Vagabond (2019)

Hmmm okay. This was a jooourney.
First of all, I want to address that I rank shows purely based on my personal enjoyment of it. Even if a drama is objectively bad, if I had a good time watching it, it'll probably be a 9 or + .
Vagabond might be my favorite drama from the last couple of years. I genuinely connected with the characters and story. I couldn't stop watching, something that rarely happens to me with any type of show. By episode 11, I could feel my heart in my throat (is that an expression in English or is it only of Spanish? lol). I was literally running out of breath by some scenes and situations.
I loved the main characters (Hae-ri and Dal-geon). I really didn't care about Tae-ung but he was ok I guess. Actors who portrayed evil characters did it amazingly. I hated them so much, lol. Even side characters were great, my favorite one was Lily. The lack of romance was an extra point for me (I don't mind it, but I was super focused on the plot and I think adding a lot of romance would have ruined it)
Talking about the plot, there were so many plot twists it was hard to follow but I dig it. I like how you never knew who was actually good and who was actually bad in the story. The drama itself was really expensive, btw, and I love when dramas are based on multiple locations (in this case, Morocco).
Of course the drama was not perfect, I noticed a couple of small plotholes and things that didn't make sense. The ending was very open, the last scene being the beginning of the first episode... that was cool though. But so many things aren't finished. I'm assuming they wrote this ending with a second season in mind, but there's nothing confirmed yet? That kinda worries me. I need to know what happens between these two. Will they be able to take revenge on Edward? Will Hae-ri discover that Dal-geon is not dead? Will they end up together? Will we ever know? That's the question lol.

I'm giving this a 10 out of my enjoyment. The plot is not a 10 though, but still. If there isn't any future seasons then I'm sad to say I'll have to lower my score.

Leer más

Action Drama That Got Me Into Korean Drama

They said, you never forget your first. This is the case for Vagabond. An action series without romance but can still make me have a good cry. I immediately wanted to see more of Lee Seung Gi and Bae Suzy. This is the effect of Vagabond to me. For that I gave the score 10 even when I think the story is not special. What I don't like is the cliffhanger. I watched Vagabond in June 2020 and I wrote this in July 2021. Seriously, how long does it take for us to know what happened?

It is an action drama. I am not looking for a great story. I need action at a good pace, beautiful fighting scenes and tolerable actions. The fighting scenes are not necessarily new but they are good enough to entertain me and make me want to see more of them. Having said that, I won't comment much about the story.

Lee Seung Gi is definitely working hard for this. Later I learned more about him and I got to better appreciate his work in Vagabond. His movement, expression and body language feels right. As for Bae Suzy, in early scenes, I underestimated her role. As the stories continue, I grow to like her character and how she portrayed Go Hae Ri. That first scene where she drove and entered the meeting room is stuck in my mind, even after a year. Such a simple scene but it set the tone for Go Hae Ri. The chemistry between the two is visible. I like them.

I can't comment about the music. None that I can remember. That's not really a good sign, no?

I have rewatched this a couple of times, sometimes just some episodes. That tells how much I like it. I don't think this applies for many people though. But yes, watch it if you are a fan of LSG or Bae Suzy. This is a good action movie to binge watch after finishing a deadline.

First watch: 15 July 2020

Leer más

I watched this drama after binge watching about 30 other top Korean dramas recommended on the internet and this one really blew my mind. I am not even a real big fan of action dramas so it's amazing how Vagabond left a big impression. It's quite the masterpiece. The storyline and acting quality is top notch. This is not an average Korean drama and is most definitely on par with a Hollywood blockbuster. Fast paced and intense, every episode leaves you wanting to watch the other. It is also easy to recommed this drama to anyone (male or female) who has not watched k dramas because it has something for everyone (romance/ action/ suspense).

Leer más

Absolute Thrill Ride Despite Flaws!

When it comes to a series that has all of the twists and turns, the action sequences, and the intrigue like "24," you really can't go wrong with "Vagabond."

Much like "24," nothing in Vagabond is as it seems. Characters aren't as they appear to be, and those that you figured to be the "villains," you suddenly find everything turned around.

A Korean airliner is taken down by terrorists, and the absolute distraught uncle, Cha Dal Geon, is determined to find out why as well as who is behind it. Of course, at first, nobody believes him until small pieces begin to fall into place. Geon is given some credibility as a movie stuntman who also teaches martial arts classes. However, he quickly finds out that martial arts rarely beats out a special forces soldier. I liked that they put some limitations on Geon. However, I was occasionally frustrated by how he took the lead in NIS investigations. That part was lacking in realism. I understand that he has a vested interest, but I doubt that NIS would give him such free reign and latitude. Still, Lee Seung-gi brings a character with a lot of charisma as well as genuine feeling to the role. He was excellent.

Go Hae Ri is the "rookie" NIS agent stationed in Morocco. I had a harder time with her character. Suzy Bae is a good--but not great--actress. She seemed to find a hard time treading the line between depicting an agent who is inexperienced but trained. There were times when I just didn't find her depiction believable. I was hoping more for a seasoned actress like Doona Bae (Stanger) who brings intelligence and presence to her roles. Half the time Go Hae Ri doesn't seem to know what she's doing. And too often, she took a backseat to Geon, when she is the field agent! If you're stationed in Morocco as a field agent, you can't be that green. I thought the writers could have done a better job here. Bae also needs to broaden her range. Too often, she has an almost blank expression or the same expression in most of her scenes. I also quickly tired of her "16-year-old" reactions to the small, intimate moments with Geon. If there is a "weak link" in the cast, it's definitely Suzy Bae!

There were a number of character errors in the series. Never implement a character error in order to move the plot. That's a rookie mistake, and it was used several times in this series to the point when you can't help but shake your head at such carelessness.

Several times, Go Hae Ri or Geon would return to their homes even when they know that they are targets. Do you really think an NIS agent would make this kind of a mistake?

There was an instant when Go Hae Ri is assigned to protect Geon. She's drugged and knocked out. When she comes to, she immediately goes to the bathroom rather than checking to see if Geon is in danger...or even worse, not knowing if the assassin is even still in the building! If she has enough state of mind to easily make her way to the bathroom, I doubt she was disoriented.

Another instant is when we have a sniper trying to take out a target. Geon and Hae Ri are protecting him. We already know that the sniper has orders to kill anyone, including Geon and Hae Ri. And yet, a professional assassin decides not to shoot them in order to kill her target?! I don't know many assassins who have such a conscience. It made no sense.

I also wondered if male prison guards are allowed to work at female prisons in Korea.

In any case, don't let these minor flaws prevent you from watching this adrenalin-boost of a series! There's scarcely a dull moment, and the rest of the cast, especially Kyeong-Yeong Lee (Edward Park) is nothing short of fantastic! I've seen him in several other series, and he's always tremendous!

What really got me, however, was the season-ending cliff-hanger! So unlike most of the Korean series I've seen where I now have to wait for Season 2! I absolutely can't wait!

Leer más

Excellent thriller with Bond-worthy moments...

Vagabond is an action-packed thriller with a twist in each episode that’ll keep you on the edge of your seats. The two leads are well cast both excellent and have good chemistry, and production value is high. The Moroccan scenes are stunning specifically the roof-top chase scene in ep1 which is Bond-worthy.

Lee Seung Gi is excellent as Cha Dal Gun, a hapless stuntman turned accidental hero. Even though it is hard to believe Dal Gun could escape the numerous and relentless attempts on his life by trained assassins and mercenaries, Lee is convincing because he plays it straight. He doesn’t play it as a thrill-seeker or someone looking for recognition; instead he’s a grieving uncle driven to uncover the truth behind the plane crash that killed his nephew.

Bae Suzy is also excellent as rookie NIS agent Go Hae Ri who reluctantly helps Dal Gun because of her sympathy for the bereaved families in particular Dal Gun’s after seeing his nephew Hoon’s affectionate video. Moon Woo Jin is an intelligent young actor and his Cha Hoon is sweet and has an old soul.

The series ends where it began and while the Dal Gun and Hae Ri appear to be nearing the truth, the mystery is unsolved. Will there be a second season? While I personally don’t believe there’s enough material for a full second season and it’ll be very hard to keep the quality of the story-telling and action to the same level, I hope there’ll be another 2-3 episodes to bring the story to a logical end and give viewers some closure.

Leer más

Unraveling Chemistry and Intense Thrills

Vagabond, a captivating Korean drama, takes viewers on an exhilarating journey filled with suspense, action, and romance. The undeniable chemistry between Lee Seung-gi and Suzy Bae, the main leads of the series known as Cha Dal-gun and Go Hae-ri, adds a layer of depth to the already thrilling narrative.

The story centers around Cha Dal-gun (Lee Seung-gi), who undergoes a transformation into an awakened tiger following the tragic death of his nephew in a mysterious plane crash. As an orphan who raised his nephew singlehandedly, Cha Dal-gun's grief is further intensified by the massive cover-up of the incident. Motivated by a burning desire for justice, he embarks on a relentless journey to uncover the truth behind the tragedy.

Go Hae-ri (Suzy Bae), on the other hand, is the eldest daughter of a deceased marine who had dreams of leading a normal life as a civil servant to support her family. Fate, however, intervenes and she finds herself as a dedicated agent of the National Intelligence Service (NIS). As Cha Dal-gun and Go Hae-ri's paths intertwine, they discover a complex and tangled web of corruption lurking behind the plane crash, linking their lives together in an unexpected way.

Lee Seung-gi delivers a powerful and emotionally charged performance as Cha Dal-gun, showcasing the character's determination and grief with authenticity. His portrayal captures the audience's attention, drawing them into his world of relentless pursuit. Suzy Bae shines as Go Hae-ri, seamlessly transitioning from a woman seeking a normal life to a skilled and resolute NIS agent. The chemistry between Lee Seung-gi and Suzy Bae is undeniable, elevating the tension and emotional depth of the series.

The narrative of Vagabond is a masterclass in suspense and intrigue. From the very first episode to the last, viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, gripped by the intricate plot filled with unexpected twists and turns. The series strikes a perfect balance between intense action sequences and heartfelt character development, ensuring that audiences remain fully invested in the fates of the protagonists.

However, one aspect that leaves viewers eagerly yearning for more is the cliffhanger ending of the first season. The anticipation for a second season has been mounting since the series originally aired in 2019. The lack of news regarding a continuation of the story has left fans, including myself, feeling both frustrated and hopeful for a resolution to the captivating storyline.

Given the love and support Vagabond has garnered over the years, starting a petition or reaching out to the responsible parties, such as Netflix, could be a proactive way for fans to express their desire for a second season. The dedication and enthusiasm of fans should not be underestimated, and voicing the collective eagerness for a continuation may help pave the way for the return of this thrilling series.

In conclusion, Vagabond is an enthralling Korean drama that seamlessly blends suspense, action, and romance ( few romance scenes but each of them bring butterflies, S2 will definitely show the missing piece of puzzle ) . Lee Seung-gi and Suzy Bae's remarkable on-screen chemistry adds an extra layer of allure to the series. While the cliffhanger ending leaves viewers yearning for more, the impact and popularity of Vagabond are testaments to its quality. Let's hope that the passionate fan base's enthusiasm can bring about the long-awaited second season, satisfying our craving for the continuation of this exceptional series. This drama is my all time Favourite.

Leer más

Action series

Great show lots of action and suspense, acting very good. A bit slow in the middle. Some good fighting scenes and some not so realistic car chases and bullet scenes.
If you are an action oriented person watch this series.
I usually watch a few episodes at a time, but this one popped in my Netflix preview and I clicked on it. After watching the first episode i was hooked as the story is intriguing. Did binge watch this series it's worth it.


Spoiler:
Where or when is second series, the cliffhanger at the end indicates a second season. With so many unanswered questions the second season is required.

Leer más

Every life is important

This is a story about a man who lost his nephew because of a plane crash incident and there is something wrong with that incident. Then, there is a woman who only does her job as National Intelligence Service (NIS) agent until she meets the man that changes her perception about the jobs that She's doing. In this K-Drama, there are a lot of plot twists that make you think about who is behind all of this and it's going to be interesting when you found out who is the root of that plane crash incident.

Vagabond teaches us that everyone can change their mind as long there is a big opportunity. We can be greedy when money and power are involved but not the personality of a person. As long as we are still conscious, we can choose where is right and wrong even our actions. Do not trust everyone, trust yourself and several friends that really helped you during the crisis moment.

Leer más

Nearly perfect

Not gonna lie, this was my second try to watch Vagabond, first time, one year ago, I’ve just watched first episode any for some reason decided to drop it. I don’t really know why, probably I was just not in a mood to watch action drama. This time, I’ve made it past first episode and that was one of best decisions I’ve made this year, I swear. This drama has everything and in perfectly balanced proportion. There’s action, drama, romance, even a bit of comedy, just name it.
Story is simple at the beginning and then throughout the series it gets more and more complicated. Cha Dal Geon, our main character takes care of his nephew when the boy dies in an airplane crash. Dal Geon is devastated but soon discover that a simple plane crash might’ve been a terrorist attack. He allies with Go Hae Ri, young agent for NIS and together they try to solve the case which will take them to the very top of Korean politics.
First of all, the plot that we get is from the start very multilayered. Very quickly we’re introduced to vast array of characters that represent both sides of the conflict, so we have broad view of the situation. This gives us more or less full picture of what’s going on on the surface. Because the case quickly turns out to have a lot of layers that we’ll expose them together with main characters.
I’ve quickly put my attention to the characters. Of course, there’s a lot of action, but the characters build the scenery here very well.
So we have Cha Dal Geon and Go Hae Ri, our main characters who in fact know the least of what’s going on, but are in the middle of the action and they are the reason plot moves forward.
Then we have, let’s call it, second circle, where I’d put Gi Tae Ung, who appears first with security audit when things start to get hot in NIS and Min Jae Shik, Hae Ri’s direct supervisor. They both represent group that’s in the middle. They know a bit more than Hae Ri and Dal Geon, but are often limited by their bosses. Right away we get where they stand on the moral compass. Gi Tae Ung may be stickler to the rules of an asshole type of guy since the beginning, but he’s kind of right. He doesn’t trust Hae Ri, which he admits openly multiple of times, but he has s good reason to do so. She shortly proves that she cannot in fact be trusted in this line of work by giving all the information to the Dal Geon, who is certainly out of the investigation, as he’s in no way connected to NIS. She’s too impulsive and in this line of work this is not a trait to be proud of (especially in the eyes of her supervisors) since it may mean risking somebody’s life. By the way, I love Shin Sung Rok’s (playing Gi Tae Ung) acting in this series. His character is not completely good, but in his rough honesty there’s very interesting, true to his beliefs character.
And we have the highest circle, characters that we should be the most beware of. They include villain but also the higher ups in NIS hierarchy. We soon discover that even among “good guys” there’re some shady figures.
As the plot is multilayered with characters it’s also multilayered in terms of action. Viewer doesn’t get rest for long here. Crime in this drama has so many layers, that after uncovering one, another one emerges.
And there’re some comedic reliefs as well. In drama with so much suspense and action, they work as a good pressure valve. It was nice to see infantile rivalry between Dal Geon and Tae Ung in some scenes. It wasn’t pushy or important motive, but it was an interesting add on that took a bit of pressure in a rather action packed series.
Let’s talk about acting, because this was for me drama of reception for some actors. I’ve already mentioned Shin Sung Rok, who’ve done amazing work with Gi Tea Ung.
With Bae Suzy I’ve had initial problem, because I’ve first seen her in Big. The drama was so bad and poorly written that I’ve wanted to forget about everything that I’ve seen there, including Suzy’s acting. Since then I’ve seen her in While You Were Sleeping and Start Up but finally here, in Vagabond I’ve regained trust in her acting, she delivered perfect portrayal of her character.
About Lee Seung Gi. Well, my first encounter was in King 2 Heart, which I still remember with a dose of cringe. His acting wasn’t that bad there, actually he was one of good elements of that drama. Here, with better written character, he truly shined, and I’m so happy about it.
Overall I have absolutely not his bad to say about vagabond. Everything, from music, through characters to the plot was on its place as it should be. Viewer get’s a solid dose of action with strategically placed comedic motives. Absolutely perfect. With one exception, so far there’s no news about second season. And that’s very bad.

Leer más

" Vagabond " was action packed, but had some parts of it that it wasn't that good.

The drama started strongly, with two emotional episodes that shoot the interest high with the whole action and mystery plot. The action continued till the very end, but the mystery was pretty much solved or got uninteresting half way through. So, the rest of the drama was just an extremely thinly spread plot that was left open in the end, probalby suggesting a second season ( ? ? ). The romance, in addition, was just unecessary. The couple had not one moment together and the whole thing looked forced. The performances, however, were pretty good.

So, overall, six out of ten.

Leer más

I CAN't believe that there's season 2!!! I'm not mad and such but I was actually wasn't expecting to have another season. But! WHEN!! when's SEASON 2!!
HOLY THE ENDING MADE ME CRY SO MUCH!
this is my first time watching a Korean drama with less romance in an action drama and I actually like it. There is romance and such but little but I still like how they incorporated it even though the main focus is action.
Omy!! It took me a while to finish this drama because I don't like to wait every week for the episode and right now I am watching Crash Landing On You and I am loving it. But I'm scared I might stop again cuz I might get lazy to wait HAHA.
But anyway, sorry for the spoilers but I recommend this to someone who loves ACTION, TRILLERS, and PLOT TWIST.
It's so GOOD!! <3

-
12/28/19 9:16pm

Leer más