[HanCinema's Drama Review] "My Love from the Star" Episode 9

I have to wonder what kind of benefits Jae-Kyoung is offering to his minions. They seem rather nonplussed, not just at having received orders to commit murder, but also at the fact that their plans were foiled by what appears to be a superhero. Personally, that's the moment when I would start thinking that the pay probably isn't worth the risk. Min-Joon could execute all of these people easily if he wanted to. Note how the police are a lot less aggressive, even though they have actual legal authority and less knowledge concerning Min-Joon's true abilities. That's because they have a better sense of tactics and self-preservation. Or maybe it's just the writing- it's not like these characters are explored deeply enough for that to be clear.

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In terms of more relevant characters, Min-Joon doesn't actually seem to care who figures out he's an alien at this point. On multiple occasions he uses his abilities in a fairly obvious way in full sight of people. For intimidation purposes I presume- but the guy's not the Wizard of Oz, his powers are real. Although that could be a potentially interesting narrative direction- Jae-Kyoung and his crew don't back down because they don't think Min-Joon's powers are real.

Fortunately the drama doesn't dwell on such matters this episode, instead taking a step back to the romantic comedy elements. A bizarre contest sets off most of the drama's events, as a simple heart test ends up giving misleading results. The ensuing storyline is the first time I can think of that we've seen Song-I doing something that's not easily defined as selfish.

It's still a pretty poorly planned idea, unsurprisingly, but it's the thought that counts really. That seems to be the main thrust we're getting from all the storylines at this point. While Jae-Kyoung doesn't act threatening it's clear that he wants to. Additionally, while Se-Mi's heart is in the right place considering her choice of discussion topics, the fact that the woman won't speak what's actually on her mind is really just pretty sad.

The humor throughout is good. Not great, but the main important part is that Song-I's character is finally progressing to a level that clearly differs from her previous self. Yes, she's still basically pathetic and clumsy, and maintains those awkward, somewhat obnoxious speaking habits. But it's a nice, funny reversal for her to badger Min-Joon for a reasonably request instead of an absurd one. And likewise, for the first time, Min-Joon has figured out it's a good guy to say no to the woman every once in awhile.

Review by William Schwartz

"My Love from the Star" is directed by Chang Tae-you, written by Park Ji-eun and features Jun Ji-hyun, Kim Soo-hyun, Park Hae-jin and Yoo In-na.