Tomorrow (2022)

Too Episodical and Not Enough Backstory

TLDR: Started off strong, too many episodical episodes, not enough Worldbuilding for the Reapers and their rules, not enough Character Backstories/Development for our 4-5 main characters, too many messages (e.g. suicide is a sin) I disagreed with.

As the title suggests, I felt this drama was too episodical when all I really wanted was backstories and worldbuilding for our Grim Reapers and the Grim Reaper world. The episodes were fine a 1 to 2 capsulated stories until about episode 8, and then I was getting bored of the format and just wanted to know all about our 3 main reapers (Koo, Lim, and Park), plus the boss of them. I wanted so much more worldbuilding of the Reaper world, the rules, their day to day life, what they did in their free time etc. by that point.

So the last 8 or so episodes were a bit of a drag. I absolute loved the two episodes spent on Lim and his backstory but I feel like we super super rushed through Park and Koo's -- also I was expecting there to be a twist such as he's actually her son or something, rather than the predictable story we did get.

I wish we had gotten like the first 8 episodes as is, and then the last 8 episodes were actual worldbuilding and backstories of the Reapers and the Reaper World -- it fell very lacklustre at towards the end.

Also, you can see the Christian values and the influence it has on Korean culture within this drama such as "reap your sins before death", "purgatory before you can go to heaven or reincarnation", and "suicide is murder and a sin" which are things I personally disagree with.
I AM happy that towards the end we do see Park change in his thoughts of "suicide is sin and people who kill themselves should suffer in hell" somewhat, but I wanted something more explicit from him.

Another thing is you can see the heavy handiedness of the Pro-South-Korea messages throughout the show where it makes the Reaper world very unequal/unfair. I'll post the full explanation at the very end because I get very detailed and could make people uncomfortable and angry but TLDR: there are some Pro-Korea episodes, and one is basically "look how amazing South Koreans are and we're so amazing that after death, even if we killed people in war, we aren't going to hell for these sins because we were the winners." Which, I thought the Reapers were supposed to be fair? So surely, they should be going to hell because they did sin?!

If we had been given more details and explainations in the show for things like this rather than have 13+ episodicals. Even just a simple "if you're killing people in self-defense or without malicious intent (such as defending your country from invaders) then it's not seen as a sin in the Reaper world." would've been good enough for me, but even this isn't explained.


Conclusion: Started off strong, too many episodical episodes, not enough Worldbuilding for the Reapers and their rules, not enough Character Backstories/Development for our 4-5 main characters, too many messages (e.g. suicide is a sin) I disagreed with.


****


Here's the long version of my Pro-Korea part:

We see two episodes of two different wars (WW2 and the Korean War).

First episode: it's never said or confirmed that the South Korean soldiers will be sent to hell for killing people (when killing is very obviously a sin). This show very much felt like it was implying: so long as you're defending your country and you're on the side that wins, killing people is absolutely fine according to the Korean Reapers. But neither the rules nor explanation is in the show.

Secondly, we have a heavy Pro-Korea and Anti-Japan episode which to me felt very intentional (therefore harmful) which is what I disliked about it.

If you don't know Korea-Japan relations and history this is a very important, eye-opening, horrific, and informative episode. Everyone should know about this history, absolutely!

But, I personally felt the message of this episode is intentionally very harmful: "hey, young Koreans, Japanese imperialism did this to us and they still haven't apologised for what they did. So, we're making this episode because we want Koreans furious at Japan for another year and we wanna increase the anti-Japan views in Korea even more than they still are".

But as someone who has studied it:

Actually, Japan HAS apologised (since 2007) and has done for many times.
Korea DEMANDS apologies every single year and has done for many years (more so from great-grandchildren now rather than the people who actually suffered because most have passed away, rest their souls - which you could probably now call 'generational-trauma').
Japan HAS compensated the families and victims (apparently 1 billion yen -- although I know that it won't ever be enough for the victims).
Korean newspapers and politicians still post and encourage anti-Japan views - they literally blamed Japan for the 2022 Itaewon Halloween incident in a few newspapers - while Japan is embracing Korean culture at an alarming speed (thanks to KPop and Korean food).
This history is still not in Japanese history books (especially in school ones where they rarely learn modern history anyway).

So, as you can see, both sides are bad!

I can't help but think this episode wanted to strain Korea-Japan relations even more than it already is. It feels like the episode was created on purpose to make Koreans continue the rage and the pain, rather than "this was absolutely horrific but it's time to heal; educate ourselves and others while trying to build a better future and relationship with each other both inside and outside Korea." and I personally find that in very bad taste.

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TOO RUSHED AND 0 CHEMISTRY

I binged it over 3 days and found myself fast forwarding half the episodes. More effort was given to aesthetics than to the dialogues which were bleak and not strong enough for the theme. IDK how these many liked it. Maybe I just saw better ones than this in this genre. The chemistry was very forced and due to lack of proper backstory the couple had not even a thread to romantic look between them. Also rowoon was very annoying and stupid with no character development. The rules of the reapers were vague and unclear as they were ONLY applied to the scenes to enable the story.
As someone working in the mental health field, what I liked was how the problems were portrayed BUT I absolutely hated the way they were handled. Such serious issues like PTSD, Eating disorders, depression etc... that are serious enough to warrant suicide CANNOT be solved in minutes or through words of comfort alone. Their attempt to stop suicide was very lethargic contrary to what they say and that red light app was yucky. I cannot even remeber any ost.
overall a decent watch which satisfies your eyes but not your brain or heart

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Novel concept but unrealistic as a whole

I find the premise and concept of the drama to be quite novel as it's not a storyline I have watched before. However, I do feel that the drama tends to make these savior attempts of mentally distressed people quite simple. Sometimes, I don't think with mere words, you can really save a person who decides to die.

There were some episodes in this drama that stood out for me. Particularly, the war veteran and the comfort women episodes as these can make people cry. The episode on the depressed dog was also a delight as I definitely did not expect them to narrate the story from a dog perspective. However, there were some episodes that I hated, particularly the ones where Rowoon's character was being annoying. Out of all the characters, I dislike the ML the most as he was loud and stupid sometimes. Overall, while the show is a nice watch, I don't think it's worth the time to rewatch as the story can get depressing due to the heavy subject matter it is trying to portray.

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Choro, choro e mais choro.

A forma como esse drama aborda a questão do suicídio de uma forma respeitosa e bonita (em forma de esperança), me fez terminar esse drama que eu estava enrolando em um dia.

Saber que alguns dos casos abordados aqui, como as mulheres de conforto na Invasão Japonesa, assim a crítica em como o governo negligenciou e ainda negligencia seus veteranos de guerra e idosos, me fez ter um sentimento tão mal, tão forte em relação a isso.

E saber que atualmente, na época que assisti esse drama, o Japão não reconheceu o genocídio que cometeu durante as suas invasões me faz me sentir tão mal por todos esses povos.
E a questão de aposentadoria ser algo tão difícil para os idosos coreanos, principalmente aqueles que viveram o período de guerra, é de quebrar o coração.

A forma que o drama abordou o suicídio de uma forma delicada e respeitosa, foi divino. Até por que esse assunto, saúde mental, é considerado um tabu na Coreia e saber que esse é o quarto países no ranking de suicídio... Me fez pensar.

Sobre esse drama eu só tenho pontos positivos, principalmente:

- Elenco.
- Cinematografia.
- Enredo.
- Músicas.
- História.

O único ponto que eu posso talvez me atrever a reclamar é como eu queria mais desenvolvimento do relacionamento dos nossos queridos ceifadores, entendo que o fio deles foi cortado, mais imagina o quão lindo seria a história deles juntos assim, agora como ceifadores? Até por que eles não irão reencarnar.


Enfim, é um drama muito bom, digo também, uma obra magnifica que aborda assuntos pesados com respeito e delicadeza, o que deixa toda a situação mais leve de se ver. Esse drama são para pessoas que buscam algo profundo, sério mais delicado, com um certo alívio cômico entre as cenas.

Acredito que super vale a pena esse drama.
Terminado: 21/02/2024.

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Tomorrow é necessário.

Tomorrow é um drama que precisa da apreciação certa. Ele fala de um assunto muito delicado e que muita gente ignora e acha que é futilidade de quem passa por esse momento difícil. Tomorrow realmente foi um drama incrível em tudo. O roteiro e as histórias entrelaçadas, o elenco que tem bastante química e interpretou muito bem os personagens.
Extremamente necessário pra todo mundo. Lição de empatia.
O final: Todo mundo queria eles juntos mas não ia acontecer, a consequência da quebra do fio do destino era lidar com esse fardo e pelo menos ele descobrindo a verdade é um peso tirado dos ombros e eles ainda podem conviver enquanto estão juntos trabalhando como ceifadores. Acho que o mais triste pra mim foi a pequena despedida do Jun woong. Eu realmente queria que ele se lembrasse deles no final. Mas ele ainda tem a mesma essência de antes eu amo kkkkk salvando pessoas o tempo todo
"Somos ceifadores."

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My legit comfort drama

This drama overall is an outstanding drama for me.its been a really long time since the last time there was a similar story to this one and finally tomorrow did not disappoint!

I love how the efforts of trying to convey the messages to never scared of living for tomorrow through variety types of cases that was a really sensitive topic each one of them had.The scripts were written very carefully that I could spot comfort words repeatedly.

Acting skills performed by the leads Kim Hee Sun,Rowoon,Lee Soo Hyuk and Yoon Ji On were also felt real even though there was a lack of rowoon's sometimes but it didnt get the drama to downhill at all and I really cannot deny the fact that his acting has improved miles better than in his previous dramas .I believe he will eventually perform perfectly in his next projects as his role here in tomorrow had a full package of mixed emotions almost in every episode and i suppose he has already had an experience to live more characters like he did here soonn!!

Not to forget about the CGI too !! Certain scenes from the flashback of old times were so aesthetically made and directed.The director of this drama often worked in directing movies before so maybe that explains why i always felt the touch of a masterpiece like i was watching a movie when i was watching it.

If you're looking a good fantasy drama to binge watching,no doubt on this one for me .the ratings didnt justify this drama enough but nevertheless, its still a good one.dont look any further!

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Netizens want to control the lives of artists, actors, actresses, and idols. Despite the Netizens complaining about this Korean Drama because of birthdates that were similar to 2 members of BTS. People have the wrong idea about the Korean Drama "Tomorrow". The creators of this drama stated, "They are simply a combination of numbers, and there are no other intentions." We all have to open up our eyes and know what this movie is about... It's about saving lives. Even though this drama is a fantasy, according to the World Health Organization, South Korea is rated the 4th highest suicide death in the world. This drama addresses that problem.

I loved this drama, the main actors/actress all did phenomenally great. I wished we really did have Grim Reapers to save those from suicide. We have suicide prevention in the United States and I am probably sure South Korea has one too but is it working? This drama brings attention to this serious and horrific problem.

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A perfect 13 episodes, followed up with a decent finish

Unlike what others may say, I really enjoyed the set up for this drama and how the case of the week format played out. The world and lore was interesting and the cases were great. I thought the show explored suicide in a pretty meaningful way and gave some good life lessons.

I think the only downfall of the drama is the overarching plot between two characters wasn't very interesting and paled in comparison to the suicide aspect in present day. Part of me feels like the drama should have been 20 episodes and they could have included some more cases who added a more complex backstory to two of the characters.

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Overall great story, but be ready with tissues!

It's been a while since I genuinely enjoyed a Kdrama without losing interest in the middle. Maybe it's because of the pacing or the style with each episode focusing on one particular character's story, but every episode was intense, nail-biting and exciting. It's very refreshing to see Rowoon in a role really different from extraordinary you, and his childish playful and cute side was very welcome in this mostly emotionally draining series.
The casting was perfect and I believe every single one who appeared in this show gave full justice to their role, and a special shoutout to all the guest appearances whose performances really took this show to another level.
The story was well paced, and I really enjoyed the suspense throughout regarding the main characters and their pasts. However, since it's a drama that deals with suicides and suicide risks, it is really heavy in terms of the topic chosen and the violence depicted, so if you are not comfortable with that, this is not a how for you.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this show, and I would highly recommend to anyone who needs a break from rom-coms in the kdrama environment. I promise you won't regret this watch!

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We are the only ones who can save ourselves.

It only takes a few words to give your loved ones the will to live again. The weight of your words can make someone happy or want themselves to die. I think a maximum of people want to commit suicide in their life, some give up on this urge, some don't. The show told us that our words matter the most to our loved ones. That's why we should always be there for our loved ones, listen to their problems, be there for them, comfort them if you can't then contract a psychologist.

Choi Joon Woong reaction after seeing Jumadeung.

Love the Jumadeung office elevator.

Director expression why the RM team wanted to go to the past to buy chicken.

Choi Joon Woong childish behavior upon seeing luxurious cars in Jumadeung then becoming disappointed that they were riding an old car was cute.

Loved Park Joong Gil & the fighting scenes.

Loved episode 6 ending scene in which all the escort team came to show respect to the freedom fighter, even the director also came.

Laughed at the scene where Lim Ryung-gu gave the interview in episode 7, also slapped Koo Ryun gave to the interviewer.

Choi Joon Woong & Lim Ryung-gu arm wrestle was ridiculously funny.

People are too much obsession with maintaining a thin figure. Sometimes it may lead to health sickness even excess dieting can lead to death. Fat shaming, loneliness, work pressure or not getting work can also lead to suicide cases. People love to fat shame others without any reason. The number of people doing this is high. Saying something hurtful to someone is easy, but helping them is hard. We should come forward to help people.

Poor Direction had to sign hundreds of documents.

Laughed at the time when Choi Joon Woong hugged & kissed Lim Ryung-gu in his sleep, the reaction he gave afterward is hilarious.

Loved how Park Joong Gil punished the rapist.

It’s cute & funny at the same time as Choi Joon Woong wanted to hug Koo Ryun & Lim Ryung-gu both, but they kept on pushing him, but in the end he did it, their expressions were priceless.

Loved how Director & Park Joong Gil twisted the truth.

Laughed how Lee Ryung-gu stopped Ryu Cho Hui from eating Choi Joon Woong food, but then his expression while tasting it.

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WONDERFUL

The final IS GREAT, the whole movie is like that. It is with emotions and situations that show pure reality, because this is how it happens nowadays. It Is a series that made me believe in destiny and soul mates. It's very cool. I like it all, it’s a 10 without mistakes. It is a series that you cry, laugh, but also gives you confidence. I know it’s not possible, but I really want Jung-gil and Ryeon to be together again. Their story ended too quickly. You have to watch the series.
I hope that everyone in the film is happy, as we should be. We must trust ourselves and accept and love ourselves as we are. If we don't do it, how can others? We are all different, and that makes us special. The world will always criticize us, whether we are fuller or thinner. They don't care what the world feels. But always remember that you don't have to care about what the world thinks, we just have to believe in ourselves. They, in their turn, have been hurt and let down, that's why they hurt others. This does not excuse their words and behavior, but we must also understand them. Nobody is completely happy in this world, except that we are good actors and know how to hide our feelings and thoughts well. Be happy! Love you!

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Press on, for you are worth it.

This is my highest rating for a drama yet. This show explores the complexity of human life. Everyone yearns to take their life because life’s stresses can be just so taxing. This show, demonstrated through 16 episodes, the reason why life is valued so heavily: and that is because the future is uncertain. As once suicidal, this show has piqued my interest in the afterlife; but more importantly, taught me the ways and means of life. Life is fragile, life can be fluid, life’s path is based on the decisions you make. The decisions you make today will affect the outcomes of tomorrow. Every move you make has an impact, no matter how big or small the move is. What an impactful movie that illustrated all these facts; irrefutable truth to me.

Plot: Extremely well-developed, and intricate. There is a climax, and a resolution. Interesting links of the Grim Reaper’s past and how they affect their emotions and personalities. Through 16 episodes, they ran through the so important cases that are hardly mentioned in society today. What are we living for? How can we better ourselves? How can we find help? Why not let tomorrow be a dream instead? This show explains that dying in such a fashion (suicide) will not make anything better; and the “benefits” like escaping one’s misery is extremely short-lived. Life is precious. Life is worthy. And you are worthy of this gift. This show explicitly showcases all possible instances of when, why, how, and what kind of people can have suicidal thoughts (of course, not limited to them only), but it has the impact of empowering other people to be more alert; to be more aware of the people around them—and how to provide aid. Impressions on the audience is highly vivid: particularly the veteran, eating disorder case, as well as the animal case.

Scriptwriting: Well-written. Meaningful dialogues were used in exploring characterisation of individuals in the drama. Everything had a logical flow to it. My only slight issue with scriptwriting was when some plot digression did seem slightly abrupt; but not abrupt enough to undermine message and impact of the drama, hence only penalised slightly. Some sequential flow seemed hazardous too, but they were explained all the end—perhaps a case of wanting to induce suspense but unsuccessful, in my opinion. Though, overall, ideas still flowed smoothly. One thing I would do if i were the producer would be to add that element of what happens to the star and Jun Woong, making the script advanced to a greater depth. That would, in my opinion, explore the day-to-day lives of everyone and how Jun Woong as a character stands out, and how more people should strive to model him in today’s society.

Music/SFX: Highly appropriate, apt selection. Extremely well-catered to the sequential flow of the story, as well as the tension/intensity/drama it wishes to amplify. Suitable for the show, very well chosen. Job well done, editing team.

Believability & Acting: I have to applaud their acting. Acting felt genuine, characterisation in personalities of different individuals, especially the main characters, were very true to their role played and the message they wish to portray to the viewers. Nothing felt exaggerated, and it was a joy to watch them take their role so seriously to the extent I would forget it was a drama at times. Impact on audience is also amazing, as the drama attempts to convey the message of living on consistently throughout all 16 episodes.

*Side note: This is also the first drama that every episode has a rating above 8.5 from me. I always will have a few episodes that slip and hence, fall under 7/10. But what amazed me was how consistent the drama was, nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and this drama has definitely surprised me with how good the scriptwriting is. Every idea portrayed has a link to the other, if not, it is a complex analysis of how one can suicide. Many cases arise, and this drama successfully addresses them. For more information, you may see my scores for the respective episodes at the bottom. They are rated using the following rubric;
Plot, Scriptwriting (Meaningful dialogues, especially), Chemistry (if any), Acting, Believability, Music & SFX, Editing/Props/Atmosphere/Mood, Impact on audience/society (e.g. whether any of these will have a long-lasting change to be embraced), Rewatch value, and loopholes in plot (if any, as a deduction of the overall score).

Abbreviations:
*E = Episode
Rating:
E1 - 9/10
E2 - 10/10
E3 - 9/10
E4 - 8.5/10
E5 - 10/10
E6 - 10.5/10, still my favourite episode. Heart-wrecking & touching. You may see my review on this episode for a more in-depth reasoning for why I felt it deserves above 10/10.
E7 - 9.5/10
E8 - 9.5/10
E9 - 9.5/10
E10 - 8.5/10, pales in comparison to Episodes aforementioned.
E11 - 9.25/10
E12 - 10/10
E13 - 8.75/10
E14 - 10.25/10, an amazing episode that explores even Grim Reaper’s have their past. My review is also up for this episode.
E15 - 9.75/10
E16 - 9.5/10, interesting ending to the whole drama. Sweet. In my opinion, could’ve been explored further with Jun Woong, hence slight deduction.

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