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Good chemistry, coherent plot, enjoyable mini drama
This mini drama is the second drama that I watched starring Ke Ying (A Familiar Stranger) & Cavan Wen (Playing House). I enjoyed this drama!What I liked:
1) Writing - I find the plot coherent for a mini drama. Out of the republican era mini dramas that I have watched (Maid's Revenge, The Revenge of Begonia), this one is the best. I like that male lead discovered secret identity early on.
2) Female lead characterisation - She is smart throughout the series. I like that she realised her mistake and talked about it with the male lead. Ke Ying played her role well.
3) Male lead characterisation - He is smart and caring. Cavan Wen played this role well too. He portrayed different emotions from assertiveness to compassion and happiness.
4) Romance - I enjoy the progress from strangers to allies and lovers. I love it when male lead flirted with and smiled at female lead.
5) Supporting cast - This mini drama is one of the few dramas that we're good at fleshing out side characters. Almost every side characters (except the fourth mistress) had significant role in this drama.
6) I also like framing of certain scenes.
7) Good ending
What I disliked:
1) Fourth mistress was insignificant character. I think no need for her to appear.
2) I feel like one of the songs had off tune singing. The song that was played when male lead & female lead kissed while seated in a room with open windows.
Favourite scene
The confrontation between male and female leads about Qing Xia's tragedy. Nie Zhen felt the pain & hurt suffered by his wife.
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Their love story was fascinating, their professional lives not so much
Found this drama while looking for Chinese dramas with mature love stories.What I like
1) Elvis Han is very handsome. There is a scene where he wore a white tshirt and hung out with Tang Ying at the kitchen. He was hot!
2) 14 episodes only
3) Tang Ying and Xu Zi Quan's first encounter was cute. A proper meet-cute! I also like that they started out as friends then later progressed as lovers.
4) The camping trip
What I dislike
1) I struggled with pacing of the story. An episode in a typical Chinese drama lasts 45 minutes but in this series, each episode is up to 1 hour.
2) Their professional lives were interesting at first but halfway through the series, I feel like "work conflicts" were created to keep viewers engaged. I got bored and disinterested and I feel that their careers were not seriously threatened.
3) I find Lin Xin Zi's story especially when she was with the creepy boyfriend doesn't align with mature love story theme that this drama represents.
4) I feel disconnected from Tang Ying and Xu Zi Quan's love story. Often times, mature women in Chinese and Korean dramas are portrayed as serious and non-sensical all the time. Wish I could see Tang Ying's softer and playful side.
Favourite scene
When Tang Ying invited the girl who couldn't accept Xu Zi Quan's rejection, to come to their apartment and gave a stern warning about harassing her man.
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Han So-Hee can kick ass!
My Name is violent, revenge-themed kdrama.What I liked:
1) Han So-Hee was believable in her role. She looked like she is a real trained martial artist.
2) Park Hee Soon was amazing as a ruthless tycoon & looked good with moustache.
3) I like Pil-do as supporting character who doubted Ji-woo at first.
What I disliked:
1) Yoon Ji-woo characterisation - While it's great that she can kick ass, I wish she showed emotions other than wrath. I'd love to see confusion, grief, identity doubt after the revelation of her father's killer. Her character is almost a Mary Sue to me. I think perhaps producer, director and/or writer wanted a tough female character that is devoid of vulnerability to attract certain segment of audience or keep up with supposedly "dark" theme"
2) While the fight scenes are cool, I dislike the final fight scene when Ji-woo went against multiple attackers solo. She is not a mutant with super strength. Having seen Daredevil's corridor fight scene in season 1, how could she be standing strong after fighting armed attackers?
3) While the romance angle was no surprise to me, I feel that the sex scene was sterile and meaningless. It's as though she needed to satisfy her sexual desire. When romantic interest was killed, it seemed like Ji-woo felt nothing.
Favourite scene
Ji-woo training scenes.
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I wish there was more to this time-travelling love story
The Story of Park's Marriage Contract is a light love story involving time travelling. I was drawn to this series because I love marriage of convenience trope. I'd say I wasn't satisfied with the series.What I liked:
1) Feminist theme - It's great that writers could weave feminist theme in this series. Park Yeon-Woo is talented at embroidery work but in her original timeline, she couldn't operate a business openly due to her status. However this changed when she's transported to 21st century modern time. Same with Sa-Wol, her lady in waiting. In modern times, she was able to earn money through hairstyling services.
2) Fashion - Beautiful embroidery work by Park Yeon-Woo. I love when she applied it to modern dresses.
3) Comedic relief by Sa-wol & Seong pyo. Joo Hyun-Young & Jo Bok-Rae have great chemistry!
4) Kang Tae min - His scenes are fascinating to watch despite not having much screentime. I like how his character grew from a spoilt brat to a driven employer.
5) The first scene between Yeon-Woo and Mi-Dam was touching. She missed her mother so much!
What I disliked:
1) Kang Tae-ha characterisation - Somehow I feel like his character is least interesting.
2) The ending especially the rejection of 19th century Kang Tae Ha by Yeon-Woo. Wow, never thought she could be so cold. By the way, where is Kang grandpa in the last episode?
3) Villain arc is predictable
4) I feel it's odd that Yeon-Woo adapted to modern times very quickly. During her wedding to Tae-ha, she could wear off should wedding dress and high heels. Wedding was just a few days after she transported from 19th century.
5) Main leads' romance - I don't feel much chemistry between Bae In-Hyuk and Lee Se-young. As a result, I didn't root much for them. I do, however, like that Yeon-Woo was able to distinguish modern Tae-Ha from Tae-Ha from 19th century.
Favourite scene
Sa-wol providing hairstyling service to girls to earn money. Just shows that she is quick-thinker.
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Amazing dynamics between 2 main leads elevated this crime/mystery & romance drama
Great execution of crime/mystery drama with romance. The dynamics between Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won's partnership elevated this drama.What I like:
1) Romance - Palpable chemistry between Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won (a true partnership). Intimate scenes were hot. That first scene surprised me and I didn't expect a sexy but conflicted scene.
2) Acting - wow great acting by overall cast but Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won's acting impressed me a lot. The scene when he confided in his wife broke me down in tears,
3) Male lead characterisation characterisation - wow just wow I dislike him in first episode as I thought he was stiff but my views changed when he protected his wife and confided in his wife.
4) The ending - the separation and doubts saddened me.
5) Plot - Gosh, unpredictable from episode 1. I also like how the current police cases were written most of the time.
6) Kim Ji Hoon - not much screentime but memorable.
What I dslike:
1) Baek parents were something else,
2) I think at one point I was lost in the plot because of too many red herrings in the current cases.
Favourite scene
When he confided in his wife in episode 10 & 11. I cried so much!
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Brilliant crime/mystery similar to "Broadchurch"
I watched this series after watching Flower of Evil. I thought Lee Joon-gi was superb in the series but was puzzled that he lost to Shin Ha Kyun. So I watched Beyond Evil to satisfy my curiosity.Beyond Evil is highly recommended if you are looking for crime/mystery with brilliant writing and phenomenal acting. This drama is in my top 5 kdrama list.
What I like:
1) Sublime acting by Shin Ha Kyun. I was mesmerised by his performance (various facial expressions - he even once fooled me!) and and handsomeness. I sound silly but my gosh, he was very handsome in this series.
2) Brilliant writing - there were many twists & grey areas. It's hard not to side with Dong-sik despite some of his dubious decisions. This series reminds me of British drama series called "Broadchurch" because of the similar premise (murder in small town). Supporting characters were well-written too,
3) Han Joo-won's characterisation - I enjoy seeing his character development and conflicts that he faced,
4) The score - one of best scores for a drama series regardless of country of production. I love 'Who is Monster', 'Beyond Evil opening theme', '2000 Mayang' very much that they are in my music playlist.
5) I love the interrogation scenes. Interesting to see strategies deployed to get statements or info.
6) I learned about makgeolli from this series. When I travelled to Busan in 2023 and saw makgeolli, I thought of this series.
What I dislike:
1) I think at one point, I thought there were too many red herrings that I was slightly lost in the plot.
Favourite scene:
The arrest scene in the final episode remains my favourite scene. Emotional punch!
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Heartfelt drama about marriage of convenience
Marry Me! is a warm Jdrama about marriage of convenience.What I like
1) I watched many Jdrama about marriage of convenience. Expected fluff but I cried in episodes 3 & 4.
2) Rinka Kumada portrayed Himari's sweetness & naivety very well. Himari is childlike because she lacked opportunity to socialise with people her age. However she is not dumb and does not want to be treated with kid gloves.
3) I like that supporting characters play role in enriching Himari's life.
4) I like the male lead Shin. He was empathetic towards Himari. The actor Toshiki Seto resembles D.O & Lee Dong Wook.
5) Slow burn romance - I like how the relationship progressed from strangers who married for convenience, to confidant and true life partners. When Himari told Shin that she was to become dependable so Shin can rely to her more, wow I was touched by the growth of her character.
What I dislike
1) I dislike that the boss prioritise the experimentation more than male lead's welfare. He and Himari should be able to withdraw from the research without being threatened.
Favourite scene
When Himari had a heartfelt conversation with her in laws during their first visit to her house. I cried a lot!
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Frustrating second half
I really like Lee Min Ki's performance in Because This is My First Life so I was curious to check out this drama.What I like
1. Oh! Master was fun watch in the first half of the series. I really like the scene when he saved Jooin.
2. Bisoo & Jooin relationship development. Kissing & intimate scenes were hot
3. Heartwarming interactions between them & their mothers
4. Record store scenes - I would love to have dates in that store.
5. Dialogue about closing doors, death
6. Kang Min Hyuk's styling is impeccable. Surprised to know that he's a drummer.
7. Oh I like the score 'Running to You' so much!
What I dislike
1. Bisoo sabotaging their relationship
2. The second half of the series especially the Ending
Favourite scene
Dating in the record store
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Exciting science-y non-romance Jdorama
Once upon a time, I considered a career in forensic science but didn't pursue. I find Jdrama Unnatural exciting watch!What I like:
1. Writing - I love the cases that were presented in this series. My favourite episode is the death by drowning. I didn't expect the fiancee/boyfriend to go ahead with his intention. What a sad moment for him and humanity! The father-and-son arcs in death in burning building was awesome great. Tearjerker.
2. Love story - I like that romance was hinted at the start of the series but never explored. Instead the writers focused on the love between Mikoto and her mum and brother.
3. Acting - Fine acting by cast especially from Satomi Ishihara and Arata Iura.
4. Mystery - Three main characters have mysterious background (Mikoto, Kai & Rokuro) and I like how it's related to their work.
What I dislike:
1. I am unclear about Mr Kibayashi's connection to Nakado. Why is he so willing to help him out?
2. Shishido is a despicable man!
3. The arc of the serial killer. It feels rushed.
Favourite scene
When Mikoto informed parents of burnt victim about how their son died saving people from burning building.
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Rival secret agents with sizzling chemistry
This is the fourth mini drama directed by Zeng Qing Jie that I watched and I enjoyed it immensely.What I like
1. Romance - Wow, Yang Ze and Smile Hu's chemistry translated well on screen. It's evident whenever they were kissing, having a playful banter or expressing their feelings for the other.
2. Yang Ze's acting - I've watched him in Destined to Meet You and I must say I love him in this role so much more because Yan Wu Ming is a better written character. Yang Ze played this character with depth and vulnerability. I like that he is a secret agent but with a kind/boyish face.
3. Smile Hu's acting - brilliantly cast. She looks tall and athletic therefore believable as a secret agent/assasin but with grace and poise. She also demonstrated vulnerability quite well.
4. Costumes - Lord Yan and Xiao Nian wore beautiful clothes. I love Lord Yan's black work outfit, tailored robe in final episodes, Xiao Nian's red work outfit and pink robe. The fox mask is also pretty.
5. Writing - Male and female main characters were well-written. I like the inject of humour at the start though at times seem too much (I think because of the music).
6. Directing - Beautifully shot especially fight sequences.
7. Duration and length - Perfect for bingeing.
What I dislike
1. Villain - I think the villain character was underdeveloped.
Favourite scene
The duel between Yan Wu Ming and Si Xiao Nian. Beautifully choreographed fighting scene that was perfectly captured on screen.
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Wow, a lot of kisses!
Ok I watched this jdrama after watching clip on Asian Crush's Youtube channel & reading the synopsis.What I like
1. The kisses - I was pleasantly surprised by the quantity & quality. Hase had insatiable appettite for Momo. The actors did these scenes well.
2. Female lead's characteristic - I enjoy seeing her growth. She was assertive at the end but still remains compassionate.
3. Pacing - Fast-paced and I had to binge!
4. Music - This is one of the few eastern dramas that I enjoyed the opening song. Dreaming night is so catchy.
5. Colleagues - I enjoyed watching camaraderie amongst Calico Cafe staff.
What I dislike
1. Plot - There isn't a proper plot for this drama. I was wondered a lot about the direction of the series throughout.
2. Supporting cast - I wish Fukami's relationship with Hase was elaborated further.
Favourite scene
Cafe lesson no. 3 because I never expected it!
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Another side of Song Jihyo
I only watch Running Man whenever my favourite Korean groups are guests so I got to know Song Jihyo from there. This drama introduces me to Song Jihyo the actress.What I like
1. The writing - It has the right balance between the characters' personal and professional lives, the drama & comedy. I enjoy medical aspects. Reminds me of Grey's Anatomy earlier seasons when the episodes were so engaging.
2. Main characters' development - It's wonderful to see
Jinhee & Changmin grow as individuals and as doctors. Jinhee especially. Changmin is so cute whenever he is cheeky.
3. Romance - Glad that this second chance romance develops slowly. Jinhee especially needs to understand her worth first before committing to a relationship. There aren't many kisses but when they kiss, I feel their love and longing for each other. Their intimate scenes are quite sexy.
4. Changmin's father - his kindness reminds me of my late uncle. That quiet but wise character.
5. Songs - I love the opening track and the other song that always accompany sad scenes.
6. Death & bereavement - humbling is the best word to describe those moments.
7. Choi Jinhyuk - my first drama starring him. This role was meaty role and he nailed it. His hairstyle made him look like a flower boy but he is manly.
8. Song Jihyo - I enjoyed her acting too. She conveys Jinhee's doubts very well.
What I dislike
1. The overbearing mother
2. The length - 21 episodes are a lot for kdrama. Nevertheless I hardly felt bored watching the episodes.
3. Gossipy colleagues
Favourite scene
When Jinhee informed Changmin why she kept in touch with his father. It's very touching that I cried a lot.
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Fast-paced & enjoyable romantic thriller
Destined to meet you is one of the best mini dramas I have watched.What I like:
1. Lu Yan Qi - great actress with brilliant comedic timing. She also did vulnerable scenes very well. The watching movie together scene was hilarious! She also portrayed the different ages of Rong Rong quite well. She looked pretty & youthful in the photo.
2. Jin Rong Rong characterisation - love girlboss , no-nonsense & take charge attitude.
3. Writing - Brilliant comedic scenes. The villain's characterisation is also good, not a cliche, 2D character.
4. Directing & editing - Brilliant for a mini drama of 20 episodes with each episode lasting less than 15 min. I like the pacing of the story.
5. Supporting characters - I like Jin Xi Chen & her executive assistant.
What I dislike:
1. Age difference between both main characters - 5 years seem to big considering real life age gap is 3 years. Wish Cong Bei was working adult instead of university student but then some scenes wouldn't work that well.
2. Grandpa - small issue. Got the impression that he's known Cong Bei for awhile. Not sure why Grandpa likes Gu Cong Bei so much.
Favourite scene:
When the aircond in Rong Rong's room malfunctioned. Rong Rong showed her vulnerability to Cong Bei.
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Started great then it fizzled
I was excited to watch this mini drama after seeing it featured in a few top mini drama lists on YouTube. The drama started off great but then it fell flat.What I like:
1. Intriguing start - The 1st 3 episodes were intriguing. I was delighted to see a "smart" female lead who managed to escape from interrogation. I was also pleasantly surprised with the bed scene. Cunning!
2. Right hand man - General Liu was the smartest character out of the bunch.
3. Dai Gao Zheng - A lot of reviewers mentioned him so yes, I agree. He has good looks & body. Acting wise, he's ok.
What I dislike:
1. Female lead characterisation - I mentioned earlier she was "smart" but my gosh she became unbearably silly as the series progressed. I can't get over her decision to pursue Tian yi when she already willingly agreed to become Yu Ze's fiancee. What a silly girl!
2. Writing - was bad. I almost stopped at episode 19 but persisted because there is fast forward button. I chose 4x option just to make sure I complete this mini drama. I think the episodes could be reduced to 24 or even 18. The conflict was dragged too much.
3. Ending - omg what a silly one. How can a stupid, cowardly girl become menacing to gangsters? And that very last scene I really don't understand
4. Physical abuse - You experienced and witnessed beatings but omg why stay in abusive household???
5. Chemistry between main characters - to me, lackluster.
6. Fashion - I dislike the clothes worn by Tiangyou, female lead. Pink dresses made her look childish and with her characterisation, she was indeed a baby. The last qipao she wore had weird colour combination and doesn't look nice.
Favourite scene:
The bed scene between Tian yi & Tian yao. As I said earlier, cunning!
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FL's lack of trust in her relationship with ML infuriated me
I really liked Zhao Fei's performance in Bai Ri Bu Shu so I checked out her list of dramas and found this. This drama frustrated me and after 1 hour 20 minutes of watching (mostly fast forwarded), I decided to stop wasting my time & drop this drama.What I liked:
1. Sub-plot - FL was investigating her father's case - he was framed for something he didn't do. I found the deep fake issue fascinating.
2. ML characterisation - I liked that he always stood by FL's side and kept reassuring her. This is probably my first drama of Zhang Li Ren. I was captivated by his performance here. He has a soothing voice
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's assistant & FL's relatives.
4. Styling - I liked most of the outfits worn by FL & ML. The red & blue qipao was pretty.
What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - Gosh, she seemed clueless and easily intimidated. I was infuriated with her for going along with an offer after being blackmailed. I think Zhao Fei was miscast in this drama. With her sharp, matured features, her visuals and acting didn't match the character's damsel in distress persona.
2. Romance - At 1 hour mark, FL was threatened with fake sex video. Instead of turning to ML who was already acknowledged as boyfriend, she decided to go along with perpetrator's demands. It was clear that she had no confidence in her relationship and I just couldn't accept this crap anymore. I also didn't sense any chemistry between Zhao Fei and Zhang Li Ren.
Favourite scene
When ML visited FL's house & met her aunt
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