Retro romance balanced well with harsh history.
I absolutely love when historical tragedies are humanized. That's what you get with "Youth of May". Yes, this is a love story, but more than that this is a look at a horrible moment in Korean history from the perspective of characters we grow to love through the series. Is this frustrating to watch? Yes. Is it heartbreaking? Absolutely. Is it inspiring? Also, yes. This drama does a great job of showing various perspectives, many possibly romanticized, but also relatable. I knew nothing about the Gwangju Uprising before watching and it immediately led me to want to know much more. You don't need to know the history to follow this drama, just prepare to be shocked.The story revolves around Go Min Si as Kim Myung Hee, and Lee Do Hyun as Hwang Hee Tae. It's their love story, meant only to be a brief fling, that draws you in. Together they are super cute and have great chemistry. Myung Hee is determined to have a future in medicine while Hee Tae takes life less seriously and is more focused on a music contest than academics. Hee Tae also has serious anxiety based on past guilt and trauma, and Myung Hee has daddy issues. These are 2 fully developed characters, and that's what made me care about them so much. Initially, their story is what you would normally expect when people from two different statuses try to date, including obligatory controlling parents, but simmering in the background there is political conflict ready to explode. Both actors were really good at keeping the romance story fresh while still handling the more painful and action-packed scenes. They are a very memorable couple.
The rest of the cast is great as well. Since the point is to get to know this city I think they did a good job of giving us time to get to know everyone before the story shifts. I also liked that many of the characters are imperfect and make mistakes or become unexpected heroes throughout. Even Oh Man Suk, as the worst dad ever, didn't just feel like a caricature of a villain. This is a melodrama so some of the acting and scenes are over the top, yet it was all still completely real. Even the kids were super impressive, and I loved that they had their own part in the story as well.
Would I watch this again? Yes, but next time I would love to watch knowing even more about what happened 5/18/80, what followed, and how public opinion evolved. I also would be better prepared in a rewatch for this to not just be a nostalgic romance but a real tear-jerker. It's also the perfect length for a story like this. Not too long or too short, and easy to binge. It has a satisfying ending without being idealistic or heavy-handed, and knowing what happens doesn't ruin anything because the message at the end is so strong. I'm also sure I missed so many details.
This drama also inspired me to finally watch "A Taxi Driver", another great perspective on the Gwangju Uprising and its victims. This drama has a similar, easily digestible, style.
Overall I would definitely recommend "Youth of May" with the warning to know what you're getting into when watching. Its 80's nostalgia and retro romance balanced well with harsh reality, but it's not all tears. It really does aim to give honor to victims and survivors while not reducing them to only that. This isn't a drama about revolutionaries, it's a haunting look at how the revolution can come to you whether you are ready for it or not and no matter where you stand... even if all you care about is a spring fling. Gather your tissues, and prepare your heart.
"Youth of May" is a historical melodrama done right.
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and so the monster was me
This film I believe is intended to be watched without spoiling or going into what it is about in depth. Take in all the promotional on the surface and you will get the full viewing experience. I say this because of the promotional materials that lead you in one direction, take it in that direction at first and then go in depth.. which is what I did. So spoilers.I definitely did not get what I bargained for when I decided to watch this movie. I watched the trailer, read the synopsis, saw the poster, and thought I would get a good scare out of this one. The ratings and reviews are well enough that I thought it would be perplexing, a psychological horror.
The first two-thirds of the movies had me, but in the back of my mind, the answer to the allure and mysterious tones was pretty simple and clear. To put it simply, this movie isn't a slasher or a horror. It is a coming of age queer film beneath two layers.
There are three acts to this movie after the initial setup. With the synopsis, firstly you have a story of a single mother who cares deeply for her child, a devoted and misunderstood teacher, and two kids that have the answers to the overall premise of the film. Minato is the child of the single-mother and is being abused as school, by either a teacher, or something else is at play.... so that is what I thought. I thought there could be anything, even a fifth element that added supernatural. This film was anything but, it was so real and thought-provoking, and in the end I found so many details that clearly show what was really going on the whole entire time.
The third act shows the perspective of Minato, and slowly it shows that instead of an abused boy, you find a boy that is scared of his blossoming but very real feelings for a student of his that was shown to be connected to this mystery within the school. There was no abusive teacher or secret being held by the higher ups, there was a boy who was scared of his feelings, and enough to think of himself as a monster. So in the end he made a lie. This film weaves together several elements to knit it into one final conclusion. Instead of going on about that I'll point out a few details that show how brilliant this film really is.
I must say, I was hesitant to conclude that this film involves two boys that like eachtother, but by the end and looking into the screenplay and its intent, I realize that was the point. Minato was just as scared as his feelings and it brings the question as to why it is seems as sexual when it is innocent love between two people that are the same gender. There is an innocence with Minato and him coming to terms with his feelings for Yori, and it's heartbreaking to witness how scared he really is of them.
You can see this through dialogue, and specifically with scenes where Minato says he is shifting into a monster, and where he is in the MRI scanner, truly scared that it will read his mind and his mom will be aware of his developing feelings. Why is he so scared thought? Yori is why he is scared, he is constantly tormented for his behaviors that don't suggest he likes a girl, he is abused by his father and told he has a pigs brain. Yori's father would rather he act out and be bad, than be an obedient child who is good at school. There is this whole spectrum of what a boy acts like and what they shouldn't.
What got to me was the part where the two boys find a safe space together, and I started thinking about their feelings for eachtoerh when Yori got too close to Minato. Although in the end Minato never wanted Yori to go anywhere, and what was cool are the little details. Minato goes back to the empty safe haven and texts Yori, where Yori says he won't go back because he wants to touch Minato, in the ways where he patted his hair or hugged him, but Minato says he wouldn't mind. I love how the ending doesn't have them fear, and instead they get past the gates of the railroad and are happy and free... there's just a lot to talk about with this one.
it seems that this topic is a taboo and that's why I didn't see it at first, but that is the point behind this film. To have you question why it is seen that way, and why you view an innocent feeling and curiosity as sexual or not normal. There is no romanization between them, the director and screenplay had the intent to share a story of two boys that grew to love eachother and coming to accept in regardless of the heteronormative society they were placed in. Any opposition to that shows the point of the film again and societies failure to accept it.
Below I'l several links that goes over all the details of this film I couldn't go over.
https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueFilm/comments/1761z26/little_details_in_koreedas_monsterkaibutsu_2023/?rdt=39846
https://x.com/wyvernhood/status/1745418419368055276?s=46&t=hWWeyWA1Y9kwJqIT_KVSaw
https://x.com/korokketto/status/1745376701188825596?s=46&t=hWWeyWA1Y9kwJqIT_KVSaw
https://x.com/haeinfleur/status/1744727092586246244?s=46&t=hWWeyWA1Y9kwJqIT_KVSaw
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Lee Hye-young and her role operate as backbone and heartbeat of this KDrama
"Kill Heel" is set in the milieu of teleshopping. The pace is leisurely, calm. The light is dimmed sort of. The focus is on 3 women. Their heels are dizzyingly high.At first, the story leaves the audience feeling a bit lost. Just one thing is obvious: the competition in the production company is extremely tough. But over time, the three protagonists get more profile and the story heads in it´s direction.
The driving force that really makes the KDrama worth seeing is, above all, veteran Lee Hye-young, who has experienced a real revival in recent years. Here, in the ambivalent character of Gi Mo-ran, she gave another marvellous performance! In my eyes she (and her role) operate as backbone and heartbeat of this KDrama
It's about intrigues, struggle for survival, hurt feelings and old traumas. The relationship dynamics between the 3 women intelligently intertwine and dissolve in a subtle but unexpected way.
"Kill Heel" has a very unique look and feel to it and comes along with a peculiar pull effect. There is suspense, but at the same time the suspense isn't setting the tone. Sometimes something seemingly builds up, but then everything is completely different again. And after 14 episodes it's over. What a pity, actually...
------ SIDE NOTE: ---Teleshopping---
I wasn't really aware of the impact of teleshopping until now. In Europe within homeshopping Germany is the leader, when it comes to sales figures through teleshopping (compared to online-shopping) . In South Korea, teleshopping accounts for almost 50 percent of home shopping. Similar to sales parties in private circles (Tupper & co.), teleshopping thrives on impulse purchases and customer loyalty, which are promoted by a harmonious, interactive, relaxed sense of community. Within the virtual television community, it is the presenters who foster this intimacy with their virtual customers. Women in particular buy in teleshops.
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I thoroughly enjoyed watching this 4 part series as it was very easy to watch and was a nice break from some of the longer dramas I am watching at the moment.
It's the kind of drama you watch in one sitting and it was a breath of fresh air in its simplicity. I fully recommend it for anyone who is in a Kdrama slump or needs a nice distraction!
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Touching. Exciting. Stylish. Passionate. Atmospherically dense, especially regarding the 1930s
For me, "Chicago Typewriter" needed a second attempt. The first time I didn't really know what to do with it. ...A smart spring chicken, but somehow paranoid writer, spoiled by success and money, and a cute girl as his fan? The story - fancy as it may come along - at first glance appeared a bit all too playfully shallow for my taste. I wasn't convinced. Although I actually really like actor Yoo Ah-in.Actually, I was mainly curious about the past (around 1930 when ´Korea´ was a colony of Japan). One of "Chicago Typewriter"'s two storylines is set in the context of the 1930's Gwangju student movement. With regard to the KDrama´s historical plot line though, it felt like nothing really happened for a long time. Accordingly, when I first had tried to watch "Chicago Typewriter", I didn't make it past the "beginning". However, somehow I kept stumbling across this KDrama and it wouldn't let go off me. Eventually I gave it another try. Lo and behold, with a little patience, the KDrama took me by the hand and developed an exciting story with a lot of passion and atmospheric density, especially when it came to the 1930s. The insight into that time had lasting impressions. Still, the relationship dynamics between the leads especially in the present time story line sometimes were little too light-weight, harmless and on the verge of silliness for my taste. However this was perfectly balanced in the context of their mission in the past and got more profound as the story proceeded.
------------------------- SIDE NOTE: --- Japanese colonialism ---
During the 1930s Japanese imperialism had reached its peak. In relation to Korea, a rigorous policy of assimilation, using force if necessary, was pursued, e.g. the Korean language, culture and history were systematically suppressed as part of a Japanese colonial education. The first Gwangju student movement, which culminated in a nationwide anti-Japan demonstration, happend in November 1929 after a female Korean student having been molested by Japanese students. This attack was certainly not the first, but the Korean student movement had formed in such a way that a large-scale street demonstration in Gwangju spontaneously took place after this incident. The mood swept across the whole country...
-------------------------
As a premise, the KDrama plays with the concepts of reincarnation and the concept of spirits remaining in near-earth realms after their death, until their unresolved past experiences are somehow redeemed. Both are popular motifs that are often picked up in KDramas. In this case, the producers have created a particularly beautiful and profound story, especially with regard to redemption. In 2017, the characters get a second chance, so to speak: they have the choice of whether they want to continue in their familiar pattern or make new decisions. There´s an opportunity to reconcile past guilt or open questions, to let go of the energy that still hangs in the past and to move on in the NOW. This aspect of time jumps is unabashedly and creatively juggled with an undeniable love for details. One of the protagonists, whose spirit since 1930 hasn´t been able to leave the earthly realms, becomes the connecting and driving force that knots both timelines. A special charm: The ghost from back then becomes a "ghostwriter" in 2017 when he meets his reincarnated comrades-in-arms. Another punchline: the title "Chicago Typewriter" is ambiguous, referring both to the typewriter as a "weapon" (with typed words) of the student underground movement, and to the Thompson machine gun - a rapid-fire weapon that was fashionable at the time, its nickname being areference to its characteristic rattling sound when launched.
As the story progresses, the rhythm of the present day being intertwined with the past - in the form of sudden memories or dreams - accelerates. The faster the time jumps, the higher the tension rises. It's actually going to be really dramatic, both in the past AND present...
In sum: the KDrama is giving you a clear idea of living under Japanese colonialism and of the resistance movement that rebelled against it. "Chicago Typewriter" is also a feast for the eyes in terms of fashion and equipment - both 2017 and 1930! "Chicago Typewriter" is first and foremost a moving story about friendship. And not to forget: a touching love story ...
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ACTING/CAST: It's literally an All-Star cast! All of the actors, and the one actress, were superb. You just can't get too much better than these people!
MUSIC: It was good for a show like this, certainly. That ending song is quite good, check the comment section for a link to it English Subbed.
REWATCH VALUE: I will watch it again down the road.
OVERALL: Absolutely fantastic and heartwarming movie about a very powerful subject (Kar?shi) and two guys just trying to save each other.
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Silenciado
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Outstanding KMovie. Daunting. Blunt. Galvanizing. Impressively staged. Yet rather painful to watch
"Silenced" is a 2011 movie production. The KMovie is based on a book and this in turn is based on a true story that happened at Gwangju Inhwa School. For a change, it's not about bullying among students, but about repeated sexual abuse by teachers and school staff against their underage wards. In this case they were also deaf."Silenced" is an outstanding, moving film production - in several respects.
The story is impressively staged.
Horrendous abuse. Repulsive in its unbelievable brutality. Blunt.
There are the children left at the mercy of pitiless adults, left alone in their helplessness - speechless in every respect. What else can they hope for in this world?
There are the adults - the perpetrators and also those who knowingly close their eyes to injustice for their own benefit. (I have no idea what they do with their ears and their conscience, though...)
And there are the two protagonists - neither of them exactly the epitome of promising heroes...
With a top-class Gong Yoo, who personally and actively supported the filming of the story. He read the book during his military service. But it was only later that he found out that these were true events. He met with the author and the idea for the film was born. He embodies the main role of the initially quiet, perhaps somewhat wimpy, indecisive teacher; a widower and a father who is absent due to his job and who relies on his mother's support to look after his sick daughter. Yet, it is precisely this tangible, silently screaming human weakness of his character, his uncertainty in dealing with the unfathomable, his own initial shock of cautious, perhaps naive reserve that contributes to the authentic strength of the KMovie. (If the world were full of determined, courageous heroes, then there would be less such terrible incidents, repeatedly taking place over the years with impunity - like those in that South Korean boarding school for the deaf in Gwangju...or that Odenwaldschule in Germany, or far too many other schools worldwide.) The heroic in our protagonist must first be born and then grow. This is a process. Step by step, stumbling, helpless, hopeful and yet again discouraged, but then unbendingly getting up again - and finally on a path of no return...
The KMovie “Silence” is shocking.
Grim. At times it may be reminiscent of a horror movie like 'The Shining' or something similar. The story is daunting. Its social dimensions are sobering. There are hardly any words for this parallel world. What people are monstrously capable of... and then also: that time and again, in the face of blatant injustice, people let themselves be bought and silenced for their own benefit.
Nevertheless, the message at the end is (I think) quite wonderful: "...it makes me think, that the reason we are fighting so hard is not to change the world, but instead to not let the world change us." Resistance takes on an encouraging new dimension that doesn't have to give in, even in the face of a Goliath. Great!
The KMovie was and is galvanizing.
“Silenced” shook up the masses in 2011 in a spectacular way. Over 4 million horrified cinemagoers saw the movie, which was number 1 on the South Korean cinema charts for three weeks in a row. The book by Gong Ji-young was storming the bestseller lists.
What the regular jurisprudence was previously unable to do was actually subsequently made possible by the pressure of the shocked masses: 1.5 months after the KMovie was first broadcast, the so-called 'Dogani Law' was passed. (Dogani = "Crucible", the title of the book and film). Since then, the new law has suspended the statute of limitations for sexual abuse of people with disabilities and for rape of minors under the age of 13.
Therefore, some of the perpetrators at that school in Gwangju who had previously gotten off with lax sentences were subsequently summoned again and sentenced to long prison terms and/or electronic ankle bracelets.
Lastly, at least THIS school was closed.
Respect!
For taking up the issue.
For not giving up and thus using other means (a movie on the big screen).
For the sensitive handling of a tough topic.
For the often extremely unpleasant, painful, however nevertheless coherent film adaptation of a fantastic script.
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Beijo Atrevido 2: Amor em OKINAWA
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After having seen all the versions of Itazura na kiss existing (including the 1996 Japanese version), and particularly loved the “Love in Tokyo” version, saying I was waiting for this special would be an understatement. Though, I wouldn’t say my thirst was completely quenched. Let me explain.STORY (8). I won’t talk about the initial story here as I find it almost perfect. Still I want to comment some aspects of the special episode, and one in particular...
Until now, only the Taiwanese version has dealt with the honey moon (as I don’t recognize the Korean 7 minutes episode as a real adaptation), and as I thought the honey moon story was deserving a long episode (just like in TKA), I was really happy to see on the details the episode would last 3 hours… and here comes the trouble. I really found this special was too short, and most of all too HURRIED! I know announcing days is part of the “joke” with Mari-chan, but when the week ends up only being a list of days and short episodes, I only can be disappointed. I know the manga was like this too, but I found the liberties taken by TKA interesting, I wish love in Okinawa had taken some too!
(A detail that always annoys me in dramas… No one in the world kisses like that, please stahp…)
Bonus: As spoilers are forbidden, I won’t say too much, but I just LOVED the cross over, it made me laugh out loud, for real! (+1 for the music and the japanese by the way ~ !) [you’ll get it when you’ll see it].
ACTING/CAST (9.5). Miki is still a perfect Kotoko, cute, sweet, and… so in love! I discovered her in the first season, and couldn’t imagine a better actress to play this role. As for Naoki, I was a little disappointed as Yuki Furukawa acted the same way he did before Naoki and Kotoko’s wedding. I haven’t been able to see the love in his eyes for like ¾ of the episode. Sure Naoki Irie has to be Naoki Irie, but I was expecting at least a smile from time to time (Finally I’m just like Kotoko, I want him to love her so hard I can’t stand such a distant behavior, hihi).
MUSIC (7). The music is neither wonderful nor awful, I would say it was average. It was light, and perfect for the story. Though I didn’t appreciate the fact that there was music during all the episode, to my mind, the ost is here to improve the story, to accompany it and make it more alive. I had the feeling it was always trying to catch the attention. Seriously, some moments and some dialogue need their silence.
On the other hand, I HAVE to put a stress on the opening, because I just found it really cute, colorful, and loved the music. I’m listening to it again right now!
*43 minutes of re-watching, please wait…*
REWATCHING (8.5). After watching it again, I feel split between my first feelings, for some stronger than ever, and the joy of discovering things I had missed or misunderstood the first time (subtitles didn’t work and my Japanese isn’t that perfect).
Though I have to correct some things I wrote before. There ARE moments when Naoki smiles, even if they are discreet and short (watch out!). As for the music, it’s well and truly omnipresent, BUT it’s not that bad, as it stays behind the story, and it’s not that bothering finally.
OVERALL (8.5). I had a great time watching this, without any doubt, even the second time. The Itakiss series are parts of my favorite dramas ever, which explains the high score I gave (after all) and… why I was so critical :p. Though, as explained, my disappointment is real… maybe I was expecting too much from it? I have to admit I spent all the summer waiting for it to air, while expecting the Japanese version to go further than the Taiwanese (and obviously the Korean)… Well, after all, I still love it! To conclude, I would even say, hmmm…. WHEN IS THE SEASON 2 COMING OUT?? (pliz ;_;)
P.S. Sorry for the length of the review, I think I was inspired. It’s my first review here, so don’t hesitate, and comment !
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Epic and action are by a humorous ribbon tied together in a touching, gripping way. Go for it!
Set in a jaunty kaleidoscope of relationships, friendships, brothers in arms, blood ties, loyalty, heroism and heartbreak, the time of King Yeongjo, Crown Prince Sado and King Jeongjo is epicly (for a 2011 series production) portrayed."Warrior Baek Dong Soo" is full of fun, martial arts and of course: drama. There is politics, too, yes, butteh KDrama is definitely more on the drama and action side. I benevolently ignored some daring storytelling details and the selectively very optimistic choreographic freedom in the heroic staging. "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" balances between history and entertainment, between epic scope and personal tragedy, between deep, dramatic emotionality and airy, playful, humorous, good mood. The KDrama finds a rousing swell, in which the emotional waves are allowed to splash from all directions - with a story that sails between historically memorable facts, legendary heroes, steep (but by no means absurd) hypotheses, and colorful dramaturgical freedom. It offers great entertainment thanks to an exceptionally strong presence of all actors - whether young or old.
Baek Dong-soo himself is wonderfully portrayed by Yoo Jin-goo (young) and Ji Chang-wook (adult) in the sense of a largely impulsive jester who wears his heart on his sleeve. On the other hand, there is the introverted, somehow tragic, always serious and withdrawn Yeo Woon (Yoo Seung-ho as an adult and Park Gun-woo as a boy). The demanding life of the young warriors is sweetened by the unique charms of Hwang Jin-joo (cheeky, tomboyish: Yoon So-yi) and Yoo Ji-sun (stoic, reserved: Shin Hyun-bin). The by now veteran acting legend Choi Min-su as assassin lord in gothic style gives his very personal flavor throughout the 29-episodes long ride through time. And quite a few more there are.
In this KDrama it is rather the dramatic love story and love triangle of the older generation that pushes itself emotionally to the fore than that of the younger generation. This is probably due to the fact that Baek Dong-soo's generation is more dominated by humor and a cheeky mouth that wants to take on fate, while the older generation is dominated by the decades-long heavy burden of overwhelming life experience.
The historical hook of "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" is (as the title suggests) Baek Dong-soo, who went down in history as a heroic swordsman legend. He was one of three authors of the 'Muye Dobo Tongji' (= Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts), which is now officially classified World Heritage. This four-volume work summarizes the common weapon techniques of the Joseon period. (The book gained its extraordinary importance as a rare, valuable historical source on military affairs and Joseon martial arts, since older works fell victim to the destructive Qing invasions from the north.) However, swordsman Back Dong-soo first of all became legendary because he repeatedly saved King Jeongjo from being assassinated. And this juxtaposition of swordsmen serving the king versus assassins serving a however motivated client, originally inspired the 2010 KDrama comic entitled Honorable Back-Dong-soo.
The KDrama "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" thus also contrasts swordsmen and assassins - in terms of their ethics, their loyalty, their code, their mission, their training, their emotional world. This ambivalent and tragic dynamic makes the 29 episodes going and the time spent watching it worthwhile. They are so similar and yet they are worlds apart. One has to protect, the other has to kill. And yet, he who kills also protects. And yet, he who protects also kills. Both are henchmen. Both give everything. Risk everything. They're simply on different sides. Depending on the situation, the act of the swordsman is considered correct and honorable, while that of the assassin is considered a crime and vile. In my opinion, the KDrama reveals one of its strongest moments in the emotional explosiveness of the fatal bond between the first swordsman and the leading assassin lord (each of their own generation). They are so close emotionally and yet they live in different worlds: One in the light open, the other in secret. In tried and tested KDrama manner, the 'bad guys' (assassins) once again - despite the concentrated ambivalence of their characters - play their way taciturnly, but effectively into the hearts of the audience.
The framework for the plot is in beautiful continuity provided by sword fights and political intrigues. The flesh is made of fatal, ambivalent, intense relationship ties and feuds between the protagonists. History sets the direction. Epic and action are by a humorous ribbon tied together in a touching, gripping way. Go for it!
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Historical SIDE NOTE: --- Yangban of Joseon in the 18th century between conservative thinking and reformist, modern impulses. ---
The historical background of KDrama is shaped by three memorable decendants of the Joseon Dynasty. King Yeongjo, who holds the record-breaking 52-year reign on the throne, Crown Prince Sado, who went down in history as a tragic, possibly greatly misunderstood figure, and his son, who contributed to peace and prosperity as King Jeongjo. In addition to the serious efforts of the two kings for stability and progress, there are the divided camps among the nobles who fight by all means for their supremacy in political and social affairs.
Between 1674 and 1689 the Namin (Easterners) steered the administration of the country in their interests, followed by the Seoin (Westerners), who then entangled their position of power in disputes: the Noron representing the old, strict, conservative neo-Confucian doctrine and the Soron fighting for a new, modern, reformist, practice-oriented doctrine (Sirhak). It was probably King Yeongju's merit that despite the massive differences, the balance of power between the camps was well balanced for a long time. However, the price he had to pay for reasonably stable living conditions in the empire was his son, Crown Prince Sado, who favoured modern teaching and thus provoked the Noron. At least that is how one historical theory interprets the dramatic events surrounding Sado, who is said to have died locked in a box. The KDrama follows this theory (and not the annals, that present Sado as falling into insanity that could no longer be curbed, or a third theory that suspects a massive father-son conflict as the cause).
So, in line with the theory, which sees Sado as a progressive, reformist spirit, who wants to liberate his country from the supremacy of the Qing, "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" tells the story of the loyal followers of the ruling family, who are skilled in martial arts, and how King Jeongjo wants to live up to his father's modern visions. In doing so, with an open attitude the young king, too, always chose a balance and thus continued the proven political strategy of his grandfather, who in doing was able to stay alive more than half a century. In this way, King Jeongjo succeeded in the 24 years of his reign between 1776 and 1800 in building the Hwaseong Fortress as the center of his reign, in advancing education and science, in optimizing national defense and in creating the Royal National Library of Gyujanggak. However, he could never be sure of his life... at least seven assassination attempts alone during his first year in power are historically recorded. ... A striking reflection of the massive resistance against the attempted modernization of thinking in Yangban circles.
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This drama deals with serious matters such as divorce, remarriage, single parenthood, family problems and so on, however everything is told in a really peaceful way and it's what makes this drama so interesting and appealing in my opinion, I kept thinking and questioning myself about all those issues that are generally hard to talk about and more importantly to handle. I always appreciate when a drama doesn't only give me entertainment but also intellectual nourishments.
Obviously what truly made me love this drama was the deep and powerful friendship between Luo Zi Jun and Tang Jing and also the growth of characters and they all evolved either from bad to good or good to bad, it was truly convicing and realistic.
Regarding Zi Jun/Tang Jing's friendship, I absolutely loved their poised, calm and mature personalities, they truly complement each other, Tang Jing is more emotive and full of pride while Zi Jun is more calm and strict but when they're together, they look so happy, jovial and relaxed. I have to say that Tang Jing left a big impression on me, she's such a true, selfless and sincere friend and she would absolutely do anything for her friend in need, she doesn't care about what others may think , she just does what she thinks is the best for Zi Jun, and always helps her even when she's extremely busy, that's how good she is. Their friendship to me feels so real and friends like Tang Jing are rare, it's just sad she's too proud. And this quote tells how Tang Jing in Zi Jun's heart means everything "I don't know what character or abilities I have that bestowed me such a great friend, who shares my happiness with me, carries my troubles for me. If in this world there are others who I can't be unworthy of, who I can't disappoint, then Tang Jing is certainly the most important one of all", it truly moved me.
Now I'll move on to the characters and I have to say they were all superbly beautifully presented, there are some I disliked obviously and they infuriated me so much but the actors did such an amazing job portraying them, I mostly think of Ling Ling, and JunSheng (though he wasn't really detestable) for example and anyway without them the drama wouldn't be this much stimulating and engaging. I can only praise all of them, I must admit that what got me truly interested in the drama was the atypical synopsis and the title really caught my attention too, but also seeing that Jin Dong was one of the leads was a great plus for me as I do really admire him as an actor, he was outstanding as always but I wasn't too fond of his character "He Han" though He Han is always full of great advice, so smart and rational, and someone we can rely on, but apart from that I didn't feel much for him but still it was another breathtaking performance by Jin Dong. However my revelations with this cast were Yuan Quan and Ma Yi Li and "The First Half of My Life" was my first drama with them and will definitely not be the last. They both played two fascinating characters but Zi Jun is the one that had a bigger impact on me, it was so beautiful seeing the Luo Zi Jun from the beginning who's a naive, frivolous, insecure, vulnerable woman growing into a responsible, independent and calm woman and at that a woman who doesn't show any of her insecurities/shortcomings in front of strangers and what I liked is that she knows how to seperate her private from her professional life. Ma Yi Li was simply mind-blowing as Zi Jun, truly gorgeous, classy and ravishing; such a delight *.*.
I'll briefly mention one character that made me smile a lot, I know that Zi Jun's mother is a little bit too nosy and annoying, I just couldn't help but like her, she's a pure bundle of energy and I think we do need people like her in our life, someone who'll cheer for us and bring only positive energy when we are so down, that's why I liked her so so much. The rest of the cast was nice as well, I particularly liked the interactions between Old Zhuo, the Jiang Zi's owner and He Han but I have nothing much to add about the rest, though they all had significant roles.
I won't add much about the drama nor the several topics it deals with as I think it's better to watch to see for yourself but one thing I loved in this drama is the realisation, it's so gorgeous and realistic and I particularly loved the flashbacks in black and white which in my opinion intensify some of the most powerful and touching scenes, the settings and sceneries (aaaw that Jiang Zi restaurant *.*) were also beautiful and I truly enjoy watching these dramas that take place in Shanghai, the views are always stunning.
A drama I fully recommend to everyone even to non Cdrama lovers as it deals with actual topics that might be interesting to others who are looking for something more realistic with a touch of slice of life.
As for the rating to be honest I was really hesitating between an 8.5 and a 9 because eventhough I loved this drama and I consider it to be the best drama of 2017 until now and definitely in my top 3 best Chinese modern dramas I was expecting something a little bit different for the second part of the drama but the ending was so satisfying that I decided to go for a 9 and anyway it was such a great show, seriously I already miss all of them, especially Zi Jun.
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First let me start with saying that this drama is not perfect, it has its flaws, but the awesomeness will make you forget about anything else. It has an amazing cast, engaging story, and it just the right amount of romance and comedy to keep you glued to the screen.
THE CAST
You'll fall in love with the sassy, witty, and intelligent FL. She'll make you want to strangle her at times because she's just too curious and reckless at times and keeps getting into these dangerous situations. BUT in her defense she's an archaeology student who suddenly finds herself transported back in time to her favorite time period, as a history nerd myself I cannot judge.
The ML omg how can I describe this ball of fluff. He's just so precious, she drives him to the brink of madness and back but he can't just stay angry at her. His love is the purest thing.
There's is just too much to say about the supportive cast, second leads included. One thing for sure is that the acting is top-notch and this drama would not be half as good as it is without these amazing actors.
The main antagonist is not evil as portrayed by most dramas, that give you a Disney-like villain that is bad because that's just his only character trait. This guy has so many layers. He loves, he hates, he can be honest, he lies, he can be sweet, and he's pitiful. His major flaw is his greediness, though.
THE STORY
Not much to say besides that you'll learn a ton of Thai history. The drama setting is in a real time period with real characters that lived 300 years ago. This is the reason why the drama gets a little political at times but it's never overwhelming which often happens with Cdramas and Kdramas with historical setting. One thing I greatly appreciated is that the FL did not interfere with history. She let the events take their natural course, even if it broke her heart because some things were just sad but inevitable.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Watch this drama when you have time to binge it because it will suck you in. It is 15 episodes but they are 2 hours long which is 30 hours. I completed it in less than 3 days. It's 9:30 am right now and I haven't slept xD but it's oh so worth it.
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It feels like I was listening to a lovely song
This has been one of my most anticipated Korean movies ever since I saw the Cast line-up. So, I finally watched it and this totally reached my expectations. Infact, I feel empty now. I wanted more of this!A Year End Medley is simple yet overwhelms us with a bitter-sweet pleasure.
The movie starts from a full festive vibe where Seo Kang Joon is singing the Christmas song "Jingle bells, jingle bells… jingle all the way…" and everything is in like a happy to go state. Everyone can be seen gearing up for Christmas and finally when Christmas comes, we come across the other side of the coin. When most of the people are excited for Christmas and New Year with their friends or families, there are yet many people who have their own problems and loneliness to deal with… that's when this takes us on a "little" deeper ride but as the year finally ends, gladly everyone finds a "New Hope" in their life. It's like inspiring us to keep going on.
There are actually 5 different stories which are intermingled to each other. All characters were lovable. Yes! No negative or annoying character which makes this such a light watch. My favorite character was "Sang Hoon" (acted by Lee Kwang Soo) ~ a selfless, dedicated manager who supported a singer when he was in his down, he could have left him and signed up someone else but he became his pillar and made him a big star, when he was really popular, he didn't even try stoping him from signing into a bigger company so that he can get more opportunities. I loved how selfless and caring he was. They had a brother like bond which was truly precious to see. Infact, all 5 stories were special in their own way.
The Cast was the major factor that attracted me here and they all did a great job acting their own parts especially the Old duo – Lee Hye Young ( as Katherine ) and Jung Jin Young ( as Sang Gyu ) were great presenting a touching love story. It was the top notch acting that made this movie more memorable.
The best part of this movie is that it made us experience so many wide emotions in just two hours. All 5 stories gave me something. Then, the OST. Beautiful songs that match the situations. I didn't even realize how fast my two hours went and I was already done watching this movie. It's like a smooth ride perfect for a evening watch. I watched it alone this time but I would like to rewatch this with my family later…
Overall, just a bunch of ordinary stories wrapped up in colourful flavours which should be watched at least once.
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MR.EMPEROR PENGUIN
I beg beg begggggg, you to NOT judge this drama by it's initial ratings, pleaseeeeee...I don't know what pleasure people get from down-rating a drama...If you're not into such dramas, you shouldn't have started it after watching the trailer, why would you intentionally come here just to give bad ratings.But, if you're into silly and lovely dramas that'll have you screaming in your pillow, giggling and curling your toes, THEN THIS IS A PERFECT DRAMA FOR YOU....I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE CAST... IT'S A PERFECTLY PACED STORY and cherry on top is ML's voice>>>>> sir sir sir....🙆🔥
ABSOLUTELY OBSESSED WITH TAEGOO AND SUNHWA😌❤
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No No No No La La No
WTF!!!!!!!!!If someone I loved pretended to be dead for 5 yrs and suddenly appeared in front of me, I wouldn't even want to look at their face.
The grief from death isn't the same as the grief from a breakup.
The writer had been playing with this since the beginning by giving the doctor a case of pills to carry everywhere. Writers should stop trying to make the audience cry. At this point they just seem like the bad teacher that hits you so you become better. This is not a healthy way of creating emotions in people.
The last few 4 or so episodes seemed like fillers with lots of throwbacks and nonsensical plot lines.
It's ok to make dramas shorter. If a story can be told better in fewer episodes, do it! It's better than spoiling a story that was good to begin with.
This idea of going through hard times alone even if you have loved ones is an Asian ideal that I can't really understand and I believe it's so damaging considering the mental health and suicide issues that are so prevalent there. Especially in South Korea. We've seen so many idols die to suicide. Pushing this idea that you have to endure hardships alone and come back to your loved ones when you're "not broken anymore" and not cause them "trouble" is something that might make this issue worse.
I can't stand by this drama anymore. The ending message is very damaging to those suffering from any sort of illness.
I'm not even going to speculate about the ending. It doesn't matter. It is what it is. And it doesn't do it for me.
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