Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• loudchen

  Overall 10

  Story 10,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 10

  Once upon a time in the vast realm of television, there was a series that captivated viewers with its spectacular plot. From the very first minute to the closing scene, it ensnared the senses, leaving no room for predictability. The story unfolded in such a way that one could never anticipate what was to come next, keeping hearts racing and minds guessing.
  
  As the enchanting tale unraveled, it was impossible to deny the brilliance of the cinematography. Each shot was carefully crafted, painting a vivid picture...

  that transported the audience into a world beyond their wildest imagination. The colors danced on the screen, enhancing the emotion and intensity of every scene. It was a visual feast for the eyes, a masterpiece in motion.
  
  But it was not just the visuals that left a lasting impression; the actors breathed life into their characters, bringing them to existence with their incredible performances. It was as if they possessed a magical prowess, effortlessly embodying the essence of their roles. Their emotions rang true, leaving the viewers feeling deeply connected to the struggles and triumphs of the characters. It was a testament to their immense talent and dedication.
  
  And oh, the lessons learned! Like hidden treasures, they were scattered throughout the series, waiting to be discovered. Each episode held a valuable message, a nugget of wisdom that resonated with the viewers. Life's complexities were explored, unveiling the depths of human nature and the intricacies of relationships. It was a journey of self-discovery and growth, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who embarked on this adventure.
  
  In conclusion, this series is a marvel that defies explanation. Words fail to capture its brilliance, leaving only a profound sense of awe and wonder. It is a masterstroke of storytelling, a feast for the senses, and a vessel of profound lessons. I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on this enchanting journey, as you too will find yourself at a loss for words, but forever transformed by the magic it possesses.

• tinybattleship

  Overall 8

  Story 8,  Acting 9.5,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 6

  Have you ever seen that Korean movie set in a specific time period like Gaksital (Bridal Mask)? Well, this TV series reminds me of it. It's all about a Korean citizen, or they used to call themselves Joseon people back then, who joins the Japanese forces and becomes a high-ranking police officer. But there's also a group of Joseon citizens secretly fighting for their country's independence.
  
  What I noticed about these Korean movies is that they really take their time to tell the story. It's slow-paced,...

  especially in the first half, as they carefully set up all the details and build the overall plot. So don't be fooled by the quiet moments, because the tension and threats will explode unexpectedly and keep you on the edge of your seat.
  
  I get it, some people might get bored because of its slow and calm progress. But if you allow yourself to get lost in this mysterious story, the ending will hit you like a ton of bricks. You won't even see it coming, and you'll be left sitting there, in shock, feeling that undeniable pressure in your chest.
  
  This TV series boasts some top-notch actors, but there's one who really stands out from the rest - Song Kang Ho. I've seen him in other movies before, but his performance in this series captivated me like never before. It didn't happen right away, but there was this one scene, one moment, one gesture, and he completely blew me away. I was caught off guard and ended up in tears.
  
  Unfortunately, I can't say the same for Gong Yoo. He was good, no doubt, and had his shining moments, but his character felt a bit shallow overall. Even Lee Byung Hun's short appearance had a bigger impact on me.
  
  If I had to complain about one thing, it would be that I wished they shed more light on the actual situation of the Joseon people during that time.
  
  Overall, I'd recommend this series to those who have patience and enjoy slowly unfolding stories. It's perfect for anyone interested in this period of time. Just a heads up, there's some blood involved in certain scenes, so maybe avoid eating while watching if you're sensitive to that stuff.

• ShyHuang61

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 9,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 9

  In the realm of South Korean cinema, there is a director who stands above the rest: Kim Jee-woon. Known for his ability to create films that are not only entertaining but also socially relevant, he is a master of his craft. When Gong Yoo and Song Kang-ho, two exceptionally talented actors, join forces with him, magic happens. This is precisely the case in their latest collaboration, a film that I can't mention by name but can certainly describe its brilliance.
  
  From the very beginning, it's apparent...

  that this film is something special. The screenplay is a work of art, filled with unexpected twists and finely crafted details that keep you on the edge of your seat. And Kim Jee-woon's direction? Flawless, as always. He knows how to bring out the best in his actors, allowing them to truly embody their characters and make you feel their every emotion.
  
  Speaking of the actors, Gong Yoo and Song Kang-ho deliver performances that are nothing short of remarkable. You can't help but connect with them on a deep level, experiencing the highs and lows alongside them. Their natural talent shines through, making their characters truly come to life on the screen.
  
  But this film isn't just about great acting and direction. It offers so much more. The thrilling moments will leave you breathless, the action sequences are nothing short of spectacular, and the cinematography is stunning. Every scene is a visual feast for the eyes, supported by the powerful emotions that the story evokes.
  
  One particular standout in the film is Lee Byung-hun, who graces the screen with his presence. His performance is a true pleasure to watch, adding another layer of depth to an already compelling narrative. And let's not forget the perfectly placed humor, which adds a touch of levity to the intense moments.
  
  However, I must admit that the film could have benefited from tighter editing. Some scenes could have been trimmed to maintain a better pace. It starts off a bit slow, which might not immediately engage everyone. But when it grabs hold of you, it does so with a firm grip, delivering a truly satisfying experience.
  
  As a long-time admirer of Kim Jee-woon's work, I have no doubt that this film is his masterpiece. It lives up to the high expectations set by his previous films, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of South Korean cinema. It offers a glimpse into a world that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, leaving you with much to ponder long after the credits roll.

• ShiningRatatouille

  Overall 9

  Story 8,  Acting 10,  Music 8,  Rewatch Value 9

  In "The Age of Shadows," director Kim Jee-woon makes a triumphant return after a -year hiatus with an action-packed cat-and-mouse thriller. The film boasts an impressive lineup of actors, including Sang Kang-ho, Gong Yoo, Lee Byung-hun, and Um Tae-Goo, who bring their characters to life with great intensity. From the start, Kim leaves viewers guessing as to what is happening, only to gradually unveil a series of well-crafted action sequences and suspenseful twists. The minutes-long train sequence in particular stands out as one of the...

  most thrilling and pulse-pounding moments in cinema. Cinematographer Kim Ji-Young further enhances the film's visual appeal with retro-like colors and saturated tones, immersing audiences in the setting of South Korea and Shanghai. While the film explores themes of loyalty and patriotism, it ultimately serves as a highly entertaining and well-executed cinematic experience, leaving viewers yearning for more.

• wildchoi72

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 9.5,  Rewatch Value 9

  Buckle up, folks, because "Even when we fail, we move forward" is one heck of a thrill ride that had me on the edge of my seat! This movie is an absolute gem that I'm so grateful to have stumbled upon. Let's start with the cast, which is just out of this world! Every single actor brought their A-game to the table, but let me tell you, Uhm Tae absolutely stole the show. This guy is a force to be reckoned with, and I'm already...

  counting down the days until we get to feast our eyes on his next project.
  
  Now, let's talk about the direction. Wow! This filmmaker knows how to keep you hooked from start to finish. The way the story unfolds is nothing less than a rollercoaster of emotions. And speaking of the story, don't you dare let the runtime scare you away. Trust me, every minute of this movie is worth it. It's like a delicious buffet for your eyes and mind.
  
  And let's not forget about the remarkable performance by Gong Yoo. This guy just never fails to blow me away. Talk about charisma and talent! He's a true superstar who knows how to command every scene he's in. It's performances like his that remind us why we love the magic of movies.
  
  So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare yourself for one heck of an adventure with "Even when we fail, we move forward". You won't be able to resist being swept away by its gripping storyline, stellar cast, and the electrifying charm of Gong Yoo. Trust me, this one's a winner!