emberzmars

Excellent acting, writing and romantic scenes make this drama my favourite in the series

When I first explored vertical dramas back in December 2024, Dramazone Youtube channel was my only source for vertical dramas. I think the title of this drama caught my attention so I clicked 'Play'. I enjoyed it immensely. I watched a few Prince of Beijing Circle adaptations after this drama but "Bo Ye Courted a Hundred Times, and Miss Jiang Showed Mercy" remains my favourite Prince of Beijing Circle adaptation.

What I liked:
1. Romance - There was a lot of heat in this drama. High quality and quantity of kissing and intimate scenes. I also liked the romance development of the second couple because it contrasted with the romance development of the first couple.
2. Acting - Great acting by all four leads. Xu Jiang Shuai and Chang Dan Dan must had developed rapport because their characters' physical and emotional intimacy translated well on screen. The actor and actress who portrayed SML and SFL respectively did an excellent job too. I could feel their frustrations and heartaches even though I disliked them.
3. FL characterisation - I liked the complexity of FL. She seemed to put tough exterior when facing rivals but she also had a vulnerable side. I loved her at work scenes - she was knowledgeable and focused.
4. ML characterisation - I liked that he was smitten with FL and would do anything for her. Not only he was a great lover, he also became like a family to FL. The last plot twist was tragic - I was glad that ML apologised to FL immediately after finding out.
5. Styling - One of the best styling for vertical drama FL. Just impeccable. Chang Dan Dan must be petite because she wore stilettos most of the time.
6. Supporting characters - I liked Mr and Mrs Yan despite their son's horrible treatment towards FL. ML's assistant was also likeable.
7. SML's arc - Despite him being an antagonist, I must say that his arc is one of the best antagonist arcs I've seen in vertical dramas.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Damn, SFL was a traitor. I couldn't believe she would do such things to her best friend. I also disliked SML for cheating on FL. FL's family was horrible too.

Favourite scene
The confrontation at the playground

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Poignant tale about second chance at love and in life

This drama was recommended to me by a reddit member as we discussed second chance romance dramas. I wasn't aware of this story but the given synopsis was intriguing that I watched it 2 days after the recommendation. It was emotional & thought-provoking - I enjoyed this drama immensely.

What I liked:
1. Writing - Wow, just incredible writing that led me to question life choices. I loved the mature handling of second chance, not just in romance but also at life. I empathised with FL for the tough decisions she had to make regarding her relationship with ML. I liked that fantasy seeped into the story.
2. Acting - Sublime performance by Zhang Xin Yi. I cried a few times because I felt FL's pain. Li Meng Yuan was great too although I wish he had cried when he found out about FL's struggles.
3. ML characterisation - I liked him for genuinely wanting to work on their relationship. He was a confident young man who was inept at expressing his feelings and concerns for FL.
4. Romance - The drama started with a spicy scene which later made me emotional. Post-reborn FL was hesitant in following what had been done before and I understand those feelings. ML seemed genuine in pursulng FL (he's not about chasing the unattainable) and slowly they build trust & confidence in their relationship. I must say the kissing scenes were hot - Li Meng Yuan demonstrated desire & lust very well. Oh and I liked the supporting characters' romance even though it was super short.
5. Supporting characters - Wow I am impressed with the little arcs given to FL's mother, her senior and ML's mother. I also liked the open-minded grandpa of FL.

What I disliked:
1. FL's father - There isn't an obvious antagonist for this drama but I guess FL's father could be called a baddie. He was selfish and that meeting with ML's mother was extremely embarrassing. He didn't care about saving face.
2. Bai Yingluo - This "white moonlight" tried to ruin FL & ML's relationship but good thing she had very little screentime.

Favourite scene
When FL told ML why she was hesitant about being in a romantic relationship with him

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Shameless FL, Smitten ML and fun sibling dynamics are the reasons I love this drama

I watched this drama as it was highly recommended by a reddit user. This is my second drama that has both Zhao Guan Yu and Lin Zi Rong. I freaking love this drama! I watch this drama on repeat.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - OMG Lu Shi Man is shameless and I LOVE IT! She is smart and unintentionally funny. She's not a spoilt , annoying heiress. Lin Zi Rong totally owned this role.
2. Comedy - I laughed out loud too many times.
3. Romance - FL met ML by chance, and girl was thirsty and forthcoming hahaha. ThenML was smitten and wanted to be in a relationship with her, which I found quite endearing. Because of the existing rapport between Lin Zi Rong and Zhao Guan Yu (they collaborated together too many times that I lost count), their intimate scenes were hot and believable. There were also sweet gestures for example ML backed her up when her mother was criticising her.
4. Sibling dynamic - The interactions between Lu Shi Man and her brothers were especially fun to watch. Despite the bickering and slight misunderstandings, it was clear that the brothers genuinely love and are protective of their sister. Out of the 3 brothers, I liked the eldest the most because he had opposite personality from Lu Shi Man.
5. Styling - FL got a cool style - the music lover outfit, the black & white schoolgirl-like outfit, the blush dress she wore when she accompanied her eldest brother to a social event. I also liked the outfits worn by ML and FL's third brother.
6. Supporting characters - I loved the three brothers, FL's best friend & ML's assistant.

What I disliked:
1. FL's mother - I disliked her for being biased.
2. Ending - Since this is a transmigration story, I'd like to know what happens to Lu Shi Man in real life.

Favourite scene
FL's cousin tried to frame FL but that backfired

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FL focused on searching for missing sister & never tempted by hot baddie

I was in the mood for Han Yu Yong dramas so I selected this drama today. I enjoyed it.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was focused on finding her missing sister and I liked that she didn't entertain the temptation.
2. Supporting characters - I liked her accomplices with second one being a nice surprise. Amazing sisterhood there. I was sympathetic with ML's friend.
3. Revenge arc - It's great that the plans were carefully thought out & implemented.
4. Tension - Director was good at capturing sexual tension between FL & ML on screen. Seduction scenes were nicely done especially the last one. A shirtless baddie with great physique is always appreciated!

What I disliked:
1. Crime scene - I felt this scene was unbelievable as per what supporting character said.
2. Motive - I still didn't understand ML's motive.

Favourite scene
When ML's friend prepared a nice surprise for FL

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Coming of age tale that looks into perception of beauty, self-worth & finding love

I watched this series in December 2023 during year end break. A hilarious clip that featured the water splash scene led to me watch this series. I expected a light, fluffy tale of college romance but oh boy, I was shocked. 'Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo is a coming of age tale that tackles issues such as perception of beauty, self-worth and finding love.

What I liked:
1) Friendship - This drama shows the start of a friendship between Kim Bok Joo and Joon Jung Hyeong in first 2 episodes. I like how the series show the growth of their relationship from friends to best friends then lovers. When one was facing hardships, the other person was there for him/her. A true friend.
2) The romance - Because we see the grow in their friendship, the change of their relationship trajectory, from friends to lovers, was believable. I like that after ML realised that he had feelings for Bok Joo, he acknowledged them and took action.
3) Perception of beauty - I love this drama for showing the perception of beauty and for featuring a female lead in an unconvetional setting. She is a weightlifter & was raised by a single father so some perceived her femininity as "lacking". That scene when her crush (Jung Jae Yi) saw her in her "least feminine" form truly broke my heart. I couldn't stop crying because I felt her anguish.
4) Sports - I love watching massive sports events such as Olympics and FIFA World Cup and always fascinated with sports drama. I love that this series was set in a sports university and as vieweres, we were exposed to several sports discipline such as weightlifting, swimming, artistic gymnastics. I also appreciate that this drama demonstrated performance slump and post-tournament depression.
5) Writing - This is one of the best written tv series I have watched. Both Bok Joo and Joon Hyeong experience tremendous character growth in this series.
6) Acting - Brilliant acting by Lee Sung Kyung & Nam Joo Hyuk. This drama is the first work of them that I have watched. Definitely keen to watch their other work.

What I disliked:
1) Selfishness - I find Bok Joo's best friends were selfish at times. They were self-absorbed with their own feelings that they could not see that Bok-Joo was actually suffering mental block.
2) Fat-shaming - Joon Hyeong fat-shaming Bok Joo at the start of the series is not cool.

Favourite scene
When Jung Jae Yi saw Bok Joo weightlifting

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Enjoyable revenge drama marred by poor acting

I enjoyed Undercover Affair and wanted to check out Leo Yang's other work. So I watched this drama and was disappointed in particular the acting of main actress.

What I liked:
1. Story - Revenge seems to be a popular theme for mini dramas. Female lead's parents were killed by a group of 4 friends and the surviving daughter sought justice. I like how the story unfolded though there were some noticeable plot holes e.g. how did FL get that scar.
2. Romance - Wow, there are many kissing scenes in this mini drama and most of them were hot. Too bad Chen Su Jun was stiff & emotionless.

What I disliked:
1. Acting - I noticed that actresses in mini drama tend to overact but Chen Su Jun's acting is underwhelming. She didn't have range of facial expressions. She seemed bored or zoned out most of the time. It'd be great if she could express conflicted feelings when Zhu Guan Wen confided in her or express desire when she gave in to Guan Wen's kisses.
2. Bao Er's adopted brother - I don't understand the purpose of having adopted brother appearing in Lianghe Town. Perhaps his purpose to make Guan Wen insecure but it'd be better if director & writer could show his role in Xue Tong's vengeance plan.
3. Last love scene - I find it disturbing because Guan Wen was drunk & aggressive. So that scene looked like a coercion. I wish Leo Yang gave a different spin to the scene by expressing self-loathing and love for Bao Er at the same time.

Favourite scene
The conversation and make out session in episode 16.

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Had potential but poor execution

I was curious about this series because of the title and synopsis. Was looking forward to a refreshing tale of Cinderella but oh boy, what a disppointment. I got bored mid-way through the series but persisted because I want to mark this series as 'Complete',

What I liked:
1) Lee Jun Young - This is the second work of his that I've watched (The Impossible Heir being the first one). Lee Jun Young did well in a role that's been assigned to him - flawed & a little eccentric but charming chaebol/CEO. He is handsome and has a nice build and height, which are important traits for a male lead.
2) Supporting characters - It's great that the stepmom and stepsisters were nice people (unlike the classic Cinderella story) and were given some backstory so their characters were not just 2D. I also like Baek Dong Ho and Youngbae though I wish writer developed a better friendship arc for Dong Ho and Jae Rim.

What I disliked:
1) Shin Jae Rim characterisation - It's hard to like her because she was ungrateful brat and shallow even till the end. I wish there was more character growth because it's frustrating that female lead was still in self-pity mode in second last episode. Gosh she should have taken the opportunity to travel to Berlin and self-discover. There were very few scenes of Jae Rim as a person, as opposed to her as a stepsis and stepdaughter, a employee, a love interest.
2) Pyo Ye Jin - She is miscast unfortunately. I expected female lead to be wholesome and charming even when being a damsel in distress (best example is Giselle of Disney's Enchanted). However Pyo Ye Jin couldn't demonstrate these traits though the seduction scenes were a nice attempt).
3) Romance - The most frustrating part in a romance story is when a couple hardly communicates. This happens in the series - there are too many mixed signals from Cha Min, it's tiring. Plus there is no chemistry between Pyo Ye Jin and Lee Jun Young.
4) Fantasy elements - I'd say the fantasy scenes put a damper in my enjoyment of the series. The seduction scenes were fine because they tell viewers that Cha Min was falling for Jae Rim. But for example the "homeless Cha Min". They feel like a filler.

Favourite scene
When Jae Rim had too much drinks and had to pee.

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Main characters with depth & growth, mature romance, good office drama = one of the best Cdrama

Here We Meet Again is one of the best Chinese modern drama I've watched. It is quite rare to have both female and male characters that have separate backstories but they grow as individual and as a couple.

What I liked:
1) Writing - There were multiple arcs i) Xiang Yuan, ii) Xu Yan Shi, iii) their romance, iv) big office drama, v) Xiang Yuan and her grandfather, vi) friendships, vvi) workplace dynamics. All main arcs were done well.
2) Xiang Yuan characterisation - I love watching the growth of Xiang Yuan's character. She started as a granddaughter of a business tycoon who was not in the family business but then took on the challenge given by her grandfather to avoid marriage by working in one of the family companies. I enjoyed watching her journey as a boss-in-training. Xiang Yuan is also smart, rational and capable. There were instances that she could abuse her power but she did not do so. Xiang Yuan is kickass female lead.
3) Xu Yan Shi characterisation - He is handsome, sexy nerd played brilliantly by Zhang Bin Bin. I also love watching the growth of Xiang Yuan's character. It's great to see the multiple hats worn by Yan Shi in this series: i) office worker, ii) friend, iii) lover/life partner, iv) father figure/brother, v) university student/mentee . It's great that he seized a chance to do his own thing instead of catering to other people's needs at the end of the series.
4) Romance - I love love love their relationship. From schoolmates to co-workers then later on lovers and partners. Their relationship was healthy & mature. They had disagreements but which couple never argued? I liked their banter which each other - sometimes it seemed one-sided like the yakult scene involving Yan Shi's brother. Their romantic scenes are hot too - I like when Yan Shi tried on the suit that Xiang Yun bought for him.
5) Family - I like that there was a contrast between Xiang/Situ family and Xu family. Amazing dynamics between Xiang Yuan and her grandfather - their scenes are delightful to watch. I also enjoyed the interactions between Yan Shi and his brother, and between Xiang Yuan and her brother even though there aren't many.
6) Friendships - There are many types of friendships explored in this drama. My favourite is the brotherhood formed by Yan Shi and his close university friends. I also liked that technical team members formed friendship & cared for each other.
7) Supporting cast - wow supporting characters played important role in this series even Mr Bai and Feng Jun!

What I disliked:
1) I wish Gao Leng-Chen Shu romance was further developed by showing growth of both characters. I think Gao Leng shouldn't give in so easily to Chen Shu's plea.
2) The ending could have been better. With the time jump, I'd love to see Xu Cheng Li as a teenager or young adult.

Favourite scene
When Xiang Yuan was revealed to be granddaughter of Chairman Situ. I didn't expect the reveal would be done in that way!

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Best mini drama I have watched!

I am not a fan of Chinese historical dramas but wow A Familiar Stranger blew my mind.

What I like:
1. Well executed story - Only 18 episodes with 15 min each episode but the screenplay was superbly done. No time for unnecessary side plots or filler scenes. The plot twist I did not see coming.
2. Scene framing - Two scenes stood out for me. When General Xiao confronted Shi Qi about the painting - the walk from the room to exterior of the room & contrast between Shi Qi's dress and others so beautiful. Another favourite frame is when all 4 lead characters were at night market. The distance, the warmth just wow me.
3. General Xiao's characterisation - rational & strategic thinker up to his personal matters. Warm, understanding partner. Very rare to see green flag main male character on screen.
4. Acting - all 4 actors with main roles did extremely well. Special mention - Cheng Lei has the right looks & stature as army general. His flirting & smiles are so adorable.
5. Child actor - Yuan Bao had substantial role in this story!
6. Ending - Great, sentimental one.

What I dislike:
1. Second leads' Love story - I find the story of how Shen Qin started to love the Prince is bit confusing.
2. Kisses - Wish Shi Qi did not avoid General Xiao's kissing attempts too much.

Favourite scene:
When General Xiao tended to his wife's wounds. The sexual tension was killing me!

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Zhan Ni in comedic role & together again with Qiu Bai Hao in another family-focused drama

I was in the mood for Zhan Ni drama. I mistook this drama for her other drama but since I enjoyed the first few episodes of this drama, I decided to complete this drama before starting the other drama. I recognised the actor playing ML - oh I had watched them both in Departing for Love. I enjoyed this drama immensely!

What I liked:
1. Acting - It's great to see Zhan Ni in comedic role as she often plays and excels in dramatic roles. I also enjoyed Qiu Bai Hao's performance. His chemistry with Zhan Ni was palpable more so when the sexual tension was high. The supporting cast did well in their roles.
2. Comedy - As Jwells mentioned in her comment, I loved it when Zhan Ni's FL telling ML about their sex life to convince him that she is his wife. The scene where FL met the adult son was hilarious too.
3. Family - Family is the core of this drama - FL was given a second chance at life to prevent bad things happening to her family. There was a point in the second or third act that FL realised the reason for her rebirth - it was about them not her and I thought the scene was poignant.
4. FL characterisation - I really liked her character. Her love for her kids and husband was evident. I also liked that she wasn't intimidated by her overbearing mother-in-law.
5. ML characterisation - I liked him as well. He was utterly devoted to his wife, which is romantic but this overcommitment made him neglect his kids. It's great to see a flawed ML.
6. Styling - Wow, I must say I liked the clothes for Qiu Bai Hao's ML - he was a Zaddy!
7. Supporting characters - A rare vertical dramas where CEO ML assistant is not a supporting character. I liked the son despite his bratty attitude towards his girlfriend. The butler was a good character.
8. Romance - Small arc but I really liked their intimate scenes. Good kisses - his body definitely recognised FL despite his mind's rejection of her.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - She was cunning - she got ML's mother and daughter to side with her. I disliked her obsessive love for ML but overall her arc was good.
2. The daughter - Ungrateful, petulant heiress. I wanted to slap her for being gullible and arrogant.
3. ML's mother - Another person I wanted to slap. I couldn't believe her desperate attempts to get ML to take a new wife. She should respect his decision.

Favourite scene
When FL wanted to convince ML that she was his real wife

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Great chemistry in this light, easy to digest story about merman looking for his soulmate

I was in the mood to watch mermaid / merman short dramas so I chose this one. I watched it on youtube because only VIP members can watch full episodes on WeTV. My Mermaid Boyfriend was fun & breezy watch.

What I liked:
1. Acting - I consider chemistry as a subset of acting and wow, both leads got very good chemistry. They were in sync from the get go. I liked that they exuded warmth when on screen.
2. Plot - It is familiar, simple, easy to digest story. The water splash scene reminds me of Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo.
3. FL characterisation - I liked her personality. She wasn't weak girl with low self-esteem.
4. ML characterisation - He was sneaky! The first 2 episodes cracked me up.
5. Romance - Friends to lovers dynamic.
6. Styling - I liked the pink and blue clothes worn by the leads.
7. Supporting character - ML's sister was a wonderful addition. I liked her advice to ML.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - His arc was underdeveloped but overall he was selfish.

Favourite scene
When ML intervened in a potential fight

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That final 15 minutes was refreshing. I liked the twist!

Today I was in the mood for mermaid + merman dramas so I decided to watch this drama. I was pleasantly surprised by the twist - this drama was really enjoyable.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Wang Zi Yi was amazing in her role. She managed to convey the different emotions of her character. She and Li Qing Tian had an alright chemistry.
2. Romance - It was a marriage of convenience but their relationship was warm from the get go. No cold / distant awkward strangers. Their love story was believable because they worked together. This isn’t a steamy drama but the role play was delightful (I liked the doctor bit).
3. Supporting characters - ML's son was smart & sneaky - he was a nice boy. I also liked ML's assistant.
4. FL characterisation - She was kind and focused - the hotel / restaurant was important to her.
5. ML characterisation - He was a nice guy who wanted the best for his kid and FL. It was amusing to see his hidden identity.
6. Twist - That final 15 minutes was a nice surprise. Wow, that saviour story was unexpected. I also liked the part where FL's friend's scheming was unveiled.
7. Fantasy - The element was done well despite the limited budget.

What I disliked:
1. Ending - That final minute ruined everything. I wonder if the scene was created to appease certain group of industry players.
2. Antagonists - FL's friend was mean and insecure. ML's pursuer was horrible for the scheming.

Favourite scene
The saviour story

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30 minutes is too short for an enjoyable mermaid story. Yang Mie Mie fits mermaid aesthetics

I was in the mood for mermaid short drama so I chose to watch this drama. Gosh I guess this must be the pre-Yu Long era. Anyway I wish this drama was longer.

What I liked:
1. Styling - Yang Mie Mie fits the mermaid aesthetics with her doll-like features. Her mermaid outfit was adorable too.
2. Fantasy - The Eye of the Sea is common tool in mermaid storytelling and it's done well.
3. FL characterisation - She was likeable. Her attempts to retrieve her item were amusing.

What I disliked:
1. Plot - With running time slightly longer than 30 minutes, the storyline was severely underdeveloped. The ending was rushed.
2. Romance - Underdeveloped. Just as the romance was about to blossom, the story had reached an end.
3. Acting - Both did the best they could with the goven script. There was lack of chemistry between Yang Mie Mie and Xi Er Li.

Favourite scene
When she tried to retrieve the Eye of the Sea

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ML never did any wooing and I hated him and his possessiveness

I noticed this drama last year and while I am a fan of Wang Yi Ran, I was never compelled to watch until recently. I started writing a column about two drama adaptations from the same source so I thought of tackling this drama. Oh boy, I have a lot to say about this drama.

What I liked:
1. Dialogue - I liked FL's quips towards ML's pursuer. That's clever snapback.
2. Supporting characters - I liked ML's friend a lot. He was respectful of boundaries.
3. FL characterisation - I actually liked her despite being bullied by ML. She knew where to draw the line when it came to her delicate situation with ML. I just didn't like that she believed the other woman's claims so easily.
4. Kissing - While the romance was forced, the kissing scenes were done well. Yeah ML was crazy and possessive but I always enjoy Wang Yi Ran's kissing scenes.
5. Pairing - I liked the height differences between them two. Wang Yi Ran and Lan Lan had good chemistry.

What I disliked:
1. ML characterisation - He was a neanderthal. So aggressive about his love for FL.
2. Romance - It was toxic - ML never wooed her, she was forced to accept his love. I hated that she was coerced into having sex.
3. Parents - ML's mother and FL's father never cared about their kids' feelings. Very old-fashioned - they were more concerned about what others might think of FL-ML romantic relationship.
4. FL's friend - She was out of line when she wanted to find out the reason for FL's visit to the gynaecologist. The friend was nosy despite being a doctor.

Favourite scene
When FL snapped back at ML's pursuer

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Remorse arc was my favourite part of the story

I wrote a review for Huang Bo - Mao Xiang Lin drama on my notebook when I watched it close to 6 months ago. Too bad there are no links for this drama. They collab another time but I think my notes are for this drama because the other drama's opening scene looked unfamiliar to me. Hope this review is for the right drama.

What I liked:
1. Remorse - I must say this part of the story was my favourite. ML did his best to make up for his wrongdoings.
2. Acting - My first time watching Mao Xiang Lin and I really liked her acting. Huang Bo was great in particular when his character was remorseful and uncertain.
3. Romance - Second chance romance with ML putting a lot of effort & sincerity.
4. Styling - I liked when FL wore black dress with black hat. Loved her shoes. I also liked Huang Bo's hairstyle.
5. Supporting characters - I liked Xie Ming Chen.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - SFL was pathetic. Taking credit for something she never did & scheming to trap ML & harm FL. Her arc was too long.
2. Kissing - It's weird that kissing scenes were shot with Huang Bo blocking Ma Xiang Lin. Maybe she wasn't comfortable?
3. FL's action - Going alone in Shi Zao Zao presence was bad move.

Favourite scene
When FL confronted ML at the rooftop

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