Drama Digest
Jin Kang Ho is a detective and he excels at his work, in which he takes pride. Often going after unsolvable cases with gusto and dedication, it is difficult for him to get along with his less motivated colleagues. As a result, Kang Ho finds himself working alone, which he finds welcoming.
One day he meets Kang Moo Young. She is the producer of an investigative program. Although it is not that well-received, she is zealous about her work and matches Kang Ho in his thirst for solving cases and nabbing criminals.
The duo immediately hit it off and decide to work together to make a difference. They are joined by a criminal profiler, a former forensic pathologist, and an ex-gangster. Putting their skills together, they form a formidable team to take down criminals.
The Feel Good Part
The series has been directed excellently to balance comedy and crime-solving. The characters are as diverse in their professions as they are in characters. The only common ground for them is a crazy disposition to dive right into the heart of their jobs. This makes for hilarious situations throughout the series.
Although the main subject matter is grim, the story doesn’t take itself too seriously and tells an engaging story about the different types of people who work hard to create a safe society.
For crime science geeks, the show does a good job of showing the role of forensic science in crime investigation and how developed it has become.
In-Depth Analysis
Detective stories are not new, however, they never fail to entertain, if done properly. Team Bulldog is one of those detective series. Rather than work on one story, it sews several stories together, which helps in bringing out the best of our on-screen team.
The characters are likable. They complement each other’s craziness and professionalism to work well, which is why their team becomes as tight-knit as a family.
Being light-hearted, it does not shy away from focusing on the harsher side of Kang Ho’s job. The pressures of being a policeman, the unavoidable gaps in our laws, and the callous nature of many rich and influential people.
What this series also portrays well is the role of media in crime. It is very easy to sway public opinion by a mere choice of words. Here is why Moo Young’s character is so important; she could have easily chosen to become “successful” through devious means. But it is, ultimately, her integrity of character that allows the birth and effectiveness of the team.
The show also lets us take a peek into hate culture, where people are unhappy simply because someone else is successful. The nasty business of policemen throwing innocent civilians under the bus is also exposed.
It also shows that choosing evil is simply a matter of convenience for a lot of criminals. Their actions are conveniently targeted toward our youth, mainly children who are bullied or don’t have anyone to guide them.
Speaking of our youth, the causes of delinquency have become numerous due to their diverse growing needs. The show does a good job of showing just how many of those problems can be solved by a patient, listening ear.
The Disappointing Factor
I didn’t find anything disappointing in this show. However, Moo Young’s enthusiasm might seem too extreme for some viewers, especially with the way she jumps into dangerous situations.
Star Power
Cha Tae Hyun, Lee Sun Bin, Jung Sang Hoon, Yoon Gyung Ho, and Ji Seung Hyun shine through as the titular characters. They give the plot its depth and play their characters with ease and accuracy. The different actors, portraying the villains do a good job of showing the differing circumstances and mentalities of different people. The supporting characters are also well cast and they ensure that the story is well-rounded.
Overall Opinion
This is a good watch. For people who like a little bit of comedy with their crime drama, the series is a breeze of fresh air and offers unique perspectives.
