Something in the Rain

Something in the Rain, which was first aired in 2018, is a South Korean romantic drama television series that has captured the hearts of many viewers worldwide. It successfully weaves a narrative that reflects themes of societal conventions, love, friendship, and personal growth through its intriguing and relatable characters. Also known as 'Pretty Noona Who Buys Me Food,' it offers a refreshing perspective to the classic romantic storytelling. This series is populated by authentic characters whose stories are told with raw realness, pulling the audience into their complex yet captivating world.

The central narrative revolves around Yoon Jin-Ah (played by the award-winning actress Son Ye-jin) and Seo Joon-Hee (portrayed by actor Jung Hae-in). Jin-Ah, in her mid-30s, is single and leads a humdrum life as a store supervisor of a coffeehouse franchise. She struggles with the societal pressure to marry while becoming increasingly dissatisfied and unhappy with her routine life. Enter Joon-Hee, her brother's best friend and a game designer who has recently returned from working abroad.

Their quaint relationship takes a new turn when Joon-Hee returns after his job assignment overseas, bringing with him a fresh perspective that starts pulling back the layers of their friendship. The two friends discover an unexpected attraction to each other, igniting a passionate romance subtly masked behind their familial relationship. Joon-Hee's character is written as a youthful, cheerful, and affectionate man, contrasting Jin-Ah's character who is more melancholic and facing adulthood challenges. This contrast contributes to the show's appeal, offering a balance between their personalities and setting the stage for a romantic union.

Something in the Rain often addresses societal barriers like age differences and societal expectations rather eloquently. The couple, despite their genuine affection for each other, faces societal disapproval due to Jin-Ah being a couple of years older than Joon-Hee and their initial relationship as friends.

Moreover, the series also delves into the intricate nuances of workplace politics, hardships, and harassment faced by women. The strong female characters, their struggles against patriarchal norms, and their resilience to stand to injustice are some of the significant aspects of this series that differentiate it from other typical romance dramas. The plot's deliberate tempo allows the audience to empathize with the characters and experience the emotional depth of their story arcs.

Executed beautifully, the charm of this series lies in the chemistry between the lead actors and the slow-paced narrative that gives ample time to the development of individual characters and their relationships. Their interactions are woven naturally, their banter infused with humor and their dialogues layered with meaning. It explores the complexity of emotions and human relationships while maintaining a compelling balance of drama and reality.

The series is further enriched by the evocative cinematography and emotive music that perfectly align with the storyline. The picturesque settings and visual aesthetics elevate the narrative's impact and intensely express the feelings of the characters. The gradual transformation of Jin-Ah and Joon-Hee's relationship from friends to lovers is filmed with finesse; it plays out like a beautifully composed piece of music, bringing alive the characters’ emotions on screen, making it a visual feast.

The supporting cast adds depth and dimension to the storyline, each one a prism through which different aspects of Korean society is explored. Without giving anything away, the series skillfully intertwines several subplots that engage the viewers and creates a holistic picture of the trials and tribulations of modern-day existence.

In summary, Something in the Rain offers a much more character-focused and introspective take on romantic television series. It artfully combines elements of romance, heartbreak, societal pressure, friendship, and personal growth to paint an honest and emotional portrait of life. The slow burn romance may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is worth watching for it's realistic and nuanced portrayal of characters. It's a series that leaves a lingering impact and provokes thought, making it much more than just a romance.