Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• fiercemoon

  Overall 8

  Story 10,  Acting 8,  Music 6,  Rewatch Value 6

  This TV series is a rollercoaster of emotions and intense drama. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, although some elements fell short for me. Note that this show is geared towards mature audiences due to its heavy themes. Joo Da Hae is a character you'll love to hate - her backstory explains her villainous behavior, which involves dark deeds like murder and kidnapping, adding layers to the plot. On the other hand, Ha Ryu's character is incredibly empathetic and lovable,...

  despite his unfortunate circumstances.
  
  The ending of the series is satisfying, as it focuses on wrapping up the main characters' arcs before delving into secondary storylines. This narrative structure resonated with me and showcased thoughtful storytelling. When it comes to performances, there are mixed reviews. Soo Ae's portrayal didn't entirely convince me of her character's complexities, and I felt a different actress might have brought more depth to the role. However, Kwon Sang Woo's portrayal of Ha Ryu was exceptional, eliciting a range of emotions and empathy from the audience.
  
  The supporting cast also delivered commendable performances, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The musical score complemented the scenes effectively, adding to the show's intensity. While I may not revisit this series due to its predictable nature, fans of melodrama will appreciate its angst-ridden moments and high-stakes narrative. Overall, it's a compelling watch with standout performances that will keep you hooked until the end.

• FastFlashdance

  Overall 9

  Story 10,  Acting 9,  Music 7,  Rewatch Value 8

  This series dives deep into the human psyche, embracing the darkest corners of emotion with a fearless approach. The narrative structure is a whirlwind of twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with its fast-paced and captivating storyline. Time jumps are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the plot, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining coherence. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster of tragic romance, obsession, betrayal, revenge, and deceit, culminating in a conclusion that is as bitter as it is sweet.
  
  The...

  chemistry between the lead actors, played by Soo Ae and KSW, is palpable, bringing their complex and unhealthy relationship to life with raw authenticity. Their performances, akin to those of top-tier celebrities, add a layer of depth to the narrative. Soo Ae's character, while devoid of redeeming qualities, elicits strong emotions from the audience, provoking a desire to shake some sense into her in every episode. In contrast, Kim Sung Ryung's portrayal of the secondary female lead evokes empathy, leaving viewers with a sense of longing for a more favorable outcome. While Yunho's performance is competent, his lack of chemistry with Soo Ae renders their on-screen connection lackluster and unconvincing.
  
  The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, breathing life into their respective characters and leaving a lasting impression. Noteworthy mentions include the talented Go Joon Hee, whose captivating portrayal suggests she deserves more prominent roles in the future. The series' soundtrack perfectly complements its dark themes, with tracks like "Ice Flower" by Ailee adding a poignant layer to the viewing experience.
  
  While a rewatch may be daunting due to the series' length and somber tone, the gripping narrative offers enough excitement to warrant a revisit after some time has passed. "Queen of Ambition" is a melodrama that caters to fans of darker storytelling, offering a compelling and immersive experience for those willing to delve into its intricate web of emotions.

• giantmercury58

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 1

  This captivating drama exceeded all my expectations, taking me on an emotional rollercoaster ride that left me in tears, anger, and even moments of laughter. The storyline delved deep into characters' backgrounds, offering a glimpse into their motivations and struggles. While some plot twists were somewhat predictable due to early hints, the development of Ha Ryu's character added a refreshing layer of complexity. The narrative is far from predictable, keeping viewers on their toes throughout the series.
  
  I found it challenging to stay engaged with the...

  series, as the constant injustices faced by the protagonists tested my patience. The refusal to follow a conventional, feel-good narrative made the show stand out. It highlighted the harsh realities of life, where not everything is resolved neatly, and betrayals can shatter trust. The drama also shed light on the darker aspects of society, showcasing the influence of money and power in decision-making.
  
  While I doubt I'll revisit this series due to its emotional intensity, it left a lasting impact on me. The powerful storytelling and poignant life lessons embedded within the narrative resonated deeply. Viewers should be prepared for a tumultuous viewing experience, with tissues at the ready. Despite its melancholic tone, the beauty of the show lies in its raw and authentic portrayal of human nature and society's complexities. I encourage others to embark on this emotional journey and experience its compelling narrative firsthand.

• gentlexu13

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 8

  This drama is a rollercoaster of emotions that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Despite some initial doubts, I found myself completely engrossed in the intricate storytelling and well-developed characters. The writer did a phenomenal job of evoking a range of feelings - from love to hate, anxiety to excitement - in a way that felt authentic and gripping. The pacing was spot-on, keeping me guessing and second-guessing every twist and turn. The cast delivered standout performances that added...

  depth and nuance to an already compelling plot. Trust me, this is not your run-of-the-mill drama; it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good revenge story. My only regret is not discovering it sooner. Enjoy the ride!

• GentleJaws

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 9,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 8

  This series is a true roller coaster of emotions. Joo Da Hae's character is a force to be reckoned with, possibly one of the most complex and divisive in the history of dramas. Her portrayal is so compelling, it's hard not to be drawn into her world. The overall concept of the series is executed flawlessly, maintaining a perfect pace without any dull moments. The characters are incredibly well-developed and believable, with even Yunho delivering a notably improved performance as the series progresses.
  
  Ha Ryu, portrayed...

  by Kwon Sang Woo, is a standout character whose journey is both heartbreaking and captivating. Sang Woo's portrayal is deeply moving, effectively capturing his character's emotions throughout. Soo Ae, in the role of Joo Da Hae, delivers a stellar performance from start to finish, making her character both detestable and pitiable at the same time—a true testament to her acting prowess.
  
  This series is one of the most engaging revenge dramas I've ever seen, keeping me on the edge of my seat from the first episode to the last. Each episode is filled with heart-wrenching moments that are sure to evoke a range of emotions. The soundtrack, particularly Ailee's "Ice Flower," adds another layer of depth to the viewing experience, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.
  
  Overall, this series left me in awe, a rare gem that I would even consider rewatching—a testament to its gripping storyline and outstanding performances.