This review may contain spoilers
A Soothing Slice of Life Drama That Ends as Beautifully as It Begins
The found family trope was executed in the best way possible. A simple storyline backed by heartwarming storytelling, powerful direction, mesmerizing cinematography and performances from both experienced senior actors and refreshing rookies, what could possibly go wrong?? Often dramas start strong but collapse by the end, yet here, things began beautifully and ended on a very satisfying note. The conclusion wasnt rushed nor did it feel forced, it was truly fulfilling. I tried to find flaws but there were almost none.
At its core, the drama explored giving love a second chance in one’s 40s, paralleled with a tender youth romance. Yet, the true highlight was the mother-daughter bond, which became the emotional heart of the story. That connection carried the drama, making it both soothing and deeply healing, enhanced by beautiful scenery and moving storytelling.
Lee Jian, played by Yeom Jung ah, had a backstory similar to her character in The Defects, which aired around the same time. Both were abandoned by their mothers, yet the way their lives shaped them was entirely different. In The Defects, her character became a monster, killing her own children out of insecurity. But here, she transformed into the best possible mother, even to a child who wasnt biologically hers. Yeom Jungah’s range, from portraying a chilling villain in The Defects to a heartwarming mother here, was absolutely insane.
Lee Hyori, played by newcomer Choi Yunji, was a complex character. Initially, she drew dislike due to her anger, frustration and insecurities, which stemmed from battling a life threatening illness alone. Yet, as the story progressed, her growth was remarkable. Her relationship with Jian gradually softened as they spent more time together, learned to understand each other, and visibly matured through that journey.
Male characters such as Jeong Seok and Bohyeon had their own story arcs, explored with depth and care. Their love stories with the leading ladies were beautifully shaped. Other supporting roles were equally heartwarming, whether it was Tae Oh, Dr. Jung or even the villagers, none felt annoying or out of place. In fact, Dr. Jung finding a family in Jian, Hyori and Sunyang was touching to watch.
Even the third angles, often frustrating in dramas were handled gracefully. When they realized they werent meant to be, they backed out without creating unnecessary drama, whether it was Bohyeon’s best friend or his mother. Bohyeon’s best friend, who had feelings for him, showed wonderful growth by eventually becoming close to Hyori and Suk after letting go of her unrequited love. That kind of maturity was refreshing.
The romance between both couples, the elder and the younger was delightful. Ironically, the younger couple came across as more mature, while the elder couple’s playful childishness made their moments fun to watch. I also liked how the drama and its characters didnt sensationalize the relationships between Hyori-Bohyeon and Jian-Jeong Seok, despite the layered connections of them being children of the other couple (though not biologically related).
Overall, Love, Take Two was a gentle, heartwarming and healing slice of life drama that left me thoroughly satisfied from beginning to end.
At its core, the drama explored giving love a second chance in one’s 40s, paralleled with a tender youth romance. Yet, the true highlight was the mother-daughter bond, which became the emotional heart of the story. That connection carried the drama, making it both soothing and deeply healing, enhanced by beautiful scenery and moving storytelling.
Lee Jian, played by Yeom Jung ah, had a backstory similar to her character in The Defects, which aired around the same time. Both were abandoned by their mothers, yet the way their lives shaped them was entirely different. In The Defects, her character became a monster, killing her own children out of insecurity. But here, she transformed into the best possible mother, even to a child who wasnt biologically hers. Yeom Jungah’s range, from portraying a chilling villain in The Defects to a heartwarming mother here, was absolutely insane.
Lee Hyori, played by newcomer Choi Yunji, was a complex character. Initially, she drew dislike due to her anger, frustration and insecurities, which stemmed from battling a life threatening illness alone. Yet, as the story progressed, her growth was remarkable. Her relationship with Jian gradually softened as they spent more time together, learned to understand each other, and visibly matured through that journey.
Male characters such as Jeong Seok and Bohyeon had their own story arcs, explored with depth and care. Their love stories with the leading ladies were beautifully shaped. Other supporting roles were equally heartwarming, whether it was Tae Oh, Dr. Jung or even the villagers, none felt annoying or out of place. In fact, Dr. Jung finding a family in Jian, Hyori and Sunyang was touching to watch.
Even the third angles, often frustrating in dramas were handled gracefully. When they realized they werent meant to be, they backed out without creating unnecessary drama, whether it was Bohyeon’s best friend or his mother. Bohyeon’s best friend, who had feelings for him, showed wonderful growth by eventually becoming close to Hyori and Suk after letting go of her unrequited love. That kind of maturity was refreshing.
The romance between both couples, the elder and the younger was delightful. Ironically, the younger couple came across as more mature, while the elder couple’s playful childishness made their moments fun to watch. I also liked how the drama and its characters didnt sensationalize the relationships between Hyori-Bohyeon and Jian-Jeong Seok, despite the layered connections of them being children of the other couple (though not biologically related).
Overall, Love, Take Two was a gentle, heartwarming and healing slice of life drama that left me thoroughly satisfied from beginning to end.
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