beta
Knowing the author was originally in animation I can only think that it was for cartoons. The characterization are all distinct, expressive, and fun. However it doesn’t always feel the character dynamics were really thought through. The comedic writing is just more compelling than the romantic bits, which feel a little “Pepe LePew”. The Extra Chapter re-contextualizes the storytelling because the style is engaging, but kinda overwhelming.
I’m also glad to know that it’s not just us sneaky western readers who got mixed vibes for Su-ah. Clearly the dominate audience felt similar, so I’m glad that the criticism was noted. I really find myself rooting for this manhwa. I hope it finds its proper footing in season 2.
if the creator has an artistic background in animation, that explains why the art is great, expressive, and immersive. but the character writing and development is so... frustratingly incomplete and lacking for a story with such a strong basis for drama. the comedic aspect falls flat for me because of that :/. but people are cool with that, apparently.
Season 2 is written differently than Season 1 and that’s not all good. It represents the change in dynamics well enough, but the chapters feels so much shorter and unfulfilling. In Season 1 chapters would have story beats completed with us looking forward to the ongoing relationship drama. I think Changdeok not working has negatively effected the story, especially since we don’t know what Jongwu does half the time. There’s nothing left to focus on except the relationship and it feels like they’re purposely keeping it stagnant rather than having the characters develop. They live in the same house and we don’t even see them chitchat anymore. No wonder Changdeok is thinking about moving, that’s suffocating. Stressful factors that aren’t in their heads are washed away because Jongwu is rich. Where are the stakes for the audience? The writer spent a long time writing Season 2 and it’s underwhelming when Season 1 was so engaging in its mundane environment from jump. I do want Season 3 as this story has a lot of potential and I support on Lezhin, but I usually buy full works (per season, like a comic trade paperback or manga volume) and need to see improvement and progression.
I’m writing like this because Season 1 ended at chapter 21 and that would mean Season 2 could be considered at or near its halfway point (chapter 31).
If anyone wants to watch a vampire romcom parody I suggest the indie pilot “Regrettably, My Boyfriend is a Vampire” It is not a series yet, but i think it would overlap with the taste of this fanbase.