Our Blooming Youth

Everything about this drama, from the intricate storyline to the eye-catching and beautiful aesthetics and incredibly talented cast, everything about this drama was impeccable!

I had been waiting for this drama for over a year now and I can say with full confidence that every second of the wait was worth it. I rushed here to write this review after finishing the last episode because this drama truly deserves it. This drama really managed to tug my heartstrings haha.

I was also really glad to see how the ending allowed the characters to have their deserved closure. If you're thinking about giving this a watch, please don't waste another thought and watch it right away, you won't regret it!!

A nobleman's daughter played by Jeon So-nee is framed for murdering her entire family and she escapes with her handmaiden played by Pyo Ye-jin. They end up in the capital where they disguise themselves as men and So-nee ends up in the palace as a eunuch serving the Crown Prince played by Park Hyun-Sik and Ye-Jin work serves a nobleman who spends his time investigating crimes using a scientific approach. There is of course the usual palace intrigue with various factions competing to get the upper hand to appoint their candidate as the Crown Prince. The storyline has been done before but the cast do a great job and it is still entertaining and the relationship between the leads is a believable romance.

The cast is superb: I love the characters and story lines. And I adore both leads: he is subtle and calm with a wry sense of humor; much of his acting is through his eyes alone. She is adorable and spunky, more than a match for his highness. Their scenes together are funny and touching; the growing affection and mutual protectiveness come through poignantly. Support cast is excellent, and I cared about their characters, especially the 2nd male lead who nearly steals the drama he's so good. My only complaint is the writing could have been tighter, and the plot strengthened. 16 eps might be better than 20 because the longer series too often flounder in repetitive plot re-enactments and filler scenes. Still, I recommend the series: though for me the series just misses being great, it's very good, and I'm glad I watched it.

The story, especially the mystery aspect and how the protagonists figure it out and set things right, is compelling. The acting is remarkable, particularly those of the lead characters, Park Hyung Sik as the crown prince and Jeon So Nee as Min Jae Yi / Go Soon Dol.

Though it features gender-switching, a trope I'm not too crazy about, I don't mind it that much here as the characters who matter know about the subterfuge early on. And when you're wrongfully accused of murder, what could be a better way to hide while you try to find the real culprit?

The dedication of the crown prince to do what is right for his people is awe-inspiring. That scene where he is struggling between duty and love, between marrying the chosen crown princess or following his heart is so powerful I cried, though it is depicted so subtly with no tears shed, just his face showing his heartbreak. I also love how he chooses peace and forgiveness at the end instead of going all out shedding more blood to avenge every single wrong committed by the enemies.

The ending is lovely. I wish all dramas have endings as heartwarming as this.

The first 8 episode just kept me hooked up. I can't even move my eyes off the screen. Each and every scene was played so well. Applause for all the actors and actresses and the satffs.

Park Hyung Sik, this man has never disappointed me and i hope will never too. His acting skills is so good from top to bottom. Love him and his character. He surprised everyone thru Happiness drama and this one is just another masterpiece of his. I still hope the ending won't be sad but a happy one. Others are also very cool. The mystery part is amazing and keeps me guessing and wondering. Hyung Sik oppa's this character reminds me of hwarang. Really missed his prince look and now its back....

Happy watching.. 💗💗