Mr. Plankton (2024)

I thought we were moving past the era of male leads who are violent towards their partners

Watching how abusive he is is making me feel sick to my stomach. I don’t understand why it gets such high ratings. Is it supposed to be funny that he conks her on the head twice? I don’t blame the performers. I have no idea why the writers think we should want these people to be together. I want her to escape immediately and I’m frustrated that it’s supposed to be funny that no one will help her. I’m also frustrated that she gives up so quickly, when being around him is making my skin crawl.

The show gets such high reviews I thought he must redeem himself somehow and stuck with it until the end. I wish I had dropped it, there is no character growth. If you are like me and don’t like watching verbal, mental and emotional abuse, even from an exceptionally beautiful man, then you should skip it. Obviously, a lot of people feel differently, but I wish I had seen a review like this before I started.

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The art of making dieing look fun...With a side of Stockholmssyndrom.

This is a pretty decent story about a bunch of people brought together by trauma and what one could call fait.

The chemistry between all the leads is really good, the acting decent and the story may not be very realistic but it did keep my attention throughout the binge.

However there are quite a few unnecessary annoying side twists , the female lead spends a lot of time yelling and crying wiht the type of voice that could make glasss explode and while the development of the story has a decent pace there are some parts that are overly done while others under-explored leaving me not completely satisfied in the end of the show.

That said Woo Do Hwan does a great job bringing this character to life, and while he makes it look a littel bit to much fun to die I cant help but fall for his charm,

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"The Ultimate Rollercoaster of Emotions: A Heartfelt Journey of Love, Loss, and Healing"??

Introduction

After months of anticipation, this drama has finally arrived, and the first episode did not disappoint! If you're looking for a show that tugs at your heartstrings from the get-go, you're in for a roller coaster of emotions. I found myself tearing up a good bajillion times, and it's clear I'm in for a ride filled with both joy and sorrow. The opening scene alone sets the tone for what’s to come — it's not going to be a sunshine-filled journey, and I’m already emotionally bracing myself.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. There are moments of light, like the adorable flashbacks of the leads’ happier times — they may be fleeting, but they pack an emotional punch. The clever balance of dark humor, like Hae Jo’s (Woo Do-hwan) terminal illness and Jae-mi’s (Lee Yoo-mi) struggle with conception, injects a surprising amount of levity into their otherwise heartbreaking predicaments. And let’s not forget the cameo by Lee Da Hee, which added a delightful twist to the episode!

It’s clear that this drama is channeling the vibes of independent American cinema from the late '90s to early 2000s, and I’m here for it. The closing song, "California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas, perfectly encapsulates the emotional and nostalgic atmosphere.

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Plot/Storyline

Hae Jo, feeling like an outsider due to not knowing who his real father is, learns that he is terminally ill. Faced with this harsh reality, he decides to take drastic action and kidnaps his ex-girlfriend, Jo Jae Mi, dragging her along on a journey to find the truth about his father.

Jo Jae Mi is about to marry Eo Heung, the heir to a powerful food company, in hopes of finding the family she’s always wanted. But the Eo family only accepts her because Heung claims she’s pregnant. On the day of the wedding, Hae Jo kidnaps her, and Eo Heung desperately begins searching for them.

As Hae Jo and Jae Mi spend time together, old feelings resurface. Despite the suffering and conflict they endure, they begin to fall back in love. Their journey becomes even more emotional as Hae Jo struggles with his illness, knowing he doesn’t have much time left. With their past and future uncertain, Hae Jo and Jae Mi must navigate their complicated relationship while confronting the truth that time is running out.
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Characters

Haejo (ML)
Haejo, played by Woo Dohwan, begins as a selfish, fun-loving man who drags Jaemi into his chaotic world. He seems indifferent to the people around him, consumed by his search for answers about his past. Throughout his journey, he struggles with the weight of his own flaws and a deep-seated belief that he’s destined to die alone. For much of the story, he’s resigned to this fate, thinking that happiness is fleeting and that he’ll always be alone in the end. “I just want to die alone... no one should have to suffer because of me.”

But Haejo’s story isn’t just about running from his inevitable end. It’s about learning that love, real love, isn’t something you can escape. Through the unwavering support of Bongsuk, and the presence of Jaemi, Haejo slowly begins to understand that he’s been loved all along, even if he couldn’t see it. By the end, as he faces the truth of his own mortality, Haejo lets go of his fear. Surrounded by those who truly care for him, he accepts that, while he may not have a long life, he’s lived it in a way that matters.

In his final moments, as he lies in Jaemi’s arms, surrounded by snow, he finds peace—no longer wanting to die alone, but to be with those who love him. “I never thought I’d be this lucky… to die in the arms of someone I love.” His smile isn’t one of resignation—it’s one of acceptance, knowing that even though life was short and filled with flaws, he found something beautiful in the end.

Jaemi (FL)
Jaemi, portrayed by Lee Yumi, is the classic K-drama heroine, caught between the stability of her fiancé and the chaos of Haejo’s love. Even after being abandoned by Haejo years ago, she can’t help but crave him. Despite his constant emotional turmoil, she stays, proving that sometimes love is messy, imperfect, but worth the fight. Jaemi’s growth is about learning to love herself, even while loving someone else. “You can love someone who isn’t perfect, but don’t lose yourself in the process.”

Eo Heung (SML)
Oh Jungse shines as Eo Heung, the mama's boy turned independent man. His love for Jaemi transforms him, pushing him to defy his mother and save her when she doesn’t want to be saved. His growth is about gaining confidence and becoming the man Jaemi needs—no longer just a follower, but a leader in his own right. “Love isn’t just about being there when it’s easy—it’s about showing up when it’s hard.”

Bongsuk
Bongsuk, played by Lee El, is Haejo’s rock—his mother, sister, and love all rolled into one. She represents unconditional love, always there to support Haejo no matter his flaws. She teaches him that love can heal wounds, and though he loves Jaemi, Bongsuk’s role in his life remains irreplaceable. “Unconditional love isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment; it’s about standing by someone when they’re at their worst.”

Gi Ho
Gi Ho adds depth to the story, showing loyalty, sacrifice, and the struggle between holding on and letting go. His role might seem secondary, but he plays a key part in pushing other characters toward growth and introspection.
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Pacing: The pacing flows seamlessly between high-energy moments and tender, emotional pauses, keeping you hooked while allowing deep character connections to form.

Visuals/Production: Stunning cinematography and meticulous set design create a world where every frame tells a story, enhancing the emotional depth beyond words.

Sound/Music: The carefully curated soundtrack perfectly amplifies every moment, seamlessly blending with the visuals to leave an unforgettable emotional impact.
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Emotional Impact:
This drama broke me—one moment I was laughing, the next, I was in tears. The journey teaches us that life is about letting go of destinations and embracing the unknown: “Never set a destination. Just let your instinct guide you. You become a drifter.”

Strengths:
The perfect balance of humor and heartbreak, where Haejo’s antics make you laugh and his pain leaves you shattered—an unforgettable emotional rollercoaster.
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Conclusion:

This drama is a heartfelt journey of love, trauma, and the power of found family. The final episode beautifully showcases the characters’ growth and reconciliation, particularly when they come together around the table, forming a bond stronger than blood. Haejo, reflecting on his life and the people he’s come to care for, provides a bittersweet but touching conclusion to his journey.

The show masterfully portrays the lasting effects of childhood trauma and abandonment issues. Characters, especially Haejo and Jaemi, are complex, shaped by their pasts, and show a profound depth in their relationships. The drama’s message about trust, vulnerability, and accepting love despite flaws resonates deeply.

The ending is poignant—a reminder that life is fragile, but living with love and joy is the most meaningful way to go. Haejo, who feared dying alone, finds peace in the arms of his true love, surrounded by those who care for him. It’s a beautiful, poetic ending that encapsulates the emotional core of the story.

The soundtrack, especially California Dreamin’, complements the themes of longing and belonging, adding another layer of depth to the drama. The songs were placed perfectly, enriching the emotional atmosphere. This drama stands out as one of the best, offering a rollercoaster of emotions, strong performances, and a unique, angsty romance that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll.

Recommendation:
This drama is perfect for fans of complex characters, emotional growth, and unconventional love stories. If you enjoy quirky, angsty romances and deep emotional storytelling with a touch of humor, this is a must-watch. Lee Yoo-mi's portrayal of Jaemi and the stunning chemistry between the leads elevate the drama, making it unforgettable.

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Bittersweet

Bittersweet endings hold a quiet, yet powerful beauty. They’re different from pure sadness, which settles in your heart like a weight. In stories like Uncontrollably Fond and Mr. Plankton, we know early on that joy and pain will entwine, but still, we cling to a fragile hope—that somehow love will rewrite destiny.

Mr. Plankton doesn’t just remind us of love’s power, but of life’s fragility. It nudges us to forgive, not just others but ourselves, and to embrace every moment. It teaches us to live meaningfully, without regrets, and to leave behind memories that will inspire others to live fully too. There’s a humbling reminder in these stories: at the end of our journey, the legacy we leave is a reflection of the love and peace we nurtured within ourselves.

Highly recommended.

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Fantastic storyline with fantastic acting

I must say this show was absolutely amazing. The actors and actresses played off the characters perfectly, and honestly you start to feel what the characters feels through the show. I don’t want to give much away about the plot so I will say it follows the synopsis very well. overall it feels like your just watching them find purpose in their own lives even if that’s with eachother. Another big thing is the chemistry between the main leads, it was on another level and you could truly feel the ex’s to lovers again trope. Even how all the cast interacted with eachother was great to watch.

Most note worthy things
-Great plot
-10/10 chemistry
-binge worthy
-stacked cast

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The Ocean's Quiet Hero!

This drama left me with mixed feelings. The journey starts with Hae Jo trying to find his purpose in life and his parental lineage while grappling with a ticking time bomb in his head.

'Mr. Plankton' is such a beautiful and apt title and metaphor for the story. While plankton may seem insignificant in the vast ocean, their lives are crucial to maintaining the ecosystem much like Hae Jo, who feels overlooked yet contributes in his own ways to people around him.

At the start, Hae Jo came across as a brat but as the drama progressed I found myself sympathizing with him more and more. His flaws and initial arrogance gave way to deeper struggles and vulnerabilities, making it hard not to feel for him. The transformation from a seemingly self-centered character to someone with real pain and abandonment was gradual yet powerful. Woo Do Hwan did an excellent job portraying this character.

The road trip part was exciting and the cinematography was simply stunning. However, I wish the show had delved deeper into Jae Mi's character and her own internal conflicts which felt somewhat underexplored.

Also, I loved the bonding and sort of 'found family' dynamics overall in the drama, especially during the second half! The pacing was also better in the latter half, which made it more engaging than the first.

But the emotional weight of the drama is undeniable. Yes, it is not perfect but WDH's portrayal of Hae Jo was so raw and heartfelt. His struggle with abandonment and his illness leaves a bitter-sweet taste in the mouth that lingers.

Despite its flaws, this drama is worth a one-time watch, especially for the powerful performances and emotional depth it delivers.
7.8/10

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BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN STORY!!

The whole drama had me on an emotional rollercoaster!!! It was just beautiful. The way they portrayed every single emotion. The frustration, the sadness, the happiness they found in eachother it was all just perfect. Throughout the show Haejo and Jaemi had me both laughing and sobbing like crazy!! Everything was so well written. The humor was top tier please 😭🙏🏻🤭 I would DEFINITELY rewatch this!!

What I loved about the show the most was Heung and Haejo's bond. I'm so glad they did not bring a jealousy typical love triangle factor between the two of them and had Heung genuinely care for both Jaemi and Haejo. As I said, beautifully written. The only thing I was curious about in the end is I hope they had actually found his biological dad, but then Haejo going back to meet his other dad was so wholesome, after all he had raised him for 8 years!!

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good enough?

so much potential that unfortunately never came to life because of an underwritten female lead, too much focus on comedic aspects as opposed to a more serious tone, boring and insufferable 2nd ML plot that when it didn't put me to sleep, made me want to gouge my eyes out; also other fluff which could have been cut down

ultimately the show excels in its use of symbolism and exploration of philosophical concepts regarding death and life, woo do hwan's character was exceptionally flawed and some of the side characters were very enjoyable to watch as well; while the cinematography and directing were great, the production definitely started slacking as the episodes went on as it failed to capture the charm of the first few episodes. the nostalgic and evocative atmosphere that initially hooked me in just wasn't there

it was great to hear California Dreamin though

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Thank you for this at the end of the year

Did the K-drama god finally hear my prayers, me steadily asking for at least one good drama in 2024 after this total fail and lack of anything decent? Yes!
I don't even want to spoil too much for those who haven't watched this yet, but let me say this much:

-Woo Do-Hwan - finally someone cast him for a role really fitting him and his abilities. I think actingwise this was one of his best performances yet. He seems more mature in delivering emotions of any kind, (episode 8, the scene on the couch with them crying and then kissing? really good) and I did believe he was the character he played here

- Did something change with the K-drama producers? Did they finally realise that characters seem more believable if they act like they probably really would if they were real people? I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw Woo Do-Hwan smoking in this drama - yes, real cigarrettes, like a character like his actually would smoke in real life. I also felt like these things happened more often lately, and have the hope that maybe some actors finally had enough of this 100% clean babyboy image they are supposed to fulfill 24/7 no matter how unrealistic it is. I really enjoy seeing actors in their 30s acting like real men in their 30s instead of 12-year-old naive babies, - they might curse when they are angry, they might smoke cigarettes, they might not be perfectly nice all the time, they kiss their girlfriends passionately for real and not stop frame - how refreshing.

-the storyline was a pleasant mix of serious and philosophical thoughts concering life itself, mixed with some fun and (all new so called feminitst please don't watch this!) a story of a bad boy boyfriend who kidnapps his ex-girlfriend on her messed-up wedding day. Is that politically correct these days? No - do I love it? YES! There are people with messed-up on and off relationships like that, I've been there, I can relate, I like it.

-do all things have happy ends in life? no, and that's how things are sometimes too, or maybe more like what one might consider a happy end I guess.

- I loved the cinematographic elements, some of which reminded me of classics like ' The Fabulous World of Amélie'

-the soundtrack was nice too, plus some classic hits like 'California dreaming'

_I also thought Lee You-mi did a very good job here, the interaction, especially the serious ones between her and Woo Do-Hwan felt quite realistic and well done

- and yes, Woo Do-Hwan gets more attractive as he gets a little older, that's the icing on the cake ;)


In short, I really liked this, I liked the story and the general mood in this, the philosophical input, it's just well done, and comparably fantastic to pretty much everything K-Drama that was released this year, which was yet a big disappointment at least for me.

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It is JUST disappointing.

I read the reviews on mdl and I was like ''woahh !! It is rare to find a show with this many good reviews. It must be real gold.''

I started watching it and the first few eps were entertaining and all, then it went downhill.

First of all, How do you manage to be at the hospital at the same time as your ex- gf and get horrible news on the same day !?!?

Ok, you overheard about her pregnancy but WHYY did you Kidnap her on her wedding day , refuse to let her go, THEN, just as she starts to feel comfortable with you, you're like ''ok, now go live your life, etc '' ( the port scene ), then you carry her shoe around for DAYS, give her her shoe back, and when she comes to meet you, you abandon her and then go looking for her 10 mins later, promise her that ''you'll never let her go '' , and then the fl gets the news of his illness, takes him out of the hospital into the cold streets AT night esp when he's sick like a dog. Common sense isn't very common, for sure, so HE CAN DIE UNDERNEATH THE BLUE SKY. He miraculously wakes up instead of dying OR bleeding after hitting his head on the pavement, then the ''brave '' ml is like 'lemme go to gangwon' . HE AGAIN abandons the fl at her mother's house and then goes crying about it, like dude why tf are you crying when YOU abandoned her. You just got 3 months to live, and you still have to be a fucking jerk to her. GIve her a DAMN break. Spend those 3 months with her quietly instead of letting her go ''IN THE NAME OF LOVE ''
Heung Honestly deserves alot better than a wife who abandoned him the first chance she got !! Thank god, he realised that. He was the only one with some character development. The fl should honestly have some sense knocked into her. Instead of chasing an EX, who has got just 3 months to live, who's a fucking jerk, you should look forward to your life. Heung is out there, READY to accept you AND your menopause. He rebelled against his mom, went on a search to find you, LEFT home and you're still crazy in love with an EX. like tf are you gonna do after those 3 months !?
The way the FL was written, it's honestly hard to believe that she raised herself. She seems like daddy's little princess. The way she's so damn naive, chases hae jo when he treats her like shit, can't realise what is good or bad for her, AND falls for petty scams !!

I can go on a rant about the problems had with this drama. It was disappointing and disappointing AND disappointing.

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Overhyped

This review is purely my opinion and I'm not setting out to offend anyone–it's mainly to deter myself from ever trying to rewatch this bc I reread my own reviews before I rewatch/try to complete things.

I went into this expecting it to be incredible, and was thoroughly disappointed.
It started out okay, but didn't really grip me and I considered dropping it. Based on good reviews, I kept going and it got slightly better by around ep 3-5, then it just got worse and worse to the point I skimmed the last 2 and a half episodes because it was so boring and I wanted it to be over.
The ML was annoying and toxic, the plot was questionable at times and humour was just making me cringe. The second ML was annoying and the fact that he kept stripping was so, so awful and unfunny. Overall, this drama was a waste of time and I really, really wish I could have loved it, but I hated it. The only redeeming qualities were some of the soundtrack was amazing, and **MILD SPOILER BELOW**
the interaction with the second potential dad was lovely and well written imo, it messed with my emotions and was a great addition to the story.

Overall, I would not rewatch, and wish I never watched.

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