CAST: Park Eun-Bin , Kim Hyo-Jin, Chae Jong-Hyeop, Cha Hak-Yeon, Kim Ju Hun, Lee Seo-Joon, Moon Yoo-Jin, Seo Jung-Yeon, Lee Sung-Joon
DIRECTOR: Oh Choong-Hwan
“Castaway Diva,” a Korean drama collaboration between director Oh Choong-Hwan, known for “Black Suit Lawyer,” and screenwriters Park Hye-Ryun and Yoon Yeol, who worked on “Start-Up,” promises an intriguing storyline. The show centers around Seo Mok-Ha, who is rescued from a deserted island after 15 years and harbors dreams of becoming a diva.
The 12-episode series will be available for streaming on Netflix every Saturday and Sunday starting on October 28. The first episode sets the stage with a glimpse of diva Ran-joo, en route to a radio show, creating anticipation among viewers.
The story delves into the life of Seo Mok-ha, a native of Chunsam Island, whose greatest aspiration is to become a singing idol. Her determination to achieve this dream leads to some engaging moments, like her desperate attempts to borrow a phone to listen to her idol, Ran-joo. These early interactions with her fellow student Ki-ho add depth to the characters and their respective struggles.
Ki-ho, on the other hand, has his own challenges to face, working hard at the docks behind his father’s back. The show effectively portrays the hardships both protagonists endure in their separate lives.
The narrative takes an emotional turn as it reveals the abusive backgrounds of both Mok-ha and Ki-ho. Their common experiences create a connection between them, ultimately leading to a partnership in pursuit of Mok-ha’s dream of becoming an idol.
As the story unfolds, it introduces elements of hope and resilience, with Ki-ho playing a pivotal role in Mok-ha’s journey.
Ki-Ho, who knows that Mok-Ha also suffers from domestic abuse, tells her to come to him if she is beaten again, and he will take her off the island. Unfortunately, Mok-Ha’s father finds them as they are about to board a ship. Ki-Ho tries to stop him, but is beaten up, and Mok-Ha’s father successfully boards the ship to find her.
Mok-Ha doesn’t want to go back with her father and runs to the back of the ship. Seeing his daughter jump into the sea, her father jumps in to save her, but unfortunately drowns. Mok-Ha ends up stranded on an unknown island for 15 years. Her survival skills are impressive, both physically and mentally. After 15 years, Mok-Ha finds a drone on the island and has no idea what this flying object is.
The drama cleverly portrays the contrast between their pasts and their aspirations for the future. Ki-ho’s selfless actions and determination to help Mok-ha add depth to his character and evoke sympathy from the audience.
However, a twist of fate leaves the characters in a precarious situation, and the story takes an unexpected turn, leading to a dramatic cliffhanger. The narrative then shifts to Mok-ha’s survival on a deserted island, where she must rely on her resilience and resourcefulness.
“Castaway Diva” masterfully combines drama, heart, and charm in its opening episode, leaving viewers eager to see how the story unfolds. The series features strong performances from the cast and captivating cinematography, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
While the show’s synopsis may suggest a comedy, the tone is, so far, more dramatic and emotional, offering a refreshing change. “Castaway Diva” appears poised to become another compelling weekend drama on Netflix, and it will be intriguing to follow Mok-ha’s journey as she navigates the challenges of both her past and her newfound island life.
