Released on Netflix on the 3rd, the series 'Genie, Make A Wish' is a fantasy romantic comedy about a career-disrupted genie named Jinny (played by Kim Woo-bin) who awakens after a thousand years and meets Ka-young (played by Suzy), a human devoid of emotions. The story unfolds around three wishes.
Jinny is a high-nosed satanic genie who tests human corruption and grants wishes to his liking. Upon discovering that his new master, Ka-young, who summoned him after 983 years, is the reincarnation of the girl who once trapped him in the lamp, Jinny attempts to corrupt her into making wishes. However, Ka-young remains indifferent, claiming she doesn't need any wishes. They embark on a life-threatening wager in this 'hate-to-love' melodrama.
Kim Woo-bin captivates viewers with Jinny's multifaceted charm, blending mischievousness and innocence. His commanding visual presence, with long hair and vintage costumes, adds to the allure. The mystical and unique outfits complement the fantasy genre, enhancing the viewing experience.
Additionally, Kim Woo-bin masterfully delivers the rhythmic dialogue characteristic of writer Kim Eun-sook, using his unique tone and impeccable timing. His signature line, "I can't bring back the dead, I can't take you to the future, but everything else will be granted as your wish," paired with his self-conceived gestures, captivates viewers with its addictive quality.
As the series progresses into the backstory of past lives, Kim Woo-bin showcases an emotional performance. His portrayal of a pure and clumsy character, unaware of what it means to feel his heart race, endears him to viewers.
Moreover, his intense emotional performance leaves a lasting impression. The omnipotent being who grants human wishes is ironically unable to fulfill his own deepest desire, leading him to desperately plead with humans, a scene that tugs at the heartstrings. Kim Woo-bin's poignant and heartrending performance is hailed as one of the standout moments of the series.
Meanwhile, 'Genie, Make A Wish' is currently streaming exclusively on Netflix.