Just launched on November 28, The Trunk is expected to become a major hit in the final months of 2024. However, at the current time, it is facing criticism from audiences. Many viewers are commenting on the film’s captivating storyline, exploring themes of loneliness, uniqueness, and the pursuit of happiness.
While some are expressing their discontent, negative reviews are gaining traction. Netizens are quickly rallying against the perceived shortcomings of the Netflix production, particularly focusing on its so-called “emotional depth,” which they find hard to understand and poorly executed.
The film’s premise has raised questions among viewers, especially regarding the two main characters, who have no apparent connection but find themselves thrust into a marriage contract and unexpectedly sharing a household. Memorable dialogues hint at the emotional complexity right from the beginning of the film. For instance, in episode 1, the male lead discusses the uniqueness of a new relationship as a backdrop for an intense online debate.
Some criticisms regarding the film’s emotional depth include:
– The marriage contract premise seems to lack emotional investment. This is a significant flaw.
– After watching, it’s unclear what the emotional stakes are, given the awkward and superficial scenes that don’t contribute to the narrative.
– Netflix productions are increasingly lowering their standards.
– If the characters are merely acting out their roles according to the contract without genuine feelings, this raises legal and ethical issues.
– The portrayal of emotional authenticity seems shallow, yet the desire for connection between the main characters is evident, making the audience question the depth of their feelings.
– Gong Yoo’s performance feels disingenuous. He doesn’t seem to embody the character convincingly.
– The portrayal of the female lead’s character is overly exaggerated, making it hard for viewers to see her as relatable or real.
Additionally, in The Trunk, the character Noh In Ji (played by Seo Hyun Jin) works for a company specializing in facilitating marriage contracts. In the fifth episode, she becomes involved with Han Jeong Won (played by Gong Yoo), a music producer who is struggling with a divorce. He is clinging to the hope of reviving his relationship with his estranged wife, Lee Seo Yeon (played by Jung Yun Ha). Throughout their cohabitation, Han Jeong Won attempts to escape from a toxic past while Noh In Ji begins to develop feelings for him.
