What happens when 2 toxic people like each other?

This series certainly doesn't answer that question. It is a convoluted mess of multiple characters all concerned about just one goal and that is to get the 2 leads to be in a relationship. The story line had so much potential but the writer just couldn't understand what to do with the 2 toxic leads and just added multiple characters with no other motivation but to hope and pray that these 2 seriously broken people fall in love.
To summarize, the story, is about two playboys who meet and decide to be friends with benefits. But the first lead (Fahlan) can't help himself from being jealous, become a push-over and get punched and slapped multiple times. Next we have Sherbert, who can't stop himself from fighting with Fahlan over everything, cry, drink, forgive Fahlan, have sex, rinse and repeat.
And then you have a wide variety of supportive characters who only talk about what Fah and Sher are doing. "Are they together? Have they broken-up? " OMG! find a hobby. So many characters have been introduced that you cant keep pace with what is happening. Fah's 2 friends, Sher's twin brother and his lover interest, and his half-brother, Sher's best friend and his love interest, a fujoshi and her love interest and other random set of characters that dont play any role in furthering the story. Instead they just tell you what you have already seen.
The strangest thing that I have seen in this series is the amount of time these characters go to eat or drink. In fact they just eat, talk, fight and drink and go back to eating. You can righfully call the food and drinks as supportive characters for how often its on screen and being talked about.
In conclusion, take heed from all the other reviews and either skip this series or watch it using the fast forward button like I did.

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A string of random events

Like many here, I read the reviews for the series before I decided to give it a watch and this was certainly a wild ride. The basic plot is simple, 2 boys at school with different personalities meet, spend time together and fall in love amidst pressure from parents and society to some extent. However, the way the series has been directed, the story gets more and more convoluted as it progresses and when you reach the finale the issues are simply resolved and you wonder whether you skipped an episode or two.
The sound recording has been atrocious at places and the dialogue is confusing. The acting has been mediocre but considering all the actors have been young, I can give that a pass. But credit where credit is due, the only thing that made me not give up on this BL was the chemistry between the 2 leads. The acting chops may be lacking but in certain scenes I could feel the spark between them.
I have seen the same actors in other series and their acting skills have certainly improved. So kudos to them. That being said, this series isnt complelety hopeless and can certainly be recommended when you are feeling lazy and can't find anything good to watch.

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Multiple Missed Opportunities

This movie offers a charming yet an uneven viewing experience. Although there are a lot of heart warming and emotional moments, it leaves a lot to be desired at the end. Truly a lost potential

The basic plot is rather simple. Golf, a miscreant at school finds that his father has remarried is now has to share his house with his step-brother Bank. Initially Golf mistreats Bank but slowly starts developing feelings for him. As the story progresses, we find Golf and Bank interacting with each other and the feelings blossoming between them. And as is customary in almost all love stories, there is initial jealousy followed by confession.

This movie lacks in the execution of the plot and rather falls for the cliched BL tropes. There is the initial jealousy when another guy shows interest in Bank. Post the confession, there are a few moments of tenderness and affection but the movie sways again to the familiar tropes of misunderstanding and societal pressure. This is followed by the mandatory third act breakup between the main couple and silent suffering. But I was certainly blind-sided by the last 15 min as the movie decides to take a hard turn. The movie also suffers from uneven pacing and terrible editing, thereby creating confusion. Also, the characters while charming, could benefit from deeper exploration.

In conclusion, “My Bromance” is a decent movie that suffers from uneven packing, choppy editing and reliance on cliches. Those seeking a more profound and emotionally resonant experience might find it lacking.

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A Heartfelt Journey Through Love and Self-Discovery

A light-hearted look at love and relationships interspersed with humor and dark elements like parental neglect, childhood trauma, pessimism and mockery are what makes this 3-episode special so compelling and captivating.

The story revolves around Aoyanagi Hajime, a childhood star who suffers from self-confidence issues who gets an opportunity to work alongside an upcoming actor Akafuji Yuichiro on a live adaptation of a famous BL manga. In order to improve the chemistry between the actors, they decide to live under the same roof. Akafuji being in love with Hajime, falls short of making his true feelings known all the while hiding behind his persona from the BL manga. The characters try to navigate through these misunderstandings and hidden feelings to make the series a success.

The story is a series of misunderstandings between the two leads while they hide the respect that they have for each other as actors. This makes for some interesting and humours conversations between the 2 leads. However, as the story progresses you realise this isn’t just a series of comedic misunderstandings but shines light on some real-life issues through the point of view of actors. Through Hajime’s characters we are introduced to the expectation of manga fans from actors playing their beloved characters. This can easily build or break the series and he is acutely aware of this fact. Second, is the issue of self-confidence triggered through the comments from fans and general public about the actors. The cause of this issue is the childhood trauma caused by parental mistreatment. Through Yuichiro, we learn how people are quick to judge on the basis of you likes and hobbies. In all this, we also find that everyone needs a support system in life to help you push through your inhibitions and build yourself up.

Although the series does dwell in to some really dark elements, not much time is spent on explaining or expanding this due to limited episodes. Also, there is limited character development in the series and the secondary characters are relegated in to the background just to push the main plot points forward. The series also adheres to a common trend in Japanese BL by skirting explicit kissing scenes, a choice that, while not detracting from the narrative, may leave some longing for more authenticity in portraying romantic relationships. There are examples of some great BL series like “Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!” and “Kieta Hatsukoi” succeeding with no kissing scenes.

In conclusion, this series stands out as a compelling addition to the BL genre, skilfully blending romance with authentic portrayals of the challenges faced by its characters. While some aspects tread familiar ground and secondary character depth is desired, the series succeeds in delivering a charming and emotionally resonant viewing experience.

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An interesting prelude to a complelling second part

"Irresistible Love" is a story that is divided in to two movie and the first part "Secret of the Valet" is just an introduction all the important characters in this storyline and getting the basic plot in order. There is drama and emotion, all meant as a prelude to the main content that is part of the second installment.

To summarize, the story is about Shu Nian, an orphan who enters the Xie family as a child and is tasked to take care of Xie Yan who regards him more as property than a person. Xie Yan returns after studying abroad and immediately tasks himself to be around Nian, oblivious to the fact that Nian harbous feelings for him. Things take a turn for the worst when Xie Yan being an open homophobe discovers Nian's feelings and immediately pushes him out of his life. This separation from Nian, makes his recognize his own feelings towards Nian

The plotline is rather simple and is mostly driven by the characters. Shu Nian, is our poor damsel in distress and is saved by a knight in shining armour who takes him away from the orphanage. Nian is forever obliged by this act and becomes a play thing for his saviour. Xie Yan from the beginning acts like a bratty child and uses Shu Nian with complete disregard for his feelings. This attitude of his continues even as an adult. Nian, however looks beyond these faults and is in love with Xie Yan who inturn rebukes him at first and on realising his true feelings acts obsessive. We as viewers are left pitying Nian and hoping Xie Yan finds a way to redeem himself.


The actors Wang Bo Wen and Meng Rui were exceptional in their portrayal of the characters. Bo Wen with his whispering dialogues demonstrated the vulnerability of Shu Nian as a character whereas Meng Rui played the angry, obsessive Xie Yan to the T.

In conclusion, "Irresistible Love: Secret of the Valet" serves as a promising prologue, providing a glimpse into the characters and their intricate dynamics. The exceptional performances and character introductions set the stage for an anticipated continuation in the subsequent part, making it a worthwhile watch for those invested in character-driven romantic dramas

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As good if not better than the original Japanese version

As Ossan’s Love Returns graces our screens five years after its Japanese predecessor, I ventured into the Hong Kong version for a fresh take on the beloved storyline. Binge-watching all 15 episodes, I was pleasantly surprised. Staying true to the original plot, the extended runtime allowed for a more nuanced exploration of the characters, enriching the overall viewing experience.

While the primary narrative mirrored its Japanese counterpart, the standout factor here was the characters. Edan Lui's portrayal of Tin Yat Hyung (Haruta Soichi in Japan) was a masterclass in capturing the character's eccentricity and innocence. His reactions, though over-the-top, avoided cringiness, rendering Tin simultaneously lovable and annoying—an art that Lui executed flawlessly. Anson Lo, in the role of Tin's love interest Ling Siu Muk (Maki Ryota in Japan), delivered an exceptional performance. Siu Muk's confident and caring persona, coupled with Anson's portrayal, conveyed desperation for acknowledgment from Tin and the struggle to sustain their relationship against all odds.

With 15 episodes, as opposed to Japan's 7, the Hong Kong adaptation utilized the extended runtime to delve deeper into character backgrounds and intricacies, portraying the gradual evolution of relationships. The series seamlessly blended comedic elements with ample doses of romance and emotional scenes, effectively tugging at the heartstrings.

In conclusion, Ossan's Love (Hong Kong) excels in character development, weaving emotions through stellar performances from the entire cast. Whether or not you've seen the Japanese version, this rendition is a heartfelt homage worth experiencing.

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A Culinary Journey of Friendship and Love

"There is beauty in subtlety," and this sentiment perfectly captures the charm of this delightful movie. It serves a delicious blend of sweetness that leaves you craving more. The storyline is a fluffy exploration of the lives of our two main leads, Aki and Haru, as they share a roof and savor the culinary delights prepared by Aki in their new home.

Unfolding from April to December, the movie captures the journey of best friends Aki and Haru navigating their shared life. While the film prominently features their daily life and gastronomic adventures, it's the nuanced layers beneath these themes that add depth and a continuous smile to your face.

At its core, the movie is about food and the life of Haru and Aki. But it’s what lies beneath the veneer of these themes that makes it interesting and puts a smile on your face. As the movie begins, you realise that our two main characters share a special bond. Haru is decisive and a cleanliness freak. He is aware about the direction he wants to take his life and is actively studying for the same. On the contrary, Aki is a happy-go-lucky fellow who is oblivious about what he wants to do in life and despises studies. What he lacks in understanding he makes it up with his culinary abilities. As we see these characters going through their life and interacting with multiple supporting characters, we get a glimpse of the relationship that they share. The movie does a great job at presenting the true nature of their relationship through the eyes of the supporting characters.

In conclusion, if you're seeking a heartwarming and uncomplicated narrative, this movie is a perfect choice. It seamlessly keeps a smile on your face, navigating moments of tension with swift resolutions. The movie's success lies in its simplicity, offering a comforting and enjoyable experience.

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A tale of strong performances hindered by plot constraints

As the second instalment in to the VBL series, “You are Mine” stands out as an entertaining office rom-com series with a good plot supported by strong performances. But like its predecessor, falls short of being great due to lack of episodes. A couple of more episodes fleshing out the main characters would have made this one of the best series of 2023.

The series is about 2 central characters; Xia Shang Zhou, General manager of a reputed organization feared by his employees for being stern and quick to temper. Yao Shun Yu, a young and innocent man joins the organization as an Assistance Secretary to Xia. Finding him utterly useless during their first interaction, Xia learns to soften himself through daily interactions with Yao as he finds himself being attracted to this new addition to his team.

The series excels due to the strong performances by the two lead actors Parker Mao and Hsiao Hung. Parker Mao played a stoic, work-oriented individual who is above social interactions and lacks human emotions. Hsiao Hung, on the other hand brings to life the role of a young, cheerful youth who wants to work hard to help his family. Their acting prowess shines at scenes requiring extreme emotions of loss and heartbreak.

The series however fails in using the plot that it introduced in the early episodes. Xia Shang Zhou, is shown to be suffering from headaches and insomnia due to a childhood trauma and his mother’s strict upbringing. It’s this treatment from his mother along with multiple other factors that make him emotionless. That is a strong character building but is not capitalized further. There is no arc for Xia to break free from his mother’s control and grow as a character. Hsiao Hung, goes through an inner turmoil caused by his own feelings and his misunderstanding of Xia’s feelings towards him. A couple of more episodes to go through Xia’s past and his ultimate growth would have made this truly exceptional

In conclusion, “You are mine” is a series wherein the acting and chemistry between our two main leads, a plot with underlying themes of trauma, parental control and power dynamics makes it a must watch albeit a stronger plot could have made it a masterpiece

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A Lackluster Attempt at Adapting Agatha Christie's Murder Mystery

As an avid fan of Agatha Christie's intricate mysteries, my expectations were high when I dove into this Japanese adaptation. While the source material provided a solid foundation for a compelling murder mystery, the execution fell short. The special failed to keep my attention and I gave up mid-way to try and piece together the clues myself and watched the rest for the final reveal of the real killer.

The plot revolves around a glamorous actress, Irodori Madoka, who has recently moved to a new residence with her husband. She hosts a party where a local woman, Kannokouji Rin, dies after drinking a poisoned cocktail. The investigation reveals that the intended victim was Madoka herself, and the poisoning was a result of a long-standing grudge.

Initially, the special introduces the characters effectively, establishing their relationships with the main protagonist and casting suspicion on multiple individuals, a hallmark of Agatha Christie's style. As the story progresses, layer by layer the true plot behind the murder and the intended victim is unraveled. Where this special fails is at the execution of this plot. The essence of a true murder mystery lies at ensuring that till the very end the identity of the true killer is hidden from the audiences and everyone equally seem suspicious. Herein, we find that all the suspects are swiftly eliminated and more or less you are able to guess it correctly. The mystery part of the story is overshadowed by the mundane drama of the characters. The investigation is simply boring and pulls you out of the story.

The charisma of the detective is also lacking. Unlike iconic detectives like Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie’s very own Hercule Poirot, the detective Shoukokuji Ryuuya has no method or process of evaluating the evidences and clues. At no point do we see him pondering over the evidences intently or having his assistants go on a chase after a piece of information whose significance is revealed at the end.

In conclusion, Agatha Christie stories are known for its intricate plot and clever twists but this special misses the mark. It was an average attempt to bring to life one of the stories of detective Hercule Poirot

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Beneath the shock-value, there lies a narrative about life

Japan has always showcased some unique and interesting BL stories. It has given have very romantic and sugar-coated stories like Kieta Hatsukoi and Cherry Magic as well as some hard hitting and mature stories like Life: Senjou no Bokura and His (the movie). But sometimes, we are introduced to something wild and different. This is one of those storylines. Beyond the shocking and explicit scenes lies a profound message about the value of life, obscured by a barrage of perplexing moments that will leave you questioning your own understanding.

The movie hits the ground running where we find Katsuragi is bound and naked at an unknown place by a mysterious person, who sexually assaults him while taunting him about the feeling of being alive. Through Katsuragi’s recurring dreams, we find out how he landed up in this mess. As his daily sexual torture ensues, we find him struggling to stay alive.

The movie although graphic deals with trauma, loss and self-guilt. As the story progresses, we find that both our characters, Katsuragi and Ryoji are dealing with psychological issues. The tremendous personal loss that they have suffered makes them suffer from guilt and depression and ultimately to suicide. This is where the story takes a darker turn and uses the tool of bondage and sex albeit non-consensual to drive home the point that life is important and you need to live it daily. You are responsible for your own actions but certain things are beyond your control and you can’t be blamed for the outcomes.

This dark and twisted movie works due to the truly excellent performance by the main cast. The conviction through which they have played their roles speaks volumes about their talent and professionalism. There were multiple scenes that were awkward with lots of nudity and graphic presentation of sex and the actors have put up a convincing performance.

In conclusion, if we are able to overlook the extensive amount of nudity, bondage, sexual assault and the twisted means to looking at life, the movie holds some important lessons on dealing with trauma and guilt. For any one suffering from such psychological afflictions needs to visit a doctor but this is certainly not the kind of help you would be looking for.

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Unveiling the Beauty in Simplicity

In a realm saturated with BL series set in school environments, few manage to captivate with genuine moments and heartfelt narratives. This particular series falls into that distinguished category, offering a storyline that is straightforward yet engaging.

At its core, the series revolves around Yamato, an exceptionally talented and attractive student who harbors a secret affection for his childhood friend, Kakeru, known for his clumsiness and academic struggles. Yamato, cautious about jeopardizing their existing friendship, conceals his true feelings, while Kakeru grapples with confusion over Yamato's peculiar behavior.

The narrative wastes no time immersing viewers in the angst experienced by the two protagonists. Conversations between them are riddled with complexities, distractions, and misunderstandings, sustaining tension until the series' end. Each episode intertwines sweet moments between the leads, only to cruelly pull them apart. Viewers become emotionally invested in the journey of Yamato and Kakeru, hoping for their mutual understanding.

Kentaro and Haru deliver commendable performances, breathing life into the characters of Yamato and Kakeru. Yamato's reserved nature contrasts beautifully with Kakeru's outgoing yet hesitant demeanor. As the story unfolds, both characters undergo significant development. However, a standout performance comes from Leo, portraying Yui, the wise friend guiding Yamato and Kakeru towards self-discovery.

In conclusion, the series stands out for its simplicity and the actors' commendable portrayal of the characters, creating an emotionally resonant and captivating viewing experience.

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A comedic twist to a courtroom drama

Entering into this movie without any prior knowledge of the video game, I embarked on a cinematic journey that was quite a pleasant surprise. While it may not be a traditional murder mystery filled with suspense, this film excels in its own unique way, primarily through its eccentric characters and over-the-top acting.

The narrative revolves around Phoenix Wright, an attorney whose competence doesn't quite match his dedication to defending his clients. However, when he takes on the case of Maya Fey, a psychic medium accused of murdering her sister and Phoenix's own mentor, the stage is set for a captivating legal drama. Adding to the complexity, his childhood friend Miles Edgeworth, a prosecutor with a flawless record, finds himself in a murder-related predicament from an old case. As Phoenix decides to defend Edgeworth in court, the film takes a delightful twist, filled with unexpected turns and humorous high jinks.

Two aspects make 'Ace Attorney' truly stand out. First, the inventive use of display technology in courtroom scenes transforms the legal proceedings into a dramatic spectacle, complete with ups and downs that keep audiences engaged. Secondly, the film's vibrant characters and their performances leave an indelible mark. There's no room for subtlety in this grand theatrical production; it's a world where actors embrace their roles with maximum emotiveness, all for the sake of comedic effect. In this courtroom drama, the verdict hinges not on the gravity of evidence but on the theatrics of the attorneys. The characters' costumes and hairstyles, reminiscent of those from the video games, infuse the movie with a distinctive creativity and showmanship.

In conclusion, 'Ace Attorney' is a murder-mystery court drama that doesn't take itself too seriously, opting instead to entertain with its loud, comedic characters and an unapologetic commitment to the aesthetics of the video game it's adapted from. While it may not follow the conventional suspenseful murder mystery formula, it succeeds in delivering a unique and enjoyable cinematic experience.

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An Enigmatic Supernatural Ride with Untapped Potential

"An unexplained bunch of intriguing characters." That's what I thought while delving into this supernatural series that promised a refreshing change from the typical romantic dramas. While it indeed delivered on its supernatural premise, it fell short of its full potential due to a convoluted plot and lack of character development.

The series centers around Dome, a barista who stumbles upon a mysterious job offer from Khatha, a mysterious museum owner. Reluctantly accepting the position at a museum housing cursed objects, Dome unwittingly releases one of these malevolent artifacts, setting off a chain reaction that puts the world in peril. As Dome and Khatha embark on a dangerous journey to recapture the cursed objects, they soon discover hidden truths about themselves, including Khatha's immortality and Dome's mysterious origins.

The fast-paced narrative keeps the audience on their toes as each episode delves into the tale of a different cursed object and its devastating impact on humanity. The urgency and riskiness of the adventure make for an engaging watch. However, as the series progresses, it becomes increasingly complex and confusing, especially with the introduction of three versions of Dome from different worlds. Sadly, little to no explanation is provided for their existence, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.

Another downside is the plethora of characters introduced, with some acting as antagonists without clear motivations. The lack of character background and development leaves them as enigmatic as the supernatural elements in the plot. The final episode's attempt to shed light on these mysteries falls short, providing only vague explanations that leave us wanting more clarity.

Despite the flaws, the series boasts exceptional talent, with notable guest roles like Bright delivering impressive performances. Nanon's portrayal of multiple characters adds depth to the series, especially in the final episode. Nevertheless, the lack of character exploration leaves the main cast's potential largely untapped.

In conclusion, the series takes viewers on an enigmatic supernatural ride with glimpses of brilliance, but it struggles to reach its full potential due to a crowded plot and underdeveloped characters. While the CGI adds to the experience, a few more episodes with focused storytelling could have elevated this series into a wonderful watch. For fans of the supernatural genre, it still offers moments of intrigue and entertainment.

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A Missed Potential Yet Salvageable Gem

Despite its shortcomings, "My Day" manages to capture our attention with a good plot and relatable characters, making it an enjoyable watch. While the series falls short in terms of a stronger storyline and well-developed characters, there is an evident effort that deserves recognition.

The story revolves around the contrasting lives of Ace and Sky, the two main characters. Ace, the son of a wealthy businessman, is portrayed as cold and indifferent to his employees, driven by the need to prove himself to his father. Sky who comes from a poor household, enters the company as an intern and instantly becomes a thorn in Ace's side. However, their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Sky demonstrates his capabilities as a dedicated worker. As they spend more time together, their feelings for each other begin to grow.

Though the basic premise follows a familiar enemies-to-lovers trope, the series shines through its exceptional protagonists albeit with multiple flaws. Ace's coldness and desire for his father's approval could have been further explored, adding depth to his character and serving as a point of contention with Sky, who possesses a caring and outgoing personality. Their interactions and understanding of each other could have been a central focus, culminating in a gradual affection. Additionally, the prestigious baking competition, initially introduced as a crucial plot point, was unfortunately rushed, missing an opportunity for greater exploration. Furthermore, the character of Moira, Sky's ex-girlfriend, had the potential to be a compelling antagonist, but her storyline felt underdeveloped and lacked the impact it could have had.

Despite these flaws, the series starts to gain momentum around the fourth episode, drawing viewers further into the story. While unnecessary scenes, basic dialogue, unexplained plot points, and excessive product placements may be present, there is an underlying attempt to present a meaningful BL story that deserves appreciation. The standout character of Ken, who portrays Sky's brother, adds a layer of flawlessness to the series, showcasing the actors' potential.

In conclusion, if you choose to watch "My Day," I recommend staying tuned until the fourth episode, where the story truly picks up. While the series has its faults, it demonstrates genuine efforts in presenting a BL narrative that many viewers will appreciate. And if all else fails, Ken's character alone is worth watching for. With room for improvement, the series offers a glimpse of what could have been a more refined and compelling series, leaving viewers with a mixture of enjoyment and anticipation for future BL productions.

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A welcome end to a beloved series

With eager anticipation from devoted fans, the long-awaited movie that continues the beloved series has finally arrived, and it delivers on many fronts. Seamlessly picking up where the series left off, the film provides a satisfying extension to the story of Kurosawa and Adachi, capturing the essence of their unique relationship and the challenges they face. It truly serves as a welcome addition to the series that fans have grown to adore.

The narrative starts with Kurosawa and Adachi happily together, planning their future after the series' memorable finale, where they overcame Adachi's fear of losing Kurosawa without his magical powers. However, their harmonious existence takes an unexpected turn when Adachi receives news of his transfer to another office. Skepticism arises, but with Kurosawa's unwavering support and encouragement, Adachi musters the courage to make a life-altering decision. The movie predominantly revolves around the pivotal choices these two characters must make together, not only to sustain their relationship but also to propel it forward.

The film's greatest strength lies in the remarkable portrayal of the two main characters by their respective actors. Akaso Eiji flawlessly captures Adachi's timidness and lack of self-assurance, allowing viewers to empathize with his journey of personal growth and self-discovery. Throughout the movie, we witness Adachi gradually stepping out of his shell and developing into a more confident individual, demonstrating authentic character development. Machida Keita's portrayal of Kurosawa is equally captivating, showcasing his charm and handsomeness while also highlighting his deepening love for Adachi. As Kurosawa embraces vulnerability and Adachi expresses his emotions more openly, we witness the genuine growth of their relationship.

While the storyline may not break new ground, the exceptional performances by the actors elevate the movie and make it a worthy continuation of the series. Akaso Eiji and Machida Keita breathe life into their characters, infusing them with depth, nuance, and undeniable chemistry. It is through their heartfelt performances that the movie shines, capturing the hearts of viewers and allowing them to witness the genuine evolution of a relationship.

In conclusion, for those who have enjoyed the series, this movie serves as a fitting and much-anticipated conclusion. It is a heartwarming journey that showcases the exceptional talents of the actors and portrays the authentic growth of a relationship. Whether you were captivated by the series' charm or drawn to the characters' endearing dynamics, this film is a must-watch, as it provides closure and continues to tug at the heartstrings of fans. Prepare to be moved by the exceptional performances and be reminded once again of the power of love and personal growth.

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