Our Beloved Summer (2021)

Everything is just perfect.

For the first time in my life, I actually found that one drama that I absolutely love. This drama has everything, great directing, great camerawork, great acting, great setting, great story, great characters. Just everything.

I begin watching this drama with no expectation at all, I just think it's gonna be another feel-good drama and nothing seems special about it. But I'm totally wrong, this drama started in a very special way, they begin with a flashback when the main characters are still in high school, shooting a documentary about their lives as top ranked student and worst student in school. It may not sound spectacular, but the way they made this summer-flashback-highschool scene is brilliant. They perfectly portrayed the personality and the whole nature of our main characters when they're still young and later show how much different they are to their present-day self (light spoiler: they're not different at all ㅋㅋ).

The way they use color in this drama is absolutely beautiful, you will feel the warmth of summer and the coldness of winter and the way they combined it with parallel editing give us this beautiful contrast between the past and the present. And let's not forget about the beautiful camerawork, everything just blends together perfectly.

The acting...what can I say? Choi Woo-Shik and Kim Da-Mi is just the top tier actor/actress in Kdrama right now, they totally owned their characters. Their subtle expression is just perfect, I never saw any actor/actress that can be nearly as good as them at this kind of subtle or micro expression, their characters felt really humane because of that.

The last but not least, the OSTs. The OSTs for this drama is PACKED with talent, V's "Christmas Tree" is absolutely beautiful and fits really well with a lot of scenes in this drama. BIBI’s "Maybe if" is just *chef kiss, and 10cm just being a romcom OST king as usual with his new song "Drawer", his voice is a must in a romance drama.

TL;DR. Just watch this, please. It's my first 10/10 drama and I'm really picky with my ratings. I guarantee it will be a great ride all the way to the end, enjoy.

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'Every Life is a Work of Art'

This is my first review here, I will try my best to articulate my thoughts!

I'm not usually a fan of this genre, but Our Beloved Summer pleasantly surprised me.
While I will admit that I started watching this drama because I am a huge army and the OST enticed me, I binge-watched it in two days and ended up loving every minute of it. I'll just list the pros (the good) and cons (the bad) because that's probably the best way to explain how I felt about this drama.

The Good:
The plot was gripping from the start; the documentary aspect really elevated the show because it would have otherwise been a typical rom-com.

-Relatable characters: each character contributed something to the story. They each had their own struggles, which they handled gracefully.

- No annoying characters: The characterization in this show was excellent. I feel like I'm too old haha, so I get annoyed when there are evil or annoying characters in shows (of course, this depends on genre, and such characters are necessary in some shows), so it was nice to see that everyone was just living their own lives and not actively seeking to harm someone ahah.

- Sweet romance and Beautiful friendships: Yeon-su and Ung were delightful to watch. Despite their disagreements and breakups, they clearly loved and cherished one another. I don't like second male or female leads because I dislike love triangles and the like, but this show can teach a lot of writers how to write secondary characters. Rather than ignoring them or making them one-dimensional, the writers gave them proper backstories that helped the audience understand their choices and behavior. I rarely have SLS, and this one was no exception, as the chemistry between the main leads was top notch. Even though each character did not interact with each other on a regular basis throughout the show, it was palpable that they all served a purpose in each other's lives; I use Ji-Ung and NJ as an example here because, while they were not particularly close, NJ accompanied Ji-Ung when she noticed he was eating alone and Ji-Ung's advice to NJ changed her outlook on life.

- OST: The OST is quite literally perfection. Truly fit the tone of the show all throughout.

-Stunning cinematography and very aesthetic character fashion!

The Bad:
- LACK OF SOL-I AND EUN-HO!!! I adored their dynamic, sometimes even more than the main characters', but we got very little screen time with them together (as a couple; though I understand why they couldn't just date right away). I'd love to see these two in another show someday. Similarly, I would have liked to know more about both of their pasts more, they seemed like quite interesting characters.

- I can't help but criticize some bits of the ending, as much as I think it was perfect. I am very critical of Kdrama endings because I have seen far too many that are abrupt and rushed, causing me to lower my overall rating of a show; I felt the same way about this drama. The show began slowly, and I believe it could have sped up some scenes/episodes and focused more on the final two episodes to tie it all together nicely. They did address every issue and every character's story, but it could have been spread out more (if that makes sense).

- I think that's it ahaha

Overall, Our Beloved Summer is a heartwarming drama about the reconciliation of former lovers as they try to make amends and grow together with the support of their friends and family. All of the characters are likeable and are shown to face unique hardships that they eventually overcome gradually (but surely). If you're looking for something soft and cozy to watch during these cold winter days, this is a simple watch with inspiring life messages.

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It's not a spoiler but it's my feelings that I wanted to share here about OBS

I saw people saying that the story was kinda boring or frustrating or the immature behaviour of FL for breaking up again and again....well I won't say they are completely false or wrong the FL indeed broke for silly reasons and the last break-up or you can say that "I WILL HANDLE MY PROBLEMS" but you know what people are a actually ignoring this "CAUSE I DONT WANT MY BELOVED ONE TO BE INVOLVED IN THAT TO GET WORRIED ABOUT ME."
This is the major thing people are missing or are not able to see. Just tell one thing when you love someone would you like them to suffer with you when you have The TYPICAL attitude of I'LL HANDLE IT COZ I CAN ???
When teen are in relationship they TEND to hide their PATHETIC part from their partners and that's the thing The FL did.....
I am not criticizing anyone I am just making the ignored thing have some limelight
.
The story and everything is good.... you'll actually smile while watching them being clingy and all.....and believe my it's not a waste of time....All the actors are super cute especially Choi and Kim da mi they both are just so cute.... So yeah whenever you feel like having kinda getting good and kinda postive vibes you can watch it...
Thank you.

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None of the other romcoms can compare to this drama !

It's been a while since I've written a review and this drama is literally so much worth my time writing it.
Love, family, life struggles, self-love, this drama contains it all. From laughter to tears, it made me go through so much emotions by its realistic depiction of the struggles one faces in life and by the hilarious situations faced by the characters. Its plot keeps you going from beginning to end, the depth of each character is captivating. The actors and actresses did such a good job ! Especially the one who played Choi Ung, his performance amazed me. I literally fell in love with Ji-Ung and every character, they all had an interesting personality, and were far from your typical drama-like characters with predictable reactions.

I think I can say that this drama made me fall in love with love, envying the deep relationship between two people whose lives were always intertwined together. If you didn't believe in soulmates or in the saying that opposites attract then this drama will make you change your beliefs 'cause oh god, Choi Ung and Yeon-su are literally made for each other. I'm still in daze from watching it and I can't believe it's over, I'm on my way to watch it a second time because it remains one of the best 2021 dramas and one of the best dramas in my heart (as cringey as it sounds).

If you're looking for an unique type of dramas or an unique plot with romance and sweet bickering then this is for you ! But also take a box of tissues, you might be moved sometimes !

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Youth is bright and warm. Just like this drama.

Ok, I might be a bit biased about this one because Choi Woong is my ideal man so I love this drama so much (hence the perfect 10 ratings). Anyway...

Ah, yes. My mind and soul left after this drama ended. All there's left was EMOTIONS. My heart feels so warm and I feel it melting every episode. It's SO good! This is a masterpiece! After 2 episodes, I knew this will be one of my favorites.

The four characters gave us such refreshing personalities and they all shared such great lessons that will surely help us. The amount of friendship, family, and love are all equally shown. It may have seem to focus on their (the main leads) relationship but there's really MORE to it.

The comforting feeling I get with every episode... I can't even explain how beautiful it is. The soundtracks fits the drama/scenes so well. Though I know Kdramas had perfected this already, I still want to say it.

I'm drunk in my emotions. My heart just feels warm and cozy. This will be one of my comfort dramas. I will be rewatching this every know and then. And I know you'll do too!

Kudos to all the casts and staffs esp to the one who wrote this amazing drama. Can't wait for the movie!

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One of the best slow burn and slice of life kdramas in recent years

This drama had been on my radar ever since they started releasing promos and teasers and I end up picking it up while it was airing. To be honest, I wasn't completely sold on the drama initially. It seemed funny but I was unable to relate to the characters a lot. This was the case till I found myself totally obsessed with it after ep 5. This drama was very light in tone for most part and while not a perfect one, for me the viewing experience was a memorable one.

PLOT:
It's about a group of friends with the main couple being a bickering will-they-won't-they one. It comes with a twist because they have history together and the drama's narrative poses questions about their true feelings, intentions and scenarios. For me it was enjoyable watching the leads rediscover their feelings, or accepting the fact that the feelings never left. While few things in their history as a couple were off they did manage to mature and be better versions of themselves with each other. I really liked the direction in which we see same things from two different perspective. It's like how memories in real life are. The brain records the dominant feelings in the situation or how we were feeling but many a times we unconsciously discount the struggles other might be going through at the same time. There were some interesting aspects to Yeon Su and Woong's relationships.

I really think the strength of the drama lies in its main characters and the interactions they all have with each other. The side characters are equally strong and while they are flawed, they all had a struggle I could relate with. Being a kdrama, it doesn't shy from undertones of melodrama but thankfully nothing majorly tragic ever happens. I swear I would have rated this drama much less if that were the case.

CAST:
It's a wonderful cast with strong performances from almost everyone. Choi Woo Sik and Kim Dami made really good efforts to seem natural and comfortable with each other which I really appreciated. There were also some new faces for me who made a good impression on me and I'll be excited to check their future works also.

OST:
The OST fits the mood of the drama. No need to say that BTS V's single is already massively popular. It was cool of him to lend his voice for his Wooga squad friend after 2020's Itaewon Class. We love it.

OVERALL:
I would categorize this drama as more of a slow burn with elements of comedy, friendship and slice of life. While it has its flaws and I had minor issues with its writing in a few places, it still remains to be a strong drama that is quite worth a watch. I think anyone can enjoy it and the ending is quite fitting as well. It left me wanting S2 and I'd be up for it if they ever made a sequel to this.

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choi ung, standard of all men.

(this is my first time writing a review so i am sorry if this isn't the best! don't mind any mistakes or spelling errors!)

our beloved summer is a show that not everyone can touch on. a show that is realistic that many people might find it boring. many watchers are actually looking for unrealistic love that touches on clichés such as high school first love and all. but our beloved summer touches on raw emotions from former lovers that happens to break with one-side knowing all the reasons and another side that basically know none. then, they meet again and their story are tangled with each other.

how did i came across our beloved summer?
- when i saw my instagram feed full of choi wooshik and kim dami, i was like ??? at that time, i didn't had good impression on kim dami just yet because i didn't enjoy itaewon class, the drama that starred kim dami. but i did know choi wooshik from parasite. by chance, i came across some clips and decided to watch, 'the witch' and fell for them lol. so, i became excited for obs since mid-nov.

about the characters. everyone in the show is relatable which makes our beloved summer something a viewer can relate to.

with no doubt, my favorite has to be choi ung. he seem perfect. a guy that has a loving family, supportive parents that allows him to do what he wants, a successful career and no worries. however, there is a depth into it. he was abandoned by his biological father and left him a scar. this perfectly sums up why he love and hated yeonsu for leaving him with no expectation. he is a huge boyfriend material and a walking green flag. well, they often say "don't settle down until you have found your choi ung" and i agree to the fullest.

kook yeonsu might seem like a girl that is cold and rude. but it was forced by the situation that she was placed in. to me, she makes her choices with no regrets and work to her dreams which is to live a peaceful life, able to pay for bills. there is another side of her where she is caring, heart-warming and making choi ung fall for her.

jiung... i felt that his character was somewhat wasted. but it is hard to say since hun's emotion are complex. we might be able to get over it easily, but for him, maybe not. i am glad that he had choi ung with him. however, i hope that he walked it out quicker, which he did eventually.

nj... honestly, she has to be one of the best second female lead that i have seen. she doesn't do any foul plays to make choi ung hers which i adore it. she was a friend that happen to seek comfort to choi ung's drawing. she is an idol where she received hate comments for literally breathing and that happens to the third and fourth generation idols where they get tons of hate comment.

i hated how some of the our beloved summer hated nj for some of her actions when she is more of a direct and straightforward person. actually in an episode's preview, they hated on nj too much that is honestly unbearable. but some worship jiung and pity him... isn't it double standard?

i love choi ung's parents and maybe that's because they resemble to my parents somehow. i love how supportive they are to choi ung, not wanting to be anything? fine. you just live your life to what you want. they never pressured choi ung to score well in school. which i hope everyone can have the parents that always support you to what you do.

the acting in this drama is pretty much top-tier. choi wooshik and kim dami has great chemistry and was able to bring the drama to the fullest with their acting. it could be a scene of watery eyes and turning away but these two actors does it so well. the rest of the cast where perfectly casted for their characters.

the ost are well made. most of them are ballet like or slow tempo. one ost was sang by v from bts!
my two favorite ost are 'why' and 'our beloved summer'!

overall, obs is a great journey with many emotion kicking it. rather than a romcom, it is more of a mix of melo-rom and romcom LOL! is it worth watching? without a doubt, yes it is. so what are you waiting for?

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Season changes so does character's emotion

✅ Cinematograpy
✅ Good acting
✅ OST
✅ Writing
✅ Impactful story
✅ Great direction
✅ Realistic
✅ Entertaining

What else do we need?
Still this drama won't be everyone's cup of tea as it may seem as a simple story with complicated narrative along with stupid misunderstanding but this is what actually happens in real life. It's character and emotion of the people after all complicated to understand especially of your loved ones at times.

Still my favorite episode would definitely will be 8th episode
P.S Loved Choi woo shik

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tender, soft, and precious. it's been a joy.

I'm going to miss this drama so much. The last time I felt this taken by a drama was It's Okay to Not Be Okay. I felt so fully invested in the characters and the development was laid out for us beautifully. It's truly been an honor to watch this drama. The casting was pure perfection. Dami and Wooshik and their soft facial features and their magnetic chemistry, it felt so natural to watch them show us this love story. It hits you in all the right places. Challenges you to become more patient and understanding. Urges you to trust in yourself and live boldly. I want to thank the entire production team for such a treat. Our Beloved Summer holds such a tender place in my heart. I'm so happy that I watched it.

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Mellow and quiet

This is a character-driven drama for sure — if that's your thing, then this drama pretty much does it perfectly. It's just a drama about relationships (family, friends, lovers) and there's never really any outside pressure. The characters and relationships are all pretty unconfrontational; things just happen as they do and this drama is more of a ferris wheel, as opposed to a roller coaster. What that means is that if you prefer a more plot-driven plot, it might feel like the drama is dragging and that there's nothing happening.

With that being said, I definitely skew towards the latter; there were scenes and progressions that I was craving and never really got. At the same time, I really loved how all the characters were portrayed — nobody was over-the-top, there were no true villains, and I liked how even minor side characters had their distinct personalities come through in very little screentime.

Overall, this is just a warm, soft drama — for me, it wasn't a tear-jerker or a heart-wrencher, but it'll make you feel fuzzy and cozy.

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Sweet, heartwarming, and fun to watch

This drama was very heartwarming, sweet and fun to watch. The ML and FL did an excellent job portraying their characters. I fell line love with both of them. I also liked the supporting characters his friend who also had a crush on the FL lead but he never really did anything but have his heart broken because he would not ruin his friendship with the ML. The two ML I loved watching how they became friends and how they were there for each other. I also liked his manger he was fun, goofy and had me laughing. The FL leads friend was also bright and fun to watch. When the manager and the friend where in scenes together they always had me laughing. Also enjoyed the colleagues of who they worked with. Even the star that was in this that liked the ML I even ended up having a soft spot for her. This was a nice drama that showed the value of friendships, relationships and the people around you.

The story was fun to watch it was about the ML and FL in high school they do a documentary she is the smartest in the class and he is last in the class. They are the exact opposites. Years later the document goes viral and they ask them to do another documentary this is how we get flashbacks from high school and find out they actually had dated for a few years and broke up.
Since they are now doing the documentary again we have the ML and FL starting to care for each other again. It is a very nice development of their relationship. I loved the ending I think it wrapped up nicely!

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