EVERDREAM

The series shows their daily struggles—handling pressure from sports, dealing with family expectations, and figuring out their own dreams. The storytelling feels simple and quiet, but it hits deeply because everything is grounded in real emotions instead of dramatic twists.

One of the strongest parts of the series is how it portrays autism. Gym’s character is written and acted with respect, care, and accuracy. The show doesn’t treat his condition as something to pity. Instead, it shows how he sees the world, what overwhelms him, and what helps him feel safe. This makes the representation feel very human and honest. The acting from both leads is powerful: Gym’s performance feels natural and detailed, while Dong shows the heavy emotional responsibility of being both a brother and a caretaker. Their relationship feels raw, loving, frustrating, and real—like watching an actual pair of siblings trying to grow together.

The sports element adds more depth instead of being just decoration. The badminton scenes are exciting, but more important is what the sport symbolizes: trust, teamwork, and learning to handle pressure. Even if you know nothing about badminton, you can feel what each match means to the characters. The pacing is slow but intentional, giving space for emotions to breathe and for viewers to connect with the characters’ struggles. In the end, “Side by Side” stands out because it focuses on emotional truth. It’s a gentle but powerful story about family, acceptance, and the fear of losing the person you rely on the most. It leaves you both warm and thoughtful long after it ends.