Cliche but cute light watch
As a long-term modern Chinese rom-com watcher, I expect storylines to be reused. But I'm just here to watch a feel-good rom-com. Chemistry between the leads is aight and they try to add the little twist with placing this drama in the dubbing industry (its not much of a twist lol). The OST, some cute moments, and no real pea-brained character made this drama a nice light watch. I would rewatch if I'm ever bored and looking for comedy with no strings attached. I'm only up to episode 22 but the writers have been playing it pretty safe so I don't expect a bad ending. Also, the acting isn't bad, Sun Yi Ning (Amy Sun) performs pretty well once again.Basically, don't expect this drama to leave you shook. But it was a quality production (esp that OST) so this drama still ranks aight in my eyes.
update: I finished and my views stay pretty much the same
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Hands-down best 2020 drama for me
It feels a bit unfair how this drama is so underrated relative to its awesome quality, because this has EVERYTHING that a great drama should have:1. Powerful and Meaningful Themes
This show revolves around finding your passion, facing and succeeding over obstacles, knowing and improving yourself, learning from one another, and friendship. Go may just be a "game", but we see the characters discover themselves a bit more through it and witness them grow for the better.
2. Character Development
Shi Guang, the main character, goes through a MASSIVE character development throughout the whole series. He isn't even bad in the first place, maybe immature at worst, so it makes the viewers root for him a lot. As mentioned by some side-characters, he is "like a sponge", and his willingness to learn from others and acknowledge his weaknesses significantly contributed to his improvements. Not only him, but we see other characters (actually, almost all of them) grow as well which is very satisfying.
3. Friendship
The amazing thing here is how fiendship is displayed in different ways: 13th High School Go Club friendship which is about mutual support, Yijianghu Go Club friendship which is about encouraging and strengthening each other, Fang Xu and Bai Chuan's friendship which is about making sure the other doesn't stray from the right path, Shi Guang and Yu Liang's friendship which is about rediscovering one's passion and setting an eternal goal to pursue, and of course Shi Guang and Chu Ying's friendship which is about finding a purpose to one's existence.
4. Acting
There is literally no blackhole in all of the characters despite most of them being young actors. Huge props especially to the lead actors: Juck Zhang who made Chu Ying impossible to hate but can also make you cry (I DARE you to watch episodes 32-34 without crying) and Hu Xianxu as Shi Guang who is undoubtedly THE STAR of the whole drama, one of the best actors of his generation to be quite honest. The young actor who played young Shi Guang also deserves a special mention as well.
5. Production Quality
The drama's timeline is from 1997-2006 so important details like clothing, appliances, places, even vehicles need special detail. There's definitely no weak point on that aspect. The cinematography and music are also very beautiful as well.
This drama may not be that famous internationally because there is no romance and doesn't ride the coattails of the ever-famous Hallyu wave, but you'll DEFINITELY miss out if you don't give this one a chance.
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Here's why...
1) The diversity!
It's not every day that you come across a film that features SIX different languages...yes, six. There's Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Russian, German, and English (a tiny bit) O_O
It was an amazing experience to see the perspectives (somewhat--it's literally not much) of different nations during WWII with the progression of the film. What I really liked about that, is that by doing so, no one nation was definitively tacked as the "bad guy," because this film's purpose is not to show that; rather, it is about two rivals and their trials through war, and ultimately the bond they form.
2) The effects!
There was not one second my eyes were not glued to the screen. 'My Way' is a war movie, as in LOTS of fighting scenes, people being shot--death, explosions...you know ;) Now, if that kind of scares you, no worries, this is not a gore-type war film. There's no flying limbs or guys lying around with half of their body still intact while you see all their insides pouring out >:p yuck! Although, there was one incident--I won't say exactly, but it has to do with pus *cringes*. TBH, other than that, just expect blood and dead bodies.
As far as explosions go...superb. Scenes with airplanes...well done.
Anytime there was fighting, I found myself holding my breath, because it was so hectic and unpredictable...really captured the feeling of war. There were numerous occasions when I was chanting "Please don't die!" in my head with my fingers crossed haha ;)
The effects are awesome, but I should add that you'll see a lot more than just "war effects," since the film begins before the characters go off to war.
3) The characters!
What can I say? I mean from the main cast to the supporting cast, each character had an understandable motive and development, because all the characters were affected by WWII. I found it fascinating just to see all of these characters change over time due to the war and the fear of dying.
The character, Hasegawa Tatsuo, is definitely my favorite from the film. You'll see him as a kid, as a teen and as a man, and will never wonder (perhaps like me) why he is the way he is...that's really thanks to an incredibly written story.
Which brings me to...
4) The story!
It's based on a true story, which is why it comes across as being so realistic.
Although this is a war film, that's just the setting, the story itself is very heartwarming. I cannot say enough how much I loved it...I really did. For a film that's over two hours, it's unlikely that you will ever feel bored. I mean, if you heart is not pounding from the action, it might be breaking during the emotional scenes. I really want to say more, but I don't know how to without repeating the synopsis or spoiling the film for you, so I'll just say this; look forward to watching a darn good film :D
5) The acting!
Trust me it's outstanding. These actors aren't rookies; they know what to do, and they do it well. Plus, it's Jang Dong Gun as a lead, as well as Joe Odagiri of which I am now a fan. These two leads and the excellent supporting cast make this film well worth watching.
So, I feel like I've written quite a lot, but have said just as little; hopefully not too little, because I hope that I've said just enough to encourage you to watch My Way. If I am not helpful (at all D:) do please look up a better review, because I really think this film is good enough to deserve a view :)
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i need more
Hey Strongberry, sit down here, let's have a friendly conversation. You guys will really make me fall in love with every movie that you guys do? mannnnnnnnnn we need a SERIES, this movie suits more like a first episode of a series. then you can explore a great relationship and fears, and maaaaaaaaaan you guys really have talent and make the Korean Bl's the greatest. I'm really sick of the Bl korean series having the same format and strongberry are out here to make everything different and unique. you guys for SURE have my support! the actors are so pretty and act so well, the soundtrack it's good too. I need more.Was this review helpful to you?
Cast - I gave perfect score, 'cos they really deserved it! for Yano and Takahashi's role, they did a great acting, they gave life to the role... I mean it's really like in the anime.
Music - I love the OST. Great choice of songs. :)
Rewatch Value - Definitely, I will watch it all over again.
Overall - since it has 2 parts as of now this is the first part so I'm still looking forward to the second part. Totally inlove with the movie! Watch it and you'll see! :)
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However, at the beginning of the movie, Cho Won’s mother made a statement where she wanted him to have self worth. I think in her pursuit of this, she kind of lost her purpose and doubted her reasons. Me, personally, I applaud her for doing it.
The acting by the leads, Kim Mi Sook and Cho Seung Woo was outstanding. The attention to detail that not only Mi Sook focused on as the mother but Seung Woo as an autistic man was definitely believable.
No stone was left unturned; from Cho Won’s treatment by so-called normal people to the jealousy his brother had because of all the attention his brother got. I was glad they didn’t leave that out. I believe the actors spent a lot of time researching the subject as well as talking to the real life Mother and Son. Yes, this is a true story that reflects the life and accomplishments of not only the mother but the son, in his pursuit to run!
A great real-life story!!
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This review may contain spoilers
Us walking along in those indifferent (?) shoes of Han Gong-ju is the great power of this KMovie
Among independent South Korean film productions, “Han Gong-ju” is considered one of the most successful to date. In fact, the number of viewers exploded within the first week - through word of mouth alone. In addition to this vote with feet, there were consistently positive (national and international) film reviews and awards."Han Gong-ju" offers relentlessly haunting independent KMovie quality, frugal, not easy to digest, yet calmly, subtly and sensitively told, too. Behind the seemingly indifferent attitude of the protagonist, highly concentrated emotional force blazes subliminally, which is released less in the protagonist herself than within the audience. By the way, the story is based on a true story. (More background below - but that's quite a spoiler... so if you want to watch the film, you might want to read it afterwards!)
The KMovie tells the story of the fictional Hang Gong-ju in a rather reserved manner. We initially follow the girl without knowing what it is about or what she actually has experienced. Over time we learn to understand, or better: vaguely guess what she was and is going through. Over 112 minutes we see and experience the world vaguely through her eyes. This is a great power of this KMovie. The girl´s everyday world is fundamentally threatening, unwelcoming and cold, almost merciless. Han Gong-ju herself is tough and clear, demure and mostly indifferent. (Hang Gong-ju may by now have learned to face her world with indifference, but we as audience? We may feel differently here and there…) Nevertheless, she also has learned to create islands in her life that offer at least some minimalist beauty, joy and perspective.
What happened and is happening to Hang-Gong-ju admits of no excuse. But unfortunately it happens everywhere. Not just in South Korea. Unfortunately, again and again, more and more often. *
The role of adults is also inexcusable. It is we so-called 'adults' who lay, or should lay, the foundation for a sense of justice in the upbringing of our children. However, in this story (and its true background) it failed spectacularly. On several fronts. The results can be considered rather grim.
As solid and reliable role models that 'we' adults are/should be: how do we actually relate to right and wrong? Parents who would rather protect their beloved children from the consequence of their (any) actions, than confront them with it – yes, that's understandable. But will the 'children' learn from their mistakes in the future (without any true feeling of guilt about having done something wrong)? So that they might not replay their misbehaviour in the future? Rather not. However, if everyone prefers to proclaim an exception rule for themselves (and their loved ones), that cannot work out well. So it always ends in fighting and stabbing... by any means.
The irony: For cinema and television this is actually quite wonderful, because thus there are always new, stirring stories to tell. In the case of "Han Gong-ju", fortunately the entertainment gain does not come from dramatically exaggerated voyeurism, but rather from the fact that we walk a part of the truly sobering track in those indifferent (?) shoes of Han Gong-ju. By doing so, clues putting the (difficult to digest) puzzle together accumulate...
Lee Su-jin's KMovie is consistently serious, unpretentious and at the same time convincingly authentic in the presentation of the protagonist. Chun Woo-hee in her difficult role as Han Gong-ju is also outstanding and masterly in this context!
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SIDE NOTE: --- Events at Miryang Middle School in 2004 ---
Over a period of just under a year, at least 44 (but possibly more than 120) high school students repeatedly raped three 13 to 17 year old girls and filmed them in order to blackmail the victims. The gang rapes obviously happened as a purely entertaining pastime for the boys.
The first 14-year-old victim was blackmailed with the film recording to bring her younger sister and her older cousin to the subsequent 'meetings', who then also became victims of renewed gang rape. In addition, the victims were forced to pay so that the footage would not be published. There may have been even more victims.
As unforgivable as these actions are, dealing with them was even more unforgivable. After the girls' aunt reported the case, of 44 clearly identified repeat offenders, only three were initially actually arrested. Due to massive public pressure, 9 more were taken into custody and a further 29 were officially arrested but not taken into custody.
There were no serious consequences for the perpetrators. On the contrary, the victims became victims again! On the one hand, they suffered psychological damage during the interrogation due to insensitive, confrontational confrontations and verbally abusive male officers (even though the victims had expressly asked for female officers). On the other hand, parents tried to force the actual role of perpetrator on the victims due to provocative behavior.
Finally, the defenders pointed out that some of the boys are already about to enlist in respectable universities and would soon contribute to the shining future of the city. In general, the parents of the perpetrators managed to build up pressure in various directions and also helped with money to box their boys out of the annoying situation. Among the victims' parents, on the other hand, one father unforgivably exploited his daughter's predicament for his own benefit. Ultimately, only 5 boys were tried in juvenile court. Without serious consequences. They are now probably fathers themselves and are firmly established in their careers.
In the meantime, this and that may have changed legally (and also when it comes to investigating), in South Korea and Germany and in other countries, too. But still, in current cases of juvenile sexual offenses, to date a strong tendency among parents here and there is increasing to wanting to box out their loved ones by all means possible, regardless of the losses. Far too rarely is attention paid to reflecting to their sons (and/or daughters) when they in fact tremendously misbehaved, that, yes, they are still loved and ok, BUT THEIR ACTING IS NOT OK at all. As a matter of course they will have to face the consequences – as serious misconduct that the social community we live in does not tolerate.
… However, our problem is: 'we' obviously DO tolerate it... Over and over again.
Sadly, in this respect, the KMovie “Han Gong-ju” is as topical as it was in 2013.
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Inconsistant day to be a dog...
Is it really a good day to be a dog? I do not think so as this show teaches us that being a dog can be really scary, being a human by day dog by night can get you in to a whole lot of trouble... not to mention mess things up for a bunch of people...This drama has some good parts some cringe, some annoying elements, some fun, some more or less predictable twist or should I say side stories within the story with the side stories that are messed up... but at timed interestingly intwined...
The selling points of this drama are the eye candy and fluff!
Our male lead Cha Eun Woo is probably one of dreamlands sweetest, best looking and the over all most interesting personalities and whose use of lip gloss can only be beat by Park Hyung Sik in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon. Though there are parts that are a bit odd... He was a pleasure to watch thruout the show.
The female lead Park Gyu Young (and her sister) had a few to many moments of oh come on, oh the cringe, baby voice... Luckily they dd not last long enough to completely ruin the show but where enough to drag down the score by a bunch of points. To be honest she is actually 80% adorable, with great acting both as a dog and human however those 20% where so bad I almost dropped the show, and had it not been for Chae Eun Woos (well everything) I probably would have...
The villain and side characters also range between oh my please stop the cringe/annoying parts to great amazing, lovable, I want to adopt that kid... sometimes in the same person, same lifetime, different lifetimes.. As this is another one of those drams where the writers figured most of the childhood connections where already done and could not be beaten so they had to add the past life connection to show the depth of the connection between the cast.
Other perks with this show are the huge amount of fluffy, sweet, slightly mean, cute dogs, with or without transformation. So to sum it up, the drama is messy, inconsistent, annoying at times cute most of the time and extremely fluffy
So: Story as a whole 8,5 ⭐️
Male lead: 12 stars (out of 10) ⭐️
Deduction for annoying elements: -4 stars 👎
Fluff: 10 stars ⭐️
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1
1The Art of Strategic Retreat
Immortal Ascension is the long-awaited live-action adaptation of the hit xianxia web-novel A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality by Wang Yu (忘语), a defining work of the "mortal cultivation" sub-genre. While the novel chronicles protagonist Han Li's thousand-year journey over a sprawling 2,400 chapters, this ambitious adaptation condenses the first 200 years into 30 episodes. It is set in a brutal, realistic immortal world where might makes right. The Heavenly Dao (天道) is indifferent to concepts of "good" or "evil"; the path to immortality isn't about grand morality or predestined genius, but about raw power and survival. Here, cunning, alchemy, and artifacts can trump sheer talent.Three borrowed bowls of flour for flatbread. That is why an ordinary village boy, Han Li, stumbles on to a thousand year path to immortality. It isn't a profound or carefully considered decision or even a conscious choice on his part —just survival instinct, pure and simple. It begins in Shenshou Valley, a place that opens his eyes to a world beyond his wildest imagination and offers his first chilling glimpse into the callous utilitarianism and transactional nature of cultivation relationships. He picks up the underappreciated skill of gardening and chances upon his most invaluable artifact. From his first mentor, Physician Mo, Han Li learns the core secret to immortality: live to fight another day. He is the master of the art of strategic retreat—my lips would twitch every time he began stealthily backing away at the slightest hint of hostility.
Han Li is an unconventional protagonist. He isn't motivated by naive heroism and chooses a path that is ultimately selfish and solitary. Often underestimated, he prevails through cautious pragmatism and resourcefulness, relying on methodical long-term planning, deception, and fleeing unwinnable conflicts. Despite the running gag that Han Li is very plain, Yang Yang is perfectly cast. His immaculate appearance and radiant, ageless glow convey the aura of a character who is ultimately unattainable. I've never been a fan of his acting, but this is by far his best role. His portrayal is exquisite: the careful circumspection in his movements, the nuanced flicker in his eyes, the micro-expressions that signal he is always watchful and calculating; that fraught stillness when sensing danger; and the intense, cold-blooded ruthlessness in combat. Yang Yang's power, grace, and natural athleticism are on full display. Instead of just standing around uselessly waving a fan (Who Rules the World), he delivers multiple thrilling, intense, and brilliantly choreographed action sequences that showcase Han Li's ability to think on his feet, using his cunning and resources to level the playing field. The visual effects, however, are a bit dated and at times overwhelm the impressive stunt work, detracting from how flawlessly Yang Yang executes difficult mid-air acrobatics while staying completely in character.
I love the decision to shoot mostly on location—it vividly reinforces the vastness, timelessness, and solitude of Han Li's journey. It may have made lighting and framing more difficult to control, but it's far superior to the typical fake, over-lit, and stagnant xianxia set. The plot feels condensed, and the pacing is uneven, alternating rapidly between character introductions, heavy world-building via dialogue, and high-octane action. Some important characters—Physician Mo, Mo Caihuan, and a few of Han Li's Yellow Maple Valley mentors—are fleshed out, but too many others zip by cursorily. While Wang Duo plays the villain with great relish and humor, Wang Chan's character is a cardboard cutout, because Han Li's greatest antagonist is truly the indifferent universe—and Han Li himself, and the humanity he must leave behind.
At times, this feels like a video game, but it is actually a quite sad and profound story. The narrative tone doesn't indulge in sadness; Han Li's moments of temptation and regret are subtle and transient: a pause, a concealed glance behind lowered eyelids, the slightest hesitation, the moment he gives in to a brief hug. It's all in the subtext, in how he regularly shouts out to Li Feiyu, recalling his last mortal friend. Han Li is not a relatable protagonist; it's hard to feel sorry for him, as he does not feel sorry for himself or for the people he coldly leaves behind.
Fittingly, at the end of this first phase, we come full circle to a precious piece of flatbread that Nangong Wan casually snatches from him. Ms. Mo would never have done that. It's why she is not the endgame; she isn't ruthless or selfish enough to accompany him on his journey. While this is not a romantic story, the character who moved me most was Ms. Mo. It is with his first love and final obsession that Han Li almost allows himself to be mortal.
I don't know how to feel about this kind of story or Han Li's path. It is inspiring as a tale of how an ordinary person can become extraordinary. And a sobering lesson about at what price. It is a story that has stayed with me. I have to rate it 9/10.
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The characters shine. The plot... not so much.
This drama’s rating is high purely because of the characters. Song Ah x Joon Young are two of the softest, politest, most introverted leads I’ve ever watched. I fell in love with them from the start and I never fell out despite my declining interest in the drama. PEB & KMJ play them to perfection.The second leads are both great too. Hyeon Ho is easy to love - the smiling, puppy in love. Jung Kyung is more complex. Struggling with her fallen star & complicated feelings, she’s still clever and kind and I don’t care what anyone says, I loved her. I’ll be adding her to my pantheon of second female leads who deserved better. (It’s a really great club btw I’ll make a list of them all one day)
Cha Young In (the noona from the kyunghoo foundation) was also a quiet favourite of mine. Unlike the many immature & selfish professors from the university, she’s grown wise with time & dispenses advice and knowledge freely without judging or looking down on anyone. Everyone is lucky to have her as their senior in life tbh. I’d love an older female friend like her.
So yes. 6.5 stars purely because they all live bright in my heart and the first third or half was really good.
The plot lets it down. At some point past act 1 it becomes this endless slog of misery and miscommunication (from a couple that thrived on being open with one another no less!)
I didn’t mind it being slow because it felt like a healing drama and for a while it was. It soon devolved into a melodramatic mess however and the neat bow-wrapped ending isn’t enough to save it.
Just another drama of what-could-have been to join the many already littering the LOST POTENTIAL graveyard.
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This review may contain spoilers
Playing Peek-a-boo With the Interesting Plotline
Khun Dad!?! Dafug you mean Khun Dad??? And what the hell was that dancing pose? Dude out there looking like a confused triangle. Look, I’m used to people in love having ridiculous nicknames like my Mosquito net, Donut lips, Baboon butt and Chicken thighs. But I draw the line at effing Khun Dad. Dafug?? Can’t believe Bank was able to say that with a straight face and Mos didn’t throw up on him every time he said it.Anyway, I’m sure y’all remember that abomination when Pit Babe made us throw up our lunch going ‘Mama, Papa’ *race car noises*, right? Yeah, prepare to wanna throw up last christmas’ turkey, cuz there’s a whole new cringe in town.
This week on BLs Cringe Hot 100
#1 Khun Dad. [NEW]
#2 Mama, Papa, Pitbabe. [-1]
#3 I’ll Kiss You Till You Drop, 2gether. [=]
#8 I'll Be Your Vaccine, Fish Upon A Sky [+3]
This was legit me when I heard that nickname for the first time.
SALIN: We are soo in love, let’s have cute nicknames. I’ll call you, Khun Dad. *in love noises*
ME: Did he just say…nah, *shakes head.* I must have misheard.
SALIN: Khun Dad.
ME: God forbid!
WHY Child??? May this level of inlove-ness-ness never locate me! Mister effing Dad?? Why? Peoples, he said Khun Dad with his whole chest!! Maybe I found this repulsive because I’m as romantic as those bl scenes where they think giving their partners that yellow ice tea and drinking it slowly is romantic. Khun Dad. The devil is a liar!
Listen, thanks to dramas, single people have not known peace in this fandom. There’s always some romantic nonsense to make people look 1000 times more single. And in this show, there are so many romantic scenes from both the first and second leads that make single people look like they live in a hole, alone, with 21 cats. And yes, good for them, they are in love. But gawwwd do some of the romantic gestures makes me cringe.
- The Khun Dad
- The I love you in 6 languages or more
- That woman/Salin prisoner who turned into a light in the finale and promised to spend her next life loving Sun in a wig, who is a half snake lord of something. It vexed me, cuz the eff you mean after he locked you up for centuries you wanna be born again and love him? People in love should be abandoned at disneyland on their birthdays.
And do y’all remember that dancing Salin and Sun did on their first? date? That pose at the end was the most effing awkward, embarrassing, unsexiest thing I’d ever seen. Homeboy out there looking like the cousin of that one gingerbread from Shrek. Literally, what the hell was that? Whose idea was that? Get the hell outta here.
Khun Dad. Why, just why? What did we do to deserve this? What did I do to the writers? Why they gonna subject me to that? People In Love Are So Disgusting. Ew.
PLOT
SunsetXvibes feels like a fancy arse dessert I ordered, but when it came, it tasted like cupboard paper with pink sparkles. Cuz, why was the show playing peek-a-boo with the interesting storyline? Mfers had a naked guy napping in some water and spent 98.6% of the drama in the office talking about necklaces. Going in, I thought we were going to see behind the scenes of what happens in these sort of companies. You know, there'd be fashion shows like in the finale, biddings wars to see their designs worn by famous celebrities in magazines and events, you know, the ins and outs of the glamorous world. Instead we got them clicking on computers, talking about designing and meetings.
And okay sure, what I got wasn't want I expected, but interning at a jewellery company, cool, nice, but what about that butt naked dude? When are you going to tell me about him? How does it connect to this main plot?
The screenwriters were like: how many random flashbacks you want with no context or development?
Director: Yes.
Literally, were the flashbacks supposed to intrigue us? The first two times sure, but after we kept getting barely there glances with no correlation to the current plot-line, I straight up went and filled in my own thing.
ME: Ahh, so in his past life, he used to moonlight as a naked river god, who knew some woman. Either that or he went swimming one time and someone stole his cloth. Then I was like ‘hmmm, is it like The Sign? It reminds me of the sign, is a dragon looking snake gonna show up? Then bam, it showed up.
No, but the writers? ruin this. They had a good plot on paper, but they were so busy having the leads act all cutesy, and acting below their adult age with unnecessary nonsense misunderstandings, that, they forgot the actual plot, dragged the flashback reveal and forgot to connect the two stories. Plus that flashback seems to just be hanging around, you know, like that one uncle who comes for christmas and just sits in the corner? He there, we can see him, but like, we all pretending he has on one of them Harry Potter invisibility cloaks. When they finally told us what the hell the flashbacks were about, I’d lost all interest and was like ‘Oh, okay, sure, whatever, move it along. Did I remember to turn off the iron?... Wait, I don't own an iron.’
Although there was no connection of that flashback plot and this current one, cuz it's randomly inserted with no follow ups, it felt far more interesting. Because, the flashbacks plot had: unrequited love, Salin being the reincarnation/spirit? of the trapped lady, Nagas, Sun in a wig from Shein was like some lord or another and Salin killed someone. Interesting stuff, tell me more.
Instead, we get Salin designing something that always gets stolen/patented, the company turning into a dating app for Salin and his friends. Also, what does Yo and Pim do all day? Sure they on the computer but are they designing stuff or just ordering lunch? Then of course in-between the two things happening there are lots of NC scene. From the pool table to that artsy painting room, to Sam's office sofa, to that dressing room... which were all...hihi...yeah...stuff. Having soup while watching/hearing that NC in the finale was unfortunate.
So yeah, I wanted a correlation between the two stories, instead the writers threw the plot with the Naga and murder away to make room for unnecessary stuff. And what the hell was that finale? Talk about if irrelevant lived next door to uneventful and anti-climatic. The finale was filled with awkward cringy scenes. Which meant the flashback plot was quickly wrapped up with nonsense. Literally when did we see lord Sun in a wig always being there to protect Salin? And that was it? that woman who has been trapped for forever turned into a light and died? And since when can Salin close his eyes and summon Sun in a wig? LIKE??? arrgggg. meh. I’m sure the writers wanted the flashbacks to intrigued us, but with no real connection to the main plot it became uninteresting. Cuz really, what was I supposed to be looking forward to with 3 seconds flash back every two episodes?
Also, that man person with a gun in the finale. Who the hell was he? What was his job, and why the hell did he want to steal designs? I'm sure he was introduced in the start, but he's so forgettable and irrelevant that he could have been replaced by one of those necklaces and it wouldn't have made a darn different.
And can we talk about when Salin finally found out what the flashbacks were about? I expected more reaction from him, but homeboy came out of the flashback, ignored everything he saw, and instead went to design a necklace. CHILD??? You not even gonna wonder how this lord who looks like Sun in a wig likes you in this lifetime?? You gonna save your past self or? What kind of dollar store arse reaction was that??
Literally this was him when he finally found out what his dream/nightmares were about.
ME: Wow, Sun's the reincarnation of the lord/guy in the wig???
SALIN: Did you see his necklace?
ME: OMG your past self, who is still in the cave, is alive. There's two of you. You gonna save her?
SALIN: She was the one who gave him the necklace.
ME: You killed that woman. You murdered a person with dark smoke magic.
SALIN: I'm gonna design that necklace.
ME: But---but there's literally two of you in existence right now, and you killed a sister.
SALIN: Anyone have some crayons, I need to start designing.
HOW? Just---HUH? No, but really, dafug was that reaction? If the character himself doesn't think it's important, how are the viewers suppose to be interested or take it serious? That whole flashback story-line felt like it was written so Salin can design a gothic looking necklace to win the competition, which was completely unnecessary. Not gonna lie, that whole award competition felt awkward with unnecessary cringy dialogue from the staff. I'm gonna comfort myself by believing Lin's design won cuz it was different looking than the rest...cuz ain't no way.
And while the flashback plot wasn’t giving us much, the main plot wasn’t keeping my interest either. Lots of cutesy stuff, with adults acting below their age and not much else going on. Cuz the plot with who has been stealing/patenting designs ended in 0.2 seconds. It was so anti-climatic and ended so quick, they needed another character to overact and explain it to the viewers for 5 unnecessary minutes complete with an ad. No but the finale was... did they run out of ideas and had 1 hour to fill? Cuz literally, the eff was that work bathroom scene? On the plus side, some of Sal's outfits in this drama slays, so at least I can comfort myself with that. yaay me?
I think MosBank can do so much better than this plot. I saw them in Big Dragon, so seeing them act different here, all calm, cute and innocent, and being all in-true-love is refreshing/different to see. Although they are the leads, I don’t think they are the reason for how unremarkable this turned out. The plot is just very mediocre, sort of repetitive and boring. They didn’t have much to work with. Yes, they had the chemistry to keep fans watching, but unfortunately, their chemistry couldn’t save this. Everything was so meh that in some scenes they seem to even loose their chemistry, and those two has a lot of it, even on random Tuesdays. And there was only so much the supporting cast could add. I hope in their next work, the plot is more interesting, and it doesn’t rely heavily on the actors carrying the show of a poorly executed story.
CHARACTERS
The supporting cast didn’t have much going for them. Still, they each had something small going on, though the ones that stood up the most were the second couples. They were cute. I was cheering for Sam and Yo from the start. Their chemistry was chemistrying. And they knew the correct way to call each other, P'Sam and Nong Yo, very cute, no vomit in sight. Also, was everyone as surprised as I was to find out Sam goes to the gym in-between buying hair gel?
LMAO, was I the only one who laughed at Sam's new look after his secret of being the second son of the company was revealed? Homeboy showed up with a whole new hairstyle, minus glasses, and a single strand of hair threatening to poke him in the eye. I was like, okay, arite, I guess poor people don’t use hair gel, good for you. LOL.
I feel the gl couple could have developed more, instead of Prim spending most of the series being nonchalant. When they did get together, I couldn't really vibe with their chemistry, they cute, but I wanted more reason to cheer for them. Like with Sam and Yo, where they had those little moments that all added to them falling in love. Looking back all I recall of the gl couple is Prim always saying no to whatever Pim was asking her. So yeah, they were there.
My fav scene in this whole series might be when they found out Lin’s dating the CEO. Sam’s face going ‘I can’t believe I’m related to this dumbass’ made me roll with laughter. I also liked when Lin dropped kicked that weirdo. Oh, and how the friends were not surprise that Sam and Yo were dating. I mean, you could cut the intense with a bread knife.
Oh, and what the hell was up with those random foreign language one liners they kept inserting? Is that whats cool these days or am I not chronically online enough to be in the known? First it was just Pim, but then everyone was suddenly doing it...okay? And like, was it me or did the finale never seemed to end? Whenever I thought it was over, another scene popped up.
Now, Back to the Khun Dad debacle. Anyone else wanted to throw tiny rocks at Lin every time he said Khun Dad? That shit was corny and cringy as eff. People in love deserves no rights. And Salin didn’t even say it once and got over it. Every second he was like, Khun Dad do you want to dance? Khun Dad do you want to eat shrimps? Khun Dad see my necklace. Child!! will you keep quiet??? I’m gonna be haunted by this until MosBanks next drama.
Anyway, in the end, it is what it is, and the bad execution of the plot ruined an otherwise interesting story. I expected a lot more from this. I hope MosBank gets to work with a great story(well executed) for their next project, so people see how talented they are. I'll still recommend this to fans, and anyone interested in boss-employee relationship. And to those who like CEO sons pretending to be poor stories, cuz you'd like Sam and Yo.
EDIT: HAHAHAHAHSKJWPRISKEJR.... soooo in the special episode.... Lin is pregnant? Or is gonna get pregnant. Literally, what in the random arse plot was that? sudden... mpreg? well it was planned, but whomst?? who's driving this thing? what's even happening?
That being said, the main song of this drama was soooo good! At least they got one thing right.
Anywho, Khun Dad I guess.
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Season 2 is as good as Season 1
I've read some of the reviews and I was quite shocked that some of them gave this drama a terrible review/rate when in fact it was a great drama. First, I was a fan of Romantic Doctor that I've watch that first season a lot, and I think watching it again before starting this second season was not a bad move since the charm of medical drama is still there, as well as,the tension, and the romance. I was still amazed on the cases that they've brought every week and how Dr. Kim (along with Dr. Woo Jin and Dr. Eun Jae with the help of Doldam staff) overcome them. It was also good that they still mention the characters of Dr. Kang Dong Joo and Dr. Yoon Seo Jung in some scenes and even have Dr. Do In Bum a cameo that really hype up those last episodes.Second, I also want to praise the new characters for giving a new spice in the drama as they introduce their stories and backgrounds to the viewers. Lastly, I also want to compliment the OST as it gives life to the scenes that makes it more interesting and exciting to watch.
Overall, it is true that it is somehow different to the first season that some of us said that it already lost it charm when they started a new season with different leads. But for me, I think this drama has a different charisma that it captivates the viewers to watch it weekly which is obviously true as it passes a 20 percent viewership rating on its first airing and it breaks it record as a new episode comes. Still, I can say that when it comes to medical-romance drama, "Romantic Doctor" series will be on the number one of my list.
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Pretty but soulless
The Silent Sea seems to have all the right ingredients, from premise to set design to casting, but unfortunately somehow failed to truly grab my full attention.I don’t consider my time with this show wasted at all, I did sit through all eight episodes in three days after all, but this is not a drama I see myself ever coming back to nor thinking about ever again
Visually speaking, this is a very impressive show. Probably the most expensive-looking Asian drama I have ever watched. The CGI definitely didn’t disappoint. And yet, for the most part, the cinematography didn’t leave a strong impression on me. Not implying that it was bad, not at all, I consider this to be a pretty visually stimulating drama, but it wasn’t anything more than competent. None of the shots felt bland or flat per-se but I can’t shake off the feeling, that The Silent Sea just lacked a certain something. Nice to look at, but not particularly interesting. The only thing I can say with certainty is that this show is dark, thematically, but also literally at many parts. So dark in fact, that at many points I was having real difficulties figuring out what was going on. That can be a stylistic choice of course, but I still don’t feel like it was an exactly smart one.
However, in my opinion, the biggest fault of the drama lies in the characters, which I couldn’t bring myself to really care about. For starters, I thought that many of them were too similar in personality. But I also just failed to connect with anyone emotionally. I don’t think that the actors are at fault here, if anything I was more than pleased with everyone’s performance, but it seems like The Silent Sea didn’t leave any room to showcase human emotion. For the most part, I don’t feel like we got to know anybody. There were very few scenes where I got a clear image of the crew’s dynamic with each other. I don’t need media to have banter and funny and witty one-liners every second scene, in a Marvel-movie-fashion, but I still needed something, anything from The Silent Sea that would have convinced me that these are truly individual people with their individual flaws, strengths, quirks, aspiration, and dreams.
Plot-wise I think this show was fine. The premise was what originally attracted me and the twists and turns kept me engaged, but I really do feel like a story can only be as strong as its characters and unfortunately, this drama just missed the mark here.
Please don't read this and conclude that I consider this to be a bad drama, I truly don't but it didn't really leave me feeling anything. It didn't make me smile (which, considering the genre, was to be expected), it didn't make me sad, it didn't frighten me, it didn't even really make me think about anything much.
Would I recommend The Silent Sea? Kinda a tough question. Personally speaking, it didn’t hit the spot, but I also feel like this might come down to a personal preference in genres. If you like science-fiction, violence, and (most importantly) cool-looking space-stuff, I’m sure you’ll have a field day with this. If you’re looking for a more emotional experience, maybe skip this one.
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This review may contain spoilers
Great chemistry and fast paced
Everyone has different opinions, and that's why cdramas are so great because there's something for everyone.This drama really suits what I like. The best point for me of this drama is the chemistry between the ML, FL and the FL's brother.
They make a great trio. You can immediately sense the chemistry between the ML and the FL. They look very natural and comfortable with each other. You can sense that the ML liked the FL at first sight, and that the FL only has eyes for the ML regardless of how many men chase her.
For me the flashbacks of the FL and ML's previous romance make me look forward to them getting back together even more. They both are very good at acting with their eyes, when they look at each other you can see their love and care for each other.
The FL's brother adds a nice comedic element to the main duo, and his character development is something you don't see much in similar dramas.
I've seen people say the ML's character is the same as in the rise of Ning (another drama which I liked a lot). Yes they do have similarities.
They are both scheming, have some sort of hidden agenda and control an influential group. However, in rise of Ning, his character is serious like 90% of the time, where as, while he is serious here, there are also a lot more moments where he plays a more comedic or relaxed role. I think his role in this drama is more similar to his role in 'are you the one.' There a more moments where he acts romantic, comedic or even foolish, that brings a lighter feel in my opinion.
One thing I think that sets this drama apart a little is the fast paced nature of the plot. Especially at the beginning, there are almost mini arcs regarding the FL's sisters that in another drama might take 5 or more episodes to see the problem or drama resolved. However in this drama, problems with the FL's sisters and problems the FL faces early on are resolved within 2 episodes normally. I like this fast paced nature as it keeps the plot engaging, but it can feel a little rushed and confusing at time due to the different characters being introduced in a short amount of time.
I also really like how for the most part any misunderstandings or secrets are cleared up explained quite fast, their communication and honesty is so refreshing (besides the FL's big secret, but that's understandable).
As for the main antagonist, I do think their overall 'reason' for hating the FL and her family is not really convincing, but they do sell it well and make it believable. I think this is due to the acting of the main antagonist. She does a great job of portraying her craziness but also calmness. As the main plot and main villains are revealed, I think the story continues to become more engaging.
I think overall, this drama blends romance, comedy and a bit of seriousness well. I really enjoyed the ML and FL's relationship and their trio with the FL's brother. To me, they really made this show. The villains are engaging and it's interesting to find out the reason they hate the FL, even though in the end some may consider her reason silly. The main villa does a good job of selling it. If you are a fan of the FL or the ML, you will definitely enjoy their romance and their chemistry, and will thus enjoy this drama, just like I did.
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Not since Dalja’s Spring have I felt that characters other than the main couple received as much loving attention as they did in Miss Korea. And, Miss Korea surpasses Dalja’s Spring at that (Miss Korea now has my favorite secondary couple in the history of Kdrama). But Miss Korea has so much more going for it than the characters, even if they are the best feature. Acting, writing, directing, cinematography, costumes, soundtrack, attention to detail and research – Miss Korea excels in all of these areas. Miss Korea might be, nay, IS the first Kdrama that I can say has no flaws. I wouldn’t change a thing – not one thing – not even the ending, and, as all us Kdrama lovers know, endings are usually the pitfall of every Kdrama no matter how good it is. But Miss Korea’s last episode is as perfect as its first and all the episodes in between.
In fact, there is only one problem with Miss Korea (I know I said it has no flaws, but hear me out)…
…NOT ENOUGH PEOPLE WATCHED IT! It is a travesty that this drama has not been more viewed domestically and abroad. Sure it was going up against the juggernaut of You Who Came from the Stars (or whatever translation you want to use), and that is a good drama, a very entertaining drama, but it’s not perfect (although Jun Ji Hyun is). But in the age of Internet and DVR, that’s no excuse! I wish more people in SK had watched this drama because I want more dramas like it, many more!
I want more Kdramas that feel this organic, with real characters going about their real lives and no makjang craziness! I want a rich, full universe that feels lived in with characters I love who have simple and beautiful hopes and dreams and are capable of achieving them using their own minds and effort rather than ridiculous dues ex machina and unrealistic plot twists. I want soundtracks that rock my world and perfectly match every mood and moment of the drama. I want good actors acting great and previously bad actors going above and beyond our wildest expectations. I want empowered women who are business owners and scientists. I want heroines that blow my mind with their personal strength and honesty and courage. I want OTPs that are honest with each other and even when one tries noble idiocy the other calls b.s. and there are no misunderstandings – EVER! I want careful attention to details and good research into plot devices.
I WANT MORE DRAMAS LIKE MISS KOREA! Watch it and you will too!
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