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Tragic, memorable, and sometimes frustrating
Watching this drama for the first time in 2024 made me appreciate how far k-dramas have come in terms of production, costumes, and picture quality in the last several years. I won't judge harshly based on those factors because this show is obviously dated, but, ugly costumes with atrocious color combinations and poor set design are hard to ignore. This is not to mention that a palace, that is supposed to be bustling with activity, looks like a ghost town. There are no maids, eunuchs, or guards anywhere in the courtyard. For such a large production, this is rather odd."Moon Lovers" is very well rounded in terms of pacing, storytelling, and character development. The plot is engaging and the pacing is consistent from start to finish. One thing I like is that it does not fixate on one relationship over another. We don't have to sit through a dozen of episodes of Wang Wook and Hue Soo's failed romance while other princes are patiently waiting their turn. Soo's relationship with each prince is uniquely developed from the beginning of the story. So, before the Wang Wook romance arc ends, the writers already give us plenty of meaningful scenes with Wang So and his growing feelings for her. The icing on the cake is Lee Joon Gi's masterful use of facial expressions showing Wang So hopelessly falling in love with her.
Wang So is probably one of the most tragic and misunderstood protagonists in a k-drama. Mysterious and brooding, he looks like he stepped right out of the Phantom of the Opera wearing a mask to cover a face scar. But, under the mask, he is an extremely complex character. The drama relays that complexity rather well through his contentious relationship with his mother, Queen Yoo, giving us a glimpse into his tragic past full of abuse and abandonment, and the man he has become - still a confused and heartbroken kid longing for his mother's love. The most tragic thing about him is that he does not do anything wrong but is forced to make difficult decisions. But despite all that, he is always judged harshly by everyone he cares about who eventually leave him. I don't really understand the point of writing such a tragic character. Tragedy is ok, but Wang So has no hope and nothing to look forward to. He is always alone from the very beginning until the end. Even an opportunity to raise his daughter is unfairly taken away from him.
I liked Hae Soo at the beginning. But, as soon as the drama starts turning into a Shakespearean tragedy, I became extremely disappointed in her. On one hand, she is kind, intelligent, thoughtful, and ridiculously courageous. On the other hand, she is naive, shallow, and judgmental. She accepts So's choice to seek the throne, but never understands the reality of being a king and the responsibilities that come with it. Instead of trusting him with his decisions, she keeps holding on to the unattainable and childish dream of being able to be together if they love each other while judging him for being harsh against the people who seek to harm him. The most tragic and unforgivable thing she does is making no effort to explain to So that her love for Wook was a thing of the past making their last face-to-face encounter filled with resentment and heartbreak.
Some plotlines are poorly thought out and very illogical. Wang So is not stupid, but his complete lack of insight when he rips up King Moo's last decree and leaves it on the floor as evidence is mind boggling. And then there is Prince Yo getting thrown off a cliff then returning in one piece. The writers needed something to move the plot forward, but this type of nonsensical writing makes smart characters look stupid.
The romance is very different from anything I've seen in a k-drama. This is not a typical star crossed lovers or a tragic romance story. The plot takes a rather realistic view of relationships. We all experience bad timing, missed opportunities, and inability to cope with each other's character flaws. This drama paints a harsh picture of what happens when couples go through all that. No matter how much we want it, love is not always enough. Lack of trust, miscommunication, and resentment all play a big part in the main couple's separation leading to loneliness and a lot of regret.
The ending, although tragic, is somewhat open-ended. She says "if we met in another world, at another time, we would have been great together". He says "if you and I are not from the same world, I will find you." These phrases alone are enough to foreshadow a future reunion. But, until there is a sequel, all we can do is resort to writing fanfiction and pretending they have a happy ending 1000 years later.
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Scarlet heart made our heart broken
This drama is another masterpiece for sageuk lovers but with a painful,unforgettable end, i can't bring myself to express my feelings and to say that i have been crying until now, that feeling when you are left alone, when the person you love die while you was ignoring him out of jealousy and hate although his actions were for your sake, your brothers are apart of you, when your mother touched your face tenderly while she was passing away for the first time in your youthful life, when you rised to the glory but lost everything in fact, what does the throne mean for you now? That bloody seat you gained to have everything you desire made you lose everything. A great compassion from me to gyeonjong, that poorly king who was treated like an animal but proved up to everyone his legacy as a king who ruled for 25 years but with a scarred heart, with an harrowing loneliness and grievance. Lee joon ki( as always marvelous)portrayed this character with a great virtue and an awesome grinta,IU also did an amazing job although her character was the time-bomber which shredded the princes to fight each another as go ha jin because the real hae soo wasn't as interactive,curious,energetic as her(as mentioned in the plot).The cruel screenwriter made our hearts to ache and obliged us not to forget this drama easily keeping the yearning and the emotions floating, i hope they create a happy ending out from many sad moments next time better than making it unhappier and somber for the viewers.
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Somehow I feel there's no need for season 2 if the story line are going to be suck. just leave it as melodramatic that left people touched and appreciate this historical drama.
But you will miss the chance and challenge to produce season 2..
Well I do challenge and would like to see how SBS would handle this
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RECOMMENDED TO WATCH
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is an exquisite Korean drama that seamlessly weaves together historical elements, romance, and fantasy, creating a captivating and emotionally charged narrative. This adaptation of the Chinese novel "Bu Bu Jing Xin" transports viewers into the Goryeo Dynasty, offering a unique blend of history and fiction.The stellar cast, led by the talented Lee Joon-gi and IU, delivers outstanding performances that breathe life into their characters. IU, in particular, shines as the modern-day woman thrust into the past, navigating the complex political landscape and intricate relationships with authenticity and depth.
The production's attention to detail in recreating the historical setting is commendable, from the elaborate costumes to the majestic palaces. The cinematography captures the beauty of the Goryeo era, enhancing the overall visual experience.
What sets Moon Lovers apart is its rich storytelling and intricate character development. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The complex web of relationships, both romantic and political, adds layers of depth to the narrative.
The romance in Moon Lovers is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, creating an emotional rollercoaster for viewers. The chemistry between the lead characters is palpable, making their love story all the more compelling.
The soundtrack deserves special mention for its emotional resonance and ability to enhance the mood of each scene. The music complements the storytelling, adding an extra layer of poignancy to the overall viewing experience.
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo is a masterfully crafted drama that successfully balances historical elements, romance, and fantasy. Its impeccable execution, coupled with a talented cast and engaging storyline, makes it a must-watch for any K-drama enthusiast. With a perfect rating of 10/10, Moon Lovers stands as a testament to the brilliance of Korean drama production and storytelling.
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I recommend this to you if you are someone who enjoys suffering greatly.
I'm not really sure how to explain the love-hate I feel for this story; I think it's actually more hate than love.We have an ordinary girl who "dies" for no reason and appears in this era, in the body of another girl who looks just like her... So I wonder, what happened to the real owner of the body? Was she just a perverted girl destined to die while spying on princes taking a bath?
Anyway, the first half of this series is quite boring. We see our female lead falling hopelessly in love with one of the many princes, and at the same time, many princes are falling for her... Not much happens... But the second half of this series is pure torment, and that's because this series is made to make you suffer!! The characters who seemed nice in the first half all turn evil, and I don't know which one is the most wicked!! Although I must admit that deep down, I liked the development. The female lead, who at first thought she could change the future, ends up getting into more and more insurmountable problems.
Returning to the fact that this second half of the series is tormenting... I can't explain how much I wanted to kill them all... For them to stop suffering ALREADY! PLEASE!! And just when I thought things couldn't get worse, they did; it was one stab after another, and I don't say that because it hurt me every time something dramatic happened, but because I felt like screaming and screaming... And it's not just because of the despair the story caused me; in many of the dramatic scenes, there were quite a few mediocre performances... Not all of them, clearly... But a large part.
I must also say that even though I liked the OST, whenever there was a sad scene and they played the same song, I imagined the person in charge of the music pressing a red button labeled *insert dramatic music* while sipping on a juice.
I'll talk for a bit about the main couple, the Moon Lovers. They started with an almost nonexistent romance, so much so that I questioned the title of this series. The male lead treated the girl like a burden and almost killed her several times until one day, for some reason, he decides that she "belongs" to him, but he doesn't put much effort into winning her over. However, when the female lead began to fall for the male lead, I really liked their chemistry... And that was it... There weren't even 10 consecutive minutes of drama where they were happy; something bad always had to happen. I must also say that at first, when the male lead made promises to do good things and blah blah blah, I believed him... And it hurt me how his character developed, although I understand it considering the kind of life he led. I would have liked this couple to find a bit of happiness in the end, even if it wasn't in that era; I really would have liked that.
In short, this series could have pleased me more; maybe if I had watched it at another time in my life or if it had been better produced... I don't know... Many things could have been of better quality with just a little more effort. I think I'll watch it again someday with a bit more patience.
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A second season needs to happen!
This show went from very happy, cheerful and optimistic to bleak and heartbreaking. The last few episodes are just drenched in sadness, and the very last one hits peak anguish, so be ready for that.During the first few episodes (before anyone died) I kept pondering how in a much smuttier and adult rated world, this would have been a badass reverse harem story. Having a bunch of good looking guys crushing on a somewhat oblivious girl, I found it impossible for my mind not to fall straight into the gutter.
Ahem, anyways...
Lee Joon Gi really gave it his all in this drama, he was absolutely fantastic! He made me cry my eyes out in the last episode. And as unlikable as could be, and as questionable as some of his actions and decisions were, I still found myself empathizing with him and rooting for him to find some peace and happiness. The broken bad boy, be it in historical drama version, or in modern times is always so alluring.
IU was also did a great job. Her transformation from bewildered girl transported back in time to dignified court lady was seamless. It's crazy how she had unique chemistry with each of the guys playing a Prince. From sibling-like love, to puppy love to full on soulmates love, she had such great rapport with them.
The costumes were beautiful, even if at times the wigs looked insane and the polka-dotted court lady uniforms were kinda weird. It was my first time watching a historical drama not set in the Joseon era, so seeing everyone rocking the loose hair was kind of a wild experience LOL
Keep an eye out for the weird zooms into the actors faces during some of the episodes. It'll feel like you're watching the Office (US), and the characters will break the 4th wall, address you directly and say something completely at odds with the time period. I still wonder about that directorial choice.
All in all, not everything about this was great, but the good definitely outweighed the bad. This is worth watching if only to see the main couple act their butts off.
P.S. I want a second season set in modern times, with a rom-com feel where everyone gets a happy ending! Make it happen SBS!
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My First LOVE in Kdramas!
Everything about this is captivating to watch, the storyline is very engaging from beginning to end.Such a diverse cast of amazing people.
This show paved the way for all the Korean historical dramas out there.
I hate ruining it by giving spoilers, but one thing i will say is that this show really puts you into a calm mood while watching it.
Scarlet heart will forever hold a special place in my kseries memory.
I highly recommend it.......................................................<3
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A 花より男子 (Hana Yori Dango); Meteor Garden show with political sibling rivalry
I. StoryIn a story with many important characters, it is important to tell it clearly, they did well in doing that. The political war between the brothers were interesting, they also picked a good period for the Korean version of a Chinese novel.
Sadly, the romantic aspect of the story was delivered poorly. It did not elicit any emotional reaction. There was no built-up. This is primarily a story about sibling rivalry gone to the political level.
II. Acting
It was lacking in some areas, there were also scenes which looked like they were practicing. There were also memorable scenes, from pure laughter to serious where their acting were very natural.
III. Music
The music, unfortunately, did not make an impact. There were scenes where a powerful music fits but instead it did not have any or a weaker music was used. They should've used more.
IV. Production
The production was very good. They spent for quality materials and designs for the wardrobe of the actors. This is specially true for IU where she was able to wear historical wardrobes yet with a modern touch which fits her aura. Great job in blending the two eras.
However, close-up shots were overused to the 5th power. It wasn't needed in many of the scenes, it became annoying. In the boat scenes, there was too much backlight glare from the sun the actors (again close-up shots) can be barely seen.
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Everyone loses everything . . . Touching characters and heartfelt acting are the reason to watch. In the first 10 or so episodes, we spend a lot of nostalgic 'golden' time, experience the innocence and courage of youth. Hae Soo inspires the brothers to hope that palace life could be different, and you the foolish audience member begins to hope too . . .
But, by the end, the show is racing through a Wikipedia of historical events with Hae Soo barely present. Scenes are chopped and spliced until the plot turns into simply everyone loses everything. Objectively, there's lots wrong with the show not just the plot, the themes are unclear, action scenes weak, and perhaps worst of all the romance between Hae Soo and 4th prince on paper is underdeveloped, toxic and not particularly inspiring. Despite the mess, the strength of the chemistry and the acting kept me watching.
It is worth sticking it out for some key touching moments: Hae Soo's song becoming a legendary classic sung throughout the land or the 14th prince revealing his commitment and deep love for Hae Soo all along.
Does this drama deserve it's legendary status? Overall no . . . but I'm glad I watched. These characters are going to live on in my head for years to come. And that made this drama a rare and precious watching experience.
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Un meraviglioso capolavoro.
Partendo già che sapevo come finiva che sapevo che era un drama impegnativo emotivamente e che ne avevo lette di ogni genere mi aspettavo che sarebbe stato molto meno emozionante.Alla fine mi sbagliavo perché nonostante tutto mi ha colpita e affondata questa bellissimo drama storico e fantasy allo stesso tempo.La trama e storia romanzata ma storia perciò non c'era molto da aspettarsi su quello,re,regine,principi ereditari e principi di ogni genere,dame di corte complotti ammazzamenti e tutto e di più però in mezzo c'è questa meravigliosa storia d'amore che lascia il segno.I principi uno più affascinate dell'altro,belli,buoni e qualcuno anche spietato.Poi c'è l'8 principe che nonostante tutto lo si ama e lo si odia,i altri con le loro storie,tutto ben strutturato che non c'è mai un momento di noia.
Di lui e lei c'è poco da dire sono meravigliosi fin da subito.Insieme una chimica pazzesca nonostante l'ambientazione storica sono dolci e sensuali.Una storia talmente sofferta che lascia segni anche nel spettatore.
Non credevo che mi avrebbe tanto fatto emozionare e che sarebbe diventato il DRAMA in cima alla mia classifica.
Se volete qualcosa che veramente vi faccia emozionare questo è il drama perfetto,in tutto dalla trama al amore alla storia ai attori e nonostante tutto il finale.
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Who would she end up with?
For a drama produced eight years ago, it was still very appealing. I had not watched the Scarlet Heart produced earlier in China, which was what this drama was modelled after. But I am now inspired to do that.Heart broken by her boyfriend and best friend who betrayed her, Go Han Jin was crying by the sea. While trying to save a drowning boy, an eclipse happened and Han Jin found herself transported back to the Goryeo era and into the body of Hae Soo. Here she witnessed the fight over the throne by the Princes.
Han Jin unwittingly attracted the attention of several of the princes and they fell in love with her. Most prominent was the 8th prince and 4th prince. The 8th prince was quietly plotting for the throne. The 4th prince was seemingly the ostracised and the least favoured for the throne, but unknown to most people including himself, he was born under the star of the King, the same as for the Crown Prince Wu.
So, who would Hae Soo end up with? The gentle loving 8th prince, the forceful 4th prince, the playful 10th prince or the righteous 14th prince?
1. The story was interesting. It was difficult to predict what might happened next. We know quite early who the next king would be but would he become the cruel king who massacred his brothers? Would Hae Soo be able to change that?
2. Character development was very evident. How a gentle soul become cunning in the face of the desire for power. How someone with no interest in the throne was eventually lead to follow his fate. How a confident modern maiden bowed down to the cruelty of the time.
3. Having only 20 episodes, the pace of the story development was fast and there were no dilly-dallying.
4. The cast was outstanding. The leads did a fabulous job. Lee Joon Gi portrayed the forceful 4th prince who was very much ashamed of the scar of his face. Kang Ha Neul had such a gentle look on his face when he was in love with Hae Soo. Hong Jong Hyun was absolute evil looking and he looked really deranged later in the drama. Then there is Byun Baek Hyun with this innocent, playful and silly look.
5. However, the drama was not without some flaws. In some instance, it was clear that the drama was deliberately made very makjang. The rather intelligent Hae Soo became brainless, weak and hesitant. And she started blaming Wang So for beating to death someone who had betrayed her trust. Of course, this was to lead to the chosen ending of the drama.
However, overall I highly recommend this drama.
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Memorable ending
Story: A heartbroken woman in modern world suddenly time traveled to Goryeo Dynasty after drowning and woke up with Hae Soo's body. The plot is full of politics, love stories, family issues and tragedies.Acting: Both leads did amazing in the series, as well as the other side characters and villains. However, there were few noticeable unconvincing acting or lacking of intensity emotions to some, especially in the last episodes of the drama.
Music: I love most of the sound effects used with catchy background music / osts.
Rewatch value: It's not rewatchable for me but i might wanna watch Jun Ki's scenes as he's really good looking in this drama.
Overall: What made this drama memorable for me is only the ending, some may hate it, some may love it but directing wise, it was an impactful one. It's one of those series that will make you feel sad whenever you remember it because of the ending. Kudos to IU and Lee Jun Ki for giving their best in creating their roles that will forever remain in our hearts and hopefully will remind everyone to not regret things and keep giving all our best in the face of challenges in life. Despite the traumatic ending, Scarlet Heart Ryeo isn't memorable as a whole. IU's character was all over the place and I couldn't understand what her goal was or what she values. Sometimes she values her life, sometimes she doesn't, so the things she did was a bit confusing and made me question her decisions in living in the palace, then staying away then back to living there again. The progress of Hae Soo and Wang So's (4th Prince)relationship was not as convincing like her and Wang Wook(8th Prince)'s initial love story, even so, they were still cute and believable because of their acting. The first few episodes were full of wisdom or quotable quotes but then faltered in the middle until the end because the focus was directed to the brothers fighting for the throne and giving us tragedy every step of the way. Even with the devastating events, i wasn't fully invested with each story as i felt detached or the flow of the story didn't make me feel connected with some of the princes' while IU's modern character had no explanation whatsoever as to what happened of her 'coma' like how she was saved and what happened to her best friend, boyfriend etc, where she's suddenly awake, back to working and with snippets of her 'time travel' experience via her dreams, which felt rushed and left me more confused. Quite a bit disappointed but still happy that I got to watch this drama, so my overall score would be 7-8 stars.
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