Reviews

Hoping for a season 2 :(

Just finished watching this drama and I can say, the storyline is really sad.. although in the beginning when she acted as a man, she did pulled it off, but was too dramatic. In my opinion though, she did the best job in acting as this 2 roles. Displayed her character well and really able to understand why was her character behaving in a certain manner.
I think the production crew did a great job in making an effort to make the female lead pull off as a man/woman. Also, many people are saying that this drama has a bad ending but I don’t think so. It explains the title of this drama so much and how the female lead and the male lead can never be together.
I just feel a bit upset that they ended this drama in a rush. towards the last episode. The story starts to conclude everything with little explanation, and then with many people start dying... I really hope they continue a Season 2 soon and maybe tell us more into the story of the female lead and what might happen if the both leads ever meet again.
As seen in last episode, they both passed by each other and was so close to seeing each other again, but it ended just like that. Which is such a cliffhanger and leaving viewers wanting to know more...
But overall, this is a good drama! Almost dropped it in the middle, but the story starts to get interesting again! Hoping for a season 2!!

Leia Mais

Lovely chemistry and excellent production but extremely weak story.

I feel kind of bad rating this so low considering the elements I do love about it, but it's just so disappointing in the end that I can't rate it any higher...

Positives:
-Chemistry and acting. Sam and Yu really carry this entire series tbh- without them and their chemistry, I would have rated this maybe a 3-4. They are both incredible actors and their chemistry is insane. Sam in particular is just incredible- especially in the drunk scene. Their angsty, intimate scenes are the best thing to come out of this season (don't lie you replayed the sh*t out of them too). You can just feel the passion and emotion in those scenes. If you were on the fence about watching this and loved the first season- I'd recommend just watching the first 3 eps to see all tension and eventual makeup between the two. I was waiting with baited breath for every scene they had alone in those eps. But I was surprised that their arc is pretty much tied up in ep 3. The first 3 eps are pretty decent, but get progressively weaker after that.

-Production Quality - it's filmed beautifully and is very aesthetically pleasing (although I find some of the environments a bit cold and sterile this season- but I loved the waterfront restaurant!). The outfit design, styling and overall production quality is great!

Negatives:
-Story. What story? The plot was weak and disjointed. I think a lot of us were worried after the previews for the season that the reason that Shu Yi and Shi De split up for 5 years would be an extremely stupid, unconvincing and contrived gimmick... and it was... I'm so sick of the same weak and plain old lazy miscommunication tropes in BL. It's just lazy writing with zero creativity. Like at least add some flair to why they "had to" act like babies and not talk for 5 years smh. (I'll admit that although I hated the whole setup- it did allow for those incredible angsty scenes filled with fire sexual tension though lol- which I can see was the whole point).
-The scenes showing the blonde woman with the baby that were never discussed again? I thought this would be an angsty plot point as why would you show it otherwise- but nothing is ever done with it?

-The pacing, nothing happens. I saw a lot of comments excusing the bad story by saying they only had 6 episodes, what could they do with such limited air time? There's only so much they can include blah blah. But that's untrue as there are so many movies and short series that convey an interesting and fleshed out storyline in similar or shorter timespans. And we have the direct comparison of the first season being the same length but having a good story so? Honestly in this season I found myself bored in a lot of scenes waiting for an ep to finish.
-The whole software/code being stolen plotline- legitimately NO ONE CARES. This was downright filler bullshit where air time was limited and could have been used on actual/plot character development??? Worse it was boring af to watch and if you've ever worked in a corporate or IT environment (like me)- it is done laughably bad.

-The second couple of Shou Yi and Zhen Xuan. Wtf. Honestly for the first half of the show, I was one of the rare people in the comments who was actually intrigued and keen to see more of this couple. But by the end I was completely turned off by them. They are given so few scenes and then that random "explanation" at the end about Shou Yi having a dissociative disorder- and that's why he's a cold prick the entire season? Um. Ok. Don't get me wrong here- I actually liked that they were including a couple with chars with different conditions. But they handled the whole thing sooo badly and messily. They implied the whole season that Zhen Xuan had some kind of attachment disorder and that Shou Yi was distancing himself thinking it was the right thing to do. Then they randomly do a one eighty and suddenly Shou Yi is the one with a disorder and that's why he distances himself????? What. Then in the last ep after Zhen Xuan's monologue basically saying goodbye- the next scene with them they are acting fine and all chill with each other? WTF?
-Also this is a minor thing but why is Shou yi now running a bar/restaurant instead of being a doctor anymore? This is the kind of thing it would make sense to include as a plot point or at least comment on since this is a character driven drama.

-3rd couple who? I found it really strange that the third couple that has barely a couple of scenes in the entire season gets to take the spotlight of the final scene with the random marriage proposal? I found myself thinking wtf I don't care- can we actually finish with a scene of the main couple? Or you know, touching on how the second couple pretty much just had their emotional, goodbye monologue scene and now are randomly all good again? WTF is this? I know it says "their story is not over" at the end- but this whole setup was just messy af.

I would still eagerly watch a 3rd season if they make one- but this season largely felt like a waste of time that was mostly filler. Overall it was pretty with some excellent tension filled scenes between Sam and Yu- but aside from that the season was a general disappointment.

Leia Mais

One of my favorite sageuk dramas, Painter of The Wind is a rare gem that can only be appreciated by watching it carefully.

I give it a 9, because overall the story, casting, directing, and rewatch value are very good.

A story about genius crossdressing painter in Joseon era, it highlights the arts, especially paintings and makes it one of the most artistic Korean drama. Not only that, the cross-dressing story also create problems to hero's journey to find love and soulmate. This drama will taught us that love is not as simple as people think. Love is complicated question.

As a sageuk, this drama delivers compelling story with enough politics but not make it as boring as in any sageuk. The characters feel and think like human being. The villains are interesting and the leads really adorable.

There's also some comic relief injected throughout the drama. But the drama itself won't be this great without outstanding performance from Moon Geun Young as Shin Yun Bok and Park Shin Yang as Kim Hong Do. As a duo, they're really amazing and adorable.

Overall, it's a very good historical drama that not focused on politics but more on the arts, especially paintings.

Leia Mais

Today i finished watching "Her Private Life"
So here's my review on this drama...many people said that it was nice at first but at last episodes it's become something which they can't understand and trust me because of this type of reviews I thought I'll not watch this drama but I am glad I watched this cause I really like it somehow I understand the writer's feelings and if you watch this drama carefully you'll automatically relate the ending from the starting episodes..I know that childhood trauma is now becoming common in kdramas but I still recommend this drama to watch cause it's worth watching..I really loved the cast acting and the script also..I loved this drama..:))

Leia Mais

A drama that exceeds your expectation

I started to watch this drama with no expectation, but in the end I got so invested in it. I've never been so invested in a drama like this for a long time.

This is the only drama I looked forward each week. I love the pace, all characters, and the story. Each character shows their growth in this drama as the story goes. And though the premise might seem simple, there's always a beautiful message that is delivered in this drama.

This drama has a very positive and heartwarming atmosphere. The main character Asuka, is my favorite. She is a very supportive character. She is the one that continuously driving 8LOOM to be better and better, to be aware of their positive sides. I dare to say: no Asuka, no 8LOOM. But it's also 8LOOM that helps Asuka to grow into a better self. I think this kind of connection is the charm of this drama.

I love how each 8LOOM's song is really connected to the storyline. I will gladly give 11 out of 10 for the music if I can. Not to mention they have amazing dance choreography too!
Please pay attention to the opening of each episode too, since it somehow gives a hint about what story will be told in that episode. The last episode has no opening, but you will understand why if you watch it until the end.
There's always a room to improve for the acting for some actors. But for me, each actor delivers the story so well. And that's the most important thing.

The chemistry between the casts is undeniably so good. Asuka and Dan always look so good together on screen. 8LOOM members are getting along so well, seems like they found another family in this drama. And you can also feel how Asuka really cares about them. I think the production team casted the perfect actor for each role.

My only concern is there's not much romantic interaction between the main couple, Asuka and Dan, despite it has romcom genre. That's why I reduce 0.5 point from the full score 10 for the story. I love the ending though, it's so typical Asuka and Dan ^_^

And since I rewatch each episode at least twice, of course I give full score for rewatch value.

Leia Mais

The Wolrd of Kanako is a violently disturbing picture with lots of hysterically abnormal characters that never fail to amaze.

Nakashima Tatsuya is a genius Japanese director. His “Confessions” and “Memories of Matsuko” are living evidences of his brilliance. The downside is that he doesn’t come out much but when he does, it will be through a thought-provoking wild picture like The World of Kanako.

Being a serious fan of Nakashima filmmaking, I was eagerly anticipating this. But I wasn’t ready for this darker tone and pitch black atmosphere. Needless to say, I was pleased in a very good way. The picture was a clear depiction of an ill society with lots of vacancy within.

The storyline was based on several flashbacks to draw Kanako’s life. The multitude of switching between the past and the present was an intelligent procedure to keep the suspense until the end. Of course, the overuse might turn out confusing especially by the end but it was a definite win for the film’s two hours’ longitude.

The plot’s successively coherent events helped expressing the characters’ nightmarish adventures. But it was the excessive violence that pinpointed the severity of what actually happened. Of course brutal beatings and cuttings can come out extremely discomforting but it’s their gruesome nature that grabs the memory and highlights the nasty reality Nakashima was trying to illustrate: Nothing is what it seems. There’s always a hidden reality underneath.

Beside Nakashima’s explosive style in picturing a chaos in stunning colours, there were his brilliant main leads. They’re what strengthened my wish to see this picture in the first place; the veteran Yakusho Koji (he was on a whole different level), the brilliant Tsumabuki Satoshi, the charismatic Odagiri Joe, the much imposing Nakatani and even the impressive younger talents Hashimoto, Komatsu and especially Shimizu. The film’s loaded cast helped bringing few of the craziest characters ever.

There’s zero hero in this film. All of its characters are some sort of anti-heroes, psychos, sadists, violent pricks and even demons. It was the intense characterisation that made me glued to the screen the whole time. They make one hell of an entertaining bunch. They were perfectly entwined in a messy havoc. They even get crazier as the film goes on and on unravelling their traits one by one. Some characters didn’t get proper explanations as they popped on the screen but it all went well for the final blow.

Maybe Nakashima went abroad with the repeated violence, brutality, rape, drug use and all the ugly side of REALITY but it was especially genius how he has wrapped his characters in a surrealist cover of apparent fantasy. It does take a big director to convince his audience about the line between reality and fiction without getting caught in his own scenario. Hats off to you oji-san!

The World of Kanako is a fascinating take about the ugliness in society (more particularly Japanese). It’s an intriguing view about people’s masks and their crazy reactions when someone pushes the wrong button. It’s basically a gripping watch centring on wild characters being pushed to the edge.

Leia Mais

The best historical Cdramas so far for me

If you want a show with the perfect balance between romance, soft comedy and political plot : you should totally go for it.
I've seen some people talk about the romance of The Prisoner of Beauty, but I feel like the political plot is really underrated by most people. I'm really hard to please in historical dramas because I love politic plots but I also need very-well written characters and relationships (not necessarily romance, but romantic relationships are the most common). Most historical dramas I've watched always had the same problems to me : either they had an interesting romance but not enough politics, or there were enough politics, but the romance and/or characters were not well written.
Well, let me tell you : the prisoner of beauty is the exception! I found it was very, very well balanced. I saw some people saying it was more romance than politics but I found the politic plot almost always there. The power struggles between the families, and even the "enemy bond" the Qiao and Wei have is politic. Every plot around the canals in the cities is political. There were some parts more romance-focused and some more family-centered, but I wouldn't say the drama was mostly romance. I felt like it was the perfect 50-50 between politicals struggles, and romance/familial struggles.
I absolutely loved Wei Shao's and Xiao Qiao's bond. How they distrust each other at first, and Xiao Qiao manipulates him, how he separates her from the other Qiaos from the start, how he protects her in front of his family but does not trust her at all, into how they slowly discover what is hidden between each other's mask and struggle between their feelings and their filial duties. The chemistry was amazing, and some dialogues struck me as peak enemies-to-lovers dialogues. One, specifically : when Xiao Qiao is accused of cooking the grains to fool the people, and Wei Shao defend her by saying "I would trust you if you told me she tried to poison my whole family, but I would never trust you if you told me she tried to harm the people." This was such a powerful dialogue to me; he was willing to defend a woman he thought capable of killing his family.
However, what I loved more than anything else was the flawless characters' writing. I am a sucker for complex and coherent characters, and I definitely did not expect this drama to serve this. Romance dramas, and especially enemies-to-lovers one, tend to give big character developpments to their character, sometimes too big to be realistic. By that, I mean cold and cruel characters becoming too kind and soft; or characters changing too much or too suddenly just to serve a plot device. Which is okay, as long as it's enjoyable.
But this drama does not do that. Like, ever. Every character's writing is so deep and coherent I was surprised.
I am going to start with the most obvious one : Wei Shao. He doesn't have that switch male leads often have in romance dramas, from "cruel and cold" to "silly and lovestruck". He keeps the same qualities and defaults from the beggining to the end, but some are developed while some are tamed. His hatred is slowly tamed, and his kindness, noticeable since the beggining with how he did not want Xiao Qiao to struggle too much in his family even when he disliked her and didn't trust her, takes more and more place and makes him warmer. But those traits did not appear suddenly, they were there since the beggining. Wei Shao has always cared most about the people, and he stays this way until the end. Even when he has to chose between defending Panyin or Yunjun, he stays loyal to his values. He choses to defend the people instead of his family. That is a very coherent and well-written decision, especially when you notice the parallel between Xiao Qiao's grandfather who had to go through the same dilemma. Having to chose between his family and the people made him understood why the Qiao betrayed his family 15 years ago. That was a beautiful way to end this arc.
Liu Yan and Yu Lou are very good exemple of how coherent and deep the writing was. If you think about it, they repeat the same errors again and again until it kills them, and I find that to be a very realistic writing. As Wei Shao told her, Yu Lou fails to notice other people's love for her right until the end. Even when she is warned about it, she doesn't notice and change, because humans don't change that easily. Liu Yan, on the other hand, only knows how to be obsessive. His "love" for Xiao Qiao was an obsession, and that almost killed him in the beggining. Did he learn his lesson? No, he reproduced the same kind of obsession for Yu Lou and died because of that in the end. I found his character development very interesting because I did not expect him to become the biggest villain of the show. Him killing his parents and little brother shocked me to the core, but then, when you think about it : that, too, was there since the beggining. As Xiao Qiao told him in the beggining : I know you treat me as a jewel, but the problem is you don't care about other people. And that's how he acts for the whole drama. He's blinded by what he wants (first Xiao Qiao, then power, then Yu Lou), and never cares about anyone or anything else. His unability to change is what kills him in the end.
Wei Yan's writing also surprised me. I thought I would despise him; he turned out to be the most lovable character of the show (to me). While he is described as a shameless man, he actually respects boundaries. He has never tried anything toward Xiao Qiao, and is even willing to leave his grandmother just to not bring shame to his cousin and cousin-in-law. Watching him yearning for a home and family and recognition was so interesting. He could have made the "wrong" choices so many times but never did. I saw people say that his love for Xiao Qiao was some misplaced lust; I disagree on that. I think he said it himself to her when he's suspected to have an affair with the Yu girl. While his grandmother and Wei Shao suspected him to have done something wrong but were still willing to protect him, she was the first to not assume he did something wrong. Which was new for him. He said it later to Wei Shao : he doesn't want his family to forgive him for his wrongdoings, and he resented them for that. Instead of doing that, Xiao Qiao has always assumed the best of him and tried to prove he was not guilty. I understand why he would fall for her after that.
Xiao Qiao's writing was also very coherent, though I don't have much to say about it because I feel like the show has said enough. This quote sums it up : "Water only flaws gently when the path is smooth. Block it with wind or earth, and all you'll do is stir up towering waves". One thing I loved is how her pretending to be all-weak-and-gentle at the beggining while scheming for her family in secret actually blew up against her in the end. She had to apologize for that and I think that was fair. Wei Shao was not perfect but he, at least, never tried to deceive her. She had no choice but to do so, but she could've come clean later and still didn't. I liked that the writers didn't brush it off easily.
I could go on and on about each character, because every single one of them was written with care. Qiao Fan and Bi Zhi, for exemple, are also very coherent in their decisions and actions. Wei Shao's mother, too; she changes, but stays a quite selfish character till the end (the only reason she didn't flee Yunjun at the end is because she wanted to be appreciated by Lady Xu).
At the end of the day, I feel like a drama that stays true to their characters writing all along and ends its plot with a beautiful parallel (Wei Shao having to choose between people dear to him and the people, like the Qiaos 15 years before) deserves a 10/10. I know it's very different from the novel, but I feel like every change only made the drama better.

Leia Mais

[Warning: long review]

This isn't just a show. It's a story close to life; a story of great moral value and lessons to be learnt. This is an amazing journey through the eyes of a man who can be similar to many of us at some point in our lives. And I believe many people, including myself, have come out of this journey a better person. The below is more an in-depth review more for people who've already watched the show, but if you are curious to what exactly is so good about the show, feel free to read on, since there are no big spoilers in this review.

The story is simple enough; Ken is a shy guy who never managed to express his love to his childhood friend, Rei, and now he is attending her wedding to another man. A fairy pops up to grant Ken the ability to correct some regrets of his past so that hopefully he will face an improved situation in the present. The idea of time-travel seems to contradict the idea of the show being close to life; if you think about it, however, everyone faces some regrets of action or non-action in the past; time-travelling back to change these is an ability we always wanted, and we simply see Ken doing what we wished we could do. These timeslips create a blueprint in the show which becomes obvious very quickly; in fact it is so faithfully replicated that the show is always in danger of becoming repetitive. However, each episode is executed masterfully such that the repetition doesn't become tiring; it instead gives the viewer a standard framework from which to view the characters, their story and the outcome of Ken's actions, making them seem all the more clearer and connected to the present. More importantly, you get to see Ken's gradual emotional development through the series. It is argued by many watchers that this format isn't the best way to present the show due to the repetitiveness; but for me it possesses a mesmerizing charm and cuteness that endears me to the show.

The characters are excellent, and I totally mean it when I say that. Many shows out there create characters to suit the story, which results in disjointed personalities and actions that seem out-of-character in some scenarios; ProDai is one of the rare few that have wholesome, complex characters whom you get to understand and relate to as the story progresses. It is as though the story is written to suit the characters, which is how real life works; this makes the show so much closer to life. Sometimes, it even angers the audience when they see how stubborn a person's personality in the show can be, because at times the show simply stagnates when Ken cannot bring himself to change the past; to me however, this is also one of the charms of the show, the rigidity of personalities is just so like life. Nevertheless, the genius scriptwriters have churned out enough twists and turns in the story to keep it interesting throughout, and effortlessly blended in moral lessons which never seem to be forced into the story (something J-doramas are bad at). Most importantly, the show was brought to a complete end, albeit an open-ended one, which was satisfying for most, but completely amazing for me.

Acting is top class as well; vintage performances are seen from Nagasawa Masami, Hamada Gaku and Mikami Hiroshi, as well as of course the star of the show, Yamashita Tomohisa. His acting isn't particularly fantastic, but he gave his character a personality unique to himself; he became Ken, Ken became him. In all, his was an absolutely memorable performance. The OST is another highlight of the show, with BGM that is always at the right places, at the right time, and invoke heavy doses of emotion and goose-bumps that really bring the show up to another level. Who could forget the inspiring themes of Rising Road and Hallelujah Flash, and their rearranged emotional renditions that play in heart-tugging scenes? The ending theme, Ashita Hareru Kana, and the insert Chiisana Koi no Uta are, well, I don't think I have to say more. Personally I have Ame Agari (translated as 'after the rain')as my favourite as well, because of the scenes that it plays in, and the meaning of the song towards the show: after the rain, sadness will vanish and everything will start anew.

With all that being said, the show has its flaws as well. Particular aspects that stuck out include the lack of development in one of the main characters, Mikio, and the convenient shafting of Tada, portrayed as the guy everyone hates but really, is just a good man fighting for his own love. Even so, I give the show a 10. I have to admit that I'm biased in the score and in this review; but it is really because I love the show so much. My advice is really to follow the show in its entirety, indulge in the characters and feel the fun, the anguish, the anxiety, and the exhilaration in the show. And most importantly, learn from it, and I promise any watcher that it will be a enjoyable and memorable journey for you as well.

Leia Mais

RIABB is a drama perfectly fitted for the period when the winter has been going on for too long, you want to something to warm you up and you are tired of tea and soup. It has a lot going for it – nice characters, great chemistry, interesting themes – but ends up only slightly above average.

At first, the drama is defined by Kang Dan-i and you root for her since the beginning. Joining back the job market after a break is a worldwide theme and when you are confronted with the heartbreaking truth of what was really going on with her, you cannot help it but be on her side. One thing this drama does so well is showing the unspoken in relationships, the things that hurt so much yet belong behind closed doors and women are often told, that that’s just how things are. I found myself crying over one of the stories of the side characters that got also divorced - her situation was so ordinary yet touching in a profound way. And the writers not only showed these things but presented us with strengths for these characters in friendships rooted in understanding and patience. There is plenty of good female friendships and bromances as well.

The core of the drama slowly shifts toward the relationship between Dan-I and Eun-ho and it’s a delight. What I loved the most was that it was shown through the everyday life, built on strong foundation, acceptance, nurture and care. The other romantic relationships formed in the drama felt also really nice and natural.

The workplace is a major part of RIABB and it’s a dream to work in. I also felt like the actors themselves had such a good time filming the drama that it showed through. There was also one mystery which I felt was a bit extra but tied into the story comprehensively. It’s a character driven drama which makes the tempo quite slow and it makes you feel the length of some of the episodes.

Overall though, I liked it and looked forward to every weekend to watch it, thanks to Netflix and the quick upload with subtitles. But I don’t think that there were those memorable moments worth coming back to that soon.

Leia Mais

Bestest of the best drama of all time!

Woah!! I am so in love with this drama where I have endearing feelings for all the cast members.
Moreover, I also feel these soft-subtle-healing vibes this drama gives me where I don't need to skip any moments or watch it in 2x speed like few other dramas which are rather a little bit draggy or a bit hasty without any character development.
I love how it soothes my soul and makes me happy! Every character has their own sufferings, past and personality.
In addition to it, all of them are just so adorable.
Definitely this drama will be ranked on the topmost place in my Xuanhuan side of drama heart.
YangZi is just so good at portraying different layers of her past experiences. So commendable! Her acting is superior. ❤️
XL and TJ are just so cute with those hearty eyes for the FL. Something I definitely didn't expect so soon for our Nine-headed Demon Serpent the Great Xiang Liu! ?
Up until now CX just gives me sibling-like chemistry with FL.
I wanted 4thML Chi Shui Feng Long to gear up a little bit to get into XY's heart as the only thing do is to be completely whipped for XY and nothing else. ?
I definitely recommend you this title. <3

Yang Zi/ Xiao Yao:
She's definitely our common FL who was given a lot of love by her family and the consistency of her character is portrayed really well. Generally, FLs from different drama make few decisions which are questionable but our XY is very different from theirs. I love her character in this drama the most. Everyone knows about her tragic past and how she tried her best to live her life despite of various troubles. Her being totally calm and having pure hearted demeanor is just so rare.
She is so committed to her loved ones that she tries her best to assist them mostly XL by giving her own blood all the time to cure him and protecting CX everytime. She is so admirable.?
On weibo, it shows that XY is a scorpion and since I am her fellow water sign buddy, I kind of understand her insecurities rooted from her past loses and traumas.
She needs security in her relationships where she should be sure that the other person will not abandon her at any cost and she can believe that person with her fragile heart. She is in such situation where she can not suffer anymore heart breaks.
That's why she took her time accepting her own identity of being a princess before her all security issues gets taken care of and believing that her father didn't really wanted to abandon her because of some rumours.
I myself and XY wants to be this kind of healing relationship that its better to torture physically than being abandoned from time to time by those for whom she had at least an ounce amount of faith and those who were being nice with her.
That's why she has basically closed her heart from upcoming vulnerable emotions and feelings strangers bring to her.


Zhang Wan Yi/ Cang Xuan:
Even though I'm not a big fan of CX character's life decision but I kinda understand why he took those decisions in his life as he needed to live while constantly fearing of his 5th and 7th uncle plotting all the way down the hill!
He had bunch full of people trying to assassinate him including people from Chenrong army because of his identity.
He said to XY in yesterday's ep that he no longer can be willfull after his mother's death. I'm sobbing for him 'cause every character in this drama has depth and weight in their heart can be felt so easily namely in XY, XL and CX's characters especially.
CX literally poisoning and losing his control over himself just to move out of Xiyan city is just so cruel to himself! He claiming in front of XY that he needs to remember today's suffering in order to remember it in the long course of time to stay strong for his goal is so commendable.
Hats off to ZWY's acting even his pupils work so hard to portray the feel of mad man who was addicted to those poisonous drugs which he needed to take just to make people around him think that he is depressed and can't do anything so that he won't be a danger to his uncles for the throne!
He tried to puch Chenrong XinYue off his body but at end wasn't able to resist her since she was the sister of his biggest benefactor.... He can't even have someone he loves dearly! So tragic all the way.

I haven't read the novel so I don't know what tragic things he will do to XY that she eventually wanted to kill CX after watching yesterday's ep where she tried her best to control CX when he lost himself to the drug! Poor them... CX please at any cost don't betray and break heart of XY....

Leia Mais

Ends with Frustration Beyond Measure.

I let the episodes stack up as the hype was going and was expecting that it'll be worthwhile. Well it kinda did atleast till Ep 15 and then all hell break loose & we're left with this hot piping mess of ending.

I haven't read the novel but the thing I like in these kinds of drama where MC is wronged and get second chance is that they come back as badass and Op and that is the whole allure of these kind of drama but if in end you'll see the man you have been cheering for and always expect to come out at top not getting what he deserves it hurts and frustrates you.

Conclusion: If you're here for some great time pass and engaging drama and okay with a not satisfactory ending this one's for you. But if you cannot handle frustration of things not getting your way, better let it pass.

Leia Mais

Indeed a JOY OF LIFE All the Way Through~

Joy of Life is simply magnificent and truly a masterpiece. The writing is very clever, compelling, unpredictable and the political schemes and mind games are absolutely, absolutely fantastic. I think no one can write complicated and ruthless fight for the throne storylines like the Chinese. Everyone is treated like a piece of chess and being used completely -- like is it possible that you can have a free will when you behave exactly like what your enemies want you to? And I think no one could really understand the brilliance writing of Joy of Life as well if they are not familiar with historical costume dramas. Usually, dramas like these are expected to be cleverly written with compelling plots and brilliant characters but few dramas are like Joy of Life where the character totally behave or do what you as viewers wants them to do -- no stupid decisions, no yielding to the bad guys, no overly righteous person that drive you mad and no compromising to things that are wrong just because you are family or someone important.

Fan Xian is literally one of the most layered, rich and brilliant character I have encounter in dramas. I think I can write thesis on why he is so awesome as a character – he is like an onion, everytime you peel a new layer, you will find the other side of him, just when you think you know him, he will surprise you again and again with his decisions and actions. I like how he always done things the opposite of normal dramas' characters especially when he was caught in difficult situations. He will never yield to the bad guys no matter how pressured he is. You usually will predict what character will do when they are caught in a dead end but Fan Xian retaliate in ways that will surprise you. Just when you thought he made a mistake, there is wisdom in his actions to fool his enemies. And most of all, how reluctant he is in joining this ruthless fight to the throne game when all he wants is living a quiet and happy life with his family. He is extremely brilliant, genuine, unpredictable, playful, loyal, warm-hearted, righteous, full of love but at the same time merciless and crafted -- all of this combine and blends wonderfully that made him such enthralling and captivating as a character. I have seen many dramas but few characters can really stand out like Fan Xian. The depth of his character is almost spellbinding. I'm completely in awe.

The greatest thing about this drama is the storyline. How it started slowly by introducing each character to us so we understand their state of minds and intentions. Then it started getting heavy and this is where the political mind games and schemes comes into the picture. You will have gazillion questions when this drama started since everything is disjointed and didn't really make sense but all your questions will be answered one by one from the biggest to the smallest and everything comes together like a perfect puzzle as the drama progressed. Why Fan Xian was left at Danzhao despite his father is known to be a warm person? Why he is so important and loved by everyone around him? And the reason behind his mother's death lurking with the darkest and most insidious secrets.

Aside from that, what is so magnificent about this drama aside from the intelligent script is the characters. Almost all characters are fleshed out and have their own identities -- whether you love or hate them. The Emperor for an example will make you tremble and uncomfortable with his words but his wisdom are beyond the horizon. He is probably one of the most cunning and cleverest Emperor portray in dramas but you will like him despite of that. Or Chan Ping Ping? How can we not love his character and feel so attached to him? His cunning schemes, brilliant mind while all this being covered with his gentle and loving demeanor? Or Fan Xian's father? How as he might look like he didn't care but he actually the one that love him the most and will do everything to protect him. Or his teacher Fie Jie, this old man, how can't we not love him and the length he will go for Fan Xian? Even the bad guys, instead of hating them, I was fascinated by them instead -- they are such an enigmatic and interesting bunch of people.

Plus, Joy of Life has a nuanced script and acting just like Nirvana in Fire so upon second viewing, the script basically gonna take your breath away even more since a lot of foreshadowing were done subtlety -- probably one of the smartest and detailed storytelling that I have encounter in dramaland. Since lots of foreshadowing were in the drama, you will have fun guessing who is the real mastermind. Focus on the micro expressions, actions and how all characters behaves, its all clues that lead to how they are as individuals and their motives.

I'm actually confuse why this drama is called Joy of Life and I finally understand especially when it reached the end. Turbulence and chaotic life, despite it might come and caught up with you unexpectedly, is still happy and joyful when you live following your heart and never stray from doing what is right and be with the people that you love. And it is no doubt a 'Joy of Life' as well to the viewers while watching this drama lol. This is one of a few dramas where you will love it completely -- no idiotic plots that makes you scratch your head and the plot twists are especially surprising and unexpected. That’s the art of writing great dramas -- your plot twists are unexpected but made complete all sense at the same time and was foreshadowing since the beginning. 10/10 is the only rating worthy of this great drama. One of the very few dramas that deserve this perfect rating from me.

Leia Mais

THOMAS!

Fluff, fluff and fluff filled with so much fillers and sprinkled with a few unneeded NC17 scenes.

This is hard to write - there was a lot of hype and i must confess that i fell inlove with the series in its first few episodes that i kinda overlooked all its shortcomings. It has all the elements of a Domundi series - extra rich leading men paired with very young (immature) boys; the extra super cute boys; and the almost obligatory sex scenes. However, through all the sheen and all the beautiful faces, it is an overstretched storytelling aimed to check all the BL boxes and offers nothing really new.

First let me discuss the good things i loved:
1. The very good looking cast - Thomas, o Thomas, where have you been hiding all this time (he actually caught my attention in that ill-fated The Middleman's Love Story but since he was just almost just an extra there i immediately forgot about him) - this series has poised him to be a star. Kong is just adorable. Do i need to mention how cute Por and TeeTee are? And of course Save ang AuAu.
2. Marakot's Babe!
3. If you put your critical thinking hat off, this show can be really enjoyable - Its just light and easy series to watch. And oh, have i mentioned Thomas?

Now the things that i find a little eyerolling:
1. Teerak is just too bubbly of a character for me - almost like he is living in his own Glinda bubble. This very child-like behavior also makes me think that the guy is not ready for a mature relationship -he is like a 13 year old boy wanting to be an adult all of
a sudden. The kiss-me-on-the-hair antic is ok at the beginning but it turned too cringy and borderlined overacting - imagine having a college dude acting like that in real lfe - it can be really really annoying. Plus, that fake girlfriend angle, can you really imagine Teerak having a girlfriend - the dude is a walking flower dashed with a few drops of mist and with its own ray of sunshine. THe girlfriend angle IS SO UNNECESSARY.
2. Can somebody please tell these recent wave of writers that a teenage-looking boy isnt believable as ultra successful CEOs or high level executives? They just arent. Even if you are from a rich family, it takes a certain pedigree and maturity to actually run a company. Muenfah is still just a baby. Somebody in Domundi has a fetish for hot looking young CEOs, i get the appeal, but a line has to be drawn somewhere - and they didnt have to use the same character type in every show.
3. Mike is too good for this role and too out of place in this series - im sorry to say but he looks too old to portray a college student next to the other members of the cast.
4. The school project exhibition. After making Muenfah an impossibly young college student/business owner the series came up with a story line for Teerak that he and his friends are suposed to present (and exhibit) their big big project - only to come up with Teerak's strawberry eating fox figurines in that snow-filled forest (which by the way they didnt even bother to make a snowy background), Joy's crochet keychains, and Punlee's silkscreen printed shirts. Really? They are college stidents and thats all they can come up with? And they passed with flying colors? Muenfah is closing big business deals and thats the arc you come up with for Teerak?
5. With the materials and footage that they had (and lack thereof) they could have compressed it to an 8-episode series and it will still be an enjoyable compact series. If they really needed to make it a 12-episode series they could have elevated the 2 other pairs to secondary lead status because for heavens sake they already casted 3 (or 4) very good looking pairs but did not utilize them all properly. I would have loved to see more of Real-Hia, Babe-Dom, and my babies Punlee-Klaijai (i could have used more of that flirting scene at the coffee shop).

Overall, its an easy series to watch. I would love to see more from these actors in the future, but Domundi has to spend a little bit more money for good script and extensie acting workshops. Will i recommend? A big-fat YES! WIll i rewatch - just to ogle at those cute boys.

Leia Mais

Not bad, but also not enjoyable to watch

I think there’s a difference between a series being good/bad and it being enjoyable. Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo has many of the elements to be considered a good show. The main actors are talented, the couple has chemistry when they are together and the soundtrack is nice. The scene on episode 2 where they feel shy and awkward about kissing is an amazing portrail of young love, and not something we see often in BLs. But, overall, I personally didn’t find the experience of watching this show enjoyable.

It’s the same feeling I had with To My Star 2, from the same director/screenwriter. Even before realizing that fact, I kept thinking the shows had so many similarities. For that reason, I know a lot of people might enjoy this show a lot more than I did. I really enjoyed To My Star, which reminded me of the first few episodes of Let Free the Curse of Taekwondo. But from episode 4 onward, it's To My Star 2, which I didn’t like at all. And I know I’m the minority on that.

I really have a hard time enjoying shows with protagonists that are not at least a little bit likable. They can be bad, they can be annoying, they can be grumpy, they can be irrational … but they also need to be likable. And I definitely had a hard time with adult Dohoe. Most of the time I just wanted the episodes to end because I couldn’t stand him any longer. Yes, I understand his life was tough. But it’s not like Juyeong had a perfect life after feeling guilty for 12 years. So guilty that he took care of the guy that physically abused him for all those years. He also didn't achieve his dreams.

Dohoe is directly responsible for his unhappiness, he let his pride win. He chose not to get involved when he saw Juyeong getting beat, he chose to remain friends with Hyeonho, he chose not to contact Juyeong and then go work close to him.

It’s been a long time since I wanted so much for a main couple to end up apart in a BL, simply because I despise one of the characters so much. Juyeong simply deserved better.

PS: Hyeonho’s constant presence also annoyed me a lot. It’s not like he had a major impact in the story, other than to cause issues to prevent the couple being together. The fake university diploma and the whole issue with the student’s mom could move forward without him.

Leia Mais

Thame Po - My roman empire!

Some dramas aren’t just stories, they feel like home. You settle in with the characters like you are sinking into the warmth of a familiar chair, surrounded by memories and unspoken feelings. You laugh with them, cry with them and at times, you feel as if you are living through their pain and joy. The emotions are not just shown, but deeply felt.
Thame Po was all the above for me. Yes, the story was predictable and cliché at times but somehow the execution is done almost right. It's a romcom that feels familiar but fresh, somehow reminding me why I love these types of plots in the first place.

The chemistry between Po and Thame was the heart of this drama for me. Their relationship was built on small, tender moments rather than grand gestures and it’s this subtle intimacy that makes their connection so real.
The way Thame looks at Po, with such warmth and affection makes their interactions feel genuine and heartfelt. The chemistry is soft and subtle but undeniable and it’s clear they are there for each other without needing to shout it out. There was this unspoken support between them where they constantly lifted each other up, even when things got tough. It’s those quiet, thoughtful moments that make their romance feel so down-to-earth.

The friendship within the Mars group is another part of the drama I enjoyed. Despite all the tensions, drama and misunderstandings, there was a genuine sense of camaraderie between the five members. Their relationships evolve throughout the story and the tension slowly turns into more understanding and support. You can totally feel the love and loyalty between them. It was cool to see a squad where everyone’s got their own vibe, but they still have each other’s backs no matter what.

The drama also addressed the para social relationship between idols and their fans, particularly the tensions that arise when idols are rumoured to be in relationships, like with Pepper's arc. It was refreshing to see this topic tackled head-on, acknowledging the impact these dynamics can have on both the idol and their supporters. However, I felt that the issue was somewhat brushed off in the narrative (in Pepper's case). It would have been better if they had fleshed out that arc more to explore feelings and the consequences, which could have added more depth to the overall storyline.

The music in the drama is another good surprise. The portrayal of the Mars group, led by the LYKN members is on point, adding an extra level of authenticity to the music-driven plot. Their performances are full of energy and the songs are super catchy, which really increases the overall vibe of the drama.

Acting across the board was solid for me. William as Thame stole the show. I was genuinely surprised considering it was his 1st acting project! Est as Po was pretty convincing for me. Whoever paired them together knew what they were doing! Other LYKN members also played their part well!

Overall, for 13 weeks, Thame, Po with Mars entertained me thoroughly. While I do think the series is predictable but it is a sweet ride where characters shine and stand out. I will definitely recommend it if you are in the mood for something heartwarming and easy to watch with the right mix of drama and heartfelt moments.

Leia Mais