What's really unique is how this drama somehow does not aim to be likable, but it's interesting and consistently engaging. Despite my ratings, I liked this a lot. Actually, it's because I like it that I'm harsh. From the production, the acting, to the sound engineering and choice, they're all top notch. Somehow there is something that's missing, and I still cannot pinpoint exactly what it is. This still has got all the cheesy moments that dramas often have, but it's smart, quick, and cerebral - does not dwell on emotions more than necessary. Flashbacks are there to tie up loose ends, not to justify the doings of the characters or just to fill airtime. The execution of the very promising premise is amazing, but the story itself is not compelling enough for me. It's not strong enough to leave an impression other than enjoyable, or give me the urge to rewatch.
The acting, once again, is stellar, but from the two mains I never got the feeling of being creeped out or finding their weirdness natural - that "God, this character really is insane". It's very obviously performance and not bone-chilling. If anything, the one who really steals my attention is Na Je-hee, she was perfect. Santa and his mystery is LAYERED! It's perfect and leaving his history unexplored is a good choice in my opinion.
tremendously enjoyed this! the perfect amount of humor and angst. i could relate to many of the characters' troubles, which is another point for this drama! the characters too... i'm so invested in everyone. their struggles and their tenacity despite those struggles was so touching. i just really like that the main characters are regular, low to middle class people. they feel more real that way, as they're the people i see myself in.
i guess what turned me off was how i wasn't that into the relationships, and the obvious product placements & sponsorships. at some point it's also very predictable, but it didn't cease to be entertaining.
