This drama is going to be an underrated gem just like Be Melodramatic which had similar low ratings when it aired and then developed its own following later. This drama has also had really low ratings and Disney’s international distribution strategy is baffling.

If you come expecting 2521 , you will be disappointed. If you come expecting a Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo , you will be pleasantly surprised like I was. The director, writer and leads only have few dramas under their belt and the rawness is evident as you watch the drama. But the sincerity of the story, the innocent charm of the leads, the pacing in the writing is what keeps you hooked.

Story: The story isn’t ground breaking. A corporate badminton team with coaches and athletes where these athletes are trying to achieve their dreams, get over their respective traumas and find their place in the sun. A tragic incident binds the 3 leads and they must detangle themselves from this unfortunate past. How they do this is the crux of the plot. The only time the pacing or the writing felt a bit dragged is when they stretched the melodrama in the episodes 10-14, which was in contrast to the funny banter , budding romance and camaraderie we got to see in the first 8 episodes. But I’m willing to overlook this for the fact that the writer has penned down the best boyfriend in Kdrama history ( hands down!) and lovable characters.

Cast / Acting : Park Ju Hyun as the female lead grows on you, she has portrayed the inner turmoil of Taeyang to perfection. Her being in love and yet never losing a chance to banter with Taejun is a delight to watch. Kim Moo Joon as Yuk JungHwan surprised me, I heart his portrayal a lot. From being an arrogant ass to being the highest supporter of Park twins, from being unsure to being totally committed to Yumin, from being a pest to his coach and then pushing his coach to aim higher, JungHwan’s character arc was great to watch. Special mention to all Yunis team members, their little side stories were lovely, their bonding superb. The coaching trio led by Jo Han Chul was a riot, but so awesome being protective of their athletes’ well being. Seo Ji Hye was adorable as Yumin and she and JungHwan were such a wonderful pair to watch. Park Ji Hyun was all right as JunYoung, Parents of both leads were the most passive aggressive parents I have seen, especially TaeJun’s mom and you will know why when you watch.

The real star of this show though was Chae Jong Hyeop in the lead role of Park TaeJun. Even if you get disappointed with the drama, there is no way you will be disappointed with his character and performance. He is that good. Taejun like I said above is the best written boyfriend in KDramaland. He was perfect in every way - as a son, brother, player, teammate, friend and boyfriend, even as an ex-boyfriend. He was loyal, supportive, emotionally mature, honest, and not afraid to call out bullshit and stood up for what was right. His admiration and support for Taeyang was unwavering despite the tragic past. I loved how his face lit up everytime Taeyang was in front of him. Chae Jong Hyeop’s eyes talk and it’s the one thing that I love in an actor. Also his bright, wide smile - just warms my heart!

Music : I loved the opening track , it gets your adrenaline pumping, and rest of the songs are also nice.

Overall: I went with minimal expectations. I wanted to watch for CHJ after seeing him in The Witch’s Diner and because I enjoy sports based shows. But I can’t believe how much I enjoyed this drama. It’s not perfect, but it’s a drama that has good mix of lighthearted comedy and warm hearted moments. The banter and rivalry between Taejun and JungHwan is my favourite. My only complaint is that the badminton element went into the background in the second half; I definitely would have liked to see their growth on-court more. I have already rewatched this drama twice - so I would definitely recommend it to you all.