Vincenzo (2021)

It's extremely overHATED.

its extremely overhated ??
i really needa stop listening to these reviews cuz that made me go in ready to dislike the show and it ended being one of my favourites.
yall saying its trying to be too many things at once?They stated that in the genre section, its so hard to please u ppl why dont u go write , produce and direct a movie then.?
anyways the main villans did a good job cuz i hated them smmm and i was praying on their downfall ✋
im not good at giving detailed feedback but 10/10 i would definitely reccommend tho i suffered emotional trauma due to a specific death in the show ?.

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Good story and cast but wayyy to long

At first when I start watching this drama, I felt this was just pure hype. A mafia guy, fear by the all country (Italy) was being played like I child when arrives in Korea. I thought the rest of the cast annoying, basically I disliked everything but gave a second chance and end up loving all the cast.

Positives: The people fo plaza made this drama for me. They all so friendly and funny, I laught like a mad woman in all their scenes, I like that they start helping Vincenzo on his revenge plans.
The acting of Taecyong was amazing, he improved so much I was so suprised.


Negatives: This drama is wayyyy to long. 20 episodes, each 1h25 min is too much. I usually love drama with long episodes but the story line here dragged ALOT. Everythinng could have end in 16 episodes and I dare to day even 13 episodes would be enough. I see people saying this drama dosen't feel too long when watching when it airs and I totally agree. Is near impossible to bringe watch this in one go, i sjust the same plot all over again.
The romance.... why inclued romance in this? KDRAMAS writers never learn. Just because this is a drama, we don't need a romance between the leads. They would be perfect as friends but no they added romance for no reason and gave us only 2 kisses and an open ending.. JUST WHY?

Overall: 7
Watch this if you want to have a good time, the plot start moving around episode 17 everything else is just fillers.

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Perfect Score because it's Perfect for me.

"Vincenzo" is my ideal drama. It is suspenseful and ridiculous. It is a revenge thriller, a comedy, a romance, filled with action and touching moments, and some of the most literally mouth-open-shocking moments I've ever seen in a drama. It's actual LOLing and cheering moments. It's plot twists I could have never guessed. It's a cast full of characters I can never forget. I didn't even hesitate to give this all 10s. From beginning to the end Vincenzo did not disappoint and even exceeded all of my expectations. I was hooked from the start.

The cast is amazing, but Song Joong Ki as Vincezo is pretty iconic. He's so cool and nonchalant with his signature gold lighter that I totally bought into the Mafia consigliere plot from the very first scene... even with what is probably not the greatest Italian ever spoken (lol) I was sold. I love villains with depth and this drama is filled to the brim with them. Vincenzo, even with his mostly unbothered attitude, was such a nuanced character. Joong Ki with just a subtle facial expression would reveal so much. I loved this about him since "Sungkyunkwan Scandal". He is matched with Jeon Yeo Bin as Hong Cha Young, a lawyer of questionable morals, who I also instantly loved. She is strong and smart and completely goofy and can keep up with Vincenzo without crossing the moral line. Their chemistry is incredible, you can feel it through the way they just looked at each other, and although romance is never exactly the center of this drama the way their connection grows from beginning to the end makes it one of the things that made me love watching so much. They are a dream team - an ideal partnership. Think of any romance in this drama as growing love and respect more than cute moments, although there are a few replay-worthy classic romance scenes. Rounding out the leads is Ok Taec Yeon who is also brilliant and I was surprised I loved him so much in this. Is this a love triangle situation? In many ways yes, but definitely not in the way you probably expect. This is definitely a breakout role for him. Just the way he would call Ms. Hong "Sunbae" is an example of the subtle things that he did so well. All three of these characters have moments that are over the top ridiculous, super intense, as well as more intimate and emotional, and they each showed so much range. I was extremely impressed with all 3.

The rest of the cast is equally amazing. Again, many of these characters are super over the top but they still manage to add layers to make them feel care-worthy and relatable and not just characters to REALLY hate or comic filler. The villains are satisfyingly and even frighteningly evil. The heroes are unexpected and hilarious (think Kung Fu Hustle). I wish I could give every single character specific praise but that would lead to spoilers and the less you know when watching the better. This cast has absolutely no weak links. Not one.

That brings me to the writing and directing which I applaud for keeping me excited for every single episode. 20 episodes later, with each episode over an hour-long, I still wasn't ready for it to end. Normally I'm not that interested in business corruption plots but because it was so character-driven I couldn't help but care. There was a perfect balance of scenes that made me cry and laugh and gasp. The ending was also well done and so satisfying without making things too happy or too depressing. If you're looking for a realistic story just remember this is campy as much as it's suspenseful so some scenes are unbelievable in the most entertaining way. There are tropes but they are done so well it reminds me why those tropes work. The pace made every episode fly by. The cliffhangers at the end of each episode made the time until the next episode drag. I was anticipating how certain characters would get what they deserved and I loved how creative the revenge was. Those who get to just binge it all now are super lucky. Speaking of binging...

Would I watch this again? I already did. lol. Once I got super hooked I decided to rewatch older episodes during the week while waiting for the new ones. Yes, I was that obsessed. Yes, It was still good the second time, and some moments were even better when already knowing what was to come. I can see myself easily watching this multiple times.

I thought the soundtrack complemented this drama perfectly too. Whether pumping up the action sequences or the sweet and sentimental "Is this love" song or the music to end each cliffhanger or the monks' wedding song... I thought the music always worked so well with the story and was enjoyable but never too distracting.

My only complaint, and it's a minor one, are the ridiculous product placements. The show is so campy that it almost felt like a wink to the audience, but there really are so many obvious product spotlight moments. I say this even as I purposely made myself a cup of maxim coffee (yes the yellow packet) to watch the finale. Lol. I also had Makgeolli several times while watching. Con-grat-u-laaaaa-tions, they totally got me!

Overall, this is the most fun drama I've watched in a loooooong time. Please note that when I say fun I don't necessarily mean cute or light but rather exciting and thrilling. At its core, this is still very much a revenge thriller with lots of violence, action, and brutal deaths. If you're squeamish the violence is never too gratuitous but it isn't tame either. Also, If you like action and fight scenes there are lots. Even what looked like a nod to Bruce Lee that I appreciated.

Three strong themes that impacted me...
1. It takes a devil to take on a devil.
2. Things are rarely what they seem to be on the surface.
3. The importance of family.

The last part really got to me. I caught on pretty early that a show focused on a Mafia anti-hero would probably be about family but this theme, even in its silliest moments, really touched me. If you can handle rooting for a not-so-good guy, and the violence (which isn't too excessive but definitely the kind you should expect from a Mafia revenge story) this is a must-see drama. Without a doubt, "Vincenzo" is one of my new drama favorite dramas of all time. I think I even love corn salad after watching this! "Vicenzo" definitely lives up to the hype. I would be extra hyped if there were plans for a 2nd season, but even though I already miss it, and the ending certainly leaves room for one, that's probably overkill and I would also hate to ruin such a good thing. As it stands now this is a drama that ends on a high entertainment note and gets a standing ovation and multiple "Bravos" from me!

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Something really special about this drama!!! Must watch!!

Ok, wow just finished it...I am in shock mostly. This was an incredible drama in so many ways! It was incredible from start to finish, and there were just so many moments where I was in genuine shock and literally had "jaw-drop" moments! The story, characters, and overall feel of the drama was out of this world! Every moment of the drama felt thrilling, and not once was there a slow moment or anything that felt unnecessary. Overall, I want more!! I definitely want more of Hong Cha Young and Vincenzo!!! Hong Cha Young is my queen, one of the strongest female leads I have ever seen and I want to be just like her when I grow up! I absolutely love her and adore Jeon Yeo Bin's portrayal of her! I want more of all the tenants --> all of whom I love dearly!! Omg, this kdrama was something else! I think the chemistry of the entire cast and production staff was really good and is what made the drama so freaking good! I absolutely love every single character, the good and the bad, and the actors that played them did an absolutely incredible job!! I feel like I'm still in shock, I haven't processed everything that's happened. Still, though I love this drama. A LOT. It's something special! (I need more VinCha romance and babies though!!) Also, the soundtrack of this show was *chef's kiss --> so so good!!! 'I'm Always By Your Side' by John Park is the embodiment of what a love song should be, it is an OST that deserves awards! Ahhh, I love Vincenzo so much!!

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An epic kdrama unlike any other! Mix of comedy, courtroom drama, suspense and excitement!

To start off, Vincenzo was definitely not what I'd expected it to be. When u google 'Vincenzo', the first thing that comes up is 'Dark Comedy' as its genre. Let me be very clear; Vincenzo is not dark comedy.
While dark comedy would mean subtle hints of comedy within a serious plot (more like Breaking bad or Suits), Vincenzo is more like Comedy + Dark / serious plot, which means sometimes you will find extremely serious plot, while other times it will be very comedic in nature. It is a clear mix of both genres, and sometimes you might also find other genres like tragedy, suspence, romance etc. Also, it is nothing like the Godfather (if you are expecting it after reading the word mafia), it is more of a courtroom drama in my opinion (barring a few episodes). However, that does not change the fact that it's ABSOLUTELY ENTERTAINING!!

I will agree to what most reviews state that this is unlike any other kdrama out there. From its cinematography, to the actors and the music (OMG THE MUSIC!) everything is phenomenal. Ofcourse it does have the usual tropes, but it doesn't drag on it too much, and most of it gets a satisfactory end. And it definitely has some jaw dropping moments that will take you by surprise and leave u gasping!

My only disappointment was the main villain's role.(DISCLAIMER: LIGHT SPOILERS)
When it started off, I was absolutely in love with how the villan was being plotted out; from the grand reveal, to his background story.. everything seemed perfect to the point that I was convinced he would be my favourite villan of all time! However, sadly it didn't live upto my expectations in the later episodes. I was expecting a very strong villan, who wasn't just a psychopath, but a mastermind too. However, he eventually lost that luster. There were no more mind games or exciting moves from his side, it was just Vincenzo stealing the spotlight.

Apart from that however, Vincenzo is an absolute treat. The acting is amazing, the drama is intense and the comedy although silly, will give you a good laugh. For anyone who is looking out for a good quality drama, and doesn't mind a mix of all genres, Vincenzo is highly recommended!

P.S. : First 3 episodes are very slow, but don't drop it there. Wait till the end of episode 4 and trust me, you will keep watching! ;)

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A must kdrama to watch

From the beginning i loved this drama and till the end.

A good storyline ,very well write, i liked each aspect . (especially mafia thing)

The main character was a interesting, different from the mostly characters. A character who was played by SONG JOON KI who was perfect for this character. It a must watch for his visual also.

JEON YEO BIN is also a excelent actress she played her character very well. I discover her in this drama and i am happy that i did it, i am very interesed in her future works.(i recommend to watch night in paradise)

All the cast is very good actors , especially the four(OK TAEC YEON, KIM YEO JIN , JO HAN CHUL , KWAK DONG YEON)
The last thing i want to say that i recommand you to watch that drama without hesitation.
I LOVE VINCHA!! ITS THE PERFECT COUPLE I HAVE SEEN IN A DRAMA IN MY LIFE.
ALL the episode was make you to want to came weekend early to see what will happen.

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not what I expected...

I don't usually write reviews but I had to for this one. I've heard a lot of people calling this wasted potential and I have to agree...

The show started off great with the first episode. It had this cool but quirky vibe to it that had me immediately hooked. I looked forward to the next episode every week (watched it while it was ongoing). The cast seemed great as well. Joongi and Yeobeen as well as the villains, played their characters very well. I obviously had high expectations bc of this.

I think my main problem has to do with the progression of the plot. Halfway through the plot starts feeling rushed and repetitive. I believe this is why the characters didn't have any room to develop either. A lot of what was happening felt kinda forced or "out of place". The initial purpose of the story felt lost as well.

Things I especially wish they would've done differently:
1. Chayoung's story
I think they moved on a little too fast with her overall story. Her relationship with her father and her morally questionable choices as a lawyer is what made her feel super refreshing (specially as a female character). I feel like we didn't get to properly see her mourn over her father or how that transitioned into her seeking revenge. I also expected to see more of the "enemies to lovers" trope between her and Vincenzo.

2. Hanseo and Vincenzo
I thought them teaming up was actually perfect but the timing was kinda off (which happens a lot throughout the show). We didn't get to see them develop a PROPER brother-like love, which is why it felt somewhat forced. It's a shame considering how much bigger the emotional impact would've been.

Despite the disappointment, the show still had some great things. I think Vincenzo himself was a great character and his dilemma with the mafia and killing people was portrayed well.
I also loved Choi Myunghee as a villain. Instead of making up a redemption story they chose to show that she did what she did bc she was simply evil and greedy.

I think I had too high expectations and watching it while it was ongoing made me analyze it a little more than I probably should have. So I would still recommend it to people who are just looking for something fun to watch!!

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First half was fine, second half let me down

Fairly unpopular opinion but not completely unknown: I think "Vincenzo" is a rather overrated drama. While the first couple episodes were very promising and at least somewhat deserved the hype that was all over the feeds when it was airing, the grip this drama had on me had completely vanished by episode 14. After that, I used the "skip 10 seconds" button way too often because the drama slowly but surely did not interest me anymore. I honestly can't even say how much of the last 3 episodes I really watched... I don't think it was much. The story could have been great, there were so many opportunities for this drama, but the result of the writing... was not my thing. Also, the over the top acting was funny, from time to time. It was used way to often though. Even my love to Song Joongki and his visuals could not save this drama for me. The music by itself was not remarkable enough for me to notice it and, I'm sorry, but even though the cinematography was great (at least from time to time), I definitely won't be rewatching this drama as long as I can remember my feeling of disappointment that came through during the second half.

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Process of 'Vincenzo': Hm, BOOM. BOOM, Boom, Hmm..., Hmm!

Point of Story: Gold
Gradually Shifted Focus: Babel
This is not noir or a gritty drama.
Actually, much of the drama is about being 'cool', and then it becomes dark(er).

Advice in Advance: Show should not be taken seriously.
If I had to simplify everything my review says below:
The worst part about this show is the plot, because there are later frequent loopholes and because the first couple episodes aren't interesting. Show does not take itself seriously. The takeaway I had was that the show's focus is not on the plot, but the message it sends out. Themes and characters are worth pondering, and the story discusses corruption and evil through comedy and cool scenes. In fact, comedy distracts some of the illogicalities/inconsistencies of the show due to overblown scenes, so it milds down some loopholes (comedy acts as a somewhat separate scope of logic). Mafia persona should not be taken seriously until three-quarters of the series. However, I rated it a 9 overall still because of the feelings it gave me, and for defying K-Drama relationship tropes. If logically rating it, I would give it a 7.5-8.0. Flaws are all listed above, but to be honest, I really liked this drama despite its faults.

In-Depth Review:

There are two ways I rate a drama: through critical analysis and the feeling while watching.
The feeling of watching it is great if you stick to the scope of its logic.

Not a heist drama (for those wondering about the gold), and not a 'dark comedy' (totally misleading). It is a show about rampant corruption within the ranks of prosecutors, court cases, lawyers, corporations, and so on, and mixed with a hefty amount of slapstick comedic relief. Comedic relief is a break in between and does not affect the plot, serving as its own universe.

The change (especially from dark to comedy) of Italy to Korea is unnerving, but thankfully it's a very short while IF you know this. The focus is on Korea, NOT Italy. This I later found very pleasant because it would be foreign to write about a Korean-Italian mafia member in Italy as it a foreign topic and seems like its structure is fantasized. In fact, the Mafia persona is already the most fantasy-structured part, if you don't count the humor.
Many came for the Mafia persona, so here's a hint: His mafia persona acts as a background introduction until about the middle of the series, where his characterization is looked more deeply into. It's not The Godfather. This is all in K-Drama style.

The first three episodes are not so gripping. I personally don't like it when people tell me to wait until a show gets good, so it's up to you to stick around or not. For me, it was unexpectedly worth it.
At its fourth, it picks up the pace and goes on a huge exponential growth of anticipation and excitement until around the middle, and then it goes through a kind of confusing period and then, I would say a satisfactory ending.
(Hence the title of this review)

Here are the best things about this drama: Unfaltering characterization consistency and an independent female lead. It also does not goes back on its themes and many lines in this drama are worth pondering on.

The drama has about two episodes worth of filler in its run towards the end, but I would argue the ending is a good end. It wraps up every single plotline and unanswered question. However, there are definitely plot and logical loopholes, though you are able to rationalize this with character motivations. Still, if you took out the supporting cast's comedy, then it could be broken down into even fewer episodes. Still, the comedy does fill in errors, and the significant moments don't work if the drama is gritty.

The soundtrack is definitely a selling point and never misses. The acting is on point (minus the comedy, because I didn't find it funny), and the chemistry between the two leads is great in the workplace. Romance is a slow burn, not front and center, and doesn't affect the plot.

The ending is kind of open, in the sense that you can imagine what's going to happen, but wraps up everything. The drama is also a great exploration into different themes and definitely has the most brutal blood-type scenes I have seen in a K-Drama (it's not that brutal, just so considering the scope of violence in K-Dramas).

I would especially say that I really never considered SJK to portray a mafia member because his image didn't stick it out to me. I still can see that point, but his acting definitely pulled through and made it believable. I also think his blend of comfortable humor and dark acting worked very well. Speaking of humor, slapstick (typical K-Drama style) is a large part of the drama, though not very important, so you can skip some of it, mostly serving as a distraction or breather from the plot. I personally am not so fond of the cast, because I saw them as mainly as fill-ins, but many like them gradually. Still, humor worked the best when it was under the working relationship of the leads because it was a simple integration within the story.

Do give it a try. I might have been disappointed with some parts but not utterly shocked and dismayed by it, and I still recommend this no matter what. I left the drama with a light and fulfilled heart.
Ah, that sentence is a little underwhelming.
It is the drama I enjoyed the most thus far in 2021.
I joined MDL to participate in its discussions.

If not, we can sure agree to disagree. Hope this helps.

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I recommend watching it.

The plot and story were very well thought out. I was shocked at the plot twists in almost every episode.

I read someone saying that they didn’t like the FML’s acting, but I loved Jeon Yeobin’s acting, FMLs don’t usually act that way, so it was nice to see something different.

There were not a lot of romantic scenes, there were more revenge/anger and comedy scenes.

Oh, the comedy in this kdrama was amazing. There’s usually only one actor that would be the funny guy, but on this one there were like 5 guys who would be in charge of the comedy.

Ok Taecyeon… Wow!!! *clap, clap, clap*

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One of the only dramas I would consider perfect

Some of these reviews calling Vincenzo overhyped baffle me. This was hands down one of the best dramas I've ever seen. Song Joongki as Vincenzo was absolutely amazing, and the rest of the cast perfectly complemented him.

Vincenzo is a mafia lawyer who has left his mafia family in Italy to return to Korea and retrieve the money he has stashed there. in the form of gold. This gold is conveniently buried under a building in order to keep it safe, but he must tear down the building to retrieve it. One small issue: the building is full of tenants. In the midst of attempting to figure out how to get these tenants to leave, Vincenzo encounters a much larger problem: the conglomerate Babel is attempting to buy the building from him in order to demolish it and build their own. Vincenzo decides to take the side of the tenants in order to secure his building, without revealing his true plans. This gets him wrapped up in Babel's business, which leads to bigger problems than he ever anticipated.

This is a drama that starts off seemingly light and fun, with funny building tenants and even funnier interactions between them and Vincenzo. However, as the show progresses, it becomes darker and darker. The morally gray protagonist Vincenzo makes you question whether or not you should be rooting for him time and time again, and while he always seems to come out on top, you're never quite sure if that was for the best, or if the ends could ever justify his means. Throughout the show, this unsettling feeling grows in the viewer, until you're not really sure if you should have ever rooted for him in the first place...

This show kept me on the edge of my seat every episode. With elements of crime, law, and mafia, I knew I was bound to like it but it truly blew me away. I wish I could watch it for the first time again.

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Vincenzo -- Another TvN drama that doesn't really land the ending

Hi everyone,
This is my first kdrama review on this site, so please be nice!
Vincenzo is the kind of drama that I find to be a pattern with TvN shows -- it promises a lot but it doesn't deliver what it says it will. The writer does a great job of building the hype, but kills it on their own with a few mistakes. I'd like to emphasize that these weren't a dealbreaker for me necessarily since I finished the entire series, but they did definitely make the show a drag.

Downsides to this Drama: (Only 3 y'all, don't wanna bore you! ?)
[1] The rich man with an infinite amount of money
A classic K-drama stereotype. The heroine in need of money and the hot, rich guy who has a bottomless bank account and they're madly in love. This is one of those tropes that is funny at first because of how ridiculous it is, but in Vincenzo, it's pretty much the driving force behind the plot. In almost every episode, Vincenzo is showing off his wealth and yes the actor does make it look cool at first, it gets boring to watch towards the end. Love the actor, not a fan of this character.

[2] Villians that never change their evil-doing patterns
This is a less commonly seen trope in kdramas, which I normally find exciting and fun. The bad guy tries something, he fails in front of the hero, so he comes up with something even more sinister that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In Vincenzo, there's an attempt to do that but it often falls short. Vincenzo gives the villian a run for his money, something pretty cool to watch, but not as fun when a single character is basically driving the plot alone.

[3] Romance is subtext
Now, I know I'll get some bad rep for this one. Yes, I know the main point of this show isn't romance, but I mean, the writer was being rather stingy with his romantic moments here. I mean, even a little bit more would've been good by me. It's really cute in some parts, but so many things get left unsaid that you just keep wishing they'd added a little more to the dialouge in the emotional scenes. Not the worst, but I'll live.

Upsides to this Drama:
[1] Side characters that live in your head rent free.
This show is one of those where you get attached to the side characters without meaning to. You laugh more when they're on screen, and you really want to see them get their happy ending. The writer does a great job at creating this fuzzy feeling of family among people who really couldn't be more different. Awesome.

[2] No goody-two-shoes good guys here.
Vincenzo isn't afraid to break some rules, and neither is Chae-young. They're tough, they play dirty when they know they're going to lose, but they do it with elegance. Not to mention, a badass power couple fighting crime together? Sign me up!

[3] Revenge is a dish best served cold.
Every villian in this show gets what they deserve twofold, part of a somewhat gruesome but also weirdly satisfying ending. It's a bit much, but at the same time fits the vibe of the show. It'll surprise you for sure, I know it surprised me.

Overall:
Vincenzo is definitely a show with its flaws, but I wouldn't say it's an awful one so it's a 7/10 from me. The music gets a 7, the acting gets an 8 (because of the good chemistry). If you're okay with some very in-your-face and over the top cliches, like rich-man-with-infinite-amount-of-money, go right ahead. Just let yourself laugh it off, even when the show's being a bit much. It's not the most serious show, but it will make a statement. That being said, I'm more of a romance woman myself, so rewatch value is gotta be a 6/10 for me.

Hope this helps someone! Have a great day y'all.

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