I Haven't Done My Best Yet (2022)

multi generational slice-of-life disguised as a comedy

This drama is deeper than you would expect.
It made me feel for the characters and it was painfully relatable.

It may not be another "My Liberation Notes“, "Lost" or "My Mister" but in a way the characters and their way of living reminds me of these dramas.

A (grand)father that worked hard all his life, his middle aged son that never really achieved anything and refused to grow up in many ways and his teenage daughter that is quietly suffering as she lacks the support of her father and her growing resentment against the world.

This drama also has some really, really good guest roles & supporting characters whose story will touch your heart.

This drama isn’t for people who like lighthearted comedy, as the comedy part is mostly portrayed by the things that happen to ML & his journey as a (mostly failing) webtoon artist and some of his neighbors but other than that I would categorize it as a slice-of-life drama.
It’s also not for people who like morally perfect characters.

The ML was selfish and not an attentive father. He was human, as raw as it gets.
This drama didn’t sugar coat characters or situations in order for them to be more likable for the viewer… but that’s exactly what I appreciated.
I found it to be refreshing. People are not perfect, people hurt other people.
That is life.
But they still love each other in their own way. I could write an entire essay on the complex father/daughter relationship and how it affected Sang Ah (the daughter).

But the comedy won’t leave you hanging and there is healing as well as growth.

Oh and… the first few episodes might not seem too promising but it really does get better & deeper as you get to know the characters more. The second half was my favorite.

This drama positively surprised me and I suggest you give it a try if you’re looking for a deeper slice-of-life with observational comedy but mostly very ordinary people who are struggling and whose life is anything but flashy.

*Bonus:
Kim Do Wan was an absolute scene stealer. His blonde hair, his bruises, his motorcycle,… ~ call me smitten.
+ The OST is really good! It’s now part of my daily playlist ^^
+ it has a tiny bit of romance among the youth & older generation

Trigger warning for graphic attempted aliven‘t & some other things.

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The Writers of the Drama Didn't Do Their Best!

LIKES:
The father of the ML, Nam Dong Jin and his connection with Bong Yeon Ja.
The almost fated relationship of Sang-Ah and Joo-Hyuk. Their moments together throughout this drama were my favourite parts.
The comedic type moments were kept to a minimum and the serious trials of life gave off a feel of realism.
The production was good and same with the cinematography. Even scenes that happened at night, were easy to see.
The OST was okay, but no memorable music.
The acting for the most part was pretty good too.

DISLIKES:
The father Nam Geum-Pil was made out to be too much of a looser and it got old fast. He was completely irritating throughout the drama and parts became redundant.
Director spent a lot of time on unnecessary moments, that could’ve been used for making another episode at the end. Not all of the conclusions of the characters were handled well and were too open ended. The final episode felt rushed and sloppy.
For this drama to be labeled a comedy, I’m not sure that’s the right genres.
The FX, mostly used for wounds, was decent but was close to unrealistic.
The writing failed in a lot of places, but I can’t be more specific without giving spoilers.

OVERALL:
I watched all episodes, but was a little disappointed in the ending. It’s watchable if you have no expectations and fast forward during Geum-Pil moments will be used a lot. It’s an easy watch, so I would recommend it. I won’t watch it again.

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