First of all, this drama gives strong Taxi Driver (which I loved) vibes in that there’s a new case each episode, and unique approaches and devices are utilized in the solving of them. It differs significantly, though, in that these are actual detectives and an actual chaebol/detective working actual crimes. I enjoyed immensely that it didn’t copy a formula, it took elements from it and made a whole new formula of its own.

I appreciated that the backstory from childhood was doled out intermittently between case solving. So you were getting regular closure on the one hand, with periodic clues about the ongoing questions about the past and present. This was smart directing and when the big culmination of truth is revealed, the timing and energy felt exactly right.

I enjoyed the duality of the leads, and several of the supporting cast as well. Being driven in your work but still capable of reflection and altering one’s opinions and biases. Learning to see oneself through an accumulation of small successes, not chance of birth or survived trauma. Coming to appreciate that different approaches can still lead to shared goals. Shedding a predatory career path for one of integrity. There was just a lot of well written character development here.

The romantic innuendo was beautifully subtle, and the friendships were naturally built and strong. Every cast member brought their A game, but Ahn BoHyun’s character arc was masterful. You could always see that his heart was good from the beginning, but the level to which he took what could have been a justifiable descent into a vengeful rage and instead just became an even better person was an inspiration.

Lastly, it’s rare to see a drama this well tied up promise a 2nd season. It’s definitely primed for one, and I love that it’s not based on loose ends; it’s based on a solid premise with characters we’ve come to care about continuing the story.