In the previous episode, the main characters were introduced with tension and wrath. We saw Pi-o coming from a rich but torturous background, whereas Jeong-yo hailed from a poor family with huge responsibilities. Both boys are highly talented, but their distinct musical abilities make them rivals. However, something about the two together makes the music flow well, and this very episode is all about how they make things work out.
Four Hands, Two Sonatas Episode 2 has a runtime of 60 minutes. The series (포핸즈) stars Song Kang, Lee Jun-young, Jang Gyu-ri, Kim Joo-heon, Yoon Se-ah and Jung Jin-young and is directed by Park Hyeon-seok.
Four Hands, Two Sonatas Episode 2 Review
A Nightmare Hints at Something Darker
The episode begins with a disturbing opening to make a point. Pi-o wakes from a nightmare where he dreams of choking Jeong-yo. Is it him being unconsciously jealous of Jeong-yo’s abilities or some sort of insecurity? This sets the stage for the episode. As we move on, we see more of their friendship blossoming, which eventually feels like a contrast to the nightmare.
Why would he choke someone he is having a good time with? Why would Pi-o feel insecure, or worse, when with Jeong-yo, he feels immensely complete? Well, the episode takes us to 2016 to show how well the boys were as friends.
Jeong-yo’s Struggles Go Beyond Music
Jeong-yo comes as the saddest yet bravest character. Beyond his music life, his poor life keeps him stacked with responsibilities and issues. He is bullied at school, he loses his part-time job, he struggles with his drunkard father, and loan sharks are literally chewing on him. We still haven’t seen Jeong-yo’s mother, so we’re yet to know why she’s not present.
I do have a theory that Pi-o and Jeong-yo might be twins, as they share the same mother. I don’t know; I might be wrong, but let’s gradually uncover the truth, shall we? Yes, we do learn that Jeong-yo’s mother died shortly after he won a competition, but we still haven’t seen her. Could she have had twins, and Pi-o apparently was adopted by a rich family or just switched? We don’t know!
We also understand that Jeong-yo is afraid to perform because of losing his mother. He believes something similar to that might happen once he wins a competition or performs well.
Pi-o Slowly Learns to Understand Him
Pi-o absolutely hates Jeong-yo for his constant excuses and absence; however, he slowly realises that Jeong-yo’s responsibilities are weighing him down. When Jeong-yo saves Pi-o from the glass particles that were planted under his desk, we can see his kindness and how Pi-o feels confident around him.
Understanding Jeong-yo, Pi-o shows his typical kind behaviour. He decorates their practise room with candles to make it seem like they’re performing live. This is to help Jeong-yo come out of the fear slowly. And it works.
The Music Finally Brings Them Together
We finally come to the scene that helps us understand the series’ title, “Four Hands”. Yep, we get to watch Pi-o and Jeong-yo play the piano together, creating a masterpiece. While Pi-o has the precision when it comes to the technical side, Jeong-yo adds the emotions through his touch. Together, their music sounds perfect and soulful.
The duo escape from school for a day to spend some time and learn more about the vibes. Jeong-yo is all about adventure, and this helps Pi-o, the shy guy, face the rigid world. Pi-o, who has always been stuck within the four walls and under his grandpa’s supervision, gets a chance to see a world without rules.
That Street Performance Changes Everything
As the two navigate the streets, they come across a stage set for an evening musical gig. However, they take the opportunity and immediately perform on the piano, surprising the entire crowd. For the first time, Jeong-yo finally feels relieved and lives in the moment when people applaud for him.
And the cutest part? Their return home. The two young boys who spent a whole day running and playing around are finally exhausted, and they find solace by sleeping on each other’s shoulders. This is why I certainly believe that the series should have become a BL story rather than add Jae-in as a person of interest.
Great Premiere Week
Yep, as episode 2 ends, we are instantly left with the feeling that the drama has done its mission: capture the viewers. The premiere week feels promising as we get to see two young stars with different personalities trying to make things work. Despite their rivalry, their youth unites and forms a friendship.
The episode ensures to bring in other important aspects such as family trauma, bullying, music, school issues and friendship. Despite this being a heterosexual series, one would instantly believe that there is some strong connection between the male leads. Definitely would’ve worked as a BL story!
Four Hands, Two Sonatas Episode 1 Review: Beautiful Start to a Story on Rivalry and Rebellion
Four Hands, Two Sonatas Episode 3 Review (Coming Soon)