Review: XO, Kitty - Korean Rom-Dramedy

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Post on Jan 20, 2025

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Review: XO, Kitty – Korean Rom-Dramedy Delight or Netflix Flop?

Netflix's XO, Kitty, a spin-off of the beloved To All the Boys I've Loved Before film trilogy, promised a vibrant Korean rom-com experience. But did it deliver on its sugary-sweet premise, or did it fall flat like a poorly-made Korean pancake? Let's dive into a comprehensive review, exploring the highs, lows, and everything in between of this highly anticipated series.

A Familiar Face in a New Setting

The series follows Kitty Song Covey, Lara Jean's younger sister, as she embarks on a new chapter of her life at the prestigious Korean Independent School of Seoul (KISS). Leaving the familiar comforts of California behind, Kitty's journey is fueled by her long-distance relationship with her boyfriend, Dae, a student at KISS. This premise, familiar to fans of the To All the Boys franchise, instantly grounds the show, allowing viewers to connect with Kitty's excitement and anxieties. However, the show quickly deviates from the predictable, introducing a complex web of relationships and challenges that keep the plot engaging.

The Charm of Korean Culture

One of the show's undeniable strengths lies in its authentic portrayal of Korean culture. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the vibrant school life at KISS, XO, Kitty immerses the viewer in a richly detailed world. The series cleverly weaves in Korean traditions, customs, and language, adding layers of depth and intrigue. The depiction of Korean high school life, with its unique social dynamics and academic pressures, feels genuine and avoids the pitfalls of stereotypical representation often seen in Western media depicting Asian cultures. This immersion alone makes the show worth watching for those interested in learning more about South Korean culture. The food, the fashion, the music – it all contributes to a visually and aurally appealing experience.

More Than Just a Rom-Com

While romance is undoubtedly at the heart of XO, Kitty, the series tackles more nuanced themes than your average teen rom-com. Kitty's journey is not simply about finding love; it's about self-discovery, navigating complex family relationships, and confronting the challenges of growing up in a new and unfamiliar environment. The show explores themes of identity, cultural differences, and the pressures of maintaining long-distance relationships with sensitivity and relatability. The exploration of these themes adds a layer of maturity that elevates the show beyond its lighthearted exterior. The characters face real-world problems, leading to genuinely emotional moments that resonate with the audience.

Character Development: Hit and Miss

The character development is a mixed bag. Kitty, while initially endearing with her bubbly personality, sometimes comes across as immature and self-absorbed. Her relentless pursuit of Dae, at times, feels obsessive and overshadows her own personal growth. However, the show does allow for moments of character evolution, showcasing Kitty's vulnerabilities and her capacity for self-reflection.

Other characters, like Yuri, Min Ho, and Q, are more fully developed, offering complex personalities and storylines that add depth to the narrative. Yuri, in particular, emerges as a compelling and relatable character, grappling with her own identity and navigating the complexities of family expectations. The supporting cast is filled with colorful characters, each with their own unique quirks and struggles, adding richness to the overall narrative.

Romance: The Sugar and the Spice

The romantic storylines in XO, Kitty are both charming and frustrating. The central romance between Kitty and Dae is fraught with challenges, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The tension and conflict provide ample opportunities for dramatic moments and emotional reveals. However, some viewers may find the pacing of the romance a bit uneven, with certain plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. The introduction of other romantic interests adds layers of complexity and intrigue, leading to unexpected twists and turns.

While the central romance might leave some viewers wanting more, the exploration of other relationships within the series adds significant depth. The friendships forged at KISS feel authentic and add a dimension beyond the romantic entanglements. The complex dynamics of the friendships mirror real-life experiences, showcasing the joys and tribulations of maintaining relationships during a period of significant personal change.

The Verdict: A Sweet Treat with a Few Bitter Aftertastes

XO, Kitty is far from perfect. The pacing feels uneven at times, and some plot points are resolved too quickly. Certain characters feel underdeveloped, leaving their stories unresolved. Despite these shortcomings, the show delivers on its promise of a vibrant and engaging Korean rom-com experience. The beautiful cinematography, authentic portrayal of Korean culture, and exploration of meaningful themes compensate for its flaws.

Ultimately, XO, Kitty is a fun, lighthearted watch that offers more than just typical teen romance. It provides a compelling look into Korean culture and the complexities of self-discovery and personal relationships. While it might not be a masterpiece, it’s a worthwhile addition to the To All the Boys universe and a satisfying watch for fans of the genre. The series leaves room for a second season, and based on the cliffhangers, there's certainly more to explore in Kitty's journey. Whether or not XO, Kitty becomes a new Netflix classic remains to be seen, but it certainly offers a sweet treat, even if it's not without a few bitter aftertastes.

Keywords:

XO, Kitty, Netflix, Korean Rom-Com, Korean Drama, To All the Boys, Korean Culture, Teen Rom-Com, K-Drama, Review, Series Review, Netflix Series, Rom-Dramedy, Kitty Song Covey, Dae, KISS, Korean Independent School of Seoul, Asian Representation, Long-Distance Relationships, Self-Discovery, Teen Drama, Streaming, Romance, Friendship, Family Relationships, Cultural Differences, Character Development, Korean High School, Seoul, South Korea