REVIEW: Hotel Del Luna

Hotel Del Luna

Genre: Romance 7 Fantasy
First episode: 13 July 2019
Final episode: 1 Sep 2019
Total episode: 16
Rating: 4.9

Hotel del Luna is a highly successful South Korean television series. It aired on tvN from July 13 to September 1, 2019, captivating audiences with its unique concept, compelling characters and stunning visuals.

At the heart of the story is Jang Man-wol , a beautiful yet capricious woman curses with immortality due to a grave sin committed centuries ago. As punishment, she is bound to manage Hotel del Luna, a hauntingly beautiful establishment that serves as a resting place for spirits before they move on to the afterlife.

Enter Koo Chan-sung , a young, ambitious hotelier with a perfect life. Due to a pact made by his father, he is destined to become the manager of Hotel del Luna. His arrival disrupts the hotel’s eerie equilibrium, bringing both chaos and a glimmer of hope to Man-wol’s eternal existence.

About:

At the heart of the story is Jang Man-wol, a beautiful yet capricious woman curses with immortality due to a grave sin committed centuries ago. As punishment, she is bound to manage Hotel del Luna, a hauntingly beautiful establishment that serves as a resting place for spirits before they move on to the afterlife.

Enter Koo Chan-sung, a young ambitious hotelier with a perfect life. Due to a pact made by his father, he is destined to become the manager of Hotel del Luna. His arrival disrupts the hotel’s eerie equilibrium, bringing both chaos and a glimmer of hope to Man-wol’s eternal existence.

The Plot:

Together, Man-wol and Chan-sun navigate the extraordinary world of Hotel del Luna, encountering a diverse array of guests, each carrying their own unresolved stories and desires. Their mission to help these spirits find peace and closure, allowing them to move on to the afterlife.

As the stories unfolds, it delves into Man-wol’s tragic past, revealing the circumstances that led to her curse. Her complex relationship with Chan-seong deepens, forming the emotional core of the story.

Throughout their journey, the characters confront their deepest fear and regrets, ultimately finding redemption and acceptance. Hotel del Luna becomes a symbol of hope before their final departure.

Cinematography:

Visual Poetry: Hotel del Luna is renowned for its visually stunning cinematography. The series masterfully blend dark, gothic aesthetic with ethereal beauty, creating a captivating atmosphere that perfectly complements the story.

Color Palette: The use of rich, saturated colors, particularly in the hotel’s interior, adds to the drama and mystique. The contrasting hues of the night sky and the hotel’s opulent decor create a visually striking impact.

Lighting: The play of light and shadow is essential to the series visual appeal. The dimly lit corridors and the dramatic spotlight of characters contribute to the suspense and allure of the hotel.

Storyline:

Fantasy and Romance: The series seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, romance, and drama, creating a captivating narrative. The story revolves around the mysterious Hotel del Luna, which caters exclusively to ghosts, and the complex relationship between its immortal owner, Jang Man-wol and the young hotelier, Koo Chan-seong.

Character Development: Hotel del Luna excels in character development, delving deep into the backstories and motivations of its diverse cast. The growth and transformation of the characters are integral to the series emotional impact.

Themes of Life and Death: The series explores profound themes of life, death, love, loss, and redemption. It delves into the human condition with sensitivity and depth, resonating with audiences on a personal level.

Cast: IU as Jang Man-wol: IU delivers a captivating performance as the enigmatic and charismatic owner of Hotel del Luna. Her portrayal of a women cursed with immortality is both mesmerizing and heartbreaking.

Yeo Jin-goo as Koo Chan-seong: Yeo Jin-goo shines as the ambitious hotelier who finds himself entangled in the world of the supernatural. His chemistry with IU is undeniable, adding depth to the series romantic elements.

Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including Shin Jung-geun, Pyo ye-JIN, and Lee Do-hyun, contribute significantly to the series success with their compelling performances.

Key Themes:

The intricate interplay between life and death
The enduring power of human connection
The consequences of past mistakes and the possibility of redemption
The search for identity, purpose and belonging

With its visually stunning aesthetics, captivating characters and a perfect blend of fantasy and romance, Hotel del Luna has enchanted audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impression.