Drama Digest
Joo Sang Sook is a three-time Congresswoman who has mayoral aspiration and intends to run for elections the fourth time. She is raised by her grandmother and started off her political career as an honest politician. But in the course of her political journey, she becomes corrupt and dishonest. Her grandmother troubled and fed up with her unscrupulous deals, makes a wish that Joo Sang Sook turns into an honest person. The wish is granted and few days before the elections, Joo Sang Sook finds out that she is unable to lie. Unfortunately, her entire career is based on lies. Owing to this, a comedy of errors follows but, in the end, she becomes an Honest Candidate.
The Feel-Good Part
Ra Mi Ran is one of Korea’s finest female actors. Her talent and range are incredible which is showcased in the movie too. On one hand, the scenes between her and grandmother are touching and emotional. The possibility of shedding a tear or two is high. On the other hand, her interactions with her personal advisor and team are hilarious which indicates Ra Mi Ran’s acting prowess.
The Disappointing Factor
The storyline is not new and if one is familiar with Hollywood, the theme is similar Jim Carrey’s iconic movie Liar Liar.
The movie starts off as a comedy and if the director had continued in the same trajectory, it would have been a fun watch. But towards the end, it turns into an emotional and moral drama; thereby, losing the plot.
In-Depth Analysis
The movie has been adapted from a Brazilian movie “O Candidato Honesto” but tweaked to suit Korean sentiments. The movie starts off as a comedy wherein the principal character is into dishonest actions and negotiations. But a larger power ensures that a few days before the elections, she is unable to lie. Due to this sudden mishap, her entourage led by her personal advisor steps into action and the result is a series of humorous mistakes.
Like the title suggests, one can guess the ending. No surprises in there. Towards the end the movie becomes a lesson on leading an honest life and this is drilled into our heads. This aspect of the movie is unbearable to take and a major negative point.
If the director had stuck to comedy and in the same vein subtly stressed on the simple message, the movie would have been better.
Star Power
The star cast led by the brilliant Ra Min Ran is the main reason to watch the movie. The chemistry between her and her husband is very sweet and her interactions with her team are super fun. But the highlight of the movie are the scenes between her and her grandmother played by the equally brilliant Na Moon Hee.
Overall Opinion
If you are a K fan and in the mood for a light hearted movie, then it is worth a watch. The sole warning is please do not compare it to Liar Liar or O Candidato Honesto. Please watch it as a K-movie
