Starring two celebrated stars, Han Hyo-joo and Ju Ji-hoon, the first two episodes of 'Blood Free' are now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. Is this futuristic K-Drama worth watching or should you give it a miss? Read on to find out.
Ever since its posters and trailers dropped, the anticipation for ‘Blood Free’ has been long-awaited. Disney+ Hotstar is here with yet another gripping K-Drama, with Han Hyo-joo and Ju Ji-hoon leading the cast. With its two episodes already out, this thriller promises to be one of the most promising dramas to have been released this year. So, here’s all you need to know about ‘Blood Free.’
‘Blood Free’ narrates the story of Yun Ja-yu (Han Hyo-joo), the CEO of BF Group, a biotechnology company that kick-started the era of lab-grown meat cultivation and is also a dominating force in driving forward the country’s economy. The show begins with the CEO delivering a product presentation showcasing her company’s mind-blowing genetically engineered meat products. She asserts that the company has not only achieved the cultivation of traditional livestock but has also mastered the replication of popular seafood items. Furthermore, she has promised to come up with more danger-free products in the next few months. Not long after, a stockbreeder jumped to his death and landed atop her car. At that time, Woo Chae-woon (Ju Ji-hoon), a former Navy soldier, saw the incident and without hesitating, lent a helping hand.
Given her success and status, and the fact that she’s challenging a primary industry, Yun Ja-yu is often protested by farmers who feel that she’s taking away their source of livelihood. So, after this accident, she finds herself becoming the target of malicious threats. Left with the only choice to hire a bodyguard, she chooses Chae-woon not only for his sharp skills but also because she believes he has a specific purpose to serve. Will these two be able to find out the real culprit behind the scenes? That’s what the show aims to depict.
Ju Ji-hoon’s portrayal of Woo Chae-woon, a former soldier turned bodyguard exudes stoicism and discipline. His character looks like he’s been through a lot and would do anything to keep himself safe. His character has many layers of complexities set against the backdrop of a trouble past, but he would not let that side of him be shown.
On the other hand, Han Hyo-joo has taken on the role of Yun Ja-yo, the CEO of BF group, with a blend of sophistication and vulnerability. While on the face of it she’s showing that she’s strong, her inner turmoil and uncertainty is evident through her body language. With her expressive eyes and commanding presence, she will lure you into the tension of the situation.
These two well-known stars have stepped into the lead roles, and so far, they seem to complement each other well. Their seriousness and how they decide to achieve their ultimate goals side-by-side would be interesting to see. After all, there’s truly nothing quite like witnessing the captivating synergy between two talented actors gracing the screen together.
Two other characters who have stood out are Lee Hee-joon as Seonu Jae, the prime minister of South Korea, and Lee Moo-saeng as On San, who is a physiologist and a founding member of the BF Group. They appear as though they shouldn’t be underestimated either. The roles they embody seem to hold significance within the narrative unfolding in the forthcoming episodes. While there’s nothing too great about Park Ji-yeon as Jeong Hae-deun, Kim Sang-ho as Kim Sin-gu, Jeon Seok-ho as Seo Hui, and Lee Seo as Hong Saeip so far, it will be intriguing to see how pivotal their roles would end up becoming.
The story of ‘Blood Free’ is intricate and heavy, demanding viewers’ complete attention to ensure nothing significant is missed out on. What’s also interesting to see is that while the story revolves around Yun Ja-yu and her quest to save her company, it also delves into other aspects, touching upon political elements and other characters’ stories as well. With just these two episodes, Lee Soo-yeon has penned the script in such a way that viewers have already begun to formulate theories about who’s behind everything that’s happening. However, on the bigger front, the show grapples with the ever-increasing clash between humanity and technology, offering a glimpse into the possibility of how the world could become. It’s futuristic and aims to break the shackles of the existing food chain with the help of advanced modern-day technology.
Under Park Chul-hwan’s direction, there is a clear focus on maintaining tension and intrigue. With meticulous attention to detail, he skillfully keeps viewers engaged and guessing about the true motives of the characters and their mysteries. This leaves you uncertain about what’s really going on, yet you will find yourself eagerly anticipating each plot twist and turn. Perhaps towards the end of the series, Park aims to deliver a thought-provoking narrative that raises questions about the future of society and the choices humans make as a species.
Visually, the show shines with brilliant cinematography. Striking shots draw viewers into the futuristic world of the story, while POV shots add an immersive touch. War flashback scenes are masterfully crafted, giving them a dusty and shaky feel. Moreover, numerous scenes boast cinematic quality. So far, the two episodes have been crisp, fast-paced, and straightforward, ensuring that audiences come back each Wednesday to watch the next episodes. But all of this has been enhanced by the amazing special effects that have been used. The CGI quality in this drama deserves applause. The office and the slaughtered cows appear remarkably realistic. From car flips and chase sequences in VR to horrid blasts, the show’s VFX effects are highly impressive, transporting you into the virtual world.
Director: Park Chul-hwan
Cast: Ju Ji-hoon, Han Hyo-joo, Lee Hee-joon, Lee Moo-saeng, Park Ji-yeon
Available On: Disney+ Hotstar
Duration: 2 episodes as of now, approx. 45 minutes each
Premiere Date: April 10, 2024
Genre: Thriller, Drama
Language: Korean
Yes, with parental guidance.
The first two episodes of ‘Blood Free’ definitely have had a hold on me. The show is a seamless blend of thriller, science, and political conspiracy, making it a gripping story. Not only has it been an enjoyable watch, but it has also increased expectations for the upcoming episodes, with a promise of taking viewers through a narrative not seen or heard of before.
*Disclaimer: This review is done after the release of the first two episodes.*