Annarasumanara (2022)

Do you believe in magic?

Annarasumanara details the story of Ah Yi, a high school student struggling with finances, who meets a mysterious and handsome magician Ri Eul. The latter is supposedly rumored as crazy, and lives in an abandoned local theme park.

From the trailer, this fantasy-escapism theme is not something we haven’t seen before, and it’s commonly portrayed in famous classics such as Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan, and in non animations such as Pan’s Labyrinth (and Labyrinth!).

But it’s this theme incorporated into a modern day world that makes the drama emotional and very heartwarming, and one that I don’t doubt the majority of audiences would appreciate. The colour palette and fairytale-like visuals immediately swept my soul away, and there’s a heartfelt sense of wonder – much like how you would feel as a child experiencing the simplest of things. But unlike children’s stories, Annarasumanara isn’t for younger audiences and covers more serious themes.

The relatability through all three of our protagonists – Ri Eul, Ah Yi and Il Deung, is what I personally think is one of the most memorable parts of the drama. One is a grown man with a seemingly childlike innocence, another is a young girl with broken dreams, and the third who never reflected on the dreams pushed to him.

Most of the time we indulge in films and shows to witness unrealistic and exciting stories, but I believe it’s those with messages we resonate to are the ones that never leave. Moreover, it's these kinds of dramas that ultimately has low potential for a rewatch, because the experience won't be the same as the first time.

Annarasumanara is a highlight of this in 2022 so far (alongside My Liberation Notes). Above all else, it boldly outlines the problem of standards society has formed – where we try desperately to fit into without question, serving as a toxic benchmark to our self worth and confidence.

From personal dreams, goals, grades, and whether/how much one has achieved anything in their life, the drama attempts to breaks this barrier, allowing the audience to take the time to consider their emotions and position in life (which stretches beyond that of riches and achievements, and more about personal fulfilment). This is primary done through Ri Eul’s interactions with both Ah Yi and Il Deung.

For some, it could be an emotional reminder not to blindly fit into this box society has made. For most, this drama might lead to an awakening – one that I wished I had experienced during my high school days.

Without giving anything away, I don’t think Ri Eul’s magic itself is the main focus of the story. It plays a huge role in regards to the side plot, but as the episodes progressed, one would realise the magic extends beyond that of learned tricks or illusions. And again, this is a beauty of Annarasumanara.

Since watching short clips of Ji Chang Wook’s singing in ‘The Days’, I wondered what it was like to witness a Korean musical. Alas this was not possible due to language barriers, but I never expected to get a taster of it through a kdrama, much less hear him sing again.

The musical genre in Annarasumanara is a huge standout and brilliantly done. It’s an element that hasn’t been done in kdramas (from what I recall) before, and perhaps its success might mean fans of kdramas would see more of this in future (hopefully!). The deeply profound lyrics reveal the characters more than the dialogue, and expresses their emotions in such a raw way.

A particular track that remains now as one of my favourites (alongside Annasumanara) is A Curse of Asphalt. The lyrics nearly had me in tears, and seems like a punch in the gut. It doesn’t just apply to students, but for everyone who might be constantly hustling without thinking much of it. Aside from this, the choreography, production, vocals and atmosphere of it all are just perfection.

Performance wise, there’s nothing I can add when it comes to kdrama actors. Ji Chang Wook’s portrayal of Ri Eul is one I won’t forget. Acting alone would be tough as it is, but for this role it involved extra work with singing and practicing magic illusions, and his tremendous efforts couldn’t be unnoticed.

His beautiful voice would tug at your heartstrings, and the range of expressions he’s showed – from eyes filled with hopeful stars, to despair and sadness – makes it so difficult to tear your gaze away. I cannot imagine anyone else playing Ri Eul.

When I discovered Choi Sung Eun’s age (also Hwang In Yeop’s as well) – who plays Ah Yi, I couldn’t hide my immense shock. Her portrayal as a broken high schooler is captivating, and the chemistry between herself, Ji Chang Wook and Hwang In Yeop shines through the drama and interviews.

I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from clicking on Ep1, but Annasumanara gives much more than what you’ve signed up for. There’s an empty but bittersweet feeling after finishing the series, and I can't recommend the drama enough.

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