An engaging but ultimately overrated title:
Mouse has received a lot of great feedback from a variety of people. I fell foul of this and decided to watch the series, thinking that it would be a solid drama to see. I was disappointed. There are certainly positive aspects to the show, however the failings are numerous and they can be very jarring also.If you were to summarise the plot of Mouse, it's a psychological thriller about serial killers, detectives and some other convoluted nonsense. It likes to think it's a series about psychopaths, but there isn't a single psychopath in the drama (despite the fact that the term is thrown around constantly).
The plot itself is a mess. It is constantly jumping around and throwing itself about, and whilst it isn't difficult to follow, it sometimes feels like the writers got distracted and started running off on a tangent just to 'remember' what they were supposed to be doing with the plot after a few episodes. Every episode tends to follow the same pattern - end it on a 'plot twist' that leaves the viewer thinking something major has happened, and then start the next episode with either a flashback, or an immediate explanation of how nothing has actually happened and it was just to misdirect us... except after the first couple times you just expect them to play it safe. And they do. Every time.
I was constantly rolling my eyes at the story in Mouse. I was not surprised by the 'plot twist'. They allude to it the entire way through the show, so nobody in their right mind should be surprised when it comes to light - however they do nonetheless keep you guessing about a lot of the plot. Not because it's well written or complex, but because it just doesn't make any sense. It's unnecessarily convoluted, to the point that it seems the writers themselves didn't understand the story either. So much happens that is irrelevant that often important points are overlooked.
Regarding the acting, it's decent. Most of it is good, although there are some scenes that are difficult to watch - without spoiling things or going into detail, let's just say there's a bit too much crying and screaming in this show, and a couple of the actors don't cry well... *cough* the Detective *cough*.
Lastly... the research. It's a real pet-peeve of mine when writers don't do their research. Clearly this show has founded all of its knowledge from stereotypes, cliches and misinformation. It is so abhorrently wrong about so much. The entire series is focused on psychopathy and serial killers (not the same thing) - but they have no idea what a psychopath is, they have no idea about policing procedures, they have no idea about crime scene management or forensics, they have no idea about biology, they have no idea how brains work, they have no idea about how experiments are conducted and theories produced. They literally just pull everything out of their butts. It's an insult to any writer that actually makes the effort.
Lots of people have excused the total lack of informed writing and just dubbed this series as 'sci-fi', but that seems a petty excuse to me. It's just laziness from the writers. They clearly didn't care much about understanding their subject material.
Ultimately, it's a watchable show, no doubt about it. Most people could still probably enjoy it for what it is, especially if they just want to watch an easy series about killers. However, I can't really recommend it to anyone. It's definitely not the masterpiece people have claimed it to be.
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This review may contain spoilers
Lots of twists & keeps you on edge!
This is my first ever review on this site, so I hope I can put my thoughts into words!I liked the cast and the actors, as expected with Korean dramas, always exponential acting. The story is the very typical over-the-top dramatics which I am not a big fan of personally, but if you're into that, you'll love this.
Now on to my critiques, I didn't like the borderline eugenics route they were trying to pass on for the first few episodes. I hated every second of the demonisation of people with antisocial personality disorder and the blatant misinformation. Not every single person with psychopathy is a killer in the making nor is every killer a psychopath, sometimes people are just evil. Many killers, yes, are mentally ill but what leads them to kill, in my opinion and many other professionals, is deeper than mental illness. If you've been watching Korean dramas for a long time, you'll know how hard it is to find dramas that accurately depict mental illness and this is not an exception to that. It's a critique I rarely see on this drama, which is a shame, especially if you're a mental illness-advocate. It is the running point of this drama so I think it's valid criticism since it's kind of the whole gag with this series. I did not feel fulfilled after watching it through and especially after the whole very unrealistic brain surgery and what not, I almost quit.
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This entire drama is a bad joke
I'm not gonna bother reviewing this too much, as I dropped it at episode 10. The entire drama is a mess.It was good for 5 episodes even when it's dealing with a pseudoscience like pyschopathic gene then just went on full Makjang by episode 10 with that garbage brain transplant plot.
Brain transplant was a joke in Friends in the 90s and it's a joke here. Save your time and just watch a better crime drama like Signal, Through the Darkness, or Beyond Evil as both the Writer and Director of this drama should be blacklisted from writing or directing ever again.
Trash.
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This drama is on a scale of its own!!
I have been watchig kdramas for 10 years and I'm telling you this drama is on a scale of its own!First of all the acting in this drama is beyond spectacular, the actors did a great job specially Lee Seung Gi. It's the first time he plays a role like this and he absolutely slayyy all his scenes I'm very proud of him.
The story line is completely different from the typical thriller drama, this one is full of and mystery (many people couldn't take it and drop it) too bad because is Masterpiece indeed.
The story line gets you involved since episode 1 and from there is a roller coaster, you start to suspect everyone to the point you just give up making theories and decide to just watch.
One thing I love and praise this drama is for giving us special episodes...that allow us to understand as it shows the different side of the coin.
Perfect ending writing is honest without any safe play they told the story with full of thrills from ep 1 to 20.
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The best thriller so far in my life
The writers are not human how can they come up with this masterpiece, the twists and suspense in this drama is twisting my neck , nothing is absolute until its over.Every other episodes is soaring through the roof with thrill and suspense. Lee seungi hyung portrays the characters so good that i have no words to describe. All the actors are top notch. The people missing out on this drama i feel sad for them. The ones that are about to watch this masterpiece never skip a second because you will loose some details even if you watch it carefully. Enjoy the drama.
BTS-Army one's a wise man(suga) said loveyourself lovemyself peace. And also love this drama because it deserves it.
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Too many psychos not enough fresh ideas
Everyones been praising this drama to be one of the best kdrama thriller/suspense and as for someone like me who have watched almost every kdrama out there, it only takes one episode to determine whether or not a drama is worth watching and boy this one is surely drop-worthy.Idk why I dragged myself upto ep 14 for something predictable and a been-there-done-that plot.
At this point, screenwriters almost needs to add or mix up another genre to the police/psycho/suspense/thriller to make it interesting (ex: tunnel, duel, life on mars).
And dont get me started on the editing.
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Warning - Enter at Your Own Risk
I meant it in a tongue-in-cheek way, of course. But on a more serious note, do be prepared, both mentally and physically. Mouse is a drama that I had briefly dropped at episode 14, and then picked up again after 2 weeks of much needed respite when my brain had finally recovered from the blunt force trauma inflicted from attempting to make sense of it all (and after much encouragement as well as support from MDL friends to re-join this roller coaster of a drama).Make no mistake, this is a roller coaster in every single sense of the term. It will fry your brain cells, toy with your every emotion, leaving you gasping for air at the end of each episode, right down to the grand finale. Watching this show isn’t as straightforward as simply observing the story unfolding - this production fully consumes you until your entire being is immersed into the layers upon layers and twists within twists amidst the convolution of interconnected nonlinear plots and subplots.
Without spoiling anything, these are the major aspects that I actually liked about it (when my mind wasn’t spiralling)...
The premise of the story about serial killing and the concept of scientific identification of serial killers through their genes (DNA) are original, refreshing and intriguing. Whether or not this is scientifically feasible, only the experts will know (I’ve been told it’s pure fiction). The plot moves at an extremely frenetic pace that’s punctuated by numerous backstories, side-stories and transitions between multiple timelines. This is essentially a “whodunnit” that gradually evolves into the “when, how and why” of it all. Everyone in the comments section and on Feeds (and possibly around the world who’s watching) definitely had fun and/ or stress postulating countless ever-changing hypotheses week in, week out!
Mouse is primarily plot-driven but the acting elevates the entire production to exceptional levels. For me the two main men have been incredible. Lee Hee Joon’s Ko Moo Chi is quite extraordinary where the range of emotions that this character conveys and puts us through is just remarkable. The highlights are many but his heart-wrenching and supercharged performance in episode 5 is certainly worthy of mention. As for the role of Jung Ba Reum, I can’t quite believe how this character is conceived and written. It’s insane when you think about it, really. The term multidimensional is an understatement. What even beggars belief is how Lee Seung Gi is able to bring to life this extremely complex work of fiction. No words of description will do justice to this portrayal because seeing is believing. Both of them are good value for 2022’s Baeksang nominations indeed.
No production is ever perfect and Mouse certainly has its fair share of flaws...
The elements of sensationalism in the screenplay. The screenwriter Choi Ran is certainly deserving of praise for the script on the whole but I couldn’t help feeling that the inclusion of more than a few instances of fake cliffhangers, false endings, shock-and-awe factors smack of exploitation and manipulation of viewership ratings. This drama is anything but subtle because exaggeration is the name of the game. For the most part, it works but sometimes you just feel annoyingly cheated and frustrated.
For me, the women in the show are not as compelling to watch as the men. Although credited as main roles, the characters of Choi Hong Joo and Oh Bong Yi are largely depicted as supportive in the development of the plot. Kyung Soo Jin’s portrayal is somewhat understated while Park Joo Hyun’s characterization has some room for improvement. I didn’t feel connected and invested enough with their characters which lack the extra dimensions that are present in the male leads. Both these two actresses are critically acclaimed award-winning professionals, (Park Joo Hyun recently won the best new actress at the 57th Baeksang) so perhaps the script didn’t focus enough on their characters for the portrayals to be fully fleshed out.
The technical execution, notably the editing and camerawork, could have been better. They become rather erratic, especially in the final third of the production where the cameras seem to be struggling to keep up with the increasingly frantic pace and sudden scene transitions alternating between the various characters’ points of view. To be honest, I think at this stage viewers just couldn’t care anymore and wanted the answers to be revealed as soon as possible.
Personally I struggled to keep up with the storytelling at times, which oscillated between coherence and hot mess. However, all things considered, I think Mouse has largely succeeded in giving viewers what it was designed to deliver - gripping plotlines, edge-of-the-seat thrills, mind-blowing reveals and much takeaway to ponder regarding the overall theme of violent crime prevention. As far as the ending is concerned, I’m actually quite pleased with the final outcome. After all that had transpired, it truly feels like a fitting closure for the characters involved. In truth, no amount of words will do justice to this spectacle because, at the end of the day, seeing is believing.
(Note - If you do decide to start this drama, remember to watch the 2-episode spin-off special, Mouse: Predator after completing episode 15 and before proceeding to the remaining episodes. This special production provides further "clarity" to the entire story)
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Must-watch thriller for anyone that enjoys cat-and-mouse storylines
Because I have a lot to say, I'll write a short and long review to make things easy.In short, this is one show that will remain in my memory for a long time. It kept surprising me at every turn, and although the story was at times maybe a bit too plot-twisty/unbelievable, it didn't bother me enough to make me stop watching as if I was nailed to my seat. The main thing about this drama is the amazing acting by the two main actors and its interesting concept. If I were to say one thing: nothing is as it seems - especially first few episodes. When I watched the first two episodes I thought this would be quite straightforward and wasn't yet pulled in as much, but a bit later I was absolutely hooked. To me, this is now one of my favourite k-dramas so far, and the best thriller/crime drama I've watched yet.
The synopsis of this drama doesn't say all that much. It didn't speak to me so much either, as it says so little about the actual story. However, any synopsis that doesn't spoil anything would do this drama a great injustice by making it seem too boring; but a synopsis that tells you what it is really about would spoil too much and ruin the story. So if you are in doubt because of the lack of a clear synopsis, I'll tell you now: it's worth it.
One thing I should mention is that some say this drama is about whether psychopaths are born or raised - that is not so much the case here. The series takes on a viewpoint that lies more firmly on the side of 'they are born'. The entire show starts off with the premise of 'what if we could detect people with psychopathy before they were born?', based on the existence of a psychopathy 'gene'. (Whether or not this is credible scientifically, I won't go into; although there is evidence on the gene MAOA having some influence on it.) But even more central than that question, is the following: "What if psychopathic murderers could feel guilt, remorse, pain?" - I refer to wikipedia for the backstory on how the scriptwriter came up with this idea. Although you won't understand what this question has to do when you start watching, it will become clear near the ending how this question has effectively created this entire plot. As for me, I think they definitely succeeded in what they set out to do.
Okay, now more in depth.
Plot: all in all, I absolutely loved the entire plot line. It pulled me in, and I was hooked all the way through. Although at times far-fetched, it is not so much so to put you off if you can suspend a bit of disbelief (for example, some medical improbabilities - for example the existence of one 'psychopathy gene'). In hindsight I absolutely see why these were necessary in fulfilling the central question/goal of this series. Most plot developments I did not see coming; or I saw them coming but the story convinced me otherwise so that I was surprised even at both the smallest and biggest plottwist of all. That is why I would rate this plot wise 9: thrilling, mysterious, dark and satisfying, with the exception of the few plot-twists that were a bit unbelievable.
Acting: this is what really elevated the drama to a 9.5 overall for me. Lee Seung-gi did a great job in portraying all aspects of his character and made me really believe in everything he said or did. He made me feel both sympathy and disgust, and is absolutely what kept me watching every time. Truly, his acting was phenomenal here, and for that alone I would recommend this drama to anyone who is debating whether or not to watch. Lee Hee-joon also did a stellar job in establishing his character's motivation and emotions. The supporting actors also did a great job.
Music: great - although I am one that is more geared towards the background soundtrack and not so much the songs with actual lyrics. The bgm was suspenseful and kept tension all throughout.
All in all, I think this is a must-watch for anyone who likes thrilling storylines and phenomenal acting. It is in my top 10 series, and perhaps even my number one crime/thriller/suspense kdrama so far. I will definitely be rewatching sometime in the future.
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This review may contain spoilers
Put your kdrama gear on, because it's one hell of a ride!
So where do I even begin? This show had been on my list since it was airing. I came to know about it when it had like 4 episodes out. My main reason to watch this show was none other than, Lee Seung Gi himself. Don't get me wrong, when i read the synopsis and saw snippets I was really sure that this was going to be like those mainstream shows - but boy was I wrong!I loved everyone in the show. The cast was PERFECT. I can't think of anyone who would've performed better than these people. But what was commendable was the emotions portrayed by these actors. It really felt like they were living THAT life.
The show did start a bit messy, it took a while for me to get my head around certain areas, but still it's one of those shows that made me zone-out at work. And when that happens, I know it's a blockbuster for me. Whenever the new episodes were supposed to out, I'd be like a lunatic stalking the # on twitter. Yeah I'm one of those who spoil the show for myself. xD
As for the characters, Jang Ba Reum was the villain and he wasn't. He was the hero and he wasn't. He was unfortunate to be born with the psycho gene, but then it gets me to this question - Is it really his fault to be born like that? Imo, if he was nurtured and brought-up with love, he would've over come his will to kill.
Moo Chi and Jang Ba Reum's interactions were my favourite through out. They would have been brothers in the next life JBR talked about in the last scene. Oh Bong Yi was commendable for moving on even after everything she had been through. Lastly Yo Han - HE DESERVED BETTER. HE DESERVED TO WATCH HIS SON GROW.
All in all it's a masterpiece for me. I know I should be hating JBR for all his murders but I couldn't seem to. I LOVED THAT PSYCHOPATH through and through.
IT'S A MUST WATCH!
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Best drama of the century
Never make you stop watching it once you started till the end! Even until it ended you will want more! A drama that make you think more as if you are having exam! Best till you want to write more reviews as a support! All the actors hopefully hopefully can get the best actors best of the best of 2021!!! So as the production team, all the details are so well manage until they linked all together and clearly demonstrate at the time. Will be a waste if never watch this drama! Very support everyone to watch and highly recommend! Highly recommend everyone give review after watching it as well!Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best dramas I've seen.
I don't want to write a too long review, or spoil much so... If you like crime, mystery and psychological thriller with insanely good and well written plot twists... This is the drama for you.Some say this drama dragged on for too long or was too confusing, but I disagree. Yes, it might have seemed slightly dragged on at some points, and there were various plot twists that might have confused some but I feel like it was all worth it because everything made sense in the end. This drama was absolutely incredible, and something I've been wanting to see for a while now.
But what really amazed me was Lee Seunggi. I always knew he was a good actor but wow... he exceeded my expectations. This drama would not be the same without him. If you can't find any other reason to watch this drama, watch it for him.
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Mouse what can i say!!!
Masterpiece. From a long time i haven't watched,, not from a long time i actually haven't watched this much of intense thriller and suspense kdrama with hard but reality-based ending . What a character transformation of lee seung gi after watching that we cay say that he shows the peck level of acting skills, you will goosebumps by seeing him acting it's really best performance by lee seung gi in MOUSE. Many folders are also not been opened .......Mouse also has a little bit of loose point but to compare to acting Lee seung gi blow all our mind towards him, what a brilliant acting, its really really intense to see him in a such character. I'm actually a big fan of lee seung since vagabond,after giving brilliant performance in vagabond the expectation is very high which is fully fulfilled by seung giThis drama has everything , it has romance action thriller, suspense, character growing healing everything
If you are a thrilled suspense lover this drama is perfect for you and the seung gi fans out there who whants to see seung gi in a intense villainic character mouse is for you.
At last i want to say that I'm very satisfied with the drama and special mention to the screenwriter and director did a great job by focusing what they want to saw us.
I'm giving highly recommended mouse for those who loves intense suspense drama with high intelligence.
Thank U
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