OVERALL
A very good drama that's got everything to please, even if there's a few inconsistencies here and there, a few wrong plot elements there and here. Watch it if you enjoyed I Hear Your Voice or you think you would. If you didn't like it, pass.
THE STORY
It's hard to try to reproduce the success of a drama in a new project without creating a show that you, the production team and the entire world of Kdrama fans know is a replica. So why pretend? Pinocchio is obviously and shamelessly a spinoff of I Hear Your Voice. The essence of the drama, a social critique made of suspense, humor and romance with a touch of supernatural, is similar. The story, heavily consisting of unexpected plot twists that grip viewers from beginning to end, is similar. Although the female lead is original, the male lead is similar in both dramas (and to make things even better, played by the same actor too). Characters of I Hear Your Voice even make cameos. I would be indignated by all of this, but the show is so much fun, the characters are so likable (except the villain, that is), the romance is so sweet, the story is so inspiring, that I couldn't care less. I Hear Your Voice might be better, but Pinocchio stands close behind. That's what I call good project recycling! On the down side, something's off about the ending. I can't pinpoint what it is...maybe too cheesy?
THE ACTING
More than the main leads, I feel like the rest of the cast really shone through Pinocchio; special kudos to the ajuhmma actresses, they were the stars of this show. Park Shin Hye I liked here more than in all her previous dramas, probably because for once she was playing someone with a backbone. Her acting also seemed more convincing, even though there's still room for improvement. Lee Jong Suk was dashing as usual, but he seriously needs to break the mold and play different roles. They made a very nice couple, with good chemistry (how come he has great chemistry with all his co-stars? Can I be one?)
THE MUSIC
Could it feel any more the same as the music of I Hear Your Voice? Anyway, it was fitting for the show, it wasn't bad to the ears, but nothing I feel the urge to google.
REWATCHABLE VALUE
High, very high.
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