Genie Make a Wish | Netflix Series Review | Worth the hype?

If you’re scrolling through Netflix looking for a show that mixes romance, fantasy, and a devilish sense of humor, then Genie Make a Wish should definitely be on your radar. This new 2025 South Korean series has been generating buzz, especially because it reunites popular stars Kim Wubin and Bae Suzy. But is it a magical hit or a wish that doesn’t quite come true? Having seen the entire season, I’m here to give you the full scoop on this extravagant and sometimes uneven romantic comedy.

What is Genie Make a Wish All About

The premise of Genie Make a Wish is a clever twist on the classic “be careful what you wish for” trope. The genie in this story, named Eliss, is no friendly, blue-skinned companion. Freed after a thousand years, he’s more of a devilish figure who has long thrived on corrupting humans by granting their deepest desires. His entire existence is based on the idea that humanity is inherently selfish and greedy.

His new master, however, is nothing like his previous victims. Kang Kaung, played by Bae Suzy, is a stoic, emotionally closed-off woman completely unmoved by material possessions or emotional pleas. Instead of making a wish, she confronts her new genie with a shocking high-stakes bet: a best-of-five challenge. If Eliss can prove his claim that humans inevitably turn corrupt, she will make all her wishes and then give up her life. This bet sets the stage for a compelling battle of wits and wills.

The Unbeatable On-Screen Chemistry

One of the biggest selling points of Genie Make a Wish is the electric chemistry between its two leads. Kim Wubin and Bae Suzy last shared the screen in the drama Uncontrollably Fond, and their fans will be thrilled to see them together again. But even if you’re new to their partnership, it’s impossible to miss their connection.

Their characters are polar opposites—Eliss is like a mischievous teenage boy trapped in a powerful man’s body, while Kaung is a stone-cold “tough nut to crack.” This dynamic creates a fantastic push-and-pull. Their banter is witty and playful, and their more heartfelt moments feel genuinely earned. It’s more than obvious that both actors understand and complement each other’s rhythm perfectly. Plus, let’s be honest, they look strikingly good together on screen.

A Visual Feast and a Love Letter to Dubai

Let’s give credit where credit is due: visually, Genie Make a Wish is a marvelous show. The production value is sky-high. From the lavish costumes to the bright color palette and the light-hearted tone, it’s a treat for the eyes.

A significant part of the show was filmed on location in Dubai, which feels like a nod to the lore of genies originating from that region of the world. The desert settings and breathtaking shots of the city’s iconic skyline, especially the scenes atop the towering Burj Khalifa, are nothing short of exhilarating. In many ways, Genie Make a Wish serves as a stunning advertisement inviting you to visit Dubai, and you know what? It kind of works.

The Downsides: When the Magic Falters

Now, let’s get to the parts of Genie Make a Wish that don’t shine as brightly. The most common criticism, and one I agree with, is the length. With 13 episodes, each running over an hour long, the show can feel like a bit of a homework assignment. There are stretches that are imaginative and highly enjoyable, but there are also parts that drag.

The narrative sometimes bites off more than it can chew. Alongside the main bet, the writers take several detours into a revenge subplot and a mellow drama involving Kaung’s grandma. While these add layers, they often feel like unnecessary padding.

The most frustrating issue is the inconsistency with its own rules, particularly in the final episode. There are moments where things happen that seem to blatantly break the established magic system, and the show just shrugs it off. For a series that made these rules seem so crucial earlier on, this can feel annoyingly inconsistent.

The Final Verdict: Is Genie Make a Wish Worth Your Time?

So, after 13 episodes, what’s the final rating? I give Genie Make a Wish a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.

This show is not perfect. It has pacing issues and a sometimes messy plot. However, its strengths are incredibly compelling. The chemistry between Kim Wubin and Bae Suzy is irresistibly absorbing, the fish-out-of-water humor is fun, and the visual spectacle is top-notch. The best scenes are undoubtedly when Eliss flexes his superpowers, as these moments are pure, entertaining fantasy and allow both actors to intensify their character’s conflicts.

Genie Make a Wish is definitely a show worth binge-watching at least once. It’s a fun, outlandish escape. My best advice? Just make sure you pace yourself. Don’t try to finish all 13 episodes in one go. Enjoy the ride, appreciate the chemistry and the visuals, and you’ll find a charming, if slightly flawed, gem. It’s unclear if this is a limited series or if we can expect a second season, but for a single, entertaining watch, Genie Make a Wish is a wish worth granting.