This review may contain spoilers
Who said that this was comedy? just who? who?? hehe
I won't accept this as comedy, I'll consider this a half romance hehe, this is really sad and emotional there are funny scenes but actually it is full of sad stories. This drama is not that sweet but I would say one of the warmest drama I've ever watched. Honestly, I started watching this because I thought it was comedy and sweet romance but after watching the first half, I am disappointed because the pace is so slow like the atmosphere between the characters stays the same. But now that I finished it, my view on it really changed, I realised that I watched it not for romantic scenes or sweet or kiss scenes but because of the story itself.This drama depicts the story of three friends (Ji-ung, Choi Ung and Yeonso). The story revolves about relationships, family and career. The focus of this is they showed how rough is the relationship of Ung and Yeonso, they showed how did they became enemy because of the bittersweet past relationship but as the story goes, they gave in and face their hearts than living their past. They became lovers again who supports and understand each other til' the end.
Another view of it is the story of Yeonso. She grew up without friends because of the fear that she can't treat them like they do to her because she is living really poor. She is parent less and only have her grandma to be with. They faced so much hardship together, financially, and the poor health of her grandma. That was actually the reason she broke up with Ung because her grandma got sick they need to leave their house and they are really financially challenged and that made her the most to feel the pain in that break up. She suffered silently and put all the sadness in her hearts for all the years.
Next is the story of Ung. He isn't poor and he had his two parents that is why they thought that he has a good life. Behind that, ever since he was a kid, he knows that he was adopted, they picked him up on the streets, and because they treat him really good, Ung needs to keep that he knew it but tried to make them happy. He isn't ambitious but really scared disappointing his parents. He was also troubling in his future as an artist because he realised his dream a little bit late that is why he is questioned on his talent because he didn't finished school. And of course he was also so much in pain because of the sudden and no reason break up from Yeonsu.
And lastly, Ji-ung the sad boy because Yeonsu liked Ung not him but he is not evil, he stayed friends with them. ji-ung's life is really sad, he is living a broken family and being neglected by his mother. He never felt that love from a family even though Ung's parent took care of him but he still needs attention from his mother. I never experienced this and I'm really scared to feel what he felt.
These 3 characters have common thing, because of their past and painful memories, they isolated themselves and they never tried to go out of their world and the good thing is they all realised it at the end.
This drama is really so sad but it still cute and adorable because of Ung and Yeonsu (they are really cute that I would like to pinch their faces hehe). And also I will not forget the one who made it funny even with the sadness our supporting roles Mr manager and Sol-i the friend.
There are other side stories but those that I mentioned are the focus.
I really don't like it at first but I love it now.
So, just click the button and watch it now, if you are not satisfied with the first half continue it and you will find out how good it is at the 2nd half. Although I don't want to re-watch because it is really so sad.
WATCH IT NOW!!
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God is in the Details
Our Beloved Summer a.k.a That Year We Are isn't a drama that is flamboyant or dramatic in nature. This drama is not all that new or revolutionary in terms of the plot line since in my opinion there's so many dramas out there about relationship and love.Where OBS drama excels is in the details and nuances in each episode - it's like watching a painter work - initially you don't see what is special about the painting but as is it worked into completion it becomes a magnificent piece of artwork. The cinematography, the acting, the story, the music are all brushstrokes that created this masterful and wonderful series that is Our Beloved Summer.
I enjoyed this series because of the slow burn, it felt realistic and relatable. While watching it reminded me of another drama that tugs at my heartstrings – Because This Is My First Life, I feel if you enjoyed BTIMFL you would also thoroughly enjoy OBS and vice versa.
OBS shows the growth of the characters as time passes and it’s executed very well. Each episode serving as a chapter that's strung into one beautiful book. The feelings that I get as the writer portrays each episode leaves me anticipating the next.
OBS revolves majority around the main lead's romance but it's also so much more than that. It’s the relationship not only between lovers but also friends and families and each person life struggles that provides viewers an insight into each of the main characters. The transition through the seasons beautifully weaves into the story of the main characters and by the end of episode 16 I know I will come back to re-watch this drama and it is now shelved as one of my favourites to watch of all time.
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This review may contain spoilers
The feeling of true love is indeed timeless :)
Love and affection towards a person does not necessarily depend on some quality of your lover, but the person itself - that's what was beautifully demonstrated through this drama. From the time of teenage to adulthood, both Choi Ung and Kook Yeon-su went through several transitions of personality, perspective, environment and struggles but what never changed was how they felt for each other all these times even though they were not together for 5yrs in between. What I loved about this drama is the portrayal of a very important message that seem to be overlooked by most people these days - the feeling of love is about the thought and emotion that you feel towards a person and has nothing to do with materialistic achievements or fame.I absolutely loved the scenes when both the leads were shooting their documentaries during teenage time and their late 20s, I loved how beautifully the story, thoughts and perspectives of all characters were shown in the drama and honestly speaking, the way each characters expressed their thoughts and emotions to each other in few different episodes really brought tears to my eyes. For some weird reason, few parts of these stories felt very relatable to me. How we feel love and see love during our teenage time is not exactly the way we do when we gradually grow up and life happens.
If you looking forward to a heartwarming romantic drama with a bit of fun, this drama is definitely for you. I bet you'll enjoy the transitions of the characters' personality, thoughts and the way they expressed love to each other in this drama ^_^
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Mature relationship does not take overnight
If you are a spectator that wants instant comeback to every break-ups, then this might not be for you but it's worth the wait.This is definitely a slow-burn romance drama that deals with how Yeon-su and Ung finds each other again after an awful and sudden break-up from a long-term relationship that started after filming a hit summer documentary. What I got hooked into this drama is how you see each characters grow from their own wounds, shallow to deep ones.
At first, it might seem to be just a childish misunderstanding that resulted to parting ways but a long the way, trust me it is more than that. I know how cute and adorable they were after the documentary that with will made you wonder, "what went wrong?"
The drama did not also neglect to include the problems that could arise in a relationship—what it feels to be in an unrequited or forbidden love. Some may also experienced these when they fell in-love that made the drama more relatable.
The director and writer really displayed a deep narrative on what a pure love away from a sexual representation. I'll definitely recommend this since it's been a while since I've watch a soft romance drama but watch out you might be hopeless romantic after.
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Amazing story, amazing characters, overall amazing
This drama had me on the edge with every episode and told an amazing story. I couldn’t believe how much I could be attached to every single character in this drama. It follows what I think love should feel. It’s quiet, safe, full of life, and comforting. It’s a mix of romcom and coming to age genre as it follows how life can have its ups and down and how strong unconditional love could be. Hands down, this is one of the best stories I have ever followed.Many have overlooked the significance of Ung's sketching of Yeon-Su in that last scene. He'd never sketch people nor incorporate people in his illustrations.
He'd even turned down his adopted parents' requests of sketches for them
As in Ung's troubled mind set; buildings and objects are the only things that can stand the test of time; almost eternal like. People will simply change or depart;
just like his birth parents and Yeon-Su.
Ung's first illustration of people is Yeon-Su; he'd finally healed from his troubled mind set and is certain Yeon-Su will forever be by his side.
Yeon-Su also recognized Ung's changes. The scene is brilliantly scripted. I take my hat off to the screenwriter.
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This review may contain spoilers
'Every Life is a Work of Art'
This is my first review here, I will try my best to articulate my thoughts!I'm not usually a fan of this genre, but Our Beloved Summer pleasantly surprised me.
While I will admit that I started watching this drama because I am a huge army and the OST enticed me, I binge-watched it in two days and ended up loving every minute of it. I'll just list the pros (the good) and cons (the bad) because that's probably the best way to explain how I felt about this drama.
The Good:
The plot was gripping from the start; the documentary aspect really elevated the show because it would have otherwise been a typical rom-com.
-Relatable characters: each character contributed something to the story. They each had their own struggles, which they handled gracefully.
- No annoying characters: The characterization in this show was excellent. I feel like I'm too old haha, so I get annoyed when there are evil or annoying characters in shows (of course, this depends on genre, and such characters are necessary in some shows), so it was nice to see that everyone was just living their own lives and not actively seeking to harm someone ahah.
- Sweet romance and Beautiful friendships: Yeon-su and Ung were delightful to watch. Despite their disagreements and breakups, they clearly loved and cherished one another. I don't like second male or female leads because I dislike love triangles and the like, but this show can teach a lot of writers how to write secondary characters. Rather than ignoring them or making them one-dimensional, the writers gave them proper backstories that helped the audience understand their choices and behavior. I rarely have SLS, and this one was no exception, as the chemistry between the main leads was top notch. Even though each character did not interact with each other on a regular basis throughout the show, it was palpable that they all served a purpose in each other's lives; I use Ji-Ung and NJ as an example here because, while they were not particularly close, NJ accompanied Ji-Ung when she noticed he was eating alone and Ji-Ung's advice to NJ changed her outlook on life.
- OST: The OST is quite literally perfection. Truly fit the tone of the show all throughout.
-Stunning cinematography and very aesthetic character fashion!
The Bad:
- LACK OF SOL-I AND EUN-HO!!! I adored their dynamic, sometimes even more than the main characters', but we got very little screen time with them together (as a couple; though I understand why they couldn't just date right away). I'd love to see these two in another show someday. Similarly, I would have liked to know more about both of their pasts more, they seemed like quite interesting characters.
- I can't help but criticize some bits of the ending, as much as I think it was perfect. I am very critical of Kdrama endings because I have seen far too many that are abrupt and rushed, causing me to lower my overall rating of a show; I felt the same way about this drama. The show began slowly, and I believe it could have sped up some scenes/episodes and focused more on the final two episodes to tie it all together nicely. They did address every issue and every character's story, but it could have been spread out more (if that makes sense).
- I think that's it ahaha
Overall, Our Beloved Summer is a heartwarming drama about the reconciliation of former lovers as they try to make amends and grow together with the support of their friends and family. All of the characters are likeable and are shown to face unique hardships that they eventually overcome gradually (but surely). If you're looking for something soft and cozy to watch during these cold winter days, this is a simple watch with inspiring life messages.
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It's not a spoiler but it's my feelings that I wanted to share here about OBS
I saw people saying that the story was kinda boring or frustrating or the immature behaviour of FL for breaking up again and again....well I won't say they are completely false or wrong the FL indeed broke for silly reasons and the last break-up or you can say that "I WILL HANDLE MY PROBLEMS" but you know what people are a actually ignoring this "CAUSE I DONT WANT MY BELOVED ONE TO BE INVOLVED IN THAT TO GET WORRIED ABOUT ME."This is the major thing people are missing or are not able to see. Just tell one thing when you love someone would you like them to suffer with you when you have The TYPICAL attitude of I'LL HANDLE IT COZ I CAN ???
When teen are in relationship they TEND to hide their PATHETIC part from their partners and that's the thing The FL did.....
I am not criticizing anyone I am just making the ignored thing have some limelight
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The story and everything is good.... you'll actually smile while watching them being clingy and all.....and believe my it's not a waste of time....All the actors are super cute especially Choi and Kim da mi they both are just so cute.... So yeah whenever you feel like having kinda getting good and kinda postive vibes you can watch it...
Thank you.
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More than about First Love Reunited.
Completed - 2/26/2022 - 9.25 ratingThis review is my very subjective interpretation of the drama and how it speaks to me. “Our Beloved Summer” moves me so much that my gut tells me it’s deserving of such a high rating. This is more than a love story about first love and second chances. It is about self-discovery, finding your own paths and living your chosen life.
When I binge-watched the first 7 episodes, I immediately knew that this was going to be a special drama. I could not exactly pinpoint why I like it so much. I am usually not a big fan of slice-of-life dramas as I find the pacing to be slow. Not with this drama. I can’t wait to tell Netflix to go to the next episode and skip that intro. I want to know what’s next.
I really enjoy the storytelling of this drama. Though it’s full of flashbacks, they are done in such a way that I do not find the flashbacks annoying. I enjoy the parallel storytelling of how the documentary was filmed 10 years ago, compared to the present. The high school bickering and sarcastic remarks are fun to watch. Even though our leads act like they dislike each other, you can’t deny the strong chemistry there.
When we are brought back to the present, you can feel all the suffering, longing and hurtful emotions the leads are feeling. The attraction is obviously there, yet it took them a long time to find a way to be honest with themselves and with each other. When Choi Woong and Yeon Soo are finally together, I was so happy for them. The audience is rewarded with really cute, sweet and loving moments. I am glad to see skinship with decent kissing as well. The initial breakup might be painful. But Choi Woong and Yeon Soo need the right timing and have to grow up to be a better version of themselves, before they become the match made-in-heaven.
Initially, I find the storyline about Kim Ji Woong and his mother to be out-of-place. It seems like I am watching a whole different drama that has nothing to do with our leads. Then I realized, this drama is not just about Choi Woong and Kook Yeon Soo. We also have a third character, the observer from 10 years ago and the observer again for this documentary. This is also Kim Ji Woong’s story.
We actually have three successful adults who seem to have conquered past challenges and grow up to be mature professionals. But deep down, they are lonely and broken. We have Yeon Soo who has to shoulder her family’s financial burden and suffers from an inferiority complex. We have Choi Woong who feels lonely and abandoned, and continues to struggle with these emotions, and also feeling unworthy of his parents' love. He’s trapped inside his own little world and unable to break out of it. Lastly, we have Ji Woong who is desperate for his mother’s love and attention, and continues to have a missing piece in his heart.
If I have to find one thing to criticize, it would be the continuous playing of songs. I actually really like the OST and all the songs. I just found them overplayed. I think I counted one episode where 3-4 songs were played almost back-to-back. Sometimes, I don’t need the music to tell me how to feel. It’s ok to have some silence when our leads are contemplating.
Other Observations:
1. I have seen Choi Wook Shik in other dramas before but I never found him that attractive. But he’s so adorkable in this drama. I really love his character and his cute and shy smile. What a sweet boyfriend!
2. I also enjoy seeing a more mature Kim Sung Cheol.
3. No annoying characters in this drama!
4. The color palette of the drama seems to be a little washed out or has a yellow tone. Is it me imagining it?
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None of the other romcoms can compare to this drama !
It's been a while since I've written a review and this drama is literally so much worth my time writing it.Love, family, life struggles, self-love, this drama contains it all. From laughter to tears, it made me go through so much emotions by its realistic depiction of the struggles one faces in life and by the hilarious situations faced by the characters. Its plot keeps you going from beginning to end, the depth of each character is captivating. The actors and actresses did such a good job ! Especially the one who played Choi Ung, his performance amazed me. I literally fell in love with Ji-Ung and every character, they all had an interesting personality, and were far from your typical drama-like characters with predictable reactions.
I think I can say that this drama made me fall in love with love, envying the deep relationship between two people whose lives were always intertwined together. If you didn't believe in soulmates or in the saying that opposites attract then this drama will make you change your beliefs 'cause oh god, Choi Ung and Yeon-su are literally made for each other. I'm still in daze from watching it and I can't believe it's over, I'm on my way to watch it a second time because it remains one of the best 2021 dramas and one of the best dramas in my heart (as cringey as it sounds).
If you're looking for an unique type of dramas or an unique plot with romance and sweet bickering then this is for you ! But also take a box of tissues, you might be moved sometimes !
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Those who have been through breakups understand this drama a bit better
I watched this drama while it aired. There was a hype going on, and i decided to join the gang.This drama is about lovers who break up, despite loving each other for personal reasons.
The story is sad at times, but realistic.
Character development was the great point of this drama. We all carry a heavy baggage in our lives, and so did the leads. It's not like they couldn't move on. They actually did, but deep down when you love someone letting is go the hardest.
During the course of the series, i always told myself they will breakup again and it will be a sad ending. Who has ever seen a broken couple get back together, even better than their first encounter?? Well, this drama is all about that.
It's cliche, boring at times, but very romantic. You can feel with the leads and live with them for a while.
The soundtrack is just marvelous and carefully chosen.
Overall, a must-watch for diehard romance lovers!
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Not often you can experience a drama like this....!
Our Beloved Summer simply one of the best romantic melodrama released recently. At first 3 episodes i thought of little bored because of the documentry scenes and everything looks so boring. But after that i think from the 4th episode onwards it slowly getting more and more interesting. I found something particularly new from this drama, That was the beautiful character voice narration that happens almost all episodes.
An episode before ended with something curious or interesting and after that the starting of the next episode will be with a voice narration of a character, every time all the 4 main character has something to say. And it was so beautiful and very refreshing to hear and understand their part of story in the drama. For me personally i like the 2nd ung's character. His life and everything he went through was really touching to watch. Not often you can see that in a kdrama, the development of that character the relationship with his mother his friend and their parents everything was so heartwarming and interesting.
After that definitely kim da mi's side of story. Her mature decision making and powerful behaviour and handling of situation was one of the highlight of the drama, also the hidden emotions, and ofcourse you cannot miss our main hero ung. Brilliantly narrated everything about him. Also the 2nd heroine NJ. She has a small screen space but even though she also has so many reality to say.
Our beloved summer simply a must watch kdrama. Its not just a romantic drama. It has many things to discuss to you. The development of characters relationships and mature romance and beautiful intense moments that captures makes this a different drama. You must try this for sure. Don't stop after the first few episodes because there is so much things waiting for you after that. Enjoy watching..
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An Emotion Trigger!!!!!!!!!
Okay, I don't usually leave reviews, especially when a drama is still ongoing, but I just couldn't help it. This drama is like a piece gotten out from my personal life at a point. Just goes to show what a relationship really entails. The struggles, thoughts, weird moments, breakups and makeups. The drama brought out a side of realistic relationships that really should be seen. Love requires EFFORT.The characters did a perfect job ,they all played their part, provoking emotions. Y'all just 12 episodes of this drama, I've cried, laughed, sighed, felt all kinds of emotions, cos I could personally relate to most situations in the drama, especially the relationship between the leads.
I loved every piece of this drama and if you're seeing this review, you should definitely try it out, it's totally worth your time.
You might not understand the message from the onset, but eventually you'll find this drama relatable.
Pros
The leads were perfect and fitted for their roles.
The OST is on another level of perfection, each ost suits each scene/episode
Cons
I can't think of any........
Once it's completed I'll surely watch it over and over again.
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