Finally available on Netflix for viewing - it was totally lost on Viki.
It's the second Kdrama I have ever given 10 stars! (The other was Crash Landing) Many have written synopsis on the story so I will refrain. Except to say this is absolutely no GWTW copy.
Have no idea why I started watching this and confess at the second Ep ready to abandon it, but suddenly it picked up in Ep3 and really took off. Through the horror of war and hunger, I settled in for the ride and became mega-hooked. Appreciation sank in as I watched masterful acting and took a personal interest in the outcome of almost all these characters' lives.
The lead actors are both utterly astonishing! Both the ML and FL: Min Nam-koong and Ahn Eun-Jin, are a dream together. They both take my breath away with the skill and genuineness with which they interpret the scriptwriter's intent with this plot of love and loss in a difficult time in Korea's history. The Director deserves applause and a bouquet for his direction.
The cinematographer comes in bang on target with stunning wide sweeping shots, magnificent colour and moving scenes. (The kiss in the field was excellently shot).
Never have I seen a historical bedding scene so beautifully shot regards lighting and close-ups. Able to translate a deep affection finally being consummated with such dignity, as opposed to "camera to black!" Just Exceptional. Other Directors please pay attention and learn from this master.
With yet another massive bouquet for the Casting Director. Nearly forgot (slap wrists), the Costume Designer! The Qing Dynasty outfits are astonishingly beautiful and don't look like some fake Halloween get-up, but genuine clothing. You can see the research that went into creating them. Altogether the production is a rare joy. I cried, laughed, was anxious and lived alongside the joy, war, tears and escapades of this historical Kdrama series.
Whilst waiting for the Second Series to be aired I rewatched the first 3 episodes to comprehend the intent of the scriptwriter as the foundations It helped get me ready for the airing of the 2nd series.
The ML initial inability to seriously commit to a relationship and the growth of the FL which I found compelling; once her teenage immaturity, silly flirting and feisty outspokenness passes, she comes into her adulthood with a compelling inner strength during the war, and later when she initiates and run a business, whilst becoming responsible for providing for her family and servants. The ML makes it clear it is her "brazenness" that he admires.
Absolutely no hesitation in declaring My Dearest/Lover is easily my favourite Kdrama. I highly recommend it for viewing.
Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!
PS Those idiots who watch 3 episodes and write a review are an absolute waste of time as they fail to comprehend character & story development. Equally, those who insist that this is a Copy of GWTW fail to understand that the scriptwriter said it was initially inspired by but NOT a copy of, which is quite clear in terms of the history of Korea and the restrictions enforced by Buddhist and Confucian teachings, particularly for women of the period. GWTW did not ever display the slow-mounting realisation of deep love and affection regardless of trails and tribulations like those in My Dearest.
Viewed: English subtitles + Korean audio.
