If you're like, "What on earth is 'Barbenheimer'?" Well, it's this funky mashup word that combines Barbie and Oppenheimer. As the hype for these epic blockbusters went through the roof all over the globe, the internet had a field day and cooked up this crazy term that turned into a full-blown meme. Just like Barbie and Oppenheimer, the Korean entertainment industry has churned out a bunch of fluffy rom-coms and intense, dark K-dramas and movies. When it comes to staying on-trend, here are five K-dramas and movies that are "Oppenheimer-like" and five that are "Barbie-like"
1. Beyond Evil
One of the best dark thrillers ever produced by Korea. It will give you the Oppenheimer vibes. The series' cinematography creates an intense and captivating atmosphere. Two detectives work together to solve a series of cold cases. As they start an investigation, many unexpected twists and turns are revealed. Performances by lead actors, Shin Ha-Kyun and Yeo Jin-goo, gave their best to make this a critically acclaimed masterpiece. You can check out "Beyond Evil" on Netflix.
2. Pandora
How real do you want your movie to be? Do you want to feel like you're right in the middle of it all? Like Oppenheimer promises to give you that experience, Pandora can also give you one. The story is about a man working in a local nuclear power plant. One day, he realises that an earthquake caused a nuclear meltdown. As the city and the government struggle to fight the disaster, the main lead risks his life to prevent any other catastrophe from occurring. The engaging storyline and characters of the film made a huge contribution to giving us a realistic experience. This movie is a must-watch for action and suspense lovers. You can find Pandora on Netflix.
3. Svaha: The Sixth Finger
Another masterpiece from South Korea in the mystery thriller genre. Svaha is about a pastor investigating a cult that is experiencing strange deaths. It is a highly recommended watch for all movie lovers around the world. The story is so full of suspense that you won't be able to put it down till the end. With an amazing cast, the film was not just a commercial success but, also critically acclaimed. You can watch it on Netflix.
4. Save Me
"Save Me" is an intense dark K-drama about four individuals who find themselves involved in a religious cult. The story is filled with tension and suspense. The show portrays the psychological and emotional changes that occur in the people of a cult. Save Me might not be suitable for all viewers due to its theme. However, it is a recommended series that you should experience once and see if it matches your interests. It has some outstanding performances. Later, after its release, it was confirmed for season 2. "Save Me" is available for free on MX Player and is also accessible in Hindi.
5. Burning
Burning is a Korean psychological thriller released in 2018. A thought-provoking story adapted from the short story, "Barn Burning" by Haruki Murakami. Jong-Su is a quiet and introverted man who soon meets Hae-mi and Ben. The film follows the life of Jong-Su after he meets other two characters. It gives a subtle classic vibe. You have to remain attentive throughout the film to understand every single detail. The open ending leaves a lot of theories to discuss. You can watch this captivating film on Amazon Prime Video.
6. A Business Proposal
Business Proposal is a romantic comedy K-drama. Shin Ha-ri is an employee in a food company where she works as a food researcher. She goes on a blind date instead of her friend. Later, she finds that her date is actually her boss. The Barbie vibe is created with the use of costumes and sets. It is a Light hearted, bubbly drama. So, when you are feeling low, you can binge-watch this. Business Proposal is available on Netflix.
7. Mood Of The Day
Released in 2016, Mood of the Day is more of a comedy than a romantic. Again, a light-hearted, fun vibe film to watch with your friends. Soo-Jung and Jae-Hyun are on a train to Busan when they meet each other. The story is simple and sweet. More time is given to the chemistry of the two leads. It is a highly entertaining and bright film. So, chill, relax, and watch Mood of the Day on Amazon Prime Video.
8. Her Private Life
An art curator Sung Deok-mi (Park Min-young) lives a double life of also being a fangirl of a K-pop idol. "Her Private Life" is a workplace rom-com starring Park Min-young, Kim Jae-Wook, Ahn Bo-Hyun, and Park Jin-joo. The coolest part of the series is the character played by Park Min-young. It is witty, charming, and funny. The story has a well-balanced humour and romance. The Ken of the show, Kim Jae-Wook did well in maintaining the chemistry. The series is available on Netflix and Prime Video.
9. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo is a humorous, sports K-drama aired in 2016. A young woman Kim Bok Joo is following her dream of weightlifting at her college. She develops a crush on the big brother of her friend. The series has a coming-of-age plot where the characters are shown dealing with college lives, their dreams, and love. It is a feel-good drama that you can watch on Netflix.
10. Secret Zoo
A 2020 South Korean comedy film about a zoo having no animals. To renew the zoo, attorney-at-law Tae Soo comes up with a plan. With the help of zookeepers, he dresses all of them as animals. The film is hilarious from the beginning. The costume and CGI are good. The story is simple but entertaining. If you are looking for a movie in the comedy genre, you can give this a shot. Secret Zoo is available on Netflix and Prime Video.
