Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale is a captivating drama that follows the life of Shin Jae Rim (Pyo Hye Jin), a girl who dreams of living a life as magical as Cinderella’s. While she shares Cinderella’s aspirations of becoming a princess, her journey is uniquely her own, filled with twists that set it apart from the classic fairy tale. Let’s explore the key differences that make Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale a fresh and engaging retelling of the Cinderella story.
A Kind Step-Family
Unlike Cinderella, who suffers under the cruelty of her stepmother and stepsisters, Shin Jae Rim’s family is genuinely kind and caring. Her mother and two half-brothers support her and contribute positively to her life, breaking away from the traditional wicked stepfamily trope. This change provides a more heartwarming and realistic family dynamic, which resonates well with modern audiences.
The Prince is the Problem
In Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale, the source of Shin Jae Rim’s struggles is not her family but the prince himself. This twist adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, making the future prince a more dynamic character. Instead of a straightforward love story, Jae Rim’s interactions with the prince are fraught with challenges, adding depth to their relationship and keeping viewers hooked.
A Loving Stepmother
In the original Cinderella tale, the stepmother is a villainous character driven by greed. However, in this drama, Jae Rim’s stepmother genuinely loves her father. This sincere relationship adds a refreshing twist to the story, emphasizing love and loyalty over deceit and manipulation. It portrays a more nuanced and compassionate family environment.
Two Love Interests
Cinderella’s story revolves around her meeting a single prince, but Shin Jae Rim encounters two men who capture her heart. This element introduces a love triangle, adding intrigue and suspense to the plot. It challenges Jae Rim to navigate her feelings and choose her true love, making her journey more relatable and exciting for viewers.
No Fairy Godmother
While Cinderella is famously aided by her Fairy Godmother, Shin Jae Rim must find her way to happiness on her own. This narrative choice empowers Jae Rim as an independent and resourceful character. Her determination and resilience are central themes, inspiring viewers to take control of their own destinies rather than waiting for magical interventions.
Competition in Love
Cinderella’s prince has no other romantic interests, but Shin Jae Rim faces competition from Ban Dan A (Song Ji Woo). This rivalry adds drama and tension to the story, as Jae Rim must contend with a love rival. It also showcases her strength and perseverance as she fights for her happiness amidst romantic challenges.
Hardworking Stepsisters
Cinderella’s stepsisters are often depicted as lazy and self-indulgent. In contrast, Shin Jae Rim’s stepsisters are hardworking individuals, much like her. This portrayal fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the characters, promoting a positive message about the value of hard work and dedication.
Dreaming of a Freaking Fairytale offers a refreshing take on the classic Cinderella story. Its modern twists and relatable characters make it a must-watch for fans of fairy tale adaptations. Shin Jae Rim’s journey is filled with heartfelt moments, challenges, and triumphs, making her story a delightful and inspiring one. So, if you’re looking for a drama that combines the charm of fairy tales with contemporary storytelling, this is the perfect show for you.
