Reflection
I thought that the writing was pretty solid throughout the drama. It is refreshing to watch a drama that ventures into foreign territory and breaks free of the traditional kdrama tropes and cliches to explore the less commonly visited genres of horror (though I wouldn't really consider this drama to be scary at all) and fantasy + romance. The plot is layered and has some depth, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge.
The main character Man Weol's story captivates you right from the get-go, as the show uses flashbacks very well to reveal small snippets of her past at a time, causing you to be curious about her past, and eager to find out more. The generous use of humour also helps to balance out some of the heavier, more emotional scenes, while also allowing the drama to be easy and fun to watch throughout its lengthy episodes. Personally, it was fitting to the themes of this drama and very beautiful to watch, as well as very emotional. The drama explores the themes/ideas of 'letting go', 'resentment', 'unselfish love' and 'forgiveness', which are all very meaningful, thought-provoking ideas, not just in the context of this drama, but these themes also have a place in our lives as well.
The story line was new and refreshing, and it was filled with moments that were relatable, hilarious and heart breaking. After watching the final episode, in my opinion, one of the many masterpieces of Korean television. The actors all had great chemistry together, especially the main leads. I really liked the way each relationship was explained and portrayed. I like the trio staffs: Bartender, Receptionist and Lady Assistant, who have unique stories on their own. I also like Mago that has 12 unique characters, but only shown 6 for this drama. Because of this, the last episode had me bawling my eyes out as we said goodbye to each of the staff members. Also, the ending to me was brilliant. The way that they all were connected in their next lives made me so happy as I felt like they all got the happy endings that they deserved, especially Man Wol and Chan Sung.
Hotel del Luna, although a fantastical drama, is actually a foray into the reality of life.
It teaches us many things:
1) Flowers from the moon tree, life is beautiful yet fleeting - and so, we must make the most out of it.
2) Humans are endowed with the ability to make choices and are consequently tasked to bear responsibility for the choices they made.
3) Life is not always easy or fair - as such, we must learn to play the hand we're dealt with much courage and grace.
4) If the past is a source of suffering or ill-feelings, we must learn to let go and make peace with it and with ourselves when it doesn't enhance or value add our lives.
5) Our way of thinking and feeling can have a powerful outcome or influence.
6) Revenge is sweet for it provides an outlet for pent-up aggression and wounded feelings. It is create pain and sufferings and does not diminish with time, thus inflicting endless pain on the person who exacted vengeance.
7) Forgiveness has a rending and liberating power; that love has a transformation power which can shape our character.
8) Goo Chan-seung has perfectly shown us - that true love is put others before self or it makes you forget yourself and seek the welfare of your beloved.
"It is natural to feel sad and disappointed when you let go of someone you love. Just like a flower dreams of blooming again while withering away, you will live, meet and love again." Mago, Hotel Del Luna
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