Candy Online (2019)

I really wanted to stop watching this. I didn't want to understand why these kids were acting so abominably. But I kept thinking...just one more episode. Then by episode 5 I was hooked. This isn't a fast tale of youthful debauchery, in fact it is just the opposite. As the story backtracks to its initial roots, I was completely entranced. In addition to exploring that space between virtual and real world experience and meandering through parent-child relationships, it incisively peels back societal expectations with revelations about the supposed keepers of propriety. It was like watching a car wreck about to happen that I could do nothing to stop. That agony was somewhat staunched by its Bollywood-like finale and the ridiculously delightful dancing (which has no relation to how the story itself ends).

Some might contend that the drama's characterization is a bit off/extreme. But I believe it is spot on with its illustration of how people treat the "other" and what bad actions (or inactions) jealousy can prompt. Yes, the lead is a strange combination of genuine naivety and gregarious, bubbly wisdom. But I have known a few iconoclasts like her; they are rare. They often serve like zeitgeists catalyzing radical changes to prevailing systems.

So is it a believable story? sure...in the same way Breakfast Club was believable. It highlights the cracks in the social order while providing teachable moments for those who pay attention. And frankly, I'm not sure if the believability even matters. I'm fairly stingy in my ratings, so bear in mind that this is a drama worth viewing.

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