Discipline Z: Vampire (2020)

Since no one else reviewed this, I will (:

I'm shocked there are zero reviews on this web series so I've decided I'll write one as spoiler free as possible! Just in case people don't want to risk checking the comments on here (in case they see a spoiler). Also, if you're wondering where to watch this, it's available on their official youtube channel! Just search 'Discipline Z Vampire' and you should be able to find it.

Okay let's start...

Story: I REALLY loved the storyline! And for those who keep asking in the comments, yes this has two gay characters in it that have a relationship and it is part of the story, but that's not the focus of the web series. It's more about the whole mutant genes thing and Hyung-Tae, but the BL aspect is a main storyline so don't worry! I'm just letting you know now that this isn't your typical BL that's centered around university and romance. I loved the storyline, the cinematography and camera work was really great for a web series (the only thing that felt low budget was the green screens in some parts but that's expected when this show is obviously low budget). Another thing I loved was styling for the outfits like WOW, the stylist did a great job. I loved the main characters and was so happy to see Ji-Han still be one! He was my favourite in the first Discipline. Some people think the ending was rushed but I disagree, I liked the ending and it made me excited for the Ji-Han and Asin's story! I do believe there could have been part of the plot that was more developed but that's why I'm only giving the story aspect an 8/10. In conclusion, the show was really interesting, enjoyable and easy to watch and I recommend it based on the story alone!

Acting/Cast: Ah, so the reason I give this a 6/10 is mostly because of the acting done by the English speakers. I believe this show would have benefited and been way more polished if they didn't try to have an international concept. Especially with the character Yuri. I couldn't really understand half of what she was saying because her accent was so strong (despite her character not being able to speak/understand Korean and only English) and her laughing was way too fake. The actor who played the professor didn't do as bad, in some parts he was decent (majority of those parts being when he didn't have to express anger or annoyance). Honestly, the acting done by the ones who played Jay, Ji-Han, and Asin were better - during their English lines - than the ones who have to speak English the whole time. In saying all this, I'm not judging this as harshly as I would a big production with a bigger budget, since as I mentioned, this is only a web series with a lower budget so I understand it would be difficult to bring in amazing actors for those specific English-speaking roles. Plus, I have to commend the actors efforts and the production's inclusivity of other languages. The Korean acting was significantly better but still not the best I've seen. Although, I think some of that can be because of the script they were given (sometimes it felt awkward or unnatural). However, the main cast all did a fantastic job really, especially the actors who played Hyung-Tae and Ji-Han. (WAIT I JUST FOUND OUT THE THE ACTOR WHO PLAYED HYUNG-TAE WAS IN 'STEP FOR YOU' WHICH IS A KOREAN SHORT BL THAT I LOVE OMG WHAT).

Music: I gave an 8/10 because I enjoyed the soundtrack overall but it wasn't anything amazing.

Rewatch Value: I only gave this a 5/10 because I'm not really a rewatcher and when I do rewatch shows or movies, they're ones that are my absolute favourites or it's because I want to rewatch before the next part comes out. And to watch the next part of this (Summer Deja-Vu), I don't actually need to rewatch this.

Overall: A 7/10 because it was a unique story - at least for a BL it was haha - and I really enjoyed it! Plus I loved the styling of the outfits and hair, the cinematography was great, music was great, and the main cast are awesome. And I love when South Korea jumps on the LGBTQ+ band wagon in a positive way. I definitely recommend just giving it a go if you're on the fence!

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Incredibly Interesting and Quite Different

I am usually not at a loss for words for a series but this one truly stumped me. Beyond words can describe this series. It is one of the most thought-provoking series I have ever seen. In addition, it is an amazing and an astounding story of life in its most esoteric form. If I tried to describe this series, it would be an almost impossible task as it traverses common reference points and twists life into knots. While the title implies this has something to do with vampires, it does not. But it does have some elements of what the outcome of being a vampire. There is some stunning dialogue in here about life that makes it so worth watching. On the other hand, there is some of the worst acting (not by any of the major stars, however) I have ever seen for the English speaking parts. But, honestly, this was a guilty pleasure of mine that overall, I liked. This barely qualifies as a BL series but the relationship is just so charming and full of hope. If you want to review my full review of this what I thought is an interesting series, please go to ppbongi.medium.com. It is free to review and you can leave your comments.

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