The South Korean TV show “Mr. Sunshine” was released in 2018. It was written by Kim Eun-sook and directed by Lee Eung-bok. The series features Lee Byung-hun, Kim Tae-ri, Yoo Yeon-Seok, Kim Min-jung, and Byun Yo-han in starring roles.
The story is set in Hanseong, which is present-day Seoul, during the early 1900s, and revolves around activists who are fighting for Korea’s independence. “Mr. Sunshine” was aired on tvN every Saturday and Sunday from July 7, 2018, to September 30, 2018. It was also released internationally on Netflix.
At the time of its final broadcast, Mr. Sunshine, a Korean drama, had earned the title of the third highest-rated show in Korean cable television history. The last episode achieved a viewership rating of 18.129%, and the drama’s overall average rating of 12.955% was the highest ever recorded for cable television at that time.
The show received praise for its cinematography, storytelling, the portrayal of strong female characters, and depiction of lower classes. However, it also faced criticism for allegedly inaccurate representation of historical facts, with some accusing it of being “pro-Japanese.” Meanwhile, others argued that the show reinforced stereotypes of Japanese people as villains and Americans as heroes.
The Storyline of Mr. Sunshine
Mr. Sunshine follows the story of Eugene Choi (played by Lee Byung-hun), a man who was born into slavery in Joseon and later escaped to the US during the 1871 Shinmiyangyo. There, he becomes an officer in the Marine Corps.
When Eugene returns to Joseon for a mission, he falls in love with Go Ae-shin (played by Kim Tae-ri), an aristocrat’s granddaughter who is also part of the Righteous Army. However, their love faces several obstacles, including their different social classes and the presence of Kim Hui-seong (played by Byun Yo-han), who has been Ae-shin’s betrothed since childhood.
Eugene also encounters other characters, such as Gu Dong-mae (played by Yoo Yeon-Seok), a ruthless samurai, and Kudo Hina (played by Kim Min-jung), the owner of the popular “Glory Hotel.” Meanwhile, Eugene learns of a plot by the Empire of Japan to colonize Korea and finds himself embroiled in the fight for his homeland’s sovereignty.
Review of Mr. Sunshine
With its magnificent production design, star-studded cast, and accomplished production team, tvN’s period drama was highly anticipated. The show made history as the first South Korean series to be streamed globally on Netflix simultaneously with its local airing on tvN, causing a buzz before its premiere.
The audience was captivated by the breathtaking cinematography and compelling portrayal of the main characters in the initial episodes. As the show progressed, Mr. Sunshine continued to deliver an engrossing storyline each week, interwoven with its rich historical background and skillfully crafted characters that breathed life into the delicately woven narrative.
The show’s momentum never waned, leaving the audience enraptured with each passing episode. Mr. Sunshine is a masterpiece that Korean drama fans will treasure. The show is a testament to the dedication and passion of its cast and production team, evident in every creative and technical aspect of the production.
The meticulous attention to detail and artistic vision showcased in the show has cemented their place in the history of South Korea’s thriving Korean drama landscape. The direction is sharp and bold, with even the tiniest details reflecting the show’s imaginative eloquence and stellar performances.
Despite the complex historical background, Mr. Sunshine delivers its message with an effortless complexity that is easy to grasp, making it a truly remarkable viewing experience. Mr. Sunshine is a visual treat for viewers. Each episode showcases stunning aesthetics, capturing picturesque moments from the declining Joseon era as foreign influences gradually integrate into the local culture.
The Glory Hotel, the American legation office, Gu Dong Mae’s territory, the Klin site, and Lord Go’s house are all meticulously designed, providing viewers with a detailed video representation of a lesser-known aspect of Korean history that hasn’t been thoroughly adapted in film and television. The show’s cinematography is splendid, with panoramic shots of beautiful sequences that are further enhanced by the amazing music layered onto the storytelling.
Our Verdict
Mr. Sunshine is An Epic Tale of Love, War, and Sacrifice. It is a drama that is sure to please its target audience and may also appeal to those who enjoy stories set in traditional times. We highly recommend this series for its historical premise value, superb cast portrayal, and overall quality. Every episode provides a cinematic experience that is truly remarkable, even with its somber tone.
While the plot follows a familiar path for period dramas, with a historical problem scenario, heroes and villains, and a satisfying conclusion, it is the expressive depiction and polished screenplay execution that sets Mr. Sunshine apart and makes it a truly remarkable work of art.
Our Rating: ⭐ (4.8/5).
