Playing Ep 23

What people are saying

• calmbae8

  Overall 10

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

  I must apologize in advance for the length of this review, but I couldn't help it. This captivating drama swept over me like a wave of raw emotions, leaving me with bruises on my heart that only a strong tonic could heal. Against my own rules, I have to admit that this series is truly exceptional. It's not just about entertainment; it's about stirring deep emotions within the viewers.
  
  I understand that this show may not be for everyone. It delves into complex themes that require...

  a certain level of maturity and emotional fortitude. It doesn't shy away from exposing the prejudices and the dark side of politics, taking aim at the arrogance of the western world, the closed-mindedness of military regimes, the cowardice of politicians, and the corrupting influence of money. However, amidst all this, it also shines a light on the virtues of loyalty, friendship, courage, honesty, and love for those dear to us.
  
  While there is a romantic element to the story, it's not the main focus. This is not your typical rom-com; instead, the series offers a clever blend of humor with a hint of darkness that adds depth to the narrative. It's a romantic drama in the true sense—filled with wonder, suspense, and heartache, devoid of any fluff or superficiality.
  
  The script and direction are top-notch. The writing stays grounded in reality, even in a fictional setting, tackling controversial scenarios with a sense of plausibility. The ensemble of characters is beautifully crafted, with thought-provoking dialogues that resonate with the audience. The direction is cinematic, playing with different camera angles, light, and shadow to create a visually stunning experience.
  
  The cast deserves a standing ovation for their outstanding performances. Each actor has brought their character to life with such brilliance that it's hard not to be in awe. Ha Ji Won delivers a remarkable portrayal, infusing her character with layers of vulnerability and strength. Lee Seung Gi's evolution from a shallow playboy to a figure of great integrity is truly mesmerizing. The supporting cast, including Jo Jung Suk and Lee Yoon Ji, deliver natural and compelling performances that elevate the series to another level.
  
  Even the villain is portrayed with chilling authenticity, embodying pure evil with a disturbing blend of cruelty, vanity, and megalomania. The music in the series deserves a special mention—it serves as a voice for the scenes, evoking emotions that linger long after the show ends. The instrumental pieces are hauntingly beautiful, adding another layer of depth to the overall experience.
  
  I find myself drawn back to this series, rewatching it with newfound appreciation each time. It's a journey that only gets better with subsequent viewings. If you're willing to invest emotionally in these characters, be prepared for a profound and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the final credits roll.

• slowlin

  Overall 9

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

  Delving into a world of royalty and political intricacies, this series captivates with its unique storyline and exceptional cast. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the North-South Korean peace process, showcasing love, loyalty, and friendship in the midst of turmoil. What sets this apart is its fresh take on familiar themes, injecting new life into a genre often saturated with clichés.
  
  The chemistry between the characters is palpable, with the main couple's evolving romance taking center stage. While some may find the pacing a bit...

  rushed, the emotional depth portrayed by the actors is commendable. Lee Seung Ki shines in a role that showcases his versatility, while Ha Ji Won delivers a compelling performance despite initial reservations about her character's North Korean accent.
  
  The inclusion of international elements adds layers of complexity to the narrative, drawing viewers into a web of diplomatic intrigue and personal drama. And though there are moments that may leave you wanting more, the satisfying conclusion ties up loose ends and leaves a lasting impact.
  
  Overall, this series is a must-watch for fans of royalty, romance, and political drama. Its blend of action, emotion, and intrigue offers a refreshing take on familiar tropes, making it an engaging and memorable viewing experience.

• freshmars95

  Overall 10

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

  This extraordinary TV series breaks free from the confines of typical dramas and takes viewers on an exhilarating rollercoaster ride through various genres. It seamlessly transitions from political intrigue and intense revenge to heart-wrenching romance and witty rom-com moments, keeping audiences constantly on edge and hungry for more surprises. The chemistry between the leads, played by two seasoned actors, is electrifying and deeply immersive. Their portrayal of a complex relationship mirrors the tensions between North and South Korea, delivering a blend of excitement, frustration, sadness,...

  and inspiration.
  
  Even the supporting characters shine with their own captivating love story, adding depth and richness to the narrative. Villains in this series are nothing short of chilling nightmares, with a psychopathic antagonist who rivals some of the best drama villains out there. The realistic portrayal of a modern Korean monarchy and an accessible North Korea is a testament to the exceptional storytelling and world-building.
  
  The direction of this series is impeccable, with moments of raw emotion and intensity expertly captured on screen. The pacing keeps viewers hooked, while the music enhances the overall viewing experience. A second watch promises to be just as enthralling, thanks to the superb execution of each scene. This is a drama that deserves top honors for its bold storytelling and exceptional performances.
  
  For those seeking a deep and engaging drama that challenges traditional norms, this series is a must-watch. While it may not offer a conventional 'happily ever after' ending, its thought-provoking conclusion will leave a lasting impact. Give this series a chance to unfold its magic, even if the initial episodes don't fully convince you - you'll likely find yourself drawn into its captivating world, much like I did.

• YoungSamuel

  Overall 9

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

  I hesitated between watching this genre-blending production or opting for a sappy romantic comedy drama. Ultimately, the compelling performance of the female lead from a previous favorite convinced me to give it a shot. To my surprise, this series exceeded my expectations. The overall quality, from the acting to the cinematography and music selection, made it feel like a meticulously crafted cinematic experience rather than just a typical TV show.
  
  The male lead's portrayal was seamless, effortlessly transitioning between a cocky persona and a more serious...

  demeanor. Paired with the charming yet fierce performance of the female lead, the dynamics between the two characters added layers of intrigue to the storyline. Their dialogue, thoughtfully translated in the subtitles, was rich with emotion, drawing viewers further into their world.
  
  Without giving too much away, this series deserves a resounding applause for its poignant exploration of themes such as bravery and love.

• livelyyuan37

  Overall 10

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

  Initially, I thought this Drama would follow the typical formula of a romantic story loaded with cliches, leading up to the expected union of the main characters. Surprisingly, after the initial episode, I found myself completely engrossed in this series. It was a phenomenal watch. The cinematography was strikingly beautiful, the storyline was exceptionally crafted, and the actors embodied their roles seamlessly.
  
  The true standout of this drama undoubtedly lies in its characters and their intricate relationships. I was captivated by how well-developed each main character...

  was – they evolved organically throughout the narrative, striking a balance between growth and staying true to their core selves. The dynamics between the characters grew in complexity, with each relationship serving a unique purpose in the overarching storyline.
  
  Unlike many other dramas, this series intricately weaved multiple compelling subplots into its narrative. These subplots were well-integrated into each episode, providing a comprehensive view of the story's progression. This multifaceted approach truly elevated the show, showcasing the depth and richness of its storytelling.
  
  One of the most noteworthy aspects of this drama was its emotional impact. It elicited a range of feelings within me – from laughter to tears, from frustration to elation – often all at once. The writers deserve applause for crafting a narrative that could evoke such intense reactions from viewers.
  
  While there were a few moments where certain character motivations felt slightly unclear, the overall brilliance of the series overshadowed these minor flaws. In my opinion, this drama is a true work of art that merits revisiting.