Drama Spotlight: Pride
Written by the Hong sisters and starring Gong Yoo, Big was easily the most discussed romantic comedy of the year. Big started off strong, blending elements of the Tom Hanks movie, Big, with the popular body switching Kdrama plot device. Despite great performances and an awesome overall production, for many viewers, Big just didn't live up to its potential. The last few episodes clinched its fate among the most disappointing dramas of all time. Go check out the MDL thread if you're interested in the carnage.
I seriously suspect this drama was written specifically for Jang Dong Gun's small screen comeback. It was 'that' perfect for him. AGD has a delicious balance of typical Kdrama and the unexpected. Seeking to prove that people over thirty-five aren't dead yet, these four couples will have you laughing 'til you cry, even when you're actually crying. My husband, who mocks my drama addiction, watched this and loved it.
As expected, there was a whole lotta pretty in Flower Boy Ramyun Shop. PILLAR! (Sorry, it's out of my system now.) It's light and fun despite some painfully awkward moments. Sucking kimchi sauce off of someone's face is not swoon worthy imo. I think it's kind of gross, but I digress... In FBRS, it's the individual performances more than the overall story that draw you in. Jung Il Woo's portrayal of a spoiled (perhaps slightly delusional,) pretty boy Cha Chi Soo, will have you in stitches. Supporting characters, Ba Eul (Park Min Woo) and Hyun Woo (Jo Yoon Woo), were a delightfully odd couple that made me wish those boys were given their own show. Oh yeah, and the chick wasn't bad either. :p
This is really a drama for anyone who went to high school and it's currently my favorite thing filmed by human hands..ever. Reply 1997 sucks you in with its effortless realism and comedy. I'm still trying to figure out how the writers made the makjang plot devices that were peppered throughout all but disappear into the tapestry of teen angst and hi-jinx. The cast was brilliant and even reminded me of some of my friends in school. For the rest of my life every time I hear a goat "baa," I will smile.
This is probably the least romantic Korean rom-com I've ever seen, which is a shame because I really felt that the leads had great chemistry. Fans were tuned in and loving it until about midway through when it got really weird. The ending wasn't well received either. Even with its problems, Wild Romance never ceased to be entertaining. The leads were delightful and we all wanted more of the manager and the best friend.
I also wanted to give an honorable mention to "I Do, I Do," for the best line in a romantic comedy this year. Did anyone watching have a straight face when Tae Kang braced himself and uttered the mantra, "Pride in the Pawn Shop!" Comedy gold.
And if you're looking to finish out 2012 with a romantic comedy I suggest you try King of Dramas, Can We Get Married or Cheongdamdong Alice. All are currently airing rom-coms that are shaping up to be a lot of fun!
What did you think of this year's dramas?
