10
17
2
1
Ah, what a feel-good series!
After reading the comments and reviews, I was expecting a lot of fluff, and that is exactly what this show delivered. This is truly a show with lots of heart, romance, and on-point comedy, one that is guaranteed to make you smile and cheer at least once.It is a simple love story, almost entirely focused on the OTP. Where the show excels is with its romance and phenomenal chemistry between its two leads. Both Matsui Airi and Itagaki Mizuki are great in their roles, and I can really feel the warmth they have on-screen together. They are so cute together that I would watch this show just for the couple's interactions. Yes, I did cringe a lot but in a good way.
I like that the ML and FL are both mutually attracted at the same time even though Manatsu-san acts all cool and detached initially, and I enjoyed watching the flirty teasing, cute jealousy, and growing love between them. The almost immediate racy skinship is a plus for me since it is rare in most Asian dramas. What I truly appreciate is the emphasis on open communication in a relationship and how the couple values honesty and respect between each other.
Despite the fluff and the short length, the show is well-executed, and everything is tied up nicely in the end. The starting song is fun to listen to and lends the same tone of optimism and positivity that is infused throughout the show. I have to admit that I kept waiting for something melodramatic to happen since the show would tease the audience with hints of potential rifts or serious issues. Fortunately, matters and misunderstandings are cleared up quickly, and the serious moments would transition into sexy ones.
The cast is a bunch of good-looking actors, and if nothing else, no matter who you look at - either Ami-chan, Manatsu-san, or the other characters, the visuals are pleasing.
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The value of knowing one's self-worth and loving yourself first
I have seen the Korean original and Chinese adaptation of this drama, and I liked them both. Each one brought its cultural style, and even though none were perfect, the great mix of comedy, romance, and drama resulted in entertaining watches for me. It is the same for this Thai version.I read some criticism that the acting was too exaggerated, but I have enjoyed enough Thai lakorns to expect and accept that. For me, Thai lakorns have their brand of slapstick antics that mesh well with the plot and character development. This lakorn, Me You Always, had its unique flair and provided a good amount of situational comedy, witty, and lowbrow humor for some good laughs. Also, with great timing, rhythm, and sound effects, the show swings from romantic to dramatic to funny quickly and smoothly, and it keeps the entertainment level high throughout the show. There were some deviations from the Korean and Chinese versions, a few for the better, and a couple took away poignant moments for me. The ending in the Thai version though is my favourite.
For those who have not seen the original or any of its adaptations, the plot is based on the classic and over-used "Childhood Love" trope. Still, the story develops nicely and interestingly in this particular drama. It's truly a sweet rom-com, but you will feel angst during the prolonged misunderstanding on the ML's part and some noble idiocy on the FL's side. You will also get the second male lead syndrome, or at least I did, for all the versions. Most of the plot is about the FL deceiving the ML about her identity and how despite it all (including a sexy, eager SFL), he still falls in love with the FL.
In all versions, the ML is a jerk at first. However, some of it is due to him being bullied during his younger days, and he grows up developing a prickly shell. His mean attitude towards the FL is mostly because he is so confused and trying to fight against the attraction that he feels towards her, especially when he thinks he has already found his first love (the FL's best friend).
I like that in this version, the show did not have Ploy, the FL go through any significant makeover. She looked normal, albeit a little unkempt and dowdy with her oversized clothing and lack of attention to her appearance, but she was still pretty and cute, especially when she smiled. I love how Ploy improved her outer beauty naturally and realistically as she started to pay more attention, such as using proper skincare, contacts, and tidying up her hair. Most of all, I like how Kawin (or Win), the ML came to love her for her character and the connection he felt with her, the same closeness he had with his first love.
Fang Neerasingh as Ploy and Pae Arak Amornsupasiri as Kawin were adorable together. They had awesome chemistry and looked good onscreen - I love the height difference. They played off each other well and nailed every scene.
Ploy was a strong, happy-go-lucky FL whose physical appearance belied how tough and plucky her character was after having gone through hardship in life. For sure, there were moments where I wanted to yell at Ploy for not having the courage to tell Kawin the truth, and she was the one who started her best friend, Randa's deception. Still, Randa could have made better choices. In the end, though, it all worked out neatly, and I like the character development of Ploy, Kawin, and Randa. It's great that Ploy prioritized her self-development, and Kawin was equally amazing in allowing Ploy time and room for her to pursue her ambition. After waiting years for her, he was confident in himself and their relationship.
This is the first drama of Fang's that I watched, and I thought she did a great job. She was able to convey different emotions with her facial expressions, and her crying scenes were pretty much on-point. Her cute "girl next door" look reminds me of other Chinese and Korean actresses, but I still cannot place which ones exactly. She also sang one of the main songs.
I am not a fan of Pae's hairstyle here, but he is still as charming and attractive as ever. I like his portrayal of Kawin and his mood swings as we see Kawin struggle against his curiosity about Ploy that eventually evolved into attraction and ultimately love.
There's lots of accidental skinship (yes, "mostly the trip and fall into his arms" and the "oops, I turned my face and my lips almost found his" kind), but since these two were so cute together, these scenes only increased the sweetness factor for me. I wish there were more kissing because they looked comfortable and natural together when they did. However, I did feel that the other versions did a better job showing how the ML slowly fell for the FL.
As for the second male lead, it is the way the character is written that would result in the second male lead syndrome. He's sensitive, cool, super sweet, and supportive of the FL. Nat Kitcharit played Tula well, and there were so many times when I would smile at the chemistry between Tula and Ploy.
The acting was great across the board, and there was just so much rapport between the cast!
There were not many songs played in the drama, and most pieces were instrumental. However, the theme song was fun and reflected the cute tone throughout the drama. The other one is the more romantic song and the instrumental version was used a lot during the meaningful scenes. It definitely heightened the romantic experience for me. For posterity, I have listed those two here:
1) "จับมือเธอไว้" ("Hold Your Hand")
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ1ujiR2i6g
2) "ฉันจะกล้าพอ" ("I Will Be Brave Enough")
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7K5hqv5LpQ
Overall, do give this drama a try! The sweetness, the silliness, the laughter, the terrific cast, the lovely ending - there's enough to keep you entertained!
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This review may contain spoilers
Love, Fate, and Irony
A Demon Hunter’s Romance is not just a story about love or a hero vanquishing evil. While the romance between the leads is central and wonderful to watch, and the action scenes delivered all the magic and mayhem you'd expect, the heart of the drama lay deeper — in a poignant exploration of identity, fate, and the acceptance of who we are and how we’re ultimately meant to fulfill our destinies.Ren Jia Lun, the male lead, played Xuan Ye — a stoic and formidable demon hunter raised by a family of physicians who also hunted demons. Haunted by a past tragedy, he carried on the family legacy not out of blind duty, but with a deep sense of compassion shaped by his father's teachings. His father often emphasized that just as humans can choose between good and evil, so too can demons. Little did anyone know that this belief stemmed from a reason far more surprising than simple moral philosophy. Guided by these principles, Xuan Ye approached his duty with careful judgment rather than vengeance. There was no clear line between what was considered good and evil — and it’s in this gray space that the drama found its emotional depth. Told through four main arcs, the series unfolded as a meditation on what it truly means to be good, and whether our lives are shaped more by the species we belong to or by the choices we make.
Ban Xia, portrayed by Song Zu Er, was Xuan Ye’s love interest, and her character growth was one of the most satisfying arcs in the drama. Initially timid, naive, and soft-spoken, Ban Xia nevertheless proved herself to be a strong-willed young woman who refused to let others dictate her life. Despite operating within the constraints of her society, she made her own choices and forged her own path. In the earlier episodes, she was often overshadowed by the chaos and stronger personalities around her. That changed after a pivotal story arc — one of the highlights of the series — where Ban Xia proved herself truly "a strong female lead". From that point on, she found her voice and strength. Her optimism and confidence never faded, but they evolved into a fierce, unwavering determination. She became a woman who knew what she wanted and was unafraid to fight for it — especially when it came to standing by Xuan Ye’s side no matter the cost. Her love for him was powerful not because it was blind, but because it was a choice made with clarity and courage.
There was a shared past between them, and through a twist of fate, their paths crossed once again. Their slow-burn romance was not just sweet — it was healing. It reflected a bond forged through trust, shared struggles, and the belief that people — or demons — are more than what the world labels them to be. The progression of their relationship felt natural and unforced, with scenes turning mundane activities into romantic moments.
Since this was a Ren Jia Lun drama, anyone familiar with his work knew not to expect a lot of skinship — but they also knew to expect emotional depth in every scene, including the romantic ones. As expected, RJL delivered once again. Through his expressions, body language, and excellent delivery, he conveyed a remarkable range of emotions with nuance and sincerity. (Side note and minor spoiler: the show did surprise us with a couple of kisses — or more like sweet pecks! 😄) Song Zu Er paired beautifully with him. While their chemistry wasn’t the fiery, sizzling type, it felt warm and genuine. Together, they made an endearing couple that had viewers rooting for them from beginning to end. While not as seasoned as RJL, Song Zu Er held her own in the emotional scenes. There were moments where her crying felt slightly overacted, and others where her facial expressions needed refinement — but overall, her performance was engaging and enjoyable to watch.
There was also a secondary couple in the drama, but I wasn’t as drawn to them. I liked both characters individually, but together, they just didn’t click for me. Their relationship felt more like a plot checkbox than a natural progression. In general, the supporting cast added some nice variety and helped move the story along. While none of them stood out in a major way, a few definitely grew on me — especially Chi Xue, Xuan Ye’s loyal and often amusing sidekick. And of course, some of the supporting characters were downright easy on the eyes, which certainly added to the entertainment factor.
Another highlight of the show was the soundtrack. The OST really elevated the emotional scenes, with standout tracks including 予你人间 (To Gift You This World) performed by Song Zu Er herself. I was hoping Ren Jia Lun would lend his voice to the soundtrack, as he has done in other dramas, but sadly, we didn’t get to enjoy his lovely vocals this time around.
The fourth and final arc brought the story full circle, returning to its central theme as the happy world Xuan Ye and Ban Xia built together slowly began to unravel. As Xuan Ye delved deeper into the mystery of his past and began to uncover the truth about his real identity, the lovely future our couple had imagined together seemed less and less likely. Throughout the drama, the show dropped hints, allowing viewers to piece together fragments of his origin — enough to sense where the story was headed, even if we weren’t ready to accept it. Many of us saw the inevitable coming, but we still held onto hope that the show would find a way to give Xuan Ye and Ban Xia their happy ending. Like Ban Xia, I earnestly believed that if they tried hard enough, they could make it work.
At the end of it all, while I had hoped for a more satisfying happy ending, I could accept the one we got. It was fitting and beautifully bittersweet. This was, after all, a love story between two people from entirely different worlds — a human and a demon — and one that was never meant to be in the conventional sense. Xuan Ye couldn’t turn his back on his people or his responsibilities, not even for love. With his world in turmoil, it was up to him to bring order and hope back to it. I was disappointed, though, that the writer didn’t leave us with at least an open ending. When even Ban Xia herself gave up, and neither of them asked if she could go with him, along with the other scenes with no other promises, it felt like the writer firmly closed the door on any future for them — a real missed opportunity.
Overall, A Demon Hunter’s Romance was a wonderful journey, and my rating reflects just how much I enjoyed the show as a whole. Even though the ending wasn’t exactly what I had hoped for, it still felt ok for the story. At the very least, it stayed true to the characters and avoided the kind of senseless twist with death thrown in just for the sake of drama.
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A Hidden Gem Worth Sticking Around For
Another Taiwanese drama that seems underrated on MDL, Agent from Above is a series that deserves more attention than it’s currently getting. Hopefully, being on Netflix , it will get more viewership.Set in a world where gods, spirits, and humans coexist almost matter-of-factly, the show wastes little time explaining its mythology. Instead, it drops you straight into a universe rooted in Taiwanese mystical culture, where the male lead, Han Chieh serves a god, the Third Crown Prince to maintain balance between realms . I like this immediate immersion where the supernatural is treated as an everyday reality.
At its core, the story is a classic struggle between good and evil. Han Chieh, a flawed ML bound to his duty and debt to the Third Crown Prince, acts as the human guardian, empowered with magical artifacts to take on supernatural evil and disturbances, while grappling with his own past and guilt . The narrative may begin somewhat confusing in episode one—but once it finds its footing, it becomes much more engaging and cohesive.
Where the series really shines is in its tone and execution. Taiwanese productions have a distinct flair, and this drama leans into that strength:
Visual effects are impressive, enhancing the fantasy without overwhelming it.
Humor is cheeky and well-timed, adding levity without undermining the more emotional moments.
There’s a lingering bittersweetness throughout the story—an acknowledgment that not every innocent can be saved, and not every evil needs to be eradicated.
The ending, in particular, strikes a satisfying balance. It feels grounded, almost realistic within its fantastical framework, while still offering a sense of hope. It doesn’t tie everything up too neatly, which works for me in this case, and even leaves room for a potential second season.
Overall, Agent from Above may not be a flawless series, but it’s engaging and visually strong. It is a hidden gem for viewers who stick past the first episode, and definitely for those who enjoy supernatural dramas with a touch of humor.
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I liked Sabrina Chen after watching her in My Unicorn Girl. However, she was even lovelier in this show. She has the perfect features to play a flower boy but easily transforms into a charming and beautiful maiden. I enjoyed watching her portray Su Qi, a female lead that was independent, rational, and has a high IQ and EQ. Even the dubbing used for her voice was suitable, quite unlike the usual high immature voices that C-dramas tend to use for female characters. Being a newly debuted actor, Zhang Ling He did well, with an ability to display a wide range of emotions. He was perfect as Pei Zhao/Prince Qi, who is now one of my favorite male leads. How can one resist a handsome ML who was absolutely committed and devoted to the FL, plus had the skills and power/influence to protect her? Pei Zhao complemented Su Qi so perfectly when it comes to physical appearance, intellect, and maturity. This OTP had many swoon-worthy love scenes with lots of well-done kisses. I love that Su Ci often initiated the kisses, and Pei Zhou always followed with deeper steamier ones! Also, the amount of attention paid to little details during their hugging and kissing scenes made me smile; like the way their gazes held, or the way the Su Ci tightened her grip around Pei Zhao as their kiss deepened. They were so cute together, even holding hands as they went about solving cases.
The secondary couple was also adorable together, and they were likable characters that added value to the plot. It was a good-looking cast overall (notable mentions: Zhang Jia Ding, Zhu Min Xin, and Li Jin Rong).
I like the song that played every time there was a meaningful moment between the OTP, but I did not find the OST memorable in general.
Rewatch value is high because I am a sucker for a good romance drama with great kissing.
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This review may contain spoilers
Warning! The cringe factor is fairly high in the first few episodes. Scenes meant to create moments of sparks between the ML and FL were so contrived that they made me laugh out of embarrassment. I can only handle so many scenes of the FL accidentally falling into the ML’s arms.Still, I found the show entertaining and, in general, well-paced. It's an interesting plotline with a ML who hates lies and a FL who lies mainly to avoid conflict and hurting others as well as herself. Adding depth to the story was the subplot behind the love-hate relationship between the ML and the second ML. Throw in a scheming, bitchy third party vying for the ML's love, plus other villains so gratingly annoying, and you have a rom-com that is delightful but with enough drama to cause your blood pressure to rise at times.
I did wish that the romance between the lead couple started earlier, but mainly because the chemistry was great! Fang Zhi You was just so charming and adorable once he acknowledged his feelings for Xu Yi Ren. He was always trying to be romantic with her, and the skinship progressed so naturally. Their kissing moments were cute, and I like that they both can be honest about their lack of experience in love. The fact that Zhi You always told the truth made whatever he said to Yi Ren so much more meaningful, and he did say the sweetest things.
I was also touched by their commitment to each other and how they were both consistent in their acknowledgment privately and publicly that they were each other's one and only love. Even when others have assumed that their relationship has failed because Yi Ren did something unforgivable in Zhi You's eyes, it was heartwarming to see Zhi You not actually giving up on her, and for Yi Ren choosing to stay as close to him as possible even if it meant being humiliated repeatedly. It was endearing to watch Zhi You struggle with his principles, while his love for Xiren remained unwavering.
I was less interested in the second couple's relationship. The chemistry was not there for me, and I have to admit that I skipped through their scenes a few times.
The character development of the two leads in the show was the biggest plus point for me. I liked how Zhi You matured into someone who is more mindful of other people's feelings particularly Yi Ren's. I appreciate how he still valued honesty and did not lower his own standards throughout the show but instead he became more aware of social graces and the "give and take" aspect that was necessary in relationships. My favourite moment was when Zhi You realized that loving someone 100% mean accepting both their strengths and weaknesses.
It was also gratifying to see Yi Ren drawing strength from Zhi You's love and became braver. The development of her self-awareness and self-confidence was satisfying to watch, especially when she finally stood up against her nasty aunt and cousin, and their emotional blackmail. Yi Ren never did stop lying completely, but she did become more honest and true to herself and Zhi You. She realized that she did not need to lie to avoid conflicts and that it was better that she faced her problems upfront.
Fang Shi Yu, the little sister, and Li Zhe, the second male lead, were absolutely awesome, and they were the perfect catalyst for the lead couple's relationship. Shi Yu was an absolute breath of fresh air, and she was the voice of strength and reason. It was cute to see her advise her brother in the matters of the heart, and so refreshing to see her stand up to adults and put them in their places. Li Zhe was so charming and disarming, and even towards the end, his longing for Yi Ren was still palpable despite him accepting that Zhi You and Yi Ren were meant for each other, and that he wanted the best for them. I suffered a little of the second lead syndrome, especially since I became invested in Li Zhe's back story with Yi Ren. Ultimately, I am glad that he still got his happy ending with his father.
It would have been nice to see the other characters develop further like the villains actually learning from their mistakes. It was a bit anticlimactic for me when there were no retribution or lessons learned for the aunt and cousin. At least the uncle showed some backbone finally towards the end. I did find the way the show wrapped up He Yu Wen, the third party's story in a rushed manner, but at least there was closure between her and Zhi Yu.
Acting-wise, I thought Xin Yun Lai's portrayal of Fang Zhi You and Liu Hai Kuan's as Li Zhe were really good. Their micro-expressions were on point, and you can see the array of emotions play across their faces nicely. Of course, it does not hurt that they are both good-looking in their own ways. I look forward to seeing these two actors play the lead roles in more dramas going forward.
While I like Yi Ren, the character, I was less impressed by Liang Jie, who played her. I really tried throughout the 31 episodes to like her, but it just did not happen. I would not say that her acting was bad. In fact, I think she did fine overall, but there was just something lacking. It could be her' resting bitch face'. She often looked like she's pouty or bratty even during scenes that did not call for it.
Like in most of my reviews, I am going to comment on the wardrobe styling. I find that in most C-Dramas, they must have a low budget for the female lead wardrobe and again it is a miss for this show. Both male leads’ clothes were fine overall even though less enviable compared to other shows. The female lead’s styling however was terrible. All the over-sized Peter Pan and shawl collars!!! It’s 2020 for heaven’s sake! Why in the world did they have to make her look granny-like and dowdy? I realized that they want to contrast Yi Ren against He Yu Wen in terms of sophistication but they really went overboard!
The OST was all right. Other than the two tracks that I thought suited the moods of the scenes well, I didn’t remember any other ones.
Overall, I would recommend this show for its fluffy romance, interesting plot lines, and good looking actors. I would probably re-watch the cute romantic scenes. Typically 31 episodes would be borderline too long for me. The fact that I continued watching and completed the show means that others may enjoy it as well.
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This review may contain spoilers
I started watching Devilish Joy because of Choi Jin Hyuk. I watched him for the first time in 'Fated to Love You' and suffered the second lead syndrome so badly that I wanted to watch him in a show where he gets the girl. This drama captured my interest from the get-go, with an endearing story that started with the two leads falling in love at first meet. The show has all the key elements - great acting, a good mix of romance, comedy and melodrama, gorgeous cinematography, and good-looking actors. However, I have to warn you; it is also a bag of cliches! If you can get past the kdrama tropes, the show may pleasantly surprise you and exceed your expectations.
Choi Jin Hyuk as Gong Ma Sung looked really fine in his suits as the chaebol heir who was also a genius neurosurgeon. However, his character was not the typical cold and arrogant jerk. Instead, Gong Ma Seung was a warm-hearted, generous, and romantic man, who not surprisingly captured the female lead's heart immediately in the first episode. Choi Jin Hyuk did not disappoint, and he was able to convey so much through his expressions and body language. I was really into his character, and if I allow myself some fangirling - I love how his smile reaches his eyes and his voice...oh his voice!
It took me a little longer to warm up to the female lead, Joo Gi Bbeum. She seemed too silly for a 30-year-old top star, but she developed more depth soon after the first couple of episodes. Soon Ha Yoon was very believable as the unfortunate singer, who struggled against all sorts of challenges but managed to maintain her dignity. Her petite loveliness was a great match for Gong Ma Sung, and the chemistry between the two leads was palpable. This is a couple I can imagine as truly dating - their kisses (and there were many compared to other dramas) were so natural.
I also came to like Hoya's character, Sung Ki Joon - uncle/nephew bromance was fun to watch and their reunion scene was perfect!
Besides the leads, I did enjoy watching the other characters like Woo Jin and Nan Joo (the leads' sidekicks), and Gi Bbeum's family. They all had flaws that made them more relatable. However, I found the villains rather one dimensional and there was no character development. They are just shown as evil people with no other motives aside from greed. I found their backstories rather lacking, and not certainly not enough to explain why they hated Ma Sung or Gi Bbeum so much to inflict such terrible pain on them.
The music was good - the songs fit the moods accordingly but nothing memorable. I did not hear any that tugged at my heart strings and made me want to save it to a playlist.
As for the ending, I was very satisfied. Not going to lie, I almost didn't want to watch the final episode. The show went into full throttle drama towards the end and I was an emotional mess thinking that only a miracle can give me the happy ending that the characters deserve. Luckily, it is kdrama land after all, and one can toss all reasoning and logic aside. That said, I like that the show did not wrap up everything too neatly and the happy ending was not overly done with Gong Ma Sung recovering completely from his illness. With that, I ended the show with a feeling of hope, and thinking that there's potential for a season 2.
Overall, this drama is pretty entertaining. Yes, there were plenty of cliches but the story was well developed. The romance, focused on unconditional and timeless love was heartwarming and there were enough subplots to beef up the drama.
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Painful, haunting, and beautifully done
Underrated drama.From beginning to end, "Light to the Night" is exceptionally well executed, with a tight and purposeful plot that never feels dragged out or unnecessarily complicated. Every episode builds naturally on the last, slowly revealing the heavy emotions behind the story while keeping the tension and mystery compelling throughout.
What impressed me most, however, was the acting. Dylan Wang delivers one of his strongest performances yet and once again proves how versatile he is as an actor. He convincingly carries every stage of his character’s life. Pan Yue Ming and Ren Min shine as well , and the performances across the cast feel authentic. The production also deserves credit for how naturally these transitions were handled. The styling and makeup changes are subtle rather than overdone, helping each version of the character feel believable, which makes the emotional moments hit even harder.
One of the drama’s biggest strengths is its storytelling structure. The narrative moves between three different timelines — the original disappearance in 1997, new discoveries connected to the case in 2002, and the eventual resolution years later in 2015. The transitions between these periods are handled incredibly well and often placed side by side in ways that deepen the emotional and investigative impact of a scene. Small details become meaningful when mirrored across timelines, such as revisiting the same location years apart and seeing how differently a moment unfolds with new context. It is a smart and immersive way of telling the story, though it definitely requires viewers to pay close attention in order to fully appreciate how all the pieces connect together.
Despite the heaviness of the plot, the drama also does a good job weaving humor naturally into the story. The lighter moments never feel forced or out of place. Instead, they provide small moments of warmth and relief. The humor helps balance the emotional intensity of the series without ever undermining the seriousness of the story.
The music is also used effectively. The soundtrack and instrumental pieces never overwhelm the scenes, but instead quietly deepen the emotions, especially during the reflective and heartbreaking moments. Some scenes linger long after they end because the combination of acting, directing, and music is done so well.
What makes the drama especially powerful is that the emotional conflicts are not driven by simple villains or forced misunderstandings, but by people genuinely trying to protect the ones they care for - only to end up hurting them in the process. The show captures that tragic side of humanity so well: how love, fear, guilt, and good intentions can become destructive when people make choices for others .
By the end, the tragic outcome feels inevitable yet still absolutely devastating. This is a mature, emotionally layered story with strong performances, thoughtful directing, and real emotional impact. Painful, haunting, and beautifully done.
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When Nobody Is Truly Good or Innocent
I'm honestly surprised this drama isn't rated higher. It delivers a raw, gritty, and often uncomfortable portrayal of a society where corruption is deeply entrenched, and where the institutions that are supposed to protect ordinary people—the police, the legal system, and those in positions of authority—often serve only the powerful and wealthy.What makes this series stand out is that it doesn't follow the traditional good-versus-evil formula. There are no spotless heroes here. Instead, the characters are forced into situations where survival often comes at the cost of their principles. As the story progresses, even those we initially view as "good" find themselves making morally questionable choices, blurring the line between right and wrong. That moral ambiguity gives the drama a level of realism that is both compelling and unsettling.
At the same time, the show never takes itself too seriously. For all its dark themes and social commentary, it is also a very entertaining and highly watchable drama. Some of the characters, especially in the early episodes, are larger than life and occasionally border on being over-the-top caricatures. Jittri, the female lead in particular, is introduced almost like a classic villain—stylish, arrogant, and so unapologetically corrupt that she sometimes feels larger than life. There are moments throughout the series that are a little ridiculous if you stop and think about them too hard, but somehow they add to the show's charm rather than detract from it.
There are moments of humor to break up the tension, but not all of these lighter scenes land perfectly, and there were times when the comedic moments felt a little out of place against the otherwise dark tone. However, there were some truly funny moments, such as the scene where several witnesses try to provide a fake alibi for a client, with the drama cutting to an exaggerated flashback of the evening they supposedly spent together. The performances were so over-the-top and the situation so absurd that I couldn't help but laugh. Moments like these added a bit of fun to the story and kept the series from becoming relentlessly bleak.
The writing is layered, and the plot unfolds through a series of revelations, with each episode building toward the climax. However, just when you think you have figured everything out, the story shifts direction, revealing that what appeared to be the central truth was merely a red herring. The tension continues even after the supposed climax, and rather than providing complete answers, the ending opens the door to even more questions. A second season is clearly needed, not only to resolve the unfinished revenge plot but also to give viewers closure.
Another strength of the series is its pacing. With only eight episodes, the story moves quickly without ever feeling rushed. There is very little filler, and each episode serves a purpose, either advancing the plot, revealing new information, or deepening our understanding of the characters and their motivations. The writers do an excellent job of maintaining momentum while allowing key emotional and dramatic moments to land. For an eight-episode series, the pacing feels just right—fast enough to keep the tension high, but measured enough that the twists and character development still have room to make an impact.
The acting was excellent across the board, but Ying and Nat were particularly impressive. Both delivered emotionally charged performances that brought depth and authenticity to their characters. Their ability to convey vulnerability, inner conflict, and, especially in Nat's case, desperation added weight to the story and made many of the drama's moments memorable.
Overall, I would recommend this show to anyone looking for something different and feeling a little burned out on the usual rom-coms and supernatural themes. It is a refreshing change of pace for viewers who want a thriller that keeps them thinking rather than simply wondering when the leads will finally get together.
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Not Perfect, But Worth It
This drama took a while to find its footing, but once it did—especially after the midpoint—the story truly picked up. I’d encourage anyone starting this series to stick with it past the initial episodes, as the second half delivers more romance, entertainment, depth and character development.I did enjoy the show overall, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that the writers were unsure about what kind of story they wanted to tell. While the setup involving the female lead traveling back in time was intriguing, the connection between her time-traveling and her actions in the past often felt loosely defined, even inconsistent at times. The plot tended to skim the surface rather than dive deep into the potential of its themes, which left the execution feeling somewhat messy.
One of the more significant themes—advocating for equal rights and legal protections for sex workers—surfaced sporadically throughout the series. It was especially noticeable in the beginning and then re-emerged more strongly toward the end, suggesting that this was meant to be a key message of the show. However, I wish this theme had been more consistently and thoughtfully woven into the narrative rather than treated as an afterthought to wrap up the show.
That said, the romance was the heart of this drama, and it was beautifully portrayed for me. Bow and Pon had undeniable chemistry, and they made the love story come alive in a way that helped me forget the script’s shortcomings. While the physical intimacy was fairly tame, their emotional connection was believable and enjoyable to watch. It certainly didn’t hurt that both leads are incredibly attractive—and yes, Pon got plenty of chances to show off his physique!
As for the ending, I have mixed feelings. It was satisfying, but it carried a bittersweet note for me that lingers after the final scene. I don't want to provide spoilers so let's just say for me, it wasn’t the kind of fairy-tale wrap-up that I wanted, but it was poignant and fitting for the tone the show ultimately settled into.
In short, this drama had its flaws, but it was still an enjoyable watch—especially for fans of romance and time-travel stories. If you can look past the uneven storytelling, you might find it worth your time.
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Finding Love and Overcoming Obstacles
Third in the Dhevaphrom series, this lakorn is about how Captain M.L. Ronnajak (Jak) Juthathep met again and almost instantly fell for his old classmate, Jaipisut (Noopok). She however, had a bad impression of him because of their childhood experiences. Due to her misunderstanding of him, it was not an easy path for Jak to win Noopok's heart.Like the other Devaphrom shows, the FL had a mysterious background. The show focused on her secretive origin, and a lot of the plot was dedicated to uncovering her secret. Also thrown into the mix were some bad guys causing trouble for the main characters and a stereotypical hi-so mother who would do anything to climb the social ladder using her child.
All the Devaphrom lakorns I have watched so far were slow-burn romances, but each romance was different. This one is more like Laorchan, where the focus was more on the FL's backstory and her mission/goal. Also, compared to the other shows, the main couple had more obstacles and interfering parties. Even third parties with good intentions were annoying.
Still, the show did a good job weaving the romance in. The romance was cute and became more satisfying to watch in the later episodes. There were some sweet scenes, and when the leads were finally together, they were endearing.
I initially had put it on hold since I found the FL too prejudiced and judgmental based on her past with the ML. However, I picked it up again with a fresh view, and she was not that bad. After watching Laorchan and Kwanruetai and now watching Poncheewan, Noopook in this show was by far the most prim and proper from start to end. Careful with her actions and image, Noopok resisted Jak at first because of his player image, and even when she was finally won over by Jak's persistence and charms, she was reserved.
Visually, Tate and Oom look really good together, as do the second couple Job and Lingling, which is probably why the opening credits are all photoshoots of the characters. The opening song was fun and in general the main songs were enjoyable. They are on youtube,
โคตรจะรัก by Tom Isara Kitnitchi
เพิ่งเข้าใจ by AUN JESSADA
ทางขนาน by Atitaya Tribudarak (Mind) (4EVE)
Acting-wise, Tate could certainly need some improvement. The others were fine, which is why Tate's stiffness stood out more. His character, Ronnajak, though, was a great ML who was committed to the FL from start to end. I was annoyed with him in the beginning for not being more firm with the 2FL and her mother but he redeemed himself very quickly once he was sure of his feelings for Noopook.
I am not surprised that some viewers prefer the second couple's storyline. It was the typical hate-to-love story and the roller coaster feelings between the two made it more interesting to watch. They were adorable together and I liked how things worked out for them.
Overall, this was still a good watch. It was a little more draggy with so many episodes focused on the FL's search for her mom. Since that subplot was not that exciting, say compared to Laorchan's mission that was filled with intrigue and supernatural elements, I am not surprised that most people got bored.
Regardless, it should have been rated higher and is worth watching, especially if you want to complete the series or if you want to enjoy some eye candy in a decent show.
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Cute, fluffy, and fast-paced version
I have seen the Korean original and all (Chinese, Thai, and now Japanese) adaptions of this story, and I liked all of them. None of them were perfect, but I appreciate each one’s cultural style and artistic differences. If I were to pick a favorite, I would not be able to do so since there were elements in each that I liked a lot. Overall, the great mix of comedy, romance, and drama in the different versions resulted in good entertainment for me. This Japanese adaptation was different because it was more lightweight and less draggy due to the condensed storyline. However, a shorter version meant less time spent on character development. Also, some poignant or meaningful scenes were left out that hit the sweet spots in the other versions. That said, the drama still managed to follow the original storyline pretty closely, and whatever deviations made more sense.For those who have not seen the original or any of its adaptations, the plot is based on the classic and over-used "Childhood Love" trope. It is a story of how two people, despite lies and mistaken identities, still manage to find their first loves in the end. This story is truly a sweet rom-com, and in this Japanese version that is faster-paced, you will feel less angst during the prolonged misunderstanding on the ML's part and less frustration at the noble idiocy on the FL's side. However, with a lot more episodes, the other versions did a better job showing how the ML slowly fell for the FL.
In all versions, the ML was a jerk at first, but my favorite one was Nakajima Kento's portrayal of Hasebe Sosuke. Visually, I find him most appealing, with his sharp gazes transitioning nicely into boyish heart-melting looks. His smiles were truly disarming! Also, Sosuke was much less mean compared to the other versions. His angry or stern attitude towards the FL was tempered by his confusion and struggle to fight against the attraction he felt towards her, even when he thought he had already found his childhood sweetheart.
Also, I thought I would not get the second male lead syndrome in such a short series, but Akaso Eiji as Higuchi Takuya still won my heart. His good looks, his cool and supportive character, and the chemistry between the FL and him still caused me to root for him. I wish there was an alternate version where Higuchi had his happy ending with Sato.
In this version, the FL seemed the most natural without exaggerated freckles, bad teeth or ugly glasses. She looked normal, albeit a little unkempt and dowdy with her masculine clothing and lack of attention to her appearance. However, she was still pretty and cute, especially when she smiled. I love how Koshiba Fuka acted as Sato Ai, and her portrayal of the FL was the least cringey among all the drama versions.
As for Risa, the best friend, I find the character in this version, the most selfish and could have benefitted more with some further development. Still, Yui Sakuma did a good job and she is lovely. Reminds me of Anne Hathaway, visually.
The acting was great across the board, but it was difficult to note stellar performances when the story moved so quickly.
There's not much skinship, but the actual kisses were good, especially the last episode! The main leads were so cute together, and once they became a couple, the sweetness factor increased. I wish there was more kissing because they looked comfortable and natural when they did kiss.
There were not many songs played in the drama and mostly were instrumental. The theme song was fun and reflected the cute tone throughout the drama. The other was the more romantic song used a lot during the meaningful scenes. It definitely heightened the mood for me. For posterity, I have listed those two here:
1) 夏の午後はコバルト / Awesome City Club
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHDIX-RNgSY
2) Summer Hydrangea / Sexy Zone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_a6SXtlEQB0
Overall, do give this drama a try! The sweetness, the silliness, the laughter, the terrific cast, the lovely ending - there's enough to keep you entertained on a weekend binge!
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Endearing Slice of Life Lakorn that Deserves a 2nd Season!
"To me, It's Simply You" is one of the Thai Lakorns that I wish they would make a Season 2, as it was a truly well-done "slice of life" drama. What makes this series appealing for me is how well the show depicted the everyday experience, the recurring themes of friendship and family, the struggles of daily life, and the stark portrayal of the good and bad sides of human nature. Though primarily character-driven, the plot is still crucial, and in this show, the main characters' little and large struggles and triumphs were well written, executed, and acted.To pull off a great drama without relying on a dramatic or extraordinary storyline, casting is the most essential ingredient. After all, the characters drive the story, and the cast must be good. Not only do the actors have to portray their characters accurately, they also need to work very well in tandem with everyone else. This excellent rapport is necessary for the cast to produce a seamless, touching, and most importantly, relatable story that keeps the viewers engaged and wanting more. Without a doubt, this show totally delivered! The entire ensemble was so fun to watch as they interacted with each other and dealt with life in general, living in the same village. The script was funny, often low-brow, and the sexual innuendos just kept coming, but I found it hilarious because the dialogue reminded me of how my friends and family would converse in real life.
Nadech and Bow have a wonderful and easygoing chemistry. It is a treat to watch them as the main leads, Kiew and Chompoo, as they find love, navigate through relationships and deal with heartbreak. It is my first time watching Nadech, and I am impressed to see him in such a role. He appeared comfortable playing a comedic role, and I never knew that he could sing. Nadech did a great job as Kiew, who moved to Bangkok from one of the villages in Northeast Thailand (or Isan) and lost touch with his roots. I enjoyed watching Kiew's character development as he assimilated back into the Isan village way of life, like lapsing into the local dialect and appreciating the food as well as the traditions and beliefs. It was endearing to see his family and friends tease him as they welcomed him back. Bow was so lovely as Chompoo, our intelligent, determined, and incredibly stubborn FL, who, unlike most Lakorn FLs, was also very calm and self-sufficient. It is so nice to have a nang'ek who can take care of herself and value her self-worth and pride. It was so CUTE when Kiew and Chompoo started flirting with each other - Chompoo, usually almost tomboyish, getting all girly and demure, while Kiew acting all awkwardly shy. Bow is so naturally beautiful, and when paired with Nadech, it was good looks galore.
In addition, the show stylist deserves kudos - the clothing and traditional outfits were practical but attractive at the same time.
It was also refreshing not having annoying nang rais who constantly scream throughout the show. Even though there were unrequited love and love triangles, the people involved were realistically more rational. They experienced the usual doubts and hesitation that tempered the crazy behavior that one typically expects from a Lakorn. Best of all, the show emphasized respect and the value and importance of friendship.
Finally, to top it off, the soundtrack was so heartwarming. The music was mostly traditional but very fitting and set the scenes and moods perfectly. I was not expecting the show to be a partial musical, but the way the show wove the songs into the story and have the actors sing them captured my attention and evoked my emotions appropriately. Enclosed below is the link to the OST list, but I also included another link to the adorable love song that Bow and Nadech sang together.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu-BmsoVBj-tog7735T_Hn7FzJOZ3c9p9
ขอใช้คำว่าแฟน lyrics rom | Nadech Kugimiya & Bow Maylada | ost Mon Ruk Nong Pak Ka Yan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzFvTZof_qE
Overall, I could not recommend this drama more. It really is a charming story with actors who can deliver while looking good doing it. I am surprised that the viewership is so low given the star power of Nadech. Not knowing how well this show did in Thailand, I hope that Ch. 3 would do more to promote it. It deserves more exposure for sure!
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This review may contain spoilers
Charming coming of age love story
The "long lost childhood friend turned lover" trope is nothing new, but the show used it very effectively. What makes it more meaningful is that our Male Lead, Nan Xi has a social anxiety disorder, and therefore his early friendship with Xia Rui, our female lead, has left a lasting, profound effect on him. He never forgot Xia Rui and never faltered in his search for her.I enjoyed their story of blossoming love, a romance that most would have deemed impossible given how different their personalities were. However, in a world of incompatibilities, they became each other's light and destination. They knew that they are each other's one and only, unique to and completing one another. Their unquestioning trust in each other made for a delightful and extra sweet relationship. Neither one is perfect, though. Nan Xi was a genius, adept and excellent in anything that he attempted but was an extreme introvert, uncomfortable with the world. Xia Rui was bright, talkative, and plucky but unmotivated when it came to her studies. She often caused stress for Nan Xi and her closest friends, Zhao Yi Shu and Cheng Er Luo, who only wanted to see her succeed and be with them in the same university. Individually they were flawed, but the show delivered a strong message of how imperfectly perfect they were together as a couple and for Xia Rui, Yi Shu, and Er Luo, as friends with unbreakable bonds. Being each other's anchors, they were able to pursue and succeed in achieving their dreams.
Adding to the heart-warming plot was the focus on family, friendship, and the bond between teacher and student. There were lots of positive feels in this show, focused on the four friends' lives in high school, university, and early post-grad years. I liked how the adults respect the young people, acting as positive influences, and providing support. No real antagonists and even potential love triangles were only hints, resolved quickly and relatively painlessly. Even the ones causing a smidgen of chaos ended up being good friends with the main group. The lack of melodrama was a plus for me, and I appreciate how the show stayed consistent with its storyline. Unlike many C-, K- or Thai dramas, there was no dramatic twist or turn, throwing the audience off with a different arc.
While the show has its strengths with respect to the adorable romance and character growth of the primary characters, it did get draggy concerning the secondary couple, Yi Shu and Er Luo. Both of them were annoying at times, with Er Luo being so dense and unaware of Yi Shu's feelings for him and Yi Shu's unwillingness to clarify and confess. It's one of those relationships that could be smoothed out and move forward if there was some communication, even indirectly via the main couple. I did not understand why Xia Rui did not help more, given how the other two contrived to create opportunities for her and Nan Xi.
The cast did well and had excellent rapport with each other. This is quite the 'PG' show with so many kisses...interrupted! Still Fiction Guo and Wan Peng had great chemistry, so endearing together, and I hope that they will play the OTP again in another show. I watched Fiction Guo in Accidentally In Love and Su Yu, and his portrayal of his characters in those shows, and this one highlighted his acting skills and potential. He does comedy well, and in this show, as he emoted well without a lot of dialogue. He has a few main roles lined up, so I look forward to seeing him more. Wan Peng also did well as bubbly Xia Rui, but I wonder if she will get pigeonholed into such a character. Her role in First Romance was very similar and even in My Girlfriend is an Alien, she played a clumsy, bumbling, unlady-like character. It would be nice to see her portray a more feminine role. I totally see her as an ideal female lead, strong and sassy, and she does have attractive features.
The supporting characters were awesome. Lao Hu and Lao Yi, the parents & grandparents, all added fun and substance to the story, but the scene-stealer was Xia Rui's little brother, who was the little sage, truth-teller, and overall, a bundle of cuteness.
Music-wise - the OST was great, and I like how the show played 'sexier' songs as the OTP's relationship progressed. I am partial to duets, and the show featured a couple of nice ones.
I'd highly recommend that you watch this if you like light-hearted and binge-able dramas featuring strong friendship and family ties, character growth, and a healthy romance between the main characters who never wavered from their love and commitment.
Lastly, a shout out to CarmenEngSub for subbing this show!
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This review may contain spoilers
Under-rated fusion sageuk - great balance of comedy, drama and intrigue
Indeed a worthwhile watch, and I enjoyed the cheeky contemporary details that the writers slipped into this sageuk drama. Elements like a manicure bar, cafe, taxi stand, and the male lead's knowledge of mixed drinks were not what I expected, but they certainly established the show as a fun and interesting one. I have not seen the other versions so my review is solely based on this drama.For a lighthearted rom-com, the story was well-written and even better executed, switching between serious and hilarity, between dark themes and fluffy romance. Yes, cringe-inducing K-drama tropes were deployed, and the villains were somewhat predictable and not fully developed. Still, I never found myself wanting to fast forward.
The story flowed nicely, and the introduction of the characters and sub-plot lines felt organic. Comedic moments were on point, and there were often curveballs. Scenes that felt like the romance was about to kick off were often disrupted by unexpected unromantic developments. These twists kept me watching non-stop, and I was elated when the OTP finally got together! Even though 16 episodes felt just right, I did wish for only one more just to see a grand finale wedding.
Being a fusion sageuk, I liked how progressive the women were portrayed. Good or bad, these women were not afraid to go after what they wanted. I mean, Princess Hye Myung was the boss! Always questioning traditions and rules, and choosing to study medicine over getting married to her beloved Gyun Woo first. We also have Da Yeon going against her father's wishes and instead openly asking him to help her get Gyun Woo, and even her servant, Mal-Geum unabashedly chased after Gyun Woo's friend.
That said, I did like how it was Gyun Woo who made the first move with Hye Myung. Sounds contradictory, I know, but I still relish the romance of traditional courtship, and Gyun Woo scored major points when he asked the Qing prince to back off. Also, his confession to Hye Myung was so heart-felt and endearing.
My favorite thing about this show was the chemistry between Joo Won and Oh Yeon Seo. They played off each other so well, and they looked good together. Both actors were excellent and have proven their acting range. They emoted so effectively, especially Joo Won, who displayed grief and anguish so well just with his eyes.
The supporting cast deserved a shout-out as well, not only the actors but also the characters they played. Lee Jung Shin as Lieutenant Kang won me over - I was kind of hoping that he was the SML, and others who worked for me included: Prince Wonja (Choi Ro Woon) and Choon Poong (Shim Hyung Tak).
The music was another plus point. The OST was well selected, and I loved the usage of Pachebel's piece, Canon in D, and the adaptations of it.
Last but not least I have to mention the dimples! Not only did our OTP have the most adorable dimples, so did the little prince, the scheming queen, the villain, Gyun Woo's friend, and other characters. Everywhere I looked, it was dimples galore!
Overall, I recommend this show for its amazing OTP, cute romance, and satisfying ending.
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