Heartbeat (2023)
Director: Lee Hyun Suk and Lee Min Soo
Screenwriter: Kim Ha Na and Jung Seung
No. of Episodes: 16
Actors: Ok Taec Yeon, Won Ji An, Yoon Se Hee, Park Kang Hyun, Go Gyu Pil, Yoon Byung Hee, Baek Seo Hoo, Kim In Kwon
Network: Prime Video and Wavve
Tropes: #cohabitation #reincarnation #supernatural
Rating: 4 Spice: Level 1
Heartbeat is a drama that has garnered attention for its unique blend of romance, drama, and the resilience of the human spirit. Unlike the typical dark and gory vampire tales, this series takes a lighter and often funnier approach to the storytelling.
The series revolves around the life of Seon Woo Hyeol, a vampire with an extraordinary aspiration - he yearns to become human. His motivation for this transformation stems from a profound attraction he shared with Hae-Sun, who selflessly sacrificed herself to save him from hunters. Their time together ignited a desire in Woo Hyeol to experience the kind of love that quickens the heart. Armed with a promise made and guidance from a mystical entity, Woo Hyeol decides to undergo a century-long slumber in a coffin made of wood toxic to vampires, all in pursuit of his desire to become human.
However, fate takes an unexpected turn when Joo In Hae, an ancestor for the mansion’s butler tasked with guarding Woo Hyeol’s coffin, opens it a day earlier than planned. This premature awakening leaves Woo Hyeol in a precarious state, teetering between humanity and vampirism. The series follows Woo Hyeol’s journey towards becoming human and In Hae’s transformation from a solitary individual to someone open to love and connection.
Ok Taecyeon, portraying Woo Hyeol, delivers a commendable performance, particularly in showcasing his character’s adjustment to modern Seoul. His reactions to the new and technologically advanced world are both humorous and endearing. Taecyeon’s portrayal adds depth to Woo Hyeol’s character, making him relatable to viewers.
Woo Ji An impressively balances the desperation of a character facing the loss of everything while maintaining her pride and independence. Her performance as In Hae adds depth to the series and highlights the character’s complexities.
While Heartbeat is undoubtedly an engaging drama, it’s not without its flaws. There are moments throughout the series that can feel slow-moving, causing viewers to wonder about the direction of the plot. Additionally, some scenes suffer from overacting, which can momentarily disrupt the overall immersion in the story. These issues, while not pervasive, are worth noting as they slightly diminish the otherwise positive viewing experience.
Heartbeat is a heartwarming and unconventional vampire tale that manages to captivate its audience. Its engaging storyline, talented cast and picturesque settings create an appealing viewing experience. Despite some moments of sluggish p[acing, the series is with the watch. Clocking in at an hour per episode, the series has a knack for leaving viewers actually eagerly anticipating the twists and turns that lie ahead.
So, if you’re in the mood for a supernatural drama that tugs at your heartstrings and brings a fresh perspective to the vampire genre, Heartbeat should definitely be on your watchlist.
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