wondering whether I'm viewing the same story.
Story: This one is so much darker than "Kinematics Theory," relationships more complicated, and there is a lot of sh!t going on
that I wonder if whether it is the fault of the writing or the character's life-decisions.
Acting / Cast: After watching Kinematics, I guess I am surprised at how the lead character development changed from the movie to this drama.
The cast was able to deliver the transition without so much as skipping a beat, and they were believable in their angst and insecurities.
Music: Nothing worthwhile to note.
Re-watch Value: Not entirely sure I would. Maybe would only re-watch for the hot sex scenes, but I'm bad like that.
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I just want to say this is the only film so far (other than etsy) that had scared me silly. I have yet to see others to scare me in such a way. Man did this film give me the creeps. I learned a valuable lesson in this film: never abandon your real friends, even if a teacher tells you so....and never pick on the students. Otherwise you can end up suffering fatal consequences. The acting was really good and the music was well put. This is a film that I would definitely recommend and overall I enjoyed it very much. Just remember....never mess with the quiet ones. Especially ones that seem to be perfect and shy. A great film to watch. 5/5
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When I sat down to write this review I was full of gobbledygook. I feel like I could write a thesis on the beauty and wonder that is Healer. Once again, my expectations of the standard of Kdrama has just completely been blown up to another level. Can I just get married to this drama and be done with it?
This drama is both intensely sad and intensely funny. You've got to love that rollercoaster of emotions.
Watching this made my heart so so so melty. There are some badass characters in this drama and the way they kindly and gently treat their loved ones made such a big impact on me. There are some really lovely people in this drama who have such big hearts, gosh, the feels!
But let's not forget about the action. I loved loved loved all the smarts that went into the plot and the twists and the deceptions. I always enjoy a drama where the characters are constantly one upping each other. The fight scenes were also really great. I liked that they were practical, and not so showy like some fight scenes I've seen in dramaland *cough City Hunter *cough.
I do feel that it is my public duty to note that there are some plot issues that really don't make any sense. What drama doesn't have them?
On to the characters:
Young Shin - heroine
I feel like I understood Young Shin really well. Her thought processes, actions and decisions all made sense to me.
At first she seems ordinary but then we find out she grew up in a house of ex-cons and has a lot of tricks up her sleeves.
Young Shin is brassy and unapologetic. I like that no one is stepping on her. She's too busy bullying everyone around her. She's very confrontational. She's definitely a wild card and quirky odd but in a good way. I loved how she's always dancing.
As the hero points out, she is brave and she has coping strategies to help her get on with life.
I like that she doesn't have a best friend.
Acting: I first saw Park Min Young in City Hunter. I really loved that her personality is so different in this drama that straight away, I didn't associate her with Kim Na Na.
Jung Hoo
Let me tell you this. Jung Hoo is a guy who knows how to do arrogance right. He pulls it off so perfectly. He doesn't have to be rude, but his condescension just hits it right on the money every time. And he absolutely doesn't use it on the heroine. For. The. Win. This guy is damn good. I was bouncing around with excitement over all his moves. He is very calm and he completely lit up the screen every time. He is amazing and captivating and I'm so in love.
Jung Hoo - “living life was just whatever. Since I was born, I might as well live.”
He reckons he wants to live alone for the rest of his life.
I like his longsuffering exasperation when he has to make contact with people.
And similar to Ju Ji Hoon I like the lazy way he speaks. And he whispers! Be still my beating heart. =P
Jung Hoo would make a great Clark Kent because he totally owns the switch between badass Healer and bashful Bong Soo. I love the way his whole body language and facial expressions change when he's being Bong Soo. He completely owns his dorkish character and it's hard to tell if he's just being Bong Soo or if he really is that awkward because he doesn't hang around people much.
Jung Hoo is the first guy that I've seen who is not a neat freak. He's as sloppy as a girl.
He also has the cutest laugh. The funny thing is that his serious face is so darn sombre and then he smiles and he looks like a little kid.
Romance
Serious adorbs. Serious. Adorbs. It is honestly to die for. Ji Chang Wook and Park Min Young just sizzled with their interactions. It is seriously that good. The chemistry...the CHEMISTRY.
I'm finding that I really enjoy the star-crossed lovers premise in Korean dramas.
So...it starts off with Jung Hoo stalking Young Shin for a job that he's working on. As he spies on her, he is very contemptuous.
But it doesn't last long.
I like that for both of them, they are individuals. They have a lot going on, and sometimes their relationship takes the backseat.
Jung Hoo is another hero who has the most kindest and softest eyes when he's looking at his lady love.
I also like that while he acts appropriately intimidated by her father, he still is man enough to kiss her regardless.
Moon Ho
This guy is full of surprises. I liked all his acting except when he was angry. His angry face seemed over the top. His relationship with Jung Hoo is pretty epic. Bros bros bros.
“How come you never lose to me even once?”
Also, I loved how dedicated Moon Ho was to the “kids”. He, himself, has moments of that childlike quality that is so endearing.
Moon Shik
I really liked the way the drama showed how Moon Shik was haunted by what he did in the past.
Chi Soo
Chi Soo is Young Shin's adoptive father. He's hilariously protective of Young Shin and suspicious of Jung Hoo.
The story of how he Chi Soo adopted Young Shin and how hard he worked to earn her trust is so touching.
Chi Soo has some great scenes with Jung Hoo as well. Their father-boyfriend meet and greet is the best ever.
Also, Chi Soo doesn't get the complete package deal of submissiveness from Jung Hoo and I like that. I think both know their boundaries and both put on a show to fulfill their expected roles. It makes for an interesting dynamic.
Min Joo
“Wait. You, a guy who wouldn't fall if someone threw you, fell on your own?”
Dae Yong
“He wouldn't answer even if I asked and even if he answered I wouldn't know.”
She's a spunky kid and I was really impressed with how brave she was in her care for Jung Hoo.
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and secondly i dont watch dramas with a lot of episodes, but this drama after episode 6 it hooked me! The plot was brilliant you dint know what to expect ,the acting was so realist in some scenes i could hold my tears.Finally for me this drama was top in chinese dramas.
Please excuse me for my bad english
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A MUST WATCH!!!
I'm not really into cdrama but thanks to tiktok I saw FIYS and then my obsession with this series started.. I dunno but there's something with the leads and the story that made me hooked.. Plus Kai made me fall for him and I really love Cheng Xiao.. When you watch the drama even the simplest gestures of the male lead can give you so much butterflies.. The last time I fell in love with a drama was wayback 2010 with Playful Kiss, then FIYS came and it gave me the feeling I haven't felt for a long time the same feeling Playful Kiss gave me... And as a girl I wanna have my own man like Lu Si Cheng, hoping I could get one.. I'm a kdrama fan for so long but this year sadly I wasn't able to encounter a kdrama that can make me so hooked like FIYS.. This is a must watch... I highly recommend this drama..Was this review helpful to you?
Good palace politics, Horrifying ML
OVERALLThis drama is another heaven-and-hell production. Watch it if 1) you LOVE palace politics, 2) you're looking for mature cinematography and filters, 3) you want a drama with a smart(ish) FL. If you're looking for a great ML or a heartfelt love story, I can't urge you enough, SKIP!
THE STORY
So I was looking for another good historical drama after watching Wonderland Love and saw that this one was highly rated, so I decided to give it a try. Uff, what a disappointment! But let me start with the good stuff:
- The premise of FL going back to her youth to change history is interesting (while not original) because you want to see if she'll succeed. This I really liked, and I think the drama does a good job of handling this part of the plot.
- FL is smart (when the drama wants her to be) and in a mature, age-appropriate way
- For once (in a long time), we have mature cinematography with nice, dark(ish) filters and none of that childish quirky music that always plagues Chinese historicals
- Palace politics is thrilling, with the bad guys making the good guys sweat sometimes (which is good, it's boring when the good guys are always ahead)
Now, onto the bad stuff:
- Top of the list, 200%, is ML. He is so boorish, I can't believe a C-drama came up with a character like that in 2023. It's okay to have a cold or slightly aggressive ML when there is enough backstory to make us feel bad for him AND if he redeems himself. Kunning Palace's ML has neither. The backstory is definitely not enough to make me sympathize with him, and he never, NEVER redeems himself. He's just dislikable, from beginning to end.
- Obviously, the love story then falls very short. It was extremely funny (and disturbing) how his outbursts of anger and violence towards FL were romanticized. I just can't...Also, having such nice, 2nd and 3rd ML made it all worse, because in what world would a smart girl like FL EVER choose this abusive ML over her other options? It's hilariously ridiculous.
- The fact that ML is FL's teacher adds an extra layer of weird and bad for me, because of the power dynamics. He's already boorish, then you add to it the fact that he can just boss her around and treat her like a 5 year old as her teacher? Yuk.
- A third flaw in this drama (definitely less important but still worth mentioning) is how brushed aside the story of FL's sister was. I think the character is presented as somewhat important but then we never see what happens to her after a major event, which feels like a loophole.
Overall, if you are not into romance and are indifferent to ML's terrible character, go ahead, watch this drama. The palace politics will keep you going. If you really care about character development and you were craving a good love story, do yourself a favor and skip!
THE ACTING
Good, though nothing out of this world for me. I wouldn't say there was any chemistry between FL and any of the guys in the show either.
THE MUSIC
That, I liked! I'm all for more mature vibes!
REWATCH VALUE
Absolutely null. I'd rather re-watch Yanxi Palace than this, and I used to think Yanxi Palace's emperor was the absolute worse ML hahaha
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This review may contain spoilers
This drama as a whole seems to be a reflection of the titular character; a strong plot isn't its strongest suit, but it more than makes up for its shortcomings in heart and charm. To be fair – I'm not Korean, nor have I lived in or even visited South Korea. I don't have in-depth knowledge of the state of its education system nor am I entirely sure how its laws/legal procedure differ from that of my own country. It did seem to me that realism was often sacrificed to amp up the drama. I'm actually more or less okay with that as long as other aspects of the story are engaging enough, and they were for me. A large part of the plot hinges upon a ridiculous degree of miscommunication/misunderstanding between the main characters, so the first part of the show can be frustrating to get through. Once that aspect of the plot is resolved between the main two characters, it becomes quite a bit more fun.Character development is a strong point of this show. It is actually the least noticeable in Kang Bok Soo himself, as he had a strong sense of integrity and justice from the beginning, but he does eventually find passion and purpose in the process of completing his education. It is more apparent in the female lead, Son Soo Jung. At the beginning of the story, she does something unethical to advance her career and she stubbornly clings to her sense of self-righteousness regarding the conflict that lead to the falling out between her and Bok Soo. She is also afraid to make waves and speak up when she knows something isn't right because she doesn't want to risk her new position as a full-time teacher. She isn't the most likable character in the beginning. I watched this with comments on Viki; the hate directed at her is pretty vicious (and much of it misdirected). Rest assured, though - if you initially find her unlikable and you just can't see how she and Bok Soo could be a good couple, your opinion will most likely change if you keep watching. By the end, she does show a lot of courage and demonstrate her willingness to do what she has to in order to make amends and lead her students by example.
Still, no character grows more than Oh Se Ho, the antagonist responsible for Bok Soo's expulsion when he was originally in high school and his subsequent breakup with Soo Jung. The show's treatment of this character is a large part of why I came to appreciate it as much as I did. He changes in a gradual, believable manner, and the other characters' reactions to his growth are also fairly realistic and satisfying.
The acting in this drama is excellent – everyone brought their A game. I decided to watch this because I've enjoyed Yoo Seung Ho in other dramas and he is just as great in this. He is an exceptionally emotive actor. Although an actor having good looks is pretty much a given (and thus not something that particularly sets one apart from the next for me), he does have one of the brightest smiles I've seen, and he's quite good at crying; whatever the character feels, he's good at making you feel it. His comedic timing is also on point.
I only recall seeing Kwak Dong Yeon in "Love in the Moonlight." He was quite likable in that, but I was really impressed with him in this drama. His acting is so convincing and really goes a long way towards either making you love or hate the character. The contrast between his deranged, arrogant persona in the present and his more insecure, vulnerable persona in the past changes his features in a way that makes him nearly seem like two different people. The character becomes sympathetic thanks in very large part to the actor's skill in portraying his inner turmoil and desperation for love. (His scenes with Bok Soo’s mother and his former teacher, Park Dong Jun, were especially moving.) I'll definitely start keeping an eye out for his work in the future.
I'd never seen Jo Bo Ah in anything previously, but her acting was also very solid. While she did sell me on the character's cute and funny side from the beginning, I found her even more charming as the series progressed – perhaps because the character's nurturing, loving, protective qualities really only have a chance to shine later on.
It's not just the main actors/characters that are great in this drama, though. The supporting actors are wonderful. From Kim Mi Kyung (one of my favorites!) and Chun Ho Jin as everyone's favorite stand-in mom and dad, to Bok Soo's closest friends/coworkers, to his classmates – many of whom do have very distinct interests and personalities without needing to take up too much screen time – every character brings something different to the table and contributes to the funny, cute, and sentimental scenes that make up the heart of this drama. There are so many cute relationships to care about in addition to the main couple, both romantic and platonic.
Basically, this show has a bit of everything that I think would please many drama fans. It isn't a show to take too seriously because it doesn't take itself all that seriously most of the time; it is frequently over-the-top dramatic for humorous effect. Most episodes are a good mix of comedy, romance, and drama – and in my opinion, it really delivers on all three.
However, despite being mostly lighthearted in tone, it isn't a drama with nothing to say: it does serve as a critique of overbearing parenting and education styles that value performance above all else, including the mental well being, happiness, and integrity of the student. Some of the parents (and by parents, I mean moms, because dads apparently don't exist in this drama) actively push their children to cheat, seeming to believe that they really are doing what's best for their child by buying their way into a good university. The show advocates for fairness and balance. Its message to students is essentially, "yes, do study and try your best, but allow yourself to just relax and enjoy life, too." To parents and teachers, the message is: "it's fine to want your kids to do well, but let them be kids, too. The best thing you can do for them is to teach them how to live well by example." It is enjoyable to see students of both extremes internalize this message and become happier, more balanced, and more mature individuals as a result.
One last thing worth mentioning – the music is gorgeous. A good soundtrack can make any story better, and I think that the music is a huge asset to this show. The plot is admittedly flimsy at times, but the drama makes up for it in basically every other way. If this type of drama is generally up your alley (romantic comedy with dramatic flair), I'd recommend giving it a shot as long as you can be patient with it for a few episodes.
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To My Star Season 2: Our Untold Stories
10 people found this review helpful
This review may contain spoilers
An Emotional Rollercoaster
The sequel to To My Star delves into the not so pleasant aspects that could come from a relationship. I think it was important that it showed that a relationship is not always going to be sunshine and rainbows. Life doesn't work like that. To My Star explores doubt, miscommunication, pride, guilt, and sorrow in a way that is engaging from start to finish. It may not be the direction that people wanted the second season to go in but I think it is important to show the more realistic aspects of a relationship.If you think that all relationships can remain perfect at all times, you are terribly mistaken. To My Star shares a story that is more close to real life. But, if you are lucky enough, despite all of the obstacles you may go through with a significant other, you can overcome them and come to understand each other more through the pain you have both endured and come out on the other side stronger than ever together.
One thing that I loved the most about the overall conflict that was presented in this show is that it highlighted that every break up doesn't have to be for some grand reason. A lot of relationships may run their course or go through a rough patch simply due to little things that accumulate over time. Feelings change and people change and that's okay but what isn't okay is to run away without communicating with your partner about how you feel. Ji Woo had a hard time pouring out his feelings which ultimately caused more strife between him and Seo Joon that could have been avoided. But, the thing is, there are a lot of people out in this world like Ji Woo who run away from there problems and have a hard time saying what is on their minds so I don't fault him for that. You live and you learn and I am glad that a character like that is shown on screen. Seo Joon was fighting tooth and nail trying to get Ji Woo back and some say that he was fighting too hard and that he was too desperate and should have let him go sooner. But, all I saw was a person who didn't want to give up on the person that he was in love with. So what if he looked crazy. If you think a person is worth it, I don't see anything wrong with fighting for the person you love within certain measures. He ultimately decided to give up and let Ji Woo come back to him when he was ready which I think was for the best in their situation. I am glad that they ended up back together in the end despite everything.
Ji Woo and Seo Joon are two totally different people with different communication styles yet despite the pain that they both went through, I could still feel the love that they had for one another. It was still palpable. The chemistry was still there and the love for sure was still there. Relationships go through pain sometimes but I think it is ultimately about how you choose to resolve problems and come back from the pain that matters. It may take a little while but if both partners vow to understand each other more and change some of there ways to better the relationship, then they can move forward together again. Sometimes pain can lead to growth is how I viewed Ji Woo and Seo Joon's relationship.
On another note, I will end this by saying that I enjoyed this season very much (probably more than season 1). It had a story line that was very gripping to me and one that had me theorizing and thinking about it long after an episode would go off. The cinematography and locations were beautiful to witness and the characters all served their purpose well. I would definitely recommend all to watch this but just know that it is not the most lighthearted watch ever but it's still worth it!
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love story of Dosan and Dalmi--suka banget!
most drama review comes with gradient score. just like ombre colour.
There's 9, 9.5, 8, 8.5. One or two extreme 4, 5 is still consider normal.
After all we're human with different thought and liking and background.
For start up, you will not see this gradient. Its either North or South.
There's gang of 1-5 score and 8,5-10. a few 6 and 7 right here and there.
although I use mydramalist as my main reference for wathing dramas,
I conclude based on the reviews that I read.
Its very easy to know, once a person's liking is coffee, there's no way you can
make him like tea.
Same things with yoga. either hate it or love it. maybe.
I honestly think that, giving score below 5 for dramas that. you've finished its kind a odd.
Because, hey, you got through 16 episodes is by choice right! no once is forcing you.
I dropped many dramas too, but I think my time is too precious to spend couple minutes
for hatred message. let alone for allocating 16 episodes for something that "meh" me.
Let me tell you several facts about Start Up:
1. Binge watch. I watch all episodes in 3 days. That is averagely 5 episodes in a day.
I watch it while running on treadmill, and yess it help me to get thru 30 minutes of running and 30 minutes of walking, and im not even an avid runner. I'm overweight and struggle for exercise.
so, itsss exciting!
2. I then continue watching the episodes on my 82" television. Boy, it surely is thread to the eyes.
the picture is so very thoughtful think of.
3. I loveee romance. I'm cancer born June. And it delivers..
All the moments of Dosan and Seo Dal mi ... as Indonesia we will say, "kereeen banget", or "bikin baper"
I'm all feelings for them.
4. If you like the romance, you will be presented with many beautiful things here. Relation between the other cast. The sister, mom, grandma, the brotherhood.
5. Love triangle.... hmmmm.. im not sure. Isnt that love triangle means that at least the girl like a bit of the other guy?
let say...... Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, where bong soon had a heavy crush on gook doo... thats love triangle..
or Arsenal Military Academy, where the female lead like shen junshan throughout one/third of the story?
or Go Back couple... that even send me to second lead syndrome..
but here,
Dalmi never had a real crush on HJP
All the affection, emotions is toward Dosan only.
HJP helps with his own way. But then start up is about Dalmi and Dosan. Its their story.
Other completes it in a perfect way.
Let's not let other opinion stop us from experiencing our future drama.
Dive in, no expectation and you will be hooked.
i'm giving them 10.
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The acting was alright, mastuda shorta doing a great job playing Akiyama but I didn't really like the new heroine. They really should have left nao in cuz it would've been a ten if she was there! The new heroine 4 me didn't quite make the cut, her acting was alright.
The music was AMAZING!! Downloaded the whole ost! Capsule have done it again.the music creates a great and suspenseful atmosphere which made you want more!
Would I watch this again, YES! I gave it an 8 cuz if I had spare time I would watch it but not so eagerly. But I would love it everytime I c it :)
Overall I gave it an 8, I am a big fan of the liar game but the fact they took nao out just took out the main essence of the movie, if she was there then we could see the further development of nao and Akiyama, But dont get me wrong the movie was great! The knew heroine wasn't as good as nao but to all you reading this I strongly recommend u watch this if u have watched the series . It is a great movie and hopefully not the end to such an amazing series!
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Everyone has different opinion on this drama, because everypne's feelings are different. Some tell themselves that it's like a history lesson, while others feel and live with the characters while they watch the drama.
Even before I started this drama, I said to myself that based on the plot I could guess the ending so I tried to prepare my heart. I even decided NOT to watch it but then, gave it a try. Was it a curse or destiny? I can't decide because I was hooked from episode 1! The plot is very interesting and u can't get bored. Because in every new episode a new obstacle and drama will be added. The politics are wicked and whole country is in turmoil.
This drama did not only potrait the strong love between Yi Yeok and Chae Gyung but also how the country works and how politics change. I could really feel the misery that people had to go through while Yi Yong was on throne. Do I feel sympathy with characters? Yes and no. I can see why Yeok fights against his brother. And honestly, it is good because ask yourself if you would let YOUR people, your Juseon die under your rule. He was a strong leader who many times chose people over Chae Gyung which was wonderful but sad at same time? It's not easy for wife to see her husband go to a''war''. Many critize Chae Gyung's character that she is going back and fort between Yeok and Yong but all I can see is brotherly love for Yong. Why does she help him? Because even tho he is cruel and bad...he is family. In those times family ment a LOT.
Overall, story was amazing and very unique in some way. It potraited reality, which in some way is sad.
Acting was phenomenal, those actors owned their roles and showed us also great chemistry.
Music...oh I keep listening to Junggigo on repeat guys, it's just amazing love song ( and this comes from someone, who hates love songs )
Will I rewatch it? No, but it IS worth it for sure...it's just my heart is too weak.
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Ghosts can’t match humans even when it comes down to being evil !!
So great shaman Ga Doo Shim ...presents you a ride in the world of a teenager shaman...set in a highschool ( free of serious bullies ….and full of ghosts) is a decent attempt at being a horror drama …okay if you are in for scary stuff ...then pls expect disappointment ….but if you get scared even at the slightest ...well then why in the world choose to watch this ….A perfect binge watch material with 12 eps and 20 mins run time ...compact writing and great cast ...this show is all in to be a worth watch which I can say it is .
Few illogical stuff scattered here and there ( I am gonna mention at the end for people who finished cuz it could be a potential spoiler ...but I got to rant for sake of my mental peace)
The story in a nutshell ...is about a high school student Doo Shim with shaman abilities but no interest in shamanism and her potential husband or love interest at present Woo Soo (this romance angle I tell you ...they got to drop it everywhere as if dramas can’t exist on friendship ..but it’s not the time to complain) and their fight against evil.
Character development was given quite less time overall and most of it was just about the FL ….which I appreciate ...at least someone got it to an extent ...than having all of them failing together just for the sake of equal division ( good decision)
ML was just a typical romance driven character (in my opinion)...he did not have much character depth or development ...but to be honest that does dwell well with the drama because it was obviously supposed to be more about FL.
The side characters were just doing their jobs without being out of the place …(much appreciated)
The small but important roles like that of grandmother, mother, principal, good ghost(Hyun Soo) all were really good ofcourse the respective actors nailed it ...as expected from them.
The whole point of grades and pressure on the students even after being the main point sadly felt underdeveloped ...and that’s what I assume is the result of less runtime. Can’t really blame anyone for that cuz they did do the best possible with what was given.
Overall the things presented were worth it ...no plot holes, great pacing ...an okay reason for a villain to be evil ( if you need me to play a critic here ...then it wasn’t really creative but then the rest of the thing put together makes it work. )
With moments that make your heart flutter ( you saw me complaining about romance now what’s with this ...I wish romance wasn’t there but who said I did not enjoy it), this one definitely makes a mark because of the leads.
As always ...time for my fav dialogues …(this time it’s -meaningful lines with reference to the drama and life in general)
I had forgotten that, I have to deal with more than just evil spirits. (told yaa humans are more scary)
I had forgotten that there's someone on my side.
I can’t see the future no shaman can ..if they claim they do it’s a lie but I trust you ...I believe you, will live a long and happy life.
Don’t worry, all is well ...everything will be fine. (repeat it for yourself every time there's trouble)
if you are wondering whether to try it or not....then I'd say go for it ...it's worth your time !!
Here spoiler and rant alert …
ref to ep 10 ......
come on seriously she worked hard to get the lowest score and failed in doing that ....like if you want to get the lowest score then you don't make guesses that are likely to be right ...you make guesses that are sure to be wrong ....it's a simple option elimination game ....
dramaland problems ...they are failing in failing ....wow ....and here we are ...working our ass off to pass but still fail
now that's actually something I can't get over ...dropping the rating by half star for this illogical stuff ...that's written just to make things work and they call it a twist ...sorry but that’s quite impractical and something to laugh at !!
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When the snow fell, you came... breaking my lucid dream to pull me into yours
~~~***~~~"Because letting go is the best choice for memories~"
PLOT:
A broken vase of porcelain is always regarded as a bad omen. The shattered bits on the floor are often discarded. But what if this broken vase is her unconfirmed future? You can’t throw it, you can’t keep it. But isn’t what’s gone, gone forever?
She is a person who dwells in the dream like past unknown of the ways to mend it. At the same time, she is scared to be unbothered and let go. The heart can’t get away unscathed. She was left with questions unanswered and her probable future hanging on a cliff fighting to either survive or fall. I was reminded of 'Kintsugi’ while watching this drama. 'Kintsugi’ is the Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with gold. Now what’s broken is repaired, even more beautifully so… That is to sum up this story.
Jiang Xuening, a girl with a twisted fate right from her childhood, originally happy-go-lucky, helpful and an enough kind-hearted little girl is raised with an ambitious brain. She does what she can to achieve her aim. In the process, she lost herself. She lost the ones she loved, she lost the ones who loved her as well. Karma is a boomerang. It comes back to you the with the same momentum. She rose, she fell- as ugly as she went up, she came down. But, the writer of her fate has other plans- “give her a chance”. It’s not like she received none, she did- most often used for the wrong purposes but now she was given a chance in her full state of mind; when she was still HER- her 18 year old self.
She now has the chance to resurrect the broken porcelain with the gold in her hand, and more so- carve it even better. She does it! For she had experienced the price of an act. She does her best, like she has to- to begin with. Forming relationships of heart instead of her aim. Tasting the glory of love than power. She weaves this story like a grandma weaving a sweater for her grandchildren- with love and patience, overcoming the hurdles of the inevitable and slowly weaving into a pleasing garment that saves her loved ones from the cold of misfortune. Ning’er weaves and saves, hugs and safeguards everyone!
I hate palace politics. I always skip scenes with the palace drama. All the schemings, conspirations, plan-hatchings are not my forte. BUTTTTTTTTT I was interested in every palace-noise of this drama. It was interesting, not boring and also not too heavy. I love my manipulative Xie Wei and foresighted Ning playing things on their fingers.
A promising plot that wasn't let down.
~~~***~~~
“I really want to ask you, why?
In the plots we missed, was there any sincerity?”~
CAST:
Bai Lu as Jiang Xuening. Bai lu’s acting skills will never be a let down. I can bet on to buy a theatre of tickets, as her expressions sell out every single time. Being the one who remembers the future while being able to re-live a different past, she expresses her every fear, every trauma, every love, every hate, every collusion, every dilemma, every wit, every guilt, every irk, every loyalty, every thankfulness, every togetherness, every naughtiness, every incivility, every pain, every joy with grace and finesse. The story revolves around her, so she naturally has so much responsibility shouldered upon and she doesn’t disappoint a second. Her feelings are evident, her wit is ushered. She still cries making me cry with her, she still laughs making me laugh with her. The villainy side was villainous as it should be, her innocence was innocent likewise. Ask of balance in acting while juggling a whole bunch of different characters in one drama, you can’t find a better cast than her. I saw Jiang Xuening the rise, Jiang Xuening the fall; Jiang Xuening the Empress, Jiang Xuening the Second Lady; Jiang Xuening the forest girl, Jiang Xuening the capitalist; Jiang Xuening the seductress, Jiang Xuening the untouchable; Jiang Xuening the friend, Jiang Xuening the foe; Jiang Xuening the love and Jiang Xuening the regret. I saw Bai Lu as Jiang Xuening.
Ling He as Xie Wei. I saw every minute emotion in his beautiful expressive wide face. That of hate, that of resilience; that of love, that of innocence; that of a human, that of an evil; that of torture, that of patience; that of kindness, that of remorselessness. As Xie Wei, he spew what ran in his brain, at the same time hid his plans monotonously as well. He expressed his valour but also his modesty. Xie Wei is a very wise man who can outwit anyone. He pre-plans. He is quick witted. He thinks, he strides. It’s difficult for a quintessentially fit man like Ling He to seem more brainy than muscular and he nailed it. He looked like an intellectual in every angle, yet seamlessly hiding his monstrous bigger half. His eyebrow lifts were a treat to watch. He expressed his suffering in one scene and in the same scene he switches to show his boiling anger. And in the same scene he acts pitiful while conveying his mountain of love. He despises in the same scene and appreciates as well. In that very scene he daunts his fear while flaunting his courage. He switched his expression accordingly with every line of the same paragraph in the script. Ling he nailed Xie Wei.
Wang Xing Yue as Zhang Zhe. I'm a huge Bai Lu fan, I saw all of her dramas and if you do too, we've already witnessed Xing Yue's phenomenal acting prowess through "One and Only". That was just a trailer! He performed very well here too. He fits like a glove for Zhang Zhe. Zhang Zhe is silent and judicious. He is brave enough to tell what is the truth in a palace full of manipulative liars. He dares to pay the price for sincerity if it requires. A righteous man like a lotus in a dirt pond. Xing Yue did justice.
Zhao Jun Wei as Yan Lin. My favourite! I fell in love with him. Boy looks naughty being a hottie. When he was slaying with his armour on as the Viscount, I could not take my eyes off him. At the same time, when he expressed his love towards Ning Ning not only through his words but also his eyes, I was like- "Ning bae, if you won't have him, I shall^_~" I was squeaking with coy. He legit made me blush. I love his character more than anyone else's. GEM. GEM. GEM.
Liu Xie Ning as the Princess. My sweetieeeeee, my cutieeeeeee... I shall call her with all adorable names cuz she was A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E. She was the apple of my eye like Ning's. She looked like a Swan bro. Beautiful as hellll! From a bratty Princess to a reliable friend and a responsible royal kin, she transitioned like water. Was I watching Barbie in any case? I guess. I'm fanning more than a fan (┬┬﹏┬┬).
The whole cast was a tailored pick meticulously embroidered to create a masterpiece.
~~~***~~~
“The abyss is in front of me,
I know I’ll be smashed to pieces if I jump in.
How could I go for it knowing this?” Ning’er pitches
“What if I jump in?” Xie Wei replies.
BONDS:
The chemistry between the mains is lit! Like as soon as you see Bai Lu and Ling He side by side, you see two incredibly pretty people looking like a match of the cupid. They do not need a script to look hot together. Though I was like- "bruhhhhh... I'm sailing the wrong ship" in the beginning, the ship overturns and we sail the right ship. Yeahhhh! LOL. I was not just having a treat, I was having an unlimited buffet seeing them together. The romance starts very slowly but as it starts, the heat is felt!
The friendships are my treasured part of this drama. Ning'er being the center and these awesomesauce friendships she forms around her were UwU. Not just the leads, the whole effin cast has sizzling chemistry duh! I live for these bonds! Especially, Yan Lin-Ning Ning and Princess-Ning stole my heart.
~~~***~~~
"The reflection of light will one day swallow you and me~"
APPRAISAL:
I know that the story is that way but I can’t fathom characters vanishing for half of the drama and then suddenly appearing. It’s like they serve a purpose, but like to talk that they serve a purpose than actually show the purpose they serve. So one moment you feel like a character is no longer important but the very same character pops on screen being the need of the hour. I do like the use of all these many characters but at the end of the day I feel few of them appear so okay-ishhhhh to me.
However great job with the main characters in hand. I love the dynamics, the friendships, the relationships. I love how complex they are, yet have a light airy calmness.
The camera angles were okay. Sometimes though they felt like they focused the wrong things, when I observed it better I see why that happens. This added a lot of depth to the scenes in my opinion. However, sometimes the cuts during the scenes to show different angles were not smoothly videographed. It feels kinda raw. For the time Kunning had in between the filming and release, a lot could’ve been perfected. The transitions were okay. They are not over the top minding that it’s not a high budget god-demon realm fantasy Xianxia.
I really love the makeup. I always feel so triggered with c-drama makeup which only aims towards whitewashing the actors which most of the times make them look pale and that often overshadows the acting and the little expressions that the actors try to make it appear on the camera. In Kunning, I see that the makeup nicely helps in bringing the features of all the actors at the same time being very subtle and minimalistic to go with the theme. There were also scenes and characters that required heavy makeup- like Bai lu in the empress era to show her cruelty or viciousness. Also when Xie Wei wilds out in the snow, a devilish kinda cold makeup is given with a nice red eye shadow to differentiate his emotions better. I not only love the character development arcs but also the makeup transition game that is evident in the drama. It’s nice and clear in the Princess’ case. Her makeup becomes mature as her character does. All those beautiful faces of a starry cast and not one face disappointed either with their expressions or their makeup.
The costumes are so-so. The styling is so-so. There is nothing new and nothing you see for the first time in a historical drama like this one. However I still appreciate the intricacy and the nice jewellery which went well with the theme. A job done is still a job done. I appreciate that it was nowhere seen underdone. Nevertheless, not a high on costume and jewellery drama. There’s nothing that goes par or under par your expectations.
The sets were fine too. Won’t say mediocre as they served the purpose. It doesn’t feel like there was no effort put in as the story doesn’t call out for huge settings. So again, no disappointment.
~~~***~~~
"Looking at the sky
anxiously waiting for winter
reminiscing my memories
I forgot that my four seasons don't have you~"
OST
How to even express my satisfaction that I received through the OSTs? Melodious music with eloquent lyrics paired with worthwhile voices stringing into a harmonious enticement. I heard it for the first time and I guarantee that there will never be a last time.
1. Borrowing Dreams sung by Zhou Shen. All Bai Lu and Keep Running fans are well aware of Zhou Shen and his amazing vocals. Why would this song be an exception? What makes it sweeter to me is the fact that they are good friends in real life too and Bai Lu personally thanked Zhou Shen in Keep Running for lending his voice to this masterpiece in her drama. This is also the closing song of the drama and also my favourite from the list. "Take a willingness to lose to exchange for my other half" is my most favourite part. Whether it played during their romance scenes in the drama or during the end credits, this song didn't fail to make me sing even though I sang it in gibberish due to the language barrier. And the song break where Zhou Shen harmonizes "HaaAAaaaaaaaa... HaaAAaaaaaaaa" .... man, I always transport to the Kunning world.
2. Snow Season sung by Bai Lu. Talk of a multi-talented queen who can act, dance, sing so beautifully! Snow season is a lullaby to the soul. Its like a sweet dessert that satisfies the soul after a scrumptious meal. Bai Lu sang "Entering A Dream" in Arsenal Military Academy along with Xu Kai and I got its vibes with this. I'm telling you, when Bai Lu sings such melodious slow songs, its the end of the world for me. I still couldn't take Entering A Dream out of my mind, now this adds to the list. Not kidding, the moment I listened to her sweet voice, I cried. IT IS SOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL!!!!!
3. Three Thousand Worlds Not Meeting You sung by Jing Long. A breath of fresh air. I think this music and Jing Long's vocals drift from the typical Xianxia music to slightly the current R&B side and it's such a refreshing transpose. Yet, it still feels to be within the theme adding to its ambiguity. The main chorus is very catchy and ran in my mind 24/7 during the whole period I watched SoKP.
Honorary mention: Like a Dream sung by Zhou Jun Wei (We hail a multi-talented king too.)
Other OST include: With Love sung by Jane Zhang
~~~***~~~
REWATCH VALUE:
I'm really satisfied. Definitely re-watchable. It has a calm feel to this drama (idk), I'll definitely re-watch.
~~~***~~~
RECOMMENDATION:
“Mr. Xie, your ambitions are high
as the clouds in the sky
While I’m shallow and short-sighted
like the mud on the ground.
The sparrow will not know the will of a swan.
A miner’s lady is stranger to the sea.
A mortal hopes for nothing else
but to live peacefully.
Mr. Xie, please have mercy on me.”
⁃ Jiang Xuening to Xie Wei
could Xuening really live peacefully? You gottu watch!
Just watch it y'all. It's worth giving a try. But go with no expectations, you'll enjoy it better.
Also folks, do not miss "As You Wish: Story of Kunning Palace" with few of the cast of this drama. I gushed at every episode with the sultry chemistry between the leads and lovely rapport with the whole cast. It's worth your time.
~~~***~~~
P.S: Was I writing a review or a whole new story? I'm tired X﹏X
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