"Master - God of Noodles" Episode 4 recap

A depressing fate befalls our makeshift family and the group is separated. Gil-do has big plans for his business and becomes more dangerous to our leads the closer he gets to the truth. Da-hae's spying endeavors reveal she has more than noodles in mind and Myeong is officially on the run. Episode four of "Master - God of Noodles" offers rich characterization and emotion. Grab a hot noodle soup and prepare for feelings.
Before getting to story-related topics, I would like to speak about a production-related element I feel makes the show emotionally impactful. The cast and PDs do a great job in portraying the difference between emotion and more visceral reactions. Dramas often rely on crying and yelling for intensity, but the range of what humans feel and show is much greater. This fervent approach of the creators and cast gives every moment gravity. It would not be enough without good writing, but "Master - God of Noodles" has no major problems there.

Coming back to the drama's story, the pacing is nicely handled. The episodes switch between character development and plot progression, keeping things stimulating and the narrative moving. Gil-yong's (Kim Jae-young) reunion is heartbreaking and Tae-ha (Lee Sang-yeob) has given Yeo-gyeong (Jeong Yoo-mi) a second chance and purpose. I love that she remains a source of strength and is given focus, rather than being portrayed as a weak link and used to elevate the men around her. Their bond is great, even if their fate is unfortunate.
Meanwhile, our villain is busier than ever. Gil-do's (Jo Jae-hyeon) move to Gangnam is a business venture, but when an antagonist of his caliber starts planning secret rooms, things take a turn for the creepier. I would be surprised by this and the new revelation of his "contribution" to his father's death, but I have wholeheartedly embraced the fact that Gil-do will always manage to become more disturbing than before. It makes the anticipation for his next step down the stairway to Hell all the more sweet.

Da-hae (Gong Seung-yeon) has been the weakest, but also most mysterious character so far and we are now getting more of a look into her plans as well. The lady is clearly not just interested in noodles or recipes. She has personal issues with Gil-do, which means she is probably far more crucial to the story than her introduction let on. I am curious now and this is good.
Poor Myeong (Cheon Jeong-myeong) has a long journey ahead in his own troubles and Gil-do will eventually catch on to the fact that Seong-rok (Kim Joo-wan) lied. I am a little surprised our evil genius did not consider keeping an eye on the parents' remains, but he is busy with so much evil. Have fun making dough and "dough" with Choi (Eom Hyo-seob), dude. Everyone is training to destroy you. Have fun while it lasts.
"Master - God of Noodles" is directed by Kim Jong-yeon and Lim Se-joon, written by Cha Seung-dae and features Cheon Jeong-myeong, Jo Jae-hyeon, Jeong Yoo-mi and Lee Sang-yeob.
Written by: Orion from 'Orion's Ramblings'

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