Mr. Sunshine (2018)

Mr. Sunshine is a South Korean period drama that was released on Netflix in 2018. The series is a historical drama set in late 19th and early 20th century Korea, during a period of great upheaval and change within the country. It was written by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Lee Eung-bok, the same duo responsible for successful series such as "Goblin" and "Descendants of the Sun". With its visually stunning cinematography, impressive cast, and intricate plot, the series achieved significant acclaim and popularity.

The lead actor, Lee Byung-hun, portrays the character of American military officer Eugene Choi, born as a slave in Joseon but escapes to the United States after a traumatic event leads to his parents' deaths. He returns to his homeland later as a U.S. marine officer, where he crosses path with the noblewoman, Go Ae-shin, portrayed by Kim Tae-ri, whose life takes a drastic turn when she secretly becomes a sharpshooter for the Righteous Army. There's a palpable romance that sparks between the two characters, with tense and heartfelt moments that captivate audiences.

The supporting cast is not to be overlooked, each offering talent and depth to the narrative. Yoo Yeon-seok portrays Goo Dong-mae, a butcher’s son who becomes the leader of a gang in Japan and Byun Yo-han stars as Kim Hee-sung, a nobleman who has returned from studying in Japan and views life cynically. Kim Min-joung plays Kudo Hina, a beautiful and assertive woman who manages the Hotel Glory, a symbol of foreign influence in the Joseon capital.

Despite being a period drama, Mr. Sunshine is able to appeal to modern audiences through its themes of resistance, oppression, and the quest for freedom. Viewers are reminded of the sacrifices that were made during Korea's fight for independence, and the struggles that people underwent in trying to preserve their culture and national identity.

The series beautifully depicts the historical landscape, making for spectacular viewing. The production's attention to detail, including the costumes and sets, comes across well and adds to the authenticity of the series. Of particular note is the portrayal of early 1900s Seoul, with its mixture of Western and traditional Korean architecture, representing the country in a period of turmoil and change.

With its fusion of romance, action, and political intrigue, Mr. Sunshine manages to weave a complex storyline that keeps viewers captivated from start to finish. The dialogues are profound, deeply emotional, and thought-provoking, giving the characters depth and personality. The chemistry between the characters further enhances the show's appeal, with each actor bringing their own unique charm to the drama.

Each episode is filled with twists and turns, unraveling deep-rooted conspiracies, bitter rivalries, and historic revolutions, which make each scene suspenseful. The romantic relationships intertwined with the socio-political upheavals of the time make this drama an absorbing watch.

The performances are powerful, with Lee Byung-hun standing out for his nuanced portrayal of a character torn between loyalty to his adopted country and the homeland he barely knew. Kim Tae-ri brings a perfect blend of strength and vulnerability to her role as a noblewoman who is driven by her patriotic zeal.

Mr. Sunshine includes subtle humor, tear-jerking moments, and intense action scenes, culminating in a mesmerizing historical drama that feels fresh and original. It delivers a powerful message about the sacrifice for national freedom and personal love. All elements, from the grand historical backdrop, drawn-out characters, and the compelling storyline make Mr. Sunshine a must-watch series.

Whether you're a fan of historical dramas or an admirer of Korean television series, Mr. Sunshine offers an enticing, emotional, and thoughtful viewing experience. The impeccable storytelling matched with the dazzling visuals and a tremendously talented cast makes this series a milestone in Korean television history.