Movie is not perfect but the cinematography is to be praised for. For me, it's one of the best aspects of the movie. I also find the movie's concept of where an ancestor is buried on having an impact to their living descendants' life and fortune
It shouldn't have been a spoiler if you know the real history that Heungseon's son became king, but as I chose to ignore the real history, Heungseon being revealed to be a cunning man planning to take the opposite sides of Kim Jwa Geun and the royal king to fight for his own son to be king is quite a surprise.
Another great plot twist that I didnt expect was the irony of Kim Jwa Geun being buried by his son. Here is a man who would do a lot of evil deeds, like burying his dead dad above royal tombs, for his family's fortune, only to have his own son kill him since son feels a greater fortune for him i achieved if his own living father is buried (dead) in the best place as well.
I watched this since its the last Moon Chae Won historical work I haven't seen, and though her scenes are minimal, she's really good in playing her part as a gisaeng. Indeed, she also excelled in her heavy scenes, especially her death scene. But, of course, the best actors in this drama are Jo Seung Woo and Ji Sung. It's so great to see Baek Yoon Shik as a villain again here, I loved his special appearamce in Tree with Deep Roots. Kim Sung Kyun, Yoo Jae Myung and the rest of the cast are also great.
Music is not memorable but fits well in the movie.
Movie is an 8.5 for me.