Alchemy of Souls

A magnificent fusion of adventure, fantasy, comedy and romance. Koreans, at their current rate, will dominate the world of entertainment in a very short time. Just stay away from the increasingly weakened and irritating contemporary Hollywood formula. If Netflix has any sense, it will only finance the projects, leaving the Koreans to do, with complete independence, the works that are increasingly delighting audiences around the world. In South Korea, artistic talents erupt in profusion, names like Park Eun-bin, Park Min-Young, Hyun Bin and Son Ye-Gin are becoming easier to memorize in the western world every day. The screenwriters and directors demonstrate extreme competence in works that capture you from the very first chapters. Alchemy of Souls is no different, the beautiful and talented protagonist couple, Jung So-Min (Mu-Deok) and Lee Jae-Wook (Jang UK) get involved and involve the viewer in a story, which always leaves you wanting the next episode and who knows, a new season. Remembering that new seasons are very rare in the Korean industry.

A very well made Korean Fantasy-Drama. While it seemed more like a fantasy and martial arts story initially, the series gradually evolves with elements of comedy, politics and romance. The script and direction are phenomenal and so are the characters. Kudos to the makers!

I watch parts 1 and 2 back to back. Like many, I was disappointed by the last two episodes of part one. That was simply because I wanted a happy story resolution. The writers could easily have done that but logically expanded the story to its next logical step. If I had to wait a season between parts, I would have been devastated. Fortunately I didn't have to do that, going straight to the second part. I was tremendously rewarded.

In total, there's 30 episodes, each running up to an hour and a half. That is a massive amount of story!!!

I'll keep it short. This series, even when viewed as a dub, is one of the best, if not the best (depending on the day) televised programs that I have ever been privileged to watch. The writing was incredibly well done. The world building was intricately developed. The acting was top notch. The production and music was excellent.

I can't recommend this more highly. Absolutely superb.

Reminiscent of the k-drama Crash Landing on You, in that it's a love story with charming and very competent actors. I'm sure I'm missing some relevant cultural context, but I find this series, through the first eight available episodes, thoroughly enjoyable, a needed escape. Accolades to the director who allows the actors to showcase both their individual charisma, and their chemistry with each other as they glide seemingly effortlessly through this light hearted escape.

This review is based on the first 8 episodes as of now. I really hope it continues this way till the very end.

It is a fantasy world that will feel utterly real to you. The plot , storyline, characters, direction, comedic timing, visuals , costumes, CGI , acting .. everything is just perfect.

The only other fantasy story I loved this much was Harry Potter. The two are totally different in terms of story but they both are phenomenal works of art.

The plot and character growth is absolutely brilliant. There has been a lot of thought put into every character. You'll find yourself caring for all the supporting characters as well.

The male lead is charming, bold, funny and somewhat adorably childish at times. I also love his costumes. You'll find him dressed in magnificent shades of blue that are a treat to the eyes. I find myself constantly admiring the costumes and hair styles of the two leads.

I love shows with a strong female characters and this one does not disappoint. The female lead can hold her own in the show. She is smart, pursues what she wants with a reckless boldness and is utterly refreshing to watch. I don't think anyone else could have done a better job than Jung So Min.

Another thing I love about this show is how beautifully and effortlessly it changes from serious to funny within the blink of an eye. The background music and sound effects are perfect. I find myself laughing out loud in many places.

All supporting characters are amazing too.

The action and CGI is equally good. It keeps you on edge. One day I was literally banging on the table in front of me.. I was so excited ;)

It is a series I can rewatch multiple times because it is so entertaining.

If you haven't started this one yet, do yourself a favor- watch it.

You won't regret!