Reviews

You are going to cry.

1 Litre of Tears deserves nothing less than a 10. This is my third time around watching it, and the only reason why I rated the rewatch value a 6 is because this is not an everyday drama, something you watch just to pass the time. It can be emotionally draining, and you need to be in the right sort of mood to watch it.

I wouldn't watch this drama all the time, but I would definitely recommend it to everyone out there. Whether you're a jdrama fan or not, I think everyone should watch 1 Litre of Tears at least once in their lifetime. Especially if you are a jdrama fan. How can you call yourself one if you've yet to see this? It's such a powerful drama. All about Aya, a 15 year old girl who's diagnosed with such a cruel disease. Her disease gradually takes away her motor functions, and little everyday things you and I take for granted.

This drama will open up your heart and really make you appreciate the abilities you have now. Ako (Aya's sister) says what I think is a pivotal message in this drama. "To actually have the ability, but to do nothing, I really don't like that." After watching this drama, you'll reevaluate everything. You'll definitely have a new outlook on life. I know I did. If this 15 year old girl, with such a hopelessly cruel disease is able to find a purpose to keep living, to keep pushing through to the next day, why can't any of us do the same?

1 Litre of Tears is near and dear to my heart. I love it so much. Of all the jdramas I've seen, I'd say this is the one everyone needs to watch. If you absolutely hate crying, and it's a deal breaker for you, then I can honestly say it's your loss. It's such a profound story, with an equally amazing cast, and the soundtrack is breathtaking. You're not human if your eyes don't at least water. Excellent drama.

Leggi di Più

Should have been a special episode only…

Or they should have focused more on Haiba Jin’s point of view. It just did not have much substance for it to be this long.

While I still enjoyed all the episodes, the excitement and anticipation from season one was not there. The whole season felt like a filler. There was not much change in the characters, their dynamics, little to no plot/relationships progression. It was just cute and funny scenes with overall maybe 20 minutes of important things happening that had some impact on the plot. Hence it would be better as a longer special episode.

I wish we had a whole season of what we saw in the last episode - finally getting to know Haiba Jin’s side of the story, his struggles. A little bit more of his serious side. Sadly, the majority of the screen time was still us watching Ochiai Mikoto through Haiba Jin’s eyes. More touches, more romantic scenes and more mutual feelings, but somehow I wished for more character’s progression…

I’d be lying if I said I did not enjoy it though. Hashimoto Ryo as Haiba Jin is unreasonably attractive so no matter what he did, I was glued to the screen. Takaishi Akari as Ochiai Mikoto was just as charming (if not even more) as in season one and her witty remarks and breaking the 4th wall comments brought smiles and laughter to my face. I did like how her gloomy nature did not magically vanish between the seasons - the girl is still depressed, but she is getting so much better now, one smile at the time.

I love the visuals and how at times not in touch with reality the show was. I’m sure I’m not the only one who got addicted to the quirky tone Tsuiraku JK to Haijin Kyoshi presents.

Overall, it was not bad, but it has nothing on season 1. Felt like a transition phase, which might be the case if they decide to do season 3.

Leggi di Più

I'm going to start off by saying that I don't usually watched dramas while they're airing, but I did with Back to 1989, so I feel as though I might be more bias in my review since I've watched the characters grow each week, which is much different from marathoning and seeing their growth in a few days.

I really fell attached with BT1989 and everything about it. There was a great blend of everything: family, first love, regrets, difficulties.. it was definitely my cup of tea. In my few years of drama watching, I've never heard of a plot like this drama. It's interesting, captivating, though quite confusing the more you think about it. It was so interesting to see how everything played out, and the writers definitely didn't let us down. However, TRIGGER WARNING for anyone uncomfortable with sexual assault. I did feel as though it got draggy near the end with the romance, but it was still an enjoyable watch. Many plot twists occurred that I didn't expect, and it had me on the edge of my seats with the different camera angles and shots. All the characters, as I've mentioned, I've become so attached with. While some were annoying at times, they each bring something important to the story. They made me laugh, cry, and shake my head in disbelief of how insane they were. We got your innocent and clumsy female lead and your smart and cool handsome male lead along with an adorable second couple and the awkward side characters that bring humour to any awkward situation, making it more awkward.

Some people really stood out with their acting, especially our second lead couple, which includes our second female lead Mini Tsai, and our second male lead Yorke Sun, both of whom I now adore their acting. It was nice seeing Ivy Shao play a different character from her cunning one in When I See You Again. However, I had mixed feelings on the main lead, Marcus Chang, though it was his first main role, so I still give him some credit. His crying made me laugh more than feel pity, but i could definitely see his improvement as the episodes progressed. Still not the best crier though, haha.

Besides the main theme song (you'll understand...), i loved the OST! I don't listen to them on a regular basis, but they suited the drama so well. They actually had hit songs from 1989, which was perfect for making it seem more realistic, along with a variety of songs that really scream Back to 1989. Besides Alien Huang, the rest were by more underrated or newer artists, so I was definitely intrigued. Now that I've finished the drama, I suddenly realize how amazing the soundtrack really is.

Overall, it has its flaws; it has a confusing conclusion with many issues still not explained, along with some draggy parts, but i loved this drama. It's what I looked forward to every Friday, and it was well produced, and it brought the feeling back of why i love Asian dramas. I'm so glad I found this, and I hope i persuaded some of you to watch it.

Leggi di Più

First of all, sorry if I make any grammar mistakes, English is not my first language.

This is a re-creation of the full drama, It's like watching the drama in two hours, the purpose of this special is to put focus on the relationship between Lee Sun Joon and Kim Yoon Shik (Kim Yoon He), you're not going to see anything related to the Geum Deung Ji Sa or the Red Messenger, and because of this, several scenes were cut but still I think that the story make sense.

They didn't put so much effort in showing the friendship between Joseon F4, and you should forget the wicked Ha In Soo because he appears only once in two hours.

The description says that there are interviews and behind-the-scenes but to be honest, I didn't see them, perhaps it was because I saw it in a Korean film festival.

That's it. If you already have watched the drama, you're going to see again those beautiful moments of Sun Joon and Yoon Shik <3 and If you are not sure about the plot, or 20 episodes are too much for you, just enjoy this special ^^

Leggi di Più

For me, The Princess Man is the best Korean drama that I have seen hitherto. From what I understand, it is a fictionalization of that time in Korean history when King Sejong usurped the throne from his very young nephew. Against this backdrop, the scriptwriters has sagaciously written a timeless, compelling and unforgettable love story of two young lovers ?both virtuous, courageous and intelligent in their own right? caught in a web of “deadly” political strife between their two families. I heard that this drama is Korea’s answer to William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, but there is so much character given to the two young lovers in this drama that I see it more like what Romeo and Juliet could have been if they were more developed.

In the beginning, the developing love story between the two lovers is very bright, innocent, and cheerful. However, unbeknownst to both, the insidious darkness that would eventually overshadow and overtake their courtship is also almost present from the beginning. I think the writers did a fine job of developing both the love story and the political strife simultaneously thus bringing both storylines to a culmination when both become dangerously and tragically entangled. It is also commendable the way the writers were able to seamlessly take the innocent premise of the genesis of the lovers’ courtship and turn it into a fatal circumstance, which almost proved fatal to the hero early in the story. It reinforces the way the seemingly “innocent” actions of the characters in this story can lead to unforeseeable and dire consequences.

As the story progressed along tragic lines, the love between the main couple begins to mature and truly shine as their affection and loyalty to each other is tested in the cruelest fashion. The best part about this is that both are fully aware of their morbid circumstances. They are not blinded by love. Both are fully aware of their duty to their families and try to abide by it even in spite of the deep love they share for each other. Nevertheless, as the injustices perpetrated by her father multiplied, the heroine is forced to take a stand of her own accord in answer to her own conscience.

Although this drama is remarkably well done, I think the thing that impressed me most is the deeply stirring love story. There aren’t a lot of love scenes compared to other Kdrama but every love scene that was done was meaningful, memorable, compelling, and brimming with chemistry. I really enjoyed the fact that both lovers were loyal and steadfast in their regard for each other from beginning to end even when there was little expectation that their love would see a happy conclusion. The love that they shared had that “against all odds” element to it. I also appreciated that the obstacles that kept them apart were valid and convincing rather than contrived like in a lot of other Kdrama. For once I didn’t have to roll my eyes while watching a kdrama.

I’ve seen all of Moon Chae Won’s drama where she’s played the lead including her most recent from 2012. I like her best in this drama most likely because of the character Se Ryung who, for me, is one of the best characters to grace the small screen in Kdrama. I think she did a fantastic job with Se Ryung’s character. I will never forget her. I’ve also seen all of Park Si Hoo’s drama except the one before The Princess Man. I like him best in this drama. His transformation from the bright charismatic Seung Yoo to the tragic Seung Yoo was well done in my opinion and I enjoyed it very much. While I like both characters independently, I love them best when they interact with each other. Their chemistry is extremely palpable. I don’t know if it might be due to the possibility that both actors became one with their characters but the emotional tenderness that they brought to the interactions between Seung Yoo and Se Ryung seemed so real that it astonishes. I think the acting from these two added immensely to unforgettable love story between Se Ryung and Seung Yoo.

The OST is poignantly beautiful. Every single song is germane to the love story and the producers used them effectively throughout the drama. Although it might seen like a particular song is repeated too often, it is only the case because it is relevant to the character or what is happening in the story at the time. For instance, "One Day of Love" is played a lot with Seung Yoo but that's because the song speaks of Seung Yoo's "sad fate" and his struggles over his love for the enemy's daughter. "I Love You Too" was often played in the beginning of the drama because at that time Se Ryung felt that her love was unrequited. "Goodbye My Love" is played only when the two couples in this story face the threat of permanent separation. The Italian theme "Destino" is used as a harbinger of doom and is very effective in heightening the chills that the drama gives off in grave scenes. Overall, the soundtrack is one of the best I've come across.

In conclusion, this drama has earned my earnest respect and appreciation. It is definitely my favorite Korean drama and unquestionably one of the best love story I have ever had the good fortune to watch accross all genre of fiction.

Leggi di Più

Complicated

Firstly, I watch this series because of Zhang Miaoyi.
After watching her in Exclusive Fairytale, When I Fly Towards You, Back to Seventeen, and Please Don't Spoil Me, I really felt the urge to watch this one.

It's all about love and hate here. Hence why it becomes soo complicated.
This drama told me that we can have more than one feeling to each other.
We can be enemies even we love each other, and any other complicated things from human relationships.

I can't say that I like this drama but the fact that every episode always engage me to watch the next episodes till the end is crazy. I never get boring once, just make it faster with 2× speed.

So, there's no any regrets after watching it. The ending is quite satisfying too.
There's no cringe scenes for me, the romance is enough too. Not too sweet but also not so plain. Everything is just make sense here.
They deserve more attention.

Leggi di Più

BLOOD

My Golden Blood is a vampiric BL fantasy that’s campy, sensual, and irresistibly melodramatic—packed with intense chemistry between Joss Way-ar (Mark) and Fluke Gawin Caskey (Tong), layered with supernatural intrigue and just enough humor to lighten the gothic tension.

Mark, a 200-year-old vampire heir, discovers Tong—a naive, rare “golden blood” individual whose scent attracts vampires. He protects him from rivals (including cousin Nakan), battling his own bloodlust while their bond deepens. A standout twist: Tong, thought to have hemophilia, learns his blood is coveted—and he becomes strong and confident through Mark’s protection

If you're here for sizzling supernatural romance, dramatic flair, and unapologetic fanservice—My Golden Blood delivers in droves. It’s over-the-top, sexy, and sometimes cheesy, but driven by superb lead performances and heartfelt emotion. Ignore the CGI quibbles (unless you're a perfectionist) and let yourself be swept up in this gothic BL romp.

Leggi di Più

Kind of a letdown and lack of chemistry

Overall this is an ok shirt series but I really wanted to love this because I really the two leads involved but man was this a letdown.

The plot was fine but it could have been made more interesting with other things thrown in. Can't believe I'm saying this but I think this should have been at least 12 episodes so we could have gotten more substance. Some may see it as things just getting to the point but because of no misunderstandings or extra characters it made watching quite full. It also would have been way more believable that the leads had feelings for each other if the actors had more chemistry. It's weird cause in the promo interviews they had so much chemistry but somehow it didn't transfer to the big screen. I was kinda disappointed with the outcome of this drama not just because it felt rushed but the lack of chemistry made the ending feel undeserved.

If you're a fan of the main actors and you just wanna binge watch something short then watch this for sure. But if you want something with a bit more substance then this isn't for you.

Leggi di Più

Have you ever watched dramas that definitely deliver the characters' top notch chemistry? Flavour, It's Yours definitely in my list!

Plot :
It's a bit slow for me. It is so-so until its last few episodes, since I feel the need to anticipate how they untangle everything. The cause of her curse (being tasteless) is interesting for me. It jumps from comedic relief to drama to mystery to a bit thrilling moments. I think we should have no problem about it (fast forward button exists). I don't think I'm a fan of winery industry, but again, it's not really a big deal. It's fascinating enough to actually be exposed about new things.

Acting/ Cast :
Everyone is good. I just freaking LOVE OUR MAIN COUPLE THE OTHER COUPLE & EVERYONE I'M JUST FILLED WITH LOVE. I LOVE SONG YIREN SHE IS SO CUTE TOGETHER WITH SIMON! I'm—

I would love to see them again in another project. Simon's transition of character, I love it. He isn't expressionless, he's not monotonous. They look so comfortable with each other I SHIP SO MUCH *sigh* I love how everything is delivered well that I can feel the closeness btwn the main characters. Male characters in dramas ususally act cold & sometimes it makes me, as a viewer doesn't feel their chemistry on screen. But this one, my heart sometimes leapt lol I anticipated their scenes together in every episode.

I will definitely re-watch it (with a fast forward button, of course). I don't think my heart can take it, the fact Simon will be in another project with others because, Lu WeiXun & He BuZui are one of the best on screen couple!

Leggi di Più

Maybe in terms of plot, it is quite non-sensical, or dumb, and sometimes even bizarre, but who says it's not entertaining? if you like a strong female lead (the real one, not the one who's strong as the story wants and then becomes a damsel in distress a second later just for the sake of knight saving beauty), well-written characters, protagonist having minimal setbacks in other words almost winning every time, and clever leads who are always three steps ahead... then just turn off your brain and enjoy it as at the end of the day its main purpose is entertainment, it's not a science textbook where everything should make sense.

It's a character-driven story, as I said before plot kinda sucks coz a lot of time it's very illogical, a bit problematic, surreal. And politics is poorly written... nothing mind-blowing with no What? whoa! moment. It's a rather simple concept of revenge that mostly circles around Jiu Ling, it's her journey. So almost every other character is kinda-not-really-important. On the positive side of the story, I'll say comparing similarly-themed dramas... it's not torturous, or painful to watch, a writer doesn't kill your favorite characters left and right or even adds the most annoying characters taking a looot of screentime. If you are looking for romance, it's merely there but with a lot of chemistry.

Jun Jiu Ling is the heart of the story... and most important aspect as without her brilliant characterization this would fall flat. She's clever, quick-witted, and knows how to use her skills to get her goal.. her every action is planned and she's ready for any consequences. Even without any fighting skills, she rocks, Brain over brawn! I can't think Jiu Ling is without Peng Xiao Ran, she's just amazing as Jiu Ling... seeing her playing the character so beautifully was a pleasure to watch, especially she nails every emotional scene. Though I'm not very fond of super perfect characters, I still liked her... who doesn't love to watch lead surpassing everyone with her great abilities.

Ning Yun Zhao... well why I'm mentioning him even before ML? well non-surprisingly he's my favorite character after Jiu Ling, I bet you'll get the major second lead syndrome. As they match each other intellectually, perfect!... even their first meeting was one of my favorite scenes of the drama. Wang You Shuo did a good job... I truly felt bad for him from bottom of my heart, he did exceptionally well in the rejection scene, you can just feel pain in his eyes.

Here we go... matter of conflict, the male lead. Zhu Zan, not very fond of him... but I did like some aspects of his character a lot, he's not very ideal but I take it on the positive side as we already have 'perfect' FL we need some balance right? Jin Han... even if he's great at playing grey characters, he's pretty good as Zhu Zan with his charm. My only problem was who the heck was his hairstylist? ah, it's worse lol... I can't stand his styling he can look a lot better if they just put a bit of effort.

Lu Yun Qi is psycho... and a sick character, for a second I pitied him than just a later scene... I pitied why I pitied him, mostly he hateable (almost) all time...not a fan of his last-minute-eureka-moment that made his character inconsistent, why build the whole character in such a way if you're gonna give him last-minute development at least take some time or let him be psycho I'm happy with either. Du Ya Fei, never seen this guy before, honestly, I've as his profile says but I don't even remember him, but I don't think it'll happen again. As his performance was most splendid, and it outshined.

As for reverse-harem, as I already mentioned... there isn't much romance here why worry about reverse-harem, plus FLs character is worthy of everyone getting smitten over her lol xD so it's understandable... and other than Yun Qi 'Love' aka obsession no other male character is annoying.

It's a low budget, don't expect much of majestic setting or beautiful clothing, styling as you can see many clothes recycled all time, even lighting is dull, and I personally didn't like color pallet much. Apart from the intro, none of the osts weren't significant enough (for me).

It's not best but not worst either, but surprisingly addictive and intruding... with a femal

Leggi di Più

One of those underrated masterpieces

I saw a review saying that the movie might just have been a porno becauee of the graphic sexual content. I can't express how far over one's head the message of the movie might have gone for one to come to that conclusion.

I was shaken with tears after watching this. It gives off such a heartwrenching, melancholy, gritty, yet hopeful vibe that had me hooked from beginning to end. The characters are deeply flawed and relationship is toxic. But that's fine with me, because they don't romantize it. One of the leads tells a story of how how badly your dishonesty with yourself can hurt other people around you. The other tells a story of how badly your honesty with your feelings might hurt you, even though you have no control over them. It's a haunting image of how hard reality can knock you to the ground.

The music was really nothing special, it could have done pretty fine witout it. I feel like the plot itself is fine, but it's not what drives the story; it's the characters. One thing I loved about them was how well contrasted the characters' motivations were. One's was simple and raw, the other's complex and devious. It could not have been possible to portray this the way it was portrayed without the marvellous acting. I have not read the book so I don't know how much was changed, but the actors carried out their scripted personalities like it was a dance on roses.

This movie deserves you time. Just maybe don't watch it if you're feeling for something light hearted tonight.

Leggi di Più

Not perfect, but a very promising path for GMMTV BL shows

I’ll try to be straight to the point, because with a show like this you can end up extending yourself too much cuz there’s so many things to talk about. But I think this one was pretty much almost impeccable in a few aspects, especially regarding its production quality. Well, if we ignore a few special effects here and there, where it felt a bit too amateurish. But it’s easy to ignore that when the rest is so on point. Art direction, music, acting by pretty much all the cast. The fact that we could finally see skin that looks like skin!!! That’s important too.

The social commentary theme is also a breath of fresh air in BL shows (and it’s brave too considering the political context in Thailand!!). It’s often too on the nose, but I think as a show that’s targeted at younger audiences they have to uncomplicate things for better and broader understanding. There’s also the writing conveniences which are mostly done by making the boys’ gang act clueless. Their plans are a mess! But I also think that it’s important to show those characters as far-from-mastermind individuals. They’re super young, after all, and they’re mostly moved by their emotions. Especially Sean. But honestly, all of them with the exception of maybe White, who seems to be the most rational character.

As far as the actual BL parts go, I must admit I was never that into SeanWhite as a couple, despite me thinking that the OffGun chemistry is perfect. What I was invested in, though, was the side couple DanYok, which kinda pulled me in even before I started watching the show (just from seeing Twitter/IG clips). There was something that felt magical in how the storyline began and proceeded to develop for majority of the episodes. Chemistry was fire. But then I don’t understand why the writers/director decided to make them so chaste? Like, Yok looked like he wanted to eat Dan with his eyes. And Dan looked like he was willing to be eaten. And then those two guys end the series with a hug? I’m not saying they should be having wild sex on screen (but I wouldn’t complain if they had)!! Not at all! But they barely kiss. And kissing is not a problem in this show, clearly. See, in the one scene they had in episode 13 they are there having a moment, a heartfelt conversation. The intimacy is visible just by the way they talked and looked at each other. Then Yok looks into Dan’s eyes and gently touches his face. His eyes move to Dan’s lips and that alone was sexy as hell. And then Yok proceeds to touch his lips on Dan’s for about half a second. And then sexy time is over. I don’t know whose decision it was to “nerf” this pairing like this, but it was very tasteless.

Anyways, despite the underwhelming finale (not just because of the DanYok hug, but as a whole), this show was a pleasure to watch and follow weekly. I hope other thai BL directors feel inspired by the work done here because after this the standards are gonna be high.

Leggi di Più

When I found Guardian I was totally amazed by this Chinese series and I've never really seen much of Chinese shows before because it just wasn't my thing. Well Guardian changed that.

Story: I can tell you that the story itself may take 1-2 episodes to grow on you but it will. Mostly the show relies on the chemistry between the two main characters/actors though. The story is quite fantasy like and supernatural and definitely something different than the usual rom-com stuff you get everywhere. And over its 40 episode run there is not a single minute that does not fit into the storyline and atmosphere of Guardian. You get drama, action, comedy, sweetness, pretty much all of it!

Acting: The casting for the drama was done perfectly and the chemistry between the main leads is over the top. 80% of the shows awesomeness comes from them. The rest of the cast was superb too and you really forget that these characters do not actually exist somewhere.

Music: memorable, recommendable and I'm totally into it. One awesome fantasy song and one touching ending song will especially stay in your mind.

Rewatch: definitely when I have time.

Overall: for everyone who watches Chinese shows, check this out. For everyone who hasn't tried any or many Chinese shows, this is a great show to start.

Leggi di Più