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Compelling Concept, but Flawed Execution
The concept of an AI-human relationship in Anti Reset is compelling but could have been executed better, especially with Ping's backstory. The focus on his lost dog as the sole reason for his coldness feels inadequate, leaving his character underdeveloped. His bond with 9, the AI, also feels off, especially with him constantly associating 9 with his dog early on, which doesn't make for a healthy, meaningful relationship arc. While the interactions between the main characters were cute, and it was interesting to explore both perspectives, the relationship still felt strange. Watching a human fall in love with what is essentially imagination was difficult and uncomfortable, even though 9 was developing and showing new characteristics like love, as an AI. In my opinion, the ideal conclusion would have been for 9 to leave, allowing Ping to build the strength to pursue a real human connection after experiencing love for the first time, even if it was with an AI. Overall, the series wasn't bad, but the happy ending felt unfulfilling.Was this review helpful to you?
A Heartwarming BL Series with Minimal to No Red Flags
This is one of the best portrayals of friendship in BL history. The support each character gives to one another is truly heartwarming, and the way they care for and help each other is beautiful.The red flags are minimal perhaps the smallest I've ever seen. Typically, BL series feature at least one major red flag, but in this series, I can't find any.
The story of a few couples might not be the best developed, but I can't say that it made anything worse. But all couples faced unique challenges in their relationships and overcame themin a good way.
Some series overdo the comedy, but this one was pretty balanced between serious, heartwarming, funny, and blatantly silly moments.
Overall, I consider this one of the better series of the year. It's lighthearted, fun, and heartwarming, without being over the top in any aspect.
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Cute/creepy, Laid-Back College Love Story
A cute, laid-back college love story about two seemingly different people. However, by the end, it becomes clear that they are more similar than they initially appear.Character are: Takara - A senior who appears cold and closed-off, with few friends. However, he's insanely popular because of his looks.(I liked how Takara's backstory was presented. It did a great job of explaining his closed-off mindset and why he behaves the way he does). Taishin - A cute, always confused, naive, overly happy, easygoing, and somewhat creepy freshman.(we don't get much of Taishin backstory just mainly that he comes from a great family)
As the story progresses the similarities between them are the driving point of the story and it's obvious. Both Takara and Taishin are extreme overthinkers, constantly afraid of scaring each other away. They share a deep love for hiking, nature, and a tendency to be highly critical of themselves. Despite not being shown too obviously, they gradually understand and connect with each other because of them.
Now let's talk about the first official time they met, by far the strangest and, obviously, the creepiest part of the series. After their coincidental meeting in the mountains, where Taishin was grieving the loss of his beloved bird, Takara chose to stay and comfort him, offering a small life lesson: that he would be fine. This one encounter led Taishin to decide he needed to enroll in Takara's university, join his hiking club, and learn everything about him. To his defense, Taishin's character is supposed to be oblivious to almost everything, including how creepy his actions might seem. However, following someone so obsessively after just one conversation is a bit much, especially when he admits in front of his friend that he enrolled in his university just because of that brief interaction.
The ending feels a bit unfinished for my liking. I felt like something was missing. I still don't know if Taishin's family knows about their relationship, what happened with Takara's mother, or how their friends reacted to them being together. Their relationship didn't really develop either, they always seem a bit distant and scared of making the wrong move, which doesn't quite fit the idea of them constantly hanging out, having sleepovers, and always talking. I can't say there was any significant character development, either individually or together.
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Revenge and Broken Minds
The film shows how the mind can be both scary and unreliable, changing the way characters see the world. What’s even scarier is how the people we trust, especially family, can hurt us more than anything else. The real villains aren’t strangers, but those who should care for us. The film plays with the idea that the mind can be both terrifying and unreliable, as it twists and distorts reality under enough pressure. It also explores what people are willing to do to get revenge or save their loved ones, pushing them to make unimaginable choices. It’s a film that leaves a lasting impression due to its strong performances, gripping storytelling, and unforgettable plot twists.Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best Chinese films I have seen
A deeply emotional impact, especially when discussing bullying, social tension, friendship, love, and the difficult adolescent mindset and life. Amazing cinematography and acting. A perfect balance between drama, romance, thriller, and crime genres. This is one of the best Chinese films I have seen. It evokes strong emotions and makes you reflect not only on your own life but also on the lives of others.Was this review helpful to you?
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Unconventional Love Story
The production quality of the series is very impressive, with excellent attention to detail in every aspect. The acting is particularly noteworthy, as I absolutely loved how the characters were portrayed, especially the seemingly genuine relationships between the protagonist and his pets. The actors did a great job bringing out the emotional depth of those interactions, making the bond between the character and his 'pets' feel authentic and relatable. The 'pets' themselves were portrayed with remarkable accuracy, embodying the distinct characteristics of a cat and dog perfectly, which added to the overall believability of the story. Additionally, the soundtrack complemented the tone of the series and was genuinely enjoyable, enhancing the mood and atmosphere of the scenes.Once you come to terms with the idea that the pets are deceased and the protagonist has a romantic connection with his dog, the series becomes quite enjoyable.
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