It depends on your perspective. Some elements of 'A Way Back' are inspired by true events, but there might be fictional additions for dramatic effect. Overall, it has a foundation in reality.
One idea could be exploring the character's backstories more deeply. For example, Duncan's life before the summer at the water park. What made him so shy and reserved? Another could be creating an alternate ending where Duncan stands up to Trent in a more dramatic way and changes the whole dynamic at the park. It could also be interesting to write a fan fiction that focuses on the relationship between Susanna and Owen, and how it developed over time.
The plot of " Homecoming " indeed had some awkwardness. The audience generally felt that the plot was dragged, sloppy, slow, and lacked highlights and climax. In addition, the plot of the broken mirror was also considered old-fashioned and repetitive, and did not give people a sense of novelty. Some netizens also expressed doubts about the development and transformation of the characters in the play, thinking that Tan Songyun's acting skills and state were insufficient. In general, the audience was not satisfied with the plot of " Homecoming " and felt that there were some awkward and unqualified places.
The significance of the 'way back story' could be that it often shows growth or change. When someone is on their way back, they are different from when they left.