By Amani Salahudeen
Staff Writer
With the rise of K-pop and bands like BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, and Korean dramas, it is clear that Americans are beginning to dip their toes into Korean culture. I compiled a list of the top five Asian dramas to watch on Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime over spring break.
1. Love 020: Netflix
In this series, a gaming expert falls in love with a ridiculously-talented girl in an online video game. Once he finds out who she is, he does everything he can to win her over in real life. Will their love contain enough XP to succeed or will it never level up?
This show’s 30 binge-worthy episodes will make you fall in love with the characters and their stories. Additionally, there are a lot of sub-plots that will keep you thinking about the show even when you’re not tuned in. The story transitions in and out of the video game world and reality. It has a similar concept to the movie “Ready Player One,” but this show is a lot more interesting. It’s one of those rare finds that never has a single dull moment.
2. “Strong Woman Do Bong-Soon:” Netflix
Bong-Soon is born with a supernatural strength that she uses to fight against injustice. For the last 27 years, she has attempted to keep it a secret until a kidnapping case occurs in her neighborhood. Now, Bong-Soon must work together with a cocky CEO and her childhood friend to solve the mystery before it’s too late. The show reminds me of Disney’s “Hercules,” but if the title character was a girl who fought criminals. It has a little bit of a “Hercules” meets “Sherlock Holmes’” feel to it.
3. “While You Were Sleeping:” Hulu
A young woman’s dreams come true when she meets two people who acquire the same abilities. This TV show is similar to the movie “Inception.” It’s got lots of dream shots and flashbacks, but it’s a lot less confusing.
There are a lot of plot twists within the show that will keep you engrossed, but it plays of as more of an adventurous romantic comedy than a heavy drama. The plot also ties in so well with each of the character’s development and heartwarming moments.
4. “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge:” Amazon Prime
This was the first Bollywood movie I have ever watched and I was not disappointed. It’s a romance that deals with the strains of traditional families. Two young people who meet on a trip to Europe and fall in love, but the girl, Simran, has been engaged to a guy that is the son of her father’s friend. I thought the actress was perfect for this role and the songs were all really catchy. This is a good choice for anyone who has just started watching Bollywood movies. A similar movie that comes to mind is “Romeo” and “Crazy Rich Asians” because those characters also deal with familial obstacles.
5. “Khoobsurat:” Netflix
A hopeless romantic falls in love with a prince who is engaged to someone else, while the plot is one we all know, I found comfort in its familiarity. This film reminded me of the classic, “Princess Diaries.” It’s actually produced by Disney, so I would highly recommend it as an exemplary first Bollywood movie. The cast is incredible and it’s perfect for a Friday evening or whenever you’re in the mood to watch a romantic comedy.
