Reviews

Not a typical BL, coming of age and discovering yourself

While many of us not understanding japanese have gripes with some of the subtitles, the second negative was the wig. It was a distraction in the whole series. It's not such projects are done overnight, so after casting they could have told him to grow his hair and use extensions.

The third negative is the ending for one of the characters, keeping in the closet, being at least gay and denying himself to be truly happy but getting married for the "family".

The ending for Mishima could be closer to the manga where you see him living with Fujimoto together as a happy couple.

Other than that, the team removed some of the harshest scenes from the manga and tuned it down for normal viewers in contrast to "Happy of the End" which was raw. Other than that, the story was very close to the manga, the acting and cinematography was really good.

Mishima grows after enduring mental and sexual abuse, also with help of his understanding mother. The change of Fujimoto from bully to lover was also nicely done.

Overall a depiction of the harsh reality in a rural area in the 1990ties which is still common nowadways where especially boys who do not conform to expectations of society are still bullied without reason and due to bad parenting. There should be licence to be a parent imho, because it's a lot harder than driving a car.

When you find a service which offers good subtitles, you should watch it, but don't expect a BL, because it's a gay series which is a trend I wholeheartedly approve of.

Leia Mais

A melancholically beautiful, heartbreaking and heartwarming tearjerker! + Underrated!

This series needs to be higher rated! The series is beautiful in terms of story and values despite its melancholic approach. It's a heart-breaking yet heart-warming series that teach us the values of life and grief. What's more, it makes us believe in eternal love even though the time of the couple is painfully short.
In terms of character development, the series shows a complete picture how love develops a person silently yet does not change that person. Koichi is still Koichi, Micchan is still Micchan but they become better versions of themselves - love and being loved.
Regarding casting, Komiya Rio and Inoue Sora excellently and vividly depict Koichi and Micchan. It's not exaggerating to say withouth Rio and Sora, the series wouldn't have been that successful and tearjerking. Chemistry overflowers and very good acting skills.
The director/ screen writer also did their best in telling us a story that is not just heartbreaking but heartfelt.
Please don't miss it!

Leia Mais

Sequels usually end up in disaster and are terribly bad, but this sequel was much better than I had ever hoped for!!

Story:
The story is much more different than the story of NIF1. In this drama, the theme focuses more around familial ties as well as loyalty and righteousness towards the emperor, the country, and the people in general. Overall I loved the story, although I must admit that the final few episodes were just a tiny-bit underwhelming.

I personally feel that the characters in NIF2 were much more "human" and relatable than the characters in NIF1. But the plot in NIF1 is a bit more complex since it focused more on the political aspect rather than the familial aspect. I sincerely ADORED so many of the characters. I loved Pingzhang's cautiousness and wisdom, Pingjing's playful and carefree manners, Lin Xi's calm and collected poise, Qianxue's love and understanding, Tingsheng's awesome fathering skills and loyalty to his brother and his country, oh I could go on with Xun Fei Zhan and Lin Jiu, and etc.

Plus every time they hinted at or mentioned someone from NIF1, the feels would really start to hit :')

Acting:
I'm sure everyone was in doubt towards the actors when the casting was first announced. Much to my surprise, HXM did wayyyyyy better than I expected. LHR is very young (only 20 yrs old) and I think for his age, he did amazing and portrayed his character of Xiao Pingjing very well, from playful/carefree young lad to a changed/more solemn young man. I loved the female actresses too; TLY and ZHW both portrayed their characters very well. And of course, all of the supporting casts that Daylight Entertainment likes to reuse in all of their productions also acted very well.

Music:
Opening theme is a variation of the opening theme of NIF1, with a slightly more hopeful melody (as with the more happy ending than in NIF1).  I love the ending theme song as well (both the female and male versions). Instrumental was good too.

Rewatch:
There are A LOT of specific scenes that I think are very worth rewatching, such as a lot of the early wuxia-fighting scenes were wonderfully filmed. And of course, all of the deep and emotional family scenes (Tingsheng and Pingjing!) as well as the daily Xiao family shenanigans. I wouldn't rewatch the whole drama though, but there are a lot of scenes I will definitely rewatch.

Overall:
Absolutely loved this show. Compared to all the sequels of movies/dramas I've ever seen in my life, this is a sequel that can almost be equal to its prequel. Both NIF1 and NIF2 are equal in my heart, and both have their pros and cons. Definitely worth giving it a shot if you've seen NIF1 and are debating or not whether to watch this!! If you haven't seen NIF1, then by all means, watch this, because this is still a very good quality drama on its own.

Leia Mais

Not a good story

Not worth it to watch 42 episodes.
We generally expect only one ML & want FL to love only ML through the series.
Here it was shown as the FL doesn't have any feeling for ML anymore due to some conflicts between families, and almost tried to develop feelings for SML.
It looks like writer tried to give same importance to ML & SML which caused this disaster.
ML significance gradually reduces & SML significance gradually increases after the divorce between FL & ML. we can tolerate this for 1 or 2 episodes but as an audience how do you tolerate this for around 10 episodes, ML wasn't even there in some episodes.
At the end, FL came back from US after 3 years & she still doesn't know what she wants. FL gives hug to SML as a friend after forgiving him, but it is not shown whether FL would like to get back to ML or not ? ML clearly would like to get back to FL but FL mind is not clear.
FL called both ML & SML as good friends & even sang a song for them.
FL & ML will only be friends ? will they become couple again ? it was left for audience imagination.

After watching 42 episodes, you will not like FL character anymore & you would feel FL doesn't deserve ML (FL doesn't show any regret for leaving ML).

Leia Mais

Justice is blind and not heartless.

I have never had a good impression of China's opaque legal system so I was both curious and skeptical about Draw the Line. This drama is a fascinating tour of the inner workings of China's grassroots level judicial system. It shines a surprisingly candid spotlight on gaps in the Chinese judicial system from rapid economic growth, modernisation, changing social values and the proliferation of the internet and social media.

Fang Yuan is the presiding judge at the Xingcheng District Court, a local people's court of first instance which handles both civil and criminal cases. Fang Yuan's division handles civil cases while criminal matters are adjudicated by his colleague Song Yufei, a deputy chief judge of the intermediate people's court. What surprises me most is how hands on the grassroots judges are in the Chinese legal system. They do a lot of field work themselves from directing the gathering of evidence to personally interviewing plaintiffs, defendants and witnesses. The role of lawyers is so passive and marginalized it is as if they are for decorative purposes only. For civil cases, the court first seeks to resolve conflicts through court sponsored mediation. If an agreement, is reached, it becomes legally binding once it is reviewed and documented by a judge. Mediation can be a draining process, especially when dealing with less educated, unreasonable and belligerent citizens. Thus beyond legal knowledge it takes a combination of investigative and persuasive skills and a healthy dose of patience to be effective as a grassroots judge in China.

The arrival of Ye Xin, a young researcher from the Supreme Court is met with speculation and trepidation by the close knit community at the Xingcheng District Court. She is an annoying character in the beginning because she has no practical experience, and adopts a rigid by the book approach to interpreting the law. Experienced grassroots judges like Fang Yuan and his mentee Zhou Yian are more pragmatic about bridging the inevitable gaps between static legal codes and the myriad complexities of real life cases. Still it is never easy to figure out where to draw the line between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law. Beyond the heavy case load, the courts also face the challenge of social media, where cases are tried in the court of public opinion on distorted facts. Although the judges do their best to weigh the the practical, moral and humane aspects of their decisions, they don't always get it right. They have their own flaws, biases and personal or familial pressures. These dynamics set Chinese Supreme Court down the path of judicial reform, where case law is increasingly implemented instead of just statutory law.

The impeccably curated cases create a fascinating mosaic of moral, familial, commercial and social issues great and small confronting the Chinese public today. They are based on thought provoking and relevant real life cases; some of which have sparked public debate and controversy. The drama is very even handed about presenting both the plaintiff and defendant's point of view. The writers very effectively showcase resembling cases to illustrate the range of different human emotions, motives and outcomes. There are cases where two sons are driven to kill because of their mother, sexual harassment cases with different power dynamics and common reasons for the breakdown of marriages and related child custody disputes. From the mundane and petty to the serious and complex, the cases strike a riveting, sometimes heart rending chord because we have all read about or heard about or experienced something similar. At the same time, these cases deftly illustrate the many challenges faced by grassroots judges. They are the everyday heroes who navigate the grey areas of the law and morality with compassion to deliver justice that is blind and not heartless.

The cast in this drama needs no introduction and does a stellar job in drawing out the complex human aspects of the cases. Jin Dong delivers a multi-faceted Fang Yuan who is everything to everyone at work - a stern and impartial judge, a tireless and persuasive mediator, a wise mentor and a playful colleague. This leaves him with much less to give at home as a father and husband. We see a very down to earth version Cheng Yi as the introspective Zhou Yian, the young judge who must surely cut his own hair! He convincingly navigates a crisis of conviction after making some mis-steps. Both Yian and Cai Wenjing's Ye Xin are the characters who show the most growth in this drama but the characters that move me most are either defendants or plaintiffs in some of the more heart rending cases.

The best, most thought provoking case to me is the one about the roommates that is analogous to tripping a friend to escape a bear attack. Even though all the cases are interesting, there are too many of the cases in the back half that personally entangle various court personnel. This requires repeated suspension of disbelief in terms of how impartial and self sacrificing the various protagonists managed to be. It also highlights in my opinion an area that still needs judicial reform, which is how conflicts of interest are handled. It seems there is no requirement for judges to recuse themselves when their colleagues end up as defendants. The ending case is just too personal with too many coincidences and conflicts and an outcome that I find the least equitable with some defendants getting off too lightly while others are very harshly indicted. It is not the right note to end on and as a result I rate this an 8.0 instead of an 8.5. Overall a highly recommended, eye opening, thought provoking and fascinating watch with heart felt performances from some of my favourite Chinese actors.

Leia Mais

Not what I expected...

I was excited to hear about this sequel starring the daughter of Ying Luo and non-biological son of Fu Heng, but now that I've finished, it was rather disappointing.

It started off strong, with beautiful costume/production/music and the plot was developing smoothly. They used the same OST and BGM from the parent story, Story of Yanxi Palace, so I liked the nostalgic feel to it. Especially the dramatic BGM that was added at certain moments.

However, as there were only 6 episodes, the pacing was rather fast? I couldn't catch up. Prince Chaoyong didn't have as much screen time as Fu Kang'an, but he started off not liking Zhao Hua and then in episode 2 or 3, he suddenly started loving her? One minute Zhao Hua didn't like Fu Kang'an and later, she did. Then, when he betrayed her and she disappeared, it got even more confusing. I didn't get what was going on. I'm guessing they didn't have the time to explain it so they rushed it at the end when Zhao Hua and Prince Chaoyong got married and the truth was revealed as the plot twist. I suppose it was satisfying to find out Zhao Hua got her revenge on Princess Siwan, Fu Kang'an, and Prince Chaoyong, but I wish they showed the process more instead of just throwing it out there at the end with a few words.

I feel like with the limited 6 episodes, the falling in love and later betrayal of Fu Kang'an wasn't as heartfelt to me as a viewer. Everything happened so fast. There wasn't enough time for me to take in each character and how they slowly grew to have feelings for another. The plot twist revealed at the last minute of the last episode also didn't land well for me. I wish they explained it more?

The plot twist for how Fu Kang'an was not the Emperor's son was greatly executed though! I was shocked and loved how they revealed it through Wei Ying Luo's speculations. :) My favorite scene of the drama. I just love it when Wei Ying Luo has the upper hand and reveals it. Really reminded me of the parent story. I loved seeing the old cast too, it was nice that they didn't replace them and got them all back to act their parts. Wei Ying Luo's scenes were the most satisfying parts to watch- especially when she went to Fuca House after Zhao Hua disappears.

Overall, super fast-paced, historical romance but it was nice to see the old cast if you loved the parent story. Plot was alright, used up all the cliches for the romance and was rushed in my opinion for 6 episodes. Some scenes could have been better explained. Give it a try if you miss Wei Ying Luo and you're curious about her daughter, Zhao Hua, who is more like her mother than others believe.

The actors seem to do a good job overall but the plot got me confused and was the problem for me. Production was top-notch like the original story with its beautiful sets and costumes.

"Everybody says I'm not like my mother. They're wrong."

Leia Mais

Welcome Home, Mone!

This drama is the 104th NHK Asadora series in the network’s long line of serialised dramas that air a 15-minute episode every weekday morning. It is my second ever Asadora, following Oshin back in the 1990s.

Okaeri Mone translates as welcome home Mone, which refers to the titular character of Nagaura Momone. The premise focuses on Mone’s journey of growth, healing and love where she struggles to overcome the burden of a traumatic past before eventually determining her path in life and finally realising her aspirations of being a weather forecaster. Set in 2014 and spanning some seven years up to the present day, Mone’s story begins from her hometown of Kesennuma Bay in Miyagi Prefecture as she travels to the coastal city of Tome and subsequently Tokyo, before completing a full circle by returning to her home.

Based on the original screenplay written by Adachi Naoko (Code Blue 3) and directed by Masae Ichiki (Yae no Sakura, Idaten) and Tomohiro Kuwano (Amachan, Idaten). Takagi Masakatsu (Mirai, Wolf Children) serves as composer while the theme song Nanairo is performed by the popular alt-rock band, BUMP OF CHICKEN. Principal photography took place in Kesennuma Bay, Tome City, Sendai and Tokyo.

As far as the production quality and technical execution are concerned, I have absolutely no complaints. The exotic filming locales comprising the rustic fishing village, expansive mountainous forest reserves, gorgeous coastline are utterly breathtaking to witness, which is credit to the wonderful cinematography. I love the upbeat and inspiring theme song, Nanairo, that accompanies the title sequence during every episode.

The same goes for the quality of the screenplay which manages to convey the weekly story arcs of the main plot in a cohesive and coherent manner. There are many themes explored, as is typical in a long running Asadora. There is no shortage of the rainbows and sunshine involving heartwarming moments of family bonding and camaraderie among friends. We also see the infusion of bittersweet moments relating to tragedy, loss and trauma arising mainly from the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami which sadly impacted Kesennuma Bay, the setting of the drama. Perhaps the only reservation I have is on the subplot concerning the sibling relationship and the interactions between the childhood friends where some tension and angst are present, which I felt was somewhat needlessly stretched.

The character design of the main as well as supporting characters is generally well developed to imbue them with the necessary depth and realism that allows an attachment as well as connection to be formed with viewers. This certainly was the case for me and none more so than the eponymous main character of Mone, along with her parents, grandfather, the doctor friend and her colleagues at the Weather Experts in particular.

It’s worth mentioning the inclusion of technical aspects pertaining to weather forecasting and analysis of meteorological data which plays a major part of the premise of the drama. In addition to that, the aquaculture practices in the form of oyster cultivation and farming is featured in detail due to the involvement of Mone’s family in oyster harvesting and supply. I appreciate the fact that the technicalities of these real-life activities are showcased in a straightforward and uncomplicated fashion which integrate seamlessly into the storytelling.

In terms of the cast, major kudos go to Kiyohara Kaya. This is my first time seeing her and what an absorbing performance she has delivered. Such incredible talent to breathe life into the character of Mone. Throughout the entire 120 episodes, I was simply immersed in her portrayal and rooting for her during the many pivotal moments of her journey. From her depiction of insecurity, uncertainty and vulnerability right through to her maturity as a person and a professional in projecting the self-confidence of a seasoned meteorologist and weather forecaster. I'll be keeping a close eye on her projects from now on.

Sakaguchi Kentaro’s awkwardly charming Suganami Koutaro is quite fascinating. Initially displaying tsundere-like traits, he gradually evolves into a more endearing personality which subtly complements Mone’s down-to-earth personality as part of their blossoming relationship. Mone's parents are portrayed by the experienced Uchino Seiyou and Suzuki Kyoka. They have a rather amusing story arc in an extensive flashback sequence while their numerous memorable scenes together are quite wholesome to observe. Nishijima Hidetoshi's calm demeanour fits the charisma of his weatherman Asaoka Satoru. Likewise I really enjoyed Takaoka Saki's interpretation of the sophisticated Takamura Satoko. Asano Tadanobu needs no introduction and his depiction of Oikawa Shinji is probably the most emotional among the supporting cast.

From my perspective, Okaeri Mone has been an utter joy to watch and an extremely worthwhile experience. From the cultural facets to the intricacies of weather forecasting as well as the beautiful landscapes of Miyagi Prefecture, there is much to savour in this very well-made production indeed.

Leia Mais

I've never resonated with anything else alike

I had watched Lee Do-Hyun in '18 Again' which drew me to 'Youth of May' and it left a deep impression on me unlike any other drama has done. The relationships between the characters and their families deeply resonated with me and left me feeling bitter sweet and happy throughout. I'm glad I had the chance to experience this story and watch as these actors and actresses poured their hearts out into the development of it. This has become a fan favorite of mine now and I look forward to what the cast will put out in the future. This will always be a production work I'll remember. As a side note I without a single regret purchased all the songs that comprise the soundtrack of 'Youth of May' on iTunes, do give them a listen.

Leia Mais

I watched the anime version first, and was looking for a live action version that followed the same story line as the anime, but I found this. I wasn't really expecting much from it as I knew it was a very altered story line and for the first 20/30 minutes I wasn't very open minded about it. At the start the graphics were quite bad and I didn't see how it was at all related to the anime. But as the movie went on, I found myself completely engrossed in it, and I was very pleased to see that it did manage to fit in a connection with the anime - which I thought was actually quite clever too.

So I rated this movie so high because I really wasn't expecting to like it, but by the end I was bawling like a baby, and any film that can do that is a good one in my books.

Leia Mais

I'm neither a movie person nor am I experienced in writing reviews. But I got a chance to watch this movie in Seoul today with English subtitles and really came to like it a lot, so I want to give it a try while the impressions are still fresh.

I went into the film not really knowing what it was about but being somewhat curious, since it's critically acclaimed and was received very positively here in Korea. It's even said that there were people who watched it over hundred times because they liked it so much!

To break it down, the film is about a young girl - Eunhee - living in Seoul in 1994, struggling with all kinds of problems that come with human relationships. She is the youngest of three, growing up in a somewhat disfunctional but probably quite typical family - fighting parents, a brother that hits her, a rebellious sister, who secretly dates and stays out the night against her parent's will. Eunhee rather draws manga than to study hard like her parents want her to, she has to confront unreliable friends and lovers, and overall is trying to find out how she is supposed to live her life, apart from the expectations that society confronts her with. The focus always stays on Eunhee. She is the person leading us through the year 1994.

The big reason I liked this movie so much is because I related deeply to the protagonist Eunhee. Of course a lot of things happen to her that I never experienced - some things are quite Korea-specific, for example. But then there also more universal struggles Eunhee has to face to which probably many young girls can relate to: the overall feeling of being a little lost, discovering the flaws and struggles of the people around her, learning to stand up for herself, trying to find people that accept and love her for who she is opposed to all the indifference and criticism that she grew up in, and of course fighting parents and annoying siblings.

One part that really hit home for me was when Eunhee one evening witnesses her the parents fighting, blaming each other for the misery of their children, with everything ending in violence and tears. Then, at the next day, she finds them both sitting in front of the TV in daylight, laughing together at the same jokes, as if never anything happened. Eunhee just looks at them, with a certain numbness in her expression.

Another thing the movie nailed was the multi-layered depiction of the characters close to Eunhee. The mother, father and brother all had scenes where they said something bad that made you hate them in this moment. But, at another point, you learn that even though they are wrong in many things, they after all care deeply about the two young girls in the family - even though they can't express it properly. It's not an excuse, they say and do things that are plain wrong, but you come to realize that they, like all of us, simply are imperfect humans, after all.

The movie was filmed beautifully, with the camera sometimes resting on a particular point, in order to really capture the atmosphere of the moment. A little artsy, but never over the top, just enough to deepen the impression. For the acting, I didn't discover any awkwardness. It was flawless for me (but I'm really no expert here).

If I had to criticize anything, it would the small plotline about Eunhees romantic relationship to another girl. The other girl was really sweet and the relationship cute, but it ends very abruptly in a way that made the audience go "Huh?" (- Eunhee: But didn't you say you like me? - Other girl: But ... that was last semester). Maybe they didn't had a better idea how to wrap this up.

The review is already long as it is, but I have to say it again. It was wonderful to have a movie with a protagonist that you can relate to. The movie industry is still heavily men-dominated (in Korea just like in the US), so they naturally like to tell stories about other fellow men. Meanwhile little girls are normally deemed not interesting enough to tell stories about them - especially not the quiet, struggling ones. Here I finally had a story in which I could discover some parts of myself in. I think this is why "House of Hummingbird" touched me so deeply.

Leia Mais

A story about two real humans!

Watch this film was a mix of feelings. This movie is about - without spoiler of course - two teenagers who are discovering themselves as homosexuals.

In my opinion‚ this film is a masterpiece. It is well-written‚ well-directed‚ everything was perfect.

As I said: This is a story about two real humans and‚ as humans‚ there are pain‚ suffering‚ tears. However‚ there are happiness, desire - in a sexual meaning - and a happy ending after all the pain and suffering.

It was an awesome, amazing and great experience watch this masterpiece.


* This is my first review in English (I'm brazilian)

Leia Mais

I decided to watch this purely for Sato Takeru, I had little interest in the actually story but I was pleasantly surprised at how brilliant this series was!

For me the story was nothing special, a single parent raising his child with the help of his friends. It's not a plot that stands out to me but boy how wrong I was! The story was emotional, sweet and touching for beginning to end as we see the characters grow and learn through the course of their life. I loved the setting and the time period of the plot as it wasn't something I had expected - covering the childhood and adulthood of Akira. It gives the chance to bond with the character as you watch him grow into an adult and in turn grow to love them. For me, the story was executed flawlessly, there weren't any plot holes and any questions were answered. It's a slow paced and a slice of life kinda drama but there is never a dull moment.

As mentioned I watched this for Sato Takeru he was brilliant throughout the whole series. He played his role perfectly as such a complex character, who had experienced many downs in his life, in such a simplistic and innocent manner can be down to the actor. The child actors that played Akira were also brilliant as it can be difficult to carry the same character through various people, but these actors made it feel like they were all the same person.

But as the story develop my focus turned to Uchino Masaaki. He was wonderful playing the "dumb" dad he portrayed his character beautifully and realistically I've never seen any of his dramas but he was incredibly in this! He made me cry, laugh, cry, laugh, crying and laughing at the same time! His acting draws you into the story and despite my bias towards Takeru, Masaaki brought this story to life. A round of applaus to the supporting cast as well because without them the series would lose it's spark. The support from his friends are enviable when watching it you think "wow, I want friends like him." The whole casting had great chemistry and bonding there isn't much more I can compliment on cause it was simply brilliant.

The music is very simple and nothing memorable but does well in emphasising the emotions of the characters.

I will definitely be rewatching this series again because it's just beautifully made and well executed. For me it's a absolute gem! The story and acting ticked all the boxes for me parenthood, friendship, loss and growth through a genuine and realistic story. The bonding between friends, father and son was exceptionally beautiful. There was never a dull moment and before you know it you've already finished it and wanting more. The story was simple and geunine along with great characters and acting this is really a must watch! It makes you appreciate the things in life you take for granted.

Leia Mais

Very humane. Tangible. Touching, yet not maudlin. Sad, yes. But unpretentiously radiating, too.

"The Most Beautiful Goodbye" is a KDrama that consists of only 4 episodes. However, they have it all and are completely sufficient to leave their mark in the sand. We are confronted with the limits of healthcare system - when medicine no longer has a solution to offer and people are left with themselves and what they are: mortal beings. In ruthless directness, the viewers are confronted with what many people (all over the world) might at some point face in one way or another.

The family here is not particularly rich and not particularly poor. The individual protagonists are not particularly successful and have not particularly failed. Everyone lives their (South Korean) life as best they can. Not very happy and not very unhappy. With a tendency not to not be so happy. But they are actually not really unhappy either. In fact, everything could be quite nice, but everyone is just too busy with themselves. The WE becomes self-evident and rather annoying... until the day the finitude of being was knocking on the door...

However, hello-wake-up does not imply everyone starts reinventing themselves, overcoming their weaknesses and becoming better people. It does, however, force them to reflect on what they have and what they have forgotten (to love) (consciously) despite everything being taken for granted. In stumbling everyone is searching for an expression of their own feelings. At least they try to be a little bit more alert about what is going on in their life.

Very humane. Tangible. Touching, yet not maudlin. Pretty close to life. People are clumsy, speechless and helpless, as akward as it gets. It is a lesson in compassion, triggering your own experiences, when it comes to similarily unprepared being confronted with any form of (unwanted as it is) final farewell.

Sad, yes. But unpretentiously radiating, too.

Leia Mais

Not a Bl but Queer Story

I’ve seen a lot of mixed (and even negative) reviews about Soulmate, But honestly, I feel like that kind of thinking misses the whole point of the story.

Not every relationship needs a label like “boyfriends” to be meaningful. And intimacy doesn’t always have to be physical to be real. What Soulmate shows is something quieter but deeper—a connection built on understanding, respect, and simply being there for each other.

The title “Soulmate” fits perfectly. Their relationship feels like more than friendship, but not something that needs to be defined as lovers either. It exists somewhere in between, in a space that feels very real but is rarely shown on screen.

Another thing I really appreciated is how the drama portrays family. It reminds us that you don’t have to be blood-related to be a family. And you don’t have to fit into traditional stereotypes either. A family doesn’t always have to look like “one mother and one father.”

In the story, two men step up to take care of their best friend’s child after her husband passes away. The three of them build a life together, taking turns, supporting each other, and raising the baby with love. It’s such a simple but powerful way of showing that family is about care, responsibility, and connection—not labels.

What I loved most is how they live together, find happiness in small everyday moments, and respect each other’s boundaries. It’s not dramatic or intense in a typical way—it’s soft, calm, and emotionally intimate.

Honestly, this is the kind of relationship I would want in real life. Just living peacefully with someone who understands you without needing to explain everything.

I feel like this drama introduces a kind of “new genre” for many viewers—one that focuses less on labels or physical romance, and more on genuine human connection.

And maybe that’s why it feels so different… and so special.

Leia Mais

Perfect soft angst.

You know that perfect angst that rather than making you feel like you want to die, makes your heart flutter? That was it.

Truth to be told, it strongly felt like every fanfic ever came to life and... it works. Pinning over each other for years, longing and wanting the other, but never taking the step forward, protecting each other, making sure the other is not hurt. All the best tags we can find in fanfics are here too. While the story is extremely simple, the directing, editing, acting, ost... everything works in such a harmonious and perfect way, I fell for the show and died a few times waiting for the next episodes to air.

Some people wished it was longer, but I honestly disagree. With this type of plot it would be hard to make a good show, which wouldn't be a cheap fan service. The storytelling here was perfect. Not once was I confused about the plot or characters' motivations. They used the screen time efficiently and showed a cohesive story from the beginning till the end. I think extending this drama could ruin it.

Tae Joo and Kang Gook are nothing alike, but that's why they work so well together. Playful and flirty Tae Joo driving the stoic and collected Gook mad. The dynamics of them, the jealousy they tried to tame... That's the highlight of the show- amazing chemistry between Gi Chan and Eui Soo.

Usually I don't pay that much attention to ost, but the songs used here were truly amazing and fitting. If I noticed them, it means they were really good :)

So why not 10, if I loved it so much?
There were a few scenes where I was not completely convinced by Gi Chan's acting (like the talk with his dad in the last episode). At times I could not connect to the emotions he tried to convey. Since the cast was small and the plot was simple, it all relied on the acting skills of Gi Chan and Eui Soo. I believed every line Eui Soo said, but felt disconnected from the few delivered by Gi Chan. What's more, I wasn't the biggest fan of how they executed the last few scenes. Not to get into spoilers, I was happy with the content, but not crazy about how it was presented and structured.

That said, I would DEFINITELY recommend watching.

Leia Mais