Into the Ring

" Into the Ring " is a pretty fun drama.

It is character driven, with a quirky, dynamic leading lady who dominated every scene she was in. Nana did a superb job with her character and she is one of the best surprises of this year. She pulled Goo Se Ra off masterfully and without overdoing it. The rest of the cast did a great job as well.

As for the actual story, it combined comedy, romance and politics in a beautiful mix that was entertaining and not overbearing. The romance was realistic, subtle, as it didn't take time off the actual story, and it did help that the couple had chemistry. The comedy, in addition, was just enough, mainly produced by the character. Finally, the politics, with the corruption cases, were pretty intense, without being too complicated, confusing or tiring to follow.

However, one thing that the drama didn't handle well, apart from the odd camera work with the high angles and close ups, was the last episode. It was rushed, partial and just not what one should expect from a drama that was pretty steady up until then.

So, overall, nine out of ten.

A young lady Goo Se-ra who has been a serial complainer to the local assembly for years decides to stand in the election to shake things up. Surprisingly she wins and even though she is a little ditzy and wears her heart on her sleeve she begins to make improvements to local peoples lives. The lead is played outstandingly by Jin-Ah Im with just the right of crazy to be loveable but not over the top. Great supporting cast especially the females and well filmed and paced. A light romantic comedy with a feel good factor.

I rarely watch romantic comedies but this is not all there is. It's also about politics and staying with your principles and who you are.

The romance is not prominent theme. What really got me is the wide angle cinematography. I'm a photographer so that kept my interest from another perspective. Oh, yeah, the comedy and local politics too.

The main character's name in Korean sounds like Godzilla. And in the mind of the other politicians she is a monster. A relentless, justice seeking, civil servant. She is paired with a meticulous, dutiful and resourceful city clerk.

No they don't win every battle. But the process of each challenge was definitely fun. There are also good set design, supporting characters like the kid, , the girls parents, her 2 loyal friends, and the 3 triplets politicians.

But credit has to go to the main actress. She has a certain presence, charm, radiance and .....panache that fills the screen (and her role) with ease and natural zzeal and zest. And that smile and laughter is absolutely infectious.

Nana and Park Sung-hoon are an absolutely adorable romantic couple from start to finish. The laughs and the romance are scattered throughout every episode. All of the side characters are really well acted. The OST is amazing Loved it! The main reason to watch is Nana... who has been in three really good dramas in the past year. In this one, she finally gets to play comedy and romance... and she does it brilliantly. She deserves some awards at the end of the year.

Oh wait! This is something else! Something New and exciting and wonderful and funny and smart. It ticks all the boxes but it also adds new boxes that create new demands for series to come. Humoristic and intelligent with a fabulous female lead backed up by an equally fabulous male lead and an amazing chemistry between them. This drama feels fresh and modern and it actually touches some of the more provocative questions about social structures today. Excellent! Lean back and Enjoy the ride!