Enjoyed But !! Something turned out missing.
Don't expect more !!!I expected another best thriller from Director ' Lee Chang Hee ', Thriller/Mystery/ Action Webtoon adaptation + top casting currently trending combination, also casting like Choi Woo-shik and Son Suk for the plot. It started very well, from a person accidentally killed another person . Let's see what happens next, but after the fifth episode, it totally went down. Good screenplay, but messy story telling and narration sometimes confuse me. Once the schoolgirl suicide story starts, drama takes speed to run forward. I expected let's see what they would bring up in their next cases this time to define law and vigilantism equally or justify the perfect answer to law and vigilantism. But once this story ends, that's where drama starts with a lack of thrilling elements or next-case-setup aspects.
Plot Setup :-
For the crime thriller genre,'the crime cases are crucial to give a good outcome for the thriller experience, like why they killed, what's their motive, and most importantly, how the investigation develops from ep to ep by solving them and how they reached the killer, but in this drama they got weak cases, weak investigation setup, and I surprised how quickly they solved the cases. Yes, it's an 8-episode drama, but in that case, if they focus on big-case investigation by giving background on small cases, then it would be a good thriller.
A plot twist is a top darma/cine aspect that introduces some new element into a work of fiction that either radically changes the expected direction or outcome of the story, or sheds new and startling light on prior events in the plot or indicates the one's drama/movie ending, after watching slow pre climax eps I'm excited to watch which type of plot twist they planted, but once plot twist revealed, I didn't understand it's weak writing or weak plot.
Drama weak points :-
• Messy story telling/narration
• Less thriller elements
• rushed crime cases solving
• plot holes
• failed to create suspense
Drama Strong points :-
• Actors acting
• Son Suk, Choi Woo Shik characterization song
• Cinematography
• Screenplay
The writer failed to give a more thriller/tight script, and the director failed to bring the best output from the drama using thriller elements, but what I liked and what is the good point in this drama is Choi Woo Shik, Son Suk acting, and also in the last episode, Lee Hee Jun, a wonderful performance from these trio. Especially Son Suk, as a neglected child and a cop working for the law and justice, given his well-settled performance. Choi Woo Shik's characterization is a bit dissatisfying to me; in fact, he gave a decent performance as an ordinary student and a dark no-mask vigilante. But there is no strong characterization this time, or it's for me to expect more raw characterization from him in a thriller like The Witch. Once he justified his killings, there was no character development for him, and he became a side character in the last episodes. At this point the Writer and Director failed to utilise his potential fully. Yes, plot looks great but it only get hit when the writer polish the adaption more.
Direction and other Departments :-
I like the director's "Lee Chang Hee' works. I watched his previous works, "Stormer from Hell" and "The Vanished." Both are good crime thrillers. His taking clearly marks thrilling elements in those works, but when it comes to Killer Paradox, it looks like he failed this time, but in some episodes he showed his mark.
The background score is crucial for thriller mysteries; there are times when background music saved some scenes. It’s important to add the right sounds and music in the background of suspenseful scenes to avoid confusing the viewer but except in some eps there's no right moment of background score.
Cinematography is good, especially some slow motion shots are excellent !!
As a thriller lover I enjoyed but not completely ! ! !
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I expected more...
After I saw the casting and the trailer I was really excited to watch this show and thought it would be another thriller masterpiece. However, it turned out for me to be a bit disappointed. It's definitely not a bad show and I still enjoyed it overall but I just couldn't help feeling sad that I didn't like watching it as much as I thought I would.The acting and casting is on another level with Choi Woo-sik and Son Sukku as the main characters. Nevertheless, I wished for more screentime of Lee Tang (played by Choi Woo-shik) because I personally thought the thriller was going to be a bit more through the eyes of the killer than the police officer. Because of the lack of screentime I found it difficult to relate to the character or at least understand his traits a bit more.
The first episodes were all great and I couldn't wait to watch the show further but later on at approximately episode 5 and following I got a bit bored and it felt really slow. I personally didn't like the adding of Song Chon as a character but I do understand that he had to be there to make the story clearer. I simply wished for more thriller aspects. However, the ending really got me and I'm hoping for season 2!!!
(I did this review only based on the series I did not read the webnovel it's based on)
All in all, the drama disappointed me even though it may have been because of my high expectations.
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A Thrilling, Fast-Paced Drama Not to Be Missed
If you're on the fence about diving into this series, let me sway you with three simple words: Go for it. In an era where television often stretches thin plots over too many episodes, this drama emerges as a breath of fresh air with its concise and fast-paced storytelling. It's a rare gem that knows exactly how long to hold its audience, making every moment count without overstaying its welcome.One of the show's standout features is its background music. While it may not boast a memorable original soundtrack (OST) that sticks with you, the score in climactic scenes is nothing short of masterful. It grips you, enhances the tension, and elevates the drama, ensuring that you're glued to your seat, fully immersed in the unfolding narrative.
The casting is impeccable, with performances that resonate and linger long after the credits roll. The male lead (ML), in particular, delivers a nuanced portrayal of a journey from confusion to confidence. This character's evolution is beautifully crafted, reflecting the complex reality that confidence is never absolute. The moments when he allows his emotions to surface are among the show's highlights, adding layers to his character and enriching the story.
Additionally, the series explores themes of friendship and camaraderie, weaving a subtle bromance that adds depth and warmth to the narrative. It's a refreshing element that balances the more intense moments and provides viewers with a multifaceted viewing experience.
However, viewers should be advised that the show does not shy away from mature content, including some nudity across a few episodes. While it serves the storyline, it's something to be mindful of depending on your preferences.
In conclusion, this drama stands out for its ability to deliver a compelling, tightly-packed story that captivates from start to finish. Its strengths lie in its exceptional music score, outstanding performances (especially from the male lead), and its intelligent pacing. If you're looking for a series that's engaging, emotionally resonant, and refreshingly succinct, look no further. This drama is a must-watch, promising an unforgettable viewing experience that will leave you both satisfied and wanting more.
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A Fun Camp Thriller for Superhero Fans
Take note, Viola Davis, turns out you only need sheer luck to get away with murder. At first, I thought, "where can they possibly go from here?" when I realized how ridiculous the premise is. But before I knew it, I binged the whole thing in a day because, to my surprise, they did not repeat the first episode over and over again. The plot actually progresses in a direction I did not expect, and while "A Killer Paradox" is not a hard-boiled thriller series by any means, its campiness made it fun to watch as it fully embraces its absurd elements.It helps that Choi Wooshik did great as the pathetic main character, Lee Tang. Other actors did well too, but I can't really pay full attention to them because I was too distracted with the weird directing style. Discarding the nausea-inducing shaky cams in Strangers from Hell, director Lee Changhee opted to create this weird mix of surrealism while also utilizing the type of zoom ins you would usually see in docudramas and mockumentaries. Such a weird combination, but it works with the drama's camp thriller tone.
With the tone and directing style alone, I understand that this drama is not for everyone. While it does touch on sensitive topics such as rape, "A Killer Paradox" mostly revolves around the common subject given to most anti-heroes without no-kill rules: is it morally right to be the judge, jury, and executioner all at once? Not a very groundbreaking question, as it's already been done a million times, but you can still enjoy the show for its entertainment value.
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Disappointing
This has all the issues I see with Netflix produced kdramas. Unnecessary sex scenes, female nudity (it’s always women), and really bad dialogue. I came to understand Netflix subtitles don’t translate exactly what’s said, but what they translated made it sound as if the script used swear words the way a twelve year old would if they just discovered them. In addition, I didn’t think any female character was written well or treated all that well development wise. It was a huge bummer because the premise interested me. I can’t help but wonder what this would’ve been like produced by another network.Anyway, I don’t have complaints about the acting of the MLs. Some of the cinematography was interesting.
Sometimes I can ignore some bad spots if the story is intriguing enough but I found this drama also dragged a lot. Disappointing.
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Good but nothing new
Overall it's a good drama, the acting and the cinematography are pretty good and I did enjoyed watching it. Also the length of the whole series and episodes is really pleasant. However, it's nothing really new, it's a pretty basic story: One impulsive kill - keeps killing - some cop playing a bigger role.I wouldn't say it's a 'must watch' but if you like thriller and all you really should give it a chance!
I also really liked the ending, it was neither expected nor unexpected, neither good nor bad. I'm wondering if there's more to come or if this is really the ending!
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Refreshing
The series is unique to me because the main lead isn't even the center of the story. Most of the time, we were in the point of view of Jang Nan Gam (Son Suk Ku). At the beginning of the episode, we were in the perspective of Lee Tang (Choi Woo Shik). After being chased by the police, we were mostly in the police's point of view. After that, it became more mysterious with the introduction of Song Chon (Lee Hee Joon), who drove the series until the end. For me, that was a unique way of writing the story, and I love it.The plot is very fresh and interesting. I can't recall when a series or movie had such a refreshing plot, especially in Korean drama or movies where characters can sometimes feel repetitive. The switching of the point of view is truly lovely and unnoticeable. Lee Chang Hee (Director) also directed "Strangers From Hell," and it's no wonder this series turned out to be good. He really did a good job. Additionally, the first few minutes of this series have to be the best-directed sequence of all time.
The transition, THE TRANSITION. It is insanely addictive to watch how they transition from 1 scene in the past to the current scene, or from hallucination scene to reality. And how they project the future character into the past. And they did it multiple time flawlessly. Furthermore, one aspect that many didn't talk about is the use of background music, which was really good. On top of that, the gorgeous cinematography adds to the overall experience. Let's not forget about the acting; every actor performed a marvelous job, especially Song Chon, who, in my opinion, shone the brightest in this series.
Usually, some drama have too much episodes and i would always say that they need to reduce the amount of the episode because the pace become too slow and draggy in most drama. However, this is one of those series that need to have at least 2 or 3 more episode to deal the final blow.
Some say that the pace became stale in the middle and the pace slow down after of the addition of two new questionable characters in Busan who were having a crisis, which I understand why it became boring. However, it picked up its pace again after that. Nonetheless, I definitely recommend it.
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A bit disappointing
I was so excited for this kdrama starring Choi Woosik and Sukku, and it started off good, especially that intense episode 3 ( about the girl who was raped and killed herself , and her father). But as it went on, it felt more like a comic book than a regular show, maybe cause they stuck too close to the webtoon. It kinda dragged, and those 8 episodes felt so long.The cinematography was cool, some shots were amazing, but overall, it was just okay for me. Didn't quite live up to my expectations. The whole superpower thing didn't vibe with me either. I knew about it from the synopsis, but when I saw it in action, it kept reminding me of the anime "death note" which is a lifetime work of art that has somehow the same idea as "a killer paradox", I guess that's why I was hoping for something much more deep and compelling but it turned out to be just a light appetizer after a heavy meal.
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"Yielding conquers, resisting strengthens desire"
This is what happens in this "A killer paradox". It starts of well from episode 1 but when the 1st is going to end you will see some unnecessary transitions something weird one too(actually it is not necessary but i think it was hero hallucinations are shown) how does he feel after murdering someone and how he got superpowers when he sees someone(means serial killers like series called "He is psychometric" ) the feel will come for us then he got to know that he killed a man who used to be serial killer so now he joins hands with the specs guy and they accomplish the justice for victims . I love the concept of it, it was from webtoon so, i did not study it but i feel like it is too slow pace which will make either sleep or you will feel like fast forwarding the scenes itself. There is no AAH moment in this series, so don't except much from this! Again one more serial killer unlike hero will be introduced, and he also started searching hero and finish him off. After few episodes you will be wondering what is happening in this series? And i love every actors performance even the police guy with beard did his job well but he was fore shaded by the plot. At the end of the day, our hero saw 'how to get away with murder" and committed his crimes without evidence, he is the most luckiest serial killer in the whole world.Was this review helpful to you?
Shadows of Morality
A Killer Paradox unfolds as a captivating narrative where the shadows of morality play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of its characters.Lee Tang, an unsuspecting college student turned supernatural avenger, thrusts us into a world where the lines between right and wrong blur. As he discovers his ability to identify 'bad seeds,' the storyline delves into the intricate dance between justice and morality. The cold-blooded detective, a relentless pursuer, adds layers to the unseen war that unfolds within the narrative.
The acting is top-notch, delivering both comedy and gore in a way that hits the sweet spot.
The storyline? It's like a dark, twisted fairy tale that you never saw coming.
A must watch really like its a cinematic masterpiece, minus the clichés, with every episode leaving you hungry for more of this dark and intriguing tale.
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A paradox indeed
First the positive:None of us can deny, that the mains delivered what we knew they would deliver. Especially Son and Choi both bring a nuance to their characters that honestly I wouldn't have gotten from the writers.
Cinematography and editing are immaculate. This probably can also be hugely due to very good direction. I thought I would get dizzy from the match cuts after a while but they continued to be se interesting I didn't (the fact that the cuts actually added to the storytelling is a big plus).
All in all very pleasing to look at.
However the unwillingness to decide on a tone was hard to ignore. Is it trying to be gritty? funny? melancholic? what is going on
Messaging is also quite muddled.
This is all due to the writing I must say.
And it all goes wrong with the addition of a character (actually two but one is dependant on the other). The moment we meet RoBin this kind of falls to pieces for me. And as soon as that happens our story shifts from whom I assumed to be the main character for the first 4 episodes. Tang kind of runs around grabbed by his strings throughout the rest of the story. Seeing how his character conflict from the beginning is his inability to decide on what to do and just going with the flow I felt like we threw all of his chances on changing that out the window. Unless I am missing something his character gets stuck right there and it is frustrating.
Personally I couldn't bring myself to be interested in Cho whatshisfaces story. That might be just on me. But each time he occupied the screen I was wishing for Tang and NanGam back.
All in all this story failed for me. On one side due to my expectations of this being a sharp cat and mouse game a la Heat or Catch me if you can (to be fair that is what the promo made me believe). On the other side losing us due to the writing in the second half.
That being sad I enjoyed our mains and again technical aspects of this are brilliant. The drama is a solid middle tier for me.
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Skip the first 2 episodes out of 8 for a good time?
Another netflix drama that topped the charts with an incredibly boring first few episodes.what makes this even worse is that this only has 8 episodes.
How do you actually review a drama that bores you to death the first 2 episodes and only gets good after a third of a show?
Always remember with netflix shows that netflix and chill is a very real thing, as people get so bored with the show they're watching that they do something else while the show is running. Netflix collects this data and thinks that people are watching the show when clearly, they're already busy making the next generation of humans or have left to do something else.
It's disappointing that korean dramas, especially those that are adapted from the best korean webcomics are portrayed with so many pacing issues, when in actual fact, the manhwa hits hard with every chapter or else they'd fall off the list.
Even more disappointing, is that this show is marked as a comedy, when the comedy is the misunderstandings that aren't really funny.
If you're looking to a show that's actually much better but very similar, perhaps A Psychopath's Diary is a much better watch ( https://mydramalist.com/37255-psychopath-diary )
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