I've seen people on the internet say that this drama is over-hyped, and that they dropped it after a few episodes. Honestly, I had no idea it had hype before I watched it and I had a completely opposite experience. I know we all experience things differently, so I find myself fortunate to have had such a positive experience from watching this drama.
I have watched a lot of anime and a lot of dramas. For a while I considered "You Who Came From the Stars" and "Healer" to be my favorite dramas, but not any more. "It's Okay, That's Love" tops every drama I've seen in every department. Despite falling in love with so many other shows, this is the first show that made me hop onto eBay and purchase the DVD set the day after I finished watching it. Before that I felt anxious and troubled not to have the physical copy in my hands.
Before I watched this show, I was in a light depression. I had just started college and I was feeling depressed about having to complete all the stupid gen eds. I had no motivation and nothing was making me happy, until I saw this. This drama changed me. I am happier every day. I used to begrudge people, but now I love them. I don't care about the gen eds anymore because I feel positive that everything will get better.
Let me get into the actual review!
Story
Perfect. It starts out with a blurry picture of something that went down in the past, but you don't get the full picture until near the end. Many dramas do this, but this drama did it undeniably well. The realizations I had when the whole picture was finally revealed still make me tear up when I think about them. There was never a slow part. This drama had a message and it got that message through quite clearly.
Characters
Fantastic, my favorite part. So much detail was put into these characters. You hate and love parts of them. They feel human and their reactions feel real. I'm so sick of the annoying crap most dramas put their characters through onky to rush the ending unsatisfactorily. These characters weren't mistreated. They all played their part and made an impact on the story.
Cast
Fantastic acting. Sometimes the characters express things that you might miss if you don't look carefully. The actions are subtle, but present and they make the characters feel more human.
Music
This is a big thing for me. The music caught my attention on the first episode. This may seem sad, but this drama introduced me to a lot of English music I didn't even know about. The soundtrack was wonderful and listening to many of the songs immediately brings a smile to my face. A couple make me cry. The music just suits the show so well.
Overall
Watch it. Give it a try. Maybe if you're lucky like me, you'll get an overwhelmingly positive experience. I'm not exaggerating when I say that this drama changed me. It may sound silly, but it's reality and it changed me for the better. I've yet to come across a better drama. I've yet to watch a drama that has impacted me this much. If you don't like it, it's okay. No worries. If you do like it, I'm happy for you. Thanks for reading this review.
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A compelling concept, thought-provoking dilemmas, and an engrossing story.
This is what’s ridiculous; people who are suffering from cancer, or from severed limbs or people who are blind receive sympathy from others in this world but people suffering from mental illness are viewed as outcasts by everyone – as if they are diseased or something.— Dong Min / Sung Dong Il
This series is indeed a compelling drama to watch! I applaud this series for being brave enough to address delicate topics, particularly in the area of mental health. I admire the creators of this show for confronting prejudice and social stigma against persons with mental illnesses. They did an amazing job of breaking the taboo and delivering an eye-opening piece of art.
This show has effectively caught my eye. It provoked my curiosity to perceive what might occur straightaway. It functions admirably with a wide scope of feelings. The sweet, insightful, despairing storyline, nice pacing, and a pitch-amazing outfit layered the film.
The characters have such a realistic portrayal as neither one of them are "perfect." Despite their inside inconveniences and pasts, they are both broken individuals who figure out how to love each other.
Sung Dong-Il may come across as unnecessarily boisterous at times, but he genuinely portrays his scenes brilliantly. There is some optional sentiment in this, but you'll have to decide for yourself. The relationships between the housemates and their companions are at first somewhat befuddling from the get-go, but you either get used to it, or they somehow appear to co-exist. That being said, this show has really touching elements. It has an intangible element that makes the audience feel wonderful and make them grin all the way around. It will drive you into a tizzy of emotions, causing you to cry and laugh at the same moment.
"It's Okay, That's Love" is an excellent heap of adoration and good faith sprinkled with spaces of odd, as I would like to think. It was light, mitigating, and inspiring regardless of its mental topic. An amazing series with a convincing plot, powerful contentions, and extraordinary exhibitions from the group that will make a permanent imprint on the hearts, all things considered. The out-of-the-container idea is the thing that makes this an exceptional gem of a show.
X0X0 <3
---Taemangi
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At first glance, I admit that I thought this drama would be one of those cliché romances between housemates, but as episodes went by, I gradually became aware of how wrong I was. The story was very well written. They approached the subject of mental illness in such a realistic way that I was really impressed. I'll forever have on my mind one of the scenes towards the end in which Soo-Kwang explains to Jae-Yeol how mental illness works, to me it is undoubtedly the best scenes I've ever seen in a drama. Something in which this drama stands out is also that they value the supporting characters and do not forget them from one episode to another, something that is very common in kdramas.
The romance between Hae-Soo and Jae-Yeol is the most wonderful thing that ever happened in my life, though for a while I thought Jae-Yeol didn't really love Hae-Soo, maybe because of the speed with which they ended up becoming a couple. This drama is not about the path to love, but about all the bumps a couple has on their way to happiness. Our two protagnostits have a very complex past that make them the people they are now days, and throughout the drama this part of there lifes is explored in a brilliant way.
I can not forget to mention the supporting characters who also had a great role in making this story wonderful. Soo-Kwang was brilliant, I loved his romance with So-Nyeo, despite the age difference, I found it very cute. Dong-Min, a very important character because without him perhaps the drama had not taken the path it took. I also found his relationship with his co-worker Yeong-Ji very interesting. And in a way each character that appeared in the story contributed to make this drama wonderful.
Cast / Acting: The cast of this drama was brilliantly chosen. The chemistry between Gong Hyo Jin and Jo In Sung crossed the screen, they simply matched. I had never seen any work from either of the two main actors and I'm very curious to see more of their work, because they are very talented. All the supporting cast was also fantastic in their performances, and I have to make an honorable mention to Lee Kwang Soo for his brilliant performance in his character with a somehow very complicated disorder.
The OST is simply the best I've heard in a drama, though most of the songs are in English. "Cross My Mind" continues to play in my head right now as I write this review. The songs combined with the atmosphere of the drama and with the scenes themselves.
In terms of picture, it's a beautiful drama, no doubt, but in terms of technique doesn't stand out from any other drama.
Will I watch this drama again? Yes, no doubt. This drama is to watch and rewatch, to fall madly in love with each character again. It's definitely a must watch for any dramalover out there. I really regret not having watch this pearl before.
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One of the best.
A breath of fresh air. Like a white rose that stands out from a red rose garden. It's Okay, That's Love is a drama that don't need to have a crazy love triangle, amnesia, or 'us-against-all-odds' to be dramatic— but refreshing at the same time. The chemistry is flattering, overwhelming and insane. You would see them bickering at times but you could say that's because some of their personalities really contradicts with each other. But those love scenes? Chef's kiss. Raw. Soulful. The wholeness of their characters is beyond commendable, too. I love how they are not made two-dimensional and flawless. It feels like they are normal and real people with hidden battles.Here are the good and bad points that I pointed out on the drama that I could still remember. Let's start with the bad points:
1. The two leads fight and bicker a lot on the first episodes that you might find it annoying.
2. There are force kissed scenes, which is not a really good thing for me, considering how Jae Yeol knows about the heroine's case.
3. There's a really awkward and weird relationships between the characters.
4. The cinematography could have been better, at least for me.
I think there's more but I forgot about them since it's been months since I finished watching it.
Moving forward to the good points!
1. The character. Not just the heroine, not just the lead— but everyone. The acting is just really spectacular. You could see those raw emotions in their eyes, I especially commend Jo In Sung, D.O and Gong Hyo Jin. I want to drop my favorite scenes were I was really awestruck and carried away by the scene but I want to keep this spoiler free.
2. Their relationship's maturity. I really love how they handled their relationship. Especially that there is no dramatic or over the top break ups that happened.
3. Han Kang Woo and Jang Jae Yeol. Sorry, but I have to mention it again. I cannot just skip it. All their scenes together, especially those last parts. Oh goodness. You can not be not move by it. I was in tears the whole time.
4. The whole concept and plot. I love how they tackled sensitive topics about mental health and illnesses that are not commonly put in dramas. It is not in a way that you will find insulting. They incorporated it well with the things that are happening.
5. The OST! The music is well incorporated with the scene and I guess one of the factors why it has that refreshing vibe. I still listen to the songs on this drama as I am really in love and could connect with them.
Considering that this drama is made years ago, I could say that it greatly stands out— and still stands out— from the other dramas. I would love to see a remake of it with better shots and plot but same actors. It's Okay, That's Love is totally unforgettable. The whole drama is a roller coaster ride, to be honest. You'd laugh and cry at the same time. It's definitely worth watching.
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The best K-Drama of all Time
There is a lot that makes this drama superior to any other. I saw It's okay that's love when it first came out, and I have been rewatching it since, every time loving something new about it and it helping me learn something new about the world or myself. To start, this drama deals with mental illnesses in a "beautiful" manner. Mental illness is neither glorified nor portrayed as an inescapable destiny. Instead, it is confronted as a challenge that one has to slowly but gradually overcome, and is most possible through true love and understanding. It's also unique to see how the main couple had to learn how to understand each other's "illness" and grow to prioritize the feelings of the other. AND THEIR CHEMISTRY!!!! IT'S PERFECT!!! I HAVE NEVER SEEN SUCH A CHARISMATIC COUPLE!The plot starts off really interesting as is, but the story gets more and more interesting as we follow Jae Yeol background and what happened with his brother. The music played matches the story so well, with so many lovely and poignant songs. The scenery is marvelous and the spontaneity of the scenes is wonderful. Overall, the story touches one's heart and heals it, and makes one believe in love again.
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At first I found it really hard to get into this drama and found it really slow. For the first 11 episodes, I kept predicting the plot and found Jang Jae Yeol and Ji Hae Soo's love/chemistry unrelatable. To be honest their relationship annoyed me, JJY seemed really cold and aloof towards JHS, while JHS just seemed angry all the time but also a doormat. However, after episode 11 I was completely hooked and marathoned the last 5 episodes. This is strange for a Kdrama, normally it starts out great but peters out towards the middle and end, but this drama only got better and better. It also provided a few really funny and heartwarming moments.
I started watching this drama mainly because Gong Hyo Jin stars in it and I loved her in Master's Sun but I feel that the chemistry between her and Jo In Sung was a bit awkward and forced especially in the first half of the drama. (I guess we can't blame GHJ if she doesn't have the same chemistry with JIS as she did with So Ji Sub ;) ) Despite this they are both great actors and put on a stunning performance, I even cried a few times towards the end.
The music was great, it really fit the drama well, and I'll definitely be downloading some onto my iPod.
As for rewatch value, I may rewatch the last 3 episodes, but not the whole drama just because it was slow.
I would definitely recommend this drama if you want a heartfelt story and want to cry, or even just to see GHJ and JIS act. However don't be surprised if you find it difficult to get into, but the last half of the drama is worth sticking it out.
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And, Jo In Sung needs to pick up new works quickly, i'm dying of waiting for him to be on drama screen again. Stop hiding your handsome face, it's not fair for us. Gong Hyo Jin already picked two dramas after It's Okay, That's Love.
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Story
This is basically the story of broken people who try to heal each other. The trauma they had in their childhood still have vivid consequences in their adult life. It's not only a romance, it's not only a medical drama, it's both and so much more. The dialogues are so well-written and life-changing (and I don't even exaggerate).
Acting/Cast
The relationships between the characters are perfectly led. Mother-daughter/mother-sons/brothers/lovers/friends/colleagues every relationship is relevant and show the importance of social interaction on the way to overcome a trauma.
Heads down for the whole cast. Gong Hyo Jin & Jo In Sung are incredible but let's not forget the other actors who give a great dimension to their characters. Everyone is endearing and you just want more of them.
Music
Meaningful -- the songs fit the story and you will probably tear up listening to it later.
Rewatch value
I watched this drama in 2014 when it was released and again last month, it never gets old. I liked it even more this time because despite knowing all the plot twists, I still get surprised. I am 6 years older and mental health is much more meaningful today for me than it was back then.
Give it a try !!
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This is not a a romantic comedy nor is a a melancholy series. This was pure genius. It was sweet, beautiful and so good. The writing was amazing. This has to be one of the most heart felt k-drama's. The actors were amazing. They will make you laugh and cry. I loved this series. The real life situations that many experience is truly revealed. Definitely some tear jerking moments. The writers will make you fall in love with the characters. Not the typical perky k-drama but definitely upbeat and heartfelt. No loose ends. Everything came together nicely. There was romance, drama, mystery and a little action. Perfect.
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With a perfect blend of all elements, romance, humor, friendship and melo, the plot undeniably comes as a breath of fresh air to us drama addicts.That could be attributed to the fact the writers had sketched about such realistic characters that not only had their good sides projected, but also their weaknesses and fears, and due to the story's intention to show that its alright to admit that you can be weak since we're human and all of us do need help in order to become strong again. To use the subject of mental illnesses to express this intention is very well appreciated.
PLOT: GETS A 10/10 , for making the drama so intriguing, entertaining and at the same time for trying to create awareness about mental disorders and its prejudices that we have created. Our main characters, Jang Jae Yeol , and Ji Hae Soo have been created as such refreshing and honest characters, who have been able to delve into a comfortable relationship with each other despite telling the other off frankly if they did something that bothered the other and this leading to quite a bit of arguments between the two which are nevertheless enjoyable ( most of the time). It also needs to be mentioned how no supporting character were sidelined to simply showcase the main characters, with each of them having their own stories, achievements and downfalls in their relationships and life.
Acting: Not going to give a special review for the acting since the very ensemble of the cast would give an idea. The actors had done a great job in convincing me throughout that they were not merely playing a role given to them but were indeed living it, especially EXO's D.O, who impressed me right from the start of the show and set the bar so high for idols who want to venture into acting.
Music: A drama cannot be without its OST'S , and the ones for IOTL prove just that. They intensified each and every moment in the scene, making it memorable for the audience. Specially mentioning EXO' s Chen, Davichi , and Punch for their vocals which are powerful, soothing and emotion-driven all at the same time.
Rewatch Value: Since I don't usually re-watch the dramas that I watch once, the score here would be pretty low, this might definitely not be the case for other viewers is what I feel.
Anyhow not necessarily a drama that could please everyone, but surely one that needs to be given a try!
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This review may contain spoilers
Not bad but not good either
It's okay that's lovel 2014 drama is based on mental health issues which depicts mental health illness very realistically but it fails to show the recovery/treatment properly obviously except for the ml's Compare to that everything else seems pretty lackluster.Things i didn't like:
1... The first few episodes were pretty hard to watch and the banter btwn ml\fl appeared forced to me.
2....fl overcome her trauma of 30 years overnight.She didn't sleep with her ex even though they for almost a year but within a week she was able to do that with the ml OUTSIDE?
3.....fl is a psychiatrist but she is taking "insight" from the ml to treat her patients as if she is a quake doctor and ml knows everything frickin sh!t better than the actual psychiatrists.this drama displays most of the female partners always less than\lacking\ not perfect than their male partners.
4.....didnt like the camera work that much as they would zoomed on the face too much. I personally don't like that.
5..... the older brother never asked for forgiveness. Like ml his brother and their mother all need to have an emotional scene, you can't just shove it under the rug and think that there's no conflict left btwn the bros.older brother literally assaulted him in every scenes he needs to apologize and also deserves a apology.
6.... Fl's mother is just shameless and full of audacity. But even though she is unapologetic to her husband and her daughters. I wouldn't complain about it if it was shown that she at least felt bad while cheating on her paralyzed husband.Makes one wonder where the fl got her annoying personality.
7..... The dialogues and bad most for the soo kwang&so nyeo(teenage-adult) couple. Why they show this couple in the first place.it was uncomfortable to watch them together.
8... This cursed drama has 16th episode break up, scene. And it was a rushed ending.
Things liked:
1.. the hospital patients scenes and their realistic presentation.
2. Ml's story line is very solid and well written Even though he was kinda annoying, forceful and toxic but so was the fl but she deserved better storyline. That's why everyone says they didn't like the fl. I honestly couldn't connect to any of the characters and it's really sad i had high expectations from the drama because everyone praises it so much but it's such a shame that i couldn't like it whole heartedly.
3.is there anything else to like?i can't remember.ah. the acting is pretty good liked most of their acting and casting was good.
4.this drama tried to very different and controversial but watching it in 2024 didn't make much of an impact on me as it would if i had watched it in 2014. So i think this drama couldn't transcend Time and obviously a product of it's time.
Nevertheless it was a good watch and learned many things.
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