Light Shop

I know that this show is based on a very popular webtoon and the show creator is the same person who wrote and produced the show "Moving." There is no need to compare the show to the webtoon or another show (Moving). So, judging the show on its own merits, I have some mixed feelings.

To be honest, I had a real difficult time finishing the first three episodes. While the basic premise was quite interesting, the show left the audience in the dark (pun intended) for much of the time, just dropping few hints here and there. It was somewhat frustrating at time, but then, I watched Ep. 4. The reveal in Ep. 4 hit me like a ton of bricks and shed a light on what was happening in Ep 1-3. The show still has much more to explain and carry the main story forward. However, Ep. 4 pretty much changed my mind from giving this show a 3-star rating to an 8-star rating. At the end of the season, perhaps my score will increase or decrease.

For anyone who is not sure about giving this show a chance, watch at least up to Ep. 4. If you decide that it's not your cup of tea at that point, then I doubt you will enjoy the rest of the show.

I went in watching this not knowing anything and almost stopped within the first few episodes because they were creeping me out and I'm not a fan of horror. However, I'm so glad I didn't let my fear get the best of me because this ended up being so good, and I can't remember the last time I cried this much watching a tv show. The mother-daughter duo, lesbian couple and father-daughter pair's stories and endings had me in tears. Excellent storytelling supported by amazing actors. The heterosexual couple's story left a deep impression on me as well because it's so tragic and unfair, and their ending was kind of shocking to me.

Apart from that, it was clear that the writers were hinting at a 2nd season because there were still a few loose ends and unanswered questions, mostly to do with the detective. Or I might be wrong, who knows.

Edit to add: okay so apparently Timing and Moving are connected to Light Shop? I don't know what Timing is but I've watched Moving and enjoyed it a lot.

It's remarkable to see a concept so unique yet relating being presented in such a flawless and captivating way. The tone shift after the first two episodes is the testimony of how good this series is and how creatively it takes the journey and motivation of the characters for the rest of the episodes. There is no issue ot pacing at all and I think 8 episodes are just perfect to tell the story. No doubt that this is from the same creator/producer who made Moving. The depth in each and every characters emotions and back stories are so well interconnected that it satisfies you by the end. Highly recommended.

At first, I was scared. Then I was intrigued. By the end, I was bawling my eyes out.

This show masterfully weaves a complex concept into multiple interconnected stories without ever losing its sense of mystery or momentum. It's truly a miracle that such an ambitious project didn't collapse under its own weight, and it's even more incredible that it turned out this good.

What really sets this show apart is how much it respects its audience. Instead of spoon-feeding you, it strikes a perfect balance of depth and subtlety to keep you engaged. It demands your full attention, rewarding you with secrets revealed at just the right moments.

The acting is phenomenal, as expected from the Koreans. Even minor characters with limited screen time deliver performances more convincing than many leads from other productions. Korean actors continue to set the gold standard for acting.

The only thing I find a little lacking is the world-building. Too little is told about the realm and the role of the "guardian", making him seem more like an accessory rather than someone important. Here's hoping season 2 dives deeper into these aspects.

Overall, this is a standout series that takes risks and lands every emotional and narrative punch. I can't wait for the next season.

The story based on a Manga begins by showing various characters in a strange neighbourhood with no knowledge of who or why they are there. In this mysterious drama we are nearly half way through the eight episodes before we become privy to their predicament and why they are this situation. In the back streets of this place there is a strange light shop which has all the answers but they have to request them. A very clever plot with great acting that draws you in as you try to figure out just where they are and although it does move a little slow in the second half it has many poignant moments which hopefully make you grasp the fragility of your life.