Joseon Exorcist (2021)
Supernatural intrigue in ancient Joseon. Evil spirits, political machinations, and gory battles. A captivating fusion of history and horror.
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Synopsis
A fantasy-action sageuk that takes place after the establishment of the Joseon dynasty and tells the story of the undead who come back to life after being killed by the royal family.
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Editor's Review
A Supernatural Saga of Ambition and Spirits
Rating: 8.0/10
In the shadowed corridors of Joseon, where history intertwines with the supernatural, Joseon Exorcist emerges as an ambitious sageuk (historical drama) that weaves evil spirits and gory battles into its fictional retelling of the past. With a blend of horror, intrigue, and political machinations, this series introduces us to a world where malevolence threatens to consume the very fabric of the kingdom.
Plot Summary: When an ancient malevolent spirit, once imprisoned, breaks free in Joseon, the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. Two princes, each with their own motivations, find themselves at the heart of this supernatural struggle. The crown prince, driven by greed and ambition, aligns himself with the forces of darkness. In contrast, the younger prince fights relentlessly to safeguard the people of Joseon from the encroaching evil.
What Works:
- Dark Atmosphere: Joseon Exorcist excels in creating a brooding and ominous ambiance. The historical backdrop, with its intricate costumes and elaborate sets, adds authenticity to the supernatural elements.
- Gory Spectacle: The series doesn’t shy away from visceral horror. Expect gruesome exorcisms, eerie apparitions, and intense battles against malevolent spirits.
- Jang Dong-yoon’s Performance: As the younger prince, Jang Dong-yoon delivers a compelling portrayal. His internal conflict, determination, and vulnerability make him a standout character.
- Political Intrigue: The power struggles within the royal court add depth to the narrative. The clash between duty, loyalty, and personal desires keeps viewers engaged.
What Falls Short:
- Pacing: Joseon Exorcist stumbles in its pacing. The initial episodes introduce intriguing concepts but rush through critical plot points. The abrupt cancellation further exacerbates this issue.
- Incomplete Story Arcs: The series starts and ends without fully resolving its central conflicts. Viewers are left with dangling threads, yearning for closure.
- Limited Character Development: Some characters remain underdeveloped, preventing emotional investment. The crown prince’s transformation lacks nuance.
Verdict: Joseon Exorcist tantalizes with its unique blend of historical drama and supernatural horror. While it stumbles in execution, it leaves an indelible mark. Imagine a fusion of Kingdom and Game of Thrones, with a dash of Korean folklore. Despite its premature demise, this drama remains a captivating “what if” scenario—a glimpse into a Joseon plagued by malevolent spirits and fractured loyalties.
In a world where darkness lurks behind every palace wall, the battle for Joseon’s soul unfolds. Whether you’re drawn by the eerie exorcisms or the political machinations, Joseon Exorcist invites you to tread carefully—lest you become entangled in its spectral web.
Note: The drama’s cancellation may leave you craving answers, but sometimes the unresolved mysteries linger like restless spirits, haunting our thoughts long after the screen fades to black.