Lovely Runner

LR Review

just an overhyped drama, It's a boring for me and can't relate a high schooler unrealistic story. I tried to understand the first 3 episodes but I just dropped it. Touted as a "must-watch," I was eager to dive into the storyline, but after a few episodes, it became clear that this was not going to live up to the hype. The pacing was unbearably slow, and the plot, while initially intriguing, quickly became repetitive and predictable. Every episode felt like it was dragging, with long, drawn-out scenes that added little value to the overall narrative.

The characters were flat and one-dimensional. The lead actors, while talented, were given very little material to work with. The female lead, in particular, was reduced to a passive, almost lifeless character, with most of her screen time spent crying or waiting for the male lead to make decisions for her. There was no growth, no depth, and no real reason to care about what happened to any of them. Even the side characters, who are often the saving grace in slower dramas, were underdeveloped and forgettable.

The romantic storyline, which should have been the heart of the drama, lacked chemistry and emotional depth. It felt forced and rushed, with little buildup to make the audience truly invest in their relationship. Moments that were meant to be emotional or heartfelt fell flat because the characters felt disconnected.

On top of that, the soundtrack is just okay, playing the same song over and over in nearly every emotional scene. Instead of enhancing the drama, it became an annoyance.

In the end, I found myself fast-forwarding through entire episodes just to get to the conclusion, which was equally underwhelming. If you're looking for a K-drama that captivates you from start to finish, this is not the one.

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Brilliant choice with the cast. Our two main leads have amazing chemistry, and they're both wonderful actors. Really enjoyed the second lead by Song Geon-hee as well. Might be a bit spoiley but I loved what they did with his character, I was rooting for him. Overall though, I absolutely believe the show was carried by Byeon Woo-seok.

Our main character Im Sol, has her heart in the right place, but I don't know where her head is. If I had to describe her actions throughout the series, it would simply be "Doing The Most". Sure, it added a lot of comedic effects and I definitely laughed a lot at her shenanigans. The actress Kim Hye-yoon also helped portray her as "cute" rather than "annoying", but by the end of this story, I was honestly questioning this woman and her poor decision making ability. That's the main reason why this story dragged out. I feel like this could be a great 10 episode story if she just stopped and used her head.

The main lead Ryu Seon Jae was pretty much golden retriever energy through and through which I don't like usually, but the actor Byeon Woo-seok made me change my mind for once, and I thoroughly enjoyed his character. I found him charming and cute when he's being smitten.

Most of the side characters annoyed me and I couldn't care less about the Side Lead. I didn't find them funny, nor cute, it was kinda way too much. They just got on my nerve and it was really difficult to pay attention to the screen when they showed up. Loved the grandma and the begrudgingly supportive friend Baek In Hyeok. The prize goes to Kim Tae Seong. It's worth repeating how much I liked his character. One detail I liked in this show, how she liked the "badboy" image when she was a teenager, but when she grew up she fell for the "nice guy" who gave her life. A bit cliche, but I vibed with it.

There were brilliant directive choices that kept me hooked in the begining, they really tied everything cleanly in the first half of the show. They didn't need an antagonist, the show managed to make everything interesting with small details and bits and pieces that were revealed at the end of each episode. Then, after the "villain" was revealed, it just got... bland. It was mostly due to Im Sol not having the word "wise" in her dictionary, but I felt like it could have been more thrilling and engaging. Instead, it was a disappointment. I want to drop my rating every time I think about it.

The humor in the show is a hit and miss. Some scences got me laughing so hard I had to pause. Other times, I was cringing so bad, I was close to skipping so many times I had to physically stop myself. But strangely, I'm not mad at it.

The music was great. Not much to say but the OST [10CM - 봄눈 (Spring Snow)] was my favorite. I found myself singing along by the end.

This show started out really strong. By episode 3, I found myself easily hooked. Halfway, it kinda went downhill, and as sad as this sounds, I'm kinda used to this pattern in K-dramas. Still, it was definitely an enjoyable watch and I don't regret picking it up.

Overall, I had a fun experience. It's the kind of drama that I wouldn't rewatch fully, but I'll definitely repeat my favorite scences and watch multiple FMVs. So, there's that.

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MANY QUESTIONS BUT ULTIMATELY A GOOD ONE

This drama gave me the vibes of A Time Called You, the same with the oast and everything. However this one left a better impression and it had a more satisfying ending for my tastes. The only and the main problem for me was the non existence of explanations of the main plot. I have so many questions about all of this and the most important is this: If every time Sol goes back in time it’s like a new life, a new story begins, how is possible for Sun Jae in the end to remember all the things they have live together? Since this one , is a new Sun Jae without any memories of Sol.

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Refreshing

Classic example of how actors, directors, writers can transform a rather run of the mill story to a quite quite enjoyable and wonderful drama. Lovely Runner does not have a great story, nor is it unique.. But its presentation is charming, refreshing and enjoyable. Major kudos to the actors, director and the team.

The plot does have some loopholes but that is to be expected of a time travel drama. My only gripe is that we don’t get to know why the villain does what he does in every effing time line. He is just incorrigible and sticks around like a two day old candy. But in the finale, poof.. he goes away very easily. I don’t want to put any major spoilers here but such an easy end makes him just a prop to make the show last for 16 episodes. It didn’t detract from this otherwise charming drama for me. But it just kept bothering me like a mosquito bite. Why did he keep on keeping on? Like either say why or just go away.

Music is wonderful; it stays with you afterwards. But the USP is the actors. Casting a good looking pair sure works lol, but if they just look good then the drama loses its momentum around eighth or ninth episode. Here ML and FL, SML, friends, mom, dad, bros and grandma’s are all just fantastic. The mix somehow really works. Apart from the OTP, the healthy and positive family dynamics on both sides were so nice. Keeps you engaged. I’m rather getting tired of the over-demanding, shrewish, moms and dads who look down on their kids. Plus as many have said before the height difference between ML and FL makes it cuter. The last episode also kept me smiling like a simp. I know.. I’m very shallow.. eh..

Loved this one. Wanted to give it a 10 but the caricature-ish villain deducts half a point for me.

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Edit:

Rewatched it today.. very unusual for me to revisit the drama so soon after the first watch but was feeling low because of something, wanted to get lost in the k-drama world and this was a random pick.. It struck me once again. How on earth our ML and FL are so darn cute together! It’s not silly cute but cute cute. Our leads’ strong performances actually change the tone of that cuteness as per their age. To me at least, the cutes of their teen age romance was different from the cutes of their mature romance. The pitch and vibe of their togetherness changes as per their age. Hats off to both the leads for throwing themselves in their characters. Sometimes the couple-ness (I know I made up this word..anyhoo) feels amazing in the high school years. But when the characters enter the matured phase, the chemistry either fizzles out or it seems contrived. It’s very difficult to see the leads as grown ups, in spite of all the hair style changes or wardrobe changes. I had this difficulty in WIFTY and Our Secrets. But here the transition was smooth. And the credit fully goes to Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon. Job well done you guys!! And that’s why I am bumping this to 10, in spite of my gripe with that very bad man.

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A Kdrama that is going to live in my heart forever

Lovely Runner" is a K-drama that I have fallen in love with, wholeheartedly and irrevocably. This drama stands out as a shining example of exceptional storytelling, stellar performances, and meticulous production. From the first episode to the last, I was utterly captivated, and it never ceased to amaze me.

The acting in "Lovely Runner" is nothing short of phenomenal. The actors were perfectly matched to their roles, delivering performances that were both heartfelt and compelling. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to the characters they portrayed. Each scene felt natural and engaging, making it easy to connect with the story on an emotional level.

The original soundtrack (OST) deserves special mention. It beautifully complements the narrative, enhancing the emotional impact of key moments and elevating the overall viewing experience. The music is perfectly timed and emotionally resonant, ensuring that each episode leaves a lasting impression.

One of the most remarkable aspects of "Lovely Runner" is its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The plot is brilliantly crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that make every episode a thrilling experience. There is never a dull moment – each installment is packed with intrigue, excitement, and drama. The writers have done an exceptional job in creating a storyline that is both engaging and unpredictable, making it impossible to stop watching.

The production quality of "Lovely Runner" is outstanding. Every detail, from the cinematography to the set design, is executed with precision and care. The visual elements are stunning, enhancing the overall aesthetic and mood of the drama. It's clear that a lot of effort and thought went into making this series as visually appealing as it is emotionally impactful.

In conclusion, "Lovely Runner" is a true masterpiece in the world of K-dramas. With its superb acting, captivating OST, and impeccably crafted plot, it has set a high standard for storytelling. Every episode is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the cast and crew. If you're looking for a drama that is endlessly entertaining and profoundly moving, "Lovely Runner" is an absolute must-watch. I loved every moment of it, and it will remain close to my heart for a long time to come.

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This series had me at the edge of my seat since episode 1. I was waiting impatiently for mondays to watch the new episode and rewatched every episode again while waiting. It has the perfect amount of comedy, romance and thrill. I got second hand embarrassment so many times watching these 2 losers being madly in love. I was giggling and kicking my feet just to cry my eyes out in the next scene. A rollercoaster of emotions. The story is not perfect. It has some issues especially in regards to the villain and Im Sol family but I don't care to be honest its still a 10 in my eyes. One of the best I've seen.
Kim Hye Yoon ( as Im Sol ) , Byun Woo Seok ( as Ryu Sung Jae ) and Song Geon Hee ( as Tae Sung ) have found themselves a new fan. I will be paying close attention to their projects from now on.
Kudos to writer Lee Shi Eun and all the people in production. Its just perfect.
The OSTs are beautiful too

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