I do not like romantic teen comedies; I occasionally see one only when I'm with a date. I think teen romantic comedies are so full of clichés and stereotypical characters, the premise of most I've seen is so predictable and need I say it? DULL. However, a few years ago, I came across "My SASSY GIRL" which came highly recommended by a friend. Directed by Kwak Jae-Young, it is loosely based on real-life experiences of Kim Ho-Sik, which he posted as an internet serial called "YupKi Girl". Did I like "My Sassy Girl"? Yes, in fact, I loved it. (This is my first shot reviewing a "chick flick" so don't laugh)
One night, Gyun-woo (Pop Star Chae Tae-Yeon), a young student comes across a terribly drunken girl (Jeon Ji-Hyeon). He feels very awkward to help her but when he does, a deep sense of responsibility has been developed within him; he decides to heal her pain. Even though she slaps him, pushed him into a pool, forces him to wear her high heels, he tolerates everything. Will she stay with him after the pain is healed?
Now, why do I find this South Korean romantic comedy so remarkable? The film is very enjoyable and quite unpredictable. It is well developed as a love story with well-rounded characters that you can really care about. It doesn't take the easy road to humor such as the typical jokes of sexual nature inherent in other teen comedies. Also, the perfectly timed humor adds a lot of zest in the proceedings and plus there is the beautiful and unforgettable Korean female lead; Korean Bombshell Jeon Ji-Hyeon.
The film revolves around two main characters, sure, there are supporting ones such as aunts, parents, rogue soldier and schoolmates. The film really makes an effort for the viewers to become well acquainted with Gyun-woo and the unnamed girl. While the film's premise is very simple, there are a lot of subtle details present that really kept me interested. The first half contains most of the funny moments and it successfully forms an attachment to its viewers. The humor doesn't require an understanding of Korean culture and is very easy to pick up. The second half has the melodramatic moments (This is a Korean film) and the film TRULY succeeds in its emotional impact because the drama works and blends well with the rest of the film and its characters.
The Girl (Jeon Ji-Hyeon) is one of the most bizarre characters I've come across; sometimes she is cute and lovable but she can have that humorous creepy feel. She is crazy! How can a gorgeous girl be so lovable and likeable at the same time violent and disturbed? Jeon Ji-Hyeon won acting awards for her portrayal of the unnamed girl. After "IlMare" (U.S. remake; The Lake House), My Sassy Girl catapulted her to superstardom. Chae Te-Yeon is a pop star but does a tremendous performance bringing Gyun-woo's character to life. I really liked his funny facial expressions!! He really gave life to his character as a victim-boyfriend, every humiliatingly awkward moment is a funny one that at the same time I almost pitied his plight but at the same time enjoyed it. Their warm chemistry is so effective that you can't help but connect with them.
The film is also visually pleasant to the eyes. Some of the backdrop may seem a bit cartoonish and quite colorful but I think it doesn't hurt the proceedings. The camera positioning is also perfect, it adds that extra touch to make the funny moments even more humorous and memorable. I don't want to point out the highlights because it may spoil the film's developments.
There you go. I reviewed my first-ever-romantic comedy and survived. To be honest, I was drawn to this film because of Jeon Ji-Hyeon. Little did I know that watching "My Sassy Girl" (again) would turn out to be one of the most fun I've had watching a dvd in awhile. (It's a good break from all the dark films I've seen of late) People who are looking for crude humor will be disappointed. The film's excellent pacing and the truly effective twist in the last act makes this Korean comedy one of the best "feel good" flicks and has become an essential part of my DVD collection. If you like "sweet" and clever romance; this film is a can't miss!
I still dislike teen romantic comedies, "My Sassy Girl" is the exception to the rule. (This film came before "Windstruck" but made such an impact with the Korean audience that the last scene in "Windstruck" gave a hint of a relation to this film in the last scene although it has no relation to it)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! [4 ½ stars]
