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A very short, compact and interesting story. Pretty good.
What I say here may be considered a spoiler to some, so read at your own risk : this drama is an open-ended drama, meaning it's up to your interpretation as to what happens at the end of it.It's a very short drama, but compact with tons of messed up emotions, romance, love triangles, and dilemmas that the characters experience throughout the whole show.
STORY: They did manage to squeeze the main characters stories into 9 short episodes, which is good, and was quite different from normal dramas which made it quite interesting. The sad part is that there wasn't enough room to discover any of the other characters stories (you could say Jin Joo, but that was only surface level plot that was revealed for her), which would have pulled a lot of people in.
ACTING: I liked Won Joon's crying scenes, you could feel the emotion coming off the screen. Great job. Other than that, the acting was fine, nothing much to discuss here.
Would I watch it again? — It does have rewatch potential, because many people analyze and read into the scenes, openings and create different unique stories as to what actually happened in the show. It's quite short, so you wouldn't be losing much time. To go back to the question, no, I personally would not watch it again for the sole reason that I do not like these types of endings and find them stupid. You can't decide whether to make it sad or not sad, so you leave it to the audience, not my cup of tea at all.
Would I recommend it? — If you are against open-ended dramas, don't watch it. You will be disappointed and sad that you didn't get to see a real ending. If you don't mind them or enjoy them even, I would definitely recommend it.
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Uma história melancólica e reconfortante.
Amei esse drama, esse casal me conquistou muito mesmo da maneira que a relação deles foi construída de uma amizade meio incomum e caótica a uma relação intensa e carinhosa.A historia é fluída, você nem vê o tempo passar assistindo. A cinematografia é muito linda, as músicas foram bem escolhidas e tudo combina muito com clima melancólico e ao mesmo tempo jovial e vibrante da história.
A química e as atuações do casal foram o ponto alto para mim, nunca tinha assistido nada com os dois ( apesar de conhecer a Suzy faz anos não tinha visto nada dela, estava na minha eterna lista de algum dia vejo kkkk) mas agora quero ver o que puder de ambos, pois eles são excelentes e talentosos atores.
Minha única crítica é que precisava ter mais episódios, o triângulo amoroso ocupou um tempo considerável de tela e achei que a relação dele com a outra garota já estava desgastada e cansativa desde o começo... por isso acho que se tivesse pelo menos 12 episódios estava de bom tamanho. Eu até vi que cortaram várias cenas que saíram em fotos dos bastidores e é uma pena que a Netflix sempre passa a faca nas próprias produções originais, prejudicando a história que poderia ter sido melhor contada.
Sobre o final eu gostei muito que deixaram em aberto(se for comparar com o final do webtoon, prefiro da maneira que foi) porque para mim fica claro desde a abertura com as cenas deles no Japão, até com aquela última conversa/ abraço que eles se reconciliaram e agora vivem um relacionamento discreto. E sim vou acreditar piamente nisso kkkkk
“Do you have any idea how much I needed you back then? You’re the only reason I’m alive right now.” – Lee Doona
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Beautifully painfull
It tries to be realistic, but ends up being a bit cliché.Loved the chemistry and specially the ML, he is the REAL dream of every girl, forguet about the CEOS, this man here is everything we look for in a partner.
The romance is quite fast paced and toxic af... you see red flags as big as mountains from ep 1, and, its just flows that way.
The FL its not that easy to read and doesn't get on my nerves like others that are or too loud and idiotically possitive or too weak... The other couples are so so...
There are episodes that make you think they are a little too childish, but in that case I think it nailed it... People at 20 are pretty much just big children, at least I was.
The ost is the best part of this series, sweet and sad, romantic and intimate with a touch of tragedy.
The photography, the edition and the atmosphere it creates is what makes it seem realistic.
BUUUUUUT
SPILERS COMING!
THAT ENDING!!
WHYYYYYYY
SO SAD AND AMBIGUOUS...
If I knew I wouldn't started it. Remember Heartbeat? Well... you can guess...
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NOBODY ASKED BUT-
I am shedding tears right now. I feel as if someone was spying on me and told my story to then world lol. I felt as if I was Won Jun/Doona. I could relate to their story so much that I cried to sleep and I am writing this while crying lmao.As for the ending, I am not a fan of open endings.
In my mind though they end up together, from the last dialogue of Doona telling him to say sorry and then to tell her that he regrets it. The rest is just montages of them in their lives but the theory is good that they have to keep away from each other as she is an idol.
Obviously the Japan stuff in the beginning of last two episodes shows they at least arrange to meet again in the future multiple times.
Imo, this was Suzy's best performance so far. Sejong did justice to his conflicted, restrained, self conscious, shy character too.
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The mental health of a celebrity
It makes you feel that all celebrity are people and have personal life, and how much that can efforts their life. Really enjoyed watching the drama u can see how much work they put in to make the series and how much knowledge (from personal experience or just thoughts that they think may happen) what they want to say is to not judge celebrity for what they do and why they do it so harsh. I don’t think will watch this ever again but it was enjoyable and unforgettable to watch it. I highly recommend you to watch the series at once and understand why they make such series and what they want to say to the audience by creating them.Was this review helpful to you?
Where is this hot and toxic?
There were so much reviews Like " oh wow, toxic hot powerful, Drama" - so i gave it a try.And it was...
Quite average.
The main leads chemistry
was just not there, felt flat.
Doona was like "a baddie", but not really, if you watch the show you know what i mean.
The love story... I don't know- was just not something that blew my mind away, with acting, connection or originality.
The kpop thing was cool, but the potential was quite wasted, as the relationships between the characters, this topic was not shown in depth.
The ending was okay. I think it suited the flat relationship of the main characters and it is the most realistic ending, under this circumstances i guess.
The visuals and doona were pretty, music was okay.
Side couples were mediocre.
All in all - pretty average, would not watch again.
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Bae Suzy delivers a standout performance as Lee Doona, a K-pop idol who is struggling with her mental health and her place in the industry. She is prickly and defensive on the outside, but soft and vulnerable on the inside. When she meets Won-joon (Yang Se-jong), a kind and innocent college student, she begins to let her guard down and rediscover her true self.
The relationship between Doona and Won-joon is heartwarming and believable. They support each other through their respective challenges and help each other to grow. There is no unnecessary melodrama or angst, just two people who are falling in love.
The supporting cast is also excellent, and the side characters are just as interesting and complex as the leads. The drama does a great job of exploring the lives of young people in Korea, and it touches on important topics such as mental health, social media, and the entertainment industry.
Overall, Doona! is a must-watch for fans of K-dramas and romantic comedies alike. It is a well-written, well-acted, and heartwarming drama that will stay with you long after you finish watching it.
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this dráma IS masterpiece story ❤️
this dráma IS excelentt bae suzzy IS talened actress and oné of my favorit actress. slown burn story AMD stien burn romacne IS mi favorites genre- ❤️ chemisttyy IS between main couple IS amazing !!!! Kiss scéne in this dráma IS amazing story IS amazing att All IS amazing !!! this dráma IS my favorit dráma 2023 ❤️ Bae suzzy slayyy and plot in this dráma i like her character ❤️. but the end IS sad for me ? i Wish I wish there was a second season so they could be together. I enjoyed every episode, I knew from the trailer that yes, this is exactly what I need to seeWas this review helpful to you?
Sparks all kinds of emotiona
Perfect ? idk how else to describe it.One of the best love stories in drama land this yr.
The whole drama was beautiful, the cinematography, the ost omg, the ost especially the one they ended with each ep?
From their meeting to falling in love to fighting for their love waa just good. They had fire chemistry, both sexual and just idk how else to say but spiritually.
The supporting cast was perfect. The lityle friendship group that they formes, the vibe and architecture of the house, perfect.
I also love how it wasnt dramatic like the love triangle, their separation, the whole drama was peaceful. Their live was peaceful.
I also just loved ira's character, she brought bright energy, comedy and fun to the drama, her and her friends.
Also this drama sparked and made me somehow remember about my own painful past and scars which lead to an 8 mins recording ( that i still havent sent which is what i was intending to do ) and soo much crying, i dont think i have cried like that b4.
Anyway, i really loved it, wished it was longer even though it was just perfect as 9 ep.
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A Captivating Journey into the Depths of Emotion
Doona is an extraordinary Korean drama that thoroughly engulfs viewers in a captivating journey, brimming with raw emotions, intricate characters, and a thought-provoking storyline. From its exceptional cast to impeccable production values, this drama successfully captures the attention and hearts of the audience throughout its entirety.The plot revolves around Yoon Doona, a talented artist who grapples with her past while searching for her true identity. As the series progresses, we witness Doona’s mesmerizing transformation from a lost and tormented soul to an indomitable woman determined to confront her inner demons. Portrayed by the incredibly versatile Kim Ji-won, Doona’s character is brought to life through a captivating display of internal struggles and personal growth. Kim Ji-won’s performance is truly exceptional, as she skillfully conveys a wide range of emotions with subtlety and conviction, drawing the audience deeper into the depths of her character’s psyche.
In addition to the compelling lead, Doona boasts a well-rounded ensemble of supporting characters. These characters, including Doona’s friends, family, and love interests, are meticulously developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Each interaction and relationship feels genuine and believable, further enhancing the viewer’s connection to the story.
The production value of Doona is nothing short of outstanding. From the intricate set designs to the meticulously chosen costumes, every aspect of the drama exudes a high level of attention to detail. The cinematography effectively captures the contrast between light and dark, visually enhancing symbolic moments within the narrative. The haunting melodies and emotionally poignant lyrics of the drama’s soundtrack serve as an additional layer, evoking the perfect atmosphere and intensifying the impact of every scene.
Doona successfully delves into a multitude of themes, such as self-discovery, healing, and the profound influence of human bonds. Through its non-linear and unpredictable storytelling approach, the drama keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each revelation and plot development. The carefully crafted episodes not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact, encouraging introspection and eliciting deep emotional responses from the audience.
This Drama is an extraordinary Korean drama that accomplishes the rare feat of captivating viewers with its compelling narrative, heartfelt performances, and exceptional production values. It stands tall among the best of Korean dramas, providing a genuinely engrossing and resonating experience for fans of the genre. If you are seeking a captivating journey filled with raw emotions and complex characters, “Doona” undoubtedly deserves a place on your must-watch list.
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Kpop exploitation explored.
NB If you choose this drama because it has a comedy genre I think this is misleading. This is not a fluffy romance. It explores the very unhealthy actions of the victim rescuer dynamic.
This drama highlights what happens when a young girl, who due to earlier neglect by her money grasping mother, decides to become an idol. She is groomed by her manager and eventually becomes a money making product. Along the way she begins to experience crippling anxiety. This is conveniently ignored by her manager until during a concert she collapses. He then bundles her off to live in an apartment that is part of a shared household.
An insight Doona gets later in the story is that the managers deliberate ghosting of her during this mental breakdown is to force her to suffer loneliness and isolation and drive her back under his control.
FL Doona is an emotional red flag mess.
she has no close friends, anger issues, abandonment issues and severe anxiety and depression. She acts out aggression in very inappropriate ways (using glass bottles as a weapon) and has never experienced love.
ML Won Joon enters the story as a student studying for his engineering degree who moves into the share house to be closer to college. He has left behind his single parent mother and a chronically ill younger sister. He has also had an unrequited love with a former childhood female Jin Joo whom he perceived to be out of his league due to her families wealth.
The story depicts the initial misunderstandings and then eventual curiosity and attraction between the two leads. Both actors represent their characters excellently.
The ending is left open for us to choose what happens next and this is very suitable after all the angst each character has faced in this relationship.
One thing I felt was that these two people needed to meet to help each of them to grow and heal. Both show more maturity and better boundaries in the end.
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A straightforward snapshot of life, career, and love...
/ Actual Rating: 9/10/- It is what I deemed to like about Netflix KDramas. They never tend to put stalling scenes of every character for them to show their development. The struggles of being an Idol and being an ordinary citizen, living under their decisions to stay together depicted the reality of respecting the balance of life, career, and love. Despite all those, I think Doona and Won Jun had the right balance of their relationship. It's just an intimate yet very welcoming (and patient) to understand their feelings and their mental fortitude.
/- Aesthetically, I like the skybox filtering and cinematography!
/- This must be the best Netflix have ever done for a KDrama. Well-made!
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