emberzmars

Overhyped, overrated waste of talents!

I had high hopes on 'King the Land' as I only became a fan of 2PM in 2023. I was disappointed by the quality of this series.

What I like
1. The flight attendant -Pyunghwa's struggle and love life kept me watching this series.
2. Jeju island - so pretty

What I dislike
1. Poor writing - Aigo, King the Land has no proper plot. The showrunner is banking so much on Junho-Yoona chemistry.
2. Gu Won's characterisation - My number #1 issue with his character is that he lacks motivation/drive to run family business. I don't mind so much about him being rich, pampered/spoiled brat but if you don't want to run family business then why so greedy? I can't deal with mediocre employee who knows nothing but kissing boss's ass. That's my view of his character.
3. Sa-rang's characterisation - started off as ambitious & driven woman who now gets distracted by her boss's charms. Why is a hardworking female lead's romantic interest a nice nepo baby?
4. Visit Thailand ad - what a filler episode!


Favourite scene
Da-eul's re-enactment of RoWoon's deep voice & coolness during a sleepover. That's hilarious!

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Li Ai Xiao was the star of this forgettable rich guy, poor girl drama

I watched this drama because a Discord member mentioned He Lian Fei's dimples and it occurred to me that I had not seen him playing MLs before. I decided to watch this one because I had seen another version of this plot which stars Wang Zi Yi. I have a reddit column comparing 2 dramas from same source so why not cover this drama, right? Unfortunately this drama wasn't good.

What I liked:
1. Acting - I liked Li Ai Xiao's performance in this drama. It's believable that she had 2 men chasing after her (the other version's FL was bland in terms of personality & attractiveness.
2. FL characterisation- She was a damsel but an affable & attractive one.
3. Break up - I liked this scene because it showed that she was not spineless and could stand for herself against the obnoxious ML.
4. Supporting character - Her boss seemed dodgy to me at first but he turned out to be a nice guy. I liked how she encouraged her to grow her skills. I also liked ML's mother.
5. Ending - The ending was sweet.

What I disliked:
1. Acting - I consider acting as a subset of acting and I didn't sense any heat between Li Ai Xiao & He Lian Fei.
2. ML characterisation - I didn't like how he treated FL at the beginning of their relationship.
3. Romance - Transactional then slowly turned to love but I didn't buy the romance at all. ML was possessive & distrustful.
4. Styling - OMG, why did she go out wearing a nightie and slippers while dragging her luggage?

Favourite scene
When FL asked for her freedom & requested a break up

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Simple rebirth no revenge story but romance was underdeveloped

I was recommended this drama by a reddit friend. I felt like I had seen Ma Ying Lu drama before but I am not sure. The FL and another ML were unfamiliar to me. Overall it was an ok watch - drama was missing a few things.

What I liked:
1. Eavesdrop - I liked this scene as FL managed to evoke sympathy within that first episode. It reminded me of Penelope-Colin Bridgerton story at the start of the book (she deserved better).
2. Acting - The actress who played FL and Ma Ying Lu's performannce caught my attention. Her acting was natural. MYL's aura overshadowed the other ML.
3. Styling - I liked the outfits worn by the cast. Even that servant who was scapegoat for bratty Prince An Yi.
4. Supporting characters - I liked ML (Ninth Uncle)'s guard / servant. Hid naivety was endearing. I also liked the emperor for being fair.
5. ML characterisation - I liked that he stood up against those who bullied FL. I didn't expect him to alert the emperor immediately.
6. Length - Less than 2 hours.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Crown Prince was pathetic for harassing FL when he didn't even like her as a person. He was given too much screentime. His sister was bratty and their childhood friend who could be his fiancee was annoying.
2. Romance - With ML being comatose most of the drama, the romance was severely underdeveloped. I wish there were more scenes post-confession. Even though they were respectful and nice towards each other, sadly there was no kiss.

Favourite scene
The restaurant close to the ending

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The only thing that stood out: Fighting, motorcycle riding & washboard abs. FL was unlikeable

Ok Ok I admit it - I have a small crush on Zhao Guan Yu. I pay attention whenever new releases include his dramas. I watched this drama at the recommendation of a friend. I was also into bodyguard trope during the time of viewing. Hhhhm I got mixed feelings.

What I liked:
1. Styling - There were shots of Zhao Guan Yu's washboard abs. Hahaha anyway I really liked ML's biker look. Dangerous and hot! FL's outfits were pretty especially the mint green dress.
2. Action - There were fighting scenes which involved ZGY fighting the bad guys. I also appreciated the boxing scene.
3. Kisses - Plenty & passionate.
4. Supporting characters - Loved the bestie. The parts where she teased FL were amusing.

What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - Not a fan of her. She was cold and guarded. Stubborn.
2. Hidden identity - His identity remained hidden until 1 hour 30 minutes, which is about 75% of the drama.
3. Antagonists - FL's father & brother were money-hungry.

Favourite scene
Fighting sequence

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A couple transmigrated and started over in a different time period

I was missing Shen Hao Nan so I went on iQIYI and found this drama. Watched it on a night I needed something lighthearted. I enjoyed it a lot.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Oooooo this drama had two romance arcs: 1) between the leads, 2) between FL's brother and ML's sister. Both were very enjoyable. They had communication problems before but that was rectified quickly.
2. Acting - That starting episode with leads' marriage reaching the lowest point and impeding divorce moved me. The cast gave good performances. I liked the chemistry between Shen Hao Nan and Sun Yi Ran. Would love to see them in a modern romance. It was also a surprise to see Shao Wei in this drama. No, he didn't show his abs in this drama but he was likeable as FL's brother.
3. Transmigration - What a delight to see this plot device as mechanism for reconciliation. Did they do separate ways or did they partner up?
4. FL characterisation - I liked that she saw this new setting as opportunity to start over in life. She worked on her goal that she didn't achieve in previous life.
5. ML characterisation - His flaw was his inability to express his thoughts and feelings with FL. However he was a nice guy and clearly in love with FL.
6. Supporting characters - I really liked FL's brother and ML's sister. I also liked FL's parents for having her back.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - I disliked that green tea who always stirred trouble.
2. Hair & makeup - Shen Hao Nan's makeup and hair looked horrible when they were in historical period. The wig was ugly. I prefer his looks during modern period scenes.

Favourite scene
When FL's brother was caught in bed with...

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I enjoyed this snappy drama about cheating and moving past divorce

I was in the mood for a Song Chen drama so I chose this one because of the short running time and positive comments on YouTube. It was worth watching!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was reasonable - She already noticed potential threat to her marriage and warned ML. She was decisive and confident. Once trust was broken, she never gave him a chance for reconciliation - way to go, girl. I also liked that she didn't feel the need to conform to societal pressure.
2. Length - I loved that this drama was under 1 hour. The pacing was great!
3. Acting - This is my second time watching Zhang Zhang in this type of role (scorned FL) and she nailed it. Loved her icy stare and assertiveness. ML was infuriating so well done to Song Chen for getting on my nerves. Well done to the actress playing junior secretary because she was cloying.
4. Supporting characters - I liked ML's first secretary who knew what is right and what is wrong and reported to FL. I also liked ML's parents for being sensible and immediately condemned ML's behaviour.
5. Romance - There were two arcs in this drama: one with ML before things went downhill and another one with new love interest. Enjoyed both although the actor who SML wasn't attractive to me.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - ML was certainly the main antagonist in this drama. He humiliated FL by being away from home for months and bringing intern-turned-junior secretary to events that should be attended by his wife, the FL. Emotional cheating is still cheating and he did that. That junior secretary was pathetic.

Favourite scene
The confrontation at ML's mother's birthday

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Ok watch but FL gave bland performance

I was browsing Shorts collection on iQIYI when I saw this drama. I was intrigued about Korean verticals because I am a fan of Chinese vertical dramas. I clicked play and gosh, this was a letdown.

What I liked:
1. Ji Ho Geun - Ji Ho Geun was very handsome. He added mystery to his character.
2. Romance - I could feel the sexual tension between FL and ML.
3. Antagonist - I liked his arc and the actor who played the character did well with given role. He is handsome too.
4. Styling - The styling for ML & SML was impeccable.
5. Supporting characters - FL's sister was likeable.
6. Length - Only 50 episodes so it was a quick watch.

What I disliked:
1. Park Xi Yeon - I was letdown by her performance. Her facial expressions were lacking and I didn't believe the helplessness that she was trying to portray.

Favourite scene
When ML saved FL

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Sweet transmigration drama with rushed ending

I noticed that iQIYI has added many Zhang Bei Xi dramas to their catalogue. I was delighted because there were a few titles that I had planned to watch. I wanted something light so I chose this drama. I liked it.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I liked her cool & calm attitude. She knew she had to be self-reliant after transmigrated to another decade. I liked that she thought about her survival long-term.
2. Romance - Sweet. FL never intentionally wooed ML but ML was worn by her charms. I liked that they did activities together.
3. ML characterisation - He was Mr Nice Guy. At first he was protective of FL out of obligation but after awhile, he was the provider in nature.
4. Supporting characters - I liked ML's mother and grandmother. I also liked the soldiers.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - That green tea annoyed me. She was cunning by influencing people to participate in the hate campaign.
2. Ending - It was rushed. The last 8 episodes were boring to me - I didn't pay attention. I also would have liked for FL to come clean to ML.
3. Kissing - The scenes looked chaste - lips touched and kissing done.

Favourite scene
Yoga

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Leads were newcomers but wow their chemistry was sizzling. Kisses better than the other version

This drama appeared on one of my favourite youtube channels. I randomly clicked on thumbnail to read comments - generally positive. Decided to watch it on Monday afternoon to destress. This is another version of She Is the Only One starring Zhao Jia & Chen Si. I must say I enjoyed this one more than the more famous version.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Gao Hai Zhou & Peng Hui Ying are both new to the industry but individually they did alright in their roles. However as a couple, I'd say their chemistry is sizzling. They seemed hot for each other. I also liked the height difference with Gao Hai Zhou always bending when he kissed Peng Hui Ying.
2. Romance - Damn hot kisses 🔥. There were many kisses and physical touch was definitely their love language. There were sweet moments like ML cooking for FL and them talking about their relationship.
3. FL characterisation - I also liked the FL in this version compared to the other version. She never once saw ML as sugar daddy or an escape from her situation.
4. Styling - Despite being low budget, I liked most of the clothes worn by FL and ML.
5. Visuals - Wow, Peng Hui Ying was gorgeous! Gao Hai Zhou had this facial features that remind me of a Korean. Both are definitely striking.
6. ML characterisation - He was Mr Nice Guy overall. I liked that he respected FL in her decision making. Never meddled except that help for smoother divorce process. I also liked that he had his personal battle to overcome.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's ex husband & mother-in-law were nasty. Pity ML for having to deal with selfish mother and her relative.
2. Make-up - FL seemed to be wearing foundation a shade lighter than her skin tone. Obvious when you compare her face and the neck.
3. First meet - It was odd that ML barged into FL's hotel room then kissed her. He blamed on being drugged but hhhhmm coerced sex is not sexy.

Favourite scene
When FL & ML were in the kitchen

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I liked second couple more & FL was less annoying in this version

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the poster of this drama upon its release. I like 3 out of 4 cast members - Han Jia Hui, Chen Zheng Yang & Duan Mei Yang. I am familiar of the plot as I have seen the Wang Nian Jiang Cheng - He Tian Tian - Xue Zi Qi - Xiang Shuai version. I liked this version too. I'd like to see collab between Han Jia Hui and Duan Mei Yang and between her and Chen Zheng Yang.

What I liked:
1. Romance couple #2 - Fiery. Passionate. She was not as aggressive as XZQ's SML but more loving. Hot kisses & intimate scenes.
2. Personalities - I liked that opposite attracts concept was explored & done well.
3. Styling - I really liked the clothes chosen for ML, SFL & SML. SFL looked hot in little black dress & businesswear.
4. Characterisation - All four were done well. FL wasn't too childish & cloying like He Tian Tian's FL.
5. Acting - All 4 gave good performances. There was better chemistry between 4 leads - even between the ladies and the gents.
6. Ending - I was surprised and liked it.

What I disliked:
1. Romance couple #1 - Not sure why the kisses were lacklustre when I know that Chen Zheng Yang & Cheng Zi can kiss. It felt as though director wanted to make FL innocent young girl / lolita vibe.
2. Styling for FL - Her dressing made her look like a high school student.
3. Antagonist - FL's cousin was pathetic. Also disliked brothers' father.
4. Third act - Felt long & draggy.

Favourite scene
Bath tub

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Story of two couples - FL was childish but other 3 were likeable

I got interested to see this drama because of the cast in particular Xue Zi Qi & Wang Nian Jiang Cheng. I watched this drama within 24 hours of its release. The beginning was odd but overall it was OK watch.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Good steamy scenes for both couples. I was surprised by main couple's bedroom antics. There was heat.
2. Personalities - I liked the contrasting personalities between the two couples.
3. Characterisation - I liked SFL a lot. Less screen time but her arc had impact on me. I also liked ML's arc especially his struggles. I also liked SML's arc.
4. Interactions - I liked when Fu Yang & Su Wan discussed their partners' habits.
5. Styling - Loved the outfits and hairstyles for SFL, ML & SML.

What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - FL acted like a petulant child. That childish cry was irritating. She was pampered and selfish.
2. Funeral - Wow, so many relatives were disrespectful - fighting for inheritance at graveyard.
3. Antagonists - ML's father was vicious and controlling.

Favourite scene
When SFL showed her vulnerable side to SML

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A tale of separated brothers involved in turf war & murder mystery

I must say that this poster caught my attention - to be exact, Tian Yang's handsome face caught my attention. I wasn't in the mood for romance so to my delight, I figured that this drama could fulfill my no-romance drama mood. Overall I enjoyed this drama.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Great performances by Tian Yang and Jin Jia Yu. They had good chemistry and synergy and it was delight watching their interactions on screen.
2. ML characterisations - It's great that both of them had challenges to overcome. It enriched their characters. I personally enjoyed Chi Yuan's role in his gege Chi Yan's life.
3. Styling - I liked the outfits worn by both MLs.
4. Action - It was awesome to see both leads kicked butts.
5. Supporting characters - I liked Chi Yan's assistant. A loyal employee. I also liked Shu Wen, Chi Yuan's frmale friene.
6. Imposter - I liked this arc.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - I hated him for separating two brothers and being greedy.
2. Length - This drama is close to 2.5 hours. At times I felt certain arcs draggy.

Favourite scene
When Chi Yan confronted imposter in the warehouse

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Jiejie romance with FL cheating on her husband with ML

This drama captured my attention when it was a fresh release but somehow I only felt like watching it in February 2026. I watched it on iQIYI. This is a jiejie romance drama which is memorable because of Wang Yu Han & the kisses.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Damn, the kissing was scorching hot. Perhaps also because their relationship was forbidden with her being married to another person.
2. ML character - Horny & eager puppy. I liked hos protectiveness.
3. Styling - I loved clothes worn by ML. FL also wore nice outfits.
4. Saviour - I liked this arc with SML stealing credit. Often times saviour arc is SFL stealing credit.
5. Acting - I liked Wang Yu Han's acting in this drama. There was amazing chemistry between him and Vicky Liang.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - A few characters that I disliked: SML, his mistress, ML's pursuer, ML's grandmother.
2. Cheating - Not a fan of dramas with main character cheating on their spouse even though spouse was baddie too.
3. Duration - Close to 2.5 hours. Some scenes were draggy for example the auction scene.

Favourite scene
When ML sneakily dragged FL into nearest room

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Wonderful chemistry but the deception is unacceptable

I was in the mood for Yue Yu Ting's dramas so I selected this drama because of Meng Jia Hui and the runtime. I have mixed feelings about this drama.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Yue Yu Ting & Meng Jia Hui had wonderful chemistry. I also liked their performances as individual characters.
2. Romance - While I didn't like ML's motives for approaching FL and the lie / ommission of truth, I enjoyed the romance between the two. I could feel the growing attraction and love between the characters. They were steamy kisses and tender moments.
3. FL characterisation - I liked her because she was nice. I also liked when she comforted and made moves on ML.
4. Length - This drama is less than 2 hours. It helped with keeping melodrama down to a minimum.

What I disliked:
1. Deception - I got it that ML wasn't honest about asking FL to marry him but the fact that he kept it a secret from FL was unacceptable.
2. Antagonists - Wow the green tea / ML's supposed fiancee was mean. I also disliked ML's aunt for her greediness and ML's grandfather for his controlling behaviour.
3. Supporting character - I rarely disliked supporting character but in this case, I disliked ML's doctor friend. He went against ML's wishes. There were also other questionable acts that he did but can't remember exact details now.

Favourite scene
When they were intimate for the first time

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Transactional relationship with good camaraderie

I was in the mood for Wang Chen Peng's dramas after loving his recent drama with Bai Yan. This drama had been in my playlist since I also enjoy Li Ke Yi's acting. Overall I liked this drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - It started off fake & transactional but I liked how it progressed into real romantic relationship. I liked that there was warmth from the start - FL & ML went into marriage of convenience without animosity.
2. FL's arc - She was daughter of a criminal & carried that stigma all her life. I liked how the arc was told. There was childhood connection between FL & ML.
3. ML's characterisation - I knew he had crush on her when he kept offering money for a task. However I didn't like ML forcing kiss on FL at the start of their relationship.
4. Supporting characters - I liked FL's friend & ML's assistant.
5. Acting - I liked the performance by Wang Chen Peng & Li Ke Yi. Good chemistry.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - ML's pursuer who was family friend and overstepped boundary. I also disliked ML's mother for disrespecting ML and FL.
2. Abuse - The abuse faced by FL was too much.

Favourite scene
The opening

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