How often do we get characters so relatable that we feel like they are in our world and vice versa? Reply Trilogy, the critically acclaimed K-drama franchise is exactly that. Here, we find characters and stories so rooted to Korean culture, yet undeniably universal. This is a review of the best of Reply trilogy which is Reply 1988.
The Reply Trilogy
The three series in this trilogy are Reply 1997, Reply 1994 and Reply 1988. This is the actual order of the installments, contrary to what one might think. The order does not matter in terms of storyline since this is an anthology. If you do not want to miss out on some references and guest appearances, it is better to watch in the original order of release. Reply 1988, the last one in the anthology, is undoubtedly the best of the three and the longest too.
The Creators and the Korean Culture
Written by Lee Woo jung and directed by Shin Won ho and Yoo Hak chan, Reply Trilogy is probably the best in the K-drama scene. You can actually see how the creators have improved their craft as you move from the first to the third of the anthology.
Moreover, the anthology is a text book for Korean pop culture since it is so culturally rooted. It gives you chills of nostalgia even if you are not a Korean. Although the three series have different storylines, the heart of the anthology is essentially the same. It is a magnificent cultural universe that drags you in and compels you to stay.
The makers obviously have a keen interest in showing Korean culture authentically, in their works. You might want to check out their other brilliant works like Hospital Playlist and Prison Playbook
Reply 1988
The last installment in the Reply Trilogy, Reply 1988, was released in 2015. Reply 1988 is all about love, friendship, relationships, family and dreams. It is mainly about five friends who grow up together in Ssangmundong neighborhood in Seoul.
The setting is the charm of Reply Trilogy. All the series are set in provincial towns of South Korea or are about people from small towns who follow their passions to come and live in Seoul. The local lingo adds beauty and makes it real and raw.
The Writing
The highlight of Reply 1988 is its screenplay. It is very tightly written with long exchanges between characters. It includes drama, comedy, romance and nostalgia in accurate proportions. There is a scene where the characters decide to build a snowman for the youngest kid in the neighborhood. The scene is both hilarious and heartwarming. Reply 1988 is filled with such moments which does not end up just being a comedy or drama. It has got the flavors to move you. The writing is simply brilliant.
The Cast of Reply 1988
Another applaudable factor is the cast. Even though the story is about five friends, it is essentially an ensemble which includes the supporting cast. Every character has lots of possibilities and purpose. Even the little girl who plays the character Jin joo is unforgettable.
Talking about the supporting cast of the entire Reply anthology, one can not avoid the actors who play the role of the parents of the heroine. Sung Dong and Lee Hwa plays their roles with natural chemistry of a married couple in all the three installments.
Sung Dong, the veteran Korean actor is probably one of the best performers in the whole world. His comic timing, emotional deliveries and natural ease can be a guide to aspiring actors.
Park Bo gum is phenomenal as the introverted baduk player Choi Taek. Ryu Joon Yeol plays Kim Jung Hwan. The actor displays the feelings of first love and the pain of unrequited love with a vulnerability that no one can match. He is perfection.
Among the main cast, the best performance has to be of Hye-ri who is absolutely charming as the innocent and kind Doek sun. She is impeccable as she brings the internal pain and struggle of Doek sun who is the middle child of the family. She is innocent and confused and often misunderstands love. Yet she has a maturity in character which the other characters lack. No one can replace Hye ri as Doek sun.
Ryu Hye-young plays the temperamental Bo ra who is feared by everyone. Her character is flawed yet relatable. The actress nails the character. Go Kyung po is charming as Sung sun woo. Kim Sung kyun who plays Jung Hwan’s father is delightful to watch. He would surprise you if you watch the Reply anthology in the right order.
The anthology is also a guide to Korean pop culture. You learn everything about Korean culture right from music to sports if you watch the entire anthology. Music makes the drama even more soulful. My favorite in the OST of Reply 1988 is the reprised version of “Don’t Worry, Dear” by Lee-juck (original by Jeon In-kwon). The song is the essence of the drama.
Production design and costumes are commendable. The drama shows at least a decade long journey of the characters. As the story of the characters progress, we see South Korea progressing into a whole new nation. The outskirts of the Seoul of the 80s and 90s are perfectly recreated. The costume design which is very important for a series like this is also commendable.
Read more about Reply 1988 herehttps://mydramalist.com/13544-reply-1988
In conclusion, Reply 1988 is a well executed K-Drama which is unlike any other K-dramas. It is definitely a must watch piece of art, created with love and kindness. It is really just brilliant.
Arya is a curious soul and nerd who loves books and cinema. You can read her articles on Medium. You can also follow her on Instagram where she talks about her favourite books and movies.