We are all trying here" is currently one of the most controversial films on Korean forums. Although the viewership rating only fluctuates around 2%, the work still maintains a stable discussion level thanks to its exploitation of character psychology and everyday emotions.
According to Nielsen Korea, episode 6 of the film achieved a rating of 2.9% - the highest since its release, but this achievement is considered low compared to expectations for the work of screenwriter Park Hae Young - the person behind the success of "My Free Diary" (highest rating 6.1%), "My Uncle" (7.4%) and "Ohae Young Again" (10%).
The work revolves around Hwang Dong Man (Koo Kyo Hwan) - a director who has not been able to release after 20 years of nurturing the dream of making films, who is always haunted by the feeling of inferiority among successful friends. Accompanying him is Byun Eun Ah (Go Yoon Jung) - a producer famous for his sharp personality and frank comments.
Instead of building dramatic details or creating continuous climaxes, the film focuses on feelings of insecurity, failure and fragility in human psychology.
Korean media commented that this is a work imbued with the style of screenwriter Park Hae Young, when the characters are not perfect, exist with many dark corners and easily make viewers feel uncomfortable in the early stages.
Notably, Koo Kyo Hwan's role became a topic of debate. A part of the audience believes that Hwang Dong Man is too negative, often immersed in self-pity and creates a feeling of fatigue for viewers.
However, some others think that it is that discomfort that creates the authenticity of the character. Many viewers assess that "the more you watch, the better" because the character's past is revealed and believe that ratings do not reflect the true value of the film.
Acting is also considered the biggest strength of the work, especially the performances of Koo Kyo Hwan, Go Yoon Jung and Oh Jung Se. However, the media commented that the film is at a disadvantage because it airs on weekends - a time when audiences often prioritize light entertainment content rather than psychologically charged stories.
The tragic depth of the film may be an attraction for a group of audiences, but it becomes a burden for viewers who want to find relaxation," the Korean newspaper wrote.
However, director Cha Young Hoon said that the crew does not aim to be at the top of the ratings but wants to create a film that can live on forever. "One day, when someone feels life is too difficult, they can remember and say that there was a movie like that before" - he shared.
