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[I honestly don't remember much of this drama, I wrote this review in my notes 3 years ago]
Having mostly watched for the Jae Hoon and Han Joo storyline, I am somewhat disappointed in their ending. Perhaps, rewatching this drama when I am in my late 20s or 30s will bring about a more enlightening perspective to fully understand and relate to the drama’s issues. While I understand the creative intention of the way their storyline was ultimately concluded, I find myself struggling to accept it due to some issues I have, but this could be to biases and my inherent desire to escape from reality by watching idealistic rom-com shows. From what I gathered, Jae Hoon’s implied reconciliation with his ex-girlfriend somewhat rubs me the wrong way (wanky) in that it fails to understand the true nature of alcoholism and toxic relationships. The depiction of Jae Hoon’s contribution to the decay of his relationship with his ex-girlfriend was not executed that well in my opinion. Having just watched 500 days of summer with its themes fresh in mind and similarities to this, the execution wasn’t done as well. My honest opinion of this drama is that on the outer surface, it claims and portrays itself as a fresh and groundbreaking drama with the issues it tackles, when in reality it’s execution of these important and significant issues are subpar. However, this is specifically what I gathered from mainly being invested in the Jae Hoon-Han Joo storyline. Going beyond my focus of that storyline, it fails to really go deep into the struggles of Hyo Bong and being an openly gay male in modern-day Korea. The exploration of same-sex relationships and homosexuality made only a speck of the plot, but in a very outer-perspective and outer surface manner. Another thing is being a young, single mother. These issues that go beyond my initial reasoning for watching this drama were barely explored and poorly executed. I’m not so much upset that Jae Hoon and Han Joo didn’t end up together even though I was rooting for them, but it was more the disappointment of the endings they were given, more so Jae Hoon, and the final conclusion of the nature of their friendship in an attempt to subvert typical kdrama tropes and expectations.The drama seems to only scratch the surface of the serious issues it intends to explore. While I have rated dumber dramas higher, the distinction is that this drama intends to be groundbreaking and so I must rate it on that basis - on how it executes their intention. As opposed to dumb and exaggerated rom-coms, those should be taken as what they are as their intention isn't to spark some sort of relatability like this drama attempts to. However, I do give it a relatively high rating despite my dissatisfaction with the ending because I love the refreshing characters it presents us with. This really distinguishes itself from other dramas and made it an enjoyable watch.
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A drama that shows the birth of a Korean Drama
This story isn't really filled with dramatic plot twists but I enjoyed it.All of the main characters are working in the industry but mostly behind the scenes like writers, directors, marketing, composers, and managers. (I think Somin is the only supporting character that's a celebrity). I learned how Kdramas are created in this drama because it showed the step by step process of it since the main couple is a writer and director creating a drama together. Sometimes I wonder if this is really based on the author's personal experience lol.
I really love how the side characters started low (?) and started to develop in the next episodes, making me more interested in them. There are a lot of side couples in this drama. I didn't pay attention much to Somin's character and story at first but I started to enjoy seeing her relationship with her manager and her life as a celebrity. Even I find Jinjoo's ex boss funny in the later episodes. But Director Kim Sangsoo really stole the show. He only appeared midway and I wished we got to see more of his story and character. I really liked his relationship with Eunjung.
[ SPOILER ]
I think I might be the only one that's glad Hanjoo and Jaehoon didn't end up together because I can't really ship them because Jaehoon's still with his girlfriend. I felt uncomfortable in their relationship (If I were Hanjoo, I wouldn't get too close to a guy with a gf or If I were the gf, I'd be jealous if my bf's getting too close with another person who also seems to like him).
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it takes a few episodes for things to pick up, but once it does it's very interesting. all the 3 leads have good character development. even the side characters get good arcs.
i didn't connect much with it, maybe its because i am not 30 yet
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Great Drama - one of the best
This drama came out in 2019 and i've only got round to watching it in 2023.it's Fab.u.lous.
the only drawback imo is the overuse of CGI.
it highlights gay relationships and discrimination, coercive control, workplace bullying, psychological and physical health problems, single parenthood, friendships, career orientated women, bereavement, love.
it just gets better and better with each episode.
I will be telling everybody I know to watch it. it doesn't need a season 2 .
Highly recommend this whatever age/gender you are.
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A gem amidst the pebbles!
Be Melodramatic is a breath of fresh air that strays from the mainstream of kdramas and stands up on its own, but not enough to call it unique as it still has hints of the usual.A good philosophy is to be immature when having fun, falling in love and being in love and be mature when it matters; this show is the epitome of that. Forget the plot or storylines, or even some of the mediocre acting because the dialogue is enough to carry itself and everyone else. They're clever, real, humane incisive but always honest. The script and dialogue are what define this show for me, conveying the idea that life is meaningful and unpredictable which is reflected in the dialogue and the story itself. The living room conversations and discussions vary depending on the topic, but it's mostly funny, sometimes hilarious and at times heart-rending. Each episode had me chuckling or laughing out loud, yet some still had room to draw a tear or two. Issues like grief, depression, loneliness, and relationships are dealt with in a mature way.
The show is full of experiential life lessons which can relate to anyone who's experienced them or something to look forward to or avoid if you haven't. Don't expect any extreme plot twists or extravagant scenes because this series is grounded in real life. This show is grown-up, perfectly imperfect, insightful and refreshing. This is a show I would definitely revisit in the near future.
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i really watched this because i recently really like seeing yun jion. a few months(?) ago i tried to watch it but stopped in the middle of episode 1 and never touched it again until now. Now that i finished it, it's pretty fun? i guess. I don't really watch a lot of slice of life, since it can get boring. And i probably thought that a few times throughout this drama in specific scenes. But, I shall just really talk about the things that i like about it first. The songs are really nice. Maybe it's because I'm biased, but yun jion's ost is really good especially. His voice is calming and comforting to hear. Especially now that I'm going through a hard time, it's nice to listen to songs like that. Also the roommates concept they have of the three main women and the little brother (+ a child) is really cute and nice. While we're on that topic actually. There's quite a lot of scenes with the four casually hanging out at home, but there wasn't as much scenes of the lee siblings. well, could be because hyobong isn't part of the main cast, but it felt a little lacking. In the few siblings bonding scene they have, it was cute and really heartwarming, so it's kind of disappointing they didnt have more of it. (and kinda irrelevant? but i'm really bad at seeing people as "similar looking" when i'm already used to their faces. i thought the same for jeon yeobeen and yun jion getting casted as siblings. but after a while, i understand why they got casted as the siblings, i could actually see their similarity). Anyway... that was fun. And if I would rewatch it, it's probably just to see jion, and it's just looking at clips, cause idk, as much as i like it, i don't think i can or have the patience to. Vond je deze recentie nuttig?
My first review on MDL
This is such a precious drama. The characters are so honest, raw and relatable, that you end up feeling like they're your friends. The storyline may seem boring to some, since it adresses trivial problems, but if you open your heart to it, you may appreciate the simplicity of this narrative. Though it's rather uneventful (there's not a lot of big events or great tragedies to move the plot forward, like most k-dramas), it's very interesting to watch.Many times I was deeply touched by what seemed to be a silly story. I particularly loved the dialogues (Jin Joo is my spirit animal! So many great quotes from her), the character development (it's so endearing to watch them grow), the way the drama seems to laugh at itself sometimes, and just the honesty of it all.
The only complaint I have regarding this drama is that I felt they went too heavy on the meta stuff towards the end, and that felt a little lazy sometimes. Despite recognizing the drama has its flaws, I can't not give it a 10/10. I just love it too much. If you like slice of life, please, give it a shot!
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Laugh your heart out, bawl your eyes out
How is this drama not more popular? How is this drama not on everyone’s recommend to watch list?This drama has the most intelligent writing I have seen amongst the 80 odd KDramas I have watched. The humor is quirky and brillIant. I loved how the drama has pulled a meta on the drama industry and the references are hilarious.
Story: The story is simple, 3 women friends finding their way in their 30s in their career and personal lives. Find me a drama that has a great balance of emotional upheaval and comedy. This one does it splendidly.
Cast/Acting: Again a fine example of great casting. Jeon Yeo Been and Chun Woo Hee are the stars but the rest of the cast is also brilliant. My favourite scenes are the ones between the trio and Eun Jung’s gay brother and Ahn Jae-Hong & Chun Woo Hee’s characters bantering. I couldn’t stop laughing at the funny lines and sarcastic takes. Jeon Yeo Been in her emotional breakdown and dealing with depression was phenomenal - it made me a fan of hers for life. She dazzles in this role , if you loved her in Vincenzo, don’t miss her in this one.
Music: The entire album is brilliant, but come back to me if you listen to ‘Your Shampoo Scent in the Flowers’ and don’t get addicted to it, we need to have a serious talk ;-)
Rewatch Value : Zillion times and over. It’s my comfort drama , I have rewatched it twice and I keep going back to many scenes when I’m dying to have a good laugh. This drama never fails me!
Overall : Go Watch Now if you have landed here!
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Heartbreak Three
Be Melodramatic is a drama that really challenges the status quo on Korean society and standard story telling. Having no primary plot, it tells the story of 3 FLs and their hardships, experiences and encounters in their daily lives. Each FL has had a sad or unfortunate circumstance and they are trying their best to continue on with their lives. Personally, I would include Lee So Min as the 4th FL since she also has so much backstory and her second lead ship is one of the cutest and well written past I have ever seen. (I was introducted to this drama because of the 2nd lead Lee So Min/Lee Min Joon ship that made me want to watch the entire drama) This drama literally has everything in it, from emotional trauma, heart wrenching pasts, funny and comedic duos, close friendship, feeling powerless, touchy subjects and honest love. There is so much well thought out backstory and personality behind each character that this IP could have went on for many seasons. Last note, this drama for me has the single most memorable line for years to come; "I need a hug...I am talking to you guys..." when you finally understand the meaning and reason behind this single line, five boxes of tissues won't save you.Quick Story/Plot
Be Melodramatic does not have a primary plot but instead tells stories and events that are occuring with the 3 FLs. The plot also does not shy aware from touchy subjects that are much less talked about in Korean society. If I were to give a general flow of the story, the first half the drama is about the unfortunate and sad events that have occurred and the later half is the healing and becoming honest with oneself. Also not having a standard story telling format was a great benefit to the overall story as it made the audience curious and anticipating the transition of the characters and where it would bring them.
Quick Acting/Cast/Characters
There is so much backstory and personality for each character that it would be difficult to go through each one + I would recommend learning the cast yourself to really have that deeper emotional connection. Nevertheless, here is a short summary:
- Im Jin Joo is an unfortunate script writer met with unfortunate events. She eventually leaves the toxic environment and learns to cope with the people from her past and meets new people in her life.
- Lee Eun Jung is a documentary director experiencing life's cruel fate. Without much spoiling, she is now trying to cope and accept her mental trauma and move on.
- Hwang Han Joo is a single mum that has worked hard to reach the position of head of marketing team for a drama production company. She lost most of her youth getting to this position while taking care of her son and would like to experience love again.
- Lee So Min is a rising actress that does not have a painful backstory, but she is oblivious as to how important Lee Min Joon, her manager, was to her until he was scouted by another company.
- Son Beom Soo is a drama director with a quirky personality and different way of thinking. He becomes involved with Jin Joo and tries to persuade her to become his writer.
- Choo Jae Hoon is a staff under Hwang Han Joo's team and is dealing with a toxic girlfriend. Jae Hoon then starts a younger man/older woman "relationship" while working with Han Joo.
- Special shout-out to my boy Lee Min Joon, manager of Lee So Min. Due to a promise made back in high school, he now supports So Min as a primary goal in his life.
- Rest of the cast also have a wealth of backstory with them.
Music/OSTs
The music and OSTs are a banger which not only elevates the scenes but also brings out an extra layer of emotions to improve what would have just been a normal scene. The popular OST song " Your Shampoo Scent In the Flowers" covered and loved by many people is from this drama.
Rewatch Value
Would definitely rewatch and experience the emotional, heartbreak, funny and empowering scenes all over again. Sometimes I would go back to watch clips of notable scenes or listen to the soothing playlist.
Why my current rating (10)
All in all, this drama is a healing story for the 3 FLs. Learning to look past the painful experiences and forward to a better future. Since the setting is set in modern real life Korea with real examples, the plot can be taken in any direction and continued on as a series. (I am deeply saddened there is no follow-up seasons) What made this drama so compelling and eventually becoming my No.1 Drama is how well each character was written and weaved with other characters + backstories. It was like having 5 main stories all told in parallel with 7 side stories being told by most of the side casts. Each character had a role and had purpose in the story. I would definitely recommend giving this drama a go if you like RomCom, Slice of Life, Friendship dramas and remember to have boxes of tissues next to you, you have been warned...
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Smart, Sassy and Female Driven
Not a single misstep in this entire drama.Meta and self-aware with witty dialogue and killer scenes. This drama deals with loss, love and careers in a delicate balance while maintaining cheeky humor and perpetually side-winking at the audience.
While it is female-centric, and not my usual genre, all the relationships, either platonic or romantic, were fantastically written with subtleties I've never experienced before. The characters were consistent, and while there was growth among the two leads, their original zany and brash ways were kept throughout the entire series.
The production was out of this world, wonderfully produced beautifully shot. At no point at all did I feel as if I was watching B-team or pick-up scenes as you often feel in other dramas towards the later episodes.
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REAL AND HEALING DRAMA
"More than the story, it's the characters that matter" : this sentence can summarize the essence of drama; The story is focused on the development of the situation and the feelings of the characters. It is more focused on love, but it also deals with taboo subjects in Korea (and throughout the world as well) such as single mother, the death of one's lover, sex, cheating, homosexuality... It's NOT BORING, even if it is simple, the story is really exciting.LOVE : the writers depicted love in a very fair way. It seems real.
FRIENDSHIP: the same sense of reality ! It's a healing drama for that.
The acting is amazing, perfect... all the actors of the drama have a real talent on screen. Usually, in k-drama, there is always at least one actor whose character is ridiculous, poorly played (most of the time a supposed-to be funny character). But it's not the case !! I was really impressed by the overall quality of acting;
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When I started this drama, I don’t have any expectation that this drama would be one of my favorite romcom kdrama. I just love everything, how the story goes, how all characters portray their characters and oh the OST.But I have to admit that Lee Eun Jung is my favorite character, I feel sympathized with her story, her love story is somewhat tragic. When she finally realized her bf is gone, the studio scene, I cried my eyes out. Though I was hoping to see more of her and the Director but I’m satisfied enough with her ending story. The main couple, they are hilarious, how they were bickering and then suddenly they turn to lovey-dovey couple, love ‘em.
I watched this drama twice and might watch it again when I’m bored and looking for something light and entertaining to watch.
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