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My Unfamiliar Family korean drama review
Completed
My Unfamiliar Family
7 people found this review helpful
by NotMuch
Jul 23, 2020
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed
Overall 9.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10.0
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 5.0

A family drama that emphasizes the importance of communication and having strong self-identity

The first half has a lot of plot twists, and introduces the conflicts, while the second half works on resolving them. The pace could be slow in the initial episodes, and it appeared there was a empty space when that happened. However, the plot twists kept you interested; soon, mid-watch, you realize you have become attached to the characters and want to see how they grow through the hardships that come their way. The commendable aspect of the drama the plot was how, despite the makjang-like problems, it let everything play out so naturally, it did not feel cliched, instead making the situations somehow unique to the story. Every characters' struggle was fleshed out well, though I feel the youngest's problems should have been given some more time. With that said, each struggle and problem was a reminder of how important communication within family is, but also how your individuality is just as significant to yourself. I want to point out how well done the ending was - I credit that to great planning and knowing your characters' encompassing struggle. The closure it provided to each character felt like a personal closure as well. Perhaps I should also credit the writer and director for bringing out the best in characters and actors respectively for one to care about them to this extent.

The characters' dynamics and the characters themselves were also true to life. They were multi-faceted; you will love them, hate them, and disagree with them. They frustrate and disappoint you with their decisions and attitudes so you will find yourselves reasoning with them behind your screens. Most importantly, however, you will know that many decisions were a product of their insecurities, their placement in their families and other relationships, and so on. The character I struggled to understand and love was Eun Ju, followed by Sang Shik (the father) and Jin Sook (the mother). However, you will also feel the most for these three along the way,

The romantic relationships to look forward to are those of the parents, and Eun Hee and Chan Hyuk. The older couple had the most heartwarming yet insecure beginning, leading to miscommunication and eventual misunderstandings. However, the way they come to resolve them is almost fulfilling to witness. Eun Hee and Chan Hyuk have one of the best transitions from friends-to-lovers I have seen - I will use the word natural once again to describe them. Most of all, you will love the family and enjoy each members' quirks despite the problems they have among them - they all seem to be united almost harmoniously. I personally loved the siblings chemistry with each other. It was refreshing to see a realistic, not overdone bond each had with one another.

Every actor did brilliant. They brought each relationship alive and made it relatable. The siblings' banter was fun witness, reminding me of my own bickering with my family. The varying dynamics of the parent-child and sibling to another sibling was portrayed almost like I were watching a real family. The casting choice was great: each actor seemed to BE the characters.

As for music directing. it was not bad at all, but it was not something I especially looked forward to either. However, the piano intro, and the mostly seamless way music made its way into scenes is appreciable. Moreover, the OSTs were touching and pretty to hear.

I am not sure about the rewatch, but I am sure about watching this at least once.
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