This review may contain spoilers
bad plot & censorship
Dont bother to watch this drama cuz its a bad drama ever. In the last few episodes, eventho they change the countries name, we can clearly know whom they referred to. Bad producer bad director. Dont waste your time. Leave! From river to sea, 🇵🇸
Another major letdown is how the show handled (or rather, avoided) its political undertones. The manhwa was bold and unafraid to address difficult issues, including international conflicts and the socio-political context surrounding them. In particular, the omission of the storyline that subtly referenced the Palestine issue felt like an act of deliberate censorship. The manhwa used its narrative to shed light on injustices and provoke critical thought, but the drama chose to play it safe, completely erasing these elements. This sanitization not only diminishes the story's impact but also raises concerns about the show's unwillingness to tackle real-world issues, opting instead for a bland, apolitical approach.
The censorship was not limited to political issues; even the themes of violence, corruption, and power dynamics, which were central to the manhwa's narrative, were significantly toned down. By doing so, the show lost the raw, gritty appeal that had drawn readers to the manhwa in the first place. This decision not only alienates fans but also undermines the story's ability to resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
Production-wise, the drama had its moments, with strong performances from a few cast members and visually stunning cinematography. However, these positives were not enough to salvage the overall experience. The pacing was uneven, with slow, uneventful episodes dragging on while crucial plot points were rushed and poorly developed. The soundtrack, while decent, lacked the emotional impact needed to enhance key moments.
Ultimately, When the Phone Rings feels like a missed opportunity. By straying so far from the manhwa and censoring important elements, the show alienated its core audience and failed to make a lasting impression. It's a shame to see such potential wasted, especially when the source material offered so much depth and intrigue. For fans of the manhwa, this adaptation is nothing short of a disappointment. For others, it might serve as a generic drama, but it lacks the substance and boldness that could have made it truly remarkable.
Another major letdown is how the show handled (or rather, avoided) its political undertones. The manhwa was bold and unafraid to address difficult issues, including international conflicts and the socio-political context surrounding them. In particular, the omission of the storyline that subtly referenced the Palestine issue felt like an act of deliberate censorship. The manhwa used its narrative to shed light on injustices and provoke critical thought, but the drama chose to play it safe, completely erasing these elements. This sanitization not only diminishes the story's impact but also raises concerns about the show's unwillingness to tackle real-world issues, opting instead for a bland, apolitical approach.
The censorship was not limited to political issues; even the themes of violence, corruption, and power dynamics, which were central to the manhwa's narrative, were significantly toned down. By doing so, the show lost the raw, gritty appeal that had drawn readers to the manhwa in the first place. This decision not only alienates fans but also undermines the story's ability to resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
Production-wise, the drama had its moments, with strong performances from a few cast members and visually stunning cinematography. However, these positives were not enough to salvage the overall experience. The pacing was uneven, with slow, uneventful episodes dragging on while crucial plot points were rushed and poorly developed. The soundtrack, while decent, lacked the emotional impact needed to enhance key moments.
Ultimately, When the Phone Rings feels like a missed opportunity. By straying so far from the manhwa and censoring important elements, the show alienated its core audience and failed to make a lasting impression. It's a shame to see such potential wasted, especially when the source material offered so much depth and intrigue. For fans of the manhwa, this adaptation is nothing short of a disappointment. For others, it might serve as a generic drama, but it lacks the substance and boldness that could have made it truly remarkable.
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