This review may contain spoilers
I loved the chaos, the unpredictability, the distinctive characters, the over-the-top not always logical scenes (e.g., everything having to do with the deserted island), and especially the acting. I like the fact that the writer did not oversentimentalize the topics of family, friendships, love, and death, as many Korean drama writers tend to do. I think that this is my favorite Korean drama of 2024. Was this review helpful to you?
Best Drama Ever!
I will say right now that this is the best drama I have ever watched. Everything about it is just perfect, every single one of the episodes are amazing, and the cast is the absolute best.I love Shin Hae-sun, she's so cute in this drama as Woo-Seo-ri. I think she's the best looking actress ever, and her acting skills are just as good too! Honestly, she doesn't even look 30, more like she's in her mid 20's, which is a bit funny in this drama as she gets called ajumma a lot!
The rest of the cast is also amazing. Yang Se-jong as Mr Gong and Ahn Hyo-seop as Chan did an excellent job, both very likeable characters.
One of the reasons I love this drama is because it doesn't make you feel angry at any point, as there are no villains. There is no one you can really hate in this drama, even including the guy who caused the accident in the first place. The whole drama makes you feel good, and the ending will make you happy.
There was also a part in this drama that actually made me laugh out loud. Never before has a drama actually made me laugh before, especially as I was trying to stay quite while watching it!
Usually, there are a few things I can point out that I dislike, but this drama is so good that I can't think of anything I don't like about it! The only thing I will say is that the rewatch value isn't too high, as once everything gets revealed at the end, it isn't as enjoyable to rewatch the whole thing while knowing what's happened already.
Overall, I absolutely recommend Thirty but Seventeen. I chose to watch it because of Shin Hae-sun, and it turned out to be the best drama I have ever watched! It's quick to make you want to keep watching and you won't regret it!
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This review may contain spoilers
Sometimes, It's Just Not a Happily Ever After
Well, this is not the “married” you probably were thinking of when you read the synopsis. It is more to me of a woman who finds her place and voice in a marriage that was crushed by her drowning from being controlled by her husband.We are happily introduced to the married couple of Hu Cheng (Feng Shao Feng) and Ning Yue (Elvira Cai) and their beautiful son, Hu Zi Yuan (Andy).
Ning Yu was an award-winning employee on the Wall of Honor, a senior lawyer, a courtroom champion who rarely lost, and a rising star with a bright future in law. Her life was one written for a powerful career woman. But that was four years ago. Her home life was her new battlefield. She now stayed at home and took care of her husband, Hu Cheng, so he could focus on his work – Yaofeng Technology which he established.
Ning Yu gave up her career at the peak for her family. Did she regret. Not in the least. Not at the time. She felt that this was just a temporary retreat. She now felt she was taking her first steps to returning back to work. Over the past six months she had been offered consultation work with her husband’s support, working as a pro bono lawyer at a nonprofit service center. Her income was not that much, and the cases were trivial matters, but helping so many people in need made her realized she was valued.
Hu Cheng with his partner and confidante Zhou Wei (Victor Huang) were best friends who from college had gone through so much with making Yaofeng Technology a fortune 500 company. Zhou Wei knew all of Hu Cheng’s shortcomings and secrets. He always tried to balance him and counsel him to make sure he understood there is a difference between his family life versus his work life. Nothing or no one should come between that, if only he would have listened.
Cracks Being to Show…
Ning Yu loved her husband and was always easy going towards his every need, but somethings were a bit too much. She was not allowed to drink, focus on just getting pregnant again, because he felt Chinese woman looked good in a cheongsam dress that was all that she was pretty much allowed to wear at any event--so much so, when she had gotten her outfit wet when they were camping out, he brought her one of those dresses instead of jeans and lastly stopping at all cost her having a career again.
This was a poignant moment for Ning Yu when she told Hu Cheng that she was going to take a job offer to leave the pro-bono, nonprofit service center. Oh, that did not sit well with him. He tried various ways to convince her not to take the job until he relented. Or did he.
But as she was closing the deal to leave within a month, Ning Yu was given a case for a wife who wanted to divorce her husband. Her son found out and came to the center and blamed Ning Yu for trying to separate his parents. Not listening to anyone, he went to the second floor of the building and jumps.
This was the downfall of Ning Yu’s restart of her career. Hu Cheng took the opportunity to not only pay off the mother, the hospital bills but to also besmirch her name on the intranet to make sure that she would not get any job. He wanted to put her back in her “place” of being at home.
Meanwhile, Hu Cheng meets Tian Qiu Zi (Jia Nai) who becomes his mistress.
Lies…Lies…Caught
After the incident, Hu Cheng decides Ning Yu needs to get pills for depression. Again, another controlling way to keep her at home. Ning Yu believed that she didn't need any medication, but again to appease her husband she did. Still bothered by the incident at the center, Ning Yu went to confront Hu Cheng after seeing Zhu paying the woman at the hospital whose son jumped from the building, she wanted answers. Her answer was in the form of seeing him walking out of the building and putting Tian Qiu Zi in his car. This was a gut-wrenching moment for her. To see the man, she loves putting another woman in his car, her heart sank, and so did her believing him.
She did talk to him at home, but everything she felt was just more twisted way of him lying.
Knowing now that there is more than meets the eye with everything that Hu Cheng was saying she met up with Mu Xiao (Xing Yu Jing) her lawyer friend who now would become the ally she needed to start the process for a divorce. Ning Yu finds out everything with regards to Hu Cheng’s affair with Tian Qiu Zi and begins putting her plan into motion.
Mu Xiao does hire a man who follows Hu Cheng and gets damaging evidence to solidify Ning Yu's case to divorce him. The catalyst for her reconsidering is their son Hu Zi Yuan. They both love their son but at what cost could she leave her son in the environment with a husband who acted as he did. She did not want him to be this way. Divorce was the answer or would she give him another chance.
Trust One More Time...Short-Lived
After two incidences which we have Hu Zi Yuan being in the hospital for suspected leukemia and Hu Cheng being in a car accident. The car accident, I feel was the turning point for Ning Yu. She truly realized how much she still loved Hu Cheng. He in turned saw the look of desperation and anguish so he felt that he too needed to readjust his attitude and ways. So, with a serious talk, Ning Yu and Hu Cheng put everything out. All transgression, doubts, fears, everything to start fresh once again.
This was a good point of love for them both until we had Hu Cheng bring in his parents, as well as his man. he sent to investigate who had been following him. Only to find out that he worked for Mu Xiao who was a divorce lawyer and friend of Ning Yu. All bets were off. Hu Cheng was now out for revenge. He felt everything she said was betrayal and she really did not want to reconcile.
We get an opportunity to see how Hu Cheng was raised and why in some respects he was the way he was. His father treated his wife not like a wife at all. More like a slave to wait on him hand and foot, literally. The man would just hold out his cup to her and she would go and get the tea. Always washing the dishes instead of using the dishwasher. Cooking, I mean, you get to the point where enough already.
But Ning Yu sees what is happening and quickly puts a stop to this. With the help of her mother, they empower Hu Cheng’s mother to being painting and doing things for herself. Ning Yu hires help in the house to which this young woman sets Hu Cheng’s father straight. So much so that you will see the complete turnaround when you see the expression on Hu Cheng’s face when his father literally puts tea in his mother’s cup. This is where you see the perplex look on his face, not once but twice. When his father actually cooks dinner with the help of his mother.
His father talks to him and explains to him his faults and how he needed to let his mother teach him thinks and trust her in knowing that they will grow better as a couple if he would just treat the relationship as equals. Explaining further to him, that there is nothing wrong with a woman working. All this as you will see is a surprise to Hu Cheng.
During the time Hu Cheng's parents are there, you will feel your blood boiling when you see how the father is. It is so unnerving that you just want to cheer for Ning Yu and how she handles the situation to bring this closure about for everyone. I was happy to see it because I was hot to say the least.
Good Friends Lost...Deception Everywhere
Zhou Wei was always in the corner of Hu Cheng. No matter what his misdeeds, he was always there, never wavering in his dedication to him. But things finally took a turn when he just disappeared. This was where you see the true cracks in the armor of Hu Cheng. He is a man that likes to control every situation but, in this case, it was not meant to be. Zhou Wei had gone into the hospital -- liver cancer advanced stage. Finally, going to see his friend he was so apologetic and crushed to see him like this. He felt loss, remorse, anger, and wanted to help him only to have Zhou Wei blame him for everything that befell him. These were his last heartfelt words that he said to him before he finally passed away.
Zibo his nephew justified to his uncle, Hu Cheng his attempt to take out Mu Xiao. He thought that is what he wanted him to do.
And lastly, the woman that he deceived in his hometown who he stashed his money and property, took everything from him and fled. The day of Zhou Wei wake, the police came and arrested him for embezzlement.
Breaking Free
Ning Yu created an elaborate way to once and for all to break free from the grasp of Hu Chang. Her friend Qin Can (Xing Zhao Lin) who worked with her previously was an advocate who helped her as well as Luo Ya Ting (Sophia Hu) ex-wife of Hu Cheng. She made a clause in her contract, once she was able to work, for the company to sue her and mortgage her house should she choose to leave before her contract. Hu Cheng made her leave. Once Ning Yu showed him the contract, she knew he would fight her. This caused an all-out fight in the conference room. Knowing how to push his buttons, Ning Yu forced Hu Cheng to shove her putting her through the glass. This caused him to be arrested and put into detention. Allowing Ning Yu to file for divorce.
Freedom
Ning Yu planned well. She had her home established along with her mother. Hu Zi Yuan was becoming adjust to his new surroundings and loss of his father, since he was charged with embezzlement. Ning Yu took over Yaofeng Technology. Rises it from the ashes.
After serving his time, you will see a changed Hu Cheng. No longer is he a driven man for profit but a self-reflecting man on the loss of his family. You feel and see that he is a man that doesn't know which way to go. But you still have Tian Qiu Zu still pushing him to go back to his former self of running Yaofeng Technology. She feels that she has won her battle with Ning Yu only to have Hu Cheng come to the shareholders meeting and give over all his shares to Ning Yu, crushing Tian Qiu Zu. He gives his final blow to separate once and for all for Tian Qiu Zu by giving her all of his savings and breaking free from her,
I have to digress and say Hu Zi Yuan is such an outstanding young talent. His scene when Ning Yu takes him from Hu Cheng is the most heartbreaking moment to hear him cry. Hearing the words to Ning Yu asking why his father doesn't come to see him anymore, will make you feel like you just want to hug this boy. He is amazing throughout this drama.
New Beginnings....
We finally see that Hu Cheng gets his life together and begins working at another company once again. There is a good relationship with his son and Ning Yu. And it looks like there will be a budding relationship between her and Qin Can.
I have to say this was a drama that makes you go through so many emotions and makes you think about marriage. You see how it starts out so well but just falters because of several reasons because there is not just one. Not all marriages are like this, if only...well, one can only hope that all are not this way.
I definitely did enjoy this and the performances by the leads was exceptional as was all the cast.
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Best show for all time
I watched this show 4x (2 YouTube and 2 or 3 in rakuten). This is the show that makes me an avid fan of Zhao Lusi. She captured my interest due to her dramatic act, funny and smart. Some actresses plays similar to NN but their facial expression is void of emotions. The cast was fantastic especially the grandma,mom, emperor and chunky guard. This show contains a perfect formula of success. They have a good director, beautiful and smart script and strong cast. I will watch this again every year!Was this review helpful to you?
Don't take any notice of the Haters who think their opinion is important
This is a worthwhile Drama. Although I have only watched 6 Episodes I am enjoying it. The Male lead is a brilliant actor. I never begin a Review unless I have watched the whole drama but seeing the first destructive attempt at a 'Review' I am moved to say Stop! Korean Actors are vulnerable to self harm because netizens are so life denying, depressed, jealous and unhappy they want to share their misery and it often lands on the actors or their dramas. Korea has a huge Suicide problem. Adding your negative, selfish opinion adds to the probem. Shame on you the peson who left the hideous Review. Who do you realy want to hit in your life?Was this review helpful to you?
Quite disappointed with the storyline.
It's a nice drama to watch, with great acting from Chang Wook and Hye Sun, but the storyline was quite weak. I liked the concept of healing in one's hometown, with the support of loved ones. I especially loved how Yong Pil was trying to win her over; that was cute. On the other hand, I hated his father, as his character was purely defined by hate and stubbornness, which destroyed his son's relationship. I find it ridiculous how suddenly he changed.I had a hard time staying focused, especially in the middle of the drama, as some parts were boring. I thought the screenwriting could have been better, and perhaps fewer episodes would have helped.
I had such high hopes, as people were comparing it to *Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha*, which I love, but it is not on the same level.
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Best show for 2024
Love the acting of Zhao Lusi,she brought the vulnerability and strength of a woman. I also appreciate the ending because her struggles to have a hold in the Pearl businesses,came true. The love story angle wasn't the focus of this show. I wish that she has more shows that showcase her acting strength. I enjoyed the BTS and the cast.Was this review helpful to you?
wasted potential
high school romance, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, he falls first, love triangle..
this drama had so much potential and i was so excited about it, but it turned out so badly.
first things first, the production was really bad. the acting wasn't good, the way it was filmed wasn't either, the ost always came up so randomly and sometimes didn’t even fit the mood.. everything felt so flat, rushed and forced/unatural.
it's only 8 episodes of around 20 minutes too, which obviously doesn't help since it was so short and therefore lacked many things.
an example would be that NONE of the characters has an actual backstory. not even the mcs. it's impossible to get attached to them because we literally don't know anything. the drama mostly takes place at school & in the their rooms, we don't even know who they live with or what their daily life is like..
this deserved a better production & proper episodes lengths to explore the plot, characters, their stories & personalities, their relationships.. so many things.
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super cute couple
the drama was truly outstanding un unforgettable experience from start to finish it combined a gripping story with exceptional performances that brought each character to life in a way that felt raw and real the cinematography was breathtaking. with stunning visuals that drew you into each scene making every moment feel immersive and vivid. the soundtrack was equally impressive. perfectly matched to the emotion of each scene. heightening the drama and adding depth to the storytelling. overall. the film was masterfully crafted. leaving a lasting impact and reminding viewers of the power of great cinema. it's the kind of movie that resonate with you long after the credit.Was this review helpful to you?
Greenest Green flag couple!
After watching too many complicated Kdramas with complicated couples, this is like breathing a bit of fresh air!The story is just the typical everyday life of simple people in Korea with heavy baggages in their lives, yet they try to go on and be as bright and kind as possible. Only if life was that simple!
The leads have one of the healthiest and most beautiful chemistry. Their interactions are so natural. Not to mention their steamy kisses lol. i sometimes wonder do we have such people in this world? lol
We get to see bright colors in this drama. it can be boring at times, yet who doesn't like watching esthetics and beautiful sceneries?
The only downside imo is the music. they could have gone with deeper music selections.
Overall, if you're in for a romantic, simple drama, this is for you!
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so many despicable people
this show deserves a lot more love. the main characters are great and their chemistry throw the show is amazing. enemies to lovers.that said... every other character (except the FL family and best friend) are just trash people. so many of them living under a victim complex. to the point that even when I'm supposed to feel sorry for them or try to see things from their POV I still think they're just trash.
I've read other reviews that lead me to believe that not all of these trashy people get the punishment they deserve. I'm writing this right before I watch the final episode.
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This review may contain spoilers
Sweet Taste of Love:When You Want More But couldn't Get ...
Story was unique at a point coz till now every drama where soul transferring was present it was btn FL & ML But here,the FL's father {SOUL} entered in the body of ML.{and this is not even soul swap its just like Multiple personality disorder with some vivid memories of FL'S Father,}And for food lovers may be initial ep were hilarious but at to the end the way she discovered herself and her curiosity to cook was a blessing.
As per the part of romance its was good {Chemistry was Good but they didn't have as much skin ships or kissing scenes as you expect from this kind of mini drama} due to the Commet thing.
If you are into romance like if u want only romance in dramas then u can skip coz here at many points you cant get the thing as u expected bcz of the plot.
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This review may contain spoilers
Better than the original. But just by a bit.
Beware, it’s going to be long and with spoilers!So my test-retest reliable but I liked just a bit more the Kdrama so I gave another half point. Below will be my comparison between this version and the Cdrama.
The cons: They didn’t spend much time around their younger days and I loved it much more than the modern ones. I understand that the Cdrama was much longer but IMO they lost all the beauty of how they became a one big family. In the Kdrama they suddenly started sort of living together, and without the prior knowledge I might’ve been confused.
Their modern days wasn’t done perfectly either. It was fun watching them going between the apartments in the Cdrama and practically living all together again, but here it felt less like that, and they missed the whole thing of how they became neighbors again at the first place !
Another problem is the familiar faces of actors who are usually doing villain roles and suddenly you got to believe they’re the sweetest dads in the world. So I’m sorry but I liked the dad there more. And the Mom was much more savage here. It was painful to watch her scenes.
The pros: Real life age of actors! Seven was older than the guys, especially ML and it showed. I’m happy In Yeop was older, so I could’ve felt the chemistry more.
Also I liked that unlike the Cdrama where Seven was the glue between them, here it felt like In Hyup was the one. So he really felt like the protective older brother. He has done a terrific job.
Her friend was much integral part of the story and it was interesting they left her with the same character as she grew up and didn’t make her go against her mom like in the Cdrama. It showed much more what a sensitive and beautiful on the inside woman she is. It emphasized the growth of the 2ML (who, as he should, didn’t want the FL, even for an instance -unlike the Cdrama).
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superbe
amazing, i loved it.. one of the series that deserve 10/10great plot, no boring scenes, good humor and comedy, bingwatched it in few days and about to start s2 so i hope it is as good as this season
i love a bad ass female lead, someone who dont need saving and a ml as determinated as her, good and strong characters teaming up is what i love to watch
i love the magical part of it as well
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I'm so hooked !
Main attraction of this show is definitely Dr. Kan, he is a total package. His acting, flirting with phukong (Wasan) & the way he is playing this character are everything. This show has an interesting premise, and top of that more twists and turns keep happening which are totally entertaining. The characters of the senior nurse, hospital director, pharmacist Boss made this story more intriguing. Anyways, I believe in queen Sammon. ✌️I have a unanswered question BTW, who stole the pen? I'm sure it's not Boss.Was this review helpful to you?
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