I could summarise this series using one of the product placements in episode 19: Dad says he is shopping for beer; Dad is seen buying 48-hours deodorant. It's not what you asked for or expected, but still good in a different way!

If I was to recommend this drama to others, I'd say watch it because of the cute chemistry of the main couple and NGM's versatile acting. It's also a good intro to k-dramas - cliches such as truck of doom, annoying sibling, males leading females by the wrist, pathetic villain with a hitman on speed dial, product placements (although the washing machine and fitness watch looked quite good)... don't forget subway!

(Possible spoilers below)
The obvious downfalls: one of the 'main' characters was practically forgotten about halfway through the drama and the plot deviated away from the main star of the series. Gong Shim would have benefited from some character development as observed in other dramas such as WFKBJ. The writer made both male leads appear clever and dim simultaneously! There was also excessive use of flashbacks, which I am aware often feature in k-dramas, but this is the first time I've actually noticed! I'm sure there is a better way of illustrating the past, such as an old scene seamlessly drifting into modern times.

The numerous plot holes left me asking many questions (for example how did the father post the necklace to Grandma if Dan Tae had exchanged it years ago for a ring?) but overall, it was a fun and comical watch. The acting was fairly decent along with the soundtrack and scenery, but the storyline and characterisation let it down. NGM, Minah and OSW kept the series going.

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As someone who hasn't read the manga, I decided to watch this series because I had seen Mariya in a past series (Hotel Concierge). So at first glance I expected an engaging love story. Totsuzen Desu ga displayed a couple with good chemistry and decent acting, but with weak characters / story telling. In addition, I found the love rivals to be quite pushy and unlikeable (at the beginning).

What I liked the most were the supportive network of friends and family, in particular Ono and the brother Kanade. The main OST (sung by Mariya) was also fun to listen to. However, the plot was dragged out (episode 8 did nothing to move the story forward) and then rushed at the end! I understand the series was cut short but I would have hoped for a more coherent conclusion which was not centred on 'change of hearts'. I think the title is a little misleading too.

Overall this drama was pleasant, but could have been better.

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