Everyone Should Watch Imitation

Story - 9/10
A very interesting premise finally being executed correctly! The characters are interesting and suspense has been built up right from the first episode with Eunjo's disappearance. As a kpop fan who's been around for a decent amount of time (since 2016), they've depicted the industry very realistically! From the difficulties of being from a small company to the entitlement some fans think they have, 'Imitation' has covered many important topics within just 3 episodes. The only problem I have is with the male lead but that's more of a personal vendetta because I can't stand the cold, brooding mysterious male leads in k-dramas. I'll give the male lead this though, Ryok seems like he'll have an interesting character arc because of his 'trauma' regarding Eunjo. It's refreshing to see that the male lead for once isn't traumatized by an abusive family but rather the loss of an important friend. Also, I adore Maha, I'm so glad she's not an overly aggressive 'bad bitch' female lead, those were fun the first few times until female leads started looking more and more abusive and unlikeable just like overly aggressive male leads. Maha's not a complete doormat though, she voices her feelings and is upfront about stuff when the situation allows for it. (e.g while she might not like being La Lima's younger sister and forces herself to put up with it for the sake of her own success, when it comes to Ryok's confusing behaviour she outright tells him he's being weird.)

Acting/Cast - 10/10
God bless the cast consisting of actual kpop idols. Picking Yunho of ATEEZ as Yujin was probably the best decision ever, he emits such strong best boy energy just like Yujin. Jeong Jiso as Maha was a great casting decision too, she has a sweet look to her that really fits Maha's vibe. Park Jiyeon as La Lima was another amazing casting decision, it was either her or someone like Sunmi. Park Jiyeon looks like the kind of performer that could carry an entire stage on her own with her strong presence which lines up with La Lima who's a popular soloist. Her sharp expressions match La Lima well too, it's why I wouldn't be able to imagine someone like IU or Chungha playing her.

Music - 10/10
I don't need to say much here, just listen to MALO by SHAX and No Answer by La Lima.

Rewatch Value - X/10
Unfortunately can't tell what the rewatch value would be like for this show yet since only 3 episodes are out! The plot will probably stay consistently good from here on out but all the other factors can really change this up. I think direction effects rewatch value the most because you can't rewatch something that isn't interesting visually, you'd be skipping through 90% of the entire show to just see the key plot moments if camera shots and the directing is boring after all. But for now, I give the first 3 episodes an 8/10 rewatch value as the direction is pretty okay so far. The plot is still carrying.

Overall - 9.2/10
I don't have anything else to say other than it's a really good show. I think all kpop fans should watch it as an eye-opener, especially the delusional fans.

Read More