─ the twist of adult child.

Started this drama without any prior knowledge about the plot or the full cast. So, there weren't any expectations but I was glad to find this twisted and psychological approach to this kind theme. The conflict between desperation and greed was nicely written.

From the beginning, the sisters and chef reminded me of children that are forced to become adults. Neither managed to grasp freedom and instead followed a way that offered them dream like escape. At some point, you find yourself feeling bad for them, another time you question their morals and greed. Even at the ending scene, you still witness the twist in their ordinary looking lives, which I think was quite unique to see.

While the story had its ups and downs, sometimes left you looking for more and sometimes felt draggy, the cast did awesome job at their characters. Especially Nam Jihyun and Choi Hyunwook rightfully owned the spotlight as they portrayed desperate people that did not hesitate to turn bad when it comes to "being able to live."

Overall, it was a nice watch that delivered specific messages successfully.

link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxBiq-NfStjWeJ-HBXaMzBcV&si=06NZ4vCYhhrRcZgj

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L : The mirror of live and evil

Started this drama without any prior knowledge about the plot so I did not know what to expect. Mostly, trusted Shin Hakyun's acting as he always delivers the characters and so far, I really enjoyed watching his dramas ─ ‍and Evilive was not an exception. So, I'm glad to not miss it as not only I enjoyed watching how the storyline and characters' developments unfold but also discovered new talented acting people.

While I must admit the story is not completely new or unique, it surely delivered its own twists and perspectives. For me, what made it really good drama to watch was acting. Not only main roles but also side characters showed good acting skills and pulled you into the story. The portrayal of dynamics was phenomenal. However, I have to admit Shin Hakyun and Kim Youngkwang truly stole the spotlights with their portrayals of their characters.

Throughout the 10 episodes, we saw how human greed works through characters, how they change and how someone can welcome their inner demons with a tempting whisper from a criminal and suppressed anger. The shift in personality was too realistic and it was nice to watch the constant moving between the grey and dark area throughout character development.

Also wanted to point out how it took me a while to notice there is only one L in Evilive because the letter is acting as a mirror. Evil and Live spell each other backwards, and L is both the door and mirror ─ ‍which is such a witty name. It perfectly represents the story and characters.

I'm glad I didn't miss this drama and gave it a chance ─ ‍and I definitely recommend it.


link to edit : https://youtu.be/h6z05B475cI

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“ Youth starts with ─ a taxi, telescope, and supermoon.

I wasn't familiar with any of the actors, so watching this movie was a fresh experience for me as a viewer. I haven't even seen the trailer of it before and only got curious after watching a beautiful edit on YouTube.

I must say, there is this calm and almost nostalgic vibe in this movie that made it somehow peaceful. The genre or the story is not something unique or not seen before, but delivery of the cast was beautiful. The characters were genuine with their perfections and flaws, nothing so complicated ─ it was as if someone was mentioning their youth memories, and you just listened and noticed how every generation could find something relatable in it.

The ending, especially, was quite adorable. Throughout the whole movie, you think he fell first, and he fell harder as it took her some time to notice her feelings. Then, they show a unique twist and summarise the scenes that have been forgotten in shadows from her point of view.

I also liked how it took one invitation from her for them to see each other again ─ as if they haven't been away for a while. This, I guess, shows they are each others' best friends [and sometimes rivals] first before lovers.

Overall, I enjoyed watching this movie and am planning to check other works of the cast as soon as there is an opportunity.

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─ ‍the twisted pattern of monsters and humans

I have been waiting for this season for quite some time as I really enjoyed watching season one and reading the webtoon. Although readings news about them not following the webtoon [ adding characters from Shotgun Boy ] made me question the quality of the writing, I think they did pretty good job.

Undoubtedly, compared to S1, writing lacked a bit ─ ‍from character introductions to complexity of their personas. However, they still followed a pattern that hinted a promising season 3. The first season was mainly about monsters and how humans became one due to their desires or greed. So, it started with monsters and ended with humans. Meanwhile, S2's main focus was humans, how they dealt with fear, and lack of freedom. Even the way they didn't hesitate to use fellow humans as lab rats. So, it started with humans and ended with monsters. Along the way, in this second chapter, they focused on new characters. Hence, we didn't see the original cast more. Yet, I think this hints a more complicated and thrilling S3 ─ ‍ which I'm looking forward to.

I think the reason most people felt unsatisfied is lack of screen time for the original cast. Some of them disappeared for so many episodes, such that it made audience wonder if the writer forgot them. [ I mean, wasn't Sweet Home about Cha Hyunsoo ? ] This, I think is all about marketing ─ ‍if they were going to focus on new cast most, they should have done marketing accordingly. Still, there were actually new characters with potential and I really wished they explored the colours of their personas properly.

The one that stood out the most for me in this season was Go Minsi. She did such an awesome job at delivering the characteristic changes and development that Lee Eunyoo went through and perfectly showed her determination to find her brother. Another character that stood out was Doctor Lim. Oh Jungse truly never disappoints when it comes to delivering diverse characters. Honourable mention to mother and daughter duo ─ ‍they were so twisted and dark while looking for their ownn lights.

I don't think there was a confusion in timeline as they stated how many days it has been since people discovered monsters with days instead of saying how many years it has been. They also showed that Yikyung's daughter grew up every day [ and years when she was killed ].

Also, I have mention that Sweet Home has one of the best soundtrack and am so glad they still delivered masterpieces in second season.

Overall, it was a good watch and is recommended as long as you are okay with the theme and trigger warnings. Looking forward to S3.

link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxCFyFmMp9zkjp_-gkySTPQj&si=qqSh49vta0dsxDV4

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─  one has a scar on the face, and the other carries a wound in the heart.

In Blossom has been one of those rare dramas that actually grasped the attention of the viewers from the very first episode. From the beginning, they kept the character introduction and storyline intriguing, and delivered it with a beautiful acting and cinematography. In fact, it kept a good balance between mystery, thriller and romance ( and even humour at early episodes ) which made it a worthy watch for those who enjoy multi genre dramas.

One of the impressive aspect of the story was how they focused on the cases. Each case delivered a message that fit not only the historical settings but also the current generation ─ and I think that isn't something easy to do. And through those cases, every character found their chance to shine despite appearing an episode or two. ( side note : I really liked how Yang Caiwei as a woman stood out with her profession in those cases. I also liked how we learnt she wasn't brave at the beginning when she talked about the cases she witnessed as a child but slowly grew up to acknowledge the bond between life and death. )

The main plot which focuses on the soul / face swap was smooth as well. At least, this enabled viewers to witness how the romance was built ─ occasionally showcasing the childhood memories that explained why Pan Yue was so determined to find Yang Caiwei. The line between love and obsession was quite thin in their relationship, so the incidents enabled viewers to see the character and relationship development. In fact, it was quite refreshing to see Pan Yue and Yang Caiwei ( Shangguan Zhi ) doubt each other about the death of YCW. Especially when they actually hid specific information that almost made us also doubt Pan Yue, even though we knew it wasn't him who killed her.

As for Zhou Lanjiang and Bai Xiaosheng ─ I think they were the unexpected surprise for me in this drama. It has been a while since I had been so interested in the relationship development of the second leads. Especially their tragic ending made their whole story impactful and their short sweet moments memorable. I liked how their actions also made us question "is this really love or just admiration?" because while some of their moments showcased early stages of love, other moments made us think they are lonely souls that somehow find a refuge in each other. ─ yes, I expected angst from them but what happened to Jiang was way too cruel, they really delivered pain with his scenes.

Overall, it was a nice watch ( OSTs were so beautiful as well ) with its ups and downs and ignorable plot holes ─ recommended to those who enjoy such genre.

link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxplWeBw3y5j9iRMCmCJg2oLuHaIASjGi&si=hveTUu-2YXDG4pxi

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When beautiful story meets beautiful acting to solve mysterious cases

I had been waiting for Mysterious Lotus Casebook for a while because of Cheng Yi as I knew from his previous projects that he always delivers with his acting ─ ‍and I wasn't disappointed. Furthermore, not only him but also whole cast, especially main leads Zeng Shunxi and Xiao Shunyao really did awesome job with their characters and I believe their actings were one of the most powerful elements of this drama. We see an eventful journey and clear character developments ─ ‍not only in lines but also in simple gestures [their eyes, the way they walk and carry themselves, the way they fight.]

The story is really intriguing and keeps getting better and better with each episode. The balance is perfectly done, there are points in certain cases that seem obvious but even then, they give such twists that leave you impressed. Each of those cases also reflects powerful messages, for example, the Girls' Residence/ Mansion ep and final eps' messages about life and humans. The process to solve those cases were well-written as well.

I also love how clear some characters' personalities were and didn't need to change. Righteousness of Li Lianhua/ Li Xiangyi, loyalty of Fang Duobing, stubbornness of Di Feisheng. ─ Also, ‍Li Lianhua's lies were quite creative, sometimes made us laugh and sometimes hurt us bad with all the pain he hid behind.

Character relationships are really charming as well. Absolutely love trio's friendship and how we saw their friendship development. Their trust to each other didn't need to be loud ─ ‍everyone already knows no one trust them like they trust each other. Honorable mention to Li Lianhua and Fox Spirit, their interactions were adorable [ and their farewell was emotional. ]

The sword fights were so elegant and natural, one of the best I have watched in dramas. It was clear that the cast worked so hard to film those scenes.

OST is beautiful too, lyrics complete storyline perfectly! I especially loved instrumental OSTs, really memorable.

Overall, I really liked the drama and definitely recommend it to others!

their story edit : https://www.bilibili.tv/en/video/4790583323263488
link to edits: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxBAlh5wL0WiS5e-5Ci1kUY_

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Top-Notch Acting, Patiently Built Storyline and Symbolic Flower

The Longest Promise seamlessly combines elements of romance, fantasy, and historical fiction with its compelling storyline, breathtaking visuals, and heartfelt performances. The drama excels in showing flaws in every character, their reasons and developments - as well as angst because we swam in our tears, especially on EP35-40. Yet, we also get a good dose of comedy and precious squad.

While some viewers may find the initial pace slow, I must say it is definitely worth it since those are stages that patiently build the storyline. The gradual hints and beautifully crafted parallels in the subsequent episodes make the buildup truly rewarding.

The chemistry between the lead actors is palpable, their emotional connection drawing viewers into their world. There is hesitation, uncertainty, and some reasonable (and painful) misunderstandings. But most of all, I especially liked their determination in the final episodes to save the world together. It was refreshing to see both ML and FL fight side by side, with a promise to protect and support each other.

Visually, it has exquisite cinematography and lavish sets, that leave viewers amazed. Especially the dragon CGI was one of the best that I have seen recently.

The supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the story, with each character contributing to the richness of the narrative. Their motivations and interactions add layers of tension, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Regarding the ending, I would say it's a "hopeful" open ending that hinted at happiness in previous episodes. As Shi Ying and Zhu Yan "promised" to find each other, and Zhu Yan mentioned how she never saw Shi Ying in her dreams for a year, I think it means he returned to her.

I also had been looking for flowers that can be an inspiration for the "Snowy Rosa" and I guess they used more than one reference for the flower. The closest one I could find was Yulan Magnolia, which has a tree that is named after the Chinese word "Yulan," which means "jade lily." The blooms typically appear in early spring and the flower is deeply associated with beauty, purity, and elegance. So it symbolizes the arrival of spring and the "renewal of life," which is also why I think Shi Ying returned to Zhu Yan once again (the first time being after their encounter as kids.)

Overall, I truly enjoyed this drama and think I will occasionally revisit it to watch my favorite scenes. I will also continue making edits / fmv for the drama, which you can find here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxDDA1gonAWMPAbp_5Sx-RWU

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Moving Story of "Monsters"

Moving is a remarkable drama that lives up to all the hype and praise it receives. It captivates viewers with their skillfully crafted stories, well-developed characters, and engaging dynamics. While its genre may not be entirely unique to some, it manages to infuse its own twist to keep things fresh and relatable.

Its standout feature for me is its careful attention to each character and how they're interconnected. We get a look into their lives and understand their perspectives as they face challenges and still keep moving on. The story refrains from fixating solely on their superpowers that gives them the title "monster" and instead portraying them as authentic, relatable individuals. The depiction of family dynamics is especially beautifully written, making it impossible to choose favourites. It's absolutely amazing to watch non-toxic parent - child relationships. I'm delighted that the final episodes did justice to these dynamics.

They also have an amazing ability to convey a clear message. There are so many inspiring and motivating dialogues that lives up to the name of the drama.

As for the acting, it's evident that the casting was done with great care, as the talented actors seamlessly embody their characters, adding to the show's overall excellence.

While I waited for the final eps' week to catch up, I didn't even notice how soon the 20 episodes ended. There wasn't any second that was draggy. Each part was there for a reason and kept the audience interested. Thus, if there is a season 2 or spin-off, I'm looking forward to it.

link to edits: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxCXFiPBfCrBRCt1a_-58h6a&si=_O6iNtW1KajW79f0

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Addictive and Beautifully Written Complex Characters

I've been postponing my dive into season one for quite some time, with plans to start it only when they release season two. However, after coming across many spoilers, which I'm thankful for, I decided to take the plunge and it was totally worth it!

The first episode alone packs a punch, and the creators know what they are exactly doing. They gave us enough to pique our curiosity, got some answers, and still look forward to more. It's also the very reason why this story is addictive. Before you know it, you just find yourself pulled into it and click on the next episode.

I dare to say LYF is also one of the rare dramas where you don't skip scenes because of its refusal to serve up filler content. You won't find yourself hitting the skip button because every scene contributes something meaningful to the narrative.

But the true gems of this drama are the characters. They're refreshingly imperfect, each bearing "relatable in a strange way" flaws that add layers of complexity. Their ever-shifting shade of gray personalities makes them so utterly captivating. There is an impressive balance of strength and vulnerability, which makes it more interesting to watch. And of course, acting just completes everything perfectly. The entire cast breathes life into their characters, making them feel real and relatable. This drama defies the notion of a mere "multiple main leads" and "female lead" setup. Each character boasts a rich backstory, a distinct personality, and a specific role to play. They go beyond the romance, and the political point of view is really beautifully portrayed as well.

The OST, CGI, and cinematography are really beautiful as well. Overall, I loved the first season and looking forward to the second one because it seems like more pain is awaiting us.

link to edits: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxplWeBw3y5h7gYmd9Du3X0IX2TgMeFuv&si=uqmhiASVW-6EBJFO

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─ a gripping story in a day

Perhaps one of the most unique and intriguing parts of the storyline is that it tells a story that happened in just one day ─ which is not something easy to do. However, they managed to add their twists and made it binge-worthy (of course, by adding enough scenes from the past as well). We saw enough from the past and enough from the present. At the beginning of the story, the audience is just like Jian; lost and confused and later on, slowly discover the real meaning behind the mess. I liked how they connected specific scenes towards the end to reveal the full story.

While the uncle and niece duo was such a great dynamic to watch, you also can't help but think of "what ifs" as you learn the uncle's real story. I enjoyed seeing how grey the character was as he tried his best to train his niece for her to became stronger. You can also see how his military background create stereotype persona in the mind of others when he, himself is struggling with guilt and nightmares. Realistically acted.

The action scenes were great, and side characters added a good colour to the story. Villains were indeed cruel, and it's refreshing to see they didn't give a reason to pity the villain. He was just a bad person without a reason to redeem himself.

You might think "how can a person change in a day" but we actually got a smooth character development as well due to different personas surrounding Jian as some wanted to protect her whereas some were after her life.

Overall, it was a nice watch and recommended to anyone who enjoys watching this genre.

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Long Live Life ─ with flaws, scars and healing

This was one of the dramas I actually didn't plan to watch until I saw the spoilers of the first episode on Twitter ─ and absolutely liked how the premise was about CODA. I also enjoy watching dramas of a child time travelling and meeting their teen parents so I didn't hesitate to give it a try and I am so glad that I did.

‍Starting from the name, throughout the episodes they made a reference to Frida Kahlo's Sandías / Viva la Vida (Long Live Life). In Mexican folk culture, watermelon is commonly found in representations of the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration ─ so at first, I thought the story might mostly focus on angsty side of life. However, it was just another connection with how Eungyeol's life changed thanks to music shop owner and how his death affected more than one life. So, it wasn't about sadness or fear of death but mostly about natural path and development. Thus, Sparkling/ Twinkling Watermelon is such a nostalgic name for this drama because it can be interpreted as: Radiant life/youth, sparkling performance, or a sparkling period of time in youth before they became adults. And I really like it when the name actually summarises the storyline.

When it comes to acting, everyone did a great job at portraying their characters. As for characters, I must admit, for me, mostly Ha Yichan and Yoon Cheongah stood out ─ as teens and adults. Their characters were beautifully written and acted. They weren't perfect but they were perfect with their flaws, scars and their healing processes.

The drama also showed beautiful dynamics ─ whether it was friendship or parental relationships.

At the end, just like any other time travel drama, there were unanswered questions, discrepancy and some "what if" scenarios. But overall, it was an enjoyable watch.

link to edits: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxDG3OaZjOkQIQUXWkuLTosF&si=HlG3s3wpE07lYOTL

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─ a journey between light and dark.

While it took me a while to finally find time to properly focus and watch this drama, I'm so glad I didn't delay it for too long ─ as I truly enjoyed the journey this drama showed. In fact, I'm so glad not to let reviews of others affect my watching experience as there are many points I don't agree with what other viewers stated.

While it's true that there are ups and downs, the storyline is quite unique-ish, at least among the dramas released in the past few years. Just from the colours and cinematography, it promises something new and delivers it as well. I especially have to say the cinematography is one of the best I have seen so far.

I liked all the dynamics they showed ─ whether it was between the family members, friends, or lovers. They showed a variety of forms of love, which was beautiful. The characters' developments were interesting to watch as well. I think everyone got a good screen time and their importance was told when it was necessary. In fact, I loved how the story played with the perspectives ─ at some point, it made sure to show audience not to judge so easily.

The chemistry and acting were beautiful too ─ not only in romantic way but the chemistry between parent and child, siblings, student and tutor. It was so nice to see pieces of humanity they tried to hide due to their responsibilities.

The building of the last battle in the past four episodes was so captivating. It was like watching battle of minds ─ showing the shift in the journey between light and dark.

For the ending, while it might be said it's open ending due to many possibilities, I hope they can surprise us with a second season as I would definitely like to watch it.

ps. OST is really beautiful as well ─ both the songs and instrumentals.

link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLI-LyvxxdMxBkohitgnIvHMpq4W59UJ7n&si=VVDdaUBDBNeGE0oI

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─ ‍artistic approach to the crime cases

I had watched many crime thriller dramas that focuses on talented detectives in the police station setting. Yet, Under the Skin is one of the unique ones that deliver a new approach to this genre. Before I started the drama, I had high expectations because I only saw positive reviews about it. After watching it, I definitely agree that it deserves all the compliments.

The story is actually quite captivating even from the premise. Overall, it is an interesting and binge worthy story ─ ‍ not with just cases as some of them might appear familiar but the way they deliver it from the eyes of a genius artist. It also has a smooth pace, doesn't drag the story unnecessarily. In fact, it is one of its charms that they know exactly where to conclude the cases and move to the next one.

Dynamics and acting are absolutely amazing ─ ‍you don't feel awkward or think any character doesn't belong there. They all have their roles and perfectly showcases it.

I also think the ending is satisfying and mysterious enough to set the vibe for the second season. This being said, I'm definitely looking forward to the next season and what they prepared with cases and characters.

link to edits : https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxplWeBw3y5jgUu8espv5dPINyq2-V6RY&si=D4q8INvgXiU5lMQK

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Keep walking. I will be right behind you.

This was one of the movies I had been procrastinating due to the heavy theme ─ although I heard nothing but positive reviews about it. It truly deserves recognition and praise, and no wonder has been one of the most memorable c-movies for many.

While the theme is quite heavy, it also needs a careful and realistic approach, which I think they did right. There wasn't any glorification or gaslighting. It was raw and candid. The characters, of course, had flaws ─ even the main lead because she also, like others, chose silence before becoming a victim ─ but those flaws were understandable and for some, relatable.

One of the aspects I like is that they hinted that bullies became the people they are because of their parents, but they didn't use it as an excuse to demand redemption from the audience. Because at the end of the day, it was their own choice to become that person and not a better person.

The acting was really authentic, especially when they used silence and their eyes to deliver emotions. Cinematography and soundtrack, as well as symbolism they used, were phenomenal, added another layer of depth and a fresh point of view to the story. Love the dialogues as well. They are so beautiful and meaningful.

I'm glad I finally gathered my courage to watch this movie and also glad that they gave us a glimpse of hopeful ending.


cinematography edit : https://youtu.be/QhmYcdiQM2Q

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You must stay alive for as long as I live.

Song of the Bandits was binge-worthy drama that brought its raw and aesthetic touch to familiar themes, and I enjoyed watching all episodes. There wasn't any unnecessary or dragging part, each scene delivered something specific and special.

Characters and their dynamics were beautifully written and, of course, with such cast, never doubted the acting quality. Each of them had this embodied presence in the story with their own roles that completed the whole puzzle effortlessly. Their goals, desperation and ambitions were beautifully portrayed from the way they carry themselves to their way of talking, dressing, walking - the details were picturesque.

And while I also think it deserves season 2, I liked the charm of its uncompleted ending as well, which is suitable for the times the story highlights. After all, those were times, many couldn't see the end of their own stories. It felt like they gave us a glimpse of someone's memories who also had many questions that they could only guess the answer.

The cinematography and shoots had artistic movie vibes, and action scenes were one of the best - with Kim Namgil in the cast, it was expected.

I would say, it worth the wait, from story to characters and the message each of them delivered, it was a beautiful watch experience. Came for Kim Namgil and Yoo Jaemyung and stayed for all the cast, story and their acting.

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