A Love Letter to Life, Loss, and the Stories We Leave Behind
OVERVIEW:In the poignant tale of "Our Movie," a once-celebrated film director finds himself mired in a profound creative drought, his passion for storytelling eroded by years of commercial compromises and personal regrets. Enter an aspiring actress, vibrant yet shadowed by a terminal illness that grants her a finite window to chase her dreams. She approaches him with an audacious proposal: to cast her as the lead in a deeply personal film that blurs the lines between fiction and their unfolding realities. As they collaborate on this makeshift production, what begins as a professional arrangement evolves into an intimate exploration of love, loss, and the redemptive power of art. The narrative unfolds through a series of tender, introspective moments where the characters confront their vulnerabilities head-on. The ML, stoic and introspective, grapples with reclaiming his artistic voice, while the FL infuses every scene with a defiant zest for life, turning their shared project into a metaphor for seizing fleeting joys amid inevitable sorrow. Themes of mortality weave seamlessly into the fabric of their romance, not as a maudlin device, but as a catalyst for profound growth, urging both protagonists to rewrite their narratives before time runs out. Ultimately, "Our Movie" crafts a narrative that resonates as a heartfelt ode to human connection, reminding us that even in the face of endings, the act of creation can forge something enduring and beautiful.
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COMMENTARY:
From the very first moment I hit play, it felt like this quiet pull, you know? Not the kind of drama that blasts you with over-the-top twists, but something subtler, like a gentle wave that slowly drags you under until you're fully immersed. I remember settling in with my coffee, expecting maybe a light romance with some film industry flair, but nope . . . it snuck up on me with this raw, honest look at life slipping away, and suddenly I was feeling all these things I didn't even know I had bottled up. The way the story unfolds, with the ML who's all bottled-up and lost in his own head, and FL who's bursting with life even though she's facing the end. . . it mirrored something in me, like how we all put off our dreams until it's almost too late. I felt this immediate connection to her energy; she's got this defiant spark, pushing through her illness with such grace and humor that it made me smile through tears more times than I can count. And him? His stoic vibe, that quiet intensity . . . it reminded me of people I know who hide their pain behind a facade of control. Watching them collide, it was like seeing two broken pieces fit together in the most unexpected way.
As I kept watching, the emotions just built up layer by layer. There were moments where I'd pause just to catch my breath because the heartache was so real, so palpable. It's not just about romance; it's this deep dive into what it means to truly live when you know time's running out. I felt this overwhelming sense of urgency mixed with melancholy . . . like, why do we wait for a wake-up call to chase what we love? The FL's vibrancy, her way of turning everyday moments into something poetic, it inspired me, but it also wrecked me. I'd find myself thinking about my own life during breaks, wondering if I'm really making the most of it or just going through the motions like the director was at the start. His journey, reclaiming his passion through their collaboration, hit hard too. It felt therapeutic, almost, watching him open up, layer by layer, shedding that creative slump. But oh, the themes of mortality? They weave in so seamlessly, not hammering you over the head, but lingering like a soft shadow. It made me reflect on loss in my own life, how love doesn't just vanish when someone's gone; it echoes in the stories we tell.
Visually, this thing is a feast . . . the cinematography pulled me in deeper with every frame. Those lingering shots on rain-slicked streets or cluttered editing rooms, the way colors shift from muted grays to warmer tones as their bond grows . . . it all felt like art imitating life, or maybe the other way around. I loved how it borrowed that French New Wave style, with jump cuts and nonlinear bits that made the narrative feel alive, unpredictable. It wasn't flashy, but elegant, like the drama was its own movie within a movie. And the OST? Forget it . . . those tracks would swell at just the right moments, turning a simple glance or confession into something that punched me right in the chest. I'd rewind scenes just to soak in the music layered over the visuals, feeling this mix of warmth and sorrow wash over me. It was healing in a weird way, like a hug that also stabs you a little, reminding you that pain and joy are intertwined.
The acting, though . . . that's what elevated everything for me. The ML, with his stoic, enigmatic presence, he didn't need big speeches; his eyes said it all, that internal struggle bubbling under the surface. I became such a fan of his nuanced performance; it felt so real, like he was drawing from some deep well of regret and rediscovery. And FL? She shone so brightly, bringing this radiant vulnerability that made her character feel alive, not just a trope. Her energy was intriguing, fresh - sometimes whimsical, sometimes heartbreakingly raw. Their chemistry wasn't the explosive kind; it was slow-burn, built on shared vulnerabilities and quiet understandings. Watching them navigate their feelings, from professional distance to something deeper, it stirred up all these emotions in me - hope, fear, tenderness. There were times I'd laugh at her subtle humor, like those little comedic touches amid the heaviness, and then bam, I'd be tearing up at how she faced her reality with such poise. It made me appreciate how the story balanced whimsy and heartbreak, never tipping too far into melodrama.
Deeper in, the meta layers really got to me . . . how their project blurs fiction and reality, turning art into therapy. It made me think about how we all rewrite our stories to find meaning, especially in the face of grief. The way it explores love disappearing or lingering after loss? That question haunted me, leaving me with this wistful ache. I'd finish a session feeling wrecked but also released, like I'd sobbed out some pent-up stuff. It's not a fluffy watch; it's the opposite of fancy plots - slow, slice-of-life melo about life, death, and connection. Yet, it reminded me we're blessed, even in chaos, to have moments of beauty. The side stories, like the crew dynamics or family backstories, added richness without overwhelming, making the world feel lived-in.
By the time it wrapped up, I was a mess . . . traumatized in the best way, but so glad I stuck with it. It changed how I look at things, urging me to live fully, passionately. Not as sad as I feared, but devastatingly brilliant, a work of quiet power that stays with you.
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FINAL THOUGHTS:
As I sit back and reflect on Our Movie, after being swept up in its tender narrative, pouring out the whirlwind of emotions it stirred in me, and gushing over all the things I loved, I’m left with a quiet sense of gratitude and awe. This drama wasn’t just a show I watched; it was an experience that settled into my bones, leaving me changed in ways I’m still unraveling. It’s rare for a story to feel so intimate yet so universal, like it’s speaking directly to you while echoing truths everyone grapples with. My final thoughts are a mix of reverence for its beauty, appreciation for its imperfections, and a deep personal connection that makes me want to carry its lessons forward.
What lingers most is how Our Movie made me confront the fragility of life without drowning me in despair. The way it balanced heartbreak with hope felt like a gift . . . it didn’t shy away from the pain of loss, but it also showed how love, art, and human connection can make even the fleeting moments eternal. I found myself thinking about my own choices, the dreams I’ve shelved, the people I hold dear. It’s not that the drama gave me answers, but it asked the right questions: Am I living fully? Am I telling my own story with courage? Those questions hit hard, and I’m grateful for the nudge to reflect on them. The romance at its core, built on vulnerability and quiet understanding, reminded me that love doesn’t need grand gestures to be profound - sometimes it’s in the small, shared moments that you find something worth holding onto.
The visual and emotional tapestry of this drama is what I’ll carry with me most. Those cinematic shots, the swelling OST, the way every frame seemed to whisper about life’s fleeting beauty . . . it all wove together to create something that felt like a love letter to storytelling itself. I keep replaying scenes in my head, like the quiet confessions or the way they poured their hearts into their film, and I feel this ache mixed with warmth. It’s the kind of story that makes you want to call someone you love, pick up a passion you’ve neglected, or just sit with your thoughts and appreciate being alive. I’m already itching to rewatch it, to catch the nuances I might’ve missed, to feel that mix of a hug and a knife to the chest all over again.
In the end, Our Movie is a masterpiece of the heart. It’s a reminder that our stories, no matter how short or imperfect, matter. It left me wrecked, inspired, and profoundly grateful. I’d recommend it to anyone who’s ready to feel something real, to let a story break them open and put them back together. It’s not just a drama; it’s a mirror, a muse, and a quiet call to live with passion before the credits roll.
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Beautifully acted and produced but my brain and heart are not aligned on how I feel
Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25Instead of a traditional review, this is more like my feelings of the drama.
I usually stay away from dramas about terminal illness, but I want to check this out due to its rave reviews and Namkoong Min. However, giving “Our Movie” merely an 8.25 rating seems like a travesty when there are so many 9s and 10s. The simple reason is: my brain and my heart are not aligned for most of the drama.
Lee Da Eum (FL)/Jeon Yeo Been
I have a hard time connecting with Da Eum. It took me a while to get used to and like her awkward personality even though in my brain, Jeon Yeo Been did a fantastic job portraying this character. I understand why Da Eum acts, thinks, and tries to live her life to the fullest. I applaud her bravery and cheer on her to stay alive for as long as she can. But in my heart, I am not in love with her.
Lee Je Ha (ML)/Namkoong Min
I have to say this is the prettiest/most handsome look for Namkoong Min I’ve seen. I am totally digging those glasses, no-gel natural hair and the casual turtleneck look. His character is aloof and exudes this “I am better than you and I don’t care what you think” vibe. The way he talks, moves and acts is very slow-paced, which greatly contrasts the FL energy. Of course, we never have to worry about Namkoong Min’s acting.
As individual characters, I like FL and ML’s stories of pain and growth. I enjoy the reason why they want to make the movie, and how they ‘use’ each other in the process. But for some reason, when they are together, I am not feeling the chemistry that I need to help me last through the pain towards the end. For a melodrama that I am supposed to be balling and need a box of tissue, the setup was lacking for me on an emotional level. Of course, this is all very personal and subjective, and I am sure many viewers will question my sanity. LOL
Because I am not emotionally connected for about 8-9 episodes, I cannot give this drama a high rating. But when eps 10-12 hit hard, that’s when all fall into place. Now I see why I need to get those tissues and why everyone was so in love with this drama. I finally feel all the emotions, but not because of the romance or chemistry, but because of the situation and how it affected everyone on a different yet personal level.
Despite tolerating many episodes of 2FL annoying and persistently butting into FL’s business, the supporting cast is lovely and supportive. The acting is excellent all around, and not just Jeon Yeo Been and Namkoong Min. The cinematography is beautiful, especially the warm lighting in the bookstore that I love the most. The haunting OST complements the mood of the drama and I’m glad many scenes are shot outside of the hospital.
“Our Movie” is an excellently produced and well-acted drama. Melodrama lovers should not miss this. Even though the drama couldn’t reach my heart for most of the drama, I can’t deny when it’s supposed to hurt, it hurts big time (in a good way). I just wish my brain and heart were connected sooner.
Completed: 8/30/2025 Review #618
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Not Ready for the Ending… But Loving the Journey - A highly recommended one
“Our Movie” is a rollercoaster of emotions. One moment you're holding on to hope, wishing the female lead could survive, and the next, you're bracing for the heartbreak you know is coming. Despite the looming sadness, there's comfort in knowing she fulfilled her last wish — to star in a movie and maybe… just maybe, fall in love. If you're searching for a drama that will make you cry but still leave your heart full, this one’s a must-watch. It’s emotional, bittersweet, and beautifully satisfying.P.S.- giving it low rewatch rating because I know I will cry again no matter how many time I will watch this drama
P.S. 2- Just finished watching this drama (19 July, 11:58 pm IST). My favourite dialogue from the drama is - I WANT TO FEEL REAL LOVE BEFORE I DIE.
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I'm writing reviews means it has something to say and not just passby.
Yeah, I finally finished it. Before starting, I was damn excited mainly because of the actors—more than the plot. After watching, I’d say it’s good, but that “kick” towards the end didn’t really hit me. It delivered what it wanted to convey, but the last stretch felt a bit dragged out. Honestly, 8 episodes would’ve been perfect. But since it’s a melodrama, you can’t really argue much about the pacing.Cinematography is fantastic, sound design is top-notch, and production is decent. The screenplay, though, could’ve used a little more nourishment. Direction was solid. As for characterization—Da-eum was brilliantly written and performed by Jeon Yeo-been, and Namkoong Min gave his best too. The starting episodes were absolutely brilliant. I just couldn’t keep the same flow towards the end, maybe that’s why I felt a little restless and just wanted to finish it quickly, especially because of the predictability in the writing.overall it has a heart 7.5
By the way, I’m curious—how are other viewers reacting to it?
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"If I have to live with it forever I guess I’d have to love this sorrow that’s deep in my heart"
First things first: If you’re one of those ”I don’t watch anything without a happy ending” people, well, I personally think you’re missing out, but be forewarned: this follows through on what it sets up (and I don’t think that’s a spoiler, because it’s pretty clear that it will do so from the start). There’s no magic cure in the eleventh hour or cop-out open ending. That said, this drama is not continuously angsty or oppressively miserable. It has a lightness that balances out the pain. There’s actually a lot of happiness, even joy. Just every now and then, you're reminded—today she’s here, vibrant and alive, but it won’t be long before the space she once filled is a hole in this person’s life. As you get further into the drama, the presence of that impeding loss weighs heavier, the happy moments more often tinged with melancholy, but it’s never suffocating or depressing. The drama ultimately affirms that whatever pain will follow, loving is worth it. That person will never truly leave your life. The light they brought to it will linger alongside the grief. The drama makes a straight-up sad ending come off more as bittersweet one. While this drama hurt … a lot at times … it didn’t rip my heart out of my chest. It’s as uplifting as is possible while being emotionally honest and true to the story they set out to tell. My masochistic soul actually would have appreciated a bit more emotional torture, but for most people this probably strikes the perfect balance, and I think even happy ending lovers can survive this.This has joined my (not actually existent) list of favorite romance dramas. If your taste in romance requires lots of steamy kisses and cute couple moments, this might not be your cup of tea. There is a bit of that and I certainly did feel the butterflies at points, but it’s really more of a sensitive slow-burn that pays attention to the details and makes simple interactions speak volumes. There are a couple “big” moments that lean into the feeling of being swept off one’s feet or one’s heart racing as if it might burst, but more often it's understated. A lingering gaze, a comforting touch. Just having a conversation. Sharing in each other’s elation or suffering. You watch the leads go from strangers to colleagues and confidants to lovers, sometimes through moments of tension or angst but more often in warm companionship and care. Knowing him brought her everything she ever wanted, knowing her brought color to his life, even if he lost her far too soon.
The lead characters take classic archetypes and make them emotionally complex and fully realized humans. Jeon Yeo Been makes La Daeum’s vivacious cheer and endearing awkwardness seem natural rather than cartoonish or put on. She’s equally adept and communicating the anguish of running out of time too soon, desperation to make her mark before she goes, and fear of leaving her loved ones behind. Namgoong Min’s performance is a masterclass in subtlety and restraint. He imbues Lee Jeha with a stoicism that’s soft and quiet rather than cold—the character is aloof and cynical, not unfeeling or lacking emotional awareness. We see him falling for Daeum’s charms and wrestling with the depth of his feelings through small smiles and hints of pain behind the eyes while maintaining his reserve. When character’s transformation comes to fruition, it’s not a jarring shift; it’s the culmination of a gradual development that had long been simmering beneath the surface.
This drama’s themes aren’t particularly profound—they’re pretty self-evident, even cliché, ideas about love and grief and living in the moment. But originality isn’t the point of this drama. The point is that classic sentiments communicated well can still have a meaningful impact. The drama knows very well that its story is old-fashioned and out-of-line with current trends. Because the plot revolves around remaking a 90s melodrama with much the same premise, it comments explicitly on the value of such stories—it’s about the feelings they evoke. In the past few years, I’ve seen a couple other attempts to update 90s/00s melodramas for the 2020s. This one is certainly the most successful.
Unlike many romance dramas that spend a lot of time on the leads’ work, the movie plot did actually seem integral to the emotional journeys of our leads, both as individuals and in their relationship. None of the secondary characters were superfluous (there was a reason for each of them to be there), but I do think the screen time some of these characters got could have been cut down (not necessarily by a ton, but it definitely could have been a little tighter here and there), because while they had a legitimate purpose, that purpose could have been fulfilled with a bit less focus (and without the little side romances). I think if the drama had spent some of the time it spent on the more tangential elements of the movie plot and related characters on Daeum’s father and best friend this drama would have been close to perfect. What I cared about were the people who truly loved Daeum (her father, her best friend, and Jeha) and would be most affected by her death—this was the heart of the story (what was portrayed here was excellent, I only wanted more of it). Everything else only mattered to me in as much as it furthered this core story. This is something old melodramas knew that too many more recent dramas have forgotten and is the one place where I felt this drama failed to fully grasp an important element of the genre it was updating.
From a craft perspective, this drama is a real standout. It has made me curious to watch more works directed by Lee Jungheum. It’s has some of the most artful editing (Shi Mingyeong) I’ve ever seen and changes its style and visual language to highlight certain moments. It intersperses scenes from the past and from the movie at relevant points in the narrative, transitioning seamlessly. Some scenes call back to earlier scenes, sometimes through the wording of the script sometimes through the actions of the characters sometimes through the similarity of the situation. These moments don’t just repeat what came before but cast the same thing in a new light or draw parallels that highlight change from one point to another, a sort of refrain that adds to the storytelling.
The cinematography (Jo Yeongjik, Byeon Jisu) is lovely. It’s not the most visually striking drama I’ve ever seen, but there was a softness to it that fit the mood of the drama. The way the camera moves often felt very intentional. And of course the way they sometimes changed up what they were doing with the camera or colors contributed to the aforementioned artistry. We also got some beautiful ocean settings. The music (Kim Taeseong) was somewhat hit or miss for me. Sometimes I loved it, sometimes it wasn’t quite what I wanted—I would have preferred less electronic sounds and more real instruments, just generally a bit more classic. However, take this with a grain of salt, since I think this is probably an unpopular opinion based on my personal preferences (my sense is that a lot of people wholeheartedly loved all the music).
One final nitpick—this drama does have some annoyingly blatant product placement.
“What’s with this sappy melodrama?” says Lee Jeha at one point. And yes this is a sappy melodrama, one of the most well-executed ones that I have seen. It manages to balance realism and romanticism and is elevated by the creative choices and performances so that it gives you everything you want from a sappy melodrama without making you feel like that’s what you’re watching.
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This review may contain spoilers
Stories about terminal illness in dramas and movies often face a tough challenge, we already know how they will end.. The real test lies in what makes us want to stay and watch.. What’s new here?? What makes this version of sorrow worth sitting through??For me, without question it’s the main leads.. Namkoong Min and Jeon Yeo Been.. You just know they are going to blow you away with their performances.. Because that’s what talented actors do when they are given well written scripts.. Our Movie draws most of its emotional power from them.. They have delivered performances that easily rank among the finest of their careers.. Their talent hardly needs reiteration anymore, yet they still manage to impress..
When dealing with subject matter like terminal illness, it’s easy for a story to slip into emotional manipulation.. Many dramas lean into that.. Using the pain to play on your feelings.. But Our Movie doesn’t do that.. Instead it lets the characters situation speak for itself and the emotions never feel overdone or artificial.. To me, very few dramas manage to make emotion feel truly genuine and the ones that do are often some of the saddest dramas I have ever seen.. Our Movie is one of them..
There is a certain beauty to this drama that’s hard to put into words.. It’s all held together by a masterful display of acting from the main leads.. The drama handles the themes of love, friendship, sacrifice and commitment with such quiet grace..
What I also loved about the drama was the supporting cast.. They weren’t just props, their presence felt meaningful.. This story wouldn’t have hit as hard without them.. Every single character had a role to play, no matter how small and each one left an impact.. It wasn’t just the FL who made us cry, the others did too.. The SFL, her agent, the FL’s manager, her friend, the Assistant Director, the Producer.. I wish I could name them all, but there are just too many.. They were all wonderful, supportive, graceful and full of heart..
Even the love triangle or whatever that was, was handled with surprising maturity.. Albeit unnecessary but it was there, briefly.. But it was handled maturely.. Even the guy, there is no way anyone can hate him.. He was just the final push the ML needed..
There is a scene in ep 8, a transition where the black and white noir shifts to color as the ML opens the curtain while talking to the FL on phone.. I don’t know if it’s just me, but there’s something about that moment, something that feels magical.. And then he runs, runs faster and faster toward her.. For the first time in the whole drama he moves faster than a snail.. The scene flows between him running and her waiting.. Everything about it, the aesthetics, the sunset, the lighthouse, the bridge, pure visual poetry.. And then he confesses.. And they kiss.. The kiss itself will go down in KDrama history as one of the best.. That whole sequence was my favorite part of the drama..
I was satisfied with the ending as well.. Her death, we knew it was coming from the very beginning.. I just wish she had lived long enough to see their movie.. I really liked that the drama took time to show how everyone’s life turned out in the end.. That felt satisfying to watch.. And the fact that her dad and the ML are still close, watching movies together?? That was a lovely touch.. The ML starting his next project, that’s exactly what she would have wanted.. It was good to see him move forward, even though we know he will never truly move on from her.. Like I said, a satisfying ending.. With no unanswered questions..
Overall, it was a really good drama.. They got a lot of things right with this story.. Our Movie isn’t here to shock us.. Instead we realize that it’s the journey here that matters, not the inevitable outcome.. Thanks to a terrific cast and a script full of earnest storytelling, we get to watch these characters grow and struggle in ways that feel real.. And in the end, her dream came true.. She became an actress.. Their movie was completed.. She was loved by so many people.. She found romance.. She found her Male Lead. And now, he will live for her..
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The selfishness and selflessness of human connection.
I’m still in a daze after finishing the last episode. I am not sure how to start writing since I have so many thoughts and feelings existing chaotically in my brain right now.Our Movie is the perfect example of well executed melodrama that does not rely on excessive angst that borderline crosses to makjang territory. It’s tasteful in it’s emotional torture towards viewers. And it is painful… Even though I knew exactly what I was getting myself into, I knew exactly how it will end, the slowly creeping dread of the finality of the story was exhausting. Exhausting in the most breathtaking and touching way possible.
Da Eum is one of the most beautiful characters I have ever seen. The way she was so full of life, even though she did not have much left to enjoy it. The way she was brave in the situation most would crumble in. But what's most important - the way she cherished herself and people around her. The way she genuinely loved her family and friends, the way she craved the connection and was not afraid to reach for it. Her determination, be it in love, dreams, living, was inspiring.
Was she perfect? No. She was at times childish, stubborn, selfish. There were times when she was irresponsible. And all these moments made her that much more human, that much more lovable, complex and interesting.
While her relationship with Je Ha was obviously the center of the story, I must say I loved her scenes with other characters as much. The conflicting tension between her and her dad - the way he struggled to let her live her life, knowing it will make it shorter. The soulmate bond she had with Gyo Yeong. The complexity of the past and present relationship she had with Jae In. Every interaction she had with any of the characters felt so meaningful.
On the other hand Lee Je Ha did feel a bit underdeveloped compared to her. I still love him, love his story, but somehow I do feel unsatisfied. A lot of things were left to imagine, and it feels like we mostly got the highlights of his story, bullet points of what’s important. That said, even though the title says "Our Movie” I do believe it’s Da Eum’s story so I am not extremely mad about Je Ha not being as developed. Maybe his story was presented in a more subtle way, and with how radiant Da Eum was, I just missed the timing to make the connection to him?
Then we have Chae Seo Yeong - how much I love this woman. The raw flaws and mistakes she made were infuriating, but the way at the end of the day she always managed to make the right choice, to support the right people, to admit to her faults.
I truly appreciate how there were no real villains in the story, or rather - depending on what perspective you take, everyone could have been a villain in someone’s life, even without doing much wrong. The writers made sure to present the same situations from different perspectives, making sure viewers understand that human existence is never black or white. Action you took out of necessity could have scared another person for years. What started as a selfish behavior can turn into selfless conviction. No one is bad, no one is good. We are all just human with flaws, desires, hopes, dreams, fears - they all affect our actions. Many things can be explained, but they should not be excused. We need to know when to apologize and fix what was broken. And this drama presents it all.
Acting… are there even words to describe how amazing it was? These roles could have been so easily under and overacted. It’s a balance game not to make Lee Je Ha emotionless and Lee Da Eum borderline manic. Underacting would make them hard to relate to and feel their emotions, overacting would make the characters seem like caricatures. Both Namkoong Min and Jeon Yeo Been truly put their souls into these roles. I smiled, laughed, and cried watching their performances. It was both beautiful and painful.
What I also want to talk about is the directing and editing. Masterclass. Other directors need to study this show and learn from it. It stands out among all the mainstream kdramas from the past couple of years with its unique styling and creative shots. They truly used everything they had, but with brains and meaning. The transitions used for the storytelling purposes, not just cutting between scenes - perfection. The various filters, screen ratios, camera angles and movements. There were honestly scenes that made me gasp.
The cherry on top was the soundtrack. I am 100% sure I am going to cry when I hear any of the songs. They were so well placed depending on the scenes, creating these memorable moments. If I were to pick my favorite, I’d go with “Love me more”.
So why not 10? There were some plotlines I did not see much purpose of. Example: majority of side romances. The same conversations that were important to present different perspectives could have happened in a more platonic setting, closely related to the filming of the movie. Sadly, some moments just felt painfully detached from the overall drama and the mood.
I also wish we had seen a bit more flashbacks of Da Eum before her diagnosis. I think seeing her interactions with Jae In and Gyo Yeong before her life completely changed would make the future conflict more clear and less one-sided. Technically they did wrap it up well, emotionally I am not satisfied.
All that said, what a heart-stopping and awe-inspiring story it was. It’s a drama that makes you sad, heartbroken even, but somehow not emotionally heavy. I felt exhausted by the last episode, but weirdly thankful. Rather than depressed, I felt motivated. The bitter-sweet taste of life.
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This review may contain spoilers
Story:The story is overall okay at best. Without Lee Daeum’s illness there wasn’t really anything interesting to look forward to, and they also knew that too, as they tried to sell that in the movie as well. But they couldn’t even handle that well.
So if I talk about it from the premise of the drama, it had potential, of course. Kind of a grumpy x sunshine type of lead, and it was going well until it was not. There were too many side stories and couples. I couldn’t see the growth of the main lead’s character. She was constantly bubbly and all sunshine and rainbows, and he was always kind of grumpy and uninterested in life itself. But then somewhere along the lines it changed without any solid reason. I liked the special detailed scenes where they were shooting the movie and how its story got written and altered over time because of certain incidents. Everything Jae Ha did or found out would’ve been the same without Daeum being in his life. At the end he did all those things on his own. She doesn’t even have a role in his character development. Other side stories were just too dramatic or plain to be believable (like how she doesn’t fight back when someone accuses her of something or her friends and family being always supportive without any drawbacks). I get it; everything is happening because she is terminally ill, but that doesn’t make these things believable or real. Terminally ill people also live a life like other people, and a fierce and lively person like Daeum wouldn’t just sit back and watch every wrong thing happening to her.
In the end, I was curious to see how they would send her off. But they just left that section out. From the beginning she was attempting to arrange a perfect funeral for her and her loved ones, but we didn’t even get to see it.
The story is really average at best. I think the story of the movie they were producing, “Love in White,” would’ve been much more intriguing than this mess. Putting a miserable character as a main lead doesn’t really guarantee success.
Cast:
To be frank, I really started watching this drama and was able to finish it because of its amazing cast. It is already established how good of actors Namkoong Min and Jeon Yeo Been are. There’s also Seo Hyeon Woo. But it was my first time seeing the fellow actor named Lee Seol, who also did an amazing job. With the exception of her scenes, I nearly fast-forwarded the later episodes. She played the part of a female actor struggling in both her personal and professional life really well. Between her time as a rookie in Jae Ha's film and today as an expert in her industry, there was a noticeable shift. Her tone, composure, posture everything felt different from one another. The actor who acted as an assistant director also played her part really well.
Honorable mention to Han Jong Hoon, who played Han Seung Ho in the drama. He came off as incredibly haughty and conceited from the tone of his voice to the way he spoke, which is, in my opinion, a clear sign of a wealthy investor with little to spend. I don’t think it’s necessary to name the other actors who played the supporting roles, as they are already pretty well known in the industry.
Music:
The OSTs were good. But except for the one Mimi sang, I don’t really recall any others.
Rewatch value:
I am writing this review so that I don’t have to watch it another time to recall what happened if I ever forget.
Overall:
I don't particularly dislike the drama, don't get me wrong. It’s okay if you’re watching it for the first time. The suspense and curiosity, along with great acting, kind of make you watch it entirely. However, this is not something to rewatch.
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This review may contain spoilers
The Brightest Sadness I've Ever Felt. Drama That Hurt So Kindly. Parting That Felt Like a Hug
Well-written! Well-executed.The direction? Oscar-level.
Cinematography? Breathtaking.
Screenplay? Am i in a theatre?
This was a paradox in motion — a smile with tears behind it.
A story of a dying girl that somehow felt like the warmest thing I’ve watched all year.
Not a heavy, sob-filled tragedy — but a gentle, glowing heartbreak.
And yet, amidst it all, the message stayed with me:
“Live the time that is yours. Live it fully and happily.”
I'm so happy that she wanted Jeha to be happy again
The funny dialogues: “Wasting a handsome face like that is a national disaster.” 😂
Jeha feeling proud after managing to cook ramen in a convenience store — that quiet joy!
And that final episode, where they talked about the “Rose Man” — such a simple, grounded slice-of-life moment.
And with such heartwarming what if futures and fun little moments, it made me smile… more than cry.
I’ve felt the stings, yes — but I took it as a personal challenge not to cry (the tears-wala cry 😭).
Surprisingly, this drama is helping me keep that promise pretty well.
I’m so, so glad she had the best by her side — Gyuwon, who fought for her, laughed with her, stood beside her like a soulmate.
They were bosom sisters, partners in crime, almost lovers in spirit.
— if God takes something from you, He also gives you something beautiful in return.
The OST? Perfect. Subtle, never overpowering — just enough to immerse you in the moment.
And I’m beyond relieved the directors and screenwriters gave us a full, well-tied ending. No loose ends, no half-baked exits. Every thread was honored. Every character got closure. Seldom seen in dramas....
That scene where Jeha and her dad watched movies in theatreafter Daeum was gone. They were spending time together, grieving, healing, slowly getting better. I was genuinely worried for both — but seeing them side by side felt like a quiet prayer being answered.
Every shot from the camcorder felt intimate, raw, personal. And later gifted to Jeha… and he kept using it — I was grinning like an idiot. 😭
Some unforgettable moments for me: The AD once asked, “What’s so good about directing just one thing?” Jeha simply said, “Hmm…” She answered herself, “As I thought, nothing.” And then laughed — “That makes it even more appealing.” Doing something that… that may not even be considered “good” by the world —You choose to do it —can be only because you love it.
But there were times of harsh, yet realistic reflections… a side of the thoughts that kept tickling my brain —
Like this one:
“I hope Hyunsang doesn’t stand there for long when he can’t see Gyuwon from the glass anymore.”
Because in real life… "Life must go on" As much as I adored the love they shared, I’d still want Jeha to find love again someday.
To move on — not to forget, but to live. To carry the warmth of what was, and still open his heart to what could be.
And Jeha — he moved forward. (at least didnt mope around like he did for last 5 years, daeum really taught him how to be happy again) He didn’t stop. He wrote another scenario, like an ordinary director. That’s real love too — to live on with your memories, not stay frozen in them.
FINALLY: If I had to keep just three things intact from this drama, it would be:
Direction. Cinematography. And Lee Jeha (Namgoong Min).
Everyone did an amazing job, but these three? They went the extra mile. Namgoong Min never disappoints — his craft, his restraint, his depth. Is this what a veteran's like.
P.S. No offence to Daeum — the actress is brilliant. I’ve loved her since Be Melodramatic, and she remains a favorite. 💛
P.S: I was so scared she would die while filming that final scene.
P.S Also — was that tree at the end not reminding you of A Time Called You?
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A MASTERPIECE!!
I could talk about this drama for hours. It's a masterpiece. I'm not exaggerating; I haven't liked a melodrama this much in a long time. Jeon Yeobeen and Namkoongmin's chemistry is amazing. And naturally, Jeha and Daeum's chemistry is amazing too. Oh, my beautiful parents. I loved them so much. Their story was amazing. This drama tells a lot about life, love, and death. You should definitely watch it.Was this review helpful to you?
A MASTERPIECE
This drama is the best one of 2025 for me. Every scene is so aesthetic and cinematic that it feels like you’re watching a movie, not a drama. The lines were also incredibly powerful. Namkoong Min never disappoints when it comes to choosing scripts — and the same goes for Jeon Yeo-been. Every drama of hers is amazing and I adore her acting, but in my opinion, Our Movie is her BEST drama. No one else could’ve played Daeum the way she did. The acting was phenomenal. And it’s been such a long time since I’ve watched a drama where every single OST was this good. I cry every time I listen to Mimi. Ah, I’m not really good at writing reviews — so in short: just watch it.Daeum & Jeha, my aesthetic couple i love you🤍
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This review may contain spoilers
I never felt something like this for a drama.
Our Movie is truly a masterpiece. I just finished the final episode and wanted to write my review immediately, even though I am having a hard time about expressing my love for this drama. Our Movie is a heart-warming, calm, romantic drama that will change the way you're looking at life. After I finished this drama, I wanted to go out, look at the sky, watch the stars, take a breath and live the moment. İt showed me how precious life is.I loved how all the characters were grew up. Chae Seyoung was my favourite character and I am so happy that I kept the believe I had for her. She made mistakes, she compensated all of them. I'm so happy that there were other couples except the main couple. They showed us how the other's lives are going on. They made me laugh in all of those tears.
I loved the ending. I loved how they showed us the life goes on. Even though some people expecting to see more drama, but I think it was a realistic ending. We have to keep live, laugh, cry, fall in love and break up. Our Movie showed this in a pretty good way. The death of Lee Daeum was really unexpected in my opinion. I knew she had only a little time more but I thought we can see her last hours, in the hospital. But thinking about it made me feel like this was the right thing to do. But I wish we saw Lee Je-ha's going to her grave, and spending some time talking to her.
The romance was just right, all along. We watched a pure, committed, honest relationship. They loved each other in a heart-warming way. Even though Even though they know they have to leave each other in a short time. And this is so precious.
The acting was definitely incredible. Jeon Yeo-Been and Nam Koong-Min showed us a masterwork. I was so satisfied about the way their looks at each other changed step by step. All of it was so touching and beautiful.
The OST. İt is just perfect. Even the times I hear it now, my eyes are watering, and I can't stop thinking about the drama. I will definitely listen to it in my personal life.
My English is not that good but I think I wrote my opinions clear. I'm pretty new to this website, and really enjoying writing reviews lately. And the last of it I just want to say, I hope everyone can watch this masterpiece.
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