Typically, I watch dramas like this for the main characters' dynamics. However, despite any appealing side stories, they tend to become excessively tedious over time. While I used to push through such moments 5-10 years ago, now I find myself fast-forwarding through them. Yet, in this drama, the standout feature is the superior casting and the chemistry among the actors, which surpasses the shortcomings of the script. The lead actors excel in their roles, making the series compelling to watch. Kim Ji-Won shines in aggressive, affluent, and glamorous characters, while Kim Soo Hyun effortlessly embodies humble and emotive roles.
One downside of the series is the character portrayed by Park Sung-hoon, whose portrayal was so off-putting that I felt the urge to punch the screen in every scene. Such one-dimensional characters, written solely to provoke viewer frustration, fail to engage me and come across as a version of "rage bait" tailored for tv dramas.
Nevertheless, despite its flaws, I found Queen of Tears enjoyable, evoking a reminiscent feel of dramas from 2015.
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This review may contain spoilers
Review: When The Phone Rings (2024-2025)
When The Phone Rings is a South Korean drama that aired between 2024 and 2025. The series blends elements of romance, suspense, and psychological drama, drawing viewers in with its intense storyline and complex character dynamics. The plot follows a young woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous situation after being kidnapped, leading to unexpected emotional conflicts and dramatic twists.The first two episodes of the series are truly engaging. Many viewers who enjoy this type of show will likely continue watching after the initial episodes. The presence of two villains and the fact that the main character hates the kidnapper even more than the girl does add an intriguing dynamic to the story. However, as the episodes progress, the narrative takes a turn that significantly weakens its impact. It is revealed that the so-called villain was never truly bad and had loved the girl from the beginning. This revelation immediately made the series less compelling for me.
No matter how strong the early episodes are, the later ones fail to maintain the same quality. The idea that a couple could spend three years completely misunderstanding each other feels unrealistic and frustrating. The overused theme of "it was all just a big misunderstanding, and we actually loved each other all along" makes the story feel overly simplistic and even a bit insulting to the audience’s intelligence. A similar theme appeared in Queen of Tears, where the couple initially disliked each other, but that story was written in a much more clever and engaging way.
Overall, When The Phone Rings starts off as a promising drama with an exciting premise, but its later episodes fail to deliver a satisfying conclusion.
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One thing that made me uncomfortable was how the series portrayed child romance, which felt inappropriate and disturbing. This aspect detracted from the overall viewing experience and raised ethical concerns, which might not sit well with many viewers.
However, it's important to remember that everyone's perspective is subjective, and the series may resonate differently with others. While it didn't meet my expectations, "Family: The Unbreakable Bond" might have unique elements that appeal to a different audience.
In conclusion, my initial excitement for the series was not met due to deviations from my expectations and the uncomfortable portrayal of child romance. However, I understand that opinions on TV series can vary, and the show might have redeeming qualities that I haven't explored further. Ultimately, it's up to individual viewers to decide if the series aligns with their preferences and values.
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