Melo Movie review: Choi woo-shik, Park Bo-young's K-drama is a slow but heartwarming tale of life, love and dreams

4/5

Melo Movie story: The lives of aspiring filmmaker Mubee and movie buff-turned-critic Gyeom are intertwined with cinema. The Netflix drama follows their journeys as they traverse the path of love and emotional turmoil while following their dreams. 

Melo Movie review: The best thing about Netflix’s latest K-Drama Melo Movie, which features Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young, is its warm approach to cinema – making it a rather cozy watch for Valentine’s weekend. Directed by Oh Choong-hwan, the 10-episode series offer a refreshing take to the usual romantic tropes associated with K-Drama.  

The protagonists – aspiring filmmaker Mubee (Bo-young) and movie ethusiast Gyeom (Woo-shik) – lead lives that are on the opposite ends of the spectrum, and the series begins with the childhood versions of the lead characters. While Gyoem is immersed in the fictional world and voraciously consumes movies, the other despises movies because of her workaholic father, who was so enamoured with the world of cinema that he even named his daughter Mubee.  

Melo Movie offers a well-crafted plot with a solid backstory and performances. Woo-shik shines in the role of a charismatic and optimistic movie buff. Writer Lee Na-eun, who previously teamed with the actor for Our Beloved Summer, helps his character navigate through similar themes of love and aspirations. The makers have also meticulously showcased the world of cinema, fictional characters and how its narratives influence viewers to escape reality.  

Also Read: Melo Movie teaser: Choi Woo-shik swoons you in with his usual will he-won't he charm | Watch

Though the K-Drama follows both the protagonists, Woo-shik's performance outshines Bo-young's. This is primarly because even when the dialogues are quirky or emotional, he smoothly transitions into the skin of his character, making the viewers easily connect to him. Parasyte: The Grey fame Jeon So-nee and The Impossible Heir's Lee Jun-young also make an impact with their bittersweet love story as the second lead couple.  

Another positive about this K-drama is how it breaks free of stereotypical love stories where each couple have a happy ending. Melo Movie connects deeper at an emotional level because of its ability to mirror the realities of life. It beautifully weaves a tale of love and heartbreak. Whether it is the father and daughter's strained relationship or that of ex-lovers, each relationship has their robust backstory that keeps you hooked.  

Despite the great performances and plot, there are some instances where you feel that the storytelling is stretched. Melo Movie would have served better if it concluded by seven episodes. With each episode running nearly an hour, it does feel lengthy if you are planning to binge-watch it.  

Also Read: Melo Movie: Release date, OTT platform, plot, and more about Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young's rom-com K-drama

Melo Movie verdict: Choi Woo-shik and Park Bo-young's Netflix K-Drama, Melo Movie, is a slow romantic drama that touches upon the harsh realities of life with its tender narrative. Packed with emotions and powerful cast performances, this one makes up a compelling watch for the season of love.