K-Drama This review may contain spoilers
I watched in one sitting into the wee hours of the night
I am so taken by this limited series. The storytelling *chef's kiss, no notes*, characters that fit well together, most times likeable as to make me root for them and celebrate the wins, and at times wanting to tear my hair out for their mistakes and/or selfishness.
The core message of the series asks the viewer to consider the mess, and the mess is an archetypal theme EVERYWHERE in the show. It's in the moral grey zone of the characters. Their choices, and highly imperfect actions and ensuing consequences. The "mess" is seen in innovation, unchecked techno-modernization, the consequences wealth can have on a person's emotional maturity and their relationships when endless resources means never having to apologize or compromise.
"Burnout Syndrome" puts into stark relief the absolute bonkers symbiotic relationship the arts has with capitalism, and the macabre abomination that happens when that symbiotic relationship is "messed" with without a moratorium on its impact. The "mess" is seen literally in Koh's nearly hoarder-like apartment, and even in Jira's painting style, and also in Peem's rage room moments.
The show asserts life is messy, but that is a HUMAN aspect and it is albeit not always fun, but regardless, provides us all with enrichment in our lives.
Of all the ways we can spotlight technology vs humanity in our current era of storytelling, "Burnout Syndrome" does it surprisingly in a humbly analog, but fantastically effective way. 10/10 best thing I've seen on streaming in months!
The core message of the series asks the viewer to consider the mess, and the mess is an archetypal theme EVERYWHERE in the show. It's in the moral grey zone of the characters. Their choices, and highly imperfect actions and ensuing consequences. The "mess" is seen in innovation, unchecked techno-modernization, the consequences wealth can have on a person's emotional maturity and their relationships when endless resources means never having to apologize or compromise.
"Burnout Syndrome" puts into stark relief the absolute bonkers symbiotic relationship the arts has with capitalism, and the macabre abomination that happens when that symbiotic relationship is "messed" with without a moratorium on its impact. The "mess" is seen literally in Koh's nearly hoarder-like apartment, and even in Jira's painting style, and also in Peem's rage room moments.
The show asserts life is messy, but that is a HUMAN aspect and it is albeit not always fun, but regardless, provides us all with enrichment in our lives.
Of all the ways we can spotlight technology vs humanity in our current era of storytelling, "Burnout Syndrome" does it surprisingly in a humbly analog, but fantastically effective way. 10/10 best thing I've seen on streaming in months!
Was this review helpful to you?

