This review may contain spoilers
Unanswered Questions and Plot Gaps: Thoughts on the Story
The plot and characters were engaging, and the ending was good, but a few unanswered questions leave the story feeling incomplete. With the script for Season 2 still in progress, I am particularly concerned about these unresolved points:1. Gyeong Tae's Past:
What exactly happened to Gyeong Tae that led him to become the White Tiger? When he lost his memories, he seemed like a caring, normal, brotherly person. His mother also appeared curious when she first encountered Byeong Tae hints at a deeper story. Their backstory feels incomplete and unexplored.
2. Seon Hwa's Mysterious "Fortune-Telling" House:
Why did Seon Hwa lie about living in a mansion? Why is she secretive about her personal life and more drawn to power than love? There's no clear explanation of her past or what made her so manipulative, which leaves her character unclear. It would be more fulfilling if we had a clearer understanding of her motivations and backstory.
3. Gyeong Tae’s Birthday Night:
What happened between Gyeong Tae and Seon Hwa on his birthday that caused the awkwardness between them? What did Seon Hwa whisper to him after the fight with The Black Spider? These key moments are still unclear leaving us with more questions than answers about their relationship.
4. Ji Young's Story:
Why did Ji Young transform into The Black Spider? How did she learn such skilled tactics? Why did their parents relocate when Ji Young and Byeong Tae were children? Her backstory and transformation are still a mystery.
I hope these questions are addressed in Season 2, as they would help make the story feel more complete and satisfying.
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A Stylish and Wild Ride Through the Late 80s
I keep my reviews concise and spoiler-free, focusing on the key points. I also watch every episode without fast-forwarding to provide a fair perspective.This drama is a crazy and ridiculously fun experience, blending humor, action, and emotional depth with an unmistakable 1989 vibe. The first few episodes set the stage, introducing the characters and laying the groundwork for an engaging story that pulls you in immediately. While you can anticipate the challenges the main character will face, the execution keeps you hooked, evoking both fear and excitement as events unfold.
The performances are fantastic, even when deliberately over the top, fitting perfectly with the drama’s tone. The OST is exceptional, featuring nostalgic tracks that immerse you in the late '80s. The visuals and costumes are equally impressive, creating a refreshingly authentic retro atmosphere.
The characters provoke mixed emotions, adding complexity to the narrative. Some struggle with their identity, navigating the fine line between revenge, redemption, and deception. Others undergo drastic transformations, appearing kind and vulnerable at first but becoming more ruthless as their true nature resurfaces.
Midway through, the tone takes a dark and serious turn, diving into the internal conflicts of the characters and their descent into morally grey areas. This shift may polarize viewers but adds depth to the story. Thankfully, the drama later returns to its original lively tone, wrapping up with a balance of humor and action.
The fight scenes are well-executed and thrilling, though certain depictions of weapon-based fights might raise concerns. The cast of characters is colorful, with memorable identities, adding to the drama's quirky charm.
That said, the series isn’t without flaws. Certain key characters are underdeveloped, feeling shallow and lacking depth. Some transformations feel too abrupt or one-dimensional, while others are given limited screen time despite their potential to enrich the story.
Finally, while the drama delivers an important message about identity and power, it lacks the emotional weight of something like The Glory, leaning more on humor and entertainment. Still, the result is satisfying, capped off with a bonus post-credits scene for viewers who stick around.
Overall, it’s a highly entertaining drama with stylish visuals, a vibrant ‘80s setting, and a mix of humor and action that should keep you invested until the end.
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A Knockout Drama That Hits All the Right Notes
Every so often, a show comes along that completely blindsides you, and Boyhood is exactly that kind of drama. Before stumbling upon it, I had no idea it even existed, but now, I can confidently say it’s a hidden gem that deserves all the praise it can get.First and foremost, Boyhood showcases the extraordinary acting talent of Yim Siwan, who delivers a performance that is nothing short of breathtaking. His ability to embody his character with such depth and authenticity is awe-inspiring. And he’s not alone—the entire cast is phenomenal, each actor bringing their A-game to create a tapestry of unforgettable moments.
The director, whose work I wasn’t familiar with before this, deserves immense credit for the show’s stunning cinematography. Every scene feels meticulously crafted, with emotions brought vividly to life through the synergy of strong performances and masterful direction. Whether it’s comedy that genuinely makes you laugh, moments of frustration that hit hard, or heartbreak that leaves you gutted, Boyhood makes sure you feel every beat of its emotional spectrum.
One standout aspect is the fight scenes. They’re choreographed and filmed with such precision and artistry that they’re as much a visual treat as they are emotionally engaging. Adding to the experience is the show’s outstanding music, which elevates every scene to new heights. And let’s not forget the unexpected romance—it’s surprising how a non-romance drama manages to portray love better than many shows dedicated to the genre.
Another delightful touch is how each episode is named after legendary movies and TV shows. It’s a clever nod to pop culture that adds a layer of charm and personal connection for viewers like me, who couldn’t help but smile at the thoughtfulness behind it.
Boyhood has set the bar high, and I’m already seated and ready for season two. If the next installment is anything like the first, we’re in for another masterpiece. Bravo to everyone involved in this incredible drama!
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