Symbolic and heartwarming, one of the best BL I've ever seen....

This one definitely takes the CROWN of all BL's I've seen, and it truly deserves the hype it's getting.

The plot is engaging in all episodes, and I love how they did the cinematography here, and the last bonus scenes of spare moments in the story was cute. And how "subtle" they were with their advertisement products shown throughout the drama.
It's different than most, unlike other BL's where there are silent moments, this one has one remarkable OST to get by.

This only shows that feelings and intimacy are in small gestures, in caring for one another, in the most sincere stares.
It shows us how to value the simple things in life, and that happiness can't always be bought.
Although that being a known fact by many, the way it's portraited here is what makes it worthy.
Because we never fail to see their chemistry through the course of the story and within their lines and scenes.

It's very symbolic and heartwarming, with a good dosage of drama and a bit of comedy in between.

Both Mix and Earth, the kids and the whole cast make us smile and get emotional by how good they were.

If you are prone to get emotional you might just hold on to your tissue box while seeing this, yet albeit being an emotional ride, it's most definitely worthy it, because it teaches us valuable lessons that we should know by heart.

Read More

If you like doramas, zombies and N.flying... then this mini drama is right for you

Now I confess, I was tempted to follow this one while it was ongoing, yet I waited until it was completed and binge watched it yesterday, mainly because Jaehyun from N.flying is part of the cast and I was curious to his character and performance in here.
However not only was I surrendered by his character, Minjun, but also for the characters Hibiki and Todoroki and of course the good old infamous Dr. Shuto. The actors did a remarkable job with their characters, but I feel like these ones stand out for their personal vendettas and goals along the episodes.
The world as we know it entered in an Apocalyptic Breakdown after an out of control virus is spread across mankind, enabling a sick transformation, and only a small group of survivors and a security organization are doing everything they can to survive with their own beliefs. We can say this is somehow similar to the whole Walking Dead because of the theme itself, and for those who are expecting something out of Train to Busan, than this sadly isn't it.
But still it's not that bad, although the first half is definitely better.
The second half is focused more into the hopeless love story, and all the illusions made by pre-fabricated lies...
Still, I really enjoyed watching it, and despite episode 7 being the saddest in my own personal opinion, it was in a way necessary for the developing of the plot and what fostered the rol of actions and decisions made by the characters from then on.
The OST once again, not quite memorable but it works nicely on the scenes and it's well displayed for emotional value.
The dorama ends how it ends, but worry not! Because....
The sequel has started already and seems just as promising as this if not even more, so if you made it this far be sure to follow ;)

Read More

Slightly better than season 2. A darker season but, sadly predictable.

WARNING: If you all thought season 1 and 2 had their number of gruesome scenes and erm... wtf moments, - well you better hold onto to your seats, - because this one will leave you on edge, with an "ewww" expression on your face and feeling mostly pissed off for the character's poorly decisions and the cruelty of the screenwriter to play with our hearts and then crush us so hard that will leave us frustrated, pained and in tears.

- Might contain SPOILERS. -

First things first, I'll do a Pro and Con list:

PROS:
Starts with Todoroki and Kanae.
Yuzuki is grown and stronger here.
Have I mentioned Kanae and Todoroki?
Kurumi has less screen time in this season.
The level of cinematography and production is better.
"Bromance" between Hibiki and Todoroki. Loyalty on point...
At least they tried to unveil the mysteries season 2 failed to do.

CONS:
HIBIKI. with capital letters.
If in season 2 Kurumi got me annoyed. In season 3, it's Hibiki.
Religion. Cults to be precise. Acting holy when they're sinners.
Kurumi is always the main point, even causing sacrifices indirectly.
The X gang and their shady origins. If it was like that why kill civilians?
Character's stupidity that costs everything, and could be solved or avoided.
Kanae and Todoroki arch. Not precisely bad, it's really good. But they deserved the world
Sadly, the world did not deserve them. Love you as the world ends, should be about them...

By now we can all assume Hibiki's character is kind of like Liam Neeson's character in Taken.

Only there's no working phones here in Kimi to Sekai and Hibiki doesn't exactly say the line, "I'll find you and I'll kill you" as many times as he probably should. Still, there's always guns and ammunition in hand. Which is weird given food is scarce, but weaponry exists by the dozens huh. I would presume handcrafted weapons would exist at this point, - you know those pointy sticks, - like those Buffy always used to save the world and it worked just fine back in the good old days.

They've made 6 pointless episodes in season two, with that ending... To skip 10 months in the story, in this one.

Shoot! What have we missed?

Well first things first, in those 10 mysterious months ever since having left the House of Hope, Hibiki finally dyed his blonde roots to become a brunette. I know right? Priorities... Dude spent 2 seasons blonde, but now he went dark in a flash.

Speaking of dark. This season has definitely it's darkest moments.

However, it's either predictable or I've had my fair share of criminal dramas and plot twists that I've developed a keen sense. It wasn't hard to figure it out the intentions of the characters, the ones that were most mysterious were the X gang though.

They tried their plot twists here and there. Like for example, with Min-Jun's lookalike. It went along with the realistic explanation that there was a twin brother, Yoo-Jun, and revealed his existence and what happened to him in a flash linked to Ji-An the older sister. Even so, it seemed to be made above the knee and rushed, if you ask me. They could've made a hint in season one when Min-Jun and Ji-An met... but no mention of them having another sibling was ever implied, at least from what I can vaguely remember. (I might check it again, just to be sure.)

I actually liked the fact that they made his character hold a sense of loss despite the brutal environment in which he was raised ever since kidnapped. He still retained that memory of making flower crowns to place on the dead to honor their souls. It was Ji-An that had taught him that when young, and he continued doing over the years so it seems. It was symbolic.

The gruesome events are cruel and macabre to say the very least.
If in season 2 they presented us with the House of Hope, which ironically had no hope at all, nor it was a safe haven. And where the residents firmly believed in division of status and classes among the survivors. In this season they present us with faith and religion as holy place for a cult. In crazy times of need, people believe in anything they want to believe. This is an example of it.

It's a deranged utopia consisting of delusional believers, a fraud keeping the farce of a God, and the most messed up meals... It's implied that the food is indeed scarcer there, that they have turned to the point of producing meat from dubious sources.

It's really messed up and utterly disgusting.

Now, I wouldn't dare to say it's the survival of the fittest, but more like survival and madness walk hand in hand here. As if serving Golem meal's wasn't enough... (that's right, the excuse is a trial for immunity to whoever consumes the product, which is weird because so far there is no one who has it at 100% nor there is a vaccine or cure) To have volunteers for the "Marris" ritual (which so happens to be a public execution), only to be used as a source of food for the children is utterly immoral and quite DISTURBING to know. Cannibalisms at the end of the world... and they have the boldness to call it high in protein...

It's in times like this that I am glad I don't eat meat xD
Oh Holy salad, as I off a Golem with a fork. Lettuce pray. Amen.

The irony of creating a safety haven in one season and then throwing the characters right at the holy sinners is a duality.

Hibiki's arch as always been about finding Kurumi, but after a couple of times and different directions of having the same goal, it's a bit tiring to see what could be love becomes a sick obsession. If it was to find her in the end and finally sink in that there's no other way to help her because unfortunately there's still no cure, then this story would most likely ended in season 1.

It sure would've avoided many headaches, heartbreaks, deaths and well a hand... if you get what I mean.

WARNING: Episodes 4 and 5 will ruin you all, mark my words. The events are beautiful, symbolic and tragic.
To the point of leaving us aching for those we've been rooting from season 1, to be robbed so soon.

They never had a chance, never got to the point of properly addressing their feelings, confessing in bold words what they meant towards one another after all they've been through. Still, their actions spoke louder than 1000 words. Their sense of loyalty, of paying debts, and having each other's backs was the most genuine among two characters there. And their storyline was the most worth it of all ever since season 1. To see how they developed, and how much they cared, loved, protected and respected each other's was beautiful and endearing. They provided us more insight of them, and then robbed us all.

Even so, Todoroki's character development was one of the best. And so was Kanae's.
They went from stubborn and weak characters. To caring, honest, independent and strong characters.
Their keen sense of justice, right from wrong, prevailed unaverred amidst the craziness that surrounded them.
While other's like Hibiki were easily persuaded. Todoroki and Kanae, held their grounds in every single situation.

Todoroki's and Hibiki's have always clashed in season 1, they both had different views and perceptions of the world and their situation. And were keen on leadership of the group of survivors they were a part of, ever since then no matter how apart they got, whenever they managed to find themselves in circumstances, the bond between them lost their initial rift, and gained mutual respect. Maybe on Todoroki's side it was Kanae's influence that made him improve himself. His loyalty and integrity never changed though, to the point of owing Hibiki and helping him out 'till the every end.

What did change in him?
The reckless imprudence of placing himself in danger because he did not fear death.

To have him confess that now he does fear it, really speaks volumes of how much he started to feel for Kanae to the point of finding a reason to keep on living, and not merely existing in a dying world.

"You really don't call me by my name, do you?" - Kanae
"You can only call a woman by her first name if she's family." - Todoroki

This moment between them was like the hidden confession, as they harbored feelings for each other.

The meaningful and symbolic value of his hand gesture, in those different scenes, with only her in his mind...
The first time calls her by her first name and she never hears it. Worse Hibiki never tells her... and that pissed me off.

"He don't have to call me by my name. He don't have to love me.
Just... if that person is alive, that's all that matters. So please, come back safe, Hiro." - Kanae

Yuzuki's finding her purpose and sense of leadership was gratifying. She had to grow up fast from season 1 to 3. In order to survive and adapt she learned to make sacrifices and be brave. The only inconsistency in her character is probably the asthma, she suffered severely from it in season 1, in season 2 it's mentioned and we can see the inhalers. But in here? Don't recall.

Could this be the only holy miracle of this deranged season events? Perhaps.

Too many shady characters, and backgrounds in this season. X could've been partially resolved in season 2 though.
Iori and Shinji were characters that screamed suspicious from the very start. Hence my suspicion of a season 4 turning out to be right by the end of this chaotic last episode. They need to add drama and angst, and of course another rescue plot mission for Hibiki, this time for his missing child. Future is dark and gloomy, because Mirai (means future in Japanese) has vanished.

The cinematography and production values in this season are far better than the previous seasons.
Oddly enough the song , - Not the End by Rei Yasuda - that accompanied the other seasons was not presented in this one.

After binge watching these 6 episodes, frustrating my poor little braincells on another rollercoaster ride of disturbing scenarios, not so happy meals, pent-up emotions, pure rage towards stupid characters, and having my heart broken in the end.

I'm left unsure about being sadist enough to even watch a season 4...

Read More

An intricate plot of 21 years worth of some dark secrets...

Hands down one of the best criminal dramas I've had the pleasure of following ever since it's release.

The premise for this drama was high as my expectations the minute I've heard about it, and glad to know it did not disappoint.

I've got to say, am sad that it's not having the hype it truly deserves, because this is a masterpiece to be appreciated.
The way the plot was made and how every single characters kept getting more interesting as the drama unfolded and the constant lies and deceit dwelled and made the viewer grew suspicious of the most unlikely character is astonishing...

Personally my favorite thing about this drama, is definitely the partnership of the two main characters, Dongsik and Juwon.
An uncommon duo that through their bickering and stubbornness, led the viewers into an adventure of traps and suspicions.
Two different characters and yet also similar, struggling with their own issues, both trying to find their right path and justice.

It's a full journey from the minute they met, until the very end. And I must say, their development of caracter, their own growth truly shines in the very last episode. In that one heartbreaking scene inside the house that depicts their overall progress, and how much they've changed and committed to their very beliefs, finding right and wrong. It's raw, and emotional and brilliant.

This is a gruesome drama, albeit there might be worse than this one, description is advised.
Still if you watch for the criminal and judicial terms and themes, then this drama is right for you.

One thing is certain it won't leave you bored. It's realistic, and shows how greedy and deceitful people are, even those one can least expect too. It has it's moments that might mess around with your assumptions, and definitely has some Psycho definitions, and yet if you're one to assume or create theories maybe you might get right on some, and others will make you doubtful, because nothing is for granted here until the end.

The OST is okay, I liked it. It matches well the drama. But what engaged me more was the plot.
Maybe I am being biased because I really enjoy these kind of dramas, and because the acting of Yeo JinGoo here is remarkable just as Shin HaKyun, but then again every single one the cast did their roles well. I've got no complains on that regard.

So, I highly recommend for criminal/thriller enthusiasts. It's definitely a must on your list ;)

Read More

A masterpiece that will leave you on the edge of your seat

It’s been a while ever since a Sci-Fi intrigued me this much and made me wait eagerly for every single episode week after week, while creating theories of the plot.

Time travelers, holding onto black suitcases for their life’s?
People carrying regrets, weighting their hearts, and blinding their offensive vendettas?
Brokers facing their own inner demons while smuggling personal belongings for quick cash?
Conspiracy lurking within the most prestigious or considering trustworthy roles?
Sisyphus is more than that. It delivers more than those questionable compositions.

Usually this theme is quite tricky to tackle down, without falling somehow along the main plot or the sub plot even in certain details, however, Sisyphus was conceived to speculate and engage the viewer to use their wits and brains in order to figure out the order of events presented.

It doesn’t take us too long to witness how the brilliant mind of TaeSul works even under pressure or admire the sheer tenacity of SeoHae to achieve her goals, and even the brave stubbornness of JaeSun to try and help the best he can, along the storyline and how it unfolds ‘till the very end…

Unlike other dramas about time paradoxes this one has a good and quite seemingly structured script, and the way it’s produced is well made.

Still it’s never simple to try and understand the intricate way time paradoxes are settled.
So, to not be too confusing nor boring, this one the contrary it has its dosage of action.

Now, I know that not every story is perfect, and certainly this one will have it’s flaws too, although it might differ from viewers point of view.

In my regard it was the whole romance.

It seemed unnecessary to me and somehow cringy, given the whole background and I also know it might be a parallel version of her at some point but in the current timeline where TaeSul belongs and when the main event is about to happen she is merely a child. I would settle for admiration or companionship to battle against the ordeals, rather than the romantic plotline.
But I guess it’s the way it is…

Also, the character HyunKi subplot with the whole lack of humanity he showed seemed like a waste of time in there even if just for plot, it was messy and overall a filler to complicate things.
People might think the same about JaeSun, but still I preferred his character.
If one shows how a tragedy can rip one’s humanity, then the other shows how compassion towards strangers works even in times of need.
Maybe both are opposite forces that the writers teamed up and inserted into the plot for morals.

Although the storyline might have its pros and cons when connecting the past and future, it works out in a certain way, to some who enjoy it from the very first episode and are engaged into the plot there are things that are acceptable and others that rub off.

It all comes down to how much knowledge one has of this kind of subject in the first place.
There will never be a perfect drama when it comes to this.
But still, if it can fascinate the viewer to continue watching it, then it’s a good sign.

Sigma was quite the antagonist, his plot and strategy always one step ahead kept things on edge.

The whole present and future gaps and view panoramas too, were actually a good visual representation of what she’s trying to stop and the past and future she’s trying save.

And it all links to TaeSul the man of the hour. The genius who can either doom or save mankind.
If only he could have trustworthy people around him until the very end…

All the cast and production team did a remarkable job on their roles.
The OST is super catchy, mainly the song Stay (Tempus) by GSoul at the ending credits, the lyrics and meaning fits the main theme perfectly.

And despite knowing it’s not part of the Ost but more like the plot, using references of BTS since SeoHae is an ARMY is either clever or predictable nowadays am I right?

Yet the fact that they used Spring Day no less, in the apocalyptic and dystopian future seemed quite meaningful given the message present in the lyrics.

It’s a song of a sad event and definitely dwells in longing.

Here it happened a tragedy and the survivors are longing for something to hold onto.

Curious how Seokjin in an interview once said, “I like to look to the past and get lost in it”, about how the song represents him, and in here future SeoHae ends up travelling to the past, so maybe she gets lost into it, in order to do her role and finally save not only TaeSul but everyone else.

It’s a soothing song to heal both victims and survivors, given its purpose. And here is no different.

Overall, this story won’t disappoint you that much in the long run well until the very last episode… ends are always hard to come by, so it seems, it's interesting to say the very least.

Then again if you’re like me and quick into creating theories then this drama is for you.

Read More

Started off with a kick, only to end flat

Woah what to say about this? I have no clue, as I have just finished watching the last episode and am at a loss of words for this. And although usually that can happen because the drama was that good that drives one speechless, this one was not the case.

Lovers of the Red Sky had plenty of reasons to be a good hit. A phenomenal and seasoned cast, pretty awesome CGI effects, and partially an interesting premisse for a plot, although slightly cliché with the star-crossed lovers theme and well curses and fantasy of Joseon historical dramas. Still, we had a few expectations towards this, given the main leads and cast.

To bad it didn't last long. The first couple of episodes were good, despite the storyline of the whole we know each other in our childhood plotline being the same as ever, and tragic events that lead them to be apart, it is still endurable to watch. Even though the whole story being centered about the sealing of the Demon, there is still something missing within the middle of the series and towards the end. Something not even I can fully explain, it just does. It drags and drags, until the final episode.

The secrets and schemes are easily spilled and presented to the viewers creating no chance for any theories, we just see the clueless characters being havoc with something we ourselves already know. It looses the essence, the magic and surprise effect the drama could uphold with a few couple of plot twists that never happen. And the ones that do, are too predictable or simply not interesting enough besides aiding to the angsty plot they are trying to sell throughout these 16 episodes here.

It's a mess with good CGI effects and a few beautiful paintings.
If you are into art like me then the art and the way they painted and made paints in the drama will be far more interesting than the whole plot of the obsessed Demon with his eyes, and the whole Ritual that is bound to happen, but takes a lifetime, a few ruined paintings, some misunderstandings, two bystander Deities and well 16 episodes to finally take place.

This clearly shows us the lesson of the whole, 'why save everything for the last 10 minutes' when you could have made in 12 episodes instead... That useless time skip only to offer a sort of "Happy Ending" with a 'strange miracle' that no one will ever get how it happened... And btw for a King who complained of not having much time to live, years later and he still kicking. The ending with the two angry Princes? Again for someone who complained to not have time, the older Prince is still stronger than ever... (mind that shaving while locked down was probably a given, because years later and he still looks dandy.)

Who dies? Who lives?
So many answers that were left unsaid.
Well besides me - and any other viewer, - dying of boredom.
Not sure about the rest that was left in thin air...
Plot holes, plot holes EVERYWHERE.

Don't get me wrong.
It's not that I did not want a happy ending here or don't like them per se. But there's a "little" thing called cohesive storyline and this drama had a twine of that instead. If this was compared to a lifeline support, it was erratic for its inconsistencies and fell flat from the middle towards the end.

Died faster than the King if I may say.
Ghosted us better than the Crown Prince too.

So, how come I, - like most people who are sharing their disappointment - did not drop this drama?
How come was I able to stay until the very end? And endure this historical train wreck for 2 months?
Well, besides the cast doing their roles the best they could, we could say the OST did a good and pleasant job. And perhaps my sheer curiosity made me hope for a better outcome than the one it had. With one more episode, one more week until today.

It's not surprising that drama endings are mostly a huge disappointment. This is not a first, and will certainly not be the last. After all we all created great expectations and have different opinions and likes, so in order to not be disgruntled about it, the best we could do is to not expect that everything will go smoothly. It's easier said than done, because we are bound to make the same mistake by another synopsis and good premisse, let 'Lovers of the Red Sky' be a good example for that.

In terms of cinematography it was somehow enjoyable in some given points. I also liked the color pallet in general here, from the pastel colors of their childhood and the fact that her "blind eyes" were pale green, to the darker shades as the plot sort of "intensified" (well they tried to), and the detail that his "blind eyes" were pale red.

The "sacrifices" were either pointless or with bad timings. And the fillers were endless.
Good luck for those of you starting of this drama, it's not bad. Believe me there is worse than this.
But if you're easily peeved by unresolved situations or characters, or by everything happening last minute despite going on and off about if for most part of the story, then this drama is not for you.

Still, do not create expectations.
Give it a go. If you don't like it, then drop it.
Don't be dumb like me, don't be sadistic like most of us.
We lost 2 months of our precious time so we could save you all xD

Read More

a better rendition, and worth watching..

I've watched the original Korean drama years ago and at the time I liked it, it had a good premise and the plot and acting didn't disappoint for what it was worth, however there were a few things that lacked with the cast chosen, for starters the main leads age difference there was a hindrance in the whole romantic plot. It felt cringe, weird or forced in some parts, while other flowed naturally. Still Soohyun was a minor at the time, so it wasn't well received.
And yet here we have a minor difference with the age of the leads, and Off and Jeen's relationship and chemistry is better.
Now I have only seen Saint in BL roles, and I must say this was quite pleasant to watch.
He did a great job as the main lead, and I like the female lead Jeen more in this version too.
The ghosts and demons have a better execution too, and worthy effects throughout the drama.
It's darker than the original from what I can remember.
Leng and Junior being those two goofs, were fit for the comedy part of the plot in between all the horror and action.
Music wise once again nothing out of the ordinary for me, well executed on the right moments, although I did like the intro they made for this series.
Definitely worth to watch or re-watch if you have seen the Korean version already, a few things you will find the same but with certain intriguing twists, others will feel brand new, either way, Off and Jeen's many moments will put a smile on your face ;)

Read More

Missing this movie will be a Hard Hit xD

There is no lie, that we all have been anticipating this movie ever since the news came out. I have not seen the original movie which this one is based of, entitled "EL DESCONOCIDO" (2015) screenplay by Alberto Marini, directed by Dani de la Torre and produce by Vaca Films and Atresmedia Cine as it's mentioned at the ending credits, but I consider this to be perhaps closer to the original, given that most Asian remakes are done like so. It got me curious to see the original and do a comparison though.

It's a good thriller, it gets you hooked into the action scenes and it also leaves you quite frustrated by the characters, mainly when they do not cooperate well or are so idiotic and oblivious there *cof cof policemen for the most part* that you want to shout at the screen by their lack of thought. The only one in there that seems to be the most intelligent and a quick thinker is Ban, police woman and bomb expert team leader and like always is not taken serious by her peers...

I guess it's part of our very own society and well human nature to defy the odds, this plot comproves it by the actions people do and the consequences of their own reckless decisions.

The main lead learns that in a Hard Hit here, as he finally realizes his wrong doings and what matters in the end, by learning what might happen when all the odds are against you and the karma of your past actions is there to plot your own demise.

Acting here was very good. I have to give credit to Jo Woo Jin and Lee Jae In for their roles as a helpless father and scared daughter, it showed their bond through the movie. Although Ji Chang Wook is not considered a main role here, given he only enters physically towards the second half of the plot, his voice is very present from the beginning so it works for me too. His voice alone has enough presence and charisma to carry on the show. I have always loved his tone, and usually we are used to him being the good guy and having a certain layer in his characters, in here it shows how he can portrait a "criminal" just fine.

Like always there were things that made no sense, or maybe I am being too logical. Despite the whole time is on the line vibe here, there are certain procedures even the police has to take, and in here they simply skip those. I guess it's quite easy to jump into enemy lines, if the culprit can be right under their noses without being detected. Again the only source of intelligent life form is Ban, the explosive team leader, because the others mainly the police chief are impulsive with their decisions...

Despite all that and the fact that the calls have always a pretty good signal even when there are no doors on the car, and there's not much static interferences along the way (I guess Korea really has good connecting services) it's a good movie to watch. Probably the typical cliché of Hollywood with the whole bomb threat feat a Fast and Furious vibe. I could almost pinpoint and say it kind of reminds me of the movie Speed (1994) with Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock (a timeless classic) which involves a bus and it also has a time bomb, and by the whole unknown caller it has its far share of movies similar too.

Still, its always about the productions and actors that truly make a difference in each and every movie. And it shows in here. Not bad in terms of background music on the scenes. In a re-watch value, just like the classics I've mentioned it can work out after a while, although there's nothing like the surprise factor of the first time, hearing Wook's voice is definitely worth it ;)

Read More

Happiness can be reveled in many forms...

To some this is a brilliant masterpiece, to others just an average drama of survival.
I followed it from day one and it got me hooked to the point that my Fridays and Saturdays had this as an highlight.

They couldn't have picked a better lead couple than these two, - Han Hyo Joo and Park Hyung Sik - did a great job with their roles and had a fairly great chemistry. But Happiness is more than romance, in fact it focuses on the build up to that, on those hidden feelings one is not aware until the world turns upside down. It's all about survival and finding Happiness in all forms.

"If I lose him, I might really crumble." - Yoon Sae Bom

That and the fact that Happiness is different to everyone. To some that comes by the demise of others, to others it's all about control, to others is fame and likes, and some it's even greed or by getting their hands tainted with blood... And yet for those who are rightful, - Happiness - can be a materialistic thing as a Home or the comfort of loved ones and our parents. But a Home can be more than a House, sometimes it's only warm when shared with the right person, like the case of our main leads.

"Getting an apartment is important, but who you're with is more important." - Jung Yi Hyun

What I really like about Yoon Sae Bom and Jung Yi Hyun is on how equal feet they are when it comes to their action and decisions, how they always have each others back and go to the extreme to protect one another. It shows from the very start that they really like each other, but to acknowledge that sometimes it needs a push or in this case the world they once knew crumbling down. While facing the demons that people can bring to the table in apocalyptic scenarios, and coping to deal with it by trying to maintain order even when most people do not cooperate or are against them. They don't wait in dangerous situations, they take action and run if necessary. They access what is happening and try to come up with solutions or act on the moment to solve it.

Both of them are not flawed, - no one is - but it's nice to see that in a drama there can be balance between the leads, instead of the typical damsel in distress or the tripping and falling down cliché. They are both fierce with their beliefs for justice and find themselves trapped in lockdown with numeral individuals that will test not only them but also everyone along the way.

Yi Hyun trusts in Sae Bom, and she does too when it comes to him. He represents those who are sure of their feelings, while she on the other hand represents those who only realize when its too late... like a wake up call. Perhaps, she knew all along, she just dismissed thinking it would not be reciprocated because they started with a contractual marriage to get an apartment.

However, - like I mentioned above, - Happiness is more than mere tragic romance.
It's all about making tough and egoistic decisions for the sake of our loved ones and mankind.

"I did all sorts of things to lower the number of the infected. Lockdowns, quarantine, killing. I have enough blood on my hands." - Han Tae Seok

It's a matter of surviving lockdown and well facing the worst kind of Humanity in a single building.
Sometimes the true monsters aren't those who are infected, but those who show their real and despicable selves.

"You are the real monsters, not the infected." - Jung Yi Hyun

If we manage to look into the overall picture, the drug, the infected or "zombies" and the whole martial law is what is surrounding and aiding the true plot. This being the residents and how they evolve and act while on lockdown. How the main leads deal with the situation, how the residents try to survive, all the schemes, the deep dark secrets inside of several different apartments, the social classes, the different individuals, their hidden agendas and how doom can change people from better to worst. It was never about only the cure, that is important but it's side plot, it's more about showing the difference between those who are infected and act on impulse and need, and those who revel themselves to the be worse monsters in the end.

There's quite the symbolic value this drama uphold. For example the 'Good Cop, Bad Cop strategy' that Yi Hyun mentions about himself and Sae Bom, can also work for Han Tae Seok and Lieutenant Lee Ji Soo who works with him. And that strategy is used throughout the whole drama too in many occasions. Even when Yi Hyun decides he will be the bad cop, and Sae Bom the other.

"When one plays the bad cop and gets angry and scares people, the other uses nice words to persuade them."

It's seem like a foretelling line, for when the moment comes they act like so without realizing. It's he presence and soothing words, that bring him back to her. And also her impulsive act to save him and his decision in such a dangerous situation that defines their roles. They will do everything and beyond to keep each other safe even if it means to make sacrifices.

This drama has plenty of those. Choices and sacrifices that make the characters become either twisted, or revert from that and gaining the Humanity they didn't have or had lost. An example of that is most likely Kim Dong Hyun, the son of the elderly couple from Unit 302. Who always seek for likes and fame by streaming everything he could get his hands on. And yet as the story progresses he embodies the fear, shame and the selfish act of leaving his parents behind afraid to get infected.

"If you happen to see him. Tell him to come back home. Tell him, we're okay.
That's what a home is. You come home when things get tough." - Kim Hak Je, Senior Resident of Unit 302

Only to return home when what he feared the most happens.

"He'll be able to hold out longer... if he stays with his family." - Jung Yi Hyun

And despite his actions towards his parents, Dong Hyun is welcomed with open arms, as if a "good" son is returning home, now apologetic and more grounded than before. A message for us to cherish those we love, and that they may be our greatest strength in times of need.

There are several frustrating moments, mainly caused by despicable characters such as Oh Joo Hyung (dermatologist), Oh Yeon Ok (Resident Representative), Gook Hae Sung (Lawyer), Woo Sang Hee (Joo Hyun's mistress), and let's face it Go Se Gyu and Ji Moon Hee (the SY cleaning couple) too.

"I'll beat up anyone I find annoying." - Yoon Sae Bom

Probably the most direct Happiness we all felt through the drama was by how many times she did this to Oh Joo Hyung.

And there was also a couple of mysterious characters in the plot - Kim Se Hoon and Andrew - who likely contributed to many theories and a plot twist into the story. Sometimes, there are hints along the drama that lead to that, only we aren't able to notice them all or they just show them in the end when that truly happens.

The plot twist of the real culprit was interesting.
I had theories of my own, as I am sure mostly everyone did by some point when it came down to these two characters.

To be honest, the real one felt detached from the plot. Like a mere coincidence that just happened, and it was all in his favor.
It made more sense if it was near my theory that he was in fact the one behind the drug NEXT and that he was seeing the "lab rats" aka the infected act and mostly from the rooftop while on lockdown. And not what they come up to and no reasons for what he did and does. Perhaps it's just his own Happiness in doing so. Maybe that's why they did like so, who knows.

All I know is that the plot has it's holes that much is certain. But again the focus is mainly on the residents and survival rather than where did the drug come from and how the cure works. The acting here is what keeps us wanting for more. And I am not only talking about the main leads. Even the guest roles here where interesting to see. For example Sae Bom's colleague Lee Sueng Yeong interpreted by the brilliant Lee Kyu Hyung (funny how Looney turned out so good that he joined the SOU)

The Production. Now this is what makes this drama different than most. The way it was written, made and filmed. The cinematography so believable that they are in fact in a real complex unit building of rented and fancy bought apartments. The intros with the title Happiness, showing the opposite of that. It almost seem Netflix worth it, with certain foreign like influences here and there but at the same time true to a K-drama. Hard to explain the concept of it. It's interesting, and pleasing to see. What compliments with all of this, it has to be the OST. So many good artists and singers, and amazing songs to match the scenes of this drama. The lyrics also with plenty of meaning. One of my favorites it has to be 'Pain' by Hong Isaac.

This drama came to life because of all of this combined, everyone's effort.
Park Hyung Sik long awaited acting comeback is a success, and him pairing up with Hyo Joo gave us a new kickass ship besides the MinMin and BongBong ship we have had ever since he starred with Bo Young in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon.
More than the ship, I like how he represented Yi Hyun. Makes me look forward to more of his projects with good premisses.

"I realized when you said... that a home... depends on whom you're with. I'll stay with you from now on. Stay with me. Whatever you're like, I'm okay with everything." - Yoon Sae Bom

These two be raising the standards of main leads.

Highly recommend this if you like survival storylines, with a warning that it has it's breaks of infected but that it focus more towards human and inhuman dissociation of the survivors, rather than those who were infected. It doesn't have cliché scenes, it has more schemes and plot twists.

Plus factor it only has 12 episodes, although if you like you will find yourself wanting a couple more. And well by the ending... it fairly need that option. Endings are mostly rushed, and this one wasn't any different in that regard unfortunately.

Still it's a good drama if you give it a go. With an amazing production, awesome acting and a killer OST.

Read More

Now this is what I like to call, a remake done right

The original movie is iconic and forever engraved herein in the hearts of those who saw it. I recommend watching it for those you haven't yet. However, this remake certainly hits differently. It's a bit sadder, more poignant and yet it retains a certain beauty to it with the message it delivers. I think it's mostly because of Jing Hua's ability to portray emotions like he does in his roles, and in here is no different. Or the way they made this storyline become even more symbolic with every single detail.

Honestly, I really enjoyed the pace of how this remake was made.

The changes into the plot were nicely done, the most important details and essence of the original movie from 2010 was kept and replayed with the same lines and meaning and even improved in some ways in this version of 2023. They balanced out the comedy breaks with the blue vibes and sensible theme this story already has quite evenly. The flow of the whole composition as well as the connection between the two main characters made more sense in here. I even have to praise that the dynamics of the four ghosts felt more in unity too, oh and let's not forget that the new integrated elements, the changes of characters, their professions or life troubles, and overall moral messages turned all of this remake into a great symbolic masterpiece.

A word of advice I can give, is to try and read between the lines. Since, every sentence has a deep meaning.

Praise to whoever thought of using Tamagotchi toys in this remake. For example, in the original it uses Bopki also known as Dalgona candy which is no less iconic in providing some sweetness to such a bittersweet life. The value of both elements varies from Korea to Taiwan and the contribution to the plot. However, it's the sole part of raising the Tamagotchi pet, caring for it's basic needs, making all kind of efforts to prevent it from dying, or just the meaning of a new start that is beyond thoughtful. :')

Incredible how the noise they make can resemble heartbeats. :')

There are parts that will make you laugh and question when the sadness will start. Truth be told it hits more than once, but it's all worthy until the end. The cinematography is great and the effects are good enough too. This movie really makes you value the little things that we often take for granted and revaluate life and death priorities, or the importance of second chances in forgiveness and the will to try again. Although it deals with sensitive topics... the message it tries to convey is more of a beacon of hope to those of us who have been or are still lost for quite sometime now and on the brink of giving up... No one is truly born and living "alone" in this world, there is always a connection with anyone we meet in our lives, and that leaves a mark. A mark we chose to neglect or to remember, to cherish or to hate it, to embrace or to surrender. After all, amid all the laughter there can be some hidden pain, amid endless tears there can be a strong painful motive, amid any troublesome addiction there can be a guilty conscious, amid every heart aching loneliness there can be a strong desire of a loving bond or dream of a family.

For all that and more I actually recommend both movies. The original and this remake are worth watching.
Take your personal pick on which one you manage to like best. I liked the original, and yet loved the remake. ;)

Read More

"A momentary illusion once again, true love is always there."

Well, this was a way of showing the 5 stages of grief while throwing strong symbolic and relatable content into the mix. The fact that this is a BL is a bonus too. It's quite a shame that this drama is underrated, because although the theme seems a bit disturbing and morbid at first glance, when one considers a BL with such a ship, this unique plot transcends all that entirely.

This BL story goes beyond the typical love story.
It's about a first love tale; most of them are doomed not to last.
This one took 2 years too bloom, alas when it did it was already too late.

"It was in the blink of an eye. It was so sudden, it was inevitable. I couldn't do anything." - Mitsuru

It starts with the ending, and ends with a possibility of a new start.
(Although, it seems there's a cycle too, of when a person is stuck in the past.)
Confusing? Perhaps, but the drama is fairly complex and simple at the same time.
All it takes is to read in between the lines, analyze the symbolic value it presents in the scenes and lines.

The content is relatable. It tackles life and death in a calm, soothing way.
Almost too natural in an unnatural way. Then again, Japanese dramas are keen in this thematic.
They are able to teach valuable lessons, and make it look like it's a natural, mundane rite of passage.

The way this drama was wrapped was beautiful, heartwarming and bittersweet.

"How can we heal the sorrow of what was given and taken away?" - Mitsuru

When people start to forget Koichi's existence, and seeing Mitsuru's frustrated was painful.

Those we lose still live in our memories, in our hearts, there's always resurrection, when time passes the memory lasts but the image of the person sometimes fades without us realizing it does. We find ourselves forgetting about those we cared about, and then remembering them from time to time. It's the natural course of life. This drama handles those themes in a light way, but in the underlines of the meaning of their lines, their scenes and the plot the message is there.

The five stages of grief are highly represented by our main lead Mitsuru.

"I cried so much that my whole body turned into tears. But in the end... the sadness did not go away at all. " -Mitsuru

He can't let go of Koichi. He denies the truth, lives with the pain, and knows he has to embrace reality.
The connection of a newborn baby, in the birth of Koichi's little sister, shows that while in death and loss there's also life. It goes on, the living keep on living, time waits for no one. The concept of Koichi being trapped in eternal yesterday, it's a ephemeral miracle. Perhaps the will to hang on to life a little longer, to his love, to his unfinished and unresolved love story. Mitsuru's feelings that keep him there, and make him well co-exist. But, nothing lasts forever. And neither will he. The departure is eminent and they have to deal with it. Make peace with the situation, acknowledge their pain and predicament.

From the very start we know where this will leads us, and yet we still follow the ride.
Very much like Mitsuru and Koichi who seemed enthralled by their first glance, we find ourselves wanting more.
Hoping for a miracle, albeit knowing it's impossible. Wishing that there's a happy fairytale ending instead of reality.

I think it's realistic as to where or how it ends. It was meant to be a moral fantasy story after all.
Maybe it was mostly all in Mitsuru's head, his profound wish for it to be true. To have Koichi near him.
Or maybe it was really an odd miracle provided just for them, in a short term. Koichi was his shield and Mitsuru his life.

Komiya Rio and Inoue Sora did a phenomenal job in their roles. I can only praise then. Rio's character was a hard one to portray and to be believable. A living corpse, the walking dead, not a zombie, not entirely dead but not alive either. And yet he did it. The pain, the struggles, the longing and his love for Mitsuru is there implicit even before the accident. Mitsuru being more reserved, took him more time to acknowledge his feelings and maybe that's why it was so hard for him to let go, and what made Koichi wait. But time was against them, and as much as Koichi and him wanted to stay and last, it was for the best that it ended.

Rio's sorrow as he cried in the last episode, broke my heart.
They were too pure, and their cute first love was robbed too soon.

"Koichi. You're still my number one. I love you the most." -Mitsuru

There can only be a number one. Despite the room in our hearts, there's always a special person in it.
For Mitsuru it will always be Koichi. I love that the sensei took a picture of them, it validates that it was real?
It's a memento, a token to keep close to the heart. Even after years, Mitsuru still can't forget his first love.

The story is mostly under the perspective of Mitsuru, but I liked that in the end we have an insight of Koichi.
As he describes their first meeting, his on growing feelings for Mitsuru and their journey. The tender love and enthusiasm in his voice as he tells the details, is endearing, despite bittersweet, since we all know where it leads.

"I didn't know how many first-year high school students there were that year. But meeting Mitchan was a miracle to me. He looked scary. However... He looked at me with a strong gaze. Yes. I fell in love. I never thought I would fall for a man. So I was surprised. But it didn't matter. As long as it's Mitchan." - Koichi

The real definition of he fell first, but the other fell harder could he applied to these two.

Superb acting from the main leads, Komiya Rio and Inoue Sora.
Once again Japan is able to present a strong plot but make it somehow emotional, a fantasy more a less realistic and symbolic and not a dark, heavy and only tragic.

The OST is great, I really enjoyed it. The intro song called Sunshower by Ayumu Imazu is so alluring given his vocals, and the lyrics so meaningful. Meanwhile the ending theme called Eternal by Aoi Kubo, is graceful and emotional at the same time.

And the whole cinematography and overall coloring of the drama too. Despite the gloom, it holds a warm filter. It focuses more on the male leads, the support characters appear for that purpose only. They don't create unnecessary drama inside of the drama, or add more complexity to the plot. They are meant for value and that's about it. The dialogues are intelligent and mostly to reveal hidden truths and relatable lessons for us the viewers to notice.

It's a mature first love drama. Not suitable for those who idealize typical romance or only want fair happy endings.
If you are not ready for a heartbreak, for a few tears, and valuable moral lessons, then this drama is not for you.

Don't let the theme or the first episode discourage you from seeing all 8 amazing episodes and grasp the tragic beauty and value that this drama holds. It's wistful, and bittersweet but there is a refined grace to it in the way it teaches it's content. To the purity of the main characters, or the soothing way they talk and how the scenes present themselves. To the pent-up emotions, confessions and revelations. To how the story unfolds. What could be truly tragic would be missing all of this, just because it doesn't settle with the overall idealization of what a love story and BL should be like, or if it has or not a happy or sad ending to begin with.

If you can see all this combined then give it a go.
Have a tissue box and heart ready, are my words of advice.

Read More

More than a BL, it's truly a Legacy in the making...

As an avid fan of Gun and Off projects and unique bond, I was looking forward for Not Me release. And all I can say is that it was worth the wait. It's under a great screenwriter and director guidance like P' Nuchy that this project was able to succeed.

Not Me has set the bar up high, direction and production wise. It definitely excels in those departments. The cinematography is really good here, and although some shots were definitely filmed up-close the subjects in certain scenes, even those were premeditated. Most likely to make the viewer become immersed within the characters feelings and actions.

Gun just prove everyone his talent with acting, by not only playing a double role in the set of twins. But also by making them so distinct that even I, and well, presumably everyone who watches this series will be able to tell who is who and see two completely different characters, to the point of taking sides or rooting for both in their own way. That is a hard task to achieve and yet he did it so well, almost looking so effortlessly when I bet it was the labor of his dedication to the project.

By giving them their own personalities Gun was able to set them apart, and sometimes even without saying a single word. Just one glance suffices, mainly when it comes to Black.

"Bravery and fear, I think these two things are the complete opposite. However, they can't remain apart.
We can't be brave without fear. But being brave with no fear is like an explosive with no target." - White

White is soft spoken and composed. Black is without a doubt a force to reckon with.

"In that moment, I realized if he's the bravery, I must be the fear." - White

Sean has got to be the most challenging character Off has ever made, and probably - just like the set of twins are to Gun, - this one will remain unforgettable. Since it's a broken and more serious role, unlike his early projects. At the same time it really made Off grow to improve his acting skills. It's not only the chemistry and him being at ease with Gun that allowed him to do that, but his own commitment to the role and to the tasks he was given when he enrolled in this series. By doing all that Off was able to incarnate the impulsive Sean with his anger and resentment, eager for revenge.

Until he gets swayed by the only one who can calm down the storm that he carries within his heart.

"This is the goal that keeps me alive, and you are too." - Sean

The characters complexity within this series is what makes it all more interesting. Therefore, I only have to point out a flaw here, because by having only 14 episodes, that were not enough screen time to exploit the mysteries of some characters more than others. At the same time that seemingly aura of mystery that enlaces those characters allures us more to them.
Be it the always resourceful and intriguing - Gumpa - owner of the garage where the gang meets.

"If you want to change anything, you must have enough power." - Todd
"Power is corrupting." - Black

Or even unveiling more of Todd and Black's friendship, one that has it's levels of toxicity, since they don't seem able to get on the same grounds but at the same time there's a bond between them that makes them connected to each other. I admit, that I like the tension their scenes behold, almost like there is something else lingering in those desperate and dark glances, and into the feeling of betrayal they both have by witnessing how their actions and choices made them grow apart over the years.

"What we should do is find common ground to live together in peace." - Todd

One thing for sure, is that Not Me is a continuity plot. Driven to expose the corrupts of the system and that no matter who opposes or who surpasses who, there will always be corruption when there is power involved. It's a never ending cycle.

So, this wasn't all about being able to destroy that conviction.
But to gain awarness of the reality of this situation that happens worldwide.

Another flaw I have to point out. Is the way they made Gram in here. Mond has bad luck with his characters.
The ridiculously sick puppy love without an ounce of chemistry between them, made me roll my eyes out in their scenes.
Despite trying to be symbolic and balance the series with several types of love and equality. Gram's odd pursue, almost seemed like an obsession rather than love. To crave someone's girlfriend, and your best friend no less was low enough but the course of actions in all the wrong timings made it all worse. It's a downgrade of a character that had potential, and significance too. Not sure what made the screenwriters made this choice, but it's obvious that it's forced attraction and love. It's like a filler in plot. It upsets me that it had more screen time than other potential interesting characters, like Yok and Dan or even Black and Todd.

"Don't follow me, if you want no regrets." - Dan

Dan and Yok. It's hard not to love these two artistic souls.

"You can't run away from me. You know that, don't you?" - Yok

First and Fluke gave us that typical troupe of criminal/delinquent and good cop.
More than that they presented us love at first sight, and communication within their honest artworks and heartfelt confessions. Just like White is the one who can warm Sean's cold heart, Yok is able to pull Dan from his own guilty torment and give him a shred of hope for a better future ahead of them. I have not enough words to express their relationship, - much less about this whole series :') - from Yok's sassy behavior to Dan's calm nature, and well just with their loving glances, soft touches, to the heartbreaking tears of betrayal and the tough decisions into self-sacrifices made.

A scene can't break your heart.
The scene:

"Finally, you get to arrest me for real." - Yok
"I'm sorry I failed you. The more you try to escape, the more dangerous it is for you." - Dan

"Do you remember what you told me?
You told me not to look for you if I wanted no regrets. I should have believed you then." - Yok

Not Me has such a deep symbolic value within the hints it gives throughout the plot scenes and lines of the characters. It hits differently than most dramas or BLs even. Because its based on a judicial and political activism plot, and set on sensible and important topics happening in Thailand, but at the same time relatable to the rest of the world. It walks the fine line of using a more realistic plot and bring upon important questions and themes that need utter attention and respect.

Even better than all of this is the exceptional OST with hit songs in which the lyrics match the scenes and story well. From original song by Off Gun, for example, to international hits that boosts the artists by having their works into this production.

Definitely a must watch. It gives an impression. There's always a moral lesson to behold upon.

Read More

A way to honor the dead and the living in a valuable critique...

I've been anticipating for this drama ever since I saw the trailer and it blew my and everybody else minds so it seems.

Move to Heaven it is a small compilation of valuable morals, and a critique to society and the way we evaluate death, loss and our petty priorities. It also depicts the spectrum of disabilities, traumas and the morbid view of life and death.

My only critique to this drama is the fact that it only has 10 episodes of 45 minutes each, but at the same time I am equally pleased by how the plot merged with the cases and how well the characters did their roles here, it's hard to put into words, on how much I appreciate this drama, the author, the actors and production for presenting us this MASTERPIECE.

I was also really excited to see Jun Sang in a main role again after watching him be the maknae in CLOY where he did a support character although still lovable. Playing GeuRoo into only widened his range of acting skills, because he delivered a special role, portraying a character with autism and who also suffered from selective mutism in his childhood years. The way he talked and his antics only made GeuRoo who he is, a special, highly intelligent and always curious, caring boy who has is still trying to figure out life when he suffers another huge loss. They way him and his dad can perceive and try to comprehend their departing costumers by their personal belongings is really meaningful.

JeHoon is another who is on fire lately on his roles, and being an avid fan of Taxi Driver (since it's another drama of him that I am currently following), I loved seeing him in this unconventional role of SanGoo, a worn out boxer and ex-convict that feels bitter towards his life. Thinking he was abandoned by his own brother, and unfortunately responsible for "killing" his protégé and in a way best friend and little brother, SuCheol. Beneath that hard shell of him against the world, is that scared child that was left behind, the one that yearned for his hyung to come back for him. It's sad to know that in the end they didn't cope or got to meet to amend their broken bond. That he learned late of the truth, but still the best way he can repay and improve is by being on GeuRoo's side. The fact that he Has a development of character is really heartwarming to watch. The scene where he collects SuCheol belongings just as GeuRoo does and puts it in a box the same way as the Move to Heaven style, and discovers new things he hadn't had knowledge before was such a touching scene of the many this drama has to offer.

SeungHee as Namu served as a comical relief sometimes, with her crush on GeuRoo and her constant bickering with SanGoo.

The endless emotional stories that this little drama presented were touching and realistic accurate that can be relatable.

Not going to lie the first episode was the start of this quite unique emotional ride. Not for the faint of heart.

I have heard of this job before, Trauma Cleaners do have a tough but also rewarding job sometimes. They get to know people who leave their stories behind in their personal belongings, in their homes, scattered pieces like a puzzle waiting to be placed together. Stories of a lifetime, placed in a box of a few personal items that can tell a lot about the late person.

It made me wonder, as I looked around my own room, what my box would look like if it had my personal belongings.
As morbid as it sounds, I've come to realize that there's not many things I would see in there that could really define me.
Perhaps one or two could define me in general, however there was nothing really relevant that could be placed in a yellow box of mine. Then again maybe that's my purpose, still in this fickle path called LIFE, to find the missing pieces of my own puzzle.

Another thing I would like to point out in this drama besides the amazing realistic storyline, is without a doubt the remarkable choice of music. Not everyday where in a drama like this, Classical Music is notorious or even commended. And yet in here not only it has a wide variety of pieces, but I was pleased to see the full names of the said pieces in the credits. There were quite a few of my favorites in there too, and the scenes where they were played when GeuRoo worked and put his earphones were so deeply meaningful and it gave a certain peace to see. It might be scenes dealing with taking care of the deceased belongings, but at the same time those chosen songs gives them their own peace as Move to Haven takes care of their final move.

I love how this teach us morals and values, within the spectrum of life and death, love and loss, and in the way on how it depicts the 5 stages of grief in each case and also with our two main characters, GeuRoo who wasn't fond of the idea of letting his father go, and SanGoo who also couldn't let go of SuCheol. Both struggling with denial and aceptance of their own losses.
In the end they both also learn with their losses, surpassing the 5 stages through the storyline.

It's a blessing in only 10 episodes, heartbreaking, heartwarming, tear-jerking, and meaningful ride.
That I highly recommend to everyone. Don't be discouraged by the heavy "theme", this centers more on the sidelines and personal stories than any gory death or anything like that, this drama focus on the lost messages for the loved ones left behind, or the memorials and respect in life and death, and on how valuable each and every life it no matter what age, gender, background, etc.

Every single person has a story to tell.

Move to Heaven, provides the means of those who couldn't tell theirs in their lifetime.

Definitely a 10 out of 10 from me.

Read More

When I found this small remake of a Japanese dorama I was indeed intrigued , so I decided to give it a go

Now before you all watch, I would like to warn you that the 1st episode might be slow and at some parts annoying, mostly because of the lack of emotion of the male lead. Maybe it's his way to act on the character or maybe he really didn't grasp the concept, I'm not sure, but sometimes idols who tend to try the acting path find trouble doing so

On a second note this was only a 2 episode special, for me this concept would have worked better if it had been more explored with a couple more episodes, because there were definitely parts that needed closure and the end scene was just plain unecessary, if you ask me... maybe if they would make it with a different approach or an if

Also it felt rushed and lacking the right emotions in a certain way, if this was intended to have an angst approach it didn't hit me at all, but that might just be me, that had higher expetactions towards it

Story wise, I really find the theme interesting the whole value time before it's too late and finding our yesterdays and making them count, it's a moving concept that can be covered in many ways, again this was a short dorama, more like a movie in time wise that wasn't really well managed, leaving certain aspects lacking and other's overly used, for example: (MAYBE A SPOILER) the time lapse it happened on his loss time... like maybe it's just me but if I only had a certain ammount of time to solve my things, I wouldn't waste it at all, I would like to make it count, every single minute

In acting it was so so, the male lead soothing voice and poker expressions, might be part of the character but he could have built better emotional wise on the parts where he could show more, I mean where is the despair of the injustice he is facing all ALONE? Where is the denial, maybe in 5 stages? Where is the raw need of reaching, and running wild trying to fix everything because of his mistakes and poorly attitude towards his life, the female lead was somehow ok but also being a short dorama it could have built more, I found the acting of the Judo school champ way better in a certain way

For music, I wasn't that really tunned with it to be honnest, which only means it didn't move me, and blended well with the scenes and surroundings, or maybe I was lost into the story expecting it to get better

Overall it's a nice 2 episodes that one can see, although there's many lacking loop holes there, it's definitely not the worse I've ever seen.... If I would ever watch it again, maybe after some time trying to remember if I ever watched it, but I would probably still have the same view of it: It's OK but it could be BETTER

Hope this helps x'D it's my first time trying a review here, so I tried to avoid major spoilers ^^'
PS: sorry if I made any mistakes, trying my best in english :)

Read More

Good action drama packed with a killer OST

"Revenge needs no NAME"

Just finished binge watching this drama, and I've got to say the thing that hooked me most despite the OST in all the right parts was definitely the action and fighting scenes. Of course the acting of So Hee and Hee Soon was the cherry on top of the cake in this drama. The way they conveyed emotions and portrayed their characters is what carried this show through and through.

"Now your life is in your hands. Whatever you do, we'll protect you."

Moo Jin's words hit deep as the story progresses and we realize just what he meant and how willing he was going to go and test her. As if it was one last shot of redemption, for a late friend whom he trusted and someone he could in fact trust in.

Because My Name deals with the dark ways and harsh mob initiation and lifestyle, where no one can or should be trusted. Our main character discovers that in her own way, although she was trained for it, and given everything she went through her life, to not trust anyone for good reasons.

"She wants her revenge. Let her."

Those words somehow felt like a final sentence, a resigned fate.
To see how far she was willing to go with her personal vendetta.

"If you want to kill him, you should be capable of murder."

Always inciting her, always leading her in, always waiting for her.

"No one can know, my enemy, my revenge, my name..."

The trailer of this drama was promising enough, and although I've enjoyed the show we can't disclose it's a typical plot of revenge, dealing with cops, mob, narcotics, the whole chill pill. Nothing quite new there, there are always those petty ones seeking for a quick revenge going all like big guys only to end up like spineless idiots. Per usual, many attempts of plot twists to confuse the viewer of the real culprit and lead a person to a wild goose chase with the FL. And of course the pity party couldn't end with her life, they have to add the ML too to make us all empathetic to his motives and a way to connect him with the FL.

"Romance" was off for me. Sorry but is true, this was only for the sole purpose of her mission. And sure she deserve better in life, but to save that involvement, that intimacy for the last given episode, felt rushed and pointless to me. No build up for that in the previous episodes. What I saw was understanding and a connection, a partnership and a start of a friendship.

Why write that for the character and then rip it away is beyond me.
To add more drama? Or stir up her motivation once again? Really??

Still, despite all of this and more. Even with its pros and cons, - MY NAME - is an interesting drama to waste an afternoon for.

Netflix provides us the same old cinematography style of action movies, combined with first player game POV in certain shots. The dark aesthetic tone of the drama is well suited for the theme. It's like a light NOIR storyline if we can even name it that. The OST is darn good, those catchy beats on action scenes and repetitive English lines in some enlightening plot moments.

The ending is bittersweet and satisfying in an odd way.
It depicts how certain actions and decisions in a web of deceit creates numerous fated predicaments.

Read More