Jojo

The myth, the meh!

The premise of this drama is very new - a bunch of mythological creatures in the modern world continuing their love story. Sounds interesting ? It was until it wasn't. When it came to execution, it was messy around the edges. It was an okay one-time watch even though the whole thing played out like a fever dream.

Starting with positives, the animated sequences were AMAZING. Each episode opens with this striking myth-style narration that feels like a moving storybook drenched in colour and mystery. I could have watched 12 episodes in that animated style. It elevated the whole lore.

Story-wise, it was confusing. The tonal whiplash was evident, and I feel the whole backstories were dull or not fully developed. The show starts with deep symbolism with destiny, rebirth and somehow doesn't do justice to it. The whole fantasy element just lands with a thud. Like if you skip the narration at the start, there are no traits that resembles the present day characters to the mythologicals being they were/are. We have few sprinkles of horror element but they just felt out of place.

Coming to the two couples and the romance, the main couple, unfortunately, doesn't move me much. There were barely any sparks at all, or at least they were very fragmentary. It was awkward but not in a cute way. Their historical story was also mild. Like interesting in parts, but overall I was bored. Meanwhile, the second couple were oddly interesting. Together, they manage to make even the most chaotic plot turns feel oddly intimate. Though I didn't like the fast tracked resolution to their story. We could have spared a few more minutes on them.
Romance as a whole was okay. In the middle it got intresting but then it was sappy romantic moments with comedy that was a hit or a miss. The whole combination of romance + myths and fantasies somehow felt absurd.

Acting-wise, it was uneven. I think that is what didn't sell the characters for me. It wasn't outright bad, but it was not consistent. The production seemed decent, and the editing was also okay between flashbacks and present timelines. The costumes of the period era could have been way better.

Overall, this drama isn’t one you watch for airtight storytelling, which is disappointing considering how strong and unique the setup was. You watch it for the bizarre appeal. Would I recommend it? Honestly, no. Not because it’s terrible .. ummm far from it but because it never truly hooked me. It looks solid on paper yet lifeless and boring in execution.

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Healing Romance!!

Story - A slice of life with a unique premise and well-written story were one the strongest points of this c-drama. The pacing of the story was slow yet soothing and healing. It was full of life and will make your heart ache in a tragic way at the same time. The balance between the sombre and happy moments makes it stand out!
The dialogues and conversations between the leads healed something in me that they never broke!

Acting - Li Xian's portrayal of Chen Mai Dong and Zhou Yu Tong as Zhuang Jie was exemplary. Both ML and FL have an undeniable and ineffable - charm and chemistry.  The gradual affection with a lot of simmering tension between them was such a treat for the eyes.
Both the leads were not perfect, had flaws but were brave enough to acknowledge and deal with them. The acting had realism.
Chen Mai Dong truly defined "Healing yourself is connected with healing others!" And MY MAN DID THAT. Zhuang Jie was a bit indecisive and selfish at times but self-realisation dawns on her soon rather than dragging it, putting healthy dynamics on display. At times she was sheer embodiment of "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!".
The side characters contributed to the story well. I liked the bond between the FL and her siblings and how CMD's grandmother played Cupid in the initial episodes. I liked how all the characters were pinning and conspiring for the leads to stay together (FL's mother was a hard cookie but joined the party).

The ending was on a happier note but a bit open-ended but also makes you realise how short life is to hold grudges!
The cinematography of the drama is noteworthy especially the location and the painting at the end was done beautifully! Though the editing and dubbing were a bit choppy in a few instances but wasn't distracting enough.

Overall, a heartwarming drama I would recommend.

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If I were the king, this plot would be chained up in the dungeon !

If this drama were a dish, it would be a beautiful Choco lava cake...beautiful on the outside, but sadly missing that melty, gooey centre. Imagine the disappointment...
On paper, the concept was a straight-up feast for a food centric romcom. A modern Michelin-star chef is tossed into ancient Joseon, cooking for royals, with time travel. What I didn't expect was for it to be bogged down by adding the plot at the last minute.

Let’s start with the plot or honestly, the garnish that tried really hard to look important. Political scheming, treason, secret agendas… Except most of it never actually landed. The conspiracy gets teased in the first 2 episodes, then disappears into the background for the majority of the drama, only to be awkwardly pulled back near the finale. You could remove all the palace intrigue, dead-parent mysteries and sabotage nonsense and the cooking scenes would still work perfectly.

Pacing is another tricky ingredient which they failed to master. The drama devotes several episodes to a single cooking competition that could have cut short if they really wanted to accommodate and address the palace politics .
Also, the FL traveling from the future and knowing what’s going to happen but still waiting until swords are drawn felt completely absurd. I get that she doesn’t remember the exact dates of events, but she knows who the culprits are and could have easily warned the King. One counter argument is that the King might not have believed her, thinking she was joking but after several episodes, he clearly does start trusting her. It’s as if everyone...the FL and the writers included forgot they introduced a tragic backstory at the start, because it goes completely unaddressed in the middle episodes.

I need someone to sit and explain the why's to me... Why as in not why we needed those subplots but why as in , why weren't they addressed as a part of the drama from the start and only like a finale afterthought. When the drama tries to get serious, it trips over its own feet… and the moment it goes whimsical, oh look they suddenly remember there’s a tragic backstory lurking somewhere.

And I refuse to talk about the ending because the drama didn't bother explaining either!

Where the drama truly shines is in the kitchen. The food sequences are glorious and very realistic with sizzling pans, carefully plated dishes, exaggerated reactions that somehow make you drool and cinematic close-ups. It is bound to make you hungry. No complaints here.

Coming to the romance, it is slow-burn, awkward and sweet at the start, but in my humble opinion, it never fully blooms. Till the end, I thought FL wasn't in love with the King. They had fragmented chemistry, but it wasn't convincing enough. Though I didn't mind it much considering that it didn’t hog the spotlight and let the main plot, ‘Food,’ take the stage.

Acting-wise, the leads do more than the script really deserves. LCM as the ML, brings the king’s charisma effortlessly. His portrayal is solid and he nails both the goofy and the emotional moments. Yoona as FL Yeon Ji Yeong was also good especially in the cooking scenes. The supporting cast had some good names that were underutilised, like Kang Han Na as Kang Mok Ju.

Production was very polished and grand. The money was well spent on the elaborate sets and costumes. Plus, the cooking scenes and the setup looked really authentic as well. I also like the concept behind the title of every episode. A lot of thought was put into aesthetics, but I wish they had spent as much care on the writing to do overall justice.

Overall, this could have been a perfect light-hearted historical slice-of-life drama if only it hadn’t tried to juggle a dozen unnecessary subplots. Last few episodes felt like a different drama. I did enjoy the cooking aspect, but the rest of everything was mediocre.
Will I recommend it? No. It's not even a small commitment. Every episode is 1 hour+.

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoyed/enjoy the show more than I did!

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A story of survival with four musketeers and a big bad wolf in the shadows!

This season goes way beyond brains versus brawn , it was personal, way more messier and more human.

Si-eun wasn’t just playing chess with bullies anymore. He was stuck in his own head, sort of drowning in everything that went wrong. You could tell he was not just tired, he was done. His grief didn’t scream, it just lingered, thick in the air, showing up in the way he stared too long, the way his hands trembled ever so slightly or how his voice hesitated before answering. He was unraveling quietly, piece by piece, trying to figure out who he was now that everything he trusted had either broken or disappeared.
It wasn’t just about beating enemies anymore, it was about surviving for his own sanity and not making the same mistakes again.

But it wasn’t all heavy and dark. The friendship between the "Fantastic Four" (yes I’m sticking with that) brought a kind of comfort that really stood out. There was something so genuine about the way they had each other’s backs. It wasn’t dramatic or forced, just simple moments of care that made everything feel a little less bleak.

For the first time, Si-eun didn’t feel completely alone. He had people beside him who didn’t need him to be strong or strategic all the time ,just there. And those small smiles and laughs they shared, the quiet understanding, honestly made me smile too. It felt like something he had been needing for a long time and finally, he got it.

The friendships in Season 2 held strong in ways Season 1 never could. ( I SAID WHAT I SAID!)

I hadn’t read the original source material, but I have zero complaints about the new characters that were introduced. Every actor did a great job and each character really felt like they belonged here.
Park Hu-min, Seo Jun-tae and Ko Hyeon-tak were especially impressive to me. They perfectly captured the essence of being this goofy, fun-loving ones, but there was always something deeper going on with them. Even when they were joking around or keeping things light, there was this subtle layer of vulnerability that made them feel so real. They each had their own demons to face and I could see that in their performances.

Acting was solid across the board for me.
I am especially gonna talk about Park JiHoon because as always he was phenomenal. There’s something in his eyes (It's hard to move on). The pain, resolve, sadness that just magically works and enhances every scene. Somebody give that guy a baeksang please!

The one thing I had an issue with was the antagonist, Na Baek Jin. To me, he didn’t feel as much of a villain as the show tried to make him out to be. They presented him as this serious, mysterious figure, but I still don’t feel like I understand why he ended up where he was. I needed that backstory to really connect with him and fully hate him. Without that depth, he felt a bit one-dimensional.

As for Geum Seong Je, the other antagonist, I had mixed feelings. Since Junyoung was playing the role, maybe I was biased and started seeing the good in him, hoping he would somehow turn out better. But that wasn’t the case. His character felt a little brief, which left me wanting more. I think with a bit more exploration. I hope season 3 ( if there is) serves that!
Also, the styling choice of his character was oj point! Those glasses and hair served !

Overall, for me, this season was right on par with season 1. It didn’t disappoint at all! I’m keeping this review spoiler-free, so I won’t get into specific events, but I can honestly say the season made me happy. Sure, the writing had its moments where it felt a bit uneven, but I binged it all in one sitting and that didn’t bother me too much. It was still easy to get hooked and stay invested.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Please, go watch it!

Thank you for reading my review/rant!

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You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear!

This drama is a standing example of how the brightest of the stars can't outshine bad writing. From start to finish, it's a masterclass in how to do absolutely everything wrong. I wish I could sugar coat it, but I can’t even count a single redeeming moment on all ten fingers. 
  
First off, the plot or rather the lack of it. The premise is 12 angels fighting against evil spirits to protect humans. Sounds interesting, right... But the character introduction was an absolute disaster. In episode 1, I found myself remembering who was who half the time, except for Tiger, because they had given him a loud tiger-print suit. Halfway through me playing Dora the Explorer, I notice it very late that 4 zodiacs have died, and they give that information in a glorious flashback scene of 2 seconds at the introduction. If you miss seeing people lying on the ground, you have missed a very important detail.
  
I failed to understand and comprehend all the characters' motivations or the conflict driving the plot forward. Also, we are bombarded with endless flashbacks that are so irrelevant and at the wrong time. Imagine an intense fighting scene playing, and suddenly you are transported to Tiger's younger self, eating and reminiscing about an old memory.  
I felt the writers were in a constant state of doubt on what to do next, and the best plan they came up with was to confuse the audience with the randomness and leave us bewildered as to why we are still watching this. 

They finally decided to grace us with the backstory in the very last episode because why make any sense until the finale, right? That crucial info clearly had to arrive fashionably late, just to keep us delightfully confused all season.

Coming to the team dynamics... sadly, we see nothing substantial. 
Somehow, everything was about the leader Teasan (Tiger), who, in my opinion, wasn't a good fit for that role. Marok, the manager, was more logical than him and apparently has a better understanding of the team. When you put a show centring a team, show the TEAM... show their strengths and weaknesses and not just their leader acting like a monarch and his only concern is the restaurant lady.  
I expected each of them to show distinct personalities and thematic connections to their animal traits based on their zodiac signs, but they had zero impact. The fight scenes were badly choreographed, especially those of Teasan's.  
  
Second glaring issue (when I say glaring, it is in your face glaring) was the visuals. Again, I don't want to sound harsh, but I dressed better in my fancy dress competition when I was a child than the costumes here. And guess what, my family was working with a shoestring budget. The wigs and the costumes were laughable. You can argue that I am a naïve drama watcher who didn't understand this niche plot, but you can't defend the visuals. It's like 5-minute DIY crafts.  
Also, the magic weapons looked like child props bought at discounted rate. I will not get started on CGI because I literally have nothing nice to say. Everything was so underwhelming, taking into account that they had PHS and Seo In Guk as the cast!  
I want to take this moment and ask the team - "Where did the damn budget go?!!"  
  
Humans tend to desperately find a silver lining in everything and I did too. The only thing I liked was that Park Hyung Sik's character Ogwi had wings and that he looked really good with those red lenses.
I was excited to see him in an antagonist role, and was intrigued by his backstory, but the lack of context in both present and past just somehow wasted that potential too. 
  
Coming to Romance, Hyung Sik had better chemistry with the rooftop than with Miss dragon. I mean, that's the only explanation I have for him standing there for 3 episodes and doing nothing to save this sinking ship.  Jokes apart, the chemistry between them was non-existent. There shouldn't have been romance in the first place, but if you are serving it, at least build it up gradually.  

We had another antagonist, Samin, who was as unimpressive as everything else in the drama. His character lacked the command and curiosity that were needed to make him a good villain. We are told reasons for what he does (vaguely) and why, but they feel empty. Somehow, things were very convenient for him and I just didn't care about him at all.
  
Acting-wise, it was just something else... in the sense that I would rather forget it. With the script like this, all the big names seem weighed down. The overall performance felt very stiff. I want to see the reading room footage, just to understand what convinced the entire cast to say yes to THIS script. 
Production-wise, it was atrocious. I have seen a fair share of low-budget dramas, and they are better than this. I know they were aiming for the stars but sadly it turned out tragic. 
  
Overall, this was a disaster dressed as ambition with a star cast. The only thing consistent here was the disappointment. This had every ingredient to become an epic fantasy drama, but I will remember it for all the wrong reasons.  I can't even say it is entertaining because it is anything but that !
I see a sea of wasted potential and missed opportunities, with a sinking ship stranded in the middle with 12 angels, a snake and a crow sitting on the damn deck (because apparently misery doesn't love company...) all flailing desperately just to survive! 
Will I recommend this? NO. 
  
Thank you for reading my review! <3  
Usually, I am a sweet person, but the number of crash-outs I had yesterday after my binge-watching session is the reason for this sarcastic/harsh review.  
If you enjoyed the show, please take this as just one opinion among many. :))

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Promising, light hearted premise that drifts in the second half!

The series unfolds the evolving journey of the childhood friends Ai and Yu, from rivalry to affection while incorporating supernatural elements.

The chemistry between Ai and Yu was undeniable, especially in their initial playful banter and eventual support for each other. As the drama progressed, their bond grew strong although the miscommunications led to unnecessary tension that could have resolved more easily.
Yo and Ing's story added an entertaining layer to the overall drama. Their romantic struggles with humour and relatability were executed well in the short screen time that they had. The supporting family brought a certain comforting warmth to the story. Yu and Yo's interactions with Ai's parents was heartwarming to see.

However, what started as an interesting supernatural romance fizzled out in the second half. The pacing felt uneven, especially in the second half. It started feeling dragged repeating the same scenarios without much progression. The slow-burn romance was sort of appealing but then considering the long history of them together, it was frustrating at times as to how the characters reacted particularly when the love-rival subplot was introduced (multiple times -_-).

The supernatural element introduced initially felt very anti-climatic. The supernatural was used as a catalyst for Ai to Yu in romantic light , but it lacked the necessary development to evoke curiosity or tension. I wish they focused a bit more on that rather than on the common tropes.

Overall, An interesting premise that started strong but falters in its execution during the second half. Recommended if you are for something light and entertaining to watch that doesn't delve into profound themes.

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Not your typical BL!

First thing first , the intro of this series was MASTERPIECE!
If you are expecting this to be your typical BL , it will disappoint you. I understand the rating on MDL. This is not a cup of tea for everyone.

The story does seem fragmentary at points leaving you with many unanswered plot holes but it has clever presentation.
The symbolism , the contrasting color frames , the angst , the hurt - You can feel it all in this 5 episode drama.
The acting by both the leads was convincing enough.

Not a fan of open endings but in this case it was justifiable. 
The conversation after their dinner was cruel yet realistically hopeful.
Yoon Dae needed to understand that " If you never heal from what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you."
For him to be Soo Hyuk's home and vice versa, he has to ground himself first. Finally someone teaching him self love without manipulating and scarring him.
Soo Hyuk was torn but held his ground this time. He wanted Yoon Dae to really be his home rather than being a liability.

The ending depicted they both finally broke from their same pattern and that counts as "sort of" happy ending (At least for me).
Though it's not a perfect 10 for me but still very close to it. I hope there is season 2 with longer run time.

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Strong start, dull second half! Just go in expecting a wild ride, not a perfect one!

Good Boy felt like a high-budget group project where one person insisted on running the whole thing their way, while the rest of the team, who are capable and ready, just stood by. It had a team setup but ended up spotlighting only one voice whether it made sense or not. It started with promise but somewhere along the way, the team lost its focus and simply hoped the presentation and visuals would carry all the weight.

The premise had a unique and cool concept where ex-national athletes turn into cops and somehow form a task force. The first few episodes really had me intrigued. The team dynamic was chaotic but somehow endearing and enjoyable. It had the right mix of action, comedy and emotional moments. The antagonists were really strong and smart at first and the little cat and mouse chase was interesting.

But as the novelty wore off, the cracks started to show. All the things that I enjoyed in the first half, from the vigilante justice theme to the emotional trauma, are still there in the second half, but it just stopped making me feel anything.
The pacing became inconsistent. Some parts dragged unnecessarily while the others just sped through without any significant development. And the tone whisplash here was real. One minute it was intense and the next we had an awkward comedic moment that just felt out of place. The villain arc that built up so well and gave me the impression that it was going to shake everything up, it kind of fizzled.

Another thing that exhausted me was how "perfect" Yoon Dong Ju (Park Bo Gum's character) was. I know he was the main lead, but the dramatic focus he got was borderline overkill. It's almost comical how much plot armour he carried around. He got beaten black and blue and still managed to dust himself off and take on an entire troop like he was invincible. Every time he pulled a reckless move, the rest of the team had to jump in and do damage control. Honestly, it became more of "THE YDJ Show" than an ensemble setup.
That brings me to team dynamics. Initially, I enjoyed the found family set up and expected an equal footing for the leads, but I felt they were reduced to mere cheerleaders. Don’t get me wrong, Park Bo Gum did a great job with the flimsy script he was handed. This isn’t a dig at his acting. But wasn’t this supposed to be a 'TEAM EFFORT'. (They originally had him on the poster, but later switched it to feature the whole team (current one). Honestly, if the story was always going to revolve around just one character, they probably shouldn’t have changed it because it ends up feeling a bit misleading.)

Coming to the romance section, sadly I felt a noticeable lack of chemistry between the leads. It was mild and fragmented at best. There were moments that almost worked - subtle concern, soft glances but none truly stuck. They felt more like friends or teammates who had each other's backs. I feel that part of the issue is how the drama juggled multiple tones. Romance here felt more like an afterthought. It wasn't compelling enough to root for nor subtle enough to ignore and concentrate on other parts. Honestly, the bromance between Park Bo Gum and Lee Sang-yi's character had more chemistry than the actual leads and that says a lot.

Acting-wise, Park Bo Gum was excellent. He was the reason I stuck around. From action sequences to emotional moments, I couldn't find any faults. For a drama that kept dropping in quality, his performance was one of the few highlights. Lee San Yi, Oh Jung Se and other side characters did a great job. I have seen them in other works before and with what was given, I feel they justified their role.
My real gripe was with the female lead’s acting. I had only seen her in Love Alarm before and chalked it up to a weak script, but here she genuinely felt like the weakest link. Her emotional scenes were flat. They felt too stoic, too restrained and even when she cried, I knew she was acting. It just wasn’t convincing. Now, I’m not saying she’s a bad actress. Honestly, I haven’t seen enough of her work to make that call but in this particular role, when you put her next to the rest of the cast, the difference was glaring.

Cinematography and production were backed by a solid budget, and it showed. Visually, it was polished. The action sequences were well-crafted. I particularly enjoyed the neon-lit fight scene.

Overall, Good Boy desperately wanted to be deep, emotional and thrilling but instead of pulling it all together, it kinda tripped over its own ambition. The premise and the first half delivered but the execution in the second half was dull and repetitive. It is definitely charming and chaotic at times but it started to feel more like a sunk cost situation towards the end. I would only recommend it if you are a fan of Park Bo Gum or action dramas.

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoy the drama more than I did.
This is a subjective take based on my personal experience with the drama. If you enjoyed it, please take this review with a grain of salt. I am a huge fan of Park Bo Gum and honestly, no one is more disappointed than I am to be rating this so low.

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Cute and easy, but won’t stick with you!

This is a good pick for a lighthearted romcom that is a perfect one-time watch. It offers all your classic elements you would expect - from charming moments to some funny and punk rock twists with an overall feel-good vibe from start to finish. While it doesn’t break new ground in terms of plot, it does just enough to make you smile and feel good by the end.
The pacing is just right, with a blend of humor and sweet moments that kept me entertained without getting too heavy or too complicated for a romcom.

The chemistry between the leads was good. Their connection felt real and cute, giving off an effortless vibe. Whether they were joking around or having those sweet moments, they somehow just clicked.
From playful banter to tender moments, you can tell they genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Their interaction felt natural and not forced, which added a certain depth to their relationship.

The gaming element at the beginning was actually a clever subplot. It felt seamless and didn’t come across as childish which I feared when I read the synopsis, instead bringing a fresh dynamic that added an extra layer of fun to the plot. I wish they kept more of that in later part of episodes too.

The SML Kim Sin Won was definitely a highlight for me. He was such a sweetheart and I loved that they didn’t make him compete with the ML for FL's attention. That was a nice change from the usual love triangle drama. On the other hand, the SFL wasn’t always my favourite. She came across as kind of immature at times, especially when she pulled away from SML but made him feel like it was his fault. I get needing space, but it would have been nicer if she didn’t act like he was in the wrong for it. Honestly, I think I would have been okay if they hadn’t ended up together.

The supporting characters were a mixed bag and in the background except for throwing some curve ball here and there. The female lead’s dad was such a sweetheart, adding a lot of warmth to the story in the little screentime he got. I liked his supportive nature and his bond with both his kids.
But the male lead’s grandmother! Yikes. I just couldn’t get on board with her till the end. I am sorry but no amount of redemption arc could make me forget how cruel she was to a child.

The acting was decent all around. No complaints really, everyone did their thing with what they had, even if the script wasn’t exactly mind-blowing. They still made it work and brought the characters to life.

Overall, while it wasn’t anything groundbreaking, this still served a good time. Recommended if you are looking for something light and feel-good.

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Romance so soft, that it forgot to break my heart!!

The drama is set against the backdrop of a war period, and oddly, it feels very light and almost a little too blissful. The central story revolves around Rati, an interpreter from France and Thee, an aristocrat in Siam, and the second couple, Mek and Dech, explores the theme of class divisions in society.

Starting with the positives, the show is screensaver pretty. The wide shots of the river, the whole period theme and cultural touches were to the point and really helped set up the whole mood. You just can't stop taking screenshots.

Another strength of the drama is the chemistry between the two couples.. Rati and Thee are the softest and sweetest things. The moment they saw each other, I felt they knew this was it. It was all sugar, sparkles and heart eyes.
Mek and Dech were very different from them. Their love story felt a bit realistic or less fairytale-ish. I loved their strangers to friends to lovers arc and the intimacy they had. There were no grand gestures here, everything between them just felt natural and meant to be.

But it isn't without any flaws, and ironically, its biggest “strength” also doubles as its downfall. For a story to unfold in such a turbulent period, there was surprisingly very little tension. It felt too polished and happy.
The romance of the main couple was dreamy, and I somehow missed that forbidden love hesitation and tension. Here, that edge was softened and I thought it would pick up in the later episodes once the angst hits but it was lukewarm and all the issues resolved too soon. Don't get me wrong, their chemistry is really evident and good but I was maybe expecting something soul-shattering.
And I got all I wanted in the second couple, but they were not given enough screen time. Their love story had so much potential. Mek was really grounded and Dech has that softer side of him, and every scene we got of them hinted at something deeper than what we see on screen. It was a wasted potential to me.

I felt they played it too safe and far from the reality it was set in. I don't mind bending a little to accommodate the story, but maybe with an ounce of realism. No one in that time period would have gotten away if they acted like Thee or Rati. The build-up around family opposition, social divide and cultural barriers just glossed over the real and required tension.
And while the ending was heart-warming and very GMM style, but it was sadly too neat for this.

Acting-wise, it was very convincing across the board. Great and In had beautiful chemistry, but I really wished we could see them in their angst era more. Aou and Boom were fantastic too and it's about time they get the series as main leads.

Overall, while I did enjoy the overall romance and visuals, I feel the execution fumbled the bag a bit. The themes were crying to be fleshed out more to give us a perfect historical BL without time travel. It's not exactly ground breaking, but it partly does get things right.
Will I recommend it? Yes, I will but think of it more as a fantasy historical drama that doesn’t sweat the historical accuracy.
7.75/10

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Monsters exist, but so do mirrors and sometimes we are staring into one without realising it!

Sometimes you think you understand a situation just because you have heard or seen enough about it. Monster is about that moment when you realise you actually didn't and how uncomfortable that realisation can be. For 2 hours, it somehow quietly rearranges your assumptions and makes you aware as a viewer or the character themselves how quickly people choose a side and how rarely anyone stops to ask what might be missing.

It is like a conversation where everyone was speaking honestly when isolated and just not to each other. The movie isn’t interested in shock or spectacle and is more invested in interpretations. There is no rush to provide clarity.

By the time it settles, you realise the “monster” was never simply just an ugly human, but also a gap between reality and perception. Do not get me wrong, this isn't a defence of some animals that humans are, nor a denial of damage. But rather a forgotten reminder that perspective is not a passive lens but an active force in this world. Meaning changes depending on where you stand. Power, history, and vulnerability bend interpretation. An action experienced as violence by one may be survival to another. An act of self-protection may look like hostility from the outside. Again, this does not excuse harm, but it explains how meaning fractures across distance.

The direction is very good. I usually don't look at the crew list, but I did here. The performances, especially by the two young boys, were exceptional and from others across the board too. I have no complaints about visuals. The lighting, intentional silences... everything just worked in harmony.

My only complaint is that it had too many loose ends. And I am just not talking about a specific event. No doubt it created curiosity, which is usually a strength. I kept thinking about it after it ended...replaying scenes, trying to read between the lines. But some questions didn’t feel like they were meant to make you think. They felt dropped, like the story moved on before they had a chance to land. Maybe it's my obsession for closure speaking here but yes...

Overall, I would definitely recommend this. This is not what I was expecting and I am surprised, but in a good, thought-provoking but also in an unsettling way.

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Youthful shenanigans with slow burn gallore on the side!

This was all about youth, love and identity through the lives of two boys - Sheng Wang and Jiang Tian. The story begins with their parent's unexpected marriage and them sharing a roof but it goes beyond that and the typical BL tropes. As the drama progresses, it deals with loneliness, self-discovery and healing from past traumas.

What stands out for me is the pacing. The slow-burn romance allowed us to savour each shared moment between them - be it a glance or a subtle accidental touch. Every interaction between them felt special and gradually deepened their connection. The intimacy between them was chef's kiss. It was captured beautifully along with the confusion of young love. All the emotions were felt but none was spoken.

The character development of both leads was a treat to watch. Sheng Wang was portrayed as friendly in contrast with the stoic and often guarded Jiang Tian. As the polar opposite duo began to interact, the façade melted revealing their vulnerabilities and a new version of themselves. Their understanding of each other formed the emotional core that maintained a perfect balance between friendship and then the budding romance.

A special mention of literary element and small stories at the start of the episodes. The subtle references and metaphors for every episode and then the story revolving and unfolding around them was interesting and engaging to watch.

Though the ending feels incomplete and bittersweet but considering there would be a season 2, it gives a fitting closure. It is symbolic of Wang's realisation that they are just not brothers and friends. I am looking forward to season 2!
Overall, recommended if slow burn, character-driven romance is your thing.

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Slow burn gone cold !

The drama centres on Tang Yang and Jiang Shi Yan, childhood friends whose relationship evolves as they navigate their careers along with their personal lives. The premise is engaging with the classic friends-to-lovers trope. However, throughout it struggled with the pacing dragging the romance over almost 23 of the 30 episodes.

The friendship between the main leads was the stand-out element. The genuine support, fun banters filled with warmth and subtle tension made their transition feel a bit natural. The second couple while completely underutilized brought some comic relief here and there.

But unfortunately, the pacing didn't sit right with me. The romantic progression felt half-hearted. Yes, I love and appreciate a slow burn but it felt like we were stuck in a loop. The leads avoided any conversations leading to something and the receptive dialogues led to the same conclusions, with them just playing around instead of addressing their feelings. The series does picks up its pace but I felt it was already too late. Their friendship era with flashbacks was great but their romance felt like it was buffering and for a long time.

The third couple felt completely unnecessary and like filler. The over-the-top antics started felt like a distraction. The second couple had great chemistry and an interesting start but it was very fragmented and underdeveloped. I'm still confused about how things progressed and how they ended up together. I have questions and no answers.

Also, serious subplots like harassment or toxic workplace dynamics were rushed and felt unresolved. They had 30 episodes and how some plotlines are still underdeveloped is a bit shocking and frustrating to me.

Overall, I have mixed feelings about this. It could have been good with tight writing and better character development, especially with the supporting leads. I would recommend it if you are a fan of the leads otherwise, you aren't missing out if skip this.

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Life gives tangerines, love turns them sweet, a journey through struggles and growth with realism!

8.7/10
This drama wasn’t about a passionate love story that swept you off your feet, rather it was about the journey of two people who loved each other through thick and thin, in every phase of their lives. It was realistic, capturing the hardships and complexities of their relationship as they navigated various challenges. We have seen this several times in dramaland, but the portrayal here felt sincere and deep. Each time they faced hardship or joy, I felt like I was right there with them, crying when they cried, laughing when they laughed.

Yang Gwan Sik and O Ae Sun’s romance wasn’t the usual typical fairy tale, but it was so comforting in its own way. While there were moments when I didn’t get why they made certain choices, but their loyalty to each other was unmatched. The way Gwan Sik literally crossed oceans for Ae Sun spoke volumes about the depth of his love and commitment. Gwan Sik’s as a husband and his daughter's father is something I could write essays about.

O Ae Sun had a tough childhood and the only person who ever really had her back was Gwan Sik. And he didn’t just have her back, he protected her with everything he had. But Ae Sun herself was a strong, fiery woman and an even fiercer mom. She was determined that her daughter wouldn’t go through the same struggles she did. The way she showed her protective love was so bittersweet, it honestly made me cry a few times.

Watching her journey with Gwan Sik, I realised, it was never about love but survival in the most romantic way possible. To me, this is what real love is, not star-crossed lovers, but two people who fight against all odds and still manage to be soft and gentle with each other.

The drama also touched on the subject of the parent-child relationship with such raw honesty, reminding me of a universal truth that as a child, it was easy to argue with my parents and feel frustrated by their decisions. But as I grew older, I began to see things from two perspectives - mine, which often felt difficult with my own struggles and expectations from life and the perspective of my parents, where I realized they were facing their own challenges. The drama gave me a humbling experience here and there. It was a reminder that sometimes, you can't truly understand someone’s choices until you walk in their shoes or at least try to. It beautifully captured that emotional journey, showing how perspective can change as we grow and mature.

With realistic portrayals come realistic disappointments from our projections. (Lol xD ) I feel a certain way about when a mother chooses to favour one child over the other. One child is left to fade into the shadows, while the other is bathed in her undivided attention, somehow because they are the living embodiment of her own unfulfilled dreams.
While I do appreciate how the drama portrays both men and women with depth, this issue of favouritism really bothered me a bit. The mother’s desire to ensure her daughter doesn’t face the same hardships she did is understandable and I don't think there's anything wrong with that. However, I felt the boy was somewhat neglected in the story.

Gwan Sik and Ae Sun as Geum Myeong parents should and would win Oscars for being the best parents , a woman could ask for but sadly in the case of Eun Myeong , they missed the mark. They did try to come around in Vol 4 but for me, it was a little too late.

Also, compared to vol 1 and 2,vol 3 and 4 felt a bit off in terms of pacing where few arcs felt streched out and also the transitions between the past and present seemed somewhat random, something I didn’t notice in the first two volumes.

The acting was excellent across the board and I have no complaints. The main cast, IU and Park Bogum, were at their absolute best. The supporting cast also had some incredibly seasoned actors and their performances only elevated the drama whenever they were on screen.

The cinematography and the opening credits were also remarkable. The struggles of village life, the beauty of the sea, the vast open fields and the stunning sunsets were captured beautifully. In fact, I never skipped the credits once. You can sense throughout, that the budget wasn't the problem.

Overall , it was raw and messy but in all the right ways. For anyone who has been through tough times, whether it's financial struggles in childhood or personal battles against societal pressures and expectations, this would get to you. It somehow also teaches you that life goes no matter what.

Tangerines here were like problems in life - unexpected, sometimes sour and hard to handle at first. But when life hands a tangerine, it may not be clear what to do with it right away. Over time, though ,the bitterness can be peeled back, revealing the sweetness inside, turning something challenging into something worthwhile. It’s about making the best of what life gives, even if it’s not what was wanted or expected. The drama did a good job at that. (At least what I inferred)

I would definitely recommend this drama and would also recommend a tissue box on the side for the ugly crying that will follow. xD

Thank you for reading my review! It was difficult to write this one without spoilers. I hope you enjoy the drama if you give it a try! <3

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Feelings have found their name and it’s sweet love!

This mini drama is 6 ep , roughly about 10 minutes each, all centred around the classic friends x lovers trope. It was a soft, easy and light hearted watch.

The chemistry between the leads was definitely the highlight for me. I love their silly playful banter and tension. It felt very genuine. I liked and understood the hesitation. I think both of them liked each other but the thought of risking their friendship and crossing the line kind of terrified them. Considering how short the overall time was, I wasn't expecting much of a character development or a full fleshed out story but not over complicating things here definitely worked out for everyone.

Also, I love the trio's friendship was so healthy. No unnecessary drama, no toxic vibes. No Jeon Su was such a supportive, low-key comic relief and his bond with Jaeyul and Dowan was honestly so wholesome. Major props to the writers for NOT turning this into a dumb love triangle.

Acting wise, I found the overall performance satisfactory. I have seen Lee Jae Hyeop in Sweetheart service before , but he was way better here in my opinion. The rest of the actors were new to me,but they did their thing.

Production-wise, GND Studio has been pretty decent. My only complaint is why they didn't release a few episodes together instead of one per week or at least just increase the runtime for the story to have a bigger impact and continuity. I literally binged five episodes in a row and had to wait a few hours to see the final episode. But I also understand that waiting a whole week for ten odd minutes is frustrating.

All in all, it is a simple feel good story that is not asking much. It never tries to be what it isn't , that is no complex layers or intense character development.
I will definitely recommend it if you have an hour to kill and don't mind some light, fluffy fun but don't expect anything ground breaking.

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