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Marooya

쿠웨이트- クウェート

Marooya

쿠웨이트- クウェート
Completed
The Village: Achiara's Secret
34 people found this review helpful
Dec 3, 2015
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
This drama is the perfect example to show you how a drama with thrill, crime and msytery on its genre should be done! I've seen my share of this genre and they usually can't pull it off at least not in a way that would make me anticipate for 16 eps long and to actually work my brain out trying to find answers. The Village: Achiara's Secret promised me a thrilling journey and it definitely fulfilled that promise (that's a tough promise to keep considering 16 eps long).

Story
NO ROMANCE that's the best thing about it because it is fully focused on the story no distractions no useless characters or side stories or scenes. I can't really explain much about the story without spoiling it, I wouldn't say the perfect story cus it's not it actually has holes which weren't covered. However, the story wasn't just about crime, mystery, thrill it actually delivers feelings and meaning behind it all.

Acting
I gave it 9/10 because I think if it wasn't for everyone's FLAWLESS (except for one person) performance this drama wouldn't have worked out. Though all dramas require great cast with great acting skills, a drama with these genres in particular requires much more than great acting to pull it off. No matter how thrilling the storyline is without the right cast it will never work out. I personally give BIG applause to Shin Eun Gyeong, Yook Sung Jae, Jang Hee Jin and Choi Jae Woong the most. Surprisingly though in terms of performance Moon Geun Young was the weakest of them all (I don't know if it was because of the character).

Rewatch
Definitely not, the kind of category that this drama falls in makes it a none rewatchable drama. Once the mystery is solved there is no point in watching it again (at least not to me).

Overall
This drama needs to get more audience on the (currently watching) it's a good one and worth the attention. One more important point it's thanks to this drama I started to like this genre even more now. I highly recommend it

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Completed
Like for Likes
19 people found this review helpful
Mar 4, 2016
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.0
This is a movie that I can say it fits all tastes, preferences and ages. It was very delightful to watch and had exceeded my expectations as I thought it's just another sweet rom-com which it is but I didn't think I'd be laughing and smiling while watching it. I wasn't the only one laughing and smiling the whole cinema was :)

This is a story about 6 people (who are somehow connected to one another). No Jin-Woo (Yo Ah In) is a famous star in Korea who can't forget his "love at first sight" lady. Jo Kyeong-ah (Lee Mi Yeon) is a beautiful drama writer who is always about work and don't like things to get personal. Ham Joo-Ran (Choi Ji Woo) is a woman in her 40s flight attendant she is whinny but very naive and cute and she feels that her life is over because she is old since all her friends already got married and she is still alone but she's not pathetic and doesn't feel sorry for herself. Kim Ju Hyuk (Jung Sung-Chan) is my kind of a man, he is someone who can easily be your best friend before becoming your boy friend. He is sweet and very dependable what girl wouldn't fall for him?. Lee Soo-Ho (Kang Ha Neul) is a pianist who is an anti social for personal reasons, and has never fallen in love or opened up to someone other than the people he already know. Jang Na-Yeon (Lee Som) is a sweet girl who has some issues at work and finds comfort in Kim Ju Hyuk as a friend. 6 persons 3 couples, though the story is full of cliches I can't say it's unique and I can't say it's unpredictable BUT what I can say is that with all the cliches and predictable plot this is slice of life pretty much realistic story about people who found each other and fell in love with each other. I loved all the love stories here and I can't choose which couple I loved the most as I liked them all but I think I have one that left me with more smiles and special feelings among the 3.

Acting: I know why they keep giving YAI older actresses the man has an awesome chemistry with them! I can't believe this is the guy I'm watching in Six Flying Dragons, I had to remind myself over and over it's him because he was totally different. I know it's a given that he'd be different but still it doesn't mean I won't be impressed by this change. Only great actors can give you the feeling that they are different person every time they take on different role and YAI is a master in that. Lee Mi Yeon and Choi Ji Woo what can I say about these two wonderful actresses? I love both them and to have them both in one movie is a dream come true. If you have never seen dramas for these two lovely ladies I suggest you start now it's never too late. Kim Ju Hyuk I haven't seen anything for this guy but I will surf his profile and start adding his work because he has earned enough credits with me here. Kang Ha Neul I've seen him many times before but this is my first time actually appreciating his performance. Lee Som never seen her before but I would like to see her in more dramas.

I'm glad I decided to drag myself to the cinema in this cold winter with my bad mood and chose this movie to watch because it completely changed my mood within seconds. I was smiling and laughing as sweet as it was. If you are looking for light hearted, romantic, sweet, funny and touching movie with great cast, full of cliches but still enjoyable then I suggest you add this to your list. The movie's title "Like Me Please" we all want to be liked and loved don't we? ^^

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Completed
Nine: Nine Times Time Travel
9 people found this review helpful
Feb 5, 2017
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 6
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
Nine is thought-provoking beast of a drama. It’s intense, it’s engaging, it’s preoccupying, and it’s captivating and tightly written.

First I have to confess that it actually took me a couple of episodes to get completely absorbed, but when I did I just couldn’t stop anymore.

Story: I honestly don’t know what I was doing holding up this drama for all these years, and what was holding me back? I was worried that if I watch it now I won’t experience the same thrilling experience, which the viewers felt while watching this as it was freshly made. But fortunately it is one of those few dramas that, I believe, will hold on very tightly to its astonishing qualities even if much time passes. If I had to pinpoint one single thing that makes Nine different than all of the mystery/twist and turns type of dramas that I’ve seen, it would be the plot development and writing. The plot development takes the center-stage over character and relationship development. Allow me to say that in your average K drama, character and relationship developments are often given more prominence and importance over the plot development itself. In Nine however, the characters are the constant components of the show and the writing/plot developments is the thing that’s twisting around them instead. It was such an intriguing construct, which was really refreshing to watch and brilliantly set by Nine writers.

Thoughts throughout the show: Two core questions,
Can We Humans Play God? And What’s The Price of Playing God?
No matter the timeline, we are essentially the same people. The character consistency across the timelines didn’t bow to human meddling. Although there is the possibility that some things within us may be re-shaped but the core will never change. It is such thought-provoking stuff indeed.

Acting:
Since Lee Jin Wook plays the lead and primary focal point of the show; from start to finish, Nine revolves around Sun Woo’s journey, all other characters exist in relation to him, and their importance is also mapped in relation to him, thus everyone else is mostly a supporting character so I will dedicate this section mostly to the actors who played Sun Woo (LJW & PHS).

Lee Jin Wook as Adult Sun Woo: Lee Jin Wook turns in a solid performance as Sun Woo, effectively portraying him with an almost impenetrable veneer that is at once intelligent, rational and tenacious, while giving us glimpses, in the quiet moments, of the uncertainty, fear and worry that he keeps to himself. This is by far the best performance I’v seen from LJW. I loved Sun Woo as a character very much!! I was so happy that I could love him so easily because he is the essence of the entire show. It’s really hard not to love Sun Woo, he is smart, quick on the uptake and cares about the people he loves even if it means putting his own life at stake. One of the most endearing qualities which is worth mentioning about Sun Woo, is his courage in the midst of confusion. Very admirable quality truly a hero in the making.

Park Hyung Sik as Young Sun Woo: This is my 4th drama for PHS and I have always admired him, moreso when I consider that he’s an idol. He did admirably well as young Sun Woo, it is possibly one of the best young portrayals I have come across in dramaland. He managed to give similar vibes to the adult Sun Woo and was a reasonably good echo of the adult Sun Woo. I really loved his scenes the most of all.

Lee Seung Joon as Young Hoon: I freaking loved LSJ here!! Young Hoon is by far my favorite character of his! YH’s friendship with Sun Woo, seriously one of the best BFF demonstration in dramaland even though it wasn’t given enough time, attention nor space but it was beautifully demonstrated nonetheless. LSJ is the comic relief of the show as his expressions to the time travelling talk were priceless!! Young Hoon is such a sincere, dorky, grizzled and adorable grumpypants. His concern for his friend all throughout the entire show is the show’s best emotional treat, for me it beats the romance element by million times!!

Music: Nothing memorable to me, nothing special and the show didn’t need one tbh.

Overall:
Nine is a rollercoaster of a ride. I am rarely ever taken by dramas, which don't move me emotionally, but there is always an exception and Nine is one. This is one of the very very few dramas that doesn’t need your emotional consent and will make you appreciate the ride for the thrill and creativity factor alone. For those who are thinking thrill-seekers Nine is a must watch drama. For those who are wondering why is this drama so popular, the ending on its own is a mind-blowing sensation for your thoughts (if you are willing to accept what the writers tried to offer). The only reason this is not getting higher grade from me is the romance factor, which took from the story a lot more than it deserves and this has admittedly peeved me.
I will definitely not re-watch this for two reasons 1) I rarely re-watch dramas 2) This is a "mystery"drama and once that element is unfolded there is no point in watching the whole thing again.

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Completed
Shark
9 people found this review helpful
Jan 10, 2017
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 7
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 7.0
Who goes to heaven? The one who doesn't repent?
Or the one who does?

Before I start I should mention that this is definitely “unpopular opinion” but that makes me all the more determined to write a review so here goes :)

I have been keeping this drama for the right time because I’m a revenge-themed drama LOVER and I have practically seen everything Korea has to offer in that category. Moreover, I especially have seen everything I want to watch for Kim Nam Gil… so I kept this one mainly because it doesn’t seem that he will be back to dramaland anytime soon. However my craving could no longer be suppressed anymore not after I realized that it is written by the same writer of The Devil, Memory and Resurrection.

Shark is not just a simple “revenge drama” with an obvious/repetitive plot, although I can’t say the plot is original but what strikes me here the most is the allegories that the story has offered in form of shark and Chagall’s painting “Orpheus”. The shark fish symbolizes that life must goes one as shark has to keep moving in order to live. The “Orpheus” painting features in some scene to remind us that this is a story between man and woman that cannot be together. The painting depicting the sad myth of Orpheus where he travels to the underworld to save his wife, only to lose her in the end because he looks back before they’ve both reached the upper world. An alternate title for this drama is actually "Don’t Look Back: the Legend of Orpheus". Shark is beautifully written and photographed, and it unfolds like a good book rather than just a television show. It has the depth of a Greek tragedy (references the story of Orpheus).

Story:
The story takes its time to establish the back-story of its hero and heroine, teenagers sincerely in love who are torn apart by a cruel turn of events that establish the revenge motivation. The plot reveals its layers like a good mystery novel, and has many eloquent scenes, the most powerful of which often feature no dialogue at all! This is what I call the perfect revenge drama, where there are so many victims, and yet the overall message is not really one of despair, but rather that love will triumph over revenge any day. It is the kind of revenge drama that haunts you with its inevitable tragedy. The origin of the revenge plot takes its time to reveal itself in exquisitely well written details. We get to know and care about major characters in their youth, and then follow them with interest into their adulthood. Shark had me hooked within its first few seconds, which reveal a teenage boy speaking directly into the camera, answering questions from an unseen young girl. That conversation replays over and over in Shark, and its poignancy becomes more and more touching when you see everything that happens.

The cinematography was lustrous and breathtaking on Shark, beyond beautiful! Many of the images were like classic paintings! I would freeze the images just to STARE at them in amazement! Images of beaches, lakes, woods, nighttime and daytime skies, gardens, picturesque streets and buildings, not to mention startling human facial close-ups on occasion, were all unforgettable.

This is not a romantic drama and certainly not a drama you’d watch for the romance. I’m very happy that the romance element was kept at its minimal and that it did not distract the core story. However it is fair to mention that the tension between Yi Soo and Hae Woo was indeed a bonus to the revenge line. It was astonishing well crafted and well acted. The tension between them was amplified by the fact that she is representing the law, and he is determined to be a criminal. It made the story all the more intense than it already is and looking back at all the revenge-themed dramas that I have watched I must say it is very rare that the level of intensity and romance is kept as subtle as it is in the case with Shark.

Acting:
Suffice it to say that every character in Shark is carefully drawn to reveal genuine human beings with their own emotions and agenda. However KNG’s Yi Soo/ Kim Joon is the heartthrob of Shark! You will be entirely captivated by the dark-eyed grace, gentleness and menace of Nam Gil in this complex role (even though he does bad things, my heart broke for him). His facial expression switch from cruel cold revenge seeking man, to a broken lonely soul who is inside desperately calling to be saved. When it comes to acting through facial expressions and even without many dialogues it’s always KNG who leaves me breathless. Yi-soo’s revenge is a well thought out and carefully executed. His desire to seek revenge is perfectly understandable, yet because it is so easy to feel for his character’s plight, it is difficult to watch him move further and further into the dark side.

Son Ye Jin: Her portrayal of a compassionate, righteous prosecutor and a true friend/lover was very much convincing. Hae Woo serves as the moral conscience of the drama. I can’t say that I love her character and I can see why most didn’t but I understand her character giving the circumstances and tests she is put through the entire time.

Music:
The soundtrack was lovely and haunting, just perfect for this poignant story of two people caught up in a web of intrigue, murder, and revenge. When the drama had aired in 2013 I was already in love with BoA’s "Between Heaven And Hell" before I even get to watch the drama! It caught my ears and heart when my friend sang it and I couldn’t help but fall in love so imagine how I felt while finally watching it through the eyes of the story.

Overall:
Shark is about revenge, about how there are consequences and reactions for every action, it’s about love but it’s not a love story, and it’s about finding those truths and then facing them. Shark is very good at being this well-oiled machine. It’s thought out and there is a strategy and enough metaphors (sharks! Orpheus!) to make it interesting. It has twists and turns that don’t feel forced and very little slip ups even though there are more characters in this than one would have thought. The ending may not be the best way to wrap up things but it certainly isn’t the worst way, I embraced the ending here (with its flaws) and appreciated it much more than some of the many other revenge-themed dramas that I’ve seen.
If you are a revenge-themed drama fan or a melodrama fan don’t let this one slip away from you! In the end we might like some "gems" that other people may have considered "waste", you never know.

Kim Nam Gil has once said, “I experienced a slump when KBS2’s ‘Shark’ didn’t receive a lot of love.” I would like to tell him that just as there are people who didn’t appreciate Shark there are those who did and even watching it in 2017 this is such a wonderful revenge drama, so thank you for making it happen and thank you for being part of it.

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Completed
Queen Seon Deok
6 people found this review helpful
Jan 3, 2017
62 of 62 episodes seen
Completed 5
Overall 10
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
"The one who secures the people will acquire the world and rule the ages" is a big quote and theme of the show.

Queen Seondeok is mainly a historical/political melodrama depicting the struggle of opposing (good vs. evil) factions. The evil faction is led by a ruthless leader (Mishil) representing government control both of government officials and citizens, based on manipulating them with fear. The good faction has a good leader who wants power and freedom to shift from government to the people (control by their choice instead of governmental dictates, ownership of land by farmers instead of tenant farmers working for the rich), and who appeals to the hope and good nature of others.

Despite displaying inaccurate portrayal of the actual historical figures. Nonetheless, it did do an excellent job introducing the viewer to Korean, specifically, Sillan, history at a critical time. Whatever the artistic license taken, the fact is that this period in Silla saw first a major change in succession rules, and second the period of unification that would occupy the reigns of Sillan monarchs for a space of decades, and which Queen Seondeok started. In addition the story is so engagingly written that you really don't care if it's what "really happened" or not.

Another core theme is women's rights in a male dominated world, which I find the most appealing theme of this show. The power play between two very intelligent women (Deokman and Misil). Their chemistry was very much electrifying as many of the greatest hero/villain rivalries of literature and TV. The concept of the shadow self that makes for such a dynamic, two sides of the same coin, but rarely has it been done with both the characters being women. Misil and Deokman do have moments that prove they can fight; but it's really intelligence that marks these women as strong females.The conflict between duty and love is one Deokman has to tread throughout the show.

The marvelous thing about many characters in this show is the depth they all have. Bad guys have sympathetic moments. Characters you think are good doing something that suddenly makes you hate them, or vice versa. Every character, good or bad, has motives you can understand. The complexity of characters and the realism with which they are portrayed that gives the show it's nuances. It's really the quality of acting that also keeps things realistic that with actors of lesser experience could easily turn into melodrama. Equally nuanced is the writing. This show is great in what it chooses to reveal to the audience at certain points and what it doesn't allow the audience to know. My personal favorite of Deokman's boys though is Alchun (Lee Seung Hyo). There's something I love about his deep loyalty uncomplicated by romance, especially since he doesn't start off as one of Deokman's supporters. She has to earn his trust, but once she does, she has it for life.

Acting:
Deokman/ Queen Seondeok – Lee Yo Won: Amazing how well Lee Yo Won was able to portray this character. LYW’s performance as Princess Deokman, who later became the great Queen, was really stellar. The way she portrayed herself as a nangdo (a soldier trainee), to princess, to ruler was a compelling/convincing act. Her expressions were so clear, that I find myself “congratulating” her for overcoming every impossible feat that stood her way.

Mishil- Go Hyun Jung: GHJ is a brilliant actress who made the Mishil character stands out in this drama. She had the most audience attention actually in QSD. She played the controlling, power-hungry Mishil perfectly. She was as beautiful as she was terrifying in her quest to sit on the throne. Most times the ‘bad guy’ of the drama is detestable, in Mishil’s case I couldn’t detest her, in the end I understood her.

Bidam- Kim Nam Gil: FAWLESS! I was waiting for Kim Nam Gil to appear from the opening credits but I had to wait about 21 episodes for it to happen. But boy-o-boy when you came, he came with the thunder. Just as I was getting a little bored, Bidam came into the picture adding a whole new dynamic to the show. KNG really played the role of Bidam perfectly. I couldn’t imagine another actor playing his part very effectively. As Bidam, KNG was able to portray different emotions one after another that you would find him the charming, egoistic, and suddenly frightening individual. His character is a thin line between evil and good.

Yushin-Uhm Tae Woong He played the upright Yushin very well. Always steady and honest. That was the energy that he brought to this role. I was like with all the chaos, he was the one constant, the pillar for not only Deokman but for us viewers as well.

I should also mention the music of the show which has a great mix of character themes, sung love themes (both romantic and parental), and suspenseful background music.

Finally, the reason I could not give this drama any less than a perfect 10 despite its flaws is because at times the story offered some of brilliant psychological insights, such as Mishil saying "Humans can not live without believing in fantasy", as in liberal idealism (world peace, income equality without degrading the economy, big government that works efficiently, etc.) that can never be achieved. I am weak when it comes to brilliant/breathtaking psychological insights especially if portrayed so raw and wonderful as it is the case in QSD.

Some of my favorite quotes:
“Do not even think of possessing me, nobody can ever possess me as long as this crown adorns my pate”–Queen Seon Duk

“Why did you change?”-Bidam
“Because I have no name, crown prince crown princess and even the scoundrels parading in the market have a name but a ruler does not… All I am is Her Majesty”, “Because the moment I lost my name, you became nothing more but an influential subject of mine” –Queen Seon Duk

“I love you for loving me as woman”–Queen Seon Duk

“Earning people’s trust is hard, however what is even harder than that is abandoning them” – Queen Seon Duk

“I shall neither give up, nor abandon my people, not a thing not anyone” –Queen Seon Duk

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Completed
All About My Mom
16 people found this review helpful
Feb 14, 2016
54 of 54 episodes seen
Completed 4
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 8.0
"All About My Mom" as the title suggests, it's all about moms.

Parents are God's precious gift to us, so never take them for granted. Feel blessed for having them in your life and feel blessed if you had them at some point in your life. There are so many people that don't know that kind of love. It's an emptiness beyond compare, don't take them for granted and let them know you love them because you never know when they'll be gone. Don't let life keep you busy from them, life will always be busy this won't change, don't forget as we grow up they grow old too.

I started this drama expecting it to be an average enjoyable family drama, I did not expect to learn so much and feel the way I felt while watching it. This is such a beautiful realistic story about family, parents, mothers.. I doubt anyone can't relate to the mother daughter relationship, or son father relationship, or daughter father, son mother, bother sister and finally husband and wife. The way family bonds were portrayed here allowed me to connect on the personal level with how the characters were behaving and those relationships. I have seen many family dramas, All About My Mom is the 2nd family drama that I consider a masterpiece and an outstanding one.

Story: Your regular family, with issues of favouritism and conflicts between siblings and between kids and parents. The family bond is pretty much the core story of this drama. It's about those people's daily life and how they learn to live with each other. Siblings feeling inferior to each other because of favouritism. Parents feeling guilty for mistakes they've done in their life while raising the kids. A mother who loves her kids equally but shows it differently. A daughter who feels left out all the time, A son who feels burdened by his mother's over love and special treatment. It's almost impossible that you won't relate with any issue in this drama because this is life, and this is what family is all about. What can I possibly say about mothers? What words would do them justice? Mother: the only person who wishes you to be a better person than her and have a better life, the only person who will not love herself over you, the angel who will always give and give without expecting a return. No love in this world can be compared to parents love, no love in this world can be compared to a mother's love. This is the story that gives this beautiful angel the credit and regards she deserves. Nothing I can say in words that would describe what is a mother, but this story is more than qualified to do so.

Acting: 100/10. An award winning performance.
Here we come for the best part, the acting. The acting here in this drama makes other dramas with an outstanding performance look like nothing in comparison, and no I'm not exaggerating. What made this drama so popular with high ratings? what makes it special? Nothing about the story new or special. It's the way those wonderful, amazing, incredible cast have performed it. Brace yourselves this part will be long!

Go Doo Shim: as San Ok. Man, I need to stay away from you faaaaar away! I can't believe this wonderful woman brought tears to my eyes several times during the whole journey! I can't believe I cried like a little baby. I'm far from someone who can cry for her own problems in life, let alone for a drama. I loved it but also hated it, I loved that she melted my iced heart and broke me from the inside but also hated seeing myself cry for a drama. She made me reflect on myself many times and slapped me in the face with every lesson I learn on how you should appreciate your parents. We are not angels and we tend to think that just because we are humans and just because they are our parents they'll love us no matter what. Stressful life, upsetting things, depressing issues, having the hardest time in your life, does not excuse any selfish behaviour towards your parents. Go Doo Shim's acting wasn't acting, she was a true mother, a real mother image to the point where I felt the need to hug her so tight. She broke my heart several times as if she was really my mother. She won the Daesang award for her role here (2nd time winning). Her performance is what makes this drama a 10/10! She is officially my second favourite actress. My favourite sentence of her "Shut da mouse" aka "shut the mouth".

Oh Min Suk: as Hyeong Gyu. My most hateful character but my 2nd favourite actor in the cast! I hated him so much, I really hated him from the bottom of my heart. The amount of hate I had for him I thought for sure even if the dramas ends his character will have no redemption from me, but the writer proved me wrong. Oh Min Suk as an actor I've seen him before but never like this! Even as a villain in KMHM he did not stand out, an yet he is not even playing a villain here but that performance, man that performance...made me speechless! He is such a great actor, those scenes will forever be engraved in my memory I will never forget his scenes because I learned from him so much. The way he managed to make people hate him so much even though he wasn't a villian but at the same time appreciate his acting skills. All the comments all the reviews about this drama is regarding the cast and how emotionally flawless their performance is. While watching I'd always see such comments and reactions from people "I hate him so much I hope karma gets him, but the actor deserves an award". Officially fan.

Kim Kap Su: as Dong Chul. My 3rd favourite character and actor in the cast. I never really bothered feeling anything about any of the old couples I've seen in previous dramas. I never cared about parents relationship as husband and wife in previous dramas. I never paid attention to that aspect, but here it was totally different. Instead of the kid's love life and the kid's romance I cared more about the mother father relationship as husband and wife. I loved how this part of the story was written because based on real life experience it's very relatable and real. I loved the relationship and though his character is not the lovable character I still couldn't help but love him! He wasn't the perfect husband he wasn't what you'd want for someone like San Ok but he wasn't hateful person too. It is impossible to hate him! Though he has his selfish moments and carefree moments he also have his sweet moments. To me Dong Chul wasn't a bad husband, but he falls short in comparison to San Ok. San Ok is too wonderful of a person that people think she is too good for him. The way I saw it those true truly and sincerely portrayed what a husband wife relationship is, how it is when you have you companion with you all these years. I adored the way Kim Kap Su played his character! He is the cutest, sweetest, adorable father/ahjussi I have ever seen and the way he talks, the way he laughs, the way he calls his wife "Okaaa" aka his wifes name is the sweetest thing ever. I find it really cute that he calls his wife by her name and not "honey" like most married couples do in K dramas.

Eugene: as Jin Ae. Well, Eugene is forever one of my favourite actresses and I never skip any drama of hers. One of the reasons I started this is her. Jin Ae is the first surprise for me, because I wasn't expecting to relate and understand a character as much as I did with her. Her frustration, her feelings of being left out I can relate to it all. Her conflict with her brothers, her mother.. very relatable and her character the hard working person who always tries her best to win her moms favour. I'm sure many of you can identify her and relate to her. Eugene once again proved herself as a worthy actress, specially her scenes with her mom, the thought that this is all "acting" won't cross your mind. Jin Ae is the sweetest daughter a mother could ever wish for and you can learn so much from her.

The rest of the cast I loved them all, I may not liked all the characters but I loved the actors.

Music:
I loved all the OSTs, but the reason I'm giving this 10/10 is because of one song, "To My Wife" by Tae Jin Ah. The only song that actually manages to make my eyes tear, I still can't believe it but it had such an impact on me. The song was used perfectly in the drama, in the perfect scenes which stimulates all your emotions and you find yourself tearing up. I have a friend who cried without watching the drama, only from listening to this song. The singer has such a powerful husky voice and he feels so much in pain while he sings it. The lyrics are simply beautiful, from a husband to his wife.

Rewatch:
I don't rewatch dramas, I have very few special ones that I might rewatch. However family dramas in general are rewatchable and this one I think belongs to that list.

Overall:
Though this drama has romance but if you came here only for the romance then this drama is not for you. Yes it has romance, and more than one couple but the essential element here isn't the romance, it's the family bonds. If you came here hoping for makjang, plot twists, melodramatic events, things happening all the time...etc then this is also not for you. As I already mentioned this is purely family drama, it's all about mothers. A daily life of a regular family with normal daily issues nothing out of the ordinary. However if you want to watch something that hold such great values, something that could teach you valuable lesson and remind you of things you love and value, a drama that hold such beautiful meaning and carries a noble message about a creature we call angel, about mothers...Then yes I most definitely recommend it. I will miss this drama dearly.

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Completed
Missing You
23 people found this review helpful
Jan 18, 2013
21 of 21 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
I don't get why some ppl gave up on this drama?! I started it few days back and finally caught up with everyone and finished it today. It was really good better than what I've expected !! Let me just say this "Missing You is a drama that you'd appreciate for the acting more than the story".

Story:
it was a good melodrama not the best but it's good, at the beginning you would "think" the story will take on a certain path but then BAM everything changes the whole story change !! and that's what I loved the most not the story itself but the way it changed.

Acting: IT'S THE REASON I KEPT WATCHING
It was BEYOND WORDS !! I was amazed/stunned by their level of acting hmmm let's see who shall I begin with... definitely Yoo Seung Ho !! I already liked this guy but I never knew his talent could extend to that level I can't even find words good enough to praise his performance he is the BEST THING in this drama without "Harry" this drama wouldn't have been as intense and interesting. Harry is one of the best characters I have ever seen I'll never forget those expressions of his. My 2nd surprise was Micky I was never a fan of him and I never liked his acting (to those of you who think the same of him as me I think you should watch this drama cus you'll change your mind like I did) he was really amazing he showed me some really good acting skills and I enjoyed his character enjoyed watching him and I look forward to his upcoming dramas. Last but not least Yoon Eun Hye she proved that she's a talented actress she's not just good in romcom only she can pull off such a complex sad agonist character like Lee Su Yeon I praise her for that and I'm so happy she chose melo (as a first timer in this genre she did good very proud of her).

Music:
The OST's were good the songs went well with the story... my favorite one was (Just Look at You) I can't stop listening to it's a very beautiful song with beautiful lyrics.

Rewatch:
It's not a re-watchable drama even for those who re-watch stuff but I might go back and watch Harry's scenes (Yoo Seung Ho's character) yes !! that's how good he was.

Overall:
Missing You is a sad heavy drama that's true and it's not one of the best melodramas out there but it's certainly is the best in terms of acting/performance and that alone is more than enough reason for you to watch. There are many good stories out there but not so many with OUTSTANDING performance like this one not so many with unforgettable characters such as Harry he's the reason I gave this drama 8 (Can you believe the whole drama turned out to be so good solely because of Yoo Seung Ho (Harry)??) AMAZING really.

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Completed
Stairway to Heaven
13 people found this review helpful
Dec 13, 2012
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
To be honest I never had the guts to start Stairway To Heaven ever since it was out and I was a drama fan back then but (I heard many scary things about it being sad/tearjerker) so I was holding back for a really long time. However, I finally got into the mood for the classical K dramas and decided that now is the time (At first I was reluctant I admit it) but after starting it I just couldn't stop anymore...

Story: 2ND BEST MELODRAMA I HAVE EVER SEEN!! I agree with the other reviewer its 11/10 (yes it's that good!). In K dramas mostly the first 4 episodes tend to be very slow, yet in STH from the very 1st episode you're already excited, happy, sad, angry, pissed, curious, hooked and addicted !! You'll experience all those emotions from the 1st episode and that won't stop all through out the drama... Your feelings will not settle down and you won't get a break, the story brings out all your emotions in a very intense way that's why STH is not a drama that you'll forget you simply can't (those emotions will always be engraved in my heart).

Acting: 100/10 the acting part is what brought this story to life even though it's a super melodramatic story yet you'll still believe in every little detail and feel it deep inside your heart... The actors were the core of the story I felt each one of them, the good ones captured my heart and the bad ones kept me screaming and cursing all the time (I literarily wanted to go there and kill the stepmother and her daughter my anger towards them almost cost me a new screen). I loved Kwon Sang Woo before STH but I love him even more now (Man this guy can deliver such intense emotions he keeps your heart beating all the time and breathing becomes a difficult task) The only character that I didn't like Jung Su's father (he was annoying and useless).

Music: OMG I know now why everyone talks about STH's OST I loved every song every melody specially (Only Belong To Me) I just can't get enough of this song. The OSTs in STH are big contributors (along with the actors's performance) they both provoke your feelings extremely.

Rewatch: it might not be a rewatchable drama to most people but personally I would gladly watch it again some day cus this drama stole my heart.

Overall: As a K drama fan STH is a must watch drama... even if melodramas aren't you're type you still need to watch it. This drama is a MASTERPIECE and not watching it means you are missing out on one of the best K dramas that has ever been produced (it's now one of my top 5). 100% must watch !!

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Completed
Mother
14 people found this review helpful
May 15, 2016
11 of 11 episodes seen
Completed 13
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 8.0
After taking a deep breathe, after shedding tears, after spending hours thinking about this show I finally decided to write my feelings down.

Mother is not a drama, it’s slice-of-life and is in no way made for entertainment purposes but rather to move every shred of humanity in you. So why watch when a drama's primary purpose is to entertain? The answer is simple, Japan is the best in human dramas like Mother, which stay with you long after the glowing warmth of a sappy romantic comedy drama has faded.

“I am not trying to justify what I’m doing, I am an observer who became a criminal that’s all“ Suzuhara Nao.

A school-teacher who ‘kidnaps’ one of her pupils when she discovers she is being abused at home. Her desperate desire to save this little girl’s life she with no faith in authorities decides to take matters into her own hands.

This is one of those few dramas that will have you emotionally invested by episode one. I personally have shed tears towards the end.The slow building relationship between Nao and Tsugumi, as little by little Nao learns what it really is to be a mother, is wonderful to watch.

I am not afraid to say that despite the fact that “kidnapping” is illegal in the eyes of the law, I was wholeheartedly supporting Nao all the way. She wants to save this little girl, whatever it takes and she is willing to take the penalty. You can’t help but admire her strength.

Another gift which this show bring to you and which rightfully could be the most important reason if not the only enough reason I’d tell you to watch this show for is Ashida Mana as Rena. This little girl was only 6 years old when she starred in this show and yet her acting skills by far surpass her age. Her emotional scenes just breaks your heart into pieces and leaves you uncontrollably sobbing. There are two scenes for her that left me emotionally vulnerable and heart broken from the heartbreakingly raw sincerity she has shown. I had to remind myself over and over she is just "playing" the part she’s not really going through this, I had to remind myself that so I too can move on with my life. Yes that's how powerful her performance is.

You might read the synopsis and think to yourself there’s no way that this story can have a happy, feel-good ending. Without spoiling anything away, the drama ends in the best most fitting way possible. Personally I’d say the ending is one of the most wonderful things about this show and has left me speechlessly sobbing.

Overall, I think by looking at the synopsis it is pretty much clear that if you are looking for something feel-good and entertaining then you most definitely should look elsewhere. But if you want to see a drama at its best, acting at its best, story at its best and finally Japan at its best then I suggest to have this one on your-must-watch-top-priorities.

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Completed
My Love By My Side
16 people found this review helpful
Dec 16, 2012
50 of 50 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 5.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
Honestly I don't even know why I watched this drama and I don't remember how I stumble on it plus I'm not a person who would watch a 50 ep drama unless I'm really interested. The fact is when I first started it there weren't any info about the No. of ep so I didn't know, however when I did know it was already too late and I'm already hooked by it... I'll say this the synopsis DOES NOT do this drama any Justice!! here is my review:

Story: It is a good family drama, it has all the elements you would want in a family drama "romance, betrayal, deception, family bounds, sacrifices, drama, comedy, greed, obsession, love triangle, evil doings... etc". I think the story developed nicely there weren't any draggy moments (as strange as that may sound because even a 16 ep drama becomes draggy somewhere but MLBMS didn't). The story reminded me of old Mexican Telenovas (even though it isn't copying any show) yet the atmosphere seemed familiar (so it's like watching those beautiful Mexican series but Korean and only 50 ep instead of 100+).

Acting: Well, as in every drama there are characters you like and others you hate but what matters is that ALL of them did a great job. As for me I loved Kim Mi Sook's character the most she was the mother that any girl would want(unlike other K drama mothers she was 100% supportive to her daughter and does everything she could to protect her) When Lee So Yeon is harassed Kim Mi Sook as her mother would always run out and stand up for her daughter she's the one whon eases your anger on the evil things that are happening. The characters I hated the most is Lee Hwi Hyang's and her son (they were extremely annoying) and the things that Lee Hwi Hyang does PISSES you off (she's been doing such characters all her life yet she never fails to piss me off).

Music: I don't think I liked the music cus if I did I would've remembered them but I don't so I gave it 5/10.

Rewatch: I don't rewacth dramas and even for ppl who do rewatch dramas I don't think this is a drama that can be rewatched (It's a one time drama).

Overall: I enjoyed this drama very much and it was definitely worth the wait and worth the time. For those of you who love family dramas I really recommend My Love By My side (pls don't let the No. of ep put you off). This is definitely not a waste of time if you can spare the time then watch it (especially if you’re looking for something to keep you busy while waiting for another drama) then this is your answer).

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Completed
Woman
12 people found this review helpful
Jun 6, 2016
11 of 11 episodes seen
Completed 4
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
Forgiveness, atonement, acceptance, amends and family... yes it is all here in "Woman “and I would add the word "Motherhood" too.

Yet again a wonderful, beautiful, inspiring, realistic, rich of humane emotions one peace of art written by Yuji Sakamoto. Woman has managed to stay real to the core and majestic even though the whole story does very much emphasize on real depressing facts which we see in our day-to-day life yet it still managed to be optimistic and full of hope leaving you feeling warm and hopeful yourself. Hope is a great thing, and that's essentially the message of this show.

"Woman -My Life for My Children-", tells the story of a single mother who struggles with money, living her life for her children who she loves so dearly. Woman depicts a woman's fight to survive in a difficult world, whilst shedding light on problems rooted in Japanese society in specific. Although I'm not related to the Japanese society in anyway but I can to some extent relate to the culture and its drawbacks especially towards women in "family oriented societies" which is why I find this drama very compelling and rewarding.

The story touch on motherhood, how motherhood is not a switch you can turn on and off once a mother, forever a mother. However, there are mothers who never chose to be a mother. This is about Koharu's motherhood and although she questions herself whether or not she is fit to be a mother, personally I think the real question is whether or not you "want" to be a mother. This is what matters.

What else makes "Woman" very special? Well, Woman had some of the most commonly/overused cliches in Asian dramas not just J dramas and as a drama viewer, you can either choose to be turned off by it and quit watching or enjoy the awesome acting and put aside the logic of it all. But here there is a 3rd option! Woman. I was taken by the unshakeable resolve of Koharu's attitude and the fact that she never allowed herself to get swallowed by self-pity and rejection. She took it upon herself that she has to survive and at least allow her kids to grow old enough for them to become independent. That was one of the most inspiring motherly acts I've ever witnessed in Asian drama.

Although she had many things going on with her family instead of disintegrating and falling apart, they choose to unite and set aside feelings of bitterness and hatred. After all family is what matters you need to try and open up your heart for them to reach you. The drama is blessed with a beautiful striking dialogue one of the best really.

According to my research on this drama, I‘ve come to know that Woman has managed to obtain huge rave especially to women among the J audience (which made me happy). Why wouldn’t it? We get the ever-so realistic performance by Hikari Mitsushima, and a stellar cast to drive the story (Hikari is the queen of them of course). Not to mention the compelling script that takes you inside Koharu's struggles and her sweet moments with her two adorable children, the drama unfolds the daily life of a young family just trying to find peace and happiness... I sincerely urge you to watch this drama although it isn't a drama made for entertainment purposes but it is nonetheless entertaining, rewarding, insightful and precious especially to women :)

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Completed
The Queen's Classroom
13 people found this review helpful
May 24, 2016
11 of 11 episodes seen
Completed 10
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 10
"Education creates miracles when kids are developing there are many miracles that we don't think of".

Jyoou no Kyoushitsu is such a meaningful, addictive, intense, unpredictable, intelligent and educative story. It made me delve with many questions about the importance of life, learning, and the future. It managed to be both pessimistic and optimistic at the same time, both realistic and idealistic. It showed many difficulties of life, flawlessly relating the troubles the children experienced to the real, adult world.

This is the kind of story that will need you to have enormous use of your heart to appreciate its beauty and have patience too. It is one of the few dramas that not only does it provide the "entertainment" service but also offers you so much values, so much meaning and so much lessons. Usually such a slice-of-life kind of dramas do somewhat lack in the "entertaining" factor but not here, not this one.

Akutsu Maya is the show's best attraction. I wouldn't be exaggerating when I say watch it for her! She is the kind of teacher whom when you run into you'd wish you if hadn't! She is SCARY, mysterious, manipulative, controlling and idealistic. She will make sure students surrender to her and her "rules" no matter what it takes and is pretty much determined to do so.

The drama will take you into and intense journey where you will feel you might soon run out of patience because there are things that won't come to your liking and you won't understand "why" BUT that's what makes this story even more compelling, you just simply can't stop. It will suck you in from the very 1st episode and the characters will eventually grow on you. The students each one of them had their own problems to overcome. The more time went on and the more you learned, the more important everyone became, whether as part of the class or for something a bit more complicated. I felt I was one of the students too and Maya-Sensei will haunt me down if I break rules too.

What does it really mean to be a teacher? Who determines what is a good or bad teacher?
Whatever the answer may be, there are many risks involved here and taking responsibility for people's lives is a HUGE burden which teachers in general have to live with. I almost forgot how much of a big of deal a teacher's job is but Jyoou no Kyoushitsu has done a beautiful splendid job with reminding me that.

Another thing I loved here the realistic portrayal of the faults and deficiencies in education system (Japan specifically). That was such an honest portrayal of things that should be changed in order to make better people and better future. I honestly wanted to clap for the writer for being able to create an entertaining story while keeping things realistic.

Finally my new love interest, Amami Yuki!! I absolutely loved her. She is the queen of the show I loved her portrayal for Maya-Sensei. She was both lovely and luscious. I honestly believed her as Maya-Sensei (which is why I felt being haunted by her too). Not to mention the everlasting affect from her gaze and voice tone when she says "Open Your Eyes" (when you watch the drama you will understand the weight which this sentence carries trust me).

Jyoou no Kyoushitsu had so many beautiful quotes and dialogues, which I’d love to share, but I don't want to spoil things away. I just want to say that this drama has moved my heart to the point where I shed few tears not for a sad scene but for a happy one.

Overall: In my humble opinion, this is a drama for everyone and should be watched by everyone regardless whether the genre is your cup of tea or not. This is definitely not children/teenager drama it's different from all the school projects I have seen and I'm sure it will take you by surprise just like it did to me. I honestly think this is the kind of drama that if you miss out on, it would be such a loss. Give it a chance and you might end up feeling rewarded as I am now :)
I'll leave you with the queen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwl70ZrX9D0

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Completed
Misaeng: Incomplete Life
16 people found this review helpful
Apr 17, 2016
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 13
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10
“Still, it is a life worth living”,,, Yes Misaeng thank you for reminding me that yes indeed it is. This one sentence now brings tears to my eyes whenever I read or think of it thanks to Misaeng because I saw myself there too.

Misaeng aka incomplete life, is my life and your life and everybody’s life out there. You may see the cover and think “this is office life it has nothing to do with me” yes to some point it is office life and all the struggle and challenges office workers go through but it’s LIFE in every way possible and in every level. It’s how life works and all about enduring, facing challenges, not giving up and learning human interactions. These things aren’t just in office it’s in our daily life which is what makes Misaeng LIFE I don’t even want to categorize it as a drama because it isn’t. We are all still living an incomplete life and working our way to make it complete.

• “Even if you think you won’t make it, fight to the end. In life, there are many things you start even if you know the predetermined end”. Oh Sang-Sik.
• Courage isn’t defined by readily jumping into risky situations, avoiding these situations and silently going on your own path requires courage too. Jang Geu-Rae.
• You made it anyway so try to survive here, surviving means going towards a complete life. We are all still incomplete lives. Oh Sang-Sik.
• Just because you forget a dream doesn’t mean it stops existing, just because you don’t see the road doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Oh Sang-Sik.
• Sometimes life throws tough tests at you to make you feel helpless, then leaves hints for you in funny places. But, of course there’s no guarantee that you’ll come up with the right answers. Jang Geu-Rae.
• A path is not simply for walking. Its purpose lies in moving forward and improving oneself. A path that fails to do so is not a path. The path is open to everyone but not everyone can walk it. Jang Geu-Rae.

And finally my favorite of all “What do you think life is? Life is a collection of choices. The choices you make in each moment make up the quality of your life” Han Seok-Yool.

Thank you Misaeng, I will keep this in my mind and remember everything I’ve learned here or been reminded of and I promise you I work my way through it and whenever I feel that I’m at the verge of giving up I will give myself another Miseang dose even if I had to watch it all over again, I’d be glad to do so.

Story?
To some it could be a boring, dull, raw, depressing real office life with no action no thrill no twists no comedy and certainly no romance thus no fairytale. Why watch something which is practically taken from real life, a spin of life I shall say so why? Yes, that’s a good question. We all want to run away from our real life and enter the drama world, where we get to enjoy a whole new different world than the one we live in. Our lives are stressing enough we don’t need to go through the same things while watching drama when dramas are supposed to be fun right? You are absolutely right I won’t argue there, but sometimes we need a wake up call sometimes we need something which reminds us “Still, it is a life worth living” I know I did. I needed this in my life. Let’s face it, as much as we want to run away from reality as much as we always desperately search for something that could help us get through it. No matter how old we get we still learn, leaning never ends especially when it’s about life. Wouldn’t you love to invest your time on something that not only gives you “hope” and fills your spirit with “positive energy” but also teaches you valuable lessons? Misaeng has all that and much much more. There are no words good enough to express my feelings about this (not a drama) but a journey into life.

For the first time in my drama history that a story challenges me mentally and emotionally to the point where I could not bring myself to watch more than 1 ep (2 eps max a day) and would take a break the next day. I have never thought I’d ever come across a show which I absolutely cannot marathon no matter how much I wanted to (and I mean it in a good way). The thing is, when I’m done with one ep I cannot start the next because I would be thinking of that ep none stop and grasping the whole thing in my mind, thinking about the message in that ep and the characters’ expressions and the way they behaved and taking note of everything that I’m supposed to grasp from that ep. Misaeng challenged me mentally in a way no other drama or movie ever did and it’s not even scientific (where your brain is needed) but each ep carried on a very strong heavy content which I felt I need to think about and take my time through it. It would be waste for me to watch Misaeng and marathon through it like I normally do with other dramas. This is not a drama every minute/second is precious here and should not be wasted.

Acting:
I’m sorry, no matter what I say no matter how many rows I write in regards of how well the cast did it won’t be enough and won’t give them 1% justice. Possibly the most justified 10 I have ever given for acting. I am thankful for the production company for tvN and for everyone who participated in this drama but mostly for choosing this cast! I wouldn’t take any other way. I’m not only talking about the main cast; I’m talking about the whole team from main to supporting to guest everybody is perfectly selected here.

I’ll mention the characters which affected me the most:

Lee Sung Min: Chief Oh, would you please be my mentor? I would do anything to have a person like you as my real mentor sir. I LOVE YOU FROM THE BOTTOMN OF MY HEART. Kudos to my favorite mister of all times!

Im Si Wan: Jang Geu Rae, whenever I look at Siwan now I think my heart will ache because all I’ll be seeing is Jang Geu Rae forever... Jang Geu Rae I love you but I also hate you because I am you and you reminded me of myself many times and that was very painful for me. To all the Jang Geu Raes in this world I’d like to hug each and every one of you and say “Fighting” stay strong.

Byun Yoo Han: Han Seok-Yool, is an example “never judge a book by its cover”. The best character development I have ever witnessed in drama land. I loved his character the most maybe because many of the situations he went through I have been through them myself so I could totally understand/relate to him from the very beginning I never judged him. Though his character is the sweetest character on the show and his scenes gave sweetness and funny moments to the show but he had his own battles to fight constantly and even then he would still be there for his friends and support them with at least a hug. I have so much respect for him for the fact that till the very last moment he never gave in to the wrong temptation and stood still by his ethics and principles. Byun Yoo Han, yet again stunned me with his wonderful flawless performance. An actor whom the industry and us the audience are lucky to gain in drama land :)

Overall:
Misaeng is a must watch by everyone but it is not a drama for everyone. It is a must watch drama because projects like these will add something to your life and we don't get such a privilege very often (almost never). When I say it's not for everyone, that's because as I said you have to be willing to give up your fantasies which we normally have in mind when watching a drama in general. You will have to be ready to embrace Misaeng the way it is and the purpose it is created for. If you are willing to do that then I can guarantee, you will see the beauty in this one ^^
If I could I would go personally and thank everyone who participated in making this happen <3

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Completed
Lovers in Paris
12 people found this review helpful
Dec 8, 2012
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 9.0
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 9.0
"Lovers in Paris one of Korea's top classics"... I have heard this sentence so many times ever since I started watching K dramas back in 2006, since then I've been holding it back for some reason I wasn't too eager to start it. However, I know that being a K drama fan I have an obligation to watch the Top Classical K dramas and Lovers in Paris is one of them. I have always been wondering why is it considered classic and why did it receive high TV ratings (it is ranked top 11 most highest rated K drama of all times and received 57.6% !!) so I was wondering WHY?? Well here is why...

Story: The main reason why I doubted this drama is because of the story (Rich man falling in love with poor woman and everyone is against them) let's be honest here this concept is been used so many times already not just in K dramas but all over the world. What makes "Lovers in Paris" story so special?? Well, it is special the story made me go through so many emotions (and I'm not the type of person that goes through emotions or cry over scenes no matter how sad they were... it's my first time tearing up for a Romantic Drama such as Lovers in Paris). This story is really classic now I understand why, cus even though towards the end "certain characters" made me really pissed off and annoyed (I almost kicked my screen) I thought that I wouldn't rate it as 10 because of those characters behaviors towards the end (it was just too much) but what happened in the last episode was more than enough for me to forget about how annoyed I was with some characters. The main couple's lines and scenes were enough for me to rate this drama 10 they deserve it this drama deserve a 10.

Acting: Park Shin Yang !! OMG I saw him in sign and loved him there he's such a great actor I never saw his romantic side...but I saw it in here he is MAN you'd wish to have for your own he did a great job I loved him the most (his romantic scenes, his character and his acting SIGH everything about him was mesmerizing me). The rest of the cast did a great job as well Kim Jung Eun annoyed me at first but as the story proceeds I started liking her. As for Lee Dong Gun oh my I really hated him and got really sick of his character but that just shows he acted it too well for me to get this annoyed by him.

Music: I LOVED one song (To Your Side by Jo Sung Mo) OMG how I love this song whenever they played it I would always repeat the scenes and react strongly to the them... it's just too mesmerizing with breathe taking lyrics I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT I'm even trying to memorize it to be able to sing it as well as Jo Sung Mo I will love it forever.

Rewatch: This is one drama I would gladly rewatch because it is filled with sweet romantic scenes and I'm sure I'm going to miss this cute couple very soon.

Overall: This drama is one of the best romantic dramas out there, it is PURELY and COMPLETELY romantic filled with sweet romance!! Lovers in Paris is also known for its drama lines ppl still remember those lines said by the actors (I didn't know why ppl were making such a big deal about those lines even after so many year have passed I didn't get why until I actually saw the drama).... My favorite line for Park Shin Yang is "Ore Aige (My Baby)" and for Lee Dong Gun "You're inside me".

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Completed
Nirvana in Fire
4 people found this review helpful
Dec 16, 2016
54 of 54 episodes seen
Completed 7
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 9.0
This review may contain spoilers
I am normally very hesitant when it comes to watching Chinese dramas because I’ve tried crossing the boarders many times over my drama-watching -years but I end up giving up each time. However, none of the dramas were historical/wuxia ones so a dear friend of mine has once jokingly said, “maybe you’ll like their historical dramas?” It was a joke but I seriously thought it through and all the praise I’ve heard about NIF has finally pushed my button. It was time to take the step, and boy am I glad that I did.
I have to confess one thing before I start, the storyline is what drew me in considering I did not really care for most of the cast prior to watching. Nevertheless, their portrayal was so captivating that I was won over completely.

Nirvana in Fire is a smart show. All the characters are smart and act in rational ways it’s so mesmerizing! The political maneuvering by the various competing parties in the show is like watching a brilliant game of chess being played in front of you. The show is so smart that sometimes I feel like I’m getting smarter as I’m watching it! Every scene, every action, every word has a purpose. Everything counts! The story forces you to stay alerted to every little detail, because every little detail matters and might be introduced ahead many episodes before you could understand what is it aimed for. Although some may say it’s slow paced plot but for me I was constantly holding my breath eagerly watching how our leads will turn a potential defeat into a victory.
The high production value evident with the impressive cinematography of the imperial court and countryside, beautiful costumes, dazzling sword fights… not to forgot the breathtaking introduction which is very deeply related to the story if you watch you will understand the meaning behind a butterfly emerging from cocoon.The story unfold bit by delicious bit. The plot had all the elements you could think of.. greed, betrayal, loyalty, suspicion, love, revenge, lust for power, implications of genocide, jealousy, honor, integrity, murder, cruelty, kindness, generosity and mixtures of these qualities in conflict and contradiction.

Characters:
Hu Ge as Mei Chang Su: My absolute favorite actor and character! Considering that his character is the emotional heart and of the show, it was vital that Hu Ge’s performance be no less than phenomenal and indeed it was. He was a piece of art! Hu Ge eyes were so expressive! By only looking at his gaze I’d immediately feel the chill and fire at the same moment! The character of Mei Changsu is very dynamic and complex! It requires someone who has the ability to portray the character in a nuanced manner. Hu Ge managed to portray the varying components of his character from mischievousness to deviousness, cunning to kindness, unscrupulousness to tenderness, sorrow to longing, etc. I am mostly amazed by how Hu Ge has totally embodied the weariness of his character so well! Every little gesture was so unbelievably well mastered! What a gem of an actor

Wang Kai as Prince Jing: I heard that this drama escalated his status as an actor; it’s no surprise to me! If I had to describle Prince Jing I would say he is the idealistic form of power/authority that everybody dreams of living under which why it took me sometime (over half of the show) to warm up to him and accept his stubbornness and impulsive reactions. It’s not that I had a problem with his beliefs, I admired that he would stick to his guns and would never sacrifice his morals for power. But sometimes it got too naïve and idealistic for my taste. The world isn’t an ideal place, a price will always be paid for the greater cause… is what I believe so his character frustrated me (sometimes) but by the end I came to like him very much. For me to even like or dislike any of Prince Jing’s actions proves that Wang Kai is clearly a very talented actor.

I would love to talk about each and every character but the review would go on and on so for your sake I’m just mentioning the two most powerful characters. Nonetheless I have to give everyone in the cast a big round of applause for their wonderful performances. The whole cast is just so darn likeable and everyone portrayed their character so fantastically! From the very top to the very bottom, from the veterans to the younger actors, everyone did a great job.

Music:
I fell for the OST the instant I heard it before engaging into the story (and that has never happened before). To my surprised 3 songs were sung by the 3 main actors, Hu Ge, Wang Kai and Liu Tao so they aren’t only great actors but can sing this beautifully? Talk about perfection :)
My favorite song is Aging of a Beauty by Liu Tao

Lastly I will leave you with “some of the spoiler-free” favorite quotes of mine:
“You know, this pair of hands, used to bend bows and tame horses. But now it can only hide in the dark and stir the pot.”—Mei Changsu
“People can only be betrayed by friends, enemies will never have chance to do so” —Mei Changsu
“If not for the people, what need for an emperor?” —Mei Changsu
“If you did things for others to see, then it’s a problem of your moral character, but if no one knew of your good deeds, then it’s a failure on my part as your adviser”–Mei Changsu

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