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Eun-soo, a librarian watches for book vandalism that currently happens in the library. One day, she catches Jun-oh tearing off certain page of books. Eun-soo accuses him of vandalism but soon discovers the complex story behind his actions. Jun-oh’s girlfriend suddenly leaves him with only a mysterious note. “Look up page 198”. Jun-oh’s girlfriend was a bibliophile and she checked out books regularly at the library. Jun-oh goes to the library and tears out page 198 from every book he comes in touch. As Eun-soo has just broken up, she gives him an advice saying that he has to let her go if she really meant it. However, looking at Jun-oh torn apart by his love, Eun-soo starts to help him decipher the messages on page 198 of all the books.
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Originally, I remember this film being titled Page 198 of that Man’s Book. However, of course, most Korean film and/or drama title have literal meanings and different titles if releasing in the USA or so. Being the LDW (Lee Dong Wook) fan that I am, I was unable to wait for this movie. For me, it is hard to find legit DVDs with English subtitles of Asian cinema where I live. Who ever thought that would be a problem in Atlanta? There are lots of Asian shops but most do not rent out movies and/or have DVDs with English subtitles. There goes my luck. Fortunately, I have a few friends who sends me Asian movies when they can. Thank you!
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Usually I don't let over-excitement for a movie disappoint me. I just go with the flow. However, that's not the case with Heartbreak Library. Overall, it was a very very very slow movie and was very disappointing. Nothing to do with any acting, just the storyline.
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LDW is my favorite Korean actor. He is hot and can act. But I felt he was underused in the movie. It really didn't matter who played Jun-oh because even a newbie could have done the role. Okay, maybe that was a bit harsh since his crying scenes is definitely put me to tears. Other than that, he and Eugene look amazing together.
Eugene is so naturally beautiful. Although I like her as a singer, I've never seen her act. Loved her character. Sassy yet loveable. Looking forward to seeing more of her in the future.
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In all, even though LDW and Eugene look good together on screen. There was not enough chemistry with the two. I didn't see much of a "love" story with them. The movie actually was rushed to show what kind of person Jun-oh is/was. Once you learn that, you want to see what is going on with him, Eun-soo wanting to help him out because he's not the bad guy she thought he was. You never got to see Jun-oh and Eun-soo as a couple. Next time, could I please get more of LDW and Eugene in a romantic movie together? Thanks.
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