if I had to choose 3 dramas that can kinda reflect on my drama preferences, then this drama would be num1. it has everything I look enjoy in any type of show;
1- strong independent smart yet soft and awkward female lead
2- clean cut cold dark traumatized male lead that is naive and clueless
3- a beautiful elegant smart fashionable business woman
4- a brutal messy killer with a sad life/story
5- a ragged disheveled playboy that loves "beauty" and hates hard work
and many many more layered and interesting side characters all intertwined in a beautiful story about protecting a country.
if I were to describe the guys' reaction to Ae Sin's life choices I'd say;
Hui Seong wanted to be a shadow Ae Sin could hide in
Dong Mae wanted to tie her down/stop her from doing anything that put her in harms way
and Eugene wanted to walk by her side.
I'm currently rewatching it so I'll fix this review later ;p
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I knew that this drama would come with lots of heart wrecking moments. Moments that moved me so often because the story did an excellent groundwork of its characters. There were so many facettes of each of them, you unknowingly start to root for everyone, even though some of them might have started out with your disliking. Although... No, actually not. I never really disliked anyone who didn't deserve it. It's exciting to see everyone's story develop, to see where their decisions lead them. They are like branches, pointed towards different paths, and yet grew from the same tree. And in the end the wind blows them in the same direction.
I never felt that the story would move forward too slow because each scene was important to me. Like enjoying a good wine. Every tiny moment sucks you in and doesn't let go. And with all the historical background it was exciting and refreshing to hear at least 3 (sometimes even 4) different languages throughout the whole drama. Though I can't judge the Japanese parts, the English ones sounded pretty good to me.
This is not a drama that blends you with a stunning cinematography, pretty costumes and a nice setting, just to cover up a lacking story. This drama does have all these things AND a convincing and fullfilling plot which makes it a gem in this massive pool of dramas.
It's a story about friendship, loyalty, bravery, love and sacrifice. And it would be a shame to miss out on it.
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A veritable masterpiece
What an epic, sweeping masterpiece. This story is full of heart, han, and jeong. It is deeply patriotic to Korea. I am almost envious of that level of national pride. Where I'm from, we are all hyphenated identities; an amalgamation of immigrants living our lives in the same physical location. I don't know all my East-Asian history, but it's almost overwhelming to think about how a tiny nation could be so powerful (or so vulnerable) and how quick we are to forgive and/or forget things in the not-so-distant past.I appreciate the moments of levity, love, and friendship too. This show depicts ALL the emotions and facets of life. Kim Eun-sook is known as the master of quippy one-liners — and for good reason! Somehow, all the characters endear themselves to us. My heart is full and aches at the same time.
Guns, glory, and sad endings indeed.
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Gun. Glory. Sad Ending.
"My romance lies in the muzzle of a German rifle. Who knows? How you saw me that night could have been romance in and of itself."I watched this drama without any knowledge of Korean history which is why I was a bit confused in the first two episodes. I almost dropped it, but I'm glad that I didn't (because I'll surely regret it in the future) and decided to continue watching it. And after the third episode, I realized that this is the best kdrama that I've ever watched.
Everything about this drama is almost perfect, if not perfect. The storyline, character development, cinematography (which is top-notch), OSTs (whose lyrics were all beautifully written) and most importantly, the emotions that it evoked from the viewers. All the characters are memorable: from the main characters, to the minor ones, and even the cameos. The actors portrayed their roles flawlessly but the writer should also be commended with the way she wrote each of the characters who are perfectly imperfect in their own ways.
What I love the most in this drama are the dialogues of the characters which are so impactful and meaningful. I feel like I'm watching a movie and reading a book at the same time. It's amazing how "Protecting you", "Maybe it's the end of jealousy", and "I don't even know my way around Joseon, and yet I'm walking toward somewhere far away" can be a love confession, and how "I will pray for you and console you" and "You should keep moving forward, I am taking a step back" can show how much you care for someone.
When I finished watching this for the first time, what remained in my mind are the emotions that I felt throughout the story. But when I rewatched it, I appreciated the story even more and I find it more exquisite than the first time I watched it. I came to notice the little details and the symbolisms used which I didn't notice before. It may be hard to rewatch this because of the number of episodes and the pain that it'll bring, but I do think that it is worthwhile.
I don't know if I'll ever come across another drama as great as Mr. Sunshine, but even so, this drama will surely have a special place in my heart.
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Others might feel it's too slow but for me, I appreciate the build up, episode by episode, I get to pay more attention to the character's circumstances and what makes them who they are as opposed to the typical in your face descriptions. Cinematography definitely is key in this build up, it extremely inviting and captivating, I couldn't take my eyes off my screen in fear that I might miss something.
If you're looking for a historically accurate account, this isnt for you.
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There's no doubt that "Mr.Sunshine" is focused on everything visual.
- Beautiful natural landscapes/background and scenery.
- Amazing and epic cinematography.
- Good color work, light and shadow.
- Classic and cultural clothing.
- Great graphics and effects.
- And even a great sound work.
It is beautiful.
The drama is very descriptive, detailed and symbolic.
The drama has a deep love story, which is something I usually don't like, but surprisingly, this drama hits my favourites and was quite funny. The comedy is so subtle and well tailored into the scenes.
Lee Byung-Hun is one of the best korean actors and the most popular internationally and Kim Tae-Ri has so much talent. A she proves that in one of the best movies, "The Handmaiden", so these two actors accepted these roles because, they knew this drama would be different and epic.
Amazing support characters.
Even though 3 leads love the same woman, their love is pure and everyone of them is willing to sacrifice. I really like the fact that there is no jealous relationship that turned people into evil beings.
The drama also shows girl power with such badass and awesome female characters, which I completely loved!
You can wait for 10/10 from all actors.. Acting, characters, excellent.
Mr.Sunshine is a truly piece of art.
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read my full review here: https://drammmajjigae.com/2018/11/23/mr-sunshine/
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Not your average drama
Mr.Sunshine is not your average drama in many aspects. The cinematography and photography were out of this world, maybe the best I’ve seen in a drama.In terms of story again this is so much more than your usual romance heavy or oriented drama. The drama explores the road toward the Korean independence and the struggle of the people around that time. Although according to some articles I have read not very accurate, it gives you an idea of how Korea was at that time.
Before starting the show, I’ve read in another review that this is not a bingeable drama and I thought to my self “Challenge accepted” but I soon realized that they were right. Mr. Sunshine has many characters and many plots going on that each episode is very information heavy. If you try to watch more that two episodes in a row you start to drift apart and you are unable to follow the characters and their story. And trust me their stories are worth following.
All the characters, main and supporting, have a purpose and a role to play, none of them feels out of place or as a filler. The two Female leads were strong, independent, smart, brave and everything you would like every female character in a drama to be. The actresses were great and did an amazing job.
The 3 main male leads are amazing and their chemistry and interactions incredible. Three characters that love the same woman but can’t seem to hate each other and understand that there is a purpose bigger than them and the girl! Although I really hate this trope to the bone, like there are no other women in that place!!
I have to admit that, when it comes to the Male leads, I have a soft spot for my future husband and love of my life, Dong-Mae. The actor did a great job taking such a complex character and bring him to life and portray every emotion incredibly.
Having said all that ,there were two things that prevented me from giving this show a perfect score. One was that although the story was amazing, 24 episodes were a bit much since I felt that at some point in the middle the story got a bit druggy.
Now to the second part that might be a little controversial, but my main issue to this drama was the 2 main leads. As I said above both are BRILLIANT in their roles and their chemistry was good. My problem with the Male Lead was that out of the 3 males leads to me he was the most indifferent, I just didn’t feel for him the same way as the others. Kim Hui Sung brought a much-needed levity, cuteness and fun to the drama that you couldn’t help but fall in love with him. As for Dong-Mae, I think I made my feelings clear! He was such a complex character and far from the good guy/hero, but the actor did an incredible job. He portrayed all the emotions of the character perfectly with every inch of his face and he could really make you feel everything he was feeling, while being incredibly hot. So, the Male Lead really failed in comparison to me.
As for the Female Lead my main issue with her is really subjective and not really her fault, but she looks too young, especially next to the Male Lead. I know she was a 30-year-old actress playing a 30-year-old woman, but she looked 16 and it got even worse when she was in the suit, because she looked like a 12-year-old boy! So, every time she was in a scene with the ML all I could she was a 16 year old girl next to a 40 year old man and it made it icky for me taking me out of the drama!
All in all, for me Mr. Sunshine is a must watch drama that will bring all kind of emotions out of you!
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Excellent series
This series is amazing. All of the actors/actresses give outstanding performances. The editing, casting, set, camerawork, and clothing are all very high television quality. If it was not high budget it seemed to be.The story for the most part is excellent. It is based on real historical events but has fictional aspects which has brought some criticism in korea. I think this issue is the only real flaw worth mentioning among most viewers. There are a few things i would have preferred to see within this story. This is mostly personal preferance on a few of the character's choices and the ending. That doesn't change the fact i binged this whole series and really enjoyed it. Honestly, i wish it had taken many more episodes to get to the ending :)
I highly recommend this series to anyone that likes period pieces. It is easily among the best of them.
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Amazing lead characters
One of the good series in Korean. Starting I felt a bit slow and seriously it was very slow but the 3 lead actors who made me to love this drama are Yoo Yeon Seok, Lee Byung Hun And Byun yo Han and I loved every scene where this 3 are involved. They made really amazing combo. Kim min Jung was Also amazing and her style in this drama I think no one can replace it. Kim tae ri looks like a baby face girl but her voice will be like a well grown women. I liked her acting in this drama specially in last 4 episodes but when she is with male role Lee Byung Hun, I couldn’t like it much because of age gap which is shown in they face. In drama they age is not much different though.I loved every scene of Yoo yeon seok, and he is an amazing actor, his Japan style and style of talking in Japan and Korean are truly amazing. I loved his character so much in the drama. And the reason I tagged this review spoiler because I wanna share this part. So don’t mind reading it. If you like suspense then it’s better you stop reading this right here. Yoo yeon seok character is one the best character in Mr. Sunshine, the flow of his character and the vibe I loved it. The minute when I felt his character is gonna end I couldn’t watch this drama till end but I was hoping him to be alive somehow and till end he was taken really good. The end of his character in the last episode is so touching . And the last scene of his in the last episode I will say amazing editing and cinematography and view. The way he linked candy and him, I felt it is really amazing, sweet with danger - I felt it that way.
An other best character which byun yo Han did was really cool. I loved the emotions and smile he carries in this drama and his ending was so touching. and he is one of the amazing actor in the drama. The love and words his character has are beautiful.
Lee Byung Hun character which he played was good. His emotions and love are next level.
And you can’t say one character is good in the drama. All the characters in this drama are truly amazing from 1st episode till the last one. Mostly everyone will make you smile and cry too.
You may feel slow starting or normal but it depends on your taste of drama but the ending is very sad. But keeping sad ending and slow pace aside in this drama. I can suggest you can watch this drama for few reasons
you will like male and female leads in the drama, even supporting roles.
Love, friendship, hate, jealous, and special 3 male leads combo. And emotions.
Cinematography, editing and sound track, background music, songs, dialogues, expressions and scenes are truly amazing.
Very clear characters ( no confusion- mostly in drama with many characters - linking from character to character disturbs the flow of the drama. You won’t feel like that)
Even though it’s Fictional and real events story, the story of Joseon was touching and Righteous army.
Rewatch value maybe low but few scenes even though you watch 10times you won’t feel bored.
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CANNOT begin to describe how beautiful this show was. Extraordinary is an ordinary word for this show. A masterpiece, so unique and so so beautiful in each and every aspect of the willingness of this show to be beyond its imaginary reach.This drama has so much potential and great cast. I watched the lead's movie sometime back, "I saw the Devil" and instantly liked him. In this show, he looks much more mature and is paired up with a fairly young actress, but they make a striking pair. I was rooting for them all along.
The story is a massive hit. Other characters play their parts almost brilliantly, there is nothing I dislike about this show.
Must watch, it is beautiful!
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Utterly Glorious, Must-Watch Brilliant Masterpiece full of Historical Importance - PURE GOLD
"The first English words she learned were gun, glory, and sad endings."I'm not even sure where to start talking. EVERYTHING about this drama is excellent. It's got it all: Beautiful cinematography (the COLORS, the SETTINGS, the COSTUMES - ALL stunning), a perfect cast, intricate and complex plot/s (absolutely zero fillers - the intensity and suspense is Off The Charts), diverse characters with amazing dynamics, all the while immersing you in the historical setting and times of (the end of) Joseon Korea.
It's a time of shifting allegiances and complex politics and the inevitable shift from the ancient, dynastic/aristocratic society to the brave new modern world of electricity, trains, and guns. Not to mention the shift of power from the Joseon royals to colonialist, imperialistic Japan.
Love the fact that there are so many various nations and languages presented here in their original languages and cultures. The cultural crossroads being presented is flawlessly done. Not to mention the fact that characters from essentially all walks of life/all classes/backgrounds you can imagine are represented in their own right. All of which make for some extremely interesting and fantastic relations on-screen.
Probably the most beautiful and rewatchable historical kdrama ever. I love it so much that I want to imprint it in my mind and relive ALL the moments (actually I had rewatched many episodes twice already). Absolutely wrecked me with how solid it is. I love each and every one of the main characters: all very relatable and all very heartbreakingly REAL and ICONIC in their respective ways. There's family, friendship, bromance, companionship, brotherhood, (slow-burn and honestly THE MOST romantic) romance/s, and heartwarming and funny banter to balance out the seriousness of it all: it doesn't pull any punches in its intensity and realism.
Some may complain a bit about the pacing: I actually like it for what it is because the slower, more drawn-out scenes allow me to reflect back on previous, more fast-paced scenes and information. And also I think it's a great opportunity to ponder about what the characters are thinking (but which they're not saying aloud). No minute feels wasted here.
I've seen the other two Kim Eun Sook and Lee Eung Bok team-ups - GOBLIN as well as DESCENDANTS OF THE SUN - and those are great. Yet this is a Whole New Level in yet another completely different genre.
The more I think and reflect on this show the more I love it and appreciate its brilliancy and exceptionalism. I feel honored to be able to journey alongside these beautiful people.
Definitely the gold standard for historical dramas. I will never get over it.
"The steps we took resembled who we are.
The article one wrote instead of a will. Opium that burned through one's broken body in the amount of the life he had left. The Korean flag that was given to a man who was forever a foreigner.
Will our final destination be somewhere between glory and a sad ending?
Maybe we just didn't know how to stop. Or perhaps, we had no reason to stop. Maybe it was love of our own country."
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