Reviews

A little disappointing

First half of the series was pretty good. Nothing cringe, nothing boring nor unnecessary.
The second half was, I would say unnecessarily long. They made it look all important to the last two episodes
The last episode so useless. All i can think of is that they did not end it well. Thank God there are 2 special episodes which completed the whole story.
But this series is quite average, as for itself.
I would say that the actors played every emotion very well, even though sometimes I was annoyed how they split up every time something negative happened between them. Then they are offended at each other for a while and then, as if nothing happened, they are a happy couple again.

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in my opinion

I’ve watched 19 of the episodes so far. don’t know if I want to finish. I agree with the other review that it really is trope heavy and predictable. But there were a couple of places I really liked- when FIL and MIL hid from the world and lived as regular people; the devil lord smiling and loving stir fry (wish he got the phoenix, thought they made a better fit); and the telling of the past.

What I found annoying was the costumes- a ‘soldier’s’ uniform looking feminine and form fitting, and the flouncy dress of the women. there are places where the leads were overdressed in comparison to the company they kept.

as for the story- it seems like they had different writers for each show or story arc or couple. Perhaps the directors had different visions of how the story should go or what’s explained/not explained. I admit that I still don’t understand the the split between the librarian and the dean- not sure if it’s a culture thing or just doesn’t make a lot of sense. and as for the heavenly emperor, time to go out to pasture pops, you are to stuck on yourself and contradictory.

I think better writing, directing, and better chemistry between the characters would help overall.

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A very good crime j-drama.

The series is interesting, moving, intriguingly depicts criminal cases clearly reflecting the atmosphere and problems of Japan. Sometimes the criminal can be "sniffed out" immediately, sometimes he is discovered late, which adds detective charm to the drama. A big plus are the interesting characters and their personal life threads very delicately portrayed against the background of the criminal cases. Good camera work. Atmospheric music. Great selection of songs. One minus - a green filter that distorts the world and is annoying. All the rest of the production makes up for this shortcoming. A very good crime j-drama.

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Bit overrated drama

This drama is really amazing I loved it but somewhere female lead rejected her parents love and married to him without convincing her mother I mean her parents were not at fault all they wanted her to be happy but except that point everything was so good omg it’s like a long story with more plots more twisting scripts I loved it didn’t feel like 36 episodes was long I love actors they had great potential and script is awesome especially the musics and happy that everybody got happy ending even for gao he was just filled with ego which was stomping by main lead if he was good to him may be all this would t have happened I think story is mainly because of main lead arrogant character atleast he should have known at the end it was his fault but even at last episode he was same to female lead mother anyway I think this kind of characters should be stopped airing If not people get admired by such arrogant characters and I recommend everyone to watch this drama and definitely worth it❤all the best to the team

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Devolves Into What It Sought To Parody...

Started off strong with some fun meta humour, but was let down when it tried to take a more serious turn. The lack of development from the side couples (and Saifah/Zon, who are initially introduced as though they would be the main pairing) left me uninterested in their scenes by the time the second half of the series rolled around. I was much more interested in Tutor/Fighter, who had some nice development from enemies to lovers, but fell prey to the "homophobic parent" plotline which subsequently just kind of went nowhere? All was resolved with a random phone call that was utterly inconsistent with the previous characterisations.

Acting was, as is typical in this type of BL, somewhat heavy-handed but this worked with the meta humour at the outset. Some more serious acting chops showcased by Zee in the second half, but only ever in scenes where he's sobbing uncontrollably.

Music was catchy, but ultimate forgotable amidst the sea of poppy-BL theme songs.

Overall it was a fun watch, but it went from self-aware and tongue in cheek to tropey and shallow in the exact way that the earlier episodes made fun of.

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Scooping Shrimps - The Real History or Made up story?

AS A DRAMA This is a very well done historical drama, humanizing a larger than life historical figure. i think the acting and casting was great with tons of familiar faces playing roles that seemed to suit the roles they have either cast as their public person OR a great role they have done in the past. This show cases the hardening of a soul over time and how the "Turbulent Times" wore down the innocence of this man. How the hard decisions effect this man but his public face will never show it. I liken this drama to "Nobunaga Concerto" With Oguri Shun.

AS A TAIGA It is not close to the historical Ieyasu's life. Well Loosely. These events did happen, but his love life was completely different and it hid his ambitions or what seemed to be his ambitions to the history books. My thoughts are that if this work has every just 1 person look at Togugawa's Wiki or God Forbid a book to learn deeper about the trues history of this time period, then it has done it's job.

True History is Dirty and Nasty, Especially when in Times of War. (Yes those capital letters are on purpose), and often times would not make for a good drama or even a movie. The thought behind this Taiga was to bring in new faces and talent in order to raise viewership of the time slot. In that view I believe that the station did a good job.

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Shallow romance 101

I really didn't want to do this but I expected no less from a romance drama with Song Kang as the lead (cause I didn't like any of them so far). This drama really met my expectations
...
...
as another bad romance drama of 2023.

And honestly , I've grown quite accustomed to it knowing that it's either me who don't like kdrama romance anymore or them who aren't able to fill the gaps of romance in their 'single' fan's hearts.

Well I kinda knew the type of romance they were going to show after watching the lack of chemistry between the leads being shoved to my face just from the trailer.
Uhm but.. I've got to give it to the visuals by the way, cause everything was just so beautiful . I mean the leads alone were breathtakingly beautiful and that's it ...or maybe I liked the comedy too but that's it..that's it nothing more.

Rest all of it looked really bleak to me. I could not feel the connection with leads, it was not gripping at all as I tried to skip through episodes. Forget the romance part but the entire plot alone was messed up by emotion lacking tropes and cliches.

All in all I think the show was really shallow to me and idk how the heck people are actually liking it, well good for them, anyway I'm not going to wait for the rest of the episodes as they are really predictable and I can't bear to see my eyes suffer. Well then I'll take my leave and hope you have a wonderful day ahead~
XOXO

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The Sound of Magic: A Captivating Journey into Enchantment and Resilience

"The Sound of Magic" is undeniably a gem of 2022, rekindling my belief in magic with its enchanting narrative. Choi Sung-eun's portrayal of Yoon Ah-yi is a masterpiece, navigating life's struggles with a raw vulnerability that tugs at the heartstrings. Ji Chang-wook, in the role of Lee Yeul, adds a mysterious charm, becoming a guiding force for Ah-yi and amplifying the series' allure.

What sets this series apart is its seamless fusion of fantasy and reality. Each episode unfolds as a captivating journey through a world where magic is more than a mere plot device; it becomes a profound metaphor for conquering the challenges life throws our way. "The Sound of Magic" expertly weaves whimsy with the harsh truths of existence, creating a narrative that resonates deeply.

In just six episodes, the series crafts a poignant tale of loneliness, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Ah-yi's world, burdened by her father's debt and relentless bullying, serves as the poignant backdrop for a story where hope triumphs over adversity. The series skillfully navigates between the fantastical and the tangible, proving that even in the darkest moments, a glimmer of light can emerge.

The supporting cast, especially Hwang In-youp as Il-deung, contributes layers to the narrative. Il-deung's character, teetering on the edge of collapse under societal expectations, adds complexity to Ah-yi's story. The series unfolds like a spellbinding tapestry, seamlessly combining drama, humor, and camp to create a viewing experience unlike any other.

Ji Chang-wook's portrayal of Lee Yeul steals the spotlight, his charismatic and mysterious presence adding an extra layer of intrigue. As his dark past is gradually unveiled, the emotional rollercoaster intensifies, contributing to the series' perfect blend of heavy subjects and fairytale beauty.

"The Sound of Magic" is more than a show; it's a transformative journey. Amidst dramatic musical numbers and stunning production, it remains grounded in the complexities of life. Sung-eun's nuanced portrayal and Chang-wook's charismatic performance breathe life into the characters, making them resonate deeply.

Reflecting on "The Sound of Magic," I am compelled to give it a resounding 10 out of 10. This series isn't just entertainment; it's a poignant reminder of the magic that exists in ordinary moments. In a world that often forgets the extraordinary, "The Sound of Magic" reignites the belief that magic is alive and well.

This series stands as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling. It has not only secured its place as a personal favorite for its narrative brilliance but has also played a pivotal role in making me rediscover the magic within and around me.

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A Delightful Rom-Com Fantasy: "My Roommate is a Gumiho"

My Roommate is a Gumiho" is a captivating South Korean romantic comedy that seamlessly blends fantasy elements with heartwarming moments, creating an entertaining and enjoyable viewing experience. This series, which aired in 2021, introduces viewers to the unlikely cohabitation of a modern-day college student and a mythical creature known as a gumiho, adding a unique twist to the classic roommate trope.

The storyline follows the life of Shin Woo-yeo, a centuries-old gumiho who has accumulated wealth and knowledge throughout his long existence. Things take an unexpected turn when a college student, Lee Dam, accidentally swallows Woo-yeo's precious bead, an essential item for the gumiho's survival. To complicate matters, the two are forced to live together until they can find a way to retrieve the bead, leading to a series of humorous and endearing situations.

One of the standout features of "My Roommate is a Gumiho" is the charismatic and well-matched lead cast. Lee Dam, portrayed by Hyeri, brings a refreshing energy to her character with her charm and comedic timing. Jang Ki-yong, who plays Shin Woo-yeo, delivers a nuanced performance that captures the complexities of his character's long life and emotional struggles.

The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, contributing to the series' overall charm. The progression of their relationship is well-paced, allowing for both comedic moments and heartfelt scenes that tug at the heartstrings. The show effectively balances the fantasy elements with the emotional development of the characters, creating a storyline that keeps viewers invested from start to finish.

The production values of "My Roommate is a Gumiho" are commendable, with vibrant cinematography and visually stunning effects that bring the fantasy elements to life. The incorporation of traditional folklore into the modern setting adds depth to the narrative and allows for creative storytelling.

The supporting cast also adds layers to the series, with memorable characters and subplots that contribute to the overall enjoyment. The combination of romance, comedy, and fantasy creates a well-rounded viewing experience suitable for a wide audience.

While the series excels in its lighthearted and humorous moments, it also delves into themes of identity, love, and the passage of time. This depth adds a layer of substance to the narrative, making "My Roommate is a Gumiho" more than just a typical romantic comedy.

In conclusion, "My Roommate is a Gumiho" is a delightful addition to the romantic comedy genre, offering a fresh take on the classic trope of mismatched roommates. With its charismatic cast, engaging storyline, and a perfect blend of fantasy and romance, this series is a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a feel-good drama with a touch of the supernatural.

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Basic entertainment

For those that have watched the anime, you'll be disappointed. For those that haven't, it's entertaining enough if you go with low expectations.
I'm somewhere in-between. I watched the anime growing up but I was never a massive fan of it, I generally found this type of anime where fights take episodes to be a basic ok but not much more for me. I liked the world building the most. But alas, I felt the nostalgia and I didn't have anything else to watch at the moment so I decided to check it out.

I don't understand though why they decided to even make this series if they were only going to bother making 5 episodes. It's a case of if you don't have really the budget maybe don't butcher a series with thousands of fans?

I had low expectations since from the trailer it felt cheap and because usually live actions are always pretty bad compared with the original material. It happens here too as expected.
Some of the costuming, and especially the wigs, are cheap and made it look worse than it could have been. CGI was about passable. If CGI has to be immaculate for you then I would say give this a miss.
Acting was ok at some points, at others it was not great, with actors being just standing there expressionless.
Characters are very underdeveloped, I guess can't be asked more for a 5 episode series but it still was disappointing nonetheless. I also think overall it would have been better in my opinion if they had a retro feeling to the whole thing and had more accurate hair to the anime.

Points go because is generally cohesive and the story flows despite the gaps in it and in the characters development, because the action/fighting is entertaining enough and because it's generally passable as a whole.

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No spoiler review : part one

Just binged part 1
I won’t lie at the beginning I was getting kinda disappointed as it didn’t live up to my expectations.
Some scenes were boring and dragged and the romance aspect didn’t mix too well here and there nevertheless it started to pick up its pace in the last few episodes which were interesting and tensed. However some parts didn’t make sense realistically, I won’t spill any spoilers but if you’ve watched the show then u might know what I mean but other than that
Ep seven where part one ends had a good ending cliffhanger so I am eager for part two as I hope it’ll be packed with action and drama.
Actors did an amazing job as always
The monster is not bad, it’s a bit predictable compared to the monsters in sweet home but that’s fine.
Anyways I’ll update my review after part two airs

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This is how you do romcom bl

I haven't laughed this much for a series recently. It's not about comedy scenes but they delivered it brilliantly.
we can see the helplessness of the main lead (akafuji) to stay calm from his crush.. not just a crush, aoyagi is his everything. They are the perfect one's for this role. Because, not everyone can do the secret romance, tension, jealousy with humour in it, but they done it beautifully. I really loved the hidden aoyagi printed t shirt, the hand kiss, and his faint. omg I was laughing out loud and my parents came to me by asking whether you need to see a therapist or not....
I loved the whole cast. Mainly the dialogues of akafuji, 'today our eyes met for 2.7 seconds, I'm certain.. at that time my heart stopped beating'. Seriously who will count those seconds, he's head over heels for aoyagi.
it's a must watch guys.. but it only has 3 episodes... and that's the only negative here.

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