The South Korean web series Where Your Eyes Linger (너의시선이머무는곳에) is seen as a sort of test run for possible future, full-length productions. And it is a solid, positive start.
The 2018-2019 Olive drama series Dear My Room (Eunjoo’s Room/은주의 방) is a bright, hopeful slice-of-life series that tells the story of young, everyday people working to find themselves and their path in life.
It’s been a few years since I first watched Studio Ghibli’s Arietty (借りぐらしのアリエッティ/The Secret World of Arietty) directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi. I remember enjoying the familiar story presented in a different, but familiar way. That is, Japanese animation. And watching it for the first time since then, I find myself appreciating it even more.
The 2019 MBC drama series Extraordinary You (어쩌다 발견한 하루) is a fun, romantic slice of life adventure with a twist. Poking fun at some Korean romcom tropes, the series gives new flavor to familiar themes with the help of an irresistible cast and the perfect amount of magic and fantasy.
When Marnie Was There (思い出のマーニー) is a moving film about understanding your own identity and the power of love and family. Presented with the stunning animation one comes to expect from Studio Ghibli, the film lends itself to being open to one’s interpretation and understanding while also on its face being a fully realized mystical journey.
The 2019 OCN drama Watcher (왓쳐) is an excellent character-driven crime thriller. The series takes what would otherwise be a tried and true premise toward a fascinating and refreshing new direction powered by tight writing and an excellent cast.
Studio Ghibli’s 2002 film The Cat Returns (猫の恩返し) is a hilarious, quirky and whimsical adventure that stands on its own while also being an extra treat for anyone who has enjoyed the 1995 film Whisper of the Heart.
Isao Takahata creates a timeless masterpiece with The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (かぐや姫の物語). It is a stunning adaptation of one of Japan’s oldest folk tales (The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter) and it is lovingly brought to life in a memorable and profound cinematic experience.
Many times, the year’s best drama series isn’t the most shocking, most controversial, most polarizing, most groundbreaking show to air. Daesang (Grand Prize) recipient and multi-awarded KBS drama When the Camellia Blooms (동백꽃 필 무렵) is proof that the best drama can be simply one where every single aspect comes together for one complete package that reaches and touches viewers hearts and minds.
Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata has delivered some stunning stories over the years. But My Neighbors the Yamadas (ホーホケキョとなりの山田くん) is a beautiful, heartfelt film that includes the hallmarks and sensibilities he would show in his other works while presenting a unique and experimental visual style that makes it even more special.