Doctor Slump, a new romantic dramedy streaming on Netflix in March, follows the unexpected reunion of two high school rivals turned adult professionals facing personal and career setbacks. Ha-Neul (Park Shin-hye) and Jeong-woo (Park Hyung-sik) navigate their intertwined destinies, offering each other support in trying times.
The series initially introduced Ha-Neul and Jeong-woo as top students in 2009, highlighting their competitive relationship and the clash of their ambitions. Ha-Neul’s diligent study habits contrast with Jeong-woo’s accomplishments, laying the groundwork for their rivalry.
Fast forward to the present day, where both Ha-Neul and Jeong-woo encounter unexpected twists in their successful professional lives. Jeong-woo grapples with a malpractice lawsuit and financial troubles, while Ha-Neul confronts a diagnosis of clinical depression amidst career setbacks and familial obligations.
Their paths cross once again by fate, as Ha-Neul and Jeong-woo find themselves as neighbours during their respective crises. Despite their historical rivalry resurfacing, their connection offers a glimmer of hope amid their struggles.
Flashback to Brilliance:
Introducing Ha-Neul and Jeong-woo as top students in 2009, the series delves into their competitive relationship and the intersection of their ambitions. Ha-Neul’s meticulous study habits clash with Jeong-woo’s achievements, setting the stage for their rivalry.
Present-Day Challenges:
Fast forward to the present, Ha-Neul’s and Jeong-woo’s successful professional lives take unexpected turns. Jeong-woo faces a malpractice lawsuit and financial woes, while Ha-Neul grapples with a diagnosis of clinical depression amidst career struggles and familial pressures.
Meeting Again:
As fate would have it, Ha-Neul and Jeong-woo cross paths again, becoming neighbours during their respective crises. Their historic rivalry resurfaces, offering a glimmer of hope amidst their struggles.
Tone and Ambiguity:
Doctor Slump oscillates between light-hearted flashbacks and heavy present-day challenges, sometimes struggling to find a consistent tone. Despite this, the chemistry between Park Shin-Hye and Park Hyung-sik keeps viewers invested, hoping for a satisfying resolution to their characters’ journey.
Doctor Slump presents an intriguing premise with the potential for a captivating romance amidst professional turmoil. While the series grapples with tonal inconsistencies, the allure of Park Shin-Hye and Park Hyung-sik’s on-screen dynamic makes it worth watching.
