Best drama that ever graced my screen

I'm not sure what prompted me to just go for this drama that was idly sitting on my Netflix recommendations for ages. That too at a time when I was watching sub-par Western and Asian shows that were doing nothing for me in terms of emotions or meaningfulness. Well damn, did this show change my whole life.

First of all, the plot was composed of a series of subplots in every episode that came together to tell an interlinked story of the people within the neighbourhood, complete with a narrated message at the end that ties them together/teaches the audience some sort of lesson. I must admit that this was one of my favourite parts of the show, waiting to hear one of the characters talk about the messages within each episode, and watch it connect to the individual characters' stories at the time. Such a refreshing and heartwarming part of the series.

Now, the characters...no words I say will ever do justice to how multi-dimensional and authentic every single character felt. The adults down to the kids all had their own struggles and personal growths, and no one felt like a secondary character or a mere afterthought of the writer. In fact, it blows my mind that every character managed to have their own dreams, personalities and struggles be so beautifully illustrated and in association with each other...it felt so natural and real! I found almost every character to be relatable to me or someone I know, and exposed me to the fact that the human experience in general is an universal one no matter which year you were born in or where in the world you live. The emotions, heartaches, hard work, relationship bonds and successes feel very much the same. Overall, I have nothing but good things to say about the characters and their development, right from watching them grow from episode 1 to episode to episode 20.

The OST, ahhh the OST. This deserves its own paragraph because of just how beautiful and nostalgic it feels...its been a long time since I watched the drama yet every single time I hear ANY song from the drama, I find myself tearing up or outright bawling. This has never happened to me before haha, the magic of this drama's OST is incomparable and simply magical. Bonus points to the lyrics doing complete justice to those times and moments. Also, the scenes between the ML and FL near the end featured music that was so fitting and beautiful I have no words, like "In Dreams" for the moment where they didn't know if what was happening was a dream, to "Right Here Waiting For You" when he rushed to her at the concert, to tense music being followed up by "My Dear, Come Back to Me" when they finally reveal a major secret and realize their feelings for each other. So masterfully chosen and gave proper justice to those moments...I hope whoever came up with the song choices got a raise!

Finally, the realism of it all. Every scene right down to the ending, I loved how raw and warm it felt. Nothing over the top or forced, just pure chemistry between the characters and realistic depictions of life and love. Just like Don't Worry, I really have o regrets with this drama (okay maybe a few more scenes with the leads as a couple because I loved their adorable and healthy relationship so much), right down to not every character showing up to the interview...because thats just how life is. Not everybody (like the parents) may be be alive, or still close or in the same country, etc. And thats okay. What matters are the moments they lived together and the memories thy made. I loved how they kept elements of the ending up to the viewers to decide. Very elegantly concluded. Let's not even get started on the final shots of the ruins of Sssangmundong followed by the flashbacks into the opening scene...simply breathtaking. Left me with the biggest hangover I ever felt.

So, I literally rewatched this drama right after away with family. And somehow, it was even better than the first watch. The rewatch value on this show is insane not just because of how any emotions it has the potential to make you feel again, but the hidden hints you notice only on the second time around. So much fun!

All in all, this show is a masterpiece in every sense of the word. Heartfelt thank to the cast, director and writer for gifting us such a beautiful drama that I will take with me forever.

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