many dramas where the female protagonist turns into a cutesy dog, do you? Starring alongside Cha Eun Woo is Park Gyu Young; frankly I wasn’t quite enthused about watching her. Her clingy character roles in “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” and “The Devil Judge” were lackluster. So, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to watch a drama which features her as the main lead. But Park Gyu Young manages to break out of the old mold and turns the tables to play a bubbly character who is equal parts sweet and amusing. The trio is completed by Lee Hyun Woo who recently starred in “Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area”. Now, fasten your seatbelts as I take you on this joyride!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/10/13/a-good-day-to-be-a-dog-first-impressions/
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Quirky Characters With An Intriguing Storyline
I’m not a huge fan of dramas starring pop idols or where the storyline is based on the said idol’s ridiculous antics. I went into this show, expecting absolutely nothing. Surprisingly, despite its weird pacing and underrated performances from the actors, this “Underdog” story does manage to hold your attention. There is something charming about watching a band of misfits as they get together and decide to battle the odds to rewrite history. The show has star studded casting consisting of pop idols Xiumin (EXO), Hyung Won (MONSTA X), Lee Sae On (Produce 101 Season 2) alongside actors Lee Shin Young and Choi Won Myung. The first two episodes do a decent job of setting the premise and introducing the characters. It isn’t rushed, and we are given ample opportunity to explore their personas and current lifestyles.Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/09/20/boss-dol-mart-first-impressions/
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A Revenge Saga With Fantasy Element
Adapted from the webtoon “The Essence of a Perfect Marriage” (완벽한 결혼의 정석) written by Young (영) and Lee Beom Bae (이범배), MBN’s latest makjang on the block is a revenge saga with a fantasy twist. Starring Sung Hoon and Jung Yoo Min in the lead roles alongside an ensemble casting that includes Jin Ji Hee, Kang Shin Hyo, Oh Seung Yun; the show uses the time-tested formula of “Contractual Marriage”. We have a conniving family scheming and plotting against their adopted daughter, a high-handed chaebol heir looking for an escape route from the arranged marriage scenario and a brother-in-law vying for his sister-in-law’s affections; seems like a perfect recipe for disaster, right? What makes this show exciting and spicy is obviously the revenge element; the natural chemistry between Sung Hoon & Jung Yoo Min is so flawless, you can’t help but root for them. Let’s talk about the first two episodes, so you can decide if you want to watch it!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/10/31/perfect-marriage-revenge-first-impressions/#more-260
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The Best Thriller This Year
Adapted from the novel “Auspicious Pattern Lotus House” (吉祥纹莲花楼) by Teng Ping (藤萍), Mysterious Lotus Casebook was one of the most anticipated releases this year, from the IQIYI flagship. Starring Cheng Yi, Joseph Zeng, Xiao Shun Yao in lead roles, this male centric wuxia drew attention because of its unique storyline and stellar casting. Directed by Guo Hu and Ren Hai Tao, the story focuses on the adventurous life of our main protagonist, Li Xiangyi (Cheng Yi). Once the revered leader of a powerful sect, Xiangyi falls from grace after an eventful battle with his arch nemesis, Di Feisheng (Xiao Shun Yao). Ten years later, he reemerges as a humble physician, Li Lianhua, while cutting all ties with the martial arts world. But as fate wouldn’t have it, his peaceful existence is disturbed when he accidentally gets entangled with Fan Duobing (Joseph Zeng), a rich young master who intends to work as a detective at the Baichuan Court.Mysterious Lotus Casebook raked in 4 million reservations on the date of its premiere. Audiences were ecstatic with the prominent casting, that includes some big names like Cheng Yi and Joseph Zeng. If you are an avid fan of the “Lost Tomb” franchise, then you will probably understand the charm. Both Cheng Yi and Joseph Zeng have been a part of this popular franchise; with Cheng Yi playing the lead role Zhang Qi Ling in “The Lost Tomb 2” and Joseph Zeng starred as Wu Xie in “Ultimate Note”. Those who are familiar with this storyline might know that Wu Xie and Zhang Qi Ling are an insanely popular fictional couple (known by their ship name, PingXie). As such, the excitement surrounding this show was high pitched. Cheng Yi was recently in news for his xianxia romance “Immortal Samsara”, while Joseph Zeng was cast in the recent wuxia romance “Heroes”; both being major Youku productions. Joining them on this crusade is Xiao Shun Yao, who is slowly gaining popularity after playing negative roles in “The Blue Whisper” and “Till the End of the Moon”.
Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/08/19/mysterious-lotus-casebook-series-review-ep-1-to-40/
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A Fantasy Romance Between a Demon & a Heiress
A dangerous yet spicy romance between a devilishly handsome demon & a strong minded chaebol heiress!The tagline definitely fits the bill as we talk about SBS’s latest fantastical offering, “My Demon”. Starring Kim Yoo Jung and Song Kang in the lead roles, this was one of the most anticipated romances of the year and rightly so. While the concept of contract marriages is nothing new in Korean dramas, this show strongly hinges on the “Opposite Poles Attract” premise. The settings are beautiful, cinematography is lush while the CGI effects are mindblowing. It has been a long time since I watched a drama that instantly grabs your attention. Being a huge fan of Song Kang, this drama was on my “Must Watchlist” and I’m glad that it lived up to the expectations. There is something exciting about watching an immortal demon butt heads with a cold hearted heiress. They both have unique personalities which merge well and I’m totally enjoying the joyride. Without further ado, let’s dig deeper into the pilot episodes!
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https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/11/26/my-demon-first-impressions/
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A Time Slip Romance- A Hit or Miss
Time travel romances seem to be in vogue these days. Starting with “Perfect Marriage Revenge” and “Story of Kunning Palace”, time slip love stories are creating a lot of buzz in both South Korea and China. They are setting a new trend in the fantasy genre and rightly so. MBC’s latest historical “The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract” joins the ranks, portraying a somber yet heartening tale of lost love and reconciliation. Adapted from the web novel “The Story of Park’s Marriage Contract” (열녀박씨 계약결혼뎐) written by Kim Neo Ul (김너울) and illustrated by B, the show stars Lee Se Young & Bae In Hyuk in lead roles. The show paints a not-so pretty picture of a strong minded woman striving to achieve her goals, while going against the Confucian ideals in the Josean society. Pilot episodes do a decent job of setting the premise and introducing the characters while keeping their personal agenda hidden. The melodrama will most likely proceed with lots of confrontations in the upcoming episodes as we learn about the protagonists and the ensuing battles they will be embroiled in.Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/11/27/the-story-of-parks-marriage-contract-first-impressions/
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An Easy Lighthearted Comedy, Fun Watch
What happens when you are fervently trying for a promotion and are stuck with bad luck instead? You can’t stop your inner thoughts from spilling out and end up getting demoted?No one understands this situation better than Song Ki Baek (Go Kyung Pyo). Celebrated as the phenomenal newsman, he has been devotedly working towards the aim of becoming the main news anchor. His boss adores him & his colleagues are jealous of his perfect lifestyle. Alas, everything crashes when he gets embroiled in an unwanted controversy caused by his colleague. Bearing the brunt of the scandal, Song Ki Baek’s life becomes hell. “Frankly Speaking” is a fun albeit toasty portrayal of the inner workings of a broadcasting company. While the male lead plays a news anchor, our bubbly, no-nonsense female lead On Woo Joo (Kang Han Na) is the head writer of a reality show. Adding to this chaos is the superstar Kim Jung Heon (Joo Jong Hyuk). The first two episodes are entirely chaotic, the pacing is slightly odd but it picks up by the second episode as the actors settle down in their character roles. Let’s dig through the storyline, so you understand better!
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https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/05/04/frankly-speaking-first-impressions/
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An Impresive Start to a Hilarious Romcom
If you enjoyed watching the recently concluded romcom “The Matchmakers”, then probably “Knight Flower” should be on your watchlist. The premise is quite similar, a widowed daughter-in-law belonging to an influential family who lives a double life. While Jung Soon Deok (Cho Yi Hyun) portrayed a masterful matchmaker, Lee Ha Nee plays Cho Yeo Hwa, a gutsy yet happy-go-lucky widow who masquerades as the “legendary hero” at night. I jumped into this drama because Lee Ha Nee is one of my favorite actresses and her comic timing is unbeatable. If you have watched her in “The Fiery Priest”, then you would understand my point. She doesn’t disappoint here either; Yeo Hwa is a joy to watch, it could be the fight scenes where she punishes the baddies or her subtle romantic scenes with ML, Lee Jong Won. Well I did have reservations about this pairing, the eleven age-gap is pretty obvious; I’m not even sure if this is a noona romance. Nevertheless, both have a striking chemistry, and we are going to talk more about this!Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/01/15/knight-flower-first-impressions/#more-450
"Knight Flower" Series Review
There are very few shows that actually get me excited; especially the weekend ones. Currently, I’m juggling not one but four shows on weekends and despite this hectic schedule, “Knight Flower” always held priority. Simply because I couldn’t wait to watch what kind of new antic Cho Yeo Hwa would get involved in. The central character of this show, Yeo Hwa is the dutiful widowed daughter-in-law of the Left State Councilor. She was widowed the day she got married and has spent 15 years mourning of the loss of a husband she never met. Rather tragic, but underneath her demure nature hides the legendary hero who climbs walls at night and helps the needy people while punishing the evil. The entire circumstances of this story line is elevated by the fact that Lee Ha Nee plays this role with a dexterity. Her perplexed expressions are on point, comedy is Lee Ha Nee’s strong point, and she excels in that. Let’s review this hilariously ridiculous romcom with slight dangerous edge!
Read the complete review here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/02/19/knight-flower-series-review/
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A Fantasty Thriller with abundant Bromance
Two things seem to be trending these days on the IQIYI platform- wuxia dramas & Zhang Linghe. Following the huge success of his recently ended romance “My Journey to You”, Zhang Linghe is back in the forte with his new mystery thriller “Tiger and Crane”. Definitely another anticipated release this year, fans have been eagerly awaiting the premiere of this show for almost a year. Starring a ginormous cast that includes Jiang Long, Zhang Ling He, Wang Yu Wen, Chen You Wei, Ye Qing, He Lan Dou in lead roles, the drama hinges on the strong bromance between Jiang Long & Zhang Ling He. For those who are still waiting for updates on Zhang Ling He’s BL adaptation “Eternal Faith”, this show can be a consolation of sorts. Set in a fantastical universe where demonologists exist, the show paints a dainty image of the ongoing war between sorcerers and demons. Adapted from Huang Xiaoda’s novel of the same and helmed by popular director, Guo Hu; the drama promises an intriguing battle of wits, power struggles and sorcery.Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/10/05/tiger-and-crane-first-impressions/#more-185
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Not Exactly The Strongest Comeback
The 2017 classic “Strong Woman Do Bong Soon” was a sleeper hit simply because of the fantastic chemistry between the main leads Park Bo Young & Park Hyung Sik. It’s quite difficult to come across stories where a female lead and her superpowers are glorified. This edgy fantasy element became the reason for the show’s success. As such, I wasn’t admittedly excited about the new reboot. It may be attributed to the entirely new cast that has no connections to the characters in the prequel. “Strong Girl Namsoon” finally premiered last week. The million dollar question that piques our attention is this- Is the spin-off as well as the prequel? I will answer this question as we analyze the first two episodes and dig deeper into the storyline.Read the complete article here-
https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2023/10/09/strong-girl-namsoon-first-impressions/
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