Genie, Make A Wish: My First Wish Would've Been For A Better Ending

This Netflix K-drama tells the story of Iblis (Kim Woo-bin), a flambuoyant genie who, after spending over 900 years trapped inside a lamp, reawakens to grant wishes to his new human master, the stoic Ki Ka-young (Bae Suzy). Throughout their journey together, they discover centuries-old secrets and embark on a magical romance.

It was definitely an entertaining story, with an engaging plot and great comedic writing. I enjoyed the unique premise, and the acting was consistently amazing at representing this distinctive world. Woo-bin absolutely killed the quirky, hilarious delivery and Suzy showed incredible dedication to portraying a neurodivergent character. I knew these two would have great chemistry together considering they've been great co-stars in the past, but I was pleasantly surprised at how often I found myself laughing at my screen. Although ocassionally too detail heavy for my taste, it was a pleasant watch.

But then, the ending played *sigh*. It was bad. More specifically, it was confusing and contextually unrealistic (yes, I know how that sounds for a show about genies, angels, and magic). The storylines involving supporting characters who we had spent 13 episodes rooting and sympathizing for weren't concluded well at all. And I felt that the pressure to make the leads end up together made the writing rushed and sloppy.

It was unfortunate since I had really been enjoying the show thus far. After finishing it, I just sat at my desk thinking: "Huh??". I would've rather watched a more natural, genuine ending where they end up separated than whatever fever dream it was that I witnessed. We should know by now, I like solid conclusions that are satisfying and I'm not sure why that can be hard to find these days. Not even the classic K-drama trope of "lovers in a past life" could save this ending for me, even if it was done pretty well. If the beginning and the end of a show leaves the most lasting impression on a viewer, the latter of this one was pretty sour.