Anicca

 

Asian dramas have taken the world by storm; K-dramas in particular. One that stands out as a must-watch for any Asian drama enthusiast is "Healer." If you are new to the world of K-dramas (or Asian Dramas) I need to put a disclaimer for you - this one is going to ruin you for a while. I know, because I started my Asian Drama journey with Healer and it took me a while to like anything else. It is THAT good. 

“Healer” is an action-packed series with an amazing romance running in parallel. It is sure to keep you hooked from the very first episode. Whether you are a newbie to this world of dramas, or a veteran - “Healer” is a must watch for you and I will give you 5 reasons why without too many spoilers!

1. Unconventional Protagonists: 

Our male protagonist is Seo Jung Hoo (played by Ji Chang-Wook) is a chameleon of sorts. He is a ‘night courier’ who runs unconventional errands for money. At first glance, he is not your knight is shining armour. But he is someone who plays any role required convincingly - from the night courier who is an expert in martial arts to a scaredy-cat reporter to a son trying to find out about his past. Our female protagonist is Chae Young Shin (played by Park Min-Young) is a fiery but ‘failed’ reporter. She aspires to be the best yet puts other people’s safety before her own aspirations. She is not fearless, but she is someone who do what is necessary despite her fears.

2. Well-Developed Characters:

It is not just our protagonists and antagonists that are well developed in the series. Each character brings in something to the plot. 

For instance, Kim Moon-Ho (played by Yoo Ji-Tae) is an ace reporter who refuses to access certain resources that are available to him because his sense of honour tell him that those resources are tainted. He is haunted by the past and wants to do what’s best for the victims even if it means that he has to go up against those close to him. Then there is the character of Chae Chi-Soo (played by Park Sang-Myeon) who through his actions show how blood doesn’t matter to be a family. His kind moments with his adoptive daughter will touch the audiences heart and ultimately is what shaped our female protagonist. 

Overall, there is a diverse set of characters who add depth to the over all plot.

3. Intriguing Plot and Thrilling Action:

The story revolves around secrets from the past of a group of friends, that not only affect the cast of characters in the present, but also the political situation of the country. As the characters dig up the secrets, they realise what they are really dealing with. The fight scenes involving Ji Chang-Wook are stylish and exciting enough to make you want to see more action sequences. The romance element of the story really works because of the chemistry between the characters is palpable as they really compliment each other.

4. Heartwarming Romance:

If the action sequences and the mystery angle of the plot gets your blood roaring, the romance in the series will get your heart thumping. If you are someone who loves ‘love-at-first-sight’ tropes, only then maybe this may not be your cup of tea. Our protagonists fall for each other slowly and steadily. They build a camaraderie that is bot fun and sweet. Their personalities are so different, yet similar at places that really matter. As a viewer, you will hoot and cheer for them to be together.

5. Memorable Soundtrack:

I don’t think I will ever be able to listen to ‘Eternal Love by MLTR’ and not think of this series ever again. Other than that ‘I will protect you by Ji Chang-wook’, ‘You by BEN’ and the Healer theme song just adds to the overall ambience of the series in a way that it is impossible to separate them.

Bonus Reason: Ji Chang-Wook! Yes he is easy on the eyes as most asian drama heroes are. The reason why I like him is because he is an expert at micro-expressions. Small things that he does in his acting really make you involved in the story telling. 

“Healer” is a favourite among K-Drama enthusiasts because everything about the series just falls into place to take the audience on a journey of action, thrills, heartbreak and love. I assure you that once you start the series, you will not be able to stop. Happy binge-watching!