Shin Won-ho born in August 1975 deserves all the praise. He is known for his anthology series,’Reply’. Graduating from the Seoul National University he has made a huge contribution to this field.
After ‘Old Miss diary’ in 2004-2005 he went on with his ‘Reply’ series which is relevant even today. “Reply 1997”, ‘Reply 1994’ & finally ‘Reply 1988’. They set in that retro wave & his work went from better to best.
His lead pair hit to the top. He has this ability to bring out the best. The protagonists are unassuming & yet brave enough to do something different. In ‘Reply 1997’ the pair of Jung Eun ji & Seo In guk is so fresh, they really look like the high schoolers they portray. Then in ‘Reply 1994’ Go Ara & Jung Woo look as compatible as they are meant to be. I have seen them in other shows but their chemistry here is something different. They were awarded the “Couple award” which means they had to beat all the other competitors!
My personal favourite is ‘Reply 1988’! Lee Hye-ri & Park Bo Gum make an excellent pair. I am not going to talk about Ryu jun -yeol whom nobody can miss. The plot is excellent & so are the actors! They have the special touch of Shin Won -ho.
Then in 2017-18 came ‘Prison Playbook’ which is a notch higher if that is possible. With Jung Hae In & now my new favourite Jung Kyung ho it makes an absolute wonderful viewing. Park Hae Soo has the longest role & he makes the most of it.
Finally “Hospital Playlist” the five doctors finding time for the band & having a very busy schedule. It is coming up with the season 2, the stories are not complete. All five should find solace, soulmate & serene peace. In 2021 they promise to give us that!
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