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In a decade saturated with superhero tales, online allegiance debates, and eager anticipation for sequels, 'Moving' emerges as the standout K-Drama of the year, breaking through the genre's conventional boundaries.
Adapted from Kang Full's webtoon, this twenty-episode masterpiece offers a unique take on the superhero narrative with its fresh and compelling writing and meticulously crafted characters.
The story unfolds around Kim Bong-seok (Lee Jung-ha), an amiable high schooler, and the new transfer student, Jang Hui-soo (Go Yoon-jung). Bong-seok, under the watchful eye of his overprotective mother, Lee Mi-hyun (played brilliantly by Han Hyo-joo), possesses a unique ability—he must weigh himself down to prevent accidentally soaring into the sky.
Hui-soo and her father, Jang Ju-won (Ryu Seung-ryong), share the power of instant healing. The narrative expands to include other characters like Lee Gang-hoon (Kim Do-hoon), the class president with super strength, and bus driver Jeon Gye-do (Cha Tae-hyun), who can generate electricity.
As a shadowy assassin targets a group of retired operatives with supernatural abilities, Mi-hyun and Ju-won realize their children, the next generation of superhumans, might be the true targets. "Moving" delves beyond the characters' powers, exploring their lives, relationships, and vulnerabilities. The show introduces a similar group in North Korea, adding geopolitical intrigue.
Brimming with superbly executed stunt sequences and occasional indulgent violence, 'Moving' is fundamentally family-centred. It exposes those in power as the real antagonists, manipulating these heroes for their agendas perpetuating violence and war. Writers Kang Full and directors Park In-je and Park Younseo meticulously build a rich universe, providing each character with a detailed and emotionally resonant backstory.
The show's strength lies in presenting characters as more than mere superhumans. Even amid intense violence, the narrative maintains emotional depth. Ryu Seung-ryong's portrayal of Ju-won, particularly in his relationship with his daughter, stands out. The father-daughter dynamic is portrayed with subtlety and quiet understanding, a refreshing departure from grand gestures.
Exploring Mi-hyun's past, her connection with black ops agent Kim Doo-sik (Jo In-sung) adds charm and heartbreak to the narrative. Han Hyo-Joo and Jo In-sung's performances are commendable, capturing their characters' complexity. Despite the occasional excesses in violence and the extended runtime, the episodes remain engaging, shifting seamlessly between past and present.
What sets "Moving" apart is its refusal to reduce characters to one-dimensional stereotypes. Focusing on their weaknesses without resorting to emotional manipulation adds depth to the narrative. The show avoids the common pitfall of becoming a mere setup for a sequel, maintaining its focused storytelling until the end.
As "Moving" concludes, leaving viewers with an intriguing post-credits scene, the prospect of a sequel or spin-off is tantalizing. For now, this superhero saga is one of the most original and compelling shows of the year, offering a refreshing take on the genre and leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what comes next.