THE SHORT VERDICT:
Present is a candy little ball of fluff that’s humorous, foolish and typically fairly ridiculous, however is, at its coronary heart, heat, poignant and hopeful.
Our OTP is winsome and cute, and the secondary characters make a terrific little discovered household, however, for me, it’s Uhm Tae Goo as our titular candy mobster that simply makes the present, for me. 🤩
A tiny contact uneven in spots, however general, this one’s straightforward (and enjoyable!) to slurp up. 🥰
THE LONG VERDICT:
My pals. I’m really actually pleasantly shocked by how a lot I ended up having fun with this one.
I’d preferred the premise when Present was introduced, however I used to be actually uncertain after I watched the trailers, as a result of they’d all appeared fairly aggressively comedic, and if you happen to’ve been across the weblog for some time, you’d know that that’s simply not my factor.
So think about my shock, after I fell for this one – hook, line and sinker – nearly instantly. 😍
OST ALBUM: FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE
Right here’s the OST album, in case you’d prefer to take heed to it whereas studying the overview.
General, I assumed the OST was enjoyable and gratifying; a really apt companion to our storyline, which I discovered fluffy and candy.
When it comes to a favourite, I feel I’ve to go along with Observe 5, The whole lot. I’m, as soon as once more, drawn to the 6/8 tempo of all of it 😅, and I additionally actually just like the earnest vibe of the tune, which feels laced with a contact of candy angst. 🥲
Right here it’s by itself as nicely, in case you’d want to take heed to that on repeat. Excellent-click on the video and choose “Loop.”
HOW I’M APPROACHING THIS REVIEW
First I’ll speak about the way to handle your expectations going into this one, and what viewing lens can be most useful.
After that, I speak about what I preferred and preferred much less, overlaying the extra macro features of Present, after which I give the selective highlight to characters and relationships, in a separate part.
Lastly, I additionally spend a while speaking about my ideas on the penultimate episodes, in addition to our finale episodes.
In the event you’re serious about my blow-by-blow reactions, &/or all the assorted Patreon members’ feedback throughout the course of our watch, you may like to take a look at my episode notes on Patreon right here.
MANAGING EXPECTATIONS / THE VIEWING LENS
Listed here are some issues that I feel can be useful to bear in mind, to maximise your enjoyment of your watch:
1. Don’t take it too severely
Present tends to be on the ridiculous facet of issues, so being able to roll with the ridiculous, as a substitute of taking Present too severely, can be actually useful.
2. Be ready for a little bit of secondhand embarrassment, typically
..However don’t fear, it largely doesn’t are likely to final lengthy, when it reveals up. 😁
3. Simply have enjoyable
Possibly it goes with out saying, however put away your overthinking, analytical lens, and simply let Present do its factor. You might need extra enjoyable than you’d anticipated – coz that’s what occurred for me. 🥰
STUFF I LIKED
It’s enjoyable to observe
Similar to how some meals are simply enjoyable to eat, this present is simply enjoyable to observe.
I truthfully regarded ahead to Present’s new episodes each week, as a result of I trusted that they might be a spotlight of my week, they usually actually have been – more often than not (extra on the wobble, later).
Primarily, I liked that Present was constantly so dorky and foolish; all I wished to do was giggle indulgently, in response.
I suppose you can say that with this one, I’m like a pet proprietor with a brilliant cute, bumbling pet; affectionate indulgence and disproportionate squees over The Cute, is the order of the day. 😁
Present’s acquired coronary heart
For all of its foolish trappings, one in every of my favourite issues about Present, is that it’s acquired coronary heart.
Our story is advised with coronary heart, and our characters are additionally filled with coronary heart.
Our ex-mobsters may look scary and intimidating, typically, however they’re all honest and goodhearted (if awkward) people, and I preferred that quite a bit.
I additionally appreciated that Present had an ongoing theme in its story, of whether or not it’s potential for folks to go away their darkish pasts behind.
I assumed that added a pleasant layer of poignance to our story, which helped to floor the sillier beats actually properly.
Present’s humorousness
Given how k-humor and I historically largely haven’t gotten alongside, I’m fortunately shocked to really have Present’s humorousness on this part, among the many issues I really preferred about it. 😁
Although there’s bodily comedy on this present, and the humor does land on the broader facet of issues, it doesn’t really feel too aggressive for my style.
It’s delicate sufficient that I don’t discover it too in-yo-face, although it nonetheless falls inside what I might think about broad comedy.
I additionally actually like that, not at all times, however very often, Present has layers of poignancy and coronary heart beneath the foolish. That undoubtedly helped the foolish land higher, for me.
Listed here are a few my private highlights.
[SPOILER ALERT]
E3-4. I’ve to inform you, I actually guffawed aloud, after I acquired to the scene the place Ji Hwan’s (Uhm Tae Goo) shocked to search out that Eun Ha’s (Han Solar Hwa) channel has been suspended, and he can now not watch her movies.
His dorky sorrowful misplaced expression, and the captions onscreen announcing that life is meaningless, had me guffawing uncontrollably, no lie. 😂
ESPECIALLY since Ji Hwan then begins asking Il Yeong (Kim Hyun Jin) whether or not Eun Ha has known as about returning his jacket, as a result of he merely can’t exit with out his jacket – the dozen or so similar jackets in his closet however.
I discover it very hilarious, particularly given Ji Hwan’s dorky, plaintive expression. 😂
..Which is just about the identical expression he has on, when he finds himself at Ye Na’s (Tune Web optimization Rin) condominium block, together with his arm in Ye Na’s grip, whereas Eun Ha walks off. Aw. He doesn’t need her to go away him behind! 🥲
E9-10. The shock blind date was so foolish and entertaining, whereas additionally being fairly secondhand mortifying, that I wasn’t certain what to do with myself throughout the scene. 😅
First, it was so stunning, however enjoyable, to see Lee Joon cameo as Eun Ha’s blind date, after which, it was form of secondhand mortifying to see Ji Hwan getting all labored up, whereas sitting again to again with Eun Ha (with out her realizing it, in fact), and listening in on mentioned blind date.
Ji Hwan’s huge reactions had me on tenterhooks, pondering that he was going to get caught at any second – after which we get that ridiculous slo-mo save, when his cider and glass of ice fly into the air, full with one-legged martial arts pose and all. That had me in stitches. 😂
..After which Ye Na reveals up, and in his haste to cowl her mouth, Ji Hwan finally ends up being caught together with his hand on her cheek as a substitute – which certain seems like an affectionate boyfriend gesture, oops. 🤭
Ha. I truthfully kinda love the way in which Eun Ha stares daggers at him (full with sound results), as she walks away to take pleasure in the remainder of her blind date.
It’s simply too dangerous that Ji Hwan’s coping mechanism when he’s careworn, is to maintain placing his foot in his mouth, or not less than, that’s the impression I acquired, given the way in which he saved arguing with Eun Ha that night, as a substitute of simply popping out and telling her that he likes her. 😅
[END SPOILER]
The whimsical touches
Present’s acquired some enjoyable touches to it, which I like to consider as whimsical.
Like the way it has completely different characters doing the little “like and subscribe” blurb, every episode; I assumed these have been a extremely cute thought.
After which we now have the French bulldog, who makes such common appearances, that it’s a little bit of a motif in our story world.
[SPOILER ALERT]
I like that the manufacturing thought to decorate the Frenchie in numerous outfits, each episode, after which the sudden introduction of his girlfriend, full in a bridal outfit, was such a enjoyable little shock. 🤩
[END SPOILER]
STUFF THAT WAS OK
When stuff will get secondhand embarassing
You may not battle with this as a lot as I did, as a result of your threshold for secondhand embarrassment may nicely be greater than mine. 😅
I’ve acquired this on this extra impartial kind of part, as a result of any moments of secondhand embarrassment didn’t are likely to final too lengthy, and I largely did handle to see the humorous inherent within the scenario.
[SPOILER ALERT]
E1-2. The scene the place Eun Ha places toy handcuffs on Ji Hwan, and pretend-arrests him, after getting pushed into the fray by somebody assuming that she was an actual police officer, was somewhat secondhand embarrassing for me to observe. 😅
It’s as ridiculous and foolish and secondhand mortifying because it sounds, and it took me somewhat little bit of time to wrap my mind and my emotions round that.
I truthfully needed to inform myself to press via this scene, as a result of the secondhand embarrassment was hitting me more durable than the humorous, however fortunately the scene ends comparatively rapidly, and we’re quickly blithely shifting on to different issues.
E3-4. I’ve to admit that I used to be combating some secondhand mortification, when Ji Hwan, determined to remain in Eun Ha’s presence somewhat longer, makes these random outbursts, about how the milk stains on his jacket appear to be numerous completely different international locations on the map. 😅
I imply, for the report, I did giggle too, whereas being secondhand mortified, as a result of Uhm Tae Goo’s comedian timing is nice, and I like how gung-ho he’s about these foolish comedian scenes, regardless of him wanting like a shy badass. 😁
E11-12. The entire gang visiting the orphanage was candy in idea, although somewhat cringey in execution. 😅
Trying previous the execution, I do like the concept that Eun Ha allows the boys to really really feel welcome on the orphanage, which is one thing that they’ve accepted as being an impossibility, due to their mobster backgrounds.
[END SPOILER]
STUFF THAT I LIKED LESS
When Present slumps
In episodes 11 and 12, Present works to retain its core fluffy vibe, whereas additionally acknowledging that there are tensions and obstacles on this fluffy world, that we must always pay attention to, and put together ourselves for.
The execution landed as a combined bag for me, and I’m unhappy to report that this was the primary time I really felt a way of drag whereas watching this present.
I suppose it’s all form of par for the course, like, most dramas begin to stoop considerably within the watch expertise, at roundabout this level, as a result of it’s time to gear up for the penultimate angst that may lead us in the direction of the finale.
In that sense, it’s not completely sudden, however Present had been such fluffy, lovely enjoyable up so far, that I’d hoped that it might in some way be completely different from most different reveals, and rise above the three-quarter level stoop.
That’s.. not the case, not less than in my expertise.
Principally, a variety of what Present was serving up in these episodes felt like filler to me, prefer it was biking in place, and providing up some sprinklings of cuteness, to distract us from the truth that we have been biking in place. 😅
[SPOILER ALERT]
For instance, one of many issues that I did completely giggle at, is the entire prolonged wind machine sequence, on the prime of episode 11.
The extra it went on, the funnier it acquired, with Ji Hwan and Eun Ha taking turns to bask within the slo-mo wind highlight, with a superb quantity of hair-toss-preening and coy blushing to go along with.
Ji Hwan and Eun Ha making hearts at one another whereas Hong Ki (Moon Dong Hyuk) says a really lengthy and protracted grace, can also be low-key amusing.
I’ll admit, although, to discovering this all cuter in idea than in execution, and I feel the explanation for that, is as a result of my mind acknowledges all of those cute moments as filler.
I discover it arduous to consider that Jae Soo and Man Ho (Yang Hyun Min and Lee Yoo Joon) can be so obtuse as to not discover the “new couple” power round Ji Hwan and Eun Ha, particularly when they don’t seem to be with the remainder of the group, and Present making them so obtuse, isn’t that humorous to me.
In the event you look previous the excessive chance that Ji Hwan used the monitoring app to determine the place Eun Ha was, it’s really fairly candy how he’s completely happy to be her porter, carrying all her purchases, and even encourages her to maintain procuring, with out worrying about him.
I did suppose the shadow puppetry factor was fairly heavy-handed; it felt fairly random within the introduction of it, after which the connection to Hyun Woo Oppa additionally felt fairly needlessly aggressive.
When Eun Ha brings up Hyun Woo Oppa to Ji Hwan, I actually want that Ji Hwan would simply come out and inform her that he IS Hyun Woo Oppa.
I discover that I’m very prepared for the thriller of Hyun Woo Oppa to be put to relaxation; I would like Eun Ha to know, and I would like Ji Hwan to inform her.
If she’s prepared to this point Ji Hwan, he have to be a adequate man, sure? And so, there’s no drawback with realizing that he’s additionally Hyun Woo Oppa, since that might imply that Hyun Woo Oppa turned out to be a fairly respectable man?
I’m guessing that Ji Hwan doesn’t need Eun Ha to really feel any guilt about main that mobster dude to his home, however.. certainly mobster dude would have figured it out in the end, with or with out Eun Ha’s assist?
One other factor that I discover myself getting bored with, is the entire thing with Ye Na making an attempt to get nearer to Ji Hwan.
I don’t begrudge her the prospect to shoot her shot, however since Ji Hwan has already made it clear to her that he solely sees her as a enterprise associate, I’d like her to consider him on that, and again off.
It’s actually poor kind, for her to cling onto false hope like that, and even attempt to persuade Eun Ha that she deserves to be with Ji Hwan extra, as a result of she acquired to know him earlier.
Yet one more factor that I’m prepared for Present to place to relaxation, is the love rivalry between Ji Hwan and Hyun Woo (Kwon Yul).
In spite of everything, isn’t Ji Hwan already courting Eun Ha? And hasn’t Eun Ha already turned down Hyun Woo?
That needs to be sufficient to place this rivalry to relaxation, however no, Hyun Woo says to Ji Hwan that he received’t quit on Eun Ha, and I’m over right here restlessly rolling my eyes, as a result of I would like him to take Eun Ha’s stance severely.
I imply, he can look after her and help her as a good friend, certainly? Why does it should be romantic or nothing?
I used to be so prepared for this love rivalry factor to be put to relaxation. However okay, the petty battle between Ji Hwan and Hyun Woo within the feedback part of Eun Ha’s new video, is sort of foolish and subsequently somewhat amusing.
[END SPOILER]
SPOTLIGHT ON CHARACTERS & RELATIONSHIPS
Uhm Tae Goo as Ji Hwan
This was my introduction to Uhm Tae Goo, and instantly, I used to be actually taken with how good Uhm Tae Goo is, as our titular mobster, Web optimization Ji Hwan.
To begin with, I simply love-love-LOVE his raspy voice that sounds prefer it’s coming from the far recesses of his throat; in some way that simply screams mafia to me. 😂
The lengthy leather-based trench coat and the slicked again hair, paired together with his smoky, darkish beauty full the image of the good-looking gangster completely, for me. 🤩
After which there are the forays into bodily comedy, the place I’m impressed with how Uhm Tae Goo throws himself into it, with none vainness in anyway.
Enjoyable truth, I went trying to find Uhm Tae Goo movies after watching the primary two episodes, as a result of I simply wanted to know if that was his actual voice, and I discovered that:
1, that’s, certainly his actual voice, and
2, he actually is that dorky and shy in actual life.
That simply multiplied my prompt love for our dorky mobster, as a result of I assumed it was so cute, that he’s largely simply being himself. 😍🤭
As a personality, I actually discovered my coronary heart going out to Ji Hwan a number of instances, and I feel it’s protected to say that he’s my favourite character on this story world. 🥲
[SPOILER ALERT]
E1-2. I like that Ji Hwan is the kinda man who would effortlessly rise to the highest of his sport – after which nonchalantly dissolve his group, as a result of he needs everybody in it, to show over a brand new leaf.
Aw. An ex-gangster making good, and doing his greatest to get his males to make good too?
That’s endearing sufficient by itself, however I discover it much more endearing, that he would disappear quietly from the highlight, like the eye by no means mattered to him.
The truth that we see him praying at a temple, tells me that he’s looking for spirituality, which is a pleasant trait to have, I feel. It makes me suppose that he’s acquired some depth to him.
After which, the way in which he takes that telephone name and effortlessly rattles off, with out even pondering, how his males ought to cope with the bloody scene they’ve stumble upon, full with directions on the way to wrap up the items in order that they don’t bleed, and ventilate the place in order that it doesn’t odor, and clear the blood off the ground, is such a humorous distinction – particularly on condition that he’s at a temple, which he himself appears to have forgotten, heh.
After that, the very sheepish face that he makes, as he realizes that he’s simply described all these issues to a room filled with monks, and the hilarious approach his leg cramps up as he’s making an attempt to go away as unobtrusively as potential, simply completes my psychological image of him, in my head.
Now, in my head, he’s this suave, darkish, too-cool-for-school ex-gangster on the skin, however is sort of the lovely dork on the within, and this amuses me vastly. 🤭
I feel I’ll by no means tire of Present taking part in these two sides of him towards one another, for my leisure.
E3-4. My thought, coming away from these episodes, is how a lot I LUFF our candy mobster. 😍😍
Truthfully, these episodes had me guffawing and squeeing in fairly equal measure, and I’m having a lot enjoyable, you guys. 🥰
I imply, when Ji Hwan is in his robust, silent mobster boss mode, he oozes presence, and I discover him so quietly commanding.
After which, when he’s being all smitten with Eun Ha, he’s the cutest, dorkiest dork ever, and my delicate spot for him simply grows greater and greater. 😍 I principally can’t assist it. 😁
E3-4. We begin episode 3 revisiting the scene the place Ji Hwan shields Eun Ha from the milk mob, and I discover myself swooning over again, with how quietly useful Ji Hwan is, as he will get her to settle down, after which proceeds to hold her outta there – whereas very calmly telling the protesting milk mob, to save lots of the milk for the milk firm.
I discover him to be such a grounding power, on this total scene, although Eun Ha quickly protests and calls for that he put her down.
Importantly, I respect that he will get Eun Ha to see a unique viewpoint, by telling her that she will return in there – if she is ready to shoulder the duty.
That’s the factor that offers Eun Ha pause, as a result of although she does really feel a way of responsibility in the direction of the mother and father who had trusted her advice and acquired that milk for his or her children, it’s true that she isn’t ready to shoulder the blame.
This incident does make me really feel like Ji Hwan is wiser than most individuals would give him credit score for, being an ex-gangster and all.
In truth, I’m pondering of the phrase “nonetheless waters run deep” and it feels apt to explain Ji Hwan, as a result of he’s often so reticent and reserved. And but, when he has one thing to say, like on this case, he makes a lot sense.
E5-6. I really feel dangerous for Ji Hwan, as a result of it actually appears to hit him arduous, when Hyun Woo insinuates that Eun Ha shouldn’t be round a harmful particular person like Ji Hwan.
The way in which Ji Hwan tells Hyun Woo to take Eun Ha with him, makes me suppose that he’s extra harm than something, and that harm isn’t coming from a spot of offense, however from a spot of.. defeat, like he can’t refute something that Hyun Woo has to say.
Aw. Poor Ji Hwan. 💔
E7-8. Ji Hwan is set to save lots of Taek, notably now that he is aware of that Taek was taken by power, and that he hadn’t damaged his phrase to reside clear.
On the similar time, Ji Hwan may be very a lot conscious of how it is a very harmful scenario.
I can see why he would conclude that it might be greatest to maintain Eun Ha as far-off from this hazard as potential.
And since he can’t take himself from this hazard, due to his dedication to Taek, his solely solution to preserve Eun Ha protected, is to maintain her away from himself.
It undoubtedly seems like noble idiocy to us viewers, however I can perceive this line of pondering.
Ji Hwan loves Eun Ha and needs to maintain her protected – even when it means shedding her, himself. That’s truthfully form of touching, whenever you have a look at it like that?
That’s why he digs up the time capsule, and that’s why he doesn’t reveal his identification, when he provides it to her.
In an identical vein, that is additionally why Ji Hwan doesn’t inform the remainder of the boys the place he’s going; he doesn’t need them in peril both.
He’s actually like this huge mom hen, making an attempt to guard all his chicks, and utilizing his personal physique because the protect.
Truthfully, the extra I see of Ji Hwan, the extra my coronary heart goes out to him.
We lastly get to see what had occurred that fateful day when Hyun Woo had seen Ji Hwan with that bloody membership, on the lodge, and the reality is heart-pinching stuff.
I really feel a lot for Ji Hwan, who was ambushed and attacked by Go Yang Hui (Im Chul Soo) and his males.
I’m glad he survives, in fact, however by the tip, he’s been clubbed and slashed, and he’s bleeding a lot, and it appears like he’s been attacked like some form of rag doll. 😭
After which, when Il Yeong confesses that he’d purposely missed all of the calls that the remainder of the boys had made to him that day, and is wracked with guilt over it, it form of kills me, to listen to Ji Hwan say that if Il Yeong had been in a position to reside for some time like a daily faculty child, he would have died completely happy.
AUGH. Ji Hwan is so self-sacrificial, in the way in which that he loves, and I simply wish to shield him from every part and everybody – together with himself. 🥲
The entire sequence the place Ji Hwan and Il Yeong transfer in to save lots of Taek jogs my memory a good bit of that day when Go Yang Hui had cornered and attacked him, as a result of Ji Hwan’s physique takes such a beating this time, too.
Not solely is he crushed up, he’s even run over by a automobile. And he says that each one he cares about is saving Taek.
AUGH. This man. I truthfully consider that he would actually die, as a way to shield his personal, and it kills me to see that he would achieve this a lot for them, however neglect to look after his personal wounds and accidents.
When he and Eun Ha had lastly been launched from the freezer, he’d solely cared that she acquired checked and handled.
This time, too, he retains insisting that he’s tremendous – although he acquired knocked down by a automobile.
E9-10. It’s poignant to listen to Ji Hwan reply to Hyun Woo’s pointed query, by saying that he is aware of greatest what sort of particular person he’s and the form of hazard that surrounds him, and that every part Hyun Woo’s considered 10 instances, he’s considered a thousand instances or extra.
Eep. I discovered this second fairly heart-pinching, as a result of how unhappy should this make Ji Hwan, underneath his stoic mobster boss aura? 💔
[END SPOILER]
Han Solar Hwa as Eun Ha
You guys. I assumed that this was my introduction to Han Solar Hwa, however I used to be improper.
I’ve apparently additionally seen her in different reveals like 2014’s Marriage Not Relationship and 2018’s My Husband Oh Jak Doo, during which she had important roles. Whoops. 😅
Truthfully, if I didn’t know higher, I’d suppose that Han Solar Hwa was simply being herself; she’s simply that pure and plausible as Eun Ha.
Han Solar Hwa does a extremely good job of being our honest, goodhearted heroine, and I rapidly discovered myself liking her, and rooting for her.
[SPOILER ALERT]
E1-2. Eun Ha’s a candy, goodhearted, guileless particular person, who simply sincerely needs to do nicely as a content material creator for teenagers, not by hawking merchandise to children and their mother and father, however by creating enjoyable and healthful movies for her viewers.
She’s instantly an underdog kind of character, as a result of Present rapidly informs us that the world of content material creation is a dog-eat-dog one, even whenever you’re within the realm of content material for teenagers.
E3-4. Eun Ha actually is a pure-hearted soul, isn’t she?
Not solely does she not blame the mother and father for attacking her over the milk incident, she’s form to that mom, who had attacked her the day before today.
And, she listens with empathy, when the mom describes how powerful it’s, to be a single father or mother, and the way Eun Ha’s movies had helped her, as a result of she may really feel comfy letting her daughter watch the movies, realizing that Eun Ha wouldn’t be pushing merchandise like different creators.
Aw. It’s really somewhat eye-opening to see how Eun Ha’s selection to not push merchandise made her a extra engaging selection for fogeys with tight budgets.
This proves that Eun Ha’s reasoning to her CEO had been appropriate; there are mother and father who want creators like her.
I additionally admire Eun Ha for having the ability to put her satisfaction apart and settle for that cleansing job from Ye Na, who’d clearly mentioned it to spite her.
The truth that Eun Ha can name Ye Na and settle for the job with a smile, and be so cheerful and upbeat on the job, makes me really feel that Eun Ha actually is made from robust stuff.
Plus, how about the truth that Ye Na purposely invited these different creators over, particularly to allow them to see that Eun Ha was cleansing her home, in order that Eun Ha can be humiliated? Grrr.
I’m glad that Eun Ha handles it with composure, although she’s clearly bowled over.
[END SPOILER]
Our OTP
I discovered this OTP loveline tremendous cute, and ready breathlessly for ahead motion on this loveline, able to squee at any given time, was one of many huge highlights of my watch. 😁
I like that Ji Hwan falls first, and he falls arduous, and it was simply very cute to me, how our effortlessly badass ex-mobster, would develop into such a dork, within the face of feeeelingggss. 🤭
Ji Hwan being discombobulated by Eun Ha by no means acquired previous for me, and I had a good time lapping up our OTP moments.
To be clear, the writing and dealing with of this OTP is unquestionably on the extra healthful, sanitized facet of issues, however that labored, I felt, on this explicit manhwa-esque story world.
I nonetheless discovered them endlessly endearing collectively, and I very a lot appreciated that Present took the time to inject layers and coronary heart, into the event of their relationship.
[SPOILER ALERT]
E1-2. I like that Ji Hwan actually falls for Eun Ha in a short time, not at first sight on the nightclub, however the first time he sees her in her factor, interacting with children and having a enjoyable, academic, healthful time with them.
Aw. The truth that it’s this facet of her that makes him fall for her, may be very endearing to me, truthfully.
Up to now, it’s a comedy of errors by way of their encounters, from her making an attempt to fake-arrest him, to her misunderstanding his actions and pondering that he’s extorting cash from a child, to her unintentionally breaking his ribs and inflicting him to fall down a flight of stairs, eep.
It does make every part much more endearing although, when he wakes up from his concussion and spends all his time binge-watching her movies, as a result of it makes him completely happy.
In spite of everything the difficulty she’s introduced him, he’s nonetheless smitten and swooning over her healthful children’ movies, and even hallucinating about her being in his hospital room; I’m simply so gleeful at how dorky he’s, over her. 🤭
And the way cute is it, that when his males, nonetheless very gangster-like of their habits regardless of turning over a brand new leaf, report her particulars to him, because the particular person behind all his accidents, he insists wildly (coz he’s hidden her underneath the covers subsequent to him, ha) that it’s not like that in any respect, they usually shouldn’t lay a finger on her.
Isn’t he so cutely protecting, although it’s true that she broke his ribs? Aw. 🥲
Inside our first two episodes, we already get our first misunderstanding and first reconciliation between Ji Hwan and Eun Ha, and I discover all of it fairly cutely poignant.
It’s unlucky that Ji Hwan misunderstands that Eun Ha had uploaded that unflattering video of his males as a method to realize consideration and traction, however I’m glad that he realizes his mistake quickly sufficient, as soon as Eun Ha uploads the unique footage, as a way to set the report straight.
That scene the place he trails her to the bus cease after which sheepishly will get caught, as a result of she spots his toes peeking out from underneath the bus cease billboard, is amusing but poignant.
It’s amusing to me due to the little bit of bodily comedy concerned, that showcases how sheepish and awkward Ji Hwan is, and it’s poignant, as a result of issues are so so needlessly awkward between them.
They’re each apologetic for the way they’ve every misunderstood the opposite, so it feels kinda unhappy, actually, when their stilted dialog will get nowhere, and Eun Ha excuses herself to stroll off the beer that she’s had.
As for the milk incident, we don’t know but why the milk’s inflicting meals poisoning in all these children, but it surely does make some extent in regards to the tasks of a content material creator.
As a result of Eun Ha endorsed that milk product, all of the mother and father are turning round and blaming her, now that their children are ailing.
As tropey as it’s that Ji Hwan reveals up and shields Eun Ha from the milk that folks are tossing at her, I truthfully kinda love that closing scene, the place Ji Hwan and Eun Ha lock gazes.
I like that our darkish, smoldery, smitten ex-gangster is right here to assist and shield Eun Ha, and I like simply as a lot, that the very first thing he says to her, is inform her to shut her eyes and depend to 10.
Ahh! He’s prioritizing her emotional and psychological wellbeing, and getting her to search out her place of peace and stillness on the within, over really getting concerned within the scenario and making an attempt to get these folks to cease blaming her.
That’s.. fairly darn nice, and I feel I like him extra now. 🥲
E3-4. I like that within the numerous snippets of dialog that we see between Ji Hwan and Eun Ha, they do appear to supply completely different views to one another, which makes me really feel like they’re increasing one another’s worlds, in a approach.
Like how Ji Hwan says that operating away is one of the best technique in a battle, whereas Eun Ha tells him that the children’ mother and father weren’t making an attempt to battle, however have been merely upset that their children have been sick and in ache.
What I’m most taken by, on this scene, nonetheless, is the considerate approach Ji Hwan listens, like he’s being schooled and he’s intently chewing on the brand new data that he’s gained.
Or perhaps I’m simply studying an excessive amount of into his squint – as a result of I like his squint! 🤩
E3-4. I’m glad Ji Hwan manages to search out Eun Ha once more, on the pochangmacha, and I’m happy that he has sufficient boldness about him, to sit down down with Eun Ha uninvited, as a result of that results in some significant dialog.
Ordinarily, I would favor that the man thoughts boundaries extra, and never get into the girl’s private area with out permission, however in some way, in Ji Hwan’s case, with how awkward he’s round Eun Ha, I discover that I’m extra prepared to.. overlook that.
I really feel that it’s significant that Eun Ha talks a bit about her childhood, and why she hates mobsters. I additionally really feel it’s significant that she says that she needs Ji Hwan weren’t a mobster.
Aw. Doesn’t that point out that Eun Ha has good emotions of some form in the direction of Ji Hwan, since she needs that he weren’t a mobster? In any other case, why would it not even matter, sure?
And I discover it so poignant, the way in which Ji Hwan says, with wistfulness in his voice, that he needs he weren’t, both.
Awww. Are we speaking about life regrets now?? 🥲
After which, I needed to giggle, when Present serves up that scene of Ji Hwan swooping Eun Ha right into a princess-carry as a result of she’s too drunk to go dwelling on her personal, solely to undercut every part by making that the fantasy, whereas the fact is that Ji Hwan’s the one who’s as drunk as a skunk. 😂
The entire drunken playground antics are hilarious, and I discovered myself guffawing more durable after which more durable nonetheless, as Ji Hwan dances from one playground merchandise to a different, blithely exhibiting off his prowess to Eun Ha.
My gosh, Ji Hwan and Eun Ha spinning round and round on the roundabout was very humorous, after which Ji Hwan taking place the slide and bonking his head was laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Ji Hwan randomly yelling out, “Remodel! Flash mob!” in that raspy voice of his was simply GOLD, although. I used to be actually silently shivering with laughter, by this level. 😆
After which every part turns somewhat extra considerate and poignant, after they transfer to the swings, and Ji Hwan praises Eun Ha for doing a pleasant job of standing on the swings, which I assumed was candy.
However he’s even sweeter, to inform her all of the issues she does nicely, when she talks about all of the issues she doesn’t do nicely, like consuming, and making bubbles.
And afterwards, I felt all heat and fuzzy inside, when Ji Hwan tells Eun Ha to maintain making movies, after which I silently squeed, when Ji Hwan sits up and tells Eun Ha, in his raspy, tipsy approach, that he misses watching them.
Eeeee! One way or the other my internal fangirl is spazzing at the truth that he’s admitting to Eun Ha that he misses her movies; I feel it’s as a result of he’s letting on, in a roundabout way, that she’s necessary to him. 🥲
Ji Hwan’s mortification the following morning, as he remembers all his drunken antics, simply makes every part humorous over again; it’s like he provides the hijinks new life, ha.
After which the way in which he begins hallucinating visions of Eun Ha round him, as a substitute of being attentive to displays at work, makes me giggle over again. 🤭
It’s actually unlucky that Eun Ha’s principally fired from the corporate, not only for the milk incident, however for not being the form of money-focused creator that they need her to be.
However, it’s due to that, that she finally ends up wandering her previous neighborhood, and discovering herself at Ji Hwan’s dwelling.
I kinda love that Ji Hwan retains discovering excuses to assist Eun Ha, like telling her that he’d prefer to test the situation of his very costly jacket, to get her to return into the home.
I’m studying this as him recognizing that Eun Ha doesn’t wish to be a charity case, and doesn’t need folks to pity her, and that is why he’s being so cautious and tentative about providing assist.
E3-4. I’m amused however now not shocked, when Il Yeong makes up an excuse in order that Eun Ha can go along with Ji Hwan to Jung Yoon Taek’s dwelling, to attempt to discover out extra about the place he is likely to be.
Once more, I like that we get some significant nuggets of dialog between them within the automobile, like Ji Hwan and Eun Ha apologizing to one another for the assorted methods they’ve misunderstood one another, Ji Hwan telling Eun Ha why he’s on the lookout for Jung Yoon Taek, after which speaking about why Ji Hwan began an organization with simply ex-cons.
E5-6. I get an actual kick out of Ji Hwan having such a commanding kind of impact on everybody, like when he reveals as much as save Eun Ha and Hong Ki from these guys from the Kitty Gang. 🤩😁
It’s performed in an exaggerated vogue, however I completely acquired a kick out of all of these powerful guys disappearing within the blink of an eye fixed, the second Ji Hwan seems.
After which, we lastly get Ji Hwan telling Eun Ha that she will keep on the mobster mansion in the intervening time, till she’s discovered one other place to remain.
YESSS. I simply reallyreallyactually need Eun Ha to reside in that home with Ji Hwan and the remainder of his boys, and be the princess-cum-mother hen that all of them love and wish. 🥰
One in all my favourite issues about Eun Ha dwelling on the mobster mansion, is that she will get to know extra about Ji Hwan, whether or not she’s interacting with him instantly or not.
Like how she overhears Ji Hwan telling his boys that their errors are sadly not judged as merely as if the error had been made by another person; that their ex-con backgrounds sadly do issue into how folks see them.
Aw. That’s fairly unhappy and sobering, isn’t it?
After all, my absolute favourite factor about Eun Ha dwelling on the home, is that she will get to spend time with Ji Hwan, and even have the occasional second of hyper-proximity.
Like that second when Ji Hwan reaches via the trellis separating their balconies, and removes that bug from her face.
He’s so mild and tender about it, that I truthfully completely perceive why Eun Ha would discover her coronary heart racing, in response. 🤭
After which there’s the way in which Ji Hwan errors Eun Ha for a burglar and accosts her within the backyard – they usually find yourself having a pleasant little dialog about why Eun Ha had come to the home within the first place; that she’d had good recollections of the place, and of an excellent particular person.
It actually feels good that Eun Ha and Ji Hwan are loosening up round one another, and attending to know extra about one another. 🥰
I like how completely happy Ji Hwan seems, when he tells Eun Ha that they’re having a welcome get together for her, and she or he will get all thrilled and excited.
But in addition – how random is it, that Ji Hwan finally ends up placing his hand on Eun Ha’s head, with out even realizing it? 😂
I’m certain Present’s simply placing that in there for laughs, however I do discover it a candy thought, that Ji Hwan’s so drawn to Eun Ha, that he’d overcome his traditional reservations with out even realizing it, and put his hand on her head, like a gesture of affection.
Additionally, isn’t Eun Ha such a superb assist, going out and speaking Hong Ki into going again to the home, although Ji Hwan’s formally reduce him off as punishment for his fraudulent mistake?
That’s completely the form of factor I’d anticipate the mom of the home to do, and this thought amuses me – and satisfies me! – fairly a bit. 😁
I acquired a kick out of Eun Ha trouncing Jae Soo at consuming video games, and Jae Soo getting tremendous drunk and hungover in consequence, when he’d been intending to make use of the welcome get together to get Eun Ha struggling drunk. 😅
Eun Ha does get tipsy, nonetheless – which is how we find yourself with that drunk kiss with Ji Hwan, on the finish of episode 5.
I’m half squeeing coz it’s technically a kiss, however I’m additionally half mortified on Eun Ha’s behalf, as a result of I really feel her horror the following morning, when she remembers how she’d kissed Ji Hwan. Oops. 🙈😅
I can completely perceive why Eun Ha would lie that she will’t keep in mind a factor, coz she’d been too drunk, however – eep! – how unlucky, that she and Ji Hwan discuss at cross functions and she or he finally ends up getting the concept that Ji Hwan thinks that the kiss was an disagreeable scenario. 😅😅
Isn’t Ji Hwan fairly cute although, with the way in which he pays such shut consideration to Eun Ha’s likes and dislikes, which she’d shared on the welcome get together, after which takes them so severely that he’d give contemporary directions to his boys, in order that they will align extra intently to Eun Ha’s preferences.
I luff this dork, a lot. 😍
And I’m glad that Eun Ha finds herself feeling somewhat jealous, when she hears about Ji Hwan “hugging” Kang Ye Na and taking her to the hospital.
ALSO. How about that “shoulder thug” second?
Omona. I laughed so arduous, when Ji Hwan will get all harm that Eun Ha referred to him as a thug, as a result of he hadn’t understood the slang.
And I’m SO stoked, actually, that Eun Ha keys in to his peevishness, and truly hits on the explanation why he’s appearing all sensitive and aggrieved – after which has a superb hearty giggle about it.
I discovered this so humorous, and I discovered it even funnier, when Ji Hwan lastly seems it up, after which will get all happy about her noticing his shoulders – after which proceeds to work out solely his shoulders, the following morning.
Tee hee hee!
I LUFF THIS DORK. 😂😂😍😍
E5-6. I used to be actually shaking my head at Man Ho for his loopy thought of locking Eun Ha within the freezer with Ji Hwan, in order that the 2 of them would get some high quality time collectively.
I imply, that’s fairly harmful, as we see, when Man Ho realizes that he’s misplaced the keys to mentioned freezer. 🤦🏻♀️
BUT.
We do get some high quality moments between Ji Hwan and Eun Ha, when she tells him that his workers suppose very well of him.
I assumed that was fairly treasured and significant, particularly when Eun Ha tells him that she thinks that he’s a superb particular person. Aw. 🥲
After which we now have Ji Hwan taking off his coat and his jacket to attempt to preserve Eun Ha heat, which I assumed was actually candy and gallant of him.
AND THEN WE HAVE BACKHUG HUDDLING.
Ahhh!!! I imply, if I have been Eun Ha I’d most likely be too frozen to register this as romantic within the second, however as an observer, I discover it very romantic, that Ji Hwan would do every part he may, to maintain Eun Ha from freezing.
PLUS DID I MENTION BACKHUG HUDDLING??? 😍😍😍
I dunno, perhaps Man Ho actually was on to one thing there, in spite of everything? 😅
E7-8. I do love that slo-mo hero second that we get, when Ji Hwan walks out from the freezer with Eun Ha in a princess-carry, full with that icy cloud billowing round him.
It might’ve been cooler if he and Eun Ha weren’t really frozen, but it surely nonetheless made for a really cool visible.
After that, I do love what an anxious dork Ji Hwan turns into, when Eun Ha’s within the hospital.
I like the way in which he fusses over her, in each sense potential, from hovering over her, all fearful that she might need misplaced her reminiscence or one thing, to creating that very detailed record of issues that she may want, and asking Mi Ho (Moon Ji In) to deliver every part to the hospital – although Eun Ha’s solely going to be warded for a single night time, heh.
His look after Eun Ha is spilling out in all places, and I find it irresistible. 🥰
And, it does appear to be Eun Ha feels he’s very endearing too, judging from the way in which she softly smiles to herself, after he’s left with the boys.
In my opinion, it undoubtedly looks as if Eun Ha is likely to be rising a little bit of a romantic delicate spot for Ji Hwan.
The way in which she sits up near him, when he’s dozed off whereas sitting up in her hospital room, and air-traces his options along with her finger, is so very telling.
Truthfully, I can’t consider every other situation during which somebody would do this (except it was a father or mother to their little one, and that is completely not the case right here 😁).
And, I do love that Eun Ha’s principally acquired Ji Hwan’s quantity; she is aware of the way to make him do issues, even when he protests that he’s tremendous.
Like the way in which she will get him to remain on the hospital for an IV drip, as a result of he doesn’t look too nicely.
He protests and protests that he’s tremendous, however in the long run, she has him mendacity in her hospital mattress, obediently getting that IV drip.
Tee hee hee. I’m truthfully very tickled by the truth that this mobster boss dude, who actually has folks shivering of their boots simply by exhibiting up, is wrapped round Eun Ha’s little finger, and doing her bidding.
Isn’t that so very cute?? 🤭
I do actually like the truth that Eun Ha is curious to know extra about him. That reveals that she’s to know him as an individual, and that’s one step nearer to this would-be OTP really getting minted, sure?
I respect the truth that Eun Ha’s clearly been paying consideration; the way in which she describes Ji Hwan to himself, she’s clearly been placing all of the fragments of knowledge collectively to kind an image of him.
And I additionally respect that when Eun Ha asks if he’s ever opened as much as somebody, he does open up a bit, proper then and there, and tells her that there had been one particular person, when he’d been little.
After all, now we all know, on hindsight, that he’s speaking about Eun Ha, as a result of that’s the massive reveal that Present provides us, these episodes.
I assumed it was actually fairly candy that Ji Hwan would sleep soundly via the night time, when he’d ordinarily be on reflexive excessive alert, and subsequently stay awake very deeply in any respect.
I prefer to suppose that it’s as a result of he feels snug and protected round Eun Ha. 🥰
Isn’t he such a humorous dork, although, the way in which he tries to go away the room so stealthily, upon waking up? It truthfully provides me Pink Panther vibes, it’s so cute. 😂
After all, I can’t get sufficient of the tender look in his eyes as he stops to look down at a sleeping Eun Ha, and gently pulls her blanket over her. Soften. 🥰
It’s simply too dangerous that he drops his pockets whereas sneaking out of the hospital room, as a result of that’s the entire cause Eun Ha goes to his firm to search for him – and that’s how she finally ends up seeing him “wrist seize” Ye Na, to stop her from consuming the sausage that she’s allergic to.
Poor Ji Hwan. He’s so perplexed and mortified, when he finds out that Eun Ha had seen it, and jumped to the improper conclusion.
As a silver lining, a little bit of jealousy at all times works to nudge characters’ emotions into focus, and it undoubtedly does that for Eun Ha.
She’s completely low-key jealous, and you’ll see it in the way in which she digs up the backyard with a bit extra aggression than is totally wanted.
Plus, she’s form of passive-aggressive later as nicely, when she remarks that Ji Hwan had regarded busy, and that’s why she’d handed off his pockets to Dong Hee (Park Jae Chan).
Poor Ji Hwan, he’s so out of his depth, in making an attempt to elucidate himself to Eun Ha. 🤭
BUT THEN.
How about that second of hyper-proximity and hyper-awareness, when Ji Hwan will get cleaning soap bubbles on Eun Ha’s hair, and rapidly tries to get them off her, together with his fingers.
I completely held my breath for some time there, pondering that one in every of them may provoke a kiss or one thing – however Man Ho, huge hiccuping dork that he’s, breaks the second, pfft.
E9-10. I can perceive Eun Ha’s determination to maneuver out of the mobster mansion.
When she explains it to Mi Ho, it makes a variety of sense; that she ought to get out fast, earlier than her emotions for Ji Hwan get too huge and too deep, as a result of, so far as she understands it, he doesn’t reciprocate her emotions.
It’s not noble idiocy, it’s placing herself first, and defending her personal coronary heart, and I can completely get behind that.
As for Ji Hwan, I can perceive his thought, that it might be harmful for Eun Ha to affiliate herself with somebody like him, so I also can perceive him making an attempt his greatest to stay to his weapons and never cease her from leaving.
Truthfully, you’ll be able to see that one in every of Ji Hwan’s greatest drivers, is the need to maintain Eun Ha protected.
That’s why he goes to see Go Yang Hui, to make it clear that he won’t tolerate Go Yang Hui messing along with her, or together with his boys.
Aw, isn’t Ji Hwan such a mom hen at coronary heart? He simply needs to guard those that are treasured to him. It simply so occurs that he has the glower of a prime mafioso, to go together with his protecting mom hen coronary heart. 🤭
And so, a variety of these episodes’ plot factors, revolve round Eun Ha on the brink of go away the mobster boys, and Ji Hwan angsting over the truth that she’s leaving, however not feeling like he may or ought to do something to cease her.
E9-10. There’s no denying that Ji Hwan completely cares about Eun Ha.
Simply have a look at the way in which he panics, when he calls her, and hears her screaming, as she runs away from the high-schoolers.
The way in which he races over there to retrieve her telephone, after which retains operating all the way in which to the police station, you simply know that he’s able to do something it takes, as a way to make every part okay, for Eun Ha.
It’s simply too dangerous that he’s stopped lifeless in his tracks, on the sight of Eun Ha in Hyun Woo’s firm.
Aw. Dang it. Poor Ji Hwan, feeling dispensable and all – to not point out jealous at the truth that Eun Ha’s with Hyun Woo.
Truthfully, as a lot as I like Ji Hwan and sympathize with him, and even perceive his reasoning, I did wish to attain into my display screen and shake him a bit, for being so stubbornly withholding with Eun Ha, to the purpose of even being somewhat brusque.
Credit score to Eun Ha, actually, for approaching Ji Hwan to speak, after he’s put such a transparent distance between them.
And credit score to her too, for determining that he’s the one who’d left her telephone on the bottom of the carpark, on the police station, and likewise, for telling him that she’d loved the time that she’d spent on the home – and likewise, with him.
However with Ji Hwan’s iron will – and we all know that he undoubtedly has one, to have been in a position to do stuff like flip in his father to the cops – it’s truthfully not that stunning, that it takes A LOT to impress him into motion, particularly a plan of action that’s completely different from the one he’s set his thoughts to.
The truth that Ji Hwan panics when 11am rolls round, as a result of that’s the time that Eun Ha had advised him she was signing the contract with the actual property agent, and goes operating out the door, says quite a bit about how necessary Eun Ha is to him.
Even his iron will has to present approach, in terms of Eun Ha. That’s fairly touching, whenever you have a look at it that approach, sure? 🥲
E9-10. The “misplaced within the woods” scene may be very akin to the basic one, the place the feminine lead will get misplaced within the woods on a lonely, snowy mountain, and the male lead goes out desperately trying to find her, after which, when he comes upon her, lastly, there are tears and hugs and handholding.
The way in which Present does it, although, is a pleasant twist to the unique, as a result of on this case, Eun Ha shouldn’t be really misplaced; it’s simply that Ji Hwan panics as a result of she’s been gone for an entire hour and isn’t answering her telephone, and his panic stirs everybody right into a panic, and shortly there’s this complete total frenzy of an emergency seek for Eun Ha – who’s simply actually taking her time along with her stroll. 😁
It’s fairly humorous how Ji Hwan’s panic is principally the catalyst for every part – together with that tumble that they each take, as a result of his desperately pressing method startles Eun Ha.
I used to be somewhat bowled over when Ji Hwan begins berating Eun Ha for taking off on her personal, however I used to be glad to listen to him blurt out that he was fearful about her, after which, shortly after, that he likes her.
And I’m glad that Eun Ha latches onto that, and will get him to backtrack and repeat what he mentioned, which is how we lastly get Ji Hwan confessing his emotions for Eun Ha. HUZZAH!!
“Eun Ha, I actually, actually, actually.. such as you. Solely you.”
Awwww. The dork is so easy and honest in his confession. Soften.
After which, I do love that Eun Ha’s confession is completed so naturally, whereas he’s carrying her on his again, due to her sprained ankle.
That she hasn’t been in a position to cease eager about him because the day he’d carried her on the hospital; that he doesn’t say a lot, and picks imply issues to say on goal, loses his mood typically, awkward with phrases and much more awkward with actions, has no thought what a girl needs – however she nonetheless likes him.
It’s hilarious that Ji Hwan’s in such shock that he actually drops Eun Ha proper then and there; I suppose he was all wrapped up in all of the not-so-positive issues that Eun Ha had been saying about him, that the affirmation that she nonetheless preferred him, despite all of it, was simply an excessive amount of for him. 🤭
I do love the thought, although, that Eun Ha may be very clear on all of his failings, however likes him anyway. That may be very accepting and beautiful. 🥰
And, I like simply as a lot, that Eun Ha doesn’t hesitate to take Ji Hwan’s face in her fingers and kiss him, now that she is aware of that he likes her. 💋
I discovered it totally hilarious that Ji Hwan would promptly virtually go out in response. 🤭
After which I discovered it very cute, the way in which Ji Hwan insists on taking her again on his again, however staggers sideways right here and there, as a result of he’s nonetheless dizzy from the kiss. 🤭
Probably the most priceless factor, although, is the truth that we see leaked smiles from each Eun Ha and Ji Hwan, as he carries her again right down to the lodge. I LOVE. 🥰🥰
After that, I used to be fairly entertained by all of Ji Hwan’s instincts to, 1, shield Eun Ha from different members of the male species getting too shut, and a couple of, exhibit his personal prowess on the barbecue.
I did really feel that Ji Hwan’s skittishness round Eun Ha was somewhat OTT, however the way in which he sighs that she’s simply too fairly, may be very candy. 🥲
E9-10. Ahaha – it seems like Ji Hwan simply lives catalyst to catalyst, on this relationship, as a result of the second he sees Hyun Woo strolling Eun Ha dwelling, he will get all antsy, and the second he sees Hyun Woo attain out to shake Eun Ha’s hand, Ji Hwan is, as soon as once more, galvanized into making a transfer.
..Which is how we now have Ji Hwan grabbing Eun Ha’s hand and yelling, “Child, let’s GOO!!”
After which, as he leads Eun Ha up the steps, he’s all”Let’s go, child! Oppa will make ramyun for you!”
HAHAHA. That is simply gold. GOLD, I inform ya! 😂😂😂
However then, as soon as they’re within the privateness of the backyard and now not in Hyun Woo’s line of sight, I like how Ji Hwan will get all quiet and severe, and, his gaze by no means leaving her as he places his fingers on her face, he leans in and kisses her. After which kisses her once more.
Eeee!!!! YESSS.
It took a variety of catalysts to push Ji Hwan into motion (it does take a village, on this case! 😁), however we’re lastly at a correct OTP kiss, and I’m lovingggg it. 🔥❤️🫠
E11-12. I discovered it fairly cute the way in which Eun Ha manages Ji Hwan’s peevish emotions, and guarantees that she’ll give him wayyyy longer solutions subsequent time. It appears like she’s pacifying somewhat child, and the thought of badass dorky Ji Hwan as somewhat child is the factor that form of amuses me. 😁
It’s too dangerous that the completely happy bubble of OTP togetherness takes a success, when Ji Hwan begins getting fearful about Eun Ha’s security, and tells her in that exasperated approach that she ought to stop her job, however received’t inform her why.
I don’t blame Eun Ha for getting upset, and conserving Ji Hwan at a distance for some time.
I’m glad, although, that this OTP has fairly wholesome communication dynamics, not less than for now.
I like that Eun Ha can inform that Ji Hwan needs to apologize, however doesn’t know the way to begin, and that she provides him the opening, by saying, “You wish to apologize, don’t you?”
It’s truthfully fairly cute that Ji Hwan’s ready that apple for his apology (as a result of in Korean, “apple” and “apology” are homonyms), and I like that it actually solely takes this a lot, to make Eun Ha crack a smile.
I additionally actually like Ji Hwan’s mild method as he articulates precisely why he’s sorry:
“I’m sorry. There was dangerous blood between us for a really very long time. He’s a harmful man. And out of my concern for you, I overreacted within the second.”
Isn’t it candy, the way in which Eun Ha wraps her arms round him, as she accepts his apology? I actually like the way in which Eun Ha doesn’t maintain grudges; I can simply really feel that she’s placing the incident behind them, with this apology. I like that quite a bit.
That mentioned, I do suppose that Eun Ha nonetheless must learn about what’s actually occurring with the mobster facet of issues, as a result of when she says that she’s not somebody that he wants to fret about or shield, that.. doesn’t ring true.
A minimum of, proper now, it does look like Eun Ha is likely to be in peril, if not from Go Yang Hui, then from Mobster Dad (Kim Roe Ha) himself. 😬
It is extremely cute, nonetheless, how Ji Hwan presents Eun Ha along with her personal studio for making movies for her new channel.
I do love the thought, and it’s even sweeter, that it was a gaggle effort, with all of the boys chipping in to make it occur. 🥰
(I did chuckle a bit indulgently on the double fall leading to an virtually embrace; it’s suuuper tropey, however I suppose this explicit OTP wants a little bit of assist in the type of narrative catalysts. 😁)
Yay for the virtually kiss on the sofa as nicely, however – dang it – the second is ruined by Il Yeong coming via the door. 🤨
Oh nicely. Possibly subsequent time, eh? 😅
E11-12. I really feel just like the temper was proper, for Ji Hwan to inform Eun Ha extra about his story.
For the report, I’m annoyed that he not noted the half about being Hyun Woo Oppa, however tremendous, no matter. I’m certain we’ll get there subsequent week – or so I hope. 😅
I do love how sweetly and gently supportive Eun Ha is, not simply within the second, however simply usually.
It’s no marvel Ji Hwan feels galvanized into motion – and we get a candy little OTP kiss, yesss. 🥰
[END SPOILER]
Kwon Yul as Hyun Woo
To be brutally trustworthy with you guys, I discovered myself feeling largely fairly ambivalent in the direction of Hyun Woo as a personality, via my watch.
And Kwon Yul was.. nicely, he was.. largely just like how I see him in nearly every other second male lead position I’ve seen him in? 😅
I’m sorry; I’m certain he’s performed far more than that, but it surely’s simply that he’s performed sufficient of a specific second-lead sort that my mind has recognized him with that, and he’s that, on this present too.
When it comes to his operate in our story, I largely noticed him as a plot system greater than anything.
On the upside, he was a plot system that I finally had extra optimistic emotions in the direction of, however.. he was nonetheless a plot system to me, nonetheless. 😅
[SPOILER ALERT]
What I imply is, this character’s total existence appears to be for 2 important issues:
1, to be a pink herring, as a result of the way in which Present positions him, it’s straightforward to imagine that he’s Eun Ha’s long-lost Oppa from her childhood, when he actually isn’t.
However Eun Ha can’t assist pondering that he simply is likely to be, particularly since he’s a prosecutor, and that had been Hyun Woo Oppa’s dream, as a toddler – and that, in flip, distracts her from entertaining the chance that Hyun Woo Oppa is likely to be another person.
2, to behave as an impediment to the event of our OTP relationship.
There’s the entire love triangle factor, in fact, however there’s additionally that different layer the place Hyun Woo has what appears like an unreasonable quantity of dislike for Ji Hwan, which, in fact, must be labored via.
Hyun Woo as a personality fulfilled his narrative goal, however I didn’t have any robust emotions for him, even after I acquired to the tip of our story.
[END SPOILER]
Il Yeong and Mi Ho
Present begins to tease a possible loveline between Il Yeong and Mi Ho (Kim Hyun Jin and Moon Ji In) from very early on in our story.
This in itself didn’t shock me, since Il Yeong and Mi Ho do make a cute couple, and Mi Ho does get stars in her eyes instantly, simply due to how good-looking Il Yeong is.
What did shock me, is the course that writer-nim selected to take, in growing this loveline.
All of it works out in the long run (because it completely ought to, given the fluffy nature of this story world), however I used to be somewhat bit thrown for some time there, not gonna lie. 😅
[SPOILER ALERT]
Primarily, I hadn’t been anticipating fireworks 🔥, and definitely not on the early episode 6 mark, however that’s precisely what we get, and I used to be truthfully somewhat bowled over by this, since Il Yeong and Mi Ho barely knew one another, at this level.
So what we get is an instantaneous launch into angstville with these two, with Mi Ho angsting in regards to the being pregnant on her personal, whereas Il Yeong angsts about how he’s not adequate for a pleasant woman like Mi Ho, because of his crime-related previous.
It’s not typical in a fluffy kdrama, that’s for certain, sure?
Nonetheless, on the upside, this does give rise to top-of-the-line humorous strains on this total present, when Man Ho (Lee Yoo Joon) finds the optimistic being pregnant take a look at, and concludes that somebody will need to have contracted COVID. PWAHAHA!!! 😂😂
I actually needed to pause the video; I used to be laughing so arduous and so lengthy over this. *wipes tear* 🥲
I’m glad, although, that Il Yeong figures it out, as soon as he sees the opposite boys holding the take a look at.
And I’m additionally glad that, regardless of just a few hiccups (and a few pointless, arc-prolonging obstacles), Il Yeong does handle to indicate Mi Ho that he completely can be up for settling down and beginning a household – if it’s along with her. 🥲
[END SPOILER]
The (ex-)mobster household 🥲
I simply love the setup of the home, the place all of Ji Hwan and his boys reside collectively, they usually every take turns to deal with chores like cooking and cleansing.
It provides me discovered household feels, and I like this for them, a lot. 🥰
In truth, one in every of my favourite bits on this present, have been all of the instances that we acquired to see the mobster family functioning like an actual household. 🥲
The group of them had been somewhat overwhelming at first, however over time, I naturally acquired a deal with on who was who, and their numerous quirks and idiosyncrasies.
And the extra I felt like I acquired to know them, the extra this mobster household endeared themselves to me.
[SPOILER ALERT]
One in all my greatest asks, whereas watching this present, was that Eun Ha would get to reside within the mobster home too, to present us Eun Ha and the seven (okay, six) mobsters kind of deal – AND SHOW DELIVERED. YESSS. 🥰
I liked watching Eun Ha settle into the family, as cutely incongruous because it was, to see dainty Eun Ha amid a bunch of burly ex-cons.
I used to be fairly obsessive about the thought of her probably turning into a everlasting member of this family, truthfully, and so I liked each trace or indication, that her place within the household was solidifying. 🥲
Which is why I like that little arc in episodes 9-10, when Eun Ha takes the boys purchasing for books, as a goodbye present of kinds, after which stands up for them, to these snooty highschool children.
I liked how the boys then got here to her rescue, in flip, from precisely those self same snooty children.
Aw. How improbable is that, sure?
This confirmed me that they’ve acquired each other’s backs, and I like that, a lot. So very homey and heat. 🥰🥰
[END SPOILER]
SPOTLIGHT ON THE PENULTIMATE EPISODES [SPOILERS]
E13-14. You understand, for a set of penultimate episodes, these really labored out to be fairly strong, for my part.
I undoubtedly loved these episodes greater than final week’s episodes, and that’s a step in the appropriate course, so far as I’m involved. 😁
Backing as much as the highest of episode 13, suspicious-looking man seems to be after Dong Hee, and never Eun Ha, in order that complete factor takes on a really completely different course than if Ji Hwan had needed to save Eun Ha from suspicious-looking man.
In truth, I do respect this arc, as a result of it places into focus an concept that’s been percolating inside our story world for fairly some time, and that’s:
Can we actually go away our previous behind? And likewise: Do folks deserve second possibilities, even after their wrongdoing has had deep long-lasting results on others?
That’s one thing that haunts not solely Dong Hee, however everybody in Thirsty Deer, Ji Hwan particularly.
I actually really feel touched by Ji Hwan eager to be that rock and shelter for his workers, and particularly for his boys.
The way in which he’s prepared to kneel down earlier than those that’ve been harm, and apologize, although the sentence for the crime itself has already been paid, says a lot, actually.
It reveals that he has a deep understanding for what crime can do to others, and an everlasting empathy for individuals who’ve been harm, and that actually endears him to me much more. 🥲
I assumed Dong Hee’s arc in these episodes was properly wrapped up, with that second of acceptance and closure, when his late girlfriend’s mother texts him to set him free from his guilt, and Dong Hee in flip replies that he’ll at all times keep in mind her and really feel sorry in the direction of her.
It’s one of the best consequence that we may ask for, given the circumstances, and I’m glad that Ji Hwan helped him to get there.
I assumed it was an fascinating however nonetheless related level to tie to Eun Ha’s guilt in the direction of Hyun Woo Oppa.
Whereas Eun Ha hadn’t dedicated against the law, her guilt in the direction of Hyun Woo Oppa, for getting him caught by the mobster dude (who was apparently Go Yang Hui), has continued to hang-out her through the years, and it’s one thing that she must work via, similar to Dong Hee must work via his personal guilt.
I actually like that she shares her expertise with Dong Hee, as a result of I at all times really feel that solidarity can achieve this a lot for us all. 🥰
And in that very same spirit, I very very similar to the concept that Eun Ha needs to share Ji Hwan’s burden too.
The way in which she takes him as much as that hilltop after which shouts his frustrations for him when he feels too self-conscious to do it himself, is admittedly cute.
I’m actually glad that Eun Ha lastly figures out that Ji Hwan is THE Hyun Woo Oppa whom she’s been trying to find all these years, coz so far as I’m involved, this identification factor has actually overstayed its welcome.
I might have been happier truthfully, if Present had performed the reveal two episodes in the past – not less than. 😅
However YAY that Eun Ha lastly discovered her Hyun Woo Oppa, and yay, too, for the reunion round that, as a result of I discovered that each one very candy and poignant.
The way in which Eun Ha cries and apologizes for not recognizing him sooner, is so candy, truthfully.
I’d been half afraid that Eun Ha may get upset with Ji Hwan for not telling her that he was Hyun Woo, and that Present would use that as a supply of narrative pressure, however I needn’t have fearful.
Our OTP will get via this reunion in a extremely candy method, and I’m glad that Ji Hwan tells her that he’d been afraid that she’d be upset to be taught that he was her Hyun Woo Oppa.
I’m additionally actually glad that Eun Ha tells him that she’s glad that he’s her Hyun Woo Oppa, as a result of each he and Hyun Woo Oppa had at all times been good folks, in her eyes. 🥲
That feels actually necessary for Ji Hwan to listen to, doesn’t it, particularly within the gentle of the theme of those episodes, about folks being outlined by their pasts? 🥲
Nonetheless, Ji Hwan’s sense of responsibility in the direction of his boys actually comes via in his tipsy discuss, the place he tells Eun Ha that he’s by no means considered getting married, and largely solely thinks about getting his boys all married.
I can see why this might miff Eun Ha, however I do take Ji Hwan’s phrases at face worth; it’s not that he doesn’t like her sufficient – he’s at all times seen it as his deepest responsibility in the direction of his boys, and subsequently by no means put thought right into a wedded future for himself.
I’m glad they make up over that cupcake although – after Present throws in a shirtless scene for Ji Hwan, simply coz. 🤭
I’m not tremendous certain in regards to the potential loveline that Present’s hinting at, between Hong Ki and Ye Na, however I did respect that second within the cafe, the place Hong Ki tries to say all these unflattering issues about Ji Hwan, in an try to assist Ye Na really feel higher about not courting him.
I preferred that it helped Ye Na to open up about her previous and the way she felt about it, and Ji Hwan, and that Hong Ki advised her what she probably didn’t even notice that she wanted to listen to – that she’s been via quite a bit, and has performed very well; that he’s pleased with her.
Aw. Despite myself, I assumed this was a candy and significant second. 🥲
Possibly a loveline between these two wouldn’t be such a foul thought in spite of everything, heh.
Over on our secondary OTP’s facet of issues, I’m more than happy that Il Yeong and Mi Ho lastly get their misunderstandings sorted out, as a result of they do make an lovely couple.
I’m glad that Il Yeong will get to inform Mi Ho that the explanation he needs to make a household now, is as a result of it’s along with her, and that he needs to do every part along with her, going ahead.
Aw. Schweet. 🥰
It’s somewhat foolish that Mi Ho’s mother and father (Lee Byung Joon and Yoon Jin Seong) instantly object to Il Yeong, after being so pro-Il Yeong previous to this, however I’m completely happy to roll with it, coz it naturally brings Ji Hwan into the image as a father determine of kinds, and likewise, all of it will get resolved fairly rapidly.
The important thing battle that I feel goes to be a driving power in our finale episodes, is Mobster Dad placing stress on Ji Hwan to affix him.
We already see the seeds of that being sown in these penultimate episodes, with Ji Hwan’s assembly with Mobster Dad.
Although Ji Hwan says that he belongs to Thirsty Deer and has no intention of rejoining his father, Mobster Dad doesn’t appear to wish to take no for a solution.
The way in which Mobster Dad marches into the Thirsty Deer boardroom with all his minions, is so, nicely, mobstery and mafia-esque.
Clearly, he’s purposely sabotaging Ji Hwan, as a way to power his hand; like, if everybody quits Thirty Deer, Ji Hwan would have nowhere else to go however again to Dad’s gang – or not less than, that appears to be Mobster Dad’s angle.
Within the meantime, as we shut out episode 14, Hyun Woo sustains a bloody head harm whereas making an attempt to guard Eun Ha from Go Yang Hui and his males, and this appears like only one other thing that may weigh on Ji Hwan’s thoughts.
I’m fairly certain Ji Hwan received’t really find yourself turning into a mobster once more, however.. let’s see how Present solves this dilemma, whereas taking us to the end line. 🤞🏻
THOUGHTS ON THE ENDING [SPOILERS]
E15-16. Now that I’ve gotten to the tip of this little present, I’m instantly hit with a way of empathy; like, now I actually perceive why so lots of you guys have been feeling so wistful about saying goodbye to our candy mobster, his candy little mouse, and their little assortment of dorky thirsty deer. 🥲
What makes all of it higher, although, is the truth that I feel Present caught the touchdown, and really nicely, at that. (I inexplicably really feel like a proud mom hen. 🥲)
I feel one of many issues that I respect essentially the most about this finale, is that the ultimate angst and battle is smart inside our story, ie, it doesn’t really feel manufactured or shoe-horned in on the final minute.
We’ve at all times recognized that Mobster Dad was an issue that Ji Hwan had solely quickly solved, when he’d put Mobster Dad in jail, and I’m certain all of us knew that Mobster Dad would develop into a difficulty for Ji Hwan once more, upon his launch from jail.
I discovered it straightforward to consider that Mobster Dad would search for any and all methods to place stress on Ji Hwan to return again to the gang and be Mobster Dad’s successor, and it made whole sense to me that Eun Ha can be Ji Hwan’s achilles heel, regardless of who was after him.
Sure, we do get the dreaded penultimate separation between the OTP, however on this case, I respect that it’s not noble idiocy.
Ji Hwan selecting to maintain Eun Ha at a distance solely feels just like the sensible factor to do, on condition that Eun Ha’s a straightforward goal for anybody eager to get at Ji Hwan.
Importantly, he doesn’t misinform her, nor disappear on her.
And additionally very importantly, in that second when he removes her hand from his arm, which is essentially the most overt “pushing her away” factor that he does, he does so very gently, so she understands that he’s pushing her away, not as a result of he dislikes her.
ALSO. He doesn’t really give in to Mobster Dad’s calls for, which I’d been half afraid that he would do if pushed right into a nook, if solely to guard Eun Ha.
I’m SO relieved, truthfully, that Ji Hwan continues to carry on to his rules, and his dream to reside a standard life, even when stress mounts, and it seems like every part is on the verge of falling aside.
And, it feels poetically apt, that in the long run, the explanation he will get launched from his father’s grasp, is due to his good, noble internal core.
It was arduous to observe Ji Hwan get so crushed up, when he went to that warehouse making an attempt to pay money for Mobster Dad’s slush fund ledgers, but it surely made sense that he would permit himself to be crushed, in a bid to guard Jae Soo, who was being held hostage.
Jae Soo’s muffled screams each time Ji Hwan acquired hit, actually amped up my very own desperation, as a result of I actually couldn’t bear to see Ji Hwan getting crushed up. 😭🙈
It made sense to me that Ko Yang Hui can be so offended about Mobster Dad being so dismissive of his loyalty through the years, that he’d consider stabbing him.
Although a part of me form of wished Ko Yang Hui to achieve success at stabbing Mobster Dad, it made sense to me, that Ji Hwan’s noble internal core, would trigger him to make that split-second determination to protect Mobster Dad together with his personal physique.
And once more, it’s Ji Hwan’s noble intention – to have Hyun Woo arrest him for breaking and coming into – that finally ends up guaranteeing that Ji Hwan will get speedy medical consideration – and that the mobsters are all arrested, and the ledgers, collected as proof.
I actually like this concept, that although issues didn’t go in any respect in line with Ji Hwan’s plan, that it was his good internal core that prevailed, and ended up saving him, and turning the scenario round.
Present had me on tenterhooks for some time, questioning if Ji Hwan was going to remain in a coma till our closing minutes, however fortunately, Ji Hwan wakes up from his coma fairly rapidly – thanks partially to Jae Soo clumsily making an attempt to pluck out the grays from Ji Hwan’s head of black hair, ha. 😆
I truthfully kinda liked that, as a result of that successfully introduced us again into feel-good, goofy territory in our story, which I appreciated very a lot.
And, although Mobster Dad is extraordinarily gruff in telling Ji Hwan that Ji Hwan will henceforth not be his son, I’m satisfied that this was Mobster Dad’s approach of setting Ji Hwan free to reside the life that he needs. 🥲
Afterwards, it is smart that everybody sinks again into life as they knew it, however fortunately, earlier than lengthy, we get that fast time skip to after Il Yeong’s and Mi Ho’s child is born, and Ji Hwan begins getting all these nesting ideas each time he seems at Eun Ha.
Aw. Sure please, it’s about dang time. 😁
Truthfully, when Ji Hwan was simply following his intestine, nearly to inform Eun Ha that he wished to marry her, and Il Yeong stopped him, saying that he couldn’t do it empty-handed, I kinda wished to smack Il Yeong, for sticking a spanner within the works and inflicting what I felt was an pointless delay.
I’m very certain that it wouldn’t have mattered to Eun Ha whether or not Ji Hwan proposed with a hoop or not; to her, it was at all times extra necessary that he wished to marry her, proper?
In the long run, although, I do actually just like the proposal that Ji Hwan finally comes up with (after angsting about it for dayyyys).
It feels fairly good, that he suggest within the backyard the place they’d first buried their time capsule, and that he’d use the time capsule container, as a key level in his proposal.
I like how heartfelt and earnest his phrases are, as he expresses his need to be a greater particular person, and to be her subscriber for all times, and like her for all times, and would she give her permission for him to try this.
Soften. That’s so good. Meltmeltmelt. 🫠🫠🫠
It’s simply bonus, that as Ji Hwan and Eun Ha seal it with a candy kiss, the mobster boys begin crying tears of happiness within the background, the place they’re watching from the balcony, and set of little bursts of confetti. 🥲
I might have been completely content material to have left our story proper there, however Present provides us somewhat further, by exhibiting us that, 1, the boys don’t even have to maneuver out as a result of Ji Hwan and Eun Ha are getting married, and a couple of, they’re really making appearances with Eun Ha now, and it’s all going swmmingly.
Aw. That could be a candy epilogue-esque kind of be aware.
I simply love the thought of Ji Hwan and Eun Ha persevering with to maintain the boys with them, and all of them being one huge, boisterous, completely happy household.
It’s every part I wished, from the second Eun Ha moved into the mobster mansion, and the truth that I really get this, as we shut out our story, makes me very content material certainly. 🥰🥲
THE FINAL VERDICT:
Candy and foolish, with a number of coronary heart. Healthful, zippy enjoyable. 🥰
FINAL GRADE: B++
TRAILER:
MV:
PATREON UPDATE!
The following drama I’m overlaying on Patreon, instead of My Candy Mobster, is Serendipity’s Embrace [Korea].
You’ll be able to try my episode 1-2 notes on Serendipity’s Embrace on Patreon right here.
Right here’s an summary of what I’m overlaying on Patreon proper now (Tier advantages are cumulative)!
Basis Tier (US$1): Leisure Drop (Sundays) + the primary set notes of all reveals coated on Patreon (that’s 2 episodes for kdramas and 4 episodes for cdramas)
Early Entry (US$5): +Serendipity’s Embrace [Korea]
Early Entry Plus (US$10): +The Story of Rose [China]
VIP (US$15): +Miss Night time and Day [Korea]
VVIP (US$20): +The Princess Royal [China]
Final (US$25): +No Means Out: The Roulette [Korea]
In the event you’d like to affix me on the journey, yow will discover my Patreon web page right here. You too can learn extra about all of the whats, whys, and hows of serving to this weblog right here. Thanks for your entire help, it actually means quite a bit to me. ❤️
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