DR. CHA was a condensed weekend drama. If you don't have the time to do a 50 episode live watch, DR. CHA has all the story elements in that genre. All the main characters have real flaws. There are people to root for and to loath. There is stereotypical MIL, greed, infidelity, envy and conflict. Some parts are overwhelming and some story lines conclude in an underwhelming fashion. Overall, it was a good series and an easy watch.

Excellent cast, especially a terrific, appealing performance by UJH, and a fair number of tropey elements that are nevertheless well-executed. There were a few draggy, drawn-out episodes which suggests 12 eps might have made for a tighter show.

The bittersweet ending seemed nuanced and almost novelistic to me but my wife vehemently complains the show "failed to stick the landing", to the point it led to a low-stakes fight between us, lol.

I think the lead actress who played Dr. Cha said she thought the reason for the show's success was people empathized with her character and her journey. I think there is something to that because pretty much ALL these characters are relatable and flawed because they are just people living their lives. They are selfish, short sighted, and neglectful but then they are also compassionate, determined, and caring. I think this show showed that people can be more than one thing at the same time. I think often times it feels like people don't accept this in reality but it's easier to accept it when it's played out onscreen with comedic or over the top reactions.

I think shows like these are needed because it's always see diverse stories but also because it shows another example of happiness or satisfaction in one's life. You don't *NEED* to be in a romantic relationship or married, you don't *NEED* to follow your parents' plans for your future nor does biological ties mean more than chosen ones. And of course to counter that, there's also the more traditional, old fashioned perspectives such as happiness comes from having a family with the spouse & kids. Again, both things can coexist. It's all about figuring out what best works for you.

This was a show with lots of humor and heart that focused on mature characters with mature problems. I was entertained and looked forward to pressing play each week.

I would recommend it as long as you know going in that it's not a romance and temper your expectations in that area.