yuebing25

Worth the risk of watching ghosts if you hate horror like me :)

Another dark magic romance that was worth it! I have always loved this genre as much as I hate horror but the chemistry and world are worth it.

The story is pretty good. There are unexpected twists in the drama, but nothing too much to blow your mind. There are jumpscares but you know it coming so it's fine. As for the story itself, I think as a novel, it's way better than the series. So many lines and paragraphs become just a scene where you miss out a lot of details because you are focused on the characters. I personally liked the ending, maybe because that decreases the scare and fear of the ghost. Lowkey grateful; plus points for that 😭 Honestly, I really liked the ghost, maybe even more than the main leads I'll say 😂 She was a more complex and emotional than the lead characters. When it comes to Paran, with all due respect, I hated him a lot because of the way he kept going hot and cold with Khem. Like come on man! What the hell? But this love story was definitely the kind that you know it's blaring red flags, but you still want them together because 'basically' he isn't all bad; just bad at expressing and all🙄 I was as frustrated on myself as I was on Paran. Khemjira simply put is a good human with a wretched fate. Nothing more honestly. But their love story didn't feel anything more than just love at first sight, a crush. The next memorable character is Jet. I LOVED HIM! Seriously! His character is the most genuine and solid of all. And though Charn logic pissed me off from time to time, I liked him too. This pair had a good love story that made more sense. Grandma Si and Khem's mother were also favourites of mine. Thong and Ake were adorable characters too.

The cast was real good. Especially the two lead pairs. Khem and Paran were so well played by Namping and Keng! Both there acting skills are amazing. Though I'd say, they could cry better. They did not have it to be emotional enough. But the biggest plus point? KengNamping is one of the best pairings out there, period. Because all they have to do is look at each other and you are already swooning 😭 That is the main reason why, even if Paran was giving mixed signals and unintentionally hurting Khem, I couldn't let go of my desire to see them together. They just make sense together. The kind that makes your heart smile and relax when they're together and clench and sink when they aren't. If this chemistry is just onscreen, I must say, they deserve a standing ovation for that. Then comes FirstOne as Jet. This might be the best actor of the lot. Every emotion, every nuance, you see it written all over his face. He makes you feel exactly the same as him. Especially the scenes where he was spying his ship, I actually felt I was with my bestie giggling over a random couple. Loved his acting 🥹 And of course Tle as Charn did a very good job, portraying the stable character who was the typical nerd and a calm anchor. Again, this pair goes soooo well! I just cannot 😭 Love to see them together. Even if they're chemistry isn't as overwhelming as the main leads, they have a strong bond. Green as Rampeung was a very good choice. She's so gorgeous but also an amazing actress. I sympathized soo many times; yes, I sympathized with a ghost ✋️ Also loved other casts like Noknoi Uraiporn as Grandma Si, Om Manita as Khem's mother and Udon and Ryuji as Thong and Ake.

Music was great! The intro Phap Man? Damn! That was one insane! Awesome song. Aof Surapol, you're voice is amazing! I really really loved it! The traditional elements of the song are so beautiful. Feels home and makes me want to do classsical dance!

The drama did feel a bit out of concept at times though. Suddenly the shift was towards the romance alone in between and you wonder where Rampeung is while these people have the audacity to think of love in between 😂 It was really slow and painful to see misunderstandings grow. Too slow. Then I had a big doubt. The ghost says this would be her last kill and she would be satisfied after that. So I wondered why this time? Won't he reincarnate again? Why stop now? Don't you mind the soul of you 'enemy' freely living next lifetime? I also did not understand why the monk waited all along? I mean, all that 'she had to understand, he had to lose power, he had to give up' thing...didn't get the logic. Yah, there are plot holes.

Overall, this series is a good Thai drama. It has it all - good genre, acting and cast and one of the best chemistries out there. But the story could have been more complex and deep. I'll rewatch it again someday. Worth watching. Grateful I put my fear of ghosts aside to finally watch it!

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King of it's Kind!

My my my...WHAT A DRAMA! I have never seen anything of this sort before. As someone who is seriously against red flags and the entire manipulation thing, this drama shook my morals at least a good couple of times.

Fan Xiao-a, Fan Xiao, WHAT A MAN YOU ARE! I have no idea why I was watching you ruin a good human's life. Because honestly, I know clearly I was never on your side till the end, but I still couldn't help but want you next to You Shulang, at least a bit. Every second was a ticking bomb because I couldn't wait for your ridiculous plan to be revealed. But I must say, the second half into the groveling and redeeming was so satisfying and pleasing, not just because you had it coming, but also because I could finally, whole heartedly support you instead of fighting myself. I was just waiting for that. Fan Xiao is the kind of morally grey person with a solid backstory that has enough points to side him if you tried. I definitely wouldn't blame him for the break up of You Shulang with his ex or brother. But I just cannot with the entire "I'm the one who'll leave him once I'm done". Yes, he couldn't accept that goodness could exist because of what he's been through. But that gives him no license to mess up someone's life for fun. Yun Qi is a very good actor with real potential. Can we have another drama of him as a dom? Please? 😭
Now towards one of my favorite characters of all time, You Shulang. THIS IS WHAT I WANT IN A BL. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I'M LOOKING FOR. Not a soft, obviously feminine, trying too hard, damsel in distress. But a strong, genuinely good human being - capable, smart, kind and every other possible good trait you could find in a human who tries to live his best possible life, no matter how hard life is. He's not an angel, not a sweetheart who's all sunshine. He is a boss who can beat you up without batting an eye if you crossed the line. Evident from how he doesn't break after being molested or knowing Fan Xiao's truth. I was all in for it!!! Altogether, I have to say he didn't deserve the pain he went through. But I don't know how he still has that good heart to love again. I mean, that part takes a lot of strength. And yes, Fan Xiao did change a lot (bless that) but ya, needs courage and a big heart to trust again. Hao Yiran, hats off to all that wonderful acting! It surely would have been so draining but thank you for sticking through 😭🙏

And I've heard from those who have read the novel that the redemption arc was a bit sped up and I agree with them. An extra episode or two wouldn't have felt like a lag 😁👍🏻 The chemistry between them? FIRE, LITERALLY FIRE! To think so much of skin is shown on a Chinese BL, DAMN! I don't even know why I went weak in my knees for the entire bodhisattva and the pendant thing 🫣 YES! The sparks were there from the beginning and it had already started to spill wayy before it finally burst. Good good good 😁

Side characters were good, not too much, but played their part. There wasn't much on the music side either. None caught my attention, also might partly be because my entire focus was on the story and acting.

Must say, you are a outstanding author, Su Er Liang! I seriously hope that someday, I can read the original novel - 'Si Mian Fu'. The direction by Ou Tan Kai that brought this world to life, is truly remarkable. The lighting was great. Loved it! Grateful for this work.

In a nutshell, Fan Xiao and You Shulang would definitely be the icons of 2025 BL dramas and for me, the best of all the manipulation dramas I've seen in a BL. Will never forget them! This is the kind of dynamic I want, a strong top and bottom 💪 And since as of recent, the whole morally grey, black flag trope is on the rise in the BL world, it would take quite a lot for another drama to dethrone this. To my shore has set the bar high!

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Binge watch worthy

It's worth the time you spend on it. This 12 episodic series, you could finish it in a day. It definitely deserves 8/10.

The biggest pro of this drama is the cast and its acting.
Starting with the main leads, IU and Byeon Wooseok, to the side characters, everyone is such a fabulous actor/actress. Every emotion, every nuance, every little look and tone - they come straight at your heart. This drama didn't have too many ups and downs. But the little it did, one could feel the tension, the happiness, the pain.

It had been a long time since I saw a drama where I could clearly see the actors falling in love. This drama fulfilled that wish of mine. One could clearly see Ian fall for Huiju...so beautiful, tugged my heart strings 🥹 There are very few who can do a crazy character better than IU. The laugh, the gait, the facial expressions, ahhh!! Love her! I found myself whipped so many times! And she's sooo pretty! Byeon Wooseok as Ian, God! He looked really good 🤭 And his acting? Goodness, emotions were pouring out of the screen.
Their chemistry? Good! Loved when their eyes met ❤️ Also, I'm a fan of height differences and this surely feeds me that.

The second couple, Choi Hyun and Do Hyejeong, were really cute. I really love the actor Yoo Soobin. Him as Aide Choi was a very good casting. Same with Lee Yeon as Do Hyejeong. But the best ones would be Gong Seungyeon as the Queen Mother and Noh Sanghyun as the Prime Minister. Man! The queen mother was definitely a very potent character. Her acting deserves a standing ovation. I'd even say she might be the best of all in this drama. If not, her character development would definitely be the best. But it could have been more deep. Irrespective, hats off to the acting. As for the Prime minister, well I'd say it was a character degeneration, but it was good too. I mean petty things, but the show must go on so. They didn't give a worthy ending though. Like what happened? He just disappeared. The brother and sister in law, unexpectedly became my favs just purely because they weren't villainous. Initially, it did feel like a typical chaebol setup, but eventually, it was watered down and family bonds were highlighted. Didn't like the father being glorified. Bro he wasn't all that a great person, whatever. The child actor Kim Eunho as the king. How cute!!! He did his part very well.

The biggest problem of this show would be the predictability. I mean, from the get go, you know the story and how it'll end. Considering how big of a cast it is, they could have had a story with more substance. It's because of the cast and their acting skills this drama gets it's points. It's basically a really cliche trope. I lowkey feel bad because IU and Byeon Wooseok are a good pair. They should have been given a better tale to play. Not just them, the whole lot. I saw it somewhere that this drama wasted potential and I have to agree. I mean the idea was good - monarchy in modern times and all. But it ends up becoming just another story. The script could have been better. Had it been 16 episodes with elaboration where needed, we would have felt more connected to the world and people.

Music wise, honestly, I did feel it lacked a lot of background music, especially in episodes 1. But it got better; still not fine but yah. Also, grateful it is just 12 episodes. Had it been 16, mm, I feel like it would lag considering how they ran through the last part. If it was indeed 16, like I mentioned, they better develop a lot more. Since it was only 12, one after the other, stuff was happening. And it did feel rushed at end, if you zoom out, you do feel it's a bit too much to happen in a few days or months, isn't it? But ya, grateful they chose 12 with this pace. Wonder what they'd have done with the remaining 4 if it was 16.

As for the controversy. I feel entirely boycotting or banning the show is just nonsense. Yes, historical errors happened and it disturbed cultural concepts. But considering the quality of production and mind-blowing acting, it would be a waste. And true, maybe the actors should have kept an eye out for the mistakes. But to hold them completely accountable, as if it were their faults entirely, is just unreasonable. How could you possibly expect them to proof check each and every little thing of each and every line? No. Holding them responsible is not right. I would really be sad if this drama is to be taken down.

In a nutshell, grateful this drama exists but wish there was more to it. Hope I can see this pair in a more deeper story. Binge watch worthy 👍🏻

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Drama of the Decade - an Evergreen Masterpiece

I have never been a fan of practical dramas, ones that portray raw emotions, real life hardships and just reality at its harshest. I was always of the opinion that entertainment was an escape so seeing characters suffer didn't help. But this drama changed my outlook on life completely. I know a drama cannot mature a person but this did. When life gives you tangerines, God, will there be another as beautifully heartwrenching as this?

A drama where no one is a villain, just life itself. The iron heart Yang Gwansik and the resilient Oh Aesun, navigating the sea of life, keeping on swimming. They shall forever live in my heart till the end. Each character had their own story. And everything woven together into this masterpiece, it was nothing less than perfect. The plot is so crisp and one can never get the feeling of the drama being dragged for long. Not even once. The way they divided the drama into 4 sections, man that was genius.

The casting is on another level. IU literally deserves an Oscar for this. The variety of roles - teenage Oh Aesun, Oh Aesun in her twenties into thirties, teen Yang Geummyeong and adult Geummyeong...that is a lot of to be and do. But the difference between her as Aesun and Geummyeong is so obvious, we don't feel it's the same person, just a daughter with her mother's face. When she cries, we cry, when she smiles, we smile. A truly outstanding actress! And then there is Park Bogum. Do we even need another example of eyes that speak? Park Bogum has that skill to make you wonder if he is actually alright because he becomes the character to an extent where it blurs reality and fiction. Every emotion is portrayed soooo well, one cannot deny the fact that he's a maestro at what he does. The character of Yang Gwansik itself is so well written, Park Bogum does not let him down. Then there are the other favourites of mine - Choi Daehoon as Bu Sanggil, Moon Sori as old Aesun, Park Haejoon as old Yang Gwansik, Yeom Hyeran as Aesun's mother, Kang Youseok as Yang Eunmyeong - they are literally people I know, that's how close I feel to all of them. Really really amazing.

The music is just beautiful. Starting from the intro to the instrument in the last scene of the last episode, nothing beats this layout.

Everything is just so good, yet I cannot express them in better words 😭 It's more like something the heart understands beyond human language. This drama taught me two main things I'd say. One - your parents would literally break their back just to give you the best they can and two - time as a human is very short. So living your best life and not waiting for the perfect moment is the best we can do. Also two lines really stuck with me. 1) "One day life might get so tough that you feel like you can't go on. Don't lie still. Struggle with all your might...Tell yourself you won't die and must survive, no matter what. Paddle your arms and legs like crazy. You'll get through the dark waters and see the sky." Oh Aesun's mother to her- 2) "There might have been nights I went to sleep hungry. But there was never a night that I was alone."- Oh Aesun about Yang Gwansik.

How can a drama be this good yet this heartbreaking; I just cannot make sense. Yet I feel if our stories were a series, won't we see the rawness of pain and sweetness of happiness in it too? Also, Alec Benjamin's 'If we have each other' is a song I will forever associate this drama, the lines about the lovers (iykyk). Rewatch if you want to rip your heart out again and again 😭 Evrything is just Uhhh!!! Crazy in the best way. This drama truly deserves the hype and it is a MUST WATCH, no matter what your preferred genre is. Thank you Baek Sangchoon for writing this great story and thank you Kim Wonseok and all the cast and crew members for breathing in life to it! 🌊🌼❤️

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Worth giving a try, it's quite good

OK this drama is underrated I swear (don't know if it was a big thing when it was airing or not though). It's the category of drama that either you love it real or you find it boring. For me, it's the former. It's bubbly and makes you smile. The angst between your cold CEO and extremely capable secretory, the CEO's absolute dominance and intelligence, ya, typical.

The story is good, and yes a bit repetitive with the entire memory loss part, but not bad. It actually influenced me into wanting to be a more career oriented independent woman 😂 But it does pull you in and make you feel attached. By the end, definitely it will leave you with a broad smile. Feel good 👍🏻

Xuan Lu and Zhao Zhiwei have a good chemistry. And mind it, Xuan Lu's character as Nie Xingchen here is like the exact opposite of her character as Jiang Yanli in The Untamed and that blows my mind even now (I'm still crying and I can't get over it 😭). The side characters are really good. The second couple were honestly interesting and had a good story. 8/10. Casting was a good pick. All the overdramatic scenes, good good good.

Yes, a story about 2 successful, modern, independent people and an unspoken bond that brings them together again and again. A good rom-com. Rewatch worthy (I've watched it twice) 👍🏻

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Go for it!

Go for it!

Set in the post martial rule of Taiwan, where homosexuality is still a taboo, this movie presents the life of 2 high-schoolers, one silent and the other crazy. But even when both fall for each other, only the silent one dares to speak the truth while the other runs from reality.

The story is really real. The convent school, the strictness. This movie actually potrayed all of that without any filters. Showcasing the reality of reactions of society including you teachers, peers and family towards same gender relationships was done very well.

The actors did a great job which carried most of the movie. Edward Chen, marvelous acting. The scene where he asks what's wrong being queer, my God! That was painful to watch. Same with Tseng Jinghua. First and foremost. He looks so much like Yangyang it's crazyyy! His acting is splendid too. When he listens to the song by Jiahan, woah! You could feel the pain through the screen. The side characters were great too. I really liked the father at the school. His character had such weight. And finally, knowing that the story was based on the director's real life without the reunion at the end, man! Now we have yet another human to cry for ㅠㅠ.

But I would say, I personally am the kind to get very emotional but this one didn't feel too deep. I expected me to be more invested going into this movie. Something in the second half just didn't hit the mark.

Yet, I would say you watch it. I think I would rewatdh it. And that's because this movie was very organic; very natural. Not overdramatic, not overboard. Raw and real. So ya, 7.5/10 👍

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Found my next comfort drama!

Yet another to be added to my 'comfort drama' list! Yet another masterpiece by Zhu Yi. The moment this drama started, I knew it couldn't go below 8 or 8.5. It did not disappoint me at all. Can't wait to read the book!

Ok, let's be honest - Sang Yan is way too good to belong to this world. He makes this drama so..comforting. It's the feeling of security as a viewer that no matter what truth, what twist comes up or whatever anybody says about Wen Yifan, his image of her would never change. If it did, it just gets better, never worse. And that keeps us grounded. He keeps Wen Yifan and all of us anchored. Making him feel that she isn't the best person he has ever met is as hard as making the Sun rise from the west, period. And realistically speaking, that makes him way more otherworldly than earthly 😂 And I know you're going to say it's the most basic way treating a girl - your girl - but let's be real. To indefinitely wait for someone for all these years and revolving your whole life around a single person takes a lot more than you think. And the vast majority of us can neither be it nor experience it. But I feel that's what makes stories like these divine. It's paradise. Loved that human, Sang Yan. I have officially become a Bai Jingting fan!

Wen Yifan, one of the bravest characters I've seen. Not in a 'warrior of the ancient times' sense but the real world version without an armour or sword. They called Sang Yan the knight and her the princess. But honestly, she is the knight herself. I usually don't like the idea of running away or escaping, leaving everything and everyone behind (as much as I wish I could myself ㅠㅠ). Maybe because it's not always possible. But she made me realise that maybe, running off isn't cowardice. It's a way of survival. And anything you do for survival is valid. She could have given up on her life entirely. But she didn't. That makes her a really brave person. She deserves every happiness in the world. Even at the end, their wedding wishes were filled with 'Sang Yan take care of her', 'Sang Yan protect her' as if it wasn't his wedding too. But it didn't feel out of place or overly highlighting Wen Yifan. It just FELT right! Again Zhang Ruonan fan here! The night when the incident happened was so well done by her, I was crying.

The two of them? One of the best onscreen couple. They look like real life couples tbh. Their acting was phenomenal! So natural; tears fell like it was happening to them, smiles came as if they had waited for this moment in real life. All the while making us feel the myriad of emotions. The way he called her name - Wen Shuangjiang..uhh! I was lovestruck 😫😫😭😭😭

Also liked Qiaoqiao and Haoan. They made a very cute couple. Love Zhang Miaoyi from WIFTY. It took me sometime to adjust to her new character 😫😂 I didn't realise Edward Chen is the one from 'Your Name engraved herein'. That movie's been on my watchlist for a long time. Have to watch that now for sure! Another notable character was Wen Yifan's mother. One of the most ridiculous people I've seen. EVER! Just cannot justify her in any way. Uh!

The OSTs grow on you. I liked 任性(Willful), 倔强(Stubborn) and 看着我(Look at me). But my favorites would be 像晴天像雨天 (Like sunny days, like rainy days) by Silence Wang and 雨滴中有你 (There is you amidst raindrops) by Crispy Band. Loved those!

This drama is not without problems though. First and foremost, Sang Yan's character as person was a bit far fetched. I mean, we're talking about a 16, 17 year old flying or taking train whatever so many times and his parents don't seem to care. Where did he get all the money from? Why aren't his parents the least concerned? Again, the level of freedom he had was a bit too much for an Asian family 😂 And if he didn't have a heart of gold, I swear he's one of the brattiest people I've seen 😂 Sang Zhi is right, he is very proud and arrogant 😶 So the green flag is for 'the way he treats her' than him as an individual. Then the storyline of the second couple felt a bit incomplete. I wish there was more. More interaction, more lovely moments and a more decisive ending. It felt loose. And the grandparents story as well. It felt like there wasn't a need for it. They were on track in the beginning, the entire memory loss and all. But they didn't use the room they had. All of a sudden it just wrapped up and became background stuff. Also, I thought there'll be more bits that parallelled with Hidden Love timeline but that disappointed me too. Finally, somewhere in the middle I did feel the drama dragged a bit. Not in a way that makes you want to fast forward the episode. But in a way that doesn't give you the urge to watch the next episode soon after, ya.

So the conclusion? This drama shows you what it is like to be loved unconditionally without any strings attached. What it is like to have someone to rely on- quoting "Trusting you in weakness, chosen by you firmly". This drama is not for binge watching over the weekend. It exists for you to watch an episode per day over an entire month! ❄️🍃

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Raw and Brutal

This movie makes you feel empty. Not in a negative sense. In a way that makes you wonder 'What's the point?' Makes you realise the insignificance of the ego.

Set in a countryside of Mae Hong Son, the movie captures the simple beauty of ordinary life. The lush green vegetation under sun and rain throughout the movie pleases your eye. The inclusion of local traditions like the rocket festival make it feel more realistic. The movie has kept unpolished elements throughout its length, adding to the organic feel.

The story can be described with just two words - raw and brutal. The reality of homosexual love being treated as just a fling is shown in such an unfiltered way, it hurts. Even if it has been legalised in countries today, there still remains a huge population who are ignored. This movie validated their side of the story. And then there is the potrayal of the life of people at the bottom of the society. Hardships to such great extents that you'd do anything to get out of it. Only to realise, there isn't any point. This movie's an emotional rollercoaster - anger, pain, suffering, helplessness. You want more and couldn't care less about others. You could let go but choose to go back and fight. And in the process, the genuine ones become the victims. Conscience is dead. And finally, the ending leaves you asking, 'What was all that for?'

Jeff Satur! This man is from a whole different planet, I swear! The myriad of things he can do; one of the best being acting. He blew me out of water! I honestly never knew he was this good. The emotional scenes especially. Wonderful! Engfa Waraha. Another gem. This was my first time seeing her in an ordinary look, without all the makeup and costumes. And she is still so pretty! She potrays Mo so well, it deserves a loud applause. Even if it's a small role, but I loved the character Jingna played by Harit. He was the only person who wasn't driven by an ulterior motive. Harit did a good job here. Pity his character met a tragic end. That scene was heartwrenching. Srida Puapimol as the mother was also very memorable. Huge respect for your talent.

The most important point of the whole cast is the originality in acting. The natural portrayal pulls you in and before you know, you are one of the durian trees watching them in person.

I don't think there are many that outshine 'Rain Wedding', the OST for the movie by Jeff Satur. Another masterpiece of his. It's been one of favorites for so long! Loved it since day one. It's that bittersweet song, making you happy and sad at the same time. I love it so much I won't stop talking!

Finally, it's not a movie I'd go back to again and agai. Not a comfort watch; it's torture. But I'm pretty sure I'd rewatch it quite a few times more. It's a guarantee, you won't regret this watch.

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Beautiful & Heartwarming

A good story. A drama done well. You'll love to watch this.

Story wise, I think it's pretty nice. It takes unpredictable turns, connecting different points you didn't think were that important. Even if it isn't enough to blow your mind, the author did a great job writing them. Wholesome, I'd say.

Pacing wise, I had a trouble getting into the drama in the beginning because I felt too much was happening in the start. But it became better after a couple of episodes.

Problems I had with this drama? I felt Ming Yi herself wasn't exactly feeling much of regretful for a long time over lying to Ji Bozai which is kind of questionable. Situ Ling turned Chao Yuan was honestly really annoying. That being said, I think Mu Qibai seemed more of a villian than him. Really getting on your nerves is all he does. Another thing - why did no one do anything about the emperor of Yaoguangshan? He wasn't a nice guy too, was he? Then your usual xianxia scene at the end where one decides to sacrifice their life for the other or the world which I honestly hate 🙄 Like come on, LIVE! Only if you're alive can you find another way. Don't single down on sacrifice alone 🙅‍♀️🤦‍♀️ And to add to that, the 'I'm going to make you hate me because I don't want hou to get hurt when I die' 😒

Casting I think was done really well. Although Hou Minghao isn't great when it comes to the chemistry aspect, he acts very well. I genuinely loved and cared for Ji Bozai because of that. The action scenes were wonderful. Lu Yuxiao would be the highlight though. She is so pretty, beautiful, cute all at once, it's harmful for the heart 🥴 And added to this, her acting. Amazing talent. She potrays every emotion so well, it's palpable. One of my favorite scenes was her realising her teacher is her father. Loved it so so much! She and Lin Jiangguo did it so well, I was teary eyed. So heartwarming 🥹
Chemistry wise, nah! It felt more like best friends or partners in crime which, I don't think is a bad trope; just not your 'makes my heart skip a beat' thing.

Side characters did well too. My favorite ones are Ming Yi's tutor/father She Tianlin played by Lin Jiangguo, 27 played by Yu Yao, Buxiu played by Lu Qi (which tbh, I wouldn't mind a bit of bromance or BL between those too 😁) and Princess and Zhang Tai played by He Nan and Pan Junya respectively. I felt Quan Yilun could do better with his acting but chemistry wise, he and He Nan were good. Maybe it's their characters and storyline, whatever. Yu Chengen as Situ Ling did a good job pissing me off. And must say, Hu Yunhao as Mu Qibai is very handsome. Pity he's a villain 😂

Music was pleasant. Hou Minghao's got a wonderful voice. Loved his song 'If your world had no sunshine'.

I would rewatch it someday but it wouldn't be a high priority rewatch wise. A good medium probability.

Overall, I think even if it was a typical xianxia, it was done well. Doesn't bore you out. Worth watching!

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One of my comfort dramas ♡

Not exactly the kind to drift too far from my comfort zone, but I really like dramas that aren't similar to the ones I've watched before. And this one was my first drama in the entire gaming arc ones. And to be honest, this offered way more than just gaming sessions, and that too in a truly fine way.

'You are my Glory' follows Qiao Jingjing, a famous actress who plays the MOBA Honor of Kings online and fails miserably. And to add on to the misery, she is recorded online, thus leading to her defamation as she is set to ambassador the game. Left with no choice, she has to participate in an e-gaming championship at the end of a month to save both her endorsement and face. Coincidentally, the high school crush who rejected her, now an aerospace engineer at the national space organization, Yu Tu happens to add her into a match of the MOBA one night. Even if Jingjing recognizes him, he does not. When she knows he's a pro at the game, she's all fired up to make him her gaming teacher. Through hook and crook, she makes him come to her place, thus having a reunion after 10 years. Yu Tu on the other hand, is on the verge of giving up his space dream for a stable income and for his parents. And there begins there gaming, falling in love and Yu Tu regaining his confidence to live his dream.

Dileraba and Yangyang are indeed aces of the Chinese entertainment industry and this drama is yet another proof of it. Whether it's funny, cute, emotional or intimate, they both are just pure perfection. This drama is sure a feast for the eye, a visual kill, for both Dileraba and Yangyang are divine beauty! Dileraba, to me, is the kind of femme fatale who can pull the cute side so well without being cringe or weird. Like a character straight out of a Chinese manhwa! Love her! 😭 Qiao Jingjing is this carefree, easy going unhinged goddess and Dileraba was indeed the best choice for her. And Yangyang. He's a rabbit God, literally! Both cute and hot at the same time. Yangyang is just the perfect fit for a handsome nerd with a real smug side. It's just that, 'Yes I'm fine shyt but I can be a brat too' combo. AND THAT'S SO MY TYPE!!! 😭 So them together? KILLER COMBO! Chemistry is chemistry-ing you guys...😁 Their onscreen presence is just off charts!
This is yet another drama with a great casting. Every side character was just so fine themselves. All of them added so much to the story and fit in so well! My favorites thiugh would definitely be Jie, her husband, Yu Tu's roommate and Yu Tu's mother. They truly stood out to me for their fun characters as well as the actor's acting.

This story is not just about a gaming spree or a simple romance. It's of a love that remembered the other for so long that they ended up reminding the other of who they truly are. It's of a person who is stuck between duty and dream and believes they aren't good enough for the love that stayed. That's what this story actually is about - learning to trust oneself and the one who loves you the most.

This drama has influenced me a lot. As simple as being interested in MOBA and as deep as not giving up on my dream. As a science student myself, I too have come across times when I could either settle for a well paid job or follow my interst, even if it meant slower income flow. This drama taught me that the right people shall always support you and you don't have to choose between one or the other. Yu Tu's line "Till I was in high school, I was the best. When I left this bubble, I realised there were many more way better than me and I was actually nothing" was the first thing I remembered when I was in the exact same situation as his, 4 years after I had watched this drama. As a straight A kid all through my school years, when college entrance broke me, I realised what Yu Tu actually meant when he said that. I realised, I wasn't the first or the last to feel like a failure. I wasn't alone. Maybe that's why I often find myself coming back to this drama every now and then, whether through scenes or rewatching as a whole. Because I seem to relate to both the leads. The girl who wanted to achieve big but couldn't and a boy who seemed to have made it but it isn't as glorious as it seems.

The pacing is good for the majority part, though during the later episodes, it did feel a bit slow. I'd say, we could reduce 1 or 2 episodes. The quality is real good and though in between I felt a few scenes are not needed, the visuals of the scene helped me get through. Music wise, I don't think there's much. The story is presented in a very good manner, giving the audience both fiction and familiarity. It still feels surreal while being relatable. Exactly what entertainment actually is - a relatable escape.

For me, rewatch value is high. I get really motivated and feel comforted by this drama. I'd say, it is one of my comfort dramas. So yes, it's definitely on my 'Must watch C-Dramas' list, even after all these years!

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Heavy but worth it

A splendid watch. This 34 episodic drama really has it all.

Starting with the story - time travel plus heavy on politics and power struggles. It begins within the family and grows all the way to national level. Conspiracies, hidden agendas and motives, murders for having your way. The story is well paced for most of the parts, except it does become sort of slow when it's highlighting political aspects and abusive authorities. Overall, I think the story unfolded very beautifully, adding unexpected twists. One can never know who turns good or bad, who is friend or foe. Characters had good developments; their stories having a lot of substance and depth. They all pull you in, whether you hate them or love them. That being said, the negative characters really get on your nerve 😬 I could find myself getting extremely worked up over a few! But I prefer that over feeling disconnected. It showed that I was truly invested in the story. Even if I am not a big fan of these heavy power struggles, it's truly a good story. A scene that really stood out and blew my mind was discovering the letter at the Duke's house. Honestly, it was because of that scene, I realised the letter had so much significance. Because other than that, I'm not sure if that letter moved mountains. It did help, I agree. But that scene? Mind-blowing! The anticipation was well built and you'll find your heart racing! Beautiful!

The cast was definitely a great selection. Meng Ziyi (love her from 'The Untamed!') and Li Yunrui as the main leads make a wonderful onscreen pair, standing out for their portrayal of such strong characters. You would basically become a family member of theirs, hoping just good happens to them. Both actors do an amazing job. Their chemistry was good too. Other than the main leads, I'd say the most iconic of all the cast would be the antagonists. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM! Such talent to get on your nerves 😂 I seriously won't forget Wang Yingxue played by Zhang Meng, Wei Tingzhen played by Bai Qinglin, Song Han played by Yan An, and Su Yan played by Shangqi for a long time. They have pissed me off that much 🙄 Next would be the emperor potrayed by Tan Kai and Jiang Meisun potrayed by Zhang Chenghe. They really stood out and touched my heart. Their brotherhood and the constant clips of their bond in the past, I found myself moved to tears every now and then. The eunuch Wang too, I loved that guy too. Dou Zhao's father was honestly a very fickle person, but you could sympathize with him. It was well potrayed by Ji Chenmu. Really loved the Dou Zhao's grandma; she's a true anchor, a very consistent loving character. I really loved the letter scene. Even if a small role, Zeng Ziye potrayed Qi Xia so well 👍 Finally, Little Song Mo's actor Shi Hengyi was a really good and most importantly an adorable one.

Music wise, I don't think there's too much standing out, but osts and background music were good.

Drawbacks wise, it's maybe the same as the plus points. The heavy political background and constant power dynamics run the story as much as it pulls it down. If you are a fan of these topics, you would love this. Since I can't digest too much of it, it felt just a bit dragged sometimes, especially the scenes of Dou Ming at her in laws. Then I'd say, it's closer to an ick than boring. So many characters were inconsistent, you could never tell who was going to turn bad. And once they do, from then till the leads realise they are negative, uhh! The frustration of their pretence pisses you off. This drama is an emotional rollercoaster! Another thing I'd say, I wanted more fight scenes or martial arts. I felt it lacked that, the adrenaline of blades.

Rewatch wise, I wouldn't rewatch. Not because it's bad. But it's too long and as much as I was involved in the story, I am not attached to any character. I just wanted the dust to settle so I could get out. They deserve happiness and so do I 😂 so I don't want to see them struggle again. Betrayals and injustice were all too heavy on me! But this is what happens with all the heavy stories I feel. The story might be good and you would want to rewatch, but it's all the same torture and pain again. And this drama doesn't have THAT big of an impact on me, enough to push me into going through all of the pain again. But yes! I would surely recommend it for a good, long watch. It's worth watching! Hope you like it as much as I did & maybe even more!

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Pleasing to the eye while warming your heart

I'd say, a warm, action packed, straight forward drama. Pursuit of Jade is one of those dramas that gives you comfort from knowing it's going to be a happy ending while growing on you before you know. From the story to the cast to the music - sweet, heartwarming.

The story nor the characters are complicated. As someone who hasn't read the novel, I think they did fine with the pacing, except for some problems here and there, notably the ending. I honestly worried it would be a mess hearing all the comments of how it spent too much time on the village arc and all. But it didn't feel like a problem to me. I felt fine about it. I did worry of the ending though. The pace they were going, I felt 2 more episodes would have been better. Action scenes were undoubtedly fabulous. Especially, ones of the Marquis. Just plain looks and slow motion, but they were so close to perfection! I kept rewinding and rewatching the beauty, bless my eyes 😍

Main plot problems I felt were - one, when Sui Yuanhuai was introduced, they completely shifted from Changyu and Zheng to the other couple, almost as if, we were done with those two. I got reminded of Thai BLs were there are multiple couples. I really wanted to know what the leads were up to, because there wasn't enough screen time for them. Thankfully, that didn't happen with the counselor-princess pair's storyline. Second, after a certain bit, Wei Yan and the other court officials were completely missing for a good, long time. Like, they were supposed to be the bad guys right? Then why all of a sudden, there aren't any updates of them? Especially where we leave them, I actually expected a new chaos to rise, but these people disappeared altogether, forget planning a trap. Third I'd say, Sui Yuanqing; they should have just ended the guy's role earlier. The entire getting caught, escaping/releasing then getting caught again, nah. That went on for too long. The ending of that character was good though brutal. That was done well. Then yes, obviously, the ending battle. Not satisfying at all. The ending definitely could have been better, especially the fight scenes. It could have at least lasted an entire episode but they just wrapped it up quickly. Other than that, all that mystery solving too, it was just pinned on one person and that's it. It felt like they wanted to give each character a story of their own to justify the character. But there wasn't a weight to that; it was hollow. Characters were well written but they could have been a bit more complex. Don't know if it's the same in the novel or just the drama. Finally, arrangement of scenes could have been better. At times, it cut the flow.

But two emotional scenes were there that really touched me. One was when Changyu realises her father is Wei Qilin. That really made my heart feel heavy. It was done really well. I could feel the fear, the refusal to accept and the helplessness. And second, the ending of Wei Yan. Woah! I honestly always had a soft spot for that character 🫠 I kept believing he wasn't entirely a bad guy, you know, the typical villain. So finally, when I was proven right, it just added. The nostalgia and him imagining a last meal with Zheng, yah, it brought tears to my eyes. He did truly love his nephew.

Cast was DEFINITELY amazing! The main leads - Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei, just make sense. The fact that Fan Changyu is just 19 and the actress actually looks youthful, really thankful for that. Had it been someone who obviously doesn't look like a 19 year old, it would have been real pathetic.
Tian Xiwei! God! I LOVED HER! She's got this adorable smile and pretty face yet she's no where near being fragile. Fan Changyu is one of the best female characters I've come across. True fem power! Xiwei's acting is awesome. She really warms your heart. I could find myself swooning over her every now and then, smiling and being whipped for her 😭 Then OBVIOUSLY! The talk of the town, the one who flooded my fyp page the moment the drama dropped. THE Marquis of Wu'an (Wu'an Hou 🥹) ! Bless whoever decided him for the role! Because GOSHHHH!!! IS HE NOT PERFECTION??? My LORD THE VISUALS! Broo, this is honestly the closest to heaven we can get! He's just a walking General of this era! Not just beauty, his acting skills are applaudable too. He's a beauty with talent. The role of Xie Zheng (who for the most part is Yan Zheng) is another green flag. Loved the fact that he never once doubted on the fact that he loved her.

The chemistry between the two is REALLY good. The characters were also written that way I think. That no matter what, they were the same people with similar interests, so ultimately, they couldn't be on opposite teams for long. And that was well portrayed by the actor and actress. Loved this power couple!

Side characters were also very good. Really attached to the villagers. The counselor (played by Li Qing) and the grand tutor Tao (played by Li Jianyi) 😂 Fun characters! Favorites of mine. As for Qianqian and Yuanhuai (Qi Min) - as someone who doesn't like toxic relationships in general, it wouldn't be my favorite pair anyway, but even then, the story wasn't good enough to stand a chance too. If the story and characters had more depth, it would have been better. I personally didn't like their side of the story. But the acting? REALLY GOOD! Deng Kai and Kong Xueer did it really well! Especially Deng Kai. Then of course, the pig butcher squad. Very sad Mandi couldn't make it 😭 He was such an adorable character. I really value the genuinley good characters around the leads and they were honestly surrounded by such healthy people on a whole. Mr. And Mrs. Zhao too. Yan Yikuan as Wei Yan was one of my other favourites. And special mentions to the child actors - Cao Yanning and Wu Jiajun. Fantastic!

Music was another big leverage of this drama. My favorite is 'I Searched For Him A Thousand Times in the Crowd'. This was the first drama where I loved and learnt the OST before watching the show 😂 The background audio effects gave a punch whenever and wherever necessary, adding to the drama.

Rewatch wise, yes. I would rewatch this. Not only to understand a bit more, but also because, it grew on me before I knew. And now, I need to visit this friend every once in a while. Another watch without skips is guaranteed.

Overall, I really want to thank the director Zeng Qingjie for bringing this story to life. It would seriously be sad if this drama didn't exist, at the very least for the eye. So visually pleasing, truly! The set, the shots and the cast (ㅠㅡㅠ)
Love you Zhu Yu and I hope I can read the novel someday!

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Watch it!

Ok now this is one drama worth watching! It is a really good Gumiho drama, mix of fantasy and modernity. Good casting, extremely hilarious and surely rewatch worthy.

The story follows Lee Dam, a college student who crosses path with the 999 year old Gumiho Shin Wooyeo and accidentally swallowing his energy source, the fox bead, thus entangling their lives.

The key highlight of the story is the humour and casting. When it's humour, who does it better than Hyeri? Every episode is just so funny, really unserious. Jang Kiyong as the straight faced fox also adds. Chemistry between the main leads? Not much but not odd. The side characters are really nice too. The second couple are cute. Especially Kim Dowan as Do Jaejin is so adorable and the entire English mess Yang Hyesun (played by Kang Hanna) gives a good laugh too 😂 Park Kyunghye and Bae Inhyuk do well too.

Yes, a fantasy comedy to the rescue if you're having a bad day. I'd surely recommend 👍🏻

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Fun binge watch

People start KDramas through 'Goblin' and 'Crash landing on you', I started with this drama. And it wasn't a bad start.

The story follows a magazine reporter Geun Yeong who gets misunderstood as an anti fan and then that becomes the reason why she ends up on this reality show with the celebrity Hoo Joon where he has to play the role of living with an anti fan. And even if they start off on the wrong foot, they end up falling in love with each other.

It's funny. It's pleasing to the eye and the story is quite good. The enemies to lovers trope is fine but it's more soft, bickering and pettyness.

Rewatch wise, no I wouldn't. Nothing much. But I would say I liked the Japan arc. Maybe because it was my first drama I remember it well. If you like a celebrity love story, go for it.

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