TOHBADDI

This drama encapsulates life in a way that is so attentive and personal that it almost fills you with dread from the introspection you're forced to engage in. It is a beautiful and very necessary ode to women at all levels of society. This drama embodies and even breathes new energy into the slice-of-life genre by intricately weaving through the life of a small-town couple in a way that seems straightforward, almost aimless, but is, in fact, very precise.

The acting is phenomenal, as expected from such a cast. I'm pleasantly surprised that I'm not jarred by the use of IU for both mother and daughter; her clear distinction makes for an enjoyable and even technically impressive viewing experience. Park Bo Gum excels as usual, showing a side I've not seen before. The acting is really the driving force for the tsunami of emotions this project explodes with.

The writing is so worthy of praise and mention, especially contrasted with the current drama landscape. I can only describe it as beautiful and incredibly penetrating. To be so true to life's nuances without convolution or rudimentary language is a feat. There are so many aspects of life so accurately depicted and given life through words that it's almost unsettling, yet ultimately moving. A standout drama through and through.