A classic K-Drama from 2014
This one has always been recommended to me by a lot of friends who watch K-Dramas (plus D.O is here sooo...) but I put this on my watch list long long time ago that happened to resurface after I watched a clip of it and I am not disappointed. This a pretty good drama, and one of the classics, too.The storyline is unique than most I've seen. I actually thought the format would be like 1 mini story per episode and a 1 overall big story but it wasn't like that at all. It's mostly just us watching these different characters living in one house and their relationship with the people around them and their traumas and mental health struggles. It's pretty cozy but at the same time it sends my emotions into a roller coaster ride. One time I was laughing, next, I was crying, then I was cringing and then I literally stood up from my seat. I enjoyed it very much. Jo InSung and Gong HyoJin is great actors and actresses but I don't see much chemistry on them. They did great justice for their roles here though. For some reason, KwangSoo looks dumb and a jerk (plus cringe) here but maybe I've watched too many Running Man episodes that I can no longer unsee his foolish side in RM.
One icky thing that I cannot overlook is the depiction of mental health disorders -- Tourette's syndrome and schizophrenia don't sit well with me. I just feel like this is not the best depiction or representation of the disorders but it was 2014, and maybe mental health wasn't a trend back then. Other than that, everything is great for me. Also, loved the concept of self-love and self-appreciation and seeking help when needed.
The OST for this drama is on my playlist years before I watched it which only means I love it way way before. I probably won't re-watch this on the foreseeable future but I am glad I watched it. It's one of the classics that you should watch at least once.
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This review may contain spoilers
If you're in the medical field, or know anything about psychology, you might have somewhat of a tough time agreeing with all things said or done in the show, but if you can look past some logical issues, show has a great message about accepting one as one is, and the pursuit of love even through imperfect scenarios.As someone wanting to go into psychiatry, and having friends and family members with psychological and neurological issues, I was intrigued that a kdrama was going to display these generally “taboo” topics. It’s one of the first few dramas as far as I know that did that, and the female lead being a psychiatrist made me even more interested in the show. While show was good, it had a lot of flaws that made it hard for me to overlook.
The bad:
The biggest problem I had was Jaeyul’s schizophrenia outcry by the doctors themselves. Aside from the fact that the diagnosis was super quick, it was also dealt with in a very over the top way. I understand the every-day man or woman (like FL’s sister) to be this dramatic about the mental illness, but the doctors themselves acting like he was on his deathbed already really had my eyes rolling. While yes males with schizophrenia may be more prone to suicide attempts, I feel like show was really jumping the gun on just how dangerous his mental illness was for him physically. Of course prevention is key, but the entire dramatic lens of it all felt rushed and almost irresponsible. I feel like the reactions of Haesoo’s doctor friends were exaggerated, especially since they’re psychiatrists themselves.
The meh:
As for the other shoe-horned psychiatry, I wasn’t too mad about it, but also because it reminded me somewhat of the ghost stories in Master’s Sun. Albeit in Master’s Sun the short side arcs felt a bit more organic.
From Dr. Lee and Dr. Jo’s “friendship”, to Jaeyul and Heesoo’s families, there was a whole LOT of dysfunctionality which didn't always make a lot of sense in how it was carried out. It’s why I could never get on board with a lot of Jaeyul’s mom’s backstory, I think, although I really empathized with Jaeyul’s character himself. He really nailed his character.
I’d like to add Haesoo’s sister added to her family’s side of dysfunctionality and show kind of glossed over that too, especially with how entitled her sister was. She definitely rubbed me the wrong way. Why even add her sister as a character if they weren’t going to resolve her side of the arc? Also, I usually love Kim Mikyung’s roles, but her as Heesoo’s mother towards the end really aggravated me.
The good:
OTP chemistry is top notch. It feels really organic, real, and ADULT. No kids fussing around. Adults with their quirks acting (most of the time) like adults.
I love how Gong Hyojin's character is a badass, and has her quirks. Her own trauma brought up in the show was also something I felt refreshing, and was a nice touch, although I felt like could have been elaborated on a touch more.
Jo Insung and Kyungsoo's relationship was also beautifully done. Jo Insung in general had a very commanding presence throughout the show, and it was because of this, to my surprise, I found myself glued to the show in its early stages.
Lee Kwang Soo's character also always brought a smile to my face (and at times had me sobbing).
Show is ambitious in that it brings to the forefront mental health in a country and climate where it's not always talked about. For that it truly deserves credit, although it didn't fully stick with medical coherence or logical coherence throughout. OTP's chemistry was great, as was Jo Insung's delivery of Jaeyul playing a schizophrenic.
Not the greatest, but worth it for Jo Insung’s performance and OTP–the highlight of the show for me.
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Story: When you walk into a story like this it is really thought provoking, that what this story is to me, the main thing you need to get out of this drama I'm not going to tell because it supposed to be in there. Throughout all of that the story I give a 9.5,defintley thought provoking, and it great to give it a try.
Acting/Cast: The cast in this is really great Jo In Sung is someone who I've seen him in That Winter The Wind Blows and I liked his acting in that, Gong Hyo Jin did a fantastic job too (and she been in Jealousy Incarnate). The supporting cast really got into the role and loved them to death. The cast gets a 9.
Music: I have a funny story about one of the songs in this, I was watching a show called American Housewife and one of the songs in this drama came up and I was like wow. overall I'm a sucker for a drama with great music, and this had great music. With this the music gets a 9.
Rewatch/Overall: For a rewatch value I'm giving it a 9, I rewatch this because I think it one that deserve rewatching. Now overall is a 9.5 I debated a 10 but ended up giving it a 9.5.
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The story line of this drama isn't something you'd usually find common as it touches on mental illnesses and is based around the hospital, I feel like this drama would be catered towards more mature aged people but i'd really encourage teenagers who might be wanting to understand the concept of mental disorders to watch this. Not only does this drama show the harsh realities of mental illnesses but it really teaches you a few things from the perspective of a psychiatrist and the people who have these illnesses. It's okay its love is a really complex story as all characters have a series of problems which they all kind of twist together, and even though in the end they do not fix all these problems completely i think thats what makes the drama so good and realistic.
The story is great in how they piece everything together and every character developed greatly in some way. Although the story is already interesting enough in the first few episodes the plot really starts to pick up and intensify towards the end as the reveal more and more information, I was constantly on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. I remember crying for 3 episodes straight because i felt such impact and shock from the events during the end.
The cast and acting for this drama were perfect, the main characters were portrayed well but i have to give props to Lee Kwangsoo and Jo In-Sung for playing their characters so well and to be able to play a mentally disordered person so effortlessly. Kyungsoo's acting was not seen as much throughout the series but really did make a huge impact on me (the reason for me 3 episode straight crying) I felt the need to just hold him and feel pit on him all the time, i really liked his character best in IOIL.
For music there were NO faults, this OST was probably the best i've heard so far. The songs really enhanced the whole experience of this drama, I've listened to all the songs on the OST including the pure instrument ones and i enjoyed it through out the series.
As for a re-watch value 10/10. I can't really give it any less considering it's my second time already watching this 16 hour drama already! Even if you do re-watch this drama the feelings will still remain to hit you!
BOTTOM LINE, The story is something that will really make you laugh, cry, be mad and think a lot. The cast for this was picked perfectly along with the music choices i really think the director should be given an award. This review didn't give this my feelings towards this drama justice i really recommend you watch this yourself, you won't regret it. 10/10!
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Why?
First, the story is good. It's about how to overcome a disorder and to not give up on life. As a psychology major, I can say that they did not exaggerate the symptoms. The writer also wrote a very good script.
Second, my favorite part and I can't wait to give my standing ovation to all the casts. The actings are world class! Both the lead couples show a great chemistry and how I love the Bromance in this kdrama. They really nailed it.
Third, Music? They have the best OST in 2014! I like all the songs, I have them on my playlist and I listen to them everyday. I should say they have the best soundtracks ever!!
Lastly, I guess I have a confession to make: I have watched this drama twice now. In just a month. You read it right, a month and I watched it twice, without skipping a single episode in my second times.
And I will still rewatch and rewatch and rewatch it.
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This review may contain spoilers
Embracing the darkness to appreciate the light (TW before watching)
First and foremost, I would advise those who watch this series to make sure you know it does cover some VERY violent topics and mental health concerns. Even with knowing this myself, I had to take a few breaks due to feeling overwhelmed since it really shows some raw emotions and encapsulates the journey many must take when facing their pasts.I normally go into series that portray characters with labeled mental health issues with an expectation that they may not represent them correctly or even create new ones that have no real science to back it up. Watching this series I was taken back by how seamlessly they constructed the storyline, it did a good job of balancing the romance with real life scenarios and mental health issues. They didn't make the issues into a gimmicks to progress the story forward but truly delved into what it means to have these diagnosis but also showed how they are not death sentences. That they could not be easily solved with the power of love but showed that with some you must choose to place your mental health first on a daily basis and learn to love yourself, flaws and all, before taking the step to love others.
I don't want to spoil this series all too much since I loved how they slowly peeled away the layers of the characters, leading the viewer to really fall in love with each character before learning about the scars and painful pasts they each have. I will say if you are anything like me, you will be crying on and off watching it.
One thing I really want to highlight is that this series is one of the most complex love stories I have ever watched. So if you aren't afraid to have your heart break a few times before having it cobbled back together stronger in the end, then definitely give this series a chance.
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The family storylines are also highlighted to show how these relationships have affected our OTP and the redemptive quality of both these families journeys is heartwarming and rewarding to observe.
The cast is very well picked. I enjoyed the vibe between Hye Soo, Jae Yeol and their housemates, it was a truly unconditionally supportive environment, and their interactions were great to watch as they also provided some comic relief to a sometimes angsty storyline.
I especially enjoyed Jo In Sung's performance from start to finish, he embodied Jang Jae Yeol and his portrayal of him was at times vulnerable, other times poignant and always courageous and believable. I always understood his struggles, his every action added a rich layer to his character, his brave battle with his life's journey culminated to present us with a fully developed, vulnerable yet strong and hopeful man who is aware of his flaws and is conscious of how hard he has to work to maintain his happiness. Bravo to Jo In Sung
Gong Hyo Jin was competent as usual but I found Hae Soo to be an irritating character on more than one occasion, she has selfish tendencies and even though she is a caring individual, her relationship with her mother was very telling in showing her selfishness, especially when we're presented with the full story. It appears she really had no reason to condemn her mother's affair since at one point she advocated for it for her own selfish reasons. Even in her relationship with Jae Yeol there are times when she should have put his mental well being before anything else, but she shows too much concern about how certain things will affect her; for example when she goes to visit him while he's still recovering, and again when she's unwilling to leave for her sabbatical, not realising that he probably needs time to adjust to his new situation and look after himself by himself for a while.
Despite all this their relationship was beautiful to watch.
Jae Yeol's mother and brother were also very well acted and presented, this family's struggle felt so real and poignant, I was desperately sorry for them and cheered them on as they worked through their problems.
The music was spot on, I loved the soundtrack, every song was present but never in the way, music for me is a 10.
I'm not one for rewatching shows, so usually I give low rewatch values. I give this one a 5
Overall I give this show an 8. A very solid offering, well worth your time.
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A masterpiece that could have used a better start
First off, disregard any prior predictions or judgements about the nature of this drama, because you’re gonna be wrong. Coming into this, I was expecting a sweet romance between an author and a psychiatrist. Sure, originally that’s exactly what it was, but the last few episodes of this drama took me completely by surprise in the best way possible. I cried buckets of tears and felt so much pain for the characters, especially our male lead. The topics that this drama discusses are so rarely pictured in film, especially Korean, and I really appreciate that a drama can discuss mental health in such an eye opening and heartwarming way. This drama has really taught me that love, not only the love between the leads, can help us overcome our fears and mental obstacles. Watching this drama was a truly beautiful experience. While I would have loved to give this drama a higher rating, I have to admit that my strong feelings for this drama only really appeared after episode 10. Prior to the climax of the drama, I was quite bored and annoyed by the story. It felt like nothing much had happened at all, and the romance between the leads kind of appeared out of nowhere. Despite the drama acknowledging that Hye Soo is a selfish person, I still hated the way she treated the male lead most of the time. It felt like he was constantly tiptoeing around her trying not to make her mad, and I couldn’t really get into that type of relationship dynamic. In contrast to how she was acting, ML’s declarations of love had me questioning if he and I were looking at two different people, because I would have been done with her shit a long time ago. Despite all this, she definitely redeemed herself as a character in the last half of the drama, but I felt it was worth a mention anyway. If you rewatch the drama, you can really pick up on the hints that the show was giving the viewers about what will happen in the later episodes, especially the visit to Hye Soo’s friend’s sick wife. I can still remember the discussions that the characters had about the beauty of love despite a person’s mental illnesses that might make it difficult for their partner. Overall, if you disregard the slow beginning and the infuriating leads in the first half, this drama is truly a gem that I would recommend to anyone.Was this review helpful to you?
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Humanity In All It's Flaws
This drama perfectly displays how messy love and life can be. It deals with so many things like mental illnesses, familial abuse, and ptsd among other issues.This definitely isn't a drama that depicts an unreal perfection between the characters. They fight, and can be nasty to each other, but at the end of they day, they were all there for each other. That's really the beauty of this series. Too often we get first or secondary characters that don't seem to contribute to the plot, but this does not fall victim to that in the least bit. Each and every person was integral to the storyline and were important in another persons own journey.
They did a decent job at portraying different mental illnesses and conditions. Some seemed to be a little downplayed, but everyone's different so I didn't think too much on it. The acting was quite spot on, and I liked the gradual romance and relationships throughout. This drama is full of character development which is lovely. There were times I got frustrated at the way a few characters were acting, but it ultimately made them more relatable. They really stress the importance of communication and a persons love language in here. Every message within was presented wonderfully. The OST is very lovely, and fits the drama really well.
TW for familial abuse (there's a lot of scenes where a Jang Jae Yeol is beaten aggressively).
All in all, a really good and in depth drama. I would recommend if you're looking for something with head-on content and romance.
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Must Watch
A very well made drama and worth watching. The chemistry between Jo In Sung and Gong Hyo Jin is natural, beautiful and captivating. I was drawn to the entire drama from it's first episode to the last with it's intelligent script and mature content. Everyone copes with their own psychological fears and insecurities in their own way. I was very drawn to the characters love, commitment and intensity to cope and overcome their challenges. The casting is good and all characters had a good share of expressing their roles. Enjoyed the drama so much.Was this review helpful to you?
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