I became interested in South Korean film and television a couple of years back and I'm so glad. They have an excellent array of motion picture and television offerings. They also have some great directors, actors, and actresses as good as any in the English speaking world. This program introduces talented and beautiful actresses in every episode. Many of them aren't even credited here in IMDb although a little searching can confirm they are well known. I've been surprised to see some really great performers without even pictures, and some with not even a bio. Please do us all a favor and correct that.
186 Reviews
Before history, there was myths and legends.
lau_s2612 June 2019
Among the vast and rich human resources, we have one that allows us to learn and improve: the art of storytelling.
Before the times of documentation of history, were the stories about knights, warriors and their exploits that gave us the possibility to believe, grow and create. Entire civilizations were armed according to their needs, the majority based on beliefs, superstitions and myths.
And between reality and legend there is always fantasy extolling every feat. The epic and the glory encouraging us to be brave. Punishment or redemption marking the path to good or evil.
That's what this series is about. Comparable to others because it also represents various epic fantasies. But unique in its class because in the process each story, each villain and each hero possess the original and unique voice of the narrator.
Face this experience without prejudice. You won't be disappointed!
This is captivating, and the writing is really well done, and the acting is above and beyond.
glenbording26 July 2019
I really like this show, which surprises even me, but the wait between episodes is even harder than for GoT in the good seasons. The acting is done really well, not just from main characters but even background and supporting ones, and they feel alive, like this place is actually a place that exist. Instead of the feeling like these people are only there to do their job.
The CIG is acceptable, this is not a hollywood production so I am impressed with how much they can get out of the budget. And the sets are also done well, and with story and lore behind them too. You get the feeling that somethings are done because that is how it's always been done.
Again I can't wait for season 3, as the ending took a turn I for once din't see coming. Please keep it up :)
Again I can't wait for season 3, as the ending took a turn I for once din't see coming. Please keep it up :)
One of the best
icrc_977 August 2019
When you think of a Korean drama, you'd think of a modern love story in which characters are drawn closer in the face of conflict. This production is a daring, and likely expensive, leap into uniqueness that goes far beyond the typical romance. The vibes felt in Avatar, Narnia, and Harry Potter films are also felt throughout the episodes that make this show a cinematic experience you'd never wish would end.
The reviews don't do justice to this beautifully put together show; I had expected at least a 9/10 if not higher.
Some critiques argue that the lengthy episodes make the story progression rather slow. However, any great tale that keeps us on our toes are those that invest time to connect with the characters (this may be why original novels tend to be superior to their movie counterparts). Critical comparisons made with Game of Thrones may as well be beyond my understanding; this drama holds its own essence. Irking our curiosities of primitive life and a plot that pulls on your heartstrings. The actors and entire production crew couldn't have done a better job. This show is more than about romance; its about friendship, commitment, respecting mother nature (yes, like in Avatar), and believing in yourself. I highly suggest you finish all your errands before watching the first, 1.3 hr episode. Believe me, you'll find yourself clicking to the next.
Some critiques argue that the lengthy episodes make the story progression rather slow. However, any great tale that keeps us on our toes are those that invest time to connect with the characters (this may be why original novels tend to be superior to their movie counterparts). Critical comparisons made with Game of Thrones may as well be beyond my understanding; this drama holds its own essence. Irking our curiosities of primitive life and a plot that pulls on your heartstrings. The actors and entire production crew couldn't have done a better job. This show is more than about romance; its about friendship, commitment, respecting mother nature (yes, like in Avatar), and believing in yourself. I highly suggest you finish all your errands before watching the first, 1.3 hr episode. Believe me, you'll find yourself clicking to the next.
Definitely not a copy of GOT
fadly-267618 July 2019
I found out and became interested in this series after I stumbled upon an article accusing this series to be a Korean GOT copycat. I watch it in Netflix. The first episode is kinda convoluted. Viewers were thrown into the midst without any guide or explanation to the background behind the setting of the story. This probably contributed to it's low rating.
But as the season goes on, the story line become apparent and it starting to become interesting. The article cited the props and clothing as the indication that Arthdal Chronicles is a copy of GOT. But this like saying that Brooklyn Nine Nine is a copy of Law and Order because they both have guns and Police uniform. Nothing can be further from the truth.
Unlike high medieval settings of the GOT, Arthdal Chronicles was set during the early bronze age and the time when human race starting to emerge from a tribal society into an early form of nation state. More importantly, there's no dragon in Arthdal, at least not so far.
But as the season goes on, the story line become apparent and it starting to become interesting. The article cited the props and clothing as the indication that Arthdal Chronicles is a copy of GOT. But this like saying that Brooklyn Nine Nine is a copy of Law and Order because they both have guns and Police uniform. Nothing can be further from the truth.
Unlike high medieval settings of the GOT, Arthdal Chronicles was set during the early bronze age and the time when human race starting to emerge from a tribal society into an early form of nation state. More importantly, there's no dragon in Arthdal, at least not so far.
Not to be missed
Rose_strffen12 June 2019
Offering stunning cinematography with a captivating story to tell, this is a must see, currently streaming on Netflix. This is no GOT to which some critics have compared it. Unless a series came out in the 1930's, then most everything has been put to film before and anything new draws some of their parts on something that's already been done. That being said, I don't see the comparison to GOT. This series stands on its own merits. I binge watched the first season and await more.
I made an IMDB profile just to leave a review for this show.
deejrai8 October 2019
I was one of the lucky ones that found this when all the episodes were out. After watching the first few episodes my life the past week was literally work then home and watching Arthdal Chronicles. The more episodes i watched the more i did not want it to end and the closer i got to the last episode the more i was dreading the end was coming and now it's finished i can not stop thinking about it especially with the way it ends you got to be sure there's plans for another season. I have been recommending this show to anyone and everyone i know and have not done that since the early days of GoT. Speaking of GoT, saying it's a copycat could not be further from the truth, Arthdal Chronicles is unique and while watching it not once did GoT cross my mind. I not only hope they come out with a season 2 but a season 3, 4 and 5 !!
BEST K drama ever
antonyschirayil8 July 2019
Please Continue for another Season!!
jaoxales25 September 2019
Need next Season
antonyschirayil26 September 2019
Different drama
eli_ebr648 June 2019
Don't read the negative reviews...it's ludicrous
onelovek30 August 2019
This tv show is so underrated! Yes the first episode was confusing and a lot went on but it basically sets the tone for the entire episodes so far I've seen. I'm up to episode 8 in one sitting, so I binged watch 10 hours of this show (clearly I have time). If you like family drama, history, martial arts, dynasty-era tv shows, and great acting...this tv show has it.
This is right up there with "Chuno - slave hunter" (another great asian tv-show that is highly underrated)
This is right up there with "Chuno - slave hunter" (another great asian tv-show that is highly underrated)
I just finished the first episode
light-rock2 June 2019
I give it a 7 because I cannot go any higher until I know more.
Whether or not I can go back and give it an 8 depends on how well they glue things together in subsequent episodes.
Are they making more episodes ? I have it on Netflix. Usually you get a whole season or more. This is odd, having only one episode so far.
That being said, I think this is pretty captivating so far.
I saw one reviewer so far gave it a rather negative review. I simply disagree.
The locations are intriguing, the filming style is intriguing, and the story I think has started off with great potential.
It kept my attention in spite of being a foreign film with subtitles and not a lot of cool kung fu moves :) ... although there is violence.
Yes I want to know what happens next and who, really, are the good guys and bad guys. So far we have some usual suspects, but, are we really sure ?
Whether or not I can go back and give it an 8 depends on how well they glue things together in subsequent episodes.
Are they making more episodes ? I have it on Netflix. Usually you get a whole season or more. This is odd, having only one episode so far.
That being said, I think this is pretty captivating so far.
I saw one reviewer so far gave it a rather negative review. I simply disagree.
The locations are intriguing, the filming style is intriguing, and the story I think has started off with great potential.
It kept my attention in spite of being a foreign film with subtitles and not a lot of cool kung fu moves :) ... although there is violence.
Yes I want to know what happens next and who, really, are the good guys and bad guys. So far we have some usual suspects, but, are we really sure ?
Terrible
michael-810423 November 2021
Standard Korean Historical Drama Formula Had a Child With Fantacy
Revuer22324 June 2019
I would give this show a 8 stars so far, but I give it a 10 to counteract some undeserved reviews.
This is not a carbon copy, nor is this show influenced by Game of Thrones. If you are familiar with Korean Historical dramas, they are usually set in politically treacherous time in Korean history. The same goes for all East Asian historical dramas. Game of Thrones' political twists, you might say, are merely influenced by historical events. In fact, Martin admitted as much.
Arthdal Chronicles is loosely based on Korean mythology regarding the First City called Ah-sa-dal. The names mentioned within the shows are loose derivations of characters in the mythology. This is just a fantacy twist of how Korean Historical dramas usually go. All the political backstabs and maneuverings are standard in Korean shows depicting the past.
With that said, the show is beautifully choreographed and its aesthetics are top notch. I would not expect anything less from Studio Dragon production.
This is not a carbon copy, nor is this show influenced by Game of Thrones. If you are familiar with Korean Historical dramas, they are usually set in politically treacherous time in Korean history. The same goes for all East Asian historical dramas. Game of Thrones' political twists, you might say, are merely influenced by historical events. In fact, Martin admitted as much.
Arthdal Chronicles is loosely based on Korean mythology regarding the First City called Ah-sa-dal. The names mentioned within the shows are loose derivations of characters in the mythology. This is just a fantacy twist of how Korean Historical dramas usually go. All the political backstabs and maneuverings are standard in Korean shows depicting the past.
With that said, the show is beautifully choreographed and its aesthetics are top notch. I would not expect anything less from Studio Dragon production.
Arthdal Chronicles season2
r-2321924 September 2019
Great Fantasy Drama
alphamo16 July 2019
There are fantasy shows that have everything that makes fantasy great, and there are many that try and fail. Game of Thrones is one that succeeded. Arthdal Chronicles is another. So they have something in common. And no matter which fantasy show you take, you will probably find some king sitting on a throne and some women in pretty dresses, swords and castles. Game of Thrones was based on the scandinavian Edda, an old myth. A lot of fantasies are based on old myths, its what makes them so interesting - they remind us of fairytales we heard in childhood. And at the same time, if they are great, they are unique. Arthdal Chronicles has created something beautifully different from what we have seen before. It is creative, imaginative, captivating. The series started a little slow, but quickly found its pace. It has great actors, who very clearly do their best to bring their roles alive. It is not an American production, so sometimes the characters don't act like you would expect them to. I consider this a good thing. I hope it will stay true to itself and continue its story in the next season. It should get the recognition it deserves.
PERFECT
orozcokyriel16 July 2019
I really love this drama so much!!! The fact that this is the very first ancient historical drama makes me want to see the end of this drama so much. I have no complaints to this drama. This drama also gives the viewers an idea that there also another creatures living in this universe, not just us humans and we have to stop judging them. It also tells us that the one who is very close to us is going to be our hardest enemy in the future. This drama deserves 10/10 ratings and needs to return on airing on tv shows.
Don't Read Reviews from Those Who Only Saw 1 Episode
kkasturas21 August 2019
This is not a rambling formulaic series, this IS a cohesive, character-driven story. It Really ticks me off to read negative reviews from people who only watched one episode, or can't even get the character names right (talking to you, "Decider"). I've watched the 12 episodes available so far. The characters evolve, they are not cardboard cutouts that remain static. The beautiful world is progressively both viscerally and intellectually challenging for those characters, and the viewer follows that progression along with the characters. We know more and more as they know more and more; and so the payoff after the first 12 episodes is very satisfying and sets up big anticipation for the remaining six.
I'm a big fan of Asian drama (typically C or K), and I know very well most of the tropes about harem or CP schemes, fantasy falls and rebirths, empire desires, and fated love stories...both tired and well-done. This is different and refreshing, and Very well done. I felt very "dropped in" to the world of the series. I won't plot it out because it hasn't finished airing yet, and from the trailer of the final 6, this drama will continue to subvert expectations in a good way. But PLEASE, don't believe the reviews of people who didn't watch it.
I'm a big fan of Asian drama (typically C or K), and I know very well most of the tropes about harem or CP schemes, fantasy falls and rebirths, empire desires, and fated love stories...both tired and well-done. This is different and refreshing, and Very well done. I felt very "dropped in" to the world of the series. I won't plot it out because it hasn't finished airing yet, and from the trailer of the final 6, this drama will continue to subvert expectations in a good way. But PLEASE, don't believe the reviews of people who didn't watch it.
Captivating story
LoooNg3 July 2019
First episode starts off kind of slow with bad CGI but things pick up after the backstory. Every episode has twists and leaves a cliff-hanger ending keeping you on the edge of your seat for the next episode. Plot is well thought out and the acting is great. I usually don't watch Korean Dramas but this is definitely captivating to watch!
Epic
othering8 June 2022
Each episode gets better and pulls you further into the world that has been created.
I liked first few episodes just, but by episode four I loved it! The depth of character, plot and world building is incredible. Every single actor is an incredible actor but I think it takes to episode four to really appreciate that, as at first there's so many different characters to introduce.
It's unusual in any film/tv show, to have every single character regardless of role size to be so skilled and frankly, engagingly brilliant, but even though there are so many roles in this epic production, every single character/actor connects with the audience and gived a real sense of who the characters are in this. So impressive.
I've only given 8 stars as the last few episodes I didn't think matched the quality of the others.
I think from episode 16-18 it went somewhat downhill and what had seemed really tight structured plot up to there, sort of unravels for me. The production values are still present but the story wasn't as tight and flowing. Episode 18 was really disappointing as did not tie anything up. Didn't even leave it on a tight, suspenseful cliffhanger, it just ended an episode.
Increasingly across the board, tv and films have been so shallow depth-wise. I've gotten so fed up of the kind of cr@p being released that I rewatch shows/films that were well made, gotten so used to lazy writing, casting, direction and bad acting that I was not expecting to find a treasure like this.
I won't spoil the plot. But anyone looking on here to see if this is worth watching. First few episodes were ok, but from four, it goes up and up in awesomeness, the first three being the foundation. But then after getting through more episodes, the first few are re-evaluated in.hindsight because the reason they're different is because you're seeing literal character life development and world expansion, as they experience more at which point I appreciate the first few with fresh eyes if that makes sense.
Those whom wrote this, directed it, acted in it, created the set/cgi, edited, produced, are brilliant. If only others could produce this level of tv/film quality instead of the stale hurty brain deadening rubbish that's generally churned out.
This was released, I think, in 2019, and seems to be on hiatus, I hope they do a second season. This is sooo good.
I highly recommend.
I liked first few episodes just, but by episode four I loved it! The depth of character, plot and world building is incredible. Every single actor is an incredible actor but I think it takes to episode four to really appreciate that, as at first there's so many different characters to introduce.
It's unusual in any film/tv show, to have every single character regardless of role size to be so skilled and frankly, engagingly brilliant, but even though there are so many roles in this epic production, every single character/actor connects with the audience and gived a real sense of who the characters are in this. So impressive.
I've only given 8 stars as the last few episodes I didn't think matched the quality of the others.
I think from episode 16-18 it went somewhat downhill and what had seemed really tight structured plot up to there, sort of unravels for me. The production values are still present but the story wasn't as tight and flowing. Episode 18 was really disappointing as did not tie anything up. Didn't even leave it on a tight, suspenseful cliffhanger, it just ended an episode.
Increasingly across the board, tv and films have been so shallow depth-wise. I've gotten so fed up of the kind of cr@p being released that I rewatch shows/films that were well made, gotten so used to lazy writing, casting, direction and bad acting that I was not expecting to find a treasure like this.
I won't spoil the plot. But anyone looking on here to see if this is worth watching. First few episodes were ok, but from four, it goes up and up in awesomeness, the first three being the foundation. But then after getting through more episodes, the first few are re-evaluated in.hindsight because the reason they're different is because you're seeing literal character life development and world expansion, as they experience more at which point I appreciate the first few with fresh eyes if that makes sense.
Those whom wrote this, directed it, acted in it, created the set/cgi, edited, produced, are brilliant. If only others could produce this level of tv/film quality instead of the stale hurty brain deadening rubbish that's generally churned out.
This was released, I think, in 2019, and seems to be on hiatus, I hope they do a second season. This is sooo good.
I highly recommend.
Grips you first and then lets go easily..
Comphunk28 July 2019
This had so much potential.. Great Story.. Great Setting.. Well written characters on paper.. but despite it's great potential, for me, it never really took off. I have finished 12 episodes.. after 4 I couldn't help it and kept using fast forward.. the writing is poor despite a great script.. Tagon is shown to be too powerful at times and helpless otherwise. Apart from the Cliff Ladders, I don't think they put any budget elsewhere... There's hardly any effort to show large crowds or guards for that matter.. I'm watching it only because I need to know how it will end.
Good Enough
PennyReviews17 June 2019
Season 1:
The first season was just okay. As they only presented the universe of arthdal and the characters, the last few episodes were only entertaining when it comes to the story.
So, the whole setting is magnificent and the cinematography is amazing. The costumes and make up were top notch as well. I don't really like the way they divided the series into three seasons though, as it didn't make sense and they didn't concluded the first season smoothly.
That said, the first episodes presented the whole arthdal universe. However, they should have made a better job with it, as it was not easy to understand it and it takes a while to remember the characters (part of the three main).
Overall, the three main characters were the best part of the drama, in addition to the cinematography. They were interesting and well presented. The performances were excellent as well.
So, seven out of ten, because the story hasn't even progressed yet.
So, the whole setting is magnificent and the cinematography is amazing. The costumes and make up were top notch as well. I don't really like the way they divided the series into three seasons though, as it didn't make sense and they didn't concluded the first season smoothly.
That said, the first episodes presented the whole arthdal universe. However, they should have made a better job with it, as it was not easy to understand it and it takes a while to remember the characters (part of the three main).
Overall, the three main characters were the best part of the drama, in addition to the cinematography. They were interesting and well presented. The performances were excellent as well.
So, seven out of ten, because the story hasn't even progressed yet.
Falls apart
AJ_McAninch27 September 2019
There are episodes I enjoyed that work, which pulled me in, but basically this is a muddled series that gets worse with pt 3 after we waited a month for it. I watched for SJK. He spends more than half the series captured and being given the thankless role of watching other actors take over. Note: most of the excited reviews were posted during the first "chapter" when there was still development and action. The series completely falls apart the rest of the episodes and is a talkfest mess in the last unresolved episodes.
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