Short, breezy, and polished, Soundtrack #1 is a friends-to-lovers nugget of a drama that should scratch that drama itch nicely, particularly if you:
(a) like Park Hyung Sik &/or Han So Hee;
(b) enjoy friends-to-lovers stories; &/or
(c) just want something quick and easy as a drama snack.
Really quite satisfying, for a short little thing of just 4 episodes of 45 minutes each.
THE SHORT VERDICT:
Slick, gritty, and with more than a dash of blood and violence, Show isn’t your typical nor traditional Korean drama, that’s for sure.
I think what Show does well, is tell its story in a manner that’s equal parts twisty, action-packed and emotionally compelling. In that sense, I feel like Show is quite well-rounded and perhaps therefore more able to reach a wider audience.
For example, you might not be into fight scenes per se, but you might be emotionally invested enough in our protagonist’s journey, to see it through anyway.
Very solid, and very bingeable, if you’re in the mood for a revenge tale with its fair share of grit.
THE SHORT VERDICT:
Betrayal, revenge and dysfunction are the key words that this show seems to be live by; all the characters in this drama world are painted in suspicious shades of gray, as they seek to outwit and outdo one another, for their own purposes.
This is definitely not the show for you, if you’re looking for sweet romance.
But, if you find yourself in the mood for hyperbolic animosity, or, if you’re willing to take a walk on the dark side to see the fantastic performances of the actors – especially Kim Hee Ae, who is magnificent in this – then this show is a wild rollercoaster of a ride that should keep you on the edge of your seat.
Definitely not suitable as a drama nightcap, hur.
THE SHORT VERDICT:
Now this is revenge melo done right.
Interesting characters brought to life by excellent actors; a compelling backstory; great pacing; assured handling; immersive, consuming music.
All of these elements come together to make Money Flower an addictive, cracktastic journey, from start to finish.
Show stays gripping through to its final stretch, and even resolves its revenge story in a satisfying manner. That’s impressive stuff all-around, which makes it easy to forgive Show its few flaws.
Also, Jang Hyuk is Prowling Panther levels of superb in this. Flail.