Playing Ep 01

What people are saying

• roughwalrus90

  Overall 5.5

  Story 2,  Acting 7,  Music 1,  Rewatch Value 1

  From the very beginning, Penthouse captivated viewers with its gripping storyline and intriguing characters. The early seasons were an absolute delight, keeping us on the edge of our seats. The mystery, the drama, the suspense... it was all there, making it truly worth watching.
  
  However, as the third season unfolded, we couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment. The once-thrilling plot seemed to lose its spark, and we found ourselves longing for the excitement of the earlier episodes. It's like the series took a detour...

  from its original course, with endless resurrections, twisty twin storylines, and actors playing dual roles. While it initially added a touch of novelty, it eventually felt like a desperate attempt to milk the show's popularity.
  
  Perhaps the writer got overwhelmed or ran out of fresh ideas, because the later episodes lacked the creative punch we had come to expect. Nonetheless, we held on, hoping for a grand finale that would tie up loose ends and provide some closure. And while this season didn't match the anticipation of previous ones, we stuck around because we had invested so much time and emotion into the series.
  
  Despite its flaws, Penthouse still managed to capture our attention for many seasons. It serves as a cautionary tale that success doesn't guarantee a smooth journey until the end. Nevertheless, we can't deny the impact it had on us in its prime - those were the moments we eagerly awaited every week.
  
  So, while we may not be as enthusiastic about this latest season, we remain grateful for the incredible entertainment and thrilling moments Penthouse brought us over the years. Here's to hoping that future series learn from its example and know when to bring the curtain down gracefully.

• OldPark

  Overall 4

  Story 4,  Acting 8,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 1

  I have to say, I am beyond disappointed with the ending of this season. It truly made no sense amidst all the craziness we've witnessed. First of all, Logan's sudden death felt completely unnecessary. If his cancer had returned, why didn't they explore the possibility of Seok Hyung donating her stem cells, just like Seol A did before? I mean, they're twin sisters, so chances are she would have been a match. Plus, knowing Logan's character, he would have fought to keep on living for...

  the sake of Seok's twins and Bae Ro Na. It just didn't sit well with me.
  
  And let's talk about Sim Su Ryeon's decision to take her own life. It felt so out of character for her. I understand that she had faced tremendous loss, but she still had so much to live for, especially after discovering Seok Hyun was her biological daughter and having her 'fake' daughter in the USA. Not to mention her other children like Seok Hoon, Logan, and Bae Rona. It just seemed like a stupid and unnecessary choice for her.
  
  Moving on to the wedding/engagement event, I fully believed it was all a trap to catch Ju Dan Tae. I mean, why else would they have such a grand gathering without expecting him to show up and try to sabotage it? It was clear from the start that Logan had seen him before going to see Su Ryeon, but then conveniently forgot about him and acted shocked when he appeared. Seriously, what kind of trash security did they have? And who in their right mind answers a call while walking down the aisle? It was just ridiculous.
  
  Now, let's discuss Oh Yoon Hee's death. This whole scene felt like something out of a Marvel movie. I mean, how did she manage to push back her car at the edge of a cliff while another car, with a brick on the accelerator, was pushing against hers? It was like she had some super soldier serum or Hulk-like power. And instead of simply dragging Eun Byeol out of the car, she decided to shout at her to wake up. It was just plain dumb.
  
  And don't even get me started on Ju Dan Tae's demise. For someone who caused so much stress and hatred, his death did not satisfy me at all. This man deserved a much worse fate, like a bullet to the head followed by a fall from the penthouse onto a statue. I craved Vincenzo-level torture and death for him. Remember how he ruthlessly attempted to kill Bae Ro Na by stabbing her in the brain? And he just returned as if he did nothing wrong. No, he truly deserved more pain in his ultimate demise.
  
  The same goes for Cheon Seo Jin. After everything she did, it felt too easy for her to end up killing herself. I understand the remorse after her daughter's heartbreaking words in the courtroom and her ex's plea to spare her, but she should have lived a long life in prison, paying for her crimes.
  
  In hindsight, I agree with those who say that this season shouldn't have happened if they were just going to kill off the main good guys, Su Ryeon and Logan. It feels like a waste to have gone through all of this when Su Ryeon could have accomplished everything on her own with the help of the other characters. It just feels inconsistent and unsatisfying.
  
  And speaking of inconsistencies, I have to mention how the writers handled the characters. One moment, Su Ryeon and Logan are portrayed as super smart, thinking of every possibility and planning ahead. But then, there are instances where they act incredibly dumb and fall for simple traps. The same can be said for Ju Dan Tae. His character, in my opinion, would have survived season (not the part where he was shot, but before that). He would have planned to eliminate those who had evidence against him, just like he always did. But instead, he suddenly became foolish and paid them off until he had no money left. It just felt like a cheap way to make him dumb so they could kill him and wrap up the story. It left a bitter taste in my mouth.
  
  And let's not forget about all the unanswered questions. What happened to Alex and his black bodyguards? What about Sim Su Ryeon's fake daughter? And Jennie's Dad? And the real Ju Dan Tae? It feels like there were loose ends that were left hanging.
  
  Overall, I must say that this season's ending was a letdown for me. It lacked the satisfaction and consistency that I had hoped for. It's unfortunate because this show had so much potential, but it fell short in the final moments. It's safe to say that I was left disappointed and wanting more.

• fluffyshen12

  Overall 9

  Story 8.5,  Acting 10,  Music 9,  Rewatch Value 7

  Once upon a time, there was a highly anticipated TV series that had everyone talking. Despite the mixed reviews and negative feedback, I decided to give it a chance, spurred on by my unwavering devotion to this show. And boy, am I glad I did.
  
  One of the most impressive aspects of this series was how it transformed weak characters from previous seasons into powerful and captivating individuals. Take Bae Ro Na, for example. From someone who could never catch a break, she managed to steal...

  the spotlight from her rival, leaving viewers in awe. And then there was Seok-hoon, who went from being unable to stand up against the villainous Joo Dan-Tae to actively helping bring him to justice. The character development was truly remarkable.
  
  But it wasn't just the weaker characters who underwent transformations. Even the most despicable individuals in the show, like Seok Kyung and Kang Ma-ri, surprised us with their growth. Throughout the series, they had treated Bae Ro Na poorly, but later on, they managed to redeem themselves and win over the hearts of viewers. Seok Kyung learned compassion and independence, while Kang Ma-ri stepped up as a mother figure to Bae Ro Na. It was a beautiful change to witness.
  
  Of course, no show is perfect, and this one had its flaws. The deaths of major characters felt somewhat underwhelming. Joo Dan-Tae's demise, for instance, lacked the impact one would expect for such a formidable villain. It felt like a missed opportunity to keep the tension alive until the very end. The same can be said for the deaths of Oh Yoon He and Yoon Cheol. Their exits from the show felt more like attempts to prolong the narrative, rather than satisfying conclusions.
  
  Another drawback was the constant play on death. Characters would die, only to miraculously return to life, causing confusion and lowering the stakes. It became a predictable pattern that undermined the show's credibility. After a while, every death seemed to carry less weight, as viewers anticipated the inevitable comebacks.
  
  And then there was the ending. It was undeniably cruel in some respects. The suicide of a beloved character, Shim Su Ryeon, felt unjustified and left us heartbroken. And when Logan also took his own life, it felt like too much to bear. We finally witnessed true deaths in the series, but they seemed unnecessary and robbed us of the closure we craved. On top of that, Seo-jin's sudden battle with cancer felt like an unnecessary plot twist that allowed her to escape facing the consequences of her actions.
  
  Despite these flaws, the show did manage to provide moments of peace and closure for some characters. The parents, except for a few, sacrificed themselves for the sake of a peaceful future for their children. It was heartwarming to see Bae Ro Na claim her rightful place, surrounded by her loved ones, and Seok Kyung finding solace in a simpler life, paying for all her wrongdoings.
  
  But the most heart-wrenching scene came when Kang Ma-ri saw someone who resembled the late Shim Su Ryeon, leaving us to question if she was truly gone. Tears streamed down my face as the truth slowly unraveled, thanks to a poignant scene involving Bae Ro Na and Logan. It was a bittersweet moment that showcased the emotional depth of the series.
  
  All in all, this show was a rollercoaster ride, characterized by incredible performances from a talented cast. While there is a part of me that believes the story could have ended sooner, the decision to explore life after prison had its merits. Unfortunately, this was overshadowed by the premature deaths of key characters, robbing us of the happy ending we yearned for. Nevertheless, the reunion of Logan and Shim Su Ryeon with their deceased loved ones brought a sense of closure and peace.
  
  As the curtains close on this captivating series, it's hard not to feel a pang of sadness. The journey was a wild one, complete with unforgettable plot twists. This may be the end, but the memories and the impact of this show will linger for a long time.

• fastryan

  Overall 7.5

  Story 4,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 5.5

  Calling all drama lovers! Hold onto your seats because I've got a review for you that you won't want to miss. It's time to talk about a show that has taken the world by storm - let's dive into the captivating world of Penthouse!
  
  First and foremost, I must give a round of applause to the incredible actors who brought this show to life. Their outstanding performances combined with the mesmerizing music and OSTs had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish....

  Thrilling and exciting are just a few words that come to mind when trying to express the sheer brilliance of this show.
  
  Now, if you haven't watched the latest season yet and are expecting a happy ending, I must warn you to brace yourself. Pretend that the ending of Penthouse was in a previous season because this season takes some unexpected and jaw-dropping turns.
  
  The beginning episodes of this season are absolutely captivating, drawing you deeper into the complex storyline. However, as you reach episode and head towards the finale, you may feel like the charm of the show starts to fade a bit. But fear not, because curiosity and hope will bring you back for more, eager to see if your favorite characters make a triumphant return.
  
  Okay, now for some spoilers (cue dramatic music)! Brace yourselves, because one of the most shocking moments in the show is when YoonHee meets an untimely demise. Yes, she will not be making a miraculous comeback, which did make this season a bit less interesting compared to previous ones.
  
  And let's talk about that ending, shall we? Disappointing doesn't even begin to describe it. I'm still scratching my head, wondering why the writer decided to take out some major characters like Oh YoonHee, Dr. Ha, SuRyeon, and Logan. And don't even get me started on the reunion in heaven. It left me with a heavy heart and a longing for a different outcome.
  
  Although I must admit, the death of Dan Tae was definitely deserved, I can't help but feel it could have been more satisfying. The writer had the opportunity to give us a villainous demise on par with Vincenzo, but unfortunately, it fell a bit short.
  
  As for redemption, don't expect Seo Jin and Dan Tae to have a change of heart and beg for forgiveness. They'll meet their fate without feeling an ounce of guilt, even though Seo Jin does show remorse for her daughter's actions.
  
  Overall, I can't believe this wild ride has come to an end. I initially started watching Penthouse because of a TikTok clip, not expecting it to blow my mind. The stress, the excitement, and the waiting for each incredible season has made this a drama that will forever hold a special place in my heart.
  
  I must mention the fascinating Greek mythology symbols woven into the storyline, making the show even more intriguing and enjoyable. Connecting with fellow viewers online, sharing reactions, and making predictions has been an absolute delight.
  
  But alas, I must bid farewell to this season, and while it may not be one I'll rewatch, I'll definitely revisit the earlier seasons that stole my heart. Season and will forever be my favorites, as they wrapped up beautifully and felt like a seamless continuation of the storyline.
  
  In hindsight, I can't help but wonder why this particular season even existed. Perhaps if there were a few more episodes or an extended ending for the previous season, it could have provided a more satisfying conclusion. Nevertheless, I'm grateful for the wild ride this season has taken me on.
  
  I may not have all the answers, but one thing's for sure - Penthouse has left an indelible mark on my television-watching experience. So grab some popcorn, gather your fellow drama enthusiasts, and prepare for a rollercoaster ride like no other. Trust me, it's a show that demands to be seen. Just remember, I will personally pretend that Penthouse ended in season ?.

• DullTang

  Overall 9

  Story 9,  Acting 10,  Music 10,  Rewatch Value 8.5

  A Spectacular Journey Filled with Drama and Suspense!
  
  When I found out that my beloved drama, the one and only Penthouse, was getting more seasons, I couldn't contain my excitement! Despite growing tired of long-running western TV shows, I was thrilled to dive into more scandalous episodes of Penthouse. However, now that I've finished this season, I must admit that extending it may not have been the best decision.
  
  Without giving away too much, let me tell you that this season took a turn that left me...

  feeling frustrated. It seemed as if the events of the previous season were being erased, which left me scratching my head in confusion. Arrested in the season finale, only to be free in the first episode of the new season? What's the point, right? Nevertheless, I'm willing to overlook these minor inconsistencies because, let's face it, Penthouse is all about being over the top and dramatic!
  
  But let's talk about the characters, shall we? The acting in Penthouse has always been top-notch, and this season is no exception. The cast delivered superb performances with the material given to them. Now, the characters themselves... Joo Dan Tae remained his crazy self, and as for Cheon Seo Jin, well, I'll get to that in a moment. I enjoyed the development of other characters, except for Joo Seok Kyung. She seemed to be heading towards growth at the end of the previous season, but the new season turned her into a full-blown villain. Thankfully, she came to her senses eventually, thanks to some shocking news. Among all the characters, Ro Na truly stood out for me this season. She, along with Shim Su Ryeon and Joo Seok Hoon, managed to captivate my attention throughout the drama.
  
  Now, let's briefly touch on a few other aspects. I still believe that the network should have aired Penthouse on both Fridays and Saturdays instead of just Fridays. The suspense is too much to handle, and I'm sure SBS underestimated the show's popularity this season. As for the OSTs, they were good, but I would have loved to see more variety, just like in previous seasons.
  
  Okay, now brace yourselves for some major spoilers! *drum roll*
  
  I have no problem with major characters dying as long as it serves a purpose. Oh Yoon Hee's death was heartbreaking but justified. However, killing off Cheon Seo Jin in this season felt out of place. She went through so much in the previous season, and this felt like "season erasure" to me. And when Logan Lee resurfaced, I was even more disappointed with Oh Yoon Hee's demise because it meant no more fake deaths in the same season. And don't even get me started on the ending... I can't believe they killed off Shim Su Ryeon! While everything else was resolved nicely, I believe her surviving would have been the ultimate victory. Nonetheless, Penthouse came pretty close to a perfect ending, and that's a rare feat these days.
  
  In conclusion, despite its flaws, especially in this season, Penthouse will always hold a special place in my heart. If I were to rewatch it, I might just stop a few minutes before the season finale, as season isn't entirely necessary. It remains one of the best melodramas out there, and I'm grateful to have embarked on this crazy journey since day one. Penthouse, you are a masterpiece that will be remembered forever!