An ode to the bittersweet mess of youth.

~If they lose their scales, they'll lose the patterns and colors on their wings, and won't be able to fly~
~Happiness is a butterfly which, when pursued is always beyond our grasp, but if you sit quietly, might alight upon you~

It's gonna be a long read, but... I'm here to defend the drama, and there's so much to say to the point that even this review doesn't say everything. I'll give a spoiler warning when it's needed :)

Nevertheless appreciation depends on people's sensitivity, but it's an excellent drama for many reasons and I'm here to explain why. If you can't handle college students being messy, I wouldn't recommend this drama to you. If you like stories of complicated feelings, thoughtful, realistic and mature dramas, then go ahead. The story was incredibly well thought-out, the characters were layered and the drama was visually very aesthetic too. Everything was carefully executed, I love K-dramas because they give us beautiful productions like this, but Nevertheless is pretty much like no other because it was less scripted and more raw. It's deep, complex, artistic, subtle and sentimental. Clear explanations are not thrown at your face and the play on perspectives challenges the audience.

The drama is based on the webtoon but the two are different works that have each taken their own path. Nevertheless is a masterpiece because every time you will rewatch it, you will notice new details. The fanbase wrote literal essays because of all the attention that was put into it, it's almost to the point that you can analyze every scene and every line.

Before going in depth :

Cinematography, acting, music : Absolutely on point. The music and cinematography suit the drama perfectly. I know that not everyone is hooked by the atmosphere/pacing but you can't ignore it was perfectly done (personally it was the first time I felt so immersed into a drama to the point of dreaming about it every night). Song Kang and Han So Hee nailed at portraying their character's emotions, their eyes, the way they talked, the subtle gestures...

From the story, to the acting, to the pacing, to the music and to the cinematography, everything about this drama is so clever.

Some things I need to mention : 1. The artistic aspect and the butterflies. The butterflies were real and Nabi's sketches in her room too as Han So Hee herself graduated in art. In addition, art is used as a metaphor throughout the drama, and there's a lot of symbolism overall. 2. The way they filmed everything was genius. 3. The modern and realistic take on relationships and feelings that the drama portrays, and not only thanks to the main couple. (we even got representation of LGBTQ+ characters! censorship didn't allow things to go too far but still amazing) 4. The way they beautifully captured intimacy, not just sex. Nothing was unnecessary (i.e. it shows Nabi actually having pleasure, not just trying to please someone else). Not to mention Rio's songs... (though if you want explicit sex scenes this is not it (obviously because JTBC), plus they're very few, quite short and only in the first few episodes) 5. The side characters and the diversity in their personalities, just as in real life, and also the friendship between all of them. I even liked the teacher! 6. The internal dialogue and the narration. 7. The struggles of young adults in their twenties were portrayed very well. I'm not in my twenties yet, but I know that people related and I also can feel it already. 8. The poster with Jae Eon lying on Nabi's shoulder says it all. 9. https://twitter.com/mignonxminion/status/1483615011477934081 - (not by me) check this thread if you want! :) you don't have to read everything, just scroll to get a glimpse. beware though, there will be spoilers. I recommend checking only if you have seen the drama.

Stop here if you don't want major spoilers.

To begin with, Jae Eon is admittedly a flirt, but to what extent do people really know him? He did not deliberately hurt people, he never used his past as an excuse, and no one cared about him before as much as Nabi did. There is a great portrayal of what's a toxic person at the beginning and that is Nabi's ex. Jae Eon also was touchy-feely (pretty much his way of communicating) but he wasn't controlling like her ex and didn't abuse her. Her ex, on the other hand, destroyed her self-esteem. Jae Eon told her she's the prettiest and the happiest when she works, her ex told her she's the prettiest while having sex. Of course, Jae Eon is far from being perfect, and saying that he has a healthy behavior all throughout would be a lie. He actually does things both right and wrong, which I find fascinating. The drama starts out with Nabi’s agency completely robbed by her ex, yet when she meets someone so passive that every choice in the relationship is hers - she totally crumbles under the pressure. She is also very critical of herself for multiple reasons. This drama is undeniably a fascinating character study, I'll have to omit a lot of details but if you want more, look at the link I put in the comments section. The first episodes are almost entirely told through a distrustful main character’s POV and the audience is left wondering what the truth is. Halfway point leaves you questioning people's POV (especially Nabi's). Later episodes let you looking back at the first episodes with new eyes, which is clever.

Nabi is not you and neither she is a victim of a toxic man, unless we are talking about her ex. Both were responsible for their choices and actions and it's pretty clear that she hurts Jae Eon too.

I know that it depends on one's sensitivity but some people are going way too far. Please try to appreciate these two characters, this is all I'm asking for. People inventing them disorders and evil motivations are ridiculous. Yes, some people actually do that, I even saw people calling out the drama to be anti-feminist. It's also contradictory to view her as a naive and stupid girl while that's clearly not what the drama shows. Those same people made her dirty, sounds like hypocrisy to me. Haters will continue to demonise the drama anyway. I love Nabi and Jae Eon so please listen to what I have to say.

Jae Eon's feelings about Nabi are clear. First, the bracelet he made for her, as well as the butterfly-shaped suncatcher. The scene where he wrapped his shirt around her waist, when he offered to be her partner for the work, the scene where he was worried to the point he called the emergency because she didn't respond (she was sick), the scene of the fight where he loses control of himself and beats the man who hurt her, when he was there the day of her anniversary, his discussions with his mother, Seol Ah and Kyu Hyun, and finally the reveal of his love at first sight (if anything, he was at least intrigued by her). He confirms it near the end by talking to her about how he first met her at the exhibition and how he saw it as fate when he met her again one night, without directly saying who it was, Nabi thinking it was just another girl until she saw the drawing.

Now it's time to go more in depth.

Before anything, you have to take into consideration their conflicting feelings for each other causing the mess that is their relationship, but also : their past experiences and their family's situation. Nabi never saw a successful relationship from her mother while not even having a good relationship with her (but she had her aunt) and Jae Eon had a well off mother who couldn't give him the love and attention he needed, making it hard for him to even love himself. Jae Eon had the same abandonment issues as Nabi, his manifested in aloofness and hers in insecurity. In the end, they are both cynical against fate. But the bond they create throughout the drama is enough, and it's beautiful. Their love for art even transcends their short term struggles and communication barriers.

Jae Eon was interested in Nabi since the first time he met her at the exhibition hall. They met again by coincidence after that night. Nabi knew what kind of person Jae Eon was. Nevertheless, she already fell for him and against all odds, by herself, she kissed him. She knew what kind of relationship she was getting into, there's no need to act as if she didn't. Both were sexually attracted by each other but there was more on both sides. There wasn't really anything wrong with their relationship in the first place. It was quite messy but still they were happy with it and having a good time together - until bad things happened such as gossip, Nabi's ex return, Seol Ah's lie to Nabi and this girl's brother encounter with Jae Eon. Their relationship then becomes unhealthy because of the miscommunication, insecurities and fears. Nabi felt pathetic because she wanted more than what Jae Eon could give and she was confused about his feelings. He didn't want to commit but at the same time he didn't like how Nabi was straying away from him, especially for other boys, while most of the time he stayed with her. He had feelings for her (he started to realize his own feelings when he told her "It's not like that." which is something he wouldn't have done normally) and didn't want her to go, but again, he couldn't have a serious relationship with her and let's not forget that he didn't know himself if she ever saw him as more than a friend with benefits. Once Nabi realized she’s not able to accept that type of relationship anymore she ended it and that’s what it was. Yet, Jae Eon still decided to pursue her despite everything, something he would never do before. Actually, he kept coming back to her until the end. Even though he met another girl when Nabi left, he kept thinking about her and he decided that she's the one after his discussion with his mother.

Jae Eon did his worst mistake at that one moment (when he saw Do Hyeok), in spite of Nabi's feelings. Rather than being sincere, he was swept up in emotions and acted selfishly, and Nabi felt it so she did not believe him. The lack of communication between them was still there so they just exploded in anger once again and regretted. This is the best summary I can give. Then episode 10 happened and ended everything in the most beautiful way. The ending was perfect and meaningful.

(I'll post the rest in the comments section because MDL reduced the characters limit)

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A romantic story about life beautifully told in a slow-breathed and melodic narrative.

~Everlasting love is about becoming a part of your loved one’s life.
A part of you lives inside them and stays there forever.~

"The meeting and farewell of love and breakup is similar to life, since meeting and farewell is what life is about." - PD Lee Gil Bok

~ Planning intention ~ (Source: Namu Wiki)

It is written as ‘breakup’ and read as ‘love’.
The sweet, salty, spicy, sour and bitter story of our breakup.

Fashion designers design four times a year.
Everyone wants a classic that will be remembered forever, but
Trends are consumed quickly and out-of-season clothes become a thing of the past.

Maybe the same goes for living.
Dreaming of unchanging, eternal love and repeating countless encounters and separations
But no encounter, no love, is permanent.
Eventually, the relationship runs out, the time allowed is up
Separation is a natural and inevitable part of life.
Perhaps living is a journey towards death
And the parting of the ways with those who have been with us.

But parting comes suddenly, without warning or forewarning
Leaving a lot of self-reproach and regret.
So, if you can't avoid it or postpone it
As Versace says, wear the clothes that are most like you
Live the life you want to live, not the life others want you to live.
Even if it's a failed life, even if it's a love that falls short
At least you won't have any regrets at the moment of parting.

Breaking up is not the end,
But the completion of my love, my life.

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"Now, We Are Breaking Up" is a realistic melodrama. A mix of makjang and realism in this case, to be more precise.

I loved the work scenes around the world of fashion and photography (if you want to know how the industry works, it will be very interesting for you), the elaborate outfits and elegant staging, the sublime soundtrack & cinematography, the opening, the sophisticated vibe, the character development, the dialogue, the poetic aspect throughout the drama, the different visions on the breakup (it's not just literally about two people breaking up but, much, much more), the depth of their love and how meaningful it was.

Many found it to be nothing more than bland and depressing, but I beg to differ, as I found a lot of hope in it. When I finished the drama, I also felt like I was breaking up with it, which would be rather sad but instead it left a warm feeling inside me.

Their love is very special and maybe not so easy to understand for the audience. If you only view love at surface value, full of butterflies and cheesy lines, this is not the kind of love for you. "Now, We Are Breaking Up" is a melodramatic romance while being a deep, thought-provoking and mature drama that deals with the realities of life.

Jang Ki Yong and Song Hye Kyo did an excellent job interpreting their characters and they were able to portray the nuances well. I could genuinely feel their vulnerability, though it was subtle. The depth in their portrayal was impressive. All the cast felt very convincing and natural, while at the same time having their own charm. It isn't so surprising because they played characters of their age and close to their selves, which also created a great dynamic between them.

Even the way they speaked french was so charming, and that is very rare because most of the time it is incomprehensible in other dramas (I'm french for your information). Besides, they never looked so good on screen.

The pacing is certainly slow but over time I found myself really into the story and attached to the characters. Actually, I loved the fact that everything was happening slowly. There are important life lessons about family, friendship, love, happiness, work... There are also topics such as society's expectations of women, adultery, divorce and illness, all dealt with brilliantly.

There is no doubt this drama will not please a lot of K-Drama fans, but for me it was a beautiful one. And at least, it did well enough in Korea. I shared my thoughts on the ending and other parts in the comments, so, do not read if you haven't finished it.

Thank you for reading !

Highly recommended press conference : https://youtu.be/7MPkeRirpu0 - the quote at the beginning of my review from PD Lee Gil Bok was taken from this video

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After writing a response to someone in the comments section (at first it was short lol), I had too much to say so I decided to make it a sort of second review. Read it or not, it's your choice.

They have many similarities on the outside, but Encounter is much more of a fairy tale. It's a romcom, not a melodrama. However... You could say Young Eun and Jae Guk's story is a fairy tale. Like it is said in the synopsis, "As if in a dream, Young Eun and Jae Guk find themselves falling for each other. But not all fairy tales have a happy ending. Is theirs a story that will end in heartbreak or will they manage to find their own version of happily ever after, after all?"

Other mature dramas would be hated because the leads are very flawed and thus unlikeable for most, but it wasn't the issue here. They are very mature, certainly more than most of us viewers who don't have as much life experience as them.

Many hate on the drama, the actors and their characters because they don't get it. There is a reason why they don't show a lot of emotions on the outside - especially Song Hye Kyo's character, and it doesn't mean that she's not a good actress. Unfortunately a lot of people like to hate on her for no valid reason, and NWABU was the perfect drama for them to do so - saying she's an overrated actress who doesn't know how to act, who picks romance over and over and that she took this one solely because of her divorce. Of course there wouldn't have this problem if it was a drama that's meant to please everyone. Look at The Glory. Suddenly everyone loved her again...

I follow her since I watched NWBU, and I can tell she's a wonderful person, other than being a great actress. Thanks to this drama, she found a new family after taking a break for 2 years (she divorced Song Joong Ki in June 2019 after almost 2 years of being married), and by that I mean that the bond between her and the rest of the cast is precious. Not to mention that as Jang Ki Yong was turning 30 and Kyo 40, it was another reason for them to pick this project.

Each role and drama of hers is different, yet it is true that she took the romance drama again. However, there's a reason why she took on this role, she's a mature person as well as an experienced actress and she took it because she thought it was a script worth doing. I believe that this drama was perfect for her to start anew. Why? Because this is exactly what NWABU is about. Both in her career and in her emotional life. This way, you will understand the ending. The storyline is pretty much the surface of the drama.

"Someone will accuse me of taking the romance drama again, but I don’t feel any regret after shooting it. No matter what others say, I’m glad that I chose the drama "Now, We Are Breaking Up" at this point in my life." (Hye Kyo's words)

On the other hand, Ki Yong's character is more expressive. His acting was kept realistic and nuanced for his mature role. He's younger, without as much experience, and there's obviously always room for improvement (even for Hye Kyo, a real actor never stops growing), but his performance was objectively good, as he really worked hard on it, tried his best to BE Yoon Jae Guk, and made me feel that he was Yoon Jae Guk, just like Hye Kyo made me feel she was Ha Young Eun. I cannot imagine anyone else than them for the characters. Hye Kyo said herself that she felt how much he felt like Jae Guk himself in the press conference and how surprised she was (and vice-versa actually, Ki Yong said that he was surprised at how Hye Kyo was able to become Young Eun in the fraction of a second), and coming from an experienced actress like her, it says a lot.

Believe me or not, I loved watching Young Eun and Jae Guk. People are so accustomed to watching characters with strong expressive/emotional reactions in dramas, that as soon as it's too subtle and withdrawn, they call it bad acting. What I saw was nothing but believable adults. No matter what people say, such complicated emotions are not easy to act out.

Then again it's subjective, we have our own preferences, but that comes down more to the characters themselves, or the actors (yes, there are some actors I don't like to watch *personally* and not because they're bad, just like there are characters I didn't like watching). For me both of their portrayal was solid and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The targeted audience would be adults in their thirties and above. I am far from it, so that's not only about age but also about the kind of stories we like to watch, though this won't be the cup of tea of most in their twenties or less. Nonetheless, I also think that it's one of these dramas where young people can learn from. It can even be quite healing, depending on people.

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Sincere, relevant, unforgettable and ahead of its time.

This is more gonna be a warning rather than a review.

The Interest of Love is for people who are into psychology and sociology, melos and slow burns. This is not a conventional romance but a romance depicting modern korean society. Besides, the genre is noir, so don't be too surprised. This is the opposite of what you could call "dreamy escape" from the K-Dramas people love and are accustomed to. If you want to learn about the society and adult relationships in Korea, look no further. Although the setting is Korean, many adults around the world could relate to this story, at least to some extent. In fact, The Interest of Love is the adaptation of a critically-acclaimed novel in Korea, named "Understanding Love" which is the drama's korean title. The adaptation was also acclaimed by critics and recognized as one of the best K-Dramas of 2022 by industry experts. Of course, if you think that you know better than them, that's up to you. The novel ends at episode 12 (which wouldn't have been adapted to the TV series... you'll know why when you'll see how the episode ends), and the rest was penned by the screenwriter. As for the ending, it was appropriate.

Mantra by everyone who signed up for The Interest of Love’s chaos: “Everyone is flawed. I'm gonna sit and watch.”

Get it or not, The Interest of Love is a masterclass in directing, acting and writing. The storytelling and attention to detail are really clever, and the mundane beauty of this drama is something that no other can match.

Overall, a very unusual and philosophical show with a unique setting.

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Through its different approach to love, Love Alarm also denounces the excesses of technology.

~ This review covers both seasons ~

There are plenty of spoilers ahead, but if you want to avoid most of them, feel free to skip to the conclusion in the comments. Thanks in advance for reading! (and sorry for the insane length)

P.S: I want to clarify that I do not hate Sun Oh (not that my username is related to him). I actually appreciate his character a lot, he's definitely interesting and saying that I didn't feel anything for him would be a lie.

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This conclusion is perfect because it's healthy and realistic. That Jojo should end up with Sun Oh was inconceivable, she loved Hye Yeong, not him. Sun Oh found happiness on his own and moved on, such is life. He wasn't the person Jojo needed, and vice versa.

From the beginning of the story, Sun Oh's character didn't come across as a very nice guy, but he's also somewhat pitiful. Is he a monster? No. He actually has a pure heart but that doesn't change his immaturity which turns into toxicity for the people around him. Yes, we can see that he starts to have genuine feelings for Jojo, but what he did was distasteful nonetheless. In fact, the story and the characters aren't so simple (despite seemingly clichéd?) and that's obvious from the first episode. What I loved most at the beginning was how they actually showed a situation involving gay people. I especially appreciated how Hye Yeong handled that situation wisely (the fact that the closeted guy had feelings for him ahahah love this) and then later on fought back for his best friend no matter what. It made me fall completely in love with his character and Jung Ga Ram himself.

On the whole, the drama focused more on the psychology of the main characters and I love this kind of romance, the transition from high schoolers to young adults really makes the difference with Season 1, the tone changes (highlighting the contrast), you can feel the characters coming of age and the fact that we've followed them through several periods of their lives gives way to a nostalgic feeling, the music etc. also plays a big part.

I loved everything : the cinematography, the sets, the styling of the characters, the acting, the writing, the music, the sci-fi aspect, the fact that so many things are represented in the form of drawings (even animated ones) and the whole thing around Jojo's drawings and their meanings.

More about the drama makes it relevant. The complex family relationships, individual struggles and so on. Take Gul Mi's storyline, for instance—believe it or not, I grew to like her in Season 2. Referring to the collective suicide we saw at the end of Episode 5 in Season 1, the drama also shows people using Love Alarm as a scapegoat to justify their choices. We even see disturbing elements like pedophilia and obsession—such as the case with Jojo and how one deranged individual fixates on her drawings, sparked by nothing more than a trivial coincidence.

In Season 1, I recall a conversation between the teachers that struck a chord—Love Alarm itself wasn’t the cause of societal problems, but medias disguised it as that. And when you reflect on it, Love Alarm 1.0 has both advantages and flaws, much like any cutting-edge technology we encounter today, which always sparks protests—just as it does in the drama. I think the collective suicide is talked again in Season 1 or 2, I don't remember by who exactly and what they said, but it was similar to what I'm saying.

Some viewers blame Jojo for kissing Sun Oh in the beginning. She was on bad terms with Il Sik and eventually she was able to breathe thanks to Sun Oh. It's true that he was forcing, but she ended up accepting the kiss. They were where no one could see them (well, obviously it's a drama, so it doesn't go as planned), and she was tempted. When we know that many adults (men and women) have already cheated in their lives, it's not a teenager who lets herself go with this kind of context that shocks. One can argue it was wrong, but what about Il Sik? And Sun Oh? That’s where the complexity lies. Like so much else in the story, it’s not black and white—it’s human. This isn’t a story about perfect people.

Jojo didn’t initiate her relationship with Sun Oh. He pushed for it, despite knowing she had a boyfriend—something he learned from his best friend, Hye Yeong, who also had feelings for her. Sun Oh knew all of this, yet still chose to pursue her. And they dated for what, two weeks if we remove the time after the accident?

After the breakup, four years passed before Jojo met Hye Yeong. At first, she was emotionally distant, but his persistent efforts eventually paid off, and she gradually began to open up to him.

What can we expect from a character whose childhood was so painful, whose youth was full of struggles, a traumatized teenager with burdens so heavy to bear? Yes, you could say she acts in an annoying and selfish way, however, unless you are biased because of Song Kang and that you have a superficial view of the drama and her character, you will feel nothing but empathy. Don't even make me start on the impact that such an event can have on someone. Survivor's guilt, yes, but it was her parents who tried to kill themselves with her.

Again, I want to emphasize the fact that she needed to do what she did. Please read this post : https://www.tumblr.com/lucymontero/646944171870109696/love-alarm-lovestruck-in-the-city-and-a-womans - It's not long and I love what she said. It fits into my review but I'm not gonna copy it all directly.

Sun Oh's behavior can be explained because of his family situation, right, I do get that. But if you think it's all Jojo's fault or that what Sun Oh did at the beginning is right but what happened afterwards isn't, I don't know what to say.

Conversely, Hye Yeong is portrayed as a loyal and kind-hearted individual, yet he may also yearn for his own independence and quietly struggle with the weight of his connection to Sun Oh's family. Then slowly, we learn even more about him and his family. I immediately connected with him because of his personality, and I found myself deeply relating to his experience, as I too have had my life negatively impacted by my father.

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What Deuk Gu says to Hye Yeong, "It was Jojo's will to use the shield and spear. Without it, she would never have gone out with you. It was because of the shield that she broke up with Sun Oh and you appeared on the list of people she could love. The shield being a variable, Jojo's will intervened, and you became a potential love interest. She wanted to ring your Love Alarm, even if it meant using the spear. She was willing to go that far to express her feelings for you. If that's not being sincere, what is?" This sums it up perfectly.

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Another thing about the end that I love is that Jojo still doesn't ring Hye Yeong's Love Alarm without the spear and she still has the shield, but they know their love is sincere and it was really beautiful when they confessed their feelings out loud. It reminded me of when Hye Yeong was courting Jojo the traditional way without relying to Love Alarm, and the fact that he wanted to build his relationship with her bit by bit was great. Of course, there's that final scene where we see the key moments when Jojo rang Hye Yeong's Love Alarm, they left before it started working but anyway, it was obvious. Nonetheless, it was perfect as a conclusion, for us viewers.

Fun fact: Okay everyone noticed it but I appreciate how "Love Alarm" in Korean is said "Joalarm" which obviously refers to Jojo, and clearly, her role is important in the actual story surrounding the app.

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I transcribed two other dialogues that are important :

(the discussion between the two brothers) - Five years ago, I told you that we shouldn't release 2.0. - You don't realize that the Love Alarm you created makes people feel lonelier. Version 2.0 was created for those lonely people. If they'd known that lots of people would love them, there wouldn't have been any mass suicides, 23 lives would have been spared. - Is that really what you think? People only go out with the app's recommendations. Just like we only read articles from our search portal. Just as we only watch movies recommended by the algorithm. - What's wrong with that? - It eliminates countless possibilities. If there's an error in the suggestions, version 2.0 prevents love from being born. - An error? How are you going to prove it? - Kim Jojo. When she installed the shield, the person she loved changed. - Programming bug. - It wasn't a bug. It was Jojo's will. With the introduction of synchronization and willpower, this little mistake changed her life. Do you understand now?

(Deuk Gu talking to Jojo) "It was obvious you liked Hye Yeong. Do you know why you hesitated so much? You've never seen his Love Alarm ring. That's why. Even though you knew it was because of the shield, you doubted your feelings, because his Love Alarm had never gone off. That's why I wanted to stop the new function. People have become too dependent on technology."

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Going back.

Season 1 Episode 5 analysis (accident scene) : Exactly as shown with the narration and the cinematography, it was like a dream of happiness for her. She ignored and escaped reality thanks to Sun Oh. During the trip to Jeju, her trauma was already triggered once, but the accident heavily triggered it as it involved Sun Oh (who became really important for her—so no she didn't "not consider his feelings", it's not that simple). The call from the hospital where is her grandmother, the memories from her childhood if we can even call it that, her memories with Sun Oh, the flashback of Gul Mi threatening her... It was a build-up of different factors until she had to take a decision. She lost her friends, people judged her, she became the center of attention, and because Gul Mi knows her too well, it was also easy for her to use all the guilt that she tried so hard to hide deep inside. Then as if it wasn't enough, Sun Oh was locked up by his family because of her (that being the final trigger, the last straw), and she was also aware of Hye Yeong's feelings. Also, like, you're telling me that's the normal life of a high-schooler? I'm not doing a recap but in case anyone forgot, this person explained it all in her review : https://mydramalist.com/profile/9262161/review/150547 - I really like how she ended the Jojo paragraph with "Because she doesn't want any help from anybody, BECAUSE she feels and will feel small. And that's actually one of the reason why she was burdened on being in a relationship with Sun-oh and finally installed the shield." And yes, it's also true that their final year of high school was coming.

On a side note, it is known that people can live with the memories of their childhood, but for the people who don't have anything happy to remember, they live their lives trying to heal these scars (I mean Jojo has some good memories with her grandma, but...it's still way too sad, her grandma had to fall ill and then all this?). It's not easy for them to be happy and live a normal life.

Because it still wasn't enough, she literally became someone's target.

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More observations : At the end of the first episode in season 1, Jojo's narration says "If I had Love Alarm on me, would it have rung? No. They would have both remained silent. Because the desire for a kiss preceded love." It really shows the difference in the building of relationships. At the end, Sun Oh and Yuk Jo are ready to build a healthy and mature relationship together, just like what Jojo and Hye Yeong did, with Jojo eventually developping feelings for him. Love Alarm is not everything, so it shouldn't control them. Their reaction when it didn't ring showed exactly that. Just like Hye Yeong and Jojo leaving before the app's confirmation. Whether Love Alarm rings or not is not the question, what matters in the end is YOU and not the program. Love Alarm doesn't guarantee your happiness. It works when you have a crush and when you are in love, but not for the process of falling in love. We are not so simple. This is why 2.0 was really bad, but honestly, I even wonder if 1.0 would really last. Some will say the ending between Yuk Jo and Sun Oh was forced, but for me it would have been forced only if Sun Oh made Yuk Jo's Love Alarm ring. I liked how he went at her home everyday...it was great. Genuine effort matters, even small moves. Hye Yeong proved that already. And yes, it made sense, it wasn't random either. I could feel the growth in his character and his sincerity so the app was irrelevant.

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Additionally, I feel the need to share my thoughts on the portrayal of love and relationships in the drama :

Not all relationships are rooted in passionate love, and intense emotions don’t always lead to healthy relationships. Love Alarm touches on this idea by showing that true connection goes beyond initial attraction or infatuation. It explores how relationships require more than just strong feelings to be stable and healthy, emphasizing the importance of understanding, respect, and emotional compatibility. Passion can fade or become problematic if not supported by a deeper, more meaningful bond.

Learning to love someone romantically is a complex, evolving process that involves understanding, patience, and emotional growth. While romantic love can begin with intense feelings of attraction or infatuation, true love often deepens over time as you get to know the other person on a more intimate and vulnerable level.

To "learn" to love someone is to recognize that love isn't just about fleeting emotions; it involves a conscious decision to commit, care, and nurture a connection. It includes appreciating the other person's individuality, respecting their needs and boundaries, and supporting their personal growth. You learn to love not just their best qualities but also their imperfections, accepting them as a whole person.

This process also requires self-awareness and the ability to reflect on your own emotional needs and limitations. It challenges you to be open to vulnerability, to communicate openly, and to resolve conflicts in a healthy way. In this way, love can grow into something deeply meaningful and enduring, rooted in trust and mutual respect.

Ultimately, romantic love is a journey rather than a fixed state, and learning to love someone is about embracing that ongoing process.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Unfortunately, MDL reduced the character limit, and this review is so long that I now have to add the rest in the comments. (aside from the conclusion)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Conclusion under

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Bonus links that I recommend to save :

- https://www.mentmagazine.com/issue001/sensus
- https://mydramalist.com/profile/imanirine/review/155009
- https://mydramalist.com/profile/Claraamorim/review/133999
- https://www.tumblr.com/lucymontero/646944171870109696/love-alarm-lovestruck-in-the-city-and-a-womans (in case you haven't read it when mentioned in the review)

Read More

A fresh and thrilling tale against demons.

To start with, the music (both modern and traditional, just like the drama itself), the costumes, the special effects and the fights, the landscapes and settings (the snowy territories especially, what a pleasure), the demons, I loved it. It was very similar to an anime but as a drama.

Speaking of the special effects, I was expecting anything but this, especially in view of the criticisms of this aspect? It looks even better than in the trailer. It's quality and I've clearly seen worse, forced criticism as usual... The fights were also superbly filmed and choreographed. Obviously, this isn't a drama with huge production value either, but I was fascinated most of the time. Xu Kai is way too cool and his mastery of the spear is impeccable, I can't even imagine how much he had to train.

The story isn't original, yet it's pure pleasure (and I've never seen that in a drama, so it's even cooler), it's always dynamic and I've never been bored. It's typically the kind of story I used to enjoy when I was younger, and frankly, it's refreshing. Some people thought it was cringe-worthy while it's just epic, too bad for them lol.

The drama delicately alternates between sweet moments, drama, action... The story developped very well and was very captivating to my taste. As you can imagine, the theme of evil demons versus good humans and the hero becoming all-powerful is far from complex. Nevertheless, I'm glad the drama brought a modicum of nuance. In addition, I loved the diversity of the characters.

Side notes:
- Overall it is not a drama high in emotions with amazing relationships and character development. It is pretty simple in every aspect. Indeed, it is far from an intelligent drama for a mature audience. Still a great and fun drama because it did what it was supposed to do perfectly.

To the people who claim the romance is bad: Tension is not the only form of chemistry, romance doesn't have to be intense. Sometimes romance is a sweet and subtle thing that can be built upon. I even found it beautiful.

If everything about Snow Eagle Lord gets you hooked from the first episodes just like me, and not only Xu Kai, you will have a lot of fun and be able to enjoy the ride. Besides, we never really see him less as some people states here, maybe for a few little parts but it wasn't for no reason. He is, however, the character we see the most, and certainly the most important. Yes, there are a lot of characters. Unfortunately those people are forcing themselves to watch it for him and are not into the drama.

Thanks for reading !

Read More

Surrealistic Brilliance: Pure Chaos Orchestrated from the Start—Crazier, Wilder & Braver Than Ever

~ This review covers both seasons ~

Season 1 (War for Survival) : ~ Hell came on the day the rain of lies fell ~
Season 2 (Resurrection) : ~ Born again from lies ~

(Posters translation)

First things first, it has to be your kind of crazy, so that you can embrace it all. It's basically the definition of excessive art, as it presents drama in its purest form. Therefore the drama introduces viewers to a world where logic takes a backseat to spectacle. Epic, endlessly and effectively pushing boundaries to a new level where anything is possible, making the immersion simply divine. Outlandish, exaggerated and absurd, yet meticulously crafted in style and tone, perfectly serving the narrative. One thing's for sure, you will either find the drama fascinating, impressive and imaginative or simply unwatchable.

Another thing I deeply appreciate is the diversity of the characters.

Inspirational References (Official):

Dante's Divine Comedy: From the very first episode, the drama evokes the atmosphere of Dante's work, especially with its theme of a 'bloody revenge resembling divine punishment.' This connection is fundamental to the premise of the story.

The Count of Monte Cristo: The drama draws from this classic work, adopting the framework of a modern picaresque narrative.

The Avengers / Marvel / The Boys: Lee Joon once mentioned that the drama felt like a comic book, and I completely agree. There's a distinct sense of a vast, interconnected universe, much like the Marvel or The Boys franchises. If you look at dramas like Penthouse and The Last Empress, you can feel that same grand, epic scale. The mention of Marvel within the drama itself only adds to the sense of it being larger-than-life. While I didn’t see this explicitly noted on Namu Wiki (perhaps I missed it), there's no doubt that the parallels with The Boys and The Avengers were intentional. If you're familiar with The Boys, you’ll immediately recognize the comparison, especially when considering ‘The Seven’. (You can explore this further in this article: https://www.cbr.com/the-seven-vs-avengers). The playful self-awareness and creativity in the drama are palpable. Thor, perhaps, could even be considered a hidden main character.

On a side note, the number "Seven" could be an allusion to the Seven Deadly Sins, tying in with the larger thematic elements of sin and retribution.

More potential references are incorporated into the work, enriching it with even more layers.

The initial concept of the drama centers around seven villains, whose fates are intertwined in a cycle of condemnation. Their lives become dramatically entangled with that of a girl, whose life turns into a living nightmare before she disappears from the world. Bound together by life—or rather by death—the journey of the Seven begins.

To top it off, you even get to witness a real-life battle royale. Talk about greatness. In fact, it is even greater as it offers such a fresh and unique experience that completely blurs reality and our own vision along with that of the characters.

The first episode alone is enough to determine if this drama is for you. While Penthouse may appeal to many, 7 Escape is on an entirely different level. The plot is raw, brutal, and ruthless, offering an intensity that I found utterly gripping. The drama dives deep into themes of survival and psychological extremes, making it an exhilarating experience.

In terms of social status and backgrounds, 7 Escape is already different. The characters aren't meant to be rich like in Penthouse, and it's not the same kind of very classy drama. Look at the posters, compare this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/eYlLlY_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/p3ZzD_3) and this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/QJdAJ2_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/ENb8O_4). It's obvious right? You can also click on my profile, I have all posters displayed.

Anyway, I want to clarify that your opinion of Penthouse doesn't necessarily matter. I had a hard time getting into the latter, but this one immediately had me hooked. There is also my friend who watched 7 Escape with me who didn't make it past the fifth episode of Penthouse, but I knew he would love this one.

Advices: Always watch the intro, the end-of-episode visuals accompanied by the music and the closing logo, and the credits at the end of each season. The only thing you can skip is the preview for the next episode. In addition, I’ll share some links in the comments. A cool detail to note: the logo features a dual design, with one side displaying the title of the first season and the other side showing the title of the second season. I discovered this neat touch in a video, the link is included. Also, don’t miss the bonus scenes in Season 2. (They do not appear after the previews, of course.)

Do I need to talk about the biblical and mythological references in S2's opening? Simply insane.

Regarding the soundtrack, it's a brilliant blend of classical and modern music—much like the drama itself—which makes it easily my favorite OST album.

The introduction presents a very intriguing foreshadowing, followed by an incredibly fast-paced, event-packed, and dramatic narrative that embraces the chaotic nature of its own creation along with every aspect of the production. The way the characters are introduced is already one hell of an experience. In fact, the entire journey is so cinematic and immersive that you'll want to be prepared for it. At least for me, it was ecstatic. It’s the definition of incredible, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

The sets and costumes also deserve commendation, as they splendidly reflect the drama's grandeur and extravagance. It is interesting to note that the drama has an impressive world-building, too.

One point worth mentioning is how it differs from its predecessors, Penthouse and The Last Empress. While both adopted a huit-clos-like setting, 7 Escape moves beyond that, yet still maintains the same oppressive atmosphere. Additionally, the drama sets itself apart with its distinctive twists and turns as well as its characterization of the protagonists. I’d say that, of the three, this one stands out as the most distinct and serves as a magnificent conclusion to the trilogy.

If the Seven aren't your cup of tea, you will most likely not enjoy the drama, or not to its full extent at least. The drama has such a strong aura, but you either savour it or hate it.

Kim Soon Ok has become the screenwriter I respect the most, and I wish I could thank her in person. Extremely creative she is, even the most creative, but also extremely sensible and spiritual. I could tell by the script that she's a really fun and witty individual more than I could in Penthouse. If I were to compare the dark humor and comic relief characters in both dramas, my preference would strongly lean towards 7 Escape—as it does with everything else. I don't have anything against Penthouse though, I also think it's a masterpiece.

Be warned, Season 2 is more serious and less fun than Season 1—I was in tears. Yet, that's what makes it so refreshing, and it feels like a natural progression given the ending of Season 1. The new season adopts a more somber tone, contrasting with the first, while introducing different vibes, new dynamics, a new main character, and plenty of cool scenes to explore. Naturally, with a poster like that—hands down the best ever made (after the ones for S1)—the aesthetic is bound to be top-notch, on top of everything else.

I'm not great at explaining technical details, but you'll definitely notice a difference in the writing, screenplay, cinematography, and sound design. Pay attention to how everything, including the characters, has evolved. Season 1 is vibrant, colorful, and flashy, while Season 2 is mystical, vivid, and visually stunning in its own way. Overall, it creates a cold and mysterious atmosphere.

Theatrical, chaotic yet intelligent, psychotic and toxic, twisted—dynamic, modern, and even futuristic with a dystopian edge. It's relevant, meaningful, complex, and unconventional, offering limitless, provocative, and unpredictable elements. The production, the writing, the acting, it's absolutely mind-blowing. I barely could handle so much goodness from the start. There's just so much passion put into this rollercoaster. Expect the beginning to be particularly chaotic, there are a lot of characters and storylines. Besides, the out-of-the-box storytelling (like the premise) only made me fall in love more with the drama.

The story is so huge and complicated, I don't know how Kim Soon Ok wrote that but she did anyway. The pacing is also terrific. All I can say is genius. Even more so because managing to write the most inhumane and humane, soulless and soulful, hopeless and hopeful plot all at the same time is certainly something to achieve. Hence, while it may be the ultimate escape from reality, it also brings you back to it in the most powerful and impactful way, and that's where all its beauty lies. Indeed, if there is one thing that's realistic, it is the overall psychological aspect, as well as other themes, even with the over-the-top nature of the piece.

Maybe you need to be unhinged and sadistic to truly and fully enjoy this... I mean, I do feel bad for fictional characters, but here it's not the same and I can only say that I had a blast. I loved these villains from the start and the first episodes were already a delight to watch.

As entertainment, it definitely serves, but it is so much more. Like my favorite reviewer said, if you are not afraid of diving into the abysm of the human species, 7 Escape is right here for you. Moreover, in a world where the truth is increasingly an abstract concept, the drama does an excellent job at conveying that.

For its innovation, originality, and boldness, along with its clear passion for art and creativity, 7 Escape proves itself as a thoughtful, transcendent work that goes beyond realism or mere entertainment. It is truly interesting in a way that has never been done before and won't be able to be recreated in the future. If you expected a simple thriller, you will be proven wrong. I see it as a true tribute to artistic freedom and expression.

Overall, it has some of the coolest concepts I have ever seen, and I am personally in love with the execution. Everything seemed to be designed for me including the characters and that's why this drama is now my all-time favorite and a dream come true. I was not that shocked at the madness because this is what I wanted and always dreamed of, I was more like shocked at how good it was because it kept exceeding my expectations. Sincerely the best gift that I could've had.

7 Escape is, in conclusion, Korean dramaturgy in all its glory. I'm sorry if you don't feel the same way as I do towards it, but if you enjoy it that's enough for me. And if you love it, almost or as much as I do, I'd be the happiest.

Before finishing, I would like to say that in terms of content, it is the richest drama ever made. From the themes of justice, technology, societal decay, revenge, to so much more.

Final words: In the end, can you escape your sins?

Thank you for reading!

Read More

Surrealistic Brilliance: Pure Chaos Orchestrated from the Start—Crazier, Wilder & Braver Than Ever

~ This review covers both seasons ~

Season 1 (War for Survival) : ~ Hell came on the day the rain of lies fell ~
Season 2 (Resurrection) : ~ Born again from lies ~

(Posters translation)

First things first, it has to be your kind of crazy, so that you can embrace it all. It's basically the definition of excessive art, as it presents drama in its purest form. Therefore the drama introduces viewers to a world where logic takes a backseat to spectacle. Epic, endlessly and effectively pushing boundaries to a new level where anything is possible, making the immersion simply divine. Outlandish, exaggerated and absurd, yet meticulously crafted in style and tone, perfectly serving the narrative. One thing's for sure, you will either find the drama fascinating, impressive and imaginative or simply unwatchable.

Another thing I deeply appreciate is the diversity of the characters.

Inspirational References (Official):

Dante's Divine Comedy: From the very first episode, the drama evokes the atmosphere of Dante's work, especially with its theme of a 'bloody revenge resembling divine punishment.' This connection is fundamental to the premise of the story.

The Count of Monte Cristo: The drama draws from this classic work, adopting the framework of a modern picaresque narrative.

The Avengers / Marvel / The Boys: Lee Joon once mentioned that the drama felt like a comic book, and I completely agree. There's a distinct sense of a vast, interconnected universe, much like the Marvel or The Boys franchises. If you look at dramas like Penthouse and The Last Empress, you can feel that same grand, epic scale. The mention of Marvel within the drama itself only adds to the sense of it being larger-than-life. While I didn’t see this explicitly noted on Namu Wiki (perhaps I missed it), there's no doubt that the parallels with The Boys and The Avengers were intentional. If you're familiar with The Boys, you’ll immediately recognize the comparison, especially when considering ‘The Seven’. (You can explore this further in this article: https://www.cbr.com/the-seven-vs-avengers). The playful self-awareness and creativity in the drama are palpable. Thor, perhaps, could even be considered a hidden main character.

On a side note, the number "Seven" could be an allusion to the Seven Deadly Sins, tying in with the larger thematic elements of sin and retribution.

More potential references are incorporated into the work, enriching it with even more layers.

The initial concept of the drama centers around seven villains, whose fates are intertwined in a cycle of condemnation. Their lives become dramatically entangled with that of a girl, whose life turns into a living nightmare before she disappears from the world. Bound together by life—or rather by death—the journey of the Seven begins.

To top it off, you even get to witness a real-life battle royale. Talk about greatness. In fact, it is even greater as it offers such a fresh and unique experience that completely blurs reality and our own vision along with that of the characters.

The first episode alone is enough to determine if this drama is for you. While Penthouse may appeal to many, 7 Escape is on an entirely different level. The plot is raw, brutal, and ruthless, offering an intensity that I found utterly gripping. The drama dives deep into themes of survival and psychological extremes, making it an exhilarating experience.

In terms of social status and backgrounds, 7 Escape is already different. The characters aren't meant to be rich like in Penthouse, and it's not the same kind of very classy drama. Look at the posters, compare this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/eYlLlY_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/p3ZzD_3) and this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/QJdAJ2_4) to this (https://mydramalist.com/photos/ENb8O_4). It's obvious right? You can also click on my profile, I have all posters displayed.

Anyway, I want to clarify that your opinion of Penthouse doesn't necessarily matter. I had a hard time getting into the latter, but this one immediately had me hooked. There is also my friend who watched 7 Escape with me who didn't make it past the fifth episode of Penthouse, but I knew he would love this one.

Advices: Always watch the intro, the end-of-episode visuals accompanied by the music and the closing logo, and the credits at the end of each season. The only thing you can skip is the preview for the next episode. In addition, I’ll share some links in the comments. A cool detail to note: the logo features a dual design, with one side displaying the title of the first season and the other side showing the title of the second season. I discovered this neat touch in a video, the link is included. Also, don’t miss the bonus scenes in Season 2. (They do not appear after the previews, of course.)

Do I need to talk about the biblical and mythological references in S2's opening? Simply insane.

Regarding the soundtrack, it's a brilliant blend of classical and modern music—much like the drama itself—which makes it easily my favorite OST album.

The introduction presents a very intriguing foreshadowing, followed by an incredibly fast-paced, event-packed, and dramatic narrative that embraces the chaotic nature of its own creation along with every aspect of the production. The way the characters are introduced is already one hell of an experience. In fact, the entire journey is so cinematic and immersive that you'll want to be prepared for it. At least for me, it was ecstatic. It’s the definition of incredible, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

The sets and costumes also deserve commendation, as they splendidly reflect the drama's grandeur and extravagance. It is interesting to note that the drama has an impressive world-building, too.

One point worth mentioning is how it differs from its predecessors, Penthouse and The Last Empress. While both adopted a huit-clos-like setting, 7 Escape moves beyond that, yet still maintains the same oppressive atmosphere. Additionally, the drama sets itself apart with its distinctive twists and turns as well as its characterization of the protagonists. I’d say that, of the three, this one stands out as the most distinct and serves as a magnificent conclusion to the trilogy.

If the Seven aren't your cup of tea, you will most likely not enjoy the drama, or not to its full extent at least. The drama has such a strong aura, but you either savour it or hate it.

Kim Soon Ok has become the screenwriter I respect the most, and I wish I could thank her in person. Extremely creative she is, even the most creative, but also extremely sensible and spiritual. I could tell by the script that she's a really fun and witty individual more than I could in Penthouse. If I were to compare the dark humor and comic relief characters in both dramas, my preference would strongly lean towards 7 Escape—as it does with everything else. I don't have anything against Penthouse though, I also think it's a masterpiece.

Be warned, Season 2 is more serious and less fun than Season 1—I was in tears. Yet, that's what makes it so refreshing, and it feels like a natural progression given the ending of Season 1. The new season adopts a more somber tone, contrasting with the first, while introducing different vibes, new dynamics, a new main character, and plenty of cool scenes to explore. Naturally, with a poster like that—hands down the best ever made (after the ones for S1)—the aesthetic is bound to be top-notch, on top of everything else.

I'm not great at explaining technical details, but you'll definitely notice a difference in the writing, screenplay, cinematography, and sound design. Pay attention to how everything, including the characters, has evolved. Season 1 is vibrant, colorful, and flashy, while Season 2 is mystical, vivid, and visually stunning in its own way. Overall, it creates a cold and mysterious atmosphere.

Theatrical, chaotic yet intelligent, psychotic and toxic, twisted—dynamic, modern, and even futuristic with a dystopian edge. It's relevant, meaningful, complex, and unconventional, offering limitless, provocative, and unpredictable elements. The production, the writing, the acting, it's absolutely mind-blowing. I barely could handle so much goodness from the start. There's just so much passion put into this rollercoaster. Expect the beginning to be particularly chaotic, there are a lot of characters and storylines. Besides, the out-of-the-box storytelling (like the premise) only made me fall in love more with the drama.

The story is so huge and complicated, I don't know how Kim Soon Ok wrote that but she did anyway. The pacing is also terrific. All I can say is genius. Even more so because managing to write the most inhumane and humane, soulless and soulful, hopeless and hopeful plot all at the same time is certainly something to achieve. Hence, while it may be the ultimate escape from reality, it also brings you back to it in the most powerful and impactful way, and that's where all its beauty lies. Indeed, if there is one thing that's realistic, it is the overall psychological aspect, as well as other themes, even with the over-the-top nature of the piece.

Maybe you need to be unhinged and sadistic to truly and fully enjoy this... I mean, I do feel bad for fictional characters, but here it's not the same and I can only say that I had a blast. I loved these villains from the start and the first episodes were already a delight to watch.

As entertainment, it definitely serves, but it is so much more. Like my favorite reviewer said, if you are not afraid of diving into the abysm of the human species, 7 Escape is right here for you. Moreover, in a world where the truth is increasingly an abstract concept, the drama does an excellent job at conveying that.

For its innovation, originality, and boldness, along with its clear passion for art and creativity, 7 Escape proves itself as a thoughtful, transcendent work that goes beyond realism or mere entertainment. It is truly interesting in a way that has never been done before and won't be able to be recreated in the future. If you expected a simple thriller, you will be proven wrong. I see it as a true tribute to artistic freedom and expression.

Overall, it has some of the coolest concepts I have ever seen, and I am personally in love with the execution. Everything seemed to be designed for me including the characters and that's why this drama is now my all-time favorite and a dream come true. I was not that shocked at the madness because this is what I wanted and always dreamed of, I was more like shocked at how good it was because it kept exceeding my expectations. Sincerely the best gift that I could've had.

7 Escape is, in conclusion, Korean dramaturgy in all its glory. I'm sorry if you don't feel the same way as I do towards it, but if you enjoy it that's enough for me. And if you love it, almost or as much as I do, I'd be the happiest.

Before finishing, I would like to say that in terms of content, it is the richest drama ever made. From the themes of justice, technology, societal decay, revenge, to so much more.

Final words: In the end, can you escape your sins?

Thank you for reading!

Read More

Underdog story as an old-fashioned melodrama in the cutthroat world of fashion.

The main characters are pathetic—that you need to know first. If you're drawn to easily likable characters you can root for, this might not be the right choice. The lack of communication didn't annoy me as much as I expected, and overall, the drama was pretty easy to handle. Personally, I had a lot of fun with it (not that it was always a good mood), but your experience may vary.

From the start, it was obvious this was a melodrama—mixing picaresque, noir, comedy, dark humor, makjang, and romance (not your typical love square). The drama carries a sly, cunning flow that won’t appeal to everyone. While some may find it frustrating, I found it really entertaining overall. Then some people say it's a mess, but isn't it the point? Anyway, I also enjoyed how theatrical it was.

The beginning is straightforward, setting the tone perfectly. The story may drag at times, but if you're invested or ready to fully grasp its depth, you'll see why. Character development is key in this drama. At times, looking back, I found myself impressed—especially by the end.

Hands down, one of the best OSTs: a mix of old-school techno, classical music with a Spanish swing, and great songs.

The cinematography is surprisingly thoughtful. At first, the saturated colors sharply contrast the bright, beautiful world of the rich. However, as the narrative unfolds, the colors gradually soften, mirroring the drama's evolving tone.

All in all, loved the overall vibe—both fitting for its time and uniquely distinct. It remained firm and snob.

Shin Se Kyung is well-praised in Korea, though she has her share of critics here. Personally, I find her acting natural and sophisticated. While you don’t have to love her or her roles/dramas, she’s admired for her personality, intelligence, beauty, and subtle delivery. Her tone, nuanced expressions, and command of the Korean language are often deemed perfect. In fact, she’s even considered a Sageuk queen due to her voice and expertise in the genre. She's my second favorite actress, and I really appreciate how she sensibly portrays her characters in such a genuine way.

Kwon Yuri, as an idol making her acting debut, did a commendable job as the classy Choi Anna. I respect idols who venture into acting, and while her role may not have been the most challenging, she performed well. Some criticize her for a monotone, repetitive demeanor, but I found it fitting for the character she portrayed.

Unsurprisingly, Yoo Ah In and Lee Je Hoon faced no criticism. I think the casting was perfect for this drama. About the fashion, I also really appreciated how each of them were dressed, following closely the narrative once again.

Don't go into this drama expecting to cry your eyes out—you won't. I don’t think it’s meant to evoke that level of emotion. Maybe I teared up and shed a few tears, but to be honest, that’s coming from someone who cries easily when watching shows.

At its core, the real struggle is mostly between the men.

In the end, Fashion King presents an unconventional story about humanity and society, ultimately conveying the hopelessness of class conflict and what capitalism can do to a person.

Reality, as we all know, can be even stranger and more wicked—more unfair—than the cruel and ugly scenarios depicted in the drama. Clearly, the fashion industry isn't an exception where everything has to be pretty. The conflict builds like a crescendo, intensifying until it reaches a boiling point.

Be sure to check out my comment under the review, where I dive into the ending.

Version of the opening that was not where I watched it : https://youtu.be/5GDVpO1bWoM - I also uploaded the one from Viki.

Teaser : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtNDnfaM8TA (If you're looking for a teaser with actual content from the drama, MDL has a high-quality one, but I haven't been able to find it anywhere else in the same quality.)

Thank you for reading !

Read More

Through its different approach to love, Love Alarm also denounces the excesses of technology.

~ This review covers both seasons ~

There are plenty of spoilers ahead, but if you want to avoid most of them, feel free to skip to the conclusion in the comments. Thanks in advance for reading! (and sorry for the insane length)

P.S: I want to clarify that I do not hate Sun Oh (not that my username is related to him). I actually appreciate his character a lot, he's definitely interesting and saying that I didn't feel anything for him would be a lie.

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This conclusion is perfect because it's healthy and realistic. That Jojo should end up with Sun Oh was inconceivable, she loved Hye Yeong, not him. Sun Oh found happiness on his own and moved on, such is life. He wasn't the person Jojo needed, and vice versa.

From the beginning of the story, Sun Oh's character didn't come across as a very nice guy, but he's also somewhat pitiful. Is he a monster? No. He actually has a pure heart but that doesn't change his immaturity which turns into toxicity for the people around him. Yes, we can see that he starts to have genuine feelings for Jojo, but what he did was distasteful nonetheless. In fact, the story and the characters aren't so simple (despite seemingly clichéd?) and that's obvious from the first episode. What I loved most at the beginning was how they actually showed a situation involving gay people. I especially appreciated how Hye Yeong handled that situation wisely (the fact that the closeted guy had feelings for him ahahah love this) and then later on fought back for his best friend no matter what. It made me fall completely in love with his character and Jung Ga Ram himself.

On the whole, the drama focused more on the psychology of the main characters and I love this kind of romance, the transition from high schoolers to young adults really makes the difference with Season 1, the tone changes (highlighting the contrast), you can feel the characters coming of age and the fact that we've followed them through several periods of their lives gives way to a nostalgic feeling, the music etc. also plays a big part.

I loved everything : the cinematography, the sets, the styling of the characters, the acting, the writing, the music, the sci-fi aspect, the fact that so many things are represented in the form of drawings (even animated ones) and the whole thing around Jojo's drawings and their meanings.

More about the drama makes it relevant. The complex family relationships, individual struggles and so on. Take Gul Mi's storyline, for instance—believe it or not, I grew to like her in Season 2. Referring to the collective suicide we saw at the end of Episode 5 in Season 1, the drama also shows people using Love Alarm as a scapegoat to justify their choices. We even see disturbing elements like pedophilia and obsession—such as the case with Jojo and how one deranged individual fixates on her drawings, sparked by nothing more than a trivial coincidence.

In Season 1, I recall a conversation between the teachers that struck a chord—Love Alarm itself wasn’t the cause of societal problems, but medias disguised it as that. And when you reflect on it, Love Alarm 1.0 has both advantages and flaws, much like any cutting-edge technology we encounter today, which always sparks protests—just as it does in the drama. I think the collective suicide is talked again in Season 1 or 2, I don't remember by who exactly and what they said, but it was similar to what I'm saying.

Some viewers blame Jojo for kissing Sun Oh in the beginning. She was on bad terms with Il Sik and eventually she was able to breathe thanks to Sun Oh. It's true that he was forcing, but she ended up accepting the kiss. They were where no one could see them (well, obviously it's a drama, so it doesn't go as planned), and she was tempted. When we know that many adults (men and women) have already cheated in their lives, it's not a teenager who lets herself go with this kind of context that shocks. One can argue it was wrong, but what about Il Sik? And Sun Oh? That’s where the complexity lies. Like so much else in the story, it’s not black and white—it’s human. This isn’t a story about perfect people.

Jojo didn’t initiate her relationship with Sun Oh. He pushed for it, despite knowing she had a boyfriend—something he learned from his best friend, Hye Yeong, who also had feelings for her. Sun Oh knew all of this, yet still chose to pursue her. And they dated for what, two weeks if we remove the time after the accident?

After the breakup, four years passed before Jojo met Hye Yeong. At first, she was emotionally distant, but his persistent efforts eventually paid off, and she gradually began to open up to him.

What can we expect from a character whose childhood was so painful, whose youth was full of struggles, a traumatized teenager with burdens so heavy to bear? Yes, you could say she acts in an annoying and selfish way, however, unless you are biased because of Song Kang and that you have a superficial view of the drama and her character, you will feel nothing but empathy. Don't even make me start on the impact that such an event can have on someone. Survivor's guilt, yes, but it was her parents who tried to kill themselves with her.

Again, I want to emphasize the fact that she needed to do what she did. Please read this post : https://www.tumblr.com/lucymontero/646944171870109696/love-alarm-lovestruck-in-the-city-and-a-womans - It's not long and I love what she said. It fits into my review but I'm not gonna copy it all directly.

Sun Oh's behavior can be explained because of his family situation, right, I do get that. But if you think it's all Jojo's fault or that what Sun Oh did at the beginning is right but what happened afterwards isn't, I don't know what to say.

Conversely, Hye Yeong is portrayed as a loyal and kind-hearted individual, yet he may also yearn for his own independence and quietly struggle with the weight of his connection to Sun Oh's family. Then slowly, we learn even more about him and his family. I immediately connected with him because of his personality, and I found myself deeply relating to his experience, as I too have had my life negatively impacted by my father.

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What Deuk Gu says to Hye Yeong, "It was Jojo's will to use the shield and spear. Without it, she would never have gone out with you. It was because of the shield that she broke up with Sun Oh and you appeared on the list of people she could love. The shield being a variable, Jojo's will intervened, and you became a potential love interest. She wanted to ring your Love Alarm, even if it meant using the spear. She was willing to go that far to express her feelings for you. If that's not being sincere, what is?" This sums it up perfectly.

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Another thing about the end that I love is that Jojo still doesn't ring Hye Yeong's Love Alarm without the spear and she still has the shield, but they know their love is sincere and it was really beautiful when they confessed their feelings out loud. It reminded me of when Hye Yeong was courting Jojo the traditional way without relying to Love Alarm, and the fact that he wanted to build his relationship with her bit by bit was great. Of course, there's that final scene where we see the key moments when Jojo rang Hye Yeong's Love Alarm, they left before it started working but anyway, it was obvious. Nonetheless, it was perfect as a conclusion, for us viewers.

Fun fact: Okay everyone noticed it but I appreciate how "Love Alarm" in Korean is said "Joalarm" which obviously refers to Jojo, and clearly, her role is important in the actual story surrounding the app.

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I transcribed two other dialogues that are important :

(the discussion between the two brothers) - Five years ago, I told you that we shouldn't release 2.0. - You don't realize that the Love Alarm you created makes people feel lonelier. Version 2.0 was created for those lonely people. If they'd known that lots of people would love them, there wouldn't have been any mass suicides, 23 lives would have been spared. - Is that really what you think? People only go out with the app's recommendations. Just like we only read articles from our search portal. Just as we only watch movies recommended by the algorithm. - What's wrong with that? - It eliminates countless possibilities. If there's an error in the suggestions, version 2.0 prevents love from being born. - An error? How are you going to prove it? - Kim Jojo. When she installed the shield, the person she loved changed. - Programming bug. - It wasn't a bug. It was Jojo's will. With the introduction of synchronization and willpower, this little mistake changed her life. Do you understand now?

(Deuk Gu talking to Jojo) "It was obvious you liked Hye Yeong. Do you know why you hesitated so much? You've never seen his Love Alarm ring. That's why. Even though you knew it was because of the shield, you doubted your feelings, because his Love Alarm had never gone off. That's why I wanted to stop the new function. People have become too dependent on technology."

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Going back.

Season 1 Episode 5 analysis (accident scene) : Exactly as shown with the narration and the cinematography, it was like a dream of happiness for her. She ignored and escaped reality thanks to Sun Oh. During the trip to Jeju, her trauma was already triggered once, but the accident heavily triggered it as it involved Sun Oh (who became really important for her—so no she didn't "not consider his feelings", it's not that simple). The call from the hospital where is her grandmother, the memories from her childhood if we can even call it that, her memories with Sun Oh, the flashback of Gul Mi threatening her... It was a build-up of different factors until she had to take a decision. She lost her friends, people judged her, she became the center of attention, and because Gul Mi knows her too well, it was also easy for her to use all the guilt that she tried so hard to hide deep inside. Then as if it wasn't enough, Sun Oh was locked up by his family because of her (that being the final trigger, the last straw), and she was also aware of Hye Yeong's feelings. Also, like, you're telling me that's the normal life of a high-schooler? I'm not doing a recap but in case anyone forgot, this person explained it all in her review : https://mydramalist.com/profile/9262161/review/150547 - I really like how she ended the Jojo paragraph with "Because she doesn't want any help from anybody, BECAUSE she feels and will feel small. And that's actually one of the reason why she was burdened on being in a relationship with Sun-oh and finally installed the shield." And yes, it's also true that their final year of high school was coming.

On a side note, it is known that people can live with the memories of their childhood, but for the people who don't have anything happy to remember, they live their lives trying to heal these scars (I mean Jojo has some good memories with her grandma, but...it's still way too sad, her grandma had to fall ill and then all this?). It's not easy for them to be happy and live a normal life.

Because it still wasn't enough, she literally became someone's target.

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More observations : At the end of the first episode in season 1, Jojo's narration says "If I had Love Alarm on me, would it have rung? No. They would have both remained silent. Because the desire for a kiss preceded love." It really shows the difference in the building of relationships. At the end, Sun Oh and Yuk Jo are ready to build a healthy and mature relationship together, just like what Jojo and Hye Yeong did, with Jojo eventually developping feelings for him. Love Alarm is not everything, so it shouldn't control them. Their reaction when it didn't ring showed exactly that. Just like Hye Yeong and Jojo leaving before the app's confirmation. Whether Love Alarm rings or not is not the question, what matters in the end is YOU and not the program. Love Alarm doesn't guarantee your happiness. It works when you have a crush and when you are in love, but not for the process of falling in love. We are not so simple. This is why 2.0 was really bad, but honestly, I even wonder if 1.0 would really last. Some will say the ending between Yuk Jo and Sun Oh was forced, but for me it would have been forced only if Sun Oh made Yuk Jo's Love Alarm ring. I liked how he went at her home everyday...it was great. Genuine effort matters, even small moves. Hye Yeong proved that already. And yes, it made sense, it wasn't random either. I could feel the growth in his character and his sincerity so the app was irrelevant.

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Additionally, I feel the need to share my thoughts on the portrayal of love and relationships in the drama :

Not all relationships are rooted in passionate love, and intense emotions don’t always lead to healthy relationships. Love Alarm touches on this idea by showing that true connection goes beyond initial attraction or infatuation. It explores how relationships require more than just strong feelings to be stable and healthy, emphasizing the importance of understanding, respect, and emotional compatibility. Passion can fade or become problematic if not supported by a deeper, more meaningful bond.

Learning to love someone romantically is a complex, evolving process that involves understanding, patience, and emotional growth. While romantic love can begin with intense feelings of attraction or infatuation, true love often deepens over time as you get to know the other person on a more intimate and vulnerable level.

To "learn" to love someone is to recognize that love isn't just about fleeting emotions; it involves a conscious decision to commit, care, and nurture a connection. It includes appreciating the other person's individuality, respecting their needs and boundaries, and supporting their personal growth. You learn to love not just their best qualities but also their imperfections, accepting them as a whole person.

This process also requires self-awareness and the ability to reflect on your own emotional needs and limitations. It challenges you to be open to vulnerability, to communicate openly, and to resolve conflicts in a healthy way. In this way, love can grow into something deeply meaningful and enduring, rooted in trust and mutual respect.

Ultimately, romantic love is a journey rather than a fixed state, and learning to love someone is about embracing that ongoing process.

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Unfortunately, MDL reduced the character limit, and this review is so long that I now have to add the rest in the comments. (aside from the conclusion)

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Conclusion under

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Bonus links that I recommend to save :

- https://www.mentmagazine.com/issue001/sensus
- https://mydramalist.com/profile/imanirine/review/155009
- https://mydramalist.com/profile/Claraamorim/review/133999
- https://www.tumblr.com/lucymontero/646944171870109696/love-alarm-lovestruck-in-the-city-and-a-womans (in case you haven't read it when mentioned in the review)

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A misunderstood gem that's beautifully disturbing and depressing.

Where to watch :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4y74UaBIDA (English Subtitles)

Or here : https://mega.nz/file/hjUBWCTZ#TjkrmK0Gmwz8MhGmyGAaDm6TxxtK3lwTjRPpIz5bBKA -> You'll have to download the subtitles you're searching for on SubDL, then use VLC to open the video and add the subtitles.

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“I dedicated this movie to all the boys and girls who are now suffering, or have suffered, from puberty.” - This message shows before the film starts.

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Disclaimer: I didn't read the manga, but I know they had to condense 57 chapters into a 2-hour movie, which is a lot (obviously it can't be as detailed and the story will be shortened), and I’m aware there are differences. There’s also an anime, but it’s incomplete since it never got a Season 2. And before anyone complains, this as japanese as it could be, so expect it to be weird, bold and crazy (then that's what makes it so good, too). But it is epic and fascinating, nonetheless.

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This was an intense psychological mindfuck on my part. I've never had so much to say and I can't believe how much I felt in such a short time. It is not only deeply philosophical and heavy on psychological study (this is like the most I have seen even though it's only 2 hours) but also on a critique of Japanese society.

I loved it so much. I think they did really well with the pacing because I didn't ever get bored and I managed to get the psychology overall (which is nothing short of insane) and in the end, it is what all the story is about. Not to mention the cinematography, the poetic dialogue/storytelling, and the intense build-up. It’s a pleasure for me to see a reference to French literature with The Flowers of Evil being used as a metaphor (not only referenced, it is inspired to the point where you'll recognize Baudelaire's atmosphere), and the Japanese need to keep making stuff like this because that’s where they really excel.

As I mentioned, the cinematography is excellent. With a solid budget, the film is thoughtfully shot—artistic, visually appealing, and carefully crafted in every scene. It has such great cinematic value that I had goosebumbs in some scenes.

By the way, there’s the drama Shounen no Abyss I need to watch, which also picks up on the idea of a teenager trapped in a rural town (the difference being that he doesn't have an "ordinary" life like Kasuga in Aku no Hana). A friend who’s a fan of J-dramas recommended it to me, and it seems really dark, artsy and completely unconventional as well.

Now the cast, it was perfection. Nakamura looked exactly as intended in the synopsis (creepy, weird, friendless), the actress nailed it and I was really attached to her but I'm gonna say it: Kentaro (Kasuga's actor) is the real gem here. Such a cute, influenceable, vulnerable, innocent face for such a distorted role (my guilty pleasure), and pure young talent (though honestly, the actress (Tina) is also too good and deserving of praise). It seems very likely to me that Aku no Hana was THE improvement in their acting and probably will stay their best work. It's clear they were very serious about it, no wonder I even read somewhere that they were fans of the manga. I'm just so, so glad they took it on. Huge respect for the production team too, and the author of the manga with whom they worked closely (funnily enough, the film cleared some confusion about characters motivations for some readers). It's magnificent to see such a story brought to (real) life. Of course, well-done supporting cast as well, no one made me cringe or anything, they were all believable and serious in their roles.

The music I thought added what it should to the scenes. There was one scene where it amplified my urge to cry. I also added the songs to my playlist.

Did I mention the way the film starts? Oh. My. God. Insanely good. And well-done all throughout. Really, they achieved the impossible with this one. How did they even manage to capture it all, so well?

Oops-- This was not meant to be such a long review/analysis but once again I went out of my way. Well, I don't write much reviews but for my real favorites, I tend to. Now don't get me wrong, you're not dumb if you do not get it, by misunderstood I meant that it's not for everyone. Then I think everyone understands that they're very young (in their last year of middle school to be more precise), that's really all you need. The rest is "bonus", more or less evident in the film (most of it is), the only difference is that I'm doing a breakdown of the whole thing by myself here because I want to share my personal experience with the film, but also defend the film itself. If you can "feel" this film (it's not necessary to relate), then you will enjoy it. It's important to understand that the Japanese have their own unique and often subtle way of doing things, which is sometimes misunderstood by foreigners. Regardless, I'll do my best to explain.

Anyway, I do not spoil any major event but it might be better to read the rest of my review later (if you want). Thanks for reading!

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Kasuga isn't exactly like the others, that's clearly shown from the start. He feels like he's different and doesn't fit in, or rather he would like not to, the latter being intensified when he gets closer to Nakamura. He had no special bond with anyone before Nakamura. In addition, what's key here is that they both are premature. Obviously, they are very much introverted as well.

The story would be nothing without Nakamura, she's really intriguing and absolutely not ordinary, contrasting with Kasuga. While Kasuga’s journey feels like an existential crisis—a struggle with his own identity and a sense of purpose as he suffers from being ordinary—Nakamura’s is more of a rejection of society itself, rooted in a raw contempt for conformity and superficiality. However, we can guess that this is also caused because of a profound lack of self-worth and self-love. Also lack of mental help and there is a lot of reason behind this, however this is for those who have the necessary knowledge on Japanese society, so I shared an explanation that's not mine at the end of my spoiler in the comments section. It is shown that she lacks a conventional family structure, hinting at a turbulent background that likely shaped her mentally unstable character (unless she has always been, or it worsened, especially with puberty). People shouldn't disregard the impact that a lack of love/attention can have on a child while growing up, caused by the physical and/or emotional absence of their parents (often because of work, particularly in Japan). Rather than just a weird, evil character, Nakamura should be seen as a victim—a consequence and by-product of many factors.

Kasuga feels so strangely real and relatable (Nakamura does too but it's not the same, for me at least), I love him so much. It's so strangely human with the imperfection and complexity of it all, and this is why I think this film is beautiful albeit twisted. I love it when things go into ‘screw it, who cares’ mode, and the surreal aspect of the film just adds to it. Such a unique feel. It’s like witnessing the awakening of two souls who, for the first time, truly feel alive and seen by one another as they spiral into darkness (by embracing it). Taking an autodestructive and anti-social behavior, they reject humanity and unravel the fabric of reality itself, bound by a shared disdain and a need to question everything. What matters here is that deep inside, they are both lonely and insecure, misunderstood and alienated from the real world. The story leads to Kasuga being almost as broken as Nakamura when he realizes how empty he now feels. Because of that, he becomes the most dependent of the two. He had nowhere else to go anymore. He had to be with her. Looking at it from their perspective, it feels like watching the end of the world, doesn't it? The Flower of Evil itself appearing on the screen really strengthens that feeling.

Puberty is in full swing, which is crucial to Aku no Hana's story and tone. The characters are experiencing intense hormonal and emotional changes, amplifying their insecurities, rebellious impulses, and attraction to the forbidden. This period of overwhelming puberty adds a raw, almost chaotic layer to their actions and interactions, especially in how they express—or suppress—their darker thoughts and desires.

(Also, they are in their final year, which possibly adds a stress factor. It's something very common especially in Japan, and the point of the story and their character development is to free themselves (not in the right way but it is what it is), which means that something like this quickly becomes irrelevant, and was just an addition to everything.)

Kasuga, for instance, finds himself obsessed with Baudelaire's The Flowers of Evil *, and his fascination with the book’s themes of sin, guilt, and beauty is heightened by his adolescent intensity. Nakamura, on the other hand, is grappling with her own disillusionment and rebellion, pushing Kasuga to confront the darker parts of himself, which he barely understands. This combination of puberty’s volatility and the characters’ existential confusion is a huge part of why the story feels so unsettling yet relatable for some viewers/readers.

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* The Flowers of Evil by Charles Baudelaire isn’t typically classified as "abstract" in the strictest literary sense, though it explores themes that can feel abstract—like beauty, death, melancholy, and sensuality. Rather, it’s one of the foundational works of literary modernism, known for its use of vivid, often decadent imagery and exploration of taboo subjects. Baudelaire’s poetic style is concrete and sensual, often rooted in specific imagery and settings, which he uses to convey his complex themes and moods.

The collection’s innovation lies more in its symbolic and existential exploration than in abstraction. Baudelaire often used real-life imagery—such as the city of Paris, nature, and mythological references—to depict the inner turmoil, ennui, and the conflict between the ideal and the sordid aspects of human experience. These layers of meaning make the poems symbolist in nature, but not abstract in language or structure.

However, his use of synesthesia (combining senses, like taste and color), surreal contrasts, and symbols does push the boundaries of traditional poetry, pointing toward later, more abstract literary movements like surrealism. So while The Flowers of Evil itself isn’t abstract, it paved the way for later writers to experiment with abstraction and the inner landscapes of consciousness.

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Aku no Hana is definitely philosophical and nihilistic. To sum up the themes quickly: 1. Existentialism and Identity 2. The Nature of Freedom and Rebellion 3. Guilt, Shame, and Moral Ambiguity 4. The "Abyss" * and the Dark Side of the Psyche 5. Alienation and Modern, Youthful Angst

It uses its psychological and unsettling storyline to probe questions about freedom, moral conflict, and identity. It doesn’t offer straightforward answers to these philosophical questions, but rather invites viewers/readers to confront the darker, often unspoken aspects of human existence.

* The "abyss" recalls philosophical ideas from Nietzsche's concept of the abyss ("if you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you" ~ remember when The Flower of Evil visually appears) and Carl Jung's notion of the "shadow," the darker, unconscious part of the psyche.

Nakamura is drawn to Kasuga because she sees him as someone who, like her, feels disconnected from society's conventions. Her interest in him is rooted in a desire to unleash his inner "perversion" and bring chaos to his life, reflecting her fascination with rebellion and psychological manipulation. This bond between them is emotionally charged and obsessive but also genuine.

I've truly never connected to a fiction this much. This film was an incredible emotional release in my case, but it's really not a common one. It provoked something within me that I never externalised, and for this reason it is an unforgettable film that will likely remain my favorite for a long time, if not forever. I already watched it twice in a row as I am typing this. On a side note, I will never complain about things being exaggerated/over-the-top (as long as it's well done) because that's the beauty of art, and also why this film was so impactful. Especially for me. Besides, aren't the characters supposed to be kind of crazy? See, it fits anyway.

Be sure to stay until the very end of the credits. The final image is a powerful, symbolic moment that beautifully echoes the story's essence at its core, offering a haunting parallel that will resonate deeply with what you've just witnessed.

I have a lot more to share, but since it really goes into spoiler territory, I'll put that down in the comments.

P.S: "At first, I read Baudelaire’s Flowers of Evil and felt drawn to its raw intensity. I searched for a movie adaptation and stumbled upon The Flowers of Evil. Initially, I related to Kasuga—the isolation, the feeling of being misunderstood, of screaming into a void that doesn’t respond. But as the story unraveled, I found myself slipping into Nakamura’s world, her genius wrapped in madness. She’s like the abyss itself—a place where potential is devoured, yet there's something seductive and tempting in her chaos, something freeing. Slowly, I started looking up to her, not just her defiance, but her utter disconnect from the world’s rules. It felt like she was showing me the truth I was too scared to see: maybe I was wasting away, too." YES, this encapsulates my feelings.

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The story of a woman who confronts an unrequited love with all her heart.

~A missed opportunity turns into a regret. If there are no more opportunities to miss, I'll make sure to create some myself.~
~In a world of misunderstandings, it's dangerous to make assumptions about others. So you should ask the question yourself. You should hear the answer directly.~
~Love has to touch someone's inner confidence. Then love won't be dragged down by the other, but will draw the other to you.~

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From this review: https://kdramadiary.com/kdrama-review/more-than-friends-kdrama-review/ "More than Friends Affirms How Despite The Tears, Experiencing Love Is Life's Greatest Bliss", "One of the best written Korean Dramas this year, More Than Friends has taken its viewers to stage of love that are equal parts blissful and painful - but ultimately the sweetest in between.", "It's interesting to note that More Than Friends is that one drama with such harrowing problems, yet there is not even one single villain present in the story. Remarkably conceived with an amazing cast who owned their roles to the hilt, this series evidently is one of my top drama picks this season."

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I thoroughly enjoyed this JTBC romance, as is often the case, and it left a lasting impression on me. I would recommend it to you if you are looking for a romance that's not necessarily simple and cute, for some it will be more a source of annoyance and boredom than anything else (it's a slow burn and it's far from being a frustration-free drama), or even depressing because yes, it's sad, but in my case I found it more interesting and I was totally hooked. While the drama might seem rather light, it is actually quite heavy.

I really liked the atmosphere, the meaningful and thought-provoking dialogues, the quotes, the narration, the literature, the calligraphy and photography, the cinematography and music, the tense moments and camera movements, the way they end the episodes, the many well-placed metaphors related to fairy tales (I even read an entire analysis to understand one in episode 8, Lee Soo compared to the Little Mermaid at that very moment surprisingly makes so much sense), the parallels, the play on words, even the episode titles, there are so many details I can't list them all.

I would like to add that never before has a drama made me want to visit South Korea, and Seoul in particular, so much. I felt like I was discovering the city as I watched. They did a great job of blending photography with calligraphy. It's rare that I'm so captivated or even amazed by the work aspect of a drama, but this was more than successful. Just like in "Now, We Are Breaking Up", where the male lead is also a photographer while the female lead is a stylist. So in the end, the match-up was really different. Knowing that here we have a very different male lead, he's cold, withdrawn and solitary whereas the one in NWBU is warm and sociable.

I started watching during my stay in Brittany (region in France), so I might as well tell you that I've stayed in the travel mood with this drama.

Lee Soo is quite a sad and annoying character at first, he has a lot of flaws but that's what makes him interesting and he has a beautiful evolution.

Overall this is the kind of drama that's best watched from the perspective of trying to understand the characters, or even empathize with them. We can't control our feelings, and not everything goes our way, and this drama shows that very well. Like it or not, the way the characters behave was very human. More than just a love story, it's a drama about relationships, be they family, friends, lovers, the misunderstandings we can have about ourselves and others, the difficulties we go through, the mistakes we make and the regrets that go with them... Simply put: life. You have to be patient and not judge the characters too quickly to fully appreciate this drama, because we're all different and nobody is perfect. Of course, it's also a beautiful love story and a drama that warmed my heart, with beautiful morals. It's just not what I'd recommend if that's all you're looking for, the drama shows how complicated love can be etc. If you like slow burn and bittersweet romances with complex characters, then it could be for you. It's pretty quiet and not really "dynamic", though.

Some of the topics are very relevant, but I'll let you watch the drama to find out.

Note that the title of the drama in Korean is "Number of cases (to go from friends to lovers)". When you think about it, the concepts at the heart of the drama are some of the things that drama fans hate the most. The importance of timing is a huge part of the story. However, when it's the very concept of the drama, it changes everything. It's not just the story that creates conflict between the characters, and it's not because of external problems either, but internal ones. I'll take an event at the end of episode 6 as an example. At first it made me perplex, I thought it was too clichéd, even ridiculous. By the end of the episode, I completely changed my mind. I find it incredible that what I thought was stupid ended up impressing me. It was so meaningful and sad. Yet another cliché made its appearance towards the end of the drama, but I knew they would prove me wrong, and that they did. Sure, these are all familiar plot devices, but they're there for a reason—and honestly, it's not like such things don't happen in real life.

OST: The lyrics have a real emotional impact and make so much sense in relation to the story and the characters' feelings, especially as they were really well placed in the scenes. One OST is actually sung by Ong Seong Wu himself, dedicated to his character. The OST is called Late Regret, for those who want to know the name. There's also Spider Lily and Serendipity as interesting titles, since they mean something.

Side note: Yes, the story is frustrating and one could say it goes in circles, but no, it doesn't drag unnecessarily. Yes, Joon Soo deserves better. No, I do not put all the blame on Woo Yeon, and no, he wasn't innocent. What matters is that in the end, the journey was meaningful for everyone. Also, it's funny but not surprising to me how people just go for the simpler, kinder, more extrovert character who's a rich CEO, while I'm here finding Lee Soo much more interesting as an introvert, tsundere type of character. Of course I also loved Joon Soo and especially by the end I felt bad for him, so don't get me wrong.

In conclusion, this is a romance that is clichéd but still stands out from the rest because everything seems so realistic and different from other dramas, right up to the very end. Moreover, the division of the drama into two distinct halves is nothing short of brilliant.

The opening to discover as it does not appear on Viki (it does on Netflix) : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKQazSzhFr8

Thank you for reading !

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