This review may contain spoilers
The fact I didn't like it shouldn't detract from the great story and acting...
... As per my headline, the ratings suggest that I should have given this an 8, but I didn't like this drama so I couldn't bring myself to do it. I would however draw your attention to why I might be biased or why my review might not be as objective as others.I live in the UK and although I've watched a fair, few asian dramas, there are lots of societal and cultural norms synonymous with countries such as South Korea and China that I've just never been exposed to. The main subject of this drama is just one of those things I couldn't quite grasp as a big issue and I think, besides the story and the acting - it just meant that I was just at odds with the main subject matter.
The story is about a guy and a girl who fall in love, albeit they know they probably shouldn't because of their current situations. The girl is unhappy because she is unsuccessfully trying to break her 4 year relationship with a selfish and aggressive man (he is antagonist 1) after she realises that she's bored, doesn't love him and doesn't want to marry him. Admittedly, she realises this before she meets our male lead but ending the relationship becomes more urgent when she starts to interact with him.
Our male lead is a father of a young boy (probably 4 or 5). He is not with the boys mother anymore and he has custody of the child. He works hard to provide and care for his son and whilst he works, his parents are the primary care givers but he sees the boy on an almost daily basis. People, namely his male friends, gossip about the fact that he'll likely be single forever because no one would want to date a single father, unless she has something wrong with her - and it appears that this is common opinion, especially amongst the older generation.
This is the primary reason why, even if our female lead was single - it would not be deemed acceptable for her to date our male lead. Why this is discussed excessively is a big part of why I don't like the drama... Because I think it's a non-issue, but I recognise that korean cultural and societal measures are different, especially when you factor in what the older generation expects of the younger.
What further bothered me though is that to some extent, the actions and behaviour of our 3 main antagonists (and you could argue there were more than 3) were deemed to be acceptable and expected.
And this is where, I have to hand it to the actors because they played their parts beautifully and never have I felt such ire against our villains as I have here. I'm not sure if I would have hated them more or less if they were not all male but I guess we'll never know. Regardless, I couldn't fault the story line nor the acting in this regard as I think the script was well paced, the dialogue and especially the conveying of emotions in what was a very 'heavy' production, was on point. But back to the issues I had...
Antagonist 1 was the ex-boyfriend. The girl was honest and clear with him as to why she didn't want to pursue their relationship (even before she met someone else), but he wouldn't accept it and he plotted to simultaneously maintain a relationship with her as well as disgracing her for trying to enter a relationship with a single father. He was selfish and became aggressive... But was a loathsome individual.
Antagonist 2 was our female leads' brother-in-law. He was a devious, gold-digger who was hanging on to the coat tails of his beautiful and famous wife; spending her money and beating her black and blue when she attempted to stand up to him. When she tried to divorce him, he refused and continued to manipulate deeds to their properties and their finances to ensure he could continue to profit from their relationship even though she was doing everything possible to distance herself from him and his abuse. This got worse when she found she was pregnant with his child.
Antagonist 3 was our female leads' father and I think he was the worst of the 3. This man had 3 daughters. His eldest, a successful broadcaster, married to antagonist 2. His middle child was our female lead and his youngest was a headstrong student who loved her sisters dearly, but didn't like being told what to do. She had spent time abroad to essentially get away from her parents. His wife was loyal and loving, with her own hobbies and he was a high school administrator, nearing the latter years of his career and looking forward to a prominent position within the school system that would see him working less up until his retirement. The problem was that he wouldn't accept that his eldest daughter wanted to end her marriage even though he knew she was being beaten by her husband because he couldn't stand the disgrace of having a divorced daughter. (Genuinely, if my father even thought my husband was laying a hand on me, my other half would be dead by now). He tried to arrange the marriage of his second daughter to a man (the ex-boyfriend) he knew she didn't love and wanted to leave because, the ex-boyfriend was the son of his employer whom he didn't want to annoy, fearing his new job would be compromised. He tried to dictate what the youngest would do with her life (even though she was an adult) and she often went month's without speaking to him and finally, he berated and spoke down to his wife regarding her life choices, her relationship with their daughters and her hobbies. I'm glad to say that towards the end of the series, his wife had moved out of the family home and was considering her next steps but this man was the epitome of despicable.
I was sad that the things these 3 men did could even be brought up in a drama produced within the last 5 years, let alone the fact that our female lead had to tolerate being associated and affected by any of them.. And that's the reason, I didn't like this drama.
But as mentioned above, it was a fine story, script and production in general and the fact it affected me as much as to incite me to write a review, says it was certainly good enough to leave an impression on me... But I wouldn't watch it again just because of the uneasy feeling it left with me. I would still recommend that it should be watched, if nothing else to see what the director and the actors are capable of as that element cannot be praised enough.
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this drama doesn't suck
I will try as much as I can refrain from talking about how their relationship at first was called cheating in my language and how romantasicing cheating is just a no no even if the relationship was the worst one in the whole universe. it's so easy end your relationship then be with whoever you want.it was both selfish to her boyfriend and to ji ho who probably if he was a real character would have lost enough brain cells from her.
the chemistry was there but wasn't anything out of the ordinary it was kinda mid at best. the whole story just seemed lacking for me and the sequence and pace of events is kinda boring and too slow for my liking. I had to wait 9 episodes to see them proberly date when she didn't even tolerate her ex bf like please what's this?
overall it was watchable and not so cringey gut I wouldn't recommend this to someone tbh seems like a kinda waste of time
one of the things I liked was that jiho is a pharmacist cause representation ✋✨
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I liked it, but
It was a culture shock on many levels for ME, so I can't say it was a terrible show. I liked it, but I was getting heartburn while watching it. First, I don't know how much of this could be right with relationships in Korean/China/Japan. I understand that storylines can be fabricated to bring on the dramatics, but so many people would have been placed in jail or had a restraining order placed on them for their unruly conduct in the US. So, I tried to digest it all instead of arguing with the television. I told myself: "HEY, these are fictional characters living in a different country. Chill out. Why is it that damn song, again. Why didn't they pay for at least five songs?"Well, don't let me be the judge. Please watch it yourself.
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A more mellow but more polished product from the director of Something in the Rain
Don't mistake the slow pace of the series as boring since the writer and director duo intentionally slow the series down to focus on the raw emotion and interaction between the characters. In that sense, this kind of series might to be everyone's cup of tea.The series presents the story in a very organic and natural manner, without too many lazy writing (as in forcing stuff happens that conveniently benefit the story in the name of fate). The acting of the main cast is good.
However, there is one big blunt that might annoy you quite a bit. Somehow, all the romantic scene is accompanied by 1,2 songs. The repetition is quite annoying after a few first time and greatly diminishes the wathching experience
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The Perfect Everyday Kdrama.
I watched this after trying to watch Something In The Rain without knowing that it was the same director and I can definitively tell you that One Spring Night is much better. There are not as many scenes that drag on uselessly (walking down the street, eating, things like that) and useless conversation. The flow of the show, the character development, the acting was all wonderful. All of the actors were terrific in this drama. Eun-u was so adorable. Every scene with him in it made me melt. Definitely worth a watch if you're looking for something with not a whole lot going on and easier to relate with but also something that doesn't drag on. I probably won't go seeking clips of it online or rewatch it right away like I did with many of the other dramas that I watched, but maybe in the future if I'm watching a really heavy drama like Itaewon Class or Goblin I'll turn this one on as a palate cleanser.Was this review helpful to you?
NOT YOUR AVERAGE DRAMA
Do you know when I knew that I was going to like this drama?When I saw Kim Chang Wan. Just kidding, but it`s becoming a habit to like everything this man picks, I don`t think I saw one bad project of his. On a serious note, it was when I skipped over to the last shot of the last episode, hearing Carla Bruni sing "Spring Waltz" and seeing a couple go in and out of the frame, laughing and kissing.
In a pharmacy of all places. If I had to use one word to describe this drama, it would be `natural`. Just most things about it feel natural. The music choices(even though I adore all the songs they used and have them on my phone as I type this, they do get repetitive), the acting, the way almost every shot is composed, even down to the actual locations, which are set up perfectly and when you see dramas with such fake sets, you come to appreciate this attention to detail a lot more. I went into this drama not knowing nor expecting a whole lot, since I haven`t seen "Something in the Rain". I also couldn`t draw any conclusion from the poster alone. The title sounds unassuming. In fact, I didn`t even read the synopsis. And in hindsight, I think that`s the best way to approach this drama. Let me warn you first though, it`s SLOW. Locations rarely change, there`s no exciting actions nor dramatic revelations. Which can turn off some, but it was such a welcomed change of pace for me. After a slew of dramas incorporating memory loss, childhood friends finding each other again, stupid, easily solvable misunderstandings and more, seeing actors portray characters that act like PEOPLE, like you and I and many others off the street, was borderline exhilarating.
And I didn`t even start talking about the actual show yet. First off, the acting. What acting?These actors ARE their characters. The things they talk about, the way they make small gestures, it all counts for something. If you can`t find anything else to enjoy in this drama, be assured that you`ll at least love the acting, because it`s that good. I`ve skimmed through some of the reviews for this drama, and while some are more than valid and helped me understand why it`s(in my opinion) underrated, some were downright confusing, citing lack of chemistry and acting. Let me elaborate. With a script and pace like this, you have no other alternative but to depend almost exclusively on the chemistry and banter between your actors. To put it bluntly, had that really been the truth, this drama, with all its potential, would have gone down the drain. In fact, someone used this as a negative but I would wholeheartedly use it as a positive. They wrote:"This whole thing feels like an improvisation."And I agree. It feels real, not clumsy. Even when some questionable plot points are brought up, the way characters react to them is not good or bad, it`s just real. And they all have flaws that can sometimes even be glaring, making you forget that hey, they do have some merits as well. Jeong-in is smart and cunning, but she`s also overbearing and rash. I heard that this role was first offered to Son Ye-jin, and boy, am I ever so glad that she turned it down because this is Han Ji-min`s character through and through. She plays the jaded, at time lifeless, drudging along life Jeong-in like a pro. Same goes for Jung Hae-in, whose Ji-ho unanimously reminds me of "It`s Okay to Not be Okay"`s Gang-tae. He suppresses his thoughts and feelings for both his child and to not be hurt emotionally again. It`s believable, frustrating and, at times heartbreaking. Their relationship isn`t perfect either, like they usually are in dramaland, until some big twist occurs.They don`t agree on things and argue, but they do it in such a way where you almost want to be like: "Hey guys, it`s fine." And they`ll reconcile. I`m a big fan of such portrayal. I really connected with them and am so glad that they got their happy ending. It almost felt like bidding goodbye to good, old friends, knowing that they`ll be happy for sure. Don`t be mistaken however, the rest of the cast does its job exceptionally well. Especially Lee Moo-saeng, whose role of an manipulative and abusive husband of Seo-in, Jeong-in`s older sister, is so convincing that I felt creeped out. The way he changes his tone and facial expressions from pleading, affectionate to pure, white rage, is beautiful, in a twisted sense. It`s disgustingly realistic. Same goes for the character of Gi-seok, who started off as someone worthy of some sympathy and ended up being someone so calculating and pathetic, that you just wanted to squash him. Bottom line is, all of these characters feel alive and like someone you know.
To be honest, I really couldn`t shake the feeling of being a voyeur almost, spying on these people and their conversations in secret, feeling the spring air envelop my body in a comfortable cocoon. The shots breathe, they are handled with care and are sometimes impressive. The writing is rather average, but there are some notable moments, like the "Don`t cross the street" scene and such. Also, and I didn`t see anyone else mention this yet, but the humor in this drama is spot on. I would by no means call it a comedy, but the lines of dialogue that should be perceived as funny, are, in a realistic, dry sense that I find amusing. Again, this is my review after all. And the jokes that land, do so on the back of relatability. We`ve all gotten drunk when we shouldn`t have and we`ve all been teased by our friends for our dating choices. And it still comes off as funny, that`s what I like to see. Now for the drawbacks.
I have to thread lightly here, as many people have so many cons when talking about this drama, but I only have two. Characters won`t get as much character development as you think they would, and the things you want them to solve, probably won`t be solved conclusively. What I mean by this is that we love to project our hero complexes and like to expect positive results from drama characters, stemming from expectations we imprinted upon them. It`s inevitable and we all do it. So don`t be disappointed when things don`t go your way, even though they should. I won`t spoil anything, but you`ll know what I`m talking about when you experience Seo-in`s storyline. Also, and I can`t stress this enough, be prepared for a lot of lingering shots of people doing everyday things. Be prepared to see a lot of mundane activities displayed and, even though you may think that they are showing you something pointless, this is also how you can let your audience in the minds of your characters.
In the end, "One Spring Night" is definitely not for everyone and you do have to be in a certain mood to enjoy it, but at the same time, I feel like this is one of those dramas which will get more recognition as time passes by. I eagerly await that spring day when I can recommend this drama to someone and to hear a reply like "Oh yes, I watched it. It`s a classic."Because I think it just might deserve it.
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Heartwarming to the core
This drama was so heartwarming that I could not put it down and was up till 03:30 after beginning it just so I could finish it in one setting! I was skeptical at first to start this as I find young child actors can ruin a drama due to inexperience and it also seemed a bit cliche but after the first couple of episodes it blew all my worries out of the water, it was amazing.The story at first seems a bit cliche but it varies quite a bit with all the sisters stories, even having the male have the child instead of the female is a refreshing change. It shows you some of the struggles a single parent can have trying to find love again and how situations can make you a lot more skeptical.
The romance between the main characters was cute! The way the female lead was so warm towards the son just made my heart melt. I enjoyed watching the younger sister for her spunkiness and the older sisters story was very interesting but also very saddening with the situation she had gotten herself into. The were so caring and worried for their son and how they did not want him heartbroken again and the typical parents dictating the females romance life for the daughters that is found quite common in dramas.
I would recommend this to anyone and everyone! Its too beautifully done to miss!
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Magic with Real Spark and Melodies to Melt Your Heart!
The story introduces a flawed but endearing single dad and a woman in a frustrating relationship contemplating marriage. The narrative delves into the challenges faced by the couple, from societal judgments to family complexities, especially considering the single dad's past. The contrast in parental challenges adds depth to the story, with the FL's mother's evolving and supportive role standing out.You got Jung In, our independent girl, and Ji Ho, the down-to-earth single dad, making their love story feel all grown-up. At first, I was like, "Why isn't she breaking up with her not-so-great boyfriend?" But as the plot unfolded, I was like, "Ah, got it!" It made the relationship changes more valuable. I appreciated the gradual transition, making the eventual changes in the relationship more valuable. The nuanced approach to addressing the complexities of infidelity and its impact on the new relationship added depth to the storyline.
Together, Jung Hae-In and Han Ji Min create a harmonious and electrifying dynamic on screen. The chemistry between their characters evolves organically, reflecting the challenges and joys of a mature and realistic romance. Their interactions, whether filled with tender moments, laced with tension, feel authentic and draw the audience into the emotional journey of the characters. The success of their on-screen chemistry can be attributed to the actors' ability to internalize their roles, bringing depth and authenticity to their performances. Their shared scenes, marked by subtle glances, genuine smiles, and heartfelt dialogues, contribute to the overall appeal of "One Spring Night" as a love story that feels real and emotionally resonant.
The supporting cast plays a crucial role in enriching the overall narrative, contributing to the depth and authenticity of the story. Each member of the supporting ensemble brings a unique and compelling element to the drama, going beyond the typical secondary roles seen in many shows. The bond between the three sisters adds another layer of warmth and support to the narrative. Unlike some dramas where supporting characters may serve primarily as plot devices, the supporting cast in "One Spring Night" is seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Their stories, challenges, and growth arcs feel organic and contribute to the overall realism of the drama. The characters, whether parents, siblings, or friends, are portrayed with nuance and depth, enhancing the viewer's connection to the broader world of the story.
The OST of "One Spring Night" plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative. While not numerous, the selected songs are carefully curated to complement the scenes and contribute to the overall atmosphere of the drama. One standout track is Rachael Yamagata's "No Direction," which left a lasting impression on me. The song, with its melodic and evocative qualities, seems to seamlessly blend into the story, creating a memorable auditory experience. The use of music in this drama is not just about catchy tunes; it's about selecting pieces that evoke the right emotions and enhance the viewer's connection to the characters and their journey.
In summary, "One Spring Night" stands out as a multifaceted and emotionally resonant drama, skillfully balancing a mature romance, a rich supporting cast, and a thoughtfully curated OST.
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Do not miss out on this drama, it's pure perfection
It's a drama but not to dramatic, it feels like your friend telling you her love storyThe cast has played their roles v well and they make you care for them. It's a simple love story that delivers deeper message with respect to society.
It's beautifully writen and even more beautifully narrated .
The male lead makes you yearn for him by his sincerity and love. The female lead is an epitome of a modern women.
I absolutely fell In love with kdrama thanka to this gem of a show. I am constantly on lookout for more such drama "s.
Ps this may not be for those who enjoy tooo dramatic shows, it's a simple slice of life drama
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This review may contain spoilers
Do you ever feel that you don't want a kdrama to end, like ever? You feel satisfied by just watching the show characters going by their life with no sophisticated plots and events worth mentioning. This kdrama gave me these feelings. A huge part of it was the chemistry. Not only between the FL and the ML but between the sisters, friends, and parents as well. At first, I was afraid that this is going to become a cheating/affair kdrama. And as many see it this way I don't. Yes the FL did have some curiosity towards the ML while being with her boyfriend. But this doesn't mean that she was emotionally cheating on her boyfriend cause she did tell the ML about her boyfriend and offered him a friendship instead. The second thing is that the intimacy between her and her boyfriend was already fading away and it had nothing to do with the other guy, she was going to leave him sooner or later.
What I liked about the FL is that she didn't settle just because she had to. And as she mentions multiple times throughout the show, "I don't want to marry someone just because I'm a suitable age for marriage" and as a woman, I couldn't agree more. She made it clear that she wasn't thinking about marriage and didn't manipulate her partner.
Many people thought that the drama started very slow and complicated, but this is how adult relationships are like, you don't just meet someone, and boom you're dating and they're your soulmate. When you're mature enough you'll know that even when it comes to love and relationships you'll have to do some thinking.
For the ML, I did like his personality as well, he was nice, caring and, understandable. However, what I didn't like that much about him, is that he wasn't being completely true to her. When he got drunk and expressed his fears that was the moment when he was fully honest. I know it's difficult to talk about your fears especially in front of someone whom you admire, but still, in order to have a healthy relationship, you should express your fears and let your partners become aware of them, which eventually did happen so I have nothing to complain about regarding the flow of the show.
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This review may contain spoilers
One Of My Fav
Watch it at leat 5-6 times and thoroughly enjoyed every moment.Solid story telling of falling out and into love and fighting for relationship against odds.
Subplots added realism and blend well to show relationship amongst sisters.
It showcase very real life situations and expectations like a retiring father looking to a position, societal pressure on divorce, single parenthood etc.
I enjoyed the support and fight lead couple had for each other. Their friends also provide support and it was gratifying to see them together.
All casts portrayed their characters solidly and as one reviewer mentioned, there is no real evil characters.
One of the best.
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The soundtrack in this movie is great and fits so well in the different scenes. I especially love the scene where the music fits so well when the ML is walking in the library. ..The director did a very good job in editing, etc...
The ML is so good. hopefully we will see him again with the same scriptwriter and director. The actors are so good and fits so well in their respective role.
Overall I gave it a 10/10 as the scriptwriter and director did a great job in describing an everyday life with all the normalities and abnormalities in life. It felt like a prose when watching it.
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