The Human Lie Detector & Her Lovely Liar.

This is the story of human lie detector and an terrible liar who simply cant tell a falsehood. The story unfolds with female protagonist who possesses the uncanny ability to detect lies, crossing paths with a man notorious for his terrible lying skills and thats how their journey begins.

Male lead Kim Seung Ju aka Kim Doha, is a suspect in his ex-girlfriend's murder. Evading the authorities for years he lives in seclusion haunted by guilt. Although he is innocent of the murder he bears the weight of responsibility for her death. What transpires when he encounters person with the gift of detecting human lies forms the crux of the plot.

As for the storyline, it started on a promising note and the romantic elements developed smoothly over the course of 16 episodes. Yet at certain points, show seemed to meander and the execution of the murder mystery plot left much to be desired save for the startling last minute twist which caught everyone off guard.
Murder mystery plotline was riddled with plot holes that I found rather disconcerting. Kim Doha's perpetual self-blame even after the passage of 6-7 years, at times grated on my nerves. Nevertheless I did appreciate the manner in which the female lead stood steadfastly by his side aiding him in overcoming his guilt.

Another aspect that left me disheartened was the way Kim Doha's helped his ex-girlfriend's brother in evading the police. Despite the brother's attempt to kill him and the kidnapping of one of his friends, Kim Doha helped to escape him from police, resulting in severe injury to an innocent character. What if the that character had died from injury?? Kim Doha would have been burdened with yet another decade of guilt.

While the murder mystery plotline suffered from poor execution featuring Doha miraculously stumbling upon clues out of thin air the final plot twist proved to be a delightful surprise. It was something that none of us predicted previously. While some viewers didn't like the plot twist, citing homophobia, I didn't look at it from that perspective. In place of him, even a straight girl who had a crush on him could have accidentally killed his ex-girlfriend. So, more than anything, I liked the plot twist for its unpredictability.

Coming to the love story, it was well developed from start to finish. The chemistry between both lead actors was palpable and the last two episodes with their sweetness, redeemed the overall viewing experience. Were it not for these final episodes my rating would have undoubtedly been lower.

In terms of acting both lead actors, Hwang Min Hyun and Kim So Hyun delivered commendable performances. Hwang Min Hyun adeptly portrayed Kim Doha's fragile, introverted persona, while Kim So Hyun shone brilliantly as the human lie detector.

In summary I would categorize this as an exceptional romance drama though the murder mystery subplot left much to be desired in terms of development.

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Good but not memorable

Watching this movie was a pretty fun experience. There were many cringe moments but it was still enjoyable to witness the amalgamation of Thai-Indo culture.

Both leads had cute chemistry but the plot was not that great, very average. Their representation of Indian weddings was accurate, covering major functions like Mehendi, Sangeet, and the wedding (although Haldi was missed). I loved the Sangeet and wedding events.

Coming to drawbacks firstly, there were too many cringe moments. FL's friends were so cringe.

Secondly, the ex of FL, Arun, was still in love with FL and just a day before the wedding, he expressed confusion about his feelings. His bride listened and broke off their wedding but the leads somehow convinced her and in the end they got married. This was a very weak point in the storyline; I don't think this marriage will last longer than a year.

The comedy was good in some parts but in others it was so cringe.

Overall, it was a pretty fun experience to watch this movie.

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Blood boiling experience

This movie depicts very torturous bullying making it a blood boiling experience. Plus i found everything quite unrealistic. I know bullying in Korea is severe but the bully kicking the dean of the school and terrorizing teachers was very unrealistic.

I loved the last fight sequence between the female lead and the villain but i still didnt like how he was overpowering her in many fight scenes. I would have loved it more if they had tortured him to death or until the point where he begged to be killed because thats how cruel of a bully he was.

Acting wise, everyone did a good job with whatever they were given in the script but for me the guy who shined more in the movie was the bullied victim Jin Hyung. His acting in one of the crucial scenes was so good that tears literally started flowing down my cheeks.

Overall i had very mixed feelings towards this movie as it was blood boiling to the point where you want to go inside the screen and beat that bully guy.

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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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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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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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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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Stand By Me : A Poetic Journey of Self-Discovery

Im not sure where to begin as this show had profound impact on me & opened my eyes to many insights. Its undoubtedly my favorite drama of 2023 even though i have other favorites like Moving and I Am Nobody. This one however, holds a special place in my heart.

This slow burning melodrama set in 1990s China, follows the journey of Luo Qiqi alongside several significant characters who enter her life. From a very young age Luo Qiqi exudes optimism & possesses a unique ability to think outside the box, always questioning the world around her. This quality deeply resonated with me.

The portrayal of Luo Qiqi's journey along with the four other main characters is incredibly authentic, immersing the viewer in their lives. As i watched it felt as if i were right there with them, experiencing their trials and tribulations.

Luo Qiqi encounters many individuals who leave a lasting mark on her life, shaping her into the person she is today. Simultaneously these encounters influence the lives of those she meets raising intriguing questions.

Among the numerous characters, four stand out as instrumental in shaping Luo Qiqi's journey : Xiao Bo, Zhang Jun, Xiao Fe & Guan He. Their impact on her life is substantial & they in turn, undergo significant transformations whether for better or worse, leaving questions in their wake.

Luo Qiqi stands out as the most remarkable character in the entire show. Her strength, determination, intelligence & unwavering loyalty to her friends are truly inspiring. She also demonstrates remarkable empathy towards others and in the face of numerous challenges, she repeatedly overcomes her doubts and fulfills her dreams.

My next favorite character is Xiao Fe, Luo Qiqi's best friend whose imperfections make her character growth one of the most compelling aspects of the drama. Her experiences from unrequited love to personal hardships are portrayed with remarkable realism.
After her r*pe incident, Luo Qiqi comes into her life as a ray of sunshine & slowly helps her piece her life back together. Her whole arc was my favorite part of the drama from the trauma she endured to her recovery all portrayed very realistically, especially considering the 90s China setting. I loved how Luo Qiqi stood by her, supporting her until she could stand on her own feet. Kudos to both actors who portayed Xiao Fe and Luo Qiqi, who gave their all to this storyline.

Then there is Xiao Bo, who plays sibling like role in Luo Qiqi's life. Their dynamic is endearing with moments that sometimes hint at a romantic connection and at other times emphasize their deep sibling like care for one another. Xiao Bo maintains a positive outlook throughout the drama & remains one of the most hardworking characters despite challenging family circumstances. He significantly influences Luo Qiqi's dream of attending a prestigious university, although his later decision to give up on his studies is emotionally difficult to watch.

Guan He enters Luo Qiqi's life at a pivotal moment, precisely when she needs support the most. Guan He is the school's top student, faces unrelenting pressure from her parents to excel, all the while harboring envy towards Luo Qiqi, who lives life on her own terms as Luo Qiqi was living life which she always desired.
Guan He's presence becomes instrumental in Luo Qiqi's academic journey during challenging times & their friendship deepens. They become close friends studying together & sharing their lives. However, as Luo Qiqi outshines her Guan He's insecurity & jealousy surface, leading to the regrettable end of their once strong bond. This development is particularly disheartening considering Guan He's background and character, emphasizing the toll insecurity & envy can take on even the closest of friendships.

In the drama Zhang Jun emerges as its most enigmatic & morally complex character. His relationship with Luo Qiqi is a rollercoaster ride through their shared childhood marked by a mix of betrayal and undeniable attraction. They share a chemistry that is undeniably captivating but Zhang Jun's internal struggles and involvement with gang makes him quite unreliable chatacter.
Initially Zhang Jun & Luo Qiqi were inseparable childhood friends but their bond was marred by moments of betrayal, leaving a bittersweet aftertaste that lingered for years. As the story unfolds their paths cross again & magnetic attraction begins to pull them closer. While they never explicitly cross certain boundaries, its clear that their connection is charged with unspoken emotions.
Their chemistry is undeniable yet Zhang Jun's character is a mix of both red and green flags, underscoring the unhealthy nature of their relationship. Like Luo Qiqi he was once a top student but he loses his way & becomes entangled with a troublesome gang, leading to complications in his relationship with Luo Qiqi.
The most heart wrenching moment in the narrative arrives when Zhang Jun makes the painful decision to relinquish their shared dream of attending university together. He realizes that staying close to her will only hold her back & this decision again solidifies the point of him being most complex character of this drama.

Despite these characters drifting away from Luo Qiqi, which almost leading to her giving up on her lifelong dream of attending a top university, they also serve as her catalyst for self realization and personal growth.

This beautiful show feels like a work of poetic art delivering a profound exploration of self discovery and development.

I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, although its essential to note that its a slow burn melodrama, so if this genre isn't your cup of tea, you may want to consider other options.

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Mystery, Mischief and Mayhem: The Intriguing World of Inspector Koo

As i was looking forward to Lee Young Ae's upcoming show maestra, so i decided to watch one of her previous dramas. I chose Inspector Koo and to my surprise, i ended up binge watching the entire series. It turned out to be much more interesting than i had initially anticipated, i can even say that i absolutely loved it.
The show revolves around a retired, eccentric Inspector Koo and a 20 something psychopathic serial killer. Despite their differences, they share a certain resemblance.

Inspector Koo, now retired spends her days playing online games, neglecting personal hygiene and eating habits. On the other hand, the young serial killer leads a stylish, charming and luxurious life. Interestingly their names are mirror images of each other, with Inspector Koo named Kyung Yi and the serial killer named Yi Kyung. However, their common trait is their intelligence and the entire series plays out like a thrilling game of cat and mouse.

Yi Kyung the college going killer, targets people who have committed wrongs & her killing methods are truly unique. She doesnt resort to direct violence. instead, she sets elaborate traps for her targets making her plans even more captivating. Another intriguing aspect of her character is that she only targets individuals who had done bad deeds in a past.
What sets her apart is her unusual method of punishing wrongdoers, she draws inspiration from various French books translating their ideas into her killing plans. Each book represents one murder.

Inspector Koo's character on the other hand, is far from the typical justice seeking detective. She takes on new cases from her junior solely because she offers her a new computer. Her motivation isnt rooted in a desire for justice but rather in the thrill and enjoyment of solving cases.

The drama also features one more strong villain, portrayed by the Kim Hae Sook, whose performance here rivals her best acting in Revenant and UTQU.
Both of these female villains Yi Kyung & Kim Hae Sook's character has very comeplx yet interesting relation which makes show even more exciting. At times they collaborate, assist one another and then turn against each other while Inspector Koo cleverly takes advantage of their enmity.

My most fav character in the series is Santa, played by Baek Sung Chul, a mute character introduced as Koo's assistant picked from an online game. Their bond isnt romantic but more like a parent and child, where he plays role like parent to Inspector Koo, they often shows him taking care of her in show. There is one interesting plot twist involving his character.

The show includes a few more interesting characters including Yi Kyung's accomplice, who happens to be gay, which i didnt expect in this type of series. What sets the serial killer characters apart is their multifaceted nature. They can appear as psycho killers in one moment and as normal individuals in the next.

Inspector Koo distinguishes itself from OCN's countryside thrillers by being a highly urban thriller set in Tongyeong, an unexplored location in Kdramas. The setting combined with the cinematography provides a fresh and beautiful backdrop for the series.

The top notch cinematography and the stylish OSTs/BGMs elevate the series to another level, enhancing the thrill of key moments. Without these elements, I might have rated the show lower.

The episodes end on suspenseful notes, leaving viewers eager for the next ones and despite some minor plot holes, i thoroughly enjoyed the series. In fact i found it more appealing than highly rated crime thriller dramas with MDL scores ranging from 8.6 to 8.8.

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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 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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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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Orchestra & Affairs: Cha Seeum's Artistic Passion Amidst Life's Struggles

I really liked watching this show. It was my first time checking out a semi makjang series with art at its centre. The show had some drama but it wasnt too much, they kept it real without going overboard.

The main character, Cha Seeum was definitely star of the show. She faced a lot of problems but her love for her profession was something else. She is one of the strongest female leads i have seen in a while and Lee YoungAe did a great job.

Male lead Jeongjae was a complex character, initially portrayed as a calculative, manipulative, control freak who wanted to take charge of Seeum's life. However as the story progressed, his character developed and in the end you could see that he truly loved Seeum.

Luna was interesting too. Usually shows make obsessed characters act super ott but they made her seem like a regular person. You would never think she is obsessed until she actually does something crazy.

The show got a bit boring sometimes which was a downside but overall it was worth watching.

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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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