Caçadores de Demônios (2020)

Yung and Restless

Story: Yung/Afterlife politics and real world politics don't gel thus giving this drama a feel that it's 2 unrelated dramas awkwardly stitched together. You can feel the 2 fighting for supremacy instead of complementing each other. Unfortunately, dire real world got the upper hand.

Acting: The Counter set does commendable job and their chemistry is palatable. Jo Byung-gye is the cutest actor ever and such a star presence so watch out for him. But the unsung MVP is Lee Hong-nae as the tortured baddy with a fabulous six-pack. His unusual face framed with a hoodie is the most iconic thing about this show. It's OTT politicians and sedated Yungsters that dock the acting points, however.

Music: Main theme is catchy from the first hearing and goes really well with Counters superhero posturing.

Rewatch value: Low given the drop in quality but Shirtless Shin (episode 16) deserves a freeze frame.

Overall: This drama wanted to be several things that didn't have any real connection. Evil spirits just randomly moved into high powered people without an attempt to harness the power for world domination or something. Which rendered the boring political plot pointless and swapping Shin for Evil Mayor as the big bad hurt the last batch of episodes. Still, finale delivered some genuine emotional beats thanks to Counter cast likability that never faltered even when the writing did. I will not return for Season 2, however, since Season 1 finale does a good job with wrapping everything up.

Leia Mais

demon hunting, kick ass superpowers, concept of life and death, forgiveness, fight against corruption, red tracksuits and a group of lovely individuals. all of these describe the drama "the uncanny counter" and i believe it's uncanny how wonderfully done the writer did with painting characters that are flawed perfection. i'm not saying this drama is perfect but the chemistry of the characters are.

to be frank, i found the beginning episodes to be nicely paced and while the bullying parts were quite triggering at times, seeing eonni gang kick some bums were pretty entertaining. moon's character development wasn't underwhelming and it was great to see him not stoop low but stayed humble with a considerable amount of confidence. he is not petty and is willing to see the good in others despite how bad he was treated. although hyuk woo wasn't easy to forgive, i found his redemption arc heartbreaking. he doesn't have anyone in his life and witnessing true familial nature that is moon's grandparents probably made him reflect on things a lot.

this is probably one of those dramas where i have no problem with the cast AT ALL. everyone delivered their roles amazingly and i can not imagine anyone else playing their characters. moon, ms. chu, rich guy, mo tak, ha na, the villain (he do be fine), the evil spirits and heck even the other supporting characters did well.

the ost is godsent. absolutely beautiful and fitting to the scenes. from intro to outro, i definitely want a full playlist of all the songs from this drama.

okay. with positives comes the negatives. i actually felt like the last few episodes were draggy. while the actors of the politicians did good, i found myself skipping some of their scenes because it didn't interest me. i understand they have a big fish to catch but it felt a tad bit repetitive. when they did catch the guy and managed to summon the evil spirit, i don't know what i was expecting it felt anticlimactic. for the finale, i did enjoy seeing my faves enjoying themselves and such but the flashbacks of their fight scene and them with their grim reaper suits was cheesy and cliché. regarding moon's academic activities, did this boi forget he goes to school? i get it's behind the scenes but it's kinda weird we saw less of him in class/ at school as the episodes went on.

nevertheless, i still loved this drama as a whole as it features strong characters that emotional back stories but still managed to have comedy and action aspect. overall, this is a great watch and i'm not sure what's in store for season 2 but i'm looking forward!

Leia Mais

Strong start and a decent finish!

At its basic essence, this show resembles a lot of MCU movies. You've got a hero origin story, a mystery surrounding hero and cast, and a enjoyable cast of characters who play off each other. But it is still a kdrama and like other kdramas, it can't really stick the landing.

The first half of the series is great and builds upon itself really well. It introduces the world extremely well and gives us some really good moments. The villain of the week format is universal and serves as a good introduction into this world. But after the half-way point, the story pivots to focus on the final villain. From there, each episode varies and has issues. Some episodes feel like they are speeding through story and moments, other times it feels like the show is creating scenarios to just extend the story a bit more. There are plot holes and the rules of the universe change randomly without good reason. It becomes a bit unfocused and because of that, I don't think it deserves a 9/10.

Even knowing the writer switch, the problems existed with the old writer as well. If there were really discussions about shortening the length of the drama, the writer didn't do anything great in the later episodes that totally showed that the drama should have ended a few episodes earlier. I know there will be a second season but I am worried about what happens in the future. Some characters were sidelined and poorly used in the last couple episodes. On top of that, there were questions posed and dropped. The comedy-drama balance was a bit off as well. I do hope that the new writer could start over in a way and find a new way to tell the story that still can maintain the same quality as before.

Leia Mais

I waited a full week for the next episode and then realized that it was over...

Let me start by saying, I was gonna write one when it ended. It just hadn't registered that it ended. I watched the last episode when it came out and then patiently waited until now, which is when I realized that it had already ended. I am either still losing brain cells or my brain decided that I was not worthy of it and it stopped working on me.

First off, the story. It was a good story filled with excitement, mystery, and anticipation. Though, a disclaimer is that I watched it with my sister and she had a hard time following and focusing because of the fantasy element. All she could think about was how awkward it must have been for the actors to pretend in certain situations. I couldn't help but laugh. Putting that aside though, it was a very heart-moving story. I didn't cry...but I was definitely sad. I think a lot of things world-building-wise could have been done better or clarified but it was overall pretty good.

As for the acting, the actors were actually the reason I went to check it out in the first place. The actors even went on Knowing Bros to advertise it so I had to give it a try. The acting was done really well!!! I forgot that these people played other roles and on-screen, they were their own characters. There was no moment where I thought they were really out of character nor was there any moment where there was any real bad acting either. I think a big part of why I liked it was because the actors did such an amazing job portraying the characters and emotions that went along with each event.

The music. I actually gave it a 7.5 because before looking it up again. I didn't even remember what kind of music it had...I guess I wasn't really engrossed enough or the music didn't resonate with me enough to stick in my mind. Whatever it was, I felt kinda sorry for no reason. I did give it a higher score than I would have because on the listen independently from the drama. I actually really enjoyed it and began to question why I didn't remember any tracks.

For rewatch value, I actually gave it a 7 because I didn't think of rewatching it after I finished. It is a great story but I felt like aside from certain scenes, I wouldn't enjoy the rewatch as much. Though I haven't rewatched it yet so this part might change for better or worse. I do think I gave it a higher score than I would have because there are a lot of ways you can look into the story and its messages as time goes by.

I think an 8 is actually appropriate because it is a good, well-written story with an amazing cast that helped bring it to life. Through this, you can rediscover the more veteran actors while rewriting your opinion of newer ones. The only thing I would say is this is a more heavy (?) story and that there will probably be a group of people out there that don't like it. I did get a bit bored or tired watching some parts while others kept my eyes peeled to the screen and screaming when the credits came.

Like all my other reviews, I say give it a try. If it isn't for you, that's cool. If you like it, that's cool too. Wherever you stand, at least you gave it the shot it deserved before you formed an opinion on it.

Leia Mais

Amateur with a capital A

I used to watch the original Power Rangers with my younger brother. All the heroes were good and all the baddies were bad. The characters were stilted and simple, but somehow the show wasn't cringey enough for me to grab the remote and fight to change the channel. This is what The Uncanny Counter reminds me of.

Like the Power Rangers of yore, the protagonists are always together. Every fight is basically the same, and done to the same degree. Because our heroes are almost always together, they have little opportunity to show who they really are through their actions. In addition, the writers break a cardinal rule of "telling" us instead of "showing" us the story.

My favorite actor here is Yeom Hye Ran as the motherly noodle chef. Her experience shows, and she delivers in every role she plays. Yoo Joon Sang plays the ex-detective with heaps of care and concern. Kim Se Jeong plays the closed and tormented Ha Na well. She is the only character who is written with a tiny a pinch of mystery. Ahn Suk Hwan is fun as the cool rich dude. And finally, Cho Byeong Kyu plays So Moon as a sensitive and tearful teen. I liked that he expressed a lot of emotion throughout the show. It's great that a guy can cry. On top of this, a huge shout-out goes to So Moon's best friends played by Kim Eun Soo and Lee Ji Won. They radiate care for him and are rightfully described as his pseudo-parents. Choi Yoon Young also plays her role as the police officer standing up to corruption in a delicate balancing act. She deserved more screen time. I appreciate that our main actors worked so hard to deliver their lines with as much depth as they could muster through the generic and terribly written script. Even the baddies did well in this respect. On the other hand, the afterlife characters in Yong really struggled.

The entire production is clearly an amateur undertaking. The unrefined camera angles and awkward blocking affects every scene. The script and writing is bland. The direction is lacking and inexperienced, but then again, they didn't have much to work with besides great actors. When I think about the Power Rangers, at least I knew they had their own way of speaking and individual interests. Here, they have these heartfelt scenes without layered context. We only care (a bit) because the actors are so good. The flow and rhythm of the story is simply devoid of characterization. The plot just keeps hurtling at the protagonists. One minute they're eating noodles and the next minute they're fighting. It's as if the story is being done to them and they are just there to react constantly. There is no build-up in between scenes. There is no foreshadowing to help us anticipate what comes next. There is no exploration of our heroes' pasts in order to push the story forward. There were only fragmented flashbacks without purpose. The whole show is campy and unsatisfying.

And let's talk about the violence for a second. How many scenes can you film of people stomping on other people's heads and beating them up? And murdering people with lots of blood? After a while it has no meaning, even for a teenage audience. Stop already.

In the end, I am surprised that I actually finished season 1. I can't quite pinpoint why. It has a youthful spirit. And I like a middle aged lady who can take down evil spirits. I didn't expect the depth of Stranger Things, but I at least expected better production values. Maybe I like Power Rangers more than I care to admit.

Leia Mais

Lovely family dynamics

Another great korean drama to just watch and enjoy. I watched it with my whole family and we all loved it.

I think Byung Kyu was the best choice to portray SoMun, he fits his character so well. The innocence that spark through his eyes, his willness to do anything to just protect the people he loves the most, his energy to just learn new things and learn from his experiences. I loved his character the most and it made me empathize with him a lot.

One of the best things of this drama are the family dynimics between the counters. I love when dramas include this trop of "new found family" and I love it even more when they carry out well. A good drama needs to have good characters in order to develop the story, and I think this one did a great job.

But certainly the best of best about this drama was the antagonist. I think Chung Shin's character did a great job at portraying a good villan and also making us feel sorry for him. I'm not justifyng his actions but I loved learning about his rough childhood and how he grew up.

I'm just happy that The uncanny counter is getting a second season cause I think the drama deserves it.

Leia Mais

I can't take it after 9 episodes

There is way too much stupidity in the plots and after 9 episodes I couldnt take it anymore and jumped to episode 15 and it was still bad so jumped to the finale and still seemed kind of weak

I thought somewhere in between the 16 episodes is a really good story but it got killed by the constant weak characters who seem powerless to do anything even though they possess a lot of powers.

You have this group of people who can heal, jump tall buildings, read minds. And all they can do is keep getting outwitted and outsmarted by idiots at every turn.

The biggest waste is the girl with ability to read minds as well as read any history via an object. With her in the team, you would think anything can be solved. Instead, they run around like idiots and constantly let the bad guys go with warnings and constantly look for clues even though they have the most powerful person who can find answers to anything. It's just so stupid.

And at the beginning of show, the restaurant is so popular there is a 2 hour wait outside. But after that, the restaurant is empty everyday

It's brain dead things like this that just drive me crazy. This show is not for people who want intelligent characters who can think or act with some sort of intelligence. It's for people who like exaggerated stupidity and powerful good characters that allow criminals multiple chances to try and kill people over and over again.

After watching this, you really have to watch something like Equalizer 3 or Die Hard or Taken just to see how a real person would deal with someone who hurt their family or friends.

Acting is good. Action was good. Just stupid characters unfortunately. What a waste of talent.

Leia Mais

Power Rangers: In Korea

This was almost exactly like Start-Up for me but better in some ways. Let me explain. This drama started out strong with good dialogue and action-packed scenes much like how Start-Up started out with the greatest of all time pilot episode. Both were pretty good till the middle-end part of the series where the dialogue and plot fall to nothing. I also want to mention that I started both dramas very early on when it was airing (I think ep 4 for both), so I felt the drop in quality every week. I feel like the writers of The Uncanny Counter just focussed more on the action aspect rather than the dialogue part, which was sad as there was way more dialogue than action. The characters in the drama became static and the action scenes became more predictable than ever. Hopefully, the second season changes some of this because I don't think I can stomach another power rangers episode at this age.

Leia Mais

A Thrilling Action-Packed Adventure: The Uncanny Counter Season 1

The Uncanny Counter Season 1 is an adrenaline-fueled rollercoaster that packs a powerful punch with its captivating action plot. The high-octane action scenes keep viewers on the edge of their seats and delivering an exhilarating experience from start to finish.

One of the shining aspects of the series is undoubtedly the outstanding performances by the lead actors, So Moon and Do Ha Na. Both actors portrayed their roles with exceptional talent and conviction, bringing a level of depth and relatability to their characters that truly resonated with the audience. Their chemistry on screen was undeniable, adding a layer of authenticity to the story and making the viewing experience all the more enjoyable.

So Moon, in particular, stole the show with his endearing and infectiously enthusiastic personality. The "golden retriever" energy he exuded during his high school days in Season 1 was simply irresistible. His character brought a refreshing and charming dynamic to the storyline, and the actor's portrayal of So Moon's growth and transformation was nothing short of brilliant.

While the lead actors shone brightly, some of the supporting cast felt a bit typical and lackluster in comparison. However, the strong chemistry and family dynamic displayed within the story more than made up for it. The relationships and interactions among the characters were heartwarming and added a layer of depth to the narrative.

The exploration of the family dynamic was a standout aspect of the series. The way the show delved into the bonds and connections between the characters, especially within the family unit, added emotional depth and enriched the overall narrative. It made the viewers invest not only in the action and supernatural elements but also in the personal lives and struggles of the characters.

In conclusion, The Uncanny Counter Season 1 is a pulse-pounding adventure that delivers exceptional action sequences, engaging characters, and a heartwarming family dynamic. So Moon and Do Ha Na's stellar performances, combined with the thrilling action plot and the relatable family elements, make this series a must-watch. For fans of action-packed dramas with a touch of heart, The Uncanny Counter Season 1 offers a compelling and entertaining viewing experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Leia Mais

I enjoyed the comedy and pace of the drama until the twist in the middle

I enjoyed the comedy and pace of the drama until the twist in the middle
Then the story started to drag abit and start trying to milk the tear ducts.
Action packed in some places, comedy in others, when they are not trying to make you sob sob. depict the evils of politics and bribery in others. And not to mention the every growing evil spirits

Satisfying ending. Like the hard emotionless character of Kim Se Jeong. Free spirited wildman Yoo Joon Sang. And the boyish innocent Jo Byung Kyoo. btw, did i mention they are a group of people who catches spirits?

Leia Mais

Engaging to the end

I had such a good time watching this show. It is in no way perfect, and in terms of technical aspects of storytelling and production, it probably wouldn't be among my top shows. My technical rating of it would probably be more around 8 or 8.5, but my enjoyment of it is around 9 or 9.5, so there's that.

But. But...

It was seriously so much fun to watch. I really loved the basic storyline of the counters, and I loved the character development that happened for each of the main cast. So Mun's friends are actually the best, and I want a gang like that someday.

Also am I the only one who hoped that in the end So Mun and Hyeok U could become good friends? I really wanted a bigger Hyeok U redemption arc. I feel like a lot of his faults stemmed from his father and [ SP OI LER] would probably be resolved by the end, when his father is out of the equation and So Mun has helped him to realize how terrible he's been.

If you're looking for a fun show, something light-hearted with serious moments, fun characters, and a pretty good story, then watch this show. It's worth it.

Leia Mais