Stranger (2017)

Forest of Secrets (aka Stranger) to me was no less than a turning point in my journey of K-Drama watching, maybe even Asian dramas in general.
It is simply a drama which has compelled me to reevaluate my standards, to reconsider a lot of the 9 and 10 ratings that I have been so easily giving to other dramas.
Some may consider my review a bit exaggerated or over-the-top, but to me this sensational drama, was a huge surprise on many levels. It’s a drama that has sucked me in and left a very deep impression on me just after watching the first episode, I was determined to watch the whole thing and confident I would love every second of it. And so it was.

On paper this drama may seem like it does not differ from many other detective and law dramas, but with a mystery woven with utmost precision, a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, and a highly engaging battle for justice, all aided by a perfect cast and direction, this drama was anything but usual.


The drama's title was perfectly fitting to its premise, it delivers an intricate web of mystery and doubts, that just as advertised, anyone can be guilty. Watching this drama, you will constantly find yourself doubting a certain character, then trusting it, only to later harbor even stronger doubts toward him/her. The story was so smartly written, that it can so easily trick the smartest of viewers, sending fake signals; seemingly flags pointing to a certain character, only to later turn out to be a complete red-herring.


But one of the main strong points of this drama was, the perfectly executed characterization aided by the cast’s very strong and solid performance. Most of the characters, particularly the main ones, were multi-layered, with complicated backgrounds, some even deeply messed up. You could hardly label anyone “Protagonist” or “antagonist”, you find yourself liking and at the same time harboring doubts towards the same character. The characters are so believable and realistic, that however much their actions may seem unethical or outrageous, you still mysteriously relate to them, feel for them, and even sometimes love them.

But what really made such beautifully written story, script and characterization shine was the acting. There was not a single easy character to portray here, all thanks to the concept of the detective mystery; where you never know who’s not to trust and who’s to trust. The story also relied on a highly sophisticated script, which made use of a lot of blank sequences of silence with minimum or no monologues, but which still served to convey a ton of information and emotions.
All such aspects, required high acting techniques, where even the slightest look, change of expression or even lack of one, can make all the difference.
This is a drama that have time and again surprised me. Not because of all the obvious strong points that I mentioned above, but because it redefined even the small things, like what defines two characters’ chemistry, or what counts as a strong cliffhanger. Does chemistry have to be of a romantic type, involving gestures, confessions and skin-ship? Or is there another type of chemistry; a mental and emotional one, where two minds and souls so mysteriously and effortlessly relate, and share feelings of deep trust and respect. Such are the chemistries that do not require a major progress on a romantic level to attract and excite a viewer, but where a small gesture of courtesy, or an expression of high-regard, can leave you more satisfied than any other stomach butterflies.
With a very unique story, and an even more unique set of characters and events, this drama to me felt like I was rediscovering just how much perfect K-Dramas can be. Watching it, I felt so impressed, I sometimes thought how blessed I am to have been a K-Drama fan. I kept saying to myself, Hollywood should really learn one thing or two from Korean thrillers and detective dramas, feelings which made me all the more delighted to hear that it was actually airing on Netflix! It also posed as a reassurance, that this drama is receiving the attention and recognition it is worthy of.
I normally do not ship for sequels however much I love a drama (like Signal or Misaeng), but I found myself strongly wishing they’d consider producing a sequel for Stranger, preferably with the same cast. Keeping my fingers crossed that news circulating of an intention for a sequel is not a hoax.
Normally, I’d give different recommendations to different genre fans, like for instance if a certain drama lacks romance or comedy aspects, I’d advice a Rom-Com fan to approach with caution. But in this drama’s case, I send my strongest recommendations to every one! Including newcomers to K-Drama land. By all means, give the first episode I try and you won’t regret what happens afterwards.

Leia Mais

Personally, I found this drama very similar to other crime K-dramas but lacking in the charm present in the others I loved.

The storyline definitely dragged, and I often wished each episode was focused on a different case instead of just this corruption of the prosecutor's office. So slow.

I was left disappointed because I love Bae Doona in Sense8 and was expecting something of that caliber in this drama. She didn't get to showcase her acting abilities in this drama unfortunately (as far as I watched).

With an unoriginal plot and dull main character, this drama failed to excite me and I dropped after ten episodes. While I do not recommend this at all, you should definitely give it a try and form your own thoughts on it.

Leia Mais

Forced myself to watch this!

Going to make a honest and short review..

Boring show..dragged 1 case all the way to the end and i forced myself to watch it just because it was so overrated.Ive seen tons of thrillers,crime,investigations dramas but this one is one of the worst for me..Im trying to understand what people find exciting about the 2 main protagonist in this show.They are so blank and boring.For people that wanna try this show just try 2-3 episodes..If at that point you feel not connected or bored just stop it immediately or just skip trough it.Its not a slow start and get better..Its actually boring all the way trough if you dont like it.One or 2-3 parts have a nice music and thats litterly the only thing for me.The show probably misses allot of action and epic thrilling moments that take you back.Its way to much talkin and blabla.

Give the show a shot! and if its bad just stop it and dont force yourself! peace out.

Leia Mais

BEST DRAMA EVER

Somewhere in 2017, I started a Korean drama called "Stranger" or also known as "Forest of secrets". The poster and title were so different and I just randomly clicked on episode one and just fell in love. The whole drama is so different, when I say different I mean it's rollercoaster of a nostalgic feeling. It made me feel like I was inside that drama. Episode one opens with Hwang Shi Mok (Jo Seung Woo) a character having some kind of brain surgery and he lacks emotion. He has zero emotions. Hwang Shi Mok starts working as a prosecutor and then the story begins with several cases being solved. This drama is so simple and well-directed. Later on, Han Yeo Jin (Bae Doo Na) joins him in several cases and their chemistry is good. There is no romance or sparks but their chemistry is everything to root for one. Each and every character in this drama have their own stories to tell and it all syncs up with the cases happening. I just love how deep every episode is. This drama is one of the best crime written dramas ever. No words can describe how good this drama is.

I remember listening to the OST's non-stop during my hard time, I love song by Richard Park "Without end". Sometimes I just randomly play "dust", "Shower" and "Like a monster", just lie down or while working. It lifts my mood. It makes me feel like I am inside Hwang Shi Mok's head.

I low-key tear up watching it sometimes, I cannot explain how beautiful and precious Han Yeo Jin is to me. If you closely analyze the whole drama you will be able to see how Han Yeo Jin slowly changes Hwang Shi Mok. There is one scene where he smiles. That smile is still stuck in my head, it's inescapable. I also love how she doodles randomly and gives it to Hwang Shi Mok.

I want to confess that I ship Hwang Shi Mok and Han Yeo Jin. I want them to fall in love, I want them to kiss, sex like monsters, and have babies. I love this drama so much. I am crying with happiness that season will air today. I am going to watch it now and hope for the best.

- Godwin, Aug 16 2020

Leia Mais

Ok, this is my first review on MyDramaList, as I had a sudden urge to write one after finishing Secret Forest.

Hands down to one of the best shows I've ever seen, not just within the Korean Drama category. You might get discouraged around 30 minutes into the first episode because nothing would make sense, but I assure you this show is not something you should drop.

The script is excellently written, there is not a single plot hole. Every dialogue, scene and line is very important and prepared way beforehand, watch out, and don't miss anything. The show contains absolutely no filler scenes. What's great about this show, is that it focuses on one huge complicated case from the get go (as I said, no fillers). Editing, cinematography and music are top notch! especially the soundtrack!

It's my first time watching Jo Seung Woo and Bae Doo Na. Now they've made it to the list of my favorite actors. Jo Seung Woo did a phenomenal job portraying the character with no emotions, more like without the ability of emotional expression. As episodes go by, you'll become very attached to Jo Seung Woo's character, Hwang Shi Mok, the character development he goes through is very heartwarming! And I absolutely enjoyed the fact that they did not make the lead a super genius!

A lot of people compared this show to Beautiful Mind (including myself) because of the lack of emotion part. But I have to say that Lee Young Oh (BM) and Hwang Shi Mok (SF) have different conditions, I cannot explain how as I would be giving away the stories of both, and Jo Seung Woo did a better job portraying his character than Jang Hyuk did. The shows aren't that similar btw! The closest I've seen to the Secret Forest is Pride and Prejudice.

The cast is chosen very well, and each character whom you'd think is secondary or insignificant is nothing but the opposite.

If you're looking for something to keep you on edge, expecting anything at any moment, this show is perfect for you.

And if you are shying away from the show because it lacks the romance tag, well you are missing out on the cutest OTP with the greatest chemistry, Hwang Shi Mok and Han Yeo Jin.

P.S. even if it's not what you're looking for, give it a shot, I promise you won't regret it.

Definitely deserves a second season!

Leia Mais

NON Spoiler review :

I've watched now 50+ dramas .
Reviewed most of them .

I am a vivid watcher .
I pay attention to everything with precise detail .

If you're into K dramas , you must be familiar with how they are .
If it's a typical crime drama or anything , it will end how you're familiar with .

But
'STRANGER'
is just out of this world . Mind boggling .
I didn't expected it to be this exceptional .

The synopsis might not seem that great but the drama is .

This drama had the highest quality of acting so far .
Each and every character played as just smoked their everything .
You can't even flinch something at someone in terms of acting .

The plot has it ups and downs .
It's just awestrucking till episode 7 or 8 but then it slows down a bit .

Near the ending you'll feel a bit uninterested but hold you beer right there .

The ending episode takes your breathe away .

If you're human . If you're interested in reality . Then this is for you .
Stranger has the most sensible and harsh ending .
But still it tells you not to lose yourself , your hope , your righteousness .

PS : Jo seung woo , I've seen his only earlier drama God gift's 15 days .
And I knew he's an acting GOD .
I can easily say he's the best actor male of the K-drama industry .

Leia Mais

This drama simply played with my head for sixteen episodes straight. From the very first episode, which was one of most impressive pilot I’ve seen in a while. Everything was top notch. Good action, constant tension, interesting characters and amazing pace, I was basically at the edge of the seat, not even completely knowing what’s going on.

Because viewer is very slowly eased into what’s going on. For most of the time, we’re not entirely sure what’s about to happen. And it’s because of two things. First of all, characters are absolutely unpredictable. We don’t really know much about them aside of what’s happening. There’s very little voiceovers and close to none exposition, so we don’t know what they’re thinking and what they’re planning next. For most of the time, they’re wild cards, especially main character. We don’t really know who’s on who’s side, are they ally or and enemy. Even when Si Mok assembles task team, we hope that he’ll finally find someone to trust, but soon we figure out that the team is mostly made up of his enemies or people who work for them.The other reason is that events are not really explained. Once again we know exactly the same as our characters and sometimes even less than that. For like 90% of the time we don’t really know what the characters are up to. This all adds up to very interesting murder mystery/ thriller story. But you need to follow is carefully not to get lost.

Let’s talk about main character, because Hwang Si Mok (in this role absolutely fantastic Cho Seung Woo) is a type of the guy who is hard to like, but you’ll absolutely learn to love.
Again, we don’t know much about him, some random facts, some glimpse about his private life, mostly rumours circling around. His biggest trait: he lacks emotions, completely. And because of that for most of the time we have no idea what goes through his head. Is he honest or is he just bluffing? Plus, he really doesn’t have anyone on his side, which he openly admits. He’s not liked in his work environment and gossips that surround him just pour more fuel on the fire. This drama is the reason I have trust issues because at one point I has questioning everything and I even starting suspect Si Mok of committing murder.

We have main plot line that revolves around murder of a person, who as it turns out had a history of bribing highly situated people, including some prosecutors. Obviously a lot of people wouldn’t mind his death, so there’s a lot of suspects and very few proofs. And the thing is that no character is really black or white. No-one is completely good or absolutely bad. All characters are somewhere is between moving closer towards one of the sides. And then there’s Si Mok, without emotions operating in absolutes. You did something bad, you’re not a good person, you need to be punished. His judgement is absolutely objective, there’s no place for personal input.
And because everyone seem to be guilty of something, finding out about another crimes stops being a surprise, really. More often it’s a question of what rather than if.

Characters are absolutely fascinating here and I’m not only talking about the main ones. It seems that everyone has a unique story or some secret that we don’t know about.

About the plot, there’s obviously main murder theme that is somewhere in the middle of the action, but what we really focus on is politic play that surrounds main characters. So before we get to the solution of the main case we get though so many issues that sometimes this murder seems almost secondary. Especially that we cannot be sure of anything. Even if the case looks like it’s solved there’s always possibility of something happening. Even when somebody admits to committing the crime we still cannot be sure that he really did it.

The pace of the show is rather steady. It’s a suspenseful thriller, not action packed drama.

I have to admit, I’ve started watching is for Cho Seung Woo, after his performance in Sisyphus, but I’ve absolutely stayed for how amazing this drama is. All characters are masterfully played (kudos to Bae Doo Na and Yoo Jae Myung among many others) but let’s be honest, from this cast we could only expect the all the best.

Plus there’s one good thing about this drama, it has a second season!

Leia Mais

Stranger is one of the best action / crime / legal dramas I have ever watched, including those from western companies. It weaves an intelligent, gripping and memorable story-line that unfolds at a perfect pace throughout the entire 16 episodes. Nothing is rushed and there is no scene that does not advance either the plot or deepens the character development. If you wish to fully invest in the story it demands your attention 100% of the time because every detail is crucial, every character line is essential, every frame or pane of the camera reveals something.

This is a series that speaks volumes on what quality action drama should be, at least according to my taste. The stakes are high and the tension escalates from the story itself, which although fictitious it can easily be a portrayal of real life cases...which is what makes it both terrifying and satisfying to watch it unfold.

This is not a show for those that need action packed, explosions, car chases or overly dramatic sequences to be entertained. This show is for those that want to be challenged, that want to solve a mystery together with the protagonists, someone that values intelligent writing over dramatic writing. I loved every second of it and you can be sure that I will watch it again soon. Looking forward to Season 2 soon!

Give it a chance and you'll be surprised!

Leia Mais

I actually wasn't sure if I would watch this one or not when I first read the description. I really like Shin Hye Sun and was disappointed that this didn't sound like a show I'd want to watch. But as the good reviews started pouring in, I thought maybe it might be worth a shot. I hesitantly watched the first episode and was surprised to find that I enjoyed it. I usually hate anything with much political overtones, so I had low expectations even though I do enjoy investigation thrillers.This show exceeded any hopes I had for it so much. My only real complaint is that from the build up we had, I was just expecting an ending that would be like a bomb. While, that isn't what I got, I was still very pleased with what they offered. This show is very dialogue heavy, though, so be prepared to keep a close eye on it for details and possibly to have to back up and rewatch a scene here and there. I though the show was very smartly written and fairly riveting.

The cast was excellent. This was the first time I've ever watched Jo Seung Woo, Bae Doo Na, and (the first time I've noticed) Lee Joon Hyuk. They all impressed me a lot. They all had a subtlety and charm about them. Yoon Se Ah as Lee Yeon Jae did a fantastic job - totally bought her being on the edge.

If you enjoy these genres, this drama should be on your short list!

Leia Mais

I must say from the very beginning it didn't take me long to be hooked by this drama. The story was absolutely amazing and had me guessing to the very end. The cast of characters was top notch to say the least. This is one of those dramas that when it ends you wonder how you can anyone top that.

Let's start with the story:

The writing is exceptional, I didn't feel any episode fell flat or didn't add to the story overall. With each episode puzzle pieces fell into place. I kind of had a feeling what was going to happen but it definitely wasn't obvious and really I was skeptical if what I thought might happen would actually happen. I was pleasantly surprised how it all turned out. The main crime drama part of the story line really got me hooked and surprised us through most of the story. What really held it together was the amazing cast though.

Characters:

I won't go through all of the characters just a few of my favorites.

Hwang Shi Mok played by Jo Seung Woo was such an amazing character and to me felt like a superhero. I know, a man with hardly any emotion being a superhero you say, well I had a hard time seeing him any other way. Someone who was incorruptible in a nation full of the corrupt, battling these people when all odds were stacked against him. I mean you can't get any more superhero than that. I also loved the fact that he wasn't capable of feeling emotions like other people so when he did show the smallest sign of emotion it was very powerful.

Han Yeo Jin played by Bae Doo Na. Wow I really loved her character. She was simply amazing in the role. Not only was she a badass to me she seemed very vulnerable and human as well which was the perfect mix to add to Shi Mok's character. I loved how towards the end Shi Mok would call her when he had something on his mind, they definitely had a special bond.

Yeong Eun Soo played by Shin Hye Sun. What a touching character who I loved throughout the series. She was that tragic part of the story that just made you feel pain. I think she really was a pivotal character in showing that Shi Mok wasn't emotionless. In fact seeing his pain was very revealing.

Those were my 3 favorites but I could definitely go on but I would be here all day writing. The characters really were the shining star of this drama, no doubt.

I could gush all day over this drama and would recommend it wholeheartedly. I am so stoked about season 2, I totally can't wait!

Leia Mais

I believe this has to be one of the best Kdramas I have watched. This was actually my second try on Kdramas on Netflix (after watching Man x Man I was not satisfied with the story but loved the OSTs). I believe Cho Seung Woo is a fine actor and A list actor for me from Korea. I loved how everything tied up together at the end and how ChaJung Lee's father in law kind of predicted the killer's death (He always wanted the killer to get cornered and jump to his death-which ChaJung Lee ends up doing). I believe I watched smart writing after a long time-I've seen too much of American tv shows which go on for too long and lose their initial story. I am proud to be a Kdrama follower and hope to see another season of this show and can't wait for Life!

I strongly recommend this show and its OSTs.

Leia Mais