I watched this drama, so you DON'T have to.

Stop! Don’t watch this drama! Unless you are forced to, or are watching this because of a watch challenge like me, please do not waste your time. I usually have a pretty high tolerance for bad dramas, but this one takes the cake (pun intended…LOL). I even find joy in watching “Playboyy” but unfortunately, “Love Syndrome III: Uncut Version” only brings me pain. It’s not even fun to hate-watch. I usually watch my dramas at normal speed, but I have to resort to 1.25x and then 1.5x because I couldn’t wait for it to end..

Let’s start with a few things that I consider as positives:

1. No Product Placement! It’s so rare these days to find a Thai drama when it’s not trying to sell me snacks, drinks or beauty products. Aside from turning me off from eating cakes, no product placement is good. But then, I wonder, if they are able to get sponsors, will the quality be better?
2. The last scene when everyone is all dressed up for the ceremony.
3. Mmm… there are some abs shown here and there.
4. The action/fight scenes look good at 1.5x speed. LOL.


Where do I start with things I don’t like?

1. BAD acting. It’s so bad that I thought both leads were newbies, but then realized they both have several dramas under their belts already. Really bad! Watch it for 5 minutes and immediately you want to drop this drama.
2. Ugly wig. Why do they give Itt that ugly wig? Is it because they need to follow the hairstyle of the web novel?
3. Poor Editing and writing. Enough said.
4. Flashbacks galore. So many back-and-forth flashbacks throughout the whole drama. I understand you are trying to tell the audience what happened in the last 3 years, but they could do a better job. Towards the last few episodes, there are so many flashbacks that I got annoyed, and these are not flashbacks to tell a story either.
5. Toxic Relationships. So many messed up relationships in this drama. The leads are very unlikeable to begin with. They got a little better in the last 2-3 episodes.
6. Meaningless conversations. The drama is dragged down by people standing around for meaningless and unsensible conversations and dialogues. I don’t want to hear about cakes anymore.
7. The leads fight all the time - the WHOLE drama from start to end.
8. The last subplot introduced is unnecessary and out-of-place. I don’t need a psycho to pop in to stir up trouble when I just want the drama to end.
9. Plot, or lack of a plot. The leads could have shared their limelight with the other couples, esp. Nan and Mac. At least this toxic couple seems more interesting. I still don’t know why Day + Itt and Night + Gear got over their initial rough start to be together. I thought if I waited long enough, I'd see a flashback about it.


I am sure some viewers enjoy this drama. I am just not one of them. But if you are curious about how bad this is, “Love Syndrome 3” is the perfect watch-party drama with your friends. I did that for 4 episodes and it was very fun and hilarious. Thanks Cave Clowns for keeping me company!



Completed: 3/10/2024 - Review #415

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Leave them alone! They just want to live a normal life! (+ Blood, Gore, Violence)

I never thought “Moving” would take the top spot of the most violent Asian dramas I’ve watched, beating “Bulgasal” and “Arthdal Chronicles”. I thought this drama would be about superpowers, kind of like the Thai drama “The Gifted”. Little did I know this was way more than I bargained for.

I am not sure why this drama was named “Moving”. Maybe because the characters' background stories all moved (aka touched) me. Each of the gifted just wants to live a normal life with the people they love. Why can’t the evil governments let these poor souls be? Getting to know each of the characters is the best part of the drama for me. The adults and the villains have suffered so much. We have devoted parents who give up everything, so that their children can be safe, and won’t be exposed and exploited. We have parents who just want to live an honest life and make a living, yet are forced to be trained as soldiers and assassins. At the end of the day, there are only 3 characters I hate - Deputy Chief of NIS, Principal of the high school and the North Korea dude.

If you are watching this drama for Zo In Sung and his return to the small screen after 7 years, you will be disappointed. His screen time is so limited. I was expecting to see him more towards the end. He’s great as usual but was reduced to a supporting role more than a main role. His chemistry with Han Hyo Joo is great. Their love story is so sweet and adorable yet sad and heartbreaking. You can totally see how his son, Bong Seok, takes after his super dad in the romance department. Lee Mi Hyun is a badass single mom. It was so hard watching her raise her son alone and the ways she tried to keep him safe.

Fried Chicken Man, Jang Joo Won, must have the most violent scenes in the drama. Every time I see him fight, I mentally prepare myself to look away. But when he’s just a single dad, he’s so sweet, like a big teddy bear. His little love story has the same awkward adorableness as Kim Doo Shik. Both men just want to spend the rest of their lives with their wives and children. Is that too much to ask for?

I was not really prepared for the drama to focus on the kids/teens so much in the first 7 episodes. Their stories are pretty good, but not as interesting as the adults. There are some cute and funny scenes between Jang Hee Soo and Kim Bong Seok. I like how their friendship slowly develops into something more. However, I find the transition from kids to adults storylines somewhat disjointed. The back-and-forth switching of the timelines could be confusing as the drama tells the stories of different characters.

“Moving” has a star-studded cast of veteran actors. I thought to myself, “Hey, I know you!” as there are so many supporting roles played by amazing actors. There’s no reason to worry about the acting in this drama. The makeup department needs to get an award. The wounds are amazingly real, that’s why I had to look away. It was too much for me. On the other hand, the CCI of flying is quite hilariously fake. Maybe I am more used to C-drama wuxia wire work.

I would recommend this drama if you enjoy super powers, thrillers and action scenes. “Gore” is one of the tags, so be warned. Each episode is captivating and keeps me entertained. 20 episodes went by really fast and I wanted more. Will there be a season 2? We shall see!


Other Random Observations:
1. Don’t forget to watch past the ending credits!
2. Bong Seok’s accidental floating and Hee Soo trying to hold him down - very cute!
3. Dong Shik, “An Intentional failure is not a failure.”
4. Monster is a romanticists, reading ‘romance’ novels, e.g. Fox Volant of the Snowy Mountain
5. Like parents, like children - Bong Seok and Hee Soo with the sky + ground attack, just like Doo Shik and Joo Won.


Completed: 9/22/2023 - Review #357

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Thrilling Republican Spy drama - Great Cast and Acting

Completed - 1/12/2022

"The Rebel" is a thrilling and exciting spy drama during the Republican era in Shanghai. The drama spans 13 years from 1936-1949 and is divided into three arcs: 1) Guomingdang/Nationalist Party vs Communist Party, 2) China vs Japan, 3) Guomingdang/Nationalist Party vs Communist Party. Some might feel that it's a drama about Chinese propaganda. However, I disagree. Does it talk about the greatness and ideals of communism? Yes. But that is also a big part of Chinese history. The inhumane treatment of the Japanese against Chinese is well-documented in history books and through stories told by grandparents who lived through those times. There has always been injustices and corruption in governments all over the world, not just in China.

I would recommend this drama to those:
1) who love a good spy story in the Republican era
2) slight romance that does not interfere with the main plot
3) amazing acting by the cast - both young and veteran actors and actresses

Personally, I enjoy the first 20 episodes (1st arc) the most in this drama. The introduction of all the characters were nicely done through storytelling and amazing acting. The middle arc is a little slow for my taste but the pace picked up in the last 5-8 episodes. I do think this drama could be shortened a little bit. Throughout the drama, we see networks of spies from both parties at odds end, and trying to one up another. I wouldn't say the plot is unpredictable, but it's engaging enough to keep my attention for the most part.

I cannot say enough good things about the amazing acting of all. I've seen Zhu Yi Long (ML) in "Guardian" and "The Story of Ming Lan" before. "The Rebel" has got to be his best in acting. When he's lost and confused, when he's lonely and sad, and those few shy and adorable moments - he acted so well and I felt for him. He was acting so intensely that I worry his veins on his forehead are going to pop. LOL. However, I think it took quite a long time for his character to grow his EQ. He's way too emotional to be a soldier/spy for the first 2/3 of the drama. On the other hand, I am most attracted to Wang Yang, who played Chen Mo Qun, in the beginning. He was so charismatic and sexy as the villain. And then when he became a traitor, you can see how he's changed internally and externally. That pride and charisma are gone, and the guilt and distress show up for the rest of the drama. I can't forget to mention the two male veteran actors, Wang Zhi Wen ( who played Gu Shen Yan) and Li Qiang (who played Ji Zhong Yuan). They are both amazing and probably keep the young ones on their toes to improve their acting to the veterans' standards.

This is my first drama of Tong Yao and she was equally great as Zhu Yi Zhen. She might look a little old to play a college student initially, but that doesn't mean she didn't act well. She doesn't have too many scenes for someone listed as a female lead, but when she's there, her presence shows. It's so nice to see a smart, brave and confident female lead. I also wanted to mention Zhu Zhu who played Lan Xin Jie (2FL). I finished watching her in "The Bond" not too long ago. Here, she's sultry, confident, smart and sexy. You can't take your eyes off her.

If I have to say one thing that I wanted more, is the romance, since I am a romance junkie. I understand that the romance storyline should take a back seat in a spy drama. But our leads have so few scenes together! However, that doesn't mean the chemistry is not there. You can feel that sad and quiet romance throughout the drama. The unspeakable love and longing through quiet actions and simple words. If the director can't give me romance when the spies are in action, how about give me a little more at the end? Or am I too greedy since we actually have a somewhat happy ending for them? I was cautiously hoping and praying that they could be together at the end, after all they have gone through.

For all the Republican era dramas that I have watched, "The Rebel" is probably one of the better produced one. It looks like they have spent some money on the set designs and props used. The men have different sets of 3-piece suits and uniforms. Women have nice qipaos and dresses. Zhu Zhu looked amazing when she's strutting in her amazing costumes.

Objectively, this might be a 9.0+ drama for many but personally, it's a solid 8.5.

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Great Lead Chemistry, Acting and Production

Completed - 3/31/2021 (late review/notes posted)

Finally finished this drama and it has to be the longest one I've watched to-date (3/31/2021). It took me about 18 episodes to get really invested in the drama. I think the middle of the drama is the best. Acting of the leads along with the emperor was amazing. The supporting cast did a great job as well. Everyone commented on the cinematography and the costumes, and they are great. It's interesting to see a historical drama uses such toned-down color, nothing is too colorful even the concubine's costumes.

The chemistry between the two leads was amazing. I felt their love through their banter, argument and heartbreak. I felt that there isn't enough scenes where the two of them are together... I wanted more. Both are smart and intelligent characters. I do feel that FL needed a little more saving than I like, esp. since she's such a strong character. Everyone said the ending and the last 10 -15 episodes were horrible. I didn't think they were horrible but they do feel rushed and some decisions were uncharacter-like. The leads have such strong trust throughout the whole drama, that it didn't feel right when at the end, there was mistrust. I wish the ending was better. They suffered so much that I wish they could end up happy. I became a big fan of Chen Kun after watching this drama, and his character, Ning Yi, is one of my favorite MLs.

The music complemented the drama well, and this is the first drama that I realized not many songs where played throughout the drama. It's just enough to convey and support the scenes, but not overwhelming enough that every time an emotional scene comes up, you hear the same songs playing over and over again.

I would not recommend this show to someone who doesn't like angst and politics. It's definitely a very angsty melodrama but the acting is superb.

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Perfect Drama to relieve your stress and lift your spirits

Completed - 4/5/2022 - 8.75

I am liking the current K-drama trends of having only 12 episodes instead of the long-drawn out, draggy 16-episode drama format. This is especially true for comedies and romantic comedies. This drama is perfect if you want something light and funny, and a palate cleanser after watching something serious/tragic.

Setting/Plot - Personally, I am a big fan of the contract marriages and enemies-to-lovers tropes. The setting of this drama is right up my alley. Moreover, I also purchased dumplings from Bibigo and many other packaged Korean foods from my local K-mart. So, seeing FL being a food researcher and have that as the backdrop is interesting to me. There are many common rom-com tropes and cliches in this drama. But for the most part, the drama surprises us with not going along with the usual directions of these tropes. The drama also makes fun of these tropes/cliches by using the TV show within the the drama. It's so refreshing to see.

Likable characters - We have four very likable leads. You find them funny and sweet, and you root for their career and relationship success. ML might first appear as the classic narcissistic CEO. There are many comparisons of him to the ML in "What's Wrong with Secretary Kim". I actually like Kang Tae Moo here a lot more. His narcissism didn't really last long and he turns sweet quite soon in the series. The ML in WWWSK actually is a lot more annoying. Our two female leads have a great sismance, and are so supportive of each other. They are both independent and funny, and did not bow down to road blocks and challenges in life. Last but not the least, who doesn't like the dimples of our sweet 2ML and his kind character.

Romance - Our main leads have great chemistry, especially before they are officially an item. Once they are together, the sizzling chemistry changes to something sweeter. It's hard to find a rom-com where the secondary romance is just as interesting and fun as the main romance. There's just enough screen time for our 2ML/2FL to develop their romance, not overshadowing the main romance, and yet not so insignificant that we wish they don't exist. The two romance storylines co-exist really well in this drama and I am invested in both of them. In a way, they contrast each other pretty well: love at first sight vs slowly developed romance, theme park dates vs hiking dates, rich ML vs rich 2Fl, sweet romance vs hot/steamy romance. Additionally, we got amazing kisses in this drama with both couples. No fish kisses and the ladies also initiate kisses.

Tragic Past done well - It's not hard to guess that ML's tragic past will be part of the plot. I was initially concerned that this subplot will dampen the mood of this super funny drama. I immediately thought of how the ML's tragic/family story in "Her Private Life" is the weakest part of that otherwise amazing sweet rom-com. Fortunately, it didn't happen here. It was not dealt in a melodramatic way, but in a sweet way demonstrating how FL supports ML. The drama didn't drag this for several episodes. Instead, just several sweet scenes with flower shopping, lovely dinners and umbrellas, and a few heart-to-heart sweet conversations.

OST - lovely songs especially from MeloMance. The drama also incorporates some comedy-like noises during funny scenes.

Supporting Cast - Usually I would be annoyed with someone like 2FL's cousin. She is loud and overdramatic but for this drama, I found her hilarious. I love her craziness and her use of English in between her Korean words. Maybe I am in such a good mood enjoying this drama that she becomes tolerable and funny to me. However, others may be annoyed. Same goes to FL's mother and FL's male co-worker. They are both really loud and can be either funny or annoying.

Ending - I think the last episode is somewhat predictable. In a way, I am a tiny bit disappointed as it falls into the classic rom-com tropes. I don't want to give out spoilers, so let's just say the last episode is average compared to other episodes.

Overall, I haven't had so much fun watching a romantic comedy in a long time. I rarely give out a 9.0 to rom-coms, but I am feeling good and also in the right mood, especially while I am also watching "The Longest Day in Chang'An".

Other Observations:
1. Ahn Hyo Seop has really big hands. But why are they ALWAYS so red???
2. Hairstyle changes when you are not a narcissistic CEO anymore. AHS looks so much better when his bangs are down and not in hair gel.
3. Kim Se Jeong has such a BEAUTIFUL voice!
4. Here's a duet with Kim Se Jeong and Ahn Hyo Seop singing "Love, Maybe". So good! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FemG1XPyvNI
5. I have those Bibigo dumplings in my freezer right now! Shown on TV in the last episode. LOL

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NOT a typical sweet and fluffy romantic comedy

I think some viewers like me who just watched the trailer, read the synopsis and saw the poster would have thought this is a romantic comedy with many sweet and fluffy scenes while FL gets to choose between two great guys. Well, “Love in Contract” definitely has comedic moments, but it’s not really a romantic comedy. Aside from romance, there are childhood traumas, tragic family background stories and conglomerate marriages & business battles. I personally enjoy the first half of the drama more than the second half. This is not quite a solid 8.5 drama but a rounded up 8.5.

What I Like:

Jung Ji Ho (ML) - Ji Ho is the kind of male lead that I like. Awkward and adorable, sweet and caring, but doesn’t have much experience in the romance department. Of course, he changes after he meets FL. Ji Ho has great character development in the drama. He learns to interact and socialize with his co-workers, recognize and communicate his feelings. I also enjoy watching how his wardrobe changes with his personality. Go Kyung Pyo plays the character well. I enjoy his facial expressions when he’s embarrassed, confused and awkward. This might be my second favorite character that Go Kyung Pyo plays, after his role in “Chicago Typewriter”.

Contract Marriage - One of my favorite tropes ever. The concept of a single life helper is interesting to me, and I enjoy the short stories of the marriages shown in this drama. I would have loved the drama to focus on these marriages a little more, but I came to the conclusion that “Love in Contract” is a lot more than just about love in contracts.

Main Characters - Choi Sang Eun (FL) is an interesting heroine. She’s independent and strong in her own ways. She seems so perfect and perfectly put-together all the time, yet when she’s home you can see how messy and child-like she could be. Park Min Young, of course, can play this role well. It’s a combination of her roles in “What’s Wrong with Secretary Skim” and “Her Private Life”. I’ve read comments about how many viewers do not like the second male lead, Kang Hae Jin, especially in the earlier episodes. I don’t find him annoying and think his clinginess is justifiable because he reunited with his first love after 13 years. I don’t blame him for wanting to get close to her and wanting to sign a contract. Hae Jin also undergoes good character development as well.

Supporting Characters - We have quite an interesting bunch of supporting characters. Woo Gang Nam, FL’s BFF, is a fan favorite and I like him as well. I want good things to happen to him and always look forward to his scenes with Sang Eun. When Sang Eun is with Gang Nam, that’s when she can let loose and act silly. Madam Yoo is a scene stealer. Veteran Jin Kyung plays the elegant and snobbish Madam Yoo so well. Every time she shows up, my focus goes straight to her and I want to see what’s going to come out of her mouth. We have comedic relief in the Chief Judge and ML’s co-worker Kim Yu Mi. Both characters are over-the-top but because their screen time is kept to a minimum, I don’t find them too annoying but funny.

Wardrobe - This drama must have a big budget or sponsor for clothes. Park Min Young looks beautiful, as always, and her clothes are fabulous. Same goes to Madame Yoo’s high class fashion. The two male leads also look dashing in their suits and casual wear.


What I have Mixed Feelings about:

Main Romance - For me the romance and chemistry are just good and not great. Although the three main characters are good-looking people, I feel that the chemistry is not sizzling enough for me. If I compare the chemistry of Park Min Young with her other co-stars, hers with Go Kyung Pyo her pales in comparison to Seo Kang Joon (When The Weather is Fine), Kim Jae Wook (Her Private Life) and and Park Seo Joon (What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim). Is the chemistry with Go Kyung Pyo bad? No it’s not. But I wanted more and I am not feeling it. Maybe also because most of their scenes are in the apartment, facing each other at dinner and they really did not have many normal dating scenes. I probably go into this drama expecting a lot more kisses because, you know, it’s Park Min Young. There are dramas without much skinship and I can feel the unspoken sizzling romance, but not in this drama, unfortunately. But I do like the proposals in the last episode and how they fit the character's personality so well.

Cartoonish villain - I don’t even know if he qualifies to be a real villain. He is just not very smart, but maybe he is not supposed to? Because I feel that “Love in Contract” is not a typical funny romantic comedy, nor is it a serious business drama, it makes it hard to see a cartoonish dumb villain fit nicely in the the story. I have to say the casting is done right, as the actor has the face that I want to punch. LOL.

PPL - I don’t remember a recent Korean modern drama I watch that has sooooo many product placements. So many different products and so in-your-face! As a drama watcher, it is very annoying. But if I am the advertiser, this is a gold mine because I have bought Kopiko coffee candies at a Korean supermarket before, and I want to go back and buy more after watching “Love in Contract”. And yes, those candies are tasty! ?

Pacing - I enjoy the first half of the drama a lot more and the pacing is good. This is when they focus more on FL’s occupation and the contracts she has with the leads. The second half starts to mix the family background and conglomerate battles and this slows down the pace. I feel like they go back-and-forth about the conglomerate marriage.

End of crisis - After spending so many episodes on how to resolve the crisis and putting everyone at risk in the last few episodes, it seems quite anti-climatic to have FL come out and take care of it. It sure is effective but why spend so many episodes dragging down the pace of the plot in the last few episodes when the solution is so simple? I was expecting higher stakes, a more complicated plan to resolve the issue.


Completed: 11/12/2022

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Predictable but Comforting. Adorable Leads with Great Chemistry!

Subjective Gut Rating; 8.5
Objective Rating: 7.5-8.0

Why am I rating this quite high? Well, because this is my cup of tea! I love when main leads are in love with each other, yet thinking the other doesn’t like them. I LOVE the guessing game. That’s my jam! If you are like me, then you will enjoy this drama. If this is not your thing, then “Goodbye’s Love Begins With Betting” is a predictable, easy and light watch. You have seen everything. There is no surprise, but a comfort watch.

Nao (FL) and Koichi (ML) are both very likable characters. Nao is known as the Ice Iron lady, and Koichi is known as the handsome, but indecisive guy who will say yes to everyone. Both of them started dating due to a bet. And you probably can guess that they ended up liking each other and are worried about how this bet is going to ruin their relationship. The leads have great chemistry and I enjoy all their scenes together.

There are a lot of internal monologues to show Nao’s internal conflict and how she is so different outwardly than her true self. She is adorable and it’s quite interesting to hear the internal turmoil while watching her with an emotionless face. Yamazaki Hirona played Nao really well. I was rooting for her the whole time. But what I adore even more is Koseki Yuta’s beautiful and sunshine smile. It’s no wonder our female lead is so in love with him. Koichi might be indecisive but I don’t find him frustrating because he presents himself so well and because Yuta plays his role so well.

The best friends are the rational and sensible support system that our leads need. I’m glad the drama doesn’t force-feed us a secondary romance, but really centers all attention to our leads. The two best friends play an important supporting role in the story and not just wallflowers. I also adore FL’s co-worker as the cute cheerleader. The ‘villain’ isn’t too irritating either.

If you are looking for a fun, easy and light watch, this is it for you. Don’t expect anything unique or groundbreaking, but sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!



Completed: 6/8/2024 - Review #450

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Women Unite to Blossom from Adversities by selling Dim Sum!

“Blossoms in Adversity” is not getting a lot of hype and it’s unfortunate as it’s a pretty good drama. Led by Zhang Jing Yi (of “Lighter and Princess”) as the main heroine, we follow her as she leads everyone to weather the storms thrown at her and the Hua family. This drama reminds me of “New LIfe Begins”, with a focus on the women of the family, though “Blossoms in Adversity” has more drama and less comedy.

Plot/Pacing:
A lot happened to the Hua Family in these 40 episodes mainly due to a mean, dictatorial, jealous emperor who couldn’t stand being criticized or questioned. The pacing of the drama is pretty good. With a mix of politics, overcoming hardships, family relationships/dynamics, business dealings and royal family disputes, these 40 episodes go by pretty quickly. There might be slight slow pacing in the middle but the last quarter of the drama picks the pace back up. I am not a big fan of harem scheming, so I was initially worried that I might dislike all these women in the family, especially when the hard times come. Luckily, the fighting only happens for a few episodes and they are not too bad. None of them is evil at heart, and this drama really does emphasize on how these women of all ages and social statuses come together to create a new life for themselves and their loved ones.

Romance:
The main romance is like a calming, steady river stream. Hua Zhi (FL) and Gu Yan Xi (ML) are both intelligent, mature and rational adults. Their romance is developed slowly starting as strangers, to friends, and then to lovers. Although this romance does not give you severe heartbreaks or cute and fluffy sweetness, it brings a sense of satisfaction, companionship and comfort. Hua Zhi and Gu Yan Xi are very honest with each other, and will communicate when they are in doubt. I would not say Zhang Jing Yi and Hu Yi Tian have excellent chemistry and it’s probably because their romance is just so comforting. It lacks a sense of passion or yearning. The acting is not bad, but also not enough to move or excite me. There’s only really one kiss scene but there is plenty of hugging and hand holding. On the other hand, the secondary romance between Shao Yao and Shen Huan is a lot more adorable. They are just so fun together and I enjoy their chemistry. Their innocence shines through like the bright sunlight.

Acting:
As the protagonist, Zhang Jing Yi did an admirable job as Hua Zhi. She met my expectations but I would not say she’s excellent, because I think the large supporting cast of veteran actresses share her spotlight. Hu Yi Tian is not horrible, and definitely better than in his other ‘cold’ roles in “Go Go Squid” or “Handsome Siblings”. He’s OK but not great. He still lacks expressions in some of the more emotional scenes, especially when he’s angry (gotta do more than open your eyes wide). Lu Yu Xiao really is a very promising young actress. She has played so many different roles in recent dramas and she continues to impress me. “Blossoms in Adversity” has a very large cast from the youngest to the oldest. There isn’t anyone that is the weakest link and luckily, there aren't any annoying characters.

Production:
This might not be an S+ production, but nothing looks cheap. I love all of Zhang Jing Yi’s costumes and hairstyles. She looks beautiful in this drama. When the Hua family has money, all the women’s clothing look nice and ‘rich’, though they seem to always wear the same clothes. I enjoy the OST but do think the songs are overplayed. I am somewhat pleasantly surprised at the action/fight scenes. There aren’t too many fight scenes but the few that they had, I was quite impressed, and especially surprised to see Hu Yi Tian fight hard and seems to know what he’s doing. I don’t recall being impressed with his fight scenes in “Handsome Siblings”. The fights are well-choreographed and I would have loved them even more if we cut down on the slow-motion scenes. Lastly, I am so glad that most of the actors and actresses use their own voice even if it’s from studio/post-production and not live. Eddie Ko (Grandfather Hua) and Myolie Wu (third madame), both from Hong Kong, seem to be the only ones dubbed by someone else.

Lastly, I am not sure if this is considered a criticism, but I find our heroine Hua Zhi a little too perfect. The drama does not outright tell you she’s perfect. In fact, when she was introduced, no one really liked her or cared for her, except for her grandfather. But as the drama goes on, we are shown time and time again how intelligent she is. She is able to overcome Everything quite easily. Hua Zhi can react to challenges rationally, and she can anticipate and prevent future crises, while coming up with new ideas to make money. She’s able to grow her small little food stand business to having her own dim sum store in less than a year!

Having said that, there really isn’t any big flaw “Blossoms in Adversity”. It’s enjoyable, decently-paced with lovely characters. If you enjoy seeing women band together to support each other, this is the drama for you. If you enjoy seeing how one overcomes adversities and blossoms from them (see my pun here.. LOL), this is the drama for you. I’m giving this a solid 8.5. It’s just missing a little something for me emotionally, so I can’t give it a higher rating. Nevertheless, I heartily recommend this drama.


Completed: 6/2/2024 - Review #448

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Cute...Interesting....Weird... and Creepy

What attracted me to watch “Memory in the Letter” is the interesting plot. What’s going to happen when you move into a new apartment and find someone living inside the mirror in your room? What’s even more weird is that a novel is detailing your experience with the guy in the mirror and you have no idea how that happens and who the author is.

The two leads, Parky and Beck, are pretty new to dramaland. I think their acting is decent for newbies. This is Parky’s first ever acting gig, and he’s done a lot better than others. Beck is adorable and is able to shoulder his first drama as a main lead pretty well. Can Atirut is quite a handsome guy, but he seems to always have a fake smile on his face with too much makeup.

There’s enough story to make this short drama into a full length one. Because there are only 6 short episodes, everything happens very quickly. In the first episode, not only have the leads met but they also fell in love right away. The first four episodes show us the quick romantic development, and they are really a cute and adorable pair. When a handsome stranger approaches you at a coffee shop and is super kind and helpful, one starts to wonder what his motive is. The mystery of the novel is interesting and is solved rather quickly.

Episode 5 tells us Songjam’s side of the story. Even though it’s important to learn of his experience, I miss Aksorn here. I think the best part of this drama is when Aksorn and Songjam are together and doing little romantic things. With Aksorn’s absence, I lost a little interest.

Spoiler……Episode 6
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This is when the creepy part comes in. It’s an interesting twist that we finally find out the identity of this mysterious kind stranger. But if I do the math right, he’s at least 40-45 years older than Aksorn. I cannot for the life of me see him acting all smitten and lovey dovey with Aksorn. This age gap is quite hard to accept when he’s the one who helps bring Aksorn into this world, literally. The romantic feelings I have in the first 4 episodes are all gone. What’s left is a creepy old guy (who looks the same for the past 20 years with a fake smile) trying to rekindle old flames and flirt/court a 20 year old.



I am not sure if the drama follows the web novel well and if it also feels creepy in the end. It’s unfortunate as I really enjoyed the first four episodes despite everything happening at lightning speed. But this is a low budget Thai drama, so I am willing to overlook that because Songjam and Aksorn are adorable with good chemistry, and it has a couple nice songs. With that positive note, I am not rate this lower than 7.5.


Completed: 5/21/2024 - Review #441

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Strong leads chemistry but not enough to compensate for uninspiring fantasy plot

Subjective Gut Rating: 7.75

“Eye Love You” has so much potential yet the writing and execution did not live up to the high expectations after a very lovely start. The adorable Chae Jong Hyeop carries the show on his back with a little assistance from his co-star, female lead, Nikaido Fumi.

The best part about “Eye Love You” is the chemistry between the leads. They are so adorable together: from their initial encounter to Tae Oh assertively courts Yuri. Chae Jong Hyeop has such a cute, puppy face that when he smiles, he lights up the screen and there’s no way anyone can say no to him. Nikaido Fumi is beautiful with big round, emotive eyes. Together, they are a beautiful pair with good chemistry. However, there are some frustrating moments as well. Tae Oh might be a tad obsessive and pushy, while Yuri is quite wishy-washy and indecisive.

The show knows viewers would love their romance, thus, might have intentionally or unintentionally dedicated more than 60% of the screen time on their cat-and-mouse romance. I was watching this for a unique fantasy romance, but what I got was a slice-of-life drama with the sole focus on the romance and nothing much for 6 - 7 episodes. When they finally got to the mystery of the special power, it was like child’s play. Why and how did she get the superpower? Is it really because of the accident? For such a serious consequence for being in love, everyone just believes in whatever that person says? The last couple episodes were rushed and the ending is just OK.

I would also love to know more about the business operations of ‘Dolce and Chocolat’ and how two environmentalists would team up and open a company together. That initial one or two liners description is not enough. There’s a lot more potential to give the business plot a little more light.

Nevertheless, I can’t deny the fact that I enjoy the main leads’ romance (to a certain point) but not the secondary romance. That one is weird and seems like an afterthought. I’ve loved Chae Jong Heyop since “Love All Play” and I was happy to see him in “Eye Love You”. I am not sure if he’s fluent in Japanese, but he made me believe he is. It also doesn’t hurt that we have a lovely second male lead who is very handsome.

I would only recommend this drama if you are a fan of the leads, and if romance is all you need but nothing else.


Completed: 5/13/2024 - Review #439

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Amazing musical performances - a Light and Feel-Good drama

Disclaimer: I enjoy music but won’t say I am a big fan of classical music. I also don’t play any instruments. The rating is purely based on my enjoyment while watching and after watching.

+0.5 because of the beautiful full-length musical performances.

Usually, I would rate a drama like “Reversal Orchestra” an 8.0 rating. The plot is simple and light-hearted. It’s a typical drama about a group of people (musicians here) who work hard to achieve the ultimate goal together. Along the way, you have side stories of different members with a tiny little romance subplot. These side stories are simple enough to give each character a little background, but not long enough to give it depth. There aren't any annoying characters. All the musicians are supportive of each other. There’s no in-group rivalry and they are just TOO nice. This is definitely a feel-good drama. This is not a drama that will spark deep conversations or amaze you in many ways.

But to me, what stands out in this drama compared to other dramas with a music focus, is the amazing performances. If you enjoy classical music, this is the drama for you. Much of the screen time is dedicated to music playing. There are several full-length performances that are amazing to watch and listen to. Oftentimes, I get disappointed when I watch a drama about music, and you get chopped up performances, especially when the characters are supposed to be preparing for this big showdown. The showdown becomes a letdown. But not here! “Reversal Orchestra” not only has a believable orchestra playing the music and we have satisfying performances. It’s quite amazing to see the actors so in sync when playing their instruments. They do make me believe they are true musicians. Each movement is synchronized within the section. It’s beautiful to see. However, what I just described could also be what you dislike most about the drama. You might find it boring because the focus is on music playing and performances. The background music is classical music. There are not songs with lyrics, like a traditional OST.

The actors and actresses deliver good performances as well. It’s a typical J-drama with moments of overdramatic acting. I have been on a Tanaka Kei (ML) binge recently, and am happy to see another side of him. I cannot sing enough praises of his choice of projects. They are so diverse! Kawowaki Mugi plays a likable female lead. So glad she’s not another innocent, naive pushover. She’s kind but could be crazy and feisty.

If you are a classical music lover and want a light and easy watch, “Reversal Orchestra” is definitely the right drama for you. However, if you are looking for something deeper with a stronger message or moral, you might want to look elsewhere.


Completed: 5/1/2024 - Review #436

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Excellent Chemistry and Development of Main Romance

“Last Twilight” is an unexpected delight. The biggest selling point for me is the chemistry and the relationship between the two male leads. Jimmy stole my heart here.

I love Mhok, a total green flag. He was introduced as a ‘baddie’ but really isn’t one. He just had a tough life growing up and life threw him a bunch of lemons, but that didn’t stop him from being kind, hard-working, caring and considerate. He’s the perfect person to bring Day out of his isolation. He not only treats Day with kindness when he isn’t very nice. He is patient and slowly breaks down Day’s wall. He’s tough but supportive. He’s the perfect caretaker and friend. Day, on the other hand, is spoiled and quite immature in a way. He doesn’t really know what he wants in life when badminton is taken away from him.

Jimmy did a great job portraying Mhok. He was a little quiet and shy in the beginning but then the fun and flirty side came out. Sea portrays a blind person admirably but at times, his facial expressions appear a little bland. Comparatively, I enjoy Jimmy’s acting a lot more. Does anyone find Sea look like Zhang Ling He in certain angles? No, just me? LOL

I like the parallel life between Day and the character in the novel. It’s an interesting way to tell both stories and tie in the adventures of self-discovery and growth to the book. There are many other dramas about the visually impaired or someone living with a disability. But what differs and what I enjoy the most is the reminder that being a caretaker and a boyfriend are two very different roles. Many people do not agree with the decision in ep. 11. As much as Day’s mom hasn’t been the most supportive person in the world, her worry about Mhok’s role transition is valid. Could she have provided guidance earlier on? Totally. But then we wouldn’t have ep 11 and 12. Mhok and Day needed time to grow and mature. I don’t really think Mhok pitied Day, but he has his own baggage that was never resolved. He might not be as emotionally available as he thought especially to have a real relationship with someone that’s a little different.

I wonder if I would have liked the ending more if I had binged it straight from ep 1-12. Unfortunately, my timing was not right and I had a 5-day gap between ep 11 and 12. I think it might have affected my enjoyment of the last episode and all my criticisms are focused on ep 12. as it’s fresh in my memory. Yes, the chemistry is still there between Mhok and Day, and I enjoy all the flirting and teasing. But then, the lines become cringey, especially the last 15 minutes of the episode. Declaring your love for each other is fine, but doing so repeatedly in different ways becomes a little unbearable. Additionally, there’s quite a lot of time spent on the ending of Night and Phojai’s story. I like them and think they make a great couple. My problem is that the drama fails to show and develop their romance in the first 11 episodes.

Overall, this is a lovely drama and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s not my # 1Thai BL drama, but it’s definitely one of my favorites. I appreciate the non-dramatic acting, nice OST and cinematography and the lack of ridiculous plot twists and turns. And this is very personal, I am also glad that it doesn’t have the camera stay on the actor’s faces for a few seconds too long for dramatic effects.


Completed: 1/26/2024 - Review #399

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Friends-to-lovers: Simple, Repetitive, Nothing new.

The title, “I Cannot Reach You”is so accurate. Yamato spent the whole drama trying to reach Kakeru. If that’s the type of drama you enjoy - shy, awkward, unsure, simple teen romance - then this might be for you.

However, to me personally, it takes too long to reach Kakeru. Nothing much really happens and the drama can be summed up into a few points:
Yamato couldn’t control his feelings for Kakero anymore but doesn’t want to jeopardize the friendship (repeat this every episode).
Kakeru is confused about Yamato’s actions and his own feelings (repeat this for 70% of the drama).
Yamato and Kakeru are constantly being interrupted during pivotal moments (repeat this for 70% of the drama).

I also find the acting below average. There’s a way to act awkward, shy and cute. But I find Yamato too awkward (especially in the earlier episodes) and Kakeru acting way too cute. Maybe I am too old for this drama or I’ve seen too many already. This drama doesn’t bring anything new. However, this could be a gentle and easy watch for someone who just needs a breather. I might have liked this more if the acting is better and if there are more cute and fluffy moments.


Completed: 12/25/2023 - Review #387

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Toys with my Emotions - Makes me Smile one minute and Cries like a baby the next minute.

So much praise has already been showered on “Twinkling Watermelon”, so I came in with high expectations because everyone seems to love it and it has an impressive 9.2 rating right now. I am glad I wasn’t disappointed. I knew it’s about going back to the past but I wasn’t expecting to be smiling one minute and then crying like a baby the next. I thought the drama would be full of funny moments of a bunch of teenagers messing around and forming a band, and then cute and fluffy moments of teenage love. Little did I know that this drama is so much more.

I don’t think any Korean teen dramas have impressed me this much, that honor usually goes to C-dramas. So, I am really happy to have waited for the right time, the right mood to watch this. “Twinkling Watermelon” does an excellent job in combining different elements of family, friendship, first loves, healing, hardships, mystery, and finding yourselves. A drama can easily lose its identity when it tries to do too much, not this drama.

I enjoy many of the songs in this OST. I love the band's performances and wanted to see more. Everyone on stage, present and past, is charismatic and a joy to watch. Ha Yi Chan is full of sunshine and energy. He’s the perfect frontman. He exudes joy. Ha Eun Gyeol is the cool and good-looking guitarist with crazy charisma. The supporting bandmates also seemed to have a lot of fun performing.

My eyes can’t stop following Ryeoun. I didn’t find him this attractive when I watched him in “The Secret Romantic Guesthouse”. In fact, in my review I said he’s pretty but acting is not that great and lacked charisma. What a change in “Twinkling Watermelon”. I might have developed a little crush on him. His acting has improved so much. Choi Hyun Wook has a similar energy that I got from “Racket Boys”. He’s such a sweet and his character really grows on me throughout the drama. His friendship with Ha Eun Gyeol, and relationship with his grandmother are beautiful to watch. Actually, everyone’s acting is great in this drama - the young ones and the veterans. I love that sign language is used throughout the drama, and many different actors and actresses use it. I applaud them for learning a new language and I am sure it’s not easy.

When it comes to romance, I want to put young Ha Yi Chan and Yoon Cheong Ah in a tiny little box and protect them from all harm. They are so sweet, so cute and so precious!!! I am especially touched by Cheong Ah’s story and love how their romance is developed. The present day parent-couple is just as precious. They live so passionately and so freely even with a disability. No wonder they raised such a Mr. Green Flag in Ha Eun Gyeol. I don’t feel as strongly for Eun Gyeol and Cho Se Kyeong’s romance but I like how they supported each other in the last few episodes.

If I have to pick on this drama, it’s that bullying is everywhere in all K-drama genres. I know it’s hard to avoid that when we have a central plot around people who are hearing impaired. But I still wish there are other ways to tell the story without such a focus on bullying. I also find Choi Se Kyong/On Eun Yu a little too loud and annoying. I didn’t really care for her character much when she came back from the US. I also would like a little more explanation on why the Master is who he is, and how this all happened.

I strongly recommend this drama if you are looking for something fun yet heartwarming and touching. This drama toys with my emotions! It also has great acting and music and a good-looking cast.


Completed: 12/25/2023 - Review #386

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Finally a drama and role for a more mature and experienced Xu Kai

Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25

“Wonderland of Love” features two intelligent leads who always try to outsmart each other. That should be a pretty attractive premise to attract a wide audience. However, it doesn’t seem to be as popular as “The Story of Kunning Palace” which was broadcasted at about the same time. I guess a vampire gege is more attractive than a war hero Mr. Green flag. LOL There are many things I liked about this drama, but I do agree with many reviewers that the last arc wasn’t quite as exciting.


What I Like:

1. Xu Kai - I’m so glad I finally get to see Xu Kai in another drama worthy of his popularity and star power. His last few projects have been duds. I have liked him best as the more animated lead in “Arsenal Military Academy” and also his more subtle emotional acting in “Ancient Love Poetry”. But here in “Wonderland of Love”, I see the best of both worlds. I am thankful that he’s not another emotionless cold-on-the-outside character, but one that is mature and gives him the ability to showcase his acting range. If you are a Xu Kai fan, this is a must-watch.

2. Li Ni (ML) - Li Ni is a historical Mr. Green flag. He’s loyal, respectful, communicative, honest, courageous, selfless, can fight, can scheme (but not wicked and cunning). He’s a good son, a good brother, a good comrade, a good lover. He’s almost Mr. Perfect. His one flaw (if you can call it a flaw), is that he’s so in love with A Ying (FL) that it might have clouded his judgment and conceding to A Ying. He just can’t say No. But, as a romance-lover, he’s the perfect boyfriend.

3. Cui Lin/A Ying (FL) - On paper as a female character in a historical war and political drama, it’s nice to see a smart female lead who can fight and can think. She is as smart as Li Ni, and sometimes actually outsmarts him. She is independent, stubborn, and loyal to the Cui Army. She also has strong beliefs in bringing peace to all.

4. Fight and Battle Choreography - First of all, I am going to criticize the occasional slow-motion fights, and spinning/twirling to create a romantic effect. Having said that, “Wonderland of Love” has some of the more impressive fight choreography for close-combat fight and war/battle scenes. The drama started off with the leads fighting each other. There are a few sword fighting scenes throughout the drama that are pretty good, especially when this is a historical, political drama, and not a wuxia/xianxia drama. As other reviewers mentioned, the battle in episode 30 was well shot and hardcore. It was a bloody battle and many died in different ways. When the Laolan song is played, it breaks my heart. There are only a few other dramas (e.g. The Rebel Princess and Love Like the Galaxy) that I can think of with similar impressive battle scenes.

5. OST - There are several songs in the soundtrack and they all sound lovely and complementary to the scenes.

6. Acting - Xu Kai and Jian Tian both acted well and did not disappoint. The veteran supporting cast definitely outshines the younger supporting cast. I don’t think the younger cast is horrible, but no one shines through either.

7. Ending - No rush ending, in a way. The last episode is dedicated to show how everyone’s doing.


What I have Mixed Feelings:

1. Lead Romance - As I mentioned, I like Xu Kai and Jiang Tian’s acting. But for whatever reason, I am not feeling their chemistry as a couple, especially during the cute and fluffy scenes. I can’t get it out of my head that Jiang Tian is 7 years older than Xu Kai. I don’t feel this way when Jiang Tian is paired up with Timmy Xu or Vin Zhan. It’s probably because Xu Kai has somewhat of a baby face. I don’t think this is supposed to be an older sis/younger bro romance either. A Ying is a strong female lead, but not necessarily an easy-to-like female lead in a romance. There are plenty of kisses in the drama, yet none of them seems passionate to me. I also think the directing of the kisses is a little off. But if you look at the romance objectively, it’s a good one. They are both smart, have the same goal in mind, courageous and for the most part when there are issues, they communicate with each other. They might not take the same road to achieve their goals and disagree on principle, but they understand each other’s circumstances. I love their love letter correspondence during war time. All the good elements of a great romance, but I am just not feeling it.

2. Secondary Romance - I don’t particularly like or dislike it. It’s like every other secondary romance in many dramas. They’re cute and all, but don’t add much to the drama itself. I much rather learn more of Consort Xiao and the General love story.

3. Liu Cheng Feng (2ML) - I don’t believe his love and obsession for FL justify his actions. The way he seeks revenge seems way over-the-top when it comes to a country’s safety. I pity him when he was weak and then I just didn't care for him much when he turned to the dark side.

4. Final Arc (last 9 episodes) - I have to agree with others that the last arc of the drama isn’t written well. This part of the drama was draggy and anti-climatic after the big battle in episode 30. All that could be told in half the time. With the initial cold war between the leads, I find it somewhat annoying that our supposedly smart FL hasn’t thought of the consequence of the Cui army when she tried to push ML to be the crown prince. She should have calculated all of that politics, and not been surprised by the king’s decision to disband them. We wasted a couple episodes on this cold war. The villain tried to scheme and set up the general as a traitor. It was brought up without much info, and was resolved without much fanfare either. I thought it would be some elaborate plan but in the end it was just he said she said. The invasion was done half-heartedly. These foreigners were used by others for most of the drama. And when it came down to business, they were taken out easily and anti-climatically.

5. Production Quality - I don’t believe this is a big budget production. The green screen used during the leads’ horseback riding was hilariously fake. The wonderland scenery also seems fake to me. The set design, costumes and props seem OK. I am disappointed that almost everyone is dubbed. I find the dubbed voice for A Ying doesn’t quite match the face of Jiang Tian. And what is up with the pale faces of Xu Kai and Jiang Tian when they are soldiers, living under the sun and dust all the time. I think they could have darkened their skin tone a little. They definitely look too white, clean and pretty to be general/commander.

6. The King - He’s annoying as heck! I know he’s not the smartest cookie, but I can’t believe we need to tolerate his dumbness and ignorance for 40 episodes.


Overall, this is a decent drama to watch. I will recommend this if you are a fan of Xu Kai and Jiang Tan. I am rounding my rating up for Xu Kai, as I think this is his best role yet. I realize my criticisms are very personal and somewhat petty. LOL.


Other Random Observations:
1. The band of brothers are fun but way too loud.
2. I love the scene of the grass dragonflies when ML was sad.
3. I am glad Gu Wang Niang is not the typical evil 2FL. She technically didn’t do anything too evil, but this actress portrayed the character so well that I really dislike her! She gives off this cunning aura, without doing anything evil. Is it good acting?


Completed: 12/17/2023 - Review #383

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