What an opener. I am looking forward to losing myself in this fantasy world with the beauty of Kim Hee Sun, the pleasantness of Rowoon, and the mystifying sexiness of Lee Soo Hyuk and his voice, but more the message behind the story. I like that it's a completely different outlook on grim reapers who, rather than cause death by collecting souls, try to save them, and in the process make those who seek death realize that there is hope in life, no matter how bleak it may seem, and given a choice they should always choose life over death.
I love the choices the director makes with this drama, and the ease with which the present and the past are interlinked, especially the scenes that seem so unrelated yet brilliantly connected. I have to say I didn't expect this 4th episode to be as emotional. It had me wallowing in tears the entire time. Everything from Sunja and Pastor Ishka's tender moments to her and her mom's anguish to the grandmother and Solomon's liberating moment, and even Sunja and Hansu's cruel yet strangely sad moment. I could feel his pain, jealousy and fear for what lies ahead for her in an unforgiving land with unforgiving people. It made me wish he had told her he loved her when he had the chance, but I doubt even he knew. But the moment that touched me the most was the singer, as she beautifully and proudly represented what being free truly meant.
What a great talent, I am am shocked and disappointed in myself for not knowing you before Pachinko regardless though I am glad I know you now. Love you in Pachinko, I would love to see you recieve the "scene stealer" award.
I liked this drama when it started, but somewhere along the way something went wrong and it all started feeling forced -- all the relationships and acting seem superficial, like everyone is trying very hard. It may be a directorial issue, rather than an acting issue, but I find I struggle to relate to the stories or even care, and that's sad, since I like all the actors a lot.
I really like Son Yejin but here in this drama, why is she doing everything so extra? Extra down or dull or extra…
You expressed my thoughts perfectly but not only that I feel like everything is forced -- all the relationships -- this drama started out so well but went totally wrong and I can't even say when that started but I can't bring myself to watch a whole episode anymore.
I completely agree with your review. I also thought the father compounded the issues with his unwaranted outbursts and jealousy early on in the marriage before any real sparks (if we can call them that) started to fly -- of both his sons, especially his older son even politically, which was a bit off for me. I also agree that Nanami stood out the most and she had me wishing Hitoshi had fallen for her instead.
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