Monsters, Madness and Military : Sweet Home Season 2 Unleashes a Blood Soaked Journey

Sweet Home Season 2 seamlessly continues the thrilling narrative from its predecessor, skillfully extending the suspense from the first season's gripping conclusion. It dives straight into the narrative, offering a smooth transition for avid viewers and introducing new characters to enrich the post apocalyptic setting.

Unlike the first season, Season 2 expands its scope beyond the Green Home apartments, revealing a world in chaos with military involvement, additional survivors and a peculiar mad scientist that deepens the plot's complexity. However the abundance of new characters makes it a bit challenging to connect and the plot seems somewhat lost amidst the multitude. The pacing maintains intensity until EP 3 but afterward it settles into an average rhythm.

The shift in perspective towards the monsters particularly through Cha Hyunsoo's eyes adds a compelling layer to the overarching narrative. Hyunsoo transforms from a loner to a blood soaked hero becoming the bridge between humanity and monstrosity. However lead characters like Lee Jinuk's Ui Myeong & Hyunsoo himself feels relegated to cameo roles post EP 3 with other characters such as Eunyoo, Park Chan Young and Scientist Im taking center stage.

The ensemble cast led by Song Kang delivers standout performances. Song Kang's portrayal of Hyunsoo showcases a range. Lee Jinuk's return as Ui Myeong captures the ferocity and insanity that made Season 1 memorable. Go Minsi's portrayal of Eunyoo reflects a noticeable change in character resilience and Lee Siyoung's performance as Yikyung, a former firefighter seeking answers, adds survival instincts intertwined with the fragility of a broken heart. Her character introduces the biggest plot twist in the show.
Season 2 introduces Oh Jung Se as Scientist Im, providing a fascinating perspective on the apocalypse that adds an intriguing dimension to the storyline. The ensemble cast collectively breathes life into the characters enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Visually, Sweet Home Season 2 boasts impressive CGI. The expansive landscapes, intense action sequences and various monsters collectively create an immersive experience. Attention to detail from gunfire to explosive scenes further elevates the visual impact.

Deserving a solid 8.5/10, Season 2 stands as a commendable follow up installment in the world of apocalyptic horror Kdrama. It adeptly combines grit, gore, horror and heartache. The final scene delivers one of the biggest plot twists for Season 1 fans, leaving an insatiable desire for more.

In summary Sweet Home Season 2 proves to be a worthy continuation although it doesnt quite surpass the charm of the original. It successfully balances intense action with emotional depth, keeping viewers engaged throughout even though it falls short of perfection.

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Fates Rewritten: Kang Jiwon Seizes the Second Chance

Adapted from the web novel Marry My Husband (내 남편과 결혼해줘) by Seong So Jak (성소작) and directed by Park Won Gook, this show narrates Kang Jiwon's journey. Betrayed and killed by her husband and best friend, she seizes a second chance traveling back 10 years to alter her destiny.

From beginning to end, i thoroughly enjoyed the show, it was a profoundly gratifying experience. Beyond mere revenge it delved into themes of self growth and altering fates for survival. Each episode surpassed the last, conveying the message that second chances should be wielded wisely.

Each character was meticulously crafted with profound depth, both protagonists and antagonists shared an equitable presence. The antagonists stole the spotlight in numerous episodes, their characters exhibiting sheer insanity. What sets them apart is their unwavering consistency, unlike many dramas where antagonists change last minute, these characters remained true to their evil nature, escalating with each episode.

The narrative primarily revolves around three characters who overshadowed the rest: Kang Jiwon, the main protagonist and Sumin & Park Minhwan, the main antagonists. Kang Jiwon's character was intricately developed, showcasing significant self growth throughout the series, providing a truly satisfying arc. Her relatable flaws and insecurities stemming from past trauma added depth to her character. Park Minyoung's portrayal of Kang Jiwon was exceptional with her acting reaching an extraordinary level of intensity in this role.
Next is Sumin, she is undoubtedly going to be an iconic villain remembered for a very long time. Her character, a psycho with an intense obsession for Jiwon, escalates to new levels of insanity with each episode. She is the kind of character we all love to hate. That underwater scene of hers will remain forever iconic. Kudos to Song Hayoon for brilliantly portraying this character. She undoubtedly deserves all the awards for this role.
Park Minhwan, portrayed as a truly terrible husband. If this character had been played by any other actor, it might have been annoying but Lee Yikyung's comic portrayal of Park Minhwan, with his nasty personality makes it impossible not to find him amusing. His scenes are absolutely hilarious and the way his character ended brings both satisfaction and sadness simultaneously.These three characters undoubtedly carried the entire show on their backs.

Apart from these characters there were also endearing and lovable characters such as Jihyuk, Huiyeon, Baek Eunho, Yang Juran, etc. each making show equally memorable.
However Yura stood out as the sole annoyance, her character was consistently irritating from start to finish. My only complaint is that instead of her they could have developed Huiyeon and Eun Ho's love story. Nevertheless considering the drama's unfolding in the last episode, it seems she played a crucial role as a catalyst in bringing about the final track.

Although romance wasnt the main genre, the main couple's love story was endearing and their chemistry was quite soothing. However more than the romance, i watched this for the compelling drama and the captivating performances of the aforementioned three characters who stole the show.

The soundtrack, cinematography and production quality were outstanding. The background music and OSTs were fitting, the cinematography offered a fresh and visually pleasing experience and the production quality was top notch, ensuring it didnt feel like a cheaply made show.

In summary watching this show was a highly satisfying experience. Despite moments of frustration particularly with the annoying character Yura, if we overlook that it was a gratifying watch from start to finish.

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Borrowed Brilliance: My Demon's Struggle to Forge an Original Path

When this show started, i wrote a review stating a new iconic show was in the making. Little did i know that this show would end up copying every other fantasy drama each of which had carved its own place in viewers hearts.

In this show, apart from the chemistry between the leads and their visuals there is nothing to look forward to. Regarding the storyline there seems to be none, the writer merely copied scenes from various fantasy shows creating a mishmash of fantasy elements.

While watching, you will be reminded of every fantasy show made in Korea after Goblin. It starts copying storylines from Goblin, whole OST having vibes similar to Goblin's intro. The trope of a beggar lady turning out to be a god is another thing copied from Goblin and even in episode 15, the show replicates Goblin's ending by making Guwon disappear.

Now lets talk about Strong Woman Do Bong Soon. The entire storyline is basically a reversed version of SWDBS. Here ML Guwon becomes a bodyguard to protect FL CEO Dohee from her adopted family. This mirrors SWDBS, where FL Bong Soon becomes ML's bodyguard to protect him from his family. Both main characters have supernatural powers but the difference is that in SWDBS Bong Soon uses her powers when needed whereas here Guwon, even as a demon cant use his powers when its crucial. The serial killer plot was also entirely borrowed from SWDBS. While both tracks took different approaches they still induced a strong sense of deja vu when watching that specific storyline. The assistant character and the subplot with thugs are also directly copied from SWDBS.

Next is overused past life trope. Last year many shows applied this trope and while some were webtoon adaptations making it necessary, this show being an original one still included the cliche past life trope when it wasnt needed. The past life trope is borrowed from various shows like SYIM19L and Kokdu with a significant influence from Kokdu's version.

Adding to that, they didnt stop at copying fantasy shows, they even borrowed scenes from makjang shows like Penthouse. The way Noh Seok Min survives a massive fall is reminiscent of how Joo Dan Tae miraculously survived a building collapse in Penthouse. Additionally, the car blast involving Dohee seems like a throwback to Logan Lee's car bomb blast from Penthouse.

In addition to the above mentioned shows, this one also echoes/plays out similar plots to series such as Doom at Your Service, Heartbeat and Destined with You etc.

Now lets discuss the characters. They werent properly written. Firstly Guwon, the demon, couldnt use his powers when needed even against a mere human enemy for 14 episodes straight. Some may argue he lost his powers but even if thats the case, he could have utilized them with Dohee's help. Even after his powers returned he didnt use them to catch the villain. For instance, in a scene where they send Joo Seok Hoon to the main villain's house they could have easily gone there using Guwon's magic but they didnt. When Joo Seok Hoon returns without information only then do they go to the villain's house. However, by then main villain has removed the demon book and hidden it elsewhere. Even when the main villain's body disappears after falling from the clock tower, Guwon doesnt use his powers to catch him. Later main villain tries to kill Dohee and to save her Guwon sacrifices himself. The writing seems questionable.

Moving on to Dohee, the young CEO, she is generally good except for when she gave up the chairwoman position due to fear of the main villain. Its perplexing, having a demon by her side, yet fearing a mere human. However one could argue she is right considering the apparent uselessness of the demon's powers.

Joo Seok Hoon, SML of show, is considered by many to be the main villain but he turns out not to be. Unfortunately he ends up being most useless character in the drama merely serving as a love sick puppy for Dohee. Its puzzling why an actor like Lee Sangyi took on this role when there is little for him to perform.

The main villain, Noh Suk Min is another poorly written character. He is your typical negative villain with a backstory of being greedy for property. While i understand he is meant to be negative, the writer takes it to the extreme portraying him to the point of being willing to kill his own son. I also dont understand why he was even after Dohee when she willingly gave him the chair position. In the end, the way he survives a significant fall is one of the most illogical aspects of the show. Moreover his decision to burn his face for some unknown reason is also quite illogical.

Besides these four main characters, the others werent well written. For example the demon's obsessive lover, Jin Gayoung lacked depth. The office characters were mostly useless and brought in for lame comedy that hardly made anyone laugh. The love angle between Dohee's assistant and Guwon's assistant was also cringe worthy. It seems the writer aimed for humor but it ended up being more cringe than entertaining.

Cinematography is initially impressive but production values appear fake after a certain point. The portrayal of super rich characters offices does not align with the expected opulence of conglomereate's offices.
The music department fares decently with the main OST, True by Yaori being a standout.

In conclusion, the show lacks originality in both execution and writing with poor logic and character development. My disappointment led me to revise my original rating from 9/10 to 7/10 and that is solely for the chemistry between the leads.

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Daily Dose of Sunshine - Finding Hope and Humanity in World of Psychiatry

Daily Dose of Sunshine, Netflix's newest offering, is an adaptation of the webtoon "Jeongsinbyeongdongedo Achimi Wayo" (정신병동에도 아침이 와요) by Iraha. Drawing inspiration from real life experiences, the show explores the world of psychiatric care.
The story unfolds through the perspective of Jung Da Eun, a character with whom we can easily empathize. As she makes the transition into the psychiatric unit, we witness her initial challenges and her path towards finding her footing within the ward.

This series addresses the pressing issue of mental health especially in South Korea, a country struggling with increasing mental health challenges. Daily Dose of Sunshine opens the door to essential conversations in a society where mental health often carries a heavy stigma.

What stands out is the careful portrayal of mental illness. The show doesnt limit itself to one perspective but delves into the inner worlds of patients. It beautifully captures the diverse experiences, from paranoia to mania induced dance routines and the transition of OCD and hyper fixations. The audience can truly empathize with the patients struggles.

Da Eun is portrayed as a kind hearted character, but the show doesnt shy away from highlighting the potential pitfalls of excessive kindness, reminding us that healthcare professionals are human too. It explores the challenges they face, including the hierarchy within the healthcare system.

Daily Dose of Sunshine doesnt just reduce patients to symptoms, it humanizes them. Through Da Eun, the entire team rediscovers the importance of maintaining a personal connection with patients, rather than just focusing on their medical records.

Through the character Go Yoon, the series delivers humor at the perfect moments when you need it most & Yeon Woo Jin's performance is truly commendable
Daily Dose of Sunshine offers a unique exploration of psychiatry and its patients for both viewers and Jung Da Eun. Park Bo Young's sincere portrayal of Jung Da Eun makes the journey relatable. With its balanced tone and honest approach to mental illness, Daily Dose of Sunshine encourages hope and understanding, reminding us that we are not so different from the patients we see.

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The Melodramatic Turn : Yay or Nay?

It started well. I jumped into it, thinking it was a cute youth romcom because it was marketed that way everywhere even in MDL tags. However as the series progressed, it evolved into a full blown melodramatic romance which was a bit of a downer from beginning to end. FL Doona is an idol facing slump while the ML is a college student majoring in engineering.

I initially enjoyed their dynamic with the cool and sassy FL playfully teasing the clumsy ML. But as the series continued it veered further into melodrama which diminished my enjoyment.

On a positive note show did a great job depicting the idol's mental health struggles with Suzy's portrayal feeling authentic. Yang Sejeong also excelled in portraying the clumsy university student with adorableness.

Surprisingly i found the second pair more appealing than the main couple. Their storyline was less gloomy and provided enjoyable moments. I wish there had been more focus on their relationship.

The OST in the opening was good & background score complemented the melodramatic theme effectively.
Cinematography was a refreshing aspect that didnt contribute to the overall sense of depression.

Regarding the ending, i have no personal complaints. Its left open ended allowing you to interpret whether the main characters are still together or not.

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Epic Romance and Hilarious Antics: Lovely Runner Took 2024 by Storm

"Carry Seonjae & Run!" is adapted from the web novel "The Best of Tomorrow" (내일의 으뜸) by Kim Bbang (김빵). Written by Lee Shi Eun and directed by Yoon Jong Ho and Kim Tae Yub, this drama is undoubtedly one of the best of 2024.

From its premiere, it quickly grabbed everyone's attention including mine. It has all the elements that make a drama a superhit, comedy, romance, time travel, well written characters (both leads and supporting ones) and an engaging plotline that never bores you. No wonder it became a superhit in no time.

The story revolves around Im Sol, a disabled fangirl who draws strength from her favorite idol during her toughest times. When he suddenly dies, she is given the chance to travel back in time to save him. This sets the stage for the main plot, filled with numerous twists and turns that keep the drama fresh and engaging. The combination of rib tickling comedy and sizzling romance between the lead pair makes every moment of the drama worth watching.

I have to commend the writer for crafting numerous comic moments that had me laughing until my stomach ached. Whether its past Im Sol embarrassing herself in front of her future self or Seonjae's peak loser moments that never fail to amuse, this show offers some of the best comedy i have seen in recent times, making it a delightful and relaxing watch after each episode. As for the romance, Seonjae and Im Sol's chemistry was electrifying. They transitioned seamlessly through various phases of their relationship, from sweet, innocent first love moments to melodramatic and angsty scenes later on. Both actors executed these shifts flawlessly.

The characters were one of the strongest points of this drama. Im Sol was a goofball, a sunshine character who never failed to bring a smile to your face with her antics. Hats off to Kim Hyeyoon, who portrayed this character with perfection. She truly showed her versatility as an actress, displaying impressive range across positive, negative and grey roles in the past. This character, however is giving her the recognition she truly deserves. She definitely deserves an award for this portrayal. While many of her characters, like those in Sky Castle or Extraordinary You were popular, this role will undoubtedly put her at the top of her game.

Ryu Seonjae was one of the most tragic characters for sure. Come on, who dies 3-4 times in just one drama?? But Ryu Seonjae did. Byeon Wooseok must have a knack for tragic characters. Despite the humor, Seonjae was the biggest loser in dramaland after long time. From old dramas, only Min Min from Strong Woman Do Bong Soon showed such peak loserism. Byeon Wooseok also carried this character with perfection, showing a stark contrast between his previous villainous role as Ryu Shi Oh in Strong Girl Nam Soon and this one, demonstrating his impressive range as an actor.

The second lead Taesung, was one of the most loved second male lead i have seen in a while. His character was finely written to avoid creating any conflict between male lead and second male lead fans. He was likable without causing second lead syndrome as he knew where to draw the line when he realized Im Sol was only in love with Seonjae. In Hyuk was another standout character, whose scenes with Seonjae, Sol and Taesang were hilarious. He was delightful to watch and never annoying, although i wish he had more screen time.
The supporting cast was also excellent, consistently providing humor with their antics. Whether it was Im Sol's mother, Seonjae's father, Im Geum or Hyunjoo, the ensemble cast made the drama even better than expected.

Regarding the time travel aspect, overall it was executed well though there were a few plot holes that i didnt fully understand. However, i overlooked them as long as the drama kept me entertained without going overboard. A few flaws are acceptable in an otherwise engaging show.

Special Note: The popularity this drama achieved while airing was unbelievable. No one expected its wild success but it became incredibly popular not only in South Korea but worldwide, breaking many records. This was one of the few dramas that crossed the 60+ mark in the Good Data buzz ranking. After The Glory 2, no other drama had crossed 60+ mark. The OSTs of this drama, featuring the fictional band Eclipse topped the Melon charts underscoring its immense popularity. No one expected the drama to achieve such wild success especially since it wasnt initially predicted to be this big. Due to actor Byeon Wooseok's rising popularity, his recent movie Soulmate is being re released in theaters which speaks volumes about its impact in South Korea.

In conclusion, Lovely Runner was undoubtedly one of the best dramas of 2024 for me. I will miss watching it after its conclusion but i am definitely going to rewatch its episodes whenever possible. Its a series that will stay close to my heart for a long time.

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Ready, Set, Love: A Dystopian Adventure with Romance and Humor

This show unfolds in a parallel universe, a dystopian realm where the male population is vastly outnumbered by females. Males are a rare sight, akin to an endangered species, housed by the government in a human zoo known as the Farm.

The government sponsors the reality show "Ready Set Love," where female contestants vie to become brides and form families under government care. The reluctant female protagonist Day, becomes a contestant through a lottery leading to an unforeseen journey filled with chaotic, hilarious, heartfelt and romantic moments.

This show encompasses multiple genres with its primary focus on Dystopian survival, complemented by sub genres like romance, comedy, thriller and drama. It explores various themes including LGBTQ+, conveying a positive message. The inclusion of two LGBTQ+ couples is handled maturely setting it apart from many other BL genre shows in the same region.

The overall tone of the show resembles a convergence of the Reality/variety and fiction genres. The reality show within this fictional context provides an authentic feel akin to watching a real reality show where you anticipate outcomes but cant help getting excited during the diverse game tasks. This undoubtedly bridges the gap between fiction and reality genres.

Thrills and romance kicks off in the second half offering an exciting narrative. While the thriller aspect may not be entirely unique, it captivates, keeping you engaged until the final moments. When it comes to romance, the main couple (#SonDay) and the second couple (#MaxChal) undeniably share sizzling chemistry. The main couple's chemistry and the actors performances leave you yearning for more, especially with their endearing childhood backstory.
The comedy aspect is delightfully campy, evoking genuine laughter. Personally im not usually a fan of Thai comedies finding them cringe worthy with their OTT humor. However this particular show managed to resonate with me.

When it comes to the characters, each one is unique and distinct. None of them is purely evil or negative but a few exhibit shades of grey. The drama becomes even more intriguing with such well crafted main and supporting characters.

The soundtrack is vibrant, peppy and jazzy, seamlessly enhancing different scenes. In contrast production value is huge, evident in grand sets and costumes that exude an expensive quality. I never thought Thai productions investing so generously in their shows but Netflix made it possible.

In summary, this show offers a must watch experience, delivering unique content that seamlessly blends comedy, romance, a hint of thrill and entertaining tasks/games making it a perfect choice for diverse audiences.

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A Fully Pretentious Drama with an Empty Plot

This was a drama i enjoyed to some extent but i cant ignore its flaws. First of all, there is no real plot. Its just a pointless love triangle with a predictable murder mystery and a few twists. The plot was heavily inspired by Western teen dramas like Elite and the approach was similar. It was made for those who enjoy shows with attractive leads, sex and glamour but no substantial plot. At least in Elite, there were erotic scenes, here there was nothing.

The story revolves around Kang Ha, who transfers to a prestigious high school to take revenge and expose his twin brother's murderers. He becomes entangled with Jae Yi, the female protagonist and her ex boyfriend Rian, which forms the main plot.

Not gonna lie, the first episode really impressed me despite its shortcomings. But as the series progressed, i realized it was just a pretty facade with nothing inside.


Here is what i liked and disliked:


What I Liked:

1. Production Values: The first thing anyone will notice is the gorgeous production. Every shot looked expensive. I was quite impressed by the money spent on it. Costumes, sets everything was meticulously designed.

2. Direction: The direction was absolutely perfect. The director understood his assignment and did a fantastic job. Its a shame that the plot and actors were not strong enough to do justice to his direction.

3. Cinematography: The cinematography was stunning. Every shot looked cinematic and the color grading was flawless.

4. Background Music: The background music was catchy and perfectly conveyed the emotions of each scene. Overall, the BGMs were very well done.

5. Ending Scenes of Each Episode: Each episode ended on a high note with scenes designed to leave viewers exhilarated.

These are the few things i liked about the drama.


What I Didnt Like:

1. Plot: Was there even a plot?? It seemed like it was cobbled together from various Western shows, mainly Elite, trying to create a korean version but failing. The love triangle was pointless and the murder mystery, while initially intriguing ended predictably and unsatisfactorily. This show is a perfect example of a pretty exterior with nothing inside.

2. Acting: The acting was bland except for Ji Hyewon. None of the other actors impressed me. Roh Jeong Hui was expressionless throughout the series. I dont understand why she was cast. Both male leads were just okay and did nothing remarkable. The supporting actors were also mediocre.

3. Characterization: The characterization was the worst aspect. There wasnt a single likable character, not the female lead, the male leads, nor any supporting characters. Yoon Hera was the only character who showed some growth and the actress nailed her role but she alone couldnt save this empty drama.

4. Pretentiousness: The entire drama was pretentious. The flaunting of wealth and everything else felt very contrived. Among all the series i have watched about chaebols this was the most pretentious. Even in Glory where Yeonjin and her gang were super rich, they never came across as pretentious.

5. Lack of Chemistry: There was absolutely no chemistry between the female lead and either of the male leads. There were no emotions or connections at all. This could be due to the female lead's casting but the male leads also seemed disinterested.

6. Teen Characters Pretending to Be Adults: I hated how all the teen characters were trying to act like adults. They havent even turned 18 but they behaved like 35-45year old ahjussis and ahjummas. Even during the breakup scene between Rian and Jaeyi, they acted like they had been married for 10-15 years and were now bitterly divorcing.

Overall this is a good timepass drama. I dont regret watching it but it was really below average. If you like western teen dramas like Elite, then this is for you. Just dont go in with high expectations.

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Soundless Love: Tell Me That You Love Me's Journey through Love and Loss.

"Tell Me That You Love Me", penned by Kim Minjung and helmed by Kim Yoonjin is the Korean adaptation of the popular Japanese drama "Aishiteiru to Ittekure", released in 1995. This captivating melodrama portrays the love story between Jinwoo, a middle aged man navigating life as a deaf artist and Moeun, an aspiring actress propelled by her profound love for the craft.

The show, experienced in 2023 is a beautifully written meloromance with each character feeling remarkably real and relatable. The narrative skillfully weaves their pains, hardships and struggles creating an emotional connection beyond the main lead characters.

Jinwoo a relatively unknown artist who lost his hearing early in life, finds a renewed sense of happiness and love when Moeun enters his life. This lonely man, scarred by a heartbreak from his past finds solace and happiness, granting him a second chance at love. However this marks merely the beginning of their journey, what unfolds are genuine issues faced in a relationship where one partner grapples with physical disability.

The show keeps it real about relationships with different physical abilities avoiding idealized views. It shows the challenges without getting toxic, staying down to earth. It digs into what its like when one partner faces physical hurdles, keeping things raw and genuine.
As the story goes on, Moeun deals with feeling insecure and jealous bringing in real challenges that resonates with the audience. A significant factor contributing to her struggle is Jinwoo's inability to hear or communicate conventionally. The emotions that arent sorted out create problems leading to a big breakup in episode 15. For me, the breakup made sense especially for Moeun to face and work through her own feelings.

"Tell Me That You Love Me", keeps it real about relationships especially when one partner has physical challenges. It avoids painting an idealized picture of love, embracing the genuine, sometimes messy side of such connections. The writer skillfully steers the story, fixing possible issues and making it even better than the Japanese version

Apart from the main characters the supporting cast brings depth and charm to the series. Characters like Kihyun, Seokyung, Johan, Jiyu, Modam and Moeun's parents are well crafted, adding richness to the overall story. Personally Kihyun is my favorite character whose warmth and friendship represent the companionship everyone desires. His happily married life with a deaf spouse and a daughter adds an extra touch of charm to the series.

The acting in the show is a key ingredient for its success. From minor roles like Jinwoo's students to the main leads, every cast member gives a praiseworthy performance. Jung Woosung's depiction of Jinwoo using compelling sign language and expressive acting truly shines. Supporting actors like Kihyun and Seokyung also impress bringing depth and authenticity especially in their use of sign language. Shin Hyunbeen's portrayal of Moeun adds an authentic touch making her journey in learning sign language feel genuine and relatable.

The show's music stands out with a beautiful OST lineup that heightens emotional moments. My Personal favorites are "Try Not To Cry" by 10cm and "To You" by Nerd Connection.

In conclusion, "Tell Me That You Love Me" is a masterpiece that should not be missed by melodrama romance lovers. With a solid 10/10 rating, this show leaves a lasting impression and holds a special place in the heart of the viewers

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Boyhood : A Roller Coaster of Comedy, Action and 80s Nostalgia

Boyhood is a coming of age comedy action school drama set in 1989 in Chungcheongnamdo. It follows a socially awkward boy from Onyang who becomes a transfer student to Buyeo, only to be misunderstood as a troublemaker overnight. This leads to various comedic and action packed adventures.

The show was a wild ride. The first five episodes were hilarious, but Episode 6 took an unexpected turn, shifting from joy to tragedy. Despite the roller coaster, it kept its comedic vibe, making me switch between tears and laughter.

Each character shines uniquely, especially Jang Byungtae, the once targeted weak student who embarks on a hilarious and action packed journey after transferring to Buyeo. Among the dramas i have watched this year, Jang Byungtae's character stands out as one of my personal favorite. Quirky, funny and relatable, he faced bullying from his childhood due to his weak physique. However when mistaken for strength he cleverly used it for good. Jang Byungtae's transformation felt authentic, a gradual process mirroring the impact of a lifetime of bullying.
Im Siwan's outstanding acting, seamlessly transitioning between comedy and emotional depth deserves every award for his portrayal of Jang Byungtae.

The second character is Jung Gyeongtae, who brings some crazy twists in story. When he entered, i thought he was just a street smart thug whom everyone fears but he might actually be good at heart. However the way he flipped in Episode 6 quickly turned him from my most favorite character to the most hated one. From that episode, i just wished him to live a nightmarish life until he dies.
Lee Siwoo really nailed this character. When i realized he played the brother of Ha Doyoon in SYIM19L, i couldnt really believe it, as that character and this one are totally poles apart, and Lee Siwoo played it with conviction.

Two female leads, Jiyoung and Seonhwa. Seonhwa is a bad bi*ch from the start and i suspected some gold digger tendencies in her character from afar. Jiyoung was a badass queen, she was the one who encouraged Byungtae to get his revenge. I really loved her character but she had very little screen time to explore her character. I would have loved to see more of her than Seonhwa.

Each episode of the show is engaging and it never bores you even for a minute. My personal favorite episode is Episode 6. That was quite an insane episode, not gonna lie.

The setting of the show in the 1980s is quite believable. It actually gives the feel of the 80s. The styling and setting are very appropriate for the times of the 80s. The music also helps to give you authentic vibes of the 80s.

This was one of the few dramas this year that surprised me in a good way. For me, it was a 9.5/10.

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Wasted Potential: The Bittersweet Journey to Samdalri

This show was a mixed experience for me with some episodes being enjoyable while others left me frustrated. Despite this, the standout performances and compelling storylines justified watching it.

Now i will discuss what i liked and disliked.

What I Liked:

Great Acting: The performances were superb with impressive portrayals from the main leads, veterans and even minor roles. Kim Mi Kyung and Shin Haesun in particular excelled in their roles.

Compelling Supporting Storylines: Samdal's sister's narratives were surprisingly engaging, occasionally surpassing the main plot in interest.

Breathtaking Jeju Visuals: The show beautifully showcased Jeju's natural charm, perfectly in line with its healing genre, thanks to the director's skillful capture of landscapes.

Yongpil and His Mother's Bond: I absolutely loved Yongpil and Ko Mija's relationship. Im mentioning Ko Mija as Yongpil's mother's because he genuinely considered her as his own mother and she reciprocated the same feeling. Some may have misunderstood some of Yongpil's actions towards Ko Mija due to his love for Samdal but to me he was doing everything for his own mother, Ko Mija. He even chose to break up with Samdal to protect Ko Mija, sacrificed his dream, which truly reflects his immense love for his mother, Ko Mija.


What I Disliked

Flawed Writing: The writing here was poor, particularly in crafting the lead characters. FL's character is poorly written lacking the ability to stand up for herself, very disappointing, especially when she had evidence against Eunju but chose silence. Its perplexing how forgiving she appears towards someone who made her life miserable, forcing her to give up her career. While some argue its not a revenge driven show, standing up for oneself isnt revenge. Yongpil, initially a promising character comes off as clingy at times, seemingly oblivious to personal space. The writer neglected to properly develop his character, the first half focused on establishing FL's character and the second half's attempt at Yongpil's story was unconvincing. Equal importance to both leads from the start would have improved the narrative.

Second Male Lead: Despite not being malicious or negative his storyline was unconvincing and felt like filler, a major dislike for me. His scenes in the second half of the drama were particularly irritating. I find it hard to comprehend how he could be in one sided love with Samdal for over 30 years. While i can understand Yongpil's feelings given their past relationship but what about him?? Samdal never viewed him romantically, she never dated him or provided any hope yet he couldnt let go of his feelings for her for such long period of time.

Yongpil's Dad's Arc: The storyline involving Yongpil's dad was poorly written. While the actions of other characters in that track like the main leads breaking up were somewhat understandable, Yongpil's dad's treatment towards Samdal's family was childish and unreasonable. Despite understanding his pain from losing his wife, making his son's life miserable just because of that is unsympathetic. His entire storyline could have been handled much better.

Inconsistent Engagement: My connection with this show was strange like i would enjoy one episode but the next one would annoy me the most. The inconsistency in writing was evident and i didnt appreciate it.


Talking about the chemistry between the leads, i would say they had more of a best friends dynamic than that of lovers. Honestly, throughout the entire time, i never perceived them as lovers but rather as best friends forever. This could be seen as both positive and negative but given the romance genre here, my opinion tends towards the negative.


In conclusion despite its wasted potential, the show provided a decent pastime experience.

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Two Worlds, Two Takes : Decent Attempt But Original Still Shines

I would describe it as a decent remake of the original masterpiece. While the trailer of "A Time Called You" had me super excited with its outstanding visuals, the actual drama left something to be desired.

Although this remake remains faithful to its original version, it lacks that special something you experience when you've enjoyed the original drama, Someday or One Day.

The actors did their best, but it feels like they may not be the perfect fit for their characters. Ahn Hyo Seop's portrayal differs significantly from Greg Hsu's in the original Someday or One Day.
Jeon Yeo Been stood out among the cast, delivering an impressive performance.

The story is exactly same and many scenes are very similar, but it falls short in creating the emotional connection I felt while watching the original. Perhaps the direction is somewhat off.

Even when comparing cinematography, locations, background music, and OSTs, I would still prefer the Taiwanese version. In the original Taiwanese version, all these factors played a significant role in emotionally connecting to the drama, especially the OSTs.

For those who haven't seen the original, it's definitely a great drama. However, for fans of the original, this adaptation of their favorite show is decent at best.

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Yu Yu Hakusho : A Mesmerizing Dive into the Spirit World.

Yu Yu Hakusho unfolds a captivating fantasy story that seamlessly weaves action, humor and supernatural elements. This Japanese live action series is comprised of five episides whose length ranges between 40-50min. Show introduces viewers to a world where the boundaries between the living and the spirit realm blur.

The story centers around Yusuke Urameshi, a spirited young man thrust into the afterlife after a selfless act. As he navigates the spirit world under the guidance of Botan viewers are treated to a tale of spirit detectives, demons and unyielding friendships. The series stays true to its genre, delivering an engaging story that hooks the audience from the very first scene.

Yu Yu Hakusho's live action adaptation is directed by Tsukikawa Sho. It uses impressive CGI to make the supernatural parts stand out. In the world of live action adaptations, Yu Yu Hakusho is a standout giving us a captivating retelling that stays true to originial material. The series shines with a compelling opening, well choreographed fights and seamless visual effects.

The series brings you into a world of cool creatures and monsters. Demonic entities make things intense, thanks to Tsukikawa Sho's direction. Even the computerized violence feels real.

What makes Yu Yu Hakusho special is how it mixes humanity with supernatural stuff. Characters like Yusuke and Kuwabara have depth and feelings. Yusuke's serious vibe by Kitamura Takumi and Kuwabara's funny yet heartfelt performance by Uesugi Shuhei balance it out. Its relatable and funny making the show enjoyable.

Yu Yu Hakusho on netflix is a must watch for supernatural and horror action lovers. It has a unique blend of familiar elements and a compelling story all packed into a short yet satisfying five episode season. The show deserves a solid 10/10 for its engaging storytelling, vibrant characters and seamless mix of manga and live action.

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Fun Ride to Youkai World

This turned out to be a much better show than my expectations. Its blend of fantasy, mystery, horror, romance and comedy, is well balanced. While the romance aspect is somewhat understated, all the other genres are fleshed out quite effectively. There is also some cool action.

Although E1 was good, it becomes a lot more interesting from E2 and it keeps getting better and better. This one is kinda similar to Enigma (Thai drama) but with the addition of comedy. Moreover the mysteries of the Youkai world are unveiled in an intriguing manner. Thanks to the blend of comedy, mystery, fantasy and action, there isnt a single dull moment throughout, each episode is genuinely engaging. There might be a few flaws in it but what matters is it was engaging af. 35 min X 8Ep format greatly help in keeping you engaged. The episodes are short yet fast paced, leaving no room for boredom.

Furthermore, im glad they didnt turn FL into a good hearted demon/youkai. She was on a mission and she actually killed those guardians, which was a requirement for her to fulfill her mission.

The open ended ending sets the stage for S2, leaving everyone eager to see what unfolds next.

Overall i would rate it around 8.8-9.0/10.

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"A Symphony of Emotions: The Impactful Journey of Loss, Guilt and Redemption"

The drama evoked every emotion within me, draining me and allowing me to feel every character's pain throughout the series.
When it started, i wondered what it could offer besides a mother's revenge. However as the story unfolded, i was drawn deeper into the intricacies of each character's psyche gradually understanding their motivations and perspectives.

While the story may not be new, it was the execution that truly stood out earning it a well deserved round of applause. The writer masterfully crafted a plot filled with heartbreak and tension, weaving together multiple storylines and character arcs with finesse. What struck me most was the portrayal of morally ambiguous characters, each grappling with their own demons and making choices that blurred the lines between right and wrong.
As each character's layers peeled away, their motivations became clear. Though i may not sympathize with all of them, i could understand their actions. The writer crafted these characters thoroughly and left their interpretation to the viewers.

The emotional depth of the series was further amplified by its poignant and gut wrenching scenes, which left a lasting impact on me long after the credits rolled. From the raw anguish of a mother mourning the loss of her child to the harrowing depiction of human frailty and redemption, every moment was imbued with raw emotion and authenticity.

Turning to the performances, the ensemble cast delivered nothing short of brilliance, bringing their characters to life with nuance and depth. Kim Namjoo's portrayal of the grieving mother was particularly poignant, her raw vulnerability tugging at the heartstrings with every scene. It was evident that she poured her heart and soul into the role, leaving a lasting impression that lingered in the mind.

Cha Eunwoo, in this series, he really beat the allegations of bad acting. I pretty much heard in every series that he cant act. I have watched almost all of his dramas, i never found him a bad actor. Its just his roles were always like they wanted him to give very few expressions and he did a fantastic job in those roles. But in this role, he really nailed it, especially in the second half of the drama. He proved to everyone that he is anything but a bad actor. I hope in the future he will take those roles which will give him a chance to perform his best.

Kim Kangwoo & Lim Semi were also phenomenal in their roles. Both of them had very complex characters and they performed their best in these roles. At first, i thought, oh this is another husband cheating drama but once twists started unfolding, i felt there is much more to it than just being a husband cheating. When you understand characters perfectly, you realize they are also very layered characters very much like normal humans who made mistakes but are very much guilty for their one wromg action.
Apart from these 4 leading characters, actress Won Mi Kyung, who portrayed the role of Soohyun's mother and actor Park Hyuk Kwon, who played the role of the main antagonist Kim Joon also made a long lasting impression on the mind with their powerful performances.

The series was further elevated by its exceptional soundtrack which expertly underscored the emotional beats of each scene, heightening the tension and drama to breathtaking effect.

In conclusion this series stands as a shining example of superb storytelling, flawless execution and stellar performances. If you are in search of a gripping and emotionally resonant drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further. Its a journey that will linger in your mind long after the final episode, leaving you craving for more.

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