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A story that's full of heart
As I’m typing this, the soundbar in front of me is playing out the song list by Eclipse, the fictional band fronting the OST of this amazing drama series. Before I say anything else, let me say that Lovely Runner has probably one of the best OST compilations for a drama series in a long while. It’s just delightful to me that fans are gifted with 5 original songs specially written for a fictional band to be savored long after the drama’s ending. It underlines just how every detail making up this show is taken care of by its producers.Another remarkable aspect of this drama is the very palpable chemistry among the entire cast and not just the main characters. They each delivered a stellar and very believable performance collectively. Byeon Wooseok is a revelation to me in this, having watched his previous works this one stuck out to me as very, very well pulled-off comparatively. In fact, BWS truly WAS Ryu Seonjae with every delivery be it in words, postures, facial expressions, both macro and micro. I felt his angst, I relished his jubilance. Kim Hyeyoon was also remarkable as always, though I preferred her portrayal of the adult version of Im Sol for some reason. Maybe it’s because I felt that her youthful aegyo from her school days were a little bit overdone at times. I’m very much willing to overlook those instances though, as I felt that her bubbly character complemented Seonjae’s more reticent, boyish charms very well.
Another aspect of the show I truly treasured was Seonjae’s “bromance” with other characters, especially Baek Inhyuk and the occasionally reluctant Kim Taesong. I’ll never forget that drunken scene with the acorns and in the noraebang. In fact, I love the way this show treats all the friendship, sisterhood, bromance, family values and even the way our band members Eclipse regard their fans.
Okay now moving to the story; I do understand how it’s not a cup of tea for everyone. I also feel that maybe time travel as a storytelling device in presenting the plotline can be an overwhelming concept for some. Many have mentioned how it seemed repetitive, with Im Sol traveling back and forth through time as though in a pointless loop. Well, this is exactly the essence of FATE; fate has a way of reasserting itself back into the original path despite numerous interventions. Im Sol had only 3 chances to do that as per given by the watch, and she even (seemingly) failed all three. So how DOES one change fate? That was what Im Sol had to figure out. It’s just so poetic to me how it was Kim Taesong who saved the day for them and changed the course of their ill-fated relationship. And I love how Kim Taeseong’s dad put it in the end, “Maybe (bad guy) Kim Youngsoo had to die so that another innocent life can live”
Despite several minor inconsistencies, plot holes, and plot conveniences, I truly enjoyed watching Lovely Runner for the feelings it evoked within me. It made me laugh in unabashed hysterics, it made me cry inconsolable tears, and it also inspired me to love the people closest to me that much harder. That’s why at least for this drama series, I’m willing to overlook technical accuracies and savor all the ways it made me feel watching it instead.
I’ll truly miss this one. It’s been a while since a drama series affected me this much. The last one was Six Flying Dragons, I’ll have you know.
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THE BEST THING THAT WILL EVER HAPPEN TO YOU!!!
Watch this drama!! trust me!! one of the best kdrama ever with insane chemistry and amazing plotline and the definition of ROM and COM... it has truly every trope ever!! Watch until ep2 ending to be obsessed forever."Lovely Runner" is an absolute vibe! If you're into K-dramas, this one is a total must-watch. It’s got everything – romance, drama, and those feel-good moments that just hit different.
First off, the main actors are chef's kiss. They have insane chemistry, and you can totally feel the sparks flying. Their characters are so relatable, and you get super invested in their journey. Like, you’ll be shipping them hard by episode two.
The storyline is on point. It's this perfect mix of emotional highs and lows, with just the right amount of humor to keep things light. The dialogues? So quotable. And the way it’s shot – the cinematography is straight-up stunning. Every scene is like an Instagram-worthy moment.
So yeah, if you’re looking for a drama that’ll give you the best time of your life and keep you binge-watching till 3 AM, "Lovely Runner" is it. It’s not just a show; it’s an experience. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll be thinking about it long after it’s over. Don’t sleep on this one – it’s a whole mood!
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A Romance with a Watch that has a Leading Role
If living your life and falling in love resulted in the loss of life for the one you love but you could go back in time, would you do this to change the life of the lost loved one? Most would say yes. The series is about this scenario. Kim Hye Yoon's Im Sol tries over and over to save her love from death, but always fails. A nondescript watch is the time machine. The series details and narrates her attempts to save his life time and time again but always fails until she changes the narrative to where they never meet. All this in order to save his life. It's the tale of a GREAT love between two people.I read some reviews before I started the series, and they were not flattering. While I can understand the weaknesses these reviews highlighted, my take is different. This series is a modern day Romeo and Juliet without the family anguish. Two people with such a great love for each other it withstood the test of time, space, death, and time travel.
The weaknesses that I saw were in the editing and somewhat in the writing. There is a lot of detail built into the time travel that can easily confuse the viewer. Im Sol goes back in time 3 times. Sometimes I wasn't sure if I was in the future or past. It didn't help that random scenes were thrown in periodically. In one regard I can understand as it helped to establish the strong connection between the two main characters and it also relieved the sadness and anguish (through comic relief and supporting character subplots) this storyline would inflict on the viewer. After all how much sadness can a viewer take before switching off? Some of the chaotic-ness of the storyline helps to bring the viewer along in the story. At least it did this for me as I never wanted to stop viewing.
If you're going to watch this, see it for what it is. A great love story of two people trying desperately to be together but fate just keeps interfering, yet they keep trying. I have to say kudos to the two main actors, Byeon Woo Seok and Kim Hye Yoon for their tremendous leading roles....nice!! This series had an amazing supporting cast as well. Song Geon Hee (smooth-like- butter, this actor is amazing!! I'm looking forward to future dramas with him), Jung Young Joo, Seo Hey Won, Kim Won Hye (three of my favorites from previous dramas, they did not disappoint), Baek In Hyun and Song Ji Ho added so much to the story and their loyalty to the main leads, and Heo Hyung Kyo was so so very evil. Well done to this amazing cast!!
I hope you give this series a chance. It does wander around a bit, and that is frustrating for the viewer. However, what it boils down to is the story of a great, GREAT love between two people. And who doesn't love a story like this?
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Wow - Yea, not really
*I had to come edit my review because I have fully digested it and it's not a 9.5 lol*Original: Indeed an amazing drama. I fell in love with Byun Wooseok and I'm now part of his fandom lol! I started watching this three days ago and already finished, and I'm so glad I gave it a shot (despite it being during finals season.... help!!).
The OST is unforgettable and I loved the whole concept of the drama. There are a few reasons why I didn't give it 10 stars though:
1) There were some holes in the story that made me uncomfortable at times. I don't want to include spoilers in this review so I won't go into detail but I think that all time-travel stories are bound to have some "unexplained" events, and it's okay because it's worth it! The story was fun even though it has some loose ends.
2) I think the first 5 episodes are the best of the whole show. I loved the beginning of this story and I wish we had spent more time there. I don't want to be preachy or politically right about this, but I wish we had had more time with original timeline Sol and Sunjae. I think it was a shame that they took the.... characteristics... of both characters in the first episode. I understand why (related to time-traveling consequences) but still; it's like they were used just to add drama.
3) I love the FL and I understand why she was affected by all that happened in the show, but having her cry in every episode is a bit much. And, in my opinion, she doesn't express mature happiness or love as well as she does innocent/childish happiness and love. There were parts where I was like "You don't seem all that happy??" Hahaha but she is a good actress, don't get me wrong.
I loved the chemistry between all the characters! It is an unforgettable drama, that's for sure.
Now: The things I liked about this drama were overshadowed by not so great things. The female lead is just annoying and empty. The ML also only exists for the FL and easily gives up his own aspirations, although less annoying because he cries less. My love for BWS and for golden retriever characters clearly blinded me – I can't help but love Sunjae despite the flaws in the way the character was written and BWS is a big reason for that because he's SO DAMN TALENTED! He was born to play that character and the actor literally saved the character for me.
I still really enjoy the first 5 episodes because I was expecting the show to develop the characters and the plot from there but it never did. It was just the same over and over again, to the point where the emotional scenes didn't hit anymore. I just wish they had taken the first episode and written a story about characters who have a life outside of each other, who have relationships that they value outside of their partner, who follow their dreams (lmao who even have dreams and goals), who make plans before rewinding time so that they can idk ACTUALLY SOLVE SOMETHING????... Having a ML who has loved the FL before they even "met" made it sooo boring once we find out (but I guess that's personal preference). I liked the first episodes because we didnt know that yet and it felt like we were going to join them on a journey; but no, they already liked each other so what's the point? I love the retro vibes like in the Reply series and 2521 but in those shows we can slowly get to know the characters and understand what is moving them in the plot but not in LR. I understand that it's a romance but it should have been more developed.
The music is GREAT and the vibes are ICONIC so I'm actually upset they wasted such a cool idea and turned it into this – "this" being a great drama that had the potential to become my favorite drama of all time but fell short because the FL cries in every scene and the plot is built around a relationship at the expense of logic sometimes. UGH it makes me want to rewrite the whole thing myself because the wasted potential is haunting me. I was clearly blinded when I first reviewed the show, although deep down I knew it hadn't been that great so I had to come and write this so that I can move on with my life in peace.
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Love overcome the fate, for those who are ment to be. " IT IS THE BEST DRAMA OF 2024"
I have never ever and ever return any ReviewBut For this drama I will , as I'm so excited and happy and want to express my emotions to someone
At first I thought it is going to be the same time travel drama to save her love, but it wasn't the same plot but it wasn't roller coaster of emotions , perfect story line it was so perfect that i thought it's real.
Both the ML and FL acting was so good that when they cried I too got watery eyes, second ML was so cute for me.
All the characters were played by the right persons.
Seonjaya, Sola how they both called each other, that longing for the love in her eyes everytime in her eyes when she misses him,
that emptiness in him with I'm sol all were greatly displayed by both of them.
To save her idol going back to time , falling in love , unable to defy fate each time, forgetting love is better than making your love suffer everytime ?????
At the end there's only one thing I would say
" IT IS THE BEST DRAMA OF 2024"
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love
it is such a wonderful drama. Im sol character is satising our feelings. ryu sun jae is wonderful man his character is showing his innocence and adorable love ??. this story line is very awesome and interesting with plot twist ??. but ryu sun jae is dieing for 2 to 3 time i wish to have a happy ending . they both love each other and sacrifice each other understanding each other. there fight are cute and awesome. byeonwooseok and Kim hey yoon duo is perfect match. her childish behaviour gives hype for this drama. totally this drama is worth to watchVond je deze recentie nuttig?
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My happy pill drama
One of my favorite drama this days I can say that they brings joy everytime I see them. They really stand up in the romcom genre, every episode you will definitely laugh, you will actually burst in laughter in their comedic scenes. Ive seen Kim Hye Yoon (Im Sol) in here cute and funny roles she is really that funny with her expressions but I was shocked to see Byeo Woo Seok (Sun Jae) in his first lead role and his quite good in his role, he really makes me love in his comedic gestures.They look good together and they are really good fit for their roles. All the cast are good and funny especially his friend In Hyuk ?. The entire cast are all silly they never makes as laugh.
They're story has lots of of challenges, they did everything to change it to have their desired happy ending, no matter in what timeline they faced as long as they changed their fate. Memories will change but whats inside you heart will help them remember their love.
I cried because they have found their real happiness they longed. Its the the cutest proposal that I've seen. And the scene that Sun Jae is thanking Sols's grandma I really felt the genuine happiness their.
I also love their songs it makes me LSS especially the song SUDDEN SHOWER which sun jae sings.
I really recommend this drama if you yoy want a feel good drama.
I love BYEO WOO SEOK Iwill support his upcoming projects.
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The Ultimate Romance Kdrama
This kdrama was the best kdrama I ever watched and it’s absolutely perfect ahhh ?. If you like romance kdramas, you must watch this. The plot was really exciting, unexpected, well-paced and I never felt bored watching this show. The actors were so talented and attractive and had great chemistry together. Ryu Sun Jae was especially dreamy and soulful… he’s really the ultimate lover. The production and writing was top tier and every episode left me wanting for more. The sets were so scenic and the music was amazing too. I really can’t think of anything I hated about this show.Vond je deze recentie nuttig?
A Whole Masterpiece in Creation
As expected, the writing in the show didn't disappoint. Each episode flows smoothly, balancing romance, comedy, and more. I love how the show embodies its creative vision. The writing and acting are excellent and definitely deserve awards. The hype is well-deserved. The creators and actors have done a remarkable job, bringing each character and story arc to life with great skill. Every scene transitions seamlessly, making it enjoyable to watch. This show truly stands out for its high quality and engaging content, and it’s clear that a lot of effort and talent went into its production.Vond je deze recentie nuttig?
This k-drama is a masterpiece
All I can say is that I am madly in love with this k-drama.The cast, music, and story helped make this k-drama unique and unrepeatable.
Personally, it's been a long time since I've been so engrossed in a drama, looking forward to the release of a new episode, or wacky theories. Thank you Lovely Runner for being the best drama of 2024!
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THE BEST DRAMA AND MAKE YOU FAIL TO MOVE ON THIS YEAR ESPECIALLY FOR THE DIMPLE COUPLE❤️
I rarely give a 10/10 rating for a drama the tallest 9.5/10, but Lovely Runner deserves a 10/10 rating because this drama is really good in terms of the actors' acting, the storyline, especially the OST especially (Sudden Shower, Run run, gift, spring now, may I love you, I think I did, and a day ).
every time I listen to it again it makes me remember this drama so it makes me sad for those who started watching it for fun on Viu when it was still eps 2 and until the end, I like it That's the original drama that made Failed to move on , where is my drama list no longer available to be able to move on from those that at the beginning were Monday and Tuesday, I just used it like a normal day, but since this drama aired, I like Mondays and Tuesdays.
But after this drama ended, it became sad and felt really empty? and this game will last for weeks?
Thank you lovely runner for the special Monday and Tuesday?❤️❤️
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Unusual at its BEST
What a lovely run that was...Thank you for this rough gem. It has been forever for a youth drama to shine in this era. I’ve experienced from the huge fandom and crazy buzz over Meteor Garden, Itazura Na Kiss, Goong, Coffee Prince, Boys Over Flowers to name a few, and now I’ve found another in Lovely Runner (LR). It’s a masterpiece to me but maybe trash for others, and it's OK. They can enjoy their high tea-scones coz I like to eat my greasy street food.
Although there are certain poorly written fillers/ subplot, borderline unnecessary and annoying, it can be overlooked as the leads are just amazing; Yes, you may say that both leads carried and aced the show. The spotlight is on them and I'm not going to complain. The writer/director did an awesome job of telling their journey of overcoming an ill-fated love story.
Sometimes people just forget that some of us just like to watch a drama/ movie as a way to escape from reality. If you like to be a realist then this drama isn't for you. BUT having said that, if I have to be picky, I wished that the depression part for both leads were explored and explained further.
Plot
Story wise at the beginning suffers a bit of incoherent flow as we deal with a time slip theme however as the story progresses, it builds up a steady momentum of our curiosity, love and anticipation in rooting the leads and where would they take us. The twists and turns in this one are unexpected, thus creating opportunities of endless parallels or reverse perspectives which then were being used to the max. I’m amazed at how beautifully it was being executed, from the cinematography, the ambience and colour grading, the music and how naturally I was to be sucked in and stuck in LR’s Lalaland.
BUT what I love most about LR is that I was being blindsided, multiple times by the unexpected perspectives of SJ and the others. The iconic moment of SJ blowing his kisses remains forever and imprinted in my mind, added with his best friend’s reaction, it was truly unexpected. From here on, I knew that LR is not going to be your typical average rom-com drama.
Cast
Both leads has an amazing-out-of-this-world chemistry and we could feel their love for one another. Their energy genuinely bring warmth and charmed many of us into a fan. And I fell hard on both characters especially in SJ’s part. He is honestly not-your-usual boy who fell head over heels for Sol. His type is really rare to non-existent and only exist in dramaland ^^.
Byeon Woo-Seok as SJ is shining so bright that I went blind. I mean whenever he is on-screen I could not help but to smile whenever he smiles, cry whenever he’s sad, and scream whenever he did those silly little things that could make him look like a fool. Yes, a lovely fool in love. THANK YOU for bringing Seon-jae into life. Let’s just sums it all up as SJ the adorable silly guy in love, whether as a high-schooler, college student or famous star, he just can’t help himself from his destiny. His portrayal for each version of himself are superb and differ from one another yet share the same silliness traits except the one where he was in despair in the beginning; which sets him apart from your typical rom-com leads and I couldn't picture anyone else portraying SJ.
Kim Hye-Yoon as Im Sol is like reminiscing her portrayal in Extraordinary You but it's an upgraded one as she dealt with multiple version of herself. As a girl who originally suffers hardship and trauma, she grows into the adult Sol as a bright yellow sun just like she was when she was in high-school; full of drive, hope and desire. Her portrayals are commendable and I just love her for being able to make each portrayal distinct from one another yet share the same strong concern and anxiety in ensuring SJ's wellbeing. Although this is a rom-com, her dramatic portrayal was actually her strongest points, especially when she was depressed for being paralysed or yelling ungratefully at SJ for saving her; and of course in the final part where she reunites with her lost and forgotten love. Her wailing is full of relief, yearning and sadness mixed with happiness. Her journey throughout the show is definitely not one dimensional.
Other Cast (Overall)
Sol's family n best friend - Mixture of good and bad; Funny but can be annoying at times.
SJ's father and friends - Epic and never enough.
Kim Tae-Sung - Mixed; Funny but can be ignored at some point. Sorry if I'm not a fan LOL.
3 Favourite Scenes;
1) The iconic yellow umbrella, their first meeting.
2) The reunion, after SJ remembers everything.
3) The finale, wishing cherry blossom and its parallel.
3+1) Grandma’s blessing to SJ, I just need to add this one coz BWS is such a damn good actor.
Music
Awesome. It helps to create the mood of hope, youth, love and yearning. My top 3 favourites are Sonagi, Like A Dream and Spring Snow. For me they are truly LR's anthems that complete the story as a whole.
Would I watch this again?
Definitely YES YES YES!
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