The Frog (2024): EP1

Perverse and exaggerated... Might just convert atp

Calm “Little” Rant:

Lately, I’ve been indulging in many Korean shows and movies on Netflix, and they’ve made me realize just how much I was sleeping on them. It’s always been easier to mainly consume American, Latin, and European cinema, but most South Korean shows I’ve watched have me thinking otherwise. There’s no possibility of me completely washing myself clean of film and television from other countries yet some of these Korean shows have indirectly highlighted some concerning elements within the entertainment media of others, specifically the United States.

I personally feel there are way too many American films and shows that heavily rely on sexual content, which is often extremely explicit. A realization that I never quite had until I increasingly consumed South Korean shows that were the complete opposite. The pacing of potential romances and the building blocks of said romances between the pair are starkly different. All of the Korean shows I’ve watched draw these romances and interactions out for long periods but it’s refreshing to see genuine relationships built on innocent interactions instead of something that’s purely sexual.

It was an odd experience to shift from a regular consumption of American media that usually involves hypersexualized content to South Korean shows that have a much more modest and innocent approach to romance.

The differences in American and South Korean culture have created divergent handlings of romance, which has made it somewhat difficult for me to enjoy some American film and television. The American obsession with sex is alarming and tiring, especially when it's constantly pushed onto audiences. On the flip side, I’ve seen some issues within Korean culture that were seemingly intentionally and unintentionally presented within the shows.

1. Toxic beauty standards that glorify and have an unusual obsession with fair skin.

2. Patriarchal ideologies and intense degradation of women.

3. Societal pressure to uphold family honor.

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The Frog (EP1 Review):

This thriller is set in the rural side of South Korea, where the calm lives of those involved are slowly disrupted by a strange guest, Yu Sung-ah (Go Min-si), who brings along unusual behaviours and happenings.... spoilers included 👀

Considering it’s only the first episode, there isn’t much to dissect or comment on. But it’s already telling that the show has the potential to fairly execute a thriller, which is possibly held together by three interconnecting plots. Like most Korean shows, it introduces a lot of moving characters that can sometimes be difficult to keep track of, but this wasn’t the case for the show so far. There were also plenty of elements - characterization, color scheme, setting, and narration - that were eye-catching and nicely implemented.

Jeon Yeong-ha (Kim Yoon-seok) and Ha Si-hyeon (Jo Yeo-joon); left to right.

This episode is visually appealing, especially in its use of the bright greens and blues of the outside that are paired with the various other earth tones (like clothing). These colors immediately popped out, somewhat showcasing the tranquility of their environment (setting).

Conversely, it incorporated a nice contrast of dark colors that invoked a mood of suspense and mystery, mainly through the use of the main female lead, Sung-ah, and the serial killer, Ji Hyang-cheol (Hong Ki-joon). This initial introduction of calming colors that are later offsetted by unsettling ones, signifies the unsettling shift in the story and in the lives of those involved.

"If a tree falls in a forest.. and no one is around to hear it... does it
              make a sound or is there nothing but silence?"

Yu Sung-ah (Go Min-si)

Sung-ah is pretty much aloof at the moment. She’s portrayed as quiet, reserved, and a bit emotionless. And besides the streaks of blood left, presumably by her, on Yeong-ha’s vinyl record, she hasn't done much that’s too concerning. Yet, it’s given that she’ll soon become a major problem for others, particularly the owner of the vacation rental, Yeong-ha.

The serial killer has a similar disposition to Sung-ah. He also appears to be observant, reserved, and speaks only when necessary. But unlike the female lead, Hyang-cheol has a more prominent deadpan look, not offering any sort of comforting facial expression. His introduction was also a bonus in aiding in his secretive nature. I liked how they initially obscured his face with the shadows of the nightfall and heavy downpour of rain and lightning. These dark colors of blacks and greys, along with the foreboding music and sounds, solidified the dark nature of his character.

Additional Comments:

• The regular consumption of alcoholic beverages seems to be a normal part of South Korean culture. Out of all of the South Korean shows I’ve watched, including The Frog, alcohol (mainly Soju) is an integral part of the social culture.

• Spoiler: the serial killer was able to stride in with an unconscious woman on his shoulder through the motel lobby, later dismembers her in his motel room, and soundlessly leaves the scene. Either the Lakeview Motel has no security cameras and Hyang-cheol noticed that or he simply didn’t care. And what gets me is that no one mentioned a thing about reviewing CCTV footage. But again this is only the first episode, so maybe this will all soon be revealed.

• “Ain’t No Love in the Heart of the City” - Bobby Bland; nice song choice.

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So far the show is off to a great start, they introduced a good amount of characters that are divided into three connecting storylines that each hold their own mysteries and challenges. It has a nice foundation of puzzling events that coaxes the audience to watch more 🐸.

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I don't recommend watching Korean shows that are dubbed in English. It not only bothers me that the actors' mouths don't match the audio, but the majority of the English versions are awful. Plus, it kind of takes away from the experience.

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List of South Korean shows on Netflix that I’d recommend:

1. Something in the Rain (2018) - Romance

   1. Jin-ah worked my nerves sometimes but this show is still good.

2. Vagabond (2019) - Action; Romance ⭐

3. Backstreet Rookie (2020) - Romantic Comedy

4. It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020) - Romantic Drama ⭐

5. The Glory (2022) - Thriller; Mystery

6. My Demon (2023) - Romantic Comedy; Fantasy ⭐

7. Mr. Plankton (2024) - Romantic Comedy; Dark Comedy ⭐

8. Beyond Goodbye (2024) - Romantic Drama

   1. (Japanese)