Reviews

JCW back with an action packed neo-noir series

The story, acting, cast, bgms, cinematography, action choreography were awesome. They delivered more than what I had expected. Would like to see JCW in action and romcom series more often.
The story thread goes something like this: Set in Seoul in the 1990s, a former DJ starts selling a new powerful drug nicknamed "Gangnam Crystal" in city nightclubs after mastering a gangster organization. Since the police know little about the origin of such drugs, in order to crack down on this rampant drug trafficking organization, rural police officer Park Jun Mu is assigned to sneak into the organization, only to discover that his wife, Yoo Eui Jung , also a detective, has volunteered to participate in this dangerous mission and seems to have an unspeakable past with the heinous underground drug king. Park Jun Mu in this drug-related mission, not only does he wholeheartedly fight the drug cartel, but also works hard to protect his wife's safety at all times.

Well, overall this was a gem of a find

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The majority of clichés were handled well. I felt the gradual, convincing formation of their love.

There are cute moments in this BL series like in many others, but they are not as annoying, prolonged, and exaggerated as in most. The cute scenes are well-placed and realistically executed, which pleased me a lot.

Bu Xia is incredibly adorable, and I find myself warming up to him more and more. As the series progresses, we understand why Jiang Chi fell in love in a very beautiful way, which is quite rare. Usually, you don't understand the process of falling in love. If I can say, "I would fall in love too" when I put myself in Jiang Chi's shoes, then the series is good.

Everything was great, but I found the school gossip and people's senseless curiosity to be absurd. I think it disrupts the realism of the story. Also, unless it is seriously exaggerated, I believe people wouldn't easily label two close male friends as gay. For me, this was the first absurdity in the series.

I liked his sister and the supernatural event very much, but it could have been more detailed. The solution of the supernatural event turned out to be a bit ridiculous and (for me) sad.

The passion between the couple was good, but in the kissing scenes, I felt an energy from Jiang Chi as if he didn't want to kiss. It seemed like he was forcing himself to be comfortable. Because of the lack of passion in the kissing scenes, the series couldn't become my favorite. I'm sorry, but to love and rewatch a BL series, I need to feel that chemistry between them.

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I really had fun watching this drama. I found out that it is a parody of another historical drama, which made it easier to watch. It's just the kind of silly comedy that you can laugh while watching and you know from the very beginning that everything will end well. The actors did quite well. They played the way I expected. Nothing too serious. This drama is great to watch as an interlude between dramas and movies with more serious themes. I've seen opinions that a lot of things haven't been explained, but I don't think so. For me everything is clear and easy to deduce. You just have to remember that this drama has fantasy elements.

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What is all this hype about, with WWWSK? Did a kiss make this a Kdrama classic?

“What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?” (2018) stars Park Seo Jun as Lee Young-Joon and Park Min-Young as Secretary Kim Mi So. The drama is taken from a Webtoon by the same name.

Each person can have their personal opinions about any drama. I am good with that. However, the Korean Drama “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?” is about more than that ‘top five kisses of all times’, in the back half of this Korean Drama. “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?” is one of the deepest Korean Dramas of all times too, in spite it being a RomCom. This drama is about a mental and emotional promise which one abused child (Lee Young Joon / Lee Sung Hyun) made to another abused child (Kim Mi So). That promise was to always be her protector, in spite of the mental and emotional hits he took in life to be there for her. While the child abuse was a shared experience of two young children (kidnapped by the same abuser), the young boy just took it upon himself to handle the abuse while shielding the little girl from it. Consequently, he took on the damage this experience would eventually cause in life while he hide her eyes from the potentially bad consequences.

WWWSK does display the comedic genius of Park Seo Joon, one of the top Korean Drama actors. However, the drama also delves into what made his drama character in WWWSK become the egomaniac which he became. The drama character Lee Young-Joon was a huge egomaniac and narcissist [having Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)]. Even though his NPD produced the most laughs in the drama, some may not know that egomania and NPD can be caused by childhood trauma. The beautiful love story which emerges out of WWWSK becomes a healing process for all, as the now “grown little boy” (Lee Young Joon / Lee Sung Hyun) can finally keep his pinky swear he made with the now “grown little girl” (Kim Mi So) so long ago.

What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim? is a play on words. Is this exclamation a question or a discovery? Is something wrong with Secretary Kim or let me tell you what is wrong with Secretary Kim. Nonetheless, this Korean Drama is a must see for every Korean Drama devotee, in my opinion.

Personal admiration: For me, this drama (WWWSK?) has one of the top five drama performances by children. The child stars are actress Kim Ji Yoo as Kim Mi So (Eun Dan Oh [Young] from Extraordinary You) and actor Moon Woo Jin as Lee Young Joon / Lee Sung Hyun [Young] (It’s Okay Not To Be Okay, Castaway Diva). Kids don’t stay kids. Go figure. Watch for the great performance of actor Moon Woo Jin playing another abused child in Castaway Diva (2023).

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Poor Writing Ruins Even a Good Story

I really wanted to like this drama. Initially, the characters seemed appealing, and I was looking forward to getting to know them and their stories. What a let-down! There were so many things going on at the same time, so this story needed to flow a lot better than it did. There was a lot of needless repetition and wasted opportunities for the characters to really grow and develop.

The Couples:
I was really rooting for the lead couple. I was disappointed. He made mistakes, yes, he did. He handled them poorly, yes, he did. But there didn't seem to be much real love or dedication from either spouse to communicate and try to work through their problems, especially for the sake of the family they say they loved. And what was that ending for them? Ambiguous at best.

The lawyer & the writer were also disappointing. I thought it ironic that the couple didn't make the connection that despite the lawyer's modern, professional, capable demeanor, she was doing almost the same thing her mother-in-law was doing, and the writer husband was taking her for granted the same way! He did get to redeem himself a bit with his concern for her and his support. But not sufficiently to change.

The artist & the engineer was the couple that disgusted me the most. Not him, but her. He was just too sweet, too much of a doormat, too understanding, too wish-washy. She was just a selfish, self-centered, insensitive, spoiled diva. At first, I thought they would be my favorite couple, but she put paid to that very quickly. I did not like her at all.

The music teacher & the baker. That 'relationship' didn't even take off for me. There was no development of their involvement at all. Potentially the strongest story arc with the opportunity to show the most beneficial change - wasted by a weak script. I wasn't even rooting for her by the end.

The kids:
Wow! What a spoiled, entitled, bratty bunch! None of them were particularly appealing, and they did nothing to make me believe they were anything but noisy and basically unnecessary characters.

The older parents/in-laws:
OMG! The representation of older Chinese mothers gets worse and worse. Nosy, bossy, single-minded - these things don't equate to loving your children. No wonder their own children even as adults are so dysfunctional, and then go on to raise the same dysfunctional children themselves.

The ending:
Maybe the writer was trying to redeem themself by making a poor attempt at being philosophical. It didn't work. The FL was neither inspiring nor philosophical throughout the story. She didn't come across as someone to be empathized with or even sympathized with. She didn't impress me much as the kind of woman to be admired or emulated. She just did what so many women in real-life situations do - stumble along with unrealistic dreams and the illusion of perfection. Maybe that was the intent of the writer and this story. I don't know.

Personally, this was a let-down. No chance of re-watching. I did like the actor who played the ML, though. I hope he doesn't get bogged-down playing the role of the cheating husband who turns out to be a waste of time.

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It felt like a long-winded journey, with not many satisfying twists.

Queen for Seven Days is adapted from a tragic Joseon legend, centers on the love triangle among King Yeonsangun (Lee Dong Gun) as the older brother of Crown Prince Jinseongdaegun (Yeon Woo Jin), and Shin Chae Kyung (Park Min Young) who becomes the Queen at some point, but seven days later is deposed by political rivals, exiled, and must live apart from the her loved ones.

Music and direction were beautiful. The love triangle is written remarkably well, that even though it's convoluted with the palace intrigues, it still manage to pull me in emotionally and made me feeling conflicted between the two ships. The love and hate relationships among our three leads involves political marriage, separation, and heartbreaking family dynamic. Another thing I appreciate is

As it unfolds, the story and becomes more and more depressing. It felt like a long-winded journey, with not many satisfying twists. Sometimes I am tired of Chae Kyung’s decisions that put many people in danger, but it was so sad to see her inner conflict being the Queen. She got into many lose-lose situations and I understand she just wants to survive and protects her heart.

What turns me off a bit towards the end is the turn of events that felt overly dramatic *heartless me*. The arc of the Crown Prince is so frustrating too. Though it didn't end as epic as I thought it would be, I understand it is adapted from real history. Oh man... living in this era is like hell :(

-Jan 2024, Yovita
Find me on Instagram: @kdramajudge

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It's all about heartwarming moments and discovering the ABCs of teenage love.

As I went into the live-action adaptation of "Ao Haru Ride," I found myself pleasantly surprised by the heartfelt storytelling, captivating characters, and the undeniable chemistry that unfolded on screen. Strangely, or perhaps fittingly, my lack of familiarity with the manga or anime allowed me to approach the film with a fresh perspective, unburdened by preconceived expectations.

The narrative weaves a tale of love, growth, and the complexities of human connections. Yoshioka and Mabuchi, portrayed by the talented Tsubasa Honda and Masahiro Higashide, are at the forefront of this emotional journey. The story follows Yoshioka's high school experience as she crosses paths with her long-lost love, now known as Mabuchi Kou, played impeccably by Higashide. The film masterfully builds upon the nuances of their relationship, creating a palpable connection that is both heartwarming and bittersweet.

The standout element of "Ao Haru Ride" is the chemistry between the two leads. Contrary to what one might expect, their on-screen dynamic is undeniably charming. Honda's portrayal of Yoshioka exudes a mix of vulnerability and strength, while Higashide breathes life into Kou with a depth that goes beyond the typical high school romance tropes. Their interactions felt genuine, and the adorable scene where Kou consoles Yoshioka by placing her head on his chest was a touching highlight, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer's heart.

One cannot overlook the meticulous attention to character development, particularly in the backstories of Mabuchi and Yoshioka. Their evolution throughout the film is not only believable but also relatable. The sacrifices and choices they make for each other, coupled with moments of heartbreak, contribute to a narrative that transcends the typical teenage romance and delves into the complexities of love and self-discovery.

The supporting cast, including the ever-loyal friends, adds depth to the story. The strong bond and friendship among the characters make you feel good, and there's no betrayal or unnecessary drama happening. This not only supports the central narrative but also emphasizes the importance of friendship in navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence.

The film's pace may be considered slow by some, but the deliberate unfolding of key moments, coupled with skillful direction and cinematography, amplifies the emotional impact. The music complements the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience and underscoring the depth of the characters' emotions.

In conclusion, "Ao Haru Ride" stands as a testament to the power of well-executed live-action adaptations. For those like me, entering the story with fresh eyes, it becomes a delightful journey of heart and growth. The chemistry between Honda and Higashide, coupled with the genuine portrayal of characters and their relationships, makes this film a captivating exploration of love and self-discovery. Whether you're a fan of high school romance or simply looking for a heartfelt escape, "Ao Haru Ride" is a must-watch, a cinematic gem that lingers in the heart long after the credits roll.

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Beautifully captures the essence of innocence, friendship, and the blossoming of love

"From Me to You" is like a warm hug on a chilly day, a comforting tale that gently unfolds with innocence, friendship, and the blossoming of young love. From the very beginning, it draws you in with its muted yet inviting palette, creating a visual world that mirrors the delicate emotions of its characters.

The heart of the story lies in the painfully shy Kuronuma Sawako, affectionately nicknamed 'Sadako' by her peers. Her resemblance to the horror movie character might set her apart, but it's her journey toward breaking free from isolation that forms the beating heart of the narrative. You find yourself rooting for her, leaning forward almost involuntarily, silently urging her to find her voice and break through the barriers of her own introversion.

And then there's Kazehaya Shota, brought to life with an enchanting smile by the late Haruma Miura. It's not just a smile; it's a radiant sun that lights up the screen, mirroring the genuine kindness and warmth that define his character. Miura's portrayal is so perfect that it's almost as if Kazehaya was crafted with him in mind, making you fall in love with the character just as Sawako does.

The film masterfully captures the beauty of cherry blossoms, not just as a visual spectacle but as a symbolic representation of passing moments and the promise of renewal. The high-angle shots of Kazehaya and Sawako at the zebra crossing under a cherry tree, with sakura petals gently falliing around them, become metaphors for the blossoming love between two seemingly opposite souls.

What makes "From Me to You" stand out is its portrayal of friendship. The romantic storyline, though sweet, feels almost secondary at times. Instead, the film excels in depicting the intricacies of relationships forged through sacrifice, strength, togetherness, trust, and love. Yano-san and Yoshida-san, Sawako's friends, add depth to the narrative with their own quirks and struggles.

Sawako's sincerity toward her friends is palpable. Her interactions with them are heartwarming, demonstrating that bonds are formed not just through shared joys but also through navigating challenges together. The film beautifully captures the essence of unconditional love, as seen through Sawako's parents, who see her as their precious jewel despite societal misconceptions.

The pacing of the film, often described as slow, is deliberate. It allows the audience to savor each moment, immerse themselves in the characters' emotions, and appreciate their growth. It's a deliberate choice that pays off, making the story more immersive and the characters more relatable.

The soundtrack, though not the that of aattention, complements the narrative seamlessly. While you may not consciously hear it over the heartfelt acting, it works subtly in the background to enhance the emotional resonance of the scenes.

In conclusion, "From Me to You" is not just a movie; it's a journey. It's a journey through the complexities of adolescence, the sweetness of first love, the warmth of enduring friendships, and the beauty of self-discovery. It's a celebration of the quiet ones, the misunderstood souls, and the transformative power of genuine connections. And for fans of Haruma Miura, it's a testament to his ability to breathe life into a character that lingers in your heart even after the screen goes dark. A true cinematic gem that leaves you with a smile, much like Kazehaya's, engraved in your heart.

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Nowhere near as cool as it should be

A 55-minute hyperkinetic descent into electro-charged madness, Electric Dragon 80.000 V is a virtually plotless, overly-extended music video playing like a punk rock shock to the brain. Championing kinetic anarchy and raw aggression, the film's underground visual style with its high contrast black and white cinematography and bizarre imagery set to an overwhelming eardrum-shattering industrial noise soundtrack will certainly have its fans. I can't deny that the film is a wildly unique piece of eye candy, often with fast-cutting sequences filled with flashes of electricity and surging power within our characters, not to mention the wild guitar-playing sequences. Having that high contrast crisp monochrome look, Electric Dragon plays like a manga come to its fullest realisation, a visual and aural marvel, shot and edited with boundless energy and style, and yet I'm still left wanting more.

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I like it.
This drama tells a story of an extra who gets transported into the body of a princess who's about to be married to a prince, who, apparently was dead by the time she gets there. Whenever the male lead dies, she will be killed too because she's his wife, and the time loops back days before the wedding. The more she died, the further she gets transported back in time, so she tried to prevent his death from happening and find out how to get back to her world.
It has 25 episodes but it's so short with only 8 minutes per episode, so I'd say it's pretty packed with almost zero filler scenes (!!).

The actors who play ML and FL, Hao Fushen has a mouse-kind of face that I like, and although the prince he plays are supposed to be unruly (frequent brothels) but it doesn't really show. Instead he looks pretty gentle and sweet. Jin Zixuan is also good, she plays a time traveller so well, she's fun and not afraid to look silly, and her silliness is not annoying me. No one is a stone faced NPC, and I like that too.

Story wise it's not new, but the execution is done well and makes it look enjoyable. The prince mansion setting is beautiful, and they use a soft color palette that doesn't glare into my eyes. They're also pretty generous with the trinkets and decorations, and if it's a budget drama it certainly doesn't look like it. What irked me is that in some parts it looks like I'm expecting a jump scare(?). There are some plot twists in here, some of it frustrating but not disappointing. Also the ending?? It is honestly predictable but so random I'm torn between laughing and crying.

This is good, simple and easy to watch, fun enough to keep you engaged and guessing. I'd recommend it if you're looking for a short drama.

p.s. I never found out the real name of the FL until I read the synopsis, like?? There is really no narrative intros nothing whatsoever we're just thrusted into this time travel thing and expected to find out ourselves. It's kind of fun though.

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A gripping watch and good bland of romance and thriller

It a drama that keeps the viewers on their toes. The twists are really hard to predict. The chemistry between the leads is amazing. And Lee jong suk is a charming male lead with a traumatic past. Even in very serious situation they managed to get some humor in the drama. I personally liked the couple so much I gives you the feeling of something left to be desired. The Father of Han hay joo did a amazing job playing both the positive and negative characters.
The first episode may look a little slow but it's picks up after that and amazing till the end . So it worth of your time. It does seem a little confusing at times but it's fun trying to figure out what will happen

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I finished watching this on 4/23/2023. Forgot to Review

For enthusiasts of historical Kdramas, this is an absolute gem. Woo Do Hwan, portraying Kang Han Su, an attorney, left me utterly impressed with his acting prowess. His performances, whether conveying emotions through subtle movements, captivating smiles, or portraying intense anger and fear, were truly overwhelming. There were moments when I felt like I wasn't merely watching a drama but witnessing real-life unfolds. My heartfelt applause goes to Woo Do Hwan for his incredible talent – truly amazing!

Bona, in the role of Lee Yeon Joo, delivered an outstanding performance. Her chemistry with Woo Do Hwan added another layer to the series, and she's fortunate to share the screen with such a talented co-star. While I wish to see more of her on-screen presence, it seems she opts for one drama per year, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating her next project.

Cha Hak Yeon, in his debut appearance for me, showcased a level of experience that caught my attention. The narrative's emphasis on attorneys striving to protect those falsely accused of crimes in an era where any offense could result in a death sentence was both intriguing and unsettling. I'm grateful not to have lived in Korea during that historical period. Additionally, the portrayal of Korea's historical clothing, especially the beautiful hats, added a captivating visual element to the series.

Thanks to Team Joseon Attorney: A Mortality (2020)

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