Money Flower

The story is dark without any lighter moments. It's a character driven story. All but a few are tortured by their own ambitions and are stabbing each other in the back. Above all it's a slow moving revenge tale. The central figure is an avenger consumed by his own guilt. The story builds tension, slowly, slowly until the last few rapid fire episodes. At times my own tension was noticeable while waiting for the next few lines of dialogue. The musical soundtrack deserves mention as only a few themes but for adding theatrical emphasis. Award winning actor Jang Hyun plays a meticulous conniver with a plot to take control of his family's business under his assumed identity as the family lawyer. His and the others' shenanigans sometimes made me laugh. All of the excellent actors are convincing but a stone faced JH dominates because he's Jang Hyun and because his character manipulates the story. 24 episodes is too many to binge watch but I did my best. 10 stars.

...Well worth watching. Jang Hyuk is magnificent in this Machiavellian series ;he carried the show with the support of a very capable cast. I highly recommend this series,

If you've never seen a Jang Hyuk movie, you're missing out. I've grown to admire and love this actor more and more. Ever since Chuno, which is still available on Prime, I've been seeking out his works. Initially Money Flower was not attractive given its wonky title. But I was running out of available Jang Hyuk movies/series to watch so I gave it a try and was definitely not disappointed. Wow, this guy has so much range and depth in his acting who gives it all in every performance. Here in Money Flower, stylishly dressed and coifed, he's never looked so dashing and debonair while portraying a man with a poker face where all of his pain, anger, grief, and need for vengeance are conveyed through with his eyes, tight jaw or pursed lips. The scene where he was at the temple paying tribute to his deceased younger brother's memorial plaque just ripped my heart and tears out. What a performance?! Every actor, leading or supporting, gave superb nuanced performances as well. My only minor gripe may be toward the female lead/love interest who was a tad wooden in her portrayals and some scenes lingered too long. When juxtaposed with Jang Hyuk, you've got to bring your A-game. While I can nitpick the flaws, I won't because I enjoyed this so much. The script is also unlike typical suspense thrillers where audiences are kept in the dark until the final reveal and the protagonist is typically the underdog. Here, the "anti-hero" out for revenge at all costs is the master puppeteer, manipulating and cajoling at every turn and always one step ahead of his opponents. To me, that was extremely satisfying.

Great cast in an intricate plot, led by Jang Hyuk giving a master class in acting. This is one of SK's greatest actors and one of the best in the world in complete control of every scene he's in.

Started watching this series only because of Jang Hyuk. I liked his minimalist powerful performance.