Before Hotel Del Luna can be called a "romance", it is first and foremost a drama about existing. HDL tells stories of our hotel guests' plight towards their own ends while shining a light on social issues, our faith, humanity, and humanity's inability to concretely define right from wrong.

The central core to HDL is our anti-heroine President Jang Man Wol, owner of HDL. She is as much the owner of this seemingly grand hotel for ghosts as she is an equally trapped prisoner of her own memory.
I enjoyed how the ghost's stories unravelling in each episode somehow tied to JMW's storyline, and what she learns each incidence propels her towards a new choice in her own life.

IU is evidently the star of the show as the script focuses ENTIRELY on building her character and oh boy... she does not disappoint. IU delivered a beyond stellar performance. Her styling, layered facial expressions, tone of voice... I could write an entire essay about how delicately complicated her portrayal of JMW was, I digress, she is genius here. She also opened up an instagram account for JMW as an interactive way to connect with viewers. It was fun seeing her insta posts align with what was happening in the drama each week.
I LOVED Goo Chan Sung and JMW's chemistry. Their actions and words are vital in their relationship and so powerful to them. This drama won't be for you if you're looking for a giddy, sizzling, or somewhat cheesy romance. The writers paid attention not to conform to predictable romantic tropes and antics. Their relationship is much more mature, rooted in real compassion for each other as humans.

The drama has no plot holes, isn't draggy either but well-paced for its theme of forgiveness and proper farewells. I felt so at peace with how this drama ended.

I highly recommend this drama if you like stories about human life, forgiveness, revenge and redemption with a supernatural element. The cinematography, CG, acting, and OSTs are perfection. HDL is a very touching story and a treasure in execution.