Originally a limited series released on Netflix on May 14, “Soul Mate” tells the story of Ryu Narutaki (Hayato Isomura) and Johan Hwang (Taecyeon Ok), two young adults from Japan and South Korea, respectively, whose first encounter at a burning church in Berlin ultimately draws them together. Narutaki and Hwang’s connection grows throughout the series as they grapple with themes of sexuality, grief and loss in their heteronormative societies. While the series’ more laid-back exposition and visuals are refreshing, its unrealistic narrative, relationship progression and continuous plot twists are frustrating, degrading the impact of the show.
While “Soul Mate” is marketed to consumers as part of Netflix’s lineup of “LGBTQ+ TV shows,” meant to depict a romantic relationship between two male leads, Narutaki and Hwang’s relationship ends up feeling like anything but. Awkward chemistry between Isomura and Ok causes the characters to come across as just roommates, instead of people building a connection on the level of being “soulmates.” The two gradually learn to trust in each other throughout the show, seen through the scene when Narutaki emotionally chases Hwang into the dirt to protect him during his mental breakdown, but their scene is belatedly angled as something intimate in the last minutes of Episode 8. The two share a heartfelt conversation about what they’ve been through with each other, and fail to go any further. Their relationship’s progression feels delayed and haphazard, which degrades the impact of what could have been a picture-perfect final scene.
“Soul Mate” has a habit of including shock value twists and winding plot lines, which ruins the linear flow of the show’s narrative. In Episode 1, Narutaki recounts ice hockey teammate Arata Oikawa (Koshi Mizukami)’s confession to him, and eventual suicide attempt after being outed as queer to his teammates. While this is framed as one of the most pivotal moments in Narutaki’s life, the show almost completely drops the plot line afterwards, which is confusing for viewers. Supporting character Seiichi Aizawa’s sudden death right after he and his wife Sumiko Shinonome (Ai Hashimoto) feels haphazardly included. Surprising deaths in the show isn’t a one time occurrence: Hwang is diagnosed with a degenerative muscle disease, as if a core character death was needed to put an end to the show as opposed to finding a way to end the show’s winding plot. It feels like “Soul Mate” throws plot points at viewers to keep them hooked, which stands only to reveal an incohesive narrative.
Regardless of questionable narrative and structure, Isomura and Ok’s acting skills are decent enough to push “Soul Mate” along. Ok’s acting particularly shines during his portrayal of Hwang’s mental anguish during his breakdown, as well as during scenes where Hwang is degraded due to his muscle illness. However, Ai Hashimoto, who plays Shinonome, stands out most — she is able to perfectly capture the pain of a struggling widow who has grief springing up right behind her through her facial expressions and vocal tone, which makes watching “Soul Mate” feel a bit more realistic.
Furthermore, “Soul Mate” is a step above the rest visually. Character design fits the chill, mellower mood of the drama, seen through Narutaki and Hwang’s casual street-wear outfits and Shinonome’s cool-girl clothing style. Set design of character apartments and living situations is realistic, and fits their individual vibes: in particular, Shinonome’s Berlin apartment stands out for its aesthetic posters, furniture, and high-ceilings. In an age where content has now become washed out, “Soul Mate”’s vibrant and engaging colors are soothing on the eyes.
“Soul Mate” is ambitious and impactful but an inability to execute key plot points, LGBTQ+ themes and character development hinders the show’s potential. Even with a strong cast and superb visuals, “Soul Mate”’s impact is ultimately undermined.
RATING: 1.5/5
