The story is well built, the characters are well articulated and portrayed - every single one of them, even the supporting roles, the music goes along with the scene, just adding more emotion to it, and the way the episodes were developed was magnificent! I don't find myself so amazed by a drama since Reply 1997!
Generally k-dramas have this thing for making you scream of anger while watching them, but in this one, the screeches were of agony, because the feelings - especially pain, of course - were being so nicely portrayed that it wasn't possible to not feel along with the characters.
I like how the characters are human. I mean, none of them are completely perfect or completely awful, all of them have good and bad feelings - the want to do the good and the bad thing. Even the villains - you can't call them that, seriously, but let's go with it - have genuine emotions and actions, and everything is substantial and explicable.
Things in this drama happen like you would see happening in real life, the plot twists aren't something you would laugh about because they are so ridiculous (seriously, some dramas are impossible to be serious about). And for me, it's so good to see believable acts and events, especially because the plot is all about something that is inherently present in our everyday lives. There was only this or that scenes that probably wouldn't be possible to see (hello, Yoon Yu Rae, I'm talking to you), but they were made for the comic relief, so I just laughed and moved on.
Overall, Pinocchio is a great choice if you want to see a realistic drama. Kudos for Park Shin Hye for not making me want to kill her because of her acting and character - the first one is her fault, but the second I know it's not, I'm just glad she finally chose a character that wasn't developed by the screenwriters so... ugh. (Go Minam... Eun Sang... just no.)
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I just completed this drama half an hour back and I'm already missing it. Believe me when I say that one of the things I avoid doing the most is touching any currently airing drama. Suspense and waiting for the next week is like taking multiple gun shots! Initially, I did that with Pinocchio, until the 7th or 8th episode. When suddenly saw netizens storming on about Pinocchio, I couldn't run away from the temptation! And ended up making stupid promises to myself such as ' I'll just watch the first episode, see how it is, and give it a full run from the 2nd episode onwards until it ends'.
But boy oh boy, I watched all the 7/8 episodes aired by then, in one day and took a stab for realizing that now I had to start waiting for another damn week. Hard times! (if you're a drama addict, you know what I mean :P)
I'll go by the rating table. Story? Here let me ask you this, what do you think would come out of the drama written by the same team of writers who gave us "I Hear Your Voice", teaming up again with Lee Jong Suk? Yes, a great story with all the elements one expects after watching the trailer. Actors? Honestly, I had few concerns about Park Shin Hye but I'm glad she lived up well to her character of Choi In Ha, a character outline I liked when I read about it on various websites. Lee Jong Suk was awesome as always. I liked Lee Yoo Bin since "Innocent Man" and liked her even more in this drama especially, her character's story with Hwang Gyo Dong (Lee Pil Mo). It was very cute and I think it was a good idea to add such light comedy to the drama. I liked everyone's acting from both MSC and YGN news company. Kim Young Kwang moved me in the last few episodes, trust me. Special mention to Kim Hae Sook as Park Ro Sa (Seo Bum Jo's mom) who portrayed the character of a villain pretty well.
Soundtrack? Instead of doing an online search on the OST list, I waited for all the tracks to play in the drama which made me like them even more. "Non-fiction" by Echo is my favorite track. (:
What more should I do to actually/ literally tell you that this drama is worth watching for its story, cast and music because I rated it a 10, both for Rewatch Value (I don't rewatch much) and this drama as an Overall?
If you're into stories such as this one, it'll be worth it. Enjoy! :)
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Marshmallow-Chocoholic
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Well, I Certainly Won’t Be “ Hiccuping ” To Say That This Drama Has Its Flaws...
With numerous reviews over the years upon the drama, it wouldn’t be surprising if this review easily becomes disregarded amongst others. Nevertheless, it’s important to give an honest and objective verdict on whether “ Pinnochio” still lives up to its legacy as a “ good” series , or is overrated for what its worth.
Pinocchio tells the story a man ( Lee Jong Suk) whose life was devastated by corrupt reporters. Seeking revenge since childhood, he takes up another identity as “ Dal Po” ; the deceased son of an old man suffering from denial and mental illness called Choi Gong Pil ( Byun Hee Bong). Together with his “ niece” and sufferer of the fictionalised illness “Pinocchio Syndrome”, Choi In Ha ( Park Shin Hye), the two go on a journey of self-discovery that forces them to face some uncomfortable truths.
Undeniably the most intriguing concept present within the show was the ideology of Pinocchio Syndrome; a (fairy tale-inspired) condition which causes the individual to hiccup whenever he or she lies. As someone suffering from the condition, In Ha is often subject to discrimination and prejudice by wider society, however, this concept of the show did lack genuine or factual explanation to viewers towards its causes- is it hereditary, psychological or just a cause of random gene mutations? Although it is notable neither of In Ha’s parents suffer from this disease, it did remain a lingering question towards exactly how and when In Ha was diagnosed with Pinocchio Syndrome and the actual science behind this fictionalised disease.
Instead, the fantasy concept of Pinocchio Syndrome is truly reduced to more than an asset plot device to accompany more prevalent focal point of journalism within the show. The aspects of critiquing the competitive and exploitative natures of the industry of media did notably help to present a surprisingly realistic and somewhat fairly profound depth to the storyline.
Dal Po’s entire character is driven by his enmity and obligated feelings of revenge for his family . Yet by becoming the very thing he hated more than anything in the world, he stumbles upon the truth that the world of journalism is not as black and white as he originally had the preconception of ; news outlets, individuals and reporters may twist certain stories for their own gain whilst the true victims remain without voices. Whilst Lee Jong Suk has often had a mixed bag of performances over the years, his role as Dal- Po did seem to capture multifaceted and depth to his character. This is because Dal- Po is still motivated by his intentions for revenge, but he also learns to forgive and learn that sometimes honesty is the greatest weapon of them all.
Yet this also moves us on to the obvious problem of the drama. The ridiculous amount of cliche coincidences happening in the subtext of thirteen years of secret messaging between the second male Beom Jo ( Kim Young Kwang) and In Ha, the notable “ chances” which arise for Dal-Po being able to land a job as a journalist despite his limited qualifications ( regardless of his intelligence) and of course the sudden reversal of “ external forces” which kept away characters such as Dal-Po and In Ha from developing relationships in order to suddenly have a “ happy ending”. Although a preferred choice for the dramatised events of the series, it was initially off-putting at times within the cliche and unrealistic setups which suddenly manifested without prior build-up.
Yet perhaps the biggest problem in the series was the dragging sensation of storyline in places. Initially this is somewhat ironic for a show which has surprisingly quite good pacing for the majority of the show , but the duration of episodes in addition to transition in places upon plot devices, over actual characterisation often resulted in this problem.
The biggest example of this problem can be found through In Ha as a character. Although Shin Hye can’t be faulted within her stellar performance and her character does initially having an interesting backstory, her actual relevance to the storyline often felt minimal and intrinsically quite lacklustre. In Ha simply does not have notable character growth in the series. Arguably a lot of In Ha’s problems and the drama wouldn’t have been as effective without In Ha having remained the same, however, this is also a somewhat nonsensical venture into In Ha as a character. Considering her experiences and scenarios growing up, In Ha neither really seems to be given the chance to confront them openly and actually learn and develop, often resulting in her character coming off as a plot device in order to keep the story motivated such as her relationship with her mother and Dal Po , than an individual in her own right.
In terms of the latter mentioned point , the relationship between Dal Po and In Ha was a little questionable over the course of the series. Although not relatives by blood ( giving the obvious explanation against the otherwise incestuous proposal) , a lot of viewers often forget that In Ha and Dal Po grew up together for more than thirteen years as uncle and niece as well as during their younger years having a notably fraternal relationship - the pairing between the two characters just felt odd and mismatched. Actors Lee Jong Suk and Park Shin Hye did help to cover up some of the more awkward onscreen moments through their performances and the show acknowledged it to some extent , it still seemed oddly problematic to romanticise this pairing in the first place as well as the striking differences between both characters and their personalities.
Perhaps the most praiseworthy relationship in the show occurred between Dal-Po and his biological, revenge driven brother Ki Jae Myeong(portrayed by Yoon Gyun Sang), provided the zeal of the revenge story and the clear differences in motive and experiences of both brothers.
Dal-Po seeks revenge in a similar manner to Ki-Jae, but in the process considers and acknowledges reconciliation and forgiveness against certain individuals due to being distracted by a kind-hearted “paternal” -figure and surrounded by a fairly loving family . On the other hand, Ki-Jae’s experiences was solely driven with cause of distraction for revenge with a carte blanche given by viewers just to see how far he can gross the line of morality. This presents an intriguing relationship between brothers with Ki Jae oblivious for a major proportion of the series due to not knowing Dal-Po’s true identity. Jae Myeong’s performance was surprisingly good and a honest gift to this drama by making up for some of its more evident flaws .
So, was a “ Pinocchio ” a good series, or another overrated drama? It’s fair to say that the concept of the show was intriguing by tackling difficult issues of manipulation, injustice and exploitation, the OST was quite good, and there were some particularly well-written characters such as Dal-Po and even In Ha’s mother, Song Cha-ok ( Jin Kyung) who was surprisingly given some profound depth despite her antagonistic role in the series. Nevertheless, “ Pinocchio” isn’t as flawless as watchers truly make it up to be- the ridiculous coincidences took away from the surprising twists of storyline, In Ha as our female lead was severely underdeveloped and the relationship between both characters was ultimately a little uncomfortable considering the angle of the storyline. It is probably fair to say that “ Pinocchio ” wasn’t a dire or terrible drama by any stretch of the imagination and had many likeable assets , but it certainly was overrated within being passed off as a “ flawless” drama by some fans.
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From the very beginning it is clear that this drama is not afraid to take on tragedy, so it's not exactly lighthearted (have tissues on hand just in case for the early episodes). Still there are definitely laughs, and romance as well.
I know many reviewers will understandably compare this to I Hear your Voice. The comparison makes obvious sense, and fans of that drama's cast and story will most likely enjoy this drama too (since the writer and some of the actors are the same). As for me, between the two, I liked Pinocchio more. It took a while for me to get into I Hear your Voice, but with this drama I was hooked from the beginning till the very end.
Park Hye-ryun really knows how to blend genres well. Lots of the standard k-drama elements are included - a love triangle, parental issues, rivalries, secrets, deception, revenge - but it all still feels completely original. I had no idea what would happen next, and didn't want it all to end. The writing has something for every drama lover, and gets a 10 from me. The characters were also all well written. The entire cast did a great job, and gets a deserving 10 from me as well.
Park Shin Hye & Lee Jong Suk are great together. They have great chemistry so the fact that their romance isn't always the main focus shouldn't be a huge disappointment to romance fans. I love that In Ha isn't always likable, nor is she timid, which is always nice to see for a female lead. Any Lee Jong Suk fan should definitely watch, and he does a great job taking on a complicated character while still showcasing his charm. Their triangle is completed by Kim Young Kwang who actually plays a likable chaebol. It's also nice that their friendship dynamic is as important as the romantic storyline.
Then there is one of my all time favorite k-drama actresses Kim Hae Sook. I knew I'd love her character, since she never disappoints. I particularly like her when she plays more of a villain, but she was still completely different than I've seen her before (which is what makes her so awesome). Jin Kyung is also excellent as the cold hearted mother of In Ha. She was one of my favorites in the cast overall. I also really liked the family dynamic, which included some of the funniest parts.
The music was great, but there weren't any memorable epic songs which is why I only gave it an 8.
Rewatch value is high for me since I am already rewatching it. I was so sad when it was over, and there's so many interesting turns in the story that a second watch is still entertaining. Plus the cast is so likable, which is another good reason to want to watch it all again.
Overall all I cared a lot about the characters, was engrossed in the story, and liked the themes regarding truth, integrity, and family. I also liked how it ended, and though part of me wished there were more episodes, I think it ended perfectly, and right when it should have.
This is a definite, rare, 10 worthy drama for me, and one I highly recommend to all drama fans. I'd even recommend it to those who are curious to know how these dramas can become so damn addictive. I think this is definitely the kind of drama that could get a newbie hooked, and that's the truth!
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STORY:
Pinocchio is a well known Italian tale about a carpenter named Geppetto, who crafts a wooden puppet and wishes for a son. Instead of a human being, “Pinocchio” remains a puppet. The Blue Fairy, which assisted in magically allowing this divine event to happen, warns Pinocchio that if he wishes to be a real boy, he must be honest and upright. If he lies, his nose will grow long and longer. Albeit there are differences from Disney’s version and the actual novel, Pinocchio is filled with life lessons, values, and warnings of human nature which some are folly too.
Now, why did I give this (somewhat boring) mini history session before my review? For those of you that may be familiar or not familiar with the true story of Pinocchio, there is an interesting twist to the: don’t “tell a lie” scenario or there will be consequences, and that is hiccupping in this Korean drama. Those who are “Pinocchio’s” as opposed to being wooden puppets that talk, cannot lie. When they do lie, their conscience (as substituted for a cricket here) is to hiccup. This, although I was apprehensive at first how they would take on this classic, is quite a refreshing take on an old story.
CHARACTERS:
Choi In Ha: *A standing ovation for Park Shin Hye* and it is well deserved. I had been apprehensive about Park Shin Hye’s involvement in this series, and although I adored her in Flower Boy Next Door and You’re Beautiful, she does have a few recycled roles under her sleeve, and I’m not just referring to Heirs. I do think script writing has everything to do with the success of a series as much as it does the acting. Park Shin Hye glows, she literally shines on screen, and perhaps that have to do partially with Lee Jong Suk, but I fully believe her charm as a serious actor came to light in this series. Here, In Ha is a wonderfully dedicated, but hopelessly seeking a future in investigative journalism. As a Pinocchio, she cannot lie, and has been discriminated against (and criticised) for her pursuance of this career. Although the stacks are against her, In Ha is strong minded, and a will to seek the truth. What I liked about this heroine is her integrity and strength. She has her flaws, and she admits to her faults, and that’s what makes her relatable and human. Choi In Ha and Choi Dal Po/Ha Myeong are like two peas in a pod, and I enjoyed their mutual understandings for one another, and the bond between these two.
Choi Dal Po/Ki Ha Myeong: Lee Jong Suk… bless the heavens, stars, gods, goddesses, all that is good in the universe… anything that you want to name and praise, thank you for being involved in this project, and thank you for bringing you’re A-game as usual, and this time creating a beautiful on-screen chemistry with Park Shin Hye. What more can I possibly say other then the multi-dimensionality of Dal Po is central to this tale of tragedy turned comedy, turned serious revenge, turned sort of revenge, turned now mature series drama with hints of melodrama. Complicatedness aside, Dal Po is on a journey of not only self discovery, but a journey of self-healing and forgiveness. Often ambiliventy going back and forth between what he thinks as right and wrong, and often has to reflect on his actions and thoughts. This kind of characteristic element of his makes him the Dal Po he is. The feels, the feels for his character development that I have, which is nothing but unique and roller-coaster like. Lee Jong Suk gives a memorable performance as this lovable genius.
The “Secondary Characters” were just as great, whether from MSC news or YGN news, the rivalry between each newscast station is hilariously refreshing. Though, of course, serious, there are times when it can be ridiculously entertaining. Especially the interactions between the two stations, which make this series memorable. Whether it’d be their “Cap’s” or it be their Team Leader’s calling their rookie’s out to bring in news, there’s always an interesting dynamic going on. In no way are they secondary at all to this series, but important components to the life as investigative journalists, as reporters, as people working for news companies that are presenting a version of a truth of event(s) that occur. And how objective those news pieces are often central to this series.
SOUND/OST: This is important to a series: the sound. It’s such a huge component to dramas. Every Single Day came back to to the original theme song for this series (just as they had done so for I Hear Your Voice). The music/sound is not overbearing, it is mellow or upbeat when it needs to be, and that's what I appreciate about this sound and OST (which Park Shin Hye does a song for!). There are many moments where it fits in just right, and I found that the music suited the flow to this series.
OVERALL IMPRESSION: Brilliant creativity, for taking an idea from a classic and changing it in many unique ways. Everyone is entitled to their opinion about this series, but there is one thing you cannot deny and that is the beauty in storytelling. I have praised this screenwriter plenty of times, and their work is pure art.There’s commotion, but not too much commotion. There’s connections we feel, but there’s enough distance to enjoy the drama. It just flows well. There is a complete package here, and whether or not you enjoyed it thoroughly, there is enough for one to realize how special this drama is, and how delighted I was to be able to see these characters transform over time. I like the interactions and memorable movements/actions between Park Shin Hye and Lee Jong Suk (that were totally “Dal Po and In Ha” moments). I wondered if they were actually scripted or improvised, which I think the idea of that is quite special, and probably a secret they would keep to themselves. One of my personal favourites. *SAYS WITHOUT HICCUPING*
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I thoroughly enjoyed the show's demonstration of how media and news really are. Fact is fact. You can't warp it into a distorted version of the fact. The show explores the consequences of media impact and the individualized sacrifices made along the way because of it. Pinocchio really pulled on those ideas and created a well-rounded world that was compelling to the viewer. If there was one sentence I could give Pinocchio, it would be: the truth always comes out. The theme of retribution keeps coming around throughout the drama. 'What comes around, goes around.' The audience also feels a sense of deja vu when past words comes back to haunt other characters.
Now, the main plot and dilemma. I liked how it played out. The brotherly relationship was poignant but also an explosive bomb waiting to happen because of all that has happened between them. However, although the plot is mostly pretty solid and concise, there were some aspects that felt rushed. I really wish they explored that plot line longer. The bromance and the strong sense of family got to me more than the romance which is surprising since I usually like romance dramas. Nevertheless, I appreciated that every decision, every word, said by characters had meaning; in other words, everything, for the most part, happened for a reason so there seemed to be little to no dragging.
I'm not sure why but In Na and Dal Po's chemistry just didn't click for me until around the 8th episode. I think their almost sibling-like relationship deterred me from completely falling for their chemistry.
I came in never seeing any dramas from Lee Jong Suk nor Park Shin Hye so I didn't have any bias. Shocker, I know. Lee Jong Suk's portrayal of emotions was raw and completely real. Shin Hye's character was blunt-loved her. Shin Hye made her hiccups so realistic that I almost believed Pinocchio was a real thing! Neither character outshone the other. In that respect, In Na and Dal Po complemented one another well, creating a more comfortable, rather than passionate chemistry. Because of that comfortable chemistry, their characters are always honest with each other and have complete trust in one another- it's great to watch! However, I didn't unequivocally trust their trust in each other until the 12th episode. It was then that I seriously respected In Ha and her love and trust in Dal Po.
I really liked the side characters, for the most part. In some dramas, the main couple is what keeps the drama alive. Here, the supporting cast makes the drama better, and more hilarious. I loved Cap and even the guy with the weird hair from YGN- Lee Pil Mo and Min Seung Wook respectively. I liked Jin Kyung in It's Okay that's Love but dang did she pull out acting chops here-completely amazing. Props to hyung as well, Yoon Gyun Sang; I'll definitely be on the lookout for your future works. I honestly didn't hate anyone since nearly everyone had their chance at redemption, which I wholeheartedly appreciated.
Music, unfortunately, was pretty mediocre, and forgettable.
I must say this though. I liked Pinocchio but I didn't fall in love with it. At the end of the day,though, Pinocchio is a great drama with lots of heart that explores morals, and has sincere relatable characters.
(8.5/9.5)
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The character of Choi In Ha (Park Shin Hye) was adorable, especially with her inability to lie yet constant attempts to do so. However, every character used in this drama, not just the leads, were unique and lovable and I found myself getting attached to the supporting roles as well as the main characters. Excluding the two leads, I'd like to make reference especially to Seo Bum Jo (played by Kim Young Kwang) as, not only was he a very likeable character, I found the portrayal of his character development brilliant.
Faults wise, I'm happy to say that after a lot of thinking on my part, I could not think of a single one. Although, this is my own opinion and I'm sure there were some that I missed while being blinded by Lee Jong Suk's and Park Shin Hye's impossibly good looks.
I was afraid that the ending would be bad but Pinocchio kept up its lovable story till the very end and I was sad when I realised there would be no more episodes for me to watch. Within the first episode I was hooked and, after finishing all 20 episodes, I can say this is definitely my favourite drama and I will definitely watch it again.
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pinocchio is such a well writen drama to delivery a importen and meaningful message to viewer where very rare at the while..its not just about a love story, romance type but,its more about that.. this drama so perfect with amazing story line, great acting from main lead actor actress and all supporting actor, espesially strong chemistry from shin hye and jong suk. beautiful cinematography, and all of the ost of drama is so good.
Park shin hye and lee jong suk..and all pinocchio team.. well done, thumbs up for u all, and spesial thanks to writer nim for this amazing drama,,
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I want to acknowledge Park Shin Hye because she acted so well in here and standing ovation for her natural kissing scene at last, I think Choi In Ha is the better version of Cha Eun Sang. Lee Jong Seok never fails me in delivering his role as always he knows how to adopt himself according to his on-screen partner and his chemistry with everyone he interacted in the drama is very believable. Some actors here standout including the adult Ki Jae Myung exuding charisma and machismo aura and Jin Hyuk also Kim Hee Suk for their portrayal of complex character.
My favorite part in the family values that partake to the viewers the deep love of parents in different ways. I love Grandpa Gong Pil and Hyung Dal Pyeong for their understanding demeanour and greater values given to Inha and Dalpo.
I will look forward what this Pinocchio Team will give us in the future a mind reader or a hiccuping blunt talking witch, I'm on the edge waiting how it will workout.
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The moral of the story was so powerful, something that exists in our everyday life. It shows you how bad reporting can influence lives and destroy them. This drama opened my eyes to things I didn’t realize before, and I started asking myself questions. Is everything on the television is true, who is behind all this, why this and why that… Pinocchio teaches you that truth should always come first no matter what might happen. It teaches you the true meaning of reporting and the definition of a good reporter.
It’s a good show, although sometimes I wanted to smack the hell out of the writer. It had some weak moments, but overall it’s such a good drama with a great message.
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Hypocrisy at its best
Plot: A family who has been wrongfully accused because of what the media created. The story didn’t start as a revenge plot but it was full of hatred to all the reporters. Accidentally knowing the truth of their father’s death after a few years, both brothers wanted to clear their father’s name. The Pinocchio syndrome was only used not in front of the camera despite it’s original purpose and mostly done for In Ha’s personal reasons. Even so, they injected a few comedy scenes that helped me to move forward with the plot.Acting: Most of them did amazing in terms of acting. Although I was slightly unconvinced by Beom Jo’s fake smile in the first few episodes, I got used to it eventually. My favorite characters were grandpa, in ha’s dad, nitpicker and msc captain. Flawless acting from these men and the ‘villains’ as well.
Music: The OSTs are good but not memorable.
Rewatch Value: I don’t think I will be rewatching this as the second half of the drama failed to impress me. It became predictable and too convenient.
Overall: 7.5 to 8 stars. I’m impressed with everyone’s acting and I love the concept of Pinocchio and the plot(uncovering family’s masked face, police-reporter relationship, power tripping) has so much potential however, it was not executed properly in terms of reasoning and their actions. What the characters say contradict to the things they do, especially the female lead, In Ha. No character development, a hypocrite and above all, I felt like she was a burden to everyone. The writer tried to give her a strong personality since she was a kid but she was not reasonable at all and never grew up. Her actions didn’t match what she preached. She was supposed to be the ‘center’ of the series but ended up having her self-pity party. Although there are things that can be considered a good twist, it was ruined by the forced romantic/separation set up and poor communication or dialogues between the leads. They kept on going in circles that felt like a filler and also gave me a headache. Yoo rae and her captain’s love story was actually more interesting. The ending was kind of bland too. Despite my disappointments with the drama, I definitely learned a lot when it comes to media/reporters. I may have an idea to what goes behind the camera, the drama gave me more information and understanding about the essence of ‘NEWS’. Unlike coins, a story can have more than two sides. There are many quotable lines and thought provoking comments. The message of the drama is clear with a good impact and facts about life. What could be just a story/rumor to you may be someone else’s entire life.
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