yannie_alienates

This was one of the first Korean movies I ever watched, and it introduced me to the world of Hallyu (alongside the Wonder Girls). My sister and I are convinced that T-ARA’s "Roly Poly" MV was inspired by this film. Sunny holds a special place in my heart because movies like this just aren’t made anymore—genuine stories about female friendship without hidden agendas, love triangles, or superficiality. Kang Sora truly deserved all the awards she received for her performance, but I’m equally happy to see the younger cast thriving in their acting careers and personal lives. Some have become talented musicians, loving mothers, and continue to excel in their craft. This movie will always mean so much to me. The 80s were my mother’s teenage years, and it’s bittersweet to think that she can never go back to that time. Friendships like the ones portrayed in Sunny are hard to find these days, especially the kind where people spent time together in and out of school. From the soundtrack to the characters, Sunny will always be a 10/10 for me—perfectly cast, brilliantly acted, and beautifully executed.

Side note: I have to say, if Sunny ever gets a Hollywood adaptation, I’m not here for it. Don’t get me wrong, Hollywood has its strengths, but it hasn’t been at its best lately. Some countries just have a way of mastering certain genres, and I don’t think Hollywood would capture the delicate balance of friendship against a harsh backdrop quite as well. I’m also concerned they might water down the characters or change them into something they’re not. Maybe Hollywood could surprise me, but... I doubt it.

Okay okay. I’m almost done adding the eng subs. I worked on it about two days ago. All I can say is that I understand why it’s a long and hard process for others now. I’m almost done with the last part.

For some reason, I can’t let go of this yet. I find myself comparing it to the drama 'Kleun Cheewit,' which is a fan favorite, but I had to drop that one because the romance didn’t resonate with me. The female lead was almost a doormat, though in a different way. Both characters fail to stand up for themselves, allowing others to mistreat them, which is incredibly frustrating—like wanting to punch a wall. At least the male lead here doesn’t hate her. While 'Kleun Cheewit' had its issues, I do have some favorites in that realm, so I understand your feelings. Only time will tell if I’ll stop watching 'Love All Play' as well.

I understand. No problem at all.

I think she meant first love in a tongue in cheek or analogous way. If you see in early episodes how FL acted toward another team mate calling her her partner, you get the drift.

There’s a break up in episode 12 up to 15. No love triangle between main leads at all. But things are complicated for the beta pair when an old love comes back. Not really a spoiler given the build up early on.

I could be more understanding of ML’s parents and sister but the favoritism and victim blaming is a bit much. The FL was sorry and she went into retirement, so…I’m not sure what the big deal is. It’s not like ML’s sister died and she got to do some soul searching. ??? So, yeah. No one can convince me otherwise.

I believe the release timing plays a significant role in the reception of this drama, as there seems to be a preference for more contemporary works aimed at non-Korean viewers. The storyline and execution are quite dark, and many characters (aside from the main lead) are polarizing and often unlikable. If this had been a modern drama or a film released now by a critically acclaimed director, I think it would have received a better rating. Additionally, I feel that the bromance aspect could have been more developed, which should be a focus in any potential remake.

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She looks like a mix between singer Lee Hi and actress Kang Sora.

Thank you.

What I took away from the movie is that Hong Na Ra's family never actually thought poorly of No Jung Yeol’s family. The class differences created a divide, driven mostly by insecurities. I liked Na Ra’s mother because she genuinely wanted the best for both of them. Even Na Ra’s father was affected by the divorce, likely putting up a front, as we saw in the “remind the couple why they hate each other” ceremony. Jung Yeol and his family, however, were so wrapped up in negativity and pride that they never gave Na Ra and her family a fair chance. It felt like Na Ra's family had to win the approval of Jung Yeol's parents. Yet, in a twist, both families had secretly conspired to bring the couple back together, knowing they still loved each other.

It was clear from the start that Na Ra didn’t really want the divorce, but Jung Yeol's insecurities held him back, even though he had passed the Bar Exam and was a successful lawyer. I also saw potential for a side plot where he could start his own law firm, possibly helping the older man (janitor) who was acting as his boss unsuccessfully (the whole ruse spoiled from the jump), since Jung Yeol seemed unhappy at his current job. This story would have made a great TV series, especially considering the obvious second lead roles.

Overall, I genuinely enjoyed the movie, but I wish they had expanded on the friendship between the two mothers, as they both clearly cared for each other's children. I’d rate it 8/10—I just needed more!

This movie might not be for everyone, but I found the protagonist funny and endearing. The moment that stays with me is when her dad drives her home and apologizes for disowning her after she lost a big match when she was younger—a loss that happened because she was protecting him from harm due to his debt. It reminded me of when my mother apologized to me. Why is it that parents often become the kind of parent we needed when we were younger, only when we’re older? I also appreciated how her friendship with the male character remained just that—friendship.

Don't be a bystander. Be strong for those who can't. Actions speak louder than words, and your defeats can become victories. Both the protagonist and the father struggle to express their emotions and show love openly. Their pride often leads them to convey their love and support through their roles and actions, rather than words.

I wish we could have seen them get back at the deceased martial arts officer’s killers. That scene made me cry. Another scene that made me cry is when the protagonist saves the little girl too. Aw. That scene got me too.

No 😔 not yet.

I want to clarify that we won't know about the confirmed international release date or where to stream the show until someone confirms it here. Since it's quiet and no one has heard anything new, I'm assuming there won't be any news for a while. However, I have seen a few clips on TikTok, including part of the pilot without subtitles. It looks promising.

You’re right. I can definitely see that. Great catch.

To be honest, I’m more than okay with a romantic subplot, but given how things seemed to be going, I was gonna accept the fact that there possibly wouldn’t be one.

Agreed.

Thank you! 😊