nineskun
Mars
This is why Japanese dramas will always have a special place in my heart
I just finished this drama and I can tell you that the last 2 episodes turned me into the :O pikachu. I literally was shook, but on a whole another level. I loved this one title because it left me multiple times throughout the whole series. Okay, but let's now start going into a more structured review.As always, you'll be able to find the summary of my review if you scroll to the end of the post.
STORY
First, let's get into the plot because the synopsis doesn't help much.
"More and more mysterious deads caused by swords are starting to appear around the city of Tokyo. Osagami Kakeru is a Blade Master whose job is to seal these swords. Swords of Filth also called Kegareyaiba. The swords are born from the darkest sides of people's hearts. One day, reporter Sanjo Mio goes to investigate one of these deaths, however, she is rapidly shut by both the police and her officials and told to stop investigating the fact. However, that's not enough to stop her from investigating so she goes and interrogates people closely related to the victim. But what's the black mist that she sees coming from that person? Sanjo Mio gets involved with Osagami Kakeru and his team and discovers the mysteries behind the mysterious deaths, the black mist, the Swords of Filth, and the world of the Blade Masters."
I hope that was written well enough hahah I tried to make it sound as interesting as the series is. Did I succeed?
Yes, in the beginning, you might be confused. However, the story really draws you in because it's something so new or at least very new to me but because there's always so much going on you'll easily find yourself wondering and wanting to see what happens next. The series also has also stunning fighting scenes. There was a small story gap in the end but nothing too big to not enjoy the show.
CHARACTERS
They are all amazing. You are really gonna love them all. Okay, maybe except for one but no spoilers haha but yes, they are all very well done. Of course, the main focus is on our male lead, but you get to learn about all of the other characters bits by bits as you see their interactions. Especially, the friendship between Kakeru and Sho is just so beautiful. They are brothers, friends, and work partners. Also, let me tell you, the female characters in this drama are strong and we all know that we love them. At least some of them are. Yes, you might be a little bit annoyed at the female lead because let's be honest, they always have to get in between other people's work. However, I must say that I really loved her character as time went on.
OST
AMAZING. PLEASE GIVE SOME LOVE TO KIRO AKIYAMA. PLEASEEEE!
SUMMARY OF REVIEW
All in all, the drama is exciting and engaging with lots of action, mystery, amazing characters and also an amazing ost. You also get a crime mystery drama with swords, just how interesting is that? Yes, the drama is not perfect, as towards the end you might encounter a small gap in the story but really it won't hinder you from enjoying it till the very end. Instead, it will let you experience at least 5 different emotions. You get a roller coaster ride for free. I would recommend it to anyone that wants to watch an action crime mystery fiction with no romance story.
ps. sometimes it can get very dark so you might have to adjust the lighting of your screen/room to see things.
WHERE TO FIND SUBS?
Visit @ Luwuang on twitter and you'll easily find your way to the discord server where you can find the subs.
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The story has potential really. Wang's father dies so he goes to Thailand to find her mother, he meets a couple of people which help him through his quest and they become his friends and Ple, his girlfriend.
Then now you might ask, what's the problem? The problem is that it was too flat.
All the main characters were a little bit too heavy to bear. I started watching this because of Krist and New but yea it didn't save it. Krist's character, Wang was too weak and sensitive. Of course, it was cute and all but 13 episodes of a grown-up man behaving like that is a little bit... meh. The same goes for New's character, Win was a little bit too baby-like, however, it got better by the end of the drama so it's okay. We got character development at least. Ple was too clingy. Pat was okay.
Other than the characters (script) and okay acting, you'll notice that the whole story is kept going for too long. Yes, of course, it takes a long time to find a person in a big city. Yes, it's hard to bear such events but I don't know maybe it was just me but I knew who the mother was from episode 2 so yeah it was really boring for me.
The comedy part didn't really entertain me so it was a little bit unnecessary?
All in all, it's okay. nothing wow. just something i would watch if i was REALLY bored and didn't have ANYTHING else to watch.
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THE GOOD THINGS ABOUT THIS TITLE
The story focuses on the love life of He Fanxing. A 32-year-old woman with no experience in love but with no resolution to get married just in order to get married. Love has no boundaries, they say but the main problem here it's age. Her prince is 10 years old younger than her and that often not perceived well by the public. The story might be quite clichè for some but there aren't many dramas that address this problem so here 1 point because they did something different.
As you can see the drama is 40 episodes long but it didn't feel like that. The episodes were light and cute although there were some annoying/sad scenes, the director was able to balance the cute and the sad scenes in the different episodes.
Many may think that our main character is annoying because she can't seem to decide what to do with her feelings for the guy she likes and I agree to some degree. However, let's be honest no matter how open-minded a person is, the concerns that Fanxing has are real and completely realistic. Another point for this characteristic.
The actors are perfect. I seriously have no comments. Everyone is likable, nice and let's not forget good looking.
THE THINGS THEY COULD HAVE DONE BETTER
The realization of He Fanxing feelings took a long time which led to a rushed ending. I would have liked to see how Ye Luming was doing, how the relationship with Yuan Song and the father turned out to be after all the things, how He Fanxing's family were doing in the end and such. I would have also like to see more lovey-dovey scenes at the end.
In addition, the long confusion period can be a turn-off - which I'm not going to lie, it was a bit for me - however, they were smart enough to add other enjoyable characters. They really could have cut few episodes in the middle to then show more of the main couple in the end.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, although the age conflict between the main couple can be a turn-off to someone especially if dragged for too long, I can resecure you that they had done a nice job to tackle those useless dramatic scenes.
The actors have amazing chemistry which you would enjoy watching.
Are you tired of the usual clichè love story plot? if yes, then you should start watching this drama.
Are you searching for something interesting but not too mentally demanding? if yes, then you should start watching this drama.
Are you searching for something to watch without wasting your time? if yes, then you should start watching this drama.
Are you searching for a hot main male character? You should watch this drama for sure! haha
So give it a go!
You won't regret it
ps. I'm still learning how to write reviews so I hope that my opinions are clear and not that confusing.
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The first thing we should talk about is the characters; from the main characters to the side ones they were all very likable and the couples had very good chemistry. This is the first time seeing such, to be honest. The actors made the story very likable and if we think about even the villains did a good job. The good choice of actors made the story much more intriguing and made sure that the story wouldn't fall downhill even if this title has 35 episodes. If you watched many Chinese dramas then you know what I'm talking about. Although the amazing actors did a good job I won't say that the story is fantastic.
The story started out well with a lot of mystery and action, however, that didn't last long before it turned to be the usual romance drama. We see some action at the start and at the end of the drama but yea.. the romance outweighs the whole fantasy and action part of the story. However, as said the couples had good chemistry so it was cute to watch, especially the funny and light scenes that they put in made the 35 episodes easier to bear. Another thing that I would like to warn you - I mean not really but yea - I found it sad that the production team didn't try to tell a bit more of the history behind some of the characters like for example the story behind A Li and Bai Qi.
Hei Qi (Spirit Bai Qi) was nice, however, I would have liked to see more of a bad character because it was kind of flat. We are told that bad spirits are dangerous because of their obsessions, however, it didn't seem so. I was a bit disappointed there.
All in all, the story it's nice, there are some short backs here and there but nothing too bad. The actors are good at their job and have good chemistry. There are some parts where it's hard to follow - it might just be me though but then again it won't ruin the drama. So should you watch it? Yup. Trust me, it's not a waste of time.
ps. If you start this drama with the idea that you'll see a lot of action then you'll be a bit disappointed. If you start this for the romance then you won't regret it.
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I believe that this title is probably the best BL title in a while. Of course, it's a personal preference, but let me tell you why I think you should watch this and won't be disappointed, especially if you are familiar with other BL stories.
The story plot is often seen in BL's - we have the usual confident gay, and then we have the insecure gay that hates gays and such, but then, in the end, he turns out to be gay too. Nevertheless, I believe that this series was successful in making everything more exciting. You'll see the up and downs of a relationship, supporting friends, evil friends, multiple plot twists that will leave you "oh my god? Seriously??" (in a good way but I won't spoil anything) and everything you can experience in real life.
The relationship between Tharn and Type is a bit toxic not to say a lot, but don't worry - it develops in a good way. Plot and character development it's a good thing.
Now the acting, damn amazing. I enjoyed all of the actors. If you need new actors to add on your favs list, then give these gems a chance. That's the only thing I can tell you. I don't think I ever got bored in the whole 12 episodes and actually surprised that I laughed at the comedy that they threw in because usually jokes in Thai dramas are just cringe or not funny. It's a bit sad that they didn't address some character's story in the end because of too little time (not really but let me be nice since they made a good series haha), but it's still a series that's going to keep you hooked from episode 1.
If you are the type of person that is like "omg! BL's is always about rape. It shouldn't be a thing. It's uncomfortable blah blah" then yea don't watch this series. I'm aware that the story or excuse of rape is used in a lot of BL's novels and absolutely not acceptable, but I don't think in this case it ruined the series. I think that they did a good job addressing and showing the consequences and impacts that rape has on people and why it's wrong. Then again this is my personal opinion, so yea... You have been warned.
Anyways, all in all, you won't regret watching this drama. You get a good and interesting plot that kind of breaks away from the clichés (leaving behind the rape part). You get good acting, lots of kissing and bed scenes for the people interested haha. You won't be bored in these 12 episodes.
ps. if you are still unsure about starting this or not, then take my advice and just watch it. once you start watching it, you'll see that you won't regret it
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The story starts quite interesting by watching the relationships between the characters. PeteKao are cute and everything. You can describe Pete as the possessive boyfriend, aka confident gay while Kao is the usual shy and "fluffy" character. SunMork have a love and hate relationship, which might be kind of a turn-off, but somehow, it's interesting to watch how they learn to care about one another.
I love how Pete and Kao's parents are so supportive. Oh, and also Rain and Manow.
I think a lot of people disliked Non, but I believe that he didn't do anything wrong even though he was immature. He liked someone, and also, if it seemed that the person was in a relationship, no one confirmed it to him, so why not shoot the shot?
As the drama continued the story, the episodes started to grow heavy, and the story became flat. We see how Pete and Kao's relationship "breaks down" because of Non and Kao's insecurity of coming out. Still, I don't think the conflict was sophisticated enough to run for 12 episodes. The reason why I continued this series was mainly because of SunMork. Although their relationship was rushed and lacked a bit of "story," I believe that watching their story wasn't as heavy as PeteKao's storyline.
Also, the plot addressed different and vital topics under the theme of sexuality and growing up, which made me stay. We see how Kao is insecure and scared about the possibility that he won't be accepted as he is by his mother and everyone else around him. We also see how parenting plays a role in children by watching Non's behavior. Even though I said that Non didn't do anything wrong, we also have to say that his behavior wasn't the best while trying to win Kao's heart. This is mainly because he didn't have anyone to tell him what is right and wrong.
Now the question is, should you watch it? I don't think it's a complete waste of time as I enjoyed the second couple and the other characters. I also believe that the topics addressed in the story are important and worth to give it a watch.
However, if you are here because PeteKao, then these 12 episodes won't be that entertaining to watch.
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1. STORY
The story is fresh, and that's one of the reasons why I was able to finish this drama. Although the political issues used in the story can be found in many politics-based dramas, I believe that they have done a good job of making the story enjoyable enough with the different characters and messed up relationships. These kept the story going as there are several plot twists here and there, leaving you in awe and also encourage you to watch more. The background story of the protagonists was well built because, thanks to that, we were allowed to get a character development that we often don't see. At least, I don't. Another reason why I continued to watch this title it's how they tackled the story by also keeping a bit of romance here in there without overdoing it and sway away from the real story.
There are several things that I would have liked to see, and that's why I didn't give this title a 10.
1) I would have liked to see more of the ending on the relationship between our female protagonist and her father. I think that the indifferent playing was nicely played, but I believe that they could have added something more in the end.
2) The protagonists were able to get until the end after all the mess that they got in, but somehow they didn't show us the scene in court or anything like that, it was disappointing...
3) I wanted more scenes between our hero and the father, as I feel that was one of the most essential things for clear character development in our hero.
2. CHARACTERS
I loved all of them. They were all well made, and they also gave them character development, so I was delighted with them. However, as I said above, they could have added some more scenes to make the changes more evident as in both the character's personality and the relationship between them.
My favorite characters were the protagonists - our hyenas. The heroine was strong and not the usual weak and dumb girl that gets swayed away by all the guys she meets. She knows what she wants and doesn't want, and she keeps consistent with it throughout the whole story. If you are tired of the typical drama heroine, then this drama will make you pleased for once. The hero seemed strong, but it was just a way not to show weakness and escape from his name to show that he is capable of achieving results. Again, this is not the usual male character that you find in dramas, where the male protagonist is good at everything and just has a lousy personality. Here we get something new and different. I loved their love-hate relationship because you can see that no matter what, they still care about each other.
SUMMARIZATION OF REVIEW
The story is different and fresh, with also new characters that you often won't find. Although the main story is quite similar to many political dramas, Hyena was able to tackle them in a different way, which didn't make it too heavy to watch. There are also exciting plot twists and cases in the story that were enjoyable.
Should you watch it? I would highly recommend it to you if you are not searching for the usual romance drama. I would recommend it if you are into mystery and detective type of dramas. I would recommend it if you don't mind having more friendship than romance.
If you want some innocent and fluffy romance, then this drama isn't for you. If you aren't into investigatory dramas, then this isn't for you.
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That's it. Now stop reading reviews cuz really even a 10/10 won't describe how this drama sticks out from all the others.
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Probably one of the best Chinese dramas out there
I was really hesitant about how many stars I should give this drama, however, the more I thought about it, the more I had to admit that this is a really great drama and probably one of the best Chinese drama. Let me tell you why I think so.If you don't want to read the whole review, you can scroll down where you'll be able to find a summary of all the things I will mention.
1) STORY DELIVERY
I have to admit that the main plot is different from all the dramas I have seen. I like the way they added such a silly and yet interesting element to the story of the characters behaving like animals when sad, angry, etc. They could have explained the whole comet story a little bit more, but it won't hinder you from enjoying the drama. Also, the pace is perfect! Thanks to the pace of the story, nothing felt too slow nor too fast, which made this more enjoyable. Each episode had me feel several emotions; we could start the episode with a smile while ten minutes later we would be sad and then excited and just like that. This is not a bad thing because they made sure that the viewer got engaged in the episode without feeling bored, and more importantly, they did not add silly scenes when it wasn't necessary. I must admit though that even if it was delightful there's something that makes me think that they could have done better here; however, we have to keep in mind that this is not a fantasy story but more of a romantic drama in a fashion/business background and with a fantasy touch to it. This leads me to how they handled the delivery of the love story of the main couple.
2) LOVE STORY of main couple & CLICHÉS
I must say that I dislike how some dramas use clichés to make the story all lovey-dovey and such, but it just doesn't work. However, they did an excellent job here. Notably, they didn't make the main couple fall in love in two episodes for us to watch them argue and break up every thirty minutes because of miss-communication. We have a well-developed love story with some cliché arguments between the characters, but they are quickly resolved. Want to know why? Because our main couple knows what COMMUNICATION is! This is the healthiest couple I have ever seen in a damn while. The couple respects each other, say sorry and thank you to each other, although there are still some arguments they are often (if not always) resolved in a few moments as they talk it out. They deserve applause for not giving these characters the usual: "rich CEO and the just starting dumb designer meet each other, fall in love in episode two, break up in episode three because of a stupid reason, they get back together at episode four and stuff like that."
3) CHARACTERS & acting (?)
I don't want to go on. forever, but I liked most of the characters, so I'll talk about the things that turned me off a bit. First of all, the girlfriend of Miao Yu in the first few episodes is just... ugh... maybe it's just the actress that couldn't pull it off, but she had minimal emotional expression while most of the time she was just holding poker face. Wang Chen, our main female character, was cute, really cute, but I feel like she was quite flat and didn't have much character development. It's not that you will find her annoying, but after watching it, you'll notice how she didn't really grow much.
SUMMARY OF REVIEW
All in all, it's a really good drama, but then again it's not perfect. I really like how they went with a good pace - not too slow nor too fast but just perfect. They also added some fun scenes and entertaining characters which made the whole drama enjoyable, they had the usual cliché arguments which often lead to breakups, still, they made the relationship between the main couple healthy, so those situations didn't happen (except for one which I won't reveal). They could have worked on putting more effort into the character development of Wang Chen as we also came to see her fashion career and not only her love life - at least, that's what I lowkey also wanted to see.
If you want to watch this for the romance, then you'll enjoy it for sure as it has a lot of cute and funny scenes with really little useless drama.
If you want to watch it for the romance and all the other things, it would also be really nice, but then you'll notice a few small things that you might like or dislike depending on your taste.
Nevertheless, this title deserves more recognition because it's really great.
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