Inspiring Generation (2014)

This drama is about the struggles of the Korean people during the Chinese/Japanese war in Shanghai and a boy that becomes a man capable of protecting the ones he loves and his countrymen. If you don't like violence, then don't watch it. Even the synopsis tells you that Shin Jung Tae becomes the best fighter. I like the story's process of how he grows. I think the writing is really well done.

I know a lot of people don't like Kim Hyun Joong as an actor. To that I say "pish posh". The stamina it took him to be Shin Jung Tae through this drama is enough for me. I have never thought he was a bad actor. He may not be the best, but he doesn't suck. Plus he is cute.

All of that being said, Kim Sung Oh as Jung Jae Hwa stole the show. His acting is stellar and I could just fall into those eyes. He needs a lead role ASAP. What is with all his supporting and guest roles? Do they not know a good thing when they see it?

I also loved Song Jae Rim as Leader Mo and Kim Seo Kyung as Aika (spelling may be wrong). They are both really good actors. Song Jae Rim's little smirky smile is as good as his fighting.

The lead actress leave a lot to be desired, but at least Im Soo Hyang as Gaya kicked some butt. I could have cared less about Jin Se Yeon as Ok Ryeon. I didn't like her in Bridal Mask and my thoughts haven't changed after watching this.

All of the other actors did well in their roles also.

I like the music a lot.

If you like action and/or period dramas, then this is definitely one you should watch.

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In this one, the bad guys are despicable, the main actor is always covered in bruises, and things rarely make great solid sense.

Nonetheless -

GOOD - (EYE CANDY) Lets face it, if you're a fan of Kim Hyun Joong, you're going to watch this drama regardless. Eye candy-wise there will be a few more surprises, mainly Song Jae Rim, and not only him. BTW Kim Jae Wook is there for less than half of the series.

GOOD - (ACTION) If you love action, different styles of combat and disciplines, then perhaps you will like this drama. Theres a lot of fighting.

BAD - (STORY/WRITING) The story had so much potential, its a huge pity the writing wasn't at all up to par. It wasn't as bad the first 10 episodes, but then they switched writers, and subsequent episodes dragged and lacked logic, production value also became worse.

MEHHH - (ACTING) The casting wasn't bad. The acting itself was phenomenal coming from some of the actors. KHJ has improved as well... although he's still not amazing. Problem is, the acting is greatly exaggerated.. as in a lot of moments are over-acted. Its a bit awkward...

OVERALL - Watch for the eye candy and the fighting. Do not watch if you like a solid story, humor, goose bumpy romance or fast paced storytelling.

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