Tudo Bem Não Ser Normal (2020)

Had Great Ambitions, but Failed Them

This drama was a beautiful one in spite of all its glaring flaws.

Pros:
- It’s a bittersweet, heartwarming drama about healing, about outcasts coming together and finding a family in each other
- STUNNING aesthetics, beautiful costume design for Yeji, gorgeous animations, and overwhelmingly fabulous set.
- incredible acting. As expected of Seo Yeji and Kim Soohyun, but wonderful acting from all the supporting characters as well. Kwak-Dongyeon is forever memorable for his emotional speech in EP4-5, I think.
- interesting storyline and wonderful concept
- unique characters, depth, and nice character development with a side of psychology

Cons:
- bad writing. Bad writing. Bad writing. Sure, many scenes are amazing, but many others were really strange, cheesy, and awkward. Their meeting scene at the publishers? What even? It’s like they attempted to make it sound deep and romantic, but it fell flat and just sounded weird. Not the actor’s fault though, they did amazing work with what crap they occasionally got.
- can’t get over the fact that Moonyoung chased Gangtae so ruthlessly and he was so cruel to her. These little bits of their relationship are just kinda disturbing.
- plot holes abound! The hospital staff are conveniently incompetent, people just conveniently appear out of nowhere somehow, and things just happened to bend the laws of reality to make the plot work.
- weird, descend into shit towards the last 4-6 episodes. What?? What?? It was totally unnecessary and horribly thought out. Not only was this entire event completely avoidable if they just,,, called the police,,, it was weird as hell and didn’t make sense. Too jarring and not a proper twist, either. And it abandoned the themes of psychological healing for weird drama.

All in all, not a bad drama. I loved many parts of it. Other parts made me want to beat up a pillow. Watch for Seo Yeji’s beautiful makeup looks and a fun ride and you should be fine, though. But don’t expect too much depth or cohesive plot— they tried, but sadly, it didn’t work out.

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I thought this drama was unique, I really liked the concept of using fairy tales to tell the actual story and I loved the relationship of Gang Tae and Mang Tae, we rarely see such dynamics in kdramas. The lead characters did not appeal to me; the male lead seemed a bit too ideal and the female lead's story was far too messy and complicated, I couldn't connect in anywhere. I didn’t like the plot and it felt like I was watching a fantasy drama, some of the things that happened in the drama were just ridiculous and the plot twist did not help in any way. The drama ended with so many unanswered questions. Overall I would recommend because it felt like a new concept of kdrama which I love.

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Slow paced but watchable

I must admit, I went into this with high expectations. This drama received many awards and reviews on MDL is favorable so I was ready to binge, but it took me some time to get through this one.

What I liked:
-The cinematography was hands down some of the best I've seen...and in the beginning episodes, the transitions were unique.
-I loved the story-telling in each episode, it was a twist to some of the classics
-Sang Tae's character with autism-I has watched Touch Your Heart right before this and was impressed by the level of skill of Oh Jung Se could bring to the table...there was a different actor in Touch Your Heart that also had autism who did a fabulous job so I wondered if Oh Jung Se got pointers from him? At any rate, I like that he was a heartwarming character with many layers.
-I liked Ah Reum and Jung Tae story arc...I wished they would have expanded on it more ( As someone that's been in a mental institution myself, I know for a fact that patients can find love with each other and the fact that Jun Tae decided to heal instead of throwing all his hard work away was a testament to what people are willing to give up to overcome certain addictions to forge a better life in the future
-I also like the true bondage that PTSD can have on a person and the impact that war has on lives, I wished they would have explored this more too.

What I wished would change:

-The two leads did a good job, but I found myself wanting to skip whenever they were on the screen, it has nothing to do with the actors but the direction...the pacing was slow where it needed to be fast and fast where it needed to slow down.
-It's unrealistic for a patient that is on their death bed to stay at a psych hospital, I am not sure why it was written that way or if South Korean mental facilities are different but most mental hospitals only deal with the brain not anything else. Correct me if I am wrong here..
- I did enjoy Gang Tae and Sang Tae story but there was a lack in the FL character development in my opinion...the idea that love can change a person so drastically was unrealistic (like some suggested in other reviews) don't get me wrong, I thought she was an interesting...maybe even refreshing character, but there was something lacking there...I won't put spoilers though.

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NEED A LOT OF UNDERSTANDING

This drama requires a lot of understanding, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. Throughout the series, you'll see people experiencing various problems in their lives. This drama shows how people heal themselves and face their issues. Mental illness is a topic that many avoid discussing because society tends to judge those who open up about it. However, this drama, just from its title, tells us that it's okay to not be okay.

In everyone's life, there are moments when you need someone's support, and that's perfectly normal. Humans are not always strong, and it's okay to ask for help to overcome your fears.

1. The animations and illustrations in the first episodes, as well as throughout the series, are praiseworthy. Both the screenwriter and director have done a great job, I must say.
2. The romance between the leads was perfectly balanced.
3. The acting skills of each and every actor were amazing; the drama felt real because of them.
4. Oh Jung Se's acting as Sang Tae was incredible; no one could have played the role of Sang Tae so well.
5. Moon Young and Gang Tae suffer a lot due to their past, yet they didn't leave each other even when faced with numerous problems. This teaches us not to abandon someone when they're suffering.
6. The mystery they maintain throughout the series keeps you excited for the next episode.
7. This drama's ratings were not fairly given by AGB Nielsen. I hope you don't judge it based on that. It's not a typical family drama; it requires a lot more understanding.
8. The plot was beautifully presented by the director.
9. Every episode has a story that is too intense to grasp easily.
10. Seo Yea Ji impresses with her portrayal of the cold-hearted Moon Young. Despite her selfish, arrogant, and rude behavior, she desires emotional connections with Gang Tae and Sang Tae. Moon Young's terrible past shaped her into a cold-hearted individual, but deep down, she is warm-hearted and acts cold to stay strong.
11. Kim Soo Hyun's character, Gang Tae, tries to discover himself throughout the series. He is burdened with the responsibility of taking care of his brother. Despite being called a coward by Moon Young, he still tries to protect his loved ones.
12. There is also mystery in this, didn't add much contribution to over-all narrative but still wasn't that boring.

While the pacing of this drama may be slow, its beauty shines through. It's a must-watch, truly praiseworthy. I hope you find it enjoyable. ~END~

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i am definitely not okay

this was one of the first kdramas i ever watched, and i have watched it 5 times since. i don't know if that makes me human, or mentally ill. but it is, what it is. i'd give just about everything to be able to watch this again, for the first time.

the storyline, the hidden clues, the books - everything, was so perfectly done, that nothing is lacking - and every time i watch this, i realize something new - i see something new, or my understanding of the story grows deeper. i genuinely believe that this is a show, that you could see a 100 times, and still you'd be able to find something new every single time.

the acting is top-notch as usual - wouldn't expect anything less from this cast. and yet, they exceeded my expectations - i knew they were gonna be good, but the way that they brought this story to life was, borderline insane. the way they portrayed their characters, it was so extremely well done, in a way i don't think any other cast would've been able to do.

with that said, just please watch the show - give it some time, take some breaks - and just think. think about the story, think about the books mentioned - think about the struggles, i promise you (most likely) won't regret it.

ALSO HER OUTFITS?!?!? >>>>
i said what i said. seo yeaji, the women you are.

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This is best Korean drama

I love this drama because it was interesting and it has moral lesson I love drama like this when I started watching this drama I was happy and I was afraid I was afraid because I don’t like butterflies but when I stop watching the drama I found it so interesting that I didn’t care about butterflies I recommend this drama to everyone else we haven’t watched it because when you watch you will find it interesting. When the drama ended I wish it never ended. I Love everything about the drama the cast,the setting was sooooo gooood. I hope see them together in another drama

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A Tale of Reality Inside Each Fairytales

This drama wouldn’t be amazing without every bits of it. From raw Fairytales stories, catchy illustrations, lively animations, suited OST, quoting dialogue, meaningful wardrobe and cinematography creating such impactful storyline to the acting and directing. With everything together it makes it a masterpiece. Every episode will always feel raw and will leave you with wonderment in life. Questions will arise and answers will be given. You will be healed.

This drama shows that though healing is possible with a strong support system. It starts with you —loving your self.

I’m still overwhelmed with the drama that I can’t pen why it’s a must watch drama this year. Surely, I will rewatch this soon.

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One of the best dramas I've ever watched

I really really love this drama. Everything about it was so beautiful, the story, acting, ost, animations, cinematography, EVERYTHING! I finished watching it just now so I think I'm being a bit too excited right now😅 Anyway this drama really made me go through so many emotions, and I felt so deeply about all the characters and their stories.
To me this story was about growth and I feel like they showed it in a very beautiful way that really touched my heart. The fairy tales told in the drama were also so good that I actually want to buy them all. Out of all of my favourite dramas this is probably the only one that didn't disappoint me even for a moment. The story was so well written that there was nothing left out at the end and it didn't feel even a little bit rushed. Even the story of the side characters didn't feel unnecessary or boring and it all made me think and reevaluate my views towards life and people.
All of the actors did a really wonderful job portraying their characters. I think Seo Yeji is my favourite. She was so perfect as Go Moon Young like this role was made for her. And I'm so impressed by Oh Jung Se's acting. It was so good and convincing and made me feel deeply for Moon Sangtae. Kim Soo Hyun was also really good. He was really good as Moon Gangtae. All the other actors also did a great job that they all left great impression on me. I really love all the characters especially the director of ok psychiatric hospital.
Another thing I really love about this drama is the ost. All of the songs sounds so good and fit the scenes they were played on perfectly and made them extra special.
The animations for the fairy tales were another thing that really captured my attention. And the illustrations for the fairy tales were really good as well.
I really enjoyed this drama and I know I will definitely watch this again. I'm seriously going to miss this drama.

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Have you ever cried because a drama has ended?

I’m gonna keep this short and sweet. I have never watched an airing drama, ever. I usually can wait till its over to binge but IONTBO elicited a need from me that I haven’t found before while following a show.
The dialogue, the characters and overall cast performances were amazing enough but then there was music, there were animations, and there were visuals that were just to die for, double meaning intended.
I’m not gonna tell you what to expect as I believe going in with an open mind is the best way to enjoy all that this beautiful show has to offer, I’m just going to tell you to prepare some tissues and get ready for a story that will both touch your heart and leave you wanting more with each passing episode.

In summary, you need to watch this show.

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SUCH A HEALING DRAMA!

Great drama until the end! Worthy of all the drama awards available! Excellent acting from all actors- main characters, supporting characters, side characters, even the cameos! Excellent story, directing, cinematography, visual effects, OSTs, character development! Thought provoking lines! Need I say more?

This drama could not have come out in a better time than now, especially that we are in a middle of a pandemic where our mental health can be at an all-time low. This is truly a healing drama! Come watch it to experience a rollercoaster of emotions! I swear you will not regret it! This drama will come once in a blue moon!

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It's Okay To Not Be Okay is one of the greatest k-drama's of all time. There is so much to love from the way it shows and deals with mental health and also to the characters own happiness. It is a masterpiece and everyone should watch it, It will move you so much that you won't be able to stop thinking about it. Thank you to everyone who worked on this drama and brought it into our lives. Kim Soo Hyun is such a great actor and to be honest this is the first of his dramas I've ever watched but I will definitely be watching more of his work after seeing his role as Moon Gang-tae. I didn't know he was such an amazing actor. Seo Ye Ji is such a strong woman and pulled of Ko Mun-yeong's character to perfection and beyond. She has such a nice voice and was astounding in this drama. Oh Jung Se deserves an award for the acting he did as his role of Moon Sang-tae, it mustn't have been a very easy character to pull off but he did it and it makes me proud that his acting will help people come to understand people like Moon Sang-tae. I will always love this drama. It's Okay To Not Be Okay for life!!!.

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Words can't even describe it....

This is one of those rare and unique dramas that I think everyone should watch for many different reasons. Throughout I was on the edge of my seat wondering where this story was going to take me next. Unlike some dramas I've watched, I never felt that the story was dragging and it developed at a good pace so there was never a dull moment.

The dark and twisted storyline kept leading our characters through quite often traumatic experiences that were sometimes uncomfortable yet fascinating to watch. Also, this drama touched on many psychological issues that can sometimes be demonised in mainstream media, but in this case, I think they were portrayed well and helped give people more of an understanding on what everyday people may be going through. Normally I don't think a lot of lessons can be taken from kdramas, but in this case, this drama gave us the viewers some valuable lessons on life and family to reflect on.

The cast and characters were amazing and bounced off each other's energy leading to great on-screen chemistry. You can really feel the deep emotions the characters were experiencing that sometimes made me forget that I was watching a TV show. Don't worry though these often depressing emotions were well balanced with innocent and pure love that helped to added reality to this drama. Sometimes dramas can be guilty of making love within a drama a bit cheesy, but this drama was the complete opposite. The love that the characters showed (whether it was to a love interest or a family member) felt real and genuine. The blend of all these high and low emotions really helped add the level of complexity that is experienced in real-life to this drama.

Now stop reading the reviews and go watch this drama – Don't miss out!!

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