I imagine most of you reading this have never heard of this show, despite its popularity or have heard it in passing. To be fair, its name ‘First Love’ is about as vague and non descript as you can get, but my issues with the names of k-drama’s aside, I’ll continue on with my point. First Love was a huge success in 1996. So much in fact that it’s the second HIGHEST RATED drama of all time. It avarged 52.6% of Korean audiences throughout its run which was 66 episodes (50 minutes each). Huge. At one point, it had a peak audience of 65.8%. Imagine 65% of a country that owns a TV watching something. Despite this, it didn’t get many awards. The only one I could find at first glance (and I mean first glance) was a popularity award for Bae Yong-joon (Winter Sonata), who only got more popular from here and is well known. If there is any 90s K-Drama star well known today, it’s likely him. One thing I’d like to address is that synopsis on wikipedia and other places. Some of it is incorrect. It implies a love triangle between the brothers, which is false. There is one but not with Bae Yong-joon’s character, Sung Chan-woo. Rather it's between Sung Chan-hyuk (Choi Soo-jong, Emperor of the Sea) and Park Sung-won (Sandglass or It's Beautiful Now - something more recent that was popular). Chan-woo had liked Lee Hyo-kyung (Lee Seung-yeon) as a kid and decided to push those aside fairly quickly. Spoilers, Chan-woo and Hyo-kyung hardly speak during the time where Chun-hyuk is disabled. So I’m not sure what those people watched but it wasn’t this show.

The story is part love story and part revenge story. It’s largely about a brewing romance that begins between two kids well into their adulthood that is constantly challenged and thwarted by Hyo-kyung’s uncle and father, who do everything without resorting to murder to keep them apart due to their class differences. He is sent to the arm, beat up, forced to run away and even disabled via a car accident. In the background, Chan-woo struggles to get through law school due to financial difficulties and family problems, flirting with a brewing romance of his own with Kang Suk-hee (Choi Ji-woo, Stairway To Heaven) that is sadly underdeveloped, although a really interesting sub plot of the show, which makes it a pain that it didn’t really lead anywhere despite small glimpses of what could be. Chan-woo goes on his own path on revenge and that is that. He eventually succeeded, all while learning forgiveness and all that good hearted crap.

The Chan-woo character is the heart of the show and carries it through its lulls, which this definitely has. The pacing of the plot was too heavy in the beginning and the end and not enough during the 35-45 stage. There were plenty where little took place or developments were repeated for brevity sake. The introduction of a side character called Ju Jung-nam (Son Hyun-joo, The Good Detective) allowed more depth for the Chan-ock, the sister and some plot outside of the main story. It was entertaining but the plot was a little all over the place. You never knew where he stood with Chan-ock. It was back and forward. If I had to continue talking about the side characters, the characters were fine but the stories often went nowhere. 66 episodes and none of them felt completed. Shame. Not crippling to the show but disappointing. Nevertheless, the overarching story was interesting enough to hook me into actually completing the show. I’ve struggled to complete 12 episode dramas before, and I tend to like those. So it must have been good. The story isn’t totally tight from episode to episode but they rarely are. Of course, the acting generally is what attracts people and Bae Yong-joon, Choi Soo-jong, Park Sung-won are great as leading men throughout this. Lee Seung-yeon is fine as the main lead. She can do a nice cry scene. I think she was a more interesting character when trying to portray a teenager. Perhaps it’s because her role was more intertwined with Choi Soo-jong. Park Sung-won really captured my attention for Sandglass and he was really good in his friendly other man role. He had a few plots where he had to show a more depressive, conflicted state and it was captured well. The star is Bae Yong-joon, easily. He’s really good in anything, even if some of his later works are a tad melodramatic for my preference. And this is just the start.

The music in the show changes between classic folksy music to more contemporary tunes. Nothing amazing. Not a patch on Sandglass which has a fantastic, iconic OST (check it out) but there are some ear wigglers here and there.

Recommended. While not amazing, it’s a good show with a strong leading man and a couple of solid side characters. And while I’ve not mentioned it much, the antagonists were solid too. And their comeuppance is sweet.

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I'd like to take praise at the cinematography, direction and editing. The film looks so stunning visually, everything framed perfectly, scene transtions done well. Big plaudits for Kim Ji-yong on (Cinematography) and Kim Jee-woon (direction and writing)

This was quite an eye opening film with Song Kang-Ho, once again, delivering an outstanding performance as Lee Jung-chool, the conflicted police captain stuck between the might of Japanese rule and the heart of the Korean Resistence. The fight against the oppressive regime of the Japanses occupation. But along side that and the trueish stories of the time, we have a cat & mouse game of politics between Lee Jung-chool and Hashimoto. The film is jammed with tension filled scenes as well as great, but short action fights. The torture scenes near the end are violent but pivitol to the story and add tons of drama. A very down to earth tale of patriotism with a great unique style of film making on top.

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The story is all over the place. A generic simple detective mystery gets blown to wide proportions with fake deaths, unnecessary twists and turns and poor special effects. However the first edition of Detective K delivered with strong performances from its main cast - Kim Myung-min as Detective and Oh Dal-su as Han Seo-pil. In terms of establishing these characters and their journey with each other, the film was worth watching. Virtuous Widow gave the audience tons of clever gags that ranged from absurd to extremely clever both verbally and visually. Plus the film casted the typical Sageuk antagonist, Lee Jae-youg in his comfortable role and that’s always a positive.

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A suicidal road trip taken by a drunken ex-civil servant (Asano Tadanobu) and a depressed bar hostess (Koizumi Kyoko) proves to be threputic and life changing but it takes a while to get there. There is drug taking (sleeping pills, mind you), painful reminiscing and drinking. Lots of drinking. The flashbacks peel back the layers of our characters and what led them to this path, doing it in a backwards manner similar to the structure of insomnia, which only added to the tragic events. Eventually we get a happy ending to the story. A mother changes her life and gets her kid back while a drunk feels satisfied for the first time in a long time without needing the influence of alcohol. I like to think that they eventually would meet up again and become happy together but being happy separately is just as fine an ending as any.

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Before We Get Married was a carefully paced piece of work. IIt was a good show with interesting main characters with strong relationships with each other. Wei Wei and Ke Fei truly felt like best friends with the way they spoke with each other and the way they protected each other throughout. Wei Wei and Ke Huan instantly had a connection and felt deep and exciting in a way. They weren’t afraid to show the hotness of the relationship either. Most cheating dramas attempt to stray away from that kinship but this isn’t shy in that regard at all. Unfortunately it does veer into some trope that I disliked, such as the exes either being 2d jealousy bound nuisances or slowly becoming near crazy creeps. But I enjoyed it most of all. On a different note, there was a clear re-write in terms of Han Ke Fei’s main love interest. I’m not sure what happened with the Yan Bai Yang character but he was clearly written out of the story for production reasons and replaced with the Liu Da Wei character, who was only introduced as the annoying (although still charming) employee. And while I liked the Bai Yang character, Da Wei was a welcome addition to the story, thanks to the strong acting from Leo Lee. Plus he and Phoebe Yuan had outstanding chemistry together.

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After the opening episode, I was left disappointed by the poor editing and camera choices - I am a technical nerd, forgive me - and found the acting and writing to be “hammy”. The writer, Jo Yoon Young, had struggled to convincingly introduce the characters and background. The humour wasn’t totally spot on, although it had its moment. However, those thoughts simmered after a strong second episode that was able to interject life and humour into all the characters, and while there are some minor things, such as the So’s eye being covered up by make-up and the we are led to believe that no one else would’ve had the idea to, especially when it was stated that cosmetics were popular of the time period, the story did progress and effortlessly turn a comedy ensemble into a true tragedy - one that I expected to see in the first place. Continuing on with plot developments that I found flawed, I didn’t think that the 3rd Prince Yo’s fake death was necessary. It felt like a cliff-hanger to draw ratings rather than proper development. Self-imposed exile sounds much better to me; realistic, also.

As for the positives of the drama, it is a strong, gripping experience. It lulls you into a tale of romance and brotherhood but soons into a tragic tale of palace politics, for all involved. The first half of the drama was absolutely crucial for both setting the stages for what was to come, giving each prince a clear motive for each and every action throughout. Unfortunately, despite almost every one of the brothers trying not to fulfil the history of the King needing to kill all male rivals, that tale was inevitable (almost). Honestly, I’ve seen plenty of sad dramas but some of the deaths were tragic, even for my cold eyes. What was the most crushing? Honestly, it might have been the Crown Prince’s. He was the prince that the drama showed the least of but he was a tragic figure, plagued by illness (natural and otherwise) and the way he died was…well heart-breaker. Most of them were, but something about him really touched me. Of course, we may talk about the finale. A not so surprising death was Hae Soo’s. It was fitting of the drama and quite frankly, a needed one. I can often struggle to finish shows, not for any reason but it is a habit of mine. Often, I’ll wait for days or weeks before I do but the last episodes did their job of hooking me as a viewer.

Lee Joon Gi got snubbed at the 2016 SBS Drama awards for his nominated award but Kang Ha-neul won his. I won’t say who deserves what but the acting of the two does warrant praise. Lee Joon Gi was able to be the dark hero - murderous and vengful to the end but I was taken away by Kang Ha-neul’s silent anger. It radiated off the TV screen in such an intense way. Plus, his chemistry with IU was stronger than Lee Joon Gi’s in my opinion. Not that I disliked theirs. And his relationship with Park Shi Eun’s Lady Hae was perhaps the strongest of the show. IU’s acting seemed to get mixed reviews but I think hers was good. Likewise to Lee Joon Gi and Kang Ha-neul’s characters, her character changes to a more reserved one. IU is cheerful and full of life in the first half, in the second she has grown into a true Court Lady, stoic, full of grace and pride. Her acting suited the character. So I don’t see her as a weak link. The weak link was Byun Baek Hyun’ Eun but no one really cared when he was a wonderful bright spark. One that you missed when he was gone.

Would I watch it again? Yes. Absolutely. Not immediately, give me time to breathe. It’s one of those dramas. But I will.

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This tickled me at times as well creating a rather sombre and upsetting setting. Happy Old Year is about an interior decorator who wants to clear out her house to create an office only to unearth some hidden truths about her past and herself. Jean learns about herself and how her actions affect others through something simply as throwing away old, seemingless useless items. A piano, an old camera; everything can have meaning to someone else. This is manifested someway in the form of her former relationship, something that she has tried to hide from herself and in her own home. It’s both hidden and unseen and yet we don’t want to depart from it. That is true selfishness.

Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit does a masterful job at making the little moments count. The camera work, the work with the cinematography to make everything seem so congested and full, the choices of pauses and frames that we focus on. In a true to cinema formation, the art of the mise-en-scene matches the acting on screen.

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I'm not too into revenge driven plots. Mostly because the story development sometimes comes off as clichéd in regards of character motivation, actions, etc,and this was that, to a certain extent; this isn't a perfectly executed dama. There are many elements that I didn't or found to be far fetched. Dare I say unrealistic? For example, Chae Jung An’s role in the story was an important one but the direction it had was very odd to me. Obviously this does happen but the way the character (Kim Seo Yeon) bounced between the two brothers was off putting and awkward. This plot is used often among its contemporaries, so it's harsh to solely point ‘Cain and Abel’ out for this. But then arises many flaws such as how easily she forgave Seon Woo when she found out his actions. In addition to that plot, there is too much underdevelopment regarding the father's lack of love and care for Seon Woo growing up. It's only spoken about and not shown. I believe there should've been more time dedicated to showing this. Make more use of the child actors' scenes given the actors at their disposal.

However, this was a compelling drama piece that gave our main characters (Lee Cho In and Lee Seon Woo) depth. Lee Seon Woo is both hateful and sympathetic, thanks to Shin Hyun Joon’s terrific portrayal of him, and Lee Cho In is someone with a heartful soul but is filled with burden and pain. Despite the characters getting darker as the drama progressed, the very essence of their being is kept no matter what. Lee Cho In out manoeuvring Seon Woo and his Mother despite their shady tactics that almost killed Cho In earlier in the story, was very satisfying. Getting rid of the main instigators, retaking what is his while they were helpless to stop him and making them feel shame and humility in their final moments to make a recipe for a great revenge drama. I'm surprised how little Oh Yeong Ji (Han Ji Min) had to do with that side of the plot as usually the female main character would have a more on hand role but she didn't and I'm grateful. Her character was very innocent and was a shining light in Cho In’s life among the hateful walls surrounding it, and everything she did, or was a part of, was befitting for her character.

There were a few stand out performances in this along with an exciting story. This is worth seeking out.

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Never had Hong Sangsoo projected himself onto one of his films more so than Like You Know It All. I truly believe that Director Hong sees himself as a self loathing, destructive man child. This is a quite hateful film with any interaction Director Ku has with people ending in pain and suffering. Seemingly empty words and gestures that Ku doesn't think much of have a grave effect on those around him. Director Ku somehow within a month inadvertently allows a rape take place, crushes his friend’s wife's spirit and then exposes the boring marriage for what it is. And despite it all, nothing is gained. The only take away Ku takes from his encounters is that no one understands his films because he doesn't understand himself. The sweetest thing that transpired was the camera lingering on a playful couple in the pool while Director Ku starts to gain some hope in his life reading the note Ko Soon wrote him, which is scuppered when reality comes crashing down upon him. This is one of Hong Sangsoo's more beautiful films. It's only appropriate that it's also his most scathing.

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Interesting Opening Set Up That Eventually Turns Into An Everyday Political Sageuk

The premise is fascinating right off the bat. A Bossam accidently picks the wrong girl, who happens to be the King’s favourite Princess, and has to deal with the coincidences. Initially I thought this would be a good story about a widowed princess learning to live a commoners lifestyle and get more fulfilment from it but, of course, Ba Woo, our male character, has a few secrets and is revealed to be from a noble family. Because that always seems to be the case. And our Princess gets found out by her Brother In Law, whom she is in love with. The political elements were executed rather well, despite my dismissive title. King Gwanghae is one of the most portrayed Kings in Korean Sageuks. He is a troubled king that is liked by the people but is far from the most righteous either. Being, rightfully paranoid, and has the tendency to be blood thirsty himself. Kim Tae Woo was amazing in this drama. I think everyone had a good performance to make for the predictable plot trajectory but he takes the MVP for me. Gwanghae was a painfully sympathetic, tortured soul who didn't even trust his closest Court Lady, the famous Head Lady Kim (who was terrific as well. Song Sun Mi is an amazing actress. I wish she'd get more recognition). The descent into near madness while still being able to portray that royal slyness was mightily impressive and one of the best aspects of the show. The show wasn't perfect. The Villain was very Villain-y and without any subtly. The story does take a turn into a more generic route when the story of the common people are often the most interesting parts of the story

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Koo Hye Sun puts in a good performance. I'm not lying. Honest

I'm a bit of a Koo Hye Sun apologist when it comes to her acting but I thought she was really good at this. She tends to get head strong, tomboyish characters and she is really good in that type casted role. Her chemistry with Lee Sang Yoon was solid. Perhaps not sexually but just them interacting with each other felt natural and normal. I can totally buy these two being a couple. Lee Sang Yoon as Park Dong Joo was really good. His natural charisma and likability allowed me to connect instantly.

The story was touching and sad in parts. Angel Eyes showed their history almost perfectly, to the point a lot of people would've prefered more of it. Of course, it's not actually perfect as you do get “coincidences” such as the lost letter *eye roll* and etc. I also don't think they established a good time line for the past events. When Dong Joo met Jae Beom, when they got close, when they went to the states, etc. Initially we're shown Dong Joo and his Sister going to the States right away for surgery. But then later, it's said Jae Beom helps send him, or they come back and he sends them to the US again? It's not very clear. Either way, the present day story is done well. Although I feel for Kang Ji Woon’s character, he could've been left out entirely. It made things a little messy but when it was all said and done, I didn't have any reservations about Soo Wan going to Dong Joo. I think the side plots were cute with Fireman Gi and his relationship with his son and his younger colleague. That family dynamic was wonderful. And that only got better with the inclusion of Elle. The eventual split was actually earned, unlike a lot of romance dramas that use it to pad out the run time but it still was the worst aspect of the drama as a whole. The next time I watch this, I'll likely skip those episodes entirely.

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Noona/Dongsaeng dramas are fairly common, despite it often being a slight taboo in Korean Society, which this drama portrays heavily. The idea of age gap is prevalent in all the female characters. The Go family all have their own versions of it. Byung Hee/Chul Soo, Joon Hee/Byung Gak and even Mrs Choi and her employee, somewhat. The romances didn't develop straight away. Even after the initial sexual incident, both weren't willing to address it in such a way, rather blowing it off on passion and calling it a mistake. Once Hee Myung and Byung Hee start their relationship does their true feelings become clear. The journey to that point was thoroughly entertaining, comedic and natural. Some of the funniest scenes came from Byung Hee and her sexuality. Fantasy or not. Her scene in episode one when she's acting sexy had me in stitches. Byung Hee (Go Hyun Jung) and Park Chul Soo (Chun Jung Myung) were two strong leads with good chemistry, both comedic and sexual. The age difference is legit but you can both feel it and not with how they portrayed their characters. Byung Hee and Chul Soo’s sister were more immature than Chul Soo, who was rather mature and responsible. So the age difference was only a story obstacle. This was lovely. Well worth watching.

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Outstanding Story But Poor Writing Hurts It's Potential

Born Again had a lot of potential. We got a refreshing story regarding fate and destiny not being so concrete. About how our past lives don't dictate our present ones. Jong Bum’s life seemed destined to be a killer but he learned that he could be a normal man with a normal life. But this lost me at several points due to the writers over complicating things, which took away from the great elements this show had. For example, the standoff at the end of the “Past”scenes was the perfect conclusion to end that story and lead us into the present day. Everyone dies. Ji Chul kills himself after causing the death of Ha Eun and Hyung Bin
Perfect, but they opt to renege on that ending, and have this cult, that Ji Chul’s father is the figure of, save him from death and then he gets hung in prison anyway. All so we have a link to the present day. This was not needed whatsoever. Likewise with Jong Bum being related to the Gong Family. The past life link was all that was necessary. Obviously these things on their own are fine but there were too many instances where if the writers left things alone and stopped trying to add their magic to it, it would've been excellent. But the writers couldn't help themselves. I'll reiterate that the story upto a point had me in the palm of it's hand. I was ready to call it a 10/10 drama but the story falls apart in the 3rd gear. And while it's not terrible, it leaves a bad taste in my mouth.

Thankfully the acting is terrific. Jin Se Yeon can struggle to capture the right emotions outside of the romantic character building (Doctor Stranger) but she was really solid in her overall performance, along with the always brilliant Jang Ki Yong and Lee Soo Hyuk. They all had to be two slightly different characters for each time period and they were successful in making all six characters distinct from each other in a subtle way. The low-key greatest performances come from Kim Jung Young, Jong Bum’s (adopted) mother. Her cameos always shine, even in the best dramas (One Spring Night, The Smile Has Left Your Eyes, etc) and her portrayal as a Norma Bates inspired character blew me away. It's a shame that even this plotline faltered a little as well. Her and Jang Ki Yong had the most compelling scenes and relationship of them all. And this is a drama full of them.

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Wow. She actually died. That was a shock for me. There are quite a few dramas involving deaths, especially when kids are involved, that would benefit from the character dies but they don't do it, for understable reasons (a happy ending is a happy ending) but they concluded the story in a sad, yet still, satisfying way. Everyone got closure, said their goodbyes, tried everything and left with no real regrets. It's unfortunate that the kids don't have a mother once again but I guess they will have loving grandparents instead. The story isn't straightforward either. There is an age difference, unfortunate past (which is clearly a no-no) on both sides, illness, plus she is initially engaged to our male protagonist's brother. There are a lot of things against our hero's which makes their time together that much more valuable and loving.

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