I can't think of one bad actor in this cast. Jung Woo Sung, as Yang Kang Chil, was intense, and very moving. Han Ji Min, as cool/controlled Jung Ji Nah, was his perfect counterpart. Their relationship had all the familiar elements (opposites attracting, destined path crossings, and family disapproval...) but without simply relying on clichés. My only small criticism is that they had some of the worst onscreen kisses I've ever seen, though the rest of their romantic moments more than make up for it. It could be argued that their awkwardness fit the story, but I just found it distracting. Their romance was portrayed as much deeper than a few cute moments, so I do have to give them a lot of credit for that.
Of the exceptional supporting cast, I have 3 favorites. Na Moon Hee, as the mother, was a really great character, and expertly played. Choi Tae Joon, as the son, was the only character that made me actually cry. Kim Bum, as the charming yet odd Lee Gook Soo, was my absolute favorite. His character's journey was so awesomely unexpected, and he did an amazing job with it.
As I mentioned earlier, this is a tearjerker, but there are plenty of funny, sweet, intriguing, and inspiring moments too. Some aspects of the story are left open ended, but that didn't bother me at all. I thought the end episode was beautifully done, and gave me all the closure I needed. I can't agree that this drama is perfect, but It is certainly better than most, and not to be missed.
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1This review may contain spoilers
A shining little diamond! An extraordinary masterpiece that touches the heart in more than one way!
For all those who like three-dimensional life in movies and television. For all those who, apart from the clichés, are open to more complex relationships and personal development processes. For all those who want to get involved with a downright hopeless fate at the 'lower' end of the social pyramid. In this context, one should not allow oneself to be driven away immediately by punches and kicking. "Padam Padam... the sound of his heartbeat and hers" rewards with a touching love story that, by Korean standards, takes its place in an almost sensual, sensitive way.I already got to know Jung Woo-sung in "A Moment to Remember" as an exceptional actor, enriching his encounters and relationships with an almost sensual dimension. That alone is a unique feature that contributes enormously to the quality of this KDrama.
Nevertheless, it wouldn't do justice to the story (which is wonderfully told in all instances) to reduce it to just a romance. It tells the story of an ex-con and his fellow inmate. It quickly becomes clear that Yang Kang-chil actually was innocent. And even after his release 13 years later, he is not free from that momentous act that he did not commit. Rather the real perpetrator would like to finally get rid of him for good, as he had witnessed what really happened back then. And others, too, have not forgotten or even forgiven what happened back then.
Kang-chil, on the other hand, would like to make amends for the lifetime that was unjustly stolen from him in prison. He's a simple, uneducated young man, now in his 30s, who only learned crafts in prison. His vita has taught him to engage 100 percent in the NOW. He may seem simple, yet he sees life in simple terms. However, he is quite capable of comprehending, of taking action and responsibility as well. He choses a simple, direct route. If he is happy about something today, then he gives room for this joy TODAY. Not tomorrow. And he doesn't have to weigh up whether it's ok to be happy or not. It's the same with anger. In short: he follows his heart. And there we are with the title of the KDrama: "Padam Padam". As onomatopoeia, it refers to the heartbeat (and takes up the title of a chanson by Edith Piaf of the same name).
------ SIDE NOTE --- Importance of onomatopoeia in the Korean language ---
The title "Padam Padam" also refers to the fact that the so-called onomatopoeia/onomatopoeia is of particular importance in the use of the Korean language - it is about eight times as important as in other languages. In Korean, remarkably often in narratives one can encounter the simple (yet acoustically imitated in a culture-specific way) onomatopoeic imitation of simple natural sounds. The list of everyday onomatopoeic vocabulary is correspondingly long. With this content communication is expressed more directly, more forcefully, more concretely and more immediately. "Padam Padam" therefore not only refers to the heartbeat - symbolic of the life that one wins and loses again, or for the feelings of the two lovers - but also to the special portion of 'directly conveyed, sensually experienceable feelings', which the protagonist places in all of his encounters.
A lot of heart and soul goes into the hand-picked production design, which also mostly wants to leave a consciously direct impression for all senses. (Mainly we are in the rural areas of the coastal region of South Korea.) The landscape, the sunset, the lake at night, the fireworks, etc. impress through a high degree of aestheticization. Sometimes you have the impression that you can literally smell the sweat of the well-trained young men... At other times some scenes are repulsive, ruthless, almost ugly - yet still highly sensual.
So Kang-chil is sensitive, but he's also a tough guy. He's not your usual appealing protagonist. He is peculiar, impetuous, impulsive, irritating, and also disconcerting. But he quickly grows on you in his sincere, direct and sensual way. This is actor Jung Woo-sung at his finest. His female film partner Han Ji-min can't resist the intensity that emanates from him either. It's a pleasure to watch her being drawn into his spell. (Here I can expressly praise the chemistry between the actors...) And then there is Na Moon-hee, who once again embodies the bumpy, complex and yet emotionally real (South Korean) mother-son relationship in a three-dimensional authentic way. By the way, the men here are above all punching, kicking and spitting as if it were the most natural thing in the world. That may be due to the milieu in which the story is set, but not only. Even if it seems strange to the Western eye at times, the KDrama is authentically filled with life throughout.
The story finally offers a not inconsiderable special feature as an encore for its surprising developments away from your ordinary everyday life: a guardian angel (wonderful: Kim Bum with ponytail) .
An extraordinary masterpiece that touches the heart in more than one ways!
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Jung Woo-Sung is a must-watch actor. His versatile performances are hard to come by these days.
So if the storyline seems intriguing AND I get a chance to watch him deliver, I'll take that as a nod to dive into the fresh pool. Jung Woo-Sung always has something special to offer to his audience/fans.
Storyline:
Padam Padam has to be one of the most original scripts up-to-date (at least from all the Korean dramas that I've watched thus far). I love how the series does not look down on its' viewers. In other words, the plot doesn't go around in a continuous loop. Most, if not everything, gets resolved and there's no hiding/bickering between characters for too long. Hence, it doesn't make the viewers angry. The main character is very straightforward/honest, so perhaps that explains why the plot doesn't stall also.
The pacing of Padam Padam was just a tiny bit slow for me. However, I don't know exactly what they could have left out, since I believe most of it was necessary. Perhaps, it's just me who finds it a tad slow paced for my taste (especially near the end).
So what does this series have to offer?
a) Pathos driven. It will pull at your heartstrings whether you like it or not. I didn't cry, but I know people who did.
b) Sense of humor/comedy. The comedy nicely contrasts with the emotional/seriousness. There's quite a lot and it's incorporated together really well. It doesn't feel forced. I actually even laughed out loud at some parts (especially the bantering between Gook Soo and Kang Chil).
c) Family Relationships. There are a lot of heart-tugging/tender relationships (especially b/w a father and son, and son and mother).
d) Friendship. I absolutely loved the bromance between Kang Chil and Gook Soo. Those two are my favorite 'pairing' from this drama.
e) Very Romantic. Our two leading stars are not afraid to express their emotions on-screen. They looked sublimely natural together. Love the small/big romantic gestures. It doesn't feel cheesy either.
f) Strong dialogues/writing. This obviously enhances the series' quality.
g) Originality. Like, I've mentioned above.
h) Unpredictable. It's actually quite unpredictable, since there's an element of fantasy involved.
j) Fantasy. There's a touch of supernatural which I was hesitant at first, but it worked nicely. I wish they would have delved more into the 'chicken mutant'.
i) Crime drama. Not your typical gangsters. Phewww!
k) Realistic. One of the most realistic Korean dramas out there, despite it being marketed as a melodrama. The poor characters actually wear the same clothes multiple times. No characters are super 'evil'. Many themes (hope, will, and miracle) relate to our modern society/life. Even the locations and reactions from the characters are realistic. In fact, realism is probably the series' strongest point (aside from the great casts).
Each episode doesn't feel like a separate episode. It rather feels like a whole storybook told from the POV of the protagonist, Yang Kang Chil. And thankfully, he's a well-rounded/flawed character.
Acting/Characters:
I enjoyed most of the characters. I wasn't on the edge of my seat rooting for them, but I am glad that I went on such a wonderful/heart-warming experience with them.
My favorite characters are: Kang Chil, Gook Soo, Mi Ja (Kang Chil's mother) and Min Hyo-sook.
You grow to love these characters as you understand their motives/reverse-psychology tactics. Their reactions are very realistic and each character has distinct qualities which makes them unique. I despise when characters are just written to support the main characters’ existence. Padam Padam is definitely not one of those cases.
Without a doubt, Kang Chil’s character stood out the most. He’s such a heart-warming character. He has lots of flaws, thus many ranges of emotions. Probably every emotion that exists can be seen in his character. The reason why Kang Chil is such an expressive character is largely thanks to Jung Woo-Sung. His face contortions and smiles don’t require words to back up his character’s (Kang Chil) unique thoughts. I can’t remember the last time I saw a character with such huge range of complex emotion. Jung Woo-Sung has never failed to amaze me (perhaps in Athena, but that wasn’t the actors’ faults). He really understands his character well and it shows A LOT.
Gook Soo is also an amazing character (too bad Kang Chil is hard to beat). I love his innocence / contemplation of what is a miracle or not. He’s like the archetype of Kang Chil. In a way, they both bring out the best in each other and it is indeed rare to come across such a strong bromance. They truly stick to each other through thick and thin. Kim Bum has improved A LOT from the last time I saw him in Boys Over Flowers. When I first saw him in BOF, I never thought of him as manly, but he has definitely changed my mind. He’s also a very versatile actor. I can’t wait to see him in another project that will do him justice like this one. He’s a young actor that should be used to the fullest potential (like Kim Soo Hyun).
Mi Ja is the epitome of a caring mother. She often uses reverse psychology because she doesn’t want to show her weakness. And I love how she’s so brave / strong even though she’s a single mother. Definitely love the relationship b/w her and Kang Chil. It’s also rare to see a bonding mother-son relationship in K-dramas. The closest one that I’ve come across is Will it Snow on Christmas?
I don’t know why, but I just love Hyo-Sook’s presence. I admit that I wasn’t too fond of their countryside accents at first (shallow me!), but I grew to like hers. Her conversations with Gook Soo were also tender / cute. She really brightens the mood whenever she appears, which is nice for a change.
On a side note, since Ha Ji Min plays a huge role as well, why not talk about her? I personally thought her character, Ji Na, felt unoriginal for me. She's your typical Korean drama girl. I was hoping for a more in-depth characterization b/w her and her father. It wasn't a huge deal in the end though.
Nonetheless, Ha Ji Min played her character beautifully. If a less experienced actress played her role, I think it would have been hard to watch, since Ji Na isn’t a very interesting character to start. The thing that stood out for me the most is how Ji Min reciprocates Woo-Sung’s actions/love. They felt so natural together that it was hard not to believe that they aren't more than just friends in real life. Ji Min and Woo-Sung are probably one of the best/most natural on-screen couples I’ve seen. I’ve already mentioned in my review of The Princess’s Man how I like it how couples give the same amount of effort in the relationship (HATE when the man does everything). And they did just that, or they even went beyond it! One look/one touch, sparks were flying all over the place.
Music:
Originally, the songs didn’t peak my interest, but as the drama and its’ characters pulled me in, I started to take notice.
My two favorite songs are “You’re a Fool” by Brown Eyed Girls (JeA) and “In Order to Live” by Noel.
“You’re a Fool” matches so well with Ji Na’s perspective. The melody pulls at my heartstrings.
On the other hand, “In Order to Live” fits the mood and it makes me palpitate whenever it comes at the end of the episodes.
These two songs make you feel like you’re living a part of these characters’ lives.
The other songs were nice, but they didn’t stand out.
Bonus:
It took me awhile to get into the way it was filmed. First of all, it was shot like an actual film.
The backgrounds/scenes look rather gloomy for my taste. Though, it gave it darker/grittier atmosphere which complemented the tone of the drama. Hence, I slowly came to appreciate the cinematography. It added realism to the storyline.
Did I mention that Woo-Sung and Ji Min look beautiful here? Honestly, beautiful, beautiful couple! Not just in the looks department, but the way they cared for each other.
Love the addition of Tengie!! I'm an animal lover, so maybe that's why.
Overall:
Loved it! Padam Padam is a well-rounded drama if you’re looking for a melodrama that’s realistic (does that make sense?). Not only is it realistic, but the characters are thoroughly fleshed out (with a few minor missing). I loved the concept and the twist of fantasy.
If you’re a sensitive person, you might want to carry a box of Kleenex with you while watching this. Padam Padam excels at bringing one moment of sadness followed by a moment of happiness. The mood transition happens quite quickly, but it’s plausible (can’t really explain it until you’ve seen it). My mom actually cried while laughing at some point (no, she’s not crazy).
It’s quite uplifting and inspirational too. So if you’re looking for a change/originality in K-dramas, be sure to give this a chance. You won’t regret it.
It's not the type of drama that I would watch over right away, since some parts were kind of slow (for me at least).
Overall rating for review: 9.5/10
Purely for entertainment: 9/10 (Why not 10 instead? Padam Padam is a spectacular drama, but I did not obsess over it)
My Dramalist rating (avg): 9.25/10
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The quality of acting is AMAZING. Every actor/actress was brilliant, but I must say the ones who absolutely blew me away were the ones who acted as Kang Chil, Gook Soo (Kim Bum) and the bad guy - i forgot his name :/
I was able to laugh, cry, smile, and I was able to relate to the story line.
There are some supernatural qualities to the story line, however it is incorporated so brilliantly that it just flowed smoothly with the drama.
This is definitely a MUST WATCH DRAMA.
If you are even second guessing on whether or not you should watch this... watch it. It is amazing and you will not regret it!!
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I had seen Jung Woo Sung's acting before but in this drama he has outdone himself.. the character of Kang Chil seems to have been designed especially for him.. his acting is completely natural and spontaneous although his character is not a usual one..
Kang Chil is a 35 years-old man but he spent the last 16 in prison.. so despite being an adult man there are many things that he did not experience, even the most simple ones such as going to the movies or taking the train.. so for him it's all new and he tackles everything with the innocence of a little boy.. it is a very interesting character that gets to you immediately ^ ^
It's a very special drama that talks about different themes among the classic ones such as love and friendship but also death, revenge, and the condition of ex-prisoners continually belittled by others.. plus I also loved the "fantasy" part of the story that makes the drama very unique * ^ *
I liked to see the growth of the various relationships that Kang Chil has built or rebuilt during the drama.. the one with Jina, but also with his mother and his "new son".. not to mention the great friendship he has with the guardian angel Gooksoo ^ ^ (a character that I really loved^^)
In the last few episodes I cried all the time.. even the smallest things made me shed a river of tears.. it was really moving
This is a really heart-warming and romantic drama and it's not to be missed! The cast is exellent and so are the fantastic characters.. the only thing I could complain about is the fact that they focused on the love story even when there were so many points to be developed, in particular the relationship with the son Jung that has been put too much into the background.. but I must say that I really loved this drama and I highly recommend it..
The OST was beautifully moving.. I loved "To Live" by Noel
Ps: sorry for my English
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Story: The story was different and well written. The plot kept getting more interesting with each passing minute. Everyone involved in the production of it, cast and staff, knew just how to take it a notch up with each episode, which left me wanting more.
Acting/Cast: The actors did such an amazing job that I loved every interaction between them, even the ones I loved to hate (and there were a few of those). Jung Woo Sung playing the role of Yang Kang Chil was simply brilliant and he is a character I will not forget. Kim Bum as Gook Soo was also amazing.
Music: I loved the soundtrack of this drama, every song went perfectly with the moment and the story. It, also, helped enhance the emotions the cast kept throwing our way.
Rewatch: I would love to re-watch this, but it's not very likely any time soon. Not because I didn't like the drama and not because I thought it was average and not worthy of a re-watch. But because every aspect of the story, even the happy moments, were heartbreaking.
Overall, I give this drama a 10. I think it deserves it. It cast a magical spell which enthralled, amazed me and from which I could not escape. It is definitely worth a watch and make sure you have some tissue with you because it is a real tearjerker, especially towards the last episodes.
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I'ts a drama that has a lot of meaning behind ,that's why i liked it.
it made me laugh, smile, cry , touched and excited. i didn't skip a second of it, everytime i watch an episode, the next episodes drag me.
i really don't understand why this drama is UNDERRATED!!
What made this drama more beautiful is how talented the cast are. they acted the whole drama amazingly which made me emotional while watching it.
As for the end, it was very good that made me satisfied and happy.
The drama wasn't just entertaining, but i learned a lot from it. So i really recommend you to watch it :)
(( my first review so excuse me ^__^))
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The writing is sublime. I haven’t ever come across a drama with such an original take on what could have been a standard plot. I cannot express with enough appreciation how fresh this story feels while watching. Even with some of the same drama tropes like cancer and entwined fates, I felt as if I was watching a Kdrama for the first time. If I could elaborate on how amazingly lovely, heart wrenching and yes, even humorous this story is, I would talk all day and spoil any reader of this review. Clever details in very well acted scenes, smart dialog, raw and real emotion elevate this drama above most I’ve seen. The editing is almost part of the story. You must watch to understand what I am saying.
Jung Woo Sung was amazing. He portrayed Kang Chil with incredible fearlessness. I would imagine an actor must be brave to throw himself into a role and portray a man so raw, vulnerable and having to overcome such fear of a world he thought never wanted him. His performance was a tour de force.
Kim Bum did a fine job in The Woman Who Still Wants To Marry but he matured in this drama. As he has grown up, his acting has come along for the ride; his portrayal of Gook Soo was intense, goofy, natural and totally convincing.
Na Moon Hee who portrayed Kang Chil’s Omma was simply amazing in every scene. Her cranky, rough portrayal of Mi Ja (Omma) was bursting with life. I could feel the undercurrent of her loving so much if she ceased being mean and tough, she might melt away. She was incredible.
Han Ji Min was great as the tough, wary, vulnerable Ji Na who fell head over heels for Kang Chil. This has to be my favorite thing she has done that I’ve seen.
Choi Tae Joon who portrayed Im Jung gave a charming and very touching performance. I will be watching out for him in the future.
The cinematography was eye catching all the way through. There are sweeping views of meadows, snow covered valleys, quaint village towns and crowded fishing wharfs. Every local was rich in detail and perfect. The set design really needs to win an award.
The music was another 10. The main love theme “In Order To Live” was pretty and dramatic. The song “You Idiot” stood out for me as well; both for its lovely music, lyrics and theme and also the humorous title. That is exactly Padam Padam; a mix of incredible, intense emotion but also much humor and heart.
I would watch this again in a heartbeat! As full as my drama watching plate is, there will come a time when I will want to return and see this again.
Padam Padam is a complete GEM of a drama and I recommend it highly to everyone!
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