[Why you should watch] Through the Darkness
by Guest Beanie
By: @Poulomi
Netflix had been persistently recommending Through the Darkness to me, but each time I considered it, I was deterred by the title song’s gloominess, the monochromatic visuals, and the unsettling chills they evoked. However, an article about Kim Nam-gil’s experimental acting approach piqued my interest, and I decided to give the show a chance. To my astonishment, I was utterly captivated, riveted by the narrative unfolding from the first episode.
Through the Darkness is a masterclass in the psychological thriller genre, deftly weaving the intricate tapestry of criminal psychology with the nascent field of criminal profiling. At the epicenter of this chilling narrative is Song Ha-young (Kim Nam-gil), the protagonist who’s portrayed with haunting nuance. Ha-young’s character arc is a study in contrasts – his hypersensitivity and intense empathy, which once burdened his childhood, morph into a solitary, almost enigmatic adulthood persona forged as a defense mechanism against the overwhelming emotions of the world.
This aspect of his character is vividly depicted in the first episode, where a six-year-old Ha-young, shy and timid, falls into a lake. As he sinks, he encounters a dead lady in a red dress, staring intensely at him. Intriguingly, Ha-young reaches out to her before being rescued. Later, he is visibly moved by the lady’s fate, showing a depth of emotion that belies his young age.
As an adult, Ha-young becomes a police officer, driven by his deep empathy for victims and a sense of responsibility towards humanity. He is seen as an outlier in the department, known for his serious, soft-spoken demeanor rather than the typical energetic and aggressive policeman archetype. His colleagues often mock his empathetic approach to understanding criminals and his habit of visiting victims’ families, though he rarely communicates with them.
The show also features the character of Kook Young-soo (Jin Sun-kyu), a dedicated and forward-thinking man who’s passionate about his work and compassionate towards humanity. Unlike Ha-young, whose empathy makes him vulnerable, Young-soo is driven by a sense of righteousness and conviction. This contrast leads to Young-soo becoming Ha-young’s mentor, helping him channel his abilities into becoming the nation’s first criminal profiler. Their relationship is beautifully portrayed, and Jin Sun-kyu delivers a compelling performance. Additionally, the other characters add depth to the series, each with their unique traits, contributing to the escalating tension in every episode.
My favorite part of the story was when Ha-young succumbs to evil and loses faith because he witnesses and experiences too much. He decides to quit; his colleagues and mentor do not question because they have seen Ha-young give too much for his cause. But then, one member of the victim’s family expresses acknowledgement of his work because that helped her restore faith in humanity. This becomes Ha-young’s break even point, sense of purpose, and return to his cause.
Overall, Through the Darkness is more than just a foray into the world of crime investigation; it is a profound exploration of the human psyche, expertly portrayed through its compelling characters and intricate storytelling. The series transcends conventional crime dramas, delving deep into its protagonists’ moral complexities and psychological depths. It stands as a testament to the power of empathy and understanding in a world often overshadowed by malevolence.
This show is a must-watch for those who appreciate nuanced character development, gripping narratives, and a thoughtful examination of the darker aspects of humanity. It is a journey that leaves a lasting impact, challenging viewers to look beyond the surface and embrace the light that lingers, even in the darkest of times.
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Tags: guest beanie, Theme of the Month, Through the Darkness, Why You Should Watch
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1 Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️ Underpants buddies for life. 😎
November 19, 2023 at 12:10 AM
Wow, thank you @poulomi for sharing this compelling argument for a drama that comes highly recommended by so many beanies. I have not heard it described in this way and although it is way beyond my comfort levels outer limits I hope those who are its ideal audience see this and jump right in.
Thanks so much for taking the time to write this and I hope we get to read more of your work.
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Poulomi
November 23, 2023 at 2:02 AM
Thank you @reply1988. Your words are very encouraging, and I will keep writing.
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2 Kurama
November 19, 2023 at 12:32 AM
Good choice @poulomi !
I loved this drama. The subject was dark but it was really interesting to watch them to understand serial killers to try to prevent other crimes in the future. Police doesn't like to recognize when they have a serial killer to catch but also understanding them? So they had to make Police accept their work too.
I really liked the female cop too. She was well written for once, not the noisy type we often get to compensate she's a woman...
It was the best acting by Kim Nam-Gil! He was incredible in this role.
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Poulomi
November 23, 2023 at 2:04 AM
Thank you @kurama. True, the female cop characterisation was very well done.
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3 peiyeelai
November 19, 2023 at 3:12 AM
I love this drama very much as it knows where it is heading too and yes, it based on South Korea's real-life first criminal profiler, Professor Kwon Il-yong and the cases he solved, according to the 2018 non-fiction book of the same title which he co-written with journalist-turned-author Ko Na-mu, which highlights Kwon's field experiences. One more thing, this drama helps Kim Nam Gil wins his second Daesang from SBS last year.
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4 dramalover4ever
November 19, 2023 at 3:53 AM
Through the Darkness is one of my all time favourites. I highly recommend that it is also watched with the documentary, The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in South Korea, on Netflix, telling of the rl events that inspired TTD. It's also worth catching Kim Nam-gil's interviews with the profiler Kwon Il-yong on YT.
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5 PYC
November 19, 2023 at 4:00 AM
@poulomi thanks for crafting this thoughtful piece that does justice to this outstanding drama.
The most impressive aspect of this drama to me as an audience is how “plain speaking” it is for conveying highly complex and nuanced subject matters and delving into the characters on the two sides of law. As I “live” watched it, I can’t help but appreciate the production team for not sensationalising the cases that in turn allows us thinking space.
I love my goofy Kim Nam-gil but what we see here is an almost traumatic trajectory of a decent human being who only wants to do the right thing for the victims and their families - and understand where the antagonists come from. It is a truly a career performance.
Having seen Jin Sun-kyu as villains in so many movies, it is refreshing to see him play the supportive and forward thinking boss. I simply love his character and also that of Kim So-jin as the straight talking and capable (female) detective.
Have you seen Jung Kyung-ho’s Life On Mars? Highly recommended if you haven’t. While it is an adaptation of the BBC drama, it is an excellent remade.
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darwi
November 19, 2023 at 8:11 AM
Despite all the glowing recommendations, I am weary of Through the Darkness because of Kim Nam Gil and his goofyness. I have only seen clips of him, but it really doesn't sit well with me. What you say make me reconsider.
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PYC
November 20, 2023 at 4:43 AM
I was very surprised at how low key and ‘ordinary’ he plays this very first crime profiler of Korea. Kim Nam-Gil brings this ‘thinking’ man alive. The only criticism if I’m to pick bone in an egg is he may be too handsome for the role LOL - but he nails it with emotional depth in the most understated manner.
Despite the immense popularity of The Fiery Priest, I couldn’t go past Ep 2 or 3. If you are in the same boat, Through The Darkness will surprise you.
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Poulomi
November 23, 2023 at 2:07 AM
thank you so much @epyc2010, i will surely check out Life on Mars.
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6 Eazal
November 19, 2023 at 4:53 AM
Thanks so much for sharing your love for this drama. I share it too.
As you said, the exploration of the huma psyche and an outstanding performance by KNG, who, with just one stare could say more than all the lines in the script. I was so moved by his acting, he's now an absolute favourite (and even if Junho won Baeksang for TRS and no one loves Junho more than I do, a part of me wanted him to be acknowledged for this).
I agree it's not an easy drama to watch, but it's totally worth it. I love crime dramas and this one, along with Stranger and Watcher are my favourite dramas.
I can only recommend to give it a try. Yes, not an easy watch, but absolutely rewarding.
And may I also have a word for Kim So Jin and her character, Detective Yoon? Excelent portrait of a police woman, who knows how to do their job.
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7 Gikata
November 19, 2023 at 6:41 AM
You MUST. End of discussion)))
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8 petrolia
November 19, 2023 at 12:31 PM
Thank you for this, and I absolutely second this recommendation. Through the Darkness is one of the finest pieces of TV I have watched. It does so many things other crime shows don't, and at the same time: it shows how grating this line of work is on the people who perform it; it shows the thin line between trying to understand criminal and dangerous people without excusing their crimes; it shows their crimes without lingering too much on the violence performed on the victims; it doesn't portray the perpetrators as heroes or something like it; it refrains from glorifying violence but doesn't shy away from showing it to show what it does to the victims and their families.
One of the many strengths of this drama are the interview scenes. They are sometimes very hard to bear, but that is because they are written and acted so well. It's not for effect but for showing what's going on. This TV show is miles away from your garden variety police procedural. There is even a whole group of police investigators who are eventually willing to learn and expand their lines of investigation because they are able to see that their evolving makes a difference.
And, finally, yes, I could wax poetic until the cows come home 😉 about Kim Nam-Gil's acting here. It is an ensemble piece, but he shines extra brightly. And the goofy KNG had some time off, you won't see him here.
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PYC
November 20, 2023 at 4:46 AM
Yes, the interview scenes! They are the measures of how KNG’s character progressing from a police investigator to a profession in its own right.
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9 Diana Hansen
November 19, 2023 at 1:16 PM
Great write up! I too was drawn in at the start and thought it was an excellent drama with a tight story and awesome actors. Kim Nam Gil is an excellent actor and brings so much to his roles. It might be the only thriller I would rewatch.
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10 Mrs Buckwheat
November 19, 2023 at 1:25 PM
I absolutely loved this show, it's brilliant and remains in my top 10 of kdramas of all time.
Although the subject matter can be quite dark at times, it was such an interesting and absorbing watch.
This was my introduction to Kim Nam Gil who was phenomenal in this role, a mastercraft in acting, such a joy to follow his character's journey.
Everything about this show is of the highest quality so do yourself a favour, as @poulomi has already very eloquently written and watch this show.
As the show is based on a true story I ended up going down all sorts of rabbit holes after watching, it was fascinating.
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11 LT is Irresistibly Indifferent and reminded of the slow march of death
November 19, 2023 at 2:24 PM
This really was the unsung hero of last year and it's great to read such a passionate case for watching it.
Such a thoughtful and gripping history of criminal profiling with great performances a well.
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12 jillian
November 19, 2023 at 2:39 PM
It was a great article @poulumi.
This is one of the best dramas last year. Also one of my faves.
Kim Nam Gil was excellent in the role.
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13 Blue (@mayhemf)
November 19, 2023 at 4:57 PM
I have heard a lot of good things about this show.
I think it’s about time I make time for this! Your last two paragraphs sealed it for me.
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Kurama
November 23, 2023 at 2:13 AM
You won't regret!
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14 neener ~ Inside the Magic Shop ~
November 23, 2023 at 2:12 AM
Totally agree~ highly recommended drama!
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