Although the show’s name and the initial synopsis didn’t catch my attention at first, it didn’t take long for me to get deeply immersed into the plot and the characters. The drama unexpectedly rose to my all-time favourite drama list.

While characters in other dramas are usually one-dimensional, they are either good or the opposite, this series has admirably challenged that cliché aspect. The flawlessly crafted grey characters with well-developed and thought-out layers to the stories of each character highlight the fact that no one is perfectly righteous or evil which undeniably made the characters sink deep into my heart. Nonstop waves of dramas surrounding the characters slowly unveil various aspects of each individual’s struggles, choices, regrets, hopes, relationships and character development, creating depth to the storyline, leaving the audience with both heart-wrenching moments and heart-warming messages.

Apart from the emotionally heavy parts that will leave you in emotional turmoil, the show also consists of humorous and uplifting moments, as well as some hints of romance as its sub-genre which is immaculately intertwined. Although some found the love story unnecessary, I personally believe it adds more depth to the plot with the aspect of hope in the gloomy situation protagonist found himself in. With these combinations, it’s probably not surprising if you’ll find yourself laughing out loud then start bawling your eyes out a minute later as that’s exactly what happened to me with every single episode!

A great plot surely cannot shine on its own without the actors giving justice to the storyline. Even though most of the actors from the show are not well-known leads in other popular dramas, the ensemble cast commendably executed their roles in the show and impeccably complemented each other throughout the whole series. The use of sounds and music were also close to perfection, further heightening the different emotions the drama tries to convey. However, some may find the sitcom-like sound effects repetitive and maybe annoying at times.

Another reason this series didn’t receive a perfect score from me is due to the abrupt open ending of some characters that have played a big part in the storyline, whom I’ve laughed and cried for throughout the show. While it was somewhat understandable as not everyone can have a ‘happy ever after’ conclusion, I still wished endings to their stories were revealed towards the end, so the audience won’t be left in the dark after already getting emotionally attached to the characters. Nonetheless, these little unsatisfactory details do not refute the fact that this drama is a must-watch masterpiece.

Don’t hesitate and give Prison Playbook a try so you won’t miss out on this gem!