It seems that since the success of ‘My Sassy Girl’, internet novels are currently the big trend in the South-Korean movie industry.’100 Days with Mr. Arrogant’ is another Internet novel adapted for the big screen. The film has a lot in common with the classic ‘My Sassy Girl’, but without any surprises, it doesn’t surpass the original.

People familiar with the romantic comedy genre won’t find any innovations in the story as it follows most clichés of the genre. Two people meet, initially hate each other, but then have no choice to be together and fall in love. Not very original as you can see, but the redeeming aspect is how the story is built, as you always have to guess how things be resolved. You know the film is heading for a happy ending, but the surprise is in how we get there. The ending features an unexpected plot twist that, while gratifying, doesn’t save the story from being a typical romantic comedy.

As the leading female protagonist in a romantic comedy, it’s hard to adjust to Kang Ha-young. Actress Ha Ji-won portrays her as an over-the-top caricature with quite an extreme personality, which makes her a bit annoying sometimes. She may be a cute girl with a rude manner, provoking obvious similarities to ‘My Sassy Girl’s leading lady, but Jeon Ji-hyun from that movie is still superior in every way.

As for hip rich guy Hyung-joon, he was decent in his role, but overall, it’s hard to see why the girls perceive him as the ultimate Prince Charming. It’s easy to name more charismatic actors that could have filled the role much better, such as Lee Jeong-jin (Bet on My Disco) or even Jang Hyuk (Please Teach Me English).

Most of the movie is comedy oriented but the movie takes a drastic turn near the end and becomes more serious and quite sad. The comedy was very well presented, and with a great pacing between the humour and drama, there’s not a dull moment. Even the transition to a more dramatic tone towards the end is not too bad either, as it gives seriousness to the story.

Korean filmmakers are still king of the hill for romantic comedy, but it seems they have been running out of innovative ideas recently. A lot of average movies have been released in the last few of years, but only a minority have really left their mark on the public. I hope that this won’t become the norm, and that film makers can focus on trying new ideas instead of constantly recycling the same generic plots and clichés. Those expecting another ‘My Sassy Girl’ will sure be disappointed, but ‘100 Days with Mr. Arrogant’ is still a good movie and will sure please fans of the genre.