It's hard to put into words why I loved this drama so much and maybe my attempt will fail to capture its special attribute. I'll try anyway and perhaps get some more people at least interested in it. I admit I shied away from this at first because despite its good feedback, I was somewhat scared to start it. I know, totally insane.

For those who don't have any idea of what they might get themselves into, here's a short comparison:

Imagine your favorite horror folklore movie paired with your favorite horror folklore game (i.e. "Project Zero" - if you remember that game, you definitely belong to the older generation :p), then get a 16 hour extension of that, and you'll get "Guest". That's how I felt about the story.

(And I was also reminded of The Wailing and The Priests, if that makes it a bit clearer for you)

What makes this drama different from other ones is also its major input of Christianity. I don't recall many shows that use this in such a way. It has always been mentioned here and there, of course. But The Guest is one of the few which utilizes its traits more intensely and combines it successfully with Korea's folklore. The result displays a well balanced mix of Western and Eastern culture.

If you look at the overall tale, the story might be nothing new. Humans' weaknesses lure the devil. It's been a believe since the year one. But the production team still manages to make you involved in the story, be moved by its characters and let the legend get to you (or because we just can't resist watching others fall for their weaknesses). It's hard to not exaggerate, but the visual effects, the setting, the atmosphere, the music... Everything works so well together and lets you enter a totally different yet somewhat familiar world (since we always seek to overcome our own faults/the darkness - or get tricked by evil spirits and fall into despair/snap). In the end it all circles back to us, the human.

Besides its message, the drama tells the story of three individuals who each experienced great tragedy in their past. While trying to deal with and overcome their miseries, they eventually clash years later, not knowing the connection they bear to each other. While pursuing their own goals and always trying to push the other parties out, circumstances force them to work together nonetheless, which in the end results in an unexpected friendship. Due to their pasts, they had chosen to be alone all their lives. But having experienced the same calamity and chasing a mutual enemy ultimately binds them together. A precious, unbreakable bond emerges which is not defined by words but through actions and expressions. You can see and feel how much they cherish each other and how much they would sacrifice.

I actually don't want to write about acting performances and such things, because it's kind of too technical for this review. Let me just say that every one of them did a brilliant job with their character (every supporting role included, even the period ones).

The story telling is neat and follows a wide path without any detours. Of course, you have single cases as well, but all of them are part of the bigger picture. Unexpected twists and turns confuse you all the time and the major mystery stays hidden until the very last moment. But if you keep a close eye, all your questions will be answered when the credits show up. I've heard people say that there are major plot holes. Well, I didn't see them. I noticed some minor things, but those were circumstantial and didn't lessen my excitement.

I'm glad I started this drama. I would have missed a true gem otherwise. If you're scared to watch this, well... I was as well. The first two episodes are the most powerful ones because you don't know what's awaiting you. But the rest is slightly less frightening and you get used to the horror style. Having experienced other OCN dramas, you'll know that they don't hold back with gore elements. There's quite a noticeable amount of it. And despite the crucial parts being blurred out, it actually stimulates your fantasy even more.

Thus, the overall composition with perfectly timed horror elements presents you a lasting adventure whose core doesn't depict a scary legend but what great sadness, despair, willpower and self-sacrifice can unleash.

That being said: Switch off the light, get yourselves some candles and have a great time!
(if you're daring enough - horror gurus might even find this one a relaxing watch)