Mystic Pop-up Bar

Mystic Pop-up Bar is a standout series of 2020, presented by the premier South Korean network, jTBC. The show interlaces elements of fantasy, mystery, and comedic drama with thought-provoking insights into human nature. Filled with engaging character dynamics, intricate storytelling, heartwarming humour, and visually arresting aesthetics, this series takes the viewers on a turbulent ride of emotions.

The series is based on Bae Hye-soo's webcomic series of the same name, which was published by Daum Webtoon. Having its roots in a popular webcomic gives the show an edge in its innovative storytelling, striking artwork, and illustrative style that all comes to life on the screen. A touch of supernatural elements, interwoven with realistic portrayals of everyday life, lends an extraordinary charm to Mystic Pop-up Bar.

The story’s main character is Weol-ju, who runs a pop-up bar that magically appears at different places around the city. However, the Mystic Pop-up Bar isn't your typical nocturnal retreat. Weol-ju, who is portrayed primarily as a gruff yet endearing figure by Hwang Jung-eum, gives new meaning to the phrase “bartender therapist.” Instead of simply listening to the woes of her patrons, she penetrates into the soul of those who indulge in her drinks, providing an extraordinarily cathartic experience. Her goal is to appease their innermost turmoil and heal their poignant scars.

Alongside Weol-ju is the macho but tender-hearted Gwi, brilliantly enacted by Choi Won-young, a tough exterior watchman, who protects the bar and its customers with all his might. Then there’s the charismatic Han Kang-bae, a character brought to life by Yook Sung-jae, who has a mysterious power that compels anyone he touches to pour out their deepest secrets. He becomes inadvertently associated with the Mystic Pop-up Bar, further adding layers to the show's complexity and bringing unpredictable twists to the narrative.

A seemingly simple plot unfolds over its 12-episode journey into an intricate tale of emotions and character development. The unique aspect of Mystic Pop-up Bar is the stories within a story. Each episode introduces new characters, each with their own backstories and current dilemmas, adding authenticity and depth to the main storyline. Through the interactions with these characters, the protagonists’ own stories are uncovered and their personalities further developed.

The audience is drawn deeper into the series through flashbacks that reveal a heart-rending past, secrets, and the reasons behind characters' present-day behaviour. With these elements, the creators achieve a delicate balance of enthralling audiences with addictive mystery while addressing profound themes of various social, personal, and emotional issues.

The blithe humour that the series incorporates throughout its poignant narrative brings pleasant relief, making the experience even more enthralling. Amidst gripping supernatural nuances and intense emotional expressions, the humorous moments offer a distinct charm and lightness to the progression.

The breathtaking cinematography and aesthetic portrayal of sets add an extra layer of charm to the series. From the lively, rustic charm of the pop-up bar to the ethereal, luminous nightscapes of the city, each scene is framed with precise detailing and artistic appeal, making the viewing experience aesthetically pleasing.

The versatile acting performances by a terrific ensemble cast are another highlight. Hwang Jung-eum's powerful depiction of Weol-ju impresses, while Yook Sung-jae's charming portrayal of Kang-bae leaves a lasting impact. The on-point comic timing, coupled with the intense emotional dialogues delivered by Choi Won-young as Gwi, strikes the right chord with the audience.

Enriched with a beautiful OST that complements each scene and storyline perfectly, the music serves in elevating the emotive quotient of the series. The poignant background score to the intense scenes, along with the lively tracks that play during the lighter moments, all contribute to making the series an all-engaging watch.

The charm of Mystic Pop-up Bar lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate the fantastical with very genuine human experiences and dilemmas. Caught between a vivid fantasy and multidimensional characters, viewers are led to immerse themselves in an unconventional narrative about empathy and healing. Despite the supernatural elements, the core of the series is firmly rooted in the real, human world, making Mystic Pop-up Bar a captivating ride set across a strikingly mystical and yet poignantly real canvas.