AOW/EWG Comparison

[seven stars]

Probably better to start this as a new thread.

seven said:

For most of you this is retrospective at this point. I just thought I would reopen this thread with a new point to see if there is any interest.

Regarding an EWG/AOW comparison:

AOW's popularity is perhaps the peak of common interest in shows of this style. I believe that the reason for this is the torrid pace set by the show in the first 5-8 episodes, the comparatively large amount of action we witnessed, and the soap opera approach to the production. In AOW the action was driven by largely imperfect, uneducated characters who valued strength, justice, and most of whom sought their own advancement until the grave. Backstabbers and collaborators were coming out of the woodwork at every stage of the story. People are somehow drawn to tales of dark times, scandal, and treachery.

EWG was not without its villains and fatally flawed characters (eg. Goonyae, Ajitae). Nevertheless, the storyline is driven primarily by high minded individuals with a commitment to a great cause. (eg. Wang Guhn, Kyun Hwon, the sworn brothers, Vice Prime Minister, and Choi Ung) These characters are to be admired rather than sympathized with. This effect gave Wang Guhn an almost "hero tailish" feel. In addition, EWG is a longer, slower paced series which at times seemed to space out the action a good deal.

Anyone who has conversed with me about this will know that I love both series' but that one is clearly my favorite. I ask about these two shows, due to the fact that they are the ones to which I have given the greatest attention.

Any one who has seen both series', please share your thoughts on a comparison between the two!

[ID]

AOW was in my opinion, more interesting to watch. It lost itself at points {KDS/Dobang era episodes}, but overall, it was fascinating, and action-packed. Emperor Wang Guhn, on the other hand, told of one set of characters, rather than the "generations" of characters seen in AOW {1170 AD, Ui Bang era, Chungs era, ect.}. Emperor Wang Guhn was always focused on numerous plots at the same time {I enjoyed the plots concering Beckjae, much rather than the exaggeration of Koryo's Leaders/Generals/Court} AOW was much more focused, and it had deeper plots. Backstabbings, plotting, corruption, and all the like.

[seven stars]

ID said:

AOW was in my opinion, more interesting to watch. It lost itself at points {KDS/Dobang era episodes}, but overall, it was fascinating, and action-packed. Emperor Wang Guhn, on the other hand, told of one set of characters, rather than the "generations" of characters seen in AOW {1170 AD, Ui Bang era, Chungs era, ect.}. Emperor Wang Guhn was always focused on numerous plots at the same time {I enjoyed the plots concering Beckjae, much rather than the exaggeration of Koryo's Leaders/Generals/Court} AOW was much more focused, and it had deeper plots. Backstabbings, plotting, corruption, and all the like.

I suppose it is a matter of preference, but I found it rather difficult to continually invest my interest in new characters and storylines every 25-30 episodes. We are now nearing episode 125 in Philly, and while I still love the show, I find myself longing for the early years of Yi Ui-Bang again.

Having said that, I do see your point about keeping the story line fresh. I can see how EWG may have seemed to drag at points for some viewers.

I'm not sure I understand what you mean by exageration of Koryo's leaders/generals/court.

I think your last point drives home my original point about people somehow being fascinated with unfortunate characters and dark storylines.

Thanks for conversing with me on this ID!