Reflection of You

"Reflection of You," a South Korean television drama aired by JTBC in 2021, is a vivid portrayal of a charismatic woman's descent into obsession. The series features compelling performances by two exceptional actresses, Go Hyeon-jeong and Shin Hyun-been, who bring to life a story of ambition, art, love, and life’s complexities.

The show revolves around the life of Hee-joo (played by Go Hyeon-jeong), a charismatic and successful woman who is admired for her achievements in various spheres of life. She is an esteemed painter, a flourishing business woman, a nurturing mother, and a devoted wife whose life appears to be perfect from an outside perspective. However, her picture-perfect life begins to unravel when she gets reacquainted with an old friend from her past, Yeon-woo (essayed by Shin Hyun-been). A series of dramatic events ensue, putting the characters through a test of loyalties, igniting insecurities, and exposing jealousies.

"Reflection of You," at its core, deliberates on the concept of identity and reflection. It targets the underlying theme of introspection, questioning the notion of our private and public persona. Through the intricacies of its characters, it prompts the audience to reflect on their own identities in the face of societal expectations. Do we dissect our authenticity at the altar of societal norms? Are we what we project to the world, or is there a hidden layer beneath? The drama is a mirror that reflects the range and depth of human emotions, including desire, ambition, friendship, and the forces that shape our identities.

Go Hyeon-jeong, previous winner of the Grand Prize at the 46th Baeksang Arts Awards, doesn't disappoint with her performance in "Reflection of You." Her portrayal of Hee-joo is deeply layered - her character's charisma, strength, vulnerability, and complexity are all depicted in nuanced detail. Her earnest presentation of a seemingly perfect woman under the societal gaze blurs the lines between reality and facade, providing the audience with a powerful performance to watch.

Complementing and contrasting to Go’s Hee-joo is Shin Hyun-been's character, Yeon-woo. Hyeon-been, a rising star in the Korean entertainment industry, impresses with her portrayal of Yeon-woo's inspired innocence and conflicted emotions. Yeon-woo, magnetically attractive yet subtly mellow, is a stark contrast to Hee-joo's more assertive personality. The dynamics between these two central characters provide the show with a riveting tension that keeps the audience hooked.

Apart from the stirring performances of the lead actresses, the drama also includes noteworthy performances by Kim Jae-wook, who plays Hee-joo's husband, and Park Ji-yeon, who essays the character of Hee-joo's aspiring protege. Their intricate involvement in the lives of Hee-joo and Yeon-woo adds further depth to the narrative and complicates the relationships in the show.

The cinematography of this television drama deserves special mention. The artful camera work and aesthetic shots are a visual delight that underlines the artistic themes of the show. Its screenplay asserts a gripping plot, and the dialogue delivery provides emotionally charged moments throughout. Despite its drama-focused narrative, the show manages to weave in light-hearted scenes that beautifully balance out the intense plotlines, leaving the audience with a myriad of emotions to experience.

In addition, the music of "Reflection of You" matches the intensity and tone of the drama. The emotional score and soulful songs elevate the atmosphere of key scenes, engaging viewers on a deeper level.

Whether you are an aficionado of Korean dramas or new to the genre, "Reflection of You" is a fascinating watch. It engages viewers in its storytelling, compels them to ponder over the powerful performances, and leaves them in awe of the sincerity and depth of its characters. It is a drama that isn't afraid to question norms and expectations, makes a lasting impression with its emotional depth, and above all, makes you reflect – on your life, your choices, and your own reflection. This show is definitely one to add to your must-watch list.