Doona! (2023)

Drama with realist emotions that hits you fast and hard

I was really excited about this because I read the webtoon and I even watched the chinese animation adaption.

First off, my expectation as a reader was really thrown out of the window because this drama is soo different from its source. Which what made me even more excited watching this drama, because you don't know what's gonna happen. Though it's very different from its webtoon and anime counterparts, there are still some same scenes and lines that I recognized. Thankfully they haven't changed it fully, but it's just not a 1 to 1 adaptation like the anime did.

Now since it's not a 1 to 1 adaptation... one thing that I was surprised about is that the director really made use of the side characters. In the webtoon, the side characters weren't really contributing that much, like the main leads just figured out things on their own, but here oh my god, they are really contributing something. And I guess that's the trade-off because one thing they did wrong is that they took out all of the in-depth characterizations of the side characters. well... not really all of it, but it was just a few lines and a few scenes like it hit you fast and hard, but that wasn't really enough for you to get invested in these characters.

I must say, I really like the way they portrayed Ira here, like she's soooo bubbly to a 100, but inside she's broken af, but WTF was the point of making her and joon childhood friends??!?!? like that.... really contributed nothing, if they weren't gonna follow the original ending what was the point of that? The only thing I can think of is that made it the reason as to why she won't be the endgame, just like with Jinju "It's all in the past" so the main lead feelings for those two weren't there anymore.

also, another thing that they took out... Since the webtoon was fairly long right, like it's 130+ chapters. They could've easily made this a standard 16 kdrama episodes, but no, they took out most of the boring flirting scenes and interactions of the characters and that's how this show ended up as a 9 episodes show and that's great because I was a little bored trying to finish reading the webtoon. I think they did the right thing, the show hits fast and hard and you have to really pay attention to piece things together since they only took the important moments and focused only there. I really loved it, and it's great, but after finishing this show, though it was great, I think that really backfired itself, because it leaves you wanting more about the characters, the interactions, and the backstory. After watching this, it made me appreciate the webtoon's boring moments. So I might have to re-read it again.

And I love how they adapted this, and changed most of the things, whilst still following the path of the final destination, ensuring that the male lead will still end up with the female lead, like how they managed to make it more sensible. I'm sure if you're not paying attention to the details you might miss a lot because it still makes sense even after cutting a lot of the plots. The drama is like the realistic emotions that you could feel... I even almost cried twice towards the last 2 episodes.

And yeah... drama is great, but it leaves you wanting more. OST is great, barely noticed it since I'm so immersed in the direction of the series. The cinematography is beautiful, but the kissing scenes thooo.... like my ghad! I think this is the first time I've seen a kissing scene where they kept the audio, like ugh! it's soooo asmr coded HAHAHAAHA.

Leia Mais

Dive into this series to savor the story and music

Doona!, a Netflix-produced K-drama with 9 engaging series, breaks away from the traditional Cinderella story, proving that love isn't just a perfect fit. This captivating series delves into the complexities of relationships, emphasizing that love requires soldering, mending, and compromise.

The plot centers on Doona, a famous idol who, despite her wealth and fame, is missing love in her life. In a refreshing twist, she crosses paths with LWJ, an ordinary but warmhearted man with a remarkable academic background. Their initial connection is plagued by circumstances that force them to part ways as Doona returns to the stage.

What sets this drama apart is LWJ's determination to reach new heights to be with Doona, a touching aspect subtly conveyed throughout the series. While not explicitly stated, this dedication shines through in the final episode, making it a heartwarming, albeit assumed, ending.

Bae Suzy's performance as the lead is a revelation, showcasing her undeniable beauty in a role that truly highlights her charm. The music, fitting for a story about idols, is fantastic, adding depth to the narrative.

Doona! is a delightful watch when you need something light and enjoyable without overexerting your brain. Dive into this series to savor the story and music, and you won't be disappointed.

Leia Mais

For the most part it feels really realistic, and IMO worth the watch!

I won't elaborate too much because most of the other reviews have covered it.

I'll say that I agree with others that it's an overall happy ending if you pay attention to certain things, it is implied they do end up together. My issue with that is... I'm not entirely sure it had to be made a secret to the viewers. I see the "art" in making it a bit of a secret for the viewers. I get that since the couple themselves have picked to be in a relationship in secret, whether because her agency won't let her or simply to avoid the drama of openly dating, they've chosen to also make it a bit of a hidden relationship to the viewers. It's neat... but sometimes you just want to be able to enjoy the "post-story" happy moments of a relationship and we didn't get to see that.

I had major second FL syndrome, Jin Ju is adorable and I can't help but wish they had leaned into the soulmates bit and gone with that twist. I would have been content with the story being about our ML helping our FL past her demons and helping her towards a positive path in her life but them not ending up together as he reconnects with Jin Ju.

I've read some comments about there being toxicity and that really feels like a stretch. If you want a "nothing but perfect people making perfect choices" and dealing with their pasts in the absolute healthiest way possible, the dramas are out there for you. However I reserve a word like toxic for genuinely and consistently shitty relationships marred by people who abuse the love they are given and convince themselves or their partners that they've done nothing wrong or that the person deserved it. That doesn't happen here, there are choices made that hurt someone but there is reason behind it as well as genuine remorse, not followed by repeatedly making the same choices.

This is not a great review I must admit, I'm kind of throwing things at the wall and saying random things, to get back on point:
The drama had a sense of realism, with people making real if not ideal choices in certain moments, and with some good chemistry and acting. I don't think too many will watch this and feel they've wasted their time, but I also don't think it's a "must not miss" watch. It was good, it was entertaining, and although I would have liked a bit more substance at the end in terms of elaborating on the couples final standing, it was a good ending overall.

Leia Mais

they could've done better

Doona is edited weirdly, its very oddly made, Especially for a Netflix kdrama, they usually have a high production quality and editing is usually done well so I am genuinely surprised by this one...

The editing feels like you’re in a sort of fever dream, or a state of lucid dreaming. It has a fantasy feel to it in an odd way, and it jumps between takes oddly too. This is very clear with the ending that intentionally does not clarify year timelines which would’ve been helpful for us to know any time skips....

My issue with this kind of endings is how unnecessarily ambiguous they are. Open endings work, but in few cases. In this case, it was leading up to how the couple wouldn’t make it with this industry, they should’ve been more frank and gave it like it is, either they break up and find their way back to each other eventually, or they break up, that’s it.....

My feelings this lne are complicated. On one hand, I liked the casting overall and the story has many interesting elements, and on the other hand, I feel the drama is missing a good chunk of what could’ve made it special...... but over all it's an okay drama...

And The ending was…. Fine.

Leia Mais

Doona What!!

First you can never hang the whole drama on the fact that you have an Idol. Bae Suzy acting did nothing to enhance the drama . Doona character smoked cigarettes well, did sexy well, had zero chemistry with the lead & displayed the angst of stardom. Other than that unless you are a Bae Suzy fan could have left it. I watched because of the way Vang Se Jong performed in the series. He was awesome & the supporting cast did a great job as well. The ending was anti climatic but I found that the most believable part of the series. It did show well the angst between Doona & Lee Won Joon mostly because of Vang Se Jong's acting ability. Bae Suzy was very pretty & extremely sexy & that to me is where her character began & ended

Leia Mais

Here for Softie Won Jun

Doona, an idol, is escaping reality and meeting an ordinary uni student, Won Jun who happens to live next door.

Won Jun, a male lead i wanna protect at all costs. Innocent, cute, reluctant but straightforward at the same time. When he cried, i also cried with him :')

I love his character development. I wish Kdrama writers write more male lead like him just like Ji Ho from One Spring Night (2019).

People debating the ending, it's happy ending for me. Just like we all know, idol is dating in private.

There are several drawback from the story

First, the transition was too fast from lovey dovey to their separation. I wanna see Won Jun happy and smile, not overwork.

Second, Doona got caught had jjangmyeon with Won Jun was not portrayed as "scandalous", i want something being exaggerated just like in real life when we find idol is dating someone.

Third, they don't have scene when Won Jun tells Kooksu that he has been dating Doona. Throughout the episode i wanna know his reaction, tho.

Overall, 8.5 from me. It was because Won Jun i stayed :D

Leia Mais

just lean into it

this was the perfect filler drama in my mind. not a ton of emotional commitment needed but moved and enjoyable pace.

sure you could say more episodes more context more explanations

but what we got STILL felt really good.

sure the ending is open ended but I choose to believe they are together in secret and not for public consumption... as it should be.

they're an electric couple to watch- Suzy is at her mesmerizing best (man that hair and the outfits) and the rest of the cast is perfection.

let's not forget we're here to be entertained, and Doona! it's exactly that.

Leia Mais

Not everyone’s cup of tea

I feel like Suzy always takes on important and emotional roles which I love . Someone called her acting stiff but I disagree .
In this series, the roles were reversed . Usually, Suzy’s character or personality would be played by the ml . The ml was very in touch with his emotions which was good to see as well .

The drama did feel like it lacked depth . They focused too much on the sl having feelings for the ml and vice versa . If it was a 16 episodes drama, it would’ve been fine but it wasn’t fine for a 9 episode drama . I expected them to focus more on how bad her life was as a celebrity and why she was so lonely . They just showed pieces and expected us to put the puzzle together.

If you already know about the entertainment industry, it would be easy to understand and get into the flow but if you have zero knowledge about the inside or behind the scenes of the industry, you may not truly connect to the series as much .

Overall the pacing of the drama was nice though and I enjoyed it . It’s best to binge watch it on 1.5x speed .
The chemistry was great too .
I’ll rate it 7/10
Extra point because Suzy looked very stunning . So , 8/10

P.S the ending was uncalled for and made me wonder if the writers are unloved at home

Leia Mais

He was sunshine, I was midnight rain

October 23, 2023

Doona, this kdrama hits so hard, because I feel like it is a perfect story regarding the behind the stories of romances of idols/celebrities with "ordinary" people. This kdrama made me cry at the end because I know the pain of having to choose your career over romantic relationship.

The OST hits so good as well, but Midnight Rain by TS really captures the storyline of Doona and Wonjun. I know a lot of people are mad about the ending being unsatisfying, but I think this drama is about the reality. And the sad truth is not everyone will experience that happy-ever after ending that they dream of. Donna is a perfect example of that.

So please, to all the ones who is asking for that reality melodrama spiced up with angst. Please give DOONA the love that is deserves!

Leia Mais