Category: Korean Dramas

Raine: So much happened this week. Reveals we expected, but that were done so cleverly. There was a little bit of cinemagraphic indulgence I could’ve done without, but, man oh man, does this show punch you in the gut.

Zombie: I was too busy trying to keep up with everything that was going on to care about any cinemagraphic indulgence. I spent these last two episodes going, “I knew it… I Knew It… I KNEW IT!” Man, I love that feeling! *snickers*

Raine: When I watched, I totally thought, “Zombie was right!” It was so satisfying to see it on screen though and watch how the young king was manipulated and fell for it despite his love for Goblin’s sister. I loved the slow realizations in the present that Death had and how he investigated with Goblin.

Zombie: Death certainly had a lot to deal with and I rather enjoyed his method of investigation. He did everything so carefully, or at least tried to. But in the end, everything kinda came out all at once. I do kinda have to wonder just how much the young king loved his queen, if he was willing to let the venomous words of his advisor convince him that killing her and Shin was for the best. I would like to think that true love would give him the strength to stand up to such evil but maybe that’s just my secret desire to believe in fairy tales talking.

Raine: I’m seeing serious victim mentality in a young man who was raised by a viper. We never do get to see the aftermath of the king’s decision. Perhaps that is in next episode, the reaction to losing his young wife and Shin. But the fear of losing power had been instilled in him by that horrid advisor since he was a tot. That’s nothing to laugh at. I do think that kid made the wrong decision and there are many others who would have chosen differently. And it does smash my dream of their true love. Their love has transcended centuries so…take 2? Make up for it? Something? I want to see more of him after that decision.

Zombie: I’m sure we’ll get a whole lot more moreness in the next two episodes and we’ll have even more to talk about. But first, can we say something about that cuss word-inducing kiss? Or was it just me that went… You know what, I probably shouldn’t recount that exact moment, for the sake of any innocents out there. Let’s just say I rather enjoyed Goblin’s first real kiss.

Raine: OMG that was so precious, especially with him freezing time around them and she’s like “Goblin, that stuff dun work on me. Get kissin’!” and she just revels in it and kisses him again. It’s so natural and beautiful and guh!

Zombie: I’m sighing all over again, just thinking about it. It was such a perfect kiss! *siiigggghhhh* Oh! While we’re talking about favorite moments, I have to say, that whole walking through the tunnel with the leeks scene was absolutely brilliant! I laughed so hard I cried!

Raine: I couldn’t stop laughing and re-watched. You parodied yourself, show? BRILLIANT. So cool, that beautiful opening song, hot men, shadows…and the outline of groceries. Then…interrupted in the most awkward manner! They they laugh like old men and wish everyone Happy New Year? I just can’t…omg!

Zombie: I died! I love the way this show can throw in some of the most hilarious moments ever written and then just keep going like it was nothing. I laughed almost as hard during this scene as I did during the Goblin and the “Train to Busan” scene and the scene with the old chairman and the BTS references.

Raine: BTS and EXO! Besides “Train to Busan,” there was that Gong Yoo reference during the shaman reading with Sunny! A show that can make fun of itself is good! And also one that can tie in happenings from early on. The ring Sunny wears. The necklace Eun Tak wears in Gong Yoo’s vision of her. The ghost that guarded Eun Tak’s insurance money. Just beautifully done stuff and not only logical, but emotionally powerful.

Zombie: It’s the way everything is tied together that makes this drama so enjoyable to watch. Everything is written into the story for a reason. Even the most minor characters and most seemingly insignificant moments all tie in somewhere and usually they end up being a much more important thing that we could have ever imagined. It’s been so much fun, watching all of these pieces come together. I honestly can’t remember the last time I watched a drama that fit so well together.

Raine: It’s been a long time. 2016 was bereft of good material. Goblin, you saved it! One part had me confused. When she called him by blowing out that match he didn’t come. Does the match drag him there? I mean he was waiting for her anyway, but shouldn’t he have gotten onto the ski gondola?

Zombie: Maybe he has a choice of where he wants to land (for lack of a better word) when she summons him? It could be that he’s simply appeared next to her because he’s wanted to and not necessarily because he had to? That wouldn’t really explain his first appearance but maybe he’s found a way to bend the rules, now that it’s been confirmed that she’s really his bride? I really don’t know. All I know is that I want a Goblin of my own to wait for me at the top of a mountain and wrap me up in his arms like that. Again, I’m sighing like the hopeless romantic I am. *sigh*

Raine: He really is quite the immortal charmer. Like when he melts when she calls him “Uri ajeossi/my ajeossi?” So, so cute!

Zombie: Oh! My heart went all kinds of warm and squishy at that moment. He was so darn adorable! He feels the same way about hearing himself called “uri ajeossi” as I do about being called “unni/noona.” It’s one of those things that just makes you happy.

Raine: It’s watching this wise man who has lived many, many years go through such a youthful experience that makes it magical. It’s an unusual circumstance. I love television and stories for this reason. The imagination can make up these beautiful, very human, situations.

Zombie: It doesn’t hurt to have a cast that’s pretty magical in and of themselves. It’s a very special actor who can take such a fantastical character and turn it into one you can easily relate to. To have an entire cast with that ability is pretty darn awesome.

Raine: It’s essentially a human story set out on a grand scale. You have a man in love who uses the weather and beating death to call out to his woman who has run away, or who saves her from death chasing after her, or who decides to overcome the odds of their fate because of (insert humor) a human who found a magical place cause he had to pee. Or who feels a strange connection to a woman (Sunny), and playfully bickers with her before he realizes that she is the incarnation of his sister.

Zombie: I think the fact that these immortal beings were once human, has a lot to do with our ability to relate to them. Even after hundreds of years living as immortals, there’s still quite a bit of them that’s human. They feel the same things we feel, they suffer as we suffer, even if sometimes what they’re experiencing is on a much grander scale, the fact that there’s still something about them that we can relate to makes it easy for us to love them. It somehow makes life better, knowing that these seemingly perfect immortals still struggle in their daily life.

Raine: And that they take those struggles to each other and to their makeshift family. Eun Tak did mention in the beginning that she felt like she’d lost a “home” or that Goblin’s crib wasn’t really her home. But then she returns, and it really is. Goblin and Death watch her goof off with Duk Hwa. They take selfies together. They cook together. They talk about girls (and their very complicated incarnation pasts) together. They celebrate Eun Tak’s step into adulthood and her getting into school. It’s so…normal…but so very not.

Zombie: But all of that works because really, what is normal? They’ve created their own version of “normal” just like we do in real life. My “normal” may not be full of immortal beings but it’s just as mixed up and crazy as anyone else’s. And that’s why we love these characters. Because they’re able to create a beautiful life together despite living in a world full of messed up crazy. The question is, will this beautiful life they’ve created really last or is it just a fleeting moment of happy that will eventually end in us bawling our eyes out? You know what? Don’t answer that. I just wanna live in my delusional world of happy for a little bit longer.

Raine: We still have some time yet before those final drama moments! For now we get to watch Death be super awkward with Sunny, mess up with Sunny, remember his past with Sunny, and buddy up with Goblin to talk about Sunny. And then we get to watch Goblin go on dates, visit Eun Tak in beautiful places (have you noticed how this show picks GORGEOUS natural scenery?), and save her from the lady in red’s words of doom.

Zombie: We’ve certainly got a lot to digest at the moment and I have a feeling we have a whole lot more to get through before the end. I’m having a really hard time believing we only have a couple of weeks left! And yes, the natural scenery used in this drama is absolutely breathtaking. Much like Gong Yoo… *swoon*

Raine: Why isn’t it 20 episodes? I’m so so sad. But I do suppose Goblin and Death literally took out a death warrant on Eun Tak to find her so the clock’s a-tickin’…details…

Zombie: I’m pretty sure the clock’s a-tickin’ for everyone. After all, Goblin can’t live with that sword in his chest forever and Eun Tak can’t live if Goblin hangs around. I have a feeling Death’s gonna have problems if he gets any of his memories back and surely Sunny won’t escape this story unscathed. Everyone’s fate is tied together, in one way or another, which means no one is going to get by without suffering in one way or another. It’s only a matter of time before things start to fall apart.

Raine: We’re gonna need a drink when this this is over…

To hear more from Raine and myself, be sure to follow us on our blogs and/or social media:

Raine: Raine’s Dichotomy, Twitter, Instagram
Zombie Mamma: Zombie Mamma, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

or catch up on our previous Goblin chats here:

Episodes 1-2

Episodes 3-4

Episodes 5-6

Episodes 7-8

Raine: Where in the world do we start after those PACKED episodes? There is so much to talk about I feel like I could write a novel. Consequences of curses and love, the past becoming clearer, even more delicious bromance. Plus this is shot so beautifully…my poor heart is going to burst.

Zombie: I really don’t have a clue where to start. There’s just so much to talk about! I guess maybe we should start with the sword and the fact that Eun Tak really is going to end up being the death of Kim Shin. Or maybe we should never bring that up again because I don’t even want to think about a world without our beloved Goblin in it… Ugh! Just no. We talked last week about how weird it was that Eun Tak couldn’t draw the sword out of Shin’s chest and our theory was the two of them would have to actually be in love if that sword was ever going to budge. It would seem we were right. Sadly, we were also right about this whole sword drawing process hurting like heck.

Raine: Yeah, he laughed and winced in pain and I was like, “Dangit. We were right.” The whole mythology looping around on itself, working a bit like Angel and Buffy, it’s so awesome, but incredibly sad.

Zombie: Oh, you just had to go and bring up Angel, didn’t you!?! It’s been how many years since both of those series ended and my heart still hasn’t healed! I’m afraid this darn drama is gonna traumatize me just as badly. My heart aches for Shin and breaks when I think of what it’s going to do to Eun Tak when she has to draw that sword. Crap! I’m starting to cry!

Raine: :’( Me too! It’s just such a poignant story and we’re attached enough that this reveal (of course we sorta guessed it would happen) is really a big punch in the gut. And the same is true of Death and Sunny. I had an inkling that they had past incarnations and that they were the king and queen, but the revelation hurt.

Zombie: By the end of episode 7 I knew Death was the ancient King and Sunny was the girl in Shin’s portrait. I just had no idea she was his little sister until he said it in episode 8. I’d just assumed that she was his first love but now that I know she’s his sister, I see his relationship with Eun Tak in a whole new light. He really has spent almost 1000 years completely alone and unloved and that just makes this whole story of his that much more heartbreaking. He’s experiencing love for the first and last time in his life and that just kills me!

Raine: Which makes that last scene in episode 8 all the more powerful. He just found it, and he has to lose it. We know the true meaning of the punishment he was given 900 years ago. And about his sister. I guessed they were related ‘cause it’s always relations when men and women are close or a guard/queen type relationship. But I’m super curious about why Death’s past incarnation was such a jerk! And what he did specifically to make god angry. Unless it’s hurting Goblin.

Zombie: I actually have a theory on that. My guess is that as a human, Shin was somehow related to the King. Not directly, but close enough that as he gained power as both the queen’s brother and a highly decorated general, the King felt a real threat from him. Even if Shin never had plans to usurp the King, the fact that he was so recognized and loved by the people put him in a place where he could have made a legitimate play for the throne, if he’d wanted. The fact that the King sent Shin out to guard the borders makes me think he sent him out there to die and the fact that Shin didn’t die means he was a really darn good general. Winning favor with people who would have otherwise been left to die means he had strong connections with people who could put him in a place of power, should he want it.

Raine: Good thinking. Mix a little faction politics in there, perhaps Shin and his sister were of an opposing faction, and it’d match with a lot of historical happenings, especially in Goryeo when things are still being hammered out in the government.. But at least we do know that his coming back was against the king’s orders, which is why he was killed.

Zombie: I think the big sin of the King, which condemned him to the immortal life of a Grim Reaper, was his blind jealousy and the ensuing command to kill not just Shin, but everyone related to him, including the queen. Killing innocents to protect your throne seems like a crime worthy of severe punishment to me.

Raine: It does. Especially after showing us how profound Shin and Sun’s connection is in the present. I’m so curious about their story, which means good writing. I’m gonna say it again, I’m baffled by this writing!

Zombie: I’m at the point where I’m no longer going to question the writing, I’m just going to accept this little miracle as something wonderful and be happy that I get to enjoy it while it lasts.

Raine: And it’s lasting. Wonderfully. A beautiful reveal on the woman in red/grandma as god who personally takes care of her creations.

Zombie: That scene was so beautifully perfect. I couldn’t have asked for a better way for my questions about the woman in red to be answered. It was so dramatic and heart-wrenching and wonderful and awful, all at the same time. It was perfect.

Raine: Yes, and precedence about her potential identity had been set. She changes appearances. She heals. She is there at the right time always. Just really great writing. Like how all the souls that Death take away have meaning and purpose.

Zombie: Oh… Sorry, I’m a bit overwhelmed by emotion at the moment. Just thinking about Death and what it must be like for him, escorting so many souls into the afterlife. The scene with the mother and daughter broke my heart. I just don’t know how Death handles dealing with moments like that over and over again. The way he reacted in that moment made his statement at the bus stop so much more poignant. It killed me!

Raine: Yes! And now he appreciates death and its effects. He took life so frivolously while he lived as a selfish young king that now he has to witness death every day and retain his human feelings. It’s actually quite a similar punishment to Goblin’s.

Zombie: Well, the two did have very strong ties in life, so it makes sense they would suffer similar fates as immortal beings. Especially when you consider how strongly everything in this story is tied together. There’s no way these two could just be randomly thrown together immortal roommates. They were as destined to be together as immortals as Eun Tak was destined to become the goblin’s bride. Fate and excellent scriptwriting demanded that these characters form and shape each other, both in life and beyond.

Raine: Which leads us to god-planned BROMANCE. It always tops itself. Whether they’re fighting or talking about girls or making faces at each other. It makes me think that they weren’t always hostile back in the Goryeo days because they can get along.

Zombie: When you think about it, that definitely makes sense. I mean they were brothers in law, once upon a time. Surely not every in-law in the world is as… You know what? I’m just gonna shut-up now.

Raine: Haha…I saw where you were going there. And you’re right. But right know, these two are nothing if not ridiculously cute and handsome. Okay, now for something completely different. Can I complain about two things that drove me bonkers?

Zombie: Of course you can!

Raine: *deep breath* Subway will be the death of me. There is so much PPL it’s obscene. No one goes on a nice date to Subway, or buys a sandwich there twice in one day. It needs to STOP! That was the first thing. The second…that slow motion run. I couldn’t stop laughing. The show has thus far avoided such tropes, or made something of them, like the cute head patting thing. She had to show him how to do it. But the run…smh.

Zombie: Oh gosh! The run! I nearly fell off the couch laughing when they went into that slo-mo run! All I could think to myself was WHAT THE HECK!?! As for the excessive Subway ads… I just can’t. It makes me sick to think that they may have written the whole giving that boy a sandwich into the script, just so they could product place Subway in the present.

Raine: It ruins things. I would much rather have a 2 minute subway commercial than that. Or so I say. Those two things totally broke me out of Goblin world and it wasn’t appreciated. I know that’s how they fund the beauty of Goblin, but *sob*.

Zombie: I wish I could find a way to ignore the blatant commercials but it’s so darn hard, especially when they’re shoved in your face. It’s unfortunate that something as silly as a sandwich commercial can ruin the flow of an otherwise perfectly wonderful drama.

Raine: And it is a wonderful drama. Which we can go back to talking about. Like when Shin freaks out at the movie theater while watching Gong Yoo’s most recent zombie flick “Train to Busan?”

Zombie: Can’t… Type… Laughing… Too… Much…

Oh gracious! If ever there was a more perfect moment written into a drama, I’m not sure what it would be. I DIED during that scene! Absolutely died! Mostly because that’s pretty much the way I am when I watch zombie movies. Yes, it’s sad but true. The Zombie is terrified of zombies.

Raine: I’m enjoying the irony inherent in that statement. And the major meta moment. And the adorable shrieking of Gong Yoo or him getting jealous of that young ball player and pettily dumping a piano in the middle of his living room! The music when Shin gets jealous is like epic war music, sweeping strings and full brass. It’s ridiculous and funny.

Zombie: It’s absolute perfection, that’s what it is. Jealous Goblin is the most hilarious thing ever. He’s so petty and cheeky and everything a goblin is supposed to be. They’re inherently mischievous beings so of course he’s going to be a brat when he gets jealous. And my favorite part of that whole zombie movie scene was afterwards, when Shin tells Eun Tak that the future of Korean film certainly seems bright. I laughed so hard I almost cried.

Raine: Good job with the meta, Goblin. Very good job! We haven’t talked much about Eun Tak and I just want to say, how much did you love when she cried over cake? They gave her a birthday and she felt like she had family and it was so sweet. It makes her eventual separation with Goblin even more poignant. Evil, delicious anticipation!

Zombie: That whole scene with the cake made me cry. It was so sweet of the boys, treating her like that, with cake and presents and everything. They make such a perfectly imperfect family and I love seeing them all come together like that. Poor Eun Tak hasn’t ever had a real family so having one now is literally her biggest wish come true. Now if only Shin could own up to his feelings for this girl, she’d be able to cross another wish off her bucket list.

Raine: At least she’ll have the happiness to bolster her and he’ll have experience it before the thing we’re not gonna talk about. Because right now we get to see him be petty and tease her, see the trio of boys be silly, watch Duk Hwa grow up inch by inch, witness Death falling in love again. It’s all so wonderful.

Zombie: You know, I really love watching Duk Hwa grow into his role as Goblin’s right-hand man. He started out as such a pointless brat but he’s really starting to understand what it means to be at Shin’s side and he’s taking on that responsibility pretty well. It makes me think he may actually turn into a valuable member of society someday.

Raine: I don’t think that he could really do otherwise with the bloodline he comes from, but I’m glad we’re here to see him go from credit-card hungry kid to a man who can clean up Goblin’s public messes.

Zombie: Like everyone else in this story, his lessons have to be learned over time. The good thing is, he’s learning those lessons and growing into a better person as a result. You really can’t ask for anything better than that!

Raine: Definitely. Everything feels so organic (except Subway…) Including that romance between Death and Sunny. I just can’t get over by how annoyed she gets at him and ends up smiling, and how much he cares for her, but can’t seem to properly show her. I do wish they at least get a happy ending cause…*sniff*

Zombie: I’m not ready to think about endings yet. I’m just going to be content with all of the wonderful, beautiful, painful, hilarious, heart-warming, gut-wrenching, perfect moments that lead us up to that most dreaded of moments.

Raine: It’s gonna hurt so good. And I can’t wait. No…I can’t…Wait….I can’t…I dunno!

Zombie: Oh just give me more Gong Yoo and let the swords fall where they may!

Raine: I can deal with that. Here you go:

 

To hear more from Raine and myself, be sure to follow us on our blogs and/or social media:

Raine: Raine’s Dichotomy, Twitter, Instagram
Zombie Mamma: Zombie Mamma, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

or catch up on our previous Goblin chats here:

Episodes 1-2

Episodes 3-4

Episodes 5-6

Zombie: Sooo… That was an interesting way to leave us hanging… The kiss was nothing special but the inability to draw the sword was a bit surprising. I guess you knew it wasn’t going to be easy but still… I didn’t expect her to not even be able to grab the thing.

Raine: Random cold fish kiss?

Zombie: More awkward than anything. I don’t expect a 19-year-old girl to land some passionate kiss on her first go and even Shin’s response is understandable it was not the kind of kiss I want in a show like this. But I know we still have a long way to go so maybe there’s hope of improvement before the end.

Raine: True. But like you said, more than that weirdo kiss…her not being able to grab the sword shocked the monkeys out of me! Do they both have to be passionately in love first or something?

Zombie: That’s what I’m guessing. I think Shin has to be truly, madly, deeply in love with her and she has to feel the same, if the sword is ever gonna come out. I don’t think the curse is going to let them get by with some wimpy kiss and a lot of confused emotions.

Raine: Definitely. A 900+ punishment from god means it needs a serious cure; really red-hot and involved love. Not just an early exploration and the first budding emotions.

Zombie: Nope, this curse is gonna hurt like heck when it breaks. That’s kind of the point of this punishment, isn’t it? To make Shin feel all the pain of every death he’s ever witnessed and/or been a part of… You don’t break that kind of curse without feeling it in your very core.

Raine: Yeah, and he won’t feel the severe loss of love at this point. Although he beginning to fight his death now that he has a budding reason to live. That and that bromance that just keeps getting better!

Zombie: I swear, Death and Goblin were made for each other. They’re just so perfect together. Though I have to say, I’m very much enjoying things now that Eun Tak has moved into the house with these two gods. Shin is way too cute, listening to her every move as she putters around her room and leaving her all those snacks… I know he was trying to bribe her into pulling out the sword before she was ready but still! He’s adorable in his doting. If that’s even the right word for this. Maybe bribing? Hustling? Smitten-ness? Oh whatever you call it, he’s cute and I love him.

Raine: Yes, it’s nice to see something fresh in his life after years and years and years of wandering solo. I think he was ready for the change since he saved Eun Tak’s mom because he made friends with Death before he really began to fall for Eun Tak. It’s like he primed himself for change. Which is great because he can now give the most awkward immortal-being-with-a-crush, Death, love advice.

Zombie: Hahaha! I love that an immortal who’s been single for 900+ years is giving romantic advice to Death. They’re both so completely out of touch with humans they have no idea what it is they’re doing and yet, they try. Death is so darn cute, trying to figure out how to relate to humans. His quest for a name was hilarious and the whole lack of a job he can explain is killing him. Though I think Sunny’s sudden interest in Duk Hwa might actually kill him. For some reason, I don’t think Death would take a showdown with love rival very well. Especially not if he’s going up against someone like Duk Hwa. Pretty sure that kid wouldn’t stand a chance.

Raine: I know he wouldn’t, but I can’t help fall in love with Death being an awkward man-child when it comes to love. And Kim Woo-bin? That’s what you settled on? I’m sure even if you DON’T watch t.v. you’d see his name on the street somewhere. I’m dying here laughing just thinking about him. He needs to turn to Eun Tak more often. That pairing is just fabulous.

Zombie: OH GOSH, YES! Those two are almost as brilliant together as Death and Goblin! I love the way they can carry on whole conversations while Shin looks on in jealous confusion. It’s hilarious to me, the way a 900 year old goblin can’t keep up with a high school kid and Death.

Raine: It should be renamed “Immortal High School” because seriously, the way these boys are going through emotional puberty.

Zombie: HAHAHAHA! You’re so right! At least their awkward emotional awakening has been entertaining and you have to admit, there have been some very touching moments as well. I still can’t get over Shin, sitting in the park, in Canada, and the moment of realization he had there. Ack! I get goosebumps just thinking about it! Heck, even the way he’s been wavering between wanting to die and wanting to live gives me chills. The fact that he’s finally found something worth living for just kills me.

Raine: I love that Gong Yoo reflected the maturity of his years in that moment he fell in love. It’s new, yes, but you can feel this awakening in him. It’s pretty amazing.

Zombie: It was a beautiful moment and one I can’t stop swooning over. I really hope we’ll get more of those types of moments as the story progresses. Mostly because I love the way they remind you that Shin is so much more than just another pretty face. His story spans centuries and I like being reminded of that, from time to time. I like having a hero who’s existed for nearly a millennium and is still able to find the beauty in life, despite his curse.

Raine: Exactly, my undead friend. These two episodes were less about plot and more about the small developments in character, the spurts of growth that Eun Tak and the other ‘youth’ around them teach them. And, for that matter, what Death and Shin teach each other. All while, y’know, mentally hurling forks and knives at each other. I really do think these two should be sent to immortal detention.

Zombie: Somehow I don’t think immortal detention would do either of them any good…

Raine: BWAHAHAHA! I just want this drama to go on forevers. Although, the thought of that sword there…I am a little puzzled by it still. He can pull it out to slice up cars and threaten with, but does it hurt? How does it get back in? I’m so confused.

Zombie: Maybe he has a spare sword that he uses for car slicing??? It just doesn’t seem possible for him to be able to draw the sword out of his chest whenever he needs it. That would seem to defeat the point of the curse. My theory is the sword lodged in his midsection is always there and the sword he uses for everyday life is something entirely different. After all, wouldn’t every ancient warrior worth his salt carry more than one weapon? What really confuses me is how Goblin can see into Eun Tak’s future but not see anyone around her. Is it because he doesn’t know who will be with her in the future or is it because she’s always been a mystery to him? Her abilities have always confused him so couldn’t this seeing into her future also confuse him?

Raine: I have faith the drama will address that since in episodes 5 and 6 Eun Tak did mention it to him and he was a bit confused as well. The story does seem to be systematically unfolding, which again, baffles me because this writer isn’t known for her logic.

Zombie: Well, there’s always a first time for everything, right?

Raine: Please Madam Writer. Take us through to the end. With our Goblin and Death. Also, if we write anymore, I fear Zombie and I will spit out our entire lunches laughing at the antics of the show Goblin and our own…

Zombie: *falls over laughing*

Raine: *spits water all over screen*

Zombie: Clearly it’s time for us to end this and get back to our holiday shenanigans.

Raine: Good call! Happy Holidays, all! Let’s imagine Goblin dressed in Christmas lights!

To hear more from Raine and myself, be sure to follow us on our blogs and/or social media:

Raine: Raine’s Dichotomy, Twitter, Instagram
Zombie Mamma: Zombie Mamma, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

or catch up on our previous Goblin chats here:

Episodes 1-2

Episodes 3-4

Zombie: So it seems we’ve kinda settled into things a bit. The initial, “hook you with all kinds of crazy suspense” has passed and now we get down to the business of getting a Goblin and his Bride together. You’d think this would be an easy task, seeing as how Eun Tak confessed her love to Shin last week, and Shin has realized his love this week. But somehow, I don’t things are going to work out so easily.

Raine: I agree. There’s already been some back and forth, especially on his end, regarding their romantic attachment. But man, when a Goblin falls, the world stops turning and it just coos and aws along with the rest of the fangirls.

Zombie: I was definitely one of those cooing awwws. I swear, I walked away from that last episode with a great big sigh and a very pathetic, “Why can’t I have a Zombie enamoured Goblin in my life?” Yes, I am hopeless.

Raine: I want one, too. So does Eun Tak! She’s fighting to keep him!

Zombie: I know she’s very desperate to keep him around but I’m not convinced it’s actually due to any sort of romantic love at the moment. I’m sure she has twinges of like (or if she’s like so many of us watching, great big giant lightning bolts of OH MY GOSH HE’S PERFECT!) but I think that mostly, her desire comes from a very real desire to not be alone. It’s been 10 years since she last had anyone in her life who actually loved and cared about her. Right now I think that right now, what she wants from Goblin, more than anything, is the security that comes with knowing at least one person in this world cares that you’re alive.

Raine: Definitely. Someone alive caring that she’s alive…And knowing that she is ‘destined’ to be with him is only further impetus. He, on the other hand, is so steadily and obviously falling in love that its awesomeness is only comparable to the Goblin/Death coupling, which may just be the best bromance on the face of the planet.

Zombie: I’m pretty sure Goblin and Death’s coupling is the best bromance ever written. Period.

Raine: Yup, and I’m romancing their bromance along with every other Goblin fan out there. It’s seriously witty, full of feels, gots the handsome fellers, and they sing songs about underwear. You really, really can’t go wrong.

Zombie: Is it too early to beg the drama gods for a Goblin/Death spin-off? It could come in the form of a webtoon and I’d be okay with it. I just need more of these two in my life!

Raine: Let’s petition for it NOW. Well, after we finish this thing. We had some new material introduced and some of my favorite was the Death/Sunny pairing. It’s so full of romantic tension and mystery.

Zombie: It’s the mystery that’s got me hooked. Who is Sunny and why the heck does Death start crying when he sees her? You know they’ve got to be connected somehow but with Death not remembering anything about his former life and Sunny being so very Sunny, we really have nothing to go on. I can’t even begin to make an assumption or prediction here because I really have no idea what’s going on with these two. Death is obviously moved by this woman but why? There’s got to be more to her than an odd chicken shop owner who has good taste in rings.

Raine: I’m wondering if she’s one of those rare re-incarnations that Goblin had mentioned earlier. But in any case, I’m intrigued by their intrigue of one another. It’s a great way to start any relationship.

Zombie: I’d say we’ve had some pretty interesting starts to relationship all around. It’s not every day a ghost-seeing girl and a 900 year old goblin get together. Nor is it every day Death starts crying over a woman he’s never met. I wonder, since their eyes met while they were fighting over that ring, does that mean Sunny’s going to die soon? Or does that only work when Death’s wearing his hat?

Raine: Or maybe the bad thing he did to become Death is related to her? I love things that make me guess and really have no idea what the outcome will be. Is this really the same writer from “Secret Garden” and “Descendants of the Sun?”

Zombie: I think a lot of us have been asking that lately… Oooh! Speaking of mysteries and intrigue. Was I the only one wondering why Goblin was freaking out about seeing Bobby on TV? I mean I get freaking out over Bobby (and all of iKON, really) but he’s not exactly a stand-out re-incarnation of the ancient king. Shin kept going on about how he looked familiar and all and I thought he was alluding to the king who ordered his death, all those years ago, but I don’t actually see the connection. Was it just put in there to be funny or what? I’m trying really hard to not be confused by this but my sleepy zombie brain can’t make the connection here.

Raine: I thought maybe cause the king looked so pretty he could be an idol? And the actor, Kang Min-jae has played idols on t.v. before. I just feel like the fact you noticed that means it’s important. All things in this aren’t just throw in for fun. They mean something.

Zombie: I’m pretty sure something having to do with the king will come up in the fairly new future, I just thought it was funny that they choose Bobby as the idol that triggered Shin’s memories. With idols serving as spokespersons for pretty much everything, you’d think Shin would be used to seeing them by now.

Raine: Yeah, he’s definitely coming back. Maybe queenie, too. And Bobby would trigger my memories, too. I was in Korea at the iKon debut last year! SQUEEEE!

Zombie: Ooooooohhhhhhh! Don’t even get me started! I could squee over iKON for pretty much the rest of forever but I won’t. I just thought it was interesting that memories and/or emotions that Shin has kept repressed for who knows how long, are starting to surface after meeting Eun Tak. It makes me think a lot is going to start changing for this man and I don’t think he’s going to like it. Though that’s a pretty obvious statement, seeing as how he’s already fallen in love and fought that feeling for ever and a day.

Raine: Yeah, the women in our bromantic couples lives are definitely stirring the pot. I love that. But I love that love isn’t the central force of instigation. There is the desire for death by Goblin, but also the renewed desire to live. There is curiosity in Death because of Goblin AND Sunny. Eun Tak is imagining a future. There is a whole world of fantastical elements to explore. I loved how they brought back the boy whose life Goblin affected for the better.

Zombie: Augh! I loved that too! It painted Goblin in an even brighter light. He’s not just a god who plays with people like toys. When he gets involved in someone’s life, he’s there until the end. He cares for that person and, in one way or another, loves that person; so much so he’s willing to personally open the door to heaven for them. He’s really is the tender-hearted god he dubbed himself in the first episode. Of course he can also hold a grudge and isn’t afraid to exact revenge when he needs to, but all-in-all, he’s a very sensitive being and one that would make anyone happy to have as a friend. Which makes me think there could be some very good things in store for Eun Tak…

Raine: Aegyo? Flowers? Namsan Tower? Just kidding. I’m sure he’ll be more clever than that. I was very happy that she could see the sword in him though, and I’m a little unhappy (a lot unhappy) that he’s keeping the meaning of the sword and pulling it out from her. I can totally see why he’s doing it. She’s tender-hearted herself, and fragile. I have a feeling she’ll surprise us though.

Zombie: I’m completely upset with Shin for keeping the meaning of the sword a secret. No matter how he feels about his own death, he needs to tell this poor kid what it’s going to mean for them both, once she pulls that sword out. He can’t let her continue to think that it’s some sort of joke because the second that sucker comes out, he’ll be no more and she’ll be right back to being the miserable, lonely, outcast little kid she’s been for the past 10 years. Keeping her in the dark is just mean and I don’t like it one bit!

Raine: Me neither! There’s been a total lack of honesty and trust in all of her relationships. She needs that plus the security of knowing he has her back. Also, on a completely different note, I’m curious about Duk Hwa and his role. His predecessors were serious and devoted while he’s a spendthrift and irresponsible. Are we going to see him grow up through all of the drama happening in his house? With both a Goblin and Death as his uncles?

Zombie: I certainly hope he starts to grow up soon because he’s really an annoying little punk who deserves a massive kick in the pants. I’m still struggling to figure out what his purpose actually is, other than to annoy everyone around him. I’m guessing he has to serve some higher purpose, seeing as how he’s the landlord for Sunny’s chicken shop but what that purpose might be… I honestly have no idea.

Raine: Yes. Again, all those connections that can’t just be coincidence. Another random…if she goes to kiss him or hug him, will the sword poke her in the ribs?

Zombie: You know, I’ve been wondering that as well. I’m trying to think back to any time she may have hugged him already but I can only think of her helping him walk when he was plastered. Either way, I think hugs are safe from impaling. Maybe she can only touch the sword when she goes to pull it out???

Raine: Maybe. It’s a valid theory! Also…he used the sword on the card before…so did he pull it out? Is it only allowed out for good or dastardly deeds and then back it goes?

Zombie: I think it may be a weapon he can wield when he needs it but it has to stay sheathed (so to speak) in his chest.

Raine: Ew. Really have to change the subject now to…this drama is excellent. It far exceeds most of the dramas this year and it’s only on episode 4. It’s just got the right mix of character, plot, cinematography, history, and music to make it great.

Zombie: I couldn’t agree more. It really is everything a good drama should be and I’m dying for the next episode! I tell ya, these weeks just keep getting longer and longer!

Raine: Luckily, it airs today so we don’t have to wait much longer. Come to me, my lovesick Goblin, my adorable Eun Tak, my hysterical Sunny, and my bromantic Death.

Zombie: Think if we blow out a candle, Goblin will magically appear behind us???

Raine: Let’s try…

To hear more from Raine and myself, be sure to follow us on our blogs and/or social media:

Raine: Raine’s Dichotomy, Twitter, Instagram
Zombie Mamma: Zombie Mamma, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

or catch up on our previous Goblin chats here:

Episodes 1-2

Raine: Earlier this week Zombie Mamma asked me if I wanted to review tvN’s newest Friday/Saturday 16-episode drama with her, Goblin. I hadn’t started it yet and I didn’t really intend to because while Kim Eun Sook really is a K-drama viewer’s favorite writer, she’s not really loved by critics – i.e. me. But then I saw Kim Go Eun and…..GONG YOO and I said “why not?” I watched it. I eat my words. This show is good. REALLY Good.

Zombie: I told you it was one of those dramas you just had to watch! At least now you know why!

Raine: It very much lacks the jerky plot writing and jumpy scene changes of many of Kim’s previous works like Descendants of the Sun, Secret Garden, and the Lovers dramas. There is this beautiful, sinuous continuity to the writing, the filming, the FX. And, y’know, Gong Yoo’s perfect everything.

Zombie: I think that seems to be everyone’s sentiment when it comes to this drama. All you have to say is Gong Yoo and we’re sold.

Raine: GONG YOO!

Zombie: I do have to admit that going into this drama, there was this fear that it would end up being as difficult to watch as some of Kim’s other work. Heirs scarred me for life and Descendants, as beautiful as it was to watch, really lacked substance. It was a fun distraction but there was no depth.

Raine: Oh gosh, Heirs. That thing traumatized me, too. It was Hallyu-star stuffed and cringeworthy. But Kim is just popular. Her shows just DO well it’s some crazy witchery I don’t get.

Zombie: Exactly. I can honestly say that the only reason I stuck around for that dramas was my undying love of Kim Woo Bin.

Raine: But Goblin, while I do fear the unraveling of its perfection because that’s how all of Kim’s dramas have faired, I have some faith in it.

Zombie: Oh definitely. I have all kinds of faith in this drama. And not just because I love Gong Yoo and Lee Dong Wook. We’re only two episodes in (at least that’s all we’ve watched so far) and already there’s a depth of character and story that makes this so much more than just another star-studded fluff and nonsense drama.

Raine: Depth is exactly what this show has that Descendants lacked. From the beginning the story, Kim Shin has a history, reasons behind his actions, things and events that affect him, change him, move him.

Zombie: He’s a character with purpose. Everything his does has a reason behind it. He’s a very grounded individual, which makes sense, considering he’s what, 900 years old? He has life figured out. Or I guess I should say, he has his existence figured out. He knows who and what he is, why he exists as he does, and how his end will come. There’s nothing flighty or fake with his guy. He’s real and unshakable. And yet, as soon as he meets Ji Eun Tak, everything he’s ever thought he’s known gets thrown out the window. She is the great mystery in his life and it’s so much fun, watching him trying to figure her out.

Raine: And I do love how his change isn’t only because of the girl and the love that will finally lay him to rest, but the particular people in his life, especially his bromantic partner, Death. This is the best I’ve see Lee Dong Wook in a long while.

Zombie: Absolutely! I’m still so scarred from Blade Man, I was afraid I’d never be able to watch another Lee Dong Wook drama again! (Raine: Same same!) I’m so happy he’s taken on a supernatural role that’s actually worthy of his talent! He makes Death look so darn good!

Raine: Amen! And I do like the strangeness in their bromance. (Zombie: YES!) There is the normal fussy fighting, but there is also the supernatural that spices things up a bit, and the one big contention between them: Death wants Kim Shin’s Goblin bride dead and Shin, well, doesn’t!

Zombie: I don’t think it really matters to Death that he’s going after the Goblin Bride. I think what really bothers him is the fact that Eun Tak isn’t supposed to exist at all. Because Kim Shin stepped in when he did, he brought about a life that wasn’t supposed to be. I think what really bothers Death, more than anything, is the fact that Eun Tak isn’t on his records so he just doesn’t know what to do with her.

Raine: Oh definitely. It’s a cerebral dilemma for sure.  I just love that someone’s life is the issue, when we have an immortal, a could-be-killed-Goblin, and this ghost-seeing human chick. And speaking of this human chick, Eun Tak played by the brilliant Kim Go Eun, she’s this marvelous mixture of completely downtrodden and happy rays of sunshine. When allowed to be free (i.e. with Gong Yoo) she’s this utterly delightful girl. With an oppressive family, she hardly seems the same person.

Zombie: I think that’s what I like most about her. I like that when she’s with her awful family, she’s strong enough to stand up for herself. She’s doing everything she can to get out of that house. She’s working hard at school, she’s taken a part-time job, she’s doing everything she can to remove herself from an awful situation and I admire her for that. She’s sassy enough to keep her family from walking all over her and yet she’s got this innocence about her that really can only come out when she’s with Kim Shin. I like that he brings out a side of her no one else really gets to see. I also like that that side is a very pleasant one. It makes cheering for her insanely easy.

Raine: Yes! She’s cute without being obnoxious. It’s really just this energizing freedom, and that is definitely half Kim Go Eun. I like that Shin makes her feel safe. She doesn’t need defenses. We also see it when she gets a job at the chicken house with Yoo In-na’s fabulous Kim Sun.

Zombie: Oh goodness! Yoo In Na is fantastic in this drama! There’s something about here character that is just… I don’t know what to call it, really. I’m just very much enjoying her and all that sass! I think she’s a rather brilliant match for Go Eun.

Raine: We need a word for bromance that’s just as cool for the ladies, like “sistermance”…except not that.  Like serious. These two are such a pair, and Yoo In-na rocks the blase.

Zombie: I really wonder if her character isn’t actually some other supernatural being. The way her shop is always empty and the way she carries herself, she’s so full of confidence, it’s almost unnatural. But maybe that’s just because we see so few characters like hers in dramas.

Raine: It’s true. She’s a rare woman in dramas. Despite her apparent apathy, she’s strong, has an attitude, and she’s confident. This drama knows how to sketch out its women. They don’t have to be weird to be strong; they just go about living their lives. But I am also wondering if she’s supernatural. It would be cool if she was…and if she wasn’t. I’m fine either way.

Zombie: Same. I do have to say, the other thing I like about Eun Tak is the fact that her ability to see ghosts hasn’t damaged her in any way. (Raine: Like every other ghostly drama!) Exactly! After all these years, she still just as strong as ever. She has her wits about her, she’s able to deal with ghosts and life all without becoming this pathetically traumatized victim who can’t function in the normal world. I freaking love that!

Raine: Definitely. She deals with her problems in such a mature, relatable way. But when she is bubbling with happiness, that’s when she gets to Shin, pierces his 900-year-old armor of misery, and fighting time, and perhaps a bit of apathy that has come upon him from the long wait.

Zombie: *sigh* Just seeing that written out is enough to invoke all the fangirl feels! What woman in the world doesn’t want to imagine themselves as the one able to break through an immortal being’s 900 year old shell of misery? Or maybe that’s just me…

Raine: I know Eun Tak certainly jumped onto the idea right away, like a very, very smart heroine!!!

Zombie: I loved the way she just accepted the title of Goblin’s Bride and went with it. There was no hesitation, no doubts or fears. She was just, “This is what I am? Okay, then… I love you!”

Raine: I LOVE GONG YOO, TOO!  But seriously, squeal-worthy moment. I heart you, Eun Tak!

Raine: Unlike many other dramas with fantastical elements, this one follows a set of rules. We may not know all of them, but things don’t just happen willy-nilly. The goblin-lore loosely follows historical goblin tales. Ghosts conversing with Eun Tak establish her role in this unusual love story. Scenes between Death and Shin flesh out their roles. And none of it is exposition heavy. Instead, it flows as part of the story.

Zombie: The fact that a story with this much history behind it can flow so easily, without being bogged down by heavy exposition, is kind of amazing. We are talking about a man who has been alive for 900 years. That’s a whole lotta backstory! The fact that his history has been woven into the fabric of the story, without bogging it down makes it so much fun to watch. You know enough about him to get a pretty solid idea of his character and then we’re off, joining him on the unknown adventure that will ultimately bring about his death. Which, for the record, I’m not looking forward to. At. All.

Raine: Me neither, but I don’t think I’ll mind it. It will break my heart, and I will cry, but it’s part of what makes this story so rich. All that backstory, the present, the episodes to come, and then that poignant end!

Zombie: I know it’s absolutely necessary to make this story rich and it’s ultimately going to be what ends 900 years of aimless wandering and all but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to hurt like crazy when it comes.

Raine: Let’s not think about it yet. We still have lots of pretty to enjoy. And we’re only just finishing episode two. Death is fourteen episodes away!

Zombie: Actually, Death lives just down the hall and he’s the most fantastic roommate ever! At least until he starts singing about Goblin’s underpants…

Raine: Hehehehehe. I like what you did there.

Zombie: I have my moments.

Raine: Good drama gets the juices going! Speaking of good, the music is also good. There are a couple of hilarious moments rendered just by the OST or background music. Most of the CGI ain’t bad either!

Zombie: There’s really so much to love about this drama. The Chanyeol x Punch collaboration, “Stay With Me,” for the OST is beyond beautiful. I swear, I’ve listened to that track about a million times already and I still can’t get enough of it.

Raine: Guh, even seeing those names written gives me chills! Such. Great. Music. And OSTs are the best because they bring up the feels that you felt when the feels first happened while watching the drama.

Zombie: That’s true of every OST but it takes a really great track to stand the test of time. You know tracks are typically played to death during the course of a drama, and usually you end up hating it by the end, but there are some that make you feel all those original feels, even after it’s been played to death.

Raine: And it will be played, to death, and to Death. Pun!

Zombie: Hahahaha! I’m always a sucker for a good pun!

Zombie: But back to the drama and the CG you brought up a second ago. I love how it fits in so seamlessly with the storytelling. I mean you know it’s there but it doesn’t really stand out as a garish distraction. It serves its purpose without making you say, “Oh hey look! CG!”

Raine: Exactly! It’s au natural and par for the course! I love how it’s used by Death and Shin to brattily dump extra pepper into each other’s soups! They’re just teenage boys with powers.

Zombie: They really are. At least until Eun Tak gets kidnapped.

Raine: OMG THAT LAST SCENE!!!!!! OMG OMG OMG OMG!

Zombie: Yeah… It’s been a week already since that scene aired and I still get chills just thinking about it! It was just THAT GOOD! I’m dying to find out what happens next because you know when Death and a Goblin show up to a party, things are gonna be interesting. To say the least!

Raine: Party with the old, but very hot, dudes! Back to the scene: so perfectly executed. Just the right amount of creepy, cool, sexy, and mystery. The perfect recipe for a cliffhanger. Deliciousness.

Zombie: Ahh… Delicious… *siiiiggghhhh*

Raine: *drool*

Zombie: Sorry, what were we talking about again?

Raine: About Goblin and how we should stop writing to go watch episode 3? Like now. And pray they replay that ending scene at the start.

Zombie: … … … Yeah… I’ve got nothin’… All I’m doing is sitting here, replaying that scene over and over in my head. Clearly we need to wrap this up and go watch the next episode!

Raine: Then off we go! Well, before we do, what did you all think of these two episodes everyone? Did the ending turn you into mind-numbed drooling fan zombies? Let us know in the comments below!

To hear more from Raine and myself, be sure to follow us on our blogs and/or social media:

Raine: Raine’s Dichotomy, Twitter, Instagram

Zombie Mamma: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram