Forbidden dream sets around King Sejong the Great and the building of astronomical science in the Joseon era with his loyal companion Yeong Sil who helps him accomplish this through his intelligence and friendship.

Choi Min Sik's performance is Impeccable, I have not seen him in a whole lot but this movie really moved me and it isn't even one of his highest-rated ones. Han Suk Hyu as well, portraying one of the most acted-out kings in Korean film history and yet bringing his originality to the table. Although their chemistry was bubbling, the plot bored me out in the midway. I found it hard keeping up with the outside political scuffle and the dialogues between the support roles. I perceived the lack of attention given to these scenes because conversations between the 2 main leads were so good the expectation for other aspects are meant to be followed but it didn't meet halfway.

I don't think I've ever seen a plot based solely on friendship like this to the depths of it being sacrificial as well. a lot of times dramas and movies would include romance but not this film. I applaud the writers for solely taking us through the build in a society where nobility and poverty are seen as galaxies apart and then you have a king befriend a servant. Not just befriending him but building a relationship (platonic) with so much love and respect for each other, helping each other build dreams, and rooting for each other as they try and make a difference in their harsh reality. it makes me want to be a better friend but also want to surround myself around people who would also replicate this in my life.

Definitely a good watch, it might drag but overall with the right mood it can be a tear-jerker. WATCH IT!