Don't expect much character development when watching this. Hopefully, in the manga the plot and characters were more thought-out. The main female lead seems to find herself in multiple love triangles and/or situations where she is forcibly being pinned down, kissed or needs to rescued by her savior (older bf). Her role is to play an extremely vulnerable, naive, inexperienced, young pretty girl but her innocence at times could be viewed as borderline stupidity. There was one scene where she tells him, "I realized that I am useless without you." I literally laughed. How did she make it this far in life on her own or to college? I get she may feel a bit insecure. She is younger than the main male lead who is confident, experienced and owns his own business. But, I do feel they should have given her just a tad bit of a back bone. Anything to bring a little bit of life/spice to her role. Surprisingly, expect a few toned down 50 shades of Grey scenes which are extremely rare in asian dramas. This probably has some content for a more mature audience since there may be a few scenes some may find triggering. It is short enough that it is easy to watch if you'd like to give it a try.

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This drama is worth watching. There are moments of dramatic intensity, where it's nearly impossible for you to turn your attention away. It has a fascinating story line that covers betrayal, war, corruption, power dynamics, love, friendships and survival. You are taken through numerous battles between different species or tribes and their path to survival or annihilation. There are also riveting plot twists that you NEVER saw coming.

This drama does not give you the opportunity to feel bored. The first episode kicks off with a war. The Neanthals never had a chance whether during the war or the cruel hunt that followed, "the Great Hunt". What also resonated with me was that one young boy, Tagon, came up with the whole vicious plan to annihilate them. Or when he proudly announced to his tribe he was wearing the skull of a dead Neanthal that was skinned from head to toe on his head like a trophy after a hunt. I am not even halfway finished with this drama but he is starting to turn out to be one hell of a psychopath. After the massacre of Neanthal, the Union has become a dominant force but it appears their need for conquest and control was just getting started.

On a lighter note, the friendship that blossomed between EunSeom and Tanya is heartwarming. You could really see the joy and love they have for each other, its an innocent sweet romance. Sadly, no PDA as of yet. Eunseom and Tanya do end up on separate journeys and a new unexpected character is introduced, Saya. Each having to experience their own trials and tribulations to become stronger. Eunseom's suffers on his path, particularly because of him being half Saram and Neanthal. But, you also see him becoming stronger. Whilst still stubbornly sticking to his values even after repeated betrayals demonstrating, yes, some naiveness but also true leadership and genuine loyalty to those that cross his path. However, I would have liked for there to have been more time dedicated to the romance between Eunseom and Tanya instead of the focus on Tagon's romance.

I have always been a fan of Song Joon Ki. Honestly, what is there not to like? But, in this drama he took on the challenge of playing two completely distinct roles and nailed it! Tagon also is a force to be reckoned with. He killed his father and then managed to make an entire nation worship him as a God, all in a matter of a day. At this point, I am patiently waiting to just see his demise at the end of this drama. This is the only piece that may slightly impact my rating. I think the good guys deserve a win and this drama a happy ending.

Xabara, is a character that appeared in the last few episodes but I thought was kick ass! I wish her character had a more frequent/stable role in the drama. Perhaps season 2?

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I was hooked from the start. Yes, the plot does involve the usual drama between a rich family vs handsome main lead. The main lead, Saeroyi, is admirable. His tenacity, stubbornness, and ability to continue to persevere through all the obstacles that have been thrown at him by Jangga's Chairman and his oldest son is what eventually will win your heart. Even at times from his only childhood friend and love interest, Soo-A. She was the only other person aside from his father he had on his side. But, the more you watch the more you find yourself joining Saeroyi's fighting spirit, fighting! In addition, to an entertaining plot I think the drama added something very valuable to kdramas, a diverse cast from various backgrounds. There were some underlying issues that surfaced with this drama that weren't necessarily part of the main plot but I'm sure resonated with many viewers. Part of these struggles were faced by two of the main cast members Hyun-yi who identifies as transgender and Tony, a darker skin Korean. Additionally, two of the team members including the main lead himself were ex convicts. Yi seo's battle with mental health concerns and counseling were also briefly touched upon. I would also like to add, though I do not agree with all of the actions taken by both female leads. I truly enjoyed seeing strong independent female roles instead of the norm of the pretty girl tearing up at every other scene.
Whilst the plot is centered and focused on revenge, you are able to feel for each character as they also battle their own personal problems and lean on each other. Even with some of the challenges in terms of the business/revenge plot being a little generic this is by far not your typical K-drama. If you are looking for something refreshing to watch, this is it.

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Truly beautifully written masterpiece

Let me start off by saying I do not watch historical dramas. This is a rare occurrence but I became curious due to the ratings and reviews. I am currently on episode 20 and can confirm this is worth every waking moment. This is a beautifully written story with several twists and turns that cover everything from romance, unrequited love, the struggle between the rich and the poor, the righteous vs the corrupt, power and war. The drama intensely takes you through the impact that war, betrayal, social status, love and corruption had on the lives of all the main characters. There is an excruciating amount of pain throughout each episode; at times overwhelming and heartbreaking.  Yet, there are also those perfect moments in the plot that are just breathtakingly beautiful, humorous and heartwarming.

The acting and character development is phenomenal. From the two main female leads, though beautiful and poised also mysterious in their own way. Their strength is not just in their beauty. They have learned to survive in a world where their freedom is dictated by men and/or their country. The fearless yet hopeless romantics that play the male leads, Dong Mae, Hui Sung and Eugene Choi and even those within the Righteous Army each have a story that plays out. Right off episode one you dive into bits and pieces of everyone's lives. Discovering the closer you get to the end that they are all interconnected in one way or another.

What is there not to love about the three male leads? Aside from the fact you could slice the tension between them with a knife. One scene I can still recall is when Eugene addressed Hui Sung , who was still unaware of the impact his family had in Eugene's life. "When there is a man in front of you whose heart has been torn out. You shouldn't say you're hurt.....That would be shameful." While I watched this, though a minor part. I felt the pain piercing through Eugene's stare as he addressed the son of the family that killed his parents. Also, the chemistry between Eugene and Lady Ae-Sin is spot on. One of my favorite scenes is when she drops out of nowhere and directs him to a meeting spot after she waited days for him to reply to her letter. In that space, she ends up getting the upper hand by grabbing his gun and while pointing it directly at his face proceeds to question him. Romantic huh? But, regardless of what they were doing their romance is captivating even without having to exchange words.

Everything so far has come together seamlessly. Yet, as beautiful as this drama truly is there is also a significant amount of loss. But, I do hope the writer pulls through towards the end and that they can save us (the viewers) from a sad ending.

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I was extremely excited to see this drama because the story itself caught my attention for being so creative. Who wouldn't want to go from their regular normal life and instead jump into the world of their favorite comic book, web toon or drama. Where do I sign up? Of course, if Lee Jong Suk is one of the MCs even better.

First, I'd like to say their animation/webtoon team did an incredible job. As you watch the show you will really fall in love with the flawless drawings. During the special of this drama, you'll get to see how challenging it was to draw and film the transitions between both worlds. Though there were several themes to keep viewers interested. I wish there had been more character development. I don't think the support roles really had a purpose. At times, I feel they were all on standby or just chess pieces when a hole needed to be plugged in the narrative.

I do appreciate that the sparks between Kang Cheoul and Yeon Joo begun right of the first few episodes. It is so common in dramas to have viewers anxiously wait for the main leads to either kiss or just simply hold hands. This was a sweet romance that offered a break from the chaos and more tensed/life threatening scenes.

There were some parts that I personally found unnecessary. For instance, why is the father all of a sudden under the villain/murderer's control? I understand the villain took his face but do not comprehend the reason the father is just doing everything he is told. Afterwards, when Yeon Joo's father ends up in the manga world. He is once again not himself and turns into a murderer instead. Isn't there already enough villains in the drama? Also, towards the last few episodes they bring Kang Cheoul's bodyguard and friend back. But, at one point I asked myself. How long is he going to be in the car for before he reaches a destination where he can help out? He went from a state of being drugged and needing urgent care to driving aimlessly in a car and picking up phone calls. While his friend was dying and Oh Sung Moo is off murdering someone again on the tablet. These are just minor scenes so it doesn't impact the overall plot really. But, at one point I just wanted Kang Cheoul to stop dying. Again, I think the thought behind the plot was creative. But, I felt some parts did not have substance or were dragged on for too long.

Regardless, I am glad I watched this drama and do recommend you give it a try!

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