O Imortal (2021)

Love & Redemption

Bulgasal end its story after a hella ride of rollercoaster full of emotions after 16 episodes. I doubt that there will be a second season for this drama; I have read one of the article mentioned about it. I hope there will be no second season, as this one season is already enough.

First thing first, Bulgasal is certainly a good drama to watch. It didn’t disappoint me from the first episodes up to the finale. There’s a background story to all the characters, why they did what they did. Bit by bit, it unraveled the secrets that haunts all of them. That’s the uniqueness of this story. For me, it was all written beautifully — the storylines. However, some might argued that the script was written poorly. I beg to differ on this. I did enjoyed the drama and always looking forward for the next eps and for the thrilled this drama gonna serve me. Compared to other drama (that has worse script), this drama is 10x better and worth watching.

The cinematography of this drama is one of the finest I have ever seen. Omg, not gonna lie this is one of the reasons why I attracted to watch the drama. The background setting between modern days and Goryeo times beautifully and amazingly portrayed. The prop used, the costumes during the ancient times and all the tiny details were presented almost flawless (at least in my pov).
Since Bulgasal focusing on a creature that lives on a mountain, therefore a lot of filming process happened in nature setting I guess, which really captivates me every time.

The acting of all the cast members are on top notch. There’s no doubt in this, unless if you have different opinions than me. Lee Jinuk & Kwon Nara’s chemistry is no joke. I really love their compassion for the acting. All the emotions delivered pretty convincing and I’m drenched with tears every time Sang Un cried. Lee Joon is a gem that carry the whole show on his shoulder. Without a character of darkhole, this story would be pointless. He nailed his character and successfully makes us hated and pity for him. Please director, I wanna see him become a ML in his future drama. He has a great potential.

Imo, this drama have all the perfect ingredients to be a great drama with a perfect score. The only thing that I disliked about it is that the timing for the background story to be unraveled taking a bit too long. It took 16 episodes for all the secrets to be unraveled, all the questions to be answered and it resulted for the ending to end abruptly and kinda rushed. That’s the reason why I could only give this drama 9/10. Still, the ending is still good considering we got a proper closure that we need. Therefore, I can just turn away from this minor flaws. In addition, the OSTs for this drama is worth to listen to. 4Men-Leave, Minseo - Can’t Forget You, and Tunnel are my favourites.

My final thoughts, this definitely a good drama to binge. Please don’t give up yet for those who think to drop this drama. Trust me, after watching eps 16 you will think that the journey is really worth it. It gives you thousands of emotion and you will learn why Sang Un & Dan Hwal were tied with an ill fated relationship. And you will learn what they gonna do to amend and redeem their cursed fate. The ride gonna worth it! <3

Leia Mais

you might start believing in past lives, the supernatural, and the law of karma for real...

This is a fantastic drama. Hats off to the people who came up with this plot. I haven't been so emotionally touched in a while. All the characters here were just too deep, even the evil ones. The vfx is incredible and to the point. The actors moved me with their acting beyond what words can describe. Originally I thought this would be like any other vampire story, but starting with the name Bulgasal, they adopted it and made it their own. Left me more heart- broken than happy but well if this story had an everybody lived happily ever after ending, then it would have lost the realism. It made me believe in past lives and to an extent even in the supernatural.

Yes it's dark, and melodramatic, but it's definitely very much worth the watch. Now am gonna go back to my bed and cry for a while, bye!

Leia Mais

“It goes from heartless in the beginning to heart-wrenching in the end.”

Bulgasal is very much in the mold of the great epic poems. It is a story on a grand scale (albeit, within the production limitations of the COVID era) revolving around our hero (or anti-hero, depending on where you are in the story) and all the characters around him. It is an epic journey, both physical and emotional, that takes place across centuries. And involves some very real and sincere human emotions mixed with both frightening and magical fantasy.
Perhaps the best aspect of Bulgasal is the series being sure of what it is and wants to be. It ensures that the proper tone to make that happen is maintained throughout. Often times with high concept, action-heavy Korean dramas, there is the urge for those shows to forcibly insert contrived side stories and bouts of levity in places where none of those things sensibly belong. Fluffy romance or slapstick comedy is inexplicably inserted into psychological thrillers or apocalyptic adventures.
And while those things can certainly be included in a way that makes sense, more often than not, those moments merely work to derail what can already be very tenuous and fragile stories.

Not here on Bulgasal. The dark, melancholic aura is both fascinating and refreshing. The series even begins with a unique Gothic vibe as the stage is being set for our main characters with the backdrop of a mysterious and monster-filled world. (And “monsters” in the loosest sense as well.) The contrast of the darker story and the sometimes warm visuals and cinematography adds to the series’ dynamic energy.

There are no unnecessary side trips or fan-service moments to break the story’s momentum. No contrived situations to pierce the consistent flow. And because of that, there is not a wasted minute across the 16 episodes. Every scene and interaction is used to create and develop the necessary depth to help make every surprising twist and turn and every emotional climax resonate.
Because of this, it is advisable to take it slow when watching the series. When bingeing Korean dramas is the norm these days, Bulgasal is best consumed slowly and carefully. That will allow the viewer to better absorb all that is happening on screen. It’s not that the story can get complicated (which it does). But being able to truly take in every emotional beat of the story will help raise the level of emotional satisfaction for the series’ many climactic moments.

And of which there are many. The balance of character-driven story and plot-driven intricacies is another of the series’ major accomplishments. Hopping along for the ride will lead you through an exciting narrative. Taking in the sights along the way points you toward the wonderful cast of characters and their diverse relationships.
What makes Bulgasal even more appealing is how it can focus on very real human emotions in the midst of a fantastical and dark world. Touching upon relationships in all its forms. From friendships to family and from rivals to comrades; the bonds that are formed between people (and non-humans as well) can transcend time and space. Those meaningful connections that can shape a person’s life can always make for engaging stories. And that is very much the case here.
The central plot is revenge with a twist. But each character, including Dan Hwal, are more than just out for blood. Being able to overcome difficulties and finding that connection that can help you not only move forward, but help you stand today is presented in such captivating fashion in this series. It is through these relationships, good and bad, that propel the series forward. And the relationships provide the depth necessary to hold the story and mythology together.

Helping to make that happen in addition to the tight writing and cinematic visuals is an excellent cast. And with the idea of past lives and reincarnation integral to the development of the story, many of the cast end up doing double duty (and then some).
Kwon Nara has had many memorable performances already in her career. And as Min Sang Un, she delivers another one. As Sang Un is a very complicated character, especially with a past that is unknown to her at first, Kwon Nara must navigate the ever-changing circumstances her character finds herself in. Kwon Nara is able to roll with the punches (literally too!) and keep up with her character’s and the story’s many surprises.
Gong Seung Yeon also delivers a great performance as Min Si Ho (among other characters) and similarly must juggle different emotions and situations without skipping a beat. The same can be said for veteran actors Jung Jin Young and Park Myung Shin who both also effortlessly bring to life multi-faceted characters. Both of their characters are parental figures at times, but also have their own well-developed stories. Kim Woo Seok, meanwhile, makes his network drama debut in a role that sees his character experience perhaps the most growth over the course of the series. And he too has no problem delivering a performance that is endearing and strong.

An ensemble cast of young child actors also deserve praise as many of the series’ most emotionally affecting moments are delivered and made possibly by the performances they deliver.

But the series’ two standout performances come from Lee Joon and the always powerful Lee Jin Wook.
Lee Joon plays the mysterious and ominous Ok Eul Tae. Without giving too much away, he is very much the series’ biggest antagonist. But Eul Tae as a character has a very detailed and integral part to play in the grander narrative. And because of that, Lee Joon must bring Eul Tae to life in a way that matches the character’s relevance to the story and to our title character. He absolutely accomplishes that. You can tell how much Lee Joon relishes this role in which he has the opportunity to both play up the danger and evil while allowing just enough vulnerability and quiet insight to keep the character grounded and relatable. That is important especially in terms of how his character has a major part to play in the story. And his performance absolutely helps to elevate an already strong story.

And of course, Lee Jin Wook needs no introduction. With every role, he is able to prove time and again that he is one of the best and most charismatic leading men in the industry. Bulgasal is just another opportunity to show that and he more than does so.

As Dan Hwal, he must deliver a nuanced performance that carries with it the weight of the entire series. Being able to immediately connect with the character from the start is important. And then having to navigate the character through the many twists and turns is of high priority in order to keep the series from falling apart. But Lee Jin Wook is just that kind of actor. It is a commanding performance that has him effortlessly cycling through a range of emotions from scene to scene.
Lee Jin Wook grabs you from the very first time you see him on screen and he never breaks that connection with the viewer up until the final moments of the series. Other than the story itself, if there was a glue that holds the series together, it is Lee Jin Wook’s performance and the chemistry that he fosters with the rest of the cast.

Bulgasal puts all this together in a way that results in a truly epic and grand presentation. It carries a bit of heft and even gravitas, especially in the way the series is able to take itself seriously without giving off an air of pretentiousness. (Also another problem for many drama series in recent years.)

Overall, Bulgasal: Immortal Souls is a unique series that manages to mix the familiar with the fantastical. Its excellent cast, tightly written and intricate story and cinematic production make for a thoroughly exciting and emotionally satisfying series.

Leia Mais

Had great potential but inevitably dragged under the weight of stretching out an already thin plot.

This show is not worse by any means but it ain't much good either, one of those shows I'd recommend watching only when you feel like "I have nothing but,TIME TO SPARE"
For most of it's runtime Bulgasal continusly kept giving me the impression as if its an example of:- diffrence in visons of a writter vs difference in vison of director/producers [maybe showrunners wanted to make it a more commercial successful drama by adding those family moments, few comical relief dialogues and the fated-lovers angle whereas the writters wanted to make a thriller show which relys heavily on dark fantasy horror and timeline complexity with a hint of 'karma and retribution' added to it] Since, maybe the writers and directors/producers had conflicting views, by the end all they could think of was come up with an idea of making the both parties negotiate with each other landing on an agreement(something that incorporates views of both departments) which then goes on to become the actual script of the drama thus giving us what we now have is an average existing show called BULGASAL

Leia Mais

Bulgasal Leap Card Displayed

Not the worst, changed my mind; it's just that it had bad writing all along

Won't say much (because most have been reviewed), just to summarise: I keep this to watch until the end thanks to the types' of ghosts backstories and antagonists' as well. But when it comes to protagonists' actual backstories, to begin with, I find it still lacking until the end of the story. The overall cast did an amazing job, but a decent plot; so does cinematography (I appreciate again so thank you very much). It's a messed up one that only we, as viewers, arrange/organize on which should be first and which should be last. Sometimes, when I ponder it back, almost gave the vibe of Curious Play (anime adaptation from manga, but clueless-reset). I'm alright with how the ending is, just in-between, from ep1 to finish.... again, it has potential, but as everyone stated: a mess. Can't believe some crews made The Guest, but unsure how to manage this narration instead. A huge miss, but leave good memories in my heart

Leia Mais

Everything was good except the romance...

When I first started watching, I was hooked instantly. Everything about this drama seemed to be what I was looking for, however, I was wrong. The cinematography was amazing, the music was great and the cast was definitely well chosen but the romance didn't do justice to the story. I felt no chemistry whatsoever between the two leads and their "romance" completely ruined it for me... The ending is extremely disappointing and feels quite bland and flat. Honestly, the antagonist was the sole reason I kept watching. I expected better. I recommend this drama only when you have nothing better to watch.

Leia Mais

Mesmerized by Lee Jin Wook and Kwon Nara's chemistry. Beautiful story and cinematography!

Mesmerized by Lee Jin Wook and Kwon Nara's acting and chemistry. Beautiful story and cinematography!

The story is very unique, and there are a lot of plot twists. It makes the audience more curious after each episode and urges them to create theories about their past lives. I was mesmerized by Lee Jin Wook and Kwon Nara's acting and chemistry. Also, the story is so poetic in love. The story and the cinematography are so brilliant and poetic!

I cried too much on episodes 15 and 16. Why did they have to finish the drama like that!!?? It is so unfair to Hwal and Min Sang Un bulgasal couple!!!! After the events, there should have been more screen time together rather than showing the human's min sang-un protected and died for 1.000 years ago. Or they could have added more episodes! They should have put more emphasis on the bulgasal couple!!!!!!!!!! Lee JinWook and Kwon Nara chemistry is so perfect, and their acting is beautiful wanted them to have more story and screen time rather than showing the brother and sister that Min Sang Un saved :((((((( So sad that they couldn't even talk properly after remembering their past lives. Waited for this moment for weeks, and they only give 5 min for the most important part of the story. However, I am thankful for bringing them back, reincarnating and making them meet :(

I hope Nara and Lee Jin Wook will work again. They have such great chemistry. Also hope the producers can give us a bonus episode of how Hwal and Sang-un lived as a bulgasal couple in the past or hope they can give us a season two on what happened after they reincarnated and meet again:(((((

Leia Mais

I loved it I did but we weren’t fed enough !!!

Okaaay so first of all, this is one of my favorite dramas ... whether it’s the genre, the cast, the chemistry, even the tragic events kept me intrigued ... The only problem is they had a hard time unraveling the secrets in time ... I know you’ve heard this word in another review “Slow Paced” ... well it is in a way that you remain confused and taken aback until the last episode ... I don’t know if they meant for it to be that way to keep us at the edge of our seat ... If they did they have went a tad bit too far ... Like seriously from making us ship him with the female lead’s sister to us going back to the original ship because they’ve finally given them some really warm scenes where their chemistry shone the most and that’s only possible when the male lead is sure she’s no longer a threat ... Like how do you only showcase that is episode 10 or 11 ... There is an ill fated relationship that dates back to 1000 years ago and you only give the last episode to fix that misunderstanding .... Really !!! They had so much potential as a couple ... I watched completely and solely for Lee Jin Wook and Kwon Nara ... Their acting was top notch .,. I was hooked to the screen ... Mr. lee Joon was superb as well ... my type of a villain really sassy and full of sarcasm ... He’s also delusional and in desperate need of a good father or older brother that could’ve guided him when he was younger ... Maybe this whole massacre would’ve been avoided ... The rest of the cast were great as well ... Again the acting is this drama’s strongest point ... The slow paced story its weakness ... In conclusion we needed a happy ending, we needed a season 2 or at least an episode where we could get to see the leads reincarnated and see their story falling in love just like we saw it on Goblin with Lee Dong Wook and Yoo Ina ... it’s an all around tearjerker, but I have no regrets I enjoyed the few bits of romantic scenes and the sappy ending I was given

Leia Mais

"This is all your fault."

Who's fault is it, and how far back does it go?

Bulgasal is the story of people whose lives intertwine again and again from the Goryeo period to the present day. It shows emotions like love and hatred enduring over a very long time... or perhaps forever? It has monsters, sword fights, and fist fights, but it also has romance, family bonds, regrets, and dreams.

I can't believe more people aren't praising this show. Why is it so underrated?

The plot might have intimated some people because it's very complicated. It has a mystery element, history element, past lives, shocking twists, and will make you reflect on many different things. However, if you pay attention to the story then it all makes sense and the reveals are paced perfectly to keep you on the edge of your seat. This is not a show you put on in the background. This is a story that requires and deserves your full attention. The ending is also very deep with many different layers. I've watched the show three times and I'm still finding new details in the ending.

The acting is done at an elite level. Lee Jin Wook and Kwon Nara have AMAZING chemistry as the main couple. I really hope they act together again in the future. Even though this is a romance show without even a single kiss, they look at each other with such intensity that it made me feel hot. We at least get some romantic hugs, even though there's no kiss. I love how Lee Jin Wook is such a mature and manly actor, not like the 'puppy dog faces' in other k-dramas. Lee Joon was also great with his flamboyant acting as the main villain.

Moving on to the fine details... the soundtrack is excellent. The atmosphere of the music matches perfectly with the show, and there's a nice variety of different genres and sounds. The cinematography is gorgeous. It's such a colorful show, with stunning landscapes in the mountains, meadows, and beaches. It is definitely the prettiest looking k-drama I've ever seen.

The director, writers, and actors all should be congratulated. This is a beautiful, romantic, and thoughtful story.

Leia Mais

Bulgasal

Usually I don't write reviews for dramas. That is also because I wait for the drama to complete and binge watch. But I patiently waited a week to watch this.

What I liked - Actually the story was different from other fantasy dramas. If you haven't watched it thinking it is like Goblin then don't be. Except the genre they are totally different. The story is catching and the acting is good. I'll always remember this drama for Lee Joon though. He was the best part of this drama. Though he got quite less screen time he was the star for me.

What I disliked - The show couldn't maintain the momentum it had until episode 6. It started dragging after that. Lee jin wook was kind of misfit for Dan Hwal. I would say he couldn't express his emotions as excepted. The second leads were better than him. Kwon Nara was good though.

Music - I have no complaints with the music. All the osts were good.

Bulgasal is not as bad as everyone is trying to make it look. But everyone have their own opinion.

Overall rating - 9/10

Leia Mais

INTRESTING

Basically, this drama is quite good for it's genre. It focuses on the 'revenge'. But as the drama progresses it gives insight of many other things. It has a slow romance plot and if you're looking for a romantic drama this might be not the one. Still there are moments where you feel the connection between the leads even though the romance isn't strong. Loved how they portrayed the villain part. But felt like the backstory was a little bit lacking, yet didn't feel disappointed. The concept of family also really was up to the point. And the acting of the monsters and OMG! Lee joon's acting was just amazing. Idk I was really in need of a hot villain and this was it. Music is also good.

The ending was what most people didn't like. But for me I expected the ending. Because most of the fantasy dramas-from Goblin to A Korean Odyssey had a similar type of ending. The finale of these types of drama is quite the same. And everything was neatly tied up.

But their are many cons in the drama. The ending kind of felt rushed or they just tried to fit most of the important parts to the final episode. But the ride was worth it. There are some plot holes and questions that still feels unanswered. Some of the episodes felt like filler because nothing important happened.
But overall loved how refreshing the plot is and how the leads grow on eachother. And how the drama unfolds, the mystery part is great.

This drama is NOT for everyone. Some will like it and some won't. If you're in for something refreshing and not the usual cliche's, I will totally recommend this. Go for it!

Leia Mais

Another great mystery from The Guest authors!

Before starting to watch I was uncertian because of some negative review, but as i loved The Guest so much and i was amazed by ability of the writers i decided to give Bulgasal a try and i have not regretted one minute of it!
Once more I am impressed by how well written the story is, how all details come to fit together like a puzzle by the end of the drama. The characters are interesting and very human, with their flaws and their unique quirks that make you love them even when you do not expect you would. Eul Tae as sociophatic and tormented as he is still manages to make you feel sorry for him. Do Yoon and Shi Ho are so vulnerable yet strong that you want to protect them and see them happy. Go Bun grows on you until you cannot imagine their little found family without her. Detective Kwon ambiguity gets you to both love him and resent him. And then there's Hwal and Sang Un that at times you love and at times you resent but always understand even when they make mistakes or behave cruelly.
Actors do an amazing job with their characters echalting the human sides that will make you feel for them.
Bulgasl is an impressive mix of emotions and mystery that by the end you will miss.
The music of the series merits its own comment because it's very very good and appealing, i was hooked with the main theme after hearing it in first episode. Same goes for cinematography and photogragy both extremely good.
All in all even if I still consider The Guest a superior product but Bulgasal comes in a very high second place.

Leia Mais