In today's K-Drama Review, we will delve into the first episode of the captivating series Be Melodramatic (2019), a heartwarming series currently available for streaming on Netflix. We are here to share all the juicy details without spoiling the fun: This review will be (mostly) spoiler-free, as we explore the first episode and give you a glimpse of what to expect from this compelling drama and who would find it a perfect fit. 

But before we dive in, let's take a moment to learn more about the drama's background. Directed and written by the talented Lee Byeonghun (known for What a Man Wants, 2018) and by Kim Hyeyoung (acclaimed for Unicorn, 2022), Be Melodramatic spans across 16 enthralling episodes, delving into the themes of love, disappointments, and hardships in one's career. What sets this series apart is its strong focus on leading female roles, presenting female-centric stories, and offering a refreshing POV. Brace yourself for a non-chronological narrative, dotted with intriguing flashbacks that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

In the first episode, we are introduced to the lives of three remarkable women. The scene opens with the friend group lounging in a cozy living room, munching on popcorn while engrossed in a cheesy K-Drama centered around a couple discussing the intricacies of love. As the show concludes, an intense discussion ensues among them, discussing the profound question: What is love? They collectively conclude that love is often an illusion, irrevocably intertwined with pain.

The series begins with a closer look at the life of Lim Jinjoo, skillfully portrayed by the talented Chun Woohee. Jinjoo decides to break up with her long-term boyfriend, who fails to reciprocate her feelings, and turns her focus toward pursuing her dream job as a scriptwriter. Determined, she starts her new journey at a fresh company, brimming with hope and ambition. Yet, as we catch glimpses of her experienced coworkers who have worked for this company for a long time already, we sense a short preview of her future—The sparkle of passion seems lost, and the weight of monotony takes its toll.

The uniqueness of this drama comes to life through its easy and unhinged humor, evident in one of the first ironic situations that unfolds. In most romantic K-Dramas, the main characters often experience a classic falling scene, where the female lead trips and the dashing male hero catches her with grace. However, Be Melodramatic gleefully defies such clichés and embraces reality. When Jinjoo stumbles in the office, popular Son Beomsoo, portrayed brilliantly by Ahn Jaehong, witnesses her fall but chooses not to extend a helping hand. Instead, he boldly steps back to avoid getting entangled, leaving her in a state of embarrassment. To add to the awkwardness, he playfully teases her about her clumsiness, creating a truly memorable and refreshing moment that sets the tone for the series.

After a while, we are introduced to the second woman, Hwang Hanjoo (played by Han Jieun). She is studying at the university library when suddenly a man named Kim Hwandong (Lee Youjin) appears, someone she has never seen before. It turns out that he has been following her. He explains that he is an actor and extends an invitation for her to attend his play.

Hanjoo later confides in her friend about this encounter, and her friend becomes protective, ready to call the police at the thought of a potential creep. However, Hanjoo decides to take a leap of faith and attend the play anyway. As she watches him on stage, she becomes captivated by his talent and charm.

After the play concludes, they walk home together, and their connection deepens. Soon, they find themselves entangled in a romance, exploring the excitement and uncertainties that come with getting to know someone new. 

In the next scene, the once dream-like couple has now become a frustrated married couple. A glimpse into the future reveals Hwang Hanjoo as a struggling single mother, facing the daunting task of raising their small toddler alone. Meanwhile, Kim Hwandong, her former husband, chooses to walk away from their relationship, leaving her to bear the weight of parenthood all on her own.

As Hwandong effortlessly resumes his acting career and gains success, Hanjoo finds herself trapped in the overwhelming responsibilities of motherhood. The disparities in their lives become evident, highlighting the unfair expectations placed on women in society. While Hwandong's life seems to be moving forward without much hindrance, Hanjoo's journey is one of constant juggling between her earning enough money to pay the rent and the demands of being a devoted mother.

In a revealing interview on a talk show, Hwandong skillfully weaves a fictional narrative about his reasons for becoming an actor, claiming it was all to impress a woman. This falsehood was not only used to woo Hanjoo in the past but also perpetuates the illusion of his romantic persona to the public. As he regales the audience with his fabricated tale, Hanjoo watches the interview from home, feeling the weight of his lies and the burden of their failed marriage.

Despite their separation, Hwandong's presence looms large in Hanjoo's life, making it impossible for her to escape the emotional toll he has left behind. With each passing episode, viewers are left pondering the question of whether Hanjoo will find her way through the struggles of single motherhood and reclaim her life and dreams. Will Hwandong eventually realize the consequences of his actions and step up as a responsible parent? 

Lastly, we get introduced to Lee Eunjung’s (Jeon Yeobin) background. We are exposed to the harsh reality of workplace discrimination and the challenges women often face in male-dominated industries. Working in the production of crime shows, Eunjung finds herself constantly subjected to disrespectful and misogynistic behavior from her male coworkers, including hurtful jokes that highlight the prevailing gender biases.

Frustrated by the hostile work environment, Eunjung takes a brave step and decides to rent her own office. In her quest to secure an investor for her business, Eunjung unexpectedly encounters a man who captures her heart. As their relationship blossoms, she finds solace and happiness in the midst of her challenging professional life. However, their dreamlike romance takes a tragic turn when her partner falls seriously ill, casting a dark cloud over their future together.

Be Melodramatic offers a powerful and thought-provoking glimpse into the lives of these three women, each navigating their unique struggles that resonate with the daily challenges faced by millions of women worldwide. 

Trigger warning regarding self-harm : One poignant scene portrays the stark reality of mental health struggles, as one of the women attempts suicide and finds herself hospitalized. This heart-wrenching moment serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for empathy and support for those facing such difficult battles.

Amidst the weighty themes, the drama skillfully balances the narrative with touches of humor and wit. Sarcastic jokes and hyper-realistic situations infuse the drama with moments of laughter, making the characters feel like genuine individuals we might encounter in our own lives.