Nothing Serious, also known as Romance Without Love, is a 2021 South Korean romantic comedy that offers a refreshing take on modern relationships. Written and directed by Jeong Ga-young, the film steers away from generic love stories, instead approaching romance with frank humor and emotional sincerity. Starring Jeon Jong-seo as Ja-young and Son Suk-ku as Woo-ri, the movie depicts the uncertainties, awkwardness, and self-discovery that accompany modern dating. Jeon Jong-seo’s portrayal of Ja-young, a bold yet vulnerable character, breathes life into the story, establishing her as one of South Korea’s most versatile actors.
Plot Overview
The film explores the lives of two socially disconnected individuals, Woo-ri and Ja-young, both grappling with their insecurities and hesitations regarding love. Woo-ri (Son Suk-ku) is a 33-year-old rookie journalist who works reluctantly as a writer for a sex column, all while harboring dreams of becoming a novelist. Ja-young, played by Jeon Jong-seo, is a 29-year-old woman who has been battered by a series of romantic failures and carries financial burdens. After experiencing a fresh heartbreak, Ja-young swears off dating altogether, only to impulsively download a dating app out of loneliness.
Through the app, the two mismatched individuals meet and, despite their initial reservations, start a casual yet emotionally frank relationship. The film humorously and poignantly navigates their evolving dynamic, highlighting their fears of commitment and desire for connection. Amidst their candid conversations, awkward confessions, and comedic mishaps, both characters confront their vulnerabilities while redefining what love and companionship mean to them.
The Role of Ja-young
Ja-young is the heart and soul of Nothing Serious. Unlike typical rom-com heroines, she is refreshingly relatable, embodying the anxieties, flaws, and contradictions of millennials navigating relationships in the digital age. After enduring a breakup and struggling to make ends meet, Ja-young mirrors the challenges of trying to balance personal growth with the pressure to find companionship.
Her character is not defined by glamour or traditional romantic tropes but by her authenticity and tenacity. Ja-young’s open yet flawed approach to her connection with Woo-ri provides a realistic depiction of modern dating, making her struggles and triumphs deeply resonant to viewers. Her candor and determination to live life on her terms add a compelling depth to the narrative.
Jeon Jong-seo’s Captivating Performance
Jeon Jong-seo’s performance as Ja-young is a highlight of the film. Known for her intense portrayal in Burning (2018) and her bold role in The Call (2020), Jeon takes a surprising detour into comedy and romance with remarkable precision. Her ability to balance Ja-young’s bold, extroverted personality with moments of vulnerability and emotional rawness makes her character compellingly human.
Director Jeong Ga-young noted that Jeon’s unique charisma was essential in bringing Ja-young to life. From Ja-young’s witty sarcasm to her quiet vulnerability, Jeon deftly captures the nuances of a woman who is unapologetically herself. Her sharp comedic timing and fearless emotional depth ensure the audience roots for her, even when Ja-young’s decisions are less than ideal.
Critics and audiences alike praised Jeon’s performance for its honesty and relatability. Through Ja-young, Jeon not only delivered a humorous yet heartfelt performance but also expanded her acting repertoire, proving that she excels at roles across a variety of genres.
Themes and Modern Context
Nothing Serious takes a closer look at the complexities of relationships in a hyper-connected but emotionally distant world. The film addresses themes of loneliness, fear of rejection, and the societal pressures to conform to conventional relationships. By intertwining humor with introspection, it captures the essence of what it means to seek out companionship while staying true to oneself.
The film also explores themes of self-discovery and emotional freedom. Both Ja-young and Woo-ri defy societal expectations as they evaluate their priorities, revealing that happiness and fulfillment can be found in unconventional ways. This subtext sets the film apart from stereotypical romance narratives, offering something for viewers who crave more authenticity in storytelling.
Another standout feature of the film is its use of technology as both a tool for connection and a reflection of modern insecurities. The dating app serves as a catalyst for Ja-young and Woo-ri’s encounters, representing how digital platforms can create opportunities for vulnerable, human connections in an era defined by short attention spans and fleeting relationships.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Nothing Serious received widespread acclaim for its sharp writing, thoughtful direction, and strong performances by its lead actors. Critics praised the film for its wit, honesty, and ability to provide a fresh perspective on modern romance. Jeon Jong-seo’s portrayal of Ja-young was singled out as one of the film’s most captivating elements, earning her a nomination for Best Actress at the 58th Baeksang Arts Awards.
My Daily lauded the chemistry between Jeon Jong-seo and Son Suk-ku, noting their natural performances and effortless ability to inject authenticity into their roles. Sports TV News described the film as a “masterpiece of romance” that is grounded in reality yet brimming with humor and charm.
The film’s refreshing portrayal of romance resonated with audiences, particularly younger viewers who appreciated its relatability and progressive undertones. Its box office success, grossing over $5.2 million, further underscored its impact.
Legacy of Nothing Serious (2021)
Nothing Serious is a rare gem in the romantic comedy genre, offering a story that blends humor, emotional honesty, and cultural relevance. Ja-young’s character, brought to life through Jeon Jong-seo’s fearless performance, becomes a symbol of modern womanhood, neither confined by societal expectations nor defined by her romantic pursuits.
For viewers seeking a rom-com that is both heartfelt and insightful, Nothing Serious 2021 delivers a meaningful cinematic experience. By addressing contemporary issues of identity, vulnerability, and the pursuit of connection, the film cements itself as a modern classic, and Jeon Jong-seo’s portrayal of Ja-young solidifies her place as one of South Korea’s most intriguing talents.
