Just found out the actor playing Jang Beol Gu [Mokpo gangster leader] was TVXQ's Yunho. Haven't paid much attention to 1st gen K-pop groups before, so he's a complete new discovery for me. His performance in the drama was fantastic.
Congrets to Ryu Seung-ryong on winning Daesang. It's been an incredible year for him, both 'Dream Life of Mr. Kim' and 'Low life' are masterpieces and his performances are just phenomenal. It is an art award so primarily its more about artistic value, not about hallyu wave and viewership. RSR is a role model for all actors, his works always balance artistic and commercial value. Well deserved win.
They should make more slice of life romcoms like this. The drama was cute and relatable, perfect for viewers looking for a chill vibe. I'm fine with the 8 eps short form that focusing on the development rather than prolonged dating era which is usually filled with unnecessary subplots and abrupt shift. Directing and writing were consistent. KGE delivered as always. KJW wasn't top notch, but surprisingly well suited for the role. Sin Sun Rok wasn't a walking green flag type of ML but a right person for her matured self.
The ultimate message conveyed by the cells of all seasons: Whoever is the destined partner, the protagonist of her life can only be herself.
Her feeling for him didn't come in a sudden. I think she started liking him since he helped her with the reverse driving, its the first time he did something that impressed her. The driving scene was well directed and acted btw, you can see her micro expression changes (from hate to appreciation) through KGE's acting and cells conversation. Then on the train to Busan, the way he didn't argue or confront her but calmed her down with a big smile showed his mentality and manner. All these were good qualities that would attract women. And yeah he also got the look. I like how the writer narrated the development of relationship in a subtle way rather than being too straightforward like most romcoms.
The plot was simple: two opponent secret agents rescuing an informant plus high stake actions towards the end. The film invested heavily in cinematography, visual aesthetics and action sequence, but the story itself was mid, lacking complexity and strategic/ psychological intrigue that expected from a spy thriller. The romance added abit emotional touch to the film but was not sufficiently narrated. The motivations behind two MLs risking their lives to rescue FL was unclear.
The drama started off with a gripping plot and suspenseful twists surrounding a case hidden by the FL, but after the culprit was unveiled (EP5, 6) the plot and characterization became confusing and didn't have a clear direction. ML's political struggle lacked depth, and the two leads only barely became allies in the final episode. The acting was great though, 8/10.
Best drama and screenplay: The Dream Life of Mr. Kim Best actor: Ryu Seung Ryong (Dream life of mr kim) Best actress: difficult to choose because no one really stands out, but I hope Shin Hye Sun (Art of Sarah) and Park Shin Hye (Undercover Miss Hong) to be nominated.
Finally a well-rounded 16eps drama that didn't go downhill in the second half. It maintained a consistent theme and clear mission throughout, no abrupt plot shift to forceful romance trope or makjang as the story progressed and the ending was wrapped up nicely. Corporate war was surprisingly quite well written. My only complaint is the villains were a bit weak, and Sin Jeong U's motive of joining Hanmin could be better explained.
Unlike recent Kdramas, this drama returns to the style of old classics that focusing on compelling storyline and characters rather than engaging viewers with visuals, scenes or vibes. While recent dramas are keen to create fancy and memorable scenes, many actually lack a coherent narrative and substance like this one.
Director: Katou Yuusuke (Operation Love 2007)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRMI8U5GEOs
The ultimate message conveyed by the cells of all seasons: Whoever is the destined partner, the protagonist of her life can only be herself.
9/10.
Entertaining, but nothing new or impactful. 8/10.
https://www.whats-on-netflix.com/news/k-dramas/buy-king-netflix-k-drama-everything-we-know-so-far/
Best actor: Ryu Seung Ryong (Dream life of mr kim)
Best actress: difficult to choose because no one really stands out, but I hope Shin Hye Sun (Art of Sarah) and Park Shin Hye (Undercover Miss Hong) to be nominated.
Overall an enjoyable watch. 8.5-9/10.