"Dream To You" is the most recent romantic-comedy series by ENA and it has shown promise as a debut with its nostalgia-filled coming-of-age tale, moving performances, and an emotionally charged narrative. Dream To You follows the love story between an aspiring filmmaker Ju Yi Jae, played by Hyeri, and Woo Soo Bin, a reserved man portrayed by Hwang In Youp. Even though the premiere offers many tear-jerking scenes, there is still some room for improvement here and there. Here are three things we love and two things we don't about the debut episode of the show.
1. Loved: The Beautiful Slice-of-Life Atmosphere
Perhaps one of the greatest features of Dream to You is the slice-of-life nature of the story. In the quaint coastal town setting, the drama is able to capture the essence of youthful innocence through simple dialogue, school scenes, and everyday situations. It's easy to get attached to the characters thanks to the beautiful cinematography, soothing setting, and slow pace of the show. The drama does not immediately dive into romantic moments but rather takes its time in building up relationships.
2. Loved: Hyeri and Hwang In Youp's Natural Chemistry
The chemistry between Hyeri and Hwang In Youp is very real right from the start as both of them portray characters who could not be more unlike one another. The sunny and optimistic Ju Yi Jae complements the disciplined Woo Soo Bin's personality in perfect contrast and gives rise to a bond that seems natural rather than artificial. The playful banter between the two and their developing friendship add the emotional element in the episode.
3. Loved: A Story About Dreams and Reality
Apart from the romantic plot, Dream to You is all about how dreams tend to alter with age. It successfully shows the disparity between the dreams that one wishes to achieve when young and the reality of being an adult. This theme adds to the relatability of the show for those who can relate to the struggle of fulfilling dreams despite all odds.
1. Didn't Love: The Slow Start
While the slow pace is appropriate for the type of show it is, the early episodes might go at a slightly slower pace than what is expected. This may bore some viewers who expect a fast-paced romantic comedy. The emotional reward is worth waiting for, though.
2. Didn't Love: Limited Supporting Character Development
Though the two leads certainly get their fair share of attention, the other characters do not get nearly enough development in the pilot episode. Most of these characters only get introducedBold, and none really make an impact on the whole storyline. It would be interesting for these characters to gain more development later on as the show goes on.
Final Take
Dream to You’s debut does a good job of integrating the elements of nostalgia, romance, and heart-tugging stories into its moving coming-of-age narrative. Hyeri and Hwang In Youp have excellent onscreen chemistry together, while the soothing slice-of-life setting instantly makes the show appealing. Despite some slow moments and underdeveloped supporting characters, the first few episodes lay down a solid groundwork for what could be one of this year’s most remarkable romantic K-drama.