6.3 / 10 (based on 1454 reviews)
The series is story of love and break ups in the romantic world. It illustrates the present scenario in the context of fashion industry
Genre: Drama, Romance
Main Cast: Song Hye-Kyo, Jang Ki-Yong, Hee-Seo Choi, Kim Joo-Heon
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1 season, 16 episodes, 60-minute runtime
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In the world of television, where romantic comedies often tread familiar ground, “Jigeum, Heeojineun Jungibnida” (English title: “Now, We Are Breaking Up”) offers a refreshing perspective on love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. This South Korean drama, which aired in 2021, has garnered attention not just for its star-studded cast but for its nuanced portrayal of adult relationships. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this show stand out.
The Premise
At its core, “Now, We Are Breaking Up” is a story about love and breakups, set against the backdrop of the fashion industry. The show follows Ha Young-eun, a talented and ambitious fashion designer, and Yoon Jae-guk, a wealthy and charming freelance photographer. As their paths cross, they navigate the ups and downs of a relationship marked by both passionate love and painful breakups.
The Cast
The series is led by Song Hye-kyo, who plays Ha Young-eun, and Jang Ki-yong as Yoon Jae-guk. Song Hye-kyo, known for her roles in “Descendants of the Sun” and “Autumn in My Heart,” brings depth and complexity to the character of Young-eun, a woman who is fiercely independent yet vulnerable. Jang Ki-yong, with his charismatic presence, perfectly captures the charm and emotional turmoil of Jae-guk. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their love story all the more compelling.
Supporting them is a talented ensemble cast, including Kim Joo-hun as Seok Do-hoon, Young-eun’s close friend and colleague, and Choi Hee-seo as Hwang Chi-sook, a childhood friend of Young-eun and a key player in the fashion industry. Each character adds a layer to the story, making the world of “Now, We Are Breaking Up” rich and immersive.
Themes and Narratives
What sets “Now, We Are Breaking Up” apart is its mature approach to relationships. The show doesn’t shy away from the complexities of love, exploring themes such as the pain of breakups, the fear of commitment, and the struggle to balance personal ambitions with romantic desires. It’s a narrative that resonates with many, offering a more realistic look at love than the idealized versions often portrayed in media.
The setting in the fashion industry adds another dimension to the show, highlighting themes of creativity, competition, and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a world where passion meets practicality, mirroring the central love story.
The Visuals
Visually, “Now, We Are Breaking Up” is a feast for the eyes. The fashion industry setting allows for a showcase of stunning outfits and design, making each episode feel like a walk through a high-end fashion magazine. The cinematography, with its careful attention to color and lighting, enhances the emotional depth of the story, making the highs feel exhilarating and the lows, heartbreakingly beautiful.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “Now, We Are Breaking Up” received mixed reviews. Critics praised the performances of the lead actors and the show’s aesthetic qualities but had reservations about the pacing and some plot developments. However, viewers were drawn to the emotional authenticity of the story and the characters, with many finding it a refreshing departure from more formulaic romantic dramas.
The show sparked discussions about the portrayal of relationships in media, with its unflinching look at the messiness of love and the reality that not all relationships have a happy ending. It’s a reminder that sometimes, love is not enough to overcome personal differences and life circumstances.
Why Watch “Now, We Are Breaking Up”?
So, why should you consider adding “Now, We Are Breaking Up” to your watchlist? Here are a few reasons:
- The Acting: Song Hye-kyo and Jang Ki-yong deliver powerful performances, bringing their complex characters to life with nuance and depth.
- The Story: It’s a mature, thoughtful exploration of love and relationships, offering a more realistic portrayal than many of its contemporaries.
- The Aesthetics: From the fashion to the cinematography, the show is visually stunning, making it a pleasure to watch.
- The Themes: It tackles themes that are both universal and deeply personal, prompting viewers to reflect on their own experiences with love and loss.
Conclusion
“Jigeum, Heeojineun Jungibnida” (“Now, We Are Breaking Up”) stands out in the crowded field of romantic dramas for its mature storytelling, compelling performances, and beautiful visuals. It’s a show that doesn’t just entertain but also invites viewers to think deeply about the nature of love and relationships. Whether you’re a fan of Korean dramas or simply looking for a nuanced love story, “Now, We Are Breaking Up” offers a unique and rewarding viewing experience.