A Somewhat Realistic Love Story That Almost Works

How often do people go through life believing that the grass is always greener somewhere else? And very often, we find that a new place only brings about new pros and cons.

As someone who's lived and worked in six countries, I know this truth only too well. Places always have new and interesting things that you find appealing, and things that you miss. This is even true of the country you come from. In short, it's a no-win scenario...so long as you continue to believe that there is something better over the next hill, instead of learning to simply appreciate where you are.

Majhoy is a young Filipino woman who has moved to the Faroe Islands. She is married, has a young daughter, and works two jobs, including an Asian Restaurant/Food Truck. It turns out that there are a number of Filipino women living there...mostly for economic convenience. "Love? What is that?!" one of them jokes.

Nico is a young man who is a producer of documentary films. He visits the Faroe Islands to find out more about why so many Filipino women move and live there. It doesn't take long before he focuses solely on Majhoy. It takes even less time to realize that they have feelings for each other.

Majhoy's husband is a significantly older man. And despite his slight brusque demeanor, it's obvious that he loves his wife. He doesn't mistreat or abuse her.

It becomes obvious that Nico will do anything to take Majhoy back to the Phillippines; ignoring Majhoy's marriage or even the welfare of Lena, Majhoy's daughter. He can only see his own wants and needs. He naively believes that it is that simple to swoop in, disrespect a living situation, and make off with Majhoy.

Unfortunately, Majhoy makes the mistake of capitulating and even giving Nico some sense of hope that his dreams will be fulfilled. It isn't until Majhoy's husband returns from his fishing trip that she realizes that all-in-all, she has a husband who loves and cares for her. Both characters behave selfishly and disrespectfully which makes them unsympathetic and easily unlikeable.

In the end, the one person you feel the most sorry for is Sigmund (Majhoy's husband). The writers try to make you feel sorry for Nico and Majhoy but their selfish, underhanded lack of respect for anyone else makes that difficult. Why? Because it is impossible to be happy while hurting others. It just doesn't work. One's true happiness never comes at the expense of anyone else.

The movie is beautifully filmed in the Faroe Islands. The islands, indeed, look like something out of a fairy tale. I wouldn't be surprised if tourism gets a boost after people see this film. I certainly would like to visit!

The performances are also very good from the entire cast. But if you're going into this film, hoping for a romantic, uplifting love story, you won't find it here. In many ways, the story is too real for that. A big reason that the story doesn't fail is because the writers stayed true to the situation and the characters rather than "give in" to make a "happily ever after" ending. Much like the Faroe Islands themselves, the film leaves you cold and desolate, but true given the reality of the situation.

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Love Is Letting Go...Not About Sacrifice

I've seen a few of Kathryn Bernardo's films, and I believe she turned in the performance of her life. She stepped away from the typical romantic-comedies (many of which are actually quite good), and challenged herself to take on the role of a much deeper and much more complex character in Joy.

I have always marveled--and not in a good way--of how people tend to use others; even people they love; even members of their own families. Of course, children are usually guilted into it. In short, it's a parent's way of saying, "I suffered, and so now you must suffer too. Why? Because it's how families work."

As stated in other reviews, I am an ESL teacher. I've lived and worked in South Korea, China, and Taiwan. I know quite a bit about how Asian parents tend to treat their kids. Of course, it's not all bad. You'll scarcely find parents who are more dedicated to teaching their children about discipline and hard-work. The large contrast between them and western parents, is that western parents tend to allow their kids to do whatever they want. They're spoiled beyond belief. What is needed is a balance.

As the eldest daughter, Joy is in Hong Kong working several jobs in order to keep herself alive as well as sending money back home to her family in the Phillippines. She has a nursing degree. Her dream is to go to Canada to pursue what she loves. Of course, she meets and falls in love with Ethan, a young man who is also from the Phillippines, who is trying to support his family as well, after a disastrous relationship that nearly cost him everything.

Ethan, of course, is hoping that Joy will decide to stay in Hong Kong, and not go to Canada. This is when the film really grabs the viewer to see what Joy will decide to do.

Love is not about sacrifice for someone else. Sacrifice is about losing something, and love is never about loss. It's always about who you are. In all her wisdom, Joy has to explain this to Ethan as well as outlining the consequences of not pursuing her dream. Fortunately, Ethan finally gets it and is able to do what only love can do: let go. As soon as you try to hold onto it, love ceases to be love.

Filmed in Hong Kong, we're giving a stark and not-so-pleasing depiction of life for many immigrants struggling to survive. Some can do it. Some can't. In the end, you can only truly look after yourself and not lose sight of your own dreams. Of course, the world, and even your own family will throw every reason at you to NOT pursue your dreams. If you give in, you have no one to blame but yourself. If you forge ahead, then you have gained more profound wisdom about life than what most people can only dream about.

My only complaint of the film was that the chemistry between Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards was not what it should have been. And because of this, the film loses a bit of its heart and depth. I'd say it was pretty obvious that Kathryn Bernardo did not want to do any kissing scenes with Alden due to her love and respect for her boyfriend, Daniel Padilla. The only kiss we see is one on her forehead in the dark. Can you imagine the lack of depth in a film like Titanic if Jack and Rose only held hands and never shared a kiss? I couldn't help but wonder how much more powerful the film would have been if another actress had performed in the role, or if Padilla himself hadn't turned the role down (which I read that he had).

Still, this is a memorable film that challenges everyone to go after their dreams and let nothing and no one stand in your way.

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Just...Wow!

Some people don't believe in angels. I believe there are some angels you can't see, and there are some angels you can. This is a beautiful, touching story of two "angels" : Lea and Tonyo, and how they are able to be there for each other.

Both are two people living in Japan. Lea has found out that her fiance has been seeing another woman. The stress and trauma has robbed her of her eyesight. The doctors tell her that it is, more than likely, only temporary.

Enter Tonyo, a man who lives across the street. His first attempts of opening communication with Lea are failures. But, he doesn't give up. He has a certain wit and charm that finally wins over Lea, and they begin spending time together. Tonyo knows exactly what to say to get a laugh out of Lea.

There are a couple of plot twists that I doubt anyone will be able to see coming, and the writers need to be given credit for pulling off such a feat, as it seems that more and more writers today either don't dare try, or it ends up not working at all.

What the movie is ultimately about, is kindness, and how a single gesture can work miracles. I think most people underestimate a single, kind act. And how, much like a small pebble, it can send ripples across a lake. The beauty of this film is that we don't see the end results of the acts of kindness of Lea and Tonyo until the end.

The film is beautifully filmed and the actors are simply incredible. The chemistry between Alessandra De Rossi and Empoy Marquez is undeniable. They are the ones that make the film work.

This is one of those little gems (much like a small pebble) that once you see it, you will feel the effects for a long time to come!

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Live Your Life, Live Your Dreams!

This is the fourth Filipino film that I've now seen, and they're quickly winning me over and desiring more! I'm only concerned that I'll run out via Netflix, leaving me wondering how I'm going to watch some more.

"Crazy Beautiful You" was my first foray and with the same two delightful leads in Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. There's no denying their chemistry, which probably makes things much easier for them as they are a real-life couple. Their charm and obvious feelings permeate the screen. I also love the fact that neither one of them is afraid to show genuine emotion.

This go-around sees Gab, who has been with her boyfriend for 6 years. Finally, he proposes to her. Except that Gab has a problem: she's already married! To her dismay, she finds that after a drunken night, she has married Dos, a young man she met at the club.

Unlike America, where people can get divorces and/or annulments fairly easily, it is not so easy to do in the Phillippines. Gab finds herself having to track Dos down and get him to agree to a divorce. He agrees, as hilarity ensues as Gab tries to play out various "divorce reasons" to satisfy the court. Everything from impotence, insanity, homosexuality, etc. These will have you laughing out loud.

However, as one may predict, Gab and Dos start falling for each other as they attempt to track down the one witness they need to satisfy the divorce criteria. While the initial format is predictable, the way things play out is not. There are a couple of twists that I'm not sure anyone will see coming.

I was also pleased that the writer didn't fall for the overly-used "big climactic ending" that is so commonplace that they're actually boring. Instead, we get a true, legitimate ending that satisfies the story, the characters, and the viewer. And while I loved "Crazy Beautiful You," the ending of this film is done much better, in my opinion.

Another thing I love about these movies is that they have poignant messages. This film dares one to live your dream. Live your own life. No one, not even parents, have the right to control your life and tell you how to live it. And you can't be afraid to make mistakes. How else does one learn? How else does one realize what works and what doesn't work without mistakes?

Mary Tyler Moore once said, "Someone who has had nothing but perfect and wonderful experiences isn't very brave." It takes adversity to truly strengthen a person.

Parents and partners alike have one job: empower your children and empower your partner. Give them the space and freedom to be who they are. Control is never the answer. Control is about allowing someone else to live your life for you. Freedom is about allowing someone to live their own life. This movie dares you to do the latter.

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Love Never Loves the Same Way Twice!

While Love is unconditional, constant, and unchanging, the WAY we love is always different. People should hopefully take comfort in the fact that that makes, not only way you love someoone unique, but YOU unique as well.

Unfortunately, people tend to also forget that many relationships are finite. It's been said, "It is interesting to note that people can easily recognize when a relationship begins, but are unable or unwilling to recognize when a relationship ends."

Mace is a broken-hearted young woman coming off an 8-year relationship with her boyfriend who is living in Rome. Angelica Panganiban plays the role so realistically, you can feel her anger, frustration, and sense of loss. I would wager than anyone, who has ever been where she is, has felt exactly how she feels.

Anthony is a young man also returning home from Rome, and he sees Mace struggling to lighten her suitcase in order to meet the weight criteria. He decides to help her. He's also there through her rants and outbursts, but somehow, we get the sense that he understands her plight.

This is a film that reminded me a lot of "Before Sunrise," a brilliant movie where two people walk around Vienna getting to know each other. However, in this case, it's about two people spending time together, helping each other to heal. While Mace's hurts are recent, we discover that Anthony is also carrying some old hurts and regrets as well, but he's able to find ways to help Mace.

Angelica Panganiban and JM De Guzman are simply brilliant, and more importantly, real. They know their characters inside and out, and they are also very relatable. They could easily be anyone who has been where they are, and because the story is told in such a realistic tone, it works tremendously well.

Perhaps Mace will realize that making someone else the center of your life is always a disaster waiting to happen. Unless you love yourself first, you cannot give what you do not have. Relationships are never about finding someone to complete you. They are always about sharing your completeness with someone else. That is the secret!.

In any case, you learn from past relationships to find what you want in future relationships. And hopefully, when a relationship ends, you are grateful to that person for the time spent and wish them all the best as they continue their own journey.

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Rock Solid, Entertaining Show...Until the Very End

Eun-Sook Kim hasn't failed me yet. She is a master storyteller, focusing on deep, rich characters and plots. "Mr. Sunshine" is still her masterpiece with "Descendants of the Sun" just a hair behind it. "The King: The Eternal Monarch" is another great series, even if it doesn't quite hold up against the other two. I still enjoyed it.

I give props to any writer who attempts to tackle "time travel" as a major plot device. It's not easy, and there is so much to keep track of. The best ones tend to provide the best and most feasible explanations. The worst ones tend to make the viewer believe that the writer had no clue how to write using time travel. In my opinion, "Star Trek" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation" always did the best job when it came to stories regarding parallel universes.

The story centers around Lee Gon, King of the Kingdom of Corea, which we quickly find out, is a parallel world to the world that we know. His half-uncle (Lee Lim) seems to be plotting the overthrow of the current king--Lee Gon's father--but we find out that his true aim is to possess a flute that gives the wielder the ability to crossover into those parallel worlds. The coup attempt leaves Lee Gon's father dead, Lee Gon half alive as a young boy, and Lee Lim escaping. However, both are in possession of half of the flute (as it was cut in half), giving Lee Gon and his uncle the ability to crossover.

We find that Lee Gon grows up to be a genious in Quantum Physics, giving him the ability to use mathematical equations to access parallel worlds at various points in time as well as calculate the pitfalls of he and his uncle only having half the flute. Somehow, Lee Lim--not being a Quantum Physics genius--is able to remain a step ahead of his half-nephew.

Lt. Jeong Tae Eul is a young detective in the violent crimes unit as a black belt in Taekwondo. She is the first to come across Lee Gon when he crosses over into the Republic of Korea. Of course, she was immensely skeptical of him when he tells her who he is and where he is from.

Once again, we are provided with rich characters and fantastic actors to play them. Min-Ho Lee (Lee Gon) and Go-Eun Kim are the leads, and it's clear that their chemistry is what helps to drive the story. All of the supporting characters are great as well. The fact that nearly every actor has to play their main role plus their counterparts, was done seemlessly!

It can be a bit challenging keeping track of all the characters and their counterparts, as each character also has a different name in the parallel world. I also wasn't satisfied with the ending. It was as if Eun-Sook Kim tried to find a middle ground for the ending. Would Lt. Jeong Tae Eul become Lee Gon's queen and go to live in his world? Would Lee Gon give up his kingdom and go to live in Tae Eul's world? Both aren't likely, despite the deep love that they have. I know people tend to love "happy endings" so instead, we have both characters spending weekends traversing the multiverse and visitng various parallel worlds. Funny how Tae Eul always has weekends off, despite being a detective, and Lee Gon can simply leave his kingdom whenever he chooses. Nice ending? Sure. Realistic one? No. This wasn't like "Crash Landing On You" in which the two are separated by a wall and have no choice but to make the best of it. This is finding a "happy solution" rather than the "right solution."

Still, I wouldn't let the end prevent you from watching this series. Korean Dramas are fantastic at giving us good characters and good plots that keep us invested and longing to watch the next episode. You won't be disappointed by this series at all.

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What is Missing in Education!

Throughout history, there have been those who wish to impose their own societal, cultural, or religious beliefs upon others. This is not something new. However, what most advocates for the imposition of arbitrary rules fail to realize is that all imposition and oppression will always be fought again. Why? Because these things go against the very nature of the soul. And the nature of the soul is freedom.

Life is choice. It always has been and it always will be. “Rules” are implemented by those who lack the wisdom of education; to help people make better choices. And yet, all education lacks the central core value that everyone needs: learning how to love yourself. When you love yourself, you will find it very difficult to make any decisions that bring harm to yourself as well as others. When you love yourself, you will no longer need outside help and influences to make decisions. They will simply become a fabric of who you are. In short, they will be second nature. This is what is lacking in every single educational institution on the planet. Mankind has not yet evolved to this level yet, but there are those very few who are trying to help people realize that this is absolutely necessary because it is the missing piece. And it is even more vital that this type of education be implemented from the very first levels of schooling (kindergarten/pre-school).

The headmaster of an elite all-girls school has merged with an all-boys school. Immediately, she implements a ban on romance. Anyone caught engaging in romantic activities--even if it’s not on school grounds, will be expelled. This is the type of primitive, Puritanical control spawned by the most cowardly of people; those who are incapable of dealing and facing their own feelings, and so instead, they attempt to control others. It’s entirely cowardly and fear-based. Such cowards will eventually have to come to terms with their own impotence.

A gestapo group of students are even utilized by the headmaster to hunt down and find any students are breaking the rule. They are asked to bring back photos or any evidence they can obtain. Of course, most of the students who are engaging in such practice are those who have been spurned or rejected by someone, and therefore, do so out of anger and self-loathing.

Ichika Arisawa is a young girl whose mother is in tremendous debt. Debt collectors harass her, due to her father’s inability to pay off the family debt, despite the fact that Ichika’s parents are divorced. Her mother is working long hours to just to make enough to make ends meet. The school is made up mostly of very rich students, and Ichika spies a way to make some money to help. She finds students engaging in romantic activities, and then she makes a “demand” of money to keep their romance safe. She even gives herself the pseudonym of “Love Keeper.” At first, it’s very self-serving and nothing short of blackmail, but students eager to keep their romance safe and not risk getting expelled are more than happy to pay the one-time payment. Ichika even knows how to break into the school counselor’s computer in order to delete any evidence.

Ichika, however, soon finds herself front and center when she falls in love with Maki Ryogo, a rebellious student who, at first, is trying to get expelled from the school. However, his father, a bitter, abusive man, donates a tremendous amount of money, and therefore, his “romantic whims” are simply overlooked by the headmaster. Maki discovers that Ichika is the “Love Keeper” and decides that he actually wants to help.

The series plays out much like “Footloose” a movie based upon a true story where dancing was banned in a small town because it was thought to be a promiscuous act. The headmaster endeavors to “protect” the students with such a ridiculous rule, but failing to realize that it’s impossible to go through life without pain. It’s how we deal with the pain that matters, but she hasn’t the wisdom to realize that her job is to empower and help students navigate these temporary, painful moments of life. Attempts to shield your children from pain is like standing in front of them in a rainstorm, and actually believing that you are protecting them from the rain. It’s an impossibility. Instead, you teach them how to protect themselves and empower them with the wisdom and confidence that they will, hopefully, make wise decisions. They won’t always do so. Not even adults bat .1000 in this regard!

The series is insightful, despite the fact that it may be hard to believe that in this day and age, there are still those of a Puritanical mindset, but the series works. It is also not afraid to address all aspects of romance, whether it be heterosexual or homosexual. Remember that true love has absolutely no conditions.

Performances are first-rate across the board. We share in the angst and frustrations of the students are simply trying to get through a day while battling the feelings and seemingly conflicting emotions which are prevalent in teenagers. Remember the joy of experiencing something for the first time, whether it was kissing someone or holding their hand? To a teenager, it’s huge, and most adults have forgotten those precious moments. To cast them as “bad” is like throwing a bucket of mud on a flower.

Make no mistake. This series isn’t really about sex, although it’s discussed and shown briefly as well as tastefully. It’s about trust. It’s about empowerment, and these are things, even in today’s world, that are sorely needed!

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Charming and Delightful Kim Ok Bin Gives Us A Strong Woman While Exposing the Hypocrisy of Society!

This is a simply delightful and incredibly hilarious romantic comedy that succeeds largely due to its originality and not going down the pitfalls of overused cliches. I haven’t laughed this hard since “Hospital Playlist,” and there are too many numerous moments that will either have you laughing out loud or possibly even rolling on the floor with laughter.

However, as with so many Korean shows, not everything is for comedic value as the writers expose the incredible sexism and hypocrisy of the entertainment world that is largely in place due to warped religious, societal, and cultural values that are in place because of male chauvinistic rules about what is proper and what isn’t. Sadly, society loves to build up a hero, but it loves to tear one down even more. Whenever anyone is placed upon a pedestal—which is always a skewed and warped version of the real person—expectations will always inevitably take a hit because people refuse to see such people as human.

Nam Kang Ho is on top of the world as far as the movie industry goes. He’s the top-billed star in the highest demand. What people don’t realize is that he has a fear of being intimate with women. Even doing kissing scenes with female co-stars causes him to have a negative reaction. Of course, as with all rumors, it’s assumed that he doesn’t like women.

Yeo Mi-Ran is a lawyer who is also a master martial artist. Nothing brings her so much pleasure as exposing men for what they are (or what she believes them all to be): liars and cheats who look down on women. She also has no compunction about beating them up if they push things too far. Her relationships never go further than one-night stands, and usually done to prove that men are exactly what she believes them to be.

Ironically, what we have here is a bit of a role reversal. In some ways, Nam Kang Ho behaves more like how a woman would react to relationships that never pan out. And Yeo Mi-Ran has almost masculine traits in how she deals with men. She makes absolutely no apologies for how she lives her life. And why should she? Because she’s a woman? Hence, the hypocrisy of today’s world which is always at the forefront for entertainers thanks to social media. So, a man can sleep with as many women as he likes, and there is virtually no negative feedback. However, if a woman is caught doing the same thing, a cascade of negative feedback is always inevitable. And this series beautifully exposes such insane and sexist views that are largely created by men and promoted by everyone.

At first, Yeo Mi-Ran has a strong dislike for Nam Kang Ho when she misunderstands something that he says to his agent and friend. She vows to destroy him and put him in his place. Before long, she’s hired by a law firm that represents people in the entertainment industry and—of course—she ends up working with and representing Nam Kang Ho. Thus begins a very cute and often hilarious relationship where both Yeo Mi-Ran and Nam Kang Ho begin to realize that all is not what each believes the other to be. One of the absolute funniest moments is Yeo Mi-Ran attempting to teach Nam Kang Ho how to fight so that he can properly do a fighting scene in his new film. Little does he realize that he’s dealing with an expert and quickly finds himself subdued and knocked out. Of course, we already know that Yeo Mi-Ran is no wallflower, no damsel in distress who needs to be saved by a man in any circumstances.

One of the all-time great scenes in the series is when Nam Kang Ho and Yeo Mi-Ran profess their feelings and proceed to make love. What makes the scene work so perfectly is because the characters are allowed to be who they are. It isn’t Nam Kang Ho who initiates things—as we’ve seen hundreds, if not thousands, of times in romance movies and shows. Believe it or not ladies, men actually also enjoy having their female partners take charge sometimes too! I actually clapped my hands when the scene played out because I was thrilled to see the female character take matters into her own hands—and in this case, literally!

Some of the greatest of entertainment stars live outside of the limelight. Now, I realize that this is much harder to do in a small country like Korea, but basically, no apologies or even explanations should ever be made for how they live their lives. If you care too much about what people think, then perhaps you’re in the wrong business. The life of any celebrity is always wrought with the highs and lows, the positive and negative views of the media and the public. You’re a hero one day and a goat the next. The courageous make no apologies and never feel that they have to explain themselves to anyone, for that merry-go-round is literally endless.

This is an absolutely terrific series that tickles the funny bone and warms the heart, and like so many Korean shows, has a heartfelt message to expound to its viewers. Be careful about putting people on pedestals for they will always disappoint you in the end. Just because someone makes their living in the spotlight doesn’t mean that they are any different or more special than anyone else.

Performances across the board were incredible, but frankly it is Kim Ok Bin who steals the series for me. She’s able to create a character who doesn’t come across as overbearing or some uptight man-hating feminist. Despite being tough and independent—a great example for women to follow—she also has a soft, feminine nature that she takes great pride in demonstrating. She also helps to change the outdated perception that just because she’s a woman, she’s hardly weak. In many ways, Yeo Mi-Ran is a champion for women to follow and also for men to help them realize that there is true strength in being a woman and exhibiting strong, feminine qualities. And Kim Ok Bin handles this masterfully. It was so refreshing and also inspiring to see this kind of woman portrayed in this series.

These ten episodes went by fast, as I was watching at least two per day, but it was just long enough to encapsulate everything the writers wanted to convey without the need to prolong things unnaturally. Even the end didn’t feel like the writers had to delve into the “romantic comedy” playbook to wrap things up. They stuck with the characters and allowed things to evolve organically and naturally. Such are the hallmarks of a great series!

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The Two Main Female Characters Make This Series Soar!

There is much to like in “A Business Proposal.” The story may seem a bit cliched, but it’s the execution of that story that makes it stand out from so many others. It’s smooth and the writers are careful not to change the character for the sake of the plot, which is too common of a mistake that I’ve seen. What really makes this series stand out is the strength of the two main female characters in Ha Ri Shin and Jin Young Seo.

Too often, we see young women in K-Dramas act indecisively and like wallflowers whenever they face obstacles. They tend to be too easily influenced by their parents or peers, unable to make decisions for themselves. And when faced with hardship, they tend to wilt faster than a flower in the scorching sun. Not these two! Ha Ri Shin and Jin Young Seo are strong women who are decisive, mature, and can think for themselves. They are also not afraid to stand up for themselves, which is something very refreshing about this series!

My favorite series involving “young love” is still “Our Beloved Summer” but this one comes awfully close! My favorite shows of the older and more mature persuasion are too tough to call. With fantastic shows in “Mr. Sunshine,” “Crash Landing On You,” and “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” it’s tough to decide. ‘

The pacing of this show is perfect! Everything moves along smoothly without extraneous scenes or ridiculous new storylines to keep the story going. Therefore, I was grateful that the series ended after 12 episodes. Everything was covered, and there was no reason to attempt to stretch things out.

It’s really hard for me to decide which character—and even actress—I like more between Kim Se Jeong (Ha Ri Shin) and Seol In Ah (Jin Young Seo). Both are marvelous as two young women who initially set out to scheme their way through a blind date that neither of them wants to figuring out how to be with the men that they love. Both bring a refreshing strength and even feistiness to their roles. As I said, these two women are not wallflowers. They can take care and look out for themselves. I’ve seen Kim Se Jeong before in “Uncanny Counter”—and imagine my thrill to learn that there is another series of that one coming!—but this is my first exposure to the equally beautiful and captivating Seol In Ah.

The only characters I pretty much despised were Da Goo Kang, the grandfather, and Min Woo. Da Goo Kang, is a typical bully with nothing but selfish intentions. Meddlers always have that in common. Their attempts to control others under the guise of “love” is truly sickening. If it’s selfish, it cannot be love since love can never be selfish. I was thrilled to find Ha Ri Shin not giving into Da Goo Kang’s immaturity and selfishness. I was worried that she was going to cave into him. And Jin Young Seo was a true champion standing up to her own father, who was just as much of a bully as the grandfather. Bullies only get their power when someone gives it to them. At heart, they are gutless cowards.

Ha Ri proves her strength by not seeing herself as an inferior person just because she doesn't come from a wealthy family. And Jin Young Seo proves her strength by having the courage to break free of her father's iron grip.

Min Woo, a longtime friend and initial crush of Ha Ri, is a despicable young man who has a girlfriend, but behaves in a most insensitive manner when he demonstrates his feelings for Ha Ri right in front of her! I was initially surprised that Ha Ri would not call him out for this. I certainly would not want a “friend” who does something so vile and cruel to someone else. Fortunately, she finally does let him have it, even though it was a bit long time in coming.

The series is a step in the right direction if the aim is to project strong, female characters and demonstrate that they are people too as well as characters who will not yield to the cheap intimidation tactics that so many of their counterparts in the past have done. I was more than thrilled to see these characters did not take the road most others have traveled by, but instead, carved out their own road by showcasing empowered women.

As I stated before, I hope to see more series with strong women in the future!

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This is the story of two people, who believe themselves to be broken; who believe that they aren't really worthy of anyone or anything. It's very hard to be in a relationship with someone with this mindset, as it isn't long before they look to the other person to fill the void that they believe exists in their life. The astonishing secret is this: there is no void in anyone's life. And nobody outside of yourself will ever be enough because unless you love yourself first, you will quickly find that you cannot give what you do not have.

Hyun-woo is a boy with a very troubled past; a past that he desperately wants to forget and keep from influencing his ability to create a life for himself. There is only one person of whom he dreams of spending a life with; one of the few people he feels that he can trust, and that's Mi-Su.

Mi-Su is a young woman, who also has a troubled past. She can never seem to get her life in order, and she views herself as a loser; a loser due to choices that's she's made in her life that have not brought her the fulfillment she seeks. The only person she feels remotely happy with is Hyun-woo, who shows up at the bakery where she works.

Hyun-woo and Mi-Su are two people who clearly like each other, but can't seem to find a way to connect for more than a fleeting day or so. Over the span of about 11 years, they float in and out of each other's lives, until finally, they are able to reach a more permanent connection.

Mi-Su is someone who has always had a difficult time trusting. This isn't uncommon from someone who's lacking in self-esteem and self-love. Hyun-woo is someone who is trying to keep the past from tainting his relationship with Mi-Su.

People keep secrets for a reason, and they should never feel pressure to reveal something if they do not feel ready. Prying, of course, never ends well. However, keeping a secret from someone can also come back to bite you.

The performances are very good, even if the plot loses a bit of traction in the last 30 minutes or so. Some of the scenes don't make a lot of sense toward the end, but ultimately, the director finds a way to save the story before it falls flat on its face.

I can't help thinking that Hyun-woo and Mi-Su will never be able to have a successful relationship until each of them begins to love themselves. A dysfunctional relationship involving two gloomy people, isn't likely to succeed. Eckhart Tolle wisely points out, "Movies always have those happy endings when the two people get together. However, they never tell you what comes after."

If the writer and director had filled in some of the holes of the movie, it would have been much better. However, this is a very watchable, and mostly enjoyable, film.

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All Things Must Pass

There is one constant in the universe: Everything changes. Nothing stays the same. All “Goodbyes” are temporary. Shakespeare may have said it best: All the world’s a stage and all the men and women are merely players. They each have many entrances and exits, and one man in his time plays many parts.

Hotel Del Luna is an extraordinary series about the high price of holding onto grievances, unfinished business, resentments, guilt, and grudges. They create a heavy burden; a weight that must be released. The pivotal theme of this series is “letting go.” Surrender may be one of the most fearful things you’ll ever do, and yet, it’s also so incredibly simple. The fear of letting go is that we lose that which we most care about. The irony of letting go is the realization that we never lost anything to begin with! It’s always been there and always will be.

Hotel Del Luna is a hotel for the dead; the dead who aren’t quite ready to move on due to the reasons listed above. It becomes a bit of a staging area, and the irony is that the guest determines how long their stay will be based on when they are willing to let go of the past. Such is the power of forgiveness. There is only ever one person you need to forgive: yourself. Let go.

Jang Man Wol is the illustrious owner of the Hotel Del Luna. She’s been the owner for 1300 years. What binds her to the hotel is her own deep-seeded hatred and grudges from the past. Rather than face and deal with those things, she chooses distractions (like most people in life do!). She is a woman of opulence who is always looking for something to buy, whether it be expensive cars, clothes, jewelry, or even just money itself. She’s a bit of a con artist who is able to trade various services with her guests for monetary payments. She’s selfish, greedy, and someone who cares little for anyone’s happiness except for her own self-indulgence.

Enter Goo Chan Sung, a young hotelier who has been recruited by Jang Man Wol to be the new “human” manager. Of course, he’s initially reluctant, but he quickly sees the value in the hotel. And more importantly, he helps Jang Man Wol to treat people with respect as well as give her a glimmer into a life she could have if she were able to simply let go of her anger and hatred. Goo Chan Sung represents all that is decent and ethical in people. He chastises Jang Man Wol for her greed and treating guests little more than bank accounts, and he’s never afraid to do so. He speaks his mind, no matter how much the honesty might upset Jang Man Wol. What starts out as a very rocky business relationship, soon turns into one of both necessity and love.

Of course, nothing is quite as it seems, which is indicative of some of the best K-Dramas. We get to know the staff and how each of them has a past that must be faced and let go. They are all likeable, but one can see that there’s something sad about each of them. And why wouldn’t there be? There are fewer things sadder than a soul who is determined to remain earthbound because they are unable to let go of their attachments and their past.

Jang Man Wol is unique in that she is neither living nor dead. It’s as if she has a foot in both worlds. And with that, she has special abilities that help her deal with some of the nastier spirits and protect Goo Chan Sung as well, since he is human and has no true defenses against the dead.

One of my favorite characters is Ma Go Shin, who is a deity who represents the various aspects of the Divine. Some are somewhat cold and methodical. Others are gay and delightful. Each one shows up when it’s most necessary. While she imparts wisdom, she also understands that even she cannot interfere in the freedom of choice. Each soul must make his/her own choices with the understanding that there are always consequences. Seo Yi Sook did a masterful job with these “multiple” roles!

The visuals and cinematography are astounding in this series with vibrant, crisp colors that seem almost ethereal and other-worldly. Hotel Del Luna looms into the sky like a monstrous Taj Mahal that endeavors to touch the sky. And yet, these visuals do not detract in any way from the story or characters. As with so many well-made K-Dramas, the plot and characters are never sacrificed for spectacle.

There are many hilarious moments as well as many tearful and heart wrenching ones. Koreans are masters of never revealing everything all at once. This enables them to go back and fill in the missing pieces that make the story work. This is often done at the perspective of the character or characters which explains their behavior until they’re given “the whole picture.” In short, nothing is ever as it seems! And this keeps the viewer on their toes!

If I have one minor complaint about the series, it’s the chemistry—or lack of it—from IU and Yeo Jin Goo. There’s warmth and respect there, but it rarely strays into love or romance. You just don’t quite feel it from these two. I understand that IU is trying to depict Jang Man Wol as a cold, selfish woman, but chemistry is absolutely vital to this kind of a story. As many actors have stated: you either have chemistry or you don’t. It’s nearly impossible to manufacture. We see tears and a lot of emotion, but I was waiting to feel that angst; that despair of a love that must be let go. However, as I said, this is a minor issue that, fortunately, never really distracts or takes away from the story. It simply would have served the series better if the two leads had had some kind of chemistry which is why it's imperative that casting directors do their due diligence.

“Missing: The Other Side” is still my favorite “after life” series from Korea. This one’s pretty close. It starts at a slow burn and gradually starts moving. This isn’t a bad thing though as there is ample time to understand and get to know this intriguing, mystical world.

The series’ strength lies in its thematic elements of letting go of the past and releasing those resentments and grudges. I’m not sure many people understand or fully realize how important this is. Life is a process of letting go. If you dare to hold onto anything, it’s a lost cause because it’s ultimately doomed to failure which brings nothing but heartache and resentment. Knowing that all things pass away is a blessing. Why? Because nothing is lost, and you will eventually share “the stage” once more with those who have always been there but are simply playing a different role with a different face. How do you know this? Because they are with you now.

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Justice Is Served!

***I am reviewing Parts 1 and 2 here***

The best revenge is when the person ends up digging their own grave. Moon Dong Eun is literally a master of strategy and orchestrating a revenge that sees these monsters taking each other out. What makes this so satisfying is that she uses their own acts of violence and cover-ups against them. In short, this may be one of the best stories of revenge I’ve yet seen, in which the revenge actually does feel more like justice. Moon Dong Eun doesn’t use acts of violence against them. She nudges. She prods. She pokes just enough to let them do the damage themselves. In some ways, the K-Drama “My Name” felt more like a revenge story than this one. That is not to say that “The Glory” is somehow inferior. It isn’t at all. And because Moon Dong Eun is able to create justice—disguised as revenge—I didn’t feel one shred of sympathy of those who ultimately caused and created their own downfall.

This story takes bullying to an extreme level. Not necessarily one that is unbelievable. In today’s world of bullying, it’s sad that nothing seems to shock or surprise us anymore. The first half of the first episode is tough to watch as we see Dong Eun enduring horrendous torture as her nemesis, Yeon Jin, take great delight on burning her with a curling iron. It doesn’t take long for the viewer to realize that Yeon Jin isn’t a typical bully. She’s a sadist, who is also very likely a psychopath. These days the terms “psychopath” and “sociopath” are now under the term “Antisocial Personality Disorder.” Yeon Jin doesn’t feel a shred of guilt or remorse for her actions. She smiles and even cackles with delight as she torments the girls at the school. Bullies rarely act alone, as Yeon Jin has five friends, including two boys, who also take pleasure in raping the girls. In short, these five people may be five of the most sadistic and diabolical bullies I’ve seen. Bullies are cowards, and it often takes someone of real strength and courage to fight back. By the time the first couple of episodes are over, you really can’t wait to see what Dong Eun has planned.

At first, Dong Eun’s plans don’t seem to be doing too much. But, ah! Just like the master tactician on a chessboard who moves his pawns to set up his other pieces, or in this series where the game of “Go” is used as means of illustrating Dong Eun’s plans, we see that her plans are carefully thought out as she sets each one of the five perpetrators up. She’s also like a master Judo or Akido fighter—using her opponent’s momentum against them. In other words, she knows the weaknesses of each of the five and how to exploit them perfectly so that they end up actually fighting against each other. By the time the second season begins, you can’t help but begin to marvel at Dong Eun and how she can weave such a complex tapestry to orchestrate a nearly flawless revenge!

If Dong Eun has a blind spot, it has to do with her alcoholic mother. Just because you give birth to a child or make a child, doesn’t make you a parent. Only a true parent raises their child properly with love and wisdom. And I found it a bit frustrating that Dong Eun gave in to her mother, yet again. But fortunately, she quickly realizes her mistake and rectifies it. No parent like that has any business being a part of their child’s life. None.

We quickly see how the rich and powerful believe that they are untouchable. Yeon Jin learns this at an early age from her own mother. And it’s quite obvious that the parents of the other four were likely no different. Spoiling a child is also a form of abuse, but as I said, we don’t feel sympathy for Yeon Jin and her sadistic cohorts! As each one of them falls, it’s hard not to feel that sense of justice because that is exactly what it is. In some ways, the other four get off somewhat easily compared to Yeon Jin, but that’s all right. Seeing Dong Eun speaking to Yeon Jin in prison was sheer perfection as Dong Eun gently smiles and outlines exactly how Yeon Jin trapped herself as well as the life she now has to look forward to. And the bully becomes the bullied as Yeon Jin now finds herself the target of her cellmates. Yes, justice is sweet!

This series is definitely hardcore, compared to most K-dramas I’ve seen. It’s dark, gritty, and it certainly doesn’t pull any of its punches. The writer really illustrates the point that nobody gets away with anything. Ultimately, the truth will always come out and justice will be served.

Performances in this series were all first-rate. I hadn’t seen Hye Kyo Song since “Descendants of the Sun.” I thought she did an incredible job of playing a character that was so different from the previous one. And I’ve been seeing Yeom Hye Ran in so many series lately! And that’s good because she’s an amazing and versatile character actress! She is fantastic at playing Dong Eun’s sidekick and intelligence gatherer as follows the five around taking photos. I also loved how she played Yeon Jin—which was almost even more satisfying than what Dong Eun had cooked up! I was waiting for someone to smack Yeon Jin a couple of times!

This series may not be for everyone, given its very dark theme, but frankly, it is a necessary one that doesn’t try to dilute the effects of bullying. People have no idea how many children take that abuse into their adult lives—both physical and emotional. Isn’t any wonder that Dong Eun has to take matters into her own hands when the judicial system, the parents, and the schools, fail to help protect them? It may have taken Dong Eun 18 years, but finally, justice is served!

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Corruption, Mystery, Intrigue..."Stranger" Has it All!

There is nothing so beautiful as an intricate plot so deftly woven that it is literally a work of art. And there is nothing that compliments a masterful plot like deep and intelligent characters.

"Stranger" is one of the best series I've ever seen. And I've been watching shows for over 45 years. When I began Season 1, I was instantly hooked, and I found myself binge-watching the series.

The story has so many plot twists and turns that I doubt that even the most savy viewer will be able to figure it all out. It centers around what seems to be, a fairly standard murder. Hwang Shi Mok is, what would be our equivalent of an assistand district attorney, knows the victim, and takes it upon himself to investigate.

Shi Mok is like watching a master detective at work. He's like a Korean Sherlock Holmes. He is not only able to piece together events, but he does so in a way that makes you think of a master jigsaw puzzler who is able to put the 3000 pieces together within a short span of time. Shi Mok is smart, intelligent, and also calm and cool under fire. Why? Because he has a unique characteristic: he lacks empathy. Due to violent outbursts as a child, he had a surgical procedure done that literally prevents him from having such outbursts anymore. Therefore, to most of his colleagues and even strangers, he appears cold and aloof.

Shi Mok's sole partner in his investigation is Lieutenant Han Yeo Jin (Bae Doona). Bae Doona quickly became one of my favorite Korean actresses. She also successfully brings us a very intelligent and driven detective who is as determined to get to the truth as Shi Mok is. Of course, she has trouble figuring out why Shi Mok comes across as such a quirky fellow, but she soon develops tremendous respect for him and his ability to speak his mind (which he always does!).

It isn't often that I bring up the theme music for a show, but this one reminds me of Hans Zimmer's Batman score a bit! It's catchy, and it seems to sum up all of the excitement and intrigue that this series provides!

The plot is expertly crafted and multi-layered. Much like an onion, once one layer is exposed, there is another. This forces Shi mok and Yeo Jin to wonder just how far and how deep the conspiracy goes.

The British series "Line of Duty" is a show about police corruption. This show not only takes it much farther, but this story is far more taut and exciting! I cannot emphasize enough just how much credit the writers should be given. It's not easy to put something like this together. "Stranger" is nothing short of a being an absolute masterpiece! Master mystery writers like Agatha Christie would be proud! Literally from start to finish, "Stranger" keeps up the intrigue and never pauses even for a moment!

**I was so excited when Season 2 came out, and even more excited to find out that there is a Season 3 on its way!**

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The Power of Healing

"It ain't about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward."

This line from "Rocky Balboa" seemed to ring loudly in my mind as this series concluded for me. Indeed, no one goes through life unscathed, and some take even greater lumps than most. However, no matter what we've suffered, it's perseverance that matters most. Not giving up. Always push on.

To my mind, K-dramas are dominating the television airwaves. While I have watched a few bad ones, most have been anywhere from great to superb. "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" certainly fits the "superb" bill for me.

As several reviewers have already mentioned, this is a very unique series that deals with the mental and emotional suffering that everyone has to deal with at some point in their lives. Perhaps that is what makes the series so relatable as well as profound with the central question: when do people finally acquire the courage to take responsibility for their own lives?

For so many people in this world, we blame our parents for our misfortunes and our sufferings. Why didn't they love us more? Why did they mistreat us? Where was that unconditional love we were supposed to be showered with?

Unfortunately, the answers we tell ourselves are filled with as many lies as the questions we come up with. Perhaps we weren't worthy of that love. Perhaps we simply weren't good enough. No matter what answers we contrive in an attempt to "makes sense of it all" we, too often, play the victim.

Gang-Tae is a caregiver at a local mental hospital. His body is riddled with scars given to him by patients who have lashed out at him. However, his physical scars pale in comparison to his emotional ones. In short, he truly believes he is not worth loving.

Sang-Tae is Gang-Tae's older brother with fairly severe autism. He suffers from a moment in the past when he was present for his mother's murder. The murderer threatens to kill him should he ever tell anyone about it. So scarred by the event, Gang-Tae placates his brother by making sure to move every autumn of every year. He somehow wants to be free of his burden.

Ko-Muen Young is a woman who was touted as a princess by her mother; someone who is head-and-shoulders above everyone else. And people should be treated with disdain and contempt for being so beneath her. This is a woman who has no idea how to interact with people. She had no filter, and therefore, speaks her mind and her feelings, both good and bad. She is a little girl desperately wanting someone to love her.

The irony is that all three characters, in some way, shape or form, represent some of the most common fears and desires of every single person on this planet: to be worthy of love, to be relieved of our fears and burdens, and to simply be loved for who we are.

The series masterfully navigates how all three characters are able to find peace with themselves, and perhaps, even some joy culminating in a last episode that will have you smiling and crying at the same time.

Yes, it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to fall. It is okay to be knocked down. It is not okay to give up and stay down. Everyone must find the courage to get up and keep going. That is the series' central message.

The performances in this series are top-notch all the way around. However, accolades must truly be given to Jeong-Se Oh (Sang-tae) who turns in a performance that easily rivals Dustin Hoffman's "Rain Man." In fact, to my mind, Jeong-Se Oh's performance surpasses it. He is truly deserving of any awards he might acquire for one of the best acting performances seen in a long time.

This series has almost everything: a mystery, laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt moments, cringeworthy moments, and plenty of relatable moments, depending on who you are.

I cannot recommend this series highly enough. It should almost be required viewing. For perhaps, you might find some "healing moments" of your own as you watch this show, and be presented with the question: will you blame others for your problems? Or will you find the courage to begin living your own life?

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I watched "Descendants of the Sun" and wondered if I'd see another series that could match it. Then, I watched "Mr. Sunshine," and thought, "there's no way I'll ever see another series like this." Imagine the joy of being wrong twice! Along comes, "Crash Landing on You," which may end up being my favorite of all of them. It's a toss-up between this and Mr. Sunshine. In short, this is one of the best series I've ever seen, and for me, the Korean Dramas I've watched have not disappointed at all as most are character and plot driven. In fact, overall, I've seen better quality shows out of Korea and Japan in the last several years than I have with American shows.

The writing, and especially, the editing is some of the best I've ever seen. The plot is intricately weaved, not using some of the typical cliches and devices as some shows do when trying to get the two main characters together. In this case, we're given the beautiful wise lesson on screen: happiness is in the journey. Not the destination.

Seri is a woman who owns her own company and is part of an extremely rich family. Her world, despite the money and success, is cold and empty. She sits alone in a massive penthouse. She has all of the luxuries that one could ask for. However, she has a family, especially her half-siblings, who are about as cut-throat as anyone could imagine. She doesn't realize what is missing in her life until a storm, while para-gliding, blows her across the border into North Korea.

Ri Jeong-Hyeok is a North Korean captain who comes across Seri. At first, he and his unit of men aren't sure who Seri is and why she's there. Ri Jeong-Hyeok was a master pianist before joining the military, and intent on solving the mystery of his older brother's death. At first, he seems very straight-forward and unassuming, while underneath is a man full of life, passion, and love.

The first set of episodes of Seri trying to adapt to life in a North Korean village are especially hilarious. Imagine a pampered woman suddenly having to go without electricity? How to take a bath...how to cook, etc. As a former Peace Corps volunteer, I know full well what this adaptation feels like!

Perhaps for the first time in her life, Seri not only finds a connection with Ri Jeong-Hyeok, but also with the village women and also with the members of Ri Jeong-Hyeok's unit. It's ironic that she had to cross the border to find a group of people who were more like family for her than her real family back home!

The best plots are ones that aren't forced or contrived, and this one doesn't use either one. We are taken effortlessly from North Korea into South Korea as Seri and Ri Jeong-Hyeok find themselves at the center of two sinister plots, each one contrived by people on either side (North and South Korea).

Of course, the biggest question is: despite the situations they must survive and unravel, can they spend a life together? Is it feasible for two people, from the only divided country in the world, be able to have a relationship? North Korea might as well be the darkside of the moon, as communications between the people of the two countries is non-existent. Finding the answer to this question is the beauty of the journey of this series.

The entire cast is simply terrific. They meticulously and effortlessly give us endearing characters who are absolutely hilarious at times and heartfelt at others. All are also able to deftly convey a range of emotions, especially the two leads in Hyun Bin and Ye-Jin Soon whose chemistry is much of what makes this series so incredible.

The editing is some of the best I've ever seen in a movie or series as we are given scenes in one episode, only to realize that we were only given a partial look at the whole. Each time, we are given a joyful surprise and many, "Ah-ha" moments when we realize what really happened!

Apparently North Korean defectors served as consultants on this series to try and make life in North Korea depicted as accurately as possible.

Some might feel that the ending isn't the most ideal, but that's why I like it. It's realistic. They end up making the absolute most of the time that they have. These contrived, formulaic "happy endings" simply do not reflect life or relationships themselves.

I have been watching movies and television series for over 45 years, and frankly, this series absolutely blew me away. It captured my imagination and my heart as I see a veritable "Romeo and Juliet" struggling to find ways to connect, love, and protect each other. They are such a short distance away from each other across the border, but as I stated before, the distance might as well be from the earth to the moon. I love stories about relationships, where the two people have to find a way to overcome the obstacles and pitfalls laid out before them. Two people with enough love and determination will always find a way. And that is why the joy of watching this series is in the journey and not the destination! And this journey was simply sweet, magical, and joyful. What more could you ask for in a great series?

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