Fantastic

Fantastic is a compelling South Korean television drama series that aired in 2016. The series consists of 16 episodes and was broadcast on JTBC from August to October. Revolving around the world of drama series production, Fantastic pulls back the curtain on South Korean television, exposing the heartwarming, heartbreaking, and inspiring moments that take place both in front of and behind the camera.

The story centers on three main characters; Lee So-hye, a well-regarded but diagnosed terminal writer, Ryu Hae-sung, a popular but talent-lacking actor, and Kim Sang-wook, a principled lawyer who has a one-sided affection for So-hye. The narrative weaves a compelling tale of love, friendship, and the trials and tribulations of life, all set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Korean entertainment industry.

So-hye, the series' heroine played by Kim Hyun-joo, is a successful television drama writer who always dreamed about writing a hit series. However, her life takes an unexpected, tragic turn when she is diagnosed with terminal cancer and given only a few months to live. Instead of succumbing to sorrow, So-hye shows admirable resilience and decides to live her remaining days to the fullest. In doing so, she not only oversees the production of her final series but also opens her heart to new connections and the prospect of love.

Joo Sang-wook plays her love interest, Ryu Hae-sung, a high-profile actor with a heart of gold but little acting talent. Struggling to be taken seriously in an industry obsessed with image, Hae-sung's quest for credibility intertwines with So-hye's story. Their paths cross when he is cast as the lead in her drama series, igniting a relationship that transcends professional barriers. Hae-sung, despite his popularity, appreciates So-hye's genuineness and talent and begins to fall for her.

Kim Sang-wook, portrayed by actor Park Si-yeon, is a young, idealistic lawyer who has harbored feelings for So-hye for a long time. His unwavering support for So-hye, in turn, lends an additional layer of emotional depth to the plot. The dynamic between So-hye, Hae-sung, and Sang-wook explores the complexities of love and friendship and adds a riveting romantic dimension to the series.

Despite dealing with the heavy theme of terminal illness, Fantastic manages to sustain an optimistic and uplifting tone throughout its run. The series approaches So-hye's situation and the suffering she undergoes with heartfelt realism. At the same time, her determination to live her remaining life to the fullest is deeply inspiring.

Fantastic is, above all, a story about fighting for dreams and finding joy despite life’s harshest realities. It gives viewers insights into the intricacies of the entertainment industry and showcases the pressures and challenges faced by those working in it. Balancing humor, romance, and drama, it takes the audience on an emotional roller-coaster ride.

The supporting characters in Fantastic also contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of the narrative. They include other drama industry insiders like producers, directors, other actors, and even fans. Their interactions provide depth, drama, and a healthy dose of humor, adding diverse dynamics and subplots that enrich the primary story.

Excellent performances by the lead actors and captivating plot twists set Fantastic apart from many other television dramas. In addition to presenting a mesmerizing love triangle, the series offers a realistic peek behind the scenes of drama series production with an emphasis on character development over a fluffy plot.

In summary, Fantastic is a beautiful drama series that masterfully interweaves themes of love, friendship, struggle, and ambition. It offers an inspiring message about living life to the fullest despite adversity and allows the audience to share in the characters' triumphs and hardships. The series boasts impressive performances by its cast, exceptional writing, and an engaging plot, making it a must-watch for any fan of Korean dramas.