There is a certain delight that comes with watching people in their 40s — like the protagonists of Crash Course in Romance — fall in love. There are no pretenses, or any grand charade and yet, a happiness that comes from finally meeting someone who understands you. Starring Jung Kyung-ho and Jeon Doyeon, Crash Course in Romance is a refreshing watch that is simple but leaves one with a feeling of contentment.

PLOT POT

Choi Chi-yeol (Jung Kyung-ho) is a popular maths teacher who is almost a celebrity. Parents line up for miles to have their children sign up for his classes and students dedicatedly follow his every instruction. Nam Haeng-son (Jeon Do-yeon) is a side dish shop owner who is the guardian to her brother, Nam Jae-woo (Oh Eui-shik), who is on the autism spectrum and their niece, Nam Hae-yi (Roh Yoon-seo).

From their very first meeting, Choi Chi-yeol and Nam Haeng-son are caught up in bickering and misunderstandings. They are complete opposites when it comes to their values and worldviews but keep crossing each other’s path. Their interactions are fun to watch especially given their contrasting personalities. Both Jeon and Jung, famed for their acting skills, show remarkable performances, bringing out characters that could have easily been cliched but instead, show a fresh dynamic.

Although their subtle and mature romance is one to watch, there are several interesting subplots going on. There is a serial killer on the lose whose modus operandi involves shooting people down with metal balls. The victims, although seemingly random, seem to be united in their dislike for Choi Chi-yeol. Is the killer than protecting Choi or doing more harm? On the other hand, South Korea’s infamous competitiveness for college admissions is reflected in the cutthroat competition seen between Hae-yi and her schoolmates. Overzealous and competitive mothers are just as involved and seem to stop at nothing to secure the best resources for their children, including haranguing teachers over their private lives.

When the show’s many subplots get too much, it is the performances that ultimately save it. Even the junior group of actors, including Nam Hae-yi (Roh Yoon-seo), Lee Chae-min (Lee Sun-jae) shine in their roles.

Although the murder mystery is an interesting diversion, it leads to an unsatisfactory ending that makes it seem like the drama could have done without it altogether. The slow but steadily blossoming romance between the impressive leads, the high-school dynamics, the portrayal of the negative sides of academic pressure and toxic competition and especially the relationship between the several parent-child relationships in the show lead it on. Crash Course in Romance had had a popular run with its ratings being in the steady highs and understandably so. It is a worthwhile watch despite its flaws.

TT OST Picks

Gypsophilia by Lee Ju Hyeok: Complemented by consistent strums of the guitar, this breezy song best encapsulates the melancholic yet optimistic vibes of the drama.

It’s Sunny Today by Grass: Perfect for that boost up, this song is a cheerful song on finding love. It is perfect for the season of gentle sunshine as well.

Alright by Ha Hyun Sang: A heartfelt love song, it is hopeful like most songs on the soundtrack. Ha’s smooth and emotive singing certainly makes for an enjoyable listen.