Reply 1988 is a bittersweet and uplifting ode to youth, life, family and a culture that defined the lives of many. This drama made me appreciate the simpler things in life, and how much grander they seem in perspective. I truly adored this series in almost every aspect of its storytelling, plot and direction.

The general synopsis of the show isn't exactly something that draws you on off the bat. It is in fact, word for word, the textbook definition of the slice of life genre. In the streets of Ssangmun during 1988, its people and their lives become the main driving point of this drama's storyline. Each character, no matter how big or small, possesses their own unique charm and personality that fleshes out in the most realistic way - and I believe that's what makes this drama so special.

The whole point of this show is to foster nostalgia and to address relatable family issues that may not be spoken about on a regular basis, as well as to remind us to not waste our time dwelling on the future, for we would be sure to miss the past as soon as it leaves. Having been one who tends to worry about my future too much, I tend to forget that the time I live now will be the one of the greatest times I've ever lived. The daily routine of household/family life, going to school, creating memories with people that will define the prime of my youth, and the liberty of merely pondering how I'll be living in my adulthood - all of these are things I take for granted. After watching Reply 1988, I feel more appreciative and hung up on the many aspects that defined my childhood - from the films and songs to the inside jokes and the hangout spots. To think that these little things will be what I will yearn to return to after several decades makes me regretful as much as it makes me strive to live in the moment.

While not exactly a bingeworthy show, it became a series that exuded coziness and a sense of belonging whenever I turned on to the next episode. I grew attached to each and every one of the characters as if they were my own close friends and family - and cared for them and their different situations respectively. I love ensemble casts, and every one of the actors and actresses chosen for this drama were absolutely perfect in their roles to create this sense of family and desire to never stray away from them and their story (which is why I was in tears during the final episode).

Although their attempts of second lead syndrome worked perfectly for this fellow viewer (team Jung-hwan forever, even though Taek is absolutely adorable), the romance was so innocent and simple that it didn't need to be defined in a grander sense just for the plot. A lot of love stories in real life aren't full of cheesy words and passionate proclamations - merely from the simple things, and I love (!) how this drama creates such a realistic image perfectly.

While certain jokes tend to be overused (i.e, the annoying goat sound effect, and literally just that), it perhaps adds to the homely effect R1988 was going for. All in all, this show got the exact message they were trying to portray and expressed it perfectly. This clearly has become one of my favorite shows and I will definitely rewatch it just to return to their neighborhood again. Definitely recommended for a viewer who doesn't mind a slow romance, a lot of cultural references you may or may not understand, and has a love for ensemble casts.