Nine Puzzles

Strong introduction to a murder mystery with a quirky and offbeat tone. It is full of symbolism which instantly makes for a fun watch. Every time the camera rests on something, it either symbolises something or is a clue which means viewers have to stay locked in.

Along with the strange world of Nine Puzzles, all the characters, main and secondary, are equally eccentric, suggesting that this is not going to be a straightforward thriller.

The genius of the series is that it doesn't just question who the killer is - it questions what a killer looks like. Guilt drips from every character. The show scatters doubt like breadcrumbs, leading viewers into a forest where no one.

A very entertaining story told over 11 episodes, one that keeps you guessing as its intricacies are slowly unraveled. Kim Da-mi's characterization of the police profiler who was traumatized in her childhood is a real highlight, and I loved her mannerisms which varied between childlike and insightful. It's fiction but I also liked how it referenced the extensive growth of Seoul in the 1980's, one that resulted in many improvements but which sometimes was a little ruthless, coming at the expense of existing communities. That gives an already great story extra weight, and that more than one set of demons are being exorcised.

Watching first episode I instantly engaged. The portrayal of characters is great, how Yoon Ena seem childish yet smart, Curry man is soft hearted yet trying so hard to be nonchalant.

Now that it's end I can say that it's not that surprising but still make sense in all way. They even make me feel bad for the killer, I also wish they could live their life for themselves for once but no. I understand the killer, and I tolerate it. They did a good job on that, but tbh the fire scene could be more realistic, and they also could make it sadder I believe. The story itself is sad, so why don't make the most out of it?

I just finished episode 5 so this is not a complete review. That being said, I really like the Ena's character. I believe her nonchalant demeanor and quirky personality are a facade to protect herself. I think she is actually really scared of the person who killed her uncle, I also think that it's an attempt to be seen as non-threatening. It reminds me of Colombo (he always came off goofy in order to make the culprit think they are smarter than him). I believe you can kind of see her true personality at the end of episode 5 when she finally thinks that Hansaem trusts her. I also really like Hansaem, he is a good detective and he respects Ena and her professional opinion. They make a great team. I'm excited to finish the series and find out who the antagonist is. I'm sure it's going to be an interesting twist.

Nine Puzzles had a solid concept and a decent storyline, but it was painfully slow, uneventful, and dragged way too much. The only reason I stuck around was to confirm the killer who was already obvious and uncover the backstory.

Each episode felt like a chore, leaving me with a tight, uneasy feeling, but I powered through (and no, it's not about my taste I've watched Doubt and other thrillers). The FL didn't click, and as for the ML, my first drama of his, and I'm still not sold.

For a psychological investigative thriller, it lacked any real thrill. A drama stuffed with A-list actors doesn't automatically make it good. And can they stop making the killer the most obvious choice by giving them barely any screen time or storyline?

The one scene that stood out? The ending her choice with the fire was bold! The leads? Completely forgettable. If there's a S2, they need a major revamp or just scrap it altogether.

A 7/10 for me, but definitely a one time watch.