A story about a rich man falling in love with a poor lady is one of the most common tropes in kdramaland, but this show is one of the most unique kdramas ever. To start with, the premise is that a Seo Bom (Go Ah Sung) is a teenage mum who got impregnated by an equally young dad, Han In Sang (Lee Joon). This is not a commonly covered topic in kdramas. But in addition to that, the tone and directing are very different from usual kdramas. Throughout the show, dark humour is used to great effect, and seemingly serious moments became absolutely hilarious. The director is Ahn Pan Seok, who did A Wife's Credentials and Secret Love Affair, 2 brilliant dramas (better than Grapevine imo). His style is pretty distinct, and the imaginative angles and how well thought out each shot is really elevates the show.
Add some fantastic acting by EVERYONE and assured writing and we have a winner here. It deservedly won 'Best Drama' at the Baeksangs. Although this show got overlooked internationally, I'm glad it got decent ratings and critical acclaim.
30 episodes is really long and I think it could have been better if it were a bit shorter but I still enjoyed every moment. Each subplot was given sufficient attention and proper conclusions. The 30 eps also really allowed the show to develop almost all the characters, even the seemingly minor ones like the secretaries, staff members, Yeon Hee's (Yoo Ho Jeong) friends etc.
I was really enamoured by the staff members of the house, but especially by Secretary Lee, who started off a stuffy secretary who seemed to have little purpose in the show, but was gradually changed by Seo Bom.
Hyunsoo was also a pretty minor character but I love her spunk and especially the scene where she talked back to Yeon Hee, about not wanting to become a puppet. I also like the grudging respect that she and Seo Bom have for each other. The scene at the airport where they hugged is one of my favourites.
Han Jeong Ho (Yoo Joon Sang) was hardly my favourite character considering he was such a piece of trash, but Yoo Joon Sang played him SO WELL. From the way he speaks to his mannerisms, it was all so appropriate for this character who thought he was a king in a modern setting. And even though Han Jeong Ho did so many despicable things, I couldn't help but feel sorry for him.
Same for his wife, Choi Yeon Hee. Ridiculous, absurd, naive but absolutely riveting to watch.
In Sang was a very frustrating character. He started off as a naive, sniffling boy and he was STILL a naive, sniffling boy 2/3 into the show! Thankfully, he eventually got some courage, but not without giving Seo Bom, himself and me a lot of angst. I don't really see what Seo Bom sees him in haha.
I was also constantly frustrated by Bom's dad who kept egging her on to accept money after she left the house. Arghhhh!
There are so many epic scenes but one of my favourites is the scene where In Sang's parents are fighting in the aftermath of Han Jeong Ho's emotional cheating.
Overall, this show is an excellent and very entertaining drama if you know how to appreciate it, but it's not for those who look for trendy dramas.