Studio Dragon / TvN
Written by Lee Si-eun
Directed by Kim Sang Hyeop
True Beauty folded up last month. It has left us with good memories and lasting impressions. It had everything a Kdrama has to offer. A solid one true pairing (OTP); an unforgettable second male lead; an imperfect but admirable supporting cast and a sound track that is worth listening to over and over. I enjoyed it for what it is. I am forever grateful.
Our best boy, Seo Jun played by Hwang In-Youp, didn't get the girl but he has earned the admiration of thousands. He made it to my list of Second Lead Syndrome along with Lee Dong Wook (for Goblin) Woo Do Hwan, Choi Si-won, Kim Min Jae and Kim Jung Hyun. Kdramas have a way of allowing the second male lead to shine on their own and often, the actors portray their characters so well, they are elevated into the male lead status. What is interesting to note is the variety in which the leads are presented that even though they essay familiar romantic tropes and archetypes, they appear fresh and new (at least in my eyes, they are).
The same can be said with the arc of the OTP. The cold seemingly heartless male lead is smitten by the ugly duckling. We didn't know their connection from the past and their past lives, but the way it was revealed in the series make it exciting to follow. Another comfort food is the supporting cast. Imperfect as they are, they are admirable as they tried to rise above their own mistakes. And sometimes, an admission and an apology of one's mistake is all that matters.
True Beauty is campy and over the top. A romance and fantasy fodder for Kdrama fans all over. A light and fluffy entertainment we need to survive in these trying times.
Rating: 4 /5 Bowls of Ramyun
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