Baegseolgongjuege Jugeumeul

I find it's unfair for such good drama to be under the radar so much just because the kdrama fans aren't talking about this enough. The criticism about no originality in plot is ridiculous with so many kdrama out in a year, it's bound to have similarities and kdrama fans can catch up quick about who's who and feels like every characters are suspicious. Why singling out this drama.. To me I kept on watching because I want to know WHY the things happened the way it is, what went wrong in their relationship for it to be like that.

The statement that 'actor Byun Yohan acting saved this drama' is not a drag because any good drama/movie aren't made of just good scripts but most importantly good director and actors. I can name many drama with good acting scenes but still can't save the work because the scripts are bad.

Also seen criticism about him being student and adult instead of casting a younger actor, but to me it's not bothering me much since there are more mature looking teenager in real life. Although the twist are expected to me, but the overall story are thrilling and won't leave the viewers bore.

When Se7en (1995, Brad Bitt) meets Zodiac (2007, Jake Gyllenhaal) meets Fatal Attraction (1987, Glen Close), you get this Kdrama psycho-crime mystery suspense thriller 'Black Out' (aka Snow White Must Die), currently on Netflix in Singapore. Just finished watching this 14-episode series and I highly recommend it to everyone reading! Based on the best-selling German novel 'Snow White Must Die' by Nele Neuhaus, it depicts a series of incidents that occur in a closed-off village and the ugly nature of the hidden inner self of humans. The suspense builds up on each episode with a 'what?', 'what?', 'what?'.. soon many characters become suspects and then the plot twists and reveals start as the show progresses leaving the viewer breathless. Definitely an enjoyable edge-of-your-seat experience that is thoroughly engaging. So many times I had that emphathy for the victims yet feel such 'hate' towards some of the characters, showing just how good their acting skills are. Hats off to the hero played by Byun Yo-han.

To be fair, this show is probably for people who may like (guess only) kdrama shows similar to : Miraculous Brothers, Longing for you, Flowers of Evil,. Kidnapping Day, Let's get grab by the Collar.

Structure wise, it's not tight at all. First episode is solid. Then all seems to be on autopilot and went downhill with over the top melodrama, empty threats and rhetorical questions.

A classic innocent man story, that adds characters half way through the story ... and then some. To me that's cheating. The conspiracy seems all too obvious and yet overwhelmingly ..... what's the word..... ridiculous.

Just way too thin, substance that is. So thin that there's constant flashy backs and plot replays/reminders at episode beginnings. I just finished The Frog and so much more unique, creative and well written on all fronts : characters, plot, timeline and meaning.

Thin, when compare to (plot, execution, direction) other kdramas the likes of Somebody, Beyond Evil, Mask girl, Shadow Detective, Mouse, A shop for Killers, A Killer Paradox.

Overall, it's a melodrama disguised as a thriller.

Only saving grace is acting, that's it.

A masterclass in suspense, centered around a gripping murder case that reinterprets events to reveal the ugly truth of human nature. Byun Yo-han delivers an electrifying performance, bringing his character to life with such intensity and nuance that you're never sure what to believe. His seamless shifts between emotions add layers of complexity, keeping you constantly guessing with each twist.

Go Jun is equally impressive as the determined detective, perfectly embodying the relentless pursuit of truth while grappling with his own struggles. The dynamic between Byun Yo-han and Go Jun crackles with tension, elevating the drama into something truly extraordinary. With a powerful script, top-tier performances, and genuinely surprising twists, this thriller not only captivates but also delves deep into the darker aspects of human nature.

Every episode is a full course meal. Sixty minutes of an episode is full, complete, and compact, leaving the audience full with stories, wonders, and emotions. Writing, direction, and editing really work well together to complement one another.

'Snow White Must Die - Blackout' succeeds in making everyone in the village a suspect thanks to the actors' brilliant acting. They can both portray good and bad so perfectly as the shadows change by the light. Kwon, who plays a chief of police, is the best of all. Even in the seconds of frame he can be from extreme good to extreme bad just with his face.

Cognitive dissonance from all characters in all different situations is well documented. It's even cathartic to see the real ugliness in the very inside of each character. I see them raw and naked, that complicated intrinsic greed and selfishness as delicately and elegantly as possible.