Miss Hammurabi (2018)

PLOT: Ambitious but too idealistic
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More than entertainment, this show offers food for thought through a social critique of not only South Korean culture, but of society as a whole. It presents problems by putting the status quo on trial, allowing us to witness the protagonists fight tooth and nail to change the way we think of "justice".

Though this is an inspirational show, the overdramatization of some of the cases results in a rose-tinted version of an otherwise realistic scenario. By presenting cases in black and white, with very few shades of grey, the writers also discouraged any surprises. The show could've benefitted from some variety in regards to the cases, showing that trend they set wasn't absolute.

Other than that, however, it was an enjoyable ride.

MAIN CHARACTERS: Provocative
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One of the thing that's worth highlighting is the interactions between the two leads. This is a story of Idealism (Judge Park) meeting Cynicism (Judge Im) and striking a balance between their views. The saying "opposite attracts" is perfectly portrayed and it allowed for a lot of positive character growth.

Park Cha Oh Reum (female lead, played by Go Ah Ra): Her character is the embodiment of idealism. Though she overcame a brutal experience, she came out the other side fighting. She's passionate, justice-driven, solution-oriented, courageous and generous. But she's also bias, judgemental, emotionally-driven and reckless. She's someone who isn't afraid of her emotions and isn't easily swayed by others' opinions... but she also has a hard time accepting advice from whoever disagrees with her views. Despite her popular opinions, Judge Park risks her career and takes a stand. In so doing, she inspires those around her to join her cause, showing that change can only be accomplished when one has the imagination to think it possible and the courage to make it so.

Im Ba Reun (male lead played by L): He's the embodiment of cynicism. He follows the rules, acts by precedent, rarely questions the evidence and keeps his emotions on a tight leash. Being an introvert, Judge Im struggles to voice his thoughts and can't help dismissing Judge's Park extroversion as craziness at first. The change in his character is gradual, subtle but constant. We know about it because we get to hear his honest thoughts; those words that he leaves unspoken due to the anxiety caused by his social awkwardness. Yet despite accepting the status quo, Judge Im shows he's willing to listen to other peoples' views, even if --or especially if they contradicted his own. That adaptability and open-mindedness push him to step out of his comfort zone and embrace change. Out of the entire cast, Judge Im is probably the most relatable.

PORTRAYAL OF THEIR TEAMWORK: A match made in heaven
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The balance the leads managed to strike despite (or maybe because) of their extreme views made the show come alive. While Judge Im was prone to think rather than act; Judge Park was prone to act without thought. Her recklessness would oftentimes force him into action. But at the same time, his caution would oftentimes force some restraint on her.

So, in a way, Judge Park was like fire. Though necessary for survival, fire without a construct to keep it in check or guide it can become destructive. That's where Judge Im steps in. He's the pyramid of wood for Judge Park's fire, capable of making her fire last longer and shine brighter. The beauty of their teamwork resides in their interdependency. No part can function to its full potential without the other.

PORTRAYAL OF ROMANCE: Like a candle
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The romance between Oh Reum and Im Ba was treated as a constant sub-plot, but it never detracted from the real story. The romance isn't portrayed as a raging fire, which is the norm for many K-dramas. Instead, we get a love that burns tenuously, like a candle. The flame is small, fragile but beautiful. It lights the whole room, provides comfort and eventually guides our characters towards one another.

Here are some of the highlights:
1) The romance is in the yearning and admiration, which creates tension that never turns hostile or detracts from the narrative.
2) These two really have each others' back and I appreciated that they found their footing as friends first.
3) No unnecessary love triangle or misunderstandings, it was pretty straightforward.
4) It was gradual, so it made it much sweeter when they got there.

ANTAGONIST: Status quo
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Although there were antagonistic characters, the status quo was portrayed as the real (and more frightful) opponent. By presenting controversial subjects, the writers question whether we should let precedent dictate the solutions or if we should start thinking outside the box.

OVERALL: Recommended
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This is definitely worth watching for its powerful social critique and its unique female lead. This is a show that will make you emotionally invested, will have you thinking for days and, overall, ends on a satisfying note.

Some of the trials may hit too close to home for some, so keep that in mind if you are very sensitive, as there are no trigger-warnings. Another thing of note is that the pacing of this show slow. There's no overuse of drama to create conflict and no over-the-top romantic moments to spice things up. Even the comedy is sparse, with a serious note taking over most of the show.

But if you're looking for a thought-provoking narrative, complex characters, and interesting human interactions, you've come to the right place.

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