When you have South Korean actors Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin coming together for the first time, expectations run high. Netflix’s new series, The Trunk, features these two in a psychological plot that focuses on the themes of a contract marriage and a murder that are absurdly interconnected.

Moon Lovers: Directed by Kim Gyu-tae of Scarlet Heart Ryeo fame and written by Park Eun-young (Hwarang), the show sheds light on psychological trauma, healing, and the complexities of relationships. However, despite the potential, the show struggles to leave a lasting impression.

The Trunk revolves around Noh In-ji (Seo Hyun-jin), a skilled executive at a matchmaking agency that specializes in ‘contract marriages’. On the other hand, Han Jung-won (Gong Yoo) is a famous music producer who is battling personal demons. The story begins with Jung-won reluctantly entering into a contract marriage arranged by the agency.

While the staged wedding is an interesting commentary on love and relationships, the story thickens when the shadow of a mysterious murder begins to take over the lives of the characters. This murder is linked to their respective pasts and threatens to linger and disrupt their lives.

The undisputed saving grace of K-drama is its cast. Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin are wonderful together, carrying the emotional weight of the series with their nuanced performances. Their chemistry is palpable, making their scenes a highlight and a reason to stay invested. Gong Yoo captures Jung-won’s emotional struggles with quiet intensity, while Seo Hyun-jin breathes life into In-ji’s resilience and vulnerability.

Their interactions add layers of authenticity to the series, and ground its more absurd moments. The complexity of their relationship is beautifully explored, and their shared screen time is nothing short of magnetic.

While the narrative attempts to take a nuanced view on marriage, linking it to a murder thriller, the execution feels unconvincing. The two subjects feel separate, as if the series can’t decide whether it wants to be a psychological thriller or a commentary on modern relationships. The murder subplot often feels like an afterthought rather than an integral part of the narrative.

Watch the trailer of The Trunk here:

The absurdity of the premise grows on you, especially as the drama delves deeper into the psychological traumas of its characters. Director Kim Gyu-tae’s talent for stunning visuals and atmospheric storytelling is evident. However, even impeccable cinematography can’t completely hide the gaps in the narrative.

Trunks has great moments thanks to the performances of Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin. However, it is, at best, a mediocre watch.

Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin really deserve a better show to explore their acting skills.

Trunk consists of 8-episodes and is currently streaming on Netflix.