Playing Ep 23

What people are saying

• darkmatthew

  Overall 8

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

  It only escalates in excitement and quality—how could it not when helmed by a renowned actor whose fanbase is unwavering and vast? If you consider yourself an aficionado of his works, it's quite likely you have this on your radar. Hesitant to give it a whirl? Consider this a nudge in the right direction.
  
  Allow me to preface my further thoughts with a personal insight—though I confess it may be tinged with bias. The series in question, an intricately woven tapestry of espionage, isn't something to...

  devour in one sitting. I fell into that trap myself, racing through episodes, only to be left with an impression of mediocrity. Now, having had time to reflect, I see the creators' vision: a narrative savored slowly, episode by week—a pace that heightens anticipation and augments experience. So, take it slow (unless the suspense is too tantalizing to resist!).
  
  If your appetite for drama includes a side of romance, you might find the plate bare in that regard. Yet, the series does not falter; it thrives on simmering tension and chemistry aplenty.
  
  The central actor's commitment shines through—an exemplary talent of Korean cinema, who transformed physically for the role, displaying an impressive dedication that resonates even off screen. His performance solidifies his position among my favorite actors. Alongside him, an actress blossoming from minor parts into a commanding presence provides a refreshing change. However, I must pose a question about the casting decisions: a certain actress, touted as a lead, graces the screen so seldom it feels almost a cameo—a minor disappointment considering her formidable talent.
  
  For all its merits, the series isn't without its complexities, introducing a sea of characters that may challenge viewers to stay anchored to the main storyline. Yet, the pacing is commendable—neither hurriedly complex nor sluggishly dull. The screenplay cleverly parcels out fragments of the protagonist's memory, doling out just enough to piece together a larger story through keen speculation.
  
  Plot twists abound, leaving you simultaneously vexed and voraciously eager for more.
  
  My rating celebrates my enthusiasm for the genre and the undeniable enjoyment I derived from the viewing experience. Should I pick a standout element, the action sequences claim the prize—exhilarating, edge-of-your-seat spectacles that captivate with stellar execution.
  
  This series may not be universally palatable, but for those who relish a dense, action-packed mystery entwined with the intricacies of national intelligence, this one is certainly worth your attention.

• SilentCasablanca65

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8,  Acting 9,  Music 8.5,  Rewatch Value 7.5

  Entitled after an astronomical phenomenon that turns our daylight orb into a dark mirror, this blockbuster TV show artfully employs its celestial namesake as a symbol for the obscured truths that drive its complex narrative. With numerous secrets artfully draped one over another, the unveiling becomes the soul of the story, informing viewers that patience will be rewarded as layers are methodically stripped away, revealing the truth in a satisfying crescendo.
  
  Celebrating a significant anniversary milestone, the network spared no expense on this lush production, injecting...

  a staggering sum into its creation. Penned by an industry newcomer with an established award-winning pedigree in condensed storytelling, the series boasts an extraordinary soundtrack by a lauded composer. The control behind the camera hails from the network's seasoned ranks, guiding the series to completion just in the nick of time, as one of the stars faced a real-world health scare. Even as competition prompted strategic schedule shifts mid-season, promises of a spin-off focused on supporting characters hinted at an expanding universe.
  
  On a technical note, the series dazzles with its polish, as anticipated given the substantial budget. The choreography of action, the stunts, and the visually arresting effects set the bar high from the opening scenes, invoking a familiarity with popular Western action thrillers. Coupled with this, the drama differentiates itself with a unique visual identity - its color palette and contrast presenting a gritty, intense world.
  
  Narratively, the show takes a modern pivot from spy games played between traditional political adversaries to a morally charged war on narcotics, while still nodding to geopolitical complexities. At its heart is a protagonist with a fractured memory, drawing parallel lines to another famed cinematic amnesiac, embarking on a journey to piece together a scattered past.
  
  Entering with expectations of high-octane escapism, one might be taken aback to find the action takes a backseat to the intricate and shadowy machinations of institutional politicking. An absence of romantic subplots adds a focused seriousness, though occasional comedic relief might strike some as out of place in an otherwise intense drama.
  
  The narrative structure bifurcates into an initial exploration of past events, which some viewers might find overly complex or drawn out, followed by a second half where allies converge against a unified threat. It isn't until the latter episodes that the series kicks into full throttle and justifies its earlier pacing.
  
  At the core of the show's legacy will doubtlessly be the leading male actor's physical and emotional transformation into the archetypal dedicated agent, achieving a daunting physicality through discipline and embodying the character's visceral struggles.
  
  Female roles come through with varying degrees of impact, one hinting at a deeper exploration in an upcoming spin-off, while another struggles with less convincing assignment though no fault of the actress, but perhaps a shortfall in writing.
  
  Supporting characters are bolstered by veteran talent, conveying power and authority with finesse, and even when dialogue is sparse, their ability to command presence remains unchallenged.
  
  Musically, the series doesn't shy from mixing its original soundtrack with iconic ballads, creating moments that linger beyond the narrative itself.
  
  Despite its soaring ambitions and high-standing elements, the series slightly misses the mark set by its predecessors in the espionage genre. Despite this, it manages to recover, ending as thrillingly as it began, salvaging a otherwise nuanced journey into the clandestine with a strong finish.

• WiseEmma

  Overall 8.5

  Story 9,  Acting 9,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  Delving into the abyss of one's own history, a tale unraveling on screen manifests the haunting truth that attempting to conceal oneself from past demons often results in those very specters consuming you whole. This action-packed Korean series, though shrouded in shadow, manages to shine brightly, ironically underappreciated in a crowded field of visual storytelling.
  
  Centered around a tenacious and indomitable National Intelligence Service agent, the narrative unfolds as he embarks on a treacherous mission and stumbles upon a concealed reality, only to vanish without a...

  trace. His unexpected return marks a loss of memory and a renewed determination to unmask the betrayer within the ranks of his own agency. Paired with a fellow agent, whose own quest is driven by familial disappearance, they form an unwavering alliance. Together, the duo works clandestinely to uncover the influential puppeteers orchestrating the chaos, often hidden in plain sight.
  
  The series, structured into episodes of tightly woven intrigue, escalates steadily with intermittent hurdles faced by our protagonists. While the 'puzzle-solving' rhythm of the narrative ensures engagement, the final stretch of episodes has viewers sensing a premature unraveling of mysteries; yet the story smartly paces itself, culminating in a calibrated and fulfilling climax.
  
  Acting prowess animates the cast, with the lead male performer exuding a strong on-screen presence and an astute knack for tactical foresight. His counterpart, poignantly portrayed by a female talent, is a beacon of moral clarity, supporting their tandem's quest with an impressive alacrity and strength. The supporting characters, though variable in their narrative impact, enrich the plot with their own shades of complexity and intrigue.
  
  Stunning action sequences captivate viewers, with the lead actor's visceral performances and athletic prowess elevating each scene to an almost reverential status. Gunplay and hand-to-hand combat are orchestrated with a finesse that is not only visually arresting but serves to enhance the characterization and underlying motivations.
  
  Directorial acumen is evident as the storyteller deftly navigates the labyrinthine twists of the screenplay. Despite limited directing credits, the execution radiates an expertise that belies a fresh hand at the helm. Similarly, the writer, with a debut script, displays a deft hand at interweaving story arcs and delivering character depth, alongside dialogue that resonates with authenticity.
  
  The soundtrack wraps around the series with atmospheric precision, enveloping the viewer in a milieu that ranges from the pulsating rhythms of peril to the poignant strains of introspection. Each piece of music flawlessly underscores the unfolding drama while maintaining a symbiotic relationship with the narrative core.
  
  Viewers are advised to pace their consumption of the series despite the temptation to binge, as the dense plot rewards careful attention. The show, free from romantic entanglements, also notably contains elements of violence reflective of its espionage and action categories—a thematic warning for the faint of heart.
  
  In summary, this Korean drama stands as a testament to stellar storytelling and cinematic achievement, a victory lap of sorts for lovers of espionage and action genres. Casting aside any hesitance tied to genre preferences, I'd urge viewers to embark on this journey, if not for the narrative itself, then for the magnetic allure of the leading man's performance. And with word of supplemental episodes exploring origins and backstories, anticipation is ripe for further exploration of this enthralling universe.
  
  The elegance of this review, much like deciphering the series' intricate plot, reveals the reluctance to strip any component from its whole, as each paragraph is a necessary brushstroke in this wide canvas of appraisal.

• roughotter

  Overall 8.5

  Story 8.5,  Acting 9,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 7

  The opening salvo was a symphony of adrenaline - blood-spattered scenes, high-octane car chases, and edge-of-your-seat antics, though later parts seemed to lose steam [Fear not, for there shall be No Spoilers Here - delve in with peace of mind, regardless of whether you've seen the series or not.]
  
  OVERVIEW — A certain dialogue rang with profound intrigue, "You think what you saw is all there is. You're wrong. You see what you want to see because you don't have the guts to face the truth....

  Just because you don't remember doesn't erase the past." It encapsulated the essence of this multi-layered narrative, illuminating a web of connections amidst seemingly innocuous characters and events. The notion of a 'VEIL'—a central theme—promises revelations with each unfolding episode, instigating a skepticism toward each character’s motives.
  
  STORY & SCREENPLAY — We’re introduced to a shadowy tale of a National Intelligence Service agent bereft of memory after a harrowing mission, resurfacing after a year. He finds himself amidst a labyrinth of secrets, internal agency conflicts, and treachery, fostering a mantra of mistrust. Integral to the narrative are two women whose roles become pivotally intertwined with the amnesiac protagonist’s journey, as they all navigate a network of conspiracies. The creative team has woven a plot that combines a sleek set of opening episodes with engrossing cliffhangers, though the latter half suffers somewhat as the pacing decelerates.
  
  ACTION — The series' kinetic energy is masterfully showcased in its breathtakingly choreographed fight sequences which merit repeat viewings. Integral to the story's identity, the action is a pivotal ingredient, rendering the series akin to a rich dessert with all the embellishments—the absence of which would result in a hollow experience.
  
  ACTING — The lead protagonist, portrayed by a formidable talent, exudes a ferocious intensity, crafting each action-packed moment with a realism befitting an agent of his caliber. Supporting roles add depth and texture, though not without their shortcomings—the performance of at least one character falls flat, resulting in a somewhat stilted portrayal.
  
  MUSIC — The soundtrack augments the thriller's atmosphere, with particular stand-outs providing a pulse-pounding accompaniment to the more thrilling sequences.
  
  REWATCH VALUE — The series, laden with hairpin plot twists, is such that one could only contemplate revisiting if struck by memory loss akin to the show's hero. Individual scenes, however, particularly those of an action-packed nature, will be revisited with relish.
  
  OVERALL — The series presents as a commendable action thriller worth the initial investment, though continued viewing beyond the formidable beginning may vary in appeal. While the foundational concept is robust, its expansion falters, leaving one to ponder what might have been if the narrative had sustained its initial tenor.
  
  In conclusion, I've laid forth my reflections, leaving the ultimate choice to pursue this cinematic journey in your capable hands.

• jollypinocchio49

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 9.5

  Immersed in the shadowy domain of intelligence and ethics, a recent South Korean espionage series creates waves with its intricate narrative and profound questioning of clandestine operations. The series is an absolute masterclass in the genre, set within the complex world of espionage and the murky boundaries between obedience, ethics, and the indistinct lines separating moral dualities.
  
  Central to the story is the enigmatic journey of a top-notch operative from the National Intelligence Service (NIS), who resurfaces after a year of inexplicable absence following a mission...

  gone awry, his memories wiped clean. Determined to unearth the truth behind his lost year and the mission's failure, the series unfurls the layers of his obscured recollections.
  
  The series' international title alludes to the protagonist's elusive memory, echoing the overarching theme of unveiling hidden truths. Conversely, its original title, translating to the dark luminary often associated with an eclipse, poetically signifies the overshadowing secrets within the intelligence community.
  
  Marking a significant milestone for the broadcasting network, this rigorously produced series is an electrifying ode to the station's landmark anniversary. It delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience merged with an astute script that delves into the essence of the intelligence world, where the linearity of good and evil blurs and twists, reflecting the inherent ambiguity of the spy profession.
  
  The ensemble cast gives a powerhouse performance, with particular mention of the lead actor, whose physical transformation for this role is astonishing. Undergoing rigorous training and packing on muscle, the actor steps into the spy's shoes with an intense physicality that adds gravitas to the character, a stark contrast to his past roles such as his performance in a hit sports drama.
  
  Though the drama does not shy away from visceral and intense action sequences, which some viewers may find challenging, it is executed with supreme expertise. The production values – from cinematography to score – are impeccable, enhancing the series' appeal for multiple viewings, even when the outcome is known.
  
  Beyond the thrills, the series serves as a cerebral exploration into the philosophy and mission that drive these covert operatives. It intertwines with historical references and the political evolution of the Korean secret service, which underwent numerous transformations from its inception as the KCIA to its current incarnation, which vows to abstain from domestic political interference.
  
  This thrilling Kdrama is a profound foray into the facets of international espionage, reflecting on the dichotomies of past and present secret service activities within South Korea, laying bare the evolution of the NIS and the ramifications of its operations both within the nation and in the larger geopolitical landscape.