Classic

The synopsis here on MDL is not really accurate for the female lead character at all. There is more to her than that. Anywho....

This is what I consider a classic all-round, entertaining sageuk. There is plenty of humour, action, intrigue, tragedy, drama, villains, simple folk and good people that fight for justice.
The plot isn't completely new, with disguise as the opposite sex being needed to clear the FL's name, having been framed for murder. However, the portrayal of an intelligent woman, actually supported by their family and a benevolent Crown Prince not afraid to wield as much influence as he's able, is nicely done and feels different.
PHS must be a go-to for such roles, with his flair for natural humour and good looks, as the righteous Crown Prince.
Type casting, however, is also the bane of any drama and once you see some actors, you know the evil character is them the minute they show up. Directors and casting, please take note! Some, though, were far less obvious... round of applause for that.
I loved the characters though, including those I wanted publicly flailed for being so vile!
There are a smattering of clichés, but not to the point it annoyed me... balled fists and catching the falling FL being the main ones.
I thought the mystery that needed solving, which drew together many characters throughout the story, was very well done and kept me glued. I watched this drama over quite a short period and never got bored or lost concentration.
There were a couple of times when the comedy was too obvious and didn't fit... There were no microphones in the 1400s, so pretending to use one in 'interviewing' the Crown Prince, for example, just stood out as totally inappropriate, even though very brief. That is real shame, as there were laugh out loud moments much more natural. It was not needed.
The romance aspect is very light, which for me fit with the story perfectly, but if you are looking for lots of deep snogs etc, you will be very disappointed. However the affection shown between several characters with just a look, is lovely.
I so enjoyed this drama and would really recommend it. The ending was very nicely done and the soundtrack complimented what was being watched too.
The core friendships and trust between characters, even when tested, was also so nice, with no accepting allegations at face value, when a person's true personality should tell those nearest, differently.

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Oppression, violence, humour & entertainment

There are some holes in the story and if the mutants had been explored more, even if needing a few extra episodes, I think the plot would have benefitted. Nothing is mentioned about life outside Seoul, so my imagination assumes all survivors of the comet strike that almost wiped out the entire population, headed there.
Overall though, I found this drama a great watch. Being relatively short and all eps available immediately on Netflix, it made for an excellent binge and felt like watching a film.
I loved the entire cast and I cannot now think of one actor/character that let the story or production down.
The feel of a Seoul turned into a dull, dusty, sand covered desert with a highly toxic atmosphere, was pretty realistically conveyed. It felt grimy, oppressive and lifeless.
A class system exists that real life is beginning to mirror in many respects.
Living is segregated, where those with the money or background to live and work within Cheonmyeong's dome, have light and oxygen. The lower working class, regular soldiers and the deliverymen/women who transport goods and oxygen to those living outside, have purpose built, uniformed, secure, identical windowless housing blocks.
The lowest class are referred to as refugees. They eek out a living and have to fend for themselves pretty much.
Everyone going outside has to wear special oxygen masks and cover up against the dusty atmosphere.
The disparity is stark and with no prospect of things improving, life outside is dangerous, with gangs who pirate the deliverymen's juggernauts.
We meet various characters within the plot revolving around a battle that is brewing against the ruling Cheonmyeong company, whose heir is a Hitler like character that views refugees like vermin.
Several plot twists and surprises add to the compelling story.
At only 6 eps, you won't find much background or delving into the stories of the main characters (let alone supporting ones), but snippets are included and some flashbacks, that give enough info for the plot and characters to make sense.
I loved it. Kim Woobin was perfect for the role of 5-8. With just enough humour to stop it tipping into a depressing watch, there is also plenty of action.
The ending was appropriate to rounding things up and gave a glimmer of hope.
Definitely worth watching and an easy one to watch again when the mood takes... which I will.

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aka: The End of the World With You ~ A surprising and very good watch

Done in typically Japanese fashion; a little quirky, gently paced, complex characters and mature content that never felt gratuitous, as can sometimes be the case in both gay and straight dramas/film.
There's nothing like the end of days to make one evaluate the past and face up to stuff. If not for that, I doubt Masumi's previous deception, youthful arrogance and cruelty would have been forgiven at all. I choose to think he changed and learnt from his past, and lonely present. I was rooting for them to have a happily ever after.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and thought Yuma was a delight... the bit where he blows at something, was genius. Very amusing, yet it fit right in.
I thought the Kagami brother/sister characters were excellently played by Idegami Baku and quite moving.
It might not be award winning, but it suited me and my mood perfectly!

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Gritty and consuming

A very dark, sometimes shocking and visceral drama. TRIGGER WARNINGS definitely needed, as torture, abuse and rape (that bit isn't graphic, but obvious) are included.
A prosecutor with a tragic past, up against an intelligent, sadistic serial killer who carries all the text book trade marks of a psychopath.
The story had a strong start, but as the episodes unfolded, some aspects became overdone and too much; from the often inept police, that seemed almost comical in their approach, to the obvious connection that several characters and places obviously had to the perpetrator, being woefully overlooked, even when visited.
Several characters were too quickly 'marked' and other avenues that should have continued to be investigated, weren't. It was all a bit haphazard at times, especially given the severity of the case.
However, this was the 90s ~ the era being well portrayed I thought (even if I don't come from Taiwan, I recognised the vibe), when perceptions were different (and sadly still exist in too many cultures).
The acting of the MCs carried the story, however, and so it still made for a compelling watch.
The lengths the prosecutor ended up going to, to get his man, were life changing and cathartic; the transformation of that character was very cleverly done.
There was some overacting at times, but overall, many characters were excellently played. The actors that stood out for me, head and shoulders, were Chen Bo Zheng as a victim's grandfather (I so like this older actor ~ he always plays his characters in an understated way and is good to watch even if the drama isn't!); the actor who played Chris Wu's character's Uncle, so convincingly; and Chris Wu himself in the leading role.
The plot did leave a lot to be desired at times, but it was still a very watchable drama.

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Refreshing, touching and funny!

From the cast, to the humour, to the odd cringey bit, to the empathy, to the sadness... I loved this drama.
There were times I pre-empted what would happen, but just didn't care... the delivery was spot on.
It was darkly funny at times and a bit eye brow raising at others.
Our FL has seen most of the women in her life trodden down. She doesn't hate men, but hates marriage, love and relationships, the things she sees as their downfall.
Instead she hooks up with men solely for one-night stands; or friends with benefits, nothing more permitted. She is hugely independent, stands up for women that are bullied by men and can take care of herself via sreet fighting style martial arts.
Our ML is a squeaky clean, handsome, polite, top romance actor, loved by everyone. Everyone except our FL, who hates him after overhearing him having a rant, when his views almost melted her ears.
Humorous events lead to them having to interact more and more, with comical and sometimes touching consequences.
The supporting characters are diverse, from the FL's parents (of a generation where women are subservient, not meant to have any, let alone strong, views), to her best friend who has a knack for falling for the wrong men; to the ML's bestie and manager (wonderfully played by scrummy Kim Ji-hoon), who is so free and easy with both men and women (he behaves in a way rarely seen in K-dramas), that I honestly think the writers wanted people to question... is he gay?.... Is he?... I'm not saying!
The actresses surrounding our ML and colleagues surrounding our FL, are sometimes stereotypical, but never dull (I loved the older actress embroiled in a bitter divorce).
We get action too, with some great (if not always very believable), fight scenes.
I really liked how this drama doesn't get too heavy, kept things mostly light-hearted, yet still manages to convey the imbalance in both the attitudes and consequences to, men v. women 'behaving badly' in the eyes of society; and that 'fans' of celebrities have far too high an opinion of themselves and their 'rights' in the lives of their celebrity crushes, which needs addressing, but never really is.
Also, that taking words and actions out of context, can cause unnecessary conflict and hurt.
With a great cast to boot, it ticked all my boxes and was far more enjoyable and funny than I ever expected.

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Very watchable

I'm a big fan of Cho Seung-woo and he didn't disappoint in this role as a divorce lawyer .
His background story is unusual, as is his amazing ability to come up with winning strategies in the court.
Few characters have substance and the portrayal of S.Korea's attitude to divorce (with the women always being the mistreated party in this drama, yet still getting the worst attitude for going down that route), is massively out of step with modern times. The country is too often portrayed as misogynistic with attitudes more at home in the 70s. It really does not do any favours.
With the crap some of the women are living with, anyone who still believes all divorce is wrong, needs to live that life. Bet they wouldn't last a week.
The marriages depicted are all too real for many, so I can hear a lot of shouting at the TV when the women are looked down on.
Perhaps with this drama they are trying to show that divorce is better than living in misery (and let's not forget that men get abused too).
However, for me, it wasn't the tragedy and personal fight in Shin Sun-hang's life, or the stories of the women he represented, but the wonderfully portrayed friendship between him and his long-time (and suffering) friends, Hyung-geun and Jung-shik, that totally made the drama for me. 3 very different characters, who bicker, drink, eat and laugh together. They are always there for each other though and take the kind of liberties only true friends could.
With an ending that made me happy, this drama is not a difficult watch at all and I certainly enjoyed it.

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A truly vile conglomerate family!

Loved the acting, actors and characters. Really a great cast. I also thought this an original take on the usual underhanded, vulgar and megalomaniacal super rich corporate dramas that get churned out. The switch in time, very intelligent protagonist and the clever, manipulative ways in which he exacted revenge were all very watchable.
I couldn't give a 10 because, for me, it was just too much high-powered, super rich wheeling and dealing. There was no let up at all, which I found a struggle at times.
I got that Do-Joon/Hyun-woo's primary goal was obtaining Soonyang, but some kind of breather from the constant business, corporate scheming and jargon, would have made it more enjoyable for me.
Definitely worth watching though and besides my few gripes, the pace suited the story and I thought the ending was excellent.
Shout out for the great young actor, Kim Kang-hoon, who I think we'll be watching for a long time. He's played many diverse kid characters in some great dramas.

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Scoring for the acting, characters and feels

I am still completely perplexed as to why they split this drama in 2. Guess we'll never know.
S2 really enhanced S1 and so much became clearer.
I really loved the characters throughout this series and found Mi-ho (Lee Da-hee) far less irritating than I did in S1!
Considering there is actually very little romance per se, the story is still romantic and I found that aspect to be very poignant.
Van and Goong Tan were created against their will, but while one became full of rage and vengeful, the other ends up clinging on to their humanity and living in penance. In many ways, the character of the granny (Baek-joo) was doing the same.
Plenty of action, as in S1, with a number of flashbacks. Some were revisited, which I'm not sure was really necessary, but it didn't bother me.
Loved the SFX and thought the entire series was very well made. Missed Johan speaking Italian in S2 though ?
One of my few niggles lies, as is often the case, with the ending. Also, a weird and powerful sect was suddenly introduced in S2, but no indication or explanation of what their aim is, where they came from and exactly who they are, was ever given.
Instead of leaving things with the culmination of Mi-ho carrying out her destiny, there is a FFWD... the sect makes an appearance and we're left, as happens with too many K-dramas, feeling like there should be more to clarify, or that another season will follow, which is rarely the case. That actually spoilt it for me.
Still a good watch and a great cast. I would actually watch it again ~ plus there'd be no stupid break now!

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Stereotypes

Overall I enjoyed this drama, which had several plots intertwined and made for an interesting watch.
With the cast involved, the level of acting was never going to be in question and none let the drama down.
I liked the threat element of the shady character who targeted people around Choi Chi-yeol (Jung Kyung-ho), which balanced the fluffy romance side quite nicely.
Whilst it made a change for the attractive, well off, successful lead male character, to end up attracted to and falling for, the older, quite dowdy, financially struggling (even though her traditional food business seemed to be thriving) lead female character (LFC), I found it a little uncomfortable to begin with ~ like neither were completely relaxed inthat element of their roles. However it did settle down and they ended up a believable couple.
What really stood in the way for me, was how they styled a beautiful actress, to look SO frumpy... why? She didn't have to be glamorous with a ton of makeup, too short/inappropriate clothes and ridiculous heels, but also not dressed like a granny.
Just because she'd been sporty, worked, brought up a child and looked after her brother, shouldn't mean she has no sense of style, especially when going out on a date. It really aged her too. That is stereotyping.
Same with the autistic brother... fine acting, which said it all and did not need trousers that were way too short and a look that could have been stolen from 1980s Rain Man! Just because a person is autistic, does not mean they have to dress like an overgrown child!
Lazy, lazy styling and woefully prejudiced to my mind.
Yet, on the other hand, what they did with that character's storyline, was a breath of fresh air! Infuriating!
I really liked the interactions and relationships between all the characters, although I do roll my eyes up when the nasty, rich, influential mothers abuse their positions to push their kids and usurp the out-of-place nobody.
1 in particular was not fit to be a mother at all, and how her story ended was not what she deserved... saccharin instead of poison.
A lot was forgiven of low-life characters in the skins of privileged, but not refined by any means, disguises. As usual, no consequences fitting their actions.
One part of the storyline that was completely superfluous to requirements, was the appearance of the LFC's sister. What was the point in that? It added nothing to the story, she was rude, selfish and looked down on everyone, including the daughter she'd abandoned and left to her sister to raise. She came, went and made no difference to the story at all.
I wasn't surpised at all by who the murderer was, but still enjoyed the twists and turns.
An enjoyable watch and whilst I personally wouldn't watch it again, I would still recommend it.
As a footnote, I wonder what all the nUtizens who always make rude and offensive comments about older male leads starring with younger female leads, feel about this main couple, with her being 11 years older than him! No doubt they'll still complain.

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Why split into 2 seasons?

This is actually pretty tough to review, as my reactions and feelings about the drama are split so far (kind of like the airing).
WHY OH WHY did the makers, or Amazon Prime (whoever is responsible), decide to air in 2 halves?! It's not like it's 32 eps long...if S2 is also 6eps, that's less than a normal K-drama length of 16eps.
I am loving the supernatural element and characters.
Kim Nam-gil is so good as Van (although his name seems to be pronounced as Pan). I so like this actor and how he can still manage to convey emotion while marble faced.
Cha Eun Woo is a revelation; love his Italian ~ very authentic ~ and he seems both comfortable in and enjoying of, his character. The personality of Johan (reason for the name is made clear), is double-sided... he is cocky, witty, sometimes narrow minded, but also gifted in his area of expertise, caring and will do what has to be done.
I love the older lady who is Van's shelter and ear, too. A really good actress.
The FL I have mixed feelings about. The actress plays the part well, but the character is really irritating. I love strong female roles, but there's a fine line between confident/assertive and arrogant/know-it-all who doesn't listen. This character comes down on the wrong side of that line a little too often. It is just sits all wrong, how she often treats Van like a servant, when she's seen his power and must feel he's no ordinary human.
There is also something too comedic about the way she approaches several of her demonic encounters and she takes everything a little too much in her stride. It doesn't always work. I'm a fan of dark humour, but not when it jars with the credibility of the plot.
In its entirety, S1 feels choppy. There are too many frayed edges, questions where answers aren't even hinted at and a lack of substance.
But, the action when it happens, is exciting and exhilarating. There are some really moving moments too.
S2 should never have existed, unless needed and following a 16-ep S1. That would have been far more beneficial to the feel of the story and its continuity.
I await S2 (airing Feb 24th I've read) and am really hoping that all the muddy parts of this drama will become clear and my 8/10 doesn't
drop ??

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Great FL / Character

I did feel that aspects of this drama were too drawn out (for example, the prescription, death of the previous Crown Prince, some of the lessons), which took away from the feelings of anxiety and threat a little. Old ground was covered once too often, instead of enlarging on other parts of the story, like the shocking (for the time) revelation about one of the princes.
At odd times, I also felt the Queen's decisions were out of character and naive, when she wasn't at all (like being too trusting and leaving things too open to opportunity for their enemies).
If not for that, I'd have given a 10/10.
Everything else I loved. Kim Hye-soo as Queen Im Hwa-ryung was brilliant. Certainly not a typical Queen, she was very intelligent, opinionated, witty, feisty and compassionate. Even if she felt it, she never showed jealousy or was unnecessarily bitchy to the King's concubines, but did exert her authority when needed.
The concubines were a proper mixed bunch too.
I loved that whilst tough, the Queen was warm as a mother and didn't push her sons for her own benefit, but for their survival.
The other characters were really mixed and some of the ministers, whilst involved with plots and schemes, were taking sides to protect more than themselves and were not all power crazy; that gave this sageuk a different edge.
Kim Hae-sook (a favourite actress) as the Queen Dowager, with her poker face and fake laughs, was brilliant... the first time I've absolutely loathed her! ?
One character I felt so sorry for, but they ultimately became their own worst enemy, so full of hate and revenge.
The plot twists, humour, shocks, moving scenes and ending, all combined to make this a really good watch. One I'd happily see again.

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My kind of Drama

It's over; the final episode has aired and overall, it did not disappoint. I will so miss my weekly fix.
Equalling S1 and very similar in its slow build, with the action, intrigue and surprises, increasing with every episode.
The shift in Jang Uk's character and the effect on all the characters of S1's finale, was immediately felt from ep1.
There's more obvious romance in S2 as the eps role out, but it was never out of place or eye rolling. Quite the opposite.
I loved Go Yoon-jung's portrayal and the character of Naksu/Jin Bu-yeon. Still feisty, independent, capable and witty. Her interactions with Uk were as amusing, touching and frustrating, in turns, as S1. Subtle differences, as after all, the character has suffered and undergone a big change, but just as strong. Both actresses brought so much to their roles and credit has to go to everyone involved for making it pretty seamless.
There are twists, turns, revellations, just deserts and some shocks in S2.
There are some flash backs featuring Jung So-min's character, Mu Deok, in later eps and I'm really pleased these were included, as it stitched what was unfolding in the story together and was a reminder that the souls and their bodies had shifted to start with.
The ending was thrilling and all gets neatly tied up. It wasn't rushed, but did feel a bit like a conclusion, rather than extension of the story. Some characters and their stories did take a back seat in S2, which was a shame, however, it was still pleasing and unless S2 was to run for another 16+ episodes, the only way to complete the central theme.
With the closing 2 eps, there were a very few times the dialogue felt a little lazy and it only stood out for me because I never thought that in all the other 28 eps.
The special effects, soundtrack and sets were spot on all the way through and Car, The Garden's "Scars Leave Beautiful Trace" is now a favourite song.
An absolute favourite drama of mine now too, which in its entirety of 30 eps, is possibly top of my list. Ticked all my boxes!
All involved did a great job.

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Enjoyable watch

Whilst this drama has a feel-good factor, which rises above the entitled, bitchy, bullying, arrogant character-loaded scenes, it lacks a certain direction.
From ep1, viewers are thrown into the action, with no lead-in or concept.
What follows are the struggles, aspirations, fears and realisations of 4 close friends; 3 in the fashion industry and 1 who is constantly dragged into it.
The industry is portrayed as it often is; full of mean, bitchy, cruel, ego-inflated nobodies, who think they are somebodies. Rumours that become fact and a very spoilt celebrity.
The worst, for me, were the "influencers". My goodness, if there are people with that much arrogance, I hope they watch this and see how pathetic their repulsive personalities are.
Stylists who are treated like poop by their 'stars', that in turn do the same to others.
Then, however, there is the camaraderie, honesty (for the most part) and support each of the 4 key characters have for each other.
There's a low-key (for 1/3 of it) love triangle, which tbh, never really felt that important. The weak element of the three's previous behaviour and reasonings were so ridiculous I felt no sympathy or otherwise.
This is a very superficial drama. I feel like the writers and director relied on glitz, sparkle and beauty (like Choi Min-ho with his shirt off), clichés and OTT gay characters, to divert from the non-existant plot and incomplete sub-stories.
So why did I enjoy it nevertheless?... because of the happy ending, the feel good factor and a cast that carried it all off as though it were... Fabulous! Glad I watched it.

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"Don't Call It Mystery" ~ call it quirky!

Loved it. Quirky, compelling, with mixed and intriguing characters that were so well cast. Masaki Suda was SO good. His character portrayal was my favourite and I feel he really made this drama go from "not bad" to "great".
It isn't perfect, but so very enjoyable and gripping; I loved the dry wit too.
Kept me engaged all the way through and I binged the whole series very quickly.
I really hope there is a S2, as there were a number of loose ends and unanswered questions ??
Really annoying that the minimum review characters is so high... I've written all I feel I need to, but can't post ? Try again...

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Engaging

First trigger warnings: there is violence (torture, child abuse references, bullying etc) and some quite graphic images.
I watched on Viki, where it is titled "The Killer Inside".
This drama had plenty of twists and turns, intrigue, deception, threat and surprises.
I did decide fairly quickly who I thought the culprit was, and turned out right.
However, this drama kept me engaged right the way through and I watched all episodes back-to-back.
The cast was pretty good and suited their roles. Some very unpleasant and messed up characters. A little over-acting at times from some, but not too often. Occasionally it felt a little stilted/awkward too and several scenes were less than credible (the court scenes were a little bizarre - no witnesses or indication of what exactly the trial was of), but overall I thought this a decent watch and needed to know the outcome.
I did also wonder how a character could return to more or less where their life left off, after having been incarcerated for an unknown length of time (clarity around that would have been good). Hey, it is fiction though!
Credit to Yamada Ryosuke and Kawaei Rina, who I thought were very engaging.

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