Korean Fantasy TV Series Review: Arthdal Chronicles (2019)

This one is another Netflix original, and I have no idea why it took me so long to actually watch it. I think maybe the trailer was not inspiring so I overlooked it initially?

Folks, this is a true gem! It reminded me of Grace Draven's writing and Game of Thrones although on a much smaller scale.

Synopsis

So, this is a Bronze Age fantasy, folks. It depicts Tagon, a conqueror with a dark secret and a dream to become the first king of Arthdal, which is a union of tribes, each of whom is vying for power. Next to Tagon is fierce Taealha, a spy trained by her father from an early age, and who wants to became Tagon's queen. And opposite to their plans is an old prophecy coming to life. 3 children born on the same day and in the same hour, who will end the world as we know it. Two of them grew up together in Iark, place where Arthdal gods can not reach, but the third was picked on a whim by Tagon and brought up as his own son.

While Tanya and Eunsom were taught the idealistic values of Wahan tribe, Eunsom twin, the third child grows into a beautiful, cold sociopath. And their paths collide, when Arthdal conquers Iark, enslaving Wahans. Tanya gets caught up in power games of Tagon because of her lineage and psychic powes, Eunsom tries to gain power of his own to save her, and Saya, the other twin, falls for Tanya and in his list for power will work against everything the other two were taught and believe in.

Guys, the plot is tight! You get the intensity from the first episode, and it doesn't let up until the end. Beautiful scenery, costumes, music. Epic dialogues. Powerful female and male characters. Great fighting sequences!

I adored it, and can not wait for season 2. Also, there is just so much juiciness here. The three races, Neanthals, Igutus and Sarams with their different strengths. Fantastic supporting characters. Song Joong Ki who plays both Eunsom and Saya is amazing. So different in each of his roles. Even Tagon is likeable despite his role of a conqueror. Same for Taealha. She is a product of her upbringing, but you can still relate to her and feel for her.

Here, look! Maybe this will convince you.

9/10, folks. 

Highly recommended.