Secretly, Greatly (Korean Movie)

From Wikipedia:

Secretly, Greatly (Hangul: 은밀하게 위대하게) is a 2013 South Korean action comedy-drama film starring Kim Soo-hyun, Park Ki-woong, and Lee Hyun-woo, who play North Korean spies who infiltrate South Korea as a village idiot, a rock musician, and a high school student, respectively. They assimilate to small town life while awaiting their orders, until one day, due to a sudden power shift in the North, their mission turns out to be an order to commit suicide The film is based on the 2010 spy webtoon series Covertness by Hun, which has received over 40 million page hits.

Review and Thoughts

The trailers looked interesting and it helped that the leads were good looking (haha). But beyond the façade and the obvious little details (e.g. way a highly trained soldier would end up as a village idiot and why that particular was chosen etc...), I think the story was well crafted and the ending, while sad and somewhat open, ended the way it should and was bittersweet (in a nice way). There were many parts to the movie and it was a rollercoaster ride of emotions from happy, to sad, adorable, to angst and heartwarming towards the end.

While some might think that the storyline was weak, I think of it this way: the whole premise of the mission was not really into the spy-conquer-the-world-and-kill-the enemies-infiltration (e.g. Won Ryuhwan being the village idiot), but rather an experiment, an experiment by the mad scientist Professor Seo Young-guk, who wanted to proof that the whole concept of the 5446 Corps was a failure and that when it comes to survival, survival outweighs the prospect of death and loyalty is a farce. It is a movie after all, and sometimes to go in with too high an expectation would only lead to greater disappointment. Since you know the storyline and what it is about, given the short time that a movie has to portray everything, sometimes that time is not enough and you just have to go with the basics (and just not think too much).

Now on to the characters (and spoilers)… 

Kim Soo-hyun - Lieutenant Won Ryu-hwan / Bang Dong-gu

 

Kim Soo-hyun in his role as Won Ryu-hwan, who has the ability to read people and is fluent in 5 languages, was convincing as he alternated between his idiot persona and his normal one within the confines of his room. Each of his calculated missteps, leading to his daily fumbles and little ‘accidents’, added humor; even more so when his inner thoughts are played out to what he is really thinking about the people he pretends to fool. He starts off as a cold hearted killing machine with only one purpose in life, that is to accomplish the great mission (though he doesn’t know what it is) and to bring glory to his country.

His childhood had propelled him to want need to become the best, having to literally kill others to get into the position he is today (and to essential just stay alive). But despite being trained to kill and be heartless, Ryu-hwan is somewhat a naïve character (he really believes that his mother is still alive and taken care of – his main motivation for staying alive to accomplish the mission) with really bad interpersonal skills. He tries not to get to involved and attached to the village people he has come to live with over the years under his guise, but as trouble brews back home with a plan to kill all the 5446 Corps and the introduction of 2 other spies (who turn out to be his friend and fan respectively), Ryu-hwan’s cold exterior is soon melted as he starts to care about the people around him and gets (too) involved in their lives; learning the meaning of relationships and treasuring those around him and the value of life.

Ryu-hwan originally planned to follow the order to kill himself, but when he found out that his mother – his sole purpose for living – had been killed, he wanted to get back at the organization that raised him and was practically on a death mission. Knowing that it might be a mission of no return, he ties up things as nicely as his can within the village (e.g. bidding farewell to his adopted mother and telling her to visit the doctor, givinga n airplane ticket to Ran to go and find her son etc…). There could have been some hope of his survival if he had cooperated with the South Korean agency, but his pride would not let him (to collude with the ‘enemy’ - the power of propaganda indeed). Towards the end of the movie, as he was about to give up on himself, he saw the bankbook that his adopted mother placed in his pocket and his purpose to live was renewed. Alas, it was not to be as he soon met his end because he wanted to protect Hae-jin from the onslaught of bullets.

Park Ki-woong - Rhee Hae-rang / Kim Min-su

 

Although Hae-rang is the son of a high ranking North Korean official, Rhee Moo-Hyuk, with skills as good as Ryu-hwan, he was born out of wedlock. And since his mother was not the main wife but a lowly concubine, his status is actually not as high as some might think. He understands more about the world than Ryu-hwan and always tries to show off his superiority to Ryu-hwan (when in actuality he cares for respects Ryu-hwan as a friend).

His guise is a singer-wannabe, and it is hilarious to know that he can’t play the guitar for peanuts (at the beginning). And it was even funny seeing Ryu-hwan trailing him to his audition (wanting to find out what his ‘great mission’ was) only to discover that Hae-rang cannot play the guitar. The embarrassment that ensues was hilarious. However, Hae-rang soon puts a lot of hard work into learning how to play the guitar and he soon (midway towards the end of the movie) manages to play a simple tune.

I personally believe his mission was the most relaxed and easiest – being a wanna-be-singer. And I guessed it could have been his father wanting to spare him a life of hardship as much as possible. But I could be wrong.

Past his worldly playboy-ish exterior, it seems that there is more to Hae-rang as it is revealed towards the end of the movie that he used his position and actually helped smuggle many people out of North Korea to safety. He is somewhat disillusioned with life and knows that the life that he leads can be easily snuffed out, so he intends to live life to the fullest and end it with a grand bang (which he literally does at the end of the movie when he futilely sacrifices himself hoping that at least the others can live).

Lee Hyun-woo - Rhee Hae-jin

 

Rhee Hae-jin is the youngest secret agent in North Korean history. He is an excellent sniper and has a ‘crush’ on Ryu-hwan his hero and someone he looks up to. His sole purpose of becoming a sniper and maturing so fast was so that he could meet his idol - Ryu-hwan. It is adorable seeing him going all puppy eyes, yet denying his admiration for Ryu-hwan, whom he would so willingly kill for. It is a ongoing gag from the moment Hae-jin enters the movie with 'Should I kill him?' (Hae-jin asking Ryu-hwan is he should kill a person simply because he was being mean to Ryu-hwan) 'No!' (Ryu-hwan’s somewhat horrified face and reaction).

Hae-jin’s sole purpose of living is Ryu-hwan, and so when he is captured by the South Korean agency, he volunteers to assist them only if they let Ryu-hwan live. Despite being injured, he escapes from his shackles and takes down the North Korean snipers that are shooting at his precious Ryu-hwan. His perspective of the world is very simplistic, only black and white exist, there is no grey. This is also the reason why he naively though that the South Korean agency were going to kill them no matter, so he fired the first shot which soon led to his and Ryu-hwan’s deaths.

Other Characters

The characters in the village from Ryu-hwan’s adopted brother and mother, to the resident pretty girl next door and her brother, Ran – the smokaholic with a sad past (and assets to be reckoned with), and the two resident little boys who often ‘bully’ Ryu-hwan (in his idiot mode) all tie in nicely into the development of Ryu-hwan’s character into becoming a more warm-hearted person who learns how to care for others.

Actually there was an ex- the 5446 Corps who had defected and wanted to help them live (seeing them being so young); he even went against orders to not meddle in the issue. But this movie was meant to have a tragic ending, so tragic it was, but at least there were some kind intentions.

Conclusion

It was sad, but it was ambiguous at the end (a hint which tells his adopted mother to take care and not get sick) which might indicate that Ryu-hwan is still alive (who knows?). Minus the lack of a real plot (just don’t think too much into the plot and go with the flow), the character development of the 3 spies worked out somehow and the ending, while sad, wasn’t as tragic as it could have been; a lingering bittersweet aftertaste that was somewhat satisfactory (it fit the storyline and direction). If there was a drama series with more backdrops on the spies characters and more of their fun banter and interactions, there would have been more time to explore all the emotions and storylines that this story had to offer. But for now, I think this movie did a pretty good job, it might not have been stellar but it was good enough. 

Rating: 3.5/5

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Good Doctor Episode 18

Thankfully everything goes well in the operating room. I was worried about the boy when Do-Han could not perform his duty. It was a tense moment when life and death was hanging by a thread.

Shi-on remarkable improvement is both impossible and amazing. On reality, it is impossible for a person with autism to be able to handle many situations the way he does. However, it is really nice to see those positive changes and be encouraged through drama land. In a unique way, this drama is able to evolve the emotions of people as they touched on the topic of abuse and forgiveness. 

The interesting about Good Doctor is the hilarious and comedic moments was random and funny. Doctor Promade really caught me by surprise with his praises and I love how Yoon-Seo response to him. 

In-Hye condition is still a major concern in this episode. Although it may seem like she is not in danger at the moment. We will never know when her illness relapse, she might die.

Shi-On and Yoon Seo continued their bickering way. It was interesting to see their interaction and Shi-On was so funny 

When he gave a lecture to Yoon-Seo

Nurse Jo was once a gangster who turned over a new leaf to become a nurse. I am glad that the scriptwriter tell us more about this interesting character.

The short play at the children section was so funny and interesting. Do-Han became Captain Hook! He gave a wooden expressionless look throughout the performance. That was an awkward and stiff performance by the serious doctor. Still, it was fun for the children.

Finally, they confessed their feelings and hug each other! That is what I have been looking forward to. 

For a recap of this drama, please view dramabeans: Episode 18

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Good Doctor Episode 17

I was terribly worried about In-Hye condition. When I saw the scene when she fainted and vomited blood, my heart almost skip a beat. Hopefully she will recover, otherwise it will be a tragic ending to the show. Please, scriptwriter do not let her die! Anyway, In-Hye was rushed to the hospital and coincidentally, Shi-On have a dream about In-Hye being healthy. Is that a bad omen? 

I love Chae-Kyung and Shi-On budding friendship. When Shi-On returned the sweater to her, she was surprised. Then she spectaculated that someone must be jeolous. Shi-On totally believed it, only to find out that Chae-Kyung was joking. I like how Shi-On pouted and expressed his anger. Funny! Hahaha...

Yes, this is the man who bullied both Shi-On and his brother during their childhood. The tragedy at the mines was caused by him. It takes great courage to own up a mistake and I like how the scriptwriter link the childhood incident. However, Shi-On cannot bring himself to forgive him yet. I supposed it was hard to deal with the death of a person close to you. In addition, to face a person who indirectly caused his hyung death is a great struggle.

Do-Han really fitted into the shoes of Shi-On elder brother. I like how he advised Shi-On on the matter of forgiveness. I have to compliment Do-Han for the changes he had made. I like how he had became now. He no longer portray a 'machine' doctor. If only all the doctors are like him. Oh yes, did I mentioned how cute it is that he still carries the toy stethoscope that Shi-On gave him? He used that on assistant chief son. Their conversation in the ward is very touching. The child dream of being a professional baseball player when he grows up. I also realized that the assistant chief is a caring father after all.  

What a way to remembrance the past memories with your lover! I like the small little interaction between the couple. Aww... They were so cute and I am finally totally convince that they are in love. It was just a different way of expression in their love. 

Yoon-Seo have a change of heart or rather she realized that she love him after all. It was just plain funny that Yoon-Seo keep dropping hints but Shi-On just does not realize it. What a hilarious couple dinner and a cute couple they are!

What a touching moment when Shi-On and his childhood bully hugged each other! They have become friends now and the bully was full of gratitude towards Shi-On. I watched with teary eyes when the man promised Shi-On that he will bring up his son strong and healthy. 

A boy causality was send to the operation theatre and Doctor Pomade took a risk and tried his best to save the little boy. A tense moment occurred when the boy lost his heart beat but was later revived by Doctor Pomade. I almost skip a heart beat watching their fearful expressions and was totally relief when every thing goes well. This is what happens when you are so into a drama! It brings you to a roller coaster ride that was fun and full of the unexpected thrill and surprise! 

The next scene cracks me up when II- Kyu and Doctor Pomade were found lying on Shi-On bed 'naked' the next morning after a drink. They looked amusingly shocked when Shi-On walked in and revealed that their clothes are in the washing and he had already prepared their breakfast. 

Oh dear, I knew that Do-Han stabbed wound will cause a problem when he perform his surgery! He could not pick up the scalpel. The chief assistant son life is in his hands now. Thankfully, he did not perform the surgery yet. 

For a recap of this drama, please view dramabeans at: Episode 17

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Good Doctor Episode 14

That was a frightening look from Shi-On father. Those terrifying eyes which send a chill down Shi-On spine! The reunion of Shi-On and his mother leaves Shi-On confused as he recounted his childhood days and how his mother abandoned him. Doctor Choi acted as a 'mentor' to Shi-On and thus discovered his talent in envisioning the human body parts. 

Shi-On managed to complete a surgery in the operation room! That was a rather fast progress for an autistic person. Then again, it is a drama and he need to show remarkable progress along the way even if it is rather rushed. Nonetheless, I like Do-Han compliment to Shi-On. In my opinion, Do-Han is like an elder brother to Shi-On. 

This girl is so cute! She gave a can drink to Doctor Choi when the vending machine broke down. I think she wanted Doctor Choi to help him open the can instead of giving it to him. I like the friendship between Doctor Pomade and Shi-On. I find it rather cute that Shi-On shared his problem with Doctor Pomade and how he gave some allowance to him in return. This kind gesture was  comforting to Shi-On.

I was worried about In-Hye when she discovered that her sister In-young works in a nightclub. She felt hurt that Jin-Wook  knows about it but she is kept in the dark. I believed that In-Hye felt sad and guilty that her sister work in the nightclub to foot her hospital bill. 

The 'mistake' that Yoon-Seo made which was not her fault became her setback and I like how Shi-On comforted her with a sweet and gentle hug. The music played on and this Original soundtrack is from Kim Jong Kook - How come you don't know. A lovely song from Kookie!!! 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a drama recap: Episode 14

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Good Doctor Episode 16

Look at Nurse Jo expression! He looks like he is ready for a fight.. Oh dear, Do-Han was wounded by the stabby!! Shi-On to the rescue but the dude has a weapon! Oh no!! 

Eventually, our scary nurse Jo subdue the stabby with his fist? Wow!! This guy is not as simple as we think he is. Nurse Jo was arrested by the police for assault. His secret admirer Nurse Nam was worried about him. That was interesting. 

I love the scene when Chae-Kyung visited Do-Han in the hospital. This is the only time through out the past episodes which I find them really close to each other as a couple! They finally showed their vulnerable side to their otherwise stubborn characters. 

A welcome kiss on the cheek from Shi-On to Nurse Jo? Okay, that is cuteness overflow! He finally returned the 'kiss' to Nurse Jo. 

Is that a 'green eye monster' that I see in Yoon-Seo when she knows that the sweater which Shi-On wears is a gift from Chae-Kyung? That is just an expensive sweater from Chae-Hyung to show her gratitude to Shi-On for saving Do-Han life. However, Yoon-Seo seem to be really jealous of her. Hmm... I smell sour grapes from you Yoon-Seo! I am keeping my finger crossed to see their development. 

In-Hye and Yoon-Seo shared the bed and talk about Shi-On and In Hye share her worries about the operation she will be going through. That kind of closeness makes me wonder, is there really this type of doctor that will go to great length for their patient?  A patient that have such a bonding with her doctor?  A doctor fall In love with a patient sibling? Is that true in real life or in a drama land? Anyway, i am sure it is the latter. Oh no! In-Hye is in trouble! Hope she will survive! 

For a recap of the drama, please view Dramabeans at: Episode 16

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Good Doctor Episode 15

Who finds Shi-On cute and innocent? He even tried to cook a meal for his crush! In this episode, Yoon-Seo continues to act as though nothing happen although she knows that Shi-On still carries a touch on her. She could be still in denial and felt confused about their relationship. First, it started off with Yoon-Seo treating Shi-On like a younger brother. Suddenly, she realized that Shi-On like her. In my opinion, they have lots of chemistry. Even if they remains as friends it is fine with me too.

This scene was scary and I think that was crime a scene. Indeed, a girl was stabbed and rushed to the hospital. This girl was so traumatized from this incident.  Later on, we gets a glimpse of the stabber face!!! He even showed up in the hospital. 

That was so heartwarming!!! I love the way Do-Han used the toy stethoscope which Shi-On gave him. He used this toy to play with the injured girl before he used the real stethoscope on her. Which means Do-Han carried Shi-On toy Stethoscope all the while! That was a pleasant surprise to me. 

Shi-On said to Do-Han that in order to overcome a trauma, the victim need to believe that there is someone warm and stronger by her side, who is stronger than the culprit. Unknowingly, he has become the 'stronger' person that he had mentioned to Do-Han when he saw his father lifted up his hand and intend to hit his mother. He actually stepped in and protect her mother! I admire his courage to stand up for himself and protect his mother from his father attack. 

Chae-Kyung is not really a bad person as I initially thought. She just wanted the person who drove her father death to pay the price. Along the way, she became self centered and cold to the people around her. I was glad that she realized her mistakes and that she was wrong to betray the hospital. 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a recap of the drama: Episode 15

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Good Doctor Episode 13

Finally, Shi-On have to deal with his inner fear and overcome his trauma. Oh why? Why did this happen when Shi-On is making some improvement and now he seem to go back to his 'shell'! I know eventually Shi-On will be alright, however, my heart goes out to him at this moment. Even though Shi-On father had cancer, he should show some remorse and repentance other wise I think he should really die!  

It was touching that Yoon-Seo and Do-Han were trying to help Shi-On overcome his fear. It helps that people around him shows concern and genuinely care for him. Do-Han even challenged Shi-On to surpass him. 

Doctor Pomade and Shi-On became friends? I like that Shi-On has this non-judgemental attitude towards people. His inability to lie makes him so childlike and sincere. Those good qualities were found in Shi-On and I enjoyed his character development. Because of the people who believed in him, he had been making some improvement in all aspect. 

The creepy chairman and the assistant chairman seem to have some motives and hidden agenda towards the hospital. Nonetheless, they were just a few minor characters which does not contribute much to the plot. 

Please view this link for a drama recap: Episode 13

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Good Doctor Episode 12

It is really not easy to be a doctor. Especially when it comes to making decision to save either the mother or the child. This episode was very touching and I was in awe of a mother determination to save her child at all costs. On the other hand, I was full of sympathy of Shi-On as he encountered his father again. Those memories of child abused was really terrifying. 

The fact the Shi-On father seem to be unrepentant makes me flare up with a character like him. I was worried about Shi-On reaction when he see his father and mother again. Is he able to handle all these betrayal, abandonment and violent abuse from his incorrigible father? 

The interaction between Shi-On and Yoon-Seo remains cute and interesting. Especially the part where Shi-On said he is going to buy a hammer at a convenience shop? Lol! He is actually looking for an excuse to walk her out. The way he pouts when he saw Do-Han waiting for her outside the hospital was so CUTE!

Do-Han and Yoon-Seo looked compatible too. However, their chemistry is that of a siblings to me. Do-Han seldom show a cheerful side and gave me an impression of a stern person. After watching this episode, I discovered another side of him. 

However, the story about how Chae-kyung and Do-Han used to love each other deeply is still unconvincing in my eyes. Anyway, I support the other couple In-Young and Jin-Wook. The latter discovered In-Young secret trade and that is working in the nightclub. Oh dear! 

Chae-kyung and Shi-On friendship is sincere. Shi-On even revealed that he has a crushed on 'someone'! We know who is that person. Both of them is rather cute in their interaction. 

Please view this link at Dramabeans for a drama recap: Episode 12

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