The JTBC drama 'Fighting Against One's Worthlessness' (hereafter 'FAOW') has been stuck in the 2% ratings range over its first four episodes. As the unique narrative style of writer Park Hae-young receives both criticism and praise, it remains to be seen whether this work can win over the audience as more episodes air.
'FAOW' is a collaboration between writer Park Hae-young, known for 'My Mister' and 'My Liberation Notes,' and director Cha Young-hoon, who directed 'When the Camellia Blooms' and 'Welcome to Samdalri.' With rising stars Koo Kyo-hwan and Go Youn-jung in the cast, the drama garnered attention even before its premiere. However, the response has been mixed since its release.
Park Hae-young's works are known for their distinct style, delving deeply into human isolation and inner voids. The narrative follows lonely characters who recognize each other's deficiencies and slowly heal through their relationships. This theme of redemption, seen in her previous works, continues in this drama. Hwang Dong-man (played by Koo Kyo-hwan), who has failed to achieve his dream of becoming a film director for 20 years, sees a chance for redemption through Byun Eun-ah (played by Go Youn-jung), the only person interested in his script. This healing narrative is familiar to fans of Park's previous works like 'My Mister' and 'My Liberation Notes.'
However, the intensity of depicting deficiencies acts as a barrier for some viewers. Hwang Dong-man struggles to connect with those around him, harshly critiques a friend's film, and dominates conversations. He even shouts his name in the mountains, disturbing the neighborhood. While this may be an intentional exaggeration by Park, some viewers find it more exhausting than engaging.
On the other hand, some see this portrayal as a strength, appreciating the honest depiction of deep deficiencies and wounds. The stable performances of Koo Kyo-hwan and Go Youn-jung have also been praised. Koo effectively portrays a character who crumbles as he tries to prove himself against societal norms. Hwang Dong-man's line, "When I can't prove myself by being great, I prove myself by falling apart," encapsulates his character's direction. Go Youn-jung delicately conveys the emotions of a character hiding childhood scars. Amidst many recent dramas with strong incidents and provocative plots, 'FAOW' is seen as a rare work of quality.
Despite the mixed reviews, the ratings suggest it hasn't yet achieved widespread popularity. With only 2% ratings over four episodes, 'FAOW' is struggling in terms of viewership. Park Hae-young's previous works didn't start with explosive ratings either. 'My Mister' and 'My Liberation Notes' gained recognition over time through word of mouth. Whether this pattern will repeat remains uncertain.
As the drama progresses, its unique slow-paced narrative style faces the challenge of adapting to the changing viewing environment. In the era of OTT and short-form content, viewers often decide whether to continue watching a show within the first couple of episodes. In this context, 'FAOW' may struggle to retain viewers accustomed to fast-paced, event-driven content.
Returning after four years since 'My Liberation Notes,' Park Hae-young's new drama 'FAOW' is set to air its fifth episode on May 2. It remains to be seen whether the slow-paced 'Park Hae-young-style drama' can capture viewers' attention in the evolving viewing landscape and achieve a ratings rebound in the remaining episodes.
Ejin Park, TenAsia Reporter ejin@tenasia.co.kr