Wednesday, February 01, 2012

TV Drama Review #328 - Tree with Deep Roots 树大根深

No.of Eps: 24
Yr/TV Stn: 2011/SBS
Cast:
Jang Hyuk ~ Kang Chae Yoon
Han Suk Kyu ~ King Sejong
Shin Se Kyung ~ So Yi
Synopsis: (edited from Dramawiki)
Based on Lee Jeong-myeong’s novel “Deep-rooted Tree” which highlights the serial killings during the 7 days before the announcement of the Korean script. A series of murder occurred during the reign of King Sejong. As Kang Chae Yoon who is investigating these cases gets closer to the root of the truth, he finds himself embroiled in a massive conspiracy behind the serial killings which involves a group of genius who are willing to risked their lives towards their goals and secret powers who will interfere with the course of his investigations.
Why watch?
Jang Hyuk returns to the small screen at such a short time! Plus long time no see Han Suk Kyu. These two great actors really made the drama moving. This drama's plot is straightforward, but the character development that made the drama more interesting. I also get to understand a little more on how hangul (Korean characters) are created.
Congrats to Han Suk Kyu for winning the SBS daesang with his King Sejong role. Actually this drama belongs to him, as Sejong is the centre person of the whole drama. Han Suk Kyu executed his emotional scenes very well. A king with his pains and sorrows...excellent performance!
Nice to see Shin Se Kyung, and her acting was great. So Yi could not speak initially and Shin Se Kyung has to rely on her expressions to convey her thoughts to viewers. At least, So Yi is not some flower vase.
Why skip?
First, the plot might be boring to many people as this is quite a serious drama. Romance b/w Chae Yoon and So Yi was not the main focus, though the ending for them was somewhat perfect.
Second, Jang Hyuk's character and performance reminded me too much of his role in "Chuno". Mr Jang need to challenge new roles.