The popular Korean drama The Atypical Family follows the Bok family, who used to have superpowers but are now struggling with ordinary life. Grandma Bok Man-eum wishes they could return to their superhero days, but she can no longer predict the future and wonders if they have a chance at future happiness. Her son, Bok Gwi-Ju, is emotionally paralyzed by the loss of his wife and unable to summon his former superpower of revisiting happy memories.
Gwi-Ju’s life takes a turn when he is saved from what appears to be a suicide attempt by Do Da-hae, a kindhearted woman who Man-eum believes can help Gwi-Ju overcome his self-destructive tendencies. However, it is soon revealed that Da-hae comes from a family of schemers looking to capitalize on the Bok family fortune. Despite her ulterior motives, Da-hae may be what the Bok family needs to shake things up and potentially restore their superpowers by facing their self-destructive habits.
The Bok family, although extraordinary, faces modern-day struggles similar to those of ordinary families. Gwi-Ju drinks excessively, Dong Hee stress-eats, and I-na is detached from the world preferring to engage with her phone. One theory suggests that facing their self-destructive habits might be the key to restoring their superpowers. The family contemplates whether hiring a trainer or finding Gwi-Ju a wife could be the solution they need.
The drama features a compelling storyline about superheroes needing to shape up, infused with dark humor and time travel scenes that add depth to the narrative. Lead actors Jang Ki-young and Chun Woo-hee deliver convincing performances, drawing viewers into the complex dynamics of the Bok family. The drama is written by Joo Hwa-mi, known for My Shy Boss and Marriage, Not Dating, and directed by Jo Hyun-tak, who has worked on popular dramas like Snowdrop and SKY Castle. The series, which airs on JTBC, is available for streaming on Netflix.
Jang Ki-young, who plays Gwi-Ju, brings depth to his character as he navigates the challenges of his past and present. Chun Woo-hee’s portrayal of Da-hae adds intrigue to the plot, as her true intentions slowly unravel. Soo Hyun, also known as Claudia Kim, delivers a compelling performance as Dong Hee, capturing the struggles of her character’s relationship with food and her body. The drama offers a fresh take on the superhero genre, blending elements of fantasy with the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth.
Overall, The Atypical Family is a captivating drama that explores themes of family, identity, and self-discovery through the lens of superpowers and ordinary struggles. The compelling performances, intricate plot twists, and dark humor make it a must-watch for fans of Korean dramas. With its unique storyline and talented cast, the series offers a refreshing take on the superhero genre while delving into the complexities of human relationships and personal growth.
