Tree with Deep Roots - eps 3 and 4
Just finished ep 3 of TwDR and I am mesmerized. Who knew a drama where people discuss the applicability of Confusian ideals to politics could be this compelling. I am going to miss Song Joong Ki, who gave a true tour-de-force performance as young Sejong - the scene below will probably go into my Top 10 scenes of the year:
However, the older Sejong is also fascinating and you can see the glimpses of younger self in him. I can also believe both in his fierce intelligence and strong will.
And even though I am going to miss SJK, the end of 'prologue' means that we finally get to see Jang Hyuk as the protagonist.
As always, Jang Hyuk is in top form. He has a unique brand of intensity and angry vitality, I never see from other kdrama actors. And a strong masculine physicality (I almost want to say 'machismo' but that is a very narrow and loaded word which doesn't fully fit) which is every bit as powerful as his on-screen presence. If there was a man suited to sageuks, which tend to overwhelm some actors, it would be him.
And I cannot wait to see the odd, loaded relationship between him and Sejong (whom he longs to kill) play out.
