XO, Kitty: A vibrant yet uneven coming-of-age tale

The opening shot of XO, Kitty lingers on a suitcase overflowing with love letters, each one addressed to a different crush—a symbol of teenage yearning that sets the tone for this Netflix spin-off. Created by Jenny Han, who also serves as writer and executive producer, the series follows Kitty Song Covey (Anna Cathcart), the youngest sister from the To All the Boys film franchise, as she jets off to Seoul to reunite with her long-distance boyfriend and attend his prestigious school. What unfolds is a romantic comedy-drama that oscillates between heartfelt sincerity and tonal whiplash.

At its best, XO, Kitty captures the chaotic uncertainty of young love with a visual flair that elevates everyday moments. The series’ use of bold colors—think neon pinks and electric blues—mirrors Kitty’s emotional rollercoaster, while Seoul’s bustling streets provide a vibrant backdrop to her coming-of-age journey. Anna Cathcart delivers a performance that balances wit and vulnerability, making Kitty’s missteps feel authentic rather than merely contrived. Her chemistry with Choi Min-yeong, who plays Dae-heon ‘Dae’ Kim, is particularly compelling, grounding the series in genuine emotional stakes.

The supporting cast adds depth to the narrative, particularly Gia Kim as Yuri Han and Sang Heon Lee as Min-ho Moon. Their dynamic with Kitty offers a refreshing perspective on friendship and cultural identity, themes that are often overlooked in traditional rom-coms. The show’s exploration of these topics is handled with nuance, offering a layered portrayal of teenage life that resonates beyond the confines of its genre.

However, XO, Kitty stumbles when it leans too heavily into melodrama. The pacing falters in Season 1, particularly in episodes where Kitty’s schemes to win back her boyfriend feel repetitive rather than charming. Some plotlines—like the sudden introduction of a rival love interest—lack the buildup needed to feel earned, and the series occasionally struggles to balance its comedic and dramatic elements. The second season improves on these issues, refining its structure and deepening character arcs, but the first season’s unevenness lingers in memory.

The show’s originality lies in its willingness to experiment with genre conventions, blending rom-com tropes with more serious themes like grief and self-discovery. Yet, at times, this ambition leads to tonal inconsistencies that disrupt the narrative flow. The series’ attempt to tackle complex emotional landscapes often feels rushed, as if Han is trying to cram too much into each episode.

Comparisons to other Netflix teen dramas are inevitable, but XO, Kitty carves out its own niche with its unique setting and cultural perspective. It’s a show that demands patience from its viewers, rewarding those who stick with it through its growing pains. The series is particularly well-suited for fans of the To All the Boys films, as it expands on the universe while offering a fresh narrative.

In terms of genre fit, XO, Kitty excels when it leans into its comedic roots. The humor is sharp and often self-aware, poking fun at the clichés of the rom-com genre while still embracing them wholeheartedly. However, when the show veers into more dramatic territory, it sometimes loses its footing, resulting in moments that feel disjointed or overly sentimental.

The series’ production values are noteworthy, with a keen eye for detail that brings Seoul to life on screen. The cinematography is visually striking, using the city’s landscapes to enhance the emotional beats of the story. The sound design also plays a crucial role, with a soundtrack that seamlessly blends K-pop and Western hits to create an atmosphere that feels both familiar and fresh.

Ultimately, XO, Kitty is a series that takes risks—some of which pay off spectacularly, while others miss the mark. It’s a show that demands patience from its viewers, rewarding those who stick with it through its growing pains. The second season shows significant improvement, refining its structure and deepening character arcs, but the first season’s unevenness lingers in memory.

For all its flaws, XO, Kitty offers a compelling exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery that resonates with its target audience. It’s a series that doesn’t shy away from tackling complex emotional landscapes, even if it sometimes struggles to do so effectively.