DryedMangoez reviews of television series, films and music.
Record of Youth is a relatable, character-driven slice of life drama. Quite unexpected for me as I went into the series. But very much welcome as I was quickly drawn into the realistic and grounded depiction of families and friends navigating all too-familiar twists and turns in life set amidst a backdrop of an otherwise unfamiliar showbiz world.
I don’t think I’ve ever come across a series as charming, loveable and exciting as the 2018 MBC drama series My Secret Terrius (내 뒤에 테리우스/Terius Behind Me). The series achieves the almost impossible feat of having the perfect balance of exciting spy action, hilarious comedy and sweet romance.
When going into science-fiction or fantasy series, a certain level of suspension of disbelief is recommended. Actually, the same can be said for any Korean drama. Sometimes, a “just go with it” attitude is necessary in order to fully enjoy a series. For the 2020 SBS drama Alice (앨리스), however, no amount of disbelief suspension can explain away perhaps the most unnecessarily convoluted and directionless time travel series I’ve ever seen.
Kill It (킬잇) is a compelling example of a series that requires an upfront investment that will lead to a surprisingly emotional and satisfying conclusion. The 2019 OCN drama series starring Jang Ki Yong and Nana starts off with some intrigue before settling into a sort of oddly flat succession of disjointed stories. But that aforementioned investment and being able to stick with the series through to its almost abruptly exhilarating final minutes results in what ends up being a rewarding television experience.
The 2017 film A Stray Goat (눈발) is a fascinating, melancholic and timely film. Dealing with some of the harsh realities of today’s society, the film offers up a pensive slice of life in a real and blunt way.
On the surface, the 2019 KBS drama Angel’s Last Mission: Love (단, 하나의 사랑) is the almost-epic forbidden love story between two beings who go against the odds to be with each other. But beneath the surface is a bewildering mix of half-cocked religious themes used merely as some sort of mystical twist to an otherwise familiar story.
The 2019 film My Bossy Girl (너의 여자친구) is a fluffy romantic comedy done right. An irresistibly charming couple and the right amount of depth turn out to be the perfect recipe for a thoroughly engaging and warm-hearted story of self-confidence, selflessness and the innumerable value of the connections people have with one another.
The 2020 KBS drama series Born Again (본 어게인) has an intriguing premise and excellent cast. But it unfortunately gets bogged down by a plot-driven narrative and unnecessary distractions that ultimately prevent it from being the epic story it had the potential to be.
The 2018 film Stand By Me (덕구/Deok-Goo) is an absolutely terrific character-driven slice of life story. Steller performances from veteran Lee Soon Jae and the young Jung Ji Hoon power the simple, but emotional and relatable film.
The 2016 tvN drama Signal (시그널) is a breathtaking experience. The multi-awarded, highly rated and critically acclaimed series is an emotionally affecting and effectively thrilling character-driven ride. With its stellar cast, strong characters and engaging story, it’s not hard to see why it has enthralled audiences the world over.