Completed - 7/4/2022 - 8.75

I didn't know I needed a second season after "To My Star". I watched the movie version of season 1, thus, those short 15-min episodes did not feel as disjointed and I liked it fine. Here comes season 2 and I am glad the episodes are longer and we are treated to 10 episodes. The longer format allows for better storytelling and more developed side characters.

Oftentimes, dramas end with what happened in season 1 - two individuals from very different worlds meet and fall in love. We like opposite attracts stories, and they always end with happily-ever-after. But what happened afterwards when you are in a relationship and the initial honeymoon phase is over? "To My Star 2" is giving us a pretty honest and realistic view of what happens next.

This drama started with Ji Woo disappearing with just a simple break up note, and Seo Joon is devastated. Even after a year, Seo Joon has not given up hope and is still looking for him. There's a lot of angst this time around and not a whole lot of cute and fluffy scenes. Emotions are raw and real. I keep on waiting to find out why Ji Woo would suddenly disappear. He must have a good reason to do that, right? Some might think his reasons are uncalled for and coming out from nowhere, as there has never been any indication that he was unhappy in his relationship. But if you think from his point of view, and take into account of his personality and past history, you could understand why he feels a certain way. Being thrust into a world of happiness and the world of a top star can be disorienting, and he's very lost. But thank goodness, his opposite is someone who doesn't give up and tries to get him back over and over again.

I really enjoy Son Woo Hyun's acting as Seo Joon. I think he did quite a good job in portraying all the different emotions. Unfortunately, I think Kim Kang Min's acting needs some improvement. His portrayal of Ji Woo in the initial episodes is quite bland. There isn't a lot of emotions when he first reunited with Seo Joon. Just a blank face. I do think he improves in the later episodes.

We are introduced to a few new side characters: Ji Woo's ex-girlfriend, old neighbor and the young daughter. I think they are much better side characters than those in season 1. I also enjoyed all the songs played and thank goodness they were not overplayed.

I guess my main criticism of this drama is Ji Woo's realization that he wants to go back to Seo Joon. He's been holding out for so long, what changed? Is it because Seo Joon finally stop trying? Is it because he couldn't get a hold of Seo Joon and is suddenly scared that he would never see him again? Why is his break over? I am not sure why. I find his realization and reconciliation with Seo Joon a little too fast. However, I don't have a problem with Seo Joon's final decision, just wish it wasn't so instantaneous.

I am giving this drama a rare 9.0 because I was moved by their story. An extra bump from 8.75 to 9.0 because I enjoy those two passionate kisses. LOL.