K-Drama 
Not a romance
I am disappointed with Against the Current because I went into it expecting a romance, but instead I feel like I was given a bait and switch.
This is primarily a story about women overcoming her circumstances, fighting for independence, finding their place in society, to decide their own future. There is absolutely nothing wrong with telling that story. My problem is: call it what it is.
For me, a romance requires two people emotionally moving toward one another. There can be conflict, misunderstandings, separation, anger, and obstacles, but underneath all of that I still need to feel mutual longing, attraction, tenderness, or some kind of emotional spark from BOTH sides.
That is what has been missing for me 38 episodes in.
I don’t mind strong female-centered dramas or stories about women’s independence and personal growth. But I do mind when “romance” appears to be used as the drawing card for a drama whose real focus is somewhere else.
Chinese dramas need to stop doing this bait and switch. If the story you want to tell is primarily about female growth, independence, family, politics, or social issues, tell that story proudly. But don’t lead romance viewers into a long drama expecting a strong central love story when that isn’t what you’re actually giving them.
For me, this may be a good female growth drama, but it has not been a satisfying romance.
This is primarily a story about women overcoming her circumstances, fighting for independence, finding their place in society, to decide their own future. There is absolutely nothing wrong with telling that story. My problem is: call it what it is.
For me, a romance requires two people emotionally moving toward one another. There can be conflict, misunderstandings, separation, anger, and obstacles, but underneath all of that I still need to feel mutual longing, attraction, tenderness, or some kind of emotional spark from BOTH sides.
That is what has been missing for me 38 episodes in.
I don’t mind strong female-centered dramas or stories about women’s independence and personal growth. But I do mind when “romance” appears to be used as the drawing card for a drama whose real focus is somewhere else.
Chinese dramas need to stop doing this bait and switch. If the story you want to tell is primarily about female growth, independence, family, politics, or social issues, tell that story proudly. But don’t lead romance viewers into a long drama expecting a strong central love story when that isn’t what you’re actually giving them.
For me, this may be a good female growth drama, but it has not been a satisfying romance.
Was this review helpful to you?
