First of all I can definitely say that "season 2" needs to be on hand upon finishing season 1. I don't even know why they broke them up. Maybe a test to see if season 1 did okay they could have a season 2 and not sacrifice their story by shortening it? Speculation aside: you'll want season 2 on hand. It left on such a cliffhanger I feel it's my duty to mention itfor any drama fan looking to start Oh! My Emperor up.

Now for the review.

To be quite honest I bumped my rating up from 6 to 7 for story. Why? Because there is something super key here that most dramas do not have. Amazing women characters. Not just one! Three! Fei Fei our time traveling lead. The betrothed Lady to the Emperor/lead male, Yu Ran . The tomboy General, Sheng Nan. Who all break out of their stereotypes and actually become friends! Especially Yu Ran and Fei Fei. Because in a normal drama they'd be rivals looking to off each other. Well at least Yu Ran's character would be ready to off Fei Fei. Not here! Even when a common trope is brought in to ruin Fei Fei and Yu Ran's friendship it couldn't touch it. Because once Yu Ran calmed down she realized that Fei Fei is such a good friend she'd never betray her. That said I wanted to give this drama an 8 for story due to the amazing women and their friendships. Not to mention many stereotypes Oh! My Emperor breaks! Sadly it took a while for this drama to find it's footing.

Especially where Fei Fei was concerned. The first episodes were so focused on showing every character, their name, and Constellation title that it missed the mark completely on introducing characters. It was telling us without really imparting true information to the world. Fei Fei was used for the butt of every joke for a while. As the drama tried to find it's footing. Because without well established characters jokes and humor can't truly be established. So no other character could be made fun of or fool. Fei Fei took the brunt of it. So for 9 episodes she was—for the majority of it—the fool. They made her unlikable as a stupid/clumsy lead. Never establishing when she realized she had time traveled or her reaction to it. I mean suddenly viewers are like "Oh, so she has realized it's not a movie she has time traveled". At this time most of the other cast were developed. Then all of a sudden at episode 10 WHAM! THE BEST HUMOROUS NATURAL COMEDIC THINGS BEGAN TO HAPPEN. No really it was brilliant. Because despite it all Oh! My Emperor had broken molds and finally started to develop it's characters. IT WAS GLORIOUS. GLORIOUS. Soon this drama was rich with beautiful comedic timing and character chemistry.

Despite all that Oh! My Emperor missed it's mark on developing the world. If you're not familiar with Chinese lore and the constellations you're gonna be very confused. Do a quick google/wiki search to help feel in some blanks. Even then it's not enough. There's back history that is never mentioned or even hinted at until the final episodes. The goal of any story whether magical or modern, time travel, historical or present day/future day is to establish it's world. Pretend every viewer who is gonna watch it will not understand the time, world, lore, and it's people until it is explained. So on. Due to this and many places where I had to actually speed things up. (I normally don't speed up or skip!) Such as boring fights that lost there edge or gimmick due to the length of them. Many scenes that shouldn't have been cut, but others that should have been cut and weren't. Still Oh! My Emperor did have a decent flow and a fun world.

Overall I truly loved the cast and the actors are all brilliant. Right down to the cheesy crazed mobs! No really all of the leads and constellation holders were great. Once they were allowed to interact with each other and build rapport it was amazing. Especially episode 10!!!!! Oh, and 19! Of course other scenes throughout the series, but those to are my all time faves!

The music got super annoying. There was some fun light songs to fit this fun light drama. However, there were some super generic background music that I swear were pulled from other bad C-dramas I've tried to watch in the past. Which is fine not every drama can afford a decent music budget. It's just it was looped so poorly and so long sometimes I wanted to bang my head against my computer desk!!

Rewatch? You betcha! I'll probably be even more liberal with my fast forward and just focus on the good stuff, but this drama is definitely worth more than one viewing.

Overall this is a super light and fluffy drama! Charming! Time Travel Romantic Comedies are a favorite of mine. Especially since China basically owns this genre! The best part is that enough tropes aren't leaned into. Like what have could annoyingly turned into a love square was only a triangle. The female lead being allowed to have male friends and that's all they are. While looking out for each other. Not to mention women friends! Female characters that in a lesser drama would be enemies were buddies. I actually would even dare say a budding WOMANCE that must be explored in the next season. Most might not like the slow build up for the romance, but I like a well developed romance that builds up to the emotions. Not to mention a very engaging side romance, and I hope another side romance on the way! It must be said that the final episode troped it up so bad that I'm very annoyed. I feel like Fei Fei should not forgive and maybe get some righteous revenge. Because her actions should have spoken the loudest. I truly believe this series is definitely worth a look into. Especially if you're a fan of the genre! Or if you just need a break from *drama* and need some lighthearted laughs. Happy emotions on the way!

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Hajimete Koi wo Shita Hi ni Yomu Hanashi immediately struck a cord with me. It resonated with me. Harumi Junko is a quirky adult. A woman burnt out on the track of her current life and "failing" by everyone else's standards. The magic is that she begins to wake up. That other people see her in a different light. Such as the three men who wind up being her harem. (Had to toss that in reverse harem joke really helped pull me in to this drama! The screen caps of that and Yuri's hair was everything!) Her biggest wake up is seeing a student at the cram school being scolded and ridiculed by his father, enter Yuri. Yuri the fearless pink haired boy who can see the benefits of being a weird adult and making your own goals to follow.

Weird adult.

That is the main theme of this drama. In fact, it's the main theme behind love, happiness, and not falling prey to just being normal. This all led to a very quirky and fun drama. For a bit.

I was addicted by HKwSHnYH's quirkiness. The amazing chemistry of Harumi and Yuri. Not to mention the awesome Yamashita, the bad boy turned teacher! Man that man had swagger! *shivers* Masashi (yes a cousin it's normal in Japan and actually many countries) was a lovable lead who was an annoying doormat who eventual kind of won you over. Characters actually had real relationships! Such as Harumi and Miwa! Miwa is Harumi's best friend. A bold and strong woman who loves Harumi and supports her no matter what. I how how she just wanted to wake Harumi up and help her find love. Because Miwa is a weird adult! In fact, Miwa was my favorite character and also had the best romance of the entire show! Which I will not spoil, but I will say Miwa's romance was my everything at the end. Because I had become so involved, and because Harumi's romance took a turn for the boring.

The thing to remember is that this story evolves around a woman who spent her whole youth studying. Then she gets a job as a cram school teacher and spends her whole adult life studying. Which is fine, that's her thing and joy! For a while you can feel her love growing back for it and you can't help but feel excited with her. There's a fine line with that type of material. The first hint was in episode 5 when the studying aspects took over. Then episode 6 and 7 were such wonderful episodes. Sadly after that HKwSHnYH's burned out. Focusing too much on studying and not balancing out the real story. Losing all the hot romance between Yuri and Harumi. It broke my heart. Because this is what the drama was supposed to be about! It can be argued that HEA ended on a happy note, but it was waste to. Because after being deprived of the fire of Yuri and Harumi's romance I wanted to see glimpses of them as weird adult together. Instead the writing takes pains to ruin that. (My review of episode 10 really delves into it.)

Maybe the writers thought they couldn't keep things innocent if they kept it up? I don't know. The things that made HKwSHnYH so wonderful and joyful got lost. They drug out heavy ideas and stories. Such as the tension behind Harumi and her mother, only to waste time and then rush the resolution any way.

Harumi is the most willful oblivious person I've watched in a drama in a long while. Which soon bogs down the last episodes and leads to a rushed and disappointing last episode. Yes, I got a HEA! With an amazing confession and proposal by Harumi. The fire I had grown to love. Not the stupid actions and fears she has in how she handled many other parts of the final episode.

The music of HKwSHnYH is really fun and fits well. The actors do a wonderful job! I mean it! The way they play off each other is wonderful. Especially since they're a quirky group of weird adults. Props need to be given to the actors of Yuri and Yamashita. Not only were they bringing their A game in the pursuit of Harumi, when allowed, they played off each other in such amazing ways. Honestly their scenes together were my favorite. This was comedic timing and reactions at it's best here.

The first 7 episodes were such fun. I can't regret that! I enjoyed myself so much and had a joyful smile on my face during that time. Sure the writers lost their way and the fire of Yuri/Harumi, but despite all that it was a satisfying enough ending. I'm greedy and I loath it when I'm denied what could have been a truly A-mazing drama. I realized that I had wanted to see the passion continue with Yuri and Harumi, duh. Things were rushed wrong and then not rushed right to show us glimpses of Yuri and Harumi as weird adult couple. I did get a wonderful side couple that made me happy, and technically another one. The HEA did bring back the Harumi that made me, and our three male love interests, love her so much. It was one heck of a HEA scene to make up for the whimper that Hajimete Koi wo Shita Hi ni Yomu Hanashi sadly went out on.

Also, I will never regret this drama for Yuri's hair. Who knew pink hair could be so sexy! Every lighting and scene was magic just to see him rocking it. Bravo. Bravo.

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Tons of fun when you need a brain break! From drama burnt out or life burn out!

"I need something cute and brainless" were the words that inspired me picking up Ugly Duckling Series: Perfect Match. At first I thought it was too brainless. Instead I discovered that this particular genre of drama is something I can enjoy. When it's done in small doses and paced right. AKA I could have enjoyed Full House, Boys Over Flowers and so on, if they hadn't dragged it on forever. No really. 9 episodes is more than enough to not only establish the story and plot, but to build great character development. Maybe that's why I've started to enjoy J-dramas so much more. Though to give credit where it's deserved Ugly Duckling Series: Perfect Match actually tried to give more to the basic drama tropes it starts out with.

Rant: This drama is going for the light and bubbly. The cute concept behind the original ugly duckling story. Yes, this drama is cute and bubbly indeed! Though I need to address its dark side: the woman shaming. The concept is that the lead girl becomes ugly, so now she's free to find love without the restrictions of being beautiful and rich. Though it's clear this drama woman shames. The mamma duck in the story is called "a fat mamma duck", because why not shame the cute female animals while shaming the human women? The lead basically gets a bad case of cystic acne as an allergic reaction to a treatment she should have never needed to get. Instead of people just chilling until it's gone everyone is freaked out. Not to mention they know it's not contagious, but even her own mother (basically everyone in her life) treats her like a plague victim. The only person who knows she's gorgeous under the acne turns out to be a perv/creep. So that's not cool. The thing is I don't believe the drama is addressing this as a problem of society. They don't even know they're doing it. So my dramatic rant is over. I feel entitled to rant about all this not to mention as a cystic acne sufferer I can't believe how crappy people would push you over the edge about it. Severe acne is common in the States so I guess that's why most people are pretty "whatever" about it.

Despite my huge rant this drama is one you don't take seriously. That's the fun of it! It's blast and I was smiling and laughing during most of it.

There's plenty of laughs like the leading lady, Joo, bending the story of the Ugly Duckling to her needs. It's not inner or outer beauty and "accepting one's self" kind of tale. It's a lesson in making sure you don't sit on the wrong eggs! Ha-ha!!! Joo does finally learn what makes people decent and the real world of being a "ugly girl with no money".

Suea is a legit poor person. The penny counting and down to his falling apart sandals. A lot of dramas say the characters are poor, but they dress and spend money like cray-cray people. I enjoy that Ugly Duckling addresses this realistically. Not to mention that Suea is "handsome and brutal". He defends Joo and even makes people apologize to her. Just as a decent person. You calls EVERYONE out on their stupidity.

What really makes Ugly even better is that Joo and Suea are true friends. They both get to know each other and call each other out on their bull. It's fabulous to have REAL friendship before things start to turn romantic.

Even better and what makes Ugly Duckling Series: Perfect Match more. Is that Joo and Suea have real flaws. Suea is a bit of a flirt and slut, which everyone talks about. It's even a factor in Joo not immediately taking Suea's perusal of her for real. That and the annoying bit that she's also still hung up on her being "ugly". Suea has to deal with some of his own ugly personal truths, his pride, and eventually jealousy of Joo becoming beautiful and other men pursuing her. I did overall love this drama and it's pacing. It was just hard to watch as Joo's old self and new self merging. Despite her big words Suea's lack of money and family is a big deal. (Not just because her family won't accept him.) She even dates her old boyfriend at the end. All while Suea gets even more intense about what she does when she becomes beautiful again, even complaining about her dress. It all feels like a take back, but it's also very real. Except for that ending twist stuff which would be the hugest take back ever! (Though it also felt like a wishful fantasy sequence.)

Ugly Duckling Series: Perfect Match deals with social class. Addressing Joo's healing on the inside as she experiences life of the middle class. Joo finds out who her real friends are and what that type of bond means. I also like that Suea realizes his feelings first and is bold in letting her know. (Though he got pervy a few times. It felt real.)

There is an openly gay best friend here, Bee. I love the relationship Joo and Bee have. Joo does so much for him and I love their love for each other. True Bee is at times mostly the comedic relief, it was still great.

I have to be honest the music is nothing mind blowing, nor is it bad. However: ***WARNING*** If you're annoyed by bad sound quality this is the worst I've ever listened to for a drama. I know Bromance had some issues, but this drama makes the sound issues on Bromance seem like A+ work. Because it's bad. Background noise isn't even the worst of it. The actors dialogue gets loud and then drops. At one point what the female lead said was lost, thank you subtitles for the save. It happens none stop through out the drama.

Despite some of it's flaws I would/will definitely be rewatching Ugly Duckling Series: Perfect Match. Ugly tries to be more and despite the "take back" of the rich girl and poor boy story it feels right. I love the feel of this drama and it is a great breath of fresh are for someone who is fried. On life or dramas. It's fun! Sometimes that's all you need. This is actually the third entry in the series, but I had no issue jumping right in. The connection isn't strong. Mainly just the concept. Though I did go and promptly watch the 2nd entry to this series which I loved! Even more than this one!

I also have reviewed every episode so if you want to follow along it's there.

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Despite all the reviews and it's high top rating (8.4 as I write this review) I feel like My ID is Gangnam Beauty is still very much overlooked and underrated. When I first saw the drama show up in my emails from Viki I thought it was just another cute makeover drama. Much like 200 Pound Beauty and the many before and after it. Just silly fun. If viewers are lucky maybe an attempt to make some points. Even after seeing it's ranking and ratings for 2018 I still ignored My ID is Gangnam Beauty. For some reason I thought it would still be great fun even though I wasn't expecting much from the drama. Boy was the first episode such a surprise! One of the best first episodes I have ever seen. Hands down. Bold choices from the cinematography to the story. Most importantly this a drama for women!

Mi Rae is an amazing lead. At first we see a woman judging other women on her train ride. Rating and ranking their faces. What a shallow person! The writing wastes no time in sharing the fact that Mi Rae is on her way to get plastic surgery herself, and she's not a shallow person. The flashbacks tastefully start as she is going under the knife. The life threatening risks all laid out before her. She was a "fat" child and withstood viscous bullying. She wasn't a weakling and didn't just take it standing down. She stood up for herself. Until the bullying became so intense she used her super strong will to lose the weight. Thinking she would discover the true beauty underneath. Only to find that her face was ugly. In a bold move we never get to see Mi Rae's old face. In many beautiful shots her face is avoided and in bold moves we get a look of her eye/eyelid. Or her own preference of only seeing the back of her head. Personally I believe it's so that viewers couldn't judge Mi Rae. Instead we're going forward with her into her life with her "new face".

It's horrible to see the intensity of the bullying that Mi Rae struggled through. Even to the darkest place a mind can go with such treatment. Even though she was the top student in grades and had many secret talents because just the right horrible people deemed her worthless that's what others treated her like. So to see her be able to show off her dancing talents because she became beautiful was such a joyful thing. While being sad. Soon it becomes apparent that because she had plastic surgery she now has to face that criticism. She's on a journey discovering that everyone deals with bullying and their own worries. Soon it's clear she might have been subjected to horrible harassment because of her old face, but now her new face is open to judgment. It's not just that all women are. Even the most beautiful superstar in looks is judged.

That's the heart of this show and why it's for women. Mi Rae want to go under the radar. At the start she's very traumatized by what others will say about her. Mi Ra was so shaped by how people judged her she judged every girl around her by their looks. Not by who they were. Until the male lead, Kyung Suk, points it out to her. Soon she is aware and starts to see how the other women around her are bullied. Women she thinks are beautiful are talked down by other male student in their department. Too skinny, to fat, too old, tomboy, childlike, doesn't smile enough, women are meant to serve, it's the tradition of women to be in certain roles and so on. Even adult issues are pulled in through Kyung Suk's mom. The concept of how a woman should put being a housewife first and she shouldn't have dreams such as work. That even working moms, all moms, are great moms. It also deals with the strength of independent women and getting out of abusive relationships.

Everything about My ID is Gangnam Beauty could have easily been average. Every character is a stereotype we've seen before. Soon the skills of the writer become spotlighted as characters are expertly balanced and revealed as complex people. So complex that I didn't find myself with second lead syndrome. Usually I suffer it because the second lead is an amazing warm and wonderful person. Which Woo Young is. In fact, his qualities for being kind, respecting women, and being worldly gain popularity with other women in the show. In contrast everyone is dazzled by Kyung Suk looks and status. Though as we and others get to know him it's clear that he doesn't have social skills. What is usually advertised for cool and aloof in a male lead is actually awkwardness and as mentioned lack of social skills. Kyung Suk soon isn't an uninteresting male lead his story is just as much a part of the drama. From his rift with this mother and dealing with just as much gossip and bad mouthing as Mi Rae. He dealt with it differently.

The wicked female lead, Soo Ah, destined to be jealous of Mi Rae had a tragic past and if you think about it under went both sides of bullying. From being undesirable to the switch and attention of beauty. Stalking and body image issues just as much as someone who is perceived as ugly. Soo Ah's character reveal was slow to come, but still powerful. Every character was explored and balanced well through out the 16 episodes. Only one was left as a mystery, but I understand that you can't explore everyone though she became such a pivotal character at the end. The biggest message is how the women could become friends and all stand together. Rivals in love, both male and female, can be friends. That people can be hurt and left with scars by other people. However, that same person can be healed by a person as well.

With all the deep issues My ID is Gangnam Beauty is bringing to the table it incredibly balances a wonderful since of humor and warm heartedness that I LOVE!! LOVE-LOVE-LOVE and need in a drama. Many times things could have gotten dark and many times a drama has lied to me and went from warm story of love and comedy to dark angst. My ID is Gangnam Beauty never does that. Even with concepts of suicide and bulimia it keeps things feel good. True the usual drama plots are here, but all the connections feel good. Nothing is overly dragged out. Such as the truth behind Kyung Suk's mothers story and his family. Kyung Suk's mother's connection to Mi Rae. It is such a relief not to have storylines dragged out to the point were you're just over it. (You know what I'm talking about.)

The romance is beautifully balanced. Kyung Suk is so understanding and patient with Mi Rae. They both learn from eachother. Not to mention they have REAL conversations!! Kyung Suk is so straightforward and doesn't ever hide his interest in Mi Rae. He goes forward. He lets Mi Rae take the lead and do her. Be her. He's proud of her when she stands up for herself, let's her stand up for both of them! Let me tell you I haven't wanted a couple kiss this bad in ages!! Boy does that kiss deliver as well. I won't say it's the best and wildest, but it isn't a dead fish one and the emotions feel so good.

Refreshing is the word of this show. As the pacing, drama, story, and almost every aspect of this drama felt so effortless. Many might say at many points things slowed down, but I loved all the connections and characters. The balance was perfect. It was such a blessing to have Mi Rae have a great girlfriend who stood up for her and they were actually best friends and were shown that way. Kyung Suk's mom liked Mi Rae and supported them both! Mi Rae's parents were wonderful as well! My ID is Gangnam Beauty is a drama that has something to say for all women. Deep and complex messages all while keeping a lively plot and story. I loved the warmth from this drama. From it's strong start to it's perfect drama ending!

I suggest everyone checks this drama out! Don't miss it! It's a hopeful drama full of warmth and great messages for everyone. I know my review is big and that I'm missing a lot of important points that should be covered, but that's what my individual episode reviews are for!

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So this is one that I needed time to think on. Apparently lots of time. I have very mixed feelings about this series. It's a tale of unrequited love gone very, very wrong. It went some crazy places and led me to some dark twists. Then kind of backed off from the edge. Many will be happy for the happy ending. Which is what I will call it. At least for one character for sure.

At times there were very realistic looks into the characters. Such as Mugi and Hanna being able to go . . . pretty far. Then Hanna realizes that just because they are both cursed to feel unrequited love they aren't really close. There's many layers, so many messed up characters. HOWEVER. The drama introduces them but never truly pushes the envelope to its fullest potential.

This drama is pretty dirty, at least dirtier than most K-drama viewers are going to be used to. So heads up. That said this isn't shockingly so if you have seen American TV.

Sometimes the acting was very cheesy. Others very potent. Yoshimoto Miyu as Hana often seemed off at first, but the more episodes past she was brilliant. Especially as she confronts herself in her mind about the choices she makes. Mugi seemed to be a pretty flat character, so I don't really think the actor had much to work with. Sarii Ikegami as Ebato was truly a surprise to me. She played it so well. Oh, and the Akane character was well done. Talk about creepy smiles. Yikes!

This drama captured my attention from episode 1. Sadly by the end it kind of took standard tropes to an (supposedly) unconventional tale, and instead of delivering the ending of shock. It petered up and wrapped things up pretty tamely. Which I won't lie, in the long run probably was the right choice for it.

In the end this drama was both thrilling and boring. A strange thing to find myself saying after all.

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Totsuzen Desu ga, Ashita Kekkon Shimasu didn't sound that great to me. So imagine my surprise when I picked it up and enjoyed it. At least the start. It didn't really bring anything new, and I did kind of go into it because it's based on a “smut manga”. Well this is totally clean and completely adorable.

Which was the appeal and what I needed. I loved the characters and the actors were wonderful. The show put a smile on my face. The end felt rushed and the result was boring, but I truly enjoyed the fun of the first episodes. (So really the majority of the show since this one is short.)

Sometimes predictable brain fodder is good.

Though I felt it could have had better commentary on the role of women in Japan now. Such as Asuka's dream of being a full time house wife is actually a turn off and men want their woman to work a job. The way in which women decide what they want and so on. It's touched on, but sadly not truly explored. Which is fine for this light hearted drama.

Overall I don't regret this. Fun and simple is something every drama viewer needs. Can you believe this is actually the first Japanese drama I've completely finished! Ha-ha. I'm actually watching other ones with this one and I do really love the story telling style of J-dramas. Because the characters do become developed so well in such a short episode count. No I won't be rushing to rewatch this one, and yes the music will be song long after and I'll wonder where the song is from. Still I think it was perfect for what I needed. I got a happy romance, cute couple, and a wonderful happy ending for everyone. Oh, and there are some pretty clever jokes and humor.

On an ending note I hope to see the actor of the male lead in more work. I love his voice and acting.

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The reality is that Missing 9 was amazing for me, well the first 9 episodes. It's crazy episode 10 was such a huge turning point that it killed the drama from there on. I could see in episode 8 and 9 that things were mellowing out to be predictable, but I could have never guessed that the story would become a mockery of the first 9 episodes. The reality is I built this drama up in my mind—expectations—and the first 9 episodes were so great for me that I had the utmost confidence that it could win out and pull off a fabulous drama.

I have now discovered that when a romantic drama that seems typical becomes stagnant and a trope it sucks. However, when a drama that is unique and has so much promise does it's like a knife to the gut. I became so ticked off with the last 7 episodes that there is no redemption for this drama. Maybe it's my fault for reading so much into the drama and expecting awesomeness. Everything I thought meant something was stupid. Such as the color scheme of beige switching to vibrant colors, it's never fully addressed though there is a turning point in the drama. I actually wonder if the writer had somewhere to go, but someone on the side was like no make this an average and underwhelming murder mystery.

That's right. It all boiled down to a murder mystery that happened years before this plane crash. Which is perfectly fine. Except that the drama treated it's viewers like we were dumb and couldn't figure it out right away. So the last 5 episodes are all “What really happened?” and I had guessed it around episode 5 if not sooner. Sighs. So let me tell you it was boring.

Not to mention that the killer apparently “accidentally” did it, but it was someone else who pushed him over the edge. Somehow meaning that the 4 murders he committed on the island where, okay? No really. He gets a happy ending painting with his friends. DESPITE THE FACT THAT HE MALICIOUSLY KILLED PEOPLE. Murdering his own friend and continued to try to kill people until the end.

The true awesomeness of Missing 9 is in the first 9 episodes. (Holy drama! Did this drama curse itself?) Was the dual storytelling of the timeline of the plane crash, the past of the idols, and the present in which the one survivor is trying to piece her memory together. Somehow Missing 9 found this perfect balance of psychological thriller and horror, with humor. I loved it. Characters who were clearly annoying stereotypes became well developed on the island. I truly believe that if the writing hadn't given up on itself that the idea of solving the old murder from before would have been enough to deliver this drama. Yet the last 7 episodes tossed all of the character development and commonsense out the window. Then continued to shoot it up as it sped by in the getaway car to abandon the storyline that the writer clearly didn't know how to wrap up.

Normally I do a rating scale of my average rating per episode which is actually 5/10 for Missing 9. The first 9 episodes are at 8/10 rating, and the last 7 episodes 2/10 (to be honest right on the verge of 1/10). So I look at the 5/10 average episode rating and compare to the numbers I put in for MDL's rating scale (which is 3/10) and figure it out from there. (Yes, I put a lot of though into how I rate.) To be quite honest I am so tempted to go back and lower all my episode ratings on the first 9 because I now realize that the show's story goes no where. Yet, I can't because those first 9 were awesome for me and despite the story losing itself it deserves it. (Though I'm still bitter.)

When the writing was good the actors were amazing. YES, even the idols did a magical job. They balanced fear and humor well in the first 9 episodes. It's not their fault their characters became tacky in the last half, they acted what was created. The music was all right, though I can't really remember it right now.

In the end this was another drama that I had high hopes for and faith that the writer wouldn't give up on the story in the latter episodes because it didn't know how to end. Part of the problem is I had too much faith and believed in it. That the first half of the show was truly amazing. Yet, the last 7 episodes were so utterly painful that it killed Missing 9. I will never rewatch this drama again, and I will think back on it with absolute and utter dejection. In a move I normally don't make I am rating this completely on feeling. If I went by my normal system I'd pick between 3/10 to 5/10. (Which is why I wrote that huge paragraph on my rating system above so you could get an idea.) However, the last part of this drama ruined everything. It made characters that started out annoying and grew into pretty awesome characters, annoying again. I couldn't stand characters that I loved from the beginning. Not to mention that the female lead was so awesome and then just turned into a damsel at the end. *Sighs* Everything hinged on a clearly obvious plot line. In then end this drama transformed into a painful drama memory that I wish I could forget.

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Actually while watching I was pretty upset with myself for not liking this drama like I should. Then I had an epiphany during the final two episodes. It's Okay, I Love you deals with important issues. The biggest one being mental health. The reality was for me the story and pacing worked against itself.

Let us be honest. The beginning is one hot mess. Some ideas definitely were well thought out and carried, but I feel like the majority of it was just a jumble mess for the writer. The reveals of key plot points about the characters should have been revealed earlier on. While many aspects, such as who Kang Woo was to Jae Yeol, were emotionally moving and packed a punch how they played out I felt the timing was drug out. For me what would have made a more convincing plot was if Hae Soo secret was revealed and she healed with help from Jae Yeol. Then she discovered his illness halfway through the drama. Their love then helping him to become better. The focus being how he stayed healthy and their love grew. The more I think about it the more I realize that It's Okay, That's Love missed a lot of its potential.

Not to mention its side characters. There is so much going on here and I not only thought the main story was missed, but that the side characters deserved more. Such as Soo Kwang and So Nyeo! They're love story is one of my favorite things about this drama. Both actors are awesome together and had so much chemistry. I have to be honest I'd love to see more of actress Lee Sung Kyung, she played So Nyeo, in warmer roles like this. Somehow I've now seen everything she's been in and unconsciously stalked her dramas. I think she's a lead worth of breaking out of her role as a mean girl. (As in her later roles she's been typecast as the mean girl.)

This drama is beautiful, and the director clearly loved facial close ups. Many scenes let the actor's expressions speak for them. Though I won't lie that some of these meaningful close ups are glamor shots. I think the main idea was that the eyes are the window to the mind.
The music is fun and fits the drama. Catchy enough, and the main one is a remake of an American song that I really like. (Though thanks to auto insurance commercials I'm not quite as fond of.) However, once this drama leaves my head the music shall go as well.

Overall It's Okay, That's Love is very warm. It tackles the issues half heartedly and never fully commits. While I thank it for addressing mental health it makes it seem flippant at times. Hae Soo and Jae Yeol have a great romance and that's where the true power and appeal of this drama come from. It's nice seeing them touch and love each other. Though I felt distant from the drama as much of Hae Soo's motivations are kept a secret until later. The timing and unsteady feet of the plot is a hindrance to it. This is a drama where I understand why it got so much love and high ratings, but I'm not able to get lost in the buzz. I ended up watching this because I loved Dear My Friends, and I have to say I prefer that drama to this one. I'm actually kind of nervous about viewing some of this writers author works.

While viewing I really enjoyed the drama, but really only the middle the most. Some of the episodes I have a high rating to out of guild and that they almost brought me fully on bored. I'm still feeling guilty that I didn't like it more. There are many great things present. The bond of family and forgiveness. That even if you're ill you deserve happiness. To think of yourself and not to be afraid to realize you're not well. The strength and bonds of family. Oh, and forgiveness and acceptance. I could over analyze what makes it great, and what eventually pulled it apart for me.

I think if you find the first episodes a hot mess, you'll probably fall on my side of the fence. If those first episodes seem brilliant you're gonna love this and not over think it.

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Hot and sexy kiss scenes! These lovebirds are not afraid to touch. It's so natural and boy do they have chemistry. Some of the best drama kisses I've seen. That alone is huge points for this. Not to mention it is a guilty pleasure gender bender. One of the better ones out there.

Another thing I have to warn about is the audio. I bet the sound team was never allowed to do another project again. The background noise. If you listen with head phones you're gonna be shocked by what you pick up. From trains, cars, to full blown arguments by bystanders. The audio drops in volume, then booms up.

Other than that Bromance is pretty well made. A fantastic soundtrack! Trust me the songs will hit you when you're having a great mood. Wonderful cinematography. Though someone was getting a little showy with the lighting shots. Sometimes I felt like I was watching the new Star Treck movies.

Story wise Bromance tried something different, yet managed to still check up drama tropes one by one. It ended up being both refreshing and annoying. The strongest aspect of Bromance is that Zi Feng doesn't know Ya Nuo is a girl. As usual the story of why she has to pretend to be a girl is on the hilarious side, but it works. This drama is campy fun, it knows its audience and totally panders to it. I like the struggle Zi Feng feels for falling for a boy, but totally embraces love. It's beautiful and something I wish more gender benders did. It's always the story of a side character in love with the female lead, but the male lead always figures it out quickly. Zi Feng also doesn't need her to be feminine, he likes her being strong and if it's manly it's how she is. He doesn't need her to be some fragile woman.

Bromance has a fantastic cast and I loved the side stories and characters. The other main couple Na Na and Qing Yang have such a sweet romance and I loved it just as much as Zi Feng and Ya Nuo's. Though be prepared to get cuteness and not the hot passion of Zi Feng and Ya Nuo.

This also features some of the best male characters ever. Zi Feng is such an amazing male lead, so is Quing Yang. Zi Feng is fiery, but he thinks and cares. He respects people and I love how he acts. I'm so tired of rude/jerk/asshole leads. Qing Yang may be the quiet male figure, but his facial features tell so much. You quickly get enough depth to understand him. I like that he was more than the quiet dreamy male lead.

That said the endless drama tropes and clichés they have to pack in gets tiring. Not to mention that towards the ending the pacing lags and the writers get lazy. Side characters are stories are totally abandoned for a while. Yes they're picked up and given closure at the end. However, I think there were a lot of better ways to take things. Some totally awesome characters were completely abandoned! Why! Why! (Ya Nuo's cousin was one!)

That said I appreciate the message. This is light fluff considering that Zi Feng is the head of a gang. A gang that is really PG, heck most of the time G. I'm a bit confused about how they all make there money now, such as drugs trafficking is now bad. Many of the men spent time in jail. Maybe they're recovering bad guys? That aspect was a bit cloudy. Yet, it worked well. The show highlights the importance of family, forgiveness, love, unconditional love and friendship, and hope. Not to mention redemption.

A very solid gender bender. If you have a weakness for them—like me—this one is a do not miss. I won't claim it's brilliant or anything, but I enjoyed most of the show smiling and laughing. There's so much great writing, jokes, and humor. Some scenes demeaning towards women, but you got the humor backing it. ^_- The characters were all wonderful and I loved how lively Bromance stayed. While the latter episodes to get draggy, they still deliver in character story and give fans what we want! The actors are all great and I loved the chemistry the entire cast had. Not to mention Zi Feng and Ya Nuo's chemistry! I love how comfortable they are with each other. I do appreciate the sexy kissing, but sometimes real intimacy holds an even more potent punch. I'm positive you'll now right away whether this drama is for you, especially after 4. You'll either think it's cheesy and run, or be totally compelled. There are brilliant aspects to the story, but sadly brought down by cliches. I will be rewatching many short scenes—yes, the kiss scenes—for sure, but won't be in a rush to do a true rewatch.

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Age of Youth is yet another fabulous drama that proves that 2016 was an amazing year for dramas. Also, it's another drama that proves that K-dramas are starting to progress in new directions. Directions I want to keep going. The common mistake going into Age of Youth is that this is a carefree comedy, and a story we've seen before to make viewers laugh at the hijinks of youth.

Instead what we get is pretty serious, one of the closet slice of life dramas I've seen. Oh, don't get me wrong they're are plenty of laughs! Warm hearted moments and hijinks of youth indeed. All balanced out by the realities of life. This is a story of 5 girls ranging in ages in their twenties—though more early—and they're struggles to deal with life. For me I found something in each girl to sympathize with. They're all different, but I understood and could relate. The drama starts out with showing Eun Jae first coming to college and the hard ship of something new. The fear and soon realizing that the other girls have struggles. Sometimes one episode focuses more on one character, but each girl has a story to tell with where they are in life.

I will admit that I liked it starting off as a simple slice of life drama following the every day ordinary girls on their journeys. Of course we had to have something more drama worthy and the girls ended up all having be secrets that need to be revealed. Each girls past and secret had very strong and important messages. Sometimes subtle others a bit heavy handed. Addressing ones' self worth and what you need to do to live for yourself. A bigger overlay is that one girl claims to be able to see ghosts and this sets off how the other girls secrets slowly begin to come to light. The question of whether this girl can actually see ghosts is fun to ponder about.

One thing that bothered me is that the more outgoing and in your face girl could never find a man. I really wonder if this is such a problem for this type of personality in Korea? Here I know they're usually the ones to get dates first. At least in my neck of the woods. That aside I think the writer did a great job of taking the “usual” suspects for female characters and making them real. Totally relatable.

More realistic is that these girls do start out as strangers. They don't always like each other, but in the end become friends. Even realizing that they've lived together for sometime and really don't always know each other. The friendships that grew are amazing, and I love the womance between many of the characters. I also loved the older woman who owned the apartment they were renting. I love how she looked out for them and silently supported them from the sidelines. She didn't judge.

However, I think that the most important message is that no one is normal. We're all weird and the events of our lives are what make us who we are. Age of Youth delivers an ending that gives us closure, but I do feel like it leaves their lives moving forward. Forward enough for a season 2 please! With it only running 12 episodes I do feel like a few things got cut out or rushed a tad to fit it in. I'm sure they didn't know if the show would catch on. I still applaud the writers for not wasting a moment and creating a well paced work. The music, cinematography, and writing was all brilliant. Most importantly that each girl was wonderful in their own way, even if certain traits my have grated on nerves. That's what made them more real and relatable. In the future I know I'll be revisiting my girlfriends again from Age of Youth.

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Monster Hunt was China's highest grossing film until Mermaid knocked it off it's pedestal last year. I had watched Mermaid and was a bit surprised that of all the titles China was cranking out it had amassed so much recognition. Well after watching Monster Hunt I've kind of come to the conclusion that it's like any Box Office anywhere. The movie doesn't have to be great to make the money, it just has to have catchy gimmicks.

Monster Hunt isn't just gimmicks, I'll give it that. In fact, I have to point out that it actually swaps gender stereotypes. The lead girl is the brave and fierce monster hunter. While the male lead sews, cooks, and is treated like how the female leads are treated by the male leads. Basically like inferior crap. It was hilarious. At one point the male lead is even pregnant! Holy, cow!

The reality is that Monster Haven has a lot of great ideas, but then they writers/directors just over did it. There's musical number, odd plot changes, over the top side stories. Sure it's a lot of fun and most of the movie I spent smiling and laughing. It was still too much and I think it could have been a bit more polished.

However, I think any movie fan--especially of foreign works--should see this one. It's fun and you'll laugh. Sometimes that's all you need and in that retrospect I can see why this was such a huge success. The end clearly leaves an opening for a sequel, which I see they're planning for 2018. I'm excited and will definitely tune in.

On that note I loved how this movie explores the concept of picking your own family, and what makes a family. Many times I was moved. It brings up big questions about different race and the misconceptions one might have to make their side "right".

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Oh, man I tried really hard to find the Hong Kong theatrical version. Sadly the international one is what I kept finding. Why do I want Hong Kong? Because it's got 23 more minutes of actual plot storyline and some of the action scenes. I've always wondered what was in those missing scenes? Mentions of what happened between Ka Kui (excuse me this is where they actually called him Jackie in the movie that wasn't a dubbed mistake) and May? Or other key parts to what makes this a Police Story? The ironic thing is that they wanted to make it more appeasing at 84 min, and apparently did a lot of no-no's. Such as subtitles that go when no one is speaking, because they make them speak on the dub.

The reality is that I have only ever seen the international version. (Even to this day the US companies that own the rights make it more readily available.) The plot is choppy and leaves a lot of questions up in the air. Yet, I can't stay mad. This was my very first Jackie movie, and a lot of other people's intro. Though now I totally understand why I got confused about this actually being in the Police Story franchise. With a change of name, only the chief in Hong Kong to tie in, and the title internationally being "Jackie Chan's First Strike" well things get confusing. AND in reality it wasn't initially part of the franchise despite the attempted tie ins.

That said the epic stunts for the ladder scene and skiing scene are amazing. I still hold out in saying that Police Story 3 has the best stunts ever in this franchise, and other action movies will be hard pressed to beat them.

That said I can feel the need to get world wide recognition (cough--USA recognition--cough) with this. What saddens me is that even after tailoring it for US audiences they still felt the need to edit. (Which will bring me into a whole nother rant about the US being dip-poops about letting international work be. Especially since US stuff can have much worse content, and they love to jeopardize plot and substance for the sale line.) Which makes this installment into one of the weaker entries into the franchise. Oh, I'll always think of this fondly. I know without it a key piece of Jackie's movies being introduced mainstream may have taken a longer route.

The females are left to be eye candy and damsels. (That's part of the American action movie trend.) The plot is so bastardized and needs development. As I haven't scene that 23min of missing footage I can't say if it clears it up. Still this, and yes the international release, hold a warm fuzzy spot in my heart. This is still one of the most re-run movies (kind of like Fear). It did have a lot of Jackie's great humorous action! Not to mention the legendary ladder scene. Sadly the only Police Story movie I'd say ranks lower then this one would be Police Story 2013.

(Here's the full details on the censorship: http://www.movie-censorship.com/report.php?ID=1809
Apparently I need to quit being cheap and just by this release.)

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Yeoh Michelle! Oh, I remember watching this for the first time and being so in love with her. She was one of the first female action stars I was exposed to. What's even better is that they don't try to doll her up, or have a "sexy" moment for her to show off her female assets. (The jumper at the pool is close, but that's just because she has amazing legs.) It was the first time that I had scene the female action hero join the lead and be key in helping him. They both save and help each other and neither is designated the damsel. To this day it's still a rare thing to find.

The stunts are higher octane and even more complicated. As this is Police Story's induction to the 90s I say bravo. I couldn't pick up any computer affects to compensate. Everything is practical and that's what makes the scenes pack more of a punch then even today's modern CGI fights and shaky camera. Just watch the bloopers at the end. Many of them came really close to dying. (I think they guy on the train catching Jackie almost vomited, look at their relief!)

The plot doesn't pack as big of a punch as Police Story 2 for the simple fact that it doesn't develop the characters much. They don't grow, poor May is straight up there to become a damsel and that's sad. At least Yeoh Michelle's character is straight up bad ass! She does her stunts so amazingly! That motor cycle scene is all her! In fact you can see all of her takes and attempts in the end credits. *_* The woman is my idol! I enjoy that the title "Super Cop" is kind of a joke and if this was any other title it would be obnoxious and you'd have some emotionless guy punching through walls.

The sound definitely improved with the time leap between movies. There's a plus!

Did you know that the AMERICAN release actually edited and cut the movie, changing fight sequences!??? It never got an official release in America even though it was Jackie's biggest box office at the time. I firmly believe because it hit so big that movie 4 was what it was. It astonishes me that it was edited so heavily. Even though the USA editing Asian content to fit it's needs (Sailor Moon anyone?) is pretty well known. I couldn't think of why they would cut it. Then again US directors rarely understand the rhythm and importance of the sequences in Jackie's fight scenes.

That aside when people talk about females in action I've always cited Police Story 3. One in which the heroine is in the final battle and is actually key. She doesn't become a damsel. (Yeah, I'll say it as much as I can!) While I am sad about how much May was not utilized and that there really isn't much character growth. It was still great stunts and many directors site this movie as the best stunts ever. Though I notice less comedic stunts and a more serious take. The running jokes with Ka-Kui's (Jackie) superiors is hilarious! Ha-ha. I also liked that Yeoh Michelle's character was mischievous and that Ka-Kui and her play and tease each other like rivals. Not like love interest. Great action movie!

Sidenote: doesn't it make you sad how Yeoh Michelle isn't utilized as an action star?

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One of those rare treats in which the sequel surpasses the first movie! (Oh, and I guess I have seen this one before. It's just been such a long time.) It picks up right where the first one left off. Ka-Kui (Jackie the name change doesn't official happen until movie 4 I think) is getting reprimanded for costing the people, AKA the police department, so much money! Especially that darn mall chandelier! Instead of getting promoted he gets demoted.

The old villain is back and I enjoyed that. To often we just move onto the next one.. Ka Kui's actions have consequences. It's highlighted by how easily he rushes into things. What emphasis it more is that May is really in this one. She has legit points. They're held at gun point and he ducks and she doesn't. The consequences of that alone are scary--as she points out. Worst of all is that he was so hot headed chasing after them, that she could have been nabbed.

May's breakup was EPIC! Not only that, but she had great points about what he was doing. Actions do speak louder than words. This is a great entry that showcases May and Ka Kui's relationship, and you can totally see why it would be better for her to get out of the relationship.

It's also full of tons of laughs. This movie was shot 3 years after the other one and it ups it's game. If you watch other movies around the time period you can see how they wanted to make the action comedic. However, Jackie is still the only one who can blend the comedy into the stunts so successfully. Ka Kui uns across the street looking cool, but still gets hit. That's the key to Jackie's success. He's human, he gets hit. No random shot to end things, he wins by never giving up. It can be argued that there is a big explosion in the end.

Wow, so there are girls in the special surveillance team. Finally some women to the police force! Though suddenly after that their were women everywhere. Enough so that I thought it may have been a debated or finally added thing to the movie after it was in progress. Ether way it worked and I loved it! Police Story 2 has some of the best surveillance team work I have ever scene. Especially when they were tailing the target.

Not only does this showcase the realities of damages caused on the job, but fear of action. Even though a bomb is called in the police and security are afraid to act on it. The fear of responding to a threat and evacuating people because they'll be chewed out. The curse of any customer service job. You're damned if you do and nothing happens, or don't if something does. Or it can be flip flopped anyway they want to paint you as the wrong doer.

This is a really smart script. If you watch James Bond during this time period you might even pick up on some of the humor trying to emulate Police Story. It takes the best parts of the first movie and delivers it better. It didn't feel so choppy and the pacing was perfect. I'm impressed. The video is even better and the sound is a bit more polished. Though it is still 80s era action noises. This also makes me miss the time period where not everything had to be dark-dark-dark and gloom. I enjoyed smiling and still feeling suspense.

Honestly I think the darker storytelling of today could merge this vibe and create something even better. What I wish could have happened for Police Story 2013.

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Wow, the birth of Police Story! When I started this I honestly thought this was a rewatch, but the US of A unfortunately doesn't respect this franchise. After watching Police Story 2013 I decided to see the franchise from the beginning. As it is one of my favorites and I had thought that this one was the first time I had seen Jackie Chan and fell in love. Boy was I wrong. The copy I bought failed to add "New" in the title. Which is actually movie 5. So basically seeing the last two most recent ones I felt crest fallen that this oldie (where talking 1985) was going to be a let down. Especially as I realized movie 4 was my intro to the franchise! I have never seen movies 1 to 2 before! (I think we'll find out when I watch 2.)

After getting over the shock of the terrible action noises loved of the 80s, the stylish short hair female bob, the track suits (oh, gosh), the scaredy-cat pee (yes this was a action trope of the 80s), and some other things I fell in love. Actually that stuff didn't even bother me. Because Police Story really holds up. Sure the sound effects don't and it has that grainy quality in the film. Minor things because the cinematography is great and showcases Jackie's amazing comedic action style. In fact you'll find some of his iconic stunts here. The green bus scene with the umbrella and the pay off with the mall lights.

Sure the story can't be called brilliant. However, for an action movie of it's time it's solid. We're given the story and the pacing keeps us at the edge of our seats! This is definitely an action COMEDY. Despite some of the darker themes and stakes I spent most of the movie with a grin on my face. Whether it was Jackie dealing with his girlfriend (I'm going to call him that as his name changes from movie to movie) or trying to handle the witness. Or his iconic action comedy scenes. This makes me realize how dark the last two entries in the franchise have gone. New Police Story tried to keep it while updating. However, Police Story 2013 lost everything that I loved about the franchise.

More importantly that while the females are damsels, they get in there. Jackie's girlfriend attempts to help and does actually faithfully believe him. The witness is a female and while she spends more time being a damsel when she realizes she needs to fight, and that Jackie is her only hope, she goes in swinging for the bad guys. Even after repeatedly getting hurt!! Yeah! You don't need to be a super fighter to be a strong female character. Girl had balls of steel.

Overall this movie made me fall head of heels for Police Story. Sure it can be argued that the plot is no longer cutting edge. However, it has nuances. Whether it's the individual actors such as Jackie working in the police station. Or the opening with that small town and the transition to the industrialization of city life. This movie speaks of it's people and culture. It showcases action stunts that are so great that they are better then most of the crap they tell us are fight scenes now a days. Not to mention classic action humor that doesn't require a joke or witty banter in between fights. Jackie is amazing and seeing him with a wide range of emotions on his face is brilliant. (The theme of dark gritty movies tends to take that away.) This holds up, maybe not the sound, but I think this is the best place to start the franchise. Don't worry about how old it is. Besides this was still fresh enough to avoid being too much of a cliché.

Not only do we get the cannon behind the name of this franchise, but I saw a few jokes that are recurring. (Or at least I remember them being recurring in the other movies.) Not to mention Jackie makes wiping poop of his shoes into a hilarious dance!

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