Flower of Evil (2020)

I feel sorry for the people who watched it while it was airing

This is one of the most bingeable dramas I've ever watched! Every single episode ended in a brilliant suspenseful scene that forced me to click "next episode" right away. It took me two days to watch the whole thing and it could have taken me less time but I had to force myself to pause every now and then because the tension was making me go a little bit crazy.

The writer created this intriguing atmosphere since the very first episode and I really appreciated how the flashback scenes were introduced to us, seemingly at random, but that helped us create an image of the previous events (even if they were often misleading). This is one of those shows that you can't help but create your own theories but that will surprise you even if your theories were right! I guessed a couple things about the plot and the characters but somehow I always ended up being shocked at the way things had unfolded. I wasn't very satisfied with the last episode because it could be seen as a bit of a cliché but the last scene won me over so I guess I can overlook it haha

The characters... they were just brilliant. They all felt very real to me, even the "evil"ones and the ones that can be described as "monsters". I really liked how the show made me research about mental disorders and ended up teaching me quite a lot about the subject. That is the type of dramas that I like the most: the ones that I can take something from, other than the story.
Also, I think this is one of those shows that motivates an actor to be an actor. While watching this drama, I often thought about how difficult it must have been for literally every actor to bring these characters to life in a realistic way, since the plot isn't necessarily the easiest or most common. I was fascinated with this cast's ability to become these flawed characters and make us forget about their other previous roles. Personally, Lee Joongi is my favorite actor of all time and his character in Moon Lovers was very imprinted in my mind, and I was worried about not being able to get into this story as much. Oh boy, was I wrong! The guy is a genius. He surprises me every time and I know I can always trust him to pick amazing stories and characters. Do Hyun Soo's subtleties weren't easy to notice but they were ALWAYS there. I was living for his chemistry with Moon Chae Won (Cha Ji Won) and Seo Hyun Woo (Kim Moo Jin). I loved their development as characters and the ups and downs of their relationships. Kim Ji Hoon (Baek Hee Sung) gave me the CHILLS, in a way not a lot of other characters had done. In fact, he was one of the most shocking characters I've ever seen. I was strangely attracted to Do Min Seok in the same way a microbiologist is attracted to microbes LOL and our little Eunha was always a pleasure to watch and warmed my heart! Every actor deserves recognition for their brilliant job.
Oh! And one thing that surprised me was how similar the young actors were to their adult versions. Teenage Do Hyun Soo looks EXACTLY like adult Do Hyun Soo, and the same goes for Do Hae Soo! Great great great job, casting team!

It took me a while to clean my watchlist and pick up this drama (I wanted to fully focused on it) and honestly, I'm not mad I didn't start watching it while it was airing because I would have died every week waiting for it! Even though it took me a while to watch it, I already knew the OST "Feel You" because Lee Joongi is obsessed with that song (he played it during his live, it's in his posts and stories LMAO). And I have to say it might be on my top 3 favorite OSTS, next to When the Night Falls (While You Were Sleeping) and Will Be Back (Moon Lovers).

I always say investigation and thriller dramas aren't my thing but I've been lucky with the crime dramas I've chosen and thankfully I'm opening up to the genre. For people like me, I think Flower of Evil is one of the best bets you can make. Brilliant writing, characters that make you root for them until the end, intriguing until the last scene, always tricks you even if you think you know what's going to happen... Oh well, a masterpiece. And my favorite drama of 2020, for sure.

[THIS QUOTE MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS]

"In a village overshadowed by a demon named Do Min Seok, there isn't a single person who wasn't a sinner against Hyun Soo. When everyone was turning into monsters, the only human being left was Hyun Soo."

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Gripping from the first minute until the last!

STORY: I was enthralled by it as soon as it started and was unable to stop watching until the last episode (didn't help that every episode basically ended on a cliffhanger). I feel like almost every plot twist was an actual twist that I didn't expect, which is pretty rare. The story just kept unraveling, and I was excited to go along with the ride. There are two plots that are working throughout the drama: the action side and the emotion side, and they're both done so well. (My only qualm was with the last episode that seemed a bit trope-y, but it was an acceptable ending in my opinion.)

ACTING: Everyone did such a phenomenal job. I could really feel the emotions each character portrayed. I really want to give props to Lee Joon Gi though since he was did so well, even down to what I would consider to be microexpressions (watch his mouth!)

MUSIC: I think the music heightened the experience while watching it by adding to the emotions and drama of each scene.

REWATCH: There are certain moments that I wonder if I can catch a hint of if I rewatch it, but even though I generally do not rewatch shows, this one was done so well that I think it'd be interesting to watch again.

OVERALL: After the first episode, I instantly started recommending it to everyone. It's totally worth a watch. It does cause a lot of stress though as you try to unravel the mysteries and hope that everything turns out alright by the end. But it's a good type of stress because it shows how good the drama is to invoke these feelings in the viewer. I also love how they really used that ~1.25 hours of each episode to the fullest.

WARNINGS: Just in case it wasn't obvious what you're getting into, just know that you will see people be murdered, be bullied, be kidnapped, and be stalked (and more). There's some disturbing aspects to this show, so be aware of that going in!

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Great storytelling and immersion.

An intricate storyline, compelling characters, and intense performances make "Flower of Evil" a compelling television drama. Throughout each episode, the series uncovers more secrets, lies, and suspense. The drama revolves around the life of Baek Hee-sung (played by Lee Joon-gi), a seemingly perfect husband and father who harbors a dark secret from his past.

The couple's relationship is put to the ultimate test as Cha Ji-won (played by Moon Chae-won), an intelligent and determined detective, uncovers the truth. As the plot unfolded, there were numerous twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. As a former detective myself, I really appreciated the story's investigative premise mixed with its narrative. Some shows portray the police as idots, but the police weren't like that.

The characters in "Flower of Evil" are multi-dimensional and well-developed, adding depth and emotional resonance to the story. Unlike a recent drama I watched (cough "Destined cough! With You") Baek Hee-sung's portrayal by Lee Joon-gi is particularly remarkable, as he flawlessly embodies the contrasting facets of his character. From portraying a loving husband and devoted father to a man with a troubled past, Lee Joon-gi's performance is commendable and adds layers of complexity to the narrative.

Moon Chae-won's portrayal of Cha Ji-won is equally impressive. This woman went through hell but she held it down. Her character's determination to uncover the truth and her conflicting emotions towards her husband create empathy and intrigue. The chemistry between the two leads further enhances the dramatic tension in the series. At times, it seemed as if they were really a couple. However, in episodes 12-13, I found the lack of communication between Hyun Su and Ji Won absolutely maddening!

It is a well-crafted script that makes "Flower of Evil" a top-notch series. The story's pacing is excellent, blending intense suspense with heartfelt emotions. Each episode reveals new information, gradually unraveling the mystery and heightening the suspense.

The series also excels in its execution, with visually stunning cinematography and a carefully curated soundtrack that complements the mood of each scene. The use of atmospheric lighting and well-choreographed action sequences adds to the overall cinematic experience, elevating the drama to a higher level. As a professional photographer, I'm always studying lighting at various scenes. Lighting is crucial to filming and photography.

"Flower of Evil" is a must-watch drama that combines mystery, romance, and thriller, creating an unforgettable viewing experience. With its compelling plot and strong performances.

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SOOO GOOOD!!!!!!

Flower of evil is amazing! The emotions portrayed are just perfect, and I absolutely adored their daughter. However, the ending was So bitter-sweet. Overall, it's a must-watch show for fans of thrillers and crime dramas. The show's ability to keep you on the edge of your seat is truly remarkable. The plot twists and turns will leave you begging for more. The acting is also top-notch, and the characters are well-developed. This show really is a thrilling drama that will leave you wanting more. If you're looking for a show that will keep you entertained from start to finish, then this is the show for you."

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Watch It!!

Ahh this show hit me so hard!!

It's been a while since I've watched a kdrama that has driven this deep into my emotions. I wish that I'd been able to take it slowly and savor it, but the cliff hangers at the end of each episode kept me binging this show. The music was incredible; it worked with the mood and the scenes so well.

The acting is just... 10/10. I've watched several of Lee Joon Gi's other shows (lawless lawyer is another favorite) but he really outdid all my expectations in this one. I'll definitely keep watching for him. I've never seen Moon Chaewon before, but I hope to see her in something else again soon. Their chemistry together was soo good; they made this complicated relationship so believable.

PLOT:

I really, really loved this plot. At first, I had no idea what it would be like; I really put off watching this drama because the description of it didn't sound too interesting to me. But I loved the intersection of crime/mystery/romance/humanity/mental health that this drama tackled. The themes it explored are so so important, and it did it so well.

I would really like to rewatch this at a later time, slowly, cherishing the episodes. I definitely recommend watching it! Even if you're not a fan normally of crime/mystery, I still think many people can love this show.

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Really Worth It

Until today this was really 9.5 star for me but the last episode they closed everything so beautifully liked really it was most perfect anything could get. I am writing this review right after watching last episode so yeah the emotion is quite strong right now.
The cast was well chosen their acting was on point. They made me feel all the emotion they were going on specially the emotional scenes.
The music I really fell in love. The music was well suited with the scene.
What I love the most was the ending. I think for this ending was the thing which could decide how this show will turn it out. And they did well. I mean the biggest thing was the murder that his sister did, how they will close it and I really think the writer did well with that part.
And also making Do Hyun Soo losing his memory made us see when he really started liking her. He started questioning himself who he really was, what emotion he held toward her. watching him discover what Cha Jiwon meant to him was really something. I mean there were question do Do Hyun Soo really likes her and now we can say that " Yes" he really did and he did way before than he even realized. Cha Jiwon was right at that time he was only one who didn't knew he really likes her. And also I feel that was the moment when it was really clearly shown he really liked her.
The other thing was they showed Eun Ha meeting her dad. I think those who watched it can agree we really fell for that little angel. and also she was the only one whom from the start he was really sincere. Even without his memory his body just cant walk past a egg tart without buying it for his daughter even tho he didn't seem to know who he was buying it for.
So yeah the Last episode really closed the show and also I don't think there would be any ending more perfect for this show.

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BEST BEST BEST

This drama is hands down the best kdrama of the year.
Lee Joon Gi as he usually does has been given the best acting, never disappointing! he is one of the best actors for me,his every expression was amazing. When he gets mad on episode 15 was blowing my mind.And Ji Won, very rational and logically and didn't end to conclusions on her own..It's quite rare to see this kind of female lead.. FL's most of the time act impulsive and get to conclusions on their own.. she was strong as well as emotional..
Jun Gi's daughter, Eun Ha, what a cutest and talented young actress. Not only these three but each and every other actors done their job perfectly.
Culprit is different , each episode draws you more into the story and never makes you bored ! It’s really intense so I would recommend not binging it but watched it over a few days ! I really thought I predicted the villain but they managed to surprise me !

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Besttt!!!

FLOWER OF EVIL

Flower Of Evil is a 16-episode breath-taking Korean drama starring Lee Joon Gi as Baek Hee Seong and MoonChae won as Cha-juwoon. This thriller crime drama is directed by Kim Cheo-kyu and was premiered in May 2020.

It is a drama that talked about some heavy topics. Which are psychopath and sociopath and the difference between them. Do genes have anything do with being a psychopath? How society deal with the family of psychopath or a serial killer and how do they deal with them. And shows that the people aren’t interested in boring truths.

The plot of story is very astonishing, staggering and satisfactory! This drama offers you a thrilling and emotional roller coaster ride of your life. You will get hooked right from the start be on the edge of your seats biting your nails if you are a suspense thriller fan.

Each episode is packed with twists and turn beyond your expectations. Each seemingly trivial detail either link up to past events or foreshadows or what is to happen later. Remember the wristwatch. Even the previews are professionally jumbled that they don't leak crucial information about the next one. The viewers don’t even have veiled hints about how is going to be the accomplice and how will he be ensnared.

The opening scene was unique and distinctive with Baek Hee Sung drowning in water. The story starts showing the viewers a perfect family. Baek Hee Seeong is a perfect husband and an ideal father of Ehuna. But doesn’t everyone have their own secrets? It soon reveals that Baek He Sung is not what he seems and has a dark past which no one, not even his detecting wife, knows about.

Baek Hee Seeong, being a metal worker, tries to hide his two-faced identity from his wife and daughter. Meanwhile his detective wife is forced to renavigate their relationship as she discovers unexplained murders linked to his past. Unfortunately, secrets have way of coming out and being a hard-hitting homicide detective, it’s Cha Ji Won job to uncover as many secrets as she can in her never-ending quest for truth.

Jiwon's, elegant appearance gives me much respect to the detective job. Her character showed that even though she is a beauty yet she has stamina to run miles to catch bad guys. She portrays strong powerful, independent women who never blindly follows whatever his husband tells her to do. She follows her own instincts and protect her people but never lets them control her.

Do hyun su's character played by Lee Joon Gi was an especially hard one to pull and was stellar. Being a son a serial killer, he never learned to be happy this was the major reason that every day he learned facial expressions to hide his true selves from the society. His character portrays that society often has a bias towards people who look different, who has personality disorder and whose family member have done something wrong. He was fighting the ghost from his past life but had to put a happy face and act as if everything was fine.

Not only Lee Joon Gi but also Cha Ji Won displayed a vast emotional dimension that served justice to the complexity of their characters. The supporting cost also deserves. recognition for a three-dimensional performance. The friendship between Baek and moojin is beautiful instead of having a rough start in the beginning

His acting was mesmerizing and will make you feel all the emotions intensely. The little vibrations his of face, mouth and his hands when he is angry, emotional or poignant are astounding.

The dialogues are so well versed that they hit right into the heart. The flashbacks of the past events help the story to alter between past and present. The quiet heartwarming background piano and violin make those scenes very alluring and majestic.

The production was definition of perfection. One of my favorite scenes is from episode third where the sun shine is displayed on the family phot blurring Baek hee sung's face than appeared Baek hee sung with a nefarious smile which created a sense of thrill and suspense.

The cinematography, music, sounds Ost’s, editing scriptwriting, directing undoubtedly are of high quality. Kudos to Directors, screenwriters, composer and actors. They did on outstanding jobs bringing the characters to life - Audience will cry along, laugh and live along with them the writer managed to keep a clear and captivating plot.

he quote - “The world is not what it seems to be”. Is perfect to represents a sequence of events in the story.

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An emotional mystery full of suspense

Of course, my opinion could change based on the ending but this is one of the most interesting pieces of media I've watched in a while. Constantly keeps you on your toes and the main leads carry the emotional weight of the relationship so well.

I can't remember the last time I got so invested in characters so quickly and said invested. I am constantly rooting for things to just BE OKAY for them and the drama and suspense keep me coming back each week dying to know what happens next.

It does a great job of sprinkling little hints throughout the plot so that when things come together they don't blindside you but they do make you go "OH", which is the best kind of plot.

Also, the daughter is the cutest kid in the world.

EDIT: (post ending update: not my fave ending. a little trope-y. but the acting really pulls it through and i cried a lot sooooo pretty good!)

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"Knowing someone from so long does not always mean you actually know them."

Initially i thought this drama would be a bit boring. As the leads are already married i assumed that they will be trying hard to save their marriage. Only because it was categorized as a pyschological thriller i wanted to give it a shot and all of my assumptions were proved wrong.This drama made me "RETROSPECT".It made me think about humans,relationships and the necessity of wise upbringing .
There are many things that i liked in the drama but i would like to point out the top 5
1.Everyone of us want a perfect life and we would want the reason of our happiness to remain with us forever.
we might have a secret and would want to hide it from people who we are scared of losing and we would do anything for it to remain buried.
2. Due to fear of not having someone by our side we start giving them only what they need and show them what they want to see, in the process we loose ourselves and the fact that we are hiding our true emotions might haunt us someday.
3. Becoming blind in love , This applies even for love between a child and parent. Parents just hope that there will be a day where our child will see the brightest sunshine and that will be life changing. They see all the mistakes of their children as silly things and wait for them to change.
4. Due to cowardice we might hurt people close to us which might end up being the biggest regret of our lives. We might not know what the other person is going through and not be by their side when they need us the most and finally when we realize our mistake it might have been too late . Many of them might not get an opportunity to makeup for it and they end up waiting for the rest of their lives, but when they do get a chance they will give their everything to set things right .
5. People start believing what they have been said since childhood. The society also plays a major role in building the child's personality. If someone says we are bad at something we actually think that might be the case irrespective of it being true or not. If society keeps emphasizing on the point that our personality is like "THAT" we actually start believing "THAT" and someday we might actually become "THAT".
I just found myself thinking about a lot of things after watching this drama.Each episode had atleast 1 dialogue which mesmerized me.
"Eagerly waiting to see how this ends"

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Good Enough

" Flower of Evil " was a pretty intense drama. What is spot on about it, is how they managed the characters. At first, the viewer is introduced to the main male lead, who is presented as a serial killer, psychopath, and unable to feel emotions, especially empathy, while he uses his wife in order to hide who he is. Eventually, the story deepens into what really happened, who really is the male lead, and how he feels and acts.

The serial killer case gets the same roller coaster treatment, though an experienced viewer might have a few right guesses as to who is the real murderer. The addition of the family drama, with the in-depth presentation of all characters and their stories, especially the journalist and the sister, were all a nice touch and enriched the suspense and the emotional impact of the story.

However, there were a few moments, especially towards the ending, when the drama felt like it repeated some patterns. The female lead was endearing more than enough times, as she was presented more childish when it came to her feelings and how she expressed them. That said, the performances from everyone in the cast were brilliant and helped a lot to the success of the drama.

The ending, finally, was dangerously tiptoeing around the limits of cliche trop, but they handled it nicely enough to never actually reaching it.

So, overall, seven out of ten.

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Without finishing I would say this is one of the best!

What made me give it an overall 10 score is because the plot is so unique and unusual. You would never find such gem story like this. The story revolves around a man wanted for murder who changed his identity and a detective woman. Being married for 14 years, everything was perfect until the murder case 18 years ago resurfaced again when one of the victim's family committed murder in the same way the murders are committed before to aggravate the police into finding the accomplice of the murder 18 yrs ago (because the murderer already died). The accomplice is believed to be the son of the murderer which is our male lead.

Hyun Soo, just wanted to live a normal life but things just don't go as planned. As I go through it, I feel so much sadness for him. He was accused of committing murder and he like, own the murder he did not commit to protect his sister (which I don't think really killed the man because of the accomplice's voice record).

I'll cut it short since I don't want to say everything. Pain and sadness can be felt when you watch this drama. Why is life so f*cked up? Why are people so prejudiced about other people? Does being a son of a murderer makes you a murderer as well? Sometimes, we're blinded from the facts because we see what we want to see and not see what we should see.

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