“Red Swan” boasts a strong cast from Korean television, marking Bi Rain’s return to the screen since “Ghost Doctor” (2022). Directed by Park Hong Kyun, known for successful series like “Queen Seondeok” (2009) and “The Greatest Love” (2011), the series was heavily promoted and shot in multiple countries with substantial investment.
However, the series did not meet expectations. Many critics have panned “Red Swan,” citing a clichéd and predictable script. Bi Rain’s performance in the series has also been criticized.
Clichéd Script
The series begins with the line, “Are you lonely?”—a recurring theme throughout. The 10-episode series follows the tragic story of Oh Wan Soo (Kim Ha Neul), a former professional golfer who married Kim Jong Kook (Jung Gyu Woon), the heir to the prominent Hwain conglomerate.
Publicly, Wan Soo is seen as beautiful, wealthy, and kind, with a fulfilling marriage. She has traveled to various countries as the executive director of the NOW Foundation, advocating for victims of ISIS terrorism.
A turning point occurs when she is assassinated in the Philippines but is saved by Seo Do Yoo (Bi Rain), who later becomes her close bodyguard. As Seo Do Yoo uncovers secrets about the wealthy family and Wan Soo’s life, he develops feelings for her, realizing his duty extends beyond protection from external threats to internal family dangers.
While “Red Swan” initially scores points with its impressive settings and glamorous depiction of high society, the script is a major flaw. The series tries to cover too many themes—power struggles, infidelity, mother-in-law vs. daughter-in-law conflicts, and romance—leading to a predictable and uninspired narrative. The character archetypes and plot twists feel recycled and fail to surprise.
Disappointing Performances
Bi Rain and Kim Ha Neul struggle with the problematic script. Kim Ha Neul’s performance is merely adequate, while Bi Rain disappoints with a one-dimensional portrayal of Seo Do Yoo, lacking distinctiveness from his previous roles.
In “Red Swan,” Bi Rain shines only in action scenes. His attempts at emotional and psychological depth in romantic scenes fall short. The romance between Wan Soo and Seo Do Yoo feels dull and clichéd, with Bi Rain and Kim Ha Neul lacking the necessary chemistry to captivate audiences.
“Red Swan” thus stands out as a forgettable project for both Bi Rain and Kim Ha Neul. Despite Bi Rain’s significant investment in the series, including performing his own stunts and adjusting his schedule to focus on the project, it has not revived his declining career. The series has received lukewarm reactions from both critics and viewers, with only two episodes remaining before its conclusion.
Source: znew
