Ghiocel (2021)

One Tragic after One! Many Plot Twists with Roller Coaster Feeling!

I would say I like this drama so much. It might not be the best/number 1 in my all time favorite dramas list, but at least, it's one of the best to my all time favorite dramas and the best drama of 2021 to me. First reason is, I like dramas with plot twists and 'Snowdrop' has so many plot twists that my jaw dropped many times. Secondly, I get to learn a lot on political strategies. Even though this drama is fiction, the knowledge on political strategy grows after you watch this drama, and I really like such a meaningful drama. Therefore, whether it's a happy/sad ending, you should try watching it.

You may find it draggy and the time in the drama runs really slow because most of the setting for this drama will be inside the dormitory and so many things happen each day inside the dormitory. However, with the plot twists back and forth, you will not feel bored watching inside the dormitory, yet it's rather a roller coaster feeling.

You may not see 'action' tag, but this drama has a lot of actions. At first, you feel it's action, but at the end, you will feel it's melodrama even if you are watching action scenes, and I think that's why 'Action" is not tagged here.

After all, Love Beats Ideology and Conscience. 'Love' here mainly focuses on the love between a man and a woman but also includes the love between family members (Spies and their family members); love between a righteous ANSP team member and the students (People).

Talking about acting, I would appreciate Jung Hae In the most. To be honest, I wasn't his fan before watching this drama. I used to watch in 'While you were sleeping', but he didn't give me any impression back then. I didn't even remember he was in there as it pasts so many years, but now that I like him in 'Snowdrop', I just remember he was in 'While you were sleeping', and I feel like what? His acting was really perfect here. Why didn't I notice such a great actor back then? In 'Snowdrop', even if he does nothing, his eyes portray everything; we can feel all of his emotions through his eyes. If I need to sum up in one word, it's 'Perfect'. As for Jisoo, I admit that her acting is still limited in some plots which made me realize 'Ah, she is acting'. However, she did a good job as a first time acting in overall. On top of that, she acts on such a difficult project as a rookie actress. Compared to other idol actresses when they acted for the first time, Jisoo is one of the best.

Besides these 2 main leads that most people see through posters, we actually have many other main leads that are important characters in the drama as well. When you start watching it, you will realize that their presence is really really important and inevitable. Without those other main leads, this drama can't be a success, so I appreciate all the actors and actresses.

Music makes us more immersed into the story, so it's perfect for me.

Rewatch value: I already did the rewatch many times while waiting for next episodes to come as I watched it while it's on-going and couldn't stand the wait. That's why I rated the rewatch value high. One thing I can say is, it's addicted.

I will not say much more. Just go and watch it! Sad or happy, it deserves your time!

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You bloomed flowers inside me who was so cold. ♡

This drama really grew on me. Waiting every week for the new episodes gave me so much joy and the thought that the weekend is for Snowdrop gave me strength and motivation for the assignments I had to do in uni. I don't know about you, but for me it hits dfferent when you're watching an on-going drama. It's just not the same as when you binge-watch a completed one. When you're watching the drama while it's releasing, you get even closer to the story, to the actors, to the beautiful soundtracks...The emotional bound you create is deeper. That's what happened with Snowdrop. Saying goodbye to the drama the other day was more painful than I imagined. And I really needed time to accept the reality and to emotionally heal from everything I've watched. (I'm just a person who gets emotional very easy and when once I finish something whether it's a book, movie or a drama I feel empty for days...)

If I should describe the drama with one word it would be "suspense". Every episode was so unpredictable and every second of it is important. Once you start the episode, you'll be mesmerized and you'll lose track of time... and then oops - you'll be surprised how fast the episode is over. 1 hour and a half passes so fast.

I really love the actors and their acting game. All of them portray their character and the emotions so good. They'll easily make you love or hate them. Some of them will annoy you to the point where you'll want to just go and punch them, haha. There are no words for the acting of the main male and female lead. I was really impressed by Jisoo and her acting. If I didn't know I couldn't tell Snowdrop was her debut drama. I really loved her character. Both she and Haein nailed their roles. The chemistry between them was really good (both on and off screen - I really recommend you watching the making films in JTBC's YouTube channel for full experience). Sometimes they didn't talk much, but the body language and expecially the eyes said everything and it was more than enough. Those scenes where their eyes speak are probably my favourite ones. All actors were brilliant, that's all I can say.

The story. I love stories that include North Korea. Everything related to it is so interesting to me. I want to know, read and watch more about it. The story here...it just breaks my heart that this is maybe the reality for the people in North Korea. Living for one person, worshipping one person, working for one person... Being given tasks they should do, doesn't matter if they like it or want to do it. I remember the moment Young-ro and Soo-ho were talking and she asked him why he has chosen such a dangerous job as a spy and whether he can't just stop doing it... But then he answered that nobody can choose where one will be born. In the same way he didn't have a choice but to be a spy. This scene, their conversation there with the coffee is one of my favourite scenes - both of them being honest and themselves, Young-ro trying to comfort Soo-ho, Soo-ho showing his feelings - truly one of the most touching moments for me.

The music. The soundtracks. Love all of the OSTs. Truly. Deeply. I listen to them and get emotional. Every time. So beautiful, yet so sad. Snowdrop is the second drama, in which I like all of the soundtracks. Without an exception. Now after the drama is over, they hit even harder. They're bringing such a nostalgic vibe. I usually don't listen to slow songs, but these here have all of my heart. Personally I feel like I'm in another universe, another world when I listen to them, that I'm back in the time... somewhere between the 80s and 90s. Definitely will listen to them on repeat for a long time.

And last but not least. How I feel after the drama finished. I must say I was hoping for a happy ending until the very end, until the last minutes. The last episode was just pain and tears. A lot of tears. It broke my heart into a million pieces. For an emotional person like me it was so much to bear. The way Soo-ho protected Young-ro, the fact that she also kept her promise to be with him until the end, the way he gave her the cassette, his last words to her - it was heartbreaking. It was so sad and so beautiful at the same time. At that time I couldn't take a breath, I was just crying and I'm sure I wasn't the only one. Even though this is sad and heartbreaking enough, what came after that was even more painful. And yes - that's what Soo-ho had recorded for Young-ro. It was so painful, because you can finally see what was in his heart all this time. In the episodes it may seemed that Soo-ho didn't show his true feelings to Young-ro, that he doesn't say a lot, but this is not the case. It's the opposite. He fell hard for her. It was love at first sight for him as well. He also had a really hard time, although he tried to look strong. Knowing he can't do anything, knowing that it's dangerous for Young-ro to be with him, knowing that they can't be together. If only they were ordinary people... Listening to the tape hurt as much as Young-ro and Soo-ho's last moments together. And I'll just write his "letter" to her because it's one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard:

"Young-ro, I remember when I first met you at Rome Coffee Shop. When I saw you putting out your hands to stop the match tower from collapsing... To be honest I've had feelings for you since then. If I were... just an ordinary young man... I would have asked you out on a date that day. Then we would have become a couple, right? Going to the amusement park and the movies with you... I wanted to spend a long time with you. How did I become someone who shouldn't stay by your side?

But I never regret meeting you. Young-ro, you bloomed flowers inside me who was so cold. Thank you. I'm leaving but I will...I will... I'll remember you forever. Eun Young-ro, I love you."

... More tears are coming while I'm writing this. No words are needed, I'll just say that when he says "Young-ro, you bloomed flowers inside me who was so cold." and the scene with the snowdrop comes out is that broke me in tears. For me that's why the drama is called "Snowdrop". This flower blooms in winter. Although in winter is so cold, this little white flower blooms. Despite the coldness. And just like that - Young-ro bloomed flowers inside Soo-ho's heart. The love between them bloomes despite the dangerous circumstances, the difficulties, despite the political chaos and schemes.

I think I'll stop here. Snowdrop is truly a drama that will stay in my heart for a very long time. And although the ending is sad, I think I'll rewatch it someday. Watching it was quite a journey and I won't be able to forget it. I have no regrets watching it. It will forever be a beautiful memory.
♡

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One of the best Korean dramas of all time.

Let's go over what most people want to know. Is it distorting history?
The hardcore facts that most Korean people talked about:
1. The ANSP is hardcore evil.
2. The North Koreans are power-hungry.
All of these are displayed in the drama. You just have to watch the entire drama.

The show is a fast-paced hostage political drama that showcases the truth of power and Korea. It has a lot of violence and loud noises so it is definitely not for the weak of hearts. The show has a romance that goes through multiple ups and downs. Every character has dimensions and a backstory to it. Each of them has something the other one doesn't.

Spoilers

Character analysis(Young-ro and Soo-ho)
Soo-ho
His character is based on one emotion, love which controls him and drives him to his actions. He was in love with Young-ro, more than Young-ro was in love with him and that is why the entire story worked out. He visited the dorm to see her again and he came back to save her because he loved her. His sister's life also controlled him for the majority. He was a great character. He was clever but not cruel and merciful but not dumb.

Young-ro
She had more potential. She had the lightest personality of all the characters. Apart from some of her brave moments, she was mostly a damsel in distress. The way a lot of people stomped all over her, I expected a snap but there was none. It would be better if her actions played more significance than her identity. I also wished for closure of Young-ro. She was shown as being heartbroken over Soo-ho and all of her friends and family abandoned her. It would be nice if we got some character development and see her around new people rather than the past.

Overall, the ending had some plotholes, but apart from that, the story was spot on. The deaths tore me apart but the fact Young-ro spent her life all alone broke me more. Out of all the sad endings dramas like Youth of May, Uncontrollably Fond, Chicago Typewriter, The Red Sleeve, Scarle Heart, etc, Snowdrop was the saddest because it started and ended with pain. There was no happiness and no hope. Everyone played and betrayed each other till the end.

I would definitely recommend this drama for people who wish to cry and be broken for eternity.

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It's my Mid-Season Review. I'm giving my honest opinions & here are some of my thoughts..

11 out so 20 episodes watched so far

So far I like the plot a lot. so far from what I've watched, I wish the show would dive into more romance side because it was advertised as a dark rom-com so wished a bit more romance than the political scenes but I do also watch a lot of political drama so I'm definitely enjoying it a lot.

Jung Hae is phenomenal as always (handsome and really versatile in acting and one of my favorite actors) and Jisoo is freaking amazing for a rookie actress (I see a bit of overacting especially in her eyes like some scenes especially in front of talented and experienced actors acting seemed less natural but she nails those harshly sad and emotional scenes I can see her improvements as the show progresses). Other actors, I mean phenomenal job so freaking natural acting.

One complaint I would have is so many gunfires and a bomb blast and literally zero casualties and minimal injuries (students involved in the crossfire). Like there was literally a shootout with so many students at the stairs and no students get shot like the situation doesn't feel as dangerous and realistic as it should. I know some shoulders and a spy gets shot but I feel like the sense of danger would have been heightened if we had seen some students get hurt and the audience's sense of sympathy for the students and their well being would be more dramatic and hostage scenes actually would seem more dramatic and dangerous if we had seen some students actually get hurt. PS, I also understand that being in the middle of a crossfire and being held at gunpoint is already dangerous and traumatic enough. I'm just wishing it was more dramatic cuz it's a drama.

The cinematography and costumes are awesome. The set design is amazing as well. I just wish it would have been available worldwide/ available on Netflix instead of Disney plus because I have to literally use a VPN service on Disney plus cuz I wanna watch it legally. No shade to those watching it on drama sites, it's just my personal preference also I watch most other shows on drama sites so.

In conclusion, though I have pointed out my opinions, I'm actually enjoying the show quite a lot and looking forward to watching more episodes and finishing the show. I hope JTBC delivers in its promises of this being a Dark Rom-com rather than a political show. I love this show so much because I was really looking forward to it as a blink and also being a fan of Jung Hae in from his previous shows, so I might be a bit biased but I will still give my honest opinion. Best of wishes to everyone making the show.

I think the show is worth the watch.

I will make my final review of the show when it ends.

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My thoughts about it....And want the ending to be a HAPPY one pls

It is a very good drama...Till now the speed is very good I like it....And Jisoo and Hae In acting is freaking next level....The drama's production chose perfect actors for the storyline and the OST is very very satisfying,soothing,calm and good.....Love the overall drama very much....Just want a damn HAPPY ENDING!!!!.......Plssssss

I don't watch that much korean dramas more of chinese till now but the speed of this drama is very very good.....I think you all also agree....And this is my first time writing any review for any drama.....
So pardon me if u guys don't find it useful...But I'll really recommend you to watch this as it is full of twists and interesting you can never predict what's next until you are a very very regular watcher of kdramas.....

So guys pls pls watch it!!!!

WANT A HAPPY ENDING!!!
I know mostly all of us want this to happen.....
So fingers crossed and praying.....Hehe :)

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Ride that you don't wanna get down of

Okay.. You must be thinking that only 6 episodes down, it's too soon for someone to "Review" anything.
So lemme clear out that, this review is subject to change along with my PoV of the coming episodes.

It's only 5 episodes and I can say for sure that this looks like a upstream ride with no downfalls. If you are a fan of rollercoasters, you must ride this.

Jung hae in has always been good. We all know that even if we have watched only one of his works. But Jisoo... Damn.. She looks totally pro, Her performance is so enjoyable and infectious.

Anyone who is a sucker for amazing stories must not pass out on this experience.
I may not properly know what caused the uproar in korea but if we just view it from a fictitious point of veiw, this story rocks

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Idk why I didn't cry?

Holy shit what a drama was in absolute shock and disbelief for 2 days
I was expecting the ending but jesus I didn't think it was going to hit me hard I'm surprised I didn't cry

All the characters were unique but god they were so SUS
There were so many plot twists O MY GOD
I did have to skip half of the political parts as it was difficult to watch and dragged too long but my god for Jisoo first acting role well done
At first I though Jisoo character was going to be a damsel in distress but I'm so glad she started to fight back

I love the character Jang Hanna she is such a badass I'm sad they didn't show more of the past relationship of herself and Kang Moo but I'm happy they are together at the end

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It's based on a true story although not everything but the main story is.

So first of all, I have watched this AMAZING k-drama twice because it's SO GOOD. And Ik that watching it twice is not enough since it's such a good drama but I couldn't bring myself to watch it again any sooner. And that is because it's too much of an emotional rollercoaster for me ... it feels like your heart is being shattered into pieces. The only k-drama that gave me this much heartache was 'moon lovers scarlet heart'. If you haven't watched it already then you're missing something.
The ending of this drama is where you can't help yourself but to bawl your eyes out (I did ever single time). I mean who wouldn't? You won't be able to move on from this drama after you've finished it for some time. "What if....?" Is the question I had to ask myself every time. I don't want to spoil anything big but just know that you need your tissues.

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Intense Feelings of Hopelessness

My 4 categories are Acting/Cast, Writing, Direction/SFX/Music, Entertainment Value.

I'll preface this by saying I am not a K-pop fan. I didn't even know a K-pop star was starring in this drama until I got near the end of the drama. And now that I know the lead female is a rookie actress and considering this drama is her first time playing a main role, I am impressed. Also, I will say that my all-time favorite K-drama is White Christmas, which is also a hostage plot, so this type of story is right up my alley.

Acting/Cast: I'd say one of the best things about this drama is the casting of the spies. Perfect casting, especially the male lead spy. I couldn't imagine anyone else playing that character. He has this innocent look about him, but he can also have an intimidating presence, which is essential for the role. His ability to convey emotions through his eyes and facial expressions was vital to the role, as well. I think everyone inside the dorm (for the most part) had good acting. I didn't even have a problem with the rookie female lead's acting. Those outside of the dorm are another story. I think the worst thing about this drama is Park Sung Woong (박성웅). I hated every time he was on screen. His acting was over-the-top obnoxious. My brain's reaction to his presence would be to automatically start tuning him out. I actively had to fight against it. Him, as well as others on the outside of the dorm, really brought an unwanted cheesiness to the drama, which actually has a very serious plot that I think should have been taken more seriously. 7/10

Writing: For the most part, the story is pretty well written. The foundation that was built in the beginning was very solid except for the two important ANSP agent characters. I didn't care about them at all in the beginning. I didn't know exactly what to expect with this story, so once the hostage situation began, I was shocked and hooked. I think the writing begins to get shaky toward the end. I kept thinking "I wish the female lead had more of a role." She was great in the first half. She felt like a realistic, but strong female lead. She was trying to fight back, figure things out, even manipulate others to save her friends. The only thing potentially unrealistic about her behavior would be that if I were in her situation, I would be deathly terrified of the male lead. I wouldn't even have been able to look him in the eyes. I'd be way too traumatized and ashamed about the whole thing. However, toward the end, it's as though the female lead becomes more of a background character who looks sad all the time and is silently hating herself. I wouldn't have been surprised if she had tried to take herself out at some point...I think that would have been realistic. I mean, it's a deeply depressing and traumatizing situation for her specifically. Another reason I thought the writing got shaky toward the end was because of the excessive twists. I don't think it was necessary to put in twists toward the end; the main plot itself is engaging and complex enough and should have been fully embraced as it was. Also, toward the end, the intense feelings of hopelessness that I felt from the whole situation had increased too much to where I was almost unable to see any light at all at the end of the story. I think that's a bit more of a personal taste - I need a certain amount of hope to keep me on the edge of my seat and not lose interest. On a positive note, the political aspect of the drama became more interesting to me as the story went on (usually stuff like that bores me) and the two ANSP agents became much more likeable. I found the politics in this drama to be very thought-provoking. What kinds of events in real life have governments and media worked together on to cover up or spin to win elections? 9/10

Direction/SFX/Music: This drama definitely had a higher quality of production, which I really look for. I will drop a drama 20 minutes in if the production quality isn't doing it for me. There are a lot of guns, bombs, blood, I love the set and the time period. The OST is okay. It didn't stick out too much for me. The only complaint I have here is that sometimes the music didn't fit the situation, especially in the beginning. There's a gun fight and blood and chaos but romantic sounding music is playing. How is this romantic? 9.5/10

Entertainment Value: I was hooked for a majority of the drama. I stopped watching other dramas to binge watch this one. It was only toward the end (maybe episode 14) that I wasn't exactly excited about watching it...more scared to watch it I guess. 9.5/10

Overall, I gave this drama a 9/10. It's rare that I ever rate a drama this high. I think this one won't soon be forgotten. I wish there had been more of a sole focus on the dynamics inside of the dorm, such as relationships between the girls, and how their personal bonds helped them to survive. This person being an ANSP agent or that person being a northern spy or this person doing something bad in the past or that person having some past connection that I don't care about -- to me it was just a bunch of unnecessary Korean drama clichés that didn't really add much to the plot.

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SOMEONE JUST RIPPED MY HEART OUT

I was in so much pain watching this series, from the beginning of the series and especially at the end.

Great characters with amazing evolution in terms of personalities. The main couple made me believe in love at first sight and it broke my heart in the end. All the other characters were very well written, with very interesting stories and even the side couples had so much chemistry. The whole series was very interesting and both the romantic scenes and the comedy scenes were very well played by all the actors. The series had plot twists that shocked me. Incredible series. The acting was phenomenal by everyone, especially by Hae In and Ji Soo (her first gig).

Highly recommended !

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Good but Had potential to be a tiny bit better.

This show has been controversial since the beginning till the end. It had it’s great moments and not so good ones.

I honestly liked it as it kept me intrigued and I was hooked till the end. I liked the scenery/set and the cast’s acting in general, but Hae in’s acting was superb as I believe he made this show way better! Jisso’s acting was okay for a first time. I believe if she could’ve chosen a less intense role, it would’ve been better for her.

The downside of this show, was the way it was advertised as people were expecting more romantic scenes and the fact that it was stretched too much. Nonetheless, it’s worth watching.

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