Reviews

I liked the Taiwanese version. So when the announcement was made that Japan will be remaking the movie, I was really excited. I didn't know the main actress but I have seen Yamada Yuki act before so I knew this will deliver. Was I right? Yes, but not entirely.

The movie was a total copycat of the original version, from the set-up to the styling. Yamada Yuki was good in his portrayal as the guy who has a childish crush to his classmate. Though Ko Ching Teng still wins in a battle of who is better, still one can tell that Yamada was a good fit for the role. The problem lies with the female lead. She's just blank and bland. She doesn't know how to carry conversations naturally. Her voice and facial expressions are really awkward. You could tell that her visibly awkward acting makes her partner awkward too, it's contagious. Well, she's a rookie, still young, and I believe she will improve with more acting gigs. Also, the chemistry between the two leads isn't there and even the friendship among men wasn't as strong compared to the Taiwanese version. The movie lacked spice, emotions, they were short to every element the original had.

Anyways, despite everything, the movie still made me feel bitter about the ending. They still made me feel the same way as I did when I watch the original version years ago. The regret and heartache, the whys... it's still there. And I guess, that alone will make you check out this version.

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It was a truly beautiful and amazingly conveyed story. Still breaks my heart and a tearjerker too! It was short but having much meaning with being inspirational. The actors did an awesome job you can feel the emotions in every scene, from the very start Rino's bubbliness, her being nervous, and later her spirit to face everything with a smile on the face was indeed portrayed in the best way possible.

Being sad enough and giving heartache still, lefts a smile on your face and also teaches the value of our life. Loved her supportive friends. Kiritani absolutely my favorite character along with Rino. You can see the growth of both these two characters becoming more mature and responsible.

It was indeed an emotional roller coaster but definitely recommend watching unless you can't handle the sadness or heartbreak.

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A first love that transcends symbolic boundaries...

Peach of Time is that drama that makes you question values and scenes, but at the same time pulls you in closer when it comes to the bond between the leads, to the acting skills of the cast, to the mix of Korean and Thai languages that in a collaboration creates such a cute masterpiece as this. I was really happy to know that Jimmy and Tommy would be in another drama together, and got even more thrilled when I learned that it was Korean production and that Jimmy would break the pattern by pairing with Jae Hyun. Quite refreshing to see both Thai actors entering in different roles in a BL rather then forming a couple.

There's a lot of speculation and mainly harsh criticism around this drama, because of the lack of information it provides or well the knowledge into this world they provide us where ghosts exist, talk and eat, as if the living can't see that happening. Lots questioning why Peach can see only Mario (Tommy) and Yoon Oh (Jae Hyung), instead of seeing more ghosts. And how come no one finds it weird that he talks into thin air as if everything happening in this drama is completely normal and ruled out.

Thing is this is most likely a small production drama, so I am only guessing the budget isn't that high to begin with. Another thing to consider is that maybe the screenwriter and production wanted to maintain the opening for the viewers to engage and take on wild imagination and think outside of the box with this. No the ghosts are not eating, it's probably an illusion or ectoplasma that "allows" them to pick on objects. The said objects are not floating on air, otherwise people would react, it's probably a projected image of sorts, that to be done properly would require extra budget and special effects too. So, it's left to people to imagine or think about a little more into perception rather than having all the work done and shown.

As for the "why" Peach is able to see Yoon Oh and touch him even. Perhaps is the connection they share, or the fact that he believed his friend was there with him in the first place. Even so when he did discovered the truth he had already seen Mario too, in a way he believes in good and is naïve, it didn't took him long enough to embrace both and accept what they are. The fact that he does that, dealing with the stages of grief differently probably makes him able to "touch" Yoon Oh. Unlike Yoon Oh's mother who can neither see him or touch him, but then again she did the same when he was alive too, she would only nudge him for good grades to enter medical school, ignoring her son's ambitions and dreams. She has been in denial ever since her loss, therefore not accepting anything because of her deeds. Perhaps in the last episode she will be able to be granted to hear her son, as she has already seen him in what appeared to be a drama, where Yoon Oh manifested to her.
As for Peach being able to see Mario, he has been a resident at the resort for two decades, I can only assume his presence has influenced Yoon Oh too because they are both spirits with deep sorrow to resolve. He is bound there and therefore connected with Yoon Oh because the resort was from his family, and Mario was a worker there. They chose to focus on only this two plots, Yoon Oh and Mario instead of the drama being about Peach being able to see ghosts and help them out which would result in a bigger mess and would need more episodes.

I am not saying there isn't a couple of flaws here and there within this series, but I am not going to be unfair and call it a disaster and rubbish solely because of those. There are far worse series out there, than this one.
By focusing on certain aspects they did neglect a few, and although some are to make the viewer think outside of the box, others are just peculiar. Like the fact that in a resort about to close down, Peach of Time café can gather quite a few clients in a crazy short amount of time. I can discard the fact that Yoon Oh's mother let him stay right away at the resort, even when she was grieving because it a friend of her son which she had always neglected, and also because maybe she felt the need to not be alone in there after everything. So, considering all that and more it's not that strange to let him in and stay.

What is strange here is the whole concept of 49 days, Yoon Oh is passing through is, but Mario has been there for 20 years. It's said that if left with deep sorrow and unsolved problems, a spirit can turn evil. It amazes me how he has not turned into one in the first place, has his 49 days pass already? Then is Su Jin , his former lover the only thing that is keeping him behind? Again, small episodes, and trying to cover all this by pointing the obvious would leave no space for imagination and theories.

Peach is not a tourist there, he is a humanitarian who travels the world into help missions. His parents run a café in Phuket back in Thailand so he is not entirely strange when it comes to the business, although it may differ from this one in Korea. It wasn't hard for him to travel to Korea to meet his friend, only to discover the sad reality and make it his personal mission to help the other to find peace, even if it will cost him more than he would like to admit.

Their love story is both beautiful and heartbreaking here. It's a tragedy of what they might have had, of a young first love that did not have a chance to blossom in the right time. Of a friendship, and bond that transcends realms of the dead and living. The symbolic value of their moments is what moves the viewer to be engaged into the plot, and ignore the plot holes previously mentioned. It's not common of a theme within the whole BL world, although there are a few dramas that tackle around this, - Peach of Time - remains so far by my standards as rather unique, not only because of the cross languages used, but also because of their beautiful story and the symbolism it truly represents. The journey of the soul, the selfless love.

As for acting, Choi Jae Hyun takes the prize here. The way he embodies the insecure Yoon Oh, and manifests the emotional struggle of being child of a single mother, of suffering bullying through his teen years, the pressure of his mother to make him study and pass a hard exam only to grad from a school he did not want to attend. Lost dreams, will to live, drowning in constant doubts, insults, pain and neglect. He was a lonely person, who preferred to ran away from his troubles, the reason he met Peach in the first place. Maybe the first time he noticed the café could be is safe haven, and took interest into being a barista. Jae Hyun has shown us the remarkable actor he is and how he can tackle down a main role as this one, no wonder he is gaining more popularity given this, and hopefully we will see him in another drama soon. His emotional scenes can move those who see him, become the broken Yoon Oh. I just want to give him a big hug because he did not deserve what happened to him.

The criticism towards Jimmy is something that I cannot fathom. I mean he is certainly younger than his co-stars, since Jae Hyun and Tommy are both 95' liners, but age does note matter when it comes to talent. And Jimmy is nurturing that within every role he has, and this role of Peach if no different. Jimmy is doing a surprisingly good job. Comparing him with more experience actors on set, that can foreshadow him and claiming he does bad acting is wrong, He still has room of improvement, but his role here is the typical clumsy, innocent and happy boy who i might add is in a foreign country so it's normal for him to not know the language or seem "stiff" when in contact with the locals, other than with Yoon Oh and his mom.

The real mystery here lies, why did Yoon Oh's mother taught him Thai language? I found it weird to have one talk in a language and the other understanding it and answering into a different one, not being a middle ground there, but oddly enough within the first episode that awkwardness dissolves and it's different and somewhat enjoyable. Could it be connected to Mario? He was after all a Thai staff that worked in the resort until the fire 20 years ago. He also said he knew Yoon Oh for long ago. I presume Yoon Oh is around the same age as Peach, 22 yo probably. That only means Mario was still alive, when he was born, and it's mentioned that Yoon Oh's grandma left him the resort in her will... Another odd fact, Peach can speak basic Korean, but he says to Yoon Oh's mother he does not know Korean, therefore he speaks Thai with her when she reassured him that she understands because she was the one who taught Yoon Oh, but how can Peach understand everything they say in Korean if he has trouble with the language?

Mario's plot is good too. His changing wardrobe seems questionable, but then again here it's all about perspective and well presuming what it might be. While in other dramas, we have seen that burning clothes can help the decease to change attires, or burning incense allows them to "eat" the food presented. Here we are not given any of that, so once again I like to consider it's a projection of an object and the plasma that fits their needs. Or focusing on the simpler version by discarding the logic and throw it out of the window and go with the flow and enjoy the drama without bickering about every single little aspect and flaw. Just appreciating how fine Tommy looks in a black suit, and how strangely sexy he can be with red contact lenses. His acting is flawless like always. Really amazing how he engages into his character, there's a certain charisma whenever he shows.

Ae Yun acting as Yoon Oh's mother is another good actress here. Although I highly resented her role, as a mother and a single mother no less, the way she showed "love" as she called it was wrong. It was never Yoon Oh's fault for the misdeeds and choices of his father, or for resembling him in the slightest. Also, to create high expectations of her child and forcing him to follow a path, was the breaking point. Often times, it leads to cases of severe anxiety and depression, and also suicidal youth problems. It is only when a tragedy happens, that they open their eyes to everything said and done, and realize how unfair they've been, her cruel text message to her son in a moment of rage was utterly despicable. Yoon Oh grown up with a busy and stressed mother who seemed to resent him for being born, and yet she has the audacity to claim he was her world. Well then, she should have treated her world better when she had the chance too.

The places are all the same, from the resort as a home to the café within it, to the short glimpses of the hospital and police station, and to the most romantic place in Seoul, the Locks of Love fence situated in Namsan Tower, production wise may be small but so far has done a good job with the resources they had in hands. I really like the color setting here, warm colors in most scenes, even at night. Be it by the warm colors of the actor's fabrics or even in the environment lights in the shots. I don't know how to explain it but it's a nice touch, instead of the whole gloomy vibe whenever there are spirits around. It creates a warm aura even in the dark scenes, a glow of well quite the "Peach" palette if I must say, from oranges to pink soft tones.

What can I say about the OST so far, it's catchy. I like it, not that memorable as some other dramas, but pleasant to hear though. I hope Jae Hyun's song is included, his voice is so soothing and beautiful that would be a crime not to have anything from him in the OST. I have not checked yet, because the OST has been taking long to be launched, but would like to see one or perhaps two theme in Thai. I know the drama is mostly Korean, but would be cute and meaningful.

It's bound to say that the ending might be realistic, despite painful, it's what the meaning of this drama is all about.
The 49 days. How to let go, and move on. A spiritual journey and experience of a lifetime.

If you engage into Yoon Oh and Peach, and the realization of their over growing feelings, their bond, their friendship, and their selfless young love. Or if you focus on Mario yearning to find his lost first love, and the reason to why he thought he had been abandoned, the deep sorrow he carries within his heart, until he faces the truth and discovers the scars of his past. If you realize how subtly the five stages of grief are incorporated into the plot through several characters and their own personal problems that seem connected with Yoon Oh. If you appreciate the settings and surroundings, the symbolic message the drama portrays and the value of the sentimental scenes. If you listen to the OST and the lyrics of the songs.

You might even grow fond of the main characters and cheer them on despite knowing that there is a rift between them.

The beauty here is in the maturity Peach has to deal with such a sensible matter, and how strong he is to carry that responsibility upon his shoulders. And that slight immaturity and jealousy Yoon Oh shows on certain times, because he fears the to be lonely, if Peach will end up leaving him behind. And yet they are both equally mature for their age, while dealing with everything with grace. To know that the current situation is not okay to be maintained despite their growing feelings, to know that there will come a time where one has to let go of the other, and see him depart with peace.

Many fail to remember how this drama started. It starts with a hint of the possible ending. Peach remembering Yoon Oh on his table, mentioning what he learned and what the other has taught him while he stayed in Korea for that short amount of time. The memories he gained and the lessons learned, that moment was him leaving the resort and café he temporarily opened. Now, not sure if they left that there because they were building up the thriller in the plot until the reveal of what happened. Still, it would be foolish to change that course of events, since it seems settled on happening. How are they going to develop that in the final episode, hopefully without leaving loose ends. It's a good meaningful drama, with a chance of re-watch value, at least for me, since I am a sucker for symbolic meanings.This was a first time for me to see the mix of Korean and Thai in a drama, it would be fun if this would open doors and allow different collaborations in other up coming dramas and projects too.

Don't watch this drama is you don't expect to suffer a bit through the episodes.
Don't fall into the romance, expecting a holy miracle or magical twist through the story.
Just give it a try and enjoy the ride. It happens fast, 10 episodes of more a less 30 minutes tops.
The storyline is meaningful and unique in a certain way, and the main actors synergy engages in quickly.
Yoon Oh's and Peach way of love is certainly bittersweet and lovely at once when you realize the predicaments.
Not all information is provided in plot, which allows you to think and create elaborate theories of your own.
You will be cheering them on, and you'll want to cry whenever Yoon Oh cries, because his acting is that good.
Memorable for everything I have seen so far. Really love these 3 main characters, Yoon Oh, Peach and Mario.

NOTE (SPOILERS rant): Just finished it. The last episode could have been A LOT better. I liked the series as whole despite its flaws, but this last episode lacked in more ways than the whole series.

Mario is seen having a blast with his first love but has he resolved his deep sorrow and moved on? It never really shows. The party was the most cringe little party I've ever seen. Not sure if the audio and synch were really off but it made things awkward with Yoon Oh having a poker face while "singing" what it could be an emotional song .
Once again, no one interrupted the lonely Peach in there or found it weird that the host of the party did not joined his guests... It does not tell if Yoon Oh's mom forgives the man responsible for her son's death, but from his confession it was indeed an unfortunate "accident" rather than a murder or suicide.

FINALLY Peach and Yoon Oh hit the beach in winter and we learn that the deep sorrow within Yoon Oh's heart is, not being able to confess his feelings for Peach while he was still alive. Such a pity that the final kiss scene is gone with the wind in there. The bracelets break and I guess their wishes come true. If Peach's wish was for Yoon Oh's to be at peace then what was Yoon Oh's wish?The boiler, the sudden smoke, he gets scared by that, so could it be that he has lost his "ability" to see the dead?

I doubt that was a mere coincidence when the café seemed closed for business. It also does not disclose if the resort is sold, the characters simply disappear after the Christmas party and that is it. I know it focuses on both, - Peach and Yoon Oh, - however there's a little thing called closure in a storyline that does not happen here.

Peach is back to being ordinary not being able to see Mario or Yoon Oh.
And could it be that Yoon Oh really did moved on?
Or is he still around like Mario, watching over his loved ones?

Endless possibilities and theories, but it's not entirely a satisfying enging... Even with the hint that there could be a continuation of the story. Overall this drama, has it's up and lows, that much is certain, but we cannot disclose that the message is here wavering between the awkward and meaningful scenes the show tries to portray.

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There were goods and there were bads...

After watching all the 8 episodes, I can see that there's a lot of good things about it, and also some bad things about it at the same time.

Let's start off by talking about the director himself, New Siwaj Sawatmaneekul. He is one of the most popular Thai bl series directors. I've watched many of his bl series including Make It Right, Love by Chance, Love by Chance 2: A Chance To Love, and War Of High School. For this series, I feel like it was pretty okay, but compared to other bl series like Bad Buddy, it is nowhere near it. The plot was a little too simple for me, but on the good side, it was very easy to understand, and it was quite fun to watch. And because of that, I had decided to give the story a 7/10.

Now let's move onto the Acting/Cast. I really like the casts of this series a lot. The one thing that I want to change would be to give Pawin Kulkaranyawich (Maithee), and Satang Kittipop Sereevichayasawat (Sean) a bigger role, it would be amazing if they can be a side couple. Why? They have a good chemistry, and everything. Satang and Pawin's cuteness and personalities was just amazing! I also like the main characters of the series as well, Joong and Dunk did an amazing job, and I can see that they had worked really hard to portray their characters. Another thing that made me really happy is that 2 members of the Studio Wabi Sabi was able to make an appearance on this series as mentors. Both of them were on my favorite list since the time I saw them on Love By Chance. And all of that lead me into giving the acting/cast a 9.5/10.

The music of the series was amazing! I really like both of the OST! Joong Archen, and Louis Thanawin got amazing voices. The background music was also perfect, so it's definitely a 10/10. And for the rewatch value, I'd give it a 9/10. Overall, almost everything was perfect. Good job to the director New Siwaj, and all the casts in this series including Dunk, Joong, Pepper, JJ, Winny, Thor, Pawin, Satang, Ciize, Earn, View, Mek, Mark, Samantha, Yacht, and all the other casts and crews that made this series amazing!

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A very sweet rendition of Three Meals a Day

I really love the concept of Three Meals a Day and this one is not only a great successor to the concept, but is an especially sweet one, if you followed Hospital Playlist (which I did and really loved). If you watched the series, please give this programme a chance as well. Not only because of an awesome IRL friendship of the group, but they actually watch two episodes of the drama during it's premiere (in episode 4 of this show they watch episode 11 of the drama and in episode 8 they watch the finale - if you don't have much time, please watch at least these two).

But let's make this review in an orderly fashion, shall we?

The location of this season is on point. The mountains and small village suit the group very well and the house where they reside is located on a pretty much perfect spot. There is a lot of room, they were never cramped inside and had plenty of good equipment outside as well. The addition of a woodworking open shed was also very welcome and interesting.

As for adaptation of the concept itself, the crew continues to be very strict with the cast and this show is a very classic representation of Three Meals a Day. They go around working to earn money for extra ingredients (only the basic ones are provided) and the tasks are quite difficult. I really loved that the guests helped as well.

The food looked absolutely delicious and it was great that they introduced the element of a surgeon for each meal that was the responsible one. I was afraid that because of such a large number of cast members, there would be chaos, but this made everything go so smooth. I really enjoyed the addition of the U bench that Yeon Seok created to go around the fire. It looked like in a restaurant and it seemed to me like it made it easier for the crew to shoot as well.

The cast it great, but we all know that. What made it so special was that we were able to take a look into their friendship and see their regular selves. Kim Dae Myung was absolutely hilarious and he made laugh so hard in almost every episode. Jung Kyung Ho is also very funny and with a special brand of chaos that follows him everywhere. Jo Jung Suk is... I don't even know how to describe this. Made by an artificial intelligence? Everything he touches turns to gold, he knows always what to do, how to lighten the mood, how to assist his friends. He's just great.

Jeon Mi Do has a calming presence among them, always ready to provide and opinion, advice and diligent work. I loved how they showed that after they all went to sleep, she just pulled out her new script and continued to work. She has some real role model qualities and I wish to be more like her. I really appreciated how Yoo Yeon Seok made time for this project and tried to contribute his absolute best. He was very sad that he could be with them only for a short while, but he made an impact and was his usual sweet self.

The guest were so well chosen and I was blown away by the variety of them. Seven guests for eight episodes and with each of them they shared valuable moments. They were also motivated to entertain them which resulted in some pretty hilarious moments (if you know what I mean and I mean outdoor yard musicals). I was looking forward to Jung Moon Sung the most because he was my favourite in the drama and he did not disappoint. I enjoyed everyone, but Kim Hae Sook was a nice surprise for me and when they all started to call her omma, damn, my heart melted.

I usually rewatch Three Meals a Day at random when I have trouble falling asleep. It's a healing show, and this one is just so sweet, I can see myself rewatching it often. This is absolutely worth your time.

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FL delivers great kisses and good chemistry in a binge-able transmigration story... with caveats.

I am a fan of hers, but I genuinely feel like Chen Fangtong chooses fun projects and this one is no exception. I enjoyed my time with it and it was an easy binge watch. Lots to like in this one, so let's start with the positives.

The Good:
- Chen Fangtong is not shy in her dramas and those kisses definitely looked open-mouthed. She is funny and creates great chemistry with her costars. Always a pleasure to see on the screen.
- This is the second drama I've seen featuring the Male Lead, Zhao Wenhao, and I think he did an admirable job. I quite liked him in Blood of Youth (as the disciple to the gambling fairy) and thought he was part of some of the funnier scenes in BoY. He had moments of stiffness, but his loving glances were oftentimes on point and I thought he carried himself well.
- The show made me laugh. Oftentimes, I find costume comedies (especially transmigration ones) on the cringier side with their forced jokes. The comedy here was usually on point, witty, and genuinely amusing.
- It was often self-aware, calling out known tired tropes directly.
- Role reversal! I love a story with a girl who can pick up her man.
- The secondary couple was very sweet and a great no-drama side-couple that was very easy to cheer for.
- The story felt good, and the ending is not one that left me bitter or disappointed.
- The parents were sweet and loveable.
- It's only 24 episodes, 30 minutes each! That's definitely on the short side for a cdrama, and I appreciate that it was a satisfying watch without dragging

The Mid:
- It looked decent. Cinematography and costumes weren't first in class, but this was obviously a lower budget drama and I think they did a good job with what they had.
- Music was fairly forgettable but not poorly done or a negative.
- Some interesting choices with time skips. Entire segments of story were told with little comic segments, which I thought was a very clever way to not bog down the drama but also created weird disconnects in the plot.
- Chinese censorship of this genre (isekai/transmigration) strikes again! The ending probably created a lot of confusion for people who aren't used to watching this genre. But as this kind of story goes under censorship laws, it was wrapped up on the better side than most. The weird disconnects and confusions are expected to conform to "we cannot imply that transmigration is real" standards.

The Frustrating:
- Despite calling out tropes openly, it then face smacks into them (but will also admit that it did). If you know, why do you do it?
- Attack of the incredibly annoying second male and female leads! Oh boy, you will love to hate them. In defense of the 2ML, I think some of the experiences he went through in the later parts completely broke him. But the 2FL is literally just the kind that exists to be annoying.
- Suspension of disbelief is required! Well, more than is necessary, even for transmigration tropes. In no point is it explained how the FL's skills in the real world somehow translates into her martial competence in the story world. And things always go right in a very neat way for the leads. The villains are as flimsy as a cardboard cutout. The emperor is so agreeable that one wonders why anyone ever struggled to implement any changes before the arrival of the FL.

Overall, it was a very fun watch despite any negatives. I admit I am especially biased towards the FL, but if you're looking for a light watch and enjoy the isekai genre, this is not a bad watch. I would not recommend it if you're looking for anything deeper or more thought-involved. This is purely a feel good watch for when you want to turn your brain off.

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4 different stories with different vibes

Overall: the production value is good for what I assume is a very indie series (it got a .5 indie bump). Aired on GND Studio's YouTube channel https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-UjFgW8TJEf0j62oTEJudvgjvIT1uTqc&si=VJ9NKGmGyWH6mMs2 GND also made My Damn Business and Fake Buddies.

Content Warning: see my spoiler comment for a large one for episode 6

1st Story (Riding a Bicycle eps 1/2) - friends faced shifting feelings. Enjoyed the sweet/caring moments. The bike/trip may have been symbolism for things going differently from how you initially envisioned. Very much a slice of life story with an open ending.

2nd Story (Friendship Bracelet eps 3/4) - quirky vibe with a supernatural element. Wish they had let it play out sooner/had fewer times.

3rd Story (The Last Diary eps 5/6) - back to a somber/slice of life vibe with two strangers that start off on the wrong foot. Suggest stopping at episode 6, 7m25s

4th Story (Sunset Boulevard eps 7/8) - two guys reconnect at work after they knew each other in university. Wasn't a fan of the non con kiss in the past or non con touch at work, but I was happy with how it ended.

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Mind-blowing videography, visuals, OST, the list is un-ending!

Okay this is one of those dramas that just made me feel luxurious to watch. Like the cinematography deserves a french-kiss! The OST was so good! The background music at different scenes were just so well made. The shocking thing is that most were sung by the actors themselves!? This is a powerful combination!! The fashion statements each episode made were also really really good.

Critics:
This entire combo made this drama indeed a very well shot series that is good to watch and I don't feel any guilt to have wasted my time on this masterpiece! It might be cheesy, few scenes repeated as shot in other languages but this thailand version had its own version of twists. I felt the acting could have been a little little bit better for a few actors in a few scenes. The connection between the leads did take time to reach me, but it was worth the wait not gonna lie.

In short:
Do give it a watch, I mean it was cute to watch, the jokes were wholesome in each episode and who's going to miss these amazing visuals! Feel the luxury, story with twists and beautiful choice of musical!!

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"Love sometimes just isn't enough". This is my assessment after 24 heart-wrenching and anxiety-inducing episodes. My Husband's Woman delves into infidelity in the most realistic, brutal and no-nonsense way i've seen thus far, leaving behind nothing but sorrow, anguish and remorse. I'll say it early, save yourselves the pain and just skip this one.

That being said this is one of the best dramas i've ever watched because of the perfect, symbolic and realistic characters as well as the quite fast paced and pragmatic plot. The premise is simple and is set around a woman who is in love with a married men and does everything in her power to get him. The drama focuses more on the 2 main female characters, the wife and the mistress, while the husband takes the 2nd wheel of this ill-fated love triangle.

Interestingly, it is a lot different than other similar themed adultery kdramas. Usually we get a sad backstory that tries to excuse and partly maybe even justify the actions of the adulterer. Here the story is a lot more brutal, there is no melodramatic backstory to drive any of the character, thus the drama is completely character-driven; while it does a splendid job delving into the mind of each and everyone of them.

What the drama wants to do is not glorify cheating or excuse the adulterers or even punish them or push viewers into a forgiving mentality towards them. On the contrary, i would stay, it stays neutral to all of that, it depends on the viewer's viewpoint whether to understand, hate, like or dislike the characters, and it depicts solely the repercussions of infidelity in the most cruel way possible.

Starting from the couple itself, how years and years of (superficial -obviously) happiness fall apart, questions, doubts about what went wrong, efforts to save something that has already died, screaming, violence, paranoia is just the beginning. Having kids in this situation will only worsen the process making it even more heartbreaking. Children hating their parents, accusing themselves for their broken family, not knowing how to react or deal with it. Continuing to the extented family that are just ready to jump in, judge and make everything worse (whether they want to help or not). What's more, it widens its spectrum to social everyday life and work place, showing that people are ready to judge hate and ridicule the situation and everyone involved.

Furthermore, we get a very good insight on what adultery means in the korean society. The drama is 10 years old, so i'm guessing (and hoping) there's a sea change in this department but i liked how the writer sneakily promoted the idea of equity when it comes to adultery. If, in a society in which cheating men are considered normal, then so should women. Hate one-hate both or accept both. But also loved how it showed that no matter how strong the bond between the mistress and the husband is, there will always be situations that will prove that the marital bond is just too strong to be broken that easily thus "love is not enough" the feeling that kept coming back throughout the drama.

Money of course wouldn't be possible to not have a prominent role in such a gritty drama. It shocked me how everything always revolved and apparently always will revolve around money. "Stay with him and accept his cheating and make him your personal atm machine for revenge", "If you stay with her, i'll disown you and you won't get any of the inheritance", "Quick get pregnant so you can demand some of the inheritance". Life is supposed to be about happiness, an affair happens because something in a marriage isn't working, bringing money to the topic just made the whole thing even more disgusting but that much more real too.

The drama is entirely character driven, hence it will be unappealing for most viewers. There is no backstory no shocking revealings nothing, just people meddling with adultery and the implications. The drama was ultimately a never ending fight between the characters -which woman will win- and a self-hating game of each character alone.

At this point i'd like to talk about the character since they were so significant. Each character represented something, fought for it until the end or let it consumed and eat him alive to his destruction. In the very end everything does happen in vain something that makes everything even more tragic and sad.

Hwa Young was the mistress, and she represented Greed. A sad person that was used by her family and decided that she'll do whatever it takes to be happy thinking nobody but herself for the first time in her life. However, for that one person she'd choose, she'll give her all, and she had nothing but her ego. She shreded that ego like it was nothing, she increasingly settled thinking this is what she wants and that she'll eventually be happy, but happiness comes from within. A greedy person who wanted someone else, someone empty, to give her everything and in return she'll give all of herself too. But it was not that simple. I appreciated her persisting personality, i appreciated her character up to a certain point, but everything in her life comes with a price. She was ready to change for 1 person, but she picked poorly, now she's gotta live with that. What she needed wasn't someone else to love her so she'll feel complete but she needed to love herself first in order to be complete.

Joon Pyo was the husband, and he represented Selfishness. A tad similar with the mistress at first glance but no. They were probably absolute opposites by the end. A person who loved deeply, but -plot twist- loved himself more than anything else, and he barely even realised it ever. 24 episodes and he couldn't make a simple choice, he many times felt like a tennis ball just being thrown here and there with no mind and will of its own. A complacent person, wanting it all till the end. But can you really hate and judge a person who is just too empty to even realise what is going on around him? Selfish people are usually selfish because they are empty.

Ji-Soo was a bit more difficult being the wife. One would expect she would be the easiest person to like and root for. Yet it took me several episodes to even bear her face. She represented those people-pleasers. Growing up as a cater for others, she barely even created a personality of her own. Being the pushover of her sister she never shaped a whole identity and all that came to bite her in the worst way possible. Such people need the personal time to get to know themselves first and cater for themselves before going on to form relationships.

All the characters were increadibly well-thought-out and well-written. I have to admit that i severely disliked them in the first half when there are barely any logical decisions made. I loved how there are shy, small steps made by all of them in terms of character development in the 2nd half, goes to show what dramatic situations do to all of us. And i was thoroughly shocked by how close i felt to all of them by the end. I wanted this to be over since episode 4, and by episode 24 i couldn't let them go.

In the very end i wouldn't call what happened "character development", real people don't change, they adjust. This is what happened here, the characters tried to adjust and i couldn't help but appreciate their authenticity and the marvelous writing. In the very end, it was nothing but themselves that kept them from happiness, the happiness they had been chasing since moment 1.

Lastly i'd like to mention the amazing deep messages we got about decisions and consequenses of our actions in this drama. In a very honest and rough way, situations like marriage decision, significant other choice, having kids, forgiving your spouce, your kid, your parent, life choices in general and a whole lot more were targeted and talked in a subtle but meaningful way.

The drama was full of symbols; beautiful but so so so difficult to watch.

The acting was luscious and spectacular by more or less the full cast. However, the real memorable acting here was by Kim Hee Ae who gave the performance of her life in every way. She was memorable, she conveyed the feelings and concerns of such a troubled, totally hateful character in the best way possible. I hated, i disapproved, i understood, i felt sorry, i rooted, i cheered, i felt sad, i cried. In episode 4 i would have never thought she would have made such a turn on me. Kim Hee Ae studied this character and made it hers.

Kim Sang Joon was brilliant too, i especially enjoyed his angry scenes, he was always rather quiet and remorseful, and his puppy eyes were on spot. Yet, he conveyed the mindset of his twisted character perfectly, acting like a victim when he was the sinner and really believing it. A wonderful ill-hated chemistry with Kim Hee Ae that basically made this drama work.

Bae Jong Ok was amazing as a person-pleaser, i have to admit during some conversations it felt like she was just uttering lives, i especially liked her paranoia scenes, she was shivering. I think there could have been better choices for this role, but she was not bad in any case.

I have to mention especially Ha Yoo Mi from the supporting cast, because she was flawless in her incredibly hateful and crazy sister role, hopefully i will never see her again lol.

Would i ever recommend this to anyone? No. Is this one of the best dramas i've ever watched? Yes. Confused much? XD

Problem here is, there is a very small amount of viewers that would enjoy this. Adultery is my favourite kdrama concept and out of all the dramas i've watched this was the most difficult one. There is no real comedy, there is no likeable or relateable character, you need to work hard to understand them. The episodes are big and in the very end you'll end up depressed plus this is a 10 year old drama. If you like the concept of adultery, you are mature enough to watch without judging too much (and it will be hard in this one) and you like serious, depressing dramas, give this a chance. I want to rewatch this in 10 or 20 years time, because i can feel there are a ton of things that i missed because of my age mostly and because i lack the expreriences this drama dealed with, but it won't anytime soon, this was difficult to get through just once.

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pretty enjoyable and entertaining show???

tbh i read some of the reviews on here before watching the show so my expectations were below 0 when i started it ... but it was surprising how many of these reviews don't meet with the series i've watched??
ofc there are some tropes which are not that enjoyable (miscommunication mostly! some annoying characters —phoon 💀— and stupid misconceptions) but overall the shows pretty entertaining and enjoyable?? it's not a difficult plot to follow, the characters haven't gone through hell (lol) but got their own backstories and own problems they've got to deal with.
the acting was not the best but it was okay for me, the chemistry between the leads seem to be better pre-relationship than after they get together?? or maybe it's because i usually like the pining more ?? LMAO
the ost is cool, the script is light and easy to follow, the characters are cute and lovable (most of them!!), there are some nonsensical scenes but mostly it's pretty okay :D
btw this is the first part of the star and sky series (i was losing my mind to find which one was first)

if you're looking for a light-hearted show, with a hs-uni theme, hard pining, light angst, and happy ending, this is perfect :)

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It Gives You Depression

I waited for this drama because both the male leads are in my top ten favorite actors. This drama is so slow that the little happiness you get it not worth it. After the 5th episode I began to hate this drama. I felt like the abuse wife that wont leave her situation because she is afraid to leave the abuser. There is more crying and deceiving in this drama then I ever have seen. It is so depressing until the bitter end that it was better to see the evening news then watch this. Our life has it's own misery every day and I don't want to watch it on T.V. I felt that I was in "Edger Allen Poe" poem "The Raven"

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Great main couple and worldbuilding, but fails secondary couples/characters

If you only watched the first couple of episodes, then you're missing so much good that comes later. The first couple of episodes are fairly uninspiring due to the basic production and CGI. Everyone, visually, looks kind of just okay. But if you watch all the way to episode 6 and beyond, it becomes so fun and interesting.

One of the most unique xianxia dramas in terms of the worldbuilding. The human realm is unique. Because of goddess Wushuang, who was an engineer and innovated a lot of things for the human realm, the world has a steampunk vibe. The culture and clothes are still traditional, but there are some unique items or modes of transportation due to the advanced mechanical inventions. Magic and technology co-exist. (This worldbuilding isn't just for show. It plays into the plot later!)

Another absolutely favorite part of this drama--which really carries the whole show--is the main couple.
The male lead, Yuan Zhong, is a beautiful and detached man. After everything he's been through--which you learn quite quickly in the first 10 episodes--you'll understand why he is the way he is. It makes his actions very logical and understandable. He's a skeptic, especially suspicious of the female lead, Ji Tanyin, and it makes their dynamic so funny.
Ji Tanyin is actually the goddess Wushuang and came down to the mortal realm to retrieve an item that is in the hands of Yuan Zhong. For a couple of reasons, Ji Tanyin chooses to stay by his side until his death. She is committed to her goal. She is mature, logical, and has a strong sense of justice and morality. And it's these traits that really will affect Yuan Zhong, whose heart is cold.
Their relationship is great. Ji Tanyin is teaching him to warm up to the world again. Yuan Zhong is teaching her about the realities of life, having philosophical discussions with her. They are just so interesting, as individuals and as a couple. And their growth and arc, especially on Yuan Zhong's side, is fantastic.

A third favorite thing is the OST. The background music fits really well as well as the original songs. It fits well with every scene.

Unfortunately, that's about as good as it gets. There are some supporting characters who come and go and do outstanding jobs. Sadly, the reoccurring supporting characters don't have interesting arcs--and so then, by the end, they become characters that are just going through the motions, and you don't feel their motivations.

The characters of Zhi Dai and Tanghua, specifically, were meant to be this second couple that we could root for. And, in the beginning, when you learn who Zhi Dai is and how she knew Tanghua, it built this complex history between them and was really fascinating when she left it all behind. But then they reunite again for plot reasons and they just never had an interesting chemistry or dynamic since then. It was so disappointing because the wasted potential.

And then the character of Qian Lin! I'm so annoyed how his character just...stopped having things to do. He exploded onto the screen as this desperate, determined character who had a very specific goal. He was quite interesting! And then, somewhere along the way, he became a very mild character. It's too bad.

Even the villain and their scenes aren't well paced throughout the story...

Overall, you can enjoy this for the strong performances by Liu Xueyi and Tiffany Tang as Yuan Zhong and Ji Tanyin and interesting world and philosophical questions. You might enjoy some of the supporting characters too, but don't expect too much growth or interesting thread for them.

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Rarely a movie or a drama leaves on me that feeling of shock and satisfaction and so many tears spreaded all over my face. This movie is for sure a masterpiece to me, the story is so perfectly written and unexpected and there are a lot of surprises that simply fill this movie with awesomeness. I enjoyed and felt every single moment of this movie, since the very beginning. I loved the music, the acting, the characters, the photography (it was AWESOME), the cute drawings she used to make and imagine, the surprises, the stupid smile I had the entire movie and the many tears I cried while watching it, the feeling in my heart while laughing, smiling, and crying with the characters and situations... This movie is pure gold to me and I would recommend it to anyone, and I'd rewatch it one hundred times and even more... Totally loved it.

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