Alchemy of Souls

Reminiscent of the k-drama Crash Landing on You, in that it's a love story with charming and very competent actors. I'm sure I'm missing some relevant cultural context, but I find this series, through the first eight available episodes, thoroughly enjoyable, a needed escape. Accolades to the director who allows the actors to showcase both their individual charisma, and their chemistry with each other as they glide seemingly effortlessly through this light hearted escape.

I watch parts 1 and 2 back to back. Like many, I was disappointed by the last two episodes of part one. That was simply because I wanted a happy story resolution. The writers could easily have done that but logically expanded the story to its next logical step. If I had to wait a season between parts, I would have been devastated. Fortunately I didn't have to do that, going straight to the second part. I was tremendously rewarded.

In total, there's 30 episodes, each running up to an hour and a half. That is a massive amount of story!!!

I'll keep it short. This series, even when viewed as a dub, is one of the best, if not the best (depending on the day) televised programs that I have ever been privileged to watch. The writing was incredibly well done. The world building was intricately developed. The acting was top notch. The production and music was excellent.

I can't recommend this more highly. Absolutely superb.

This review is based on the first 8 episodes as of now. I really hope it continues this way till the very end.

It is a fantasy world that will feel utterly real to you. The plot , storyline, characters, direction, comedic timing, visuals , costumes, CGI , acting .. everything is just perfect.

The only other fantasy story I loved this much was Harry Potter. The two are totally different in terms of story but they both are phenomenal works of art.

The plot and character growth is absolutely brilliant. There has been a lot of thought put into every character. You'll find yourself caring for all the supporting characters as well.

The male lead is charming, bold, funny and somewhat adorably childish at times. I also love his costumes. You'll find him dressed in magnificent shades of blue that are a treat to the eyes. I find myself constantly admiring the costumes and hair styles of the two leads.

I love shows with a strong female characters and this one does not disappoint. The female lead can hold her own in the show. She is smart, pursues what she wants with a reckless boldness and is utterly refreshing to watch. I don't think anyone else could have done a better job than Jung So Min.

Another thing I love about this show is how beautifully and effortlessly it changes from serious to funny within the blink of an eye. The background music and sound effects are perfect. I find myself laughing out loud in many places.

All supporting characters are amazing too.

The action and CGI is equally good. It keeps you on edge. One day I was literally banging on the table in front of me.. I was so excited ;)

It is a series I can rewatch multiple times because it is so entertaining.

If you haven't started this one yet, do yourself a favor- watch it.

You won't regret!

Caught up to 14 episodes and oh my GOD this show is so good! I have no bias for any characters or writers prior to the show, but now I've completely fallen in love with all the actors and the writers. The acting, the suspense, the plot building, and the twists make me look forward to this show every single day! If you like fantasy, magic, and a complex storyline, you'll love this show. I compare it to Harry Potter, it has a a lot of similarities. If they could make 3 seasons I would watch without hesitation. The AoS world is really amazing, I want to explore every inch of it!

Squid Game, Tomorrow, Kingdom, Uncanny Counter, Sweet Home, All Of Us Are Dead, Hellbound, Arthdal Chronicles, Hotel del Luna, Yumi's Cells..

And the list goes on...

I am an avid kdrama fan and I love to watch the evolution Korean tv shows is having. They keep pushing their limits and they are giving us truly amazing jewels with the fictional dramas.

Im very used to historical dramas ( Sageuk) and I thought Alchemy of souls would be similar but with a touch of magic added to the mix ( something like Lovers of the Red Sky) but how wrong I was!

This is a completely new magical universe creating new order of things and a world of fantasy ( although somehow women still were the prostitutes/gisaengs here, and all the students and soldiers were male but I won't complain a lot)

I deeply enjoyed how well written the characters are, the layers and depth of each is just outstanding, needing to mention specially the crown prince (Shin Seung-ho ) whose constant internal struggle is just amazing to watch, he seemed the typical villain who is only mean and stubborn and is but was such a big surprise to getting to know him and seeing how he is so much more! I can't wait what comes next in the 2nd season.

Why you should watch it? This has no clichés and no predictable events, a very original script ( even the love confessions aren't typical here!), fantastic photography, special effects, costumes, fight choreography... and it has a lot of funny moments! This drama has so many genres you won't be able to get bored!

The music is good mixing some korean typical songs with some familiar elements that will remind you to Harry Potter and even Game of Thrones.

Chemistry of the main characters is great ( all the couples in general) And there's is only one dead fish kiss! Only one!! ( kdrama enthusiasts will understand what i mean)

Go and watch it if you haven't and start the countdown for December and the 2nd season!!