Reviews

I loved so much about this drama. God, after the 5 first episodes I was falling hard and so happy I was watching it. My reasons: the acting, the costumes, the budding romance between Sung Yeol and Yang Sun (that chemistry!) and just Lee Joon Gi's acting in and of itself (and the fact that he's insanely beautiful here. Those eyes!) Sometimes something is just really your thing, and I really felt it (and still feel it to some extent) here.

But it got a bit chaotic. The story went places I was skeptical about. So much noble sacrifice. So much angst that didn't really feel worth it and I longed for the tone in the beginning of the show again. (I'm not against angst, but you want it in proper meaningful doses not just as a go-to-tool to make you care more about characters you already care about). Also character voice-overs that sometimes added to a scene, but just stated the obvious in others. But I trusted it would be better, or at least a bit more happy (I loved the characters and wanted them to feel good), so I persisted.
A lot of people have complaints about the story and worldbuilding and I understand them. I'm usually pretty accepting when it comes to plotholes, inconcistensies etc, but there were quite a few here and I think they added to the less engaged feeling I had in the middle of the series. I also hear they changed the writer in the middle of the series, so that might have to do something with it.

I would say that the interactions between Lee Joon Gi's and Lee Yoo Bi's characters are what make this drama worth watching till the end, despite there being some tropes and effort to romantizise certain scenes (thanks to the music) that aren't really romantic (which is a pity, since there were plenty of beautifully romantic ones). But Lee Joon Gi and Lee Yoo Bi are so good that I just believed it all, and the supporting actors and their stories were really good too. There were also several scenes and dialogues that were really profound and touching.

And the fight and action scenes were really neat. Not to mention the costumes! Gorgeous.

I've seen a lot of people not liking the soundtrack. Granted, there were some weird music choices in some scenes and I think they could have used A LOT LESS love songs the second a romantic scene started (sometimes you should just let a scene speak for itself!). But, there was also some really epic soundtrack, I'm thinking of the instrumental tracks. (especially in action/epic scenes). The feeling of those tracks made me think of Peter Greenaway's music and a certain track by The Mutato Mu used in The Royal Tenenbaums (if anyone knows what I'm talking about). There were scenes where those tracks just enhanced them beautifully, so much that I went back and rewatched a couple of them just for the joy of it. (Too bad those tracks aren't included in the OST).

I would recommend this drama if you like Lee Joon Gi, great acting and touching romance and some epic scenes. If you demand a tight plot, consistent story and a great deal of thought between what's happening you might want to pass. (But then again, if you're a fan of Lee Joon Gi or Lee Yoo Bi, you might not ;) ).

I haven't watched a great deal of dramas (yet), so I'm new to k-drama-land and maybe that's also why I'm willing to overlook some tropes and inconsistensies. But for me, Lee Joon Gi and the other actors along with visuals and some of the music here is unmissable and what makes me willing to rewatch this again sometimes.

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A story of a cat and a cornered mouse

Note: This character-driven movie has explicit sexual content and nudity.

STORY (No spoilers)
What happens when a cat who fell in love with a promiscuous mouse long ago decides to back it into a corner? Both are from different worlds and both come with their own personal baggages. Can they make it work?

I've read the manga on which the movie was based - it's one of my favourites because the main characters in it were incredibly flawed and insecure people but their insecurities and issues were just so relatable and understandable, I found myself immersed in their characters and in their story. Now, as an adaptation of the manga itself, I'd give this movie a 65% score in terms of its closeness to the original work i.e. it was generally faithful in broad strokes and in some detailed places, but there were still fairly noticeable differences, especially in terms of character vibe and personality and in some event modifications. Hence, I can understand why fans of the manga might feel disappointed or dissatisfied with this adaptation.

However, I'm going out on a limb here to say that I actually still appreciated this work despite the changes made to it. The movie had none of the internal monologues of the original but through the way scenes were presented and acted, we could still understand the internal turmoil and struggles of the characters and their changing perspectives/ feelings and that was a personal testament that both the acting and the direction of the movie was excellent.

There were also quite a few things about this movie that really fascinated me - some of the dialogue, the choice and arrangement of certain scenes, the camerawork, the use of imagery, lighting and sound, etc. The way it was filmed and presented gave off a gritty, moody, sometimes lonely and desolate vibe, and there was something about the whole combination that made me come away from this movie feeling this interesting mix of unsettled yet at peace, curious yet satisfied, sad yet happy. It's a movie that somehow struck certain chords with me and resonated in a curious way.

The best analogy I can give for my experience of this movie was like listening to a piece of music being played in minor key - the melody has certain notes and chords which give the piece a sort of asymmetrical form or disharmonic sound, but the overall tune still flows as a cohesive melodic piece which somehow evokes a myriad of feelings for the listener after it's all finished. It was beautifully haunting to me.


ACTING/ CAST
OKURA TADAYOSHI as Ootomo Kyouichi. He played a rather different Ootomo vis-a-vis the manga.
Manga!Ootomo was sort of your weak-willed-straight-guy - too accommodating, too eager to please and too easily seduced by women. Movie!Ootomo was a lot more reserved and inscrutable, more introverted and quiet, hiding a lot of thoughts underneath a silent facade. Viewers who don't know about Ootomo's background, habits and tendencies will probably find this movie!Ootomo to be very difficult to read or understand, and sometimes, even I had to pause a scene or rewatch it to try and figure out what was going on inside movie!Ootomo's head.
But, to be fair, if one takes the time to observe a little closely and to put his actions into the movie context, I found that movie!Ootomo was a very interesting and enigmatic character whose inner thoughts can actually be perceived through his actions (or non-actions, as it were). It's like, you can almost see the wheels in his head turning as he observes the situation and the people around him, especially Imagase, and internally forming his own conclusions and decisions. I liked this very subtle and nuanced portrayal.

NARITA RYO as Imagase Wataru. Again, another different portrayal from the manga counterpart.
Manga!Imagase was a very cold, aloof and well-dressed man who, only in Ootomo's presence, would become hysterical and paranoid due to his insecurities and fears. Movie!Imagase had a more laid-back and Bohemian vibe but I liked how you could so totally see his constant desperation and insecurities over Ootomo which he tries so hard to hide beneath a lackadaisical and nonchalant facade. His constant questioning and inquiring, his constant snooping and monitoring, totally expose his paranoia and his fear, and personally for me, some of Imagase's scenes were particularly beautifully directed and shot to show just how lonely and forlorn and pained he felt at times. I liked how the actor Narita Ryo was able to give off this fragile feeling during the key moments of the movie.


MUSIC
Honestly, this was the least memorable part for me. Very subtle soundtrack and score which is probably very suitable for the subdued and muted mood of the film.


RE-WATCH VALUE
If you're not too put off by the disappointing adaptation or by the fickleness and weirdness of the characters, I'd like to encourage you to consider rewatching because I personally found that I understood a lot of the hidden and subtle messages and scenes better upon a rewatch, and that made the movie even more fascinating and interesting to me.

The movie might feel a bit abrupt and truncated vis-a-vis the manga but it still a complete cohesive piece and I found the choice of certain scenes and the way the whole thing was directed gave this movie a very different style, tone and story from its original work, and I personally appreciated its almost indie-like feel.

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what we needed.

i think this is such a solid start. following yinwar from their beginning and the ups and downs since the FIRST love mechanics, they deserved this. it’s a serious plot with some funny moments, and the script is IMMACULATE compared to other thai bls rn.
this drama deserves to get recognition like other darker theme bls rn, i’m so excited for the rest of the series to air.
the difference between this show and love mechanics is exactly what yinwar needed to show their talents. everyone knows they have the chemistry, but their acting has gone unnoticed when i believe they are one of the best acting pairs in the thai lakorn world rn.

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The story of this drama and the manga its adapted from, as everyone has pointed out, is not original. Girl and boy start living together and have to hide it from the people at school.

I enjoyed almost every episode, some felt like "filler" episodes but were still enjoyable. I didn't care much for Yuri's storyline. Girl needs to get it togther and stop unloading her problems on teenagers! It was also very annoying how cold Uehara was, but I still loved him because I am a sucker like Nao.

I enjoyed this drama so much, staying up till midnight on Thursdays, waiting for the new episode! The acting was very good, I really liked everyone's portrayal of their characters. Nagasawa Koya as Abe and Arai Moe as Marina were my favourites, such good comedic timing! Fukuhara Haruka was very, very good and I look forward to seeing her in more dramas.

I would definitely re watch this, and I really hope they do another season. I would recommend this drama for anyone who likes romantic high school dramas.

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To be honest, I wasn’t planning on watching this, so I’m not sure what even reeled me in. Maybe it was Changwook’s comeback or I’m in love with Jinah’s voice. But for sure, it wasn’t worth it.

The story, first of all, what the heck is it? Like it doesn’t make any sense. The idea was interesting, but the execution is plain bad and boring. There’s no logic to some of the characters actions and what they say, and I’m like what. And this is noted as a rom-com, yet the romance isn’t the greatest in terms of buildup, it just kinda happens. So the chemistry felt off the entire time. And the comedy is the most forced thing ever with many supporting characters just overacting. I feel like the writer should have focused more on the leads slowly functioning in society and a better love story, you know. But whatever, I guess.

Also the characters aren’t memorable.

Dongchan is like bread. White bread. The plain and dry kind. He’s flat out boring and Changwook could’ve done so much better. Though, I do have to say, Miran does have a more interesting personality and she’s got her goals, but I’m still amazed in how she fell in love with Dongchan. Tsk, tsk. What did she see in him???? Probably his handsome face, because same.

The supporting characters were mostly boring, annoying, or hold nothing to the plot. From the villain to the producer to Miran’s ex.

Some scenes I liked though, were some heartwarming moments like Namtae and Miran reuniting. And the transition from the older to younger counterpart.

But my emotional connection with any major character was nonexistent.

I knew I shouldn’t trust this writer considering a certain disaster I disliked. I’m sad to see this as Changwook’s comeback drama. Such a waste of talent of this cast. Ugh. But maybe watch it if you like the actor/actress A LOT, the kisses, the uhh.. Uhhhh… uh.

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Success Doesn't Always Bring Happiness

The final episode, the final edit--What a healthy Kdrama, and what a nice ending. "What is better? Does it mean they'll become happy?" "They'll accept their misfortunes. I can become miserable again, but that's okay. Should misfortunes come I have the strength to endure them." All in all this was a drama about accepting that life isn't perfect, people are not perfect, we can do everything right and still our lives can fall apart, and also that work environments can sometimes be the detriment of even the most accomplished people. Life isn't about putting forth the most perfect image. It's about finding your happiness, your center, your balance, and then finding the strength to endure what comes your way. I like in the end that Jeong Woo chose substance over flashiness in starting his own practice again. I like that Ha Neul could confidently handle the denial of job responsibilities, and that she found the strength to speak what she was feeling in a professional way. Both the ML and FL took us on a journey of debunking erroneous beliefs about success and happiness, and in the end showed us what was truly important....our relationships with family, friends, and each other.
Well done to Baek Sun Woo, the screenwriter for this engaging and important drama!! Equally well done to the cast and production crew!! This is a keeper, and a drama I will revisit again.

After 10 episodes--I came back to update the review as I am over halfway through this series. Amongst the usual stereotypical rom com Kdrama plot lines, there lies the reality of healing from trauma. This Kdrama shows how very hard it is to come back to normal when your life has been turned upside down, and also how hard it is to overcome panic, anxiety, sadness, and depression. In one episode Ha Neul begins to panic with the happiness she feels in this new relationship. She doesn't trust that these happy feelings will not just end up with tragedy and heartbreak as that has been her experience. She also faces how little she trusts people around her, including Jeong Woo. This is a very relatable series. I've been part of a cut-throat profession and been stabbed in the back by colleagues whom I trusted, and been faced with the decision to keep opening my life to people, or just wall myself off. Failed relationships also leave their mark. This drama shows how two people who at first are overcome with their traumatic experiences, work through the realization that because of these experiences are different people now, and have to find a new way to keeping engaging with life, their professions, their family, and each other. I like that this drama is showing that recovery from mental illness is not instant, you don't just get over it. Instead, it's a process, a day-by-day way of learning how to live again. Some of drama is typical, some of it is boring, but with the bigger message, I'm finding this is really a good story.

After 2 episodes--This is taking a look at the very real impact ambition has on mental health. The two main characters are the star pupils of their high school. What comes with being the top student is not only the pressure of one's own expectations and ambition, but having to live up to the expectations of everyone around you. Being the top at anything also seems to carry with it the idea that that top person is perfect in all things. Not only is this not true, but the reality is that carrying the pressure to constantly be perfect, and at the top in all things, often leads to burn out and depression. If by chance one does make it to the top, it takes next to nothing for you to fall and fail, even if it isn't your fault. The story begins with the two leads established in their careers and are both experiencing a low point. We get to see in both the mental toll competition, ambition, and drive does to them, and also how very fickle the world around them is when faced with these low points in their professional lives . Luckily they have each other. The race to the top is brutal, but so is the fall from the top where you find out who your true friends really are. That's where our two main leads are in the first two episodes.

It has the makings of a really good story. So far it's been excellent. I hope it continues. The soundtrack also seems to be really good.

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I only began Bloody Monday because I was told by a dear friend that Miura Haruma was hot. What I didn't know is that he happens to be a good actor, of which I suspected but needed some time (about 2 episodes) to confirm. But there you have it. The reason why I watched a Japanese drama about a terrorist cell intent on destroying Tokyo with a deadly virus known as Bloody X was because of Miura Haruma. Our then 18 year old lead star plays Takagi Fujimaro, aka Falcon – an internationally acclaimed master hacker who of course becomes unwittingly involved in… dun Dun DUN… saving the world. Or at least Tokyo.

Needless to say is that Bloody Monday is an intense action-thriller that successfully kept my interest in its 11 episode run. Before I get down to knit-picking it, let me just say that for the most part I was pretty sure on how much I liked it. It was a staunch 8/10 from at least episode 3 onwards. Whether that was because Miura Haruma proved to be so efficient at portraying a genius high school boy/hacker whose world is thrown off balance by the intrusion of downright evil and plot-twist-worthy terrorists is a moot point. I try to be objective, but the only proof I have right now is to say that when he cried, I cried. No Kdrama heroine-esqe tears from this boy. I believed him! I was also impressed with the nearly endless series of plot twists, some of which I predicted from day 1 and some of which I never in my wildest dreams saw coming (and I seriously dream plot twist detection - it’s my one consolation before bed that at least my brain is smarter than Dramaland-ish plot twists). In the last five minutes, I hastily changed my 8 to a 9. I like a good emotional twist. So sue me.

While Bloody Monday is an overall exciting watch with notable acting (even among the supporting cast), I’m just going to have to say that thrillers, even more than comedies, come under my scrutiny for gaping plot holes. For instance, I’m pretty sure I could hand in my current resume, and instantly get a job with the number one Japanese intelligence agency (in this drama, Third-i), because obviously my rationale for thinking out logical strategies is higher than half the plans created by the master spooks in Bloody Monday. I also know that when you’re gearing up for a gun-fight, you really shouldn't walk up to your intended target close enough to where your target can easily disarm you and aim that gun directly at your own head. But I digress.

And all plot holes aside, I really did have shivers most of the times I sat down to watch this drama unfold. Having genuine anxiety for fictional characters goes a long way in my book of Appreciating Entertainment 101.

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i wish it kept going .. After watching this whole drama, i had to say this is my fav on air dramas out of all the ones i was watching... Maa Roo was very scary at times .. but splendid acting from all the characters.. i was a little annoyed by Dong Choo\''s mom at times but she had her reasons :P .. To me, it is such a heart warming drama. Story is different and written beautifully as it introduced disabilities in a very unique manner i.e deafness and mental disability. i really like how they introduced disability and how others react to it. They showed how people struggle from special needs parents or how accepting and understanding children were to special needs parents. it was really touching... i dont want to go into details and ruin all the fun... but its a great drama of betrayal,greed, love, friendship, relations, revenge and disability. The story started off when all the main actors were little and gradually they told the backgrounds of every character. Characters growth are really good and acting is superb. I really liked how every person had a reason to be who they were and what they did..Dong choo\''s smile is very killing... Her and bong Woori\''s chemistry , their love and romance was really light yet so0o adorable throught the drama .. i had to add few things in my review... I fell in love with the music...(first time:P) esp male ost who sung the main song.. though it didnt have a lot of background songs, i was satisfied with just one song that played again and again ..02.
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am glad they ended it so beautifully .. but am so sad that it all came to an end :( ... i want more of CYHMH ...

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When i tuned in for this season i thought it would a continuation of the last season, although I was excited to Xia Lin and Ling Yi Zhou with their new family from last season, i was not exactly disappointed with this season.
I thought that the alternate universe was a refreshing spin on the show and the still had references to season 1, which made the show all more enjoyable. I do believe this was the right way to go about season 2 because in season 1 LYZ faking XL's leukaemia was incredibly cruel. This reboot gave a less stalkerish role and he was someone you could root for the whole time. In this season, the way the couple came together was more natural and there were less mind games, which was better for everyone.
The side couples were featured a bit more than last season and their stories were still incredibly cute. Only thing I can say is I prefer Chu Yan and Xiao You/Ruan Meng in season 1. They were still very cute in this season. But i thought they were funnier in season 1, but their romance story is just as powerful.
I think you guys should watch it. I think the story is more approachable and has a sweeter touch to it. This season was funnier too.

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I've watched several adaptations of the Itazura Na Kiss franchise and like all others, had high expectations for this one. I literally just stalked the internet waiting for english subs for this to come out so I could watch it. I can honestly say no adaptation has nailed Jiang Zhi Shu's (Irie Noaki) character to the point than this one. There wasn't too much aloofness like the Korean adaptation and he also wasn't too kind/amiable like the Thai version. Previously, my personal Zhi Shu favorite was the Taiwanese version starring Joe Cheng and Ariel Lin because it was the only version of all the ones I've seen that I saw Zhi Shu developing feelings for Xiang Qin and not just proclaiming his love unexpectedly to her at the climax. However, after watching this adaptation, I can honestly say that Darren Wang played Jiang Zhi Shu the best. The Zhi Shu in this movie shows just enough emotion to make his love seem real and maintains the same aloofness to keep to the original plot. Jelly Lin also played a good Yuan Xiang Qin. Her blind and unrequited love was annoying at all, unlike the Xiang Qin in the Taiwanese Movie remake starring Esther Wu.

Now onto the plot. Like all the Itazura Na Kiss remakes, this movie was very fluffy and not to be taken very seriously. There were many overexaggerated plot details that made me laugh because of their absurdity. The romance itself was very cute and light-hearted. I absolutely adored the moments where Zhi Shu would quietly smile to himself after interacting with Xiang Qin. My favorite part was the high school phase. I found it incredulously funny of the school system and how they separated and made a very clear distinction between class A and F. After watching this, I find myself wishing this movie was a drama instead so I could see all the other scenes that the writers left out because of the time constraint of it being a movie. I hope another remake comes out.

To anyone who's watched this: watch their marriage scene on youtube that wasn't included in the movie.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YA-epdtfI7M

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I'll be honest, I decided to watch Into the Ring because I heard Nana was starring as the main role. As my first Nana drama, I did not know what to expect, and let me just tell you that I was shocked. I went from watching because of Nana to continuing to watch because of the amazing cast, story, and characters.

Story:
Politics is a genre that I never mind watching. As someone personally interested in the matter, I am always up for a political drama. But with drama's, I usually find the political side either lacking or too hectic. For Into the Ring, I saw a perfect balance, which I loved a lot. I loved how it was not obvious how every issue would turn out, and I love how each politician was portrayed. I found myself laughing multiple times, and even shedding a few tears here and there. For me, there was a perfect balance of everything, and nothing went overboard.

Characters:
The thing that made me love the drama the most was no doubt the characters and the relationship between them. Starting off with the leading lady, Goo Se Ra. From the first episode, I already loved Goo Se Ra. I loved how passionate she was and how she never gave up. I was happy to watch a character that would keep trying instead of breaking down and cry when things don't go her way. The leading man, Seo Gong Myung, was another character I cherished dearly. I loved how we got to see how Gong Myung transition as he starting helping Se Ra. Which speaking of, Se Ra and Gong Myung were such a cute couple to watch. I loved every scene they were in, even before they starting dating. No doubt one of my favorites couples in kdramaland. For other characters, Yoon Hee Su and Kim Min Jae were two characters that I could never decide whether I like them or not. Despite my personal feelings, I think they were good characters and brought a lot to the drama. Cho Maeng Duk, the "villain," was another interesting character to watch. Although his character infuriated me multiple times, I do think he was a great character with how he was set out to be. I loved the relationship between Se Ra, Han Bi, Woo Young, and Ja Ryong, which speaking of Ja Ryong, he stole so many scenes he was in! Overall, all the characters stood out and made the drama what it is. I also applaud all the actors, especially Nana and Park Sung Hoon. They portrayed their characters flawlessly and I couldn't imagine anyone taking on those two roles.

Other:
As someone who took a film class for my senior high school year, I'm all too familiar with camera angles. From the first episode, I'll admit it was weird seeing camera angles I've never seen before, but after a few episodes, I grew to love them. I thought the angles complemented what was happening very well, and I think it was an interesting addition. Personally, I wouldn't change anything about them, as I cannot imagine this drama without those fascinating angles.

Final Thoughts:
Into the Ring is no doubt one of my favorite dramas of the year and one of my favorite dramas of all time. Every week, I found myself counting down to a new episode, and when I saw one had been subbed, I would immediately stop what I was doing and watch it. I hope people don't ignore this underrated gem because of the political side and instead give it chance. If you're hesitant to watch this drama, I'd say go for it. You never know, you could be pulled in by the characters, plot, relationship, or everything wonderful this drama has to offer.

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I was hesitant about the overall score to give to this movie. I basically loved everything about it, from the plot to the acting to the execution. Possibly it deserves a 10, and I gave it a nine just to retain a right to a higher score in the future.



I wasn't expecting anything less from the same screenwriter of Tatta Hitotsu No Koi, Sunao Ni Narenakute and Orange Days, nor from the same director of Winter Sonata, Sorry I love you and Bad Guy. They both did not disappoint.



The script is delicate and moving. It touches deep chords in the hearts of anyone who has experienced the loss of a beloved one at least once. It talks about the fragile, magic relationship between the living and the deceased: how hard it is to let go, to overcome regrets and remorses while still keeping the memory alive.



The photography is beautiful, it highlights that vague atmosphere constantly suspended between reality and fairy-tale. It helps that the two main leads are both beautiful to watch and just as convincing together. Hero Jaejoong might not be yet ready for complex line deliveries, but he's very expressive and, let's face it, a pleasure for the eyes. Han Hyo Joo, on the other hand is brilliant here, bringing up the joyful side this movie would otherwise lack.



I think I've written enough. If you are willing to watch a movie which combines the Japanese delicacy and the Korean intensity of emotions, give this one a try.

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One of a kind - The only one, perhaps!

Life Senjou no Bokura presents one of the most authentic BL/LGBT storylines I've encountered, capturing a profound sense of realism and passion. The narrative masterfully navigates the complexities individuals face when grappling with their identities, vividly portraying the suffocating impact of societal and cultural pressures. While the storyline may not be entirely groundbreaking, it manages to carve out a distinct space, evoking a range of emotions from warmth and happiness to a deep sense of love. Life on Line is poised to linger in my memory for an extended period, a testament to its ability to resonate on a profound and lasting level.

Story: 10/10
The narrative unfolds around the lives of Yuki and Akira, two sheltered teenagers aged 16, whose paths cross in a unique manner. Their initial encounter takes place as they walk along a road surface marking, perceiving it as a symbolic bridge in the fictional world of their shared game. To navigate challenges beneath this metaphorical bridge, they must stay on the line. Fate intervenes, and the two discover they are playing the same game, sparking love at first sight for Akira.

A routine develops where they wait for each other after school on the same line, yet for Akira, it transcends mere companionship; he longs to gaze upon Yuki's face. In the midst of confusion about his feelings, Akira rejects advances from the most popular girl and shares a meaningful kiss with Yuki. Thus begins their clandestine journey through adolescence, their love deepening against the backdrop of societal pressures.

As the weight of societal expectations bears down on Akira, he reaches a breaking point, choosing to end his relationship with Yuki to spare him a life fraught with challenges. Despite the breakup, Akira's love for Yuki remains steadfast, almost overwhelming. Akira proceeds to marry the popular girl, attempting to embrace a "normal" existence, but the void left by Yuki persists, resisting normalization. Yuki, on the other hand, experiences heartbreak and anguish.

Realizing the gravity of his mistake, Akira undergoes a profound transformation. He courageously confronts his family, bares his emotions in coming out, and takes the difficult step of divorcing his wife. Over the course of three years, Akira relentlessly searches for Yuki, driven by an unwavering commitment to fulfill a promise made during their shared dreams—to witness the aurora together. As he embarks on this journey, fate takes a surprising turn, and while venturing to the very place where they once aimed to bring closure to their ill-fated relationship, Akira finds Yuki. Amidst a storm of emotions, Yuki forgives Akira, marking a poignant and unexpected reunion that solidifies their shared destiny once more.

Yuki is warmly embraced into Akira's family, where he is graciously accepted. The two decide to move in together, embarking on an ordinary yet profound journey, navigating life's challenges side by side. Strengthening their bond, Akira formalizes Yuki's place in his life by registering him into his household, legally cementing their connection as a family. Together, they face the complexities of life with resilience, forging a path forward as a united and legally recognized family.

At 85, Yuki, now known as Ituo Yuki, wears two rings as he awaits their eventual reunion in a hospital bed. Serenely departing the hospital, Yuki, seemingly transformed into his 16-year-old self, steps onto the very same road surface marking where their paths first intertwined. At the culmination of the line, a spectral Akira, forever eternally 16, envelops Yuki, and together, they transcend into the eternal beyond, leaving behind mortal constraints.

Acting: 10/10
Shirasu Jin as Akira and Raiku as Yuki, were out of this world in their roles. I can not criticise, it was acting done right in their respective roles. All other supporting characters, shined as well.

Music: 10/10
Oh... I love the music given by band Ryu Matsuyama, all of the songs are mellow and with pop touch, my favourite are "Go Through, Grow Through", "Love is Coming Home", and "No Better Place (inst)".

Rewatch value: 100/10
This series/film is a heartwarming journey that offers a spectrum of emotions. From heart-wrenching moments to instances of joy, the narrative seamlessly weaves together elements of reality and love. It is a tale that unfolds with a perfect balance of poignant and uplifting moments, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. The ending, while breaking your heart in a happy way, is so compelling that the desire to witness the characters' journey persists. This is one of those rare stories that begins with a clean slate and concludes with a satisfying and proper end, providing a complete and fulfilling narrative experience.

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This series may go down as one of the most stunning I've seen to date. Everything about it was beautiful and heartbreaking at once. The cinematography and the music are worthy enough, and the costuming is gorgeous as well. I didn't originally even plan to watch this show. I didn't think it would be a subject that would interest me because I don't normally care for historical dramas. I was sucked into the grip of this show immediately and was not let loose until the final credits came. Knowing that this series had its basis in real Korean history was never far from my mind. The writer managed to weave an epic tale of love and sacrifice. I never noticed the slow plot movement in the first part because I was so immersed in the path to get there. Each step is important to the overall storyline. And the culmination of the groundwork that was laid made the slow build up worth the wait.

The only main actor I had watched before was Yoo Yeon Suk, but I had not been a fan. I knew of Lee Byung Hun, but had never watched him in anything. I was blown away by the acting of all 5 main characters. Some may say otherwise, but I thought they were flawless in these roles. Kim Tae Ri was especially captivating. Her beauty and her voice were mesmerizing to me. Some thought LBH was too expressionless, but I found him quite the opposite. And when he unleashed one of his smiles, I was enchanted. For the first half or so, I felt like the chemistry between the Eugene and Ae Shin was very thick. There was a bit of shift afterwards, but nevertheless they had something there. I was very moved by the acting of the other three as well, and they all became very beloved characters that I rooted for. Dong Mae and Hina were the anti-heroes. And Hee Sung was a hero in disguise. They were all complex and compelling and I loved each of them for varying reasons. The extended cast was no less impressive, and no less part of this story - I couldn't even begin to name them all and what they added to the narrative.

The story is not all tears and sadness though. In the beginning, there is definitely some humor in the mix as well to keep it from becoming too solemn. The writer really did a great job carrying us forward with each new step that our characters faced. I loved all the relationships that were formed, and the bravery of the Righteous Army, and the people of Joseon who captured my heart. So when it got to the climax, we were more than ready ---and yet, somehow, not prepared at all.

The music chosen was excellent. Haunting and lovely. Sad March and The Day were the main songs. And a sad, melodious version of Greensleeves to top it off.

I know that I gave it a 10 for re-watch value. I would absolutely watch this again, but I don't think my heart could handle it anytime soon as it's already ripped to shreds right now! Even if you think that historical shows are not for you, I think everyone that loves Korean dramas and culture should not miss this show. I would not recommend this show to anyone that is looking for fast paced or satisfying happy bows. You would be looking at the wrong thing here. But if you want a story that will move you and mesmerize you, this is where it's at.

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