Honestly, when I first read the plot synopsis for this drama, I was skeptical about how good it would be. However, once I made it through a few episodes, I found myself enjoying it. One thing I liked was how the main plot point wasn't drawn out till the halfway point. Instead, different characters are revealed different parts at different points.It feels more natural to me that way.
The age gap wasn't as much of a sticking point as I thought it would be. When it does come up, it's more so from keeping appearances, and personality standpoint.
I am pleased that there wasn't a love triangle in this drama, there is a love line but it doesn't go the malicious route that most love lines do.
This is the third drama that I've watched a drama with Seo In Guk (Master's Sun and Reply 1997 being the other two) and it was nice seeing him take on a dual role. He was able to bring the youthful/playful side as Min Suk, and the mysterious/mature within Hyung Suk's character. Even though I kinda wanted to see more of Hyung Sik's character, the bits that we did of home was enough for me taking into account the overall progression of the story.
I have never watched a drama with Lee Ha Na but she was a delight as Soo Young. She really nailed the quirky mannerisms of the character such as her posture, and facial expressions without me feeling that she was phoning it in. Also, kudos to the wardrobe department for making Soo Young for reflecting her personality with overdoing it.
Lee Soo Hyuk is the perfect brooding second male lead as Jin Woo.
Other than the scenes with Lee Ha Na and Seo In Guk, the scenes between Seo In Guk and Lee Soo Hyuk were a favorite of mine. Their playful banter kinda brings out the more genuine side to Jin Woo, where he doesn't have to be serious all the time.
Another thing that I loved was how we got to see the tertiary characters outside the realm of the primary/secondary characters. Jin Woo, Yoo Ah, Tae Suk & Duk Hwan, the Retail Team, and (most importantly) Grandpa. No one was put on the back burner for the sake of the main characters' story.
The chemistry between the two main characters was the driving force in my enjoyment of this drama. By the end, both characters helped bring out the best in each other. Min Suk sees Soo Young for what she is, but his love for her aids in her becoming a "cool, modern woman." While Soo Young helps Min Suk see that hockey isn't the end-and all be-all for him.
Although the last two episode felt a little rushed to me, there was an overall cuteness to it that I enjoyed and everything came full circle for Min Suk and Soo Young. There were subtle references that connected the finale with previous episodes. As an aside, Seo In Guk is a good kisser.
Jung In's "As Life Goes On" and Seo In Guk's "The Way to Come Back" are standout songs from the OST.
All in all, this was a light, fun drama that I thoroughly enjoyed.
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