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The manhwa 'After the Curtain Call' by Assam and Jina centres around an avid theatre fan by the name of Park So-Yeong. She falls into devastation after her favourite theatre actor falls into the world of television acting. However, soon after she experiences Jang Jae-Yi acting as Lady Macbeth and instantly becomes a fan. What begins as being a mere fan soon turns into something much more...
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If I had to characterise the plot very briefly, I would say that it is very minimal with its drama. In comparison to the many other words I have read, not many complications arise. What the story mainly focuses on is Jae-Yi's acting career and the plays she performs in, as well as the relationship between Jae-Yi and So-Yeong (both its buildup and their love life afterwards).
Centring in on the theatre aspect of the story, this is where I think the story makes itself unique. The plot goes into detail the training that goes on before the actual play from an actress' perspective, one that many have no access to. Reciting lines, rehearsals, and event organisation. It may sound mundane just thinking about it but when I was reading the story I found it to be one of my favourite parts of the novel. This is where the character's development takes place, both for the actress and the viewer. Reading these segments in the latter part of the manhwa made me excited to see how the actual performance would play out.
The romance aspect of the manhwa is interlinked with the aforementioned theatre component. As progress is made in the various plays, so too does the next chapter unfold for Jae-Yi and So-Yeong's relationship. Their relationship plays out in a typical manner to most romances, so it was easily enjoyable for a romance fan such as I. There is less of a focus on the flaws between each character, rather the story zooms in on how the two support each other. Although I do believe that development on a character's flaws makes for a compelling story, I did not mind this change of pace. Combined with the lack of drama, it makes 'After the Curtain Call' a light-hearted and wholesome read.
Touching on how I mentioned there is not much drama in this manhwa, I can only really recall one series of time where there was and even then, it was mild. It is the classic 'return of the ex', however the ex is not characterised as this fiendish individual, rather as someone who is overly ignorant. As such, the drama in this story is minimal and consequently may not appeal to drama fans. However, the lack of drama makes this a light read that can easily be enjoyed for those looking to get immersed in a lightweight, heartfelt story.
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On top of the two main characters, there are really only around two side characters that are notable in the story.
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The art really adds to the wholesome factor of the manhwa. I think it really shone the brightest during the play scenes.
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I did not have as much to say for this title but I do not think much needs to be said. It is a simple story, a wholesome one that is sure to appeal to those who prefer their stories with only a pinch of drama. Those who like stories with a lot of drama probably will not like this manhwa. To summarise:
- The plot is light-hearted in nature and does not feature much drama.
- With a focus on theatre plays, it stands out from other Yuri romances and can easily immerse you in the story and characters.
- The main two are likable and their relationship can be an enjoyable read.
Now I feel like going to the theatre...