Pretendente Surpresa (2022)

Swoon Worthy Drama

This is a really entertaining, sweet drama done really well. It all starts when a switch was made for an arranged blind date from Young Seo to Ha-ri with chaebol Kang Tae Moo (An Hyo Seop) whose grandfather is pushing really hard to marry him off, considering succession plans to their very successful GO Food business.

Kang Tae Moo pursues Ha-ri from the moment he sets eyes on her. Tae Moo's loyal friend and personal secretary Sung Hoon on the other hand conveniently falls for Young Seo. Through a series of confusing, comical and mis-led information and events each set of relationship go through their own ups and down, eventually falling into their respective fate and destiny.

The drama and the story was executed really well and what I really like is that the characters Tae Moo, Sung Hoon and Yeong Seo were decisive and confident when they know they love the person they love. Ha-ri's character is careful and responsible which took a little longer for Tae Moo to woo her.... (sigh) ... the guys and they way they love and pursue the women is sure to get all the ladies swooning when watching this drama. Yeong Seo is no slacker either when it comes to this when pursuing Sung Hoon.

I enjoyed it and highly recommend to all those romantics out there.

Leia Mais

What is better than one swoon worthy CP? Two, of course!

I was reading a review of a movie and the reviewer made a salient point, a movie is supposed to make you feel something and by extension, dramas should do the same. This pretty much summed up why this show is so good. The writer-nims really know how we want to feel when we watch a rom-com and they delivered in spades.

There is no point is pretending that this show has no clichés or tropey plotlines. In its defence, it was done in such a way that it piqued our interest, pulled us through the door and then threw away the key. It conditions us with little swoon worthy and feel good moments. Angsty bits are fleeting, and it is always followed up by a bit more sugar. We are addicted and want more.

This is aided and abetted by the CP's deep love for each other and they were largely unshakable. This core tenet is what gave the Show an edge over others. We have all seen this before, romance dramas go through the sundry meet-cute and feed us a large dose of artificial sweetener before expending a lot of negative energy to pull them apart. It can be so wearing that we find it hard to ship the CP. We don’t have that problem here. Most viewers should be able to ship the two leading CP’s and ship them hard!

Speaking of the CP's, we have two primary couples (Tae Moo/Ha Ri and Sung Hoon/Young Seo) and a secondary pair (Eui Ju/Kevin). The primary pairings are great with oodles of chemistry and matching good looks. In all honesty, the 2OTP was almost as interesting as the 1OTP and should have equal billing. The 3OTP was ok but I do wish they'd tone down their overacting a bit, especially the 3ML.

Is the Show perfect? If you had asked me before the end of episode 11, I’d have said yes but it did stumble towards the end. The intimate scene of the 1OTP was oddly lacking. It was a long time coming, the stars were aligned but it just felt clunky. Compared that to the intimate scene of the 2OTP much earlier, it was night and day.

The next slip up is the forced separation of the OTP. Simply put, it was a waste of time. The FL was doing fine winning the granddad over and they could have kept going along that line. The 1 year time skip took up precious time and the show lost momentum. I would much prefer they give us a wedding scene (or two!). Maybe even the honeymoons.

It felt like the writer-nims phoned in the last 15mins of the Show from a beach on Jeju-do. The granddad's illness has little emotional impact nor their separation. Why bother at all?

The ending is as sweet and happy as you’d expect but it could have been much more of a fan service. Our two beloved couples were left with just a promise of eternal love. It would be much more rewarding if they followed the webtoon a little closer and gave us the key milestone moments. :P

OST was good. Rewatch value is high.

Leia Mais

The goodness in cliches only works during the first half of the show

A fun and quirky drama who got lost on its own pace. The show begins with a great execution of typical scenes that doesn’t feel bad at all. However, after EP07, I began to feel bored till the story ended and that boredness still hangs all over me. I did enjoy the whole flow of the story before the main couple officially became a real couple. It was a perfect performance for a light rom-com drama -cute and entertaining. They cast suitable actors to portray the fluffy element of the story. I’ve seen these main characters during their early years of their career and I am so proud that lately they are getting major roles that highlight their talent in acting.

The glimpse of bromance were some moments to savor, it was amusing and delightful. The friendship of the two women was solid and fantastic. Both of the couple have an undeniably fine amount of chemistry, enough to send me butterflies. That sizzling and passionate kissing scene from the second couple was hot and commendable. On the other hand, the development of the main couple from being innocent to slowly getting intimate was good too. Aside from visuals, I’m glad that all of the cast in this drama can perform a natural way of acting.

However, the last few episodes are when I started to feel bored, which explains the downfall of the show for me. After they became boyfriends & girlfriends, the fun was lessened and the flow of scenes weren’t consistently good. It feels like their love story is being overromanticized in a bad way. The cliches of various sequences of romantic ideas aren’t that strong to curve a smile on my face. Till the end, I lost the passionate interest while watching the episodes. Too sad that it came to this but still A Business Proposal was a rom-com drama that is worthy of your time to binge-watch.

Leia Mais

Like Instant Ravioli: Fast, stuffed and satisfying but could cut down on the cheese

A Business Proposal is a fast-paced, comfort drama. A quick, easy and shut-off-your-brain type of watch! If it were a comfort food, it'd be like instant ravioli. Stuffed and fulfilling, but maybe could cut down slightly on the cheese.

Packed with a series of humorous challenges, it follows the main character, Shin Hari, as she finds herself wound up in surprising encounters with the CEO of her company, Kang Taemoo, after going as a replacement for her friend on a blind date with him. Right from episode 1, I was drawn to the show's refreshing portrayal of old school tropes and those butterfly-in-stomach generating moments, the key nutrient that many recent dramas have been deficient in.

It's like the creators sat down and said, "It's 2022, let's create a K-drama that crams in every popular cliche that's ever existed into one show filled with good-looking actors and actresses!" We got the: the chaebol guy-poor girl relationship, blind dates gone wrong, fake relationship bound contractually for mutual benefit, the angsty love triangle and, imo the most cliche of them all, love at first sight (and more!). Sounds a bit formulaic, right? Yeah sure, but can't deny that it DELIVERED on the substance and presentation! The humor was well-executed in a funny, over-the-top way that many scenes got a good laugh out of me again and again. It's the ultimate chef's kiss!

Those were also the reasons why I looked forward to every Monday and Tuesday just shutting off my brain and going along for the ride. I was eager to see where each new episode would take me with Hari, desperately trying to keep her GoFood employee identity a secret as if her life depended on it, and Taemoo, falling head over heels over a girl he barely knows but is oddly attracted to. How they plan to resolve this crisis and make it work out is what I had a burning appetite to find out.

Sad to say, somewhere down the line, maybe around episode 8, I couldn't help but sense that the overall quality of the drama tapered off, my final rating suffering a decline from my initial as a result. I felt that many character development opportunities were presented but not taken advantage of, and certain plot points could have been better more deeply explored. You could tell with this drama, breadth was prioritized over depth, with many sudden jumps, cuts and scene changes, which worked initially as they began establishing the narrative and setting. But the coverage remained this way even in the episodes leading to the finale. When we got to episode 11, new conflicts were still being introduced when it would've been an appropriate time to start tying together loose ends so that episode 12 wouldn't feel rushed. For example, we never explicitly saw Taemoo's grandpa's final approval of or interaction with Hari. Could've been a heartwarming wrap-up scene to watch to experience along with him his internal reconciliation of Hari/Geumhee. Also hoped for a more resolute ending for Yoojung (Youngseo's cousin). She just disappeared on us. She was way too interesting a character to just use as a plot device for Youngseo, then abandon right after. And as much as I love Hari's character, the one thing that bothered me at times was her unnecessarily anxious reactions, being placed in a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Her first impulse every time was to run away or hide. You see this on multiple occasions in restaurants, bathrooms, and the elevator. Understandably, this was probably meant to spice up the tension and awkwardness, but sometimes it got to the point where I didn't think it was even worth feeling anxious about. (I'm talking about those two bathroom scenes)

Though the positives of the drama definitely can't go unmentioned. GoFood seemed like the most awesome place to work, can't lie. Much creative freedom, benefits, awards and work-life balance for the food researchers. Absolutely loved the carefree dynamic of Hari with Team 1. Their interactions always put a smile on my face and made me wish I had co-workers just like them. Agree with everyone saying that the second lead couple was super cute and a good match for one another! Really glad it worked out for them in the end. Compared to that couple, Hari and Taemoo's chemistry skewed innocent and sweet, but contained a spicy and passionate hidden flavor viewers were able to get a taste of too. Lastly, just wanted to quickly shout-out Sejeong, whom I've supported since the Produce 101 days. This is the first drama of hers that I've watched and I have to say I was pretty impressed with her acting skills, considering she's an idol-turned-actress with a vocalist background. Can't wait for her to take on more diverse roles in the future.

This is overall a delightful drama that I don't think requires too much commitment going in. Can't guarantee it will be memorable or emotionally life-changing, but you won't want to stop watching it!

Leia Mais

A cliche rom-com done amazingly well!

This was such a treat to watch. It actually had me looking forward to Mondays. The drama had me hooked from the very first episode. Sure it's a plot we have seen often, fake dating to real, and it had almost every cliche mentionable, but everything was done right and tastefully. Even scenes you would think to be over the top were done really well. I think the fact that it didn't take itself too seriously and fully embraced the comedy-style romance, worked in its favor. There's not one moment where I felt this is too cheesy or awkward. As a bonus, there were no silly misunderstandings that lead to over-dramatic break-ups and whatnot. Both couples had incredible communication and it was refreshing to see. Not to mention that their chemistry was off the charts. Even if I had to, I couldn't pick which couple I enjoyed watching more. The cast was absolutely fantastic. Everyone acted well and fit their roles perfectly. I already loved Kim Mingyu and Kim Sejong, but this drama decidedly put Ahn Hyo Seop and Seol In Ah on my radar and I couldn't be happier.

Apart from that, I enjoyed every moment the side characters were on my screen. Whether it be Hari's family, the chairman, or food development team 1, I laughed in joy every time. Sure there were a couple of annoying ones, but their screentime was minimal so I won't complain.

I am also super glad that they decided to only film 12 episodes. I think that's the perfect number. Because of it, they were able to get the pacing just right. I never thought that any scenes were unnecessarily dragged on, or even worse rushed through. Also, I wish there was a section to rate the production or editing because it was so well done in this drama. Whether it be the silly animations, the words, or flashbacks, nothing felt out of place or kiddish. The director and editors did a great job.

This was a great drama that had me looking forward to the week and was sure to put a smile on my face. Sometimes you need a sweet, fluffy, and funny drama. Not everything has to be deep and meaningful. This fills that purpose and it was a joy to watch.

Leia Mais

Humorous~

Story: The plot is easy to understand and just light. It didn’t go deep to every character’s issues and each was smoothen out good. The series is like candy when you feel like you don’t have enough sugar in your body. I didn’t expect anything apart from the negative reviews I found online but still quite enjoyed the drama. It was entertaining and the humor is just my type. It has this ‘what’s wrong with secretary kim ’ vibe.

Acting: The only familiar face for me is Seol In Ah and she did really great in this, the rest were good but nothing spectacular. There were some scenes where I found awkward but still watchable. I do think the side characters did better than the leads, like Shin Hari’s parents, Tae Moo’s grandfather and the duo of Go food development team 1. The chemistry of both main leads weren’t the best to be honest but still convincing and cute at times.

Music: I only remember one song that I like and some cute sound effects.

Rewatch Value: Those laugh out loud ones. I like this drama because of the humor not because of the romance.

Overall: If a drama can make me laugh, it’s already a 7 for me, which is considered high or recommendable in my book. It’s not exactly art but a feel good drama that can give you good mood on a boring day. One of the ways to enjoy a drama is to not take everything seriously and appreciate the effort and acting these actors have made just to give color to their characters.

Leia Mais

Perfect vanilla fluff!

After a lot of shows lately that have erred on the side of serious, tense, and deep... A Business Proposal was a breath of fresh air!! With a lot going on in the world these days, this show brings us joy and levity. This show proved that sometimes, all we need is a simple, straightforward romcom. It felt reminiscent of classic stories from the past, and as long as your expectations are set accordingly, you will have a fantastic time. Don't watch this show when you're in the mood for tears or reflections on life. Watch this show when you need a light pick-me-up, archaepteryx sound effects, fun mannerisms, and unexpected laughs.

Despite its simple premise and fairly straightforward plot, A Business Proposal is surprisingly engaging. It SOMETIMES subverts tropes, but more often than not, it leans into the camp. The writer was smart to keep the story tight at just 12 episodes — it prevented any situations from dragging out, and therefore felt excellently paced. I LOVED the drama-within-a-drama, explicit product placement, snappy lines, and unabashed cheesiness. Our four leads are all immensely root-able, and I love how all the women are driven, ambitious, and stand up for themselves.

The actors all played their parts well. Even Young Seo's cousin endeared herself to me by the end. No one was really a villain, and we all had a good time.

My only critique is that the ending felt a bit rushed. C'mon, y'all know what we're here for! Why didn't you give us a wedding and babies?! If you're going to do a time skip, at least make the future a bit more fulfilling. I'll kid myself and say it's so they can keep things going with a drama special or second season someday.

Leia Mais

Cuando el hipe juega a favor o en contra...

Un sabor agridulce es lo que me ha dejado este drama. Lo empecé en medio del hipe que tenía y además venía con ganas de ver algo ligero ¿obtuve lo que esperaba? Lo cierto es que no y quizás mi error fue empezarlo con las expectativas muy altas y es que esta historia tuvo y tiene a su favor el favoritismo en redes sociales y quizás solo quizás el no atreverse a ir contra la opinión popular...

Los personajes me parecieron adorables, con su dosis alta de cringe y problemas que muchas veces se resolvía hablando pero claro, a la falta de un conflicto estable era complicado mantener la trama durante 12 capítulos.

Pero no todo fue malo, no la pasé terrible mientras lo veía: me hacían reír, las parejas son agradables de ver y visualmente es muy brillante y bonito.

Mi problema fue lo inverosímil que se volvió a partir del capítulo 4 cuando la falsa identidad era insostenible pero por arte del guión: ni el protagonista, ni su abuelo ni nadie era capaz de darse cuenta de que una de sus empleadas era la prometida del CEO jaja...

Luego cada capítulo siguió el mismo patron: presentación, introducción a un posible conflicto, resolución. Para el capítulo 8 se volvió insostenible, repetitivo y tedioso de ver. La pareja secundaria era infantil y los personajes que aparecieron luego... bueno: de relleno.

Destaco los memes, frases icónicas, la química y los detrás de escena que son joyitas.

A la próxima intentaré ver dramas sin demasiadas expectativas o sin dejarme llevar tanto por la opinión externa.

Leia Mais

A lighthearted rom-com that's a little overhyped...

Buissness Proposal is exactly what you would expect it to be from the title and the cover picture ; a cheesy, lighthearted, rom-com. You don't go into expecting anything groundbreaking and by the end you find those expectations met.
The first few episodes are definitely much better, and much funnier, than the final episodes. At the begining of the series it's hard to stop watching but by the end it gets tedious.
The conflicts feel unnecessary and the the lack of any wedding by the end makes the drama end on an anticlimax.
Overall, its not a bad drama and it's a fun, easy watch, but is it anything new, exciting or unique? Definitely not.

Leia Mais

Pure and wonderful escapism.

Menu= Synopsis/Concept ~(8)
Ingredients/Recipes= Script Writer ~(9)
Chef= Director ~(9)
Flavors/Taste= Actors/Performances ~(10)
Restaurant/Decor= Wardrobe Production-Value ~(10)
Waiter/Service= Editing/Cinematography ~(10)

Starter/1st Act ~(9)
Main Course /2nd Act ~(10)
Dessert/3rd Act ~(8)

Pure escapism, warm and fuzzy. The lead actress where beautiful coupled with great acting.
I personally prefer simple straightforward storytelling, injecting over the top conflict for conflict’s sake is overrated.

Talking pictures are for unwinding after dealing with reality.

Leia Mais

The female stole everyone the show

One thing is sure , the FL could was a better kisser than the ML;)

They could really be a real pair ; totally convinced me with their natural acting .
One of best romance Korean dramas I’ve seen…no dragging scenes, entertaining, moreover no need for more episodes…..love these kind of stressless dramas to relax from daily stress.

The actress was perfect for this role , very talented and natural in her acting and mostly thanks to her outstanding performance the drama was s gooood. I’m looking forward to her next projects. She definitely gained a new viewer.

Leia Mais

Typical Cliched rich CEO, poor girl trope

I'm not gonna complain about the cliches in this show because that kind of provided a nostalgic escapism that we used to get from earlier kdramas like Boys over flower, What's wrong with Secretary Kim etc. This one is slightly fresh (just slightly). I was more invested in the 2nd couple though. Good, light, sweet drama with great clothes, houses and food. All great.
HOWEVER. (and this is the biggest pet peeve of mine)...

However, the sheer amount to dumbness the main characters showed was mind-boggling. The CEO ML is apparently a genius but cannot discern the overly-obvious similarity between Shin Guem Hui & Shin Ha Ri?!?! Even while attending the concert, when the same dial tone played, the same injury was seen on two different people on the same day?! Even when he was outright showed Shin Ha Ri on the video commercial BTS!? That was frustrating to watch...

Coming to Shin Ha Ri... by comically trying to run, crawl, make faces while attempting to hide your identity, you're bringing even more attention to yourself!!! Well thank god the CEO is dumb but my God this woman knew how to be centre of attention while trying to avoid being centre of attention.

I know this is supposed to be chill, sweet, funny romcom, but this is 2022...surely better job could've been done on writing out the characters. Even romcoms can be funny without making the characters overly dumb.

Leia Mais