The advent of the coronavirus pandemic brought with it a wave of zombie flicks and
K-dramas are not far behind. Among the many apocalyptic thrillers that have been released in the past few years, Happiness occupies a unique position. It is not just a run-of-the-mill horror flick but makes several pertinent social commentaries that have greater implications.
Plot Pot
This 2021 production by tVN is largely centred around the residents of a luxurious high-rise complex who are confined to their building after the outbreak of a mysterious disease. In the meantime, high-school friends Yoon Sae-bom (Han Hyo-joo) and Jung Yi-hyun (Park Hyung-shik) had faked their marriage to secure an apartment in the complex. Yi-hun, a former basketball prodigy-turned-detective had always liked the free-spirited and energetic Sae-bom, who is now in the military. However, they are soon cut off from the outside world in an effort to contain the disease inside the complex.
The disease is a result of a drug called ‘Next’. It causes irrationality in the consumer and provides them with an uncontrollable thirst for blood. However, unlike typical zombies, this is for a limited time and often, the diseased does not remember their bloodthirsty outbursts after they have subsided. The residents are soon trapped inside the complex and there are several things that unfold including the class disparity among the residents and subsequent discriminatory treatment, concealment of infection, lies to save face and selfishness at the face of adversity. All the while, Lieutenant Han Tae-sook (Jo Woo-jin) is monitoring the outbreak from the outside with intentions of his own.
Happiness shows human nature at a time of crisis. Even while everyone is trying to survive, most residents in the complex have their own secrets and agendas. While one had just murdered his wife, another one is stuck with their annoying older brother who wants financial support and yet another resident is a vlogger, keen on broadcasting everything that is going on even if it comes with risks. As more and more days pass, tensions rise even as Sae-bom and Yi-hyun work hard to keep order inside the complex as well as communicate with officials outside of it, to bring clarity and peace to the situation.
Happiness remains mostly taut throughout its 12-episode run with multiple plot twists but stable on all of them. It shows that even at the face of a deadly disease, human nature can prove to be much more dangerous. Even self-preservatory instincts can lead to difficult situations. All of it makes for a memorable watch that provides much more than just horror and thrill.
Genre: apocalyptic thriller, zombie flick
Where to Watch: Netflix, Viki
You Will Love It If You Love
- Spunky female leads
- Zombie thrillers with meaningful plots
- Social critique
Rating: 4/5
Characters We Treasured
Han Hyo-joo as Yoon Sae-bom: Spunky, fun and confident, Sae-bom is quick to throw a mean punch and fiercely protects the ones she loves. Underneath her indifferent exterior, it is obvious she cares deeply and will fight for what is right.
We also loved her in: W: Two Worlds
Park Hyung-shik as Jung Yi-hyun: Sharp and calm, Yi-hyun perfectly complements the energetic Sae-bom and deeply loves her as is obvious from the beginning. His monumental sacrifice and perseverance make him a memorable and lovable character.
We also loved him in: Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, Suits
Jo Woo-jin as Lieutenant Han Tae-sook: A genius mastermind with a pertinent backstory, keep a lookout for this strict military lieutenant throughout. While his judgements are understandably questionable, there are glimpses of him that demand sympathy from the audience.
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