If You Wish Upon Me

If You Wish Upon Me is a South Korean television series that aired on KBS2 from 2022, delivering a poignant and introspective drama that intertwines themes of life, death, and the healing power of wish fulfillment. Directed by Kim Yong-wan and written by Jo Ryung-soo, the series draws inspiration from actual events and a real-life foundation that grants wishes to terminal cancer patients. Through its storytelling, the show evokes empathy and introspection, beckoning viewers to reflect on the meaning and impact of final wishes.

The show's core narrative follows the troubled life of Yoon Gyeo-ree, a character who has had a challenging life laden with misfortunes and hardships. Hopping from one orphanage to another and with a queered experience from detention centers, Gyeo-ree emerges with a hardened exterior and a cynical view of the world. His life is one that has seen little in the way of kindness or hope, leading him to develop a rough and tough demeanor to survive the harsh reality he's been dealt. He carries with him a lifetime of pain and grief, which he conceals beneath an unapproachable facade.

By a twist of fate, Gyeo-ree's path takes an unexpected turn when he ends up volunteering at a hospice. The hospice is not your run-of-the-mill facility; it operates a special program called "Team Genie," dedicated to fulfilling the last wishes of its terminally ill patients. The members of Team Genie—each with their distinct personalities and backstories—work tirelessly to bring joy and comfort in the patients' final days, demonstrating resilience, compassion, and the human spirit. It's here that Gyeo-ree meets Kang Tae-sik, a man who becomes a mentor-figure, showing him the ropes and instilling in him the program's values.

As Gyeo-ree starts getting involved in the lives of the patients and working alongside the hospice staff, his icy veneer begins to crack, revealing a man capable of empathy and kindness. He is joined by Seo Yoon-gyu, a nurse who works at the hospice with a warm heart and strong convictions. Her presence becomes a significant influence in Gyeo-ree's life, offering a counterbalance to his rougher edges and joining him on his journey of self-discovery and emotional growth.

The show proceeds to weave a tapestry of human emotions and compelling stories as Gyeo-ree interacts with the dying patients, each with a unique wish, a distinct personality, and their own tale to tell. These interactions offer a deep dive into the various aspects of human life, sparking questions about happiness, regret, love, forgiveness, and the legacy one leaves behind. As the team works together to grant these wishes, they confront their own inner turmoil and, in the process, forge deep bonds and personal growth.

If You Wish Upon Me adeptly handles the sensitive subject matter of terminal illness with grace and care, avoiding melodramatic excess in favor of genuine human moments that resonate with authenticity. It's a testament to the series' commitment to respectfully and thoughtfully portraying the end-of-life journey. The audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster, one that tugs at the heartstrings while simultaneously inspiring and uplifting.

The narrative is not solely fixated on the grim aspects of life; it balances its heavier themes with moments of levity, joy, and the celebration of life's small victories. The show does not shy away from evoking laughter amidst tears, proving that, even in the face of death, there is room for happiness and the making of cherished memories.

In weaving a tapestry of stories that spans life's emotional spectrum, If You Wish Upon Me is a tender exploration of the impact a single fulfilled wish can have—not only on the recipients but also on those who devote their lives to making these wishes come true. It raises poignant questions about the nature of altruism, the meaning of life, and the ripple effects of kindness.

The brilliance of If You Wish Upon Me lies not only in its narrative but also in its stellar ensemble cast, who bring the layered characters to life with performances that are both nuanced and powerful. The artful direction and thoughtful writing make the characters' journeys feel real and deeply affecting.

Visually, the show leverages its cinematography to reflect the overarching themes, employing a color palette that is both somber and vibrant, mirroring the duality of life and death at the heart of the series. The musical score further underscores the emotions of each scene, with a soundtrack that is as touching as the story it envelops.

By the end of If You Wish Upon Me, viewers are left with more than just a compelling drama; they are gifted with reminders about the inherent beauty of life, the significance of human connections, and the transformative power of kindness. This series stands as a touching tribute to life's final chapter and to the heartfelt wishes that bring light to the darkest times.