This review may contain spoilers
I love this show. Everything about it just makes me feel so good. What I love about it is that it makes me feel so emotional and happy. With other dramas, I'm usually only happy after completing them but with this, I was so emotional, in every way. As many people have also said in their reviews, this drama makes me want to go back to 1988, despite the fact that I was born 10 years later. It gives you this sense of longing to be a part of the 'famous 5' because you're so intwined in their lives.Spoilers approaching
Characters
Overtime, I fell in love with Taek, he has such a lovable personality that for that reason alone, I wanted Duk seon to end up with him. I got frustrated at Jung hwan for not expressing his feelings but I loved everything else about him. Dong Ryong was my favourite character, he could always lighten up the mood, so lovable! I adored Jin-joo, both the younger and older version, she always restored a sense of innocence in the story so her scenes were refreshing to watch. Even though she definitely became more outspoken years later, it was interesting to see a different side of her.
Perhaps the best part about the characters is how none of their lives were sugarcoated. Each one was shown for their shortcomings and attributes that made them special, making them even more relatable.
Commendations
- I was pleased at how their childhood was not constantly focused on. I feel as though the few scenes we got to see of them in their childhood sufficed to portray their closeness. I feel as though this is a mistake certain dramas would have made so I am content with how the R88 writers illustrated the past. Given that the 'present' is also the past in the show.
- The production in this drama was amazing, no item felt out of place. It truly transported one back to 1988.
- I was also grateful for the lack of magic realism in the show, everything was realistic, making it a refreshing drama amongst its surreal k-drama counterparts.
Downsides
I am a bit unsettled at how the development of Jung hwan and Dong ryong weren't shown at the end, I really wanted to see how they ended up, or even hear about it from Duk seon, but we got nothing. Instead, we got to see/hear about grown up Sun woo and Bo ra even though I was more interested in Jung hwan's and Dong ryong's. Jung-hwan's especially. It's unfortunate that hiss character faded into the background in the last few episodes as I had really grown to love him. I got a little bored at the Man-ok/Jung-bong storyline after they had reunited. I understand that it was important to give Jung-bong screen time but I felt as if that screen time should have been allocated to the main characters. I was also slightly disappointed at how the pace picked up so quickly in the episode that moved the timeline 5 years ahead. As the audience had already adapted to the slow-pace of the drama, the jump felt a bit rushed and sudden. While watching that episode, I was not satisfied with how things were going.
To be honest, I wasn't too interested in Duk-seon's future (or shall I say present life) in the first few episodes. Despite that aspect of the plot being glamorised, I only got interested in the husband hunt in the last couple of epsiodes when it became a major part of the plot. Furthermore, I would've preferred it if Duk-seon's feelings for both the male leads were delved into deeper, she was a bit hard to read in that respect. Perhaps that was done on purpose by the writers to express how Duk-seon isn't someone who is always sure of her decisions, as it was manifested with her uncertainty regarding her 'future ambition'.
I can confidently say that this is my favourite drama ever.
Was this review helpful to you?
While I've watched the other Reply series and didn't think it could get any better, it certainly did get better with Reply 1988. It was refreshing to see a slide-of-life drama centred around family, or the Ssamundong neighbourhood - their daily lives and the dilemmas each of the family faces. With each of the character, you could definitely associate them with one of your family members. The plot was entertaining, simple and not over-the-top dramatic, and would leave you hanging and craving for another episode. This time-piece transported me back to the 80s with the rise of brand names and westernisation, Korean ballads, and a way different Seoul I've never seen before.
As for the romance, the love triangle and the guessing game for who's the husband had me scrapping theories left and right. While I was disappointed with Duk Seon's choice the first time I've watch it, the re-watch definitely gives you a whole different perspective on the character's love life. The actors were amazing, consider how little experience some actors had while playing their roles for this drama.
Truly a masterpiece which I'll never forgot. If I had to pick a drama to re-watch multiple times with different people, this would be it!
Was this review helpful to you?
Here are 3 reasons why and a brief summary from my pov of what it's about.
SUMMARY - This is about a small community of 5 families and their lives as they bring up their kids and grow with the changing world around them. It focus' of the 5 friends of all the same age 4 boys and 1 girl and their families who are all great friends. It has romance, comedy and drama.
1. FAMILY - This series is completely about the meaning of family what makes a family, whether they are rich or poor, with only 1 parent or a blended family. The mothers are hilarious along with the equally strange and wonderful husbands. We see them struggle to raise teenagers who are grumpy and don't communicate too adult children who still need their parents to care for them. This isn't about romance, (only about 20%) of it, it is about friendship and family.
2. GENIUS - I read a comment someone made about how Taek (who isn't seen much especially in the first half of the drama) is one of the most important characters despite his absence. He is often away playing Baduk and doesn't attend school as he is famous for it. his character is based on a real-life baduk player who had all the same character quirks and matches. Even though he is not around he is constantly being talked about or on tv and the main room that the show begins and ends in is his bedroom where they hang out even when he isn't around. I can't reveal much more about him as it would spoil it but the writer is a genius.
3. EMOTIONAL - there are so many scenes in this that will make you want to leap into the show and live in that area, honestly I wished I lived in a community like that even if we were poor and struggling the amount of love and fun that was shared was beautiful.
just give it ago I hope you love it as much as I do
Was this review helpful to you?
One of the Best Family Dramas
I have no words to describe how I’m in love with this drama. I started watching it hoping to see something nice and I was surprised since the drama gives me something that I didn’t expect to get. Every week people have been debating who is the ‘husband’ but let’s be honest that the drama is not really about that. The romance part only covers like 20% of the whole drama and that 20% includes other characters’ love stories as well. I’m sad that other aspects of the drama have been overlook by some people since they have been so obsessed with who is the husband since day one.I guess one of the reasons why I really love this drama is because it really hits home with many aspect of the plots. It’s a story about normal people with ordinary everyday lives but at the same time it is very engaging as well. All the characters are super lovely and likable and for young people like me, I truly enjoyed the bit which focuses on the older characters of the drama as well. The 3 mothers were hilarious together while Dukseon, Junghwan, Dongryong’s fathers are hilarious individually. Of course, my favorite scenes are mostly involving when the 5 friends are together but my point is that mostly every aspect of the plots have been very interesting and charming.
The acting is brilliant I must say. I was truly surprised with how well Hyeri acted here. The acting coach of the Reply series must be someone special since they always managed to bring the best out of the female leads of the series. No one can deny my admiration towards Park Bogum’s acting. His emotional scenes especially with his dad are the best since he executed it very well – his intonation were on point that I always ended up shedding a tear with the way his voice sounded. Ryu Junyeol is amazing as well – this is the first time I ever saw him act and I wondered why he didn’t start earlier. This is the first time I see Go Kyungpyo acting as someone obedient and kind and he did it so well. While Lee Dongwhi is super hilarious. I wished the writer wrote more plot for his character since he’s really one of the funniest among the casts. The older actors did so well as well. They are the reasons why the acting in this drama has been all time high since all of them have their own unique ways to capture the audiences’ attention.
This drama deserved nothing but 9 stars from me. Everything about it is so special and it is without doubt the very best family Kdramas I have ever watched. I’m looking forward to the writer’s next installment. She proved that she can be unpredictable with her writing so I wondered what else she has in store for us.
Was this review helpful to you?
The romance/love triangle is not even the main point of the story. It was just a part of their lives. This drama is about life, family, and friends.
Was this review helpful to you?
Best drama I’ve ever watched
I’ll never be able to get over this drama, even thinking about it makes me tear up . This drama doesn’t have like a proper plot but it shows the way a group of friends grow up and the neighbourhood, they tackle so many mature topics in this drama and in a realistic way. I loved everything about it, the bond between the families and the friendship. It just reminds you of your youth and gives you the sense of warmth. I’d describe the drama like a warm hug, it’s a really good healing drama as it shows happiness in everyday things, I would highly recommend this drama in a heartbeatWas this review helpful to you?
A slice of life drama that teaches you the value of relationships and humanness
A slice of life drama that is not only an ode to the historical context it identifies to but also the characters it introduces. One of the strongest points that make Reply 1988 fun and emotional to watch is the way it treats each of its characters and their emotions. It would be hard to find another drama that makes you feel such a myriad of emotions all in one series.In each of its characters none of whom feel like a side character or a main lead there is a story told, an emotion attached and a sensibility shown.
Was this review helpful to you?
Ahhh, youth ... -Burl Ives
Reply 1988 is a general but very good portrayal of just "life and family" and the youth affected, passing on to the next generation. As a young man in the 80's, I couldn't help but think of my past on a few occasions throughout the series. Obviously there are cultural differences, but overall, as a young boy and teen, there is much I relate to. Family ups and downs, friends that shape your life. I remember my first true heartbreak as a 19-year-old. However, I ended up marrying my high school sweetheart 5 years later.The acting was good; Lee Hye Ri's role as Sung Deok Sun stuck out the most for me. She was like the glue (kids-wise) that kept the momentum. Yes, the others were bright, funny, quirky, and sometimes charming, but there was a reason Deok Sun took the narrative reins. The kids, with their own personalities, were like an extension of their parents. I also could relate on some levels to the parents having kids of my own. What bothered me a little was Reply 1988 didn't seem to have a main central plot; it just had a theme of day-to-day life as anyone trying to navigate through it. This was a good and a bad thing, IMO. Because the middle episodes 9–14 did seem a little repetitive. Without a main central goal, the initial warm and engrossing episodes started to trend toward a reality TV theme. This isn't a terrible knock because the execution was still present.
But as in life, things do change as the kids get older and more mature. Things move forward, and the show thrives. I too have revisited my old childhood area 18 years ago. The nastoglia here is on point.
Overall, Reply 1988 is worth the watch, and I do recommend.
Was this review helpful to you?
An absolute gem of a South Korean drama
Reply 1988 is a drama that perfectly captures the essence of life in the late 80s in Korea. This drama is a masterpiece in every sense of the word, with exceptional writing, an outstanding ensemble cast, and a heartwarming storyline that will leave you feeling nostalgic and uplifted.One of the strengths of Reply 1988 is its excellent ensemble cast, which includes Park Bo-gum, Ryu Jun-yeol, Lee Dong-hwi, Go Kyung-pyo, and Hyeri. Each actor delivers a standout performance, bringing their characters to life with nuance, depth, and humor. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, and their relationships feel authentic and genuine. From the quiet and introspective Taek to the confident and headstrong Deok-sun, each character is a fully-realized individual with their own unique struggles, hopes, and dreams.
The drama's storytelling is equally remarkable, weaving together personal stories with larger historical and cultural contexts in a way that is both informative and entertaining. The drama tackles serious issues such as economic hardship, generational differences, and gender roles, while still maintaining a lighthearted and nostalgic tone that will have viewers reminiscing about their own youth.
But what truly sets Reply 1988 apart is its ability to capture the magic of everyday life - the small moments of joy, the simple pleasures, and the bonds of love and friendship that sustain us through the ups and downs of life. The drama's warmth, humor, and heart are infectious, and you will find themselves deeply invested in the lives of these characters.
In short, Reply 1988 is a masterpiece of Korean drama that should not be missed. Its exceptional cast, thoughtful storytelling, and heartwarming portrayal of life in the late 80s make it a timeless classic that will leave you feeling inspired, moved, and uplifted. Whether you are a fan of Korean dramas or simply love a good story about family, friendship, and community, Reply 1988 is an absolute must-watch.
Was this review helpful to you?
I really can't express how much I fell in love with this drama, it is probably the best I have seen. Maybe as someone who actually lived their teenage years through the eighties and early nineties it really helps because there were a lot of things I could connect with. I went through a lot of the same feelings when I was young, had a lot of the same happy memories, a lot of the same struggles though culturally it was very different. But I loved that aspect of it as well, the fact you are culturally immersed within the drama, get to experience things that are different, that are the same. It really was a beautiful experience.
I also experienced and felt a lot of the pain, love and struggle of what you go through as a parent having raised two of my own. I understand a lot of how they felt throughout the drama, the worry, the love, the frustration, being proud of your children, the connection to other people and their struggle as well. The parents in this drama were just as important as the children which I loved.
The acting in this drama was outstanding, I really can't say there was one main character that I didn't really love. I did have a few favorites though, Hyeri's character Deok Sun I totally fell in love with, she really held her own and solidified the story for me. It was so fun to watch Hyeri of Girls Day, who you know is an excellent singer and dancer act so completely goofy with some of the worst dancing skills you will see lol, she really nailed her part. I also loved Song Dong ll's character as Deok Sun's dad, such a great character who I really connected with, though I am much more open about my feeling with my children. His interactions with another favorite character Sung Bora are some of my favorites, especially at the end. Lee Dong Hwi's character Ryu Dong Ryong was probably one of my favorite male leads in the series, he was hilarious and was always cracking me up. Let's not forget the three main mom's in the series as well. What great acting skills, those three really helped bring a sense of family and friendship to the drama. Really I could gush over the cast all day.
I think one of the best things about this drama is how it makes you feel, I cried at least once in more than half the episodes, you really feel a connection to all the characters. But don't worry, you will laugh a lot as well. You will root on the main love interests, you will feel frustration and anger when they feel it. You will cry when they cry, laugh when they laugh, it is just amazing how immersed into this story you become. Hell I even know that feeling of exhaustion from work and life as a parent Deok Sun's dad feels through the drama. The feelings you feel throughout Reply 1988 is one of the best things this drama does.
In the end if you couldn't already tell I highly recommend this drama, it will leave you with a warm heart and fond feelings of everyone you got to meet along the way.
I'll leave you with some parting words from Deok Sun herself:
“I could not return to my youth or that street either. Time always flows. Everything passes by and ages. That might be why youth is beautiful. Because it shines, blindingly bright at a brilliant short moment. But you can never go back (to it). A time when many tears were shed – like my youth.” -Deok Sun-
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Must Must Must watch drama
Finally, I watched this drama after reading so many good reviews. This drama is a real masterpiece. I am not a fan of old dramas but this one was very different. The first episode may seem a bit long but trust me this drama is worth your time. In each episode, you will experience something new. Though I didn't like the love relationship between Deok Sun and Choi Taek, personally I felt Jung hwan would have been a better choice. Apart from that everything was just perfect. This is absolutely on my top 10 drama list. Some scenes were super funny. This drama is a rollercoaster ride of love, friendship, and emotions. While watching this I genuinely felt the emotion of each character. The storytelling was so good that after the first episode I was completely addicted. I hope we can see such good works more in the future.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Despite everyone loving 1997 better, my favorite of all the sequel is actually this one.This is the first drama that I've reviewed with 5 stars 10/10. The only thing I wasn't fancy is the music but this is totally preferences as I don't like the oldies songs.
This is probably the only movie that I would re watch again and again because it combines all my favorite component of a drama. No extreme dramatic plot, very comedic, romantic, friendship, family, siblings, neighborhood aka parents friendship/ relationship (no typical mistress/divorce/money etc etc issue which portrayed mostly in recent drama - I think this has to do with the time where the scene is set) and last which is my absolute favorite is the lesson learnt or moral they teach. I have to say the acting of every single cast is amazing! This is probably the first time I love all of the main cast and how they portray their own unique characteristic. Everyone shines with their eccentric personality. Also probably the only drama where you won't find anyone to hate. No excessive climax but still so damn interesting to watch.
The romance side of it has a very big twist. I had a feeling the writer changed the lead actor after the eps 10 as PBG is getting much popularity with his acting and face. I honestly feel so bad for KJH as I think the he and DS have so many funny interesting interaction with each other, but honestly, despite my favoritism I think it makes sense who DS actually ended up with. After the more eps going through I kinda understand why he didn't get the girl and hence the lesson learnt, I especially like the scene when KJH missed his last chance and crying inside his car on the rainy day and the words he talk about fate/timing isn't really the biggest issue but he being hesitant from the start. I was like screaming, you are right! you should have grab her from the start! then no one will even snatch her from you, but the constant rejection causes all this, the fact you are running away is the only reason why the timing fails. His last confession is so damn touching, I cried! kinda feels better to know in real life he actually get the girl! good for him. Although, I have this strong 2nd male lead fever with this series, I actually also rooting for CT as I fell with PBG acting with CT. I think this is by far his best drama of all time. He portray CT so well, eccentric introvert genius who is not shy with his feeling at all and all his smiles and cries! he portray CT to be strong but also sensitive. I typically loves RDR being the adviser too and KJB being sort of dumb looking but absolutely sweet and loving brother also obviously DS fun eccentrics and all the parents too. everyone just did so well!
I especially loved the mood and setting where it portray those time where things are so much simpler yet romantic and much more fun where you spent times with people. Kinda reminds me of those good times which I think kids nowadays will never ever have the chance to enjoy. Absolutely well made drama, nothing much to pinch at all. Good story, good directing and crazy good actors, definitely highly recommended!
Was this review helpful to you?
