Watch Mr. Sunshine (2018)

Mr. Sunshine is a Korean television series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. The show is set in the early 1900s during the Japanese occupation of Korea and follows the story of Eugene Choi (played by Lee Byung-hun), a Korean-born American who returns to his homeland as a U.S. Marine officer. The series revolves around the lives of various characters living in and around the fictional town of Glory Hotel, where Eugene takes up residence. Other significant characters in the show include Go Ae-sin (played by Kim Tae-ri), the daughter of a noble family involved in the resistance movement against the Japanese; Goo Dong-mae (played by Yoo Yeon-seok), a Korean-born Japanese gangster with conflicted loyalties; and Kudo Hina (played by Kim Min-joung), a Japanese journalist with an interest in Korean culture. One of the central themes of the show is the struggle for Korean independence amidst a backdrop of political and cultural oppression. Mr. Sunshine portrays this struggle with a great deal of historical accuracy, drawing attention to the brutalities of Japanese imperialism and the efforts of Korean resistance fighters to reclaim their country's sovereignty. The show also delves into issues of identity and belonging, as characters grapple with cultural and national affinities that often clash with their personal aspirations and allegiances. Mr. Sunshine is a visually stunning series, with detailed costume and set design that perfectly captures the era in which it is set. The show is notable for its emphasis on character development, exploring the motivations and inner lives of its diverse cast in a way that makes them feel truly complex and human. One of the standout performances of the show comes from Lee Byung-hun, who brings an intense gravitas to the role of Eugene Choi. His commanding presence on screen is matched by his ability to convey both the pain of past traumas and the determination to resist oppression at any cost. Kim Tae-ri also shines as Go Ae-sin, infusing her character with a fierce intelligence and an unrelenting spirit of resistance. Her chemistry with Lee Byung-hun adds an emotional depth to the series, as their characters navigate a complicated relationship complicated by their disparate cultural backgrounds. Other notable performances include Yoo Yeon-seok as Goo Dong-mae, who brings a nuanced vulnerability to a character who could have easily come across as one-dimensional. Kim Min-joung also delivers a compelling portrayal of Kudo Hina, an outsider in more ways than one who nevertheless manages to gain the trust and affection of those around her. Overall, Mr. Sunshine is a masterful work of television that explores complex themes with nuance and sensitivity. Its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and historical accuracy make it a must-watch for anyone interested in Korean history and culture.