Genre: Romance, Dark Comedy, Action
Casts:
Lee Seung Gi - Lee Jae Ha
Ha Ji Won - Kim Hang Ah
Introduction:
One of the national issues of Korea that remains to drop headlines all over the world is about the endless word war of its divided Peninsula: the South and the North. As it has been going on for years, putting a stop over the unresolved matter between the two governments seems to be a difficult assignment for anyone whether it be an individual, an organization or even a government. Both stands on the grounds of their rights rather than to entertain the idea of sitting together for a settlement which seems to be a very complex thing to do. If they could think of its benefits which is to avoid hurting and shedding blood of the innocent citizens of both countries, they could always choose the better deal.
It's clear that this series wanted both sides to come together but with a purpose of fighting a common enemy of the two who has an agenda of running his power all over the two countries. It is quite a symbolism because they gathered a cast composed of English speaking individuals that would represent other nationalities. Moreover, it wanted to go beyond the friction of the two countries as they involved other issues such as the involvement of the different nations to their dispute. Anyhow, as brave as this series can be, there are still lapses which they failed to attend to. Despite of the efforts exerted by this drama, it was clearly disturbed by too much idealism.
Strong Points:
It has a great content which is aiming for a unified task force of the two Koreas for a good cause. It has also given the impression of a gentle hope conveying its message towards a brighter future for both sides. It may not touch the inner core of the hearts of the government officials but it creates possibilities for its people to not close their doors for a better future ahead. However, according to some sources who can read and understand Korean and have an access over the netizens' opinion, a lot had mixed emotions on the issue and the majority wasn't ready to approach it through this drama. So I guess in some ways, it has affected its performance all throughout the series which has left the series going after so many issues that ended up quite a bit overwhelming.
As for me, I would gladly wait for the day when these two sides solve their differences amicably and for what is left to respect of their history and relationship in the past, they should peacefully come to an agreement. Like a family divided; but with the fact that the same blood still streams on each other's veins is still very much alive.
One more thing, I also appreciated their experimental dark comedy which is made possible through Lee Jae Ha's (Lee Seung Gi) playful and childish character most especially in the beginning. I've had the best of it from this drama so I really treasure that unique offering of theirs.
Weak Points:
Love Story
It wasn't that necessary to put a love story in my opinion except for when they really intended the series that way which is to re-introduce the Koreas to each other through romance. This drama could have excelled way better if they focused on the political side of it which needed more polishing throughout the process and towards the end. In order to do that, they needed more scenes to address the issues.
The Antagonist
He had given me nightmares in my sleep seriously. I hated the whole weird stuff going on and it was so unnecessary. Plus, there wasn't enough reasons for its psychotic instances for what it's just a total let down. Before thinking of putting a scare on your audience, think first if you're already overdoing it. Remember to give the antagonist a lesser airtime than the main actors, even more to a resolution of their issue.
Overall:
Above Average. Unfortunately, the drama didn't manage to maintain its good start, it really had its rough times which is such a sorry miss.
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