Reviews

This was an outstanding show. I am really impressed and glad I picked it up after putting it on hold for a while and only managing to make it to episode 6 and deciding to watch something else, I went back and after episode 6 was hooked and taken on a amazing journey about Deokman not only her rise to the throne but all the rise and falls of the well played characters that surrounded her.

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!

Leia Mais

Let me start off by saying that Psychological Thrillers aren't really my thing. I hate that feeling of anticipation in my stomach as I wait for things to happen. Still I gave this a shot because it has a lot of great actors in it.

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.

Leia Mais

Although most people I've seen are attracted to this drama because of Kim Soo Hyun, I have to say that, as I girl, I like this drama because of the character of Chun Soo Yi. And not because she's beauty, but because of her 3D character. Yes she starts off quite annoying, but you grow to find her so charismatic and charming, while professor Do (excuse my language) is, despite his background, quite a typical main male character in dramas. I like his looks and his sarcastic comments on Chun Soo Yi, but it's Chun Soo Yi who attracts me more.
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.

Leia Mais

This series started out very well. The first six episodes were good, but then it went downhill from there. I felt the love story could have been resolved right at the beginning, but it dragged on and on.

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.

Leia Mais

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.

Leia Mais

I finally finished this excruciatingly long and boring drama that has more holes in the story than a sieve. From around episode 6 it is basically the same episode with slight variations until episode 15. I really don't want to take the time to go into all the problems with this drama. The reason I gave it a 4 instead of a 1 is the few funny, cute and sweet moments. At least the ending didn't suck.

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.

Leia Mais

I have to say I was very very skeptical to start watching this drama after watching cunning single lady - I hated the immature ex on that drama besides the fact I don't much care about divorcee's getting back together - the way I see it - if they already had that kind of problem big enough to split up they will have the same issues in the future together...this one was better than CSL drama though - as I didn't completely hate the ex - I found him likeable from time to time but to me they cheated on me by episode 7 (?) it was no longer really fair competition.... I was strongly on Jo Sung Gyeom's side - and my liking for him grew stronger on every episode....I will try to remember to never watch a show like this again... ugh...
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.

Leia Mais

Difficult to really like this drama. There are some definite good things about it, but there is a lot of bad too. I took a quick look through all the dramas I've watched (around 70) and I can't think of one where I really wanted the lead female and secondary male to end up together, because that's not how you should feel about a drama, since the leads always end up together (at least everyone I've seen). It's one thing to like a secondary lead, but it just makes the show fundamentally flawed when he (or she depending on the drama) is more likable than the lead and shows more chemistry with the lead female than our leading man does with her.
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.

Leia Mais

This drama was GREAT! I loved it, Bo young's acting improves so much, and she does a great job of being a protective mother. The show does a great job of keeping you on your edge, each and every episode. It has unbelievable surprises too! The main girl and main guy are both amazing actors, and the evil bad guys are really good at looking evil. This show has some humor too, but warning little to none romance. So those who like romance don't count on it. It also has an amazing moral to the story, and is very beautiful. Both the main guy and girl are very intelligent and are kind to the girl. The mother acts very realistic, and shows you what "mama bear" truly means. Overall great story, and something I definitely plan to re-watch some day

Leia Mais

I am totally amazed at the rating of this drama. The storyline was so simple that 8-10 episodes would have sufficed. Because the writer(s) and director had to have enough material for a 20-episode drama, there were so many "fillers," side stories, that added very little value to the main story. Yes, I finished the drama … but used the FF button on the remote a lot.

If you have not watched "Queen In Hyun's Man," I highly recommend you watch it. There is a lot more of the Mystery element in that drama than in Rooftop Prince … QIHM is a much better written and produced drama all around.

Leia Mais

You might be wondering why the overall rating is less than all the other criteria (except rewatch since it's rare that I rewatch to fairly value it), well the reason is because of additional criteria. I like the overall story, the concept, the cast and I love Love LOVE that ending song. My problem is with some of the directing, the way Hiji Motoko's character is written, Hirosue Ryoko's portrayal of some scenes, and finally the underwhelming last episode (or the 2nd half of the last episode).

I think this is one dorama who's concept may have been better executed if it was done in the 90s. I feel the actors being very restricted in the way they express themselves and act the characters, the pattern used in the dialog and so one. I think it's a similar to the dorama to "Ice World" but missing the "it" factor that we used to see in 90s dramas. That "it" factor is, for me it's passion expressed freely by the actors. I don't mean romantic scenes, not at all. I mean let the actors freely and passionately embody the characters so all interaction seems more instinctively, and enable chemistry to grow naturally.

It is my first drama with Nagayama Kento and I don't feel able to judge his talent based in this role. I couldn't help remember Eita every time I start watching an episode. They do have a strong resemblance and even their voices are similar. Nagayama Kento may be a bit better lookin' but I like Eita more ;). This drama also shines the light at who I think is underrated Renbutsu Misako. She was amazing in the movie "Murder of Snow White" and here though the role is less challenging giving her the spot light is nice. Lastly Hirosue Ryoko I had a lot of mixed feelings about her here. Her dramatic scenes are flawless, from crying to acting delusional. I had issued when she was acting surprised and supposedly having a poker face. Her surprise face was similar to that of a rookie actrice, as if someone telling her "now open your eyes wildly and feep them open". The standout in the cast could be the wife of one of the victims at the hospital. The rest of the cast was standard.

As for the ending, I just want to say I just didn't like it. I was okay with the final outcome but it could have been better. I just felt the ending being underwhelming.

All in all though it's a sweet short watch with a nice story.

Leia Mais

I can understand that the ending was rushed due to the cut of a few episodes, however with the episodes that were done I felt there was lots of flaws and that this drama could have had so more more potential.
The acting could have been better, with the main female (the mermaid), I felt she was acting a little.. 'over the top'. Okay she's gonna be all girly around the guy she likes, but she took it a little too far. Also, with the chef, i didn't feel much emotional response from him towards the girl he liked. This made it slightly confusing (and a little annoying) that the 'signals' were not that.. clear.
Thus, I couldn't even understand what was going on in the love side of things and the drama was supposedly focusing on love but, didn't really know where the storyline was heading.
I thought there would be more about the mermaids, maybe show flashbacks of her home underwater or struggles she's having with legs. Nothing. It barely mentioned anything about mermaids as again the drama was about love.
I don't even remember the music- obviously had no impact.
At the end of each episode, I didn't get the reaction 'omg what's going to happen next? I have to watch the next episode!' Or something would happen but doesn't follow through in the next episode.
Okay, that's a lot of negative comments I've said- I don't like saying bad things but this drama had so much more potential.
Although it was a good watch and there were lots of amusing things that did happen.

Leia Mais

A short and sweet drama. Good to watch on a boring afternoon if you have nothing else!!
Seriously, this lacked a lot of things, the story could have been a bit faster paced, considering it was such a short drama, it didnt have much substance.
The acting was quite bland and expressionless. There was absolutely no chemistry between any actor, especially the lead couple, as this was a drama based purely on romance, I was expecting some sparks!
Note the kissing scenes, so awkward and distant.
Overall, like I said watch if nothing else is there, but dont expect any fireworks.

Leia Mais