Uncontrollably Fond (2016)

this drama is so sad...

Uncontrollably Fond (also known as Lightly, Ardently) is a romance melodrama about a popular star (Kim Woo Bin) and a documentary producer (Suzy) who knew each other as teenagers, but were separated.  The two are reunited many years later after secrets from their past begin to surface and the star is given only months to live.
Well, count me as completely surprised at just how much I loved Uncontrollably Fond! Of course, I was hoping I would enjoy it, but I entered in a bit cautiously. I love the writer of the drama, but I’ve always been more neutral towards the leads.
But it turned out to be just my style of melodrama. I enjoyed all of the characters and was genuinely interested in their individual stories and how they related to the bigger picture. All of the supporting characters are important, and they helped create a rich, in depth world.
The drama has a wonderful soundtrack that really set the mood for the drama and easily stirred up my emotions. The cinematography is really great too with so many absolutely gorgeous scenes throughout the drama.

We have Kim Woo Bin as leading man Shin Joon Young. I’ve never disliked Kim Woo Bin, but I’ve just not cared much for him. I’ve never been drawn to his characters and usually found them more on the obnoxious side. Once we get passed that brash personality, Joon Young had this softness to him that is both sad and childlike. Kim Woo Bin delivered so much depth and emotion in his portrayal of Joon Young. I could really feel his pain over the tremendous guilt he was experiencing as well as his passion for Eul. He really moved me on so many occasions.
Suzy plays our documentary producer No Eul. I’ve also been sort of neutral towards Suzy in the past, but mostly I’ve found her pleasant enough. And I thought she fit the character of No Eul very well. No Eul has a bad reputation because she will do anything for money because she is poor and wants a good life for her brother.
And I ended up really enjoying Kim Woo Bin and Suzy as a couple. They each have a strong presence that really made their bickering quite fun. With one obstacle after another coming between them, they share plenty of intense scenes that really draws you into their relationship. Then there are these subtle moments where they soften and you can really see the sweet chemistry with this couple. Their love story is a roller coaster of emotions, but I never doubted their love for each other.

I didn’t personally have any issues with the drama, but I thought I would give a little heads up for anyone considering watching it. It is definitely a melodrama. Don’t be fooled by the early episodes that have a somewhat lighter tone to balance things out. Things become progressively more angsty and melodramatic as the drama progresses. Also, Joon Young and Eul have a very tumultuous relationship. If you’re looking for a sweeping romance with lots of lovey dovey moments, Uncontrollably Fond is not that kind of drama. One horrible event after another seems to constantly get in their paths and prevent any chance of a real relationship. The couple doesn’t get a lot of time to really be together.
With everything finally set right, Joon Young was able to enjoy his final days with the love of his life, Eul. She took care of him, they played, they laughed, and they just got to finally be together. It was both joyful and sad to watch them finally get to be a couple. And how fitting that he took his final breath resting his head upon her shoulder.

All in all, Uncontrollably Fond was an amazing ride! The characters were so rich and full all the way from the main characters down to the supporting ones. The intricate web of lies that connected everyone made for a tension filled story that left me always wanting me more. I enjoyed each and every relationship and was never bored for one second of the drama. Joon Young’s passion for Eul was complicated and didn’t always produce the sweetest results, but I never doubted his love for her and that dedication was at the center of a remarkable tale of love and redemption.

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Uncontrollably Fond is a drama that starts out with many things happening at once. The writer/director throws many things at you at the start of the drama. This makes you wonder what is going on. It becomes even more convoluted when you have the writers add in a bunch of flashbacks as well. Luckily as the story goes on, things become more obvious. You begin to slightly see where the story is headed. Overall I gave this show a 7 on a scale of 1-10. 1-5 being shows that are unwatchable or just really bad. 5.1-10 being shows that are watchable and good. A 7.5 means that this show was on the average side. I honestly can't say much overly good or overly bad about the show.

Story: [7/10] I'll start with the bad part of the show. One of the things that I did not like about this show was its use of flashback to tell the story at the beginning. The show starts by having flashbacks while the characters are in 2016. There are flashbacks to the past to show us events that have currently led to what is now happening in the present. Unfortunately I feel that it was a bad set up because we didn't know any of the story at the beginning either! Hence the flashbacks only made the story even more confusing at the beginning. Personally I would rather a story begin by telling the events of what happened in the past and then move closer to the present.

On the other hand, there were some good things as well. Besides the confusing beginning, everything else in this drama was very logical and easy to understand. The story moves at a very decent pace. i didn't really feel that it was too fast or too slow. That usually doesn't happen for me in many dramas. All in all though, the story was pretty average for me. Uncontrollably fond is pretty much your somewhat typical revenge drama. The villains does something bad and the good guys tries to get back at them. Obviously it's not that simple, but I also didn't want to give away any spoilers. All in all, there was nothing that made me overly jump at watching the drama or even to not watch it. Hence the 7.

Acting/Cast: [8.5/10] This drama had some big name actor and actresses. Personally I'm a big fan of Suzy. Hence I decided to watch it just to see her act. I also really enjoyed the relationship between Noh Jik and Ha Roo. As their relationship added some cuteness to an otherwise sad melodrama.

Music: [8/10] The music was decently good. I think I liked it for the most part. Although was there a remixed/edited Christmas jingle in this drama? I can't remember if it drama or another one, but I was not too fond of that one.

Overall I'd like to reiterate that this show was pretty average. Some people may like it a lot and others might really hate it. Personally I was on the fence with this one. This show is probably as typical as you can get for a Korean drama/melodrama.

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Uncontrollably moving

Many of the reviews on My Drama List of 'Uncontrollably Fond' stress the aspect of melodrama noting that much of the emotional weight of the drama is created by exaggerated situations. Contrary to my fellow drama lovers, I was struck by the characters, not in the least one-dimensional - and how the writers took stereotypical archetypes, the celebrity male and the downtrodden but hardworking female - and developed the story around their response to each other and their different but equally difficult circumstances.

How a 28 year old celebrity on top of the world deals with a death sentence from a deadly disease is believable and touching. The way he deals with the sure realisation that his time is limited, the growth he achieves as a human being during that short time, and those few days and weeks of total happiness with the woman he loves makes his gentle death beautiful and true. Kim Woo-Bin acts this complex character with a perfect balance of bravado and subtlety. The moments where he rebels against his cruel fate are few but powerful; his acceptance of his fate also allows him to do whatever it takes to express his love for No Eul, played by Bae Suzy. Her character is even more complex; her striving for acceptance and success as well as her desire to punish her father's murderer show Bae Suzy's confidence and range. I don't know why several other reviews find her acting sub-par. I found her performance detailed, strong, and fully credible.

The villains are exactly that though at least one, Choi Hyeon-joon (Yu Oh-seong) redeems himself. The secondary parts, their stories, loves, deceptions, and daily lives are effectively portrayed and help add color and detail to the story.

As effective as the OST songs are, even more compelling is the orchestral soundtrack which knits scenes together enhance the emotions being portrayed. It is one of the best scored dramas precisely because the music is not just about the songs, well done and effective as they are.

This is one of those dramas which got better and better. I'm not a crier but the last episode brought on the tears. I'll definitely rewatch this.

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Separately, the individual components worked. Kim Woo Bin as Joon Yeong was convincing. He played JY with nuance, easily transforming between playful and heart-breaking. Suzy as Noh Eul did a solid job as well. She's upfront about what she wants and demonstrates a blatantness that toes the line between admirable and shameless, in a good way. Jin Kyung, as Joon Yeoung's mom, as usual performed her best. I also wanted to give a small shout out to Lee Seo Won, Noh Eul's little bro- he's so cute- I'm definitely on the lookout for his future works.

Now, the problem isn't with the actors- everyone acted extremely well with what they were given- it's with the directing and the plot execution. UF had everything it needed to become an unforgettable melodrama but alas, for the bulk of the episodes- it wasn't. Lets start with the choppy execution of scenes. Each episode ended on a cliffhanger that was just confusing. Though they explain it in the next episode, it did deter from the overall fluidity of the episodes. Besides from the cliffhangers, many scenes were choppy and kind of jumped from one to another without adequate explanation.

Nevertheless, the chemistry between Kim Woo Bin and Suzy had a down to earth feel to it that worked really well at times but it wasn't maximized to its full potential. Visually, along with the gorgeous winter landscape, they are a beautiful couple. However, the backstory that was given falteringly detracted from their present day romance. The backstory should've made us, as viewers, care a lot for the couple, to root for their romance. Instead, the drama gave us a glimpse of their backstory that just honestly didn't justify why they are a fated couple. And along the way, the backstory was dropped and we no longer got flashbacks. Suddenly, it was all about the family drama and the revenge.

Speaking of the revenge plot line, it was completely dragged on and I began to dislike almost every character for making stupid decisions. In other words, it became pretty makjang, in that respect. Now, I have to say that the plot is chock full of classic melo cliches, which can be a good or bad thing depending on the execution. That's why I said that UF reminded me of the early 2000's melos but it didn't have the emotional impact of those reminiscent to the earlier melos. Personally, I think it's due to the fact we never had the chance to fall in love with the romance before we went straight into sadness.

OST wasn't my favorite of all time but it made some emotional scenes more emotional so it worked.

The saving grace for this drama was the last two episodes. I didn't cry throughout the whole drama for the romance at all because it just didn't get me emotionally. However, the last two episodes made me glad that I didn't drop UF. I can even say that it made the previous episodes worth it, well, worth more it anyways! The last two episodes finally gave me the pathos feelings that I wanted to see throughout UF. I'm disappointed that I had to wait for episode 19 to finally feel it though.

With everything that I said, though, I recommend this drama with reservations depending on your taste. Personally, I kept watching because I wanted to see it until the end, to see what happened to the characters. If I had a second chance, though, I don't think I would've started it because it's not a drama to binge as it is a slow drama. It's not a drama for everyone but it's definitely a drama for some. I won't re-watch this though.

If you are in the mood to watch some complicated family feud revenge drama, then UF is up your alley. Don't expect lots of cute romantic scenes because there are minimal. Do expect some frustration if you don't like slow moving plots and crazy family issues. Do expect a lot of tears, especially at the end.

UF is a substance drama that relies on strong individual performances, a fitting OST, and a lovely winter backdrop.

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I think I'm one of the few people who enjoyed this drama. I'm not saying that it was perfect, it actually was a bit draggy and had a lot of unnecessary, frustrating plot progression, but I just couldn't help but fall in deep (maybe It's because I have a thing for handsome dying men..). The last time I cried this much in the ending of a drama was in 49 days and I'm sorry I love you (handsome dying men...). And Kim woo bin is such a handsome and attractive actor you can't help but love him!! So in conclusion, many may think that I'm overreacting and the drama is not worth it etc,etc.. and yes indeed, I am overreacting :') but I say this drama is just not for everyone, so *highfive* those who liked it !!

P.S. AWESOME ost!!!!

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A good series to reflect on life, no matter how tough it is

This is an unlikely moral tale of how wrongful actions, bad decisions, and most of all, the cowardice/stubbornness of staying that way can run the lives of many, but most of all one's self and beloved. Innocent playful student love that gets complicated real quick, but thankfully comes to a reflective conclusion. A recommended watch for the storyline, but docked a few stars only because I felt the two leads didn't show romantic chemistry. Nonetheless, it does make one reflect on what best to include on one's bucket list, if it should come to that, and what memories one would hold most precious.

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I got into the drama thinking it was just a sad ending. But it is a whole toxic mess.

"Are you at an age where you should be crying over some drama character that dies?" -Noh Eul

Yes. We are. But honestly the death wasn't even the saddest part of this drama. It was the relationship between the leads, it was so damn toxic. Had it not been for my curiosity and cast, this drama is far too overhyped.

From the first episode onwards, their relationship was doomed in my eyes.
The guy tripped her, she was limping.
He even stole evidence from her that could spoil his dad's reputation, she then got into an accident.
When he met her again, he left her in the middle of road nowhere where it was snowing and threw some money at her.
He then had the gal to be angry at her for not admitting that they knew each other.
When she rejected him because she had feelings for the other guy, he actually kicked her.
Let's not talk about the way he treated her once they actually got into a relationship.
There's more, he even kissed other woman in front of her, let her be humiliated and contributed to that humliation.

I initially thought the FL would have some kind of backbone and expected more from her, but she number of times allowed him to treat her like shit and then kept going back.

This is the kind of plot that gives me the ick. The romance happened for about a minutes, the most of it was heartbreak for the FL. While the actors had chemistry, in the story, the MLs feeling for the FL just suddenly happened. They didn't have that great of a backstory to begin with.

I came into this drama expecting to be wowed and shed some tears at the end. But I shed more tears of frustrations with the way the entire relationship was handled compared to when he died. Since that's where his story ends, here's to hoping she finally meets a decent man and begins a new life.

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This could have been 3 bad Dramas but instead they made a good one, so cheers to that. I haven't cried in any other drama since It's ok, that is love, so cheers.

Loved how by every episode started differently from the previous one and kind of tells you lit a bit more of the story. The story it self is surprisingly good, there are no heroes, everyone has their fouls. I guess every one make mistakes and is human... I think that is why I liked it

Won Bin is so good playing a good hearten jerk love it, he really is good and I had the feeling that no one else could have played the main character. Suzy acting improved but still sucks for me... sorry. I just can't believe in a word she says, it's like the main worry is making her pretty from every angle. All of the people and and side stories were fun to watch, the older actor were great. Side note Haru, Ji Tae and the Killer were kind of annoying.

Soundtrack was great it has that KBS feeling a good mix between OST and foreigner music that suited the drama very well, thank you for that. Suzy should really stick to singing, just saying....

Over all it was a good drama, maybe a little too long for the the kind of story they were trying to tell but still wasn't a a waist of time so I recommend even if you have seen more dramas then you can count.

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Saddest Drama I’ve watched

I don’t give many dramas a 10, but this one deserved it. It had everything from humor, to friendship, revenge, extreme sadness, and everything in between. The acting was excellent from the leads to the supporting actors. If you don’t like sad dramas, don’t watch it. I think the only other time I cried this hard was the ending of Scarlet Heart Ryeo, and I also gave that one a 10. Have lots of tissues on hand, especially the last two episodes. But I cried a number of times from episode 1, all the way to the end. I binged this in two days it was so good. I can’t think of one boring moment. This is one of those dramas that will stay with me a long time. This is a must watch for anyone who likes sad touching love stories, and are prepared to shed tears.

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Long story short, I didn't like it very much. I found it very sad and boring at the same time, which is a weird mix.
I didn't feel any chemistry between the two leads, but probably because I found out I don't like Suzy as an actress (it's been the first show I watched with her and I had high expectations... now I'm disappointed).
The only saving grace it's Kim Woo-Bin whose acting, though a bit over the top in a few instances, is far better than Suzy's. Finally, the unhappy ending is unfulfilling too but, to be fair, they tell you what is going to happen since episode #1.

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Have you met Kim Woo Bin and his abs?

"Kim Woo Bin is mine too. Stop hitting on her! Or else, you are going to have your next meal in your next life!" These are a few lines in the drama that had me chuckled while watching it. And yes, although this drama is more in the heavy melodrama genre, it has its share of witty and funny lines.

Everyone here is indecisive. One lesson of this drama is everyone has the right to change their mind over and over since it is your life. One is responsible for every choice, every decision, and every moment. If other actors other than Kim Woo Bin portrayed the role of Shin Joon Yeon I wouldn’t think that what his character stands and what he is about wouldn’t be successfully portrayed across. For a man suddenly confronted with the hard truth that his life is ending at a very young age is hard enough to fathom.

Downside. I don’t like the way how he spent his last 3-4 months living his life. I mean, I understand where he is coming from but to go through all that plan just for the truth to come out? I just wish the story would have shown more romantic moments with No Eul and how they could create great memories before his condition worsens.

But then again, after years of debating with myself whether to watch it not, I finally did. And all because of Kim Woo Bin. I hope I can see him again on my screen in a new drama.

On a side note, what's up with the 100th day together fad? I even heard it from the Running Man members. Is it a thing back in 2016? Or is it only the Kim Woo Bin style?

I have a lot of years to prepare my heart for this drama. Based on reviews, this is a melodrama that could make you cry buckets. And so I did.

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UF has a lot of melodrama...I mean a lot. But that is what makes it great to me and not for others. So, fair warning to all you romance lovers. Not that there isn't romance too, but it is kind of overshadowed by all of the angst. The characters are totally unreasonable at times. I almost gave it a lower score until I realized that I was so involved in the story that I wanted to shake several of the characters more than once. I enjoyed the dark link of the characters, but it did have some over the top, everyone is going to die moments that are just crazy.

Although I know a lot of people don't like idol actors, I'm a total Suzy fan. I think she played the quirky Noh Eul very well. The other actors were good too and Kim Woo Bin adds to the eye candy. To me Yoo Oh Sung as Choi Hyun Joon had the best acting of all of them. Through all the melodrama, I felt he was real.

The music is okay.

I will never rewatch this.

If you like melodrama as I do, then you are in for a treat.

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