Deeply moving

The acting from every cast member is top notch especially the leads in the first half of the series. The leads are so natural in their acting that it almost feels like a real couple in courtship. The thriftiness of some of the characters was poignant too. The story is tight , and by dramaland's standards, convincing. The Gwangju uprising is quite shocking, seeing how the military abuse the public is infuriating. But am quite sorely disappointed with the ending for the couple. I can understand that their relationship is a reflection of the pain of lives lost and military brutality during the Gwangju uprising. But couldn't the drama end on a brighter note? Rather than painting a pitch dark night, can't there be some twinkling stars to give the audience some emotional crutches to hold on to after they journeyed through the horror of the uprising, and insanity of the leads' growing up years? Nevertheless, its one of the best dramas in 2021 - made my 'heart flutter' and the leads’ chemistry is to die for!

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Stellar cast

The most outstanding part about this drama is the cast. I’ve watched some of Jung Hae-in’s dramas and in this drama he gave his best performance. So controlled, nuanced and powerful that I sometimes wonder if its the same Jung that I know of. Yoo In-na stood out too, she great whether she was sexy doctor or a cold spy. The two’s screen time almost stole the show from that of the ML & FL’s. The baddies are so good too. Nam Tae-li is a hoot and Boku is pure jealously and spite. Unfortunately, the FL is weak and it spoilt the drama somewhat for me. Jisoo is pretty (at some angles, she looks like young Tang Wei) and her performance as a new actress is commendable. She would have done v well if its an idol-type drama. However, she is really out of her league here and its not her fault tbh. Why cast an amateur in this formidable ensemble? At the height of a scene when every one was deep in their element, she looked like a lost extra. If only a more seasoned actress was cast, I would have cried buckets. Instead i was left a little irritated.

The story is gripping but yet at times meandering. Too much screen time is given to the numerous failed negotiations and it was getting repetitive. More time could have been allocated to fuller develop the characters who seem to have interesting backstories. The last episode was rushed, although it was worth the wait.

It would have been a perfect drama. The premise of this story is intriguing and romantic. It’s also v cinematic and beautifully shot. It has the vibe of a fairytale. A pity the storytelling and casting were a little uneven. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the drama and recommend it. I have become a fan of Jung Hae-in and Yoo In Na.

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