I watched this to get a Lee Min Ho fix. In that respect, it delivered.
Acting
While most of the Korean actors are fantastic (and wonderful eye candy), the American actors are terrible. I've seen a lot of community theatre, and even most first time volunteer actors are better than the American actors this show hired. Maybe it is a problem of direction or that I am an English speaker, so the cruddy delivery jumps out at me more, but the American actors' performances were just bad. As I said, the Korean actors have great timing and bring a lot of spark to their characters. Even when the writing and dialogue flags (and it does a lot) the actors make it somehow watchable.
Characters
By-and-large each character sticks to their archtype and rarely deviates. Despite this, the characters are fully realized with more nuanced and detailed backstories and developments. While the bloated cast provided lots of beauty, a lot of characters felt unnecessary and their side plots were too seperate from the overarching story. I wish that the side plots were treated like spin offs, instead of being included in the main drama's story.
Story
Standard Kdrama plot #5. There is little deviation and almost no suprises. Rich, second son, bastard (in the technical sense) falls for his family's maid. The classist, distant, tyranical father - along with snobby family members, a rich fiancee, a rich male rival, and rich schoolmates - make it difficult for them to get together.
Music
While the music quality was good for a Kdrama, it was painfully repetative.
Direction and Editing
Overall, inoffensive, but nothing great. Holy flashback montages, Batman! I know this is a Kdrama trope/common technique, but it was glaring and obnoxious in this series.
Conclusion
If you just want a light, glossy, cute, fun, romantic drama with lots of eyecandy and you do not mind lots of filler and predictability, this is for you. The characters and quality acting from the Korean actors keep it watchable. However, if you want something less expected and without filler, then this is not for you. I doubt I would rewatch it again, but I don't regret watching it.
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