[HanCinema's Drama Review] "Fated to Love You" Episode 17

This episode of "Fated to Love You" really proved how strongly written the two main characters are written. Despite mistakes that they make and misunderstandings that they have, they retain the traits that make them endearing. It is those traits that will bring the estranged lovebird back together. It is this couple, and their supportive families, that carry the show. They are its core and strength when the secondary plot lines fail.

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It is also the incredibly ability of Jang Hyuk and Jang Nara to emote that keep the show emotionally tethered to its audience. The two Jangs can say so much without words that allow them to layer physical performance atop tightly written dialogue. Thought and behavior is often mirrored between the former spouses that is echoed well between the two actors. It emphasizes the fact that the couple should really b together because they love their lost child, and each other. The show never fails to honor the tragic pain of a parent who has lost a child.

Mi-young's uncanny ability to see into people's true intentions allows her to see past Geon's cruel behavior towards her and realize that he does not hate her as he states. Her insight is aided by the intervention of her supportive family and friends, the network of people that have been there for her, and Geon, from the start. This kind of familial support and female lead insight is often neglected in K-drama and is especially welcome.

Geon is still playing his role of noble idiot because he doesn't wish to hurt Mi-young with his illness and possible death. It's hard for him to avoid her because he loves her so, and he has been involving himself in her life more than he's been extricating himself. When he finally decides to make the choice, it shows a new maturity in him, despite the noble idiocy. Again, that growth in character is something this show does so well. The pressures of strife shape and mold the main characters into better people.

The second leads, however, have been sorely neglected. They are essentially excess baggage. The role they play are purely functional. Se-ra serves only to report information about Geon to Mi-young. Daniel has a bit more to do in that he was Mi-young's emotional support, but now he also serves as a connection between Geon and Mi-young. The two have been hinted to be long lost siblings, but that storyline has been left by the wayside. Choi Jin-hyuk and Wang Ji-won are underused in these roles that have untapped potential.

Overall, "Fated to Love You" is full of wonderful character beats, scintillating subject matter, and wonderful acting. The way the show fits the K-drama genre and the clever ways it has incorporated Korean culture is a testament to the writer. If the show continues in this fashion and develops the second leads, it will end just as prettily as it began.

Written by: Raine from 'Raine's Dichotomy'

Follow @ raine0211

"Fated to Love You" is directed by Kim Hee-won-II, Lee Dong-yoon, written by Jo Jin-gook, Joo Chan-ok and features Jang Hyuk, Jang Nara, Choi Jin-hyuk and Wang Ji-won

 

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