This episode is so many things: delightful, touching, funny. I can go on and on. It starts out by showing us why Yumi’s Fashion Cell is…well locked in a cell (a jail cell), and why parole is now on the table. After the Fashion Cell urges Yumi into a questionable “first date” outfit, we see what happens at the flower festival with Wook. Yumi’s ecstatic, but things take an unexpected turn.
In my mini reviews for Awaken and Law School, I included a “What We Learn This Episode” section, but since the plot of Yumi’s Cells is uncomplicated, it’s easy enough to discuss within the yeses and noes.
Yes to balance
So far there’s been a good balance between the outside world and Yumi’s head. I applaud that, because this kind of narration can get tricky. But one hasn’t dominated the other and the transitions are good. I’ve read comments complaining about the cells getting too much screen time, but it’s pretty equal and should’ve been expected from a drama called Yumi’s Cells. The title alone is a big enough hint the animated cells would get a moderate amount of attention.
Yes to this drama’s big heart
I love romantic comedies, but they don’t have the reputation they used to. Especially new ones. The genre’s ability to tug at the heartstrings has always been underestimated, especially when compared to melodramas or thrillers. And it looks like I’m not immune to the conditioning. I think that’s why I keep getting surprised when this show manages to touch me on levels far below the surface.
When Wook tells Yumi the reason he invited her out is to see if she’d be interested in going on a blind date with his friend (aka Gu Woong), my heart deflated just like hers. And when Reason and some of the other cells try to keep her from crying, my cells had to stop me from being overly emotional. I just sat on my couch thinking it’s so true that our bodies go through a lot of inner turmoil to mask our pain. So, even though it was a simple scene, the emotional impact was heavy.
On a lighter note, Yumi running away from Ruby so she wouldn’t interrupt her and Wook’s “date” cracked me up! Man, she’s fast! Good thing the Fashion Cell made her wear pants and sensible shoes. I also loved the Reaction Number One doll! It’s definitely a good representation of faking your emotions and being on autopilot.
Yes to Yumi and Gu Woong’s blind date!!!
Their first meeting was filmed so beautifully! I thought it was so cute that Gu Woong’s mind went blank when he first saw Yumi. His cells were literally in a fog. It’s probably one of the best meet-cutes I’ve seen in a drama, and is accurate for someone who’s socially awkward like Gu Woong. His Comedy/Joke Cell eventually trying to make Yumi laugh was the icing on the cake. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the date goes.
I’m really enjoying this drama! It manages to be funny, charming, and touching all at once! I’m looking forward to seeing the rest of Gu Woong’s cells navigate his crush on Yumi, and I’m sorry, but I can’t wait for his facial hair to goooo! I’m so glad the teaser for the next episode shows him clean shaven. Ahn Bo-hyun’s face is too handsome to be covered up!