Reply 1988 Review: A Warm Korean Nostalgia Trip
9/10 — Reply 1988 (2015)
Pros
- Lovable ensemble
- Warm, funny, moving
- Nostalgic soundtrack
Cons
- Slow in places
- Divisive love story
The series follows five neighbouring families in the Ssangmun-dong district of Seoul in 1988, through the lives of their teenage children and their parents. It’s the third in the Reply series.
What works
The ensemble cast, including Lee Hye-ri and Park Bo-gum, is lovable, and the show mixes comedy with moving family drama. It captures the warmth of neighbourhood life, and the soundtrack is full of 1980s hits.
Where it falters
At 20 episodes it moves slowly in places, and the love triangle plot is divisive.
Verdict
A heartwarming drama that’s a joy to watch.
