A heart-warming drama

From the first few episodes, it became clear that this wasn't the typical revenge drama. This meant that no matter how much I wanted Bang Eun-Ju to suffer in the worst way for her wicked deeds, Sam-Dal's journey would take center stage - and what a journey it was. It was one of healing, re-discovery, friendship, family, and community. The best part is, that it wasn't just Sam-dal's journey. All the characters, in one way or another, had something they needed to heal from. Decades-long grief and resentment, anger, heartbreak, unrequited love, guilt, and the shame that comes with failed dreams. It was a richly rewarding experience for our characters as individuals and as parts of the close-knit Samdal-Ri community.

One of my favorite things about this drama is that it showcases the importance of a supportive community, a home to return to whenever one gets weary of the drudgery that living often requires. Home is where you can come up for air, take a rest, and when you are recharged, go out to face the world again.

Everyone got the ending they deserved, a second chance to go at shelved dreams, to mend broken relationships, to fall in love. It was so wonderful. Bang Eun-Ju also got the ending she deserved, of course. The actors were spectacular; all the characters were memorable and evoke warm memories even after it's over - except Bang Eun-Ju. (JCW moved me to tears more than once with his powerful, emotional scenes. Yong-Pil was my favorite).

Overall, a very enjoyable drama.

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So. Much. Fun!

This drama started airing on the first day of the year and it began with a bang. The story and sequence of events were gripping and held my rapt attention for weeks. I enjoyed the ride so much but my experience dipped towards the end. I imagine that having to wait between episodes contributed to that. But overall, an incredible showcase of acting skills. The four lead actors were spectacular - their characters are unforgettable. I loved the fact that our ML, Yu Ji-Hyuk is not the typical good-two-shoes 'green flag' love interest with no discernible flaws. He is generous and attentive but he can also be ruthless, and he doesn't shy away from that fact. And the 'master villain'? I have to give her a shout - she had me worried sick. A truly terrifying character portrayed excellently well.

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The absolute sweetest thing

Oh this drama is such a happy pill. It's one of those you'll reach for again now and then. My favorite thing about this drama is that although there were old wounds to be healed, there was no 'great danger' or villain to overcome. It was mostly a story of two strangers who met and fell in love and that is such a breath of fresh air. Such a relief to have sweet, compelling characters just living life, doing their own thing. The career aspect was just as engrossing as their love story too - I loved that part. I've never played billiards nor do I understand the rules of the game, but every competition Yiyang and Guo participated in had me on the edge of my seat.

Also, the friendship between the Donxingchen boys was a pleasure to watch. They knew each other in and out no matter how much time passed, and they supported each other without question or malice. It was great to see such brotherhood.

I may be late to the party but Wu Lei's performance here absolutely floored me. He was SO good as Lin Yiyang the billiards genius. His chemistry with Zhao JinMai? Off the charts. Incredible.

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