This review may contain spoilers
Funny and a tad corny. Based on the American movie 17 again
For me, there are only 2 reasons to watch this drama: Lee Do Hyun and Lee Mi Do.Lee Do Hyun for his really good performance as a 37 year old miserable father trapped inside his handsome 18yr old self. I totally believed he was this ajusshi which is why the age gap with Kim Ha Neul didn't bother me one bit. I thought they had great chemistry and he nailed the yearning which made me want them to get back together so bad. I also thought Do Hyun's interactions with his daughter were so funny as I totally could see Yoon Sang Hyun in Do hyun's acting which is why I think he did such a good job.
As for Lee Mi Do, she was just the side BFF, but she just stole every scene that she was in. She was so funny and I love her confidence. The elevator scene where she can't give CPR to Kim Gang Hyun because he grosses her out cracked me up! Or the bar scene where she tried to seduce him was even funnier. Her looks of disgust make me laugh out loud and just speaks to my sense of humor.
The script has a lot of problems though especially making most of the characters change their dispositions suddenly so that they are redeemed. It's really predictable too and tends to cross the line into sappy and corny at times, but it had just enough comedy and romance that made this more enjoyable than not, especially when these two actors were on.
Was this review helpful to you?
Heartwarming, relaxing and overall a great drama.
I started watching 18 Again because I was out of dramas to watch, but it actually got me hooked and waiting for the next episodes.The plot is good, I haven't watched a drama with a similar story before- so for me this is new and fresh. I love how they show love from a different angle- from a husband to your child's friend.
The acting is good, Lee Do Hyun's chemistry with Kim Ha Nuel is superb ~
I love the OST too, Hello sounds familiar though- like I heard it from another drama before (?).
But I'd say there's not much to rewatch in the drama, since it's not really a thriller or something.
Drama is heartwarming and teaches us great lessons about love, family and sacrifices. Certainly worth watching.
Was this review helpful to you?
Perfect Feel Good RomCom
StoryThis series was simply perfect. If you've seen the American version, then you'll pretty much get a gist of what it's about, but it has that k-drama heart and familial love that the American one lacked. You go from laughing to ugly crying in seconds with all the feel good moments this series has. They delve more into the characters and you get to understand the different perspectives of each of them. The cinematography was great also and the story gave us closure of all the characters in the end. It was practically gift wrapped. (brace yourself for the final moments in the final episode)
Acting/Cast
OMG...LEE..DO...HYUN. That man acted his ass off. He played a guy, who was actually an adult, trapped in a young body. (LOL) It wasn't cringy or awkward and his scenes just...….flowed. His voice is so soothing. My gosh. This man deserves all the awards for this show. The casting was great. All the actors played their roles well, even the ones you hated.
Music
Soundtrack was the bomb. I still can't get "Hello" out of my head and you can't help but tear up, when you remember the scenes.
Rewatch Value
Most definitely 100%
Overall
This show is a must see. JUST WATCH IT. Gather around the TV/computer with your family. Hug your Dad. Tell him you love him because this show really makes you appreciate the family that you have. A beautiful life lesson this show has about family and marriage. It was funny, heartwarming, sad, lovely....I'm running out of cute adjectives. Just watch it!!!!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
No kidding, this drama will forever hold a special place in my heart. It's perfect, a real masterpiece! It really hits you hard with its touching, inspiring, heart warming, heartfelt and beautiful story. The concept of this show was new to me. Honestly, It already caught my attention and captured my heart right from the get-go. This drama deserves more hype! even though it is rather unrealistic for a middle aged adult to turn 18 once again, but it is still a very touching scene! like it portrayed how the dad did not understand his kids well in the past due to the age gap and also mostly because of work which made him have no time to spare for the kids. however, when he turned 18 he became friends with his children and started to understand them better! which made him realize that how much they all needed a dad just like a friend.
NO regrets at all, this series makes you realize many things about marriage, parenting and friendship. In every episodes, there would be always a scene that will make your heart melts.
Every scene were perfectly and wonderfully executed so much you will find yourself so focused. As for its soundtrack, I must say, it didn't disappoint. The OSTs really brought the emotions and feels of every scene. Also, the casting from main leads, to supporting, and even on the cameos were so amazing that I can't imagine other actors playing the part. Each of their performance are laudable and commendable, it deserve more accolades and praises. Lee Do-hyun, Kim Ha-neul and Yoon Sang-hyun's acting complement each other.
What made it more the best is that it is relatable, and I'm sure somewhere at some point, there are people who are also experiencing the same issues tackled here. Another good thing, this will give you many life lessons. I am so happy I came across to this such good of a gem series. Must watch and highly recommendable!
Was this review helpful to you?
Meaningful, Organised, Entertaining.
Absolutely loved Lee Do Hyun's acting. The young cast is so good-looking and fun to watch. Great, consistent delivery of message - being grateful for decisions/people, the importance of relationships, finding happiness, regret... Although each episode ending doesn't have such a big cliffhanger (compared to other dramas), every episode was really important for the storyline so it was really painful waiting a week for every 2 episodes. I'd reckon it'd be a great drama to binge-watch. I honestly didn't expect every episode to be so good since it was just a remake of an hour-long Western movie. The staff team elaborated on the main couple's story more (and other characters) which made the story more meaningful and structured - not rushed nor draggy. Also, beautiful OSTs and cinematography (loved the little details at the back!)P.S Had a strong second lead syndrome with Hwang In Yeob. He is so attractive, I would definitely want to see more roles from him! Also the weeb/s AHAH. Deok Jin is such a humorous character. Some of his scenes are super dramatic and unrealistic (same as turning 18 again). I honestly did consider whether they were necessary but then again, they were definitely really entertaining to watch! The same goes for his love story!!
“If you think of it as a regret, that’s the end of it. But when you think of it as a lesson learned, it brings a new beginning”
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Method actor in action
Surprisingly, this drama delivers great depth in the character interactions. I mean, from the title and knowing it's based on the Hollywood movie, we already know the entire story. And despite the premise, this show doesn't overdo the silly circumstantial humor, which is something I'm not fond of. Instead, it portrays deep character interactions to make the story come to life.Many have written about the outstanding acting of Lee Do Hyun playing a man in a teenager's body. I've read interviews that mention he is a method actor. This seems spot on considering his overwhelming intensity and charisma. He fills the screen with energy and truly becomes the father's character. He steals every scene he's in, and he makes this show what it is. He is one of the most talented actors I've seen and considering how young and new he is on the k-drama scene (he is only 25 yo in this role), it is impressive!
Some reviewers have complained about the way Dae Young is treated in the story. He shoulders pretty much all the blamed for the failure of his marriage and everything that has gone wrong with his family. I agree that the writing is lacking in this area. Dae Young and Da Jung never have the chance to deeply discuss the elements of their marriage. They also don't get a chance to heal Dae Young's feelings about giving up his dreams for his family. Where the beautiful depth of interaction lies is between Dae Young and his children. They are given many opportunities to interact with each other when Dae Young becomes their teenage friend. These moments are so lovely and well done that you almost wish they could stay friends this way forever. Roh Jeong Eui and Ryeoun play Dae Young's children so well. They are a joy to watch.
There are a few other flaws as well. The biggest are the distracting sub-plots that go nowhere: the stalker, the internet troll, the car crash, and the corrupt coach. These events are silly, brief, and pointless. I believe it's mostly a writing issue, but Kim Ha Neul as Da Jung comes off as too pouty. She isn't given much to do, other than switching back and forth between strong reporter/mother to pouty woman. And disappointingly, there is a scene where a character is at a cosplay event dressed as Aladdin with slightly darker face make-up. It's racist even if the intent wasn't there.
Despite the silly sub-plots, I was OK with the tiny love triangle where Da Jung is wooed by the baseball player Ji Hoon, and supports him as he navigates issues of raising a kid on his own. However, this could have been done with more meaning and deeper conversations between the two of them. And speaking of lacking meaning, I also thought that the treatment of Da Jung as a divorcee who was a teen mom was heavy handed. It's a big missed opportunity to truly deal with the issue beyond simply going with what public opinion of her was from day to day.
I must end by mentioning Lee Mi Do who plays Da Jung's lawyer friend, and Kim Kang Hyun who plays Dae Young's friend who pretends to be his father. Both have amazing comedic talents and despite the over-the-top situations they find themselves in, they never lose empathy for their characters or go overboard with the hysterics. Instead, they balance their characters out really well. And finally, if you've seen the show, you will have noticed the set and costume designers' love of pastel colors. It was fun to see them throughout the show in the school, the office elevator, and in Da Jung's wardrobe. I'm not sure what it was meant to symbolize, but it was a fun addition.
All in all, this was a treat to watch because of Lee Do Hyun's complete transformation. Even though we know how it ends, it was a fun ride getting there.
Was this review helpful to you?
Solid heartwarming family drama
What would you do if you can be young again and have a chance to re-do things you regretted in your youth? These are the life questions tackled in this show, and highlights that despite the hardships, fights, and imperfections, usually we don't realize what's the most important are those just beside us all along.Lee Do Hyun was a charming standout, though a bit green in Hotel Del Luna. But here he totally impressed playing a 30 something father in a high schooler's body. Good all around cast, from the main cast to the comedic actors, and some newbie actors that look all promising (second lead syndrome is strong in this one).
I'll have to commend the PD, writer, and staff, how they depicted the transitions from past to present and vice versa, or even when Lee Do Hyun is onscreen to when he transitions visually to Yoon Sang Hyun is amazing and seamless. Umbrellas are already done to death in kdramas, but 18 Again's umbrella episode is one of the best kdrama episodes I've seen in awhile. It might not have done anything new, but 18 Again took the classic flavors we love about kdramas and executed it very well, and made me appreciate my family and what I have right now.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Heartwarming and feel-good drama
I wanted to watch a drama again because I hadn't done so in a long time, hence I purposefully chose one with a high rating: 18 Again. I was slightly disappointed, but I still loved watching this episode.The plot is straightforward: a middle-aged man is unhappy with his current life and wishes to return to his glory days. There are love triangles, misunderstandings, and familial moments, among other things. Nothing new here, but the amazing cast more than makes up for it. Hong Dae Young bonding with his children, Shi Ah and Shi Woo, is one of my favourite plot lines. To be honest, I wanted to fast-forward through any moment in which Dae Young was not interacting with his children lol.
As previously stated, the cast is outstanding, as is their acting. The standout is Lee Do Hyun. He does an excellent job of portraying a 37-year-old in an 18-year-old body. I'd also like to commend Kim Ha Neul. I was skeptical of her acting at first, but later episodes proved me wrong. She portrays a strong-willed, tenacious, and hardworking lady who never gives up on her aspirations. The ones portraying teenagers performed excellently! I enjoyed how Shi Woo's (Ryeoun's) eyes changed when he was playing basketball. I didn't like Kim Dang Hyun's overacting, but I suppose his character, Go Deok Jin, is more to blame.
There are 9 OSTs in total.
➀ Soyou - 'The Only One'
➁ Sohyang - 'Hello'
➂ Choi Nakta - 'If Only It Was You'
➃ Solji - 'One Person'
➄ Sondia - 'How To Love'
➅ Jukjae - 'Becomes A Memory'
➆ Clara C - 'Somebody' :
➇ Yoon Sang Hyun - 'If We Love Again'
➈ Every Single Day - 'First Time'
Out of the 9, my favourite is ➆ Clara C's 'Somebody.' I adore this part: "Moment to moment, today yesterday, love is the only reason to stay." Her voice there was *chef's kiss*
My least favourite would have to be ➄ Sondia's 'How To Love.' It would be good for a lullaby, however, I thought it was too repetitive.
I liked ➁ Sohyang's 'Hello' at first, but the show overplayed this song so much. Now the phrase "hello, hello" lives rent-free in my head and not in a good way :/
I don't rewatch shows but I feel as though this would be an okay drama to rewatch again and again.
There were a couple of things that bothered me. In episode one, for example, Hong Dae Young (Yoon Sang Hyun) asks his son Shi Woo whether he wants to play basketball. He also asked his daughter, Shi Ah, about her future plans. They both replied no (Shi Woo doesn't want to play and Shi Ah doesn't have any plans yet), but they were obviously lying. This entire exchange foreshadows future plots. As his classmate, Dae Young realizes that his son wishes to play basketball. Shi Woo's whole plot revolves around him gaining confidence and joining the basketball team. You'd assume Shi Ah's plotlines would center around her future plans, right? Nope. Her plotlines are more focused on a superfluous love triangle. It didn't help that the end-game has very little chemistry. Nothing against Ji Ho though lol. Dwelling on a love triangle rather than her future aspirations and dreams limits the character development she could've had.
Second, the writers treated Shi Woo as an afterthought. Shi Ah was given all of the emotional scenes. Even in flashbacks, only his sister appears, not him. They could have done a lot more with his character, but instead, they leave him in the dust once the basketball plotline is over.
Third, I didn't enjoy the editing, notably the portions when they repeatedly replay a scene. I'm quite sure this is something that all dramas do, but it irritates me. Something I previously mentioned is an example of this. When Shi Woo plays basketball, his eyes change. It was supposed to be a cool moment for Shi Woo, but the scene is repeated so many times that it becomes repetitious, cringy, and degrades what was supposed to be a cool moment for Shi Woo. A once-bullied student becomes a basketball team ace. Ugh, what a waste.
Finally, there's a lot of filler. It was obvious from the start that this was going to be a problem. It was never going to be easy to turn a 2-hour film into a 16-hour drama. Perhaps I'm simply a fan of shorter dramas, but 12 episodes or less would have sufficed. The Il-Kwon story point was especially useless.
I'd still suggest this show due to the valuable family teachings it contains. I sobbed in four different episodes, which was rather surprising for me. P.S. The two secretaries are the true stars of this story lmao
aight byeee~
Was this review helpful to you?
Relearning things you already know
While watching this drama, I realized a lot of things that I already know. Sometimes you don't need to learn something new, you just need to be reminded of the lessons you have already learned. There are precious things in life. We can't deny that time is one of the best treasures we have yet the most taken for granted. We always think that there are next time or there are still time but truth to be told, we have to enjoy it while it lasted.Here, you will be reminded of the things you did in the past or the memories you never have. Above all, too late is just fine. As long as you take action right after your realizations, you're good.
I am so happy that I watched Sweet Home first before 18 Again. Lee Do Hyun's performance in both series is phenomenal.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
This drama was inspired by the 2009 movie "17 Again" and even though there are many similarities between the movie and this drama in the main plot points this drama is DEFINITELY better. I had watched the movie prior to this drama and had found the story to be interesting but I wasn't pleased by the execution. This drama is definitely one of my favorites now! The story manages to be fun and light-hearted but also appeals to some deeper, more mature topics.I have watched many dramas but I have never loved a cast so much! If you're into handsome guys and beautiful girls, this drama is meant for you. The actors all managed to portray their characters incredibly well, I was especially amazed at Lee Do-Hyun's acting. His portrayal of Hong Dae Young was great, both when he was a teenager, and when he was an adult trapped in a teen's body. I also LOVED Kim Ha Neul as Jung Da Jung. She managed to make her character incredibly kind and optimistic without seeming like a naive fool, on the contrary, she was incredibly wise, mature, and quick-witted. I just mention them specifically because I was extremely pleased with their performance, but ALL the other actors were incredible in their roles. I truly can't stress how this cast has become my favorite in terms of acting and fitting their characters.
I also really LOVED the plot. It was not rushed, it was funny yet serious (but really funny) and exciting. It makes you want to root for the happiness and success of all the characters. Furthermore, the growth of the characters is evident but gradual and natural, none of them are stupidly naive causing the viewer to be constantly frustrated with their dumb and irrational decisions. Another aspect that captivated me was that there weren't one or two specific villains, whose every actions have the intention of making the leads miserable. The issues they faced were REAL, normal people problems, not the cliche money throwing scenes or the constant (failed) attempts at public humiliation by the repetitive jealous villain.
If I were to point out any negatives I think I would have liked the romance to be a little more present and intense, because (SPOILERS) most of the couples getting together and/or reconciling occurred in the last two episodes or so. It would have felt maybe more realistic if the romances were clearer from earlier on in the story. Also, I would have liked to see the children's story a little bit more, especially the son's. In the epilogue, we find he has a little romance situation that stemmed in high school and I wished we could see that as well (to better understand his growth from what we saw in the drama to what appeared in the epilogue style scenes in the last episode).
It has been a very long time since I have watched a drama I liked so much. I didn't give it a perfect score only because I feel like there might have been one way or another in which the drama could have been improved. You know there's a lot more I would like to write in this review but I don't want to spoil toooo much. So enjoy y'al!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Watch it. Who wouldn't want a chance to "do-over" their life?
18 Again is based on the Zac Efron movie 17 again where a man gives up his dreams of becoming a basketball star when his high school girlfriend tells him she is pregnant with his twins. Like in the Western Movie, Hong Dae Young the main character gets a chance to become young again, (using a different plot device of some magic tea) and enrolls in his old school where his kids are studying. Unlike in the Western movie, this is a series so we get a LOT more backstory of how the parents met and what their relationship was like, also the emotional stakes are higher as revenge is less of a factor. Story wise, and acting wise, in all respects this series is way better than the movie which is its inspiration.Hong Dae Young, the main character, does not seem like a bad man. In fact, how his customers treat him, a "mere" man who fixes their washing machines, is was downright depressing. Nobody offered him "water" except for one "special" old man who after berating him to fix a radio (which is not his job) offers to "fix" his life for him, leading to the body change. His kids lie to him all the time, he spends more time drinking than talking to his wife and that's why she wants a divorce. In the meantime his career is going nowhere since his company promotes based on nepotism, not performance. You could say when he is given the chance for a do-over, he decides to live the life he COULD have had if he had not gotten married young. Who can blame him for making that decision?
Jung Da Jung, the wife, wants to divorce him because there is no more love in their marriage. It seems time does that to people. Also she was depressed in her career as there is a lot of ageism, sexism and even discrimination against working mothers and divorced people especially in broadcast TV. Clearly she is the most skilled but it's still an issue, even in 2020. The kids also have their issues bullying, ambitions not in line with parental expectations or unstated goals. The best friend Go Deok Jin is HILARIOUS, and this series is worth it alone for the big, epic, hilarious fight scene in episode 1 featuring Mjolnir and Captain America's shield.
This is a brave series that deals with a lot of modern issues. It has its sweet moments, balanced with comedy, mega dramatic scenes and wistful profound realizations. This series is one of the best when it comes to using flashbacks as a story telling device, I've rarely seen any series employ them as beautifully. The soundtrack is wonderful and overall I enjoyed this series very much and you will too.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
heartwarming drama
this drama was on my watch list since i came to know this was based on the movie 17 again and is from the makers of go back couple... this drama gave me the exact same feeling i got when i watched go back couple... the comic scenes were hilarious and the emotional scenes make me cry hard...i guess without a doubt that the star of the entire drama was lee do hyun.. his chemistry with the rest of the cast was also on point... he played the high school dae young in the past and woo young (older DY in younger body) really well... the difference is quite evident...
i like how the makers give the point of view of each character which helps in understanding them deeper... this made me like hong family and the rest of the characters with all their flaws...
i wish the drama gave more screentime to some characters but i dont feel it had any unwanted storyline either... i guess the writers were so good that even if this was a 20 episode drama it wouldn't drag.. the writers and director managed to make 16 episodes out of a 2-hour movie excellently...
the drama successfully made me laugh and cry equally... dramas like this have high rewatch value and maybe i will rewatch this one again sometimes in the future...
Was this review helpful to you?
