SIDE NOTE: Been watching the English Sub, YouTube, 1080p, approx 30 minutes per episode, translated by Yzd_International_Fanclub, thanks guys!
ACTING/CAST: This is quite an attractive cast, and they play their parts very well.
MUSIC: Very good throughout the series.
REWATCH VALUE: Yup.
OVERALL: I'm am AMAZED at the production value of this! The set design and costume design are A+. It's a gorgeous production. I can't wait to watch more!
Was this review helpful to you?
A little stretched but fine.
As you're already aware of, Undercover is a remake of the popular UK series of the same name, the makers have also done immense changes in many plots giving extra essence to the major characters. This is rather a political thriller that feels like a tragedy throughout the entire thing and makes you feel sad. Absuse of power, authoritative ruling, corruption, dirty politics, etc. without the consideration of how it affects a common man's life and people's emotions are parts of this drama.Undercover is set up in a premise where a familyman tries to save his lovale family from getting ruined by his own tragic past that he has been hiding all his life out of insecurity that the revelation can break his dear ones apart. To save your time here I suggest you read the plot in the synopsis so that I can jump to my review, haha.
Have you watched the Lee Joon Gi starrer tragic thriller drama Flower of Evil: FoE (2020) which even got multiple nominations at the 57th Baeksang? Well then, Undercover is established on somewhat similar (I would say 30%) premise. Only difference is that the given situations in both the dramas are different but also lead to a tragic result where there seems no door to get out of.
Undercover is emotionally stirring and the brewing conflict between the leads even when they're unware of eacg other's flaws, is what you call the main attraction of the drama. The emotions and beliefs of the leads will leave you worried about the fate to befall on them and their happy family. The greatest message it gives is, even in a regular and perfectly normal relationshp, situation of discovering inadvertent lies, is something hard to overcome and reconcile.
Talking about acting and cast, the cast felt so good though I personally think it could have been better; the children of the lead couple and some people at the NIS as well as in the police force and the Blue House could be better actors. But the lead duo Ji Jin Hee and Kim Hyun Joo were so powerful throughout the series and their chemistry was remarkable though it's the second time playing a couple but it was different given that the characters were intense. Ji Jin Hee has always proved his versatility by playing a number of challenging characters but in my opinion this role is the most difficult. I felt the same when he played the same character in "Move to Heaven" even though he was there in a guest role.
The core concept of this drama is the same as Flower of Evil, sometimes it felt a bit slow but manageable. Back to back tragedies are a bit triggering which might make you angry; at a point everything goes wrong back to back things happening lose the way back to their places that makes one suffocating.
There was a huge character development for both the lead characters and the way it was presented by intertwining and connecting the present time with their individual as well as united pasts. That is one job that intrigued me tbh. The story has been well written and the direction and screenplay has been done nice but let me tell you that you shouldn't expect a lot from it for we have seen similar plots before and all the political tragedies are not new to us either. It's just a story with different elements and a different way of execution that makes it interesting and kept me going.
Overally, it's not a bad show but worth a one time watch. Please give it a watch before you judge. Scoring a gravitating pitch, UNDERCOVER vaunted a solid narrative right off the bat. Coupled with a good cast, it invites you to brace yourselves for the parade of confrontations, betrayals, and conspiracies spicing up its initial displayed story.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Same Actors Different Stories
Episode 1-Started off confusing as they didnt explain much. I wasn't sure how it was going to progress and if the soul mate plot was suppose to make it an alternate universe. The acting and the ending was good though.Episode 2: Completely different story line. The rolls, personalities and attitudes were swapped. Actors did amazing portraying the difference. Very Versatile. Again had a beginning to end plot in this episode just like episode one.
Episode 3: Yet another story! And again amazing acting by the actors for how different the roles, attitudes and personalities were again. There is one big difference though with this one, it continues into episode 4! There is a detail though that i hope most of you pick up on but Im pretty sure thats the reason they are extending it past a single episode like the previous two.
Episode 4: I cried, but, maybe because I know there will be a whole new story with a whole new ending next week, I am not sad. I cried because I felt the emotions, I believed it, their acting convinced me. 1 thing I would have liked explained....why a different country and what was that last conversation with his friend....to me the conversation insinuated he chose when and maybe that's why he went to the other country....
Episode 5: It looks like they are extending them to 2 episodes a story now. I did not feel worried going into this story after the last one as I know all Endings are different. I still love the back and forth of the dynamic of this couple. there wasn't much of a story in this episode as there was in episode 3 but it's still a lovely watch.
Episode 6: More context was given in this episode for episode 5 and was an adorable cheesy ending. There was still a larger amount of time left in the episode after the 'end' of this story and it looks like they are going to tie together the after scenes that are at the end of some episodes
Episode 7&8: Definitely i feel tied everything together even though the majority of the last story was only using the bts of only one of the previous story lines.
Please Watch, you won't regret it!
The more episodes i see the more it truly brings the series name to life, 'Every You, Every Me'.....Everytime, Every Life, no matter what.
I think this series is a unique and amazing idea, especially for the actors and their careers as it shows just how versatile they are. I am looking forward to the entire series.
Was this review helpful to you?
1This is a fabulous show with a lot of depth - one of the best out there
DO NOT BELIEVE THE NEGATIVE REVIEWS. This is one of the best historica dramas out there. The only thing I agree with: the poster is misleading but only a little, because at the heart, it's a socio-political drama. This shows highlights:The foundation of trust and friendship is what matters most;
that agency of women has been hard fought and we are still fighting;
people in power will do anything to keep their power unchecked;
social injustice unhinges people; revenge is never pretty and is a vicious cycle, and one day someone has to sacrifice something to break it.
learning to be humble and thankful for things we often take for granted (freedom to make choices, having enough to eat, having a roof over the head, trusting people around you when anyone could kill you anytime);
And it's about making the right choice. This drama also features one the most FEMINIST heroes that I have seen in a very very long time. It's unbeleivable how beautifully that arc has been shown. His belief in his woman's capabilities is limitless and is a pure delight to watch. He is never the knight in the shinning armor, and only steps in if his woman is facing trouble because of others' prejudices. As Jay Yi beautifully says in one instance "he is a man who breaks down high walls for a woman who is stuck behind it'.
It IS a romance but not the regular kind we see today. It's more a vehicle that moves the narrative forward. Yi Hwan (the Crown Prince) falls in love with a woman he has no chance with - she technically belongs to his best friend (whether she wants it or not, she is just an object in the eyes of the soiety she lives in), while the best friend has this unhealthy attachment to a woman he has never met as an adult, making life truly difficult for the Prince; plus she does not fit any criteria to become his Crown Princess even if she were to be absolved of the murders (The Crown Princes were governed by strict rules of marriage, he had no choice in who he could marry as it was always a politica decision taken by the royal parents; the Kings however were not bound by any of it, they could choose their own Queens if they wanted). Min Jay Yi, duty bound to marry the man her family chose for her, marriage being a contract between families with no place for choice/love, is now an accused murderer on the run and, not only she loses everything - her family, her home, her reputation, her identity, but she also ends up falling in love with the most unatainable man she could imagine.
Hence, they have no chance with each other. But when does heart ever listen to reason? Yes, they never touch each other and totally adhere to the Josean principles of physical space between a man and a woman at all times. But their relationship is so wholesome, beautiful and pure that it harks back to the times when romance was all about yearning and longing. Don't miss their interactions, they confess to each other throughout without saying the actual words and it's beautiful to behold. And their interactions are hilarious at times. He is stuffy, morally upright, naive and insanely competitive. She is fiesty, unconventional, motor mouth but keeps her innermost feelings bottled up because that's how she has been raised. He falls for Jay Yi for the world she shows him outside of his very lonely existence (she is fearless and she drinks haha!), someone he can trust, rely on, beleive in, and laugh with, while she falls for his progressive thoughts, and benevolence. Both are brilliant people and never fail to complement each other for that. Or take each other down a peg when the situation demands.
All of these are packaged into a constantly moving narrative, packed with super funny moments and sparkling chemistry between Park Hyung Sik and Jeon So Nee. The side characters are to die for - Myung Jin and Ga Ram (Lee Tae Sun and Pyo Ye-Jin) are fabulous and the four make an investigative team (Shield team) that eventually resolve the mystery, with each of them bringing something to the table. These four could easily have a spin off show. Jeong Da-Eun as princess is super adorable and a very interesting character. The main villain is one dimensional but at the end, that makes his end supremely satisfying to watch. But it's the backstory that keeps you hooked.
The cast is steller, but Park Hyung Sik is ethereal as the Crown Prince. Not only he is blindingly good looking, but boy, can this man act. He brings Yi Hwan to life, and he does it with just his voice and his eyes. You cry with him, you laugh with him, you feel his heartache, you feel his jealousy, you feel his helplessness and rage at the injustices he is trying to fight . This is an award winning performance and hope he gets recognized for it. Jeon So Nee is a perfect foil to him. She starts ordinary and then grows on you. The fact that she is drop dead gorgeous is a bonus (take her out of the Eunuch uniform, put her hair down, put her in a plain unfashionable white gown and she takes your breath away). She goes through various stages of her performance with aplomb, and absolutely aces it in the emotional scenes (her confession will give you goosbumps and stay with you for a long time). She is an actress to watch out for.
Was this review helpful to you?
1This review may contain spoilers
A Sweetly Delicious and Heartwarming Drama
This drama held my attention from the very first episode; so many deliciously sweet moments that you just could not stop yourself from smiling while watching.The ML (WinWin aka Yan Yue) was perfectly cast. This is the first drama that I have seen him in. I am now looking forward to seeing him in "The Shadow" his next drama. That smile and dimples, everyone will be crushing over him because he is just so handsome. The FL (He Hong Shan aka An Ran) complimented him so well. She was funny, bright, pretty and she did not overly act like she knew everything being that she was older.
The drama was about An Ran who became an entrepreneur for a start-up company she started called "Sweet Games." She was always looking for investors. And you know the saying, "robbing Peter to pay Paul and robbing Paul to pay Peter back?" Well, that was An Ran. She was always short of money, but she somehow would make it work. Enter Yan Yue who was a successful voice actor that had known her when they both went to the same university. He had a secret crush on her, but he never would step to her.
Fast forward and we have An Ran renting the apartment next door to him. Yan Yue knew who she was, but she didn't remember him. So, the day that she rents the apartment she heads to a reunion at the university (as does Yan Yue) and while there she tries to get investors. It does not work out and to make matters even worse, she trips, and everyone sees the tags still on her clothes. Yan Yue was making his way to help An Ran, but her best friend Bei Meng Yao interceded before he could get to her. She helps An Ran to go the restroom where she basically tells her she is fine and that she can go. But you know she wasn't. She gets drunk at none other than a convenience store. Yan Yue comes and helps her home. She shares a kiss with him when she falls and wakes up the next morning in his bed. Yan Yue leads her to believe that something happened because he comes out in his robe.
We also have the ex-boyfriend from her university days that left her but now he tries to come back to get her. You know his situation with the girl he left her for didn't work out, so he is coming back to An Ran. An Ran is smart enough to know and doesn't want to have anything to do with him. At this point, I was a little ticked off by her bestie because she was trying to get them back together and dissing Yan Yue saying he was too young, and she didn't feel that he was the right person for her. He basically told her that it was none of her business what their relationship was and left her sitting at the table by herself. (I was high fiving him for that!)
Both parents of An Ran and Yan Yue did have similar thoughts regarding their relationship. But I was happy to see that the parents were not that forceful in trying to break them up due to the age difference. They both spoke to their parents in a way that they understood that it was no longer up to them to interfere, and they won them over.
Her game does become a success but you she did have those that tried to take it from her by planting a spy in her office and they did a cyber-attack before it was release because people were only using the beta version. Then Yan Yue was taken out of doing voice acting due to doing an audio for a book that the company was not given permission to do. There was a lot of drama here and he basically made a statement that put not only the company but An Ran's company and their relationship out for everyone to bash on the internet. Yan Yue leaves and retires from voice acting. This crushes An Ran but she waited patiently for him to return, which he did. Everything did work out with her company's game, and he got back to doing voice acting again.
The most beautiful part I felt, and my heart was just filled with such love is when I saw him doing the voice over for a book for the children who were blind. It was wonderful to see this incorporated into the drama. To see the smiles and when the one boy asks him if he could touch his face...oh, it just melted your heart. That whole part of the drama is performed so well. Kudos to the writers for these exceptional moments.
The wedding was one which was exactly how you would envision, with their closest friends and colleagues. But the wedding vows of Yan Yue were too much.
Here are the vows of Yan Yue to An Ran:
An Ran, before I met you, my life couldn't be without music. When disputes occurred, I could only choose to escape, I was used to being shackled in my own world by a pair of headphones. I thought I was living happily, free, and fulfilled. Until one day I realized that after falling in love with someone, all those noisy sounds will disappear. And the most beautiful sounds will form melodies. The perfection you gave me is a shore I can't reach by myself. Meeting you and knowing you again, I found I still have the butterflies in my stomach when I first met you. You seem to be the goddess of my campus days. So sunny, so beautiful. Thank you. Thank you for constantly blocking those unpleasant things for me. Thank you for dragging the boy hidden in the headphone cave into the sunlight. In the future, I want to grow old with you, I want to embrace your body, your heart, your dreams, your past, present, and future. An Ran, would you let me stand by your side?
Here are An Ran's vows to Yan Yue:
Yes, I would. Of course, I do. I never thought that I could become someone's strength, I always thought that life is a battle one fights alone. Yan Yue, thank you for resolutely walking towards me. There is a kind of heroism in this world knowing that marriage is hard, yet still longing for it. Now I finally understand this heroism because of you. Because of your love and tolerance, I finally have this courage. Whether our future is dark or bright, I am willing to forge ahead with you. Mr. Yan, would you exchange our missed youth for a lifetime of championship?
Of course, he said I do.
I highly, highly recommend this drama because it is just the stuff that we are all looking for so get yourself a nice piece of sweet chocolate that leaves a lasting taste in your mouth just like this drama will. It is so good!
Was this review helpful to you?
Being right next to the person you genuinely love is all that matters.
i came across this on netflix and i thought it would just be like any other movie. you know, those you just watch to pass time. But it’s 2am now and i’m bawling my eyes out & my nose is blocked af. i didn’t realise i’ve been tearing up painfully while watching the movie.As y’all know, the male lead is a gangster and i was really irritated watching his scenes at the start. He was violent, aggressive & vulgar. However, my heart softened when i realised he had a heart of gold. I wondered if he saved or harmed the universe in his past life, to be trapped with an ill-fated life & at the same time, blessed with a kind, pure & genuine soul. A guy who sacrificed without yearning for any acknowledgement or rewards. Really, the world doesn’t deserve him. Ahhhh Roy chiu acted really well and his emotions really brought me with him in the movie. He’s really really good.
The female lead expressed herself so well too, i could precisely feel the way her heart melted at every touching moment she witnessed & feel the same way her heart crashed at every painful moment she suffered. It made me feel that the female character was so strong for even….. existing. ❤️
This love between them was passionate, fiery, yet, f*king painful. It’s so beautiful, i can’t get my eyes off them. I yearn for a love as beautiful as theirs.
Anyway, y’all really need to watch to understand those feels. & will i watch again? yea, when i need a good cry.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
The Confusing/Boring Solution (interesting premise let down by poor writing/editing)
Overall: although episode 6 finally explained things, they ruined Ryou/Mai. It could have been a masterpiece with solid writing but I regret watching this. Aired uncut on GagaOOLala (1st episode was 1hr11min), cut on YouTube PTG Entertainment channel (1st episode was 45min). September 2024 they released the uncut version on their YouTube channel https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLwO0HIPrzVqg8pOveOEbzGzubh0XVs7D&si=YWn1lSeK9Yv-oWbn I watched the uncut version.Important Plot Points to Know
- the very first scene is a flashback, there are flashbacks several times but they don't indicate they are flashbacks, the woman in the flashback is a character in the present
- the sandwich dude is playing two characters, himself in the present and his dad in the past
- the world building is explained in the final episode
Content Warnings: non con touching/attempted rape, punch, bullying, manhandling, non con turned consensual, slap, manipulation
What I Liked
- an established couple with realistic relationship issues
- decent solo NSFW scene (only in uncut version)
- camerawork where everyone else moves at a faster speed but the main character doesn't, to show how he's stuck
- the high school storyline up until the 2nd half of episode 5
Room For Improvement
- the way it started was confusing (note, this is a flashback)
- scenes jump with no explanation of how a character got there/when, for example, when/why/how did he get that business card? they never show the one guy being locked in the locker room? (explained in ep 6) why does Patis get a key from that nurse? why didn't they actually show the wish asking scenes in more detail (explained in ep 6)
- they needed to do more world building/hints prior to episode 6, they should not have included that grocery store scene
- episode 6 ruined Mai/Ryou, Mai should have stopped right away, also Ryou's wish was so awful, so we don't even know if the love was real or just because of the wish
- I don't want Thana and Patis together for many reasons
- I'm not sold on that level of tame kissing with an established couple and then how Patis is reluctant many times
- stupid wishes, why ask for a job when you can ask for a trillion dollars???
- cliche female character
- the pink transition effect was distracting
- open ending
- confused why they age restricted their youtube episode themselves as the cut version doesn't have anything in it that warrants being age restricted
- episodes are odd/out of order on their youtube channel
Was this review helpful to you?
Best psychological drama seen in a while.
I started this drama with no expectations because I was wary of the psychological aspect not being handled well but holy moly was I proved wrong. In fact I started this expecting a cheesy romance as mango TV trailers all showed the romance aspect and once again I was proved wrong.In fact the romance in this drama is a background. Its a slow burn. Its irrelevant. Therefore fans of romance might need to be patient with this one.
The story happens at a psychologist firm with one of the leads as a co-owner. After a meeting with the fl ,they embark on solving several psychological cases that happen in our daily lives,to us and the people we might know.
They explore each case and resolve it with in episode per episode.
There are many stories that you will relate to and feel like this is dejavu. The stories are educational and the way they handle them is excellent.
Also the ML (Lin Shen) our psychologist uses hypnosis as major way to handle these cases. I don't know much about hypnosis so I can't tell you how accurate it is but I do love how cases are handled with sensitivity.
I'm one of those people who first didn't like the fl character but later learnt she is a minor flaw to the greater picture.
I highly recommend watching this because it might have a story and lesson for you. The romance between the main leads is a pleasant bonus.
Do not let the rating deter u. Many people are harsh to psychological dramas because they're not used to them & consider them boring when they're the most educational & always carry important messages.
Was this review helpful to you?
A masterfully done crime thriller, mercilessly progressing offside the beaten track
Fabulous! "Your Honor" is a masterfully done crime thriller, mercilessly progressing offside the beaten track – with an upright protagonist maneuvering himself deeper and deeper into a hopeless fiasco.Right and wrong, black and white – they turn out to be impractical templates. Almost everything and everyone will be turned upside down at some point, and the entanglements will become more and more devastating.
In "Your Honor" suspense isn´t exactly associated with an arc. It is rather smoothly taking one loop after the other. When it comes to the protagonists: it is emotionally intense, yet at the same time controlled to the extreme, calm on the surface, though concentrated to the max. And yes, it is cruel and merciless at (most) times, too. In a dark vesture and at the same time with disarming grace this KDrama is fathoming personal boundaries of what is bearable and often enough even exceeding them.
PS:
“Your Honor” is based on the original series Kvodo by Shlomo Mashiach, for which several international remakes have since been produced.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Short but Sweet Reunion of Hee Tae & Myung Hee in 2021
I was so excited when I heard that Lee Dohyun and Go Minsi would be reuniting for a mini-drama, so I was a bit disappointed that it turned out to be a 6-minute long episode (if you can call it that). However, I am still very happy to see them reunite for this small project even if it is so short and an ad for something. It's so nice to see a happy ending for Hee Tae and Myung Hee even if it's in this way. I missed this couple so much so it made me really happy. It is also very nice that there were small indirect and direct references to Youth of May so it was fun noticing them as I watched. The storyline for this short "drama" was also written well to be interesting and funny despite it being only 6 minutes long. And, Lee Dohyun and Go Minsi's acting of course did not disappoint in this, even though it was a short "drama". Lee Dohyun is also adorable in this as he is with his other projects. Besides it being too short, this reunion was sweet and what I was looking for in their reunion. So, even though this is a very short reunion, I enjoyed it and it was fun to watch them in the modern day. But I really hope that Lee Dohyun and Go Minsi can reunite for a full-length drama or webdrama next time though!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Expectations unfortunately not met
Dance is neither about technique nor stamina. Love is what makes it whole🕺🏻OK. Let's start with the good🕺🏻
The acting - The guys killed it. I have seen Keita before in Cherry Magic & Alice in Borderland and was excited to see him back in the BL realm. I knew he was good and my man; he did not disappoint. No notes
Ryoma is a new face to me, but he was amazing too. He expresses emotions so freaking well. It just grabs you. I could feel how much he hated Sugiki in the beginning, when he started wanting him; I was there with him—in that desire, denial, and confusion. And when Sugiki broke his heart, I felt that too. When he cried, when he made the choice to go back to competing after the heartbreak, when he struggled to walk away from Sugiki's honor dance, when he finally faced him on that floor. I felt it all. Hat's off to the man
The chemistry - My God!! It was palpable. Everyone has mentioned it, but that scene in the train... *fans self*. And the kiss scene towards the end. Also, I was mesmerised every time they danced together
Their type of dance matched their personalities beautifully - Sugiki does ballroom. Idk much about dance, but from what I saw in this, it's a very controlled type of dancing. Beautiful to look at, but rigid in its execution.
On the other hand, Suzuki is a free spirit. He also walks, breaths, moves like sex, and so is his dance style. It's fun and sexy, while Suguki's is very restrained.
Suzuki wants to have fun in his life, but Sugiki is very controlled and by the book. He knows what he wants, sees the goal, and will stick by it, everything else be damned.
How they dance spills into their personalities. Or is it vice versa?
The cinematography and the grandeur of it all - Are we surprised though? It's a Netflix production. You know the production budget be budgeting
🕺🏻What I didn't like🕺🏻
The title says it all. The movie did not match the expectations set by the trailer
When you watch the trailer, you expect the movie to be very sensual, very sexy. You expect their relationship to be very emotionally charged. A love that stems from hate, passion (for dance and Suzuki's hatred for Sugiki), desire, and an unwitting respect for each other's craft. I was at the edge of my seat waiting for such a story
Unfortunately, when you get to the story, this all kinda... fades away? A lot of the story is told in silence (?). There are a lot of looks to the other person, facial expressions, but very little in the way of actual communication. As the audience, you kinda have to connect the dots and guess what they are feeling and thinking. That removes the 'punch' of what this story could be
Their romance — if you could even call it that — doesn't progress much, and so by the end, everything feels unfinished. They kissed on the train. I thought things would get steamier, but they went their separate ways. Only to meet 2(?) months later in the UK with Suzuki thinking about how he wants Sugiki's eyes on him.... And then they break up
Girl... What?? What happened in the 2 months??? I have read some comments by the Manga readers that allude to what happened after the train, leading up to the breakup, and after, but if you're going to make a movie, shouldn't you include what happens in the source material in the show? I feel like cutting out major details does a disservice not only to the viewers who may not have checked out the book, but also to the readers who may want a better portrayal of a story they love
The ending was also very.... Ugh. It's open-ended. Not a fan of those. I hear it's because the manga isn't complete. Perhaps the manga shall end n we'll get a sequel. Hopefully, a better installation than this one
Was this review helpful to you?
It’s so basic, but so good.
There is exactly nothing innovative about this show. Typical exaggeration of the unfair social structures currently existing in the world, typical villain with selfish motivations, typical hero with personal story. And yet, I had so much fun watching.I would agree that the world buildup and storytelling is rather vague - lacks the details on how the society truly works, what are the motivations of all the characters and groups. Some do things because they are good people, some because they are selfish or desperate, some scared, sometimes (most of the time) it’s personal story or revenge, but we don’t really get a proper and more elaborate exploration and explanation - neither about the past, present nor the future.
I might be in the minority here, but it honestly did not bother me at all. I think with post-apocalyptic stories, I actually prefer when a lot of things are left with a question mark that I have to think about and find the answers for myself. For me, the process of filling the gaps with my own ideas is actually a part of the entertainment. All that consider, I can see how others might view it as a rather big flaw.
The performances were great. Do I think they will be remembered for a long time? No, since the characters were not exactly that complex and well written. That said, the actors did a phenomenal job with delivering performances that made the characters seem real and cohesive, even if the writing was rather imprecise. The brotherhood between 5-8 and Sa Wol was both entertaining and low key heartwarming - all thanks to good on screen chemistry between Kim Woo Bin and Kang Yoo Seok.
Being a fan of Song Seung Heon, it was rather disappointing how little acting this man had to do. Probably one of the weakest aspects of the show performances wise, and it’s all on the character’s writing and not the actor himself. Since the character was rather boring, I honestly don’t think anyone could make him stand out more.
Directing wise, everyone should look at this drama as a great example on how to end episodes - these were true cliffhangers that made you curious! I honestly could not stop watching. Binge watched all 6 episodes with just pee breaks.
What’s more, the pacing is great. They don’t focus unnecessarily on unimportant bits, highlighting the scenes that matter the most. Sadly, the final confrontation was a let down. It ended before I could even register what’s going on and I was left with the thought: that’s it? Well, that’s anticlimactic.
As for the production - I loved the set design. You know what is one of the most ridiculous things in post-apocalyptic and sci-fi shows? The over the top complex designs. The world is shattered, people would lean towards the simplicity that would be cost efficient, except for the rich elites who would try to pretend the reality is either the same it was in the past, or not as bad as it truly is. We got just that here - simplicity for the poor, trying to maintain the idea of normal life for the rich.
For the negatives - the show is really dark during some scenes. Yes, in context it makes sense, but you still need to think about your audience and not just the realism of the situation. Watching just a black screen is not entertaining. If you make it impossible to see, you can as well just make it into an audio book. That problem mostly existed in the first two episodes and lighting got a lot better later on. There were a few scenes that managed to create a beautiful picture just with the right lighting in the right spot.
A small bit that got me laughing - truly questionable blood splashes during the fight scenes. The gun wounds were fine, but the poorly animated CGI blood during fist fights was just comical.
Overall, I had a blast watching. It can be both: brainless entertainment and a start for some conversations and reflections about social issues and structures as it reflects our reality rather well.
Was this review helpful to you?
This drama’s story centers on revenge, action, friendship and romance: the ultimate combination to create various story’s developments all the time excluding any chance for dragging or slow moments. The intense events were always present to create cliffhangers at every turn in each episode. What I appreciated the most about this drama’s screenwriting was the action and revenge departments; they were really well done in a way that will make you believe they’re the core of the drama regardless of any other subjects. I also have to refer to the masked hero theme that was used in a great way.
The acting department was actually good. Lee Min Ho can be quite stiff but that doesn’t deny that his action scenes were pretty well done. Other cast were also appreciated since they could deliver feelings especially Kim Sang Joong who portrayed the villain role in a perfect way. As for characters, I believe they were nice to follow considering the fact that their developments were quite good.
As for music, I have to give this drama’s OST credit; not only they were well chosen but they were also put at the right moment creating an enjoyable atmosphere.
This drama can be watched by those who like action dramas mixed with revenge and romance or those who like the masked hero theme and thrilling stories. However, this drama should be avoided by those who dislike Lee Min Ho or those who are looking for a light drama.
If you’re willing to watch City Hunter, get ready to throw yourself in an endless circle of intense events without a drop of slow moments.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
This one needs to be eng subbed, so more people can enjoy this. This was like a mesh of Healer and City Hunter. The cast was full of beautiful people. There was a perfect balance between the fluffy romance and the intense bloody action scenes. I loved that no one suspected the HMH to be the skilled masked fighter because he looks like such a cute puppy. The writers also did a good job in making me debate on who the good guys and who the bad guys were.
Was this review helpful to you?
I am ecstatic that this BL was aired early this year since this is a story 22 years in the making... Well, do not take it literally. You have to watch to know what I just said. It is a nice gift for BL fans since it is packaged in a rainbow-themed wrapper, classic ribbons and a big box full of surprises!
STORY
================
Is this series a euphemism to the philosophy: "Love knows no boundaries". Yes. And, it is more of transcending rather than "breaking boundaries".
More often than not, a love story does not make you think, just let you feel every scene, conversation, interaction. And this one will make you think as well; but it does not mean that it will take away the good "stuff" of a love story, actually, it even enhance it as you won't know what will happen next or in the end.
This is the best love story I have watched with a mystery as its core reason of the interaction of the two main character. Despite of having 8 episodes only, the writers did not waste time developing the plot; as every episode it puts a new layer of one's character that will keep you glued to your seat, if you are binge watching this. It will make you think "what's next?". And there are some light bulb moments that makes you utter "That makes sense", or, "Why I haven't thought of that". I bet, watching this won't be an 8-hour waste of your time.
What is also very likeable about this series is how they peel off the mystery piece by piece, layer by layer, while still being coherent and not all over the place and it did not drop a big bomb that exploded in one episode. A feat for a love story with a good deal of mystery. This may follow a similar plot like almost all love stories out there, but what it is satisfying to watch this series is the little details it showed along the way. You will ask yourself, "If I were in his shoes, would I do the same thing? Or act differently?". What should you feel or react in certain scenes. And, there are moments that it is too good that you just watch as it unfolds right in front of you without thinking anything.
Mixed it with some "crazy" friends and an uncoditionally loving mother completes the story.
And I forgot to mention, Thun says the right things at the right time! That speaks volumes about script writing.
For me, happy endings are over-rated. After all, in real life, we actually have more sad endings than the happy ones. But sometimes, there are too much sad endings happening in our lives that we need a happy ending even once in a while. So, how does this series end? Then, you have to find out for yourself and enjoy the journey!
IF this is going to be a sad ending, what you can take away from this is that not every relationship ends with sunshine and a rainbow. Furthermore, most of relationships ended with a sad one. After all, "parting is such a sweet sorrow". It teaches us to be grateful for the person we were once with. All that person taught us, created memories with and experiences shared together.
IF this is going to be a happy ending, then it reinforces the concept of "Love Rules". And we have to endure all the pain and sufferings to get what we want, what we need and be where we ought to be.
I will leave the story part of this review: Some of the best relationships require the ultimate sacrifices. It will be up to fate if we will be blessed accordingly.
As of writing, this series/drama is currently the #2 in Thailand, #1 for BL-themed in Thailand speaks very highly how this was made and loved by many.
ACTING/CAST
================
Ohm Pawat's performance as Thun is nothing short of extraordinary. He definitely bring his acting to a way new level. I was impressed how he played Frame in Make It Right, specially when his acting transitioned to the second season. But this specific series, I had a greater respect for his acting skills as he brought his "A" game and considering he just 19 years of age, he will mature, get even better as years pass by.
Singto as Mes. Another stellar performance of an actor. SOTUS, SOTUS S and Friend Zone, portrayed a "serious" Singto, but in this series, his child-like acting is shinning and yet, is able to retained his seriousness when the scene demands for it. The quirkiness of his character that he plays so well is something to look forward to.
Never a moment that I felt that their, Ohm & Singto, acting is with a degree of awkwardness. But, I have seen some BTS of their scenes that most of the time Ohm is the one that is shy to act something out. Hey?! What is another take for, right?
Chimon and Sing as Prince and Khiem respectively, are great support too!
I can't wait for Chimon to have a lead role in a love story. In Our Skyy Episode 2, he can clearly carry a series, portray an 'antagonist' in "The Gifted the series" and having support roles in "My Dear Loser" and "Happy Birthday the series". Now in the up-coming series "The Blacklist", if the trailer holds true what is shows, then it is possible to see Chimon's funny, comedic side of acting. This series show just how versatile of an actor he is.
For Sing, I know he acted in Love Sick 1 & 2, but it is lackluster. Easily forgettable. Then came Slam Dance, but was not given much of exposure. He showed his support role capabilities in My Dear Loser and his potential to lead a series in "The Gifted the series". However, in this series, what is obvious is his acting as a supporting actor, but it no means that he is not up to the challenge. He is good at breaking the "ice" at the very serious moments. For me, one of the under-rate Thai actor out there as he is being stereotyped as this goofy guy who doesn't no how to get serious. But then again, he is good at it.
How do I critique an actor's skill. If he/she can still convey a mesage, an emotion despite not talking or not understanding the native language; through facial expression and body languages. But one can definitely appreciate the acting more if it coupled with a spoken words. The intonations, pauses makes what is being said together with their respective body language, but mostly facial expressions, give more meaning.
ADDENDUM, after watching the raw Ep 8 (finale):
Just when you thought that Ohm and Singto's acting could get any better than best, they actually did! They outdid themselves! Never thought that Ohm got the "moves".
Furthermore, just realized that the director for this series also directed Our Skyy and the sceenwriter of My Dear Loser: Edge of 17.
MUSIC/SOUNDS
================
Let's start with the sound effects, there are very few instances where the effects were a second ahead of the intended scene where it is meant to draw emotions. But the effects for the "WTF" moments, especially for Sing, are spot on. Sound tracks in this series I can say that they are the icing on the cake. The songs make it sweeter for the scenes or heart breaking at some. That makes the moment perfect in every sense.
The background, piano-accompanied music in the scenes will definitely make you feel more and deeper.
I will leave this portion with this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esnQ6YrKG0I
REWATCH VALUE
================
Like all mystery based stories, once the mystery is solved, it is hard to rewatch it since you already know how it will end. But that does not mean that this series is anything less than remarkable.
Was this review helpful to you?
