Disney+ original series 'Polaris' is nearing its finale, but it has yet to find its footing in terms of storytelling. Despite the star power of Jun Ji-hyun and Kang Dong-won, the series has been criticized for its repetitive themes of politics, international affairs, and espionage, which have left viewers fatigued. The fundamental issue lies in the difficulty of immersing oneself in the story, leading to questions about the series' hefty 70 billion won budget.
Premiering on October 10, 'Polaris' is set to conclude on November 1. The series follows Moon Ju (played by Jun Ji-hyun), a former UN ambassador, as she uncovers the truth behind the assassination of her husband, Jun Ik (played by Park Hae-joon), a leading presidential candidate, while responding to threats against the Korean Peninsula.
With a cast that includes Jun Ji-hyun, Kang Dong-won, Park Hae-joon, Kim Hae-sook, Yoo Jae-myung, Oh Jung-se, and Hollywood actor John Cho, 'Polaris' garnered significant attention even before its release. The script, penned by Jung Seo-kyung of 'Decision to Leave' and 'Little Women,' and the direction by Kim Hee-won of 'The Queen of Tears' and 'Vincenzo,' along with Huh Myung-haeng of 'The Outlaws 4,' were also points of anticipation.
However, the series has received mixed reviews. Initially, the plot centers on widow Moon Ju declaring her candidacy for president to uncover the truth behind her husband's death. Yet, she soon finds herself falling for her enigmatic bodyguard, San Ho (played by Kang Dong-won), who inexplicably saves her from danger time and again. As the story progresses, San Ho also develops feelings for Moon Ju.
In a public setting, Moon Ju makes an unplanned statement about the possibility of war breaking out the next day, leading to a shootout where she and San Ho seek refuge. In their hideout, their mutual attraction culminates in a kiss and an intimate encounter, prompting viewers to question whether they are on the run or on a leisurely outing. Despite watching all the episodes, viewers feel as though they missed something due to the plot's numerous gaps.
Adding to the complexity, the deceased husband's mistress, Hannah (played by Won Ji-an), and their 9-year-old son enter the scene. Hannah threatens Moon Ju with a paternity lawsuit and launches a public campaign. The mistress, a covert operative, genuinely fell in love with Jun Ik, adding an outdated twist reminiscent of 1990s dramas. Hannah's line, "I wanted to beat that woman," further reduces 'Polaris' to a third-rate drama.
Moreover, Moon Ju and her husband were not deeply in love; their marriage was more of a partnership. Yet, Moon Ju reacts strongly to the mistress's presence, leaving viewers puzzled by her inconsistent behavior.
As a political espionage drama, 'Polaris' frequently mentions war, peace, and spies, but with only two episodes left, the narrative on war threats and Korean Peninsula security remains underdeveloped. The plot feels disjointed, with characters appearing caught up in conspiracy theories, and the protagonists seem inept without a clear plan.
These themes contribute to viewer fatigue and make it difficult for audiences to relate or become engrossed in the story. As a political drama, espionage thriller, and romance, 'Polaris' falls short in execution and coherence. Historically, the North Star has been a guiding light, but the drama 'Polaris' seems to have lost its way. Whether it can reach a satisfying conclusion remains uncertain.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr