GMA Network has long been regarded as the leader in local fantasy series. Even the network’s detractors who deride its drama programs concede that they do much better fantasy productions than their rival networks. So it is no surprise their latest presentation, Mga Lihim ni Urduja, follows in the footsteps of its predecessors. And also moves to elevate the local genre even more.
Disney+’s Big Bet (카지노/Casino) is a fun and intriguing ride. Split into two eight-episode seasons, this first group of episodes introduces us to its anti-hero protagonist Cha Mu Sik played masterfully by the legend Choi Min Sik. The series is a fascinating character study of a man who from humble beginnings in rural Korea becomes an influential kingpin in the Philippine casino world.
Netflix looks to have its next big Korean hit with reality-competition series Physical: 100 (피지컬: 100). One hundred contestants from various fields in top physical shape compete in a series of grueling challenges to be the last one standing. And to claim the honor and 300 million won cash prize.
Netflix’s The Glory (더 글로리) wastes no time in setting the stage for what has to be one of the most refreshingly unflinching revenge dramas in a long time. Through these first eight episodes, Song Hye Kyo leads an excellent cast as the series chronicles one woman’s painful journey from being a victim of high school violence to now having a chance to exact revenge on the perpetrators.
Netflix’s very own Korean dating show returned last month and I was finally able to catch up on the first six episodes. Season 2 of last year’s surprise hit Single’s Inferno (솔로지옥) introduced the new group of sexy singles. And it’s been another fun, juicy ride so far. But at the same time, there’s been some interesting cracks in the glossy façade of the series.
If Fish Upon the Sky was as fluffy as fluff can get, Never Let Me Go (เพื่อนายแค่หนึ่งเดียว) is much more dramatic with hints of some darker turns possibly later on.
It has been such a treat catching up with the first two weeks of GMA Network’s Maria Clara at Ibarra. The fantasy series sees Maria Clara “Klay” Infantes (Barbie Forteza) somehow transported from Manila 2022 right into the pages of national hero Jose Rizal’s seminal novel Noli Me Tangere.
So for me, all I have to judge this series on is its own merits and my own experience in the greater world of Korean drama. And with that standard, I believe Money Heist: Korea is a fun and exciting ride powered by an excellent cast, sleek production and compelling storytelling.
It’s been a while since I’ve regularly followed a Filipino teleserye. Biggest reason for that is we unsubscribed to GMA Pinoy TV back in the early days of COVID. $14.99 is $14.99, after all, and there wasn’t exactly new programming airing on Philippine TV at the time to warrant the extra expense. There is also an alternative to subscribing, but we weren’t about to watch low quality pirated episodes on sketchy blogs. Watching short, bitin clips on YouTube is never appealing either.
But one new Filipino series has caught my attention. And that is the GMA Network-Regal Entertainment co-production Mano Po Legacy – The Family Fortune.