I was just wondering since despite enjoying 1994 greatly as well, I feel that 1997 is the superior entry in the series. 1997 had such a fresh and unique formula when it came out, and while it was still enjoyable in 1994, it was no longer fresh and unique. Aside form that, 1994 lacked in other departments compared to 1997, so overall I just kind of think it a waste to be introduced to the Reply series with 1994 instead of being treated to the full experience of 1997 first.
1997 was great because Eunji fncking killed it.
If she wasn't that annoying ass fangirl we all love to hate, I don't think it would've established a huge word of mouth at the beginning. She perfectly captured the fangirl experience, to the point that even foreigners who've never seen the height of H.O.T. and Sechs Kies popularity, they were able to relate to the fan experience.
It doesn't help that a lot of the characters actually had some proper substance and character development throughout the entire show. Man or woman, they could relate to each of the characters of the show... most of us have "been there, done that" type of thing. Like for example, Yoonjae was almost a reflection of myself back when I was also in high school lol. It fncking killed me to watch him go through that shit especially now that I know what should've been done... viewers basically get attached and the rest is history.
On that note, I think it's a good time to rewatch 1997 again lol.
