STORY:
Pinocchio is a well known Italian tale about a carpenter named Geppetto, who crafts a wooden puppet and wishes for a son. Instead of a human being, “Pinocchio” remains a puppet. The Blue Fairy, which assisted in magically allowing this divine event to happen, warns Pinocchio that if he wishes to be a real boy, he must be honest and upright. If he lies, his nose will grow long and longer. Albeit there are differences from Disney’s version and the actual novel, Pinocchio is filled with life lessons, values, and warnings of human nature which some are folly too.
Now, why did I give this (somewhat boring) mini history session before my review? For those of you that may be familiar or not familiar with the true story of Pinocchio, there is an interesting twist to the: don’t “tell a lie” scenario or there will be consequences, and that is hiccupping in this Korean drama. Those who are “Pinocchio’s” as opposed to being wooden puppets that talk, cannot lie. When they do lie, their conscience (as substituted for a cricket here) is to hiccup. This, although I was apprehensive at first how they would take on this classic, is quite a refreshing take on an old story.
CHARACTERS:
Choi In Ha: *A standing ovation for Park Shin Hye* and it is well deserved. I had been apprehensive about Park Shin Hye’s involvement in this series, and although I adored her in Flower Boy Next Door and You’re Beautiful, she does have a few recycled roles under her sleeve, and I’m not just referring to Heirs. I do think script writing has everything to do with the success of a series as much as it does the acting. Park Shin Hye glows, she literally shines on screen, and perhaps that have to do partially with Lee Jong Suk, but I fully believe her charm as a serious actor came to light in this series. Here, In Ha is a wonderfully dedicated, but hopelessly seeking a future in investigative journalism. As a Pinocchio, she cannot lie, and has been discriminated against (and criticised) for her pursuance of this career. Although the stacks are against her, In Ha is strong minded, and a will to seek the truth. What I liked about this heroine is her integrity and strength. She has her flaws, and she admits to her faults, and that’s what makes her relatable and human. Choi In Ha and Choi Dal Po/Ha Myeong are like two peas in a pod, and I enjoyed their mutual understandings for one another, and the bond between these two.
Choi Dal Po/Ki Ha Myeong: Lee Jong Suk… bless the heavens, stars, gods, goddesses, all that is good in the universe… anything that you want to name and praise, thank you for being involved in this project, and thank you for bringing you’re A-game as usual, and this time creating a beautiful on-screen chemistry with Park Shin Hye. What more can I possibly say other then the multi-dimensionality of Dal Po is central to this tale of tragedy turned comedy, turned serious revenge, turned sort of revenge, turned now mature series drama with hints of melodrama. Complicatedness aside, Dal Po is on a journey of not only self discovery, but a journey of self-healing and forgiveness. Often ambiliventy going back and forth between what he thinks as right and wrong, and often has to reflect on his actions and thoughts. This kind of characteristic element of his makes him the Dal Po he is. The feels, the feels for his character development that I have, which is nothing but unique and roller-coaster like. Lee Jong Suk gives a memorable performance as this lovable genius.
The “Secondary Characters” were just as great, whether from MSC news or YGN news, the rivalry between each newscast station is hilariously refreshing. Though, of course, serious, there are times when it can be ridiculously entertaining. Especially the interactions between the two stations, which make this series memorable. Whether it’d be their “Cap’s” or it be their Team Leader’s calling their rookie’s out to bring in news, there’s always an interesting dynamic going on. In no way are they secondary at all to this series, but important components to the life as investigative journalists, as reporters, as people working for news companies that are presenting a version of a truth of event(s) that occur. And how objective those news pieces are often central to this series.
SOUND/OST: This is important to a series: the sound. It’s such a huge component to dramas. Every Single Day came back to to the original theme song for this series (just as they had done so for I Hear Your Voice). The music/sound is not overbearing, it is mellow or upbeat when it needs to be, and that's what I appreciate about this sound and OST (which Park Shin Hye does a song for!). There are many moments where it fits in just right, and I found that the music suited the flow to this series.
OVERALL IMPRESSION: Brilliant creativity, for taking an idea from a classic and changing it in many unique ways. Everyone is entitled to their opinion about this series, but there is one thing you cannot deny and that is the beauty in storytelling. I have praised this screenwriter plenty of times, and their work is pure art.There’s commotion, but not too much commotion. There’s connections we feel, but there’s enough distance to enjoy the drama. It just flows well. There is a complete package here, and whether or not you enjoyed it thoroughly, there is enough for one to realize how special this drama is, and how delighted I was to be able to see these characters transform over time. I like the interactions and memorable movements/actions between Park Shin Hye and Lee Jong Suk (that were totally “Dal Po and In Ha” moments). I wondered if they were actually scripted or improvised, which I think the idea of that is quite special, and probably a secret they would keep to themselves. One of my personal favourites. *SAYS WITHOUT HICCUPING*
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I thoroughly enjoyed the show's demonstration of how media and news really are. Fact is fact. You can't warp it into a distorted version of the fact. The show explores the consequences of media impact and the individualized sacrifices made along the way because of it. Pinocchio really pulled on those ideas and created a well-rounded world that was compelling to the viewer. If there was one sentence I could give Pinocchio, it would be: the truth always comes out. The theme of retribution keeps coming around throughout the drama. 'What comes around, goes around.' The audience also feels a sense of deja vu when past words comes back to haunt other characters.
Now, the main plot and dilemma. I liked how it played out. The brotherly relationship was poignant but also an explosive bomb waiting to happen because of all that has happened between them. However, although the plot is mostly pretty solid and concise, there were some aspects that felt rushed. I really wish they explored that plot line longer. The bromance and the strong sense of family got to me more than the romance which is surprising since I usually like romance dramas. Nevertheless, I appreciated that every decision, every word, said by characters had meaning; in other words, everything, for the most part, happened for a reason so there seemed to be little to no dragging.
I'm not sure why but In Na and Dal Po's chemistry just didn't click for me until around the 8th episode. I think their almost sibling-like relationship deterred me from completely falling for their chemistry.
I came in never seeing any dramas from Lee Jong Suk nor Park Shin Hye so I didn't have any bias. Shocker, I know. Lee Jong Suk's portrayal of emotions was raw and completely real. Shin Hye's character was blunt-loved her. Shin Hye made her hiccups so realistic that I almost believed Pinocchio was a real thing! Neither character outshone the other. In that respect, In Na and Dal Po complemented one another well, creating a more comfortable, rather than passionate chemistry. Because of that comfortable chemistry, their characters are always honest with each other and have complete trust in one another- it's great to watch! However, I didn't unequivocally trust their trust in each other until the 12th episode. It was then that I seriously respected In Ha and her love and trust in Dal Po.
I really liked the side characters, for the most part. In some dramas, the main couple is what keeps the drama alive. Here, the supporting cast makes the drama better, and more hilarious. I loved Cap and even the guy with the weird hair from YGN- Lee Pil Mo and Min Seung Wook respectively. I liked Jin Kyung in It's Okay that's Love but dang did she pull out acting chops here-completely amazing. Props to hyung as well, Yoon Gyun Sang; I'll definitely be on the lookout for your future works. I honestly didn't hate anyone since nearly everyone had their chance at redemption, which I wholeheartedly appreciated.
Music, unfortunately, was pretty mediocre, and forgettable.
I must say this though. I liked Pinocchio but I didn't fall in love with it. At the end of the day,though, Pinocchio is a great drama with lots of heart that explores morals, and has sincere relatable characters.
(8.5/9.5)
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The character of Choi In Ha (Park Shin Hye) was adorable, especially with her inability to lie yet constant attempts to do so. However, every character used in this drama, not just the leads, were unique and lovable and I found myself getting attached to the supporting roles as well as the main characters. Excluding the two leads, I'd like to make reference especially to Seo Bum Jo (played by Kim Young Kwang) as, not only was he a very likeable character, I found the portrayal of his character development brilliant.
Faults wise, I'm happy to say that after a lot of thinking on my part, I could not think of a single one. Although, this is my own opinion and I'm sure there were some that I missed while being blinded by Lee Jong Suk's and Park Shin Hye's impossibly good looks.
I was afraid that the ending would be bad but Pinocchio kept up its lovable story till the very end and I was sad when I realised there would be no more episodes for me to watch. Within the first episode I was hooked and, after finishing all 20 episodes, I can say this is definitely my favourite drama and I will definitely watch it again.
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pinocchio is such a well writen drama to delivery a importen and meaningful message to viewer where very rare at the while..its not just about a love story, romance type but,its more about that.. this drama so perfect with amazing story line, great acting from main lead actor actress and all supporting actor, espesially strong chemistry from shin hye and jong suk. beautiful cinematography, and all of the ost of drama is so good.
Park shin hye and lee jong suk..and all pinocchio team.. well done, thumbs up for u all, and spesial thanks to writer nim for this amazing drama,,
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I want to acknowledge Park Shin Hye because she acted so well in here and standing ovation for her natural kissing scene at last, I think Choi In Ha is the better version of Cha Eun Sang. Lee Jong Seok never fails me in delivering his role as always he knows how to adopt himself according to his on-screen partner and his chemistry with everyone he interacted in the drama is very believable. Some actors here standout including the adult Ki Jae Myung exuding charisma and machismo aura and Jin Hyuk also Kim Hee Suk for their portrayal of complex character.
My favorite part in the family values that partake to the viewers the deep love of parents in different ways. I love Grandpa Gong Pil and Hyung Dal Pyeong for their understanding demeanour and greater values given to Inha and Dalpo.
I will look forward what this Pinocchio Team will give us in the future a mind reader or a hiccuping blunt talking witch, I'm on the edge waiting how it will workout.
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The moral of the story was so powerful, something that exists in our everyday life. It shows you how bad reporting can influence lives and destroy them. This drama opened my eyes to things I didn’t realize before, and I started asking myself questions. Is everything on the television is true, who is behind all this, why this and why that… Pinocchio teaches you that truth should always come first no matter what might happen. It teaches you the true meaning of reporting and the definition of a good reporter.
It’s a good show, although sometimes I wanted to smack the hell out of the writer. It had some weak moments, but overall it’s such a good drama with a great message.
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Hypocrisy at its best
Plot: A family who has been wrongfully accused because of what the media created. The story didn’t start as a revenge plot but it was full of hatred to all the reporters. Accidentally knowing the truth of their father’s death after a few years, both brothers wanted to clear their father’s name. The Pinocchio syndrome was only used not in front of the camera despite it’s original purpose and mostly done for In Ha’s personal reasons. Even so, they injected a few comedy scenes that helped me to move forward with the plot.Acting: Most of them did amazing in terms of acting. Although I was slightly unconvinced by Beom Jo’s fake smile in the first few episodes, I got used to it eventually. My favorite characters were grandpa, in ha’s dad, nitpicker and msc captain. Flawless acting from these men and the ‘villains’ as well.
Music: The OSTs are good but not memorable.
Rewatch Value: I don’t think I will be rewatching this as the second half of the drama failed to impress me. It became predictable and too convenient.
Overall: 7.5 to 8 stars. I’m impressed with everyone’s acting and I love the concept of Pinocchio and the plot(uncovering family’s masked face, police-reporter relationship, power tripping) has so much potential however, it was not executed properly in terms of reasoning and their actions. What the characters say contradict to the things they do, especially the female lead, In Ha. No character development, a hypocrite and above all, I felt like she was a burden to everyone. The writer tried to give her a strong personality since she was a kid but she was not reasonable at all and never grew up. Her actions didn’t match what she preached. She was supposed to be the ‘center’ of the series but ended up having her self-pity party. Although there are things that can be considered a good twist, it was ruined by the forced romantic/separation set up and poor communication or dialogues between the leads. They kept on going in circles that felt like a filler and also gave me a headache. Yoo rae and her captain’s love story was actually more interesting. The ending was kind of bland too. Despite my disappointments with the drama, I definitely learned a lot when it comes to media/reporters. I may have an idea to what goes behind the camera, the drama gave me more information and understanding about the essence of ‘NEWS’. Unlike coins, a story can have more than two sides. There are many quotable lines and thought provoking comments. The message of the drama is clear with a good impact and facts about life. What could be just a story/rumor to you may be someone else’s entire life.
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Story: About a young group of reporters who during their training learn what a reporter is all about - are they willing to compromise just to keep their jobs or are they going to stick it out and become real reporters? They realize they can completely destroy people with just a few words - they learn and make mistakes and get back up again. And we also have the Pinocchio syndrome on her with In Ha (I loved the concept).
Cast: Ki Ha Myung/Choi Dal Po (Lee Jong Suk) He was perfect for this role, you could see him torn between love and hate, forgiveness and bitterness. I loved his relationship with his brother and his romance with In Ha, as well as his relationship with her family. Choi In Ha (Park Shin Hye) she was such a strong girl who had to be honest (and honestly I liked that) I hope she starts taking more roles like this, It really fits her. Ki Jae Myung (Yoon Gyun Sang) - the next rising star in kdrama-land I swear. I fell in love with this guy during this drama. He played his character extremely well, I totally felt with his character. He is really really good-looking too ;) (He was my screensaver on my computer for a long time lol). Seo Bum Jo (Kim Young Kwan) a mammas boy but with a heart, I liked his role on this drama. Yoon Yoo Rae (Lee Yoo Bi) one of the weirdest characters I've seen in awhile lol (she was a narcissist totally) but had a strange way of displaying it lol - she'd make me laugh and give her strange looks at the same time. Hwang Gyo Dong (Lee Pil Mo) The best leader in YGN - I loved him. I thought he was handsome too. The rest of the cast is great too.
Music: The music was very similar to the music from I Hear Your Voice, I believe the same singer sang a couple of songs too. That made me love the OST even more <3
Re-watch Value: 10 - I'll be by to watch this drama again someday ;) Overall, a very well put together drama - that deserves to get recognized.
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This review may contain spoilers
A series ruined by poor writing.
It's about Choi In Ha, an idealistic reporter who suffers from a condition known as “Pinocchio syndrome,” which makes her break out into hiccups whenever she tells a lie. She befriended very young Choi Dal Po, a young kid with a mysterious past whose shabby appearance masks his true eloquence and sharp memory. The newbie reporters pursue justice as they try to discover themselves in the process.My major problem with shows like this that are nearly a decade old, is that they're not daring enough.
The thing is, it's full of potential, and it could be so compelling to an audience if only it wasn't so cheesy and full of good feelings. It's not captivating enough for a revenge and romance drama. The cast is good, no doubt about the skills, but why did they make Ki Jae Myung, a murderer, showcased with so much consideration. He basically told his brother, Ki Ha Myung "I kill people", and our main character's reaction is not outright shock or disgust, but more a kind of pity for his brother. Nah, the script is without evidence really lackluster.
For me, they should have done more mystery around Jae Myung and his on-going revenge, whether it was more dark, secret, thrilling with even more terrible scenes. Because it would make the flashbacks and even the scenes with his brother more heartwrenching. They should have made Ha Myung colder, even more principled, more firm and determined. Ha Myung should have noticed with more horror that his brother was killing people. As for Seo Beom Jo, he was just full annoying and they blatantly romanticize the fact that he stalked Choi In Ha. If you want to make him a stalker, then make an effort to make him represent what he is, and give the audience anxiety, and not try to soften us up to his behavior, which obviously isn't romantic.
When I see this, it's just pure potential wasted.
And honestly, it got boring halfway through the series, and still what kept me going until then was seeing how the two brothers were going to be reunited. But pretty quickly, Jae Myung is put aside, and appears from time to time in the visiting room. Teasing a whole brother relationship just to have that, big sigh.
As for the actors, Lee Jong Suk, who plays Ha Myung was once again the most engaging, his acting is always good, whether it was in his relationship with his father, his brother and Choi In Ha, he has just the right emotions and knows how to interpret them to make the audience feel. Choi In Ha's character wasn't used very much, I'd just say she didn't stand out, but it's the same for the rest of the cast, they just did enough with barely decent writing.
Honestly, I wouldn't say it's an essential series to watch but for me following Lee Jong Suk's career, it's a show worth watching if you're a fan, he's great in it. Otherwise, you can skip it.
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I LOVED PINOCCHIO!
I really respect the writer of Pinocchio & I Hear Your Voice. Everything connected, no plot holes. I cried, laughed, smiled through this drama. This is a must watch.Story: It was really good. Usually I prefer crime, suspense, and thrillers over these type of dramas (romance, melodrama, family). However, PInocchio kept me going and really really impressed me. I don't usually like these genres because usually kdramas put their main focus on romance and have such a slow pace, but this pacing was PERFECT and the romance wasn't too much at all.
Acting/Cast: Jong Suk is amazing as always. I'm not a fan of Park Shin Hye since every single drama that I've watched from hers so far annoyed me since all she does is cry and is rather stiff at times... BUT this drama, she aced it! She's improved so much! She did cry in this drama a lot but it was necessary.
Music: I even loved the strings in the background... which is rare for me
Rewatch Value: Eh. Maybe a few years from now?
Overall: I definitely recommend.
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Honestly, my main ship in the drama was Cap and Yoon Yoo Rae. They were soooooooo cute!!!!! I loved them so much and I ship them so much. I was just disappointed that they weren't shown together in the ending. But I did like the ending with the camera woman and Hyun-Gyu they are such a cute couple. And I liked how Yoon Yoo Rae turned out to be Hyun-Gyu's protégé.
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