Wonderful World

♻ "Everything started with the incident that summer." What started was a cycle of hurts followed by vengeance between parties on the periphery. Meanwhile, the 🕷 relaxed smugly in the center of the 🕸.

The opening episode is heartbreaking. Eun "Soo" Hyun is a successful writer who is married to a reporter. They have a beautiful son together, but he disappears one afternoon when he is 6, leaving a single shoe on the sidewalk. Emergency crews eventually find him, but he's badly injured from a hit-and-run. He doesn't make it. After the perp's trial in which he's released, and it appears connections and corruption are playing a hand in the leniency he's granted, Soo falls apart. Her husband falls apart. Everything falls apart.

WW is a 2024 release that is rated 86 on AWiki. It is 1 season consisting of 14 60ish-minute episodes. It is painful to watch. I could only handle 1 ep/day. The pressure doesn't start to let up until ep11 or so, when the main characters make a directional change. Like the best among us do, Soo takes her pain and attempts to channel it for good. She sets out to protect other children from suffering like her son did. Before all of that, though, she is compelled to dispose of some trash.

Her reward for taking out the 🗑 is a prison stint. She bonds with another inmate, Jang Hyung Ja. Soo's new friend is in jail because she had set fire to the room where her husband was having an affair and ended up killing several people, including an entire family, save for their 8 year old boy who survived. Jang Hyung Ja elicits Soo's commitment to contact that boy upon her release as it looks like Jang Hyung Ja will never be released: She's dying. She's too ashamed to face the kid anyway. As it turns out, this 8-year-old boy, who is now grown up, is loosely involved with disrupting corrupt men. Meanwhile, Soo's husband has been investigating🔎 connections between the man who caused the accident that killed their son and his corrupt cronies, including judges and politicians.

By the time Soo is released, her husband is on foreign assignment. The one time she accepted his visit during her incarceration was to tell him to leave her be - She had nothing left for him. On the first day of freedom Soo falls asleep on her son's grave and wakes to a young angelic looking man holding an ☂ over her. Does she know how he will factor into her future? Of course not. Right now she's an aimless wanderer. No direction. Nothing to live for. Dead inside. Yet she promised Gunwoo, her son, that she would survive and live a meaningful life. The first order of business is her promise to Jang Hyung Ja to find that boy who survived the fire.

Soo finds her cellie's 8 y/o victim; it's the boy with the umbrella. Otherworldly looking Cha Eun Woo (Rookie Historian-7.6, True Beauty, My ID Is Gangnam Beauty-7.5) portrays Kwon Seon Yul, now fully grown. Soo sees that he's not living a quiet, safe life. He also isn't pleased to get the message she's delivering. He shuns her, but they continue to meet. It's as if strange forces are drawing them together.

To err is human; to forgive, divine. Forgiveness, release, and going on with life is WW's theme. Not only are there huge things to forgive, like the killing of a family member, but also cheating, lying, general indiscretions, and everyday insults are thrown in the path as well. Mistakes are creating roadblocks all over the place. Most of the characters in WW have committed grave blunders and have also been greatly wronged. Once forgiven, a perpetrator may feel release, but the person who benefits most from forgiving is the one who is doing it. It isn't easy (not by any means!) but to hold onto anger, unforgiveness, and bitterness is to rot oneself out from within. It is the opposite of a free life. It is being controlled.

"I won't ask for forgiveness..." we hear that several times. The logic behind the statement is that the wrongdoers feel too much shame to 'ask for forgiveness'. So don't. Don't ask to be forgiven. However, a person that has done wrong should apologize - without excuses, qualifiers, demands, or reservations. That is what decency demands. It's what a person of good character and principles does. A mature person will understand that everyone makes mistakes. Learn from them, make it right and move on, burden free. An immature and self-absorbed person will turn an apology into an excuse fest, a look-at-me-I-am-not-so-bad-think-better of-me party. Pathetically, this doesn't work, it only shows poor character, and it doesn't make anyone like you more. Denying one's mistakes and not apologizing is a form of living in denial and lies. One can't face h/h shortcomings because s/he needs to think better of h/h self. That is a contemptible life of delusion. Let your ego go. Nobody else likes your ego; only you do. Let it go. Be free.

😢 Going into ep9 ain't nobody free. All I could think is: 'What a downer! This show is so sad!' Just in time (almost too late), there's a plot shift that allows the viewer some breathing room. Things move into the deep end, more evidence comes to light, and not everything is what it had previously appeared to be.

WW is a quality production. The acting, directing, and writing all supplement the show. Kim Nam Joo (Misty) is FL Eun "Soo" Hyun. Kim Kang Woo (Circle) plays Kang Soo Ho, Soo's husband. The intrinsically likable Kang Ae Shim from Bad and Crazy & Be Melodramatic-8.7 plays Jang Hyung Ja.

Kil Hae Yeon (If You Wish Upon Me) is Jung Myung Hee, Soo's mother i/l. This woman excels at playing a supreme b!+ch. I've seen her in Beyond Evil-7.4 & Law School-8. I've also seen her in 2 shows that are like stamps of eachother: In Something in the Rain-8.6 she plays the ultimate narcissistic mother who ruins her family. One Spring Night-7.8 is nearly the same show (same director/writer combo) except it's the father who's a narcissist and Ms Kil is a sweetheart of a mom. Both shows are good, but OSN is like the 2nd, lighter stamp. It doesn't mean much on its own, its value is as a follow-up to the heavier, gut-wrenching Something in the Rain. Regardless, this actress has a powerful presence.

Im Se Mi (Terius Behind Me, When the Weather Is Fine-9) is Han Yoo Ri, Soo's BFF and unofficial sister. Won Mi Kyung (The Hoechun Gate, Great Vocation) plays Oh Go Eun, Soo's mom. I've only seen her in My Unfamiliar Family-7.9, and she's wonderful. The screenwriter is Kim Ji Eun (Lie After Lie) and Lee Seung Young (Voice S2, Special Affairs Team TEN) directed.

The direction is competent with flashes of excellence. The color palette is dark, muted and grey, but the colors in Soo's memories are so vivid! The tempo is steady. The show never rushes and it never drags. Stopping at 14 episodes may have been the smartest thing the director did. Too many shows suffer because they don't have enough content to fill 16-20 episodes competently. The 🎶 is quite good as well. The classic, Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive, makes an appearance and Imaginary Future & Kina Grannis do a melancholy, jazzy cover of What a Wonderful World.

🌱 Soo is able to find justice, release, and peace by the time the credits roll. This painful show ends up with a positive message that is brilliantly summed up when Soo declares this: "Let's not live like a bare tree anymore. Let's sprout and live." Only free people can say and do that.

QUOTES📢

In the middle of life's journey, I got lost and wandered. I've heard no matter how much time passes, losing someone precious to you will always be lonesome. But I will try to keep going. If I keep going, one day the pain will lessen. I hope all those grieving find comfort. I hope the world will be more friendly to those in pain. I hope a beautiful world will come while you overcome your pain.

When you live this long, leaving someone properly is as important as meeting someone.

〰🖍 IMHO

📣7.5 📝8 🎭8.3 🎨7.6 🎵/🔊7 🔚8.3 ▪ 🌞4⚡4.5 😅1 😭5 😱2 😯5 🤢2 🤔6 💤0

Age 14+ Mature subject matter.

Re-📺? Possible but unlikely. It is definitely worth watching once.

In order of ~lite&trite~ to ~heavy&serious~ you may also like:

Modern Day - A Witch's Love 7.8, Love to Hate You 8.9, Touch your heart 8.2, Law School -8 It's Okay Not To Be Okay 9, Love Struck in the City 7.3, Hospital Playlist 9, My Liberation Diary-8.9, Anna-8.1, My Mister 9.5, Blood Free-8.5 Mother-8.8

Action/Crime/Sci-fi - K2 8, Private Lives 8.1, Why Her?-8, Tunnel 8.5, Signal 8.6, Flower of Evil 8.9, The Man from Nowhere 8.9, Squid Game 8.4, Kingdom 8.3, Sweet Home 8.4.

"Wonderful World" is a captivating Korean drama that stands out for its powerful acting, engaging storyline, and compelling portrayal of family dynamics. Starring Cha Eun Woo and Kim Nam-Joo, this drama delves into themes of love, revenge, and redemption, weaving together a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

One of the standout aspects of "Wonderful World" is the stellar performances by the cast, particularly Cha Eun Woo and Kim Nam-Joo. Cha Eun Woo delivers a nuanced portrayal of a conflicted young man grappling with his identity and seeking justice for his father's murder. His emotional depth and vulnerability draw viewers into his character's journey, making them empathize with his struggles and root for his redemption. Likewise, Kim Nam-Joo shines in her role as a resilient mother determined to protect her family despite facing betrayal and heartache. Her portrayal of strength and resilience in the face of adversity is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

The storyline of "Wonderful World" is expertly crafted, blending elements of suspense, drama, and romance to create a compelling narrative that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. The drama unfolds with gripping twists and turns, keeping viewers guessing and eagerly anticipating each new development. From the intense confrontations between characters to the heartfelt moments of reconciliation, every scene is infused with emotion and tension, making for a truly immersive viewing experience.

At its core, "Wonderful World" is a story about the enduring power of love and family bonds. Despite the challenges and obstacles they face, the characters in the drama find strength and solace in their relationships with one another. Whether it's the unconditional love between parent and child or the forgiveness and compassion that ultimately triumph over hatred and revenge, the drama beautifully explores the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

In addition to its compelling storyline and powerful performances, "Wonderful World" also shines in its production values and direction. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the Korean landscape and adding depth and atmosphere to the narrative. The soundtrack complements the mood and tone of the drama, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

Overall, "Wonderful World" is a must-watch Korean drama that delivers on all fronts. With its stellar cast, engaging storyline, and powerful themes, it offers a truly unforgettable viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of Cha Eun Woo, Kim Nam-Joo, or simply enjoy a well-crafted drama with heart and soul, "Wonderful World" is sure to captivate and entertain.

The story that this drama develops is heartbreaking to a certain point. The actors played their characters so well, that you feel empathy for their emotions. Sometimes dramas are good but they don't know how to give closure; however, here, the closure was perfect. They both found forgiveness, redemption, worked together and gave themselves the opportunity to heal as they could. I loved that Eunwoo had the space to develop in a drama that is not a romantic comedy, I think he has had exponential growth in this drama, we know that it is the character with which he identifies the most. The female protagonist was perfect in her role. I highly recommend watching it!

This is a powerful emotionally involving tragedy drama about a little boy being killed in an accident. Revenge and justice follow in this spell binding tale. The writing and dialog are realistic so it never feels makjang. The story is plausible and believable and that makes it moving. The main characters are both wrong and right good and not so good. Lots of tears and angst do be prepared. Forgiveness revenge betray are explored in an intelligent manner. The ending is complete and satisfying enough for this kind of tragedy drama. The musical score is suitable quite operatic and grand at times. The direction is clear and classy and the cinematography is top quality. The acting and cast are very good. Kim Nam Joo plays the grieving mother without overacting so she is effective. Kim Kang Woo is good at playing the slightly flawed husband who hides something. Cha Eun Woo shakes off his glamorous rom com idol persona quite well to play the troubled and complex victim and avenger although the blue collar parts are a little like a fake photoshoot.

I wasn't bored with the 14 episodes because it was that good. Best non comical non romance serious drama in a long time.

This series was quite an emotional series with plenty of twists and suspense, and hence I rate it a 9. The only issue I felt was its slow pace. Though, it was a great time watching Wonderful World. I loved the way actors performed in this series 👏 👏 👏. The cinematography and soundtrack were also top-notch, enhancing the overall experience. I appreciate the story ending a lot as it had one of the perfect ends I would look for and which I didn't find in any of the K-dramas I watched yet. Overall, I really enjoyed watching all the episodes, but especially the last episode touched my heart so much.