Not Quite the 'Affair' You’d Expect!
I wanna review both novel and TV adaptation here, so bear with me or you can simply scroll down.Chao Planoy's books, like many GL novels, are full of red flags. Actually, it’s not just Chao Planoy—many GL novels often have similar issues cos not all novels will be like R4U or TLP. Anyways, in this case, the storyline of 'Affair' feels incredibly contrived, with several parts making no sense at all.
While the TV adaptation made some changes, the novel still struggles with some questionable character dynamics. For example, Pleng, who is insufferably self-absorbed, becomes slightly more tolerable as an adult. Then there's Eak, another walking red flag. But because it’s a Chao Planoy novel, of course, there had to be a guy in the mix. Fast forward to the future, and after being apart for 13 years, Pleng still has no clue about Wan’s life. Yet, she decides to meddle again, pushing Wan to meet Eak—why? It’s baffling. Pleng is, according to me, far too self-centered to deserve someone like Wan. In fact, no one in this novel really deserves Wan—every character seems to fall short. Wan is 100 percent green flag and every time she gets hurt. While the novel tries to redeem its characters in some ways, the overwhelming number of red flags and questionable decisions make it hard to root for anyone, especially Pleng. Wan was quite clear about everything from the beginning and the girl had to suffer a lot due to some twists and turns!
Coming back to the drama, well the casting was great, no doubts here. The background music and OST are well-suited too. And yeah, I can see everyone hating Wan's mom (some are even calling her Lada's mom from TSOU) , portrayed by Um Apasiri Nitibhon, well, it actually means she is an amazing actress for she is playing her role quite well, making it realistic.
P.S.: Pleng and Wan - they could actually be sisters (don't panic, they are not) for they pretty much grew up together in the same house, raised by the same parents. I just don’t get why so many GLs choose these cringeworthy, off-putting storylines. I mean just go through 23.5, Reverse for you and reverse with me, you'll get my point!
Verdict: If you're just looking for some drama and steamy, love-dovey moments, go for it—the leads have undeniable chemistry. However, I do wish the storyline was more gripping and realistic.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
only for Dylan ❤️
I saw Dylan first in Ever Night 2 and then Meteor Garden and I knew he's gonna be a star soon. Thanks to Love between fairy and devil, it happened and I am so happy for him. Dylan is solely the reason I watched this drama, but I have to say that Esther did a good job too. The plot was sooooooo good that I binge-watched the whole series within 2 days.Esta resenha foi útil para você?
First of all, Vivi and Wa’s relationship gave me "Frozen" vibes—not entirely, but the sisterly love was definitely there. And it was absolutely adorable. The songs perfectly capture the romantic, emotional, and suspenseful moments, leaving you both happy and sad. For a supernatural romance, the VFX is impressively subtle, and credit goes to the production team, the director, and of course, the author Zezeho, who masterfully wove the fantasy and romance together. As a DC fan, the time-turning scenes reminded me of The Flash, but the unique blend of elements here is remarkable.
Most GL shows focus solely on the romantic connection between the leads, but this one made sure that the precious bond of familial love wasn’t overlooked. Unlike many other GL dramas, this one doesn't end with sudden steamy scenes or a wedding ceremony. Sure, we often expect that between the leads, and we do love it. But just imagine if this kind of ending were shown in a straight romance—people would call it a masterpiece. If you think the show should have ended with lovey-dovey kissing scenes simply because it’s a GL, you’re being biased. Wa and Four shared an emotional hug, which was just as powerful. The show also concluded with Four and Kie resolving their issues, thanks to Wa’s involvement (even though she was unaware of her role in it), hinting that Khun is a good friend of Wa’s—definitely not a potential boyfriend. It was a smart way to wrap up the series, giving supporting characters their due recognition alongside the leads. In my view, that makes the ending of this masterpiece even more meaningful. By the way, the girl who played Kie, Hlinghling did a great job.
So, why can't I give it a 10 out of 10? Well, there were a few plot holes that bothered me. For instance, the scene where Four was about to get shot, and Wa rushed to save her. The police intervened just in time, but that moment felt rushed—it could have been extended for better clarity. Also, I really missed Top (Shogun); he was so charming whenever he was on screen. Lastly, the show ended with Wa witnessing how Four and Kie resolved their rivalry, but it would have been more impactful if Four had turned around and realized Wa had been there for her all along. That small moment could have added an emotional punch to the ending.
When most of the GL shows are dragging plot to 12 episodes without any development, look how R4U did a great job just within 8 episodes. I recommend this drama to everyone, it's worth a shot.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Heartfelt but Flawed
So, the series combines elements of romance, LGBTQ+ themes, and coming-of-age storytelling using the trope of romance, friendship, and resilience within a school setting, incorporating complex relationships. The series' depiction of Itsuki and Fuyu's reunion after overcoming previous pain and family judgment appeals to viewers who appreciate stories about resilience and complex relationships. The relationship between the characters adds emotional depth, making their road to acceptance and happiness interesting for many viewers. I still feel the series could need greater pacing, particularly in its examination for additional characters and subplots. For example, Fuyu's mother's frequent interventions and the reemergence of Fuyu's first love could take away from the main storyline, resulting in unneeded drama that can become monotonous. Some episodes have been quite refreshing and pointed out the real-world conflicts that the same-sex couples face these days. My fav character is the lil one - Hayashi Tsuki, she is the sweetest ever. Anyways, apart from the kid, I truly liked the chemistry between Itsuki (Sugai Yuuka) and Fuyu (Nakamura Yurika), the actresses did well but well, Chise (Yeo Reum) stole the spotlight for some time, she did great.This season is much better than season one and one more thing, there is not much love scene between the leads, they do get intimate and it was kinda cute - I found it purely sweet. I won't give any spoilers but once we get into episode 6 and 7, real problems arise for Fuyu and Itsuki being two mothers of a kid and whatever they faced in the drama is a depiction of what happens in many places around the world for LGBTQ+ couples. If you have watched season one, it's mandatory to watch season, you won't regret. If you enjoy emotional storytelling with a focus on individual development will most certainly find it interesting, despite some narrative flaws.
Happy watching!
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
such an extraordinary drama!
Ro Woon - you beauty!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!The drama is based on the webtoon July Found by Chance (어쩌다 발견한 7월). The drama aired in 2019 and gained attention for its unique concept, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes.
Plot
The story follows Eun Dan-Oh, a high school student who discovers that she is a character in a comic book titled Secret. Worse, she’s not even the protagonist—she’s a side character with a terminal illness. Determined to change her fate and find true love, Dan-Oh defies the comic's pre-written narrative with the help of an unnamed "extra" (later known as Ha-Ru). Together, they navigate the rules of the comic world while trying to alter their destinies.
Themes
1. Self-Discovery: Dan-Oh’s journey highlights the importance of self-agency and defining one's own identity.
2.Fate vs. Free Will: The drama explores the tension between accepting predetermined roles and fighting for autonomy.
3. Love Beyond Boundaries: The romance between Dan-Oh and Ha-Ru transcends the constraints of their fictional existence.
4. Meta Commentary: The show critiques common tropes in romance and high school dramas, making it a fresh take on the genre.
Strengths
1. Unique Premise: The concept of characters gaining self-awareness in a fictional world is innovative and engaging.
2. Strong Performances: Kim Hye-Yoon shines as the spunky Dan-Oh, while Rowoon’s subtle performance adds depth to Ha-Ru.
3. Clever Humor: The drama pokes fun at typical K-drama clichés, offering a self-aware and refreshing perspective.
4. Visual Appeal: The cinematography and fantasy elements are visually stunning, enhancing the magical feel of the story.
Weaknesses
1. Pacing Issues: The plot can feel repetitive in the middle episodes, with some scenes dragging unnecessarily.
2. Complex Rules: The mechanics of the comic world are intriguing but can become convoluted and hard to follow at times.
3. Underdeveloped Subplots: Some side characters and storylines, such as those of Joo-Da and Nam-Joo, feel underexplored.
4. Ambiguous Ending: The finale leaves some questions unanswered, which may frustrate viewers seeking closure.
Extraordinary You is a breath of fresh air in the K-drama world, offering a mix of romance, fantasy, and metafictional commentary. Its unique premise and strong lead performances make it stand out, especially for us fans looking for something unconventional. However, its pacing issues and occasionally confusing narrative mechanics might deter viewers who prefer straightforward storytelling.
Overall, it’s a drama worth watching for its originality and charm, but it may require patience during slower episodes.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
This is a GEM
The Untamed is a popular Chinese drama (C-drama) that aired in 2019. It's based on the BL (Boys' Love) novel Mo Dao Zu Shi (also known as Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. Unlike the original novel, which explicitly depicts a romantic relationship between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, the drama presents their relationship with more subtle, implied affection due to censorship rules in China.Major Themes:
1. Friendship and loyalty: Despite societal pressures, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji remain steadfastly loyal to their beliefs and to each other.
2. Moral ambiguity: The show explores themes of justice, revenge, and what it means to truly do the right thing.
3. Found family: Many characters build relationships outside their bloodlines, showing the importance of chosen bonds.
One of its greatest strengths lies in the chemistry between the leads. Xiao Zhan delivers a charismatic performance as the free-spirited yet misunderstood Wei Wuxian, while Wang Yibo’s reserved portrayal of Lan Wangji provides a perfect counterbalance. The supporting cast also shines, with memorable performances that bring emotional weight to the complex inter-clan rivalries and alliances.
Visually, the series is breathtaking, with its traditional Chinese costumes, picturesque landscapes, and an evocative soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere. However, the production is not without flaws. Some CGI effects are inconsistent, and the pacing can feel slow in parts, particularly during flashback-heavy episodes.
While the drama skillfully conveys the deep bond between the leads, it must rely on subtlety due to censorship, which may feel unsatisfying to fans of the original novel’s explicit romance. Despite this, the emotional connection remains palpable and moving.
Overall, The Untamed is a richly layered drama that rewards patient viewers with a heartfelt tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption. It’s a must-watch for fans of Chinese fantasy and anyone looking for a story that combines action, mystery, and emotional depth.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
what the heck!
So, I decided to give this series a try since I was already watching three others and wanted something fresh. Unfortunately, it wasn’t worth my time at all. The lead actresses of Love and Rain had previously starred in another GL series, which at least had a coherent plot, but this one—honestly, what was the writer thinking? The plotlines are underdeveloped and poorly executed.The message was golden but the delivery was way too poor.The characters are flawed, which is fine because, after all, we're all flawed in real life. But Love’s personality is almost too perfect, like a golden retriever—a typical choice for one of the leads. Rain is… well, Rain, I don't blame her though, She's been through enough.The relationship between Love and her Mum was absolutely refreshing. And yeah, the way Rain and Love were dealing with their love life, it was commendable. Dean and Pat's character development (or lack thereof) is disappointing, to say the least.
Honestly, all of them could benefit from more acting lessons.
If you value your time, skip this one. But if you’re willing to waste it, go ahead and watch.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Lucky Lee has been cast
I’ll watch any series with Lee Joon-gi because I absolutely love him! He's one of my all-time favorite actors in the world of South Korean drama. For this drama, I can confidently say I’d recommend it not only because of Lee Joon-gi, but also because of the compelling storyline. Shin Se-kyung delivered a strong performance, and her role added a lot to the show. And, of course, Lee Joon-gi looks absolutely perfect in historical attire! And, Kim Ok Bin is a great actress, I just realized it more after watching the season 2 and I also have to say, apart from Lee, I liked Ta Gon (Jang Dong Gun).This is season 2, so if you haven’t watched season 1 yet, you’ll need to start there; otherwise, some parts of this season may be hard to follow. It’s worth noting that Song Joong-ki did an excellent job as the younger version of Eun Seom/Sa Ya in season 1, and Lee Joon-gi is perfectly cast as the older version in season 2. There’s really no point in comparing the two—they both absolutely nailed their respective roles.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Dream took away the reality!
The novel was a difficult one to read and this drama adaption was no exception at all. Well IDF did some changes but that couldn’t save the drama from such a lower rating. Now, when the story itself is all about miscommunication and then some, drama would reflect it rightly, wouldn’t it? So, Wan and Kimhan's characters have been well portrayed. The background music and songs are amazing, no doubts at all. So, where did it break apart?1. Some characters' portrayal weren’t well showcased.
2. Some dialogues didn’t even make any sense.
3. Frung portrayed Jessie well but she wasn’t given enough screentime.
4. Flashback and dream scenes are too dramatic.
5. Fay's acting skill needs a lot more improvement.
6. Wan's mom's portrayal was too boring.
7. Wan is an actress but the way she was dressed up was less fashionable than Kimhan's. Doesn't make sense.
Likeable stuff:
Wan and Kim go through a lot of miscommunication and jealousy in the novel and this part was well conveyed by the leads.
May is an amazing actress, She will nail any character. And Looknam is such a cool actress even as a supporting character. Heng is a great actor too, although he never gets his partner in any IDF drama LOL, I hope he gets outta this slump.
The ending, I don't know if the wedding happened in dream or not, might be possible!And so many things from novel were not shown in the drama so it was really hard to sympathize with the leads when they were facing troubles. I'm glad this drama ended but 12 episodes seemed too lengthy.
Anyways, I hope Fay and May get a good script soon, better than this messy one.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
O Jogo do Amor em uma Fantasia Oriental
1 pessoas acharam esta resenha útil
A Captivating Blend of Romance and Adventure
Love Game in Eastern Fantasy (2024) is a Chinese romantic fantasy series that follows Ling Miao Miao (Esther Yu) as she navigates alliances, demons, and a relationship with Mu Sheng (Ding Yu Xi). The drama features spectacular sights, intricate costumes, and cultural richness, capturing traditional Chinese culture. Esther Yu and Ding Yu Xi's chemistry propels the emotional center, while well-developed plots support the characters.Despite some critics' criticism of slow pacing and predictable moments, the series strikes a balance between humor, action, and uplifting moments, making it a must-see for genre enthusiasts. The series' vivid depiction of a mythical universe and light-hearted humor make it a strong contender in the fantasy genre.
I loved it so much, highly recommended!
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Watch at least Once
It’s a slow, introspective film that follows Ah-young, a young woman recently released from a youth detention center, as she becomes a nanny for a single mother barely holding things together. What stood out most was how restrained and real the storytelling felt — nothing flashy, no melodrama, just raw human moments. Kim Hyang-gi’s performance is beautifully subtle; you feel her inner world without her needing to say much. I appreciated how the film dealt with difficult themes like poverty, motherhood, and emotional isolation with such tenderness.That said, the pacing is very slow — almost meditative — and at times I did wish it gave me more emotional depth or background to fully connect with the characters. But maybe that’s the point. I doesn’t push itself on you; it invites you to sit quietly with it, and if you let it, it stays with you long after. It’s not for everyone, but it was a good watch!
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
The show keeps up the tension from start to finish. What makes it stand out is how it ties up most loose ends, making it a satisfying watch—though the last-minute ending might not be for everyone. Song Seung Heon was fantastic, playing both the cold, no-nonsense grim reaper Black and a confused, emotional detective. I know he gets some criticism, but he really delivered here. Go Ara as Ha-Ram did fine, but I wish her character had more depth instead of just moving the plot along. The supporting cast was a huge win—Kim Dong Jun played the rich yet troubled guy really well, and the detective team was both funny and memorable.
I gave it an 8 because it kept me hooked the whole time and I really like Song Seung Heon. The music was great too. As for rewatching, it depends—knowing all the twists might take away some of the excitement, but some people might enjoy spotting all the clues the second time around. Black has a lot to offer, and this is just a taste!
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Just some cheesy HS things! - Love happens.
The story follows Lee Seul-Bi, an angel who accidentally becomes human while trying to save a high school boy, Shin Woo-Hyun, from a life-threatening situation. As she adapts to her new life on Earth, she ends up living with Woo-Hyun and attending his high school. The drama explores themes of love, friendship, and the struggles of adolescence, with a fantasy twist. The presence of another key character, Hwang Sung-Yeol, adds complexity to the story, creating a love triangle. Both Woo-Hyun and Sung-Yeol face personal family issues, adding depth to their characters.Key Characters:
1. Lee Seul-Bi (played by Kim Sae-Ron): An angel-turned-human who learns about life, love, and the challenges of being a teenager.
2. Shin Woo-Hyun (played by Nam Woo-Hyun): A popular yet emotionally scarred high school student who lives with his grandmother.
3. Hwang Sung-Yeol (played by Lee Sung-Yeol): Woo-Hyun's classmate and rival, who has his own struggles with family and relationships.
Kim Sae-Ron is so damn cute but there are these two leads - Nam Woo-Hyun and Lee Sung-Yeol - How can I not watch this drama?
The drama is lighthearted with moments of emotional depth. It appeals to a younger audience due to its high school setting and relatable issues. I appreciated its fantasy elements and the chemistry among the cast. However, I must criticize its storyline for being overly melodramatic at times.
Anyways, it's a fun watch, might be a decent drama if you wanna pass your time.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Maternal Love Meets Social Justice
Angry Mom is a 16-episode South Korean drama that aired in 2015, blending family dynamics, school life, and societal critiques. The story follows Jo Kang-ja (Kim Hee-sun), a former rebellious teen turned protective mother, who disguises herself as a high school student to protect her daughter, Oh Ah-ran (Kim Yoo-jung), from severe bullying. Along the way, she confronts systemic corruption and abuses of power within the educational system.The drama’s strength lies in its powerful storytelling, addressing themes like bullying, school violence, and the impact of systemic corruption. Kim Hee-sun delivers an emotionally compelling performance, and Ji Soo’s Go Bok-dong offers a nuanced transformation from antagonist to ally. However, the plot stretches believability, especially regarding Kang-ja's undercover role, and some secondary arcs are underdeveloped due to pacing issues.
The series combines intense emotional moments with social commentary, highlighting the challenges parents and students face within flawed systems. While its heavy themes might be overwhelming for some viewers, the drama’s heartfelt message and high production quality make it engaging.
Overall, it stands out as a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant series, offering a compelling critique of education and societal norms.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
Short and Sweet
The drama is a light-hearted romance with a love for desserts. The story revolves around two university freshmen, Jung Chong Nam and Lee Yeon Nam, who share a major and a passion for sweet treats. Their journey begins with friendship and slowly develops into romance, set against the backdrop of a campus life full of youthful energy and new experiences.Strengths:
Relatable Characters: The characters, especially the leads played by Kim Hyang Gi and Kim Min Gyu, are charming and relatable. Their interactions feel genuine, showcasing the awkwardness and sweetness of young love.
Unique Theme: Centering the story around desserts adds a whimsical and comforting touch, making it visually delightful and appealing to food lovers.
Brevity: With just two episodes on tvN (or ten shorter episodes on Naver TV Cast), it’s a quick watch that doesn’t require a significant time investment, making it perfect for those looking for something light and sweet.
Weaknesses:
Limited Depth: The short runtime limits character and plot development. Complex conflicts or deeper explorations of relationships are absent, which might leave some viewers wanting more.
Predictability: The storyline follows a typical “friends-to-lovers” trope without significant surprises, which could feel formulaic for seasoned drama watchers.
The drama doesn’t aim to be groundbreaking but delivers what it promises: a sugary sweet narrative paired with delectable visuals. While it lacks depth and complexity, its charm lies in its simplicity and the warm chemistry between the leads. It’s a perfect watch for those seeking a short, cheerful escape.
Esta resenha foi útil para você?
