
Saturday With Dad
2023 • Drama, Family
This series shows the life journey and struggle of a husband and wife, Gunawan and Itje. Knowing that his death is imminent, Gunawan made a series of videos to accompany his two sons, Satya and Cakra. Gunawan instructed Itje to let the sons watch the videos he prepared every Saturday.
Why you should read the novel
If you're intrigued by the story behind Saturday With Dad (2023), consider exploring the original novel Saturday With Dad by Choi Jin-young for an even deeper emotional journey. The book offers rich characterization, thoughtful narrative pacing, and nuanced reflections that go far beyond what’s depicted on screen. Delving into the pages, readers have the chance to truly connect with each character's inner world, offering a unique perspective that only literature can provide.
Fans of the TV series will discover illuminating subplots and character motivations that were streamlined or omitted entirely in the adaptation. Choi Jin-young's evocative prose brings heartwarming scenes and intense emotions alive in ways that television often can’t fully capture. The book masterfully portrays the complexities of family relationships, making it a must-read for anyone craving meaningful and profound storytelling.
Reading Saturday With Dad is not just an alternative to watching the series, but an immersive experience that enriches your understanding of the themes, humor, and drama. Dive into the original source material to appreciate the story’s full depth and gain a fresh appreciation for the TV series you already love.
Adaptation differences
The adaptation of Saturday With Dad (2023) differs in several significant ways from Choi Jin-young's original novel, starting with the narrative structure. While the book unfolds over a series of introspective vignettes, the TV series employs a more linear plot progression, focusing on the most dramatic events for pacing and visual impact. This change streamlines the storytelling but may sacrifice some of the novel’s subtlety.
Character development is also notably altered. In the book, each family member is given in-depth backstory and motivation, illuminating their internal struggles and growth. The series, due to time constraints, condenses these arcs, resulting in some figures feeling less complex compared to their literary counterparts. Novel readers will recognize omitted perspectives and quieter moments that add richness and realism.
Another primary difference lies in the handling of themes and tone. The TV series leans into comedic elements to appeal to a wider audience, while the book maintains a more contemplative, emotionally resonant voice throughout. This shift can influence how viewers and readers interpret the story's core messages about family, healing, and forgiveness.
Finally, certain subplots and scenes from the novel are either altered or removed entirely in the adaptation to fit the serial format and runtime. Key relationships receive different resolutions, impacting the overall message about reconciliation and understanding within families. For fans of the show, exploring the novel reveals layers of context and meaning that deepen their appreciation for both versions.
Saturday With Dad inspired from
Saturday With Dad
by Choi Jin-young