Kingdom (2019)

Kingdom is a unique South Korean drama that premiered on Netflix in 2019. The series is headlined by top-notch actors including Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doona, Ryu Seung-ryong, Kim Sung-kyu, Kim Sang-ho, and Kim Hye-jun. Set in the Joseon period, the cinematography captures the breath-taking landscapes and intricate aesthetics characteristic of the time, while the costumes transport the viewer into another era. Captivating and visually arresting, Kingdom brings together the historical, horror, and political thriller genres into one unforgettable blend.

The primary protagonist, portrayed by Ju Ji-hoon, is Crown Prince Lee Chang. He is shrouded in tragedy, tangled in political intrigue, and sidelined by his stepmother, Queen Consort Cho (Kim Hye-jun). As the illegitimate son of the King, Lee Chang finds himself caught in a web of adversity, constantly battling for his rightful claim to the throne. When his father, the king, falls ill with a mysterious sickness, Lee Chang embarks on an exhaustive investigation that leads him to uncover devastating secrets and escalating horror.

Alongside the prince is Bae Doona, who brilliantly plays Seo-bi, a nurse on a desperate quest for answers. Seo-bi's character is beautifully embellished by her tenacity and resourcefulness, standing as a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. She is emblematic of the ethereal balance between determination and empathy, making her an integral part of the narrative puzzles.

Ryu Seung-ryong, an actor with a potent on-screen presence, plays Minister Cho Hak-ju, the cunning Chief State Councillor who is also the father of Queen Consort Cho. The viewers witness his machiavellian exploits as he furthers a plot filled with deceit and tyranny. His character adds an element of suspense to the drama, fueling tensions and complications within the kingdom.

Counterbalancing the palpable tension are characters like Moo-young, an unwavering loyal officer to the Crown Prince, played by Kim Sang-ho. His devotion, integrity, and courage add a sense of steadfastness and normality that beautifully contrasts the overall uncertainty. Furthermore, Kim Sung-kyu's portrayal of Young-shin, a mysterious hunter who aids the Crown Prince and his circle, adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative.

Kingdom's storyline incredibly intertwines the historical with the fantastical. The series creatively combines a traditional setting replete with palaces, royal attire, and political maneuvering alongside an unexpected horror twist. The narrative is based on the comic series "The Kingdom of the Gods," so spectators can expect a fusion of supernatural elements with the political and social intricacies of its historical setting.

The series isn't just about gore and horror; it artfully delves into the various societal issues of the period. There is a constant theme of power struggle not just among the monarchy but also between the higher and the lower classes. Themes of hunger and poverty, intertwined with greed and corruption, underpin the narrative, creating a disquieting commentary on the society of that era.

Kim Seong-hun, the man behind the directorial wheel, along with screenwriter Kim Eun-hee, has ingeniously crafted a permutable blend of political thriller and horror drama. Their deviation from the typical Korean drama tropes while preserving the essence of cultural aesthetics is a welcome shift that has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Furthermore, the cinematography of the series is nothing short of brilliance. The scenes are intricately captured, producing a visual feast adding to the narrative's suspense and tension. Each episode smoothly unravels, leaving the audience at the edge of their seats, eager for the next development.

On the whole, Kingdom stands as an unprecedented South Korean series that seamlessly merges history with horror and political inquietude. Its storytelling is as captivating as its visual appeal, drawing in viewers with each successive episode. While the cast's remarkable performances vivify their characters, the vibrant Joseon era setting adds an aesthetic touch that is not common in this genre. Kingdom is an enticing whirl of historicity, horror, and heart that any avid viewer must not miss.