1This review may contain spoilers
unfathomable beastliness down to the blood. a search for the good guys could very well be in vain
You better be aware, it can always become more monstrous. For the audience, the first episodes of “The Escape of the Seven” are already quite inhospitable. Surely, among the protagonists one is worse than the other. We immerse ourselves in an unscrupulous world full of greed and devoid of any... …actually, I wanted to write "humanity", but then people also have a bitterly cruel and evil side, which is unfortunately also so very human in all its abysmal facets that it is painfully hurting and we'd rather not see it or let alone experience it... That's what "The Escape of the Seven" is about: The potency of human unscrupulousness... It couldn´t be more repulsive. (Could it?)Crass, brutal and soulless, but everything beautifully polished in HD – this is how the 'beautiful', (one would normally consider) ´desirable´ life of the "Seven" is displayed here. However, soon enough the limits of what is bearable are strained. Admittedly, at first I had to avert my gaze with a shudder. Pretty quickly I dropped this KDrama.
However, the job as a subtitler had me open up for a second attempt. Meanwhile – if I accept the premise: it's about a group of people who are entangled in their unscrupulousness, who are united in their monstrosity not least by their excessive greed and a disgusting obsession with money, power, prestige, rank and influence – I reconsider this KDrama quite original by now. Surely, there are lots of unsympathetic (and shockingly convincing so!) protagonists - that's downright provocative for a TV series entertainment mission. Nevertheless, eventually from the 5th episode onwards, the KDrama is unabashedly still gearing up. It´s like the point of no return. By then there´s no more escaping from “The Escape of the Seven”... You´re on the hook. Because you actually start hoping…(for ´the good´ to finally become true.)
The plot turns out to be a revenge mission cleverly disguised in several respects. AI and deepfakes on the one hand, tried-and-tested Makjang on the other inspire the psychopathic composition of a jungle full of fatal, dramaturgical entanglements. Intelligent, exciting, disturbing – more than once we might think we know what's going on and yet we're wrong. Ruthlessness is certainly one of the leitmotifs in this KDrama.
I only recommend "The Escape of the Seven" if the mood is right - one that demands unfathomable beastliness down to the blood. If we get involved in this KDrama, then we will uncompromisingly be catapulted into a world in which a search for the good guys could very well be in vain...
And there is a second season, too…
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You either love it or hate it.
A girl disappears from the world due to an incident in which seven evil people are involved. Besides these sevens, there is/are(?) someone even more evil who is/are(?) way ahead of them. Throughout the chaotic, tech-savvy hijinks, the battle between villains ensues...That premise sounds like a joke, but it actually quite accurate. I'm laughing at myself for starting and binging all 17 episodes in three days, it's a complete dramatic armageddon, which is satisfying to watch because I am in the mood for it. Even from the first episode, it is crazy and non-sense and just continues to be crazier and crazier... The characters are smart and dumb at the same time. Any minute now, they could get a heart attack and dies from screaming too loud. This is a kind of drama where you have to suspense your disbelief at all times. It is absolutely cheesy, problematic and very cruel in so many ways, but the pacing are so fast and entertaining, I was on board with it, probably because this is my first makjang experience and I'm still absorptive to it. It's quite stressful too and making me angry at times, but it also look ridiculously funny with the over-the-top acting and unrealistic plot points. For example, from the point where Uhm Ki Joon's character appear, this drama relies heavily on CGI, the CGI is overwhelmingly hologram-y. It looks strange that everything is too colorful and shiny. Also the costumes of these characters are like Halloween party. There’re few scenes that reminds me of Mission Impossible. #IYKYK
Aside from the makjang genre, I appreciate how this drama unapologetically fleshes out the ugly side of human nature, such as being an imposter, corrupted and opportunistic while destroying other people, including their own families. I would not recommend this to anyone, except if you want to escape from the reality, experience something unique and hedonic.
-Nov 2023, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge
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Only for for enthusiasts of mind-bending twists and gripping fantasy
A 17-episode Kdrama, beckons viewers into a world of jaw-dropping twists and turns, orchestrated by the masterful pen of an unbelievable screenwriter. With high expectations fueled by the extra episode count, the anticipation for a stellar ending soared, yet, alas, my instincts proved wiser than my optimism.The screenwriter, known for her penchant for intricate narratives, weaves a mesmerizing tale of fantasy that demands viewers to bid farewell to their logic at the door. It ventures into realms where the boundaries of reality blur, delivering an intense rollercoaster ride that defies the conventional.
At its core, the drama seeks to unravel the vices of greed, lies, and deceit, portraying them as malevolent forces capable of claiming lives. The narrative serves as a blood-boiling commentary on the consequences of succumbing to these moral pitfalls. As characters grapple with their own demons, the series becomes a riveting exploration of the human psyche amid a backdrop of fantastical elements.
While the storyline's complexity may challenge conventional sensibilities, it undeniably showcases the screenwriter's commitment to delivering narratives that push boundaries. it may not cater to those seeking a straightforward plot, but for enthusiasts of mind-bending twists and gripping fantasy, this series is a must-watch, offering a unique and adrenaline-pumping journey into the darker facets of human nature.
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Take a chill pill ?
I don't get why people are constantly comparing it with penthouse, that's just like comparing every romance drama with each other ,this drama is good in its own way . It's fulfills my expectation from a makjang drama all the tension, anxiety, twist and turns are fun . This drama is worth checking out , There are some things that won't make sense but I mean these days people watch so bad rom com and still rate them high it's much better than those. It's just my opinion tho , don't take it too seriously. You like this drama watch it otherwise drop it .Was this review helpful to you?
Surrealistic Brilliance: Pure Chaos Orchestrated from the Start—Crazier, Wilder & Braver Than Ever
~ This review covers both seasons ~Season 1 (War for Survival) : ~ Hell came on the day the rain of lies fell ~
Season 2 (Resurrection) : ~ Born again from lies ~
(Posters translation)
First things first, it has to be your kind of crazy, so that you can embrace it all. It's basically the definition of excessive art, as it presents drama in its purest form. Therefore the drama introduces viewers to a world where logic takes a backseat to spectacle. Epic, endlessly and effectively pushing boundaries to a new level where anything is possible, making the immersion simply divine. Outlandish, exaggerated and absurd, yet meticulously crafted in style and tone, perfectly serving the narrative. One thing's for sure, you will either find the drama fascinating, impressive and imaginative or simply unwatchable.
Another thing I deeply appreciate is the diversity of the characters.
Inspirational References (Official):
Dante's Divine Comedy: From the very first episode, the drama evokes the atmosphere of Dante's work, especially with its theme of a 'bloody revenge resembling divine punishment.' This connection is fundamental to the premise of the story.
The Count of Monte Cristo: The drama draws from this classic work, adopting the framework of a modern picaresque narrative.
The Avengers / Marvel / The Boys: Lee Joon once mentioned that the drama felt like a comic book, and I completely agree. There's a distinct sense of a vast, interconnected universe, much like the Marvel or The Boys franchises. If you look at dramas like Penthouse and The Last Empress, you can feel that same grand, epic scale. The mention of Marvel within the drama itself only adds to the sense of it being larger-than-life. While I didn’t see this explicitly noted on Namu Wiki (perhaps I missed it), there's no doubt that the parallels with The Boys and The Avengers were intentional. If you're familiar with The Boys, you’ll immediately recognize the comparison, especially when considering ‘The Seven’. (You can explore this further in this article: https://www.cbr.com/the-seven-vs-avengers). The playful self-awareness and creativity in the drama are palpable. Thor, perhaps, could even be considered a hidden main character.
On a side note, the number "Seven" could be an allusion to the Seven Deadly Sins, tying in with the larger thematic elements of sin and retribution.
More potential references are incorporated into the work, enriching it with even more layers.
The initial concept of the drama centers around seven villains, whose fates are intertwined in a cycle of condemnation. Their lives become dramatically entangled with that of a girl, whose life turns into a living nightmare before she disappears from the world. Bound together by life—or rather by death—the journey of the Seven begins.
To top it off, you even get to witness a real-life battle royale. Talk about greatness. In fact, it is even greater as it offers such a fresh and unique experience that completely blurs reality and our own vision along with that of the characters.
The first episode alone is enough to determine if this drama is for you. While Penthouse may appeal to many, 7 Escape is on an entirely different level. The plot is raw, brutal, and ruthless, offering an intensity that I found utterly gripping. The drama dives deep into themes of survival and psychological extremes, making it an exhilarating experience.
In terms of social status and backgrounds, 7 Escape is already different. The characters aren't meant to be rich like in Penthouse, and it's not the same kind of very classy drama. Look at the posters, compare this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/eYlLlY_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/p3ZzD_3) and this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/QJdAJ2_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/ENb8O_4). It's obvious right? You can also click on my profile, I have all posters displayed.
Anyway, I want to clarify that your opinion of Penthouse doesn't necessarily matter. I had a hard time getting into the latter, but this one immediately had me hooked. There is also my friend who watched 7 Escape with me who didn't make it past the fifth episode of Penthouse, but I knew he would love this one.
Advices: Always watch the intro, the end-of-episode visuals accompanied by the music and the closing logo, and the credits at the end of each season. The only thing you can skip is the preview for the next episode. In addition, I’ll share some links in the comments. A cool detail to note: the logo features a dual design, with one side displaying the title of the first season and the other side showing the title of the second season. I discovered this neat touch in a video, the link is included. Also, don’t miss the bonus scenes in Season 2. (They do not appear after the previews, of course.)
Do I need to talk about the biblical and mythological references in S2's opening? Simply insane.
Regarding the soundtrack, it's a brilliant blend of classical and modern music—much like the drama itself—which makes it easily my favorite OST album.
The introduction presents a very intriguing foreshadowing, followed by an incredibly fast-paced, event-packed, and dramatic narrative that embraces the chaotic nature of its own creation along with every aspect of the production. The way the characters are introduced is already one hell of an experience. In fact, the entire journey is so cinematic and immersive that you'll want to be prepared for it. At least for me, it was ecstatic. It’s the definition of incredible, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
The sets and costumes also deserve commendation, as they splendidly reflect the drama's grandeur and extravagance. It is interesting to note that the drama has an impressive world-building, too.
One point worth mentioning is how it differs from its predecessors, Penthouse and The Last Empress. While both adopted a huit-clos-like setting, 7 Escape moves beyond that, yet still maintains the same oppressive atmosphere. Additionally, the drama sets itself apart with its distinctive twists and turns as well as its characterization of the protagonists. I’d say that, of the three, this one stands out as the most distinct and serves as a magnificent conclusion to the trilogy.
If the Seven aren't your cup of tea, you will most likely not enjoy the drama, or not to its full extent at least. The drama has such a strong aura, but you either savour it or hate it.
Kim Soon Ok has become the screenwriter I respect the most, and I wish I could thank her in person. Extremely creative she is, even the most creative, but also extremely sensible and spiritual. I could tell by the script that she's a really fun and witty individual more than I could in Penthouse. If I were to compare the dark humor and comic relief characters in both dramas, my preference would strongly lean towards 7 Escape—as it does with everything else. I don't have anything against Penthouse though, I also think it's a masterpiece.
Be warned, Season 2 is more serious and less fun than Season 1—I was in tears. Yet, that's what makes it so refreshing, and it feels like a natural progression given the ending of Season 1. The new season adopts a more somber tone, contrasting with the first, while introducing different vibes, new dynamics, a new main character, and plenty of cool scenes to explore. Naturally, with a poster like that—hands down the best ever made (after the ones for S1)—the aesthetic is bound to be top-notch, on top of everything else.
I'm not great at explaining technical details, but you'll definitely notice a difference in the writing, screenplay, cinematography, and sound design. Pay attention to how everything, including the characters, has evolved. Season 1 is vibrant, colorful, and flashy, while Season 2 is mystical, vivid, and visually stunning in its own way. Overall, it creates a cold and mysterious atmosphere.
Theatrical, chaotic yet intelligent, psychotic and toxic, twisted—dynamic, modern, and even futuristic with a dystopian edge. It's relevant, meaningful, complex, and unconventional, offering limitless, provocative, and unpredictable elements. The production, the writing, the acting, it's absolutely mind-blowing. I barely could handle so much goodness from the start. There's just so much passion put into this rollercoaster. Expect the beginning to be particularly chaotic, there are a lot of characters and storylines. Besides, the out-of-the-box storytelling (like the premise) only made me fall in love more with the drama.
The story is so huge and complicated, I don't know how Kim Soon Ok wrote that but she did anyway. The pacing is also terrific. All I can say is genius. Even more so because managing to write the most inhumane and humane, soulless and soulful, hopeless and hopeful plot all at the same time is certainly something to achieve. Hence, while it may be the ultimate escape from reality, it also brings you back to it in the most powerful and impactful way, and that's where all its beauty lies. Indeed, if there is one thing that's realistic, it is the overall psychological aspect, as well as other themes, even with the over-the-top nature of the piece.
Maybe you need to be unhinged and sadistic to truly and fully enjoy this... I mean, I do feel bad for fictional characters, but here it's not the same and I can only say that I had a blast. I loved these villains from the start and the first episodes were already a delight to watch.
As entertainment, it definitely serves, but it is so much more. Like my favorite reviewer said, if you are not afraid of diving into the abysm of the human species, 7 Escape is right here for you. Moreover, in a world where the truth is increasingly an abstract concept, the drama does an excellent job at conveying that.
For its innovation, originality, and boldness, along with its clear passion for art and creativity, 7 Escape proves itself as a thoughtful, transcendent work that goes beyond realism or mere entertainment. It is truly interesting in a way that has never been done before and won't be able to be recreated in the future. If you expected a simple thriller, you will be proven wrong. I see it as a true tribute to artistic freedom and expression.
Overall, it has some of the coolest concepts I have ever seen, and I am personally in love with the execution. Everything seemed to be designed for me including the characters and that's why this drama is now my all-time favorite and a dream come true. I was not that shocked at the madness because this is what I wanted and always dreamed of, I was more like shocked at how good it was because it kept exceeding my expectations. Sincerely the best gift that I could've had.
7 Escape is, in conclusion, Korean dramaturgy in all its glory. I'm sorry if you don't feel the same way as I do towards it, but if you enjoy it that's enough for me. And if you love it, almost or as much as I do, I'd be the happiest.
Before finishing, I would like to say that in terms of content, it is the richest drama ever made. From the themes of justice, technology, societal decay, revenge, to so much more.
Final words: In the end, can you escape your sins?
Thank you for reading!
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Brave new Penthouse!!!!!
My absolute most anticipated series ever and the absolute best of the year in my opinion in all categories. However, want to warn sensitive viewers that this is absolutely not a quiet thriller. It basically has a very picaresque plot, which really feels extremely villainous and very nasty. This is a makjang in an even more extreme form, when you didn't think you could get more in The Penthouse incredibly. Builds on a revenge story in many stages that is anchored in various events. Wilder and crazier than ever, compared to what I've seen before.These 7 different leads with different backgrounds, captured at the same time. There is a reason that is explained why over time. We find out their motives and backstory, how they are involved and what they have in common. The relationships between the characters, their lifestyles and secrets. Also their goals and life history.
Is there a common motive, what happened to the missing girl and what was the meaning of her. Since everyone is sneaky, there are no hero roles in this one. Everyone ambushes each other. Don't feel that everyone is honorable directly because of their moral choices. Romance is never in focus when it comes to this author's series, as there is more focus on family relationships instead. Family relationships are complicated when they are not united, much dividing their desires and goals. At the same time, there are a lot of families to keep an eye on. The family part is only one aspect of the plot.
A mammoth series that is extremely well made with very epic and grand soundtracks. Also has nice effects with its high production quality. Entertaining through and through and very exciting, there isn't a quiet minute before the next thing happens. Indescribable chaos from start to finish. Raw and crazy without hiding anything. The reason behind the title is revealed over time. Really like her way of writing, how she mixes family, music and thriller at a terrific pace. This year's favorite and my personal favorite along with The Penthouse. A magnificent masterpiece!!!!!!
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Not sure what was happening in the show
First 2 or 3 episodes does it's job well following all the travesties faced by a young girl in the hands of several people who she trusted blindly. As the show progressed they made us believe it would be a revenge drama with plot serving getting back at this horrible people for their misdoings but then it swerved and took a whole new direction.If you think the showrunners or writers were trying to be clever to connect these two that would never happen. Characters seem lost. They once were driven by money, fame and power now seem to be chasing something they have no idea, audience has no idea either like the things that they do why they do it.
I kept watching it in the hopes that it would get better or there maybe some kind of redemption, at the end I felt like the series was ridiculous and wished I had stopped watching after 5th episode.
Twists and surprises are confusing and ridiculous, and it feels like someone's fever dream was wrote into a screenplay.
Just horrible.
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Wasted potential
Story had a strong premise, strong characters and an exciting revenge plot but the writer's tendency or better said obsession with the shock value, over the top plotlines and insanely unpredictable plot twists ruined it midway into the drama.I've seen enough Makjangs to know one should turn off their brain cells and logic to be able to enjoy them so illogical things aren't my main problems here.
The biggest problem with this story is the revelation of the main character's identity. I was hoping for a villain vs villain revenge plot and the struggle to see who's worse but instead we got a psychopathic villain with daddy issues vs himself like some person with bipolar personality disorder whose different personas are each other's arch enemies. I was truly disappointed by this plot twist and drama lost its initial intrigue.
Acting was good as far as screaming and jumping around goes, but still they did well in emotional scenes as well.
Music isn't anything especial. I liked background musics and opening theme but the songs, I did not. They were too melo and slow for such a drama that ends at a tense cliff hanger every episode. I'd like something faster and louder.
It doesn't worth a rewatch unless you want to watch S2 and would like to remember details before that.
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Beauty Over Brains: A Dramatic Fiasco
Prepare for a bewildering ride with this drama, a unique spectacle that takes 'over the top' to new heights. It's not just a series; it's an expedition into the wildly absurd.The storyline embarks on a journey of irrationality that's hard to follow. Picture the most outlandish plot you can, then multiply that by ten. That's what you're getting into. Each episode seems to outdo the previous in terms of sheer irrationality, leaving you more puzzled than entertained.
The performances? Let's just say they're... memorable. The cast seems to have a singular understanding of acting: the louder, the better. It's as if the director equated yelling with deep emotional portrayal, resulting in a constant barrage of noise that's more jarring than impactful.
The portrayal of Han Mo Ne in the drama deserves a special mention for all the wrong reasons. Her character, despite having minimal screen time, is excessively dolled up with elaborate makeup, hair, and wardrobe, almost as if she's being prepared for a grand showcase. This overemphasis on her appearance feels like a shallow attempt to distract from the drama's lack of depth. It comes across as if the show is trying to compensate for its many shortcomings by turning Han Mo Ne into a mere visual spectacle, reducing her to an object of beauty rather than a meaningful character.
Every actor in this series seems to be competing for the most exaggerated performance, creating a unanimous dive into the realm of the overdramatic. It makes you wonder if there was an unspoken challenge to deliver the most over-the-top portrayal possible.
In summary, this drama serves as a prime example of a cinematic venture going wildly astray. It's a perplexing mix of poor choices, standing as a stark reminder of how not to execute a drama series. If you're curious about how a show can spiral into chaos, give it a watch. Otherwise, consider this a cautionary tale – some things are better left unwatched.
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no this drama isn’t good.
I’m going to keep this short because this drama isn’t really worth explaining and explaining. This drama is just bad, the writing is so off and characters say and do things that don’t match up with who they are?I swear everyone is just a bad person and there is no sympathy. I was interested in the parts with Da Mi, but now I guess she is just dead.. so what am I watching for… the revenge? I don’t get the whole plot with K, who and why does he show up? Why is is the blonde guy now? This drama just had plot twists just to have them and they make no sense. The first few times I was ok with it because it was interesting, but now I get that this drama is not only stupid, like it’s lazy.
To keep me engaged they want me to believe these twists and turns… I had to sit back and just call this drama dumb so I could keep watching. I wanted to have fun watching something so stupid, but at this point I don’t have anyone to root for and I feel a bit insulted being toyed like this. I’m serious when I say this drama isn’t one of those that I’m hating because I’m stupid, I simply hate the drama because it is the stupid thing. There is so much character shifts and doing things just for the sake of drama and I can’t do it anymore. This show isn’t too gritty or out there honestly, it’s just stupid.
Why are they all in it to begin with if it’s just a cover up for Mo Ne’s child? Why would K go that far? Kill someone? They want me to believe all these characters are entangle with eachother but at the base of it it is just for Mo Ne and the child thing? It isn’t that hard to get some truth out but oh a cop is involved so that’s why.. god it’s so dumb. It’s not worth starting even, no. I did it for kicks and giggles, now im dropping to start another drama. This drama was filling the empty space until another dramatic and gritty show came out, so I’m watching Vigilante instead of this hot garbage.
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ABSOLUTE NONSENSE
if not for mdh, id have never stayed more than two eps. nonsense drama w chaotic effects and pointless plottwists. every character’s acting is out of character expect mdh and k. truly a waste of time!!!!!!!!!!!!if not for mdh, id have never stayed more than two eps. nonsense drama w chaotic effects and pointless plottwists. every character’s acting is out of character expect mdh and k. truly a waste of time!!!!!!!!!!!!
if not for mdh, id have never stayed more than two eps. nonsense drama w chaotic effects and pointless plottwists. every character’s acting is out of character expect mdh and k. truly a waste of time!!!!!!!!!!!!
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This review may contain spoilers
Don't Waste Your Time
The portrayal of this show leaves much to be desired. Despite the presence of talented actors and actresses, the plot suffers from poor writing that becomes increasingly disappointing as the series progresses. The tone of the show leans more towards parody and comedy rather than a serious narrative, making it difficult to take seriously. The plot twists feel overly contrived and unrealistic, almost as if the writer lost interest and opted for lazy storytelling. For instance, the revelation of Matthew's identity as K, with the ability to seamlessly adopt different personas like Kang Ki Tak or Min Do Hyuk, comes across as absurd, especially given the notable physical differences, such as their dental structure. While acknowledging the character underwent plastic surgery, the sudden change in teeth seems implausible.Initially, the series attempted to engage with an overly dramatic tone, which I was willing to give a chance. However, after several episodes, it becomes evident that the storyline lacks direction and fails to develop meaningfully. The evident squandering of a high budget on this production feels regrettable.
I cannot, in good conscience, recommend investing time in this show. If I had the option, I would rate it a 0.
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