Funny, Yet Its Unimpressive Worldview Makes ‘멋진 신세계’ Even More Intriguing [Drama Breakdown]

It’s hard to say that the SBS drama ‘멋진 신세계’, directed by Han Tae-seop and Kim Hyun-woo and written by Kang Hyun-joo, is free from the influence of the classic British novel. While its title is a compilation of the protagonists’ stories, it’s undeniable that ‘멋진 신세계’ also carries an ironic meaning, much like its namesake. Ironically, this black comedy-like setup is what makes the drama stand out most at this moment.

The historical drama’s foundation, honed through ‘옥씨부인전’, convincingly portrays Kang Hee-bin’s tragic end in the early stages, maintaining its gravitas even in scenes where she senses her own sorrowful fate. This allows viewers to cheerfully embrace the emotional rollercoaster, not finding it awkward when she sometimes opens her eyes foolishly or, at other times, fiercely, letting out screams.

Cha Se-gye is no different. Known as an ‘abusive chaebol’, he’s tormented by nightly hallucinations, entangled in memories of a past life, and finds family meals incredibly uncomfortable, to the point of losing his appetite. While Cha Se-gye is a perfect ‘villain’ with no openings for those targeting him, he can’t help but be bothered by and want to react to Shin Seo-ri, who recklessly tries to embrace him. Ultimately, ‘멋진 신세계’ can be described as a work where two individuals, struggling in a world that is anything but wonderful, embark on a cohabitation disguised as an ‘enemies-to-lovers’ relationship.

Once two weeks pass and May 23rd arrives, ‘멋진 신세계’ will be able to run on its own, leaving ’21세기 대군부인’ behind. Though outwardly adorned as a possession story, comedy, and a complex genre, this romance is as desperate as Aldous Huxley’s ‘Brave New World’. Viewers have, after a long time, found a story bus they can wholeheartedly ride along with.