Familiar Wife (2018) - Series Review: "Offers entertainment and valuable life lessons"

Cha Joo-hyuk discovers an extraordinary ability to time travel from 2018 to 2006. Faced with the realization that his present life, particularly his marriage, has become toxic, Joo-hyuk seizes the opportunity to rewrite his fate. Even the briefest alterations in the past lead to significant transformations in his present, reshaping not only his own life but also the dynamics of his relationship with his wife. The series intricately explores the consequences of these temporal changes, blending drama, romance, and a touch of science fiction to create a compelling narrative that keeps viewers eagerly anticipating the next twist in Joo-hyuk's journey.

Main Characters and Their Previous Works I'd watched. 

Ji Sung's versatility as an actor shines once again in "Familiar Wife." Known for his powerful portrayal in the legal drama "The Devil Judge," here he skillfully transforms into the character of Cha Joo-Hyuk, showcasing a completely different facet of his acting prowess. From the strong and commanding presence in "The Devil Judge" to the gullible and innocent Joo-Hyuk in "Familiar Wife," Ji Sung convincingly brings forth the complexities of his characters. His ability to seamlessly switch between contrasting roles is a testament to his acting finesse.

Han Ji-Min delivers a captivating performance as Seo Woo-Jin in "Familiar Wife," adding another impressive role to her repertoire. Having previously seen her in "Behind Your Touch," it's evident that she has a knack for selecting diverse and interesting characters. In "Familiar Wife," Han Ji-Min brings depth to Woo-Jin's character, offering a nuanced portrayal of a woman navigating the intricateness of love and relationships. Her versatility is further highlighted by her ability to switch between genres, as seen in her humorous and cute side in "Hyde Jekyll, Me."

Director and Writer and their Previous works.

Lee Sang-Yeob's directorial prowess takes center stage in "Familiar Wife," adding another impressive title to his portfolio. Having garnered outstanding reviews for dramas like "Yumi's Cell," Lee Sang-Yeob demonstrates a keen understanding of storytelling and character development. Under the pen of Yang Hee-Seung, "Familiar Wife" weaves a captivating narrative that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. Yang Hee-Seung's previous work includes "Crash Course Romance" which I'm yet to finish.

Story

"Familiar Wife" presents a thought-provoking narrative that serves as a touching reminder of the intricate web of consequences woven by our choices. The central theme, that every action carries rconsequences, is a powerful and universal concept that resonates with viewers. The series skillfully explores the dual nature of change, emphasizing that not all alterations result in positive outcomes; there's always a potential downside.The storyline adeptly challenges viewers to reflect on their own decisions.

Drawing a parallel to "Go Back Couple," another time-travel-themed series, "Familiar Wife" distinguishes itself by taking a lighter approach to the subject matter. While "Go Back Couple" delves into the emotional intricacies of a couple time-traveling together, "Familiar Wife" focuses on an individual's journey and the impact on personal relationships. The decision to forgive and understand, as depicted in "Familiar Wife," adds a heartwarming element to the story. Comparing the two, "Go Back Couple" had a more profound emotional impact on me because it made me cry a lot.

Acting

The acting is a standout feature, characterized by its naturalness and a remarkable absence of exaggeration. The actors seamlessly blend into their roles, creating a sense of authenticity that enhances the overall viewing experience. Unlike some dramas where performances can feel forced or overly dramatic, the cast of "Familiar Wife" excels in portraying characters that resonate with realism. 

Favorite Character on this Series

In this series Lee Jung-Eun, the mother of Seo Woo-Jin, stands out as the loveliest character. Her endearing presence is a key factor in building connections between the characters. As the heart of the narrative, she adds warmth and charm, making her an essential and cherished element in the series.

Favorite Actor/Actress on this Series

Ji Sung, my favorite actor in "Familiar Wife," delivers an outstanding performance. His portrayal of innocence is captivating, and in the most heartbreaking scenes, his ability to convey pain is truly felt. Ji Sung's skillful acting adds depth to the character, making him a standout in the series.

 

Favorite Couple/Tandem on this Series

My favorite couple is undeniably the main leads, Cha Joo-Hyuk and Seo Woo-Jin. While it's rare for me to choose the central couple, their on-screen chemistry and standout performances make them the highlight. Unlike some dramas that emphasize supporting couples, "Familiar Wife" beautifully centers on Cha Joo-Hyuk and Seo Woo-Jin, making them a truly lovely and engaging pair to watch.

Rating: 8/10

In conclusion, "Familiar Wife" emerges as a compelling series, offering valuable lessons on the intricacies of relationships. Like a pair of interlocked slippers, it reminds us that a journey together requires effort from both partners. Through the pain and suffering of the main characters, the series implores us to become familiar with each other's struggles, working hand in hand to heal and strengthen the bond of love.