Responde 1997 (2012)

I made a good decision to watch Reply 1997. This is one of those dramas you can't love right away but when you do, it would probably become one of your favourites.

This story is of the most unique and original one among the recent Korean dramas that I have watched. What I loved about this drama was that the writer didn't seem to be afraid to take risks and pen down a very different story. Its basic theme is nostalgia. Remembering the good times and your youth and something everyone can relate to- especially if you're around 30 just like these characters. I am much younger than 30, but I knew where they were coming from.

In the beginning, I would say I wasn't too impressed by it. The story and its humour both seemed to be going nowhere. I got bored and put it on-hold after episode 7. But after I came back to it, it grabbed me instantly and I finished the rest of it in two days. This drama required some patience but it was worth it in the end.

I loved, loved, loved the whole kpop fandom. The depiction of crazy fans was so accurate that I enjoyed every bit of it. Siwon was quite cool and the actress is simply amazing. She was able to portray all different ages without boring me. I thought during the initial episodes she was over-acting, but that was the fun part. The way she was shown to have grown over the years was realistic. This show has been described as a sitcom and with its mystery all I could think of was "How I Met Your Mother". Only that part was something borrowed and nothing else was.

The humour of the show is excellent and the goof up scenes were all hilarious. All characters grow on you and their Busan accent was quite enjoyable. The romance part has also been done well. I loved who Siwon ended up with. It was apparent from the very beginning but there were certain things I could not predict (like the love triangle with both brothers). I think this is the first show I felt like wanting for more after it ended. Lots of things were great about this show. Even its soundtrack is amazing.

I think this is one drama I would love to watch again next year. It gave me a lot to enjoy and hence I recommend it to everyone. You can definitely judge by the ratings. They are quite appropriate!

Leia Mais

I watched Reply 1997 because of the great reviews it had and because of its popularity. I was hesitant at first because the entire show is basically composed of flashbacks, and I usually hate flashbacks, but the flashbacks are what give the show the nostalgic feeling. This show is slow-paced compared to something like Secret Garden that causes addiction and gives you a high, but that also contributes to the whole nostalgia/warm feeling. It's nice to have a show you can watch now and then without getting addicted that you can still sincerely enjoy. It was refreshing in comparison to other romantic comedies in that it was real - sometimes to the point of brutal honesty. There's no random prince that comes or unrealistic obstacles to overcome. The characters were relatable and you'll often find yourself saying things like, "Hey, I remember that!" or "I used to do that! Oh man, did I look that stupid? xD"

The story doesn't seem interesting from the description, but as you watch, you'll find yourself going down through memory lane with them. You don't have to be a fan of H.O.T. or even know them to understand the story. The things they do seem universal, so anyone can relate. The actors are very convincing. You'll often find yourself laughing, worrying, crying, and sympathizing with them. The writers and actors, surprisingly had my heart clench from episode one where I didn't even know the characters. There's no fillers or slowing down to worry about since the story seems to have the same pace throughout the drama. Also, the side romance is very cute and not annoying. To be honest, seeing Eun Ji Won act actually is part of what I was looking forward to in this drama. 1.) He's entertaining on variety shows. 2.) He was part of Sechs Kies and the main girl was a fan of H.O.T.- who used to compete with Sechs Kies. 3.) He was on the show Secret, where they revealed his poor acting skills and he apologized because he said he really wanted to act but never got a chance to get acting lessons. High five, Eun Ji Won! I think his acting was believable in this. I have to admit though that it was weird that he was a closet pervert. I should add a little bit of a warning that some of the humor seems a little crude for my taste compared to the cutesy clean humor that most Korean romcoms have. Don't get me wrong, they don't show anything bad, it was just somewhat shocking compared to the other shows. The show manages to keep the warm nostalgic feeling however. Jung Eun Ji, is also a refreshing aspect of this drama. Sure there's strong females actresses out there like Yoon Eun Hye and Ha Ji Won who you love because they aren't annoyingly cutesy, but Jung Eun Ji seems to take it to a whole new level. I usually love actors based on their crying ability, but she didn't even cry in this drama and I liked her. Her character - down to her voice, was more cool than cutesy; it was very different from what I normally see. Lastly, I am a new fan of Seo In Guk. He is a very good actor. I hate when guys seem to not show interest in the main girl in what is supposed to be a romance, such as the main character in Goong. Though I still like Gong Yoo in Coffee Prince the best for his crying abilities (man that guy can cry), Seo In Guk, was the first male lead I've seen that really shows how much he's in love with the main character. Just the way he stares at her gives me goosebumps and makes me sympathize with him and want to cry at the same time. O___O (He don't stare at her in a creepy way, f.y.i.)

Anyways, the music wasn't anything new to me since I've heard many of these songs over and over. Since they're popular songs I gave it a 6. Note, there is a weird country tune they play for awkward moments, which I though was weird since country seems more American to me.

I don't really rewatch dramas so I'd give this a 5 for rewatch value.

Overall I gave the drama an 7.5 because while I was moved by it, and did the whole traveling down memory lane with it, my personal preference is more of the funny/suspenseful/addicting dramas. I do admit, it had the touching moments I was looking for, however, it just never gave me that wow moment. I think that's more of the feel they were going for though, so it might just be a matter of taste. I'd recommend this drama to anyone who wants to watch a not-so-typical drama that's realistic and refreshing, and one that you can watch at your own pace.

Leia Mais

To me, this drama is average. I don't get the hype over it.

I mean yeah, it has its moments, especially when it comes to humor. And I like how realistic the relationships between the characters are. The female characters aren't like "touch me, don't touch me, touch me" towards the guys. Well, at least not all of them.

Other than that, this drama isn't anything special. It's just a story about a young, overly obsessed fangirl who doesn't know which of the two guys she wants to be with, so she ends up hurting their feelings. Also, I had to skip many parts because I was so bored.

And I don't understand how someone could not guess who Siwon would end up with. I mean, come on. From the very beginning it's pretty obvious who she's going to marry.

Hoya's character is the only character I like. He's the only one who doesn't have mental problems with himself, though you'd expect him to have some considering he turns out to be... kinda different.

Basically, it's not a good drama to watch for those who expect to see an interesting plot. Oh, and this drama is really slow-paced.

Leia Mais

what more can i say when i have given it a perfect score! it was 2012's best show for me and Daebek for a cable drama. first love and friendship, haven't we all had our share? Realistic characters and a story that you can relate too. nothing about this drama was over the top or unbelievable. and i've been hooked to it for months now, rewatching it all the time. it is more of romance suspense (one of its kind :D) and keeps you glued till the end. Seo In guk and Eunji have displayed great acting skills while Hoya forces you to tears and you won't realize and you'd be somewhere rooting for him too. perfect cast and perfect story and a perfect watch. Don't miss it!

Leia Mais

I am having a hard time writing this review. When you like something this much, it's hard to properly express your feelings about it. I gave this drama a ten out of ten rating in almost everything because it's pretty much my favorite drama ever. I don't know what it is I like the most about Reply 1997. Is it the good producing? Is it the writing? Is it the amazing acting? Is it the characters I can relate to? I think those factors are all equally important in making a good drama.

I like how this show doesn't have too much unnecessary drama, like an annoying antagonist and jealous bitches in every episode. It was sweet and simple, and that's what made it so special. Every character is one you can relate to or sympathize with.

This drama made me cry, laugh and squeal in every single episode. It's the perfect mixture of cute and realistic and that made it unforgettable.

Leia Mais

The drama was very cute. I liked that it had short episodes, and the story was great. I loved watching the kids in the late 90’s because that was kind of my time too. I was a little bit younger than them, but I remember the mad scramble to tape your favorite show on your VHS player.
And as crazy as Shi Won was about H.O.T, that is how I probably would have been about N*Sync had I been 16-18 instead of 10. So, if nothing else, I would have liked it for those reasons. Lord knows how much of a fangirl I have become...just for Korean Idols instead of American ones...and I am not a teenager, so that is kind of embarrassing sometimes.
The lowest score they got was for the significant lack of eye candy. I like some of the actors, but in this show, they did not look good. But you grow to love them as you get to know them. So, all in all, solid B.

see my full review on:
https://shadowoftheoperaghost.wordpress.com/2017/03/13/sick-on-the-weekend/

Leia Mais

Loved this sooo much! I think the greatest thing about this drama was that they intentionally left thing out which kept me in anxiety till the very last episode. How they combined the past with the present was really beautifully done.

I thought Yoo Jung and Yoon Jae made the cutest couple ever!

I wished they would have told more at the end about some other characters though. It did give me some hope and that made it all good ^^

It didn't drag on and never got boring, main reason for that was that the episode were a lot shorter. So thankfully there's a second season coming up to be excited for! This show is deffinately hilarious and the acting was really good.

Leia Mais

If I had to give a quick description of this drama, I would say that it is a mega explosion of nostalgia, incredible writing and amazing screenplay!

No wonder this drama is considered a classic and one of the best out there, it has been on my "to watch" list for way too long. It combines so many genres like slice of life, friendship, romance and comedy. However, the themes of this drama are timeless, and so many viewers can relate to the characters and their problematic situations. There is just something magical and nostalgic about the whole setup of the series: if you are a 90s baby, you will feel very strong attraction and joy to the small details and touches. Additionally, the jumping between timestamps are very easy to follow and created a nice linear story for this show. It reminded me of my childhood, while having on a smile for the whole time. Personally, I loved the fact that the drama was mainly set in Busan, rather than the overused Seoul setting. The characters were so loveable and unforgettable, and it is fascinating how the actors pulled off the quirky Busan accent throughout the drama. As always, a strong female lead is appreciated, and Eunji was one of the best actresses to fulfil the role of a "thug" girl. Do not start watching this drama if you are expecting the cheesy romance, because the romantic aspects in the show are so unconventional. The relationships built between the characters seem very genuine and heart-warming. Finally, Reply 1997 showcased so many great Kpop musicians and bands at the time, and even the OST was a mix of Korean and English songs, which added an overall nice touch.

Once again, Reply 1997 proves that Korean dramas about everyday life can be amusing and very captivating. Please do yourself a favour and watch this masterpiece! Cannot wait to watch the other Reply sequels!

Leia Mais

Impossible not give a high rate on this one. I came to watch this because I was too lazy to find something else, and thats what netflix showed me first.
I never imagined it was so freaking good.
Is a light history with a simple plot. Is the kind of drama that makes you reflect your own life, and life in general, in a very cute way, thats why is I like it.
One of down-points of korean romances in general, in my point of view is repetition and cliche. I like it but if you watched some korean drama, you know
what I'm talking about, but not this one.
The female lead. I love her. She's the best female lead Ive ever watched in korean dramas. I dont know if I like her because she's somehow like me in real life haha, but I love her. She's not drown down in gender cliches like most female leads in korean dramas (well 1 or 2) She's strong, straight forward, and tempered, yet funny. There's no drama revolving around her. She's just simple.
The male lead. The guy is hell of cute, and yeah call me shallow but having a cute male lead to me is important. This is entertainment, and cute faces entertain me.
But nothing comes with a cute face without acting skills(like that guy from heartstrings, he was pretty cute, also looked like a robot, expressionless) This guy acting was great. The character itself, confused, lingering in a sort of platonic love for so much time, having trouble sorting things out with his older brother, and his personality, he was sweet towards her most of the time, even though she never knew about his feelings.
The side Histories. They were cute as well and not a pain to watch. I know many people like side histories but Korean dramas, mostly are BAD in it. Most of Korean dramas Ive watched, with side histories, sometimes it becomes so fucking boring and irritating that I just skip it. Not this one. The side histories, as well the characters, well written, in a way you don't dislike any of them and you want to watch it, not skip it(in my case) .

Final considerations.
Well, this a light weight sort of slice of life, with cute romance in it, with a strong female lead, a sweet boy male lead, a crew of fun friends. The history doesn't follow a straight line. It goes sometimes only tell fun situations that isn't related to the main plot, but it's extremely fun to watch, at the same time.
It's a light weight drama, but now a shallow one. It's deep, makes you think about the word and life works, if pushes you inside of screen.
Is it worth watch??
Well, yeah.

Leia Mais

There are so many people who have re-watched it here, and loved it as much as they did it the first time they watched and I can't help but agree with you folks on this! Just re-watched it after five years straight and it was worth the shot.As someone who's not grown up in the 90's and does not belong to South Korea and lemme even say that I have not even followed K-pop in the recent times much, I felt a bit uneasy to relate to it earlier and even felt as if I was missing out on something but unexpectedly that turned out to be the best part. When the show eventually reaches the 2000's , a time I grew up in I could connect but the nostalgia I had felt watching the adorably-innocent scenes of the 90's could not match up, yes they were so good (not that the scenes of the 00's became less attractive). I have appreciated many scenes more as I re-watch it but at the same point felt that I was shipping the main couple lesser and lesser and wanted to watch the show because of its high comic value and did I mention extremely nostalgic vibes. It's great to see the events of another country from the point of view of drama writers, makes me want to live through that day, age and place!

(this is also a comment I mentioned a few months ago)

Leia Mais

I love this drama! So full of love and nostalgia. I didn't grow up in Korea in the 90s but I did grow up in Asia so this drama was sooo relatable when it came to obsessing over a group of singers. Eun Ji as the spunky Shi Won here wins my heart. The whole cast pretty much did. it's a good show to relive your teenage years. The story of the one sided love where two best friends know everything about each other except the elephant in the room which is that one of them is in love with the other. I also loved their theme of friendship and how they all grew together and remained themselves but a more mature version of themselves. I loved the 90s and I think this is a great portrayal of kpop culture in the 90s up until DBSK hit their peak ( which totally tugged my heart strings) this is the one to beat.

Leia Mais