Netflix original drama 'Mr. Plankton' has quickly gained traction both domestically and internationally, climbing to the top 10 in the global non-English category.
According to Netflix on November 20, the series ranked 5th in the global non-English top 10 list for the week of November 11-17, based on viewership data. Furthermore, it secured a spot in the top 10 in 42 countries, including South Korea, receiving overwhelming global acclaim in just its second week of release.
'Mr. Plankton' is a 10-episode romantic comedy featuring Woo Do Hwan, who previously showcased his acting prowess in 'Battle of Incheon' and 'The King: Eternal Monarch,' and Lee Yoo Mi, who left a lasting impression in 'Squid Game.' The cast also includes renowned Korean actors such as Oh Jung Se and Kim Hae Sook, adding depth and quality to the drama.
The drama follows Hae Jo (played by Woo Do Hwan), a man who feels he was born by mistake and embarks on one final journey in life. He is accompanied by Jae Mi (Lee Yoo Mi), the unluckiest woman he has ever met, and together, they face a series of unexpected events.
Hae Jo is portrayed as a man who lives in emptiness, never having truly loved or cared for anyone, making him akin to plankton, aimlessly drifting without purpose. However, through his journey with Jae Mi, he begins to see a brighter future beyond his previously dull, gray world.
The term "plankton" symbolizes "drifters" or "wanderers," derived from Greek. In nature, plankton are small, passive organisms that drift with the currents, occupying the lowest rung in the food chain. Inspired by this concept, writer Jo Yong added "Mr." to plankton to encapsulate Hae Jo’s character, a man without dreams or desires, who discovers life’s vibrancy and love through Jae Mi.
Oh Jung Se plays Uh Heung, a traditional medicine practitioner and the fifth-generation heir of a prestigious household. Although he might have been the perfect husband material during the Joseon Dynasty, his overly rigid personality makes him an undesirable figure in modern times.
Beyond its romantic comedy narrative, 'Mr. Plankton' delivers a profound message. While plankton may seem insignificant as the lowest beings in the food chain, their production of oxygen is vital for maintaining Earth’s ecosystem, proving their intrinsic value.
Writer Jo Yong uses this metaphor to communicate through the characters that “there is no such thing as a worthless being in this world.” The drama explores themes of wandering, pain, and emptiness, capturing the struggles of individuals as they search for meaning and purpose in life.
Through its well-crafted script, outstanding performances, and stunning visuals, 'Mr. Plankton' offers viewers more than just entertainment—it delivers a deeply moving experience. Its international acclaim, with top 10 rankings in 42 countries within two weeks, highlights its widespread appeal and value.
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