antigone_

Telling the story of Qing invasion of Joseon Korea and its devastating aftermath on people from prince to servant through the eyes of an unconventional couple, it is as topical a story as it was centuries ago.

The depiction of war was incredible, original and realistic. The mistreating of people as slaves, of women considered miasma even by their own, every little aspect of how lives were ruined or used as collateral after the war supposedly ended was jaw-dropping and holded the biggest part of the series.

It was an excellent production and execution throughout.

It stumbled upon some typical kdrama cliches at the beginning and especially towards the end. Look past that, because it was such a great series to watch.

Great direction cinematography music.

It is raw and dark compared to other period cdramas and there it got me hooked, though I did not like it from the beginning (Some things seemed a bit off at first 10 episodes or more). But as it unfolds piece by piece and the characters mature...well love them or hate them, you choose. Second and third characters were surprisingly interesting. Even if they do not add up to the big picture I liked that they took the time to unfold some side stories.

The ending was quite rushed for such a slow burning show. And I do not understand how a woman can pretend to be a man like that...

All in all, I cried, I was on edge and I truly enjoyed it.

Amazing protagonistic couple and direction. And a different kind of mafia movie.

The silent and tranquil moments managed to hook me more than the gunfire scenes.

Watch it.