I was expecting more
I like the drama but it left me wanting.In terms of acting, the believable one for me is Oh Jung Se as Sang Tae. I expected more from Soo Hyun acting. Ye Ji is a good actor, might look up more of her dramas. The supporting characters are good too, I enjoy the side stories. There's good comedic timing too. The actors just did not make me feel invested on their characters, I really did not feel the sincerity of it, I don't know how to explain it, that's just how I feel when I watched it.
The story is okay, I don't think the script really delve in the mental side of what I thought this drama is all about. The plot holes, the mother plot. It did not grab my attention as I hoped, the last episode is really nice though. What I did not like too much about it is like I feel there's confusion on what they want to show, if they want to show the realism or the fantasy of it, so I guess it's better to view this as a fairy tale story.
The OST is okay, there's one song that they play that really reminded me of the Jonas Brothers song.
Overall, the drama is good to watch, beautiful production and transitions. The drama is ok and many will like this kind of show, I guess it's not my taste.
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A must watch!!
I don't usually watch dramas while they're airing because it's agonising having to wait a whole week for the next episode. However, I couldn't hold myself back from checking out this drama. The plot and casting really caught my attention and I wasn't disappointed when i started watching it.Although the series mainly focusses on Kang Tae and Moonyoung, the supporting cast receives attention too with their own stories and scenes that makes the plot even more likeable. The story is unique but easy to get the gist of and perfect for people who are looking for a slow burn romance! You'll fall in love with each character as the drama progresses. I personally love when main characters develop in dramas because it keeps me wanting to watch more and 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay' has just that and more. Not only does this drama have a unique storyline but it also shares real life issues dealing with mental health and healing. It's a series viewers can both enjoy and learn from!
Each and every scene delivers stunning cinematography and smooth directory. I love the fact that the drama has small references from fairytales since Moonyoung is a story writer and it's probably part of the whole theme. Kim Soohyun and Seo Yeji deserve multiple acting awards because their emotional acting is on point! I have to also mention that the fashion of Seo Yeji's character is beautiful because she manages to pull off literally every outfit she wears. I also really love the OST, my personal faves are In Silence and Wake Up!
I just can't help but love this series!!
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This review may contain spoilers
A healing drama
Pros:A healing drama for sure, it'll definitely be missed. Every single detail had so much dedication. I knew I'd like this drama but I didn't know it would be one of the best ones I've watched so far. Everyone who was involved made this one a masterpiece. This drama isn't for everyone but if you need some warmth in your heart you'll enjoy watching it. Kim Soo Hyun, Seo Ye Ji and Oh Jung Se had an amazing chemistry as the main trio. I've lost the count of how many times I smiled, laughed and cried during the episodes. Oh Jung Se deserves awards for his breathtaking acting, he was so perfect. OST, acting, cinematography, fashion, production: all on point so I fell in love instantly. They used a lot of transitions for the first half of the show, it was really cool. I also liked the way they showed the audience how was the world through the patient's own eyes. There were times I'd feel their pain and got emotional because it was too heartbreaking. The character development was superb. The haunted castle matched Mun Yeong's mood and they also incorporated the fairy tales well. I appreciate all those great pieces of advice: they gave us many motivational, warm, inspirational and realistic quotes. So many life lessons to think about. I had so much fun reading and making theories week after week, it was very entertaining. (SPOILER) I liked that they gave new perspectives to almost everyone. They could follow their path allowing themselves to be happy somehow. All those patients had new beginnings as well, they deserved it a lot. The long dreamed trip happened and it was amazing!
Cons (SPOILER):
I'd like to point out some things. Episodes 14-15 seemed like a roller coaster of things all happening at the same time. They didn't explain how her mom survived, so what really happened? All of it was her father's disturbed vision? If not how did she escape from the haunted castle?
Aside from this it was a special drama worth watching so I'd definitely recommend it! I will miss the trio and the drama itself, really. Cast, crew, writer, director they need to be praised for the beautiful and memorable work they have done ♡
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This is the best serial ever
Normally i dont write reviews but this serial it made me fall in love with everything there is in this world . The year when this serial was broadcasted was 2020 the worst year ever in a century but this serial kept me going .It made me laugh want like litterally want crave for more more more which is happening after a long time .i was going through a kdrama slump i got this serial and trust me this is a very beautiful serial i loved every aspect of the story line one episode will make u hate on character but in the next u will love them this proves everyone is a human we will do some things that will make others angry but we are humans sarams we do stuff there will be someone or something that will help us love us .i dont know what i am writing but i am just in soo much emotions maybe ill come back and edit this but lets just say i am a bit psycho but its okay .This serial made me crazy for kissing scenes ( bates motel family ). The story ,the acting the directing everything was just spot on i was thinkimg the mothers plot was not necessary but i was wrong it was needed to show how ppl who had past troubles in life can move on and live togther when they love each other....beautiful messages i fell in love witg fairytales . I wish everyone enjoys the serial like us
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Mixture of K-Dramas that we have watched before!!
It feels like it was a mixture of K-dramas that we have watched before The love triangle or square we already watched in Crash landing on you. Also the rigid and blunt lead character of Ms ko was same like we watched as jang man wol in hotel de luna. The chemistry between the couple was same as it was in hotel de Luna. There the guy was trying to stop her from turning into a vengeful ghost and in its okay not to be okay Gang tae was trying to do the same ,trying to control Ms Ko moon.Also the connection from the childhood and tragic incident somehow reminds me of what’s wrong with secretary kim. So whole time the show kept reminding me of something that I already had watched before. I couldn’t find anything new besides the autistic brother twist. Also I believe the way they fell in love doesn’t make you go like they should be together,at many times I didn’t liked the chemistry or maybe it was written this way . It’s was just okay story .Also it was soo predictable. Doesn’t make you wanna got crazy for the next episode. Ending was also predictable.Was this review helpful to you?
CRY LIKE A RIVER
i don't know how many times a cried in this drama. Different emotions of crying.... happy tears, sad tears, empathy tears and all kinds of emotions.and now i'm crying because the show is really over.
My Weekends will never be the same again without It's Okay to Not Be okay.
there are some parts of the story which did not have a clear answer but the ending and the final episode made me forget my questions and just enjoyed the ride with Gang Tae, Sang Tae and moon young.
i love this show so much and i can't believe that it is really over.
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Nothing can ever fill the void this show has left me with, in the most beautiful way possible.
Out of all the shows I’ve watched, this has left me with the worst post-drama depression ever. I can’t describe or understand why exactly I am so invested in the characters, ESPECIALLY GANG TAE AND MUN YEONG. Ever since I finished it, my heart aches every time I think about the show. It's like a void that will never be filled. I love it so much and I really hope they somehow renew this for another season, although unlikely. The chemistry between the actors kills me, each scene they’re together hurts me even if it’s a happy one. I loved the magical realism and the little details they put into the plot, which just further enhanced the great acting of all the actors. If you’re planning to watch this, I recommend preparing yourself ’cause you’re gonna feel empty for a while after finishing it. Try to not miss anything and dedicate your full attention when watching it – that’s how you’ll enjoy it the most. I don’t think I have ever shipped a couple so much, the dynamics and their backstories and the way they healed through each other are just perfect. The tension and the stares during those sweet and intimate scenes are what really pushed me off the edge. And of course, the funniest faces and lines at the most unexpected moments. I am 100% sure that this will probably be my favorite k-drama forever, I got so lost in their world and I find myself going back to it every now and then. I find comfort in them and I’ve gotten so used to it all. The familiarity you’ll develop with the show is the best part of everything. I don’t think I’d ever be the same again, I love the way I feel whenever I watch/think about it, it makes me smile and cry at the same time. My greatest wish is for these two to work together on the same project again, even if it’s not for a season 2 of IOTNBO.
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best drama<3333
so this is my first time writing a review because i really wanted to write one for my fave dramaall i can say is that this is the best drama of 2020 and possibly of all time idk but it's my fave drama since you really can't see these types of storylines in other shows. i thought it would be cliche because i see a lot of dramas with similar plots/synopsis like the ones where the leads heal each other's emotional scars and stuff like that. the thing about iotnbo that sets it apart from other shows is the way they delivered it idk but ye ji's character was really new. the trio's relationship is really wholesome aaaaaaaa they're so cute. i do have to say though that it should've been longer to explain some stuff. anyway seo ye ji kim soo hyun oh jung se best actors<33333
the reason why i'm giving it a perfect score is because it's better than most dramas but plot-wise, i think they missed out on some stuff.
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Why is Korea Sleeping On This Show? (Updated)
This show explores and fleshes out themes in ways different from what I’ve seen in usual kdramas. It has many original concepts but still has that korean trademark chemistry between the leads that will give you the heart fuzzies.In short, come for the romance but stay for the story. Also, Kim Soo Hyun is definitely not human... how can he still look so good after all this time?!!
Side note: this is my first time seeing Seo Ye Ji and I am blown away. She is so appealing and extremely good at portraying her character. Currently checking her other works just to see more of her and her acting prowess!!!
Why I love this show:
1. The character development of the leads and main supporting cast across the episodes is nothing short of amazing - each main and supporting character has depths that shine in different moments throughout the series.
2. The sets are beautifully made and the crew’s attention to detail is astounding.
3. The laughs and humor in this dramedy are well placed, feel natural, and let’s you laugh along. The serious moments are heavy enough to make you cry. The heartwarming moments are genuine and can make you both laugh and cry.
4. THE CHEMISTRY AMONG THE LEADS IS NEXT LEVEL!!! The filial chemistry among OJS, SYJ, and KSH is so good you’ll be rooting for each of them until the end. The romantic chemistry between KSH and SYJ is explosive!!! Can they please just be happy together ?
5. After finishing the show, I read an op-ed explaining the nature of this show as a character driven story as opposed to a plot driven story. This helped me understand the POV of the writer and director's vision better and now I see that they, along with the cast and crew, executed it perfectly! There will be lots of room for theorizing how some events happened, but what I've come to learn is that it doesn't matter because it's not important to the characters on whom the the show revolves.
The show wraps up nicely and neatly, please watch and enjoy!
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This review may contain spoilers
A masterpiece with a magical character
Wow! Get ready! This drama is something else! It hooked me right from the start, and then I was glued to my seat all the way through. This is one of those special shows that captures your heart and takes you on an emotional journey that leaves you changed when you are through. Special indeed!The drama is like a dark, modern fairy tale. It has a magical quality to it in the way the story is told. The script was so incredibly well-written with every line of dialogue having meaning.
A lot of thought also went into the production with so much attention to detail in constructing the sets as well as how the scenes were shot. The OST also greatly enhanced this magical feel. All of these elements blended together beautifully to carry us away into this slightly disturbing yet very healing fairy tale.
Kim Soo Hyun and Seo Ye Ji delivered powerhouse performances, and any time they were on screen together was completely captivating in so many different ways. Their chemistry was palpable. They run very hot and cold with each other which resulted in some incredibly intense moments as well as some deeply emotional ones.
This relationship is a bit disturbing in the beginning as these two clash. Their actions towards each other aren’t always that great. These are two very broken people. But they are drawn to each other, and those walls slowly start coming down between them.
It’s not a linear journey though, and the road is filled many bumps along the way. As they learn and grow in their relationship, healing begins to emerge. We experience a lot of joy and sadness with this couple, but it’s all worth it to watch these two hurting people face their demons and find comfort in each other. I was completely swept up in this amazing romance!
Seo Ye Ji was absolutely phenomenal as Moon Young. She owned this complex character and breathed so much life into her. Moon Young is a unique character in the drama landscape, particularly for a female lead.
Many times she feels quite dangerous as she doesn’t hold back and will take her anger out on those who wrong her. She’s impulsive and says what’s on her mind. Plus, when she sets her mind on something, she won’t back down. That includes her feelings for Gang Tae.
Her actions towards him are quite aggressive as she relentlessly pursues him. Definitely not the recommended way to initiate a relationship. Just reading that, Moon Young may sound like terrible person. But there is far more to her than that.
Underneath that powerful persona is a very hurt and damaged woman that has an incredibly traumatic past. Learning more about her, how her mind works, and watching her journey of growth was such a treat.
Gang Tae has his own deep-seated issues stemming from his past. He loves his brother dearly and has dedicated his life to taking care of him, but that comes with a cost. His brother has always came first since they were children, and he’s had to bury much of his pain in order to do what is best for Sang Tae.
That has taken an emotional toll on him over the years, and he has to unlearn some of his bad habits. His pain is quite raw to see, and it was evident that he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.
When Moon Young comes into his life, he becomes incredibly conflicted as he is forced to fight his feelings for her. It was heartbreaking to watch as he struggled with wanting to do what was best for his brother as well as just take some small enjoyment out of life for himself for a change. He had a lot of growing to do too.
There’s also Sang Tae who faces his own challenges stemming from his Autism as he struggles to understand people and their emotions. A trauma from his past has also made his and Gang Tae’s lives very difficult.
I was thrilled with how this character was handled. Many times in shows, characters with disorders like his are sort of relegated to being a token side character that just impacts the main character. Not so here! Sang Tae is written as a completely fleshed out character that has his own journey to go, is an integral part of the story, and is just as important in every way. Wonderful to see!
Oh Jung Se also really put in a terrific performance as Sang Tae. I was very impressed with him and just how much he brought this character to life and opened a window into his soul.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay has so many relationships to explore too. I already mentioned the one involving Gang Tae and Moon Young. One that is just as important though is that of the brothers.
Gang Tae and Sang Tae have a complex relationship that is in many ways frozen in time from when they were kids. The dynamic they have between them has remained the same since then.
They love each other dearly but have stayed in their respective roles without growth. This ultimately had a negative effect on their relationship and their lives which resulted in neither of them being able to live their best lives.
Growing as individuals and in the relationship becomes very important for them. I loved seeing how they cared for each other despite some severe challenges to the relationship. And watching them grow closer, understand each other more, and finally progress into a healthier relationship was wonderful.
I could go on and on about all of the amazing relationships featured in this drama. Sang Tae and Moon Young definitely have quite the interesting relationship with each other and is quite fun to watch.
Then we have a wide array of wonderful supporting characters that are explored. There are friendships, romance, parent/child relationships, and more. Suffice to say, everyone in this drama is important, has a story, and is connected to the overall narrative. It was beautifully done.
There’s even some mystery in this series as Moon Young’s past is slowly peeled back as well as the traumatic events from Gang Tae and Sang Tae’s childhood revealed. It added yet another nice layer to this multi-faceted story.
As you can see, It’s Okay to Not Be Okay explores a host of mental health issues and complicated themes. I experienced so many different emotions watching this drama. So much raw pain is dealt with in this story.
Our characters are all very different from each other and have their own issues to deal with, but they all ultimately need the same thing…love and acceptance. Loneliness can be crippling, and that is shown very clearly here. Seeing this unlikely group come together and heal was such a treat. The concept of what a family is was explored in such a touching way.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay is one of those unique and special thought-provoking dramas that truly is a masterpiece. It tells a heart-wrenching yet beautiful story of growth and healing. The characters are flawed, but we come to understand them and root for their personal growth and happiness. They don’t have to be perfect to achieve that either. Love and acceptance can be found in imperfection. The message is clear and simple…It’s Okay to Not Be Okay.♡
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A walk through life...
This is the first time I was watching an on-air kdrama, so perhaps I won't be able to recall details, but what I do remember is how I felt while watching it. Yes, it was an emotional roller coaster, re-experiencing life you may say!I got frustrated by some's actions, while the same people made me so proud later on.
I cried tears of pain along with some characters, while later shedding tears of joy for them too.
I got disappointed at some at times, while ending up rooting for them eventually.
I laughed with them and at them, pitied them and regretted on their behalf too...
Meaning that this drama portrayed raw, vulnerable and flawed characters at their 'worst' who are in a journey towards their 'best' selves throughout the drama, while 'healing' the audience along with them in the process. Having said that, watching these episodes, it did't feel like someone was asking you to not cry, nor did it feel like they were crying with you, but simply being there next to you while you cried, patiently waiting. In fact, each episode felt like a therapy almost, with its life lessons, moral of the stories and the general atmosphere that it's being created.
This is when I have to mention the OSTs! They were so much more than just some random background music, that it felt like they are part of the story themselves, and belonged along those wonderful cinematography. Their soothing and peaceful characteristic further intensified simple emotions, while simply conveying complicated once.
Here comes the ACTING! The more I say the less it will be, truly! Though everyone was commendable, still allow me to focus on Moon Gang Tae aka Kim Soo Hyun specifically. What a performance! The way he embraced each and every detail of his character so meticulously, that his very gradual character development couldn't be any more convincing. The arc of those changes was so clear that you can recognise what stage the drama is in just by looking how sincere his smile is!
There's just so much meaning to each frame, so many stories and inspiration that can be gathered,
if not, you can just enjoy a beautiful story of a 'wounded' trio, chasing their happiness. Also as we walk through their life, we seem to re-familiarise with aspects of our own!
Ps. the 'fairy tales' narrated in the drama, are real gems!!!
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A Good Drama…But Unfortunately Just Not My Cup of Tea ><
I was eager to watch this with thrill and excitement especially since it was dealing with psychological aspects and mental health!! Finally seeing Kim Soo Hyun back in action, I was overjoyed only to be underwhelmed by the end >< I really loved the first 6 episodes and was intrigued with how the story would unfold. But as the episodes went on…I felt less and less invested in this show and ending up getting bored. Honestly I wish I knew before hand how slow paced this drama was…slow burning shows are definitely not for me…you have to go into this with a lot of patience and focus especially if you are not one who likes these type of dramas!! A lot scenes felt way too excessive for my liking, and just dragged throughout the episodes where I was tempted to just watch it in fast forward mode. I personally dont think the episodes even needed to be this long and couldve made it more concise…I think Ye Ji did a fantastic job in playing an antisocial personality disorder, however idk if I could find her character personally likable?? Not sure if she was suppose to be likable from the start or if we were suppose to empathize with her and grow to like her as she started to show character development. She was definitely amusing and I enjoyed her in the first few episodes…however the fact that she had manipulative and possessive traits really rubbed me the wrong way…like the stuff that came out of her mouth towards Gang Tae with no hesitation & how he just shrugged or laughed at it half of the time…im perplexed…those are not things that you should take lightly or in a joking matter?? And her having no problem just screaming what could be deemed as inappropriate in public situations is really unsettling…But I am glad that we got to see her grow by the end of the series; having emotions and caring for others besides herself and putting their needs before her own.
Their “love story” still has me not fully convinced because I cant figure out how or why it started?? It just seemed pretty rushed without any motives of why they fell for each other as kids and somehow that infatuation stayed with them all these years…Its easy to understand why their love grew for each other when their paths crossed again because they were each others safe haven, someone to understand them and give them support. They undoubtedly have amazing chemistry but I had just hoped for a more tangible idea and reasoning behind their attraction??
Gang Tae’s irrational behaviors half the time whenever it dealt with Moon Young became frustrating….especially when he stayed to protect her…while checking up with Sang Tae via phone calls….like what?? all three should've been together in order to make sure they are all safe especially when a dangerous person is out for them…The whole situation was a mess, the communication was nonexistent when there should've been more awareness and caution towards that situation. And I wish there was more detail about Moon Young's mother…I felt like theres still missing pieces to it that Im still pretty curious about but was never touched upon…
All and all, setting aside some of the cons for me, I do want to applaud some pros that I saw throughout the show that I really loved and appreciated!! The OST and overall aesthetics of the show were really beautiful and one of my favorite aspects to the drama, it really embodied the mood of the drama. The way the director/writer integrated the fairy tale story illustrations with thought provoking messages to further emphasize these serious topics but also keep it somewhat lighthearted I think created a nice balance. And like many others have said…but just to re-emphasize…Oh Jung Se’s portrayal of Sang Tae was ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!! To really understand and delve into his character and its accuracy was so natural and believable, he ended up being one of my favorite characters by the end of the show and really became the sole reason that kept me interested throughout these episodes! His maturity and growth as an individual and his mindset during the last half of the show was sooo heartwarming and beautiful. Im so proud of him and to see his journey of overcoming his trauma; he literally deserves the world and all the happiness. I also loved the Head Doctor of Ok Psychiatric Hospital, he was soo funny and just a great person!! He really cared about his patients and treated them like a family! Honestly everyone did a great job in their portrayals especially the actors/actresses that suffered through trauma or other mental illnesses and to see them tackle their traumas/issues. You can really empathize with each and every one of them and understand where they are coming from. And the ending was very sweet and beautiful, I LOVED IT!! The dialogue at the end wrapped up the story very nicely! Overall the story was good but its not something that gave me a lasting impression…
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