Some Korean dramas leave a lasting impression because of their character, while others leave a mark because of their storytelling. Angel Eyes does both. Right from the start, we are introduced to the younger versions of the lead characters, Park Dong-joo and Yoon Soo-wan. Dong-joo is a bright, affectionate young man who quietly falls for Soo-wan, a visually impaired girl. Their relationship develops through small but sweet touching gestures. Soo-wan is fascinated by astronomy, and Dong-joo memorizes her descriptions of the stars. He spends time reading to her and gradually becomes the man whom Soo-wan can trust. Their romance feels innocent, sincere, and a charming affair to witness on screen.
From what I felt, their connection becomes especially meaningful because of Dong-joo’s willingness to understand Soo-wan’s world. When he tries to protect her from a group of boys, she instantly reminds him that she doesn’t need someone who treats her as helpless. That’s when we see peak character development because Dong-joo is not shown as someone who dismisses her feelings. Instead he attempts to experience the challenges of living without having a sight. This realization of how difficult her everyday life is becomes one of the most emotionally affecting moments in the entire show. But all of their happiness is short-lived when Soo-wan undergoes an operation that restores her sight, only to wake up and discover that Dong-joo’s family has disappeared. But who could be responsible? Will they ever get their love back? The plot takes a twelve-year leap, and the story moves to adulthood, but our questions still remain the same.
The plot of Angel Eyes is such a beautiful one that you cannot help but praise the screenwriters for it. The characters, too a sweetly written and there is a sense of softness that we get to see. The first few episodes show a side of Dong-joo that feels sweet to watch. The way he cares for his lady love, the small and the grand gestures, all feel wonderful. Even as the show progresses after a 12-year leap, we still see so much of development that these characters have.
There are also some plot twists that Angel Eye manages to serve well. For example, the backstory behind the period before the twelve-year gap is something that you might not even see coming. It is woven so well into the show that it builds the anticipation that the makers try to create. Somewhere in between, they also develop a star-crossed-lovers angle that, though it breaks your heart initially, keeps you hooked to whatever you are watching. All of this makes Angel Eye a delightful watch.
The pacing of the show is pretty even; however, sometimes it gets a bit slow. You won’t realize it much because you will be busy watching the romance and plot that is unfolding in front of you. But yes, having said all that, the plot does feel quite sluggish at times. Other than that, I don’t think Angel Eyes has any issues. If you are someone who loves watching plots like these, this is what you must watch in order to break away from reality.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Ch
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Publisher at Midgard Times