This review may contain spoilers
A typical kdrama rom-com that i may re-watch years later, up to episode 10, when i need a good laugh
A typical kdrama rom-com packed with cliches and super hilarious moments and an easy, light-hearted watch with just 60mins x12-episode run. I would say the second couple sizzled more than the lead couple after the lead couple got together, and the hilarious moments that made this drama also fizzled out towards the end, plus the 2-minute bed scene for the lead couple is totally unnecessary, spoiling an otherwise family-friendly drama, and totally trashed the credibility of this drama.What happened to that bandaged hand that had the FML-SML’s bromance scene just a few scenes earlier? Doesn't the hand hurt when driving around looking for the FL and carrying the FL with her heavy-duty long shirt and skirt around in the room?
Good to see Im Ki Hong again in his comedic role, after watching Lawless Lawyer less than a month ago, and his hairstyle seems the same after 4 years!
Maybe i will re-watch it years later, up to episode 10 only, when i need a good laugh.
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A well executed textbook romantic comedy. I usually prefer when there is one main couple as I feel too many other storylines will take away from fully exploring the main couple's relationship. However, despite there being two prominent couples the second couple was well explored and did not take away from the main couple given they all know each other. The pace was faster as there are only 12 episodes, and I felt there were just enough of everything - humour, romance, steam, family bonding, work life. Among the cast, Kim Se Jeong was the highlight - her reactions and expressions are very funny and realistic.
**I recommend this drama to those that like light-hearted romantic comedies. It has all the components of a good romantic comedy and I felt it was interesting from beginning to end. I didn't fast forward much for this drama.
|| DETAILS ||
= Story =
*Premise - To be honest the plot is nothing too unique. Mainly just a blind date that ended up being a happy mistake.
*Genre - A textbook romantic comedy that was well executed and definitely above average.
*Main plot - As the drama is only 12 episodes, I do like the faster pace and the less time wasted approach. There were just enough funny scenes and just enough romantic scenes of various intensities which I enjoyed. Also I found over the course of the drama there were multiple points in which I was surprised at the maturity of the romance and the funny twist to scenes that I anticipated cliché responses. It was also a nice touch to have the drama in a drama. That is not to say, typical of rom-coms there are over the top and ridiculous scenes, but already anticipating that before I start any rom-com, it didn't take much away from my enjoyment of the drama.
*Love lines - I didn't really care much for the main couple initially as there character seemed a bit too over the top, but they slowly grew on me, which I feel is exactly the aim. Usually they portray characters as very one dimensional then as the drama progresses viewers see that there is more to them i.e. why they act the way they do. Also I usually get annoyed with the secondary love line and want to skip their scenes, but I truly enjoyed this one. They were close friends and had their own funny and steamy scenes. It was clear they were secondary but they had a good amount of screentime too. I realized I enjoy the jealousy scenes much more when they are with insignificant characters as having them with second leads would drag the story too much.
*Ending - Simple ending, but in all honesty I found it rather abrupt. The whole episode felt slow until the very end when everything suddenly just ended or got wrapped up.
= Cast =
*Acting - I would have to say Kim Se Jeong was the best at acting. I think of all the dramas I have seen, among the younger actors and actresses her acting is so far the most realistic - the reactions , facial expressions, body language, and comedic timing are on point. The best acting is when the actor / actress can let go of their "celebrity baggage" and just be free and I feel she does that. Seol In Ha also does a great job. In contrast the guys didn't stand out as much in my eyes and were flatter, perhaps also due to their character profile. I couldn't help but compare the main couple to What's Wrong With Secretary Kim, and despite doing well, Ahn Hyo Seop was a bit lacking as a chaebol compared to Park Seo Joon. Otherwise, the supporting actors and actresses contributed well to the plot.
*Chemistry - Again, I couldn't help but compare with What's Wrong With Secretary Kim, and though they had good chemistry it felt a little lacking somehow.
= OST =
I enjoyed the music - there were multiple renditions to "Love, Maybe" and I liked all of them.
|| A LESSON ABOUT OPTIMISM ||
Many unexpected situations happen in life. Shin Ha Ri's life has not been easy - giving up on her true passion due to her family's financial situation, having a crush on someone who she thought didn't reciprocate her feelings, falling in love with someone she knows she shouldn't, being gossiped about at work, being disapproved of by her boyfriend's family. However, one thing that seems to guide her through it all was her optimism and in the end it paid off. Not only does her optimism help herself get through difficult situations, she is also able to positively affect those around her.
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It was good for a second
I liked this drama in the beginning. There was creative filming, pretty and relaxing atmosphere, fun characters.But as you get further into it the characters never develop any depth, and the cliches wear you down to the point that you know exactly what is going to happen next and none of it is compelling whatsoever. This drama is like a kiddy pool. Maybe some people can have fun in the shallow waters, but I ended up bored and sunburnt.
The cast was good for what they were working with, although I wasn't impressed by ML's acting. He was good in Still 17 though. I enjoyed watching behind the scenes way more than the actual show. They seemed to have a great time filming, which is why it's such a shame that I disliked it so much.
The only reason I finished the whole thing was because the vocabulary was simple so it was fantastic for intermediate Korean learning.
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This review may contain spoilers
A romcom gem
If you’re looking for a short, fun and well executed rom-com then this is the show for you.Recently I’ve been watching a lot of kdramas that are emotional and can be difficult to watch mentally, however ‘A Business proposal’, was the complete opposite.
First off this drama is absolutely hilarious somtimes I find it difficult to laugh at kdramas because so many are not my type of humour but this show surprised me. The special effects are probably my favourite from any drama I’ve watched and it really gave the show character. It’s full of cliches but the effects were definitely something that made the show unique. Like I said before the show is very cliche, stereotypical and full of tropes that are common in the world of kdramas but that doesn’t take away from how good the execution was.
The characters were great as well as the acting. Hari was a very likeable and Taemoo wasn’t typically mean, like male characters usually are in Boss-employee relationships. Sejeong is a great actress and I’ll definitely look out for her future shows. In terms of chemistry they were okay, sometimes I did find their kiss scenes a little awkward but it didn’t take away from how cute of a couple they were. On the other hand, the second couple definitely stole the show in terms of chemistry and I loved their storyline which didn’t drag at all.
Now, there were a few things I didn’t enjoy. The idea of Taemoo not recognising Hari and Geumhui were the same person was silly, although that storyline didn’t drag on for too long. Also the story about the pervert and Young Seo clearly effected by it wasn’t taken as seriously. I do understand that the show is a comedy and the light hearted element probably would have disappeared. But that storyline should have been handled with a bit more care. Yongseo was self conscious about using the toilet after being watched for days unbeknownst to her and then that was it. It would have been nice seeing how she handled overcoming that difficult situation. The last few episodes for me were maybe a little bit more draggy and boring and different from the previous fast paced episodes. I still enjoyed them but I just wasn’t as hooked. I do also think the second couples engagement was a little quick.
Despite me being pedantic and picking a few negatives the show was very enjoyable!! It was definitely a comfort show for a lot of people and a great form of escapism. It was light hearted, exciting and a breath of fresh air. Some times it’s okay to enjoy a drama that isn’t overly dramatic with important relevant themes and that is very simple. It really made me enjoy Mondays and Tuesdays.
I recommend this drama for people who want to watch something short and sweet.
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cliche mushy story with no plot
cold ceo? checkfluffy fl? check
ml with traumatic childhood? check
ml chases fl? check
parent objection on marriage? check
started off decent with the concept but became "that" contract relationship story in no time. the leads were cute and had chemistry, thats the only reason it was bearable. ngl i skipped a couple episodes of the second half cuz it was becoming way too cringe but i would be lying if i say i didnt have fun watching the other parts.
ig its nice to mindlessly watch something to just chill. MINDLESSLY.
even tho there was that spark, i wish the context was more passionate for romantic moments, somehow they just didnt hit the right spot. definitely overrated.
this review is all over the place so just watch it if u got nothing else to do, you'll have a couple laughs and aww's
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I Think Manhwa is Better.
I just hate it. The actors didn't fit the characters, I personally think that the Female Lead could have been played by a much prettier actress. I also didn't like that people compared the series to What's wrong with secretary Kim. The comedy was worthless, it was forced, or so it seemed to me. Bromance? Blahh 🤮, nothing much. The only thing I liked there was the OST.I just didn't like the actress in that, I didn't like her appearance, I found her annoying and in the Manhwa the Female Lead was drawn pretty, I liked her there and it seemed to me that she also had a different personality than in the drama. I'm not saying she's a bad actress, I just didn't like her in this and it bothered me. In fact, I didn't even like the Main Lead in it, as in other dramas, I don't mind him at all, he's good. Only in this one he come off as awful and spoiled the character in the Manhwa for me. Just my opinion.
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The classic Romcom cliché, AKA our guilty pleasure!
I was not planning on writing a review but looking at all the hate against the cast and show, it feels like a necessity on my part.A business proposal is a typical romcom with so many clichés. But what’s the problem with clichés? We all love some sweet romance and some REALLY good laugh! I wouldn’t call this drama a breath of fresh air but instead a feeling that takes us back to home. Watching this reminds me of kdramas from 2016-2018! It’s lighthearted, not so complicated, not dragged and well written at a perfect pace.
The plot is again, cliché but well written. 12 episodes are absolutely perfect for such a plot as it is not dragged at all and keeps us entertained throughout! The writer has tried to mislead us by putting in the typical romcom clichés and misunderstandings to only end them with a good laugh for the viewers. It’s not complicated and takes us on a trip filled with laughter and romance! The bromance, sismance, and romance are all a *chef’s kiss*! Both the parings are so perfect.
Now let’s start with our leads, Kang Tae Moo and Shin Ha Ri!
KTM has all the possible CEO qualities! Handsome, sexy, rich, appears to be cold but is not and of course, our beloved narcissist! His presence in the entire show is what makes it fun for us to watch.
As for SHR, she’s honestly one of the most loveable characters I’ve come across! Effortlessly funny, BEAUTIFUL, kind, caring and a great friend. Watching her is one of the best parts of the show! Kim Se Jeong has done a great job portraying SHR’s character!
Now for the leads chemistry, it’s spot on! Their personalities mesh so well. One of the admirable things about them is how they don’t become cringe with their over sweetness when they’re dating. They keep it real so it’s not a pain to watch 2 adults in love! So there are a few awkward scenes between them which is why I’ve voted the cast as a 9.5 instead of 10 but that’s mostly the camera angles! So it’s not really the actor and actresses fault.
Now as for the second couple,
SIA has done such a marvellous job in pulling off Jin Young Seo’s character! She, like her best friend, is effortlessly funny, a hot chaebol, sassy, smart and kind. The sismance between her and SHR is one of the best things about this drama!
As for Kim Min Gyu, he’s been pulling off all his recent characters with literal perfection. He’s so hot, mysterious, caring and once again, SO HOT. His affection and respect for KTM is so adorable. He may appear to be rude but he’s just being straightforward lol
Now for JYS and CSH’s chemistry- I think “sizzling” is the only way to describe it. Both their personalities collide only to form a bold power couple! I must say, their story will NOT disappoint you! And watching them drunk is literally the best!
The music is honestly so refreshing and pleasant! Love it!
As for rewatching, I’ll definitely be rewatching it soon! After watching those dark and thriller dramas and the bittersweet endings, this is something I need!
Overall, I highly recommend it to everyone! Do give it a go, you might end up loving it.
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Perfect Drama to relieve your stress and lift your spirits
Completed - 4/5/2022 - 8.75I am liking the current K-drama trends of having only 12 episodes instead of the long-drawn out, draggy 16-episode drama format. This is especially true for comedies and romantic comedies. This drama is perfect if you want something light and funny, and a palate cleanser after watching something serious/tragic.
Setting/Plot - Personally, I am a big fan of the contract marriages and enemies-to-lovers tropes. The setting of this drama is right up my alley. Moreover, I also purchased dumplings from Bibigo and many other packaged Korean foods from my local K-mart. So, seeing FL being a food researcher and have that as the backdrop is interesting to me. There are many common rom-com tropes and cliches in this drama. But for the most part, the drama surprises us with not going along with the usual directions of these tropes. The drama also makes fun of these tropes/cliches by using the TV show within the the drama. It's so refreshing to see.
Likable characters - We have four very likable leads. You find them funny and sweet, and you root for their career and relationship success. ML might first appear as the classic narcissistic CEO. There are many comparisons of him to the ML in "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim". I actually like Kang Tae Moo here a lot more. His narcissism didn't really last long and he turns sweet quite soon in the series. The ML in WWWSK actually is a lot more annoying. Our two female leads have a great sismance, and are so supportive of each other. They are both independent and funny, and did not bow down to road blocks and challenges in life. Last but not the least, who doesn't like the dimples of our sweet 2ML and his kind character.
Romance - Our main leads have great chemistry, especially before they are officially an item. Once they are together, the sizzling chemistry changes to something sweeter. It's hard to find a rom-com where the secondary romance is just as interesting and fun as the main romance. There's just enough screen time for our 2ML/2FL to develop their romance, not overshadowing the main romance, and yet not so insignificant that we wish they don't exist. The two romance storylines co-exist really well in this drama and I am invested in both of them. In a way, they contrast each other pretty well: love at first sight vs slowly developed romance, theme park dates vs hiking dates, rich ML vs rich 2Fl, sweet romance vs hot/steamy romance. Additionally, we got amazing kisses in this drama with both couples. No fish kisses and the ladies also initiate kisses.
Tragic Past done well - It's not hard to guess that ML's tragic past will be part of the plot. I was initially concerned that this subplot will dampen the mood of this super funny drama. I immediately thought of how the ML's tragic/family story in "Her Private Life" is the weakest part of that otherwise amazing sweet rom-com. Fortunately, it didn't happen here. It was not dealt in a melodramatic way, but in a sweet way demonstrating how FL supports ML. The drama didn't drag this for several episodes. Instead, just several sweet scenes with flower shopping, lovely dinners and umbrellas, and a few heart-to-heart sweet conversations.
OST - lovely songs especially from MeloMance. The drama also incorporates some comedy-like noises during funny scenes.
Supporting Cast - Usually I would be annoyed with someone like 2FL's cousin. She is loud and overdramatic but for this drama, I found her hilarious. I love her craziness and her use of English in between her Korean words. Maybe I am in such a good mood enjoying this drama that she becomes tolerable and funny to me. However, others may be annoyed. Same goes to FL's mother and FL's male co-worker. They are both really loud and can be either funny or annoying.
Ending - I think the last episode is somewhat predictable. In a way, I am a tiny bit disappointed as it falls into the classic rom-com tropes. I don't want to give out spoilers, so let's just say the last episode is average compared to other episodes.
Overall, I haven't had so much fun watching a romantic comedy in a long time. I rarely give out a 9.0 to rom-coms, but I am feeling good and also in the right mood, especially while I am also watching "The Longest Day in Chang'An".
Other Observations:
1. Ahn Hyo Seop has really big hands. But why are they ALWAYS so red???
2. Hairstyle changes when you are not a narcissistic CEO anymore. AHS looks so much better when his bangs are down and not in hair gel.
3. Kim Se Jeong has such a BEAUTIFUL voice!
4. Here's a duet with Kim Se Jeong and Ahn Hyo Seop singing "Love, Maybe". So good! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FemG1XPyvNI
5. I have those Bibigo dumplings in my freezer right now! Shown on TV in the last episode. LOL
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should you really watch this?
this show is insanely overrated. the actors and acting overall is good, but it’s your generic rom-com filled with cliches from every kdrama. imo, this is just a walmart ver. of WWWSK.this kdrama is wholesome and filled with cute moments, but everything was predictable. the characters lack depth, with one-dimensional personalities that fail to develop meaningfully throughout the series. the narrative, rather than offering unique twists, relies heavily on tired tropes, making it a dull experience for viewers like me who watch rom-com. overall, this kdrama struggles to stand out in any way, which is why my rating is so poor. i don’t recommend watching unless you like this type of kdrama.
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nilai plus untuk drama ini adalah visual efeknya! gila sih kalo ngebayangin seberapa lama proses post-production mereka. episode awal sampai pertengahan rame banget, ngga ganggu sama sekali justru malah bikin ngikik. salfok juga sama bunga sakura yg berguguran di episode terakhir, itu juga kayaknya editan ya? wkwkwkwk.
terus juga sebenernya ngga jarang acting main couple di sini tuh awkward gitu. tapi untungnya awkward mereka itu ngga setengah-setengah, jadi keliatannya kayak yang sengaja gitu, bikin tetep enak ditonton karna jatohnya kocak wkwkwk. karakter harabeoji sama kawan-kawan satu timnya shin hari juga seru-seru pol!
overall gue suka; tipikal drama yang ngasih sensasi cringe geli geli menghibur gitu.
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This review may contain spoilers
I struggled so hard to get through Business Proposal. I skipped so many scenes because I was determined to finish it so I could rate it. I don't hate cheesiness or tons of tropes, there was just something about this that really didn't work for me. I know a lot of people loved the second leads, but there was a conversation related to consent that bothered me so much I could barely watch the two of them after that.
The main couple I did not find very interesting and there were a couple points at which I feel that relationship would have been over. Spoiler: at one point he kicks her out of the car in the middle of nowhere, at night, without a phone while they are supposed to be on a date. Regardless of the reason, she could've died! The love triangle was also incredibly boring and I didn't care about it in the slightest.
I think the character relationships just all had deal breaking moments for me that really put me off the show. There were parts that I enjoy, because there were some scenes where the main couple had good chemistry. Her team at work was pretty entertaining to watch.
While there were some entertaining and humorous parts of the story, I found the characters shallow and relationships problematic.
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Good Enough
Korean Drama "The Business Proposal" has definitely an old Korean drama feel to it. The romance is light and fluffy, there are enough funny moments between the couple, there is no love triangle, rather, a cute second couple, and there are plenty of trops that were enjoyable to watch.The leading actress, in addition, does a great job with her character and she is another reason to watch this drama for her delightful performance. The rest of the cast gives nice performances as well, but not as energetic as hers. The colors and the whole atmosphere of the drama are bright and light as well.
Unfortunately, the series goes downhill towards the ending. The trops feel more and more stale and the story gets boring, to the point when the second couple was probably the only reason to keep watching.
So, overall, 5 out of 10, as the first half was fun, but the second part not so much.
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