In this week’s K-drama review we are sharing our thoughts about a 2021 drama adapted from a Webtoon. Get ready for wholesomeness and life with ‘Navillera’.
Based on the Webtoon under the same name, written by Hun and illustrated by Ji-min. This adaptation was written by Lee Eun-mi and directed by Han Dong-hwa.
Life Dreams
‘Navillera’ shares the life of Shim Deok-chul (Park In-hwan), a 70-year old retired man who has had a lifelong dream of becoming a ballerino. From his childhood he wasn’t able to pursue his dream, however, most of his life he dedicated himself to bringing up his family against all the odds.
Now at 70, he meets Lee Chae-Rok (Song Kang, you may know him from the drama ‘Love Alarm‘) by chance, while he was practicing ballet in the studio. Deok-chul after seeing him becomes determined to learn ballet and fulfil one of his life-long dreams, even if he has to do it without his family’s support.
Chae-Rok is in his twenties. He hasn’t had the easiest life as his mother was a ballerina but unfortunately she passed away and his father is in jail. Chae-Rok at his young age struggles financially but is able to make ends meet with part-time jobs while he is trying to pursue his ballet career.
After a bit of resistance, Chae-Rok accepts Deok-chul as an apprentice, and they both embark on a journey of acceptance, healing and growth.
Both characters have painful memories from the past, however, Deok-chul guides Chae-rok through his tough life circumstances, while he learns that sometimes you need to give your all to soar.
Family, Forgiveness, Acceptance
Deok-chul’s family welcomes the idea of him becoming a ballerino at his age with a lot of resistance. Though after they all become aware of the passion and effort he is putting into it, they accept his decision and support him.
Throughout the drama, Deok-chul reflects on his past choices, and how each circumstance led him and his family to where they are now. The writers and directors did an incredible job showing how the past built his present, and the growth of this character from a very young age.
From Chae-rok’s side, after his father is released from jail, he barely meets him, but as the drama develops these two characters start rebuilding their relationship and getting to know each other.
Chae-rok struggles quite a bit with friendship and heartbreaking situations from the past. As the drama develops he tries to heal himself and the people hurt from past actions that cannot be changed.
In a Nutshell
‘Navillera’ is probably one of my favourite dramas of the year. This production centers around the rawness of human nature. It didn’t try to be extraordinary and gave viewers relatable characters that could remind us of our own family members, making it very special, candid and unique.
If you’re looking to watch a slice-of-life drama, make sure to watch ‘Navillera’, and make sure to get your tissues ready.
This drama is available on Netflix, watch the trailer below.
