Murder plot lovers, this show is definitely for you, and you might even enjoy watching it. So right in the first episode, we are shown a story that is running a few years later. We are introduced to Cha Soo-yeol, a detective who is the estranged son of a notorious killer. His mother, Jung Yi-shin, was subbed as the mantis and was infamous for killing five men. She was ultimately captured and put behind bars, and in between, we are shown some flashbacks of the same. Although Cha Soo-yeol is a very accomplished detective and a thorough professional, he still has his roots in the past and is often associated with his tainted mother. Now, right at the start of the episode, we are shown a murder case that resembles that of the murder done by Cha’s mother back in the day. It’s a clear indication that someone has started mimicking her ways of murder. In order to understand what exactly has happened, the authorities make a bizarre decision: they consult Jung in order to solve the crimes. And now you might think as to who the person is who will be working alongside Jung. Yes, you are right, it’s her very own estranged son, Cha. This decision, for some reason, looks manipulative to me. But we can only wait to find out the reason behind all this.
Since there is a lot of back and forth going on in this episode, it becomes slightly complicated to watch. It took me some time to figure out when we are talking about the past and when we are talking about the present. However, once you figure out the plot, you will realize that it’s indeed fascinating to watch. There are a lot of twists and turns, and the first episode itself is a great start. The fact that, after some decades, a new murderer is copying the murder styles is itself very intriguing, and the plot is designed and written in a great way to convey this. Another thing to look out for is the acting by the cast. The cast is top-notch in their roles and offers us a great deal to watch. The portrayal of emotions by each cast member adds great depth to the show. This is indeed a very demanding and emotionally rich show to watch.
What viewers will also find further intriguing is the use of the word “Mantis”. There is a whole story associated with that insect, but that’s not for me to reveal. You shall watch it and understand the meaning of the same. These little Easter eggs make the plot really fun to watch. It’s also fast-paced, so you won’t get bored. However, I am expecting some graphic imagery further. So, audience, who are sensitive, please be careful to watch it, and if dead bodies are not something you are okay with or comfortable with, kindly refrain yourself from watching it.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times