emberzmars

Sombre tale with captivating ML

I don't remember what made me to check out this drama but I save this drama to my Youtube playlist after few minutes of watching.

What I liked:
1. He Jian Qi - He is handsome but what made me drawn to him is his gripping performance. He was expressive with his character's feelings from indifference to anguish and sincerity. The styling (hair & outfits) for his character suits him so much.
2. Plot - I like how the story progressed and scenes with villain were not draggy.
3. Supporting characters - The actor playing FL's friend & senior gave good performance and was handsome. Has potential to become ML in other dramas. Too bad I don't know his name.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - There wasn't much time dedicated to romantic scenes as ML & FL were more in indifference & anger stages. However the kiss between ML & FL was hot and passionate.
2. Length - This drama is just slightly more than an hour if I am not mistaken. Wish for extended scenes for example the reconciliation.
3. FL characterisation - Underdeveloped and distant. Hard for me to root for her.

Favourite scene:
Whenever ML felt anguish.

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Felt like something missing

I added this drama to my playlist because of the 3 main cast weeks ago and almost forgot about this drama until Jwells mentioned it in our chat about Shen Hao Nan.

What I liked:
1 Zhang Ji Jun - Wow he was compelling in this drama because of his character Feng Jin. He was cheeky & unhinged but not in a dangerous way (like Joker from The Dark Knight). I must say this is my favourite Zhang Ji Jun drama.
2. Yun Mu Ran characterisation - She is smart, composed & self-assured even when facing resistance. I like that her characterisation was consistent from start to finish. My hunch was right when twist was revealed in third act.
3. FL's husband - He was atrocious but wow, the actor impressed me with his acting. It'd be great if the character was given more depth.
4. Styling - I love FL's burgundy business suit. The cut & the fit - she was beautiful when wearing it. I also like Feng Jin's colourful & flamboyant outfits.
5. Tease - The writers teased us with moments that didn't follow the standard drama approach e.g. the almost kiss, the drinks laced with drugs. By making these moves, the drama stayed fresh & unpredictable.

What I disliked:
1. Plot - There were too many arcs going on in this microdrama - 3 different arcs for 3 main characters, 2 different arcs for villains (one from FL's family, one from Yu Xiao's admirer), one arc for Yu inheritance saga, one arc for FL & Yu Xiao's complicated relationship. At the end of the drama, I felt this drama played it safe with the ending and didn't leave me wanting more.
2. Yu Xiao's secret - I was confused by this arc. What was his motivation for keeping the doppelganger? It just creeps me out that I don't feel like rooting for FL to choose him over Feng Jin.

Favourite scene
When both ML took drinks knowing there were drugs in them

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Refreshing tale on classism, second chance at life & revenge

I was keen to explore the work of Zhu Yi Wei and Bai Xin Yi and found this drama on Youtube. Finally watched it last night.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I've only seen 2 dramas including Western drama which has FL working as cleaner and it's great that this drama highlights this profession. FL is hardworking, determined & self-assured - all traits that I like. I punched the air when found out about her new business venture - yes, she should use her skills & experiences.
2. Villains - In many vertical dramas, the villains tend to be FL's love rivals. However for this drama the main villain is ML's sister which I find quite refreshing. I also think writer assigned the right supporting characters as secondary villains.
3. FL's sister - She is the catalyst to FL's fight for justice. It's heartwarming to see FL & her sister's love for each other.
4. Classism - Most vertical drama touch on classism at superficial level but not this drama. I like how classism is written & demonstrated in this drama because I saw it from the victims and the bully.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - While the kisses are hot, the romance tale between the two main characters is underdeveloped. I feel like ML not making enough effort to love An for the person she is now - he seemed stuck on his childhood saviour.
2. Hidden identity - I dislike FL for not being truthful when confronted by ML about her sister the first time. She only revealed the truth the second time she was asked by ML.

Favourite scene
SFL serving coffee to FL and later faced the consequences.

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Tale of love & betrayal

This drama appeared on my Youtube dashboard. I am not familiar with the main actor & main actress but was convinced to watch after reading some comments.

What I liked:
1) Tone - This drama has serious, gloomy tone so it's different from other dramas filmed vertically.
2) Relationship - Sexual tension is present thorughout the drama because their relationship wasn't smooth sailing. I like the mature handling of the relationship.

What I disliked:
1) Antagonist - I think the 3rd antagonist isn't necessary when there were already 2 antagonists with stronger connection to the leads.
2) Romance - There was more "push" at the start of the relationship so I am surprised by how fast they got together. I couldn't see how FL fell in love with ML so I don't buy the love story. Anyway there is voyeuristic scene which next scene was hot I find.

Favourite scene
When ML & FL first got together.

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Zhang Chu Xuan's talent wasted in this badly written drama

I am a fan of Zhang Chu Xuan after watching her in 'Captive Love from the Mob Boss' and 'After Flash Marriage, CEO Gu's Secret Identity Revealed'. I picked up this series because it appeared on my dashboard and watched it without reading synopsis. Oh boy, what a disappointment. I pushed myself to finish this vertical drama because of its short running time.

What I liked:
1) Jiang Nuan Nuan's smart move - It's good that she knows her worth in her family's company. I like that she negotiated her terms with her father when applying for a role there then asked ML for advice on legal agreement.

What I disliked:
1) Mu Ting Xiao characterisation - One of the worst ML in Cdrama. I know he has trust issues but I hate the way he treated FL Jiang Nuan Nuan by posing as his cousin. In the last conflict scene, he didn't help to untie the ropes binding Nuan Nuan's hands. Instead he confronted the villain - that's quite selfish.
2) Jiang Nuan Nuan characterisation - She's not a goody two shoes based on her rivalry with her sister but damn she's a doormat. She allowed ML to order her around.
3) The romance - There was too "push" in their relationship even when the series had reached 1 hour 45 minute mark (total running time is 2 hours 15 minute). I don't understand how they could fall in love with each other when they barely communicated. I couldn't sense any warmth or desire when they finally got together so their kissing scene felt awkward.
4) Acting - Quite bad and soulless especially Li Hao and the actress who played his father's current wife / girlfriend. Even Zhang Chu Xuan's acting was subpar.
5) Subtitling - I watched this on youtube and gosh the subtitling was bad. Nuan Nuan claimed that she killed somebody but there was no follow up on that so was the attacker killed or stabbed / injured only?

Favourite scene:
When Jiang Nuan Nuan asked for help from Mu Ting Xiao regarding legal agreement

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Coherent storytelling that is as good as a well-produced mini drama

This is my second vertical shot drama, after 'Captive Love from the Mob Boss'. I came across this series in the comment section and I was curious.

What I liked:
1) Sang Nan Feng characterisation - What a stark contrast between the Male Lead in 'You've Been Tricked' and the Male Lead in 'Captive Love from the Mob Boss'. Nan Feng is a green flag ML. He was kind, patient, respectful.
2) Shen Yue Xi characterisation - I like that she was humble about her family background. She also never played the victim card.
3) The romance - I like how the romance between Male Lead and Female Lead developed. It was slow burn and sweet.
4) Supporting characters - I like both ML and FL families, FL friends and villain's mother. Despite not much screentime, most of the family members were quite memorable. Good acting even from the villain.
5) Writing - Coherent story that I enjoyed. The quality is as good as a well produced mini drama.

What I disliked:
1) Subtitling - I watched this drama on Youtube and subtitle must be AI/machine translated.
2) Acting - I would rate this drama higher if Liu Lan Bo gave a better performance. Most of the times he seemed aloof and distant. Perhaps Nan Feng in public could show those traits but in private with his wife, I expected Liu Lan Bo to give more warmth to his role. I also wish there was more chemistry between Liu Lan Bo and Yao Yu Chen.

Favourite scene
When Sang Nan Feng returned home with sliced cake

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Kickass FL who has great chemistry with ML

I was in the mood for reversed gender roles so I searched for dramas on MDL with this tag and found 'The Only Girl You Haven't Seen'.

What I liked:
1) Leng Li characterisation - I love her character! She's tough and feisty but lovable. She goes for what she wants and that includes her feelings for male lead He Lian Xuan. I also like that she's brainy - she knows about herbs and uses the knowledge to help people. Wen Mo Yan was brilliant in this role. She kinda looks like Kim Sejeong, a Korean actress and pop idol.
2) He Lian Xuan characterisation - I enjoyed his character too. He is protective of Leng Li but at the same time, couldn't show his full self to avoid trouble with others. His other persona Qing Ru is cool. Wang Zu Yi was brilliant in this role.
3) Romance - I could feel He Lian Xuan's feelings for Leng Li - so genuine & pure of love & admiration. Damn I love it when a woman makes the first move and gosh that scene of Leng Li making the first move is HOT! I also like that Leng Li never resisted He Lian Xuan's feelings - she too never doubted her feelings for him.
4) The comedy - Never expected comedy scenes to be laughed out loud. Leng Li getting back at He Lian Chen and 6th prince was a gold moment!

What I disliked:
1) Transmigration arc - I feel like this plot wasn't well explained.
2) The ending - I understand why the series ended that way but why make it a sad one?

Favourite scene
When Leng Li told He Lian Xuan to "be a man" in episode 5.

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Romantic version of 'I Marry My Ex's Father' plot with great acting

I was in the mood for vertical dramas with 'I Marry My Ex's Father' plot. I already watched Zhao Ting Yi - Deng Ling Shu - Li Yu Tong version whch I had mixed feelings. I was curious how this version would fare and surprisingly I liked this version so much more than the other version.

What I Liked:
1. Romance - Spicy opening scene. I liked that there are scenes of relationship cultivation with kisses, hand holding, face caress.
2. Acting - I really enjoyed the performances by the three leads. They had great chemistry - I believed FL had romantic relationship with SML then with a romantic relationship with his father ML.
3. ML characterisation - He was smart in his pursuit for FL - I am referring to breakup between FL & SML. I liked that he was protective & nurturing.
4. FL characterisation - I liked her character growth. She was naive when it came to her relationship but quickly learned that her self-worth was more important.
5. Supporting characters - I giggled whenever ML's assistant had inner thoughts about his boss.
6. Talk about other women - Former work acquaintance of ML tried to sow discord between FL and ML by implying she was too close with ML in the past. FL was sassy in her response to her and her chat with ML and I liked it!
7. The ties - That final conversation between ML, SML and FL was thrilling. SML was arrogant and unapologetic about the crime he committed but when ML disowned him & threatened to return him to his biological family, SML became a coward & apologised profusely. What a power move! I loved that scene.
8. Styling - I liked the changed in style for FL. She looked gorgeous in traditional wedding dress & graceful in her missus clothes. ML looked handsome in his suits.

What I Disliked
1. Antagonists - SML was delusional for thinking FL could forgive and accept him as boyfriend. He was vile for harming his father and stepmother. FL's ex bestie was manipulative - seeing SML as her meal ticket.
2. FL's family - Her aunt & cousin were horrendous. FL's uncle was ok but he got an agenda and I couldn't blame him for wanting a good relationship with his married niece.

Favourite scene
Tea ceremony before the wedding reception

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Handsome men amidst an underwhelming republican drama

I underutilised my wetv subscription so I browsed the catalogue and found this drama. Deng Kai is one of the actors that fascinates me even when he portrays anti-heroes and scumbags.

What I liked:
1. Deng Kai - I really liked his acting in this drama especially the vulnerable moments. Episode 17 is my favourite episode. Oh, I was delighted to see him without wig. As Taylor Swift says in her lyrics, "He is tall and handsome as hell".
2. Kisses - Many hot kisses. My favourite is when ML pulled FL towards him so she was on top of him and they kissed passionately.
3. Supporting characters - I liked Liang Xiao, Li Tian and Gao Qi. Zhao De Biao was a surprise - quite a memorable character.
4. Visual - Wow, many handsome actors in this drama: Deng Kai, Ryan Kuo, Liu Bo.

What I disliked:
1. Investigation - I feel that this main plot was not focused enough. This drama is about ML investigating the impostor but all that I remembered is the love triangle.
2. FL characterisation - FL started strong at the start but then became wishy washy once the second act started. She seemed unfocused with her mission and her love life. I found Tan Yan Yan's acting underwhelming.
3. Romance - Apart from the kisses, romance was lacklustre. I felt like she was stringing along both men.
4 Ending - After all the sacrifices SML made, the couple just became like that?

Favourite scene
When ML confessed his feelings and asked FL if she had feelings for him

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Fresh storyline with compelling characters and brilliant acting by Yang Qi Ru and Zhen Zi Qi

I miss Zhen Zi Qi and to my delight, found out about his new drama at reddit. I was ecstatic! This drama uses a time loop trope, which means a main character gets to reset and start a specific day again.

What I liked:
1. Writing - I was impressed by the plot twist and surprises. I couldn't predict where this drama was heading. Oh I also loved one line said by ML - it was about fashion trend. Very clever! I also liked the dialogue about how the choices we make. It's great that writers tried their best in giving arcs to most supporting characters.
2. FL characterisation - This drama is told from her perspective, which is fantastic. We got to see her made rash decisions and learned from them during the first few time loops. OMG, I didn't recognise Yang Qi Ru until I checked her MDL profile. I love My Lady General! She impressed me with her portrayal of a character who got life bombs dropped one after another.
3. ML characterisation - ML is out to seek justice for his parents. I enjoyed seeing the character growth and there were moments of vulnerability. It's great to see Zhen Zi Qi in this role because he's excellent in playing a man plagued by his family's past.
4. Romance - We already know that romance was bound to happen at the start because of Nannan. I liked how FL - ML romance developed - great pacing and believable considering ML's back story. They fell in love because of each other, not because they were following fate. Their intimate scene was beautifully shot as they exuded desire and passion.
5. Supporting characters - I love Nannan. The child actress who played it did a good job. I also liked FL's stepmom. I enjoyed antagonists' arcs as they were well fleshed out.
6. Styling - OMG, Zhen Zi Qi looked really fine with that long hair and rocker outfits. He gave me 'Sungjin of Korean band DAY6' vibe. Yang Qi Ru looked amazing in her outfits too. Her wedding dress is beautiful.

What I disliked:
1. Time loop - I didn't get the part in which the antagonist had & took advantage of the technology. I also thought the prison break scene did not make sense.
2. Ending - It is fine but I wish there were 2 or 3 additional episodes focusing on FL and ML's relationship as a couple.

Favourite scene
When ML taught FL a self-defense move

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Wow wow wow, I was very impressed by the brilliant writing and heartfelt acting.

I discovered this drama on Dramazone YouTube channel - the title caught my attention. I had not seen work of Liu Yi Fan and Wang Bing Xiang so I had little expectations. Gosh, I enjoyed this drama tremendously that I submitted this drama as New Title and submitted Liu Yi Fan as New Actress. I watch this drama on repeat till this day.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She's kind-hearted and I love it that she was concerned about the impact of her "past" actions onto ML. I also liked that she never gave her ex another chance once he betrayed her. Liu Yi Fan gave a perfect performance for this role.
2. ML characterisation - I liked that he's rational and willing to accept and adapt to his new circumstance. He also has empathy. I was also impressed by Wang Bing Xiang's performance.
3. Romance - Slow burn but so rewarding. I loved when ML comforted FL about her past action that could not be changed. I loved that main couple talked about their feelings. I'd say ML's love language is act of service.
4. Styling - Loved the styling for both ML & FL. I loved the all black ensemble worn by both FL & ML.
5. Writing - Wow wow wow, I was very impressed by the writing / script. It had depth for a fast-pace made-for-phones drama. I cried at least twice.
6. The ending - OMG, I cried! It was so heartfelt.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, FL's ex was a douchebag who did not want to be accountable for his actions. The SFL is annoying with her scheming.

Favourite scene
When FL treated ML's wound

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Short & crisp vertical drama with great acting!

I was intrigued by He Cong Rui as I had seen his name attached to some dramas with some of my favourite vertical drama actress. Decided to watch Huang Jin Tai as my first He Cong Rui drama and my first no-romance drama. I was impressed!

What I liked:
1. Acting - He Cong Rui & Zhou Heng Yu were mesmerising on screen. Both shiwed good micro expressions.
Praises should also be given to the actor who portrayed pre-betrayal Chu Qin as he managed to showcase Chu Qin as a general and as a brother / friend to Fourth Prince Yan Li.
2. Writing - Well executed story of brotherhood & betrayal. Even antagonists were written well.
3. Supporting characters - I like Wu Ming's right hand man, Chu Qin's female soldier.
4. Directing - At 1 hour 46 min, this drama is short and crisp. Director & screenwriter were able to showcase different arcs without being too draggy.

What I disliked:
1. Ending - I actually liked the cliffhanger. I just disliked not knowing if there is season 2 or not. If there is, season 2 better be good!

Favourite scene:
When Yan Li confirmed his suspicion of Wu Ming's identity

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Green flag ML & many kisses but bland FL

I have watched Yao Yu Chen's dramas before but this is my first drama of Chen Jing He. I decided to watch this drama because I was curious about his acting & I was sold by the high rating.

What I liked:
1. ML characterisation - Green flag hero. He is smart & resourceful.
2. Romance - ML has had crush on FL since their first meet. There was more push (by FL) than pull but when they got together, they were sweet with each other. Many kisses.

What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - FL is bland and meek. I was disappointed because I enjoyed Yao Yu Chen's past characters which always have spark.
2. FL's adopted father - Despicable.

Favourite scene
When FL remembered that she left her bra in the bathroom and went to retrieve it

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Fabulous drama about enemies-to-lovers, mothers and science

I think someone on sub-reddit CShortDramas recommended this drama. I enjoyed some of Lu Shan Dong / Lu Dan Dong's dramas but I have not seen any of Huang Yun Yun's dramas (I know I need to watch her dramas with Jin Jia Yu). I was excited about this drama from the first minute and wow, this drama is fabulous! Definitely on my 'watch on repeat' list.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I loved that Li Chu is a scientist who is capable of taking care of herself and work. It's great that this drama showcased her growth - there were flashbacks to the time when she was awkward and inexperienced. Huang Yun Yun is fabulous in this role.
2. ML characterisation - I could tell from the start that Fu Si Yan had a crush on FL despite the animosity between them. I loved watching the way he supports FL without trespassing her domain. It's wonderful to see Lu Shan Dong is another green flag role because I missed his acting so much.
3. Supporting characters - Both of their mothers were delightful to watch. They are so competitive with each other that I find it amusing every time they bicker. I favour Li Ruyin (FL's mother) slightly more than Lin Shu (ML's mother) because she is progressive.
4. Romance - I enjoyed watching the dynamics between Li Chu and Fu Si Yan. Li Chu had more concerns about their relationship and I liked how Fu Si Yan reassured her and was confident in their love for each other.
5. Styling - This drama has FL going through a glow up. Her big, messy hair at the start reminds me of The Princess Diary's Mia Thermopolis. Li Chu looked different after the glow up - her 'after' look elevated her confidence & beauty.
6. Science - I loved that this drama showcased science, not just mentioned it in passing. The invention, the biometric reference - I loved it!

What I disliked:
1. Scientific thought - I was surprised that FL would believe ML's mother without seeking evidence. As a scientist, I expected her to do further testing.
2. Antagonist - Girl, the guy does not want you. Stop with the shenanigans and look for another man. With your connections and beauty, you should be able to find a man that matches your worth.

Favourite scene
When both mothers were being busybody at the hotel

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FL's action in this crossdressing drama frustrated me

I liked Nie Bo Xuan's acting so when this was released, he and the blonde dude on the poster caught my attention. I haven't watched many crossdresser dramas. This drama was alright - wish there was something more.

What I liked:
1. Styling - I must say I liked FL dressed up as a man-boy. She looked like kpop idol.
2. Comedy - I enjoyed the comedic bits in this drama.
3. FL characterisation - It's refreshing to find out the reasons for crossdressing. I sympathised with her situation.
4. Supporting characters - Yao Yao was a wonderful friend even though I didn't understand her last action. I also liked ML's bestie.

What I disliked:
1. FL's action - I didn't like that Fal ran away from ML and their problem. Very cowardly.
2. Antagonists - FL's father was the worst followed by her stepmother and half-sister. Grandfather too.
3. Romance - I felt like the writer was trying hard on making this drama funny that they forgot the heart i.e. romance. I didn't buy their romance at all.

Favourite scene
When Sang Mo kissed ML while drunk / dreaming

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