Chemistry Isn’t Enough to Save a Messy Story, But It Sure Makes It Worth Watching
“Backstreet Rookie” is a drama that’s easy to enjoy. The main leads’ natural chemistry and charming performances are the real highlights. The show gives off a fun and easygoing vibe with the mix of romantic and cheesy moments, especially those flower themes and playful teasing. Supporting actors, like Daehyun’s parents, add a lot of humor and heart. Saet Byul’s journey stands out too as her life with lots of struggles feel emotionally real and are easily the part of the drama for me.
But there are quite a few flaws in the drama which is impossible to ignore. The handling of sensitive topics, like Dalshik’s culture, even if it’s meant for comedy, does comes off as racist. Furthermore, the plot often feels messy, especially after a slow start which loses focus as it goes on. Characters like Yeon Joo are underdeveloped, and there’s just too much going on without enough story. The drama would’ve been much better from either more episodes to develop the characters or fewer episodes to cut the extra scenes. And let’s not forget the cop-out kiss scene. Sometimes, we just want the leads to go for it.
Overall, Backstreet Rookie is a mixed bag. Strong chemistry and storyline kept me hooked, but messy writing and some questionable choices hold it back.
But there are quite a few flaws in the drama which is impossible to ignore. The handling of sensitive topics, like Dalshik’s culture, even if it’s meant for comedy, does comes off as racist. Furthermore, the plot often feels messy, especially after a slow start which loses focus as it goes on. Characters like Yeon Joo are underdeveloped, and there’s just too much going on without enough story. The drama would’ve been much better from either more episodes to develop the characters or fewer episodes to cut the extra scenes. And let’s not forget the cop-out kiss scene. Sometimes, we just want the leads to go for it.
Overall, Backstreet Rookie is a mixed bag. Strong chemistry and storyline kept me hooked, but messy writing and some questionable choices hold it back.
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