lisavo

Convoluted Time-Traveling

A Time Called You splits between several timelines in the past and future. I was most interested in what was happening in the 1998 timeline. It felt very slice-of-life school drama which I'm a huge fan of. The dynamics between Min Ju, Si Heon, and In Gyu were enough to hook me. I thought the three of them had good chemistry together.

When Jun Hee comes into the picture, things become too complicated. The show starts out confusing and doesn't become less confusing. It doesn't explain a lot of things such as time travel and scientific mechanics with the chosen device (a cassette tape). Every episode leaves the viewer guessing. I haven't seen the original show, so I presume things are explained more in-depth in the C-drama. My review is only based on the Korean version.

I was very invested in the plot and relationships at the start. As the show went on, I found myself feeling more confused and frustrated with the events. I didn't care for the main couple. I never saw why Si Heon and Jun Hee were destined to be soulmates. They were just fated to be together somehow, and their connection didn't feel that natural as a result. I can appreciate the sentiment of soulmates reconnecting, but their relationship was quite ordinary. I didn't see anything special about it, and this made it hard to root for them.

Min Ju's storyline was portrayed realistically and accurately. Out of all the characters, I cared about Min Ju the most. I could understand everything she struggled with. Being overlooked everywhere and constantly feeling empty. It's all very difficult. I'm glad she got a happy ending. Although, it felt rushed. She grew really fast, while her internal conflict is ongoing. I don't see how she would end up with In Gyu when for the entirety of the show, her feelings for him were never romantic. I would've liked to know more about In Gyu since his background was not explored much.

There are a few inconsistencies with the characters' feelings. Min Ju and In Gyu's relationship was not developed that much, for instance. Therefore, it just seems like she accepted his love because of convenience, not realization. Being the second couple, I would've preferred if they got more development. Si Heon initially did not return Min Ju's feelings but then he does. He claims he felt that way all along, but if he did, what made him fall for Jung Hee? Because she's more outgoing, confident, popular...? It seems a little shallow. The main pairings' personalities in this show were too similar for me to get behind and be intrigued by, and also their romances are not deep.

Excellent cast and OST. I know Jeon Yeo-been from Be Melo. She's fantastic as a lead role. The songs were well-suited for each scene. There were many areas that could've been improved in the actual story.

Read More