Zoe
Bromance
The boys made me smile so hard. They had such great chemistry as mates with Min Gi always putting a smile on Soo Hyun's face. They're the kind of personalities that probably would've never been friends if they hadn't be thrown together when they were young.
Min Gi
Min Gi plays around a lot. His character made me nervous due to his immaturity. But he's not too bad. He really cares for Soo Hyun. And he's not as stupid as he looks. I liked what the drama did to give him levity to his character.
Soo Hyun
This guy is such a sombre character. He can kick some serious ass. He is such a tortured character. In the second half, it is nice to see him smiling all the time but not for the reason that you'd expect.
I do appreciate that he did wrong things. Considering he's working amongst the underworld, it is only realistic.
His character really changes throughout the drama as the ups and downs of his work really drag him around emotionally.
Ji Woo
This girl kind of annoyed me but not for the usual reasons. I mean, she's not a dramatic character, I guess she just lacked personality. She was just a nice person who just there.
Fashion
Even though this is a bit of an older drama. I was relieved to see that I didn't find the hairstyles distracting or offensive. Haha.
On a random note, the heroine wears some pretty low-cut dresses for a Kdrama.
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This review may contain spoilers
The first half of this drama is so ridiculously bad. And the second half is ridiculously good. The things that brothers will do to protect each other. *sob. I think the second half gets better because Hyeon starts talking like a normal person instead of a god-like character who is better than everyone else.
Also the mind games between the gents really starts and I always appreciate a well-timed stand off. It's a nice change to have males being platonically possessive over each other rather than fighting over a girl. As for the theme of nature vs. nurture, I wasn't so impressed. But the other theme of craving bro-ship from the heart vs. the mind was really good.
There are so many intense conversations where they are talking abstractly about mundane things but everyone in the room knows that they're talking about something else entirely different. I appreciate those moments a lot. Even Ji An gets in on it when she finds out.
Hyeon
“Please stop saying psychopathic things.”
This is my first Seo In Guk drama and I wasn't quite sold on his looks but he became more handsome as the drama went along. I'm not sure if I've ever disliked a personality as much as this guy. I think he'd be an okay character if there wasn't a pathetic Ji An for him to bully and act all superior like too. It's way too over the top.
I wasn't quite in the mood for his stereotypical brand of arrogance especially after seeing Healer's classy condescension. But I stayed on because I wanted to see how smart he really was and see how his talent and his tale unfolded. Those kid flashbacks sucked me right in.
I liked the idea of him having a Sherlock Holmes memory and intuition but him having amnesia in some areas of his life.
He is a neat freak.
His best moments are concerning his brother. Those are intense.
Ji An
Ji An is the type of heroine I hate. She's clumsy, slow on the uptake, and presumptuous. She embarrasses herself constantly, can't string a sentence and is put in a badass job position for her to disgrace. But I believe in Kdramas and their character development so I persevered. She's not a very good personality for Hyeon to bounce off.
Her pluses include that she works hard, that she can shoot a gun and she gets less annoying as the drama goes on.
There's a pretty good spoiler about Ji An that comes out in Episode 5.
Later on she gets some moments to shine which is great.
Romance
Basically every thing and everyone in this drama had chemistry except for the romance.
As per usual, Hyeon acts like he's so much better than Ji An and looks at her like she is a dirt on his shoe.
They had better chemistry as forensic partners or in a student/teacher dynamic. The way they could understand each other well without using words on the job was pretty cool.
For most of the drama it's all about Hyeon and his problems and why his poor manners gets to be excused because of his miserable life. I liked it towards the end of the drama where he starts to show compassion for Ji An and what she has experienced because of a serial killer.
Attorney Jeung
His baby face....gaah! He was definitely one of the motivating factors of keeping up with this drama. The way he so deftly portrayed sinister evil and heart-breaking sadness at the same time was pretty amazing.
Investigation Team
I liked the dynamic of this bunch. They made me smile with their enthusiasm. They're a quirky group and there's just something about them that entertained me. They are like a rag-tag crowd of siblings. They all have their individual “roles” (the analytical one, the grump, the braggart, etc.) but nobody is a stereotype. The most grumpy one is also the most compassionate. I like that. They bicker, fight, and wax philosophical about the criminals that they catch. And they're noisy. I loved them.
Also, while all of them are not that bright, they're always ready to throw down.
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When I sat down to write this review I was full of gobbledygook. I feel like I could write a thesis on the beauty and wonder that is Healer. Once again, my expectations of the standard of Kdrama has just completely been blown up to another level. Can I just get married to this drama and be done with it?
This drama is both intensely sad and intensely funny. You've got to love that rollercoaster of emotions.
Watching this made my heart so so so melty. There are some badass characters in this drama and the way they kindly and gently treat their loved ones made such a big impact on me. There are some really lovely people in this drama who have such big hearts, gosh, the feels!
But let's not forget about the action. I loved loved loved all the smarts that went into the plot and the twists and the deceptions. I always enjoy a drama where the characters are constantly one upping each other. The fight scenes were also really great. I liked that they were practical, and not so showy like some fight scenes I've seen in dramaland *cough City Hunter *cough.
I do feel that it is my public duty to note that there are some plot issues that really don't make any sense. What drama doesn't have them?
On to the characters:
Young Shin - heroine
I feel like I understood Young Shin really well. Her thought processes, actions and decisions all made sense to me.
At first she seems ordinary but then we find out she grew up in a house of ex-cons and has a lot of tricks up her sleeves.
Young Shin is brassy and unapologetic. I like that no one is stepping on her. She's too busy bullying everyone around her. She's very confrontational. She's definitely a wild card and quirky odd but in a good way. I loved how she's always dancing.
As the hero points out, she is brave and she has coping strategies to help her get on with life.
I like that she doesn't have a best friend.
Acting: I first saw Park Min Young in City Hunter. I really loved that her personality is so different in this drama that straight away, I didn't associate her with Kim Na Na.
Jung Hoo
Let me tell you this. Jung Hoo is a guy who knows how to do arrogance right. He pulls it off so perfectly. He doesn't have to be rude, but his condescension just hits it right on the money every time. And he absolutely doesn't use it on the heroine. For. The. Win. This guy is damn good. I was bouncing around with excitement over all his moves. He is very calm and he completely lit up the screen every time. He is amazing and captivating and I'm so in love.
Jung Hoo - “living life was just whatever. Since I was born, I might as well live.”
He reckons he wants to live alone for the rest of his life.
I like his longsuffering exasperation when he has to make contact with people.
And similar to Ju Ji Hoon I like the lazy way he speaks. And he whispers! Be still my beating heart. =P
Jung Hoo would make a great Clark Kent because he totally owns the switch between badass Healer and bashful Bong Soo. I love the way his whole body language and facial expressions change when he's being Bong Soo. He completely owns his dorkish character and it's hard to tell if he's just being Bong Soo or if he really is that awkward because he doesn't hang around people much.
Jung Hoo is the first guy that I've seen who is not a neat freak. He's as sloppy as a girl.
He also has the cutest laugh. The funny thing is that his serious face is so darn sombre and then he smiles and he looks like a little kid.
Romance
Serious adorbs. Serious. Adorbs. It is honestly to die for. Ji Chang Wook and Park Min Young just sizzled with their interactions. It is seriously that good. The chemistry...the CHEMISTRY.
I'm finding that I really enjoy the star-crossed lovers premise in Korean dramas.
So...it starts off with Jung Hoo stalking Young Shin for a job that he's working on. As he spies on her, he is very contemptuous.
But it doesn't last long.
I like that for both of them, they are individuals. They have a lot going on, and sometimes their relationship takes the backseat.
Jung Hoo is another hero who has the most kindest and softest eyes when he's looking at his lady love.
I also like that while he acts appropriately intimidated by her father, he still is man enough to kiss her regardless.
Moon Ho
This guy is full of surprises. I liked all his acting except when he was angry. His angry face seemed over the top. His relationship with Jung Hoo is pretty epic. Bros bros bros.
“How come you never lose to me even once?”
Also, I loved how dedicated Moon Ho was to the “kids”. He, himself, has moments of that childlike quality that is so endearing.
Moon Shik
I really liked the way the drama showed how Moon Shik was haunted by what he did in the past.
Chi Soo
Chi Soo is Young Shin's adoptive father. He's hilariously protective of Young Shin and suspicious of Jung Hoo.
The story of how he Chi Soo adopted Young Shin and how hard he worked to earn her trust is so touching.
Chi Soo has some great scenes with Jung Hoo as well. Their father-boyfriend meet and greet is the best ever.
Also, Chi Soo doesn't get the complete package deal of submissiveness from Jung Hoo and I like that. I think both know their boundaries and both put on a show to fulfill their expected roles. It makes for an interesting dynamic.
Min Joo
“Wait. You, a guy who wouldn't fall if someone threw you, fell on your own?”
Dae Yong
“He wouldn't answer even if I asked and even if he answered I wouldn't know.”
She's a spunky kid and I was really impressed with how brave she was in her care for Jung Hoo.
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Oh Soo - “I just don't want to be pathetic.”
I had to take a break towards the ending but then got right back on board after skipping several minutes of predictable anger and drama after the shit hits the fan. After things settle back down, I really liked what happened with the characters. It even felt like the acting improved.
Young
Youngie is a serious and sad little thing. Cynical too. But she's not one to be messed with.
Even though she is disadvantaged in many ways and doesn't care about what is happening around her she knows how to stand up for herself in a heartbeat. When she does comes round to wanting something, she will make it happen. I liked seeing her browbeat someone who she has allowed to browbeat herself because she simply can't be bothered.
She refuses to be manipulated.
It's true that she hates accepting help but I didn't like that Oh Soo overdid things for her.
Youngie really comes to love Oh Soo quite quickly. It was nice to see her have a safe haven even if it was built on lies.
I liked how confident she became in their relationship and it was nice to see her feel so comfortable with him that she'd take him for granted and become a demanding little sister instead of always pushing him away or relying on herself.
Throughout the drama, you can never blame Youngie for anything, she is strong and makes her own way.
I think I didn't like her as much because I really really like the actor who plays the hero (Jo In Sung) and I was always on his side no matter what, so that kind of skewered my perspective of her.
Oh Soo
I first saw Jo In Sung in That's Okay, It's Love. He has such a lazy, arrogant persona. Oh Soo doesn't like himself very much. He doesn't have a lot of will to live but when he starts a con, he goes all out. He knows how to con really well. The people around him worship him, but he can't get it into his thick head that he's someone that people love.
One of the characters points out that Oh Soo knows how to put down his pride for love. And that is true. He is open about how he feels and he can make himself vulnerable.
He is at his best when he is bluffing someone. I really like how well he portrays that arrogance and the smugness.
Jin Sung
This guy just broke my heart over and over again. He is so loyal. He has his own problems and he just wants to stick with Oh Soo till the very end.
Actually, he's more like a mother bear around Oh Soo. He'll get Oh Soo through come hell or high water and he still smiles. My gosh, this kid.
Moo Chul
I actually grew to like this guy quite a lot. He has a very soothing way of speaking even when he's threatening someone.
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The fun really starts when Bong Do gets the hang of how the talisman works.
I'd also like to mention that in most Korean dramas the character development is really a big thing. And I really appreciate that. However, Queen in Hyun's Man doesn't have that. The immature ex-boyfriend continues to be the immature ex-boyfriend. I don't mind. It makes this drama different from others.
Bung Do
I first saw Ji Hyun Woo (actor) in Angry Mom so it was hard to get over that personality. I was happy to see different facial expressions as he portrayed Bung Do. He's actually more hotter when he doesn't smile.
I like how he looks at Hui Jin. You can see how much he likes her.
Bung Do has got a lot of talents. He's a scholar, a fighter, and a quick learner. Mastering the modern world isn't that difficult for him.
I love how aware he is of his presence in Hui Jin's world and he wants to assimilate well so that he doesn't disrupt her life or embarrass her.
“I can't keep doing silly things that will be a nuisance to you.”
Hui Jin
I like that she's good at her job. And she doesn't take long to put her ex-boyfriend in his place.
The main thing that I like about this heroine is that she is consistent with her personality. She doesn't change because of her man and she doesn't have to learn a whole lot in life. I suppose some would call that lack of character development. But sometimes it's nice not to “learn a lesson” when watching a drama and just go along for the ride with a heroine who doesn't have major flaws that need to be corrected. She's okay from start to finish. Confident, flirty, and mischievous.
She has a lot of attitude that's satisfying. She has a bit of conceit to her that remains throughout the drama and I liked that.
Romance
“Selling that relic wasn't so dumb after all.” ~ Bung Do
There is lots of kisssssssing!!!!
This drama was really effective in convincing me of Hui Jin and Bung Do's epic romance in a short space of time. The music also was definitely a draw card with that ancient Korean style. Gah! Too good. I like that they are always so happy and relieved to see each other.
They get along pretty quick too. I like their boy-meets-girl, star-crossed lovers romance.
Because Bung Do appears and disappears, it makes for a bit of anticipation for the plot and for both of them when they finally get to see each other.
It's really cute as Hui Jin shows Bung Do how the modern world works and Bong Do's look of awe and fascination is adorable. Their relationship is one of equality. I love it! For example, Bung Do doesn't mind using the cute card and Hui Jin knows how to put aside her emotions to deal with things practically. She also steals kisses all the time which is so adorable and I was pleased to see the girl power.
They can tease each other and they have lots of fun together.
The way Bung Do cares for Hui Jin and her feelings is really touching and beautiful. He is chivalrous and noble without being a martyr about it.
Su Gyeong – best friend
She was really boring. But if she is the substitute for annoying elders, then fine. Actually, the first time she said she was like Hui Jin's parents, that was the first time I started liking her.
Also how hilarious was that continuing joke with her interrogations of Bung Do?
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Of course, the drama starts at a very dramatic moment and then backtracks.
There's a lot of family politics involved in here. Obligations, expectations and responsibilities.
Romance
I feel like it's been a while since I've been curious about a couple and how they will work together. Ji Sook and Min Woo are both unique individuals. They definitely don't gel in the usual way.
I was relieved to see how quickly Min Woo softened to her.
The way he kisses her is perfection. I just have to mention that even when he does the sudden approach he gives her time to accept or not.
I think it's amazing that their sweet moments totally makes up for the trauma and pain that is this drama.
Suk Hoon
I like that this guy doesn't come from a rich family.
At first, I found Suk Hoon and Mi Yeon's dysfunctional marriage a bit stereotypical, but it was always captivating.
“I'll believe you even if it's a lie.”
Suk Hoon was so intriguing and intense. He was great. He really lit up the screen with his presence.
His interactions with Ji Sook are chilling and it was compelling to see how he wanted to work with her.
Min Woo
Min Woo's character really challenged me. He made me question what I value in masculinity. Sometimes I found him a bit pathetic, which makes me feel lousy. He feels like a kid playing at being grown up. It's because his brother in law constantly holds the cards and Min Woo is obsessed with his mother. I was relieved to see that Min Woo knew something was up, he just didn't know how to deal with it.
There were so many things to dislike about him, I think that's what added to the struggle because I loved him a lot. I understood how Ji Sook felt about him, wanting to take care of him but also finding him hella hot.
Min Woo has some psychological issues and he is also trying hard to be a competent businessman. I loved his serious personality. He takes everything so seriously. I like that he never smiles.
Dem cheekbones tho. Also, similar to Yeon Woo Jin, he uses his eyebrows in the hottest way and whispers a lot. I don't know why I find whispering so attractive. For some reason, the way this actor (Ju Ji-Hoon) spoke made me pay attention. His Korean sounded different from what I've been hearing.
I like him best when he's exasperated.
Ji Sook
I've found my new favourite heroine. This girl is incredible. She's really an impressive character. I loved seeing an elegant and graceful woman as a heroine. The way people treat her is also refreshing. Sure, they're mean, but not for the usual reasons. No one is telling Ji Sook that she is ugly or stupid.
I like that from the start, Ji Sook has a backbone. She's a fighter and knows how to get down and dirty to survive. I admired her quick thinking.
When she plunges into the world of the rich and snooty she doesn't know how to behave at all. I was really frightened of how awkward she was. She is subjected to a lot of male domination and intimidation.
It was a relief to see her begin to deal with her enemies.
It's nice for a change that the heroine gets the role of protecting the hero secretly and looking on longingly from the side lines because of all the complications. I usually fangirl over the way heroes look at the heroine. But the way Ji Sook smiles at Min Woo, you can see how important he is to her and how much she cherishes him. It's beautiful.
This actress (Soo Ae) has definitely raised the bar. The way I've seen other actresses look at their heroes now seems more akin to shallow infatuation but Ji Sook's gaze just seems so deep and meaningful. It's like the difference between like and love.
Fashion
Both the main characters wear the most beautiful clothes. Well, I loved Ji Sook's dresses and Min Woo always looked dapper in his suits. I liked his home clothes too. They were cute and comfy. Haha. Also, Ji Sook wears some really nice dresses as sleepwear.
Music
The soundtrack was beautiful.
The gimmicky idea that Min Woo plays the violin was not. As a classically trained musician, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. It was terribly terrible!
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I was not expecting to love this drama so much. This is my first Chinese drama. I usually watch Korean dramas. Initially, I had many complaints. But now writing this review, those issues seem unimportant. MDL friends tell me that you can't compare Korean dramas to Chinese dramas and at first I couldn't understand that at all. But now I do. They are different. And you just have to appreciate them for their differences. That said, I still included a list of comparisons at the end of this review. =)
This is also my longest drama to date. It was a good introduction to the idea of dramas longer than 16-18 episodes. I found I could watch it easily and didn't get tired and the story continued to carry. I now feel more confident with trying out more lengthy dramas.
REVIEW
My main problem with this drama was that the important scenes left me disappointed that I wasn't captivated by the emotion and the intensity that was obviously trying to be conveyed. I couldn't connect.
The second half of this drama is fun. Feng Teng and Shan Shan are adorable and we get to see the ups and downs of an uneven relationship. I liked seeing how they navigated it. Feng Teng clearly adores Shan Shan so you can forgive the drama for a lot of things. It gets fun to see what new obstacle will arise so the pair can be all cute and cuddly and demonstrate how much they care for each other. Of course they also explore the difficulties of professionalism and workplace issues in their romance.
As the drama goes on, Feng Teng gets kinder and more possessive.
Shan Shan gets more and more independent. YESSS! I love that she stops trying to please him so much and starts working on her own goals. My favourite part was when she said, “Do it yourself.” Hahaahahah. And the look of shock on his face was priceless.
Feng Teng
Feng Teng, throughout the drama, consistently bored and annoyed me with his inaction. There's not enough explanation to his cold facade. The way he just stares for ages is discomforting. Feng Teng presents his conceit in a straight manner. There's no joking about it which makes it bearable in Kdramas.
Feng is pretty stolid and robotic. The first time he comes to life is when his sister's best friend returns to Shanghai and he actually smiles in conversations and jokes. It was hard to connect and empathise with him because you never know what he's thinking. His face is stone. He honestly is his most animated self with his sister's best friend.
I was also offended that he'd joke about threatening Shan Shan's when he knew she was taking him seriously.
Shan Shan
I really like how the drama develops Shan Shan. By the end of the drama she is dumbfoundingly mature. I was seriously impressed.
Shan Shan starts as the doe-eyed, altruistic Cinderella. She does have some sarcasm and she's not terribly clueless and I liked that she is quick to catch on to social issues even if it's a bit too late. She is most sassy in her mind. Sometimes it feels a bit suffocating with the constant voiceovers. I also like that she takes some lengths to avoid Feng Teng's highhandedness. But she's only indirectly defiant until later on in the drama.
I think she's an interesting person but it takes a while to see it.
Friends
“This prince who is used to eating without worry must want to try out a plain dish like you.” ~ Shuang Yi
Shan Shan's best friend scenes never really won me over till about Episode 13. They are full of “advice”. Also, what happened to Shuang Yi? She just disappeared?
Sister – Feng Yue
Feng Yue is cheeky and very pretty. She and her husband are an adorable couple and kind of stole the prize for most heart-winning romance.
Romance
Feng Teng and Shan Shan's romance develops over a lunchbox. Sometimes this is cheesy and stalkerish and other times it is quite cute to see how invested this “big boss” is over lunch.
I was really curious to see how Feng Teng and Shan Shan would get together and what they'd be like together.
I couldn't understand why Feng Teng liked Shan Shan at first. I could imagine him falling in love with her personality if she ever actually opened her mouth to have a conversation but it's just those big eyes and stuttering sentences.
I think if you can make it to Episode 12 then you're sorted. Episode 12 is THE episode. All the happiness, everything comes together, it all makes sense. More importantly, Feng Teng and Shan Shan make sense. It's all wonderful sunshine and roses and I could finally root for them.
I do get a bit worried when a heroine is worried about angering her boyfriend. There are definitely moments when I was concerned about the powerplay of the relationship. The way Shan Shan would search for an answer to please him and he would just remain stolidly blank until she gave in to what he wanted. I didn't like seeing Shan Shan bow to this kind of manipulation. And just because the heart is good, doesn't mean you can snatch someone's phone out of their hand while they're looking at it.
Chinese Dramas vs. Korean Dramas
I feel that the below points are a bit harsh now. But I must admit that watching this drama has made me appreciate Kdramas a whole lot more.
Compared with Kdramas, this drama looks very amateur. I can see what people mean by the lower quality of acting, delivery, and filming. As a result, it's easy to skip over and miss things just to get the general feel of the story because each second that passes by is not so important or well-thought out.
First thing I noticed, was that the men stand very close to the female when talking instead of the polite distance that you would expect from not only Korean culture but general Western personal space etiquette.
Another thing is that voiceover that indicates what the character's are thinking. This results in a blank facial expression with an intangible voice speaking over top which really is sort of distracting and takes you out of the moment of the drama. In Korean dramas, characters tend to “think out loud” and them actually having to voice their thoughts makes the feeling more expressing and brings me into the moment with them.
On the topic of facial expressions...these Chinese actors seem to be a blank wall compared with Korean actors who are so animated and expressive. Their favourite look is the “huh?” face.
The story telling is disjointed. I was relieved to see some themes emerge. Actually, I'm surprised at how I've come to rely on themes to make me think and invest myself in the plot.
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This review may contain spoilers
I had an on again, off again relationship with this drama. Most of the time I was watching it, I had the idea that I was just wanting to finish it. I was sure I wouldn't have that dreaded I'm-so-sad-it's-ended-what-do-I-do-with-my-life feeling. But I did. It's that kind of drama. How could I not get sucked in despite all my disappointment with Lee Min Ho's character? Thanks to his personality, I had a break from this drama halfway through. I tried twice getting back into it but on the third time successfully picked it up again. I also read a spoiler that made me curious.
The second half of this drama is really solid. Some of the emotions that it captures are spot-on and really intense. The music as well was used powerfully to really get me swept up in what was happening.
This is my first wander into Kdrama action dramas. It starts aggressively and violently. We're not in rom-com anymore.
Yoon Sung
I was not expecting Lee Min Ho's character to be this laid back. I like seeing his playful side because I've only seen him dead serious. He has a great smirk face though.
I like that it's not really about revenge but Yoon Sung wanting to please his dad. He's really smart about revenge and practical about how he wants to live his life.
Romance
This is probably the worse part of the drama.
I did like at first the way Yoon Sung so awkwardly falls in love. He has some real cliché moments though. The stalking, the competitive gift buying, trying to kiss someone when they're asleep - ewww. I didn't like the way he treats Na Na. Whenever he feels attracted to her, (which is every five minutes) he makes a jab at her to hide it. Such a jerk. He's rude and picky just like he is in Personal Preference.
Young Joo - second male lead
Yoon Sung - “Excuse me, I got it first.”
Young Joo - “Shall we rewind the security tapes?”
Korean rivals. *happy sigh.
I wasn't crazy over this guy. He seemed a bit of an after-thought kind of character. But I liked what they did with him in the end and how he was with Sae Hee.
Kim Na Na
“That's okay. I'm a human bullet shield anyway.”
This actress has a great face. And I don't just mean she's pretty. Her face makes me feel calm. Haha.
I love that she dresses appropriately for her job. No silly short skirts and flying hair.
She manhandles Yoon Sung a lot.
There are many moments in the drama when I wanted to strangle her. But there are some moments of competency that are really satisfying too.
I like that she is her own woman and has her own ambitions and purpose in life.
“Excuse me, but can you take your marital spat back home?” Sometimes, I really I love this girl.
Kim Na Na is not a great heroine, but since I was watching My Princess at the same time...well, let's just say the stupidity of Lee Seol next to Kim Na Na's stupidity, there's no comparison. Also, Na Na's ability to grit her teeth in the face of all sorts of circumstances without uttering a word is admirable. Na Na also has a respectable job and she really is all on her own without any help. No parents, no siblings, nothing.
Kim Na Na still needs to be saved lots, but at least she gets to save Lee Min Ho at least once, right?
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Despite the irritations of this drama, all the characters and scenarios are interesting. I didn't skip anything because I needed to know what was going on, or I needed to giggle at the palace staff.
The main characters are blatantly selfish. It's kind of nice not to see the goody-goody personalities or justifiable actions that are usually portrayed in dramas. In a way, because they are so bad, it almost justifies the harsh retribution that the other characters dish them. I like this quandary. Did they deserve that or not? Am I happy to see them crushed to oblivion? What does that say about me, or the other characters who felt they needed to step in and punish wrong-doers?
There are a lot of moments of, “Wait, what, why?” The characters logic is not always the best.
I was particularly frustrated when no one would explain why to Lee Seol. They always just strong-armed her and if they would just talk to her, she would understand and go along.
Romance
I was not expecting this drama to start with the heroine trying to help the hero get his lady love. She's actually very instructional, which always amuses me. I like how well they work together. And they're quick to empathise and show compassion for the other.
From the start, he likes her and thinks she's funny. Their relationship is pretty polite which I find unusual. Of course there's the usual jabs at each other but they're laidback which I like. They even play touch each other without any dramatic music or slow motion.
They have the perfect chemistry for sexual tension.
Their love confessions and their kisses are perfect.
Towards the end, Hae Young really lays down all his cards and he has some of the most swoonworthy lines. He's so content just to be with her. Also, I've never seen so much kissing in a Kdrama. It was great.
On a side note, romantic moments out in the cold seem more romantic when you can see their breath in the freezing temperatures and they're so focused on each other. Haha.
Lee Seol
From start to finish Lee Seol is clueless, stupid, selfish, and naive.
The age gap between her and the other participants in the love square is evident. Everyone of them points out that all she does is whine and cry.
But I also didn't like seeing her without someone who would be there for her unconditionally. Everybody wanted something from her either to trick her or use her. Later on, though, some of the palace staff get behind her rather comically.
Throughout the drama, she has zilch character development. Even in moments of crisis there are no shining points. She gets pushed around and demonstrates continual lack of direction and purpose.
P.S. The actress that plays her when she's a kid is the most adorable little girl and super talented.
Hae Young
Watch the drama for this guy. He is a beautiful man. The plot might suck, the heroine might suck, everyone might suck, but his emotion and his dilemma is so compelling I had to keep watching.
Hae Young has it all together. He's not particularly snooty but he is competent without being condescending. He's also kind. And not one to let arrogance get in the way of doing the right thing. I loved seeing him get into all sorts of trouble with Lee Seol. The things he does for her...so funny.
As is typical, he teases her and torments her but he gives up pretty easy too which is great. You can see he really doesn't like to see her unhappy. Every time it seems like he's really going to cross some lines with his behaviour towards her, he does or says something that turns everything right round on its head and you can see how he truly feels about her. The way he talks to her in that gentle tone of voice...gah, so touching.
He walks a fine line throughout the drama, struggling with what he wants, what he thinks he wants and what he thinks is best for Seol even though it makes her mad. He gets mixed up in professionalism and all. It really is his bad luck that he likes her so much.
Also, he calls Joo Sang Wook “slimy-looking” hahahaha.
Towards the end, Hae Young's playful side comes out and he's so damn adorable.
Second Female Lead
Even though she has some rights in the way she treats Lee Seol, she has a grating personality. She is dedicated to her cause and I hated her most of the time. The condescension, the control, ugh.
Male Rivalry
I live for the one liners when the two male leads are bickering.
“Stop...stop...If you want to cover her, just up to the shoulders are fine. Why are you moving higher?”
“Have you always been so talkative?”
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Double crossing inception is my favourite kind of plot. You know the ones, the trick within a trick within a trick.
This is a feel-good-hehe-we-win kind of story.
My first show with the beloved Kim Woo Bin.
Kim Woo Bin delivers a lot of personality and attitude.
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I was a little nervous starting this one having heard of violence and intense bullying. I guess you could say I have a weak stomach. But as always, when Kdramas pick a topic, they dig into it and explore it and twist it upside down and analyse it under a microscope.
I found Ah Ran pretty annoying throughout the drama although she has the cutest smile. Even after finishing it, I'm not exactly clear why Ah Ran was acting so mean towards her mother.
Plot-wise, it's actually quite slow. But the slightest development in the drama made me sit up and pay attention. This happened again and again. By the halfway mark, I was wondering what would be the next thing that would capture my interest and all the drama had to do was rearrange the seating plan in the class and bang, I was back on board. Haha.
If this was a book, I think I would be really depressed. There are a lot of bad things that happen but it's like I didn't realise it until I sat back to count them up. The main characters throughout the drama are continuously banging their heads against a brick wall. It's fail after fail so it's unusual for me to be able to be able to stick with the drama and actually appreciate it.
Kang Ja
I knew I was in good hands with this heroine. Her school days were equally as violent but she was the one dishing it. She was quite the legend. The contrast of the sweet and naive mother with Kang Ja's actual personality is really interesting. Ah Ran is the one person who can walk all over Kang Ja. But it's also great how being a mother is part of Kang Ja's personality too. She's bossy and empathetic and wants to look after everyone.
I think the fun part about this is that there's a lot of maturity to this heroine that is lacking in the other characters because she's twice their age. And she understands where they are coming from even though they might present with a false front to appear cool or to remain in the school hierarchy.
When Kang Ja's secrets starts spilling out I like that she doesn't make any apologies. She believes in what she's doing.
Go Bok Dong
I liked him from the start. He's a forced baby gang member and he owns it with his whole tone, language and body demeanour. He's like, really vicious. But most of the time it's his attempt to steer people clear of danger. His actions speak much louder than his words.
I was so tickled pink when he was worried that Jo Kang was ruining her life. It was the sweetest thing ever.
When it comes to romance, Bok Dong has zero swag.
Go Bok Dong really broke my heart actually.
I've never felt so sorry for a character.
He really gets the short end of the stick.
Some of his most emotional moments, are really quite comical and yet it's so important to him I felt doubly bad all at once even while I was laughing.
The actor Ji Soo is really amazing. I was so convinced of his adolescence. His portrayal of a teenage boy unable to deal with letting his heart feel and the way it comes bursting out at random moments is brilliant.
My favourite moments were when he was being scary. He uses his face so effectively to convey his vehemence. He is also really good at crying.
No Ah
He's such a harmless and gentle teacher. I get a big kick out of seeing him scandalised by the other side of the tracks. As his dad says, “You were beaten as a kid and now you're a teacher you're still getting beat up by the other students.”
Of course he has a big heart but generally I was scoffing at his ineptness. He fails miserably at cracking the kid code. But he perseveres. And when his kindness shines through at some moments of the drama, it's very touching.
Hong Sang Tae
This kid seems like a predictable character but he was full of surprises as the spoiled poor little rich boy.
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"Back then, there were no good reporters. This time there is.” ~ Dal Po
The first episodes starts with a rollercoaster of feels. I like that this drama isn't the standard love square with scheming elders. While I was watching it, it kind of overtook my life. Although it was pretty stressful for me I couldn't stop watching it. I was also watching an action Kdrama at the same time as this one and Pinocchio made my heart beat so much faster and the plot and relationships really had me on the edge of my seat. I don't like foreshadowing though! Don't tell me something bad is going to happen, Dal Po! There are no dull parts in this drama, which, makes it really special in my opinion. And there are no useless side characters. Everyone is interesting and unique and screen-worthy. I actually loved every single secondary character even the ones that were just comic or even bordering on slapstick. They were all really good.
I liked that there are sub-plots and crises that arise and get dealt with as different news incidents happen. So there are a lot of small victories along the way and it's not just about one long-drawn overarching plot. It keeps the storyline fresh and exciting. I also appreciate how they portray the older generation of reporters influencing and mentoring the next generation but sometimes their words of wisdom come back to bite them in the butt. It's funny how a moment of fierce lecturing gets imprinted on a trainee's brain and informs their professional development.
It's also great that it's not just about fighting against the news industry. Sometimes the news drama took a backseat to the characters' personal development. I also like that it's not all an uphill battle. There are some higher up people rooting for In Ha and Dal Po too. There are humorous parts as the two competing news stations try and one up each other.
I thought the set up of the drama, was really thoughtful. Having the main characters be in a legally awkward position is great. And the whole uncle thing? Never gets old. It's so funny the way they got used to it. Although how they can stand to be in a relationship and still go back to “uncle” terms without batting an eye is beyond me.
I love how Korean dramas know how to uniquely demonstrate the relationships in the family in such a meaningful, but cutesy way. Actually, a surprising theme that emerged is the betrayal of family for the sake of justice.
Random note: In Ha wears heels to her first interview and then later on in the show she claims she doesn't have any heels.
Gyo Dong
I loved him. He seems really serious and upright and a good mentor to Dal Po but he gets caught up in the news rivalry shenanigans too. I love the way he'd be so mature and then encourage his subordinates to insult the other team. And he's easy on the eyes too. His little flirtation was so awkward but cute.
Mothers
In Ha's mother was not as evil as I thought she'd be. She was sensible and thought about her actions. Sure she was selfish but at least she was clever and cunning and made sense. I also liked seeing her loosen up and joke around. I like that even though she tries her best to make people feel like shit, Dal Po and In Ha are strong enough in themselves to continue to be professional towards her. Although, there is one point that In Ha confronts her and she does it in a way I thought I'd never see. It was good to see the icy Manager Sung pissed off. I was annoyed by the repetitive cycling of her arguments though. When she told lies she demanded other people prove them false. When others did the same, she disregarded them as assumptions.
Towards the end of the drama, I really liked her acting.
For Bum Jo's mother, I liked that she was more concerned about Bum Jo's happiness than status.
Romance
I really do not understand why Koreans think applying bandages to the opposite gender is so romantic.
Anyway, this is my first childhood friends/frenemies romance. I like seeing their casual relationship that sometimes sizzles. The chemistry between In Ha and Dal Po...it's good.
Also the toast kiss was more memorable for me because of what happened after...hahaha.
The way Kdramas dream up these convoluted obstacles...it's so sneaky and tricky. I kind of like the twist that Dal Po feels he's not good enough for her but In Ha's father actually thinks it's the other way around.
Dal Po, on the romance front, is strong and not afraid of rivals. He's so freakin' calm about it. I just like the way he doesn't dramatise things. He makes a lot of mistakes in his relationship with In Ha but I like his imperfections. Also, can we just have a shout out for Lee Jong Suk and his epic back hugs? The way he affectionately caresses In Ha's face is always so satisfying and sweet.
I like that Dal Po trusts In Ha and doesn't think he needs to be the big man and protect her from things. I like the way she trusts him back so there's little pointless arguing or her needing to prove herself. I do like that they have real arguments about their values.
In Ha is really thoughtful of everything that Dal Po has gone through. And when it comes to standing up for him, she's a tiger.
The crisis of the romance was stupid and yet tricky at the same time. There are no right answers. Is it a case of illogical noble martyrdom? I don't know. I really don't.
Jae Myung
I really loved this actor/character. His smile is perpetually sad and he just conveys this broken, and lonely persona so well.
Every time he was on the screen, my heart was in my mouth just being so achey. And he's so kind and so bitter and aghhhh.
He honestly, stole the show for me. He, out of everyone, is so strong. His powerful character is so intensely portrayed. I wanted to hug him and hi-five him and everything.
In Ha
I like seeing her expressions come alive. She has some great attitude and sass that I enjoyed.
My first drama with her was Flower Boy Next Door. I thought the hicupping thing would be overdone, but she owns it well. Her hiccups' concept stretches to scenarios as well. So it's not so much about lying but keeping quiet about the truth. And so she can't act either because her “body knows she's lying”. I wish they kept true to that, but they started to expand it so that her hiccups was basically her moral compass, which kind of made it preachy. Although I did like it when she'd say something like, “I do believe you *hiccup, oh, I guess not.”
I like her confidence. When she and Dal Po get into the reporting industry, In Ha is professional and not clingy. Yay! Dal Po has the smarts but In Ha has good instincts. She's level-headed and she does it in a way that's calm and not showy.
She also stands up for what she believes is right even if it means standing against Dal Po. It's always good to see a woman able to separate herself and her opinion from her boyfriend. She really whips Dal Po into shape. I was really surprised to see that kind of backbone coming from a Kdrama/Park Shin Hye. As the drama goes on, it becomes clear that you do not want to mess with In Ha.
In Ha is also really good around the second male lead. He's nothing to write home about, but she showed decisiveness when it came to him and didn't string him along.
Also, I love that she initiates kissing. And how many times have you seen a heroine cut off a hero's rambling with a kiss? In Ha is awesome.
Dal Po
I'm starting to see a trend with Lee Jong Suk characters being underestimated and looked down upon but possessing inner strength and confidence. I love the way he portrays his characters as arrogant and intelligent, yet vulnerable and with such a selfless and big heart.
Lee Jong Suk and his feelings. It's so easy to get caught up in them. Gah! Even with his ridiculous hairstyle my heart was beating for him. And seeing him as a sad little orphan again...oh, Lee Jong Suk...The way he lived his life...just to spare a poor old man's heart...*sigh. Such a sad little kid.
Dal Po gets caught up in the chase of the news too. The drama portrays a very cutthroat, unprofessional and dirty world of journalism. It was interesting how Dal Po, despite his hatred for the culture fell trap to it when he started in on the race to get that exclusive. The self-reflection was really spot on. He's a really mature character and even the elders respect him for it. He's also really clever with catching people out when he interviews/interrogates them.
As the drama builds, I hated to see him go through his crisis alone.
“I hate myself to a point where I can't even breathe.”
Lee Jong Suk knows how to act. I also really like his blank face when Yu Rae tries to flirt with him. Also, his disgruntled face makes me laugh every time. Seeing his range of emotions is impressive. I thought I'd seen all of his facial expressions. But then there was his tipsy scene. His drunk face...Oh gosh. Lee Jong Suk is epic. EPIC.
Bum Jo (that's such an unfortunate name!) Second Male Lead
I'm not sure if I've ever disliked a secondary male lead off the bat like I did this guy. He's all “In Ha is my destinyyy”.
He's also a spoiled mama's boy. This guy is so creepy. He's the kind of “nice” stalker that is fooling nobody. He's freakishly tall as well. How can someone be taller than Lee Jong Suk?
I did kind of appreciate that after In Ha draws the line, he takes the hint and stops chasing her. But of course, I did feel that he was being somewhat petty.
Actually, he probably has the least character development out of anyone I've seen in a Kdrama.
He's all kinds of ridiculous. But my favourite line of his was, “Did I just swear out loud?”
Jae Hwan
I love these competent and capable women in the media industry.
Dal Po - “We have to barge in there, so it might get ugly.”
Jae Hwan - “That's my speciality.”
I loved her relationship with the silly Hyun Gyu.
Yu Rae is pretty silly. “It's not easy to make copying paper look sexy.”
On an end note, I really loved the music and how emotional it was. It matched the story well and I just thought it was used really effectively.
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There are some weird sound effects but one of the most original ones was when Jang Mi threatens Ki Tae and in the background there's a lion's growl and when they cut the camera to Ki Tae's face he's swallowing and there's a puppy whimper in the background. So weird but funny!
This drama is super modern. There's a kiss between the heroine and the secondary male lead. Unheard of! But also really hot. The skinship was out of this world for a Korean drama. So much touching! They have some awesome hugs too. Haha.
I rarely can watch a drama without skipping large sections towards the end. But this one, the characters are always engaging and fun to watch. I like how the drama plays around with relationships and how they really make fun of that whole, “I'm so cool” thing where everyone is nonchalant about exes and triangles. They even congratulate each other on it, “You were so confident around Se Ah. You were so cool around Yeo Reum.” I like how the drama fleshed out that they were just hiding their feelings from each other. “We talked less than when we were in the fake relationship.” I wasn't expecting that kind of levity, and it really added some depth to the rom-com.
I don't think I have ever enjoyed awkward as much as I enjoyed it this one. I think it's because they don't just pour it in bucket loads on the poor heroine but every character has to endure the most terribly awkward situations. I was cackling and soaking it all up.
Se Ah
She had to be the cool girl to hold onto Ki Tae as a friend and she has no sense whatsoever. She can't see that Ki Tae is both disgusted and terrified of her.
Hyun Hee
Hyun Hee is the BFF and she's pretty cool. She's supportive, a little sassy, and also has a lot of common sense and dignity. She really gets the short end of the stick the poor girl. I was really rooting for her HEA. And she has some tricks up her sleeves. Sometimes she seems so pitiful and helpless and then she pulls herself up by her bootstraps. Hyun Hee is pretty badass.
Yeo Reum
I have never felt more conflicted about a character and I never got tired of watching his handsome self strut around on the screen. Honestly, for the 16 hours of watching this drama, I was always ridiculously happy whenever he made an appearance. And that smile...! Gah. Even Ki Tae says, “his killer smile”. Hahaha. Such a hottie. He has the most beautiful facial expressions too. He's not your usual secondary male lead. He is also not perfect at all, which is refreshing because then I don't feel like the heroine is missing out too much by passing him by.
Jang Mi - “I'm trying to find myself.”
Yeo Reum - “You're weird.”
“What?”
Yeo Reum points at her. “You're right there. What more are you looking for?”
He was adorable for five minutes. He became an asshole really quickly when he was mean to Jang Mi just because she was a being a flirt. Who gives him the right to punish her? Dickhead. It's weird how he ended up being more important that I thought. I was disappointed that Jang Mi hadn't learned her lessons when it came to him.
In situations where there are two males in a stand-off I like how the Koreans use the term, “Don't be so scary” when they mean don't be so dramatic. Yeo Reum knows a lot about stand-offs and relationships.
Yeo Reum thinks most of the games the crowd he finds himself in as funny. He's younger than all of them and of quite a different mindset so he does enjoy adding fuel to the fire.
Yeo Reum is the epitome of the bad boy. He drives me nuts but he's so cute when he wants to be. I felt like a pickle forgiving him. But he and Jang Mi are also so couply together. I wish we had more chance to see him being genuine before his interest in Jang Mi became more of a power play. Most of the time I thought he was real sleazy but then he'd smile. Gah! I'm such a pushover. Bottom line though is I do not like him. He's bad news, petty and conceited. It's because he's handsome and he knows it. I hate that. He only likes her when it's easy or amuses him. That's disgusting...right?
But he's the kind of guy that will never show it when he's hurting. And he does hurt.
But similar to Se Ah, he only thinks of himself and is really really stupid when it comes to real relationships. They're so good at being cool they don't realise that there's more to love than being right or making all the cards fall into place.
Jang Mi
I like her enthusiasm for life. Her facial expressions are so cute and she dances to herself.
Also, I'm always really impressed by a heroine who can piggyback her love interest. It's so hilarious.
I love how modern she is. She so casually throws out to the traditional mother in law that “Who cares who works in the kitchen? They should help each other out.”
Mother in law - “You made a doctor peel chestnuts?” Damn straight.
Jang Mi throws herself wholeheartedly into anything she undertakes. I like that she gets excited over little things and that she's appreciative of the smallest positives. I like how happy she is. She finds the good things to smile about.
Of course, Jang Mi has to undergo some character development.
Jang Mi - “Stop being clingy. I want a cool relationship!”
Ki Tae - “You, of all people, are saying that?”
Hoon Dong
Hoon Dong is supposed to be a ridiculous character. And he is. Really childish, a mama's boy, spoiled, self-centred, playboy, etc. He does grow. Of course he does.
Ki Tae
Ki Tae is a neat freak. I love that moment when Jang Mi first visits his house and starts touching everything. He's so particular.
Throughout the show he has to do a lot of running. He has great form.
He also uses his eyes very effectively to convey his contempt. It's so fun to annoy him! His eyebrows are perfect too.
I actually like how much he whispers. He is a master at it. I get so convinced when he lowers his voice.
He's such a stern character, it's fun to see him start smiling as he looks over his photographic evidence of his and Jang Mi's relationship.
I like that he's always been the detached guy and finally he has to admit he has feelings for the klutz girl even before she feels that way about him. Ha!
Particularly what he does in Episode 11 is really epic for him. I love how he practices in the mirror.
And he only gets cuter from there on out. I love the way he says her name with such elation and hope.
He's absolutely adorable when he's in love. “You wanted a cool relationship. This is just too cool.”
I loved seeing him evolve and how caring and considerate his transformation left him.
Romance
Even if you were the last guy on earth...
“You and I have to act like a couple. My mum is meticulous.”
“What about my revenge?”
“Especially for your revenge. You're worth every penny.”
The Plot
Jang Mi - “Your family stalks you?”
Ki Tae - “It's a family full of love.”
The way he tries to convince her to be his fake girlfriend is hilarious and she rebuffs him beautifully and confidently. It doesn't take much though and soon the two are in league with each other. And Ki Tae finds she's even more perfect than ever. I think it's fun to have the Asian spin on the epitome of the worst possible partner for your child. Jang Mi plays it perfectly. I think it's hilarious that the less conservative members of the family although shocked are quite nice. Grandma approves! This kind of story, especially with Asian families, it's so cruel to play this kind of game because the parents are soooo invested in their kids. Their kid getting married is what they live for, how can you play around with that? It's too sad.
I eventually got really pissed by how silly and emotionally tied up they got into the situation. I really came to hate the manipulations and cruelty of Bong Hyang (mother in law from hell). The drama makes excuses for her. The other characters refrain from scheming out of mercy and not wanting to be evil. But she! She believes in what she does 100% doesn't hold back and really hurts the people around her in the name of duty and honour.
Mother in law
Such an annoying and manipulative witch. But this is Kdrama and of course she has to do something that makes me want to hi-five her.
She also gets her act together a little more, which is great towards the end of the drama.
Usually I require a little more comeuppance for all the trouble she caused, but I couldn't begrudge her pure happiness.
Fashion
Stubbies with a formal coat? Weird.
Ki Tae's fashion...I love it. Although in Episode 8...yuck!
Ki Tae also wears shorts which I have not seen Kdrama men wear. I was wondering where the calves were. Haha.
Elder treatment
Jang Mi is probably the first to speak back to an elder. Such a modern woman.
They also try and scare the parents off by tricking them into thinking Jang Mi is a rapscallion.
Ki Tae is a modern man as well and doesn't mind bodily moving his mother which, you have to admit, is not very deferentially Asian of him. I love it. It reminds me of my own brother's relationship with our mother who, yes, can be meddling but it portrays the family closeness.
On a random note, I thought I've seen it all with these subservient deference to the elder but for the future mother in law to turn up at the girl's workplace just to ask her to push the grocery trolley? WTF?
So yes, there are super weird moments like that but there's this one moment when the grandma says this line about her late husband deserving a particular treatment and oh my gosh! The sacrilege! I was cackling with glee.
I think what's important is that the elders have to learn things too and they need to have character development and I love that Bong Hyang gets told off.
I do like that even after having an argument, the Korean respect demands that there is some level of acknowledgment in the power relationship. That they can see past the feelings and still offer honour because it's so ingrained in them.
Music
I loved the music. It was really cute and I liked that that dramatic music wasn't overdone like some of the dramas I've seen.
The Ending
The staying power of the drama is really good I think. It kept me laughing right up till the end and I was engaged and always rooting for the characters.
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Quotes
“In order to trust, you must suspect first.” This guy is too cool.
“Being too kind is a disorder. But it's not completely useless.”
It's annoying how in the intro theme Woo Jin is wearing glasses and he only wears glasses in the entire 12 hour series for 2 minutes at the beginning of the first episode.
Woo Jin completely won me over. The actor, Lee Sang Yoon, I have the biggest crush! His education tone is so sexy. Haha.
He never smiles with his teeth during the entire show. Isn't that sad?
I like how they show that he is taking in everything. Plus, his eyes are pretty.
Fashion
The guys are obsessed with turtle necks.
Woo Jin wears Chuckies. I like that.
Da Jung wears some great heels.
Thoughts
Don't Kang Do Young and Ha Woo Jin get tired of staring at each other so meaningfully?
Do Young is annoying.
I wanted something more from Da Jung and Woo Jin. Not necessarily romantic, just a sign that they're friends or that he respects her, or she makes him happy.
That ending is confusing as hell. I'm disappointed that after all the mind games the ending just ends up being a mindless shoot out.
This drama has strong women, even though they aren't the heroines, I heartily approve. The reporter Ja Young and the PD. Normal career, competent women who can hold conversations with a hot guy.
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Yay! She's working late!
Ep 7 – she's suspicious as a prosecutor – not gullible, thinks about the possibilities. This is good.
Ep 8 – her colleagues are finally respecting her. Nice that she put in terms and conditions like a real lawyer would.
Personally, she's a wreck but she's quite efficient as a prosecutor.
She's also good at making people talk.
Damn, she's a hard worker and so keen for the case. But she's not clueless either.
No conniving second female lead? It gets better.
When he's having the nightmare, her gentle compassion really shines through.
I like what she says in Ep 4, “I really do know everything. It's just that I don't always think the same as everyone else. But I really do know everything that I should.”
There's also teamwork with the lady rivals - I like this.
Se Jun (secondary male lead)
He's a nice team leader - “Later on, when you feel like saying. And if you need help, tell me.”
What an absurd...oh these Kdramas always inventive ways of being adorable and awkward as hell. Such a weirdo, this guy. 3 years since he's been on the dating scene.
She just lifted him onto her back. No kidding. He's crazy. And he's not a skinny fellow like Gong Yoo either.
Father Relationship
I roughly know that the parents strong arm their daughter, but seeing moments like this seems nice even though he's just being a scallyway.
Romance
Hye Ri is a satisfying character. “You haven't even tasted my wrath. Don't you even think about moving.”
Her calm face when she's asking him what's wrong – dignity.
He's got a great selection of vests.
Nobody in their right mind would let that person drive them home after discovering all the treachery.
Oh yeah, end of ep 13. She's great. Says what she has to. Confidently. Knows him.
“I love you. You bastard.”
I never understand how a kiss can be so grossly misconstrued by male leads / producers / writers. A kiss shouldn't take the work out for you you lazy buggers.
“Without you in the office it was so cold and lonely.” That's what you want to hear.
In Woo
In Woo is being a real decent kind of guy. Helpful, serving, kind. This is cool.
“She keeps finding the truth I've mixed in with the lies. She keeps figuring out my sincerity.” That's such a nice way to put it, don't you think?
I love this conversation in Ep 14 about her saying use your lawyer language and him saying her occupation is showing.
“My mind, heart, and eyes are filled with all your expressions.” That's a real romantic line, isn't it.
He looks better with more hair.
There is a lot of sad faced In Woo.
He's so encouraging teaching her how to cook.
Jenny
I really wanted to hate Jenny. I hated her on screen but felt annoyed because there's no good reason to hate her. She's reasonable. She's helpful. She's a good friend. Ugh!
1 year later... you better have grown more hair In Woo.
Hye Ri doesn't have a change of hairstyle. That's a first.
Her optimism is strong and she can smile at hurt.
Nope, he doesn't have more hair and he's insanely obsessed with those disgusting V-necks.
She's carrying In Woo, now? This girl is strong. I can't believe he even attempted a piggyback ride from her. So bizarre.
That's hilarious she can remember what he said a year ago and he can't believe it.
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