The Korean wave, more commonly known as Hallyu, has taken over the world with its exceptional music, TV dramas, and movies. One of their latest productions is a Netflix original series called Kingdom, which is an adaptation of the webcomic series titled The Kingdom of the Gods. The South Korean TV series, Kingdom, premiered in January 2019, and since then, it has caught the hearts of millions of viewers around the globe.
Set in ancient Korea, during the Joseon era, the undead plague is spreading throughout the country, raising the dead and turning them into bloodthirsty monsters. The country becomes engulfed in chaos and panic as the disease spreads and infects the royal family, throwing the kingdom into darkness. The series follows a brave prince, Lee Chang, who embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth behind the plague and save his kingdom from certain doom.
The narrative of Kingdom is outstanding and captivating, leaving its viewers on the edge of their seats after every episode. The story has both a historical and horror element to it, which adds to its uniqueness. Political intrigue, betrayal, and the desire for power all come into play as the series unfolds, making it much more than your average zombie flick.
The acting in Kingdom is phenomenal, with the portrayal of each character done with such precision and emotion that one cannot help but empathize with them. Ju Ji-hoon, who plays the prince, Lee Chang, deserves a lot of appreciation for his convincing portrayal of a conflicted prince who faces the daunting task of saving the kingdom. Alongside him, Bae Doona shines as the physician doing everything in her power to cure the disease and save lives.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Kingdom is its cinematography. The series is a visual feast, with its sublime camera work bringing to life the landscapes of ancient Korea. From the intricate costumes to the authentic set designs, everything about the series screams authenticity. Further, the use of lighting and the use of contrasting colours perfectly captures the essence of this eerie story, without being too jarring.
Despite being in the horror genre, Kingdom is not all gore and shock value. The series touches upon the struggles of the common people, drawing attention to issues that still persist today. The class divide that existed in Korea during the Joseon era is a significant theme and is sensitively portrayed throughout the series. The plights of the oppressed and the injustices done to them are highlighted without being too preachy.
In conclusion, Kingdom is a masterpiece that should not be missed. Its intricate plot, brilliant acting, and mesmerizing visuals make it one of the best South Korean productions to date. The series caters to fans of both historical and horror genres, providing a blend that is unique and thrilling. It comes as no surprise that Kingdom has amassed a vast fan following all around the world, and fans are eagerly anticipating the release of its third season. So, if you are looking for an exceptional TV series, Kingdom is definitely worth the watch.