Reviews

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This series is written to be a romantic-comedy that catches the story of young love in cinematic ways like in the movies. Having to watch the six episodes and re-watched it over and over again, I can conclude that this series wasn't just a "BL" but a love story of two normal human beings - this story can be yours too. It is written perfectly in a way that it educates the viewers and normalizes the taboos of society in terms of love between men. Gays can have those cinematic parallels too! And it's okay, they are human who can love and not just comical character that represents lust.

The OSTs are divine, the details and symbolism are enough for you to get hooked and the message that it entails every end of the episode will leave you wanting more. As a consumer of these kinds of show, it'll make you realize that you deserve better, it can make you realize how gay stories can be narrated in a way that hetero series are - and this is how love should be portrayed and how members of LGBTQ+ community should be represented.

We are done with the misconceptions, this series is just a top-tier to any boy love content. Story-wise, acting-wise, music-wise and production-wise. Having not to watch this series, when it's totally free on YT is a sin.

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Despite having to get used to it, I really enjoyed the non-chronological style of storytelling adopted by the movie. After all, our memories are never recalled in chronological order, even though our lives may be lived that way. The story is not laid out neatly for you, but the trajectories of the friendships are clear enough to the viewer by the end of the movie.

The ending is given to you right at the start of the movie, and it's certainly not a happy one. But it sets the stage for the viewer to fill in the blanks. The music is bare bones - appropriate for the bleak tone of the film (no pun intended). The colour palette of the movie and scenery also serves to set the mood for the movie.

Lee Je Hoon is thrilling as the protagonist, swinging from sincere and heartfelt, to threatening and fearsome.

A heartwrenching but rewarding watch.

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Every fujoshi's dreams

Me no doku sugiru shokuba no futari is a rather light series. We follow the life of Oto-san who is working as an accountant in her company. Oto is a rather serious person and devoted to her work; however, she has a small secret. She is secretly shipping two of her colleagues. I don't want to get into too much detail because I think that I would spoil all the fun; but, in this jdrama we are able to see how the mind of a fujoshi works and what is reality.

Even though it has 25 episodes each episode is only, approximately, 5 minutes long; so, you could watch that in just one sitting. The two male actors have a good chemistry and that makes it easier for the audience to sympathise with Oto and understand her fujoshi thoughts.

Maybe something that bothered me was the open ending. In every episode we could see that there was an explanation for the interaction of the two actors, but the end is open to what could and might happen. I think that there are planning for a new season. If not, then I will be very disappointed with this kind of ending.

But anyway, it is a cute series, with no drama, that is ease on the eye. Watch it :)

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During what could be considered a slow drama year, Wakamono Tachi (“Young People,” international title: “All About My Siblings,”) was greatly anticipated from the first. One exciting aspect manifests itself in its status as an anniversary drama, a fact that often denotes heightened quality. Another comes in the form of Shugo Muto, who wrote the script for this remade series as well as last year’s excellent reboot of Kazoku Game and the beloved 2005 Densha Otoko. Yet for an overwhelming number of potential viewers, the prospect of another reunion between cast members Mitsushima Hikari and Eita—with the added bonus of fantastic Tsumabuki Satoshi—constituted the biggest delight. So with all these expectations riding on its back, how did well Wakamono Tachi fare?

Regrettably (how it pains me to begin with that word!) soaring expectations might cost this drama points with viewers. While Wakamono Tachi manages to score a place in the storied collection of worthy Japanese “life dramas,” it cannot be called perfect or even particularly groundbreaking. We follow the trials and tribulations of the orphaned Sato siblings, as well as those of their romantic prospects. Most story arcs focus on one sibling/issue at a time, detailing how the family pulls together so as to overcome it (or not). As might be expected from such a system, certain parts watch stronger than others. Characters Asahi, Satoru, and Hikari are front and center for the better episodes, most of which are warm and emotional. However, as focus spreads to the youngest siblings (and onward to the “girlfriends” and “boyfriend”) it becomes harder to swallow parts of the writing. Certain plots begin to touch upon the melodramatic and the tone/time frame for others ceases to reflect reality, though otherwise most events are thoughtfully placed. As strongly felt as the finale was, I could not but want for better closure. Several more episodes might have alleviated these issues, and I doubt viewers would object to extra time with the Sato family.

My favorite aspect of Wakamono Tachi must be its vibrant and quirky humor. The siblings primarily communicate in high-speed bickering around the dinner table, which often yields audacious and unbelievable dialogue. Many members of the Sato family are also wrestling fans, and so the most difficult emotional conundrums are solved over hearty talks—and outdoor brawls! What results is an unexpectedly lovable and relatable family that, despite any oddity, ends up working its way deep into the viewer’s heart. No matter the issues with the script, one begins to feel as though they will miss them when the series ends. I also believe the financial state our heroes are portrayed in (almost destitute!) helps them remain understandable. It is refreshing to meet with an every-man and his family for once, rather than a privileged member of the upper crust.

Without a doubt, Wakamono Tachi cast well. Tsumabuki Satoshi wins viewer sympathy as the sincere, hardworking Sato Asahi, whose more cliché characteristics are eclipsed masterfully by a strange mix of immaturity and fatherly instinct. A figure inherently good, Tsumabuki-san infuses Asahi with fetching laughter, contagious tears, and a performance most memorable. I'm not afraid to admit I fell in love. The widely lauded Eita settles into another complicated role as Sato Satoru, who explodes onto the scene as a menacing figure—but might his true self be loyal and loving? Mitsushima Hikari is safely one of the best actresses of her generation, and so in Sato Hikari maintains her standard. Hers might be the most precariously balanced story in the series, caught as it is between two moral poles; however, Mitsushima-san dons the role without the barest suggestion of difficulty. As for the other parts of the cast, most performances were passable to good with an almost universal connection of chemistry (particularly within the Sato family). If there were any weak links, I’d point either to Nomura Shuhei (Sato Tadashi) or Yoshioka Hidetaka (Shinjo Masaomi) but only when compared to the “big three.”

For those who concern themselves with music, this series employs a decent enough score with a good sense for incidental pieces and silence. Perhaps the only song worth writing home about would be the beautiful theme. It is provided by sweet-voiced Moriyama Naotaro, “Wakamono Tachi (Young People)” after the title of the drama. This gentle and nostalgic vocal suits the overall feeling of the series with surprising strength, even as it accompanies the credits. These show the characters, interspersed between the candid photographs of other (perhaps real?) examples of the modern Japanese youth.

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This drama was interesting and heartbreaking but at the same time can be hilarious. It has a lot to do with loyalty, betrayal, friendship, trust, teamwork, and of course romance. I specifically liked the brotherhood/sisterhood in this drama. The romance of the main leads were a bit eh. I did not know when they started liking each other and why? Still asking that now since I finished it. The annoying part is that I remember the female lead kept calling the male lead Yang Feng's name over -5 times in a row. It got the point that I did not want her to speak another word.  If you like xianxia dramas [fantasy with martial arts action scenes+special effects] I would recommend it. But if you hate watching a character(s) get saved over and over when at the brink of death then don't watch it

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If you are looking for a typical historical drama with a romantic triangle/quadrangle and a plot you can guess after three episodes, this is not the show for you.

If you are looking for a rich story, filled with three dimensional characters, that slowly draws you in, you should definitely add this to your list.

The story develops slowly and things are not always what they appear. The story is set in a fantasy world with a long and complicated history, a world where no one is simply "good" or "bad". The characters are complex and it may take a number of episodes for the viewer to fully understand their motives. Everyone exists to achieve their goals, whether it is for the benefit of their family/tribe, to uphold long-kept promises, or for personal ambition/advancement. Resist the urge the fast forward through episodes or you will be completely lost trying to follow shifting alliances and palace intrigues.

Visually, this is one of most lush and masterfully filmed TV shows I have ever watched.  Much is conveyed through the use of color, framing, how long the shot is held, etc. The show is worth rewatching for the visual aspect alone.

For the most part, the cast is simply superb and brilliant. There are plenty of fresh, pretty faces, but also older actors picked for their abilities. The principal actors worked hard to help you understand their internal turmoil and deeper motives.  Granted there are a couple of minor characters who were cast for their looks rather than their acting ability or perfect Mandarin pronunciation. But I'm just being a bit nitpicky.

Overall, this show is worth watching. Just know that things may be confusing. It may take some time for you to make sense of it all. Just like real life.

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Great movie. For a fictional event, this had all the heart pounding agony of seemingly real events. Extremely well written and directed. Terrific acting by all involved. Bae Soo Bin has always delivered as has Jin Goo. Both are actors I really admire. Im Seul Ong's first performance was truly a foreshadowing of his potential. Given who the cast was originally selected to be, I can't but be happy for the delay in filming. These actors were perfect in their roles. There isn't an unnecessary character in this movie. I was spellbound to the very end. I HIGHLY recommend this movie for the historical value, but if you are an action film buff you will love it. It's an edge of your seat ride all through it. The brilliant and remarkable use of animation at the beginning of this film to depict the brutal and horrific events of the massacre were actually, to me, more graphic and effective at realizing just how monstrous this event was. Even sadder is the fact that this happened in 1980, only 34 years ago. So this event is a living and painful memory for every adult citizen of Korea.

Also remarkable, but unsurprising, is the opposition this film received that almost kept it from being filmed. From wiki: In 2008, the film was originally set to be directed by Lee Hae-young based on his own adapted screenplay titled 29 Years, with Ryoo Seung-bum, Kim Ah-joong, Jin Goo, Chun Ho-jin, and Byun Hee-bong cast in the lead roles. But the production came to a halt once investors pulled out from funding the film ten days before filming began because of its controversial politically sensitive content, and rumors were rife that the pressure had originated from the conservative government.

After nearly four years of languishing in pre-production limbo due to financial difficulties, online donations poured in from 15,000 individuals amounting to ?700 million (US$646,000), with singer Lee Seung-hwan contributing another ?1 billion won (US$923,000), toward the film's ?4.6 billion (US$4,246,000) production cost. Another investor was television personality Kim Je-dong. The crowdfunding enabled the production to finally begin filming Lee's script with a new cast and director on July 19, 2012. Filming wrapped on October 10, 2012. The film's ending credits roll for more than 10 minutes, as they include all 15,000 donors' names.

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On-Par with Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms

"If you're not watching this, then you're missing out"
I thought I was gonna hate this but I decided to give it a try today and it's life changing, as person that drop cliche series quickly. This drama is really good, instead of leaving the viewers with questions; it didn't leave any expenses and started from narrating the old God Realm up to the newest one, true to its title "poetry" the scenes were beautiful. I cried and laugh but don't worry y'all its not tragedy. Basically this drama did what most of the dramas out there is missing, a stable story line with proper execution of narrating the events properly. I had to sign up just to review because people should watch this hidden gem. I've watched a lot of dramas and this is definitely on the top.

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a worthwhile slow-burn

A melodrama that uniquely dances within several genres (slice-of-life, corruption, school bullying, romance) while connecting its very essence with mathematics. Huge fan of both leads. Watched Lee Do Hyun last in Youth of May (one of my all-time favorite kdramas) and was not disappointed by his role here. OST was beautiful and well-placed.

Well worth the watch. Some commentators here had a lot of prejudice toward the misconception that there would be a pedophilic or predatory student-teacher relationship, but it's nothing like that whatsoever. I've also seen many reviewers leave poor ratings because of their personal distaste for math. I also hate math, but I really appreciated the unique way it was implemented for this drama. All around solid cast with several worthy antagonists.

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Picking up Vampire Host, I didn't have too much expectations about it. All I basically expected upon watching it was just to pass some time. What I didn't expect however, Was that already in the first episode I would be completely addicted to the drama. A drama based on the Bloodhound manga by the mangaka Yuki Kaori. I will be writing a spoilerless review.

Rion Kanou is a 17 year old girl, And a great friend to her friend. One day she recieves a voice mail from her best friend who abrubtly got cut off. All she could hear from the voicemail was the sound of her friends really shaken up voice, And her saying that the person who has her captive is a real vampire. Not believing in vampires Rion's suspicions automatically leads her to a themed host club downtown, Where she meets the young Suou. Suou is refusing to have anything to do with her best friends dissapearance which makes Rion more sure that he is the person behind it. Leaving herself indebted by breaking a valueable wine bottle, She starts working in the host club and by a call of fate she finds out the truth of Suou. This fated encounter eventually leading her into a dangerous journey ahead filled with new encounters, Dangers, Sadness, Happiness, Laughter, Fear and some romance. It doesn't seem like something special when you first watch it, But when you've watched it for a bit things definately becomes more original aswell as entertaining.

The soundtrack isn't too special. Its fitting that of a short drama, But it doesn't stand out especially much to the point of needing to be bragged about.

Vampire Host is definately not a drama you should miss out on. If you like romance, comedy, vampires and ofcourse the supernatural-genre, this will be a mustlove for you. They have however decided to keep parts of this drama somewhat alike the vampire stereotype due to the manga. Allthough things might get exaggerated often in the series, Its a part of its charm..

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This drama was so much better than I ever expected it to be. It made me cry, angry and on rare occasions, laugh, and definitely had those "pull your hair out" and "bang my head against a concrete wall" moments, but to be honest it's all worth it in the end. Although I feel like since we were viewing the whole background story thing, almost every event that took place (like Da Hae threats, or even Ha Ryu's (I don't want to give specific details out without spoiling it, but those of you who watched it should know what I mean)) you sorta knew how they were going to turn out because of the beginning. How she had already gotten to that high place she hoped for, but Ha Ryu's story took a bit of a twist, so it wasn't all predictable. I hope some of you don't consider that a spoiler, I'm trying to be as discreet as possible...

Like the others have stated before me, this was so hard to keep up with. I can't even tell you how many times I wanted to drop this drama because things were turning out so bad and it always felt like the good people were being wronged, but I think in the end that's what I loved most about this drama. It wasn't your typical "cookie-cutter" drama. Bad things WILL happen. Everyone doesn't just miraculously kiss and make-up, and go on with life. You will become so frustrated with this drama it's not even funny. But in my opinion, that's what make dramas so good to me.

And it possibly even showed some meaningful life lessons you can take with you into reality. How people can change, and betray you, and how some aren't all that they seem to be. It may even show the dirty side of our government, and how money is always involved to get one's way. But despite all that, I'll honestly probably never watch this again... Unless I want to cause myself more emotional trauma. The amount of tears that fell from my eyes.... Well, that's a different story. I hope you have a box of tissues lying around somewhere because *warning* you WILL use them.. all.

I hope all of you take a chance with this. This drama won't make you happy whatsoever, but it's so beautifully written you really have to see it for yourself.

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I am writing as I see nobody did a review and I always like to share and review what others may not be able to find in this website :p

I have seen the male lead in Beauty Maker (find him cute and a looker there, just dislike the female lead :p) however, thik he put on a lot of weight since beauty maker ??!! (or is it becos he needs to put on weight for this role?? (cute, bubbly, rich son)

Story:
the plot was good. Interesting story line.BUT the 3rd part of the memory lost and found is kind of dragggggy liao...... You have to watch to know what I meant

Nonetheless, I still enjoy this drama and story line ^_^

Cast:
The Cast was good... I like the male lead in his previous drama which i mentioned above but he is still cute here which I find both of the lead have chemistry here and they are both cute to look out for

I cried abit here and there, not sad though, just touching on their love story. :P

Music:
Music was ok but
nothing special caught my ears ....

Rewatch Value:
I will cos the funny parts between the 2 leads are really cute and teasing each other ^_^

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