(Spoilerful, detailed review here: https://dramavixen.tumblr.com/post/176856871009/)

How do I even put this into words? Though just missing the mark of perfection, "Go Back Couple" is quite the emotional ride and one that I can't stop thinking about.

At its core, this is such a simple drama, but its execution is breathtaking. This tells the story of deep emotions and complex relationships under the guise of a lighthearted romcom. Everything about its surface will have you believing that this is a refreshing watch to relax yourself, but once you set foot into the first episode, you will realize: you have made a horrible, beautiful mistake.

I’m a crybaby. Over the years, my tear ducts have truly widened the scope as to what can get them going. Even so, nothing could have prepared me for this drama. “Go Back Couple” had me bawling every episode. Yes: every. Single. Episode. My tissue box is a bit tired. The emotional impact of this plot hits like a cement truck and results from the writers’ decision to focus not on the couple’s romance, but on the leads as individual people who harbor their own struggles. Those struggles then translate into their relationship. As we see them learn how to cope, their reconnection is natural and more satisfying.

The plot is not overly convoluted or “smart,” which occasionally causes it to slip whenever it tries to introduce bigger conflicts; but ultimately the lack of plot twists is what gives it its beauty. The simplicity but poignancy of our leads’ interactions, along with all the characters around them, increases how much we as viewers can empathize with them. There’s none of that theatric suspense that has become the trend in so many dramas: just humans dealing with incredibly human problems. Sometimes I forget that a time slip isn’t exactly normal; it weaves so well into, but doesn’t completely overpower, the story.

The cast plays a huge part in all of this success. Because the plot relies entirely on the personalities of its characters, there is no room for error on the side of the actors—and there are no errors made. Jang Na Ra is always spot-on when it comes to her roles, especially in scenes that are emotionally heavy. As soon as she hits the switch for the crying, it’s almost impossible to not follow along. Son Ho Jun is a new name to me, but he could be Ban Do in real life and I wouldn’t question it. These two together are as great as they are as individuals. All the side characters and so-called “secondary leads" are also incredibly important in their own ways. None of them are “there” for the sake of diluting the plot and dragging out time. They each bear their own hardships in ways that pry at our hearts and help the lead couple along their journey.

Everything about “Go Back Couple” feels priceless to me. There are so many little moments that are heartwarming yet claw at your innards. It’s one of those shows that has something incredibly personal to say to you, regardless of what stage of your life you’re currently in. That’s such a difficult trait to come by in any type of media these days, and that alone makes this drama worth watching.