I'm writing this review as I bawl my eyes out from this unexpected conclusion. I never saw that coming at all even though I've read countless of spoilers here. Heck, you guys should have told me.

Desperation comes for when you have everything you could lose, but it comes in the form of letting it all go and losing yourself. Goodbye Earth presents the bitter truth of our society within an apocalyptic dystopian setting. Although fictional, it says a lot about human nature and the innate drive to survive regardless of morality and dignity. We tend to sacrifice everything for what we thought was the greater good but we end up losing ourselves in the process. 

I figured the reason for the low ratings are either the disappointment about Yoo Ah In's reduced screentime or it's about how most of the people here expected a typical action-packed-end-of-the-world-series where people are crawling from the ground for their lives to be saved, yet this drama went deeper than that. It goes beyond natural disasters and people running for their lives. It went for the horrors of existence and the heart-wrenching reality. As for YAI, he is actually pretty much reduced to a side character despite being initially a lead role as well which is one of the biggest flaw of this drama. There were many unanswered questions regarding the story of Ha Yun Sang. It didn't ruin the drama per se, but there's certainly feels unfinished. But it made me happy that his screentime is pretty huge for someone who's character is already reduced. Ha Yun Sang is a key figure of the drama and I hope someday they'd release a director's cut version. Please don't let his hardwork go to waste.

The cinematography is superb and it was able to immerse the viewers with each scene. Fantastic color grading. The casting is chef's kiss. Each and every actors and actresses did a phenomenal performance that was able to tug my heartstrings. It's just that it felt a bit too rushed. I think it's supposed to be a 16-episode drama. Oktokki's character wasn't given enough backround and spotlight as well. Yet, I'm probably going to cry over the characters for a period of time and I probably won't be able to move on for awhile.

The plot is really something else. It was able to portray the harsh realities of life and circumstances that aren't far from truth if we ever get to be in such setting. It wasn't just a drama about a stupid asteroid. It was a wake up call. It was designed to open our eyes about the atrocities and injustices in the world we live in. But it also showed the heartbreaking fact that no matter what we do to change the world, as long as there are monsters in power, we are bound to fall unless we work altogether as one. One person may be enough to move so many, but one person will never be enough to put an end to everything. Jin Se Kyung and Kang In Ah are the proof. We, people, are inherently born with an instinct to survive. Yet, we are also born with rationality. We are not supposed to be monsters stepping over each other to survive, we're supposed to help each other hand in hand and it's not that hard to do. Yet we are blinded with money, power, and recognition. As if we are what the world revolves around with.

Will I watch it again? I'm probably going to rewatch the last episode just to cry about it again. The ending definitely feels like it's what the director planned as an ending, yet it felt really incomplete. It wasn't about the asteroid. It was never just about it. It's probably due to the many cuts they had to do due to the issue. Yet it feels like it's the ending that's really supposed to happen, and it doesn't help because we didn't get any closure. It left a very heavy feeling in my chest to watch the drama end just like that. It definitely wasn't something we'll ever expect.

In conclusion, "Goodbye Earth" is a haunting exploration of humanity in the face of impending doom, offering a philosophical take on life amidst an apocalyptic dystopia. While the narrative may not cater to those seeking action-packed thrills, it profoundly delves into the essence of human nature and survival. Despite its flaws, such as the underutilization of Yoo Ah In's character and the feeling of an unfinished storyline, the drama succeeds in presenting a stark, realistic portrayal of societal collapse and moral dilemmas. The superb cinematography and stellar performances elevate the series, leaving a lasting impact. Ultimately, "Goodbye Earth" challenges viewers to reflect on their values and the true meaning of survival, making it a compelling and thought-provoking watch. And remember, the world will never revolve around you.