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Run On korean drama review
Completed
Run On
1 people found this review helpful
by Kayosai
Feb 7, 2021
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed
Overall 9.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 10.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 10.0

Slice of life at its finest

Run On is so creative, fresh, and fun! I found myself holding back from watching the last couple episodes because I didn't want it to end. Heck, I even watched Misaeng in the middle to cure my impending Im Siwan withdrawal (which, by the way, is now out in full force).

Run On is a show about communication, and shines with its wonderful pacing. Somehow, there's enough conflict to keep things interesting, but without too much drawn out noble idiocy or frustrating conflicts. It's light, fluffy, and warm — the perfect kind of show to help you feel better during the crazy times of 2020/2021. The cinematography is BEAUTIFUL, the dialogue is witty, and all the characters are loveable and redeemable (except maybe the slimeball director at the beginning, although he ultimately became irrelevant?).

Above all, Oh Mi Joo and Ki Seon Gyeom SHONE in this show. I rooted for them so hard, and I wished I could've seen their subtle care for each other for episodes on end. I mean, the other storylines were great as well — but I always felt sad when the scenes stepped back from these characters, and wanted to see more of them interacting with each other and their broader orbit. For once, the two leads stole the show (how rare is that in a kdrama?!). I loved how Seon Gyeom was less innocent and cheekier than he seemed. I loved how straightforward Mi Joo was, and how resilient she was too (plus, a lifestyle like hers is hardly ever depicted? How refreshing! I want to be friends with her!). Their chemistry made me want to watch all the behind-the-scenes clips. And although I know it's not the right thing to do.......... let's just say I wouldn't be opposed if they started dating in real life.

Seo Dan Ah and Lee Yong Hwa's relationship in one word would be "COMPLICATED." There was so much angst and a lot left unsaid. I must admit that some of it might've gotten lost in translation, or simply flew over my head. I'm satisfied with the ending here, although they definitely got me in the last couple of episodes. I think my perspective was like Yong Hwa's, so it was cool to be able to see Dan Ah's perspective too. I didn't understand what was wrong with the original painting until I saw the final one. I didn't understand the distinction between forcing Yong Hwa into Dan Ah's world until I saw the foil with Seon Gyeom and Mi Joo. The bbq and food scenes helped assure me they figured it out eventually.

Also, can we appreciate all these side characters? Candy is a BAMF mother. I loved the little pairing of May and Mr. Jeong. The inclusivity was done well — I like the coffee shop apology and the fact that no feelings were ever discounted. I liked the camping scene to demonstrate how families can reconcile and overcome differences. I liked our little idol for finding the love and support he always sought after (haha!). Even our hatable Assemblyman figured it out in the end. Can I say that ending this show in a movie theatre was PERFECT?

My only regret is that there were SO MANY movie references throughout the show that flew way over my head. I am not a film buff, so they ruined the immersion for me at times. And Seon Gyeom's friends never felt that necessary to me (Woo Shik is a golden retriever; you can't convince me otherwise), but I'm glad they existed. I also wish Kim Seon Ho's cameo was as Ryan, but hey, we're really grasping at straws to critique here.

Run On is a great show to watch when you want something light and lovely. This is slice of life at its peak form.
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