Red Cuff of the Sleeve (2021)

LE drama de l'année

Ce drama, tiré d'un roman et surtout relatant une histoire vraie, marquera longtemps mon esprit.
Tout était à la perfection, à mes yeux : déroulé, costumes, décors, extérieurs..
Et un jeu d'acteurs absolument merveilleux, pour tous.
Lee Jun Ho et Lee Se Young étaient hors concours, tellement ils se sont approprié leur rôle.
Je suis sûre que Yi San et Deok Im les marqueront longtemps; on ne sort pas indemne de tant d'émotions.
La première partie de l'histoire, racontant la rencontre de nos deux héros, enfants puis adultes, était émaillée de moments légers et drôles.
La forte personnalité de Deok Im nous est révélée très tôt, alors qu'elle n'est qu'une toute jeune court lady.
Yi San est encore un petit garçon sensible, bien que déjà très courageux.
La deuxième partie, plus tendue, m'a fait traverser toutes les émotions possibles et inimaginables.
Je me suis posée tant de questions, fait tant de réflexions...
Bien sûr, j'avais fait quelques recherches et connaissais, dans les grandes lignes, la vraie histoire. Je savais donc quelle tournure allaient prendre les évènements.
Mais il n'empêche...
J'ai compris les hésitations de Deok Im, son besoin de garder un semblant de contrôle sur sa vie , mais à un certain point, je me disais que finalement, même après qu'elle ait accepté d'être la concubine royale, ni elle, ni le roi, n'ont été véritablement heureux; elle, parce qu'elle se sentait piégée dans ce rôle; lui, parce qu'il souffrait de ne pas savoir si elle l'aimait vraiment... même un peu.
Par dessus tout cela, la mort du petit prince héritier a ouvert le bal, de chagrin en chagrin.
Ce n'est qu'au moment de s'éteindre que Deok Im dit enfin à son roi, qui lui demande encore une fois "m'as tu aimé, au moins un peu", que oui, elle l'aime ("pensez-vous que j'aurais accepté d'être avec vous si je ne vous aimais pas?")
J'avoue que, même en étant préparée, imaginer la solitude et la souffrance du roi après la mort de son seul amour, ma foi, c'était dur.
D'autant qu'elle venait de lui demander de l'ignorer et de lui laisser vivre sa vie s'ils se rencontraient dans une vie future. Avec ça, c'est le pompon.
Un autre grand moment qui mord le coeur, c'est lorsque le roi décide d'oublier Deok Im, pour pouvoir avancer.
On sait, bien sûr, qu'elle est toujours là, blottie au fond de lui, mais tout de même.
Etre le père d'une nation, ce n'est pas chose simple : à peine sa bien-aimée a t-elle disparue que le voilà tenu d'accepter une nouvelle concubine, raison d'état oblige.
La fin, que j'ai trouvée bien amenée, m'a cependant laissé un goût doux amer... il est évident que nos coeurs souhaitent les voir réunis dans l'après vie, mais je ne me sens pas sereine pour autant.
Avez-vous remarqué le rappel de ce moment où, alors qu'ils étaient au début de leur "relation de couple", il se réveille d'un somme qu'il a fait sur les genoux de Deok Im, avec une expression tourmentée, comme les prémices de ce qui arriverait par la suite ? On retrouve cette scène dans l'épisode final.
Je sais que beaucoup ont trouvé le roi égoïste; il le dit lui-même quand il est sur le point de perdre la femme qui a marqué sa vie, il regrette de l'avoir poursuivie et d'être la cause de son malheur; mais je préfère m'attarder sur le fait qu'il a fait d'elle son centre absolu et que elle seule pouvait se permettre de contester ses décisions.
J'ai, en outre, adoré le lien fort de Deok Im avec ses trois amies, toutes les quatre se protégeant et se soutenant, quoiqu'il arrive.
Le sort de l'une d'elle, mise à mort parce qu'elle avait eu une relation avec un homme dépeint bien cette merveilleuse époque (!), et surtout cet enfer que devait être le palais, avec ses règles rigides.
La reine douairière Kim exprime d'ailleurs ce sentiment d'extrême solitude, dans ce palais désagréable. Quel destin fut le sien, mariée à 15 ans à un homme beaucoup plus âgé qu'elle.
"Vous qui entrez ici, abandonnez toute espérance" (l'Enfer, de Dante Alighieri)

Pour moi, c'est la note maximale de 10, sans aucun doute, pour ce drama et ce, même si nous n'avons eu droit qu'à peu de moments heureux, le décès du prince héritier arrivant tellement vite, sans qu'on l'ait vu grandir. Mais je suppose que c'était une décision réfléchie, le drama se concentrant sur les étapes les plus marquantes de la vie du couple principal.

Au final, si la réincarnation existe, et bien que la Deok Im de la fiction ait souhaité le contraire, j'espère que les vrais personnages de cette histoire ont pu se retrouver et vivre une belle vie heureuse... ("Si je n'étais pas une dame de la cour et si vous n'étiez pas roi ?...)

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Good beginning... Terrible ending...

The obviously overrated marks made me give this one an opportunity... And now I'm totally disappointed.

If this series had ended on ep 16, it would have a good ending... but no... they had to destroy it all along with my feelings.

Seriously, if it wasn't for the first half of the episodes this whole series would be a complete waste of time.

Starting with the childish, prideful and unreasonable FL. Her decisions don't make any sense, there are countless times when she behaved frustratingly selfish and puts everybody in danger. She makes the ML look like a fool in many occasions and I truly pitied him all the time.

There is an amount of pointless suffering and plot holes that makes you wonder if the script writer even cared about the audience.

IF YOU TRUST THE ALL THE HIGH RATINGS LIKE ME AND GIVE THIS ONE A TRY, JUST REMEMBER THAT I HAVE WARNED YOU FIRST!

You'll cry rivers, if you like suffering, great! But it doesn't mean every body does...

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Solid (and romantic) historical drama!

The RED SLEEVE
Every part of this show is working hard. The cinematography, lighting, costumes, acting, direction and script are all ranging from solid to great. The episodes are addictive. The characters feel real and three dimensional. Their relationship feels authentic and full of tension. They have great chemistry. Overall, I have to recommend it to people, and I think it probably is the best historical drama I've seen in years.

I think the show is doing two things simultaneously, and those things sometimes clash and sometimes work together to create really juicy layers for the story. On the one hand, this is a historical romance, plain and simple. Two beautiful people who have fallen in love. It's idealistic, satisfying for the audience, full of really romantic moments. But the show is also tackling the power imbalance inherent in their relationship, and how that shapes the story. Historical dramas love to have a 'spunky female lead' but what are the actual implications of that with regards to the time period, women's roles, love, and the palace? I think it's a very compelling and unrepresented question, but it doesn't always make for an entirely... satisfying viewing experience.

For the first 9 or 10 episodes this story is trucking along in full blown romantic drama territory. History, but with all the trappings, tropes and viewer expectations of a drama. They save each other, the female lead causes trouble and gets out of trouble with few consequences, the male lead is smitten with her but she isn't so easy to catch. It's very well executed, super entertaining, and the right mix of emotionally deep and satisfying fun. During this time, the female lead states that she doesn't want to be a concubine, and older court ladies warn against her future should she end up with the king, but we see it as the necessary cold feet that will eventually be resolved by love — a mere storytelling plot device. These very serious concerns of autonomy, purpose, freedom and sense of self will be magically soothed by the balm of true love. Right???

But that is not what the drama is interested in doing. Instead, we see that once he becomes king her refusal is in earnest. He loves her, but he won't force her; and she loves him but doesn't want to be trapped by him. And we see THAT situation, where nobody could ever really win, get played out to its full extent.

The ending was tough not so much because it was tragic, but because it showed the real life consequences of their love story. What would actually happen if this independent, free-spirited woman became the king's concubine? They love each other, but all along she has been worried that if she becomes his consort she will lose everything and be trapped. And guess what? She does lose everything. Herself, her friends, her purpose, her son, and her life. When they reunited in episode 15, I felt like somehow the problem was solved because they had reconciled and they loved each other. But the show doesn't give us that. Instead it shows us that their relationship was never going to be a balanced, loving relationship. How could it be? He is a king and she is a concubine, there to serve him. They can never escape it. She never even really truly tells him that she loves him.

After she becomes his concubine, she says that sometimes she wishes that they were just two ordinary people. She wonders what life would be like for them if they could just live normal lives together. He says that he can't imagine, that he's never thought about it. While I know it has always been on her mind. I think that is one of the most tragic moments in the drama, right at the end, when you realize that it can’t have a happy ending. They will forever be separated. The ending isn't some cheap tragic nonsense they tacked on at the end to make it seem significant, like she suddenly dies and that's the sad ending, or he goes crazy and kills her. No, you realize that all along, this romance that you've been rooting for has been inherently flawed. They can never be happy together in this life. The power of love will never make them equals. She is trapped forever, and she will never be free. And he loves her and cannot let her go.

It’s for this reason that I think the actual final scene of the drama is a cop-out. It ends with the King reuniting with her (is it reality? Is it a dream? Is it the afterlife?) and they hug each other. In this place — wherever it is — she is smiling happily, waiting for him. It frustrated me that the drama ends with this vision of her, rather than following her request that in another life, if he sees her he should pretend he doesn’t know her.

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it's a Saeguk,Saeguk!. 세국이예요!

Yes, I'm an unapologetic fan of Saeguks and I don't want to repent of it at all, 싫어.

For this reason I'm writing a small token. This drama is undoubtedly one of the most frustrating love story ever told. Jeongjo and Uibin, it shatters my fragile heart. However, the end offered a sort of closure for all the frustration I had endured through out the drama. I absolutely adored the friendship between Duk Im and her friends,it was a breath of fresh air. it turned out this perfect because every one of the actors chewed their roles without spitting, each conveying the needed emotions with undeniable expertise.
it was all too beautiful to witness, I love the part where each of the friends talked about their meeting together later in life(here or afterlife) the story of "going back home after we become old". it was just the kinds of spice that makes my heart sing.

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Saeguk of The Year (2021)

When watching Korean historical dramas (saeguk). Always prepare yourself for something that ends badly.

Moreover, all the main roles are recorded "historical figures". Unless the addition of fantasy elements. They will proceed as history should.

When reading many histories of Korean kings and their families, there are many tragedies. Even the king of this series, whose story was not shown later, died in a tragic controversy.

Some writer even need to "refine" the story so as not to cause problems or controversy among Korean audiences.

Can there really be a "happy ending"?, it's possible, especially when the writer decides the drama is over before tragedy strikes.

But not with this drama, because of its popularity in Korea, the production decided to add 1 episode and decided to continue the story until the tragedies appeared.

So my advice if you decide for a pseudo-happy ending, just stop watching at episode 16.

But I'm sure, its rare for someone to hold back their curiosity.

Let's back to the review.

The plot of the story is very well written and enhanced by proper acting direction.

The pace of the story and each scene tends to be slow and long. Especially towards the end of the story. I personally really enjoyed it because ML and FL's acting was good. However, I personally understand that some people don't like slow pace.

The tone of the story and the atmosphere of the story tend to be mellow and sad. The audience will always be drawn into this atmosphere, even during happy scenes, there will always be an atmosphere like this so it feels bittersweet. Well, because this is saeguk melodrama, this is how it should be.

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Why "The Red Sleeve Cuff" should be your best healing drama?

I have really waited so long to write review of this masterpiece drama. Usually I do like historical dramas but they must provide good story and music service. Also I think casts are the main weapon for historical dramas. And "The Red Sleeve Cuff" undoubtedly fulfilled all of the conditions of mine. So obviously I gave this drama 10 out of 10 rating. Now I want to explain why each sections of this drama deserves 10.
1. Firstly, I will talk about the storyline. As a K-drama fan I've watched a lot of dramas. And historical dramas are one of the genres that I like the most. Korean Historical dramas are on the other level. But this historical drama is way more different than those historical dramas. Though Its a romantic drama in genre, it will 100% satisfy you. You will be excited, sad, heartbroken; also you will find comedy and peace too. I am telling you, you would give this drama a 9.5 without any doubt.
2. Secondly, about the plot of this drama I would say the writers were really creative and talented. They knew how to make this drama more eyecatching to the viewers. Specially, the ending would give you a mixed feeling and leave you with a big dilemma and shock. I, myself, couldn't understand the ending, so I watched again and again to understand. Women's are more powerful than man. And this truth is proved by book. You will see women power in this drama. Their struggles, strong mentality, feelings will amaze you. I've got the "Pride and Prejudice " feelings from this drama. Like your girl is hard to catch and you only want her by any means. But you still respect her and her choices.
3. Thirdly, I want to talk about the most important things of a successful drama, that is, casts. Undoubtedly the casts - Lee Jun Ho, Lee Se Young and other actors performed greatly. Both of the lead actors are my most favorite korean actors. So I am happy with their chemisty, hardwork, acting. I've always wanted Lee Jun Ho to be a lead actor in a historical drama. And he fulfilled my wish. Also for Se Young, I knew her as a child actress. She has never disappointed me. I am sure you won't be too. Just enjoy their innocent, amazing and realistic chemistry.
4. Fourthly, I would give my opinion on the music part of this drama. Actually,music is the soul of a successful drama. This drama is not different from this situation too. I would say the musics have helped this drama to get more into the heart of the viewers and fans. Trust me, OST 's are just fabulous in a word. After finishing the drama, I've heard every songs repeatedly for a whole week that I kind of learned the lyrics. None of the songs has disappointed me so far. Whee-In, Itzy's Lia, Junsu, NU'EST's Minhyun have done so well that I am proud of them. I personally am a fan of their songs. And the musics were able to trigger the saddest and happy parts the most. So I think I cried because Ost's made me emotional.
5. Lastly, If you ask me that I would watch this drama again or not. Well, I've already rewatched this drama three times. Yes, you can understand that this drama is worth rewatching and won't even make you bored.
Overall, I would say, you should watch this drama with a lot of expectations and you won't be disappointed. You will not regret. I am sure you will also thank me for giving you indirect evaluation and explanation of this drama(as I can't spoil the drama). You will go through some immense phases of watching a successful drama.
Happy watching and keep supporting "The Red Sleeve Cuff".

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Need a feminist retelling!

The entire time I was watching this, I was imagining a feminist retelling of this story. I think it would be absolutely brilliant if some writer were to devote their talent to writing one focusing on the lives of the women - the court ladies and the rich/royal ones.

Coming back to the drama, I found the story absolutely tragic. Both the leads led sad lives - bound by duties and norms expected of their standing in society.

The romance was a bit one-note. I can't believe with the power the royals wielded over their court ladies and, of course the way things were back in those days, that the male lead always treated the female lead with the respect and care shown in the drama. That felt a bit too unrealistic.

But I'm glad I watched it because it brought me to the the star of this story which is definitely the women and their lives. Sorry this is less a review about the drama and more my blabbering about the story. The Fairy Palace or whatever it was called was fascinating. The fact that court ladies were set free to live in the public after whoever was their master died. The fact that court ladies weren't allowed to fall in love with someone else, that it was 'adultery'.

There is just too much potential to be a fantastic book a la 'The Silence of the Girls'.

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Dissapointed ending because reality hits you hard

Gotta be honest, really spend my whole day to watch this GEM of 2021 but not satisfied. As a historical drama the romance was never the goal of the screen writer. I was hoping for a happy ending where the crown prince will become King and commands the court lady to become his royal cocubine. But no they ruined this drama for me. Upto episode 14, I enjoyed the drama. From episode 15 the plot picks up in a differnet manner and it all became a tug of war between the new king and his court lady. As the King is not brave enough to show his greed of love he bears in his heart and other side the cout lady who is not sure wether she want to show her love for the king or she wants to live free of any bondage.

The episode 16 and 17 clearly f*cked my brain. i hate the screenwwwriter and director for this. This is my first ever K drama in which I have not cried a single drop of tears. Beacuse I hope that last episodes will make me fall in love with the ending but naaaaaaaaa........it simplyruined for me.

But we can learn important live lessons from it.
- Stand for yourself.
- If you love someone just show them.
- Always try to live the life you want to live.
- Don't hold regrets for too long otherwise they will shear your heart.
- And don't expect too much from anything or any being. Even K drama also.

"My dissapoinment is immeasurable and my day + night has been ruined"
"Brain has stopped working"
Help.exe

Anyways the ending is purely realastic will strong and more mature message but it doesn't convey that much to me.
So I despise the ending. Not gonna watch again. It's immposible for me to even think of this drama to be any good.

Cast - Top notch
Acting - Likable and firmness to the character
Story - A painful and unrelatable end
Visuals - Decent
OST - Not gonna listen to it.

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Junho's baritone will shake your boots

A good watch, a romantic historical drama from 2021. Junho's baritone will shake your boots and the FL, Lee Se Young, always refuses to be a doormat (no midway sudden caving into passivity). A very very excellent script properly restrained by historical facts, which imagines real people struggling in a real world with love, responsibility and agency.

On a cautious search for oldies but goodies I found this and recommend it for 3 reasons. 1/ It makes really good use of the idol-actor Junho. 2/ It is the very best kind of pleasant sageuk -- real content, real problems, best outcomes possible within limits. 3/ A great example of 2 of the best features of asian dramas in general: the use of dramatic problematics (underlying social issues) and the humanization of villains -- especially in formulaic romantic and comic dramas.

1. Junho was brilliant in Just Between Lovers/Rain or Shine (2017), but for just a second or two I warily watched him here for King the Land signs of blandness; decided it is how the script and director use his talents that matters. As an ML who hesitates to be vulnerable Junho's stolidity works. As Crown Prince Yi San/King Jeonjo he is at his most masculine and charismatic -- that voice! The underlying problematic of the show is issues of consent, and without Junho this would skirt ugliness. With him it is a swoon a minute.

2. Sageuk is an unexportable Korean miracle due to the unique continuous history of Korea -- C-drama is similarly so. I absolutely adore the rationality/ethical concerns of Cdrama and I equally love the emotional royal family contretemps of sageuk. The soundtrack has a hopeful sweet lilt, factions at court and within the royal family are clear (no confusing three or four old ministers dressed the same with similar facial hair). True love eventually sort of wins but real social problems are not glossed over.

3. In historical or history-fantasy dramas, the dramatic use of modern problematics does not feel anachronistic; rather, it is used to deepen or heighten the surface emotional response of viewers to the basic plot. By problematics I mean underlying issues which are treated as recurring dramatic notes or nexus, not for exposition or persuasion. The issue of consent deepens our understanding of the sadness of the situation of the court ladies who are prisoners for life within the palace.

So many of the supporting characters in Red Sleeve have little perfect moments of lived life in the show, but especially the villains are treated as flawed human beings in an inhumane world. The old King, paranoid, ruthless and beloved by his grandson the ML, is developing dementia. Lee Deokhwa as the King is amazing, watch the good and the bad of his character unfold through the show.

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