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Completed
My Bromance
0 people found this review helpful
Feb 22, 2024
Completed 0
Overall 7.5
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.0
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 7.0

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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Love for Love's Sake
2 people found this review helpful
Feb 2, 2024
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 9.0

Blending Romance, Intrigue, and Emotion in 2024's Standout BL Series

"Love for Love's Sake" doesn't just raise the bar for BL shows; it vaults over it, offering a captivating blend of compelling story, engaging characters, and powerful emotions. This 2024 series masterfully combines the three core elements of a successful show, resulting in a unique and unforgettable experience.

The story hooks us instantly with its premise: Tae Myung Ha, a serious and responsible man, suddenly finds himself thrust into a game world where his mission is to ensure the happiness of Cha Yeo Woon, a talented athlete burdened by misfortune. Lee Tae Vin and Cha Joo Wan deliver impactful performances, portraying Tae Myung Ha's determined care and Cha Yeo Woon's initial skepticism that gradually melts into love.

However, "Love for Love's Sake" goes beyond a simple romance. The game mechanics, introduced through on-screen notifications and quests, add a layer of intrigue and danger. Glitches and forced corrections introduce uncertainty, keeping us guessing about the game's boundaries and Tae Myung Ha's fate. Each completed quest brings him closer to his goal, but also closer to a ticking clock with potentially disastrous consequences.

Oh Min Su shines as Chun Sang Won, the initially antagonistic character who undergoes a compelling transformation due to Tae Myung Ha's influence. His rivalry with Cha Yeo Woon for Tae Myung Ha's affection adds complexity to the dynamics, highlighting the emotional stakes involved.

The series transitions seamlessly from comedic moments to romantic scenes, exploring the evolving dynamics between the main characters as they navigate love, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of the game. As the stakes heighten and the game's influence grows darker, "Love for Love's Sake" delves into themes of sacrifice and resilience, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats until the final episode.

"Love for Love's Sake" is a must-watch for BL fans and anyone seeking a show that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Its intriguing concept, layered characters, and impactful emotional journey solidify its place as a standout series in 2024.

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Completed
Sahara Sensei to Toki-kun
1 people found this review helpful
Feb 1, 2024
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.0

A delicious dessert with a questionable main ingredient

Lets first acknowledge the elephant in the room. Relationship between a teacher and student is fraught with ethical complexities due to power dynamics. As the series progressed I thought that I would accept it as fiction and move on but unfortunately, with the last couple of episodes, I am unable to ignore that discomfort. So this review will be based on the themes of the series.

Beyond the forbidden central romance, this is a coming-of-age story. We see the jouney of our titular character Toki. He starts of as a delinquent who is quick to anger and violence. Studies are the last thing on his mind but we see his character and outlook towards life change due to his interactions with other characters like Rise, Shinji and Takuya. He learns to take his life more seriously and values the relationships he has build with his schoolmates. Although, he starts having feelings for his homeroom teacher Sahara, he also respects him and challenges himself to change. Sahara, too goes through his own jorney of self-identification as he grapples with his past regrets.

As a teenager in school, Toki suffers from the same identity issues that people his age face. Toki post his delinquent phase, struggles with societal pressure and insecurities about his academic performance. He is visibly stressed about where he wants his future to navigate. He questions his feelings towards another individual and finds it difficult to show how caring he is towards the people that matter to him. Shinji too suffers from failure to communicate his true feelings for Todo resulting in them moving apart and losing all communication with each other.

Toki and Sahara, too find solace and strength in each other. Sahara helps Toki unleashing his best qualities while Toki helps Sahara accept his past and his failures and move ahead. They act as each others support system and are constantly looking after each other.

Hachimura Rintaro's portrayal of Toki makes this series the most entertaining. He succeeds in bringing a different charm to the character of a lovable, confused, tough but soft-hearted Toki. With an innocent countenance and a twinkle in his eye, he steals the show.

In conclusion, this series weaves together a compelling and emotionally resonant story about acceptance and the pursuit of happiness in the face of societal pressures. It speaks about rising above the past failures and turning over a new leaf.

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Last Twilight
1 people found this review helpful
Jan 26, 2024
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 9.0

Finding light in unexpected places

It would be wrong to assume that "Last Twilight" is just a typical BL series. It weaves an intricate tapestry of love, emotions, disability, dependency, tragedy and acceptance. It is not a story of the two main characters but a journey that mutliple characters undertake in this 12 episodes.

The main plot revolves around Day, an athlete who is slowly losing his vision. Frustrated by his disability and fear of being pitied by people around him, he loses all motivation to leave his room. Mhok is a mechanic who is down on his luck. Incarceration and loss of his sister teaches him to turn over a new leaf and he decides to be Day's guide.

The brilliance of the series lies in its nuanced portrayal of Day's journey. We witness his initial denial and frustration, the fear of becoming a burden, and the struggle to redefine his identity in the face of his disability. Sea's performance is nothing short of masterful, capturing Day's vulnerability and strength with raw emotion. Every trembling touch, hesitant step, and averted gaze speaks volumes about his struggles. Mhok is the perfect counterpoint to Day's emotional turmoil. Jimmy brings an endearing roughness to the character, hiding a heart of gold beneath a tough exterior. His initial reluctance to care for Day gradually melts away, revealing a man yearning for connection and redemption. Their interactions are a slow burn, fueled by unspoken anxieties and a dependence on each other.

As I said, this is not a typical BL series. It also explores the relationship between Day and his brother Night, a stark contrast in personality yet unwavering in support. The wise guidance of Day's coach offer moments of warmth and hope. Day's mother is overbearing but understanding at the same time.

The series doesn't shy away from addressing the harsh realities of living with a disability. Day's growing dependence on Mhok is never romanticized. The frustration of everyday tasks, the fear of isolation, and the constant uncertainty about the future are portrayed well. It is in these moments that the show shines brightest, highlighting Day's unwavering spirit and his determination to carve a path despite his limitations. The use of touch, from Mhok's gentle hand guiding Day to Day's exploration of the world around him, becomes a sweet connection between them.

In conclusion, this is a beautifully crafted narrative with stunning cinematography, and unforgettable characters offering a refreshingly honest and nuanced portrayal of love, loss, and finding light in the face of difficulties. This is indeed a journey worth taking

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Jan 14, 2024
3 of 3 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Irresistible Love 2: Uncut
2 people found this review helpful
Jan 12, 2024
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 8.0

Its all a series of break-ups and make-ups

It's said that very many romantic dramas have a start, a middle and a 3rd act break up followed by the happy ever after. If you want to know what a third act breakup looks like, its all this movie.

Xie Yan, enamored with Shu Nian, showers him with attention, while Shu Nian, wary of a heartbreak, attempts to maintain a cautious distance. The film navigates through a series of break-ups and make-ups, evolving into what even the characters themselves acknowledge as a game. The plot cleverly explores the intricacies of their love, presenting a roller coaster of emotions.

What continues from the 1st movie is the strong chemistry between the two main characters. Shu Nian is in love with Xie Yan irrespective of the number of times he breaks his heart while Xie Yan remains helpless to convince Nian about his true feelings. Our two main leads have portrayed these emotions brilliantly through their stellar performances. However, where this movie falters is the lack of character depth. Shu Nian and Xie Yan appear to be one dimensional wherein one is always distressed anticipating the relationship to fall apart at every step while the other struggles to keep it going without clear communication with his love ineterst. This makes the movie predictable as we already know how the characters will react to a given situation. There is a lack of character development deeply hampering a deeper connection with the leads.

This movie however does a great job of taking us on a roller coaster ride of emotions. There are multiple moments where we see the characters sharing their love for each other only for the next moment to dampen their relationships. Other than Shu Nian, every other character seems to be interested in jeapodizing their relationship including Xie Yan.

In conclusion, if you've invested in the characters from the first part, this sequel is a necessary watch to witness the resolution of their turbulent love story. The commendable performances elevate the experience, even within the confines of a somewhat foreseeable narrative.

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Irresistible Love: Secret of the Valet
0 people found this review helpful
Jan 12, 2024
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 8.0

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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Completed
Ossan's Love
0 people found this review helpful
Jan 9, 2024
15 of 15 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Aki wa Haru to Gohan wo Tabetai
0 people found this review helpful
Dec 25, 2023
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Completed
You Are Mine
0 people found this review helpful
Dec 23, 2023
10 of 10 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Completed
The Mirror Crack'd from Side to Side
0 people found this review helpful
Dec 17, 2023
1 of 1 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 7.0

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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Yu Yu Hakusho
1 people found this review helpful
Dec 17, 2023
5 of 5 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 8.5

A Thrilling Live-Action Adventure Recapturing the Spirit of the Beloved Anime

As a cherished part of my childhood, the animated "Yu Yu Hakusho" held a special place in my heart and the announcement of a live action version had me excited and scared. However, all that fear was unfounded when I saw the trailer and it got me all excited for the release. This 5-episode limited series has all the best part of the animated series and I could not have been happier.

The series revolves around Yusuke, a delinquent with a heart of gold. He meets an early end while trying to save a child but is brought back to life and recruited by the spirit world to take care of yokais that wreak havoc in the human world. In this endeavour he is assisted by Kurama, Hiei and his self-proclaimed rival, Kuwabara. Thus begins an adventurous journey marked by battles, growth, and the forging of unbreakable bonds.

There are 3 aspects of this series that makes it truly entertaining. First, is the massive number of talented actors that make up the star cast. Actors like Machida Keita and Takito Kenichi have never disappointed me before and it was a delight to see Kitamura Takumi and Hongo Kanata aptly bringing their characters to life. Secondly, the CGI was exceptionally good. For a series that is based on supernatural characters with super-powers, it pays to have a believable CGI so as to not take away from the viewing experience. Thirdly, the fight choreography was outstanding. Yu Yu Hakusho is full of action and its combination with CGI made it a worthwhile watch.

Due to the limited episodes, we didn’t have enough time to go through the back stories of a lot of these characters especially the antagonists. We understood the motivations of Toguro, but not the rest of the characters following him. Fans of the animated series and/or the manga can fill in the blanks but the rest of the audience would not be able to connect with the characters. Additionally, although the fight choreography is praiseworthy, the editing was sometimes choppy and we couldn’t see every movement.

In conclusion, watching this series was a nostalgic journey down memory lane. The exceptional performances of the actors and the evident hard work invested in the production deserve applause. While some narrative gaps exist, the creators have successfully brought this beloved anime to a new audience, leaving room for future adaptations to delve deeper into the rich lore.

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Dangerous Drugs of Sex
0 people found this review helpful
Dec 16, 2023
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 7.5

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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Kimi ni wa Todokanai.
0 people found this review helpful
Dec 8, 2023
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.5

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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Dangerous Romance
4 people found this review helpful
Nov 4, 2023
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.5
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 6.5

Promising Premise, Disappointing Execution

My excitement for this series was initially fueled by the announcement and the intriguing trailer. However, as I watched each episode, my enthusiasm waned. What began as a potentially engaging enemies-to-lovers story devolved into a messy and illogical narrative. The series suffered from unconvincing acting, a weak plot, and a lack of character growth.

The story follows Sailom, a diligent student at a prestigious school, burdened by debts that he and his brother Saifah struggle to repay. In the same school, we have Kang, a wealthy troublemaker who bullies others and takes nothing seriously. When Kang targets Sailom's friend, Sailom emerges as a formidable adversary, leading to a complex transformation of their relationship from anger and hatred to love.

The premise of the series holds promise, but the actual execution left much to be desired. Several character decisions throughout the story raise questions. Kang's sudden shift from rejecting Sailom's confession to feeling jealous and confessing his own feelings seemed abrupt, especially given his existing affections for someone else. Sailom's actions also felt inconsistent, from running away with Kang without considering his debts to prioritizing Kang over his own incarcerated brother.

The series failed to provide adequate character development, leaving gaps in the characters' motivations and behaviors. Sailom's declaration of love for Kang raises the question of whether he still loved Kang when his friend was mistreated and humiliated by him. These inconsistencies left a significant impact.

The secondary couple, Guy and Nawa, managed to add some stability to the series, but their relationship received insufficient development. The reasons behind their constant conflicts and when their romantic feelings began to develop remained unclear.

This series struggled to live up to its title, lacking both the "dangerous" and "romantic" elements promised. There was a noticeable absence of action scenes or a consistent sense of impending danger. The romantic chemistry also fell short of expectations, with Perth's portrayal of Kang clashing with Chimon's discomfort in romantic scenes.

In conclusion, this might be worth watching for the scenes involving Guy and Nawa, who share the best chemistry in the series. However, viewers should approach the series with lowered expectations to avoid disappointment.

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