Return (2018)

Return is a quite fast-paced crime drama with a plot that has already been seen quite a few times, but its portrayed in a different light. There is not a whole lot I have to say about this show so I'll keep it short and on point.
The drama has its entertaining elements, such as the thrill to be able to have numerous suspects right from the start. It has a concise story that revolves around a certain number of people and we get to see a decent progress in the characters' development. At moments it might look as if you know everything already, and have a clear picture of where the story is going and how the show is going to end, but this drama has its fair share of surprises. I really liked the fact that we got to see a lot of most of the characters, not just the 2 main leads. It gave us plenty of different perspectives on the story. Overall, it is a quite typical investigation story, but worth the watch. Most of the actors did a very good job. I loved Go Hyun Jung, her acting felt really natural, as if she was made to play the role of Choi Ja Hye. However, the switch of the actresses was made, although unintentionally, at a turning point in the drama, so at times it felt like we were seeing a new character. Nevertheless, Park Jin Hee did a very decent job. Shin Sung Rok and Bong Tae Gyu were exceptional, it made us hate them, and that was precisely what they should have done. Jung Eun Chae was the only one that didn't convince me with her acting at times, but she made up for it at other times.
As for the other aspects, I really liked the music, especially the soundtrack in the first few episodes. The atmosphere and the setting of the drama was also well chosen. It had some unique scenes which were really aesthetically pretty.
If you have doubts about this drama in terms of the story, and its predictability, go watch it, it won't disappoint. It might not be the perfect drama by far, but it is definately a fun ride which will keep you on the edge.

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This drama has so much potential at its start. Starring Go Hyun Jung in the role of Choi Ja Hye, this drama made some big promises. In the beginning this drama promised a twisty who-dun-it plot with a really despicable cast of characters. It was quite an interesting setup, but halfway through, Go Hyun Jung decided to leave the show. Park Jin Hee would take her place as the deep and complex defense attorney Choi Ja Hye. After the casting change it became painfully obvious that Choi Ja Hye was written to be portrayed by Go Hyun Jung. The depth and complexity that she was able to convey in the role was largely lost with the change of lead actresses.

Yet even with will all the casting changes, the drama still delivers a fairly engaging plot with an ending that redeems a lot of messy middle. I really do think it's worth finishing. I personally haven't seen anything like it!

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