bojojoti

Every Trope Known to Drama Lovers!

This is a satire written for drama lovers, as only they can fully appreciate the many tropes. There are also puns and references that only those who know Chinese culture and language will comprehend. Even without those understandings, anyone can enjoy the drama even though they will miss some humor and foreshadowing. A Dream Within a Dream is so rich in music, art, poetry, philosophy, lush cinematography, Easter eggs, and tropes that missing a few allusions won't matter, as the story holds together without needing total awareness.

The cast was exceptional, from the charismatic leads to the wonderful supporting characters.

If I had to quibble about anything, it's that a character with foreknowledge should use it to her advantage. If something horrible is going to happen in the forest at night, don't decide to travel through it at that time. It was frustrating to experience the FL floundering and making foolish choices. She took excruciatingly long to wise up to those around her, and it wasn't until late in the game that she tried to use the script to her advantage.

I found ADwaD to be fresh and innovative while using old, tired tropes. I generally don't enjoy slapstick or overt silliness, but they fit well in this parody.

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I Think I'm Fated to Watch All The Versions of This Story

I didn't expect to like this rendition as much as the Korean one (Jang Na Ra, Jang Hyuk, and Choi Jin Hyuk were wonderful in their roles and set the bar high), but I was pleasantly surprised by the Taiwanese leads. The ML was appropriately alternately angry and tortured, the FL was a long-suffering sacrificial lamb, 2ML was sweet and supportive, and 2FL was a horrific excuse of a human being.

The story was much the same, but there was more slapstick comedy to angst ratio, and I didn't mind that too much, as the Korean version was emotionally painful to endure. I could have done without the FL's family, though. They were so loud and annoying! And Anson. The best thing about him was when the ML would zip his lips! I never wanted him to unzip them. Some of their scenes could have easily been cut to tighten up the drama; 24 episodes weren't necessary.

The OST was mostly lighthearted; the Korean OST was heart-wrenching ("Goodbye, My Love" by Ailee is one of my favorite songs from a drama: https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=UEVjA5CdkPk).

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You'll Laugh, Cringe, and Fan Yourself

This was the equivalent of Cheetos, dipped in chocolate sauce, topped with whipped cream, and garnished with pickles. It didn't make sense, and it wasn't good for me, but I enjoyed it anyway.

Passionate groping and steamy kisses were interspersed with nonsense. I obviously watched it in the right frame of mind; generally, I would have looked askance at a drama that was so silly (when it wasn't trying to be campy), but it made me laugh (rather unintentionally, I'm sure).

I snickered when the ML tore off his shirt, and his torso glistened with oil. Well, with a torso like that, a guy should oil up on the off chance he's going to rip off his clothing. My eyebrows rose when the bride-to-be made out with a stranger at her fiancé's funeral--on top of his coffin, no less. The FL had to have hemorrhoid surgery, something I've not encountered in a romance before. The FL was forced to marry the psycho because he put a bomb in her bridal bouquet. ML was viciously knifed and in a coma for days. When the FL walked into his room, he was standing and fully dressed right after awakening. Those are some killer genes that provide instant healing! And kudos to the ML. That actor approached every kiss like an Olympic event in which he was going to set a record. The man was enthusiastic!

I laughed, I cringed, and I fanned myself. It wasn't a cinematic masterpiece, but I had fun.

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A Drama About Nothing That Touches Everything

When teacher Park Ha Kyung needed an escape from her life, she'd take a day trip. She didn't pack for overnight, as that would be too much trouble, and, ironically, she didn't enjoy traveling. The drama revolved around her walking and eating in different locales, and that could have been extremely boring, but Park Ha Kyung had the gift of observation and appreciation for the small things. A quotation attributed to Albert Einstein states: "There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." Park Ha Kyung doesn't look for large miracles; she is content with the tiny, healing ones that come from simple acts such as sincerely apologizing, sharing a meal with a stranger, or attempting something new. Definitely not a drama for thrill seekers or romantics, but I relished how different, subdued, yet rich, it was.

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I Can Watch Ahn Bo Hyun's Dramas Now

The best outcome of watching Flex X Cop is that I finally got over my aversion to Ahn Bo Hyun. His character was so despicable in Itaewon Class, that I stopped watching Yumi's Cells when he appeared as the love interest! I was like, no way, no how. He'd sneak up on me in supporting roles, and that helped, somewhat, to desensitize me, but I think this drama has erased the visceral reaction I've had to him. Chalk it up to good acting; I have nothing against the actor. He was perfect in this role (he was perfect in Itaewon Class, too, but eww!).

The initial fish-out-of-water scenes with ML as a pseudo-police officer were crazy and chaotic. I loved the brashness and sheer bravado of the ML. Then, it became predictable. I kept saying to myself, "Please don't let XXX be the baddie!" It would have been refreshing if it hadn't turned out that way, but the drama fell into an old cliche. Very disappointing. It was fun until then. I'm thinking season two, with all the childhood trauma behind him, could allow the zany, fun side of the character to return.

I must make mention of ML's stylist. His ensembles were amazing. Even great coats, watches, shoes... the whole look was sharp and perfectly chaebol.

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Everyone Wants Arthdal and I Don't Know Why Because It's a Toxic Place

It's hard when actors replace the established actors of beloved characters. I had that initial disappointment when I saw the sweet cherub face of Song Joong Ki was now represented by fierce Lee Joon Gi. SJK was perfect as the naive member of the Wahan clan; LJG was equally as perfect as the Inaishingi warrior. LJG was better suited for the new physical demands of Eun Seom; he's always a pleasure to watch in action scenes. Playful, willful Tan Ya"s Kim Ji Won performance was replaced with a quiet, bland adaptation by Sin Sae Kyeong. I had to remind myself the characters were bound to change with the passage of eight or so years and the trials they'd been through. I never warmed to the new Tan Ya, but the part wasn't written to endear me. There was nothing left of the original Tan Ya's personality for me to recognize. And Saya—what a change: from effeminate schemer to masculine evil. His former personality was unrecognizable.

It helped for continuity that the king and queen were played by the same actors. And what acting it was. Jang Dong Gun and Kim Ok Bin were scene stealers. They were magnificent villains, real and raw—the type of evil that was explained by their circumstances and born out of necessity. Fabulous portrayals of damaged people, who even at their most repugnant moments could evince their vulnerabilities.

The story was bleaker in cinematography and tone than its predessors. There were few happy moments to bond with the characters. It was understandable. They were at war. Treachery, treason, and death were the constants. I couldn't help feeling that the script had been infected with George R. R. Martin's nihilistic approach to killing off beloved characters in a meaningless, abrupt way. I really hate that. I was also frustrated through many situations when it seemed no one could think logically; I really dislike sloppy writing that relies on the characters to be stupid to advance the plot.

The ending wrapped up the current arc but gave a preview of trouble in paradise. There could easily be several more seasons of Arthdal adventures if the Powers That Be want it, as there was no resolution with Saya or Taealha; the Neanthals may want retribution; and, personally, I want to see more MoMos.

I gave Arthdal Chronicles Part 1: The Children of Prophecy and 8.5 rating (it was tasked with setting up the story and introducing characters); Arthdal Chronicles Part 2: The Sky Turning Inside Out, Rising Land (2019) was rated 9 stars (the story took off); Arthdal Chronicles Part 3: The Prelude to All Legends (2019) continued the excitement and was rated 9 stars; and Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramun (2023) was given an 8 star rating.

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The Demon Slays in Versace and Hermes

Gentle viewer, be forewarned. This has graphic violence too often and for too long. There was torture and gore.

The Good:
• Park Shin Hye was amazing. She was mesmerizing on the screen. Killer acting (pun intended).
• My compliments to PSH's stylist. Her clothing, earrings, handbags, and shoes were exquisite. The beautiful visuals helped offset some of the darkness of the drama.

The Bad:
• I like Kim Jae Yeong, but I couldn't quite believe the romantic relationship between the upstanding detective and the demon who enjoyed hurting people.
• It didn't make sense that when the female detective went missing that her faux son didn't go crazy looking for her. It didn't make sense that the demon didn't pursue that either. Even if she didn't care about the female detective, she wanted to catch the serial killer, and that was the best lead. She had the ability to view the detective magically but decided, meh, she'll show up.
• The demon judge seemed locked into proceeding with a trial and then releasing the criminal afterward in order to exterminate him. I never understood why she didn't eliminate the murderers before trial. It would have been much simpler and left her out of the spotlight.
• It's a K-drama, so there was a stupid time skip and an inexplicable separation. It was done poorly and made no sense. The drama should have ended before that happened.
• The plot holes were many and few issues were resolved as the first season was dependent upon a second. I had to rewind, because I couldn't accept that the director had chosen to stop filming there. It wasn't an ending. Just a stop. Nothing resolved.

I generally complain that K- and C-dramas overlook, forgive, or reward the villains. I can't make that claim here! The evil-doers got what they had dished out, and then they were taken out. It was cathartic to a point, but I never want to get too comfortable with the idea of violent retribution. It didn't help that I'm reading a serial killer series at the moment (Dan Wells' John Wayne Cleaver series: I highly recommend for those who find sociopaths and other neurodivergents interesting; very fascinating character). That was too much darkness at once. I need to balance that better.

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Hard to Like a Drama with an Unlikeable Lead

I was disappointed initially that this wasn't a continuation of the original ML/FL from the first Soundtrack drama. This has lesser-known actors, but it was an improvement over the first drama, because it actually had a story (albeit, annoying) and some substance.

The drama suffered from having an unlikeable FL. She was rigid and unreasonable. I have to admit she reminded me of myself when I insist on doing things on my own, often to everyone's discomfort. It was baffling to me why the ML loved that sour, disagreeable face. I didn't like her: why did he? In true K-drama fashion, she flipped a switch and changed her personality in time for a happy ending. If only life worked like that. Give me some of what's she's drinking!

I liked both new-to-me actors. I hope to see them in something I enjoy more.

I added a half star for Steve Noh's jawline. So sharp, it could cut diamonds!

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I Want a 16-Episode Drama That Compares to This Aesthetically

The sets were exquisite, the leads were gorgeous, the clothing was attractive, and the music was surprisingly good for such a small drama. Everything was attractive right down to Lee Soo Hyuk's deep, dark voice. He really needs more leading roles; he's so often a supporting character, and he doesn't get to use that marvelous voice often enough.

My rating was for the visual feast and LSH's voice, as there wasn't much story; to be fair, it would be hard to do much more in such a mini drama. Even so, it left me with a dopamine hit of happiness. This was an aesthetically pleasing mini perfect to watch between heavy dramas.

I didn't list my usual Good/Bad, because I didn't find anything objectionable. I accepted it for what it was: a tiny, pretty drama that solved relationship dilemmas with warmth and understanding.

Note: this drama was an advertisement for Handsome Inc., which explained the attractive clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. I didn't mind that a bit as it enhanced the drama rather than interrupt it Kopiko/Subway style.

With English subs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6D-_S0FMAA&list=PLRXdsS5E_8i3FJ_o7VF0TFb9SUdWk54iW&index=3

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Conquering Cities and Hearts

A fun romp that didn't take itself seriously, a love triangle done right, some truly funny moments (especially male jealousy), and a charismatic cast made for a pleasant experience.

The Good
• The romance between the leads felt natural, and their interactions were charming. I got the feeling the actors enjoyed making this drama. It may have been due to their acting skills, but when actors convey that enjoyment to their audience, everyone has a good time.
• The comedic timing was delectable, and I say that as someone who generally doesn't enjoy over-the-top slapstick.
• The FL played the role of a man better than most actresses.
• I so appreciated the FL was intelligent and not easily deceived. The IQ of most of the leads was appreciably higher than in most comedies.

The Bad
• There is a bit too much bathroom humor, but I've dealt with plenty of children, so I'm probably jaded in that area.
• Logic wasn't the point, so little was explained and not everything made sense. Cut to a kissing scene and the viewer won't notice.

Extra half star for the inventive way each episode was introduced. I appreciate originality.

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Ming Lan Has Become One of My Favorite Heroines

Delightful! I adored Ming Lan from her difficult childhood through her tortured teens and into a blossoming adult. I'd hesitated starting the drama because 78 episodes is a commitment, but time flew faster with Ming Lan than with some 16 episode dramas.

The writers did a commendable job juggling a large cast; each character was distinct and had purpose. The acting was as good as the script.

Children who live with abuse, neglect, or bullying learn to observe their surroundings and the people around them closely. As a survival device, they become invisible, but they're always assessing danger and planning how best to extricate themselves. Ming Lan learned strategy at an early age, and she hid her intelligence behind a quiet, inoffensive smile.

It was pure pleasure to see her outthink and outmaneuver her siblings, parents, and other adults during her childhood. She willingly took abuse and blame and quietly accepted punishment. She seemingly had little desire to protect herself, but when it came to those she cared about being hurt, she'd assume that quiet smile and plot retribution in scary fashion.

The romantic scenes were relatable with teasing, laughter, and faux umbrage. The chemistry was sweet. The interactions between Ming Lan and her grandmother were warm and touching.

All in all, a wonderful slice of life/coming of age drama featuring intelligent, decent people fighting against adversity and evil people.

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Starts with Promise, Then Flails and Falls

It's a comedy, so I'm supposed to ignore all the silly misunderstandings, nonsensical insta-love, and noble idiocy. As charming as the ML was, he couldn't overcome my flagging interest in the drama as it limped along.

Adults—people in their 30s—who act like preteens when it comes to romance... Why is this a drama thing? And talk about fantasy: three men, all handsome and talented, with two of them much younger, fall in love at the same time with a boring, older woman whose only outstanding merit is that she's a good salesperson.

I know I complain about over-the-top characters, but maybe the FL's insipidness balanced that out, and I really enjoyed ML's mother-in-law-ish brother, his flamboyant brother, and the exuberant 2FL. Akamine (2FL) was off-the-charts wacky and somehow made that endearing! I'd much rather deal with someone who is honest, speaks her mind, and has definite opinions than deal with the FL who denied her feelings, allowed herself to be manipulated, and lied continually.

Story should have been half as long, eliminated the love triangles, and focused on the aspects of a male taking on the traditional role of a wife. It should also have had a satisfying conclusion. Bah, humbug!

I added a star, because I'm grumpy and probably rated too low. Also, the supporting cast deserved it. And Takasugi Mahiro has puppy dog eyes.

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Love is... Putting Another's Needs before Your Own

Quirky drama with May-December, sisterhood, friendship, and coworkers' relationships. It began with the FL being bizarrely crude, dirty, and old-manly; she did improve over the episodes. I still wanted to comb her hair most scenes; she was a hair stylist, for heaven's sakes!

I wasn't sure how it would end for certain, and I always appreciate when the writers keep me in suspense, even when it doesn't end the way I wish.

There were lies, manipulation, and infidelity galore, but most was handled with a light hand, and I, angst-adverse to the core, was able to handle them. I had a harder time handling the kiss-the-scar scene; that was pure cringe. It's also sad to know actor Miura Haruma committed suicide seven years later due to depression. I wonder if Covid isolation was a factor. Such a hard time for most.

I've added a half-star for the warm relationship between Sakura and Rintaro. Well written, Nakatani Mayumi!

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