‘Memories of Alhambra’ is a 2018 drama created by Lee Myung-han and Jinnie Choi, written by Song Jae-jung, directed by Ahn Gil-ho and broadcasted in TvN.
This drama doesn’t have the plot I usually I go for in dramas. It has got a bit of suspense, mystery and very little romance (what can I say, I love rom-coms), but it was a refreshing story that totally gave a new perspective about gaming and virtual reality (VR).
The Plot
‘Memories of Alhambra’ tells the story of Yoo Jin-woo played by Hyun Bin, a CEO of a very successful company who is after his next big investment, which end ups being a VR game invented by Jung Se-joo played by EXO’s Chanyeol.
The drama takes a turn when Jung Se-joo disappears mysteriously and Yoo Jin-woo, in order to have the rights of the game, has to purchase the ‘Hostel Bonita’. A hostel owned by Se-joo’s family and run by Jung Hee-joo (Se-joo sister) played by Park Shin Hye.
This production develops in different time frames, and moves forward and back in time very often, which had me lost at moments. Once you get the gist of it you understand why it was plotted that way.
‘Memories of Alhambra’ draws a very fine line between reality and VR, and had me thinking about what is next for the gaming industry (I’m not a gamer). I hope though, that it doesn’t resemble any of the plot because I can tell you it’d be terrifying.
The story mainly develops in Spain and South Korea, so you get to see a bit of both countries. The locations where they shot were stunning and you actually learn a couple of things about Granada in Spain and its music.
The Cast
First things first, this drama has an incredible cast. Hyun Bin is one of the most famous actors in Korea with a long list of productions he has been in and Park Shin Hye has been in the industry since she was a child and has built a solid career as an actress.
Hyun Bin as usual delivers an incredible performance. He is the main character and this role is portrayed flawlessly. You could actually feel what he was going through and how tormented he was at moments just with his expressions.
However, I didn’t feel that the drama took advantage of the full potential of Park Shin Hye as an actress.
She is well known for her acting, and I have seen her in many other roles; but this time I felt that her role didn’t have enough character development, nonetheless, she did a great job delivering the role.
‘Memories of Alhambra’ is definitely a drama with a plot that is unique and refreshing. The only thing I was kind of disappointed about was that I didn’t get to see Hee-joo and Jin-woo’s relationship develop, but given the plot, the romance was just a secondary storyline.
If you are up to for a drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make sure to watch ‘Memories of Alhambra’, I’m sure it won’t disappoint.
