The actors of ‘More Beautiful than Heaven’ captivated viewers with their beautiful performances.
JTBC's weekend drama ‘More Beautiful than Heaven’ (written by Lee Nam-kyu and Kim Soo-jin, directed by Kim Seok-yoon) has opened the curtain on a warm and touching romance that transcends reality, beyond cheerful laughter.
The theme of death, which no one has experienced but everyone can imagine, and the afterlife encompassing heaven and hell, was intriguing in itself. Although the story could have been heavy and dark, director Kim Seok-yoon and writers Lee Nam-kyu and Kim Soo-jin infused it with wit and emotion, presenting it in a fresh way. In particular, the actors' performances, which added persuasiveness and immersion to the 'heavenly worldview' while moving between reality and imagination, received high praise.
Kim Hye-ja's return was dazzling. As director Kim Seok-yoon described this work as the 'Kim Hye-ja Project' at the previous press conference, Kim Hye-ja perfectly embodied the character 'Lee Hae-sook' and led the story.
In the living world, she was a tough and resilient lottery seller who overcame the hardships of time, and to her husband of 60 years, she remained a lovely wife like a girl. In the afterlife, she became a new resident of heaven with an honest and quirky charm, showcasing a variety of faces.
After reuniting with her husband, who has become young in his 30s in heaven, the dynamic heavenly life of Lee Hae-sook begins with the arrival of a mysterious woman, Somi (played by Han Ji-min). Attention is focused on what stories will unfold for her in the future.
Son Seok-koo, playing the husband alongside Kim Hye-ja, completed the 'otherworldly' chemistry. From his first appearance in the ending of the first episode, he brought laughter with his delightful reactions, erasing the intense image from his previous work and transforming his acting. He perfectly embodied the character, seamlessly transitioning between comedy and melodrama. His portrayal of the loving husband Ko Nak-jun, who treats his wife Lee Hae-sook, who arrived in heaven at the age of 80, with warmth yet playfulness, was truly captivating.
Meanwhile, in the ending of the second episode, Han Ji-min revved up expectations with her entrance. The appearance of 'Somi', who brings another wave of crisis between the couple Lee Hae-sook and Ko Nak-jun, instantly turned the atmosphere of the drama. Han Ji-min's innocent gaze and bright smile further highlighted the mysterious aspects of her character. Curiosity grows about her secret story, which will gradually be revealed.
Lee Jung-eun was a key contributor to making viewers laugh and cry from the first broadcast. Playing 'Lee Young-ae', she stole attention with her unique style and striking visual transformation, and her tearful performance conveyed a deep affection for Lee Hae-sook that felt more than familial.
Above all, the past narrative that began the connection between the two characters was touching, while Lee Young-ae's last appearance, unable to forget Lee Hae-sook who had passed away, sparked curiosity about future developments.
In the second episode, where the story of heaven unfolds in earnest, Cheon Ho-jin, playing the 'center director', showcased his presence. He played an important role in guiding viewers to the heaven filled with boundless imagination, demonstrating his serious charisma alongside a comedic twist, reminding everyone of his experience and depth.
‘More Beautiful than Heaven’ airs every Saturday at 10:40 PM and Sunday at 10:30 PM.
[Kim So-yeon, Star Today Reporter]
