K-Drama Review: Mouse

Writer: Poorva Lele (Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh)

Editor: Jayati Bhardwaj (Delhi)

If you are looking for a K-drama that not only gives you an adrenaline rush but also blesses your eyes with a cinematic experience like no other. I present to you Mouse, one of the best psychological thrillers.

Mouse is written by Choi Ran and directed by Choi Joon-bae and Kang Cheol-woo. The drama stars Lee Seung-gi as Jung Bareum, a police officer who works alongside detective Go Moo-chi (Lee Hee-jun) to track a homicidal maniac.

Is the Mouse K-drama based on a true story?

The screenwriter, Choi Ran, was inspired by the 2017 Incheon Elementary School Murder case and decided to write a story about it. The writing was influenced by the actual murderer’s lack of remorse or guilt—this led to the script being written with the intention of exploring a murderer with psychopathic tendencies to undergo emotions of despair and shame. Furthermore, they genuinely recognize their fault and the sins they have committed and feel regret. Even if there is just a remote possibility that they may experience empathy, according to Ran, this is the most effective way to punish the erratic perpetrators and, if possible, the only way for them to seek salvation. All this comes from an anecdote from one of the murder trials where the defendant, when asked about their challenges during that time, simply replied that the weather was so lovely. Still, they could not see cherry blossoms, which was the most challenging–showing no emotions or concern regarding their sins.

The Plot

The story deals with psychological and scientific themes. It explores topics involving genetics, mental illness, and the impact of trauma on the human brain, psychological tendencies, children, and even genes—the show tries to touch on the topic of initiating abortion in case such genes are present in the fetus before it becomes a threat to humanity. Through the flashbacks, the assemblymen and the general population only conclude that such genes must be eradicated. I found it interesting, but this shouldn’t be thought of lightly; it is a matter of safety, human rights, and ethics.

Is Mouse K-drama worth watching?

I must warn the readers—the drama has many gory and graphic scenes as it explores such sensitive content that involves violence. Hence, many disturbing scenes may be triggering and unsettling for specific viewers. Another drawback of the show is its slow pacing, which can make some viewers drop it. But I suggest you all stick around till the very end—Mouse is worth watching. Although the science and logic behind things can be questionable at times, I had to pause for a moment once in a while. Just remember, the standout feature of this drama is its exploration of the disposition of psychopathic tendencies and the motivation behind serial killings. As I mentioned before, the show raises questions revolving around the psychotic nature and psychological issues that one develops and possesses, in addition to the impact of trauma psychologically and its long-term effects.

Have you watched “Mouse”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!