SOME PROBLEMS:
1. Around the late beginning and middle part of Empress Ki with all the angsty maidservants and angry queens and jealous concubines was a pain in the butt. It was like watching one of those clique high school girls drama, except it takes place several hundred years ago in a setting where noblewomen wore impossible hairdos, and the process of bickering and competing with each other literally can kill you. Sungnyang (I don't even think I spelled her name right) had to go through SO much repeating bullsh*t from those ladies. I only looked forward to Wang Yu's parts, where action and swords, all that good stuff, took place.
2. Sungnyang's perfection. I liked her character at first. She was tough, flawed, and unless you have a reputation of outwitting people or you're a black belt in karate, you would not mess with her. But then she became a figure of just...the perfect human. She was greatly kindhearted, she was immensely enduring, she was really beautiful, she was greatly intelligent, she was outright bold, she was extremely patient, she was a skilled fighter, she was wonderfully loving, she was undeniably brave and she was (insert any other good adjective). I could hardly find a flaw in her, except for the fact that she was too perfect.
3. The drama needs to. slow. it. down. It was always conflict after conflict. Once you thought the main character(s) succeeded, someone makes them fall flat on their face again. How the drama consistently had so many things happening keeps you from falling asleep or stare at the screen listlessly. However, it ruins the overall flow of the drama. If a story line could flow like water, this drama was like Rapids Water Park. But for this flaw, I could forgive.
AS FOR THE POSITIVE SIDES
1. Each character was wonderfully written. Sungnyang's and Wang Yu's characters became as flat as a scrawny 12-year-old boy's chest, but the other characters were wow-worthy-ingly complex. How each character developed, from good to bad, from bad to still bad, from bad to good then bad again, was awesome. I especially loved Ta Hwan's character. He changed a lot throughout the story, and his many flaws and controversial choices makes him very interesting. Other noteworthy characters were Dowager and Bayan. They were a perfect mixture of good and bad. Then there's Tal Tal, oh Tal Tal whose name at first was the only I could actually spell. I loved his internal conflict as he was median between two sides. His intelligent quiet and noble treacheries were intriguing.
2. Complex interaction between characters. Ah. One of the greatest prospects of the story. Each unique character's ambitions and loyalties clash and intertwine in incredible ways. You are never afraid of not seeing your favorite character for too long because each character is connected with each other. Thus each character gets an appropriate and consistent amount of screen time.
3. Technical stuff: costumes, osts, setting, casting. Ornamental costume designs, excellent cinematography, and the background music was touching and graceful. The casting was not perfect, but I want to give awards to almost all the actors/actresses. Honestly, I expected better from Joo Jin Mo since he became Stoneface McGee in the last half of the drama. Ha Ji Wan was owning it like usual. Ji Chang-wok carried out his role just about perfectly. All those components (costumes, music, setting, casting) combined into a mass of BEAUTIFUL.
4. Smart story and nice plot elements. I've seen dozens too many of cheesy and flat-as-a-board plot elements and stories that try to be smart but end up being a tangled mess. Empress Ki is not one of them. Though the pacing was rushed, the components of the plot made up for it. In a less biased view, story turns in unexpected and intelligent ways that average kdrama viewers like us could not hope to think of. And the ending was satisfying and tastefully unsatisfying at the same time.
Empress Ki had it eye-rolling downs and breathtaking ups for me.This drama also makes me wish that I was more emotional so I can have the full experience. I actually teared up when [this character] killed [this character]. Ah...so sad. Overall, this is the best Asian-made historical dramas I have ever seen; I recommend Empress Ki for people who want a ride of interesting characters, feels, and clever plot, and oh, a bittersweet ending.
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Acting/Cast: Initially I decided to watch this because of the leads Ruco, Linda, Natalie and Raymond. I however, found their acting a bit mediocre. This could be because of the terrible story and scripting. At first I was very intrigued with Raymond's story development, but as it progressed I lost interest especially when Natalie was always around. I found her character very annoying that I couldn't find myself to like her scenes at all. The only pulling factor left now was Ruco and Linda, but I was overly disappointed as they barely had much screen time together nor any development until the very last episode. I was also pleasantly surprised to see Sammy in this though he played the villain and it made me hate seeing him on screen. This was rather different from swooning over him in Line Walker XD His character was just too despicable.The supporting characters didn't help with the story either - especially Pierre and Shirley were both equally annoying to watch. I did however like Jazz in this. He was a quirky little character.
Music: I guess the theme song sets the whole mood for the drama - slow and dull.
Rewatch Value: I actually regret picking this up in the first place.
Overall: As this was my first pre-modern drama I was very disappointed. I've never been interested in pre-modern and had hoped that this would change my mind. Unless you're a diehard fan of Linda and Ruco, I'd suggest giving this a pass. Even with the great casting, this wasn't enough to save a disaster of a drama when the script does not allow it to do anything. I found this drama very boring and non-progressive. I would have dropped this if I wasn't hoping for some miracle ending for Ruco and Linda and there wasn't. I felt like I wasted my time on this drama and do no recommend it at all. There are much better dramas out there.
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At first, I have a lot of confusion maybe because I don't have any medical background so I don't expect myself to understand all these medical conditions but as you go along every episode, it all make sense and it all come together that you'll tell yourself: "Ah, that's why." That makes the writer a genius. To be able to make the viewers understand something that is unfamiliar and make them relate to it is pure genius.
The actors were the best. I love them all. Gong Hyu Jin has made it to one of my all time favorite female celebs. Talking about chemistry, this two makes all the actors and couples a run of their money. So natural, so realistic you'd think they're a real couple. They are just the real deal. IF they have another drama together, I will definitely won't think twice.
The best part of the story ~ the end. You won't ask for a better ending of this story. Just simple but it was fit perfect.
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WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE DRAMA: The casts of course! Well, I won't really rate the actors and actresses a very high score because they don't really show their acting potential through the drama. But I was totally attracted by the male lead's smile throughout the show, as well as his personality. I don't think I will ever seen a guy like that in real life! I will definitely give a high rating for the plot. The story was really nicely plotted with no draggy parts (well maybe one or two episodes in between) and how they actually not go off the way like other dramas. Overall, it is really a drama that can make people smile all the time without any frustrations. (:
WHAT I DISLIKE ABOUT THE DRAMA: However, I was slightly disappointed with the ending even though it was a very happy one. I mean, they can show more progress between the two leads or maybe the relationship between Kaiqi and Ah Jie's family or even with Xiao Yi (haven't been seeing him for quite a few episodes though!).
In conclusion, it is one of the top recent dramas that is really worth watching, as Taiwan dramas nowadays are really getting boring or draggy with no new story plots. (: And and and, if you really want to watch a drama with cute male lead with an attractive smile with dimples. ;D
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The Music is very breathtaking and get's you excited and moves you reminding you of scenes that were incredibly upsetting and also accomplishing.
I have never watched anything like it and to have watched it all in such a short space of time.
The characters were all individual and unique to watch bringing their own components to the show.
My favourite was Sowha, Young Deokman/Deokman and Bidam. All of them were very good.
With Mishil's gang of the deadly sins meets opposition with Deokman and her team of blending different characters to make an unstoppable entertainment that makes this a show you will never forget. Making you think and be taken into this world of intrigue and power struggles, war and strife, to complicated relationships and feelings, watching Deokmans life unfold from the beginning. The courage and bravery of Lee Yo Won character Deokman just made it an incredible adventure to watch I really loved her interaction with everyone how she stands up to fight such a refreshment.
I understand why this was so popular and how many of the cast won awards for it as it was well deserved.
I have to say please watch this if you have not already, you will be dazzled even long after the last episode. I will watch this again for sure!
10 /10!
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Drama Special Series Season 1: White Christmas
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The actors definitely didn't disappoint. I loved every single one of them. The acting was superb and they really sold the drama for me.
That being said. I was severely disappointed with the ending. To the point where I ended up just skipping through the last 2 episodes.
The drama turned out nothing like any of the synopses would lead you to believe and I also feel like that's what lent itself to my disappointment in the plot. Even from the very first episode it wasn't anything I had imagined but the story line did get rather predictable by the 3rd episode and that's coming from someone who doesn't watch these kinds of dramas.
If you do want to watch it (and you should if only for the actors) go to it with an open mind and try not to build it up too much.
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I have to say that, although I really like the plot, the later 5-7 episodes kinda drag. And kinda cliched. Sorry but that's the truth. Dramas often start with trying to make the audience like the characters, and when the audience already like the characters, they portray them less and just focuses on the cliched elements such as people splitting apart or are going to split apart. I wish that the characters can still retain their charisma even till the end, but yeah, dramas generally don't do that.
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The story was good, but the plot was same old same old. Some of the my questions were not answered. I like this drama because both actors loved the girl in a different way maybe more than another. The suspense was a good add to the drama, but they couldn't keep up with to the end. How the problem resolve was not resolve in a good way.
I dislike this drama because they didn't really solve the mystery and why it started was not solved. If you love the actors, I suggest giving it a try. The love triangle was entertaining and cute at the same time.
I would rematch it, but only if I am bored.
Loved the music
Overall it was a good ride, but only if the story remained good.
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My initial reason for watching this drama is my new-found love for Kim Soo Hyun. I was bedazzled by his handsome face and although his looks is just closed to perfection, I was truly captivated by it. Rarely you find an actor who has it all; looks, talent, aura …etc.. His performance in MLFS got me curious of how he faired out in his other dramas. Since I read so many good feedback about The Moon That Embraces the Sun I decided to try this one out even though I have not been exposed to Joseon Era plot. I love historical romances especially Victorian Times but was just not sure about Korea's historical romances. Now don’t get me wrong, it’s not that this kind of genre has no appeal to me but it’s just a thing in me that is a little bit skeptical about such plot; scared I may end up disappointed. The Moon that Embraces the Sun changed my perspective. Because of this drama I was somewhat educated by the culture of Korea during Joseon era. But (please don’t kill me for saying this) I just find their wedding and consummation ritual slightly discomforting but not in a derogatory way. One servant from outside telling the king to take of his robe and doing it step by step! I was like, “Are you serious?”. And then I can’t help but imagine them doing their marital duties and then the servants are within earshot! Can’t they have some privacy??! BUUUT, it was cute though! ? Sorry guys, just can’t help myself from mentioning this. Heee! But if some of you can help me understand this please feel free to make comment!Now I’m slightly embarassed that I just watched this drama after 2 years this was aired and I know I’m too years behind from the excitement and thrill. Others may have gotten over this already and I’m just beginning but well there’s no use crying over spilled milk.
Now about the story, I really like the story and how it evolved. From beginning to the end, there has never been a dull moment. While watching this, I feel like I was watching a Hollywood movie. I have this weird habit of skipping episodes especially if I already figured out the plot but this one is one of those exceptions for me. Every episode got me curious from beginning to the end. And once again Kim Soo Hyun did not disappoint me in this drama. Aside from his majestic beauty he nailed the rule as the king.
My only complaint is the acting of the female lead. She was lacking in some areas. Her projection or the variation of her voice is just the same but in fairness it’s not entirely all throughout the drama. If she’s mad, talking casually, in pain or even running, the tone of her voice is just the same for crying out loud! I mean, I find the queen’s acting more convincing than hers or even the princess’ acting. How many times I was tempted to drop this drama because of her. I just persevered because I was really interested on the story and Kim Soo Hyun was just so amazing in this and never disappointed me in playing an arrogant, kind, lovestruck king. Story and acting (the way actors carry out their roles) for me are my major attractions in a drama so you could just imagine my frustration when she gave no life to her role. It would be forgivable if she was not the female lead but she’s supposed to be one of those who is bringing the show. The supporting roles had managed to outshine her in my opinion! But in fairness she cries easily. For instance, I was moved but her silent agony when she heard a certain a bad news.
But all in all, I enjoyed this drama and even recommended this to a friend who has not watched this. Others may have been disappointed with ending but for me as long as the main leads have a happily-ever-after that’s all that matters regardless who died. I was so happy they let Un live. I just love him next to the king and I find the right hand man of the king so hilarious.
The song “Back in Time” was not exceptional but it really fits the time period. I hope I have not given much spoilers from this drama although I admit I got a little carried away and gave some bits and pieces.
Although I enjoyed this drama, I will rewatch this in just a short period of time.
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I like the main actors, but even the best actors could not have saved this drama. I usually hate dramas with a lot of bi-stories and unnecessary actors, but this time they were actually the entertainment to me. The detective running around winking at people and the "other" girls chasing the male leads are too funny.
The music is fine.
I will never rewatch this.
I don't recommend this drama, but if you insist on watching it, then I suggest watching to episode 6 skipping to episode 15.
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Cast: great actors (except the "English" lady) but poor characters - well all except the great Jo Sung Gyeom <3 (I think a girl would be a fool to not like a guy like him).
Music: really good (best part of the show maybe?)
re-watch value - 0/10 - never again. If I could find the writers I'd give them a piece of my mind. >_<
reason why I kept watching: Jo Sung Gyeom - and him ONLY.... I do NOT recommend this drama.
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Kim Sang-kyung just feels miscast here. He doesn't seem to suit the role to me. My all time favorite Korean movie is 'Memories of Murder' and he is great in that. I've seen him in a couple other movies too, and maybe I shouldn't be so quick to judge since this is the only drama I've watched him in, but I think there are actors more suited for movies, while there are those more suited for tv shows/dramas, and to me he is much more suited for films. He was awkward here, had zero chemistry with Lee Soo-kyung, and even had moments of overacting.
Lee Soo-kyung on the other hand was fantastic. She was super funny and charismatic. It's funny how despicable she is near the start, and yet she changes her character throughout the drama so smoothly, that it doesn't even click till the end how effortlessly and natural she made it seem. That's how good she was.
Ryu Jin was super charming throughout the drama. Even as a straight male, I couldn't help but fall for the guy, ha ha. He was hilarious, and pitiful to the end. I just really don't get what they did with the roles here. So many of the interactions with Lee Soo-kyung's character is often what you would see between the two leads in many other dramas. I usually always find the role of secondary male lead to either be really annoying or even hate with a strong passion (Goong, grrr I had to put a sock in my mouth when watching that show), but that's a strength of the story. It's what a drama is supposed to do, so you feel more of a connection with the leads, but this one pulled the opposite and I just don't get it. And the ending is really quite frustrating for his character, as it seems unjustified.
Horan did quite a good job here for being her only real acting role she has ever had. I wonder why she never took on roles again. Big Clazziquai fan and she is partly the reason I took on this drama. Her character is grating at times, like it should be, that's her job. A little quirky and cheesy in a couple scenes, but nothing big. Overall, I definitely give her a thumbs up for doing quite well in the role.
The supporting characters are fun too, especially the old guys. It's definitely a funny drama no doubt. Some pretty good witty lines here and there too. The story and many scenes have their stupidity flaws, but that's typical for the comedic type dramas.
Overall, worth it for the comedy and interactions especially of Lee Soo-kyung and Ryu Jin, but the roles are flawed when it comes to the fundamentals of good kdrama. I strolled through the last episode not really caring and just wanting it to end, because I knew how it would end and I was setup for disappointment a good midway through this drama.
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This drama will have you guessing who done it all the way to end thinking you know and at the next twist you think it's someone else. Along with all the suspense there is actually a really cute love story.
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