The acting is great, I have no complaints about any of it (:The guy who plays Tian Kuo, Peng Eddie, does a good job, his character was so cute! And the actresses who played the girls were also good, it makes me wonder if they actually knew sign language or just learned the parts they needed to know for the movie.
I enjoyed the music that was played throughout the movie. Although I don't know the names of the songs, they were nice (:
I can see myself watching this movie again sometime, so my rewatch value for it is high (:
Overall - I think this movie is worth watching (: It's a cute, not too dramatic, nice story. It gives you a break from your typical love story and instead provides something a little less complicated but just as enjoyable (:
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acting is outstanding and sizzling and chemistry between lead actors is going to make you crazy.
OST is a definite 10. this is a music which is going to stay with you for many years.
No summary can do it justice then watch it.
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The KMovie is carefree, harmless and heartily. However, it is not trivial.
"Dream" is about team spirit as a positive force that allows a group to excel itself. The KMovie is carefree, harmless and heartily. However, it is not trivial, as it sides with those commonly referred to in society as the weak.You shouldn't expect too much, then everything works quite well. Obviously, IU and Park So-joon are the show's carthorses. But that doesn't do justice to the rest of the cast, who all contribute their unique esprit. “Dream” comes across as teamwork through and through.
Although it was filmed at original locations in Budapest, somehow, in my opinion, the casting (unfortunately) often enough doesn't work so well, when Korean productions are dependent on actors from different origin. For whatever reason. Even if it's only supporting roles or extras in this case, they seem to be rather amateurish. Hm.
All in all: “Dream” is a KMovie for high spirits and light fare. Not intrusive. With a few flaws here and there. However, also with some well-placed, wonderful and valuable messages in passing.
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If you are looking for pure laughs and great acting from a young cast, definitely check this one out.
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It is about the area of tension between longing, choices in life, accountability and responsibility.
"A Man and a Woman" is emotionally profound, yet subtly leading into intimate depths where it hurts, too. There are no pink ribbons. And the intimate encounter of two souls does not miraculously sort out the problems of the world in a groundbreaking way. Life is difficult. There are also unexpected beautiful moments. But life remains difficult. Is that why it's bad? Only bad? "A Man and a Woman" paints a portrait of two people who have careers of their choice and families - but life is still no lollipop. It is about having an affair. It is about wanting another life. It is about the area of tension between longing, choices in life, accountability and responsibility.Highly valuable.
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Firstly, I did NOT expect for this movie to impact me this way. From the beginning I was thoroughly creeped out by the stalkerish antics of the male lead, but as the story progressed I slowly came to realize he had his issues and reasons behind the unusual choices he made. I found myself so intrigued by the actions and thought processes of this assassin that it was enough of a pull for me to continue on with the story. I'm still a bit startled at the fact that I can connect with the feelings of an odd assassin but eh, at least I'm not afraid to admit it. :P The female lead was as equally strange but understandably so. I mean, who can actually call themselves "normal" when they are in love? Is there really a "normal" love story? And who would've thought her innocent love would turn out to be so dangerous?
Secondly, what great acting of ALL the characters! Jung Woo Sung did an excellent job in portraying both an awkward/sketchy loner and a dangerous assassin. Because of this, every action, every emotion felt real and I found myself totally convinced by the love and the danger it entailed. Nothing was ever overly exaggerated or over emphasized. The mood was so subtle and yet so haunting. Really. I find myself thinking about the "what if" scenarios constantly. However, with that being said, if he wasn't such an attractive fellow, I doubt I would be so easily forgiving of his "stalker-like" nature. What a shallow thing to say, I know! I hate saying it, but it's true. >.<
The music was also fantastic. Call me crazy, but I felt as though half of the story was told through the music itself. It was pleasantly in sync with the storyline and I found that to be the most appealing aspect behind this movie.
Overall, I thought this was such a strangely fascinating and suspenseful story about a love lost then found. It makes one question what it is that we truly value the most in this life and I'd definitely recommend it to those who are looking for something much more dark and serious than your average rom-com flick.
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It' the quality effect indeed. He has done some really good movies and The Man From Nowhere is a great example of his less-in-quantity-more-in-quality movies. I loved this movie. It was thrilling and touching all at once. A man going all the way to save a little girl because she's his friend. And the man cannot be stopped! He's a freaking one-man army, who won't stop until he wants to. What a great plot! I was on the edge of my seat throughout the movie and the ending made me cry. Well, almost since I don't cry that easily. The ending was a little different from what I expected but it was a good ending.
The rewatch value is the only thing that is not a ten for me. That's mostly because you know how the movie will progress and that steals a bit of the excitement. But the action scenes are simply WOW. The lead character is so strong and invincible, but he doesn't care about glory.
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This review may contain spoilers
A man and his personal story of greed - leading into the repulsive quagmire of a corrupt network
In 2017, "The King" is among the top ten movies in South Korea. The story is a prototypical example for a few extremely powerful men(!) manipulating crime, business & politics within South Korean society. In an idiosyncratic style, the movie conveys an insight into an repulsive quagmire of corrupt networks that run through all social classes. It is about the particular imbalance in the realms of public prosecutors and judiciary, which in the 1990s and 2000s was still massively determined by bribery.The protagonist tells his personal story of greed (it is always people behind a system...) This is about his climbing to the top and the correspondingly deep fall. He accompanies the events from the off while the story unfolds before the eyes of the viewer in trenchant, impressive scenes. At first, you have to get used to this particular style, but the acting, pace, rhythm and camera nimbly catch the audience by the hand and won't let go until the end.
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At the time, I didn't have time to watch dramas so I only watched films. This was appealing enough to give it a try.
2) Storyline/Plot:
This film's story seemed somehow special and different from any other idol or rom-com film that's why it felt appealing.
Positive points:
*The story was smooth since it combined great events and feelings together.
*The mini-stories intoduced during the film were a nice touch to avoid slow moments.
*The love story was light to the point that it would make you think that this isn't a romantic film yet the important feelings were there plus it felt like the right thing to do.
*Considering the fact that it was almost a musical film, I would say that the music was cool; not great, not bad.
Negative points:
*There was something missing in this film. They should've pushed it a little far in the middle since the story's development felt incomplete.
Story: 7.5/10
3) Acting/Cast:
*Lee Min Jung : I really loved that actress here; she knew how to deliever feelings and make good expressions. She portrayed her role well and gave a good impression as the lead lady plus she's pretty.
*Lee Jung Jin : I liked his character too, he was so mature and manly in many ways , he did his role in a good way.
*I loved the relationship between leads whether in fighting or in romance; good chemistry.
*I liked other cast plus there acting was satisfying.
Cast: 8/10
Acting: 8.5/10
4) The ending:
Even though it was a typical rom-com ending but I end up enjoying it and closing the screen with a happy face.
The ending: 7.5/10
5) My impression (How did it affect me):
*I was entertained, it was fun to watch.
*I was a little surprised since I hadn't much expectations for this but I end up liking it. I just love it when a film/drama surprise me (in a good way of course)
*I wasn't bored which is enough to make me satisfied.
My impression 8.5/10
6) Overall:
*If you like rom-coms then you would like this.
*If you like musical films then you may appreciate this.
*If you like light love stories then this is for you.
Overall: 7.5/10.
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The story itself it very dark because it is based on true events (and partly fictional). So the story in this movie is unique. But because of the fact that it is based on true events it wil emotionally move you. I cried, sat on the tip of my seat, held my breath and I could feel the despair and anger.
The cast did an amazing job. It was almost like they were the ones who had been trough this all. Their emotions were acted in an excellent way.
The music they had chosen fit every scene.
I think everyone should watch this movie. It has suspense, drama, romance and so much more. It is definitely not a waste of your time, please watch this movie!
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ACTING/CAST: All of the actors did a great job. It was nice that the actors had good voices and could play an instrument without needing a hand double.
MUSIC: By far the best part of this production. The song, "As If You Whisper," is great. I really like the simplicity of the lyrics.
REWATCH VALUE: I will watch it again. The visuals showing off the beauty of Korea and the nice music makes it worth it.
Overall: Would have been nice for more focus on the "romance" part of the plot . The ending was happy!
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After watching many Korean suspense thrillers, I became surer that there’s no other genre that can top thrillers in Korean cinema because they’re simply too good at making those and Parallel Life belongs to the good ones. This film starts off a bit slow and may not captivate your interest ever since the beginning, but all of those introductions were necessary for the film’s latter events and developments.
Parallel Life analyses the “Parallel theory” where two people have the exact same life with an amount of years apart. Of course that may seem unbelievable at the beginning and can always be considered as a coincidence but as the film develops, many facts come to light and surprise us. In order to conclude whether a thriller suspense film was good or not, you need to ask yourself this simple question: “Was I surprised and entertained”? If the answer is “no” then the film was a failure for its genre but if it was a “yes” then you know that this film can be considered a good one out of its genre. Parallel Life fits in the second category.
This film’s suspense and mystery were tight and intriguing, they always manage to attract you in and make you suspect every single character that appears on screen. What makes this film even more captivating is the final outcome, you can hardly predict who was behind it all even if the “why” was a little obvious to me but it’s intriguing how can the “Parallel theory” interfere that deeply in one’s life.
The acting was pretty well done. I am ashamed to admit that this is my first time seeing Ji Jin Hee in anything. But this first successful encounter will allow me to pick many of his other productions because he was truly amazing in this as well as many other actors. The characters were nicely written, it was interesting to find out the similarities between Kim Seok Hyun and Han Sang Jun as well as their destinies and the way things will turn out to be. The characterization is written in a way that will oblige you to relate to them.
In a line, I would mention that the cinematography was good enough and the music was fitting for the thriller/suspense mood.
Watch if:
-You’re looking for a good suspense/thriller.
-You like the Korean way of making thrillers.
-You like surprising plots.
Do not watch if:
-You dislike the genres.
-You’re looking for a bloody/violent thriller.
Parallel Life is a well-crafted suspense thriller which appeals to the fans of intriguing plots.
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This review may contain spoilers
Love and Redemption
Rurouni Kenshin: The Beginning is the fifth and final instalment of the live action adaptation of the Rurouni Kenshin manga series by Nobuhiro Watsuki. This film series finally ended after nearly a decade, having begun in 2012 when the first film was released.This finale features the origin story of Himura Kenshin aka Battosai set during the Bakumatsu - from just before the Hamaguri Gate Rebellion to the end of the Boshin War. Notwithstanding the rather spoilery film poster, fans of both the live action and manga series would have already been made aware of the momentous event that had taken place in Kenshin’s past which went on to shape his future, culminating in his present state as depicted in the preceding four films. However, the true account of what actually transpired has finally been chronicled and presented in this film.
At its very heart, this is a tale of love and redemption between the two main characters, Himura Kenshin and his first love, Yukishiro Tomoe. Personally, I do believe that one major benefit of knowing the outcome prior to watching the story unfold is that rather than anticipating the conclusion and/ or fearing the potential for an impending tragedy, viewers are able to focus on the subtleties of the storytelling while appreciating the development of the characters and nuances of the portrayals.
Among all the films in the series, this instalment is perhaps the most serious and compelling. It plays out more like an actual historical than a manga adaptation and explores much emotional depth and character evolution of its two leads. There is hardly any moment of levity and lightheartedness, in contrast to the earlier films. Even the action sequences for which the film series is famed, is very much subdued where significant portions of the swordplay is presented in the style of a vignette, complete with evocative instrumentals. Although there are two boss fights, they are not as thrilling as those in the other instalments.
Production wise, the quality levels remain consistent as one would expect of the same production team led by screenwriter-director Otomo Keishi. The cinematography is exquisite, showcasing the beauty of the seasons where autumn transitions to winter in the countryside, as well as the framing of poignant scenes shared between the leads in their humble abode. Camerawork and editing for the numerous sword fights and stunts remain exceptional, as has been the case throughout the series.
In terms of the acting, both Sato Takeru and Arimura Kasumi are perfect in their portrayals of Himura Kenshin and Yukishiro Tomoe. No one else can play Kenshin at this point and I can’t imagine someone else in the role of Tomoe. As much as I enjoy seeing Kenshin and Kamiya Kaoru (Takei Emi) together, the connection between Kenshin and Tomoe feels more absorbing. Theirs is a delicate love borne of turmoil and conflict that eventually nurtures and heals the soul. I was honestly blown away by their scenes together, especially towards the heartbreaking ending.
Rounding off the supporting cast, Eguchi Yosuke is back as Saito Hajime but with long flowing hair and without the cigarette dangling from his mouth (for the most part). Araki Towa has a bit part, playing the younger version of Yukishiro Enishi while Takahashi Issei provides an intriguing depiction of Katsura Kogoro.
I would rate this film as my second favourite of the series, with Rurouni Kenshin: The Legend Ends as my top favourite. It may not be as action packed, fun-filled or give off steampunk vibes as the others, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the character-driven emphasis and nuanced approach to the performances and storytelling, where viewers finally get to see how Battosai evolves from the killer to the pacifist. There is a tinge of melancholy now that the live-action series has come to an end, but what an eventful ride it has been.
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There were a lot of clever, artsy, indy details built into this movie that I got a real kick out of:
1) They played up the fact that this is a movie with a movie in a very obvious and clever way.
2) So Ji Sub's name is Kang Pae (gangster) and Kang Ji Hwan's name is Su Ta (star).
3) The scripts for the "movie" in the shooting scenes were the actual script for the movie.
4) And the ending...
I loved the intensity of both Ji Sub and Ji Hwan, their acting and characters. I loved that Ji Sub always wore black and Ji Hwan wore white. I loved the spoiled angry child in Su Ta and the way he got in over his head so deeply. Kang Ji Hwan always impresses me..Always.
I loved So Ji Sub's anger...his pure rage. His character's desperation and desperate grab for something more in his life, something he wanted, to make a change. The frustration of his inability to understand what to do with it once he'd grabbed on. And how his past, his personality and his lot in life were like a greased palm that made it impossible for him to keep hold. And then the terrible acceptance...He doesn't have to say much. That is the beauty of his acting. (sorry fangirl)
Watch it for the punch...beginning, middle and end.
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This review may contain spoilers
While the first part focused on the set up, characters and politics; the second part went straight to the battle itself. This film is made as a package so you simply can’t watch one and ignore the other. They’re strongly attached in a way that makes them feel inseparable.I will skip the history in this review, I wrote about it in the first part and any extra historical information that I give in this film would be considered a spoiler for those who aren’t familiar with history. But let me just make something clear, John Woo didn’t exactly follow history. He changed many events for the favor of his storytelling, so the outcome and some facts can be misleading for those who want to take this as an accurate “historical reference”.
Red Cliff 2 is all about war and everyone knows that everything is allowed in war; whether be it contaminating the enemy’s camp with deadly contagious diseases, using the enemy’s spies against them or burning down the Navy. That’s war, it’s ugly and everyone loses at the end, the deadly battles and the horrible truth are definitely there. However, that’s not all what war in John Woo’s film is all about. There’s more to tell through the splendid battle scenes.
The heart and soul of this film is the epic battle of the Red Cliff that marks one of the greatest wars in Asian history whether because of the number of soldiers involved or the smart distinguished generals who were leading armies. It’s 800,000 against 50,000; the first is led by the outrageous yet politically clever Cao Cao and the other is headed by the combination of Sun Quan and Liu Bei with the magnificent aid of the intelligent Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu. The battle was all about tactics and strategists where the two advisors play an important role at confronting a huge army. The famous 36 Stratagems and 'Borrowing the arrows using the scarecrows' are one of the greatest psychological war techniques I ever read about in history and John Woo did an superb job by making them come to life.
The amazing strategies aren’t the only thing that clicked about this film; there’s also the astonishing portrayal of battles scenes, the blood spilling, the wonderfully made fire scenes and most of all the emotions and the reactions of characters’ involvements.
In this part, there’s no further explanation of actors; I already made everything clear about their amazing job in the first part. As for characters, I still insist on the over-use of the female characters, they weren’t only all over the place but they also were historically wrong.
The other characters’ developments were well-noticed between the first and the second part. We get to see more impressive sides of historical heroes especially Zhuge Liang and Zhou Yu.
This film’s cinematography was stunning. The visuals, colors and the sceneries were well-fitting for an remarkable piece of Chinese war epic.
Now, if I speak about the film as a whole; I would say it’s one of the best war strategy films ever made and absolutely one of John Woo’s better works. This is not a sequel; it’s a second half of the same film so you should understand that this is supposed to be watched as a whole. Do not see the American or the European cut versions; you should search for the original release of the two films or you won’t be able to feel the whole magic.
Watch this if:
-You saw the first Red Cliff because they’re inseparable.
-You like war films or John Woo’s HK works.
-You like strategy films.
Do not watch if:
-You’re expecting a historical documentary where everything is accurate.
-You do not like war films.
Red Cliff 2 is the second part of an amazing Chinese film that deals with the famous “Three Kingdoms” epic displaying the Red Cliff battle with all of its spectacular strategies and tactics.
Red Cliff as a whole is one of the better films’ that successfully demonstrated the art of war.
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