Mirror of the Witch

This historical drama is full of mysticism, with curses, spells and dark forces. It is a story of love and of good against evil, refelecting a lot about how Koreans appreciate mysterious forces and even chang form. I have travelled a lot in Korea and Japan and it taught me a lot about their approaches to viewing things. I have often wondered how Korean dramas have been so popular in Japan and China, and I can see the reason for such strong appeal. Having said that, I think westerners will have to open their minds to an eastern approach to really grasp this amazing drama series. I loved it.

This drama was like a rollercoaster ride without the thrills or the rails. That first episode was unbelievably bad and a huge turn off to kick start the drama but I kept going regardless. The whole mystical shaman vibe in a historical setting turned out to be quite an unsuccessful combo in this case, it felt like they slapped on those elements without any real thought. The entire story felt so limited and restricted, even the cast, when taking into consideration its length. All of that was accompanied by poor pacing, you can imagine how they were trying to push it to reach the 20 episodes mark.

A Joseon-era costume drama with modern lingo and mannerisms. A ghost/good witch/bad witch plot moves along slowly. Who is the target audience here? Women I suspect, men characters are pretty boys or crying spoiled brats.

The idea is good but they wasted screen time. When characters use their abilities make sure to be consistent. Do not make them able to do something and then not be able to the next. It wastes time spent on more important scenes. Items disappear through frames multiple times. The story could have been halved with all the waste.

Mirror of the witch. Decent enough series and at 20 episodes it's not too long. Better than hotel del Luna anyway!