The True Love Story (2025)

Lock in, boys!!!

Watched this on the FOD Short app with English subtitles!

With this premise, they could've very easily gone the absurdist route and cranked everything up to 100 with cartoonish villains and exaggerated performances, but the fact that it was played straight with a large cast of experienced actors who weren't totally checked out made it a much more palatable watch. Umefune Ariei in particular did a great job being calmly menacing and really tied everything together.

I do wish there was a bit more screentime devoted to showing Misaki interacting with everyone and building relationships, because even with these emotionally-heightened circumstances, the contestants' love for her seemed to come out of nowhere and who she picked to stay felt super arbitrary. I also don't think Misaki (or really any of the characters) were distraught enough over what was happening around them. The ending was funny because it wrapped everything in a neat little bow despite all the bloodshed left in its wake. I know that's all way too much to ask, though, and conversely, I think the efficient and uncomplicated storytelling worked in this drama's favor.

Overall, more than the plot, my enjoyment came from watching all these actors I know from different projects interact and seeing who got plot armor because they're more notable lol. But even if you're not a j-drama nerd like me and you're just looking for something brainless and entertaining, I think this one is worth checking out!

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