Upcoming Drama "Heirs" Casts Star-studded Leads

            It's been awhile since I've been interested in any upcoming drama, but this latest announcement of drama "Heirs" or "He Who Wishes to Wear the Crown, Endure its Weight" (Let's stick with "Heirs") casting star-studded leads really brings on new hype. First, it was announced that Lee Min Ho and Park Shin Hye are going to play the leads, and then SBS added an idol cherry on top by throwing in CN Blue's Jung Yonghwa as well. In a smart move, Yonghwa refused the offer last minute because of his busy scheduling conflicts (smart because he's been paired with PSH two times in dramaland already, and a third would be ridiculous). If I wasn't already a fan of hers, I would be protesting that she got too freakin' lucky here... because now Choi Jin Hyuk (the hottie Gumiho from "Gu Family Book") is joining the cast as LMH's half-brother in the series, while Kim Woo Bin (from "School 2013" and "A Gentleman's Dignity") and f(x)'s Krystal is also recruited for roles. Most recently ZE:A's Park Hyunsik, sexy rising star Kang Ha Neul ("Monstar") and cutie CN Blue's Kang Minhyuk and Kim Jiwon ("To the Beautiful You") has also been announced as part of the cast. Im Joo-eun also plays a role as one of the teachers. I'm starting to lose track of the characters here, will this recruiting train every stop?

"Heirs" is about the interactions between wealthy high school kids, and is described as the 20 episode fusion of "Boys Over Flowers" and "Gossip Girl." If it's anything as snarky and fashionable as the American CW show, I'm totally in. After hit dramas with a serious vein like "School 2013" and "The Wind Blows in Winter," I'm ready to see a more shallow and scandalous Korean drama that I can gush over without having to wipe my tears after. With popular second generation actors like LMH, PSH, rising star CJH, uber hotties KWB and KHN, October just can't come any faster.

It's also pleasing to hear notable writer Kim Eun Sook and Kang Shin Hyo PD will be contributing to this production. Kim Eun Sook has written screenplays for buzz-worthy dramas like "Secret Garden" and "A Gentleman's Dignity."

Whether you trust Wikipedia or not, here are some character details:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Heirs

Comments:
Why do I love this cast? (Other than it's handsome male leads *swoons*) Lee Min Ho has captivated me since "Boys Over Flowers" with his tall height, big manly nose and earnest acting. Over the years, he has lost most of his dorkiness and transformed into a steady, trendy man. His biggest attraction is that he can bring strong impact to otherwise normal scenes without going overboard with crazy clothing or expression. He's just naturally cool and sexy- until he bursts out laughing (which ruins the image, haha). While Lee Min Ho doesn't change much in terms of style or cast-types, Park Shin Hye is like the Emma Watson of Korea: Her look is so versatile that she has limitless role potential. Possibly the only character she can't play is an evil villain, but with the proper attire and make-up, she can still look very tough and bad-ass. This is why her character in "Heirs" is so intriguing; will the producers go with her typical "sweet" girl image, or give her a new acting challenge with a sexier, shocking role? Also, if she does happen to play the Serena Van der Woodsen type, will Krystal be Blair Waldorf? However way it turns out, Shin Hye has the acting chops to rise to the occasion, and Krystal has a very high-fashion look. As for Kim Woo Bin, I never would've imagined him in a drama alongside Lee Min Ho because while Lee Min Ho usually plays the straight-forward heroine, Woo Bin has always played the edgy dark horse, creating tons of tension and just looks like trouble. As for Shin Hye, I like how she acts as that bridge between candy-coated romance and mature themes. I can't wait to see how their relationship unfolds, but I do hope this talented combination is a synergistic one.

At first, the casting announcements made me want to squeal with joy, but after the addition of Kang Ha Neul and Park Hyunsik, I'm really starting to become suspicious. What drama needs that many beautiful people? Even "To the Beautiful You" was not ambitious, in the sense that, yes, there were beautiful boys everywhere, but a very select few were actually important to the storyline. Adding popular actors, rising star actors, AND rising idol actors seem to be a bit much. No one needs that much hype for a drama- unless there's something the producers are making up for? If so, please please please don't let it be the writing. I can give up on some plot, but I would be devastated if the character interactions are anything short of scandalous. Furthermore, the cast is so over-saturated with potential talent that it'd be a huge waste if there weren't enough scenes for everyone.

Choi Jin Hyuk

Kim Woo Bin

Jung Krystal

Kang Ha Neul

Park Hyunsik

Kang Minhyuk

Kim Jiwon

Im Joo-eun

Since "Heirs" won't be broadcasted until October, I've concocted some hypothetical character dynamics:

1. Park Shin Hye is gorgeous, sophisticated, and totally demure as the "It" girl everybody dreams about but never has the courage to talk to. Lee Min Ho plays the untouchable heir that no one really knows about. He's talented, intelligent and successful, but he's so private the girls can't even imagine what goes on in his life.

2. Park Shin Hye plays the pretty innocent type. She doesn't talk much nor is very social, but all the guys love her soft feminine image. Lee Min Ho plays the preppy flower boy type. Here, he's social, is well liked by everyone, but completely curious about Shin Hye's quiet nature.

 3. Park Shin Hye combines attitude and high fashion as the resident fashion queen. She is never caught without a killer pair of stilletos or the trendiest designer fashion. Not only does she dress like a rockstar, her fierce, sassy attitude intimidates her peers and teachers alike. She always gets her way, even if it means knocking others down. Lee Min Ho plays the ambitious, cold and focused son. His main goal is to please his father and lead his company to global heights. Nicknamed as the "Stone Statue," he hates nonsense, and clashes bitterly with Shin Hye's strong attitude.

 4. Lee Min Ho can't be any more understated with his casual clothing and can-care-less attitude, a contrast to his superior family background. He's into his local band and more hipster than most. Park Shin Hye plays the Lee Hyori role in her school- sexy, attractive, and crushed on by all the boys. Strangely enough, Lee Min Ho is not one of them. He's the first male challenge she's encountered in her whole life, and she's determined to make him notice.

 5. Park Shin Hye plays the mature, levelheaded new girl who just arrived at their high school. She's uber rich but she's not spoiled, she's fashionable but not extravagant, she's opinionated but not overwhelming. Her charm is a subtle one, and until she runs for president of a prestigious school club, Lee Min Ho didn't even know she existed. After all, he's got a lot of things going on; being the captain of various sports, clubs and a top-notched scholar, he's too busy to worry what other students are doing... except for when he wants to hook up with his female classmates. As it goes, he's a notorious player, and she just got out of a serious 2-year relationship. Just when he believes the presidency is in the bag, Shin Hye arrives with some surprises of her own.

 6. Lee Min Ho plays the happy-go-lucky guy who's well liked and friends with everybody. Park Shin Hye is the nice quiet girl that no one dislikes, but no one knows much about. She's the epitome of an understated, girl next door type, only her hobbies suggest anything but. She races motorbikes and models in her spare time. The two hang out in the same circle and are good childhood friends, but Min Ho crushes on glamorous girls while Shin Hye harbors a secret crush on him.

7. Lee Min Ho is the rebellious golden boy, accomplished at all things but hates socializing with just anyone. Born into scandal as the son of a second wife, he's always determined to prove himself. Despite nurturing a bruised ego, he always shows an aloof facade to hide his real feelings. Park Shin Hye plays the friendly popular girl that everyone wants to be around, but actually hides a lot of dark secrets underneath her sunny facade. 
 

8.  Here, Shin Hye and Minho display a simple, cute and innocent romance. *Yawns*

 9. Park Shin Hye channels crazy fashion and flair Lady Gaga style, while Lee Min Ho is a sarcastic, sharp-tongued designer determined to prove himself outside of the family name.

What are scandalous teen dramas without a bad boy? With Woo Bin chosen for a role, how awesome would it be if he's cast as the rabble-rouser *cough*Chuck Bass*cough* extraordinaire? I mean, just look at that face! While Minho's features are large and manly, Woo Bin has a matching height with contrasting, sharp features. Please make him a dangerous playboy dramaland, I would die of happiness!

OSTs that make you want to bawl

        I'm such a stickler for original sound tracks (OSTs) that when the right song comes on at the right scene in a drama or movie, I tear up a bit- or bawl up a lot. Here's a compilation of some of the best (sad) songs from a variety of (mainly) dramas. Feel free to suggest some of your own songs as well!

The more stars (***) next to the title, the more I recommend the song! 

Stairway to Heaven (Korean, 2003).
Kim Bum Soo "Bo Go Ship Da" ***

A Love to Kill (Korean, 2005).
K. Will "Dream" *

Millionaire's First Love (Korean film, 2006).
Jae Joong "Insa" ***

Princess Hours (Korean, 2006). 
Stay "You and I Are Fools" *

Fated to Love You (Taiwanese, 2008).
Joe Chen "Wo De Kuai Le (My Happiness)" ***

Boys Over Flowers (Korean, 2009).
Jisun "What Should I Do" ***

 

A&T "My Heart Had a Brain Freeze" ***

Superstar Express (Taiwanese, 2009). 
Fahrenheit "Momo (Silently)" **

My Girlfriend is a Nine-tailed Fox (Korean, 2010). 
Lee Sun Hee "Fox Rain" ***

City Hunter (Korean, 2011).
Lim Jae Bum "Sarang (Love)" ***

Spy Myung Wol (Korean, 2011).
Lena Park "More Than Anyone in the World" ***

Love Keeps Going (Taiwanese, 2011).
Cyndi Wang "Don't Cry" ***

Heartstrings (Korean, 2011).
Park Shin Hye's cover of CN Blue's "I Will Forget You" **

Shut Up! Flower Boy Band (Korean, 2012).

Kim Min Seok "How Come" **

Love Rain (Korean, 2012).
Tiffany (SNSD) "Because It's You" *

Rooftop Prince (Korean, 2012). 
Ali "Hurt" **

tvN's FLOWER BOY SERIES: thoughtful and endearing

         Though I loved the Korean "Boys Over Flowers" when it came out, I recognize now that other than it's flashy, money-laden story-line amidst a recession and its adorable cast, it wasn't the amazing drama I thought it was. Highly popular with a great following and some particularly memorable scenes, Boys Over Flowers is great fun to watch, but doesn't hit me as realistic or relatable. At least, not in the same way that I have been following tvN's "Flower Boy Ramyun Shop" and my newest favorite, "Shut Up! Flower Boy Band."

Korean "Boys Over Flowers": My first introduction to the F4

Upon hearing the drama titles, I seriously came in thinking, "It'll be an easy, predictable storyline, easy eye-candy," but I actually came out more touched than I imagined. First of all, both dramas were highly thoughtful and well-written; there are plays on words, consistent, reasonable jokes, and there are very few extraneous scenes/lines. The side characters are not used as just props to further the leads' storylines, but their personalities are also explored, enough so that everyone ends up learning something. Then you have the cast themselves, who, some despite acting for the first time, are endearing and believable.

 tvN's "Flower Boy Ramen Shop": I craved ramen every time I watched this drama :/

The F4 of "Flower Boy Ramen Shop"

Just looking at the cover picture for "Flower Boy Ramyun Shop" and you would assume that there will be pretty boys and fun scenarios. What I didn't expect was the serious laughter, or the pure spunk. You have Yang Eun Bi, a spunky ex-volleyball player studying to be a teacher. She obtains an intern position at a ritzy high school, where one finds out about Cha Chi Soo, a.k.a. "Chwa." She had asked him on a date and mistook him to be several years older than her, but it turns out, he's actually the son of a conglomerate corporation, AND a high schooler. Then her father passes away, leaves her his home, and his highly prized ramen shop... or so she thinks. Turns out, her dad had actually given his shop over a man he had raised since young, and he had also given that young man his daughter for marriage. Distraught about not having a place to live, Eun Bi decides to become living partners with this young man... and then Chi Soo starts realizing he has feelings for "Intern" and proposes to move in with her and said 'fiance'... hi-jinks and highly squeal-able moments are unpredictable in this drama, as the storyline actually presents a fresh and heart-warming story about doing what society expects, over doing what makes one happy.

"Shut Up! Flower Boy Band"

           Following "Flower Boy Ramen Shop" in tvN's Flower Boy franchise is "Shut Up! Flower Boy Band." I was only originally interested in this drama because I heard Korean boy band's Myungsoo/L from Infinite was casted as one of the band members, but then I saw the posters of the handsome cast and then started to really anticipate its release. Though the tacky and blunt title made me want to roll my eyes, I was extremely glad that I stay tuned, because it turned out to be my favorite K-drama thus far. SUFBB turned out to be edgy, intense, hot, heart-trending and heart-warming all at the same time. If you don't know what happens at the end of Episode 2, I'm telling you that that this is a SPOILER.

You have a high school band comprising of six members, known to the community as crazy, delinquent fighters with amazing stage presence (in the few illegal concerts that they throw). In the first two episodes, one learns about the band members, their broken families and see their interactions within the community. Just as I start thinking there's way too many members in the band, tragedy strikes, and the charismatic band leader dies. I won't actually reveal how, but it's outrageous and tear-inducing. Then his best friend is forced into the leadership position and the band/friendship picks itself together to "get his (last) song out into the world." They enter a competition, and are also being prompted to change schools. Through the competition, they find themselves at an opportunity for fame, and though their popularity skyrockets, their friendship starts shattering. This drama was very unpredictable, always having me at the edge of my seat, wondering what happens next. When you think this group of highly handsome friends have reached rock bottom, think again, because the director intends to show the true angst of being a downtrodden teenager, and he presents it well.

The Eye-Candy band lying on the pavement after a fight.

The remaining five members of Eye-Candy

I absolutely love the cast, because not only are they lookers, but they are quite decent actors as well. Considering that most of the cast comprised of youthful rookie actors, that says a lot about the sincerity inputted. They weren't afraid to cry, and because I saw the special Behind the Scenes episode, I discovered that some of those tears were actually in reflection to the actors' reality.

My only cast issues with this drama are with two female characters, Jo Bo Ah and Kim Yerim. Though I account for the fact that both are debuting actresses, their acting was too weak in comparison to the boys. Yes, Bo Ah was supposed to play the rich-but-nice girl princess type, but her emotions weren't conveyed as strongly or sincerely as I liked. I got the, "Yes, I know I'm pretty and cute" doe-eyed vibe from the actress, but I would've preferred it if she acted more unconscious and even indifferent about how others viewed her. Still, she gradually grew on me when situations got rough, and I guess her pretty looks and girl-next-door personality does seem to fit the character. Then you have Kim Yerim, who has a very different, sophisticated and almost eerie voice that I actually enjoyed hearing in the drama. However, other then performing musically, she doesn't know what to do with her hands. They are often awkward and held listlessly to her side, as if she lacks confidence off stage.

The boys having a serious discussion about their futures.

Though the drama had romance, the central story is actually about the boys and their friendship with each other. The soundtrack is also commendable, with songs catchy to the point of being played repeatedly on my iTunes. The tracks are as follows: "Not in Love" was hypnotic, "Jaywalking" was brassy and addicting, "Wake Up" has an alluring intro and awesome guitar riffs, "Love U Like U" was cute and awkward, and "How Come" was reflective. The songs are reminiscent of being young, needing to be free to love, fail, and given second chances. Every episode was valuable, every scene integral, and the cinematography was beautifully hazy and enigmatic. It emphasized how being a teenager is not different from living in a haze, floating through what seems unimportant and falling hardest at the rough patches. It's also the age where anything is possible, so long as you take time to discover who you are and want you want.

The Power of Bromance

Missing the old Cantonese and Taiwanese dramas

         I remember growing up and originally watching the old Cantonese dramas about gambling kings and sword quests. The actors and actresses were beautiful, the acting was admirable, and the characters dynamic. So it was something new to me when, about a couple of years ago (or maybe it was a decade?) that Korean dramas started becoming popular, and eventually overtaking screen time for Vietnamese families I know. It was a big deal- and after awhile, I started hearing rumors about Chinese and Taiwanese actors committing suicide because their dramas weren't as highly received as the Korean ones.

"Princess Pearl"

The factors were many and the differences vast. First of all, Chinese and Taiwanese actors tend to recycle their famous actors to the point where they appear in almost all the main dramas. You start seeing the same "moldy faces" as my mother puts it, and though seasoned, their acting becomes predictable. The same villain from that 1920s Japanese invasion of China later acts as the generous protagonist with long hair in another epic sword-quest drama. The audience grows bored, and hence resort to the fresh, young, and often surgically altered faces found in Korean dramas. At the same time, Taiwanese dramas tend to be more outlandish, comical, and sometimes even ridiculous in their exaggeration of character reactions, so when K-dramas introduce straight-forward and (tamer?) realistic scripts, the audience is swayed to the switch.

Also, what about those Cantonese dramas? Unless it's a ancient/fight/quest type of drama, in my community, it's like they dropped off the face of the earth. It saddens me that the actors from twenty years ago are struggling to fit all the roles required for the young and up-coming generation of viewers, because you can't always have a forty year old taking on a mid-twenties character- it just doesn't translate visually.

"Monkey King: Journey to the East"

"The Legendary Four Aces" displaying their "We need to be replaced one day...?" look.

That isn't to say that there aren't anymore highly received Cantonese and Taiwanese dramas now (and I'm mainly referring to Taiwanese, because I hear so little about the Cantonese ones), like the vastly popular "Fated to Love You," strangely addictive "Devil Beside You," and "It Started with a Kiss," or my other personal favorites: "Love Keeps Going," "Easy Fortune, Happy Life," "Knock Knock Loving You..." the list goes on. Lately, I've been mainly watching Korean dramas, but what I seriously miss is the intensity and depth of character the old Cantonese dramas had. It was pleasantly surprising to find some of it in "Knock Knock Loving You" though. The characters weren't so straight-edged or easily stereotyped; under extreme conditions, good guys can transformed into villains, and vice versa. I'm not trying to bash any nations' dramas, but only saying that I would like to see more original storylines, more multi-faceted characters, and maybe some fresh faces.

 

"Fated to Love You"

 "Knock Knock Loving You"