2023
shows i've completed in 2023 (chronological order)
dramas: 14 | movies: 5 | tv shows: 10 | specials: 0
korea: 29 | japan: 0 | china: 0 | thai: 0
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1. If You Wish Upon Me
Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes
○ 2023/02/18 (February 18th, 2023)
If You Wish Upon Me has a strong start, with compelling characters and an ironic message; learning how to live in a setting where people usually die. The acting is on-point, with Ji Chang Wook's and Won Ji An's acting being my favourites. Both of them are fantastic at expressing pain with simply their eyes. I don't know if I wasn't in the mood or whatnot, but I struggled getting through the second half. I feel like this should've been condensed into 12 episodes, because they were quite a few unnecessary episodes that felt like fillers. Despite my gripes, this was genuinely an entertaining watch that I would recommend to watchers who favour character development over plot.
Story ~ 7
Acting ~ 9.5
Music ~ 8
Characters ~ 8.5
Production ~ 7.5 -
2. One Dollar Lawyer
Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
○ 2023/02/22 (February 22nd, 2023)
One Dollar Lawyer marks my first ever drama starring Namkoong Min, and I must say, I 100% get why he's hailed as one of the greatest Korean actors. He truly embodies the role of Cheon Ji Hun. The way his eyes move, the flick of his jaw, the subtle mouth movements, all of these enhance the viewer's perception of the character. Oh, and the other actors/actresses did great as well! It sucked how the behind the scenes production severely downgraded this drama though. The 2.5 backstory episodes might have worked if it was a full-fledged 16 episode drama, but for a 12 episode drama, geez louise. Wayyyyy too long. If this gets a second season, (it has become a trend at this point) I hope that they'll focus more on the comedic side, as I believe that's the most entertaining aspect of One Dollar Lawyer.
Story ~ 6
Acting ~ 9
Music ~ 7
Characters ~ 8
Production ~ 4.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 6 -
3. Gaus Electronics
Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
○ 2023/02/23 (February 23rd, 2023)
Gaus Electronics is without a doubt one of the funniest kdramas to ever air. Its hilarious gags, genius wordplay, and fun atmosphere makes it delightfully entertaining. The acting is on point and they all deliver their characters' emotions pretty well. The chemistry between the couples were to die for; Ma Tan and Kang Mi in particular being the show stealers. If this ever gets a second season, I hope it's centered around both of them and their budding relationship. If you can't tell, I absolutely enjoyed the heck out of Gaus Electronics, and I truly hope more people check out this hidden gem.
Story ~ 9
Acting ~ 9
Music ~ 8
Characters ~ 9
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 10 -
4. The Beauty Inside
Korean Movie - 2015
○ 2023/02/24 (February 24th, 2023)
The Beauty Inside conveys a well-known message, that one's beauty matters most from the inside. It's something we've all heard before, but the reason why you hear it a lot is because it's 100% true. I thought the acting was great, and since there were so many popular actors that made a cameo, I was excited to see who showed up every scene. One thing I question is if the couple stays together, as I'm sure the unique relationship will take a toll on Yi Soo's mental health.
Story ~ 8
Acting ~ 8.5
Music ~ 5
Characters ~ 7
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 6.5 -
5. Fabricated City
Korean Movie - 2017
○ 2023/02/25 (February 25th, 2023)
I unfortunately couldn't enjoy this movie. 1) The chemistry and synergy between the main team was basically non-existent. I was expecting a team like the Rainbow Taxi from the drama Taxi Driver, but what I got was a cheap cop-out. 2) Characters were one-dimensional and felt like filler. While I did feel bad for what the MC went through, I honestly didn't care what happened to him throughout the movie. 3) The story was predictable, and while predictability is not a bad thing, it does ruin the overall effect Fabricated City was trying to go for. 4) The direction was all over the place. I couldn't figure out what this movie was trying to be. An action/thriller movie? A social commentary on how gamers get more scrutinized than others for simply playing video games? Overall, not my cup of tea.
Story ~ 3
Acting ~ 6
Music ~ 2
Characters ~ 2
Production ~ 5.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 1 -
6. Reborn Rich
Korean Drama - 2022, 16 episodes
○ 2023/02/26 (February 26th, 2023)
Can an ending make or break a drama?? I wouldn't say a bad ending significantly ruins a drama, but it does leave a bad taste in the viewers' mouths. All the buildup, the story, the hours you spent watching, wasted on a less than exceptional ending. Reborn Rich started off fantastic; great intrigue, morally gray characters, and a smart MC, but as the drama goes on, that spark decreases. I wish it would've focused more on the family dynamics, and take away the unnecessary romance. Song Joong Ki's acting was pretty solid, but he does get overshadowed by the amazing acting Lee Sung Min showed. I was in awe every time he spoke. All-in-all I'd say it's pretty entertaining :)
Story ~ 8.5
Acting ~ 8
Music ~ 5
Characters ~ 7.5
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8 -
7. Sixth Sense
Korean TV Show - 2020, 8 episodes
○ 2023/02/27 (February 27th, 2023)
I must say, Sixth Sense was hard-carried by the amazing cast and the fitting guests; everyone had fantastic chemistry with each other. While the main idea seemed interesting at first, it quickly got old fast. I think it would've worked better if instead of one fake, they have to guess if there's one, two, all, or no fakes. That would've added many variables that seem more fun for the cast & viewers as well.
Idea ~ 6
Cast ~ 9.5
Music ~ 7
Production ~ 10
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8 -
8. A Taxi Driver
Korean Movie - 2017
○ 2023/02/28 (February 28th, 2023)
An important movie that details the events that happened in the 1980 Gwangju Uprising incident. A Taxi Driver is raw, real, and impactful, with stellar acting and an important message. While I didn't enjoy it to the fullest, I definitely recommend others to give it a watch, as you might learn something you didn't know before.
Story ~ 9
Acting ~ 8.5
Music ~ 7
Characters ~ 8
Production ~ 7.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 5.5 -
9. We're Not Trash
Korean Drama - 2022, 8 episodes
○ 2023/02/28 (February 28th, 2023)
I loved this drama's discussion about mental health, and how it was talked about positively. It was nice seeing how both of them heal alongside one another. Despite its low production, I'd say this is a pretty decent drama.
Story ~ 7
Acting ~ 7
Music ~ 4
Characters ~ 6
Production ~ 5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 7.5 -
10. Cassiopeia
Korean Movie - 2022
○ 2023/03/01 (March 1st, 2023)
Let me tell you, I was on the verge of tears for the majority of this movie, and the ending made me bawl my eyes out. Just imagining my parents or loved ones not recognizing me is devastating. Seo Hyun Jin really brought out her A-game in this. She was wonderful :))
Story ~ 8.5
Acting ~ 9
Music ~ 6
Characters ~ 7.5
Production ~ 7.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8 -
11. Ditto
Korean Movie - 2022
○ 2023/03/02 (March 2nd, 2023)
A decent movie showcasing some upcoming actors and actresses. There really isn't much to say; the story was predictable, and some scenes were unnecessary. The movie could've been 30 minutes and it wouldn't change at all. The ending was bittersweet, but somewhat realistic. Still don't get how Han Sol ends up with Eun Sung with no prior romantic feelings. Like how tf did Han Sol like Eun Sung so quickly when a few minutes ago, she was in love with Young???? The characters have little to no depth. I genuinely cannot tell you one interesting personality trait of any main character.
Story ~ 5
Acting ~ 8
Music ~ 4
Characters ~ 2
Production ~ 7
Enjoyment Factor ~ 4.5 -
12. Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha
Korean Drama - 2021, 16 episodes
○ 2023/03/03 (March 3rd, 2023)
I am a SIMP for dimples, but sadly they couldn't save the snoozefest that is this drama. All the characters were pretty fucking annoying not gonna lie. None of the side characters were endearing, and the leads weren't strong enough characters to carry Homecha. I found this drama to be extremely draggy... 5+ episodes of the buildup and suspense of the ML's backstory and I found it okay at the very best. So many aspects rubbed me the wrong way to the point where I couldn't enjoy Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Do I think it's overrated? Absolutely. This is a small pet peeve of mine but I hated the music LMAO. Whenever the "la la la" song played I wanted to skip to the next scene.
Story ~ 3
Acting ~ 7
Music ~ 1
Characters ~ 2.5
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 4 -
13. High School Mystery Club
Korean TV Show - 2021, 16 episodes
○ 2023/03/22 (March 22nd, 2023) REWATCH
Girls High School Mystery Class never fails to keep me on the edge of my seat. Despite knowing what's gonna happen, I still felt the same amount of suspense as I did the first time I watched this show. The side characters did amazing in their roles; the improvisation was god-tier. The cast itself bounces off of each other really well, with my favourites being Do Yeon and Bibi. The overarching plot was engaging and the production outdid themselves. All-in-all, I will forever recommend this phenomenal tv show!!
Idea ~ 9
Cast ~ 10
Music ~ 7
Production ~ 10
Enjoyment Factor ~ 9.5 -
14. The Heavenly Idol
Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
○ 2023/03/25 (March 25th, 2023)
The Heavenly Idol is straight up ridiculous; exaggerated characters, subplots coming out of nowhere, and a laughable premise. The thing is, the director and the screenwriter know that, and bask it all in the sunlight. Instead of downplaying the absurdity of it all, they instead up the ridiculousness-factor, creating a lighthearted and funny drama. Rembrary was a fantastic lead, and Kim Min Gue's acting is truly the cherry on top. I know a lot of people didn't like the romance, but I found it satisfying to unfold. To enjoy this drama, please just turn off your brain. Trust me, it makes the viewing experience 100x more entertaining :))
Story ~ 7
Acting ~ 8.5
Music ~ 9
Characters ~ 8
Production ~ 8.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 9.5 -
15. High School Mystery Club Season 2
Korean TV Show - 2021, 8 episodes
○ 2023/03/26 (March 26th, 2023) REWATCH
I have the same thoughts as the first season. The NPCs this season were even more impressive than the first season. I have extreme respect for the staff members who came up with this outstanding show and had to improvise every time something went haywire. Girls High School Mystery Class Season 2 is a true gem, and I hope season 3 gets announced soon!! <3
Idea ~ 9.5
Cast ~ 10
Music ~ 9
Production ~ 10
Enjoyment Factor ~ 10 -
16. Our Dating Sim
Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
○ 2023/03/30 (March 30th, 2023)
With a basic premise, short runtime, and unknown actors, I wasn't expecting much from Our Dating Sim. However, I was pleasantly surprised. While the production is simple, you can tell they put a lot of thought into the scene compositions and the settings. The actors did a good job of conveying their characters' feelings. I'd say this is definitely an above average BL that all BL lovers should watch.
Story ~ 8
Acting ~ 8
Music ~ 6
Characters ~ 8
Production ~ 7
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8 -
17. Navillera
Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes
○ 2023/04/04 (April 4th, 2023)
I'll be quite honest, I didn't enjoy Navillera as much as others. This is definitely a character-driven drama, so if you don't have any emotional attachment to any character like me, it could get a little dull to watch. The message was nice and uplifting, but I didn't like how it was basically shoved down our throats every few minutes. Each character had the same exact story arc; doing something they truly want to do instead of compromising and doing what society deems them "normal" to do. I didn't find any acting outstanding or mindblowing. They all did fine. I can see why this might be a favourite of another, but for me, it doesn't stand out.
Story ~ 7.5
Acting ~ 7
Music ~ 4.5
Characters ~ 7
Production ~ 6
Enjoyment Factor ~ 2 -
18. Delivery Man
Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
○ 2023/04/06 (April 6th, 2023)
Delivery Man's overall bubbly atmosphere is what kept me engaged throughout every week. It's easy to watch, with no complex idea/concept that leaves you scratching your head. Sometimes, those types of dramas are what you need the most!
Story ~ 6.5
Acting ~ 7.5
Music ~ 6
Characters ~ 7
Production ~ 4
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8.5 -
19. Divorce Attorney Shin
Korean Drama - 2023, 12 episodes
○ 2023/04/10 (April 10th, 2023)
I have to admit, I was struggling to finish this drama. Many times I have contemplated dropping this, but I continued on because I was already halfway through. Sure, the acting was good, but everything else for me fell flat. All the cases were pretty damn boring, the characters were meh, and the pacing was horrible! I didn't enjoy watching this drama at all.
Story ~ 5
Acting ~ 8
Music ~ 3
Characters ~ 3.5
Production ~ 5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 0.5 -
20. HyeMiLeeYeChaePa
Korean TV Show - 2023, 12 episodes
○ 2023/06/01 (June 1st, 2023)
Can I just say, the casting was perfect! I watched this mainly for Yena and Chaewon, but in the process, I fell in love with the other members, particularly Miyeon. The concept of this being a retreat with no items or furniture was hilarious. The games were simple, however the staff always switched it up, so it was not boring to watch. I just loved everything about this and I can't wait for season 2. I'll be waiting in bated breath <3
Idea ~ 9
Cast ~ 10
Music ~ 9
Production ~ 10
Enjoyment Factor ~ 10 -
21. Taxi Driver Season 2
Korean Drama - 2023, 16 episodes
○ 2023/06/05 (June 5th, 2023)
Definitely not as good as the first season. The characters felt so flat and static, especially if you compare them to the original season. Many of the cases relied on total luck and the main villains were pretty boring to be quite honest. It's not horrible, but I wouldn't recommend it.
Story ~ 6
Acting ~ 8
Music ~ 7
Characters ~ 4
Production ~ 7
Enjoyment Factor ~ 5 -
22. The First Responders
Korean Drama - 2022, 12 episodes
○ 2023/06/05 (June 5th, 2023)
I liked the inclusion of the firefighters, since I don't believe there are many dramas revolving them. The main character got on my nerves a few times, but the rest of the characters were pretty cool. The cases were pretty run-of-the-mill. I took a break midway and now I can't even remember what the first few cases were even about. This definitely shows how forgettable the cases are.
Story ~ 6
Acting ~ 7
Music ~ 5.5
Characters ~ 6
Production ~ 6.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 6.5 -
23. Girls Planet 999
Korean TV Show - 2021, 12 episodes
○ 2023/06/11 (June 11th, 2023)
I don't even know where to start with this one. At first, I absolutely enjoyed it. I thought pairing up 3 contestants from 3 different countries was a good idea since it allowed them to bond, but they threw out that idea pretty quickly. Not to mention, the xenophobia was strong. All the chinese trainees were evil edited so much, it was infuriating to watch. The stage sets were actually well-done, though I could tell the budget was cut compared to previous Mnet survival shows. The final lineup was so fucking weird. It had to do with the horrible voting system. 50% Korean and 50% international votes??? WTF. It's an Mnet show, so proceed with caution.
Idea ~ 7
Contestants ~ 9
Editing ~ 0.5
Production ~ 7
Songs ~ 7
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8 -
24. Kep1er View
Korean TV Show - 2021, 2 episodes
○ 2023/06/15 (June 15th, 2023)
A pre-debut tv show with Kep1er! You can tell how comfortable they are with each other and with the cameras. Some of them have a really good variety sense so I can't wait to watch more of their content.
Idea ~ 8
Cast ~ 8.5
Music ~ 8
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 8.5 -
25. Kep1er Zone
Korean TV Show - 2022, 10 episodes
○ 2023/06/16 (June 16th, 2023)
Kep1er is just so fucking hilarious. Their chemistry bounces off of each other really well. I feel like everybody got to shine in this show.
Idea ~ 9
Cast ~ 9
Music ~ 8.5
Production ~ 8.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 9.5 -
26. Kep1er Zone Season 2
Korean TV Show - 2022, 10 episodes
○ 2023/06/16 (June 16th, 2023)
The games weren't as fun to watch as the last season, though nonetheless it's still quite entertaining.
Idea ~ 7
Cast ~ 9
Music ~ 8
Production ~ 8.5
Enjoyment Factor ~ 7.5 -
27. The Zone: Survival Mission
Korean TV Show - 2022, 8 episodes
○ 2023/11/26 (Novembver 26th, 2023)
A solid idea but horrible, horrible execution. It's like the production team didn't even try. Some of the episodes had awful missions that had to be entirely carried by the cast. Overall, one of the worst variety shows I've seen in a while.
Idea ~ 6
Cast ~ 8
Music ~ 3
Production ~ 0
Enjoyment Factor ~ 0 -
28. Vigilante
Korean Drama - 2023, 8 episodes
○ 2023/12/23 (December 23rd, 2023)
Nam Joo Hyuk really showed his acting chops here. The storyline itself was fascinating, though I do believe the execution was a bit stale.
Story ~ 7
Acting ~ 9
Music ~ 6
Characters ~ 7.5
Production ~ 8
Enjoyment Factor ~ 7
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