The Atypical Family

Atypical KDrama

Perhaps disproportionately rated high but this show was such a confusing enigma to me when I was watching it that it deserves a nod of respect, at this point. In a landscape where mediocrity was reigning over an unusually lackluster year of disappointing kdramas, Atypical Family was released with little fanfare. It wasn't a hyped drama. It didn't start trends or move viewers to rally behind its fantastical romance or revenge plot. I had no expectations for it. I didn't even like the first episode. The acting seemed meh, the plot seemed meh, the nonexisting romance felt meh, nothing about this drama was particularly interesting or outstanding.
And yet, I kept going back to it, week after week. It was so bizarre. If you asked me what I loved about it, I wouldn't be able to come up with anything. But then, week after week, the show ended on an intriguing note that brought me back for more, then before I knew it...I cared! I cared about the characters, about their lives, about their ending.
That's just so bizarre until I was hooked. But then I was hooked on, like, episode 9! It took forever but the show had the longevity to bring you back each week until you got invested.
No one has so subtly managed to succeed so quietly, just from being unassuming. So I have no choice but to salute this show.
That said, there were definitely certain elements to this show that set it aside. It was in fact an unusual kdrama with elements that are either taboo in kdramas or challenge what is widely accepted as a natural part of the rom-com of SK. Perhaps that's why it went under the radar because I have noticed most seem to prefer watching the same repetitive stereotype with massive plot holes instead of trying something new. I kind of get the comforting familiarity of that but then you miss out on the unexpected interesting stories.
This show had an interesting female lead. She was experienced, scheming, and not cute. The male lead is a depressed blob who has no machismo or masculine charisma. The rest of the points...I don't remember! I watched this show so long ago and I should have reviewed it then but I was too confused then and now it's too late! But there were more stuff setting it apart!
The acting here was okay. I know some people didn't like the male lead. But I don't think it was the actor's fault. The main character is literally depressed. He's not gonna be your typical drama oppa, okay?! The whole point is that he drink to forget he is alive. And same goes for every other character. They have a lot of personal defects and those are intentionally highlighted in the show. So, the characters are intentionally irritable, distant, lethargic or moody.
What stood out from this was the production value. The sets are gorgeous, the lighting is immaculate. The music is so beautiful. The outfts are meticulously chosen to fit everyone's personality and their consistency game is off the charts because little changes in scenes are all part of the plot and one mistake would ruin that.
Rewatch: I still won't rewatch unless I was determined to pitch it to someone else.
Overall: I highly recommend this as it's a good show and it keeps it interesting in a respectable number of episodes. Some say they wanted more but experience has shown that Kdramas don't do well with MORE episode! Less is your way to go.

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From Laughs to Feels: This Show Does It All (and Does It Well!)

If there's one thing I absolutely adore in a K-drama, it's a good time travel plot. And let me tell you, "The Atypical Family" does not disappoint! This show is an absolute gem that had me hooked from start to finish. If you're looking for something unique, heartwarming, and full of twists, this is it.

First off, let's talk about the plot. It's refreshing and original, with each episode delivering new surprises and keeping you on the edge of your seat. It's like a perfect blend of time travel, dark comedy, crime caper, and romance, all wrapped into one delightful package. The story explores deep themes like personal growth, dealing with trauma, and self-acceptance, without ever getting bogged down or losing its charm.

The characters are another highlight. Jang Ki Yong as Bok Gwi Ju is phenomenal. His character, who can travel back to happy moments in his past, is portrayed with such depth and authenticity that you can't help but root for him. And Chun Woo Hee as Do Da Hae? She brings a ray of hope and change into Gwi Ju's life, and her character's growth is both natural and heartwarming.

But it's not just the leads who shine. The supporting cast, including Kim Su Hyun (even in a fat suit!) and the rest of the dysfunctional family, all deliver outstanding performances. Special shoutout to the little girl, Park So Yi, who plays Gwi Ju's daughter – she's a standout with her impressive acting chops.

Visually, the show is stunning. The cinematography captures every emotion beautifully, making each scene a visual treat. The production team deserves a huge round of applause for creating such an aesthetically pleasing drama. And let's not forget the OST – it's so good. Every track perfectly complements the scenes, enhancing the overall experience.

One thing I love about "The Atypical Family" is its ability to mix genres and still keep everything coherent and engaging. The drama doesn't fall into the usual traps of rom-coms turning melodramatic. Instead, it smartly navigates through different tones and themes, keeping things fresh and exciting.

"The Atypical Family" is a must-watch. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, the character development is spot-on, and the plot twists keep you guessing till the very end. It's one of those rare dramas that respect both their work and the audience, making it an unforgettable experience.

So, if you have some time on your hands and want to dive into a drama that's different from the usual fare, give "The Atypical Family" a try. Trust me, you won't regret it. It's a heartfelt, engaging, and beautifully crafted show that will stay with you long after the final episode.

Happy watching!

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Amazing drama, moving & comforting, perfect for the holidays!

PLOT: The FL, an orphan taken in as a teenager by a family of crooks, tries to marry the ML, a rich depressed widower with a child. However, she is unaware that his family has superpowers, diminished by the modern way of life.

+++ Really great actors (all of them (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)). Jang Ki-Yong is exceptional (as usual) , but the young In-Ha also has a great career ahead of her.
+++ Intriguing story, full of mystery and suspense, very catchy from the first episodes.
+++ Effective production, with credible special effects. The balance of emotions (trauma, suffering, humor, mystery, etc.) is very well weighed and thought out.
+++ Very good OST.
+++ I really love the final scene (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

### The representation of overweight people in Korea is very often inappropriate on all levels: overweight = eating a lot and dirty, actress with false cheeks and poorly shaped "fake body", etc. The series would have deserved a 10 without this artificial character...

=> Short, nice series, beautifully performed.
***************************************************************
Super drama, émouvant & réconfortant, parfait pour les fêtes !

PLOT: La FL, orpheline recueillie ado par une famille d'escrocs, tente d'épouser le ML, veuf en dépression et avec enfant, d' 1 famille riche. Elle ignore cependant que cette famille possède des super pouvoirs, amoindris par leur mode de vie.

+++ De très grands acteurs (tous (ღ˘⌣˘ღ) ). Jang Ki-Yong est exceptionnel, mais la jeune In-Ha a aussi une belle carrière devant elle.
+++ Story intrigante, pleine de mystère et de suspense, très accrocheuse dès les 1ers épisodes.
+++ Réalis° efficace, avec effets spéciaux crédibles. L'équilibre des émotions (traumas, souffrance, humour, mystère, etc.) est très bien pesé et pensé.
+++ Très bonnes OST.
+++ J'adore la scène finale (ღ˘⌣˘ღ)

### La représentation des personnes en surpoids est inadaptée à TOUS les niveaux : surpoids = manger beaucoup et salement, actrice avec fausses joues et "faux corps" mal fait, etc. La série aurait mérité un 10 sans ce personnage si artificiel ...

=> Série courte, sympa, magnifiquement interprétée.

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Beautifully acted, beautifully written and beautifully angsty

I think this kdrama really is one of my fav watch from this year (2024) the acting was fenomenal.
the romance felt so real and the chemistry was honestly out of the roof, i cried more than once watching this kdrama. it is so angsty yet so happy, the female lead is absolutely beautiful and just seeing her cry made me want to cry too.
the family dyniamics made me enjoy this drama even more, i cannot recommend it enough !!
The Time Travel parts actually made sense, i feel like even if you’re someone that might get confused with those things you can understand this plot really well.

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Different refreshing story!

I love the ML that was the entire reason I anticipated this drama. I am a big sci-fi fan especially they root it in reality. I loved the concept that a family of superhumans but has lost their powers due to issues that a lot of people stuggle with. The storyline of how I-na’s mom died was a unique substory. It could have been explored a little more. I must admit I was almost lost with the FL struggles with the marriage to not go ahead and marry him and the struggle with her “mom”. But I’m happy it did last long. The story did portray a lot of the characters trying to be a certain way to the end when they stopped trying they actually became the person they wanted to be. The Hero for the male lead and the all in love for the female lead. The theme song was a little off putting but it weirdly worked. So whoever was responsible for choosing that song had vision and a unique sense for a hit! I was disappointed that the middle dragged and the Last episode had so much happen that at the end when his child went and brought him back I would have loved to see the family gather around him with happiness and love. It ended too simple and quickly but I was happy with how the story was told and he ended up coming back. I just wanted that explored a little more. All in all, great story that was beautifully excuted and a wonderful life messeges thru out.

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A different superhero story

Nothing just an ordinary family living a very ordinary life.

Bok Man Heum is struggling with her family as she wants their power back. Her son Gwi Ju jumps off from a cliff and power does not return. Does Da Hae comes in for the rescue? But it appears the girl has an ulterior plan on her sleeve.

A small and simple opening is unacceptable and unpredictable for superhero dramas. Unlike flying with wings or making their way through eye power, these heroes are struggling. Fighting their demons, they lack their sense of trust in the process. Interaction with normal humans does not help them. Then what is it to build their power again...

Highs of the drama:
1. Plot: It makes the audience think. You will wonder what is wrong with them as each episode builds.
2. The narrative: The director pays attention to building the nuances. The complexities of blood relations are no different than humans. This is the biggest flavor.

Lows of the drama
1. Too many challenges: It is like their struggles take no break. It comes one after another.
2. Poor chemistry: The leads lack the charismatic vibes which often pull the story.

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Unusual Start

I was intrigued by the first scene of this new kdrama, which introduced the main characters in a unique way. The contrast between the rich and poor reminded me of the movie Parasite. It was clear that the male lead (ML) came from a dysfunctional family and had a lot of issues to deal with.However, my interest soon faded as the female lead (FL) appeared on the screen. She was shown to be a savior for the ML and his family from his mother's point of view. She seemed likable and innocent at first, but as the episode progressed, she revealed her true colors as a sneaky scammer. She had her eyes set on the ML’s family from the start, and everything she did was a calculated move to get closer to them. She got a job at a place where the ML’s mother often visited, she rescued the ML from a "suicide attempt", and she pretended to be a kind and caring person. She was clearly taking advantage of a vulnerable family, especially the ML who has a child and suffered from depression after losing his wife. She gathered information about them and tailored her behavior and speech to gain their trust. She made me dislike her so much that I didn’t want to watch the show anymore. I prefer main characters who are likable and relatable, not manipulative and selfish.

I also hated how the show used the classic trope of rich people being dumb and gullible. The ML’s mother believed the FL without doing any background check, even when the ML’s sister suggested it. The ML’s sister was not much smarter, as she wasted her money on various men and had no sense of responsibility. The FL’s few words were enough to win over the ML’s daughter and even the ML himself, which was unbelievable and unrealistic.

And let’s not forget about how they portrayed the ML’s sister, who was your typical fat person who ate in every scene and was supposed to be funny. The amount of fatphobia in this show was gross, especially in 2024. And the way they showed bulimia as a joke was insensitive and offensive. There was no creativity or empathy in this show, only stereotypes and clichés.

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full of disappointment garbage of a KDrama, Netflix sucks

IT is a rent just after watching 1st ep,
so no need to defend your weak drama

Started with utter shit
ML has killed his wife, to fulfil his Lust toward her body
he knows there would be no future if they marry but he married her because he doesn't care about her life, all he wanted was screwing her all day long and then killed her
now he pretend to be depressed while enjoying free Alcohol at home without doing a shit, because they have looted enough money from sucking poor souls,
but our FL not only save him from his fake suicide because she wanted to take all there money that she deserve,
they deserve to be screwed over for sure
but she will fall in love and this will become

BUTTiful Happy Landing

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Me encanta lo atipico

Historia

Me gusta que se sale de lo típico. Ya desde el principio con la familia (ya te lo avisa el título) y también cuando la prota no es la típica santurrona. Me encanta la atmósfera en que se desenvuelve. Y los viaje del tiempo lo hace más increíble. Me gustan cuando hay conexiones. Y todo esta muy conectado. Realmente es un círculo, o paradoja de predestinación. Me encantó tanto, que no me importaba si me daban más capitulos, me encariñe con los personajes. Ame las dos familias atípicas.



Actuación/elenco
Me gustaron todos, satisfecha con todos los actores.


Musica
Nada en mis favoritos, pero perfecta para la atmósfera.

Valor de repetición
Mírala cuántas veces tu corazón requiera.

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