Comprehensive Review: “Lies Hidden In My Garden” (2023) – A Korean Drama Intriguingly Woven

Janet Grillo August 3, 2023

“Lies Hidden In My Garden” or alternatively titled “House with a Yard” has gripped the Korean drama community with its riveting storytelling, thrilling narrative, and cinematic visuals. With just two episodes remaining at the time of writing, the drama has indeed proven to be worth watching. As both an ardent drama viewer and a connoisseur of Korean cinematography, I am compelled to delve into a detailed analysis of this mesmerizing piece.

Drama Profile: A Quick Overview

Title: Lies Hidden In My Garden / House with a Yard
Revised Romanization: Madangyi Itneun Jib
Hangul: 마당이 있는 집
Director: Jung Ji-Hyun
Writer: Adapted by Ji A-Ni from the novel by Kim Jin-Young
Network: ENA, Genie TV
Episodes: 8
Release Date: June 19, 2023 —
Runtime: Monday & Tuesday 22:00
Language: Korean
Country: South Korea

A Stellar Cast Bringing Characters to Life

The ensemble cast is notable, with each actor portraying complex and multi-dimensional characters:

Kim Tae Hee as Moon Joo Ran: The troubled housewife who uncovers a mystery.
Lim Ji Yeon as Chu Sang Eun: A victim of domestic abuse.
Kim Sung Oh as Park Jae Ho: The mysterious doctor.
Cha Sung Jae as Park Seung Jae: A supporting character.
Choi Jae Rim as Kim Yoon Beom: An intimidating figure with hidden motives.

Plot Synopsis: A Sinister Secret

Set in a luxurious home with a vast garden, the drama revolves around Moon Joo Ran, a housewife who uncovers something unsettling from the garden’s soil. A foul smell leads her to dig up a human hand, but her husband and child dismiss it as mere fertilizer odor. The same day, Kim Yoon Beom visits the house, seeking the doctor, but his true motives remain hidden. Meanwhile, the tale of domestic abuse and secret meetings unfold, connecting all the characters in an intricate web of deceit and intrigue.

Cinematic Quality: A Visual Feast

“Lies Hidden In My Garden” is not only celebrated for its rich storyline and intricate character development but also stands as a triumph in the realm of cinematography. The series elevates the usual expectations of a television drama, delivering a visual feast that could easily be mistaken for a high-budget film production. Here’s an in-depth exploration of the various aspects that contribute to the remarkable cinematic quality of the drama:

1. Artful Direction

Director Jung Ji-Hyun’s keen eye for visual storytelling manifests throughout the drama. Each scene is meticulously crafted, not merely serving the plot but enhancing the emotional resonance. This precision in direction allows viewers to become immersed in the world, experiencing the characters’ fears, doubts, and hopes.

2. Impeccable Composition and Framing

One of the highlights of the drama is the thoughtfully composed shots. Whether it’s an intense close-up to capture the raw emotion of a character or a wide-angle shot that encapsulates the mysterious garden, the framing is consistently effective in conveying the thematic nuances. These choices serve to create a rhythm that complements the slow burn of the plot.

3. Lighting and Color Palette

The mastery in lighting and the deliberate use of color contribute significantly to the mood of the drama. Soft and shadowed lighting helps to create an atmosphere of intrigue and tension, while the color palette often shifts to reflect the emotional state of the characters. For example, cold and muted tones are used to emphasize isolation and fear, whereas warmer hues highlight moments of connection and revelation.

4. Set Design and Costuming

The luxurious house with its sprawling garden is not just a setting but a character in itself. The attention to detail in set design, from the opulent interiors to the seemingly idyllic but sinister garden, mirrors the duplicity and hidden horrors in the characters’ lives. Similarly, the costuming reflects the social status and inner worlds of the characters, adding another layer to the storytelling.

5. Innovative Camera Work

The camera work in “Lies Hidden In My Garden” is far from conventional. Utilizing a variety of techniques, including steady tracking shots, handheld realism, and artful focus shifts, the cinematography adds texture and dynamism. The choice of lenses and angles further emphasizes the psychological complexity of the drama.

6. Visual Effects and Editing

Though not reliant on heavy visual effects, the subtle use of VFX enhances the eerie and unsettling aspects of the plot. The editing, too, plays a vital role in maintaining the suspense and pacing, expertly weaving together the multiple storylines without losing coherence.

7. A Symphony with Sound and Music

The auditory aspect is not to be overlooked. The score and sound design are finely tuned to the visuals, working in harmony to accentuate the tension, mystery, and emotional beats. It’s a symphony that resonates with the visual imagery, providing an all-encompassing sensory experience.

Conclusion: Raising the Bar

“Lies Hidden In My Garden” exemplifies how a television drama can reach cinematic heights. From direction to set design, lighting, and sound, every element is executed with finesse and intention. The result is a compelling visual narrative that engages the viewer not just through plot and character but through a beautifully constructed visual language.

In a landscape where Korean dramas are already appreciated for their quality, this particular show raises the bar, demonstrating what is possible when artistry and craftsmanship are prioritized. It’s a testament to the potential of the medium and a benchmark for future productions. Whether a casual viewer or a cinematic connoisseur, “Lies Hidden In My Garden” offers a visual experience that is deeply satisfying and undeniably captivating.

Character Analysis and Thematic Exploration

Moon Joo Ran: A Study in Vulnerability

Kim Tae Hee’s portrayal of Moon Joo Ran is complex. Described as weak and easily manipulated, she is haunted by trauma from her past. Her character represents themes of self-doubt, guilt, and the suppression of intuition, offering a profound look into the human psyche.

The Twists and Mysteries

The storyline, albeit slow-paced, keeps viewers engaged with unexpected twists. By the fifth and sixth episodes, the perpetrators of two deaths are seemingly revealed, but the drama masterfully continues to foster doubt, enhancing anticipation for the remaining episodes.

Domestic Abuse: A Grave Reality

The subplot involving domestic violence is handled with sensitivity and realism, highlighting the grave societal issue that needs addressing. The drama does not shy away from exploring dark and disturbing themes, making it not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

Acting and Engagement

The entire cast delivers strong performances, imbuing the characters with depth and authenticity. The pace may be considered slow by some viewers, yet it adds to the suspenseful build-up. For those impatient for revelations, watching at an accelerated speed (1.5 or 2 times) may be an unconventional but effective option.

Conclusion: An Unfinished Symphony

“Lies Hidden In My Garden” presents itself as a nuanced and layered drama, beautifully executed in all aspects, from scripting to direction and acting. It taps into universal themes of fear, trust, deception, and the human condition, offering a rich and satisfying viewing experience.

The concluding episodes promise to hold surprises, and as an analyst of Korean drama, I eagerly await the unraveling of the remaining mysteries. With its sophisticated narrative and stunning visual artistry, “Lies Hidden In My Garden” cements its place as one of the standout Korean dramas of 2023.