If you like coffee, or if you’re on the market for a short little drama thing that’s laidback and chill, but that manages to also be reasonably thought-provoking, you might want to give this little mini series a whirl.
At 12 episodes of 25 minutes each, I found Show to be a great little drama snack, for when you’re short on time, but want the sense of continuity that a drama offers.
Psst: Link to watch is at the end of the review!
THE SHORT VERDICT:
True Beauty doesn’t exactly re-invent the drama wheel in any sense of the word, but it’s fun and endearing, even while it’s being tropey and silly, and altogether, it works out to be a reasonably good time, especially if you’re in the mood for something that doesn’t tax the ol’ brain much.
As a bonus, thematically, Show manages to shine a bit of a spotlight on the importance of inner beauty, even as it plays with the contrast between our female lead’s bare and made-up face.
The acting in this show may not be the most skilled or nuanced, but our characters are generally earnest, well-cast, and pretty to look at.
Moon Ga Young and Cha Eun Woo are picture perfect as our story’s leads, and share decent chemistry as the sweet OTP at the center of our story.
It’s second male lead Hwang In Yeop who ended up stealing my heart a little extra, though. I do have a bit of a weakness for broody bad boys with hidden marshmallow hearts, heh.
Far from amazing, but a solid pick for a bit of sweet, mindless froth.
Sometimes patience does pay off, you guys.
After feeling pretty underwhelmed by Lee Jun Ki’s dramas in recent years – namely, 2014’s Joseon Gunman, 2015’s Scholar Who Walks The Night and 2016’s Moon Lovers – I was starting to seriously wonder if I would get to see Lee Jun Ki in a show that I truly enjoyed, ever again.
(I didn’t check out 2017’s Criminal Minds, but I heard that I didn’t miss much.)
Now, I’m really pleased to report that I did enjoy his 2018 outing, Lawless Lawyer, and quite thoroughly too. This, when I’m not even usually that drawn to the action / legal genre. Not bad at all, I say.
THE SHORT VERDICT:
This show is like its titular protagonist; both start out quiet, gloomy and unassuming, but over the course of 16 episodes, both reveal themselves to be beautiful, moving heroes who show us the power of kindness, and the grace of humanity.
Assured writing, tender directing, and outstanding performances from the cast all come together to make My Mister an absorbing watch that feels organic, real and raw.
The OST, which is delicate, thoughtful, and ethereal in turn, is meticulously crafted and applied, and effectively lifts the watch to another level.
Dark and beautiful. And at the same time, warm and beautiful. A must-see.