I am a mess! My mind and heart are all torn up! It took almost 13 days and 81 episodes to finish and I didn't want it to end! This 18-year-old epic drama is THE best I've seen and I've seen many of the top saeguks! The writing, the costumes, the details of each faction of war (the making of steel swords, iron armors, bomblets, fireballs, catapults, etc)...all in amazing color and splendor! Character development was important and the director took his time in developing ALL of the lead and supporting characters. I was enthralled at each one- including some man-to-man attraction (unnecessary to me). The fight scenes and battles were superbly filmed and choreographed. The friendships and bromances were funny yet valiant in nature.
Actor Song Ilgook as JUMONG was all-macho in his demeanor and yet vulnerable at heart. He wore those armors and kingly wardrobe best I've seen on any of the kings I've seen. I only wish he held or hugged or even kissed his women. No such luck. There was strength and clarity in his acting and can't wait to see some more of his other series. Actress Han Hye Jin was gorgeous throughout and portrayed a very strong Soseono. The "three musketeers" were my favorite people: Yeo Ho Min (Oi), Ahn Jung Hoon (MaRi) and Im Dae Ho (Hyop Bo) actors who portrayed true loyalty and love yet amazing martial arts! Veteran actor Lee Kye In (Chief Blacksmith) made me laugh and cry with superb acting chops...pathetic, loveable, warm and cried SO well! The King, the evil Prince and his flighty brother, the true father and warrior Hae Mo Soo, the bitchy Han daughter, the sweet Mother and wife of JUMONG, ...where does one end? Everyone was terrific!
I cannot say much more. THANK YOU, VIKI and Kocowa for presenting this jewel after 18 years. I hope many, many more people see this!
Actor Song Ilgook as JUMONG was all-macho in his demeanor and yet vulnerable at heart. He wore those armors and kingly wardrobe best I've seen on any of the kings I've seen. I only wish he held or hugged or even kissed his women. No such luck. There was strength and clarity in his acting and can't wait to see some more of his other series. Actress Han Hye Jin was gorgeous throughout and portrayed a very strong Soseono. The "three musketeers" were my favorite people: Yeo Ho Min (Oi), Ahn Jung Hoon (MaRi) and Im Dae Ho (Hyop Bo) actors who portrayed true loyalty and love yet amazing martial arts! Veteran actor Lee Kye In (Chief Blacksmith) made me laugh and cry with superb acting chops...pathetic, loveable, warm and cried SO well! The King, the evil Prince and his flighty brother, the true father and warrior Hae Mo Soo, the bitchy Han daughter, the sweet Mother and wife of JUMONG, ...where does one end? Everyone was terrific!
I cannot say much more. THANK YOU, VIKI and Kocowa for presenting this jewel after 18 years. I hope many, many more people see this!