(i dont rate rewatch value, neutral 5)

i hope whatever Ji Sung channeled into this role made for a cathartic personal release in the end, because it borders on abuse what he had to go through for a massive chunk of this.

it's a theme throughout this drama, continuously pulling him 2 steps back for every one he just barely manages to make, which in this case requires some suspension of disbelief as we get to the mid point. they eventually straight up tell you what american show they're basing the largest segment of the drama on, through multiple references and mentions, which as it gets stretched over more and more episodes just seems a bit out there. ya know, for 2017, south korea, i wont spell out what it is, but its not hard to figure out i think.

kinda funny how the two eventually share the same downside given the fatal flaw in that american shows whole premise, but being that this is a kdrama, and thus naturally superior, there's a purpose behind it all!

again i wont give anything away.. but again, its not like these ever end with our heroes losing, right? a systematic takedown combined with a much deserved lighter overall tone, the ending makes use of every second we spent leading up to it. it's even more fullcircle than i would have expected thanks to characters getting fleshed out in ways they hardly deserve.

this is nothing if not a taxing drama, but for me, at least, it did end in catharsis. relentless criticism of south korea is a big bonus, and kudos for the whole cast providing enough smiles throughout to not completely wear me out.

(as devastating as a lot of ji sung's performance was, it kinda leaves me conflicted as to just how good it really was. depending on who you ask it could be one trick pony, or dedicated method acting where his lingering sadness colors the lighter moments as well, making them feel more wooden. at those peaks it was harrowing enough to imply he rly has the chops, but i'll have to see him in something else.)