This review may contain spoilers
The premise is not so unique in itself, but choosing to show it as history is what sets it apart. The characters and the politics carry the drama, so if you like that in a series, you have come to the right place.The story progression was paced well, not too slow or too fast. The characters were a major element of the whole story, so their development within the politics was refreshing to see. Each person had their own motivation and was chained to it. The grey area some major characters walk on is worth acknowledgment. No intention seemed incorrect if you looked at in the person' shoes, but the way some chose to carry it out helped differentiate right and wrong. There were those who took some questionable actions for what they perceived as a greater good, and that will make you question what exactly is being a hero; it is established that to remove dirt, you have to get your hands dirtied too, and I think that is a very realistic outlook to it. Moreover, the idea of effect of power on the purest of people is experimented here.
Despite that, I think the writers could have added more to the story - for example using the little group The Chief Secretary was a part of in the final few episodes in more ways. Another reason to withhold my score is the inconsistency of Ha Seon's motivations around episode 11 and 12. The writers added a few throwaway lines that strayed from his character.
The acting was well done. In the words of the real king, the FL was a true Frozen Queen - composed and unwavering in her principles, which probably turned her so cold, and Lee Se Young portrayed felt every bit of it. When it comes to Yeo Jin Goo, he was marvelous as the King, enough so that you believed that Ha Seon and the King to be different people, like the drama wanted us to. Kim Sang Kyung, to me, delivered a great performance as a man consistently struggling with himself I liked the character on paper, and he made him come to life. Jang Young Nam was memorable as the antagonist.
The BGM consistently delivered. Never did it feel as if some external force was intruding upon your viewing experience. It was pleasant to listen to and built moments of suspense, sadness, and even happiness. I think this was actually the part I looked most forward to - the music that accompanied the scenes one anticipated. Music can honestly make or break stories, and here it helped cement the over all presentation. They rarely used OSTs, if at all, but the ones they did sounded melodious.
One would rewatch it to see the character dynamics, and maybe a political scuffle. The team put together a great piece - give it a try if you want a break from the repetitive,. :p
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I watched this drama because of my grandmother, I saw her watching the third episode and I became quickly invested in its events so I catched up and continued watching the drama with her.
I have to point that my grandmother has a great taste (^_^)
2) Storyline/Plot:
Generally speaking , this is a family drama wrapped up with romance and comedy which is an acceptable combination for most of viewers.
Positive points:
*This drama is one of those dramas that made me interested with only one episode, I felt good vibes ever since it started because the plot was set up in a good way.
*Main Genres:
--->Family: This drama is different from other family dramas because the plot was well written in order to make viewers deeply attracted, even the problems weren't the type that was written in order to fill the drama's time; it was well calculated to make everything about the family sound natural and important. The family element was appreciated so much within me and I am not even into family dramas.
--->Humor: It was intense at the beginning but later on it didn't remain the same, not that it completely faded away but laughter moments weren't that present, let's say it was "humble". Epidode three and four were the funniest episodes in here.
The comedy was accepted overall, It would've been more appreciated if it was much intense like it was at the beginning but anyway, it deserves a spot in the positive points column.
Negative points:
--->Romance: I had a lot of thoughts before mentioning it in the negative points column; it had its positives and its negatives yet I think that the negatives were "bigger".
The romance wasn't satisfying, it wasn't light and "badly expressed" which made it one of the few bad point in this drama since it didn't feel enough. However, it wasn't completely Off, at least, it wasn't disappointing.
Story: 8.5/10
3) Acting/Cast:
*Choi Jung Won:
I don't know this actress and even if i do, I don't believe that her previous roles were that remarkable since I dont remember any of them. Here, she portrayed her role in a good acceptable way.
The character was interesting ever since the drama started, it's not an unusual or a special character though but the character's developement was captivating although it may get a little annoying at some points. Pal Gang was really clumsy and indifferent at the beginning then she changed in a good way.
*Kim Ji Hoon:
I'm not very familiar with him as an actor, all the memories that I have about him aren't that bad nor that great. Here, he wasn't any different, I felt that Choi Jung Won lead the drama yet I can't ignore his presence wich was somehow "nice" to watch.
The character in one word "stiff", all what I can think about that it was really exagerated sometimes but that's how the storyline wanted it to be. There were mements were lawyer Won seemed "appealing" and "enjoyable" especially when he is with Pa Rang , I won't judge the character harshly because like I said earlier, it's drawned by the storyline.
*The five Children:
I have no idea about them as actors so I am not going to talk about that side, let's just mention that their acting convinced me and their roles were the best.
Their characters were awesome, each and everyone of them was enjoyable; all the pranks, the attitudes and their thoughts were simply wonderful to see.
The main reason that kept me interested until the last minute was the children's presence, if it wasn't for them, i think it would be another usual boring korean drama. The children were my favorite characters in this drama.
*I really loved the second lead male at the beginning then his character development didn't seem right.
*Appreciated character: Tae Kyun Was the funniest character in the drama, he wasn't that funny but his presence has always lightened the drama and made it enjoyable, I appreciated his presence a lot.
*The second lead female had the usual boring personality that most of Korean second lead females has; that was always boring for me.
*Other cast: No hard feelings for the remaining of the cast, I can't say that I liked them or disliked them , they weren't "that bad".
*Relationships:
--->Romance: It's really hard to talk about chemistry in this drama since the romance wasn't that "intense", even when the romance became serious, I don't think that the chemistry was that present or that deep.
--->Family: The children's relationship with their big sister was really cool, even though some troubles may occure, I don't believe that it got any worse. The family relationships were warm and good to watch.
--->The triangle: The usual triangle that you see in most of Korean dramas. Well, Tae Kyun added a good taste but beside that it was annoying.
Cast: 7.5/10
Acting: 8.5/10
4) The ending:
The ending was predictable but it was fun to watch. I liked the final scene ; It was a good closure.
The ending: 7.5/10
5) My impression (How did it affect me):
*I enjoyed this drama so much although I am not into this type of dramas, I don't believe I was bored because I never lost interest.
*The main reason that made me attracted to this drama from the beginning till the end was the children's presence, I don't think I would've liked it if they were absent.
*Is this drama memorable: Yes it is, most of the memories that would remain in my mind are the children's memories because beside that it was a normal usual Korean drama.
My impression: 8.5/10
6) Overall:
*If you like romatic comedies with family theme in it then you would like this.
*If you like great children that would bring you entertainment then watch this.
*If you're looking for a "romantic" drama, I wouldn't recommend this.
Overall: 8.5/10.
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This review may contain spoilers
Lol, I think I'm more in love with Luo Yunxi because of this drama
Tissue Rate (aka how much I cried); 0.5 out of 5 (this drama really just me smile and laugh a lot)Omg I don't even know where to begin with this drama! Like the cast is absolutely AMAZING! The two main leads (Luo Yunxi and Bai Lu) chemistry is so so cute (I love how comfortable they are with each other in the behind the scene clips)! I really hope there is going to be another drama together with them in it! I also really love how each character developed nicely and there weren't many backstabs throughout rivals (compared to other dramas) and I love how the main two leads always stayed true to each other and I love how they are always there for each other even if they one were to be upset with one another or something bad happened in the relationship. I also enjoy how sweet the romance is and how funny the scenes are whenever the kiss (lol like when the younger cousin saw making out or when Jiang Jun’s mom caught them on the couch). This drama has each a good lighthearted and feel good vibe that you get when watching this drama!
Also this drama has really made me fall in love with Luo Yunxi's acting (like really in love lol)! I've seen him in Ashes of Love and I loved his acting there but his acting in this drama just hits differently.
But overall, i definitely would recommend this drama to others (Already got one of my friend's hooked to this lol)!! The office romances in this drama was super lowkey and not cringey so don't be scared to go for it when starting this drama!!
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The movie covers their cute moments of how they met in university and how they fell in love like it was fate. The movie is shot in Italy and in China with one of the most beautiful cinematography ever.
There is MINIMAL DUBBING, lee joon gi was speaking Korean most of the time, or all the time, so it was sooooo good to hear.
Even though the movie is set In a melodramatic tone, it still had a lot of heartwarming fun moments.
One of the cutest chemi I've seen on screen.
Shampoo gives 8.7/10
Movie quotes:
" you wanna go to Italy to learn opera when you can't even sing the birthday song in tune"
"We must move on , we must"
"A world without you, I can't imagine it, it terrifies me, it's terrifying"
http://hdfree.se/watch-online/never-said-goodbye
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Love at first sight, reconcile 10 years later between two Individuals of Noble Profession.
It’s love at first sight for ML in their teenage years, both 19. FL reciprocate the love but wasn’t brave and strong enough to defy her family. She left him but her heart never love again. ML tried but FL’s family is powerful, influential and did some unscrupulous act to harm ML, leaving him broken. But he also never gave up on his love for her and he choose to never love again. Till they reconciled by accident 10 years later, she is a medical doctor and he is a firefighter. Fate and time and time they were brought together and their love for each other continues to grow. FL wants to pursue ML but she still struggles with lack of bravery and courage to break her family ties thinking she is indebted to them. She is an adoptive child and was grateful of her adoptive parents providing for her, hence she struggles with intense guilt, till she discovered what her adoptive mom has done to harm ML and their love for her is conditioned and not genuine. ML is also an adopted child by his uncle’s family. His own father was an alcoholic who died in accident and his mom abandoned him, however his adoptive family provides secure and healthy love allowing ML to grow up with a lot more courage and resilience, hence he understands FL struggles and wanted to be her strengths. The catalyst of their relationship happened from ep 25 onwards, due to a major earthquake, both learnt they can’t live without each other and reconciled finally. After that, the rest of the series, there will be a few more incidents involving change in FL’s adoptive brother and parents. I love that at least this drama didn’t make an ultimate villain out of FL’s adoptive family. It gave the audience a chance to learn how they can also change and reconciliation is possible. Both leads’ love strengthen over time and their passion in their profession continue to flourish.Although the romance is the core, it’s not the only emphasis here, be prepared for the slow burn, but worth the wait as their romance from ep., 25 onwards is steaming hot!
Verdict:
A well written story of growth, finding your own voice and believing in love. Of all the other drama with firefighter as profession, I would say this is the best! With brotherly love, family values and love, relationship and character growth, as well as believable rescue mission. Of course strong message on the pride represented in the profession too.
Some thoughts:
Faithful love is hard to come by. It does feel that the story stemmed from showing the FL’s perspectives as victim and flaws in her character resulting in her needing ML more. ML is just purely one track mind and obsessed with her. That’s the only part I find unrealistic, ML’s obsession for FL, he can easily find another woman, but he didn’t as script requires. He just have eyes for her, and it does feel that his existence is a blessing for FL as he truly rescue her from her dysfunctional family and help her grow. As a viewer I can see that FL has strengths but was uncovered because of ML. As mentioned in the drama, at an earlier ep. 11, FL feels and said she doesn’t deserve him, and she will harm him as she is not brave enough, which is very insightful and true in some perspectives.
However as the story progresses, it shows her growth in character and strength, learning to attune to her own needs and learning to love, as well as learning to be an independent adult through various events and experiences of her profession. ML to me, written here was flawless, I may be bias as because he is Yang Yang. Lol! Although ML was slightly rebellious in young age, he grew to take responsibility for self, family and the profession he hold prideful of.
Both Yang Yang and Wang Chu Ran are a beautiful pair. Chemistry is great.
The drama does have a lot more emphasis on the firefighter profession and medical doctor. Seeing so many of these theme in drama recently, I can’t help to wonder China really needs people to be inspired to take up this profession. the rescue mission were quite well filmed and realistic. The cameo of many familiar faces from cast of Glory of Special Forces were fantastic, can see their good teamwork with Yang Yang. And then the surprised good few episodes portraying strong brotherly relationship between Zhang Bin Bin and Yang Yang were very heart warming.
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Burn the wicked rich with 95% vodka, literally
This film takes we, the audience on a journey to witness something grotesquely beautiful.It goes from one train wreck to another train wreck and a couple more incoming.
This film spares no one, not even the kids.
Kiritani was a man who abided the law and bounded by societal expectations.
A man who had a stable job, a normal marriage, a lost ambition and few other secrets kept from his spouse.
He became a man who was once fear of his vulnerability - then shines the most when he weaponised his fear and vulnerability.
Through the eyes of Kiritani who was a victim, survivor, then offender - was his act of revenge justifiable?
This is up to the audience to think.
A dead man can no longer think; well at least someone had a good time in the woods. Heh.
The story plot, cinematography, actors’ performances made this film feel both disgustingly raw and beautifully organic.
Rap scenes and film soundtracks are mesmerising and worth to rewatch.
As an audience, I felt as involved as a bystander.
A bystander who is waiting for everything to collapse, observing a person self-destruct and a madness ensures.
That is how this psychologically complex film felt.
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I WOULD OF GAVE IT A 9 BUT...I WOULD GIVE IT A 8.5
I think first this drama is really good mostly because for me the actors are amazing I love them , aswell I'm abig fan of them.
Story-Honestly the story is really good for me, mostly because the FL and ML are from different status like she talks and acts different compared to him, aswell the trauma that the FL has makes it more interesting for me, because it is like why can't she hold a weapon which adds more suspense to the story, aswell for the ML he can't touch girl but when he touches the FL he doesn't feel dizzy which also makes it more interesting by asking why does this two have traumas and things like that, which this made me wanting towatch more.
acting-I'm loving the acting I'm a big fan of Bai lu(FL) since I wacthed her in legends,her acting is aswell amazing, mostly because this FL I love her she acts so manly which is really different compared to the other girls, she is clever, funny for me she is in the list of favourite FL, aswell the ML I'm pretty sure I saw him in lots of drama but msotly is support roles like in eternal love and I like how now he is the ML , ans shows his talent ,ASWELL the girl which works with the ML(Du xiao xian) I find her soo annoying, (character personlaity), But I think the actress does really good this role same for the other characters I think every actor is doing a realy good job.
PLOT-I think the plot is amazing and I like how the writerIs developing the story, and how the ML is the first one to fall in love with her ,I like how the plot is not draggy like compared to other drama ,Honeslt this drama has alot of mystery mostly because the ML is adopted and the FL parents died, so it is like they might have a secret whcih I reallly like.
Overall-Honestly this drama is still airing but I think you should watch it , for me I'm loving this , I love the FL and everyhting.I just hope it gets a happy ending and the story doesn't go down the hill
Edit: I WOULD OF GIVE IT A 9 BUT...
after watching all this drama, I felt quite disapointed mostly because
1.the romance started way too late , it could of started more earlier so then we could of enjoyed the cute scenes between them
2.the story of the FL, well the thing of her not being able to hold weapons was really good but the writers just forgets about this,and just doesn't talk about it anymore aswell for the ML, the writer forgot about him not being able to get close to girl(this two dieas just happens in ep 1 and then after they just forget about it)
3.for me the story of the ML wwas good(about him being the prince), like forme it was at the good time of the drama(like right in the middle), but for the FL it finally came in the last few ep whcih was like seirosuly!!!,I was expecting more
4.the 2ML I felt bad for him, aswell he turns evil he force her to kiss him which was like seriosuly, at some point it looked as if he was obsessed with the FL, and for the 2FL she was just annoying I'm happy that she ended like that.
overrall-this drama was good, but not well developed aswell the lead have great chemsitry (everyone acts good, but I wanted more develop in the 2couple), the ednign was good but in the middle of the drama it went really draggy,for me it felt like the writer didn't know what to do and just puted some ideas all together, honestly I' not going to lie I really enjoed it (even wit the draggy parts), it's a good drama to watch I recommend it, and In my opinion I think it's worth to watch,mostly because the ending is really satifsieng
SPOLIER!!!!
HAPPY ENDING!!!!
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1The 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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Bright Dimples start but Crash landing 2nd half!
Just got watching Zhou Yi Ran (ML) in School drama "When I fly to you" now here he is in another lovely school drama.First 15 Ep. 9 stars!
1. It's not a drama where there's one sided love of an academically challenged FL acting 10 years younger & chasing a silent ML trying to overcome some trauma. FL lead is smart and complex. She's a little bit of everything.
2. Drama feels more realistic. FL is from a divorced family trying to deal with all the sudden changes on her own. Adjusting to a new city, new school & a new blended family forced her to be more mature.
3. ML: Zhou Yi Ran plays another quiet boy role but his character comes from a different kind of family hardship.
These 2 meet and a connection forms as they can relate to each other through thoughts and actions even before finding out about each other's situations.
4. Chemistry: FL has cute dimples & ML has cute dimples. What a GREAT pairing! Yes I am a sucker for dimples.
5. Good supporting characters. Good friends & characters is a must!
6. No unrealistic over toxic characters so far.......
7. The brother from the blended family. He will grow on you.
After ep 15 it drops to 3 stars. It feels like a complete different drama! What just happened!?!? Did they change writers?
Anticlimactic the way they met again in college and resolved the past
Lack of time on supporting character's development and relationship development.
Introduction of toxic characters that's not needed
FL takes a back seat and the focus is 70% on the ML's dream
Choices became less logical
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This review may contain spoilers
Not an episode went by without me screaming in front of my screen
'Only friends' is a messy yet intriguing series and no the plot isn't the mess in fact the plot execution is really good, however the characters are absolutely messy and the whole plot revolves around these very messy characters. Red flags here, red flags there and I am honestly not a fan of red flags but this series had me ever since the trailer. One of the most striking elements of this series is the undeniable chemistry among the actors. The emotions, the tension they convey through the screen are palpable, tugging at my heartstrings and making the characters connections and conflicts feel all too real. I am so invested.Not an episode went by without me screaming in front of my screen, be it in excitement or frustration. I had to pause from time to time to take deep breath and to calm down because honestly this riled me up, made me swear and scream and I was still enjoying it.
WARNING: Major spoilers ahead!!
Starting with Sand because he is my favorite. He is sassy and has his own ways- both good and bad. He is confident, charming, mess with him and be ready for a payback. And he has my heart. I really can't see him getting hurt. He is so freaking precious and honestly I just want to throw some punches on Ray but then again I can't do that. One glimpse of Ray crying and my anger is all melted but then he does some shitty things again and my anger, my frustration is back. Ray, he is alcoholic, kind of lonely, one hell of a selfish prick, and I am so freaking mad at him or I am not. Honestly I don't know anymore. Also, he is such a tease. He says Sand isn't my type but then he is flirting with Sand every single second of every single minute Sand is around him. And yeah they were 'ONLY' friends even after all the smoke kiss and the nights and what nots and he liked Mew and he messed up a big time but call me color blind I still wanted to see Sand and Ray happily together. However, that doesn't change the fact that Sand deserves so much better.
Moving on to Nick, he is such a cute baby but a big no he ain't innocent. He is so certain about what and who he wants which is a good trait but he is suffering and I just wanna go and punch Boston but then again I can't do this either. I am a softie for them all. Sorry not sorry!! Honestly, Boston is a hot manipulative mess and a major major red flag. He's using Nick and I hate him when Nick is hurting, more so when he screws things up but guess what I still can't hate him completely. I don't even know if I hate him at all, he just gets me screaming in front my screen in frustration. Also, he and Nick were friends.. 'ONLY' friends after all the nights and sweet talks and what nots and Boston was playing around but call me crazy I seriously wanted them to be the endgame even after all of that. And trust me what Boston wants he gets it by hook or by crook.
Then we have Mew, the said nerd in the friend circle and the innocent yet not so innocent guy. He is into Top but he plays hard to get. Talking about Top, he radiates the vibe of a red flag but trust me he isn't the first one on the list. However, it's clear he does want Mew at the moment and I think he really does have feelings for Mew or am I just being clowned? I still don't know honestly. Okay so they had a thing going on and they too were 'ONLY' friends and then boyfriends for a tiny while and then they- aaaahahjahdahsjd- watch it yourself to know.
See, mess! mess! the head throbbing, heart wrenching mess they created!!
The most sorted relationship in the friends circle is of Namchueam and April and they don't really have enough screen time. It might look like I am complaining and yes I am because I was losing my mind and I was on the edge every single second while watching this. But damnnn the chemistry they have. I can't unsee it and I am so invested. Also, none of the characters are bland. There's Dan, who is hitting on Nick and his chemistry with Nick is no joke. Then we have Boeing, my god, this guy is the real deal. He made his entry like a tornado, shaking up the already messed up relationship equations and damn his charm is irresistible. Also, Yo and Plug they had minimum screen time but they ate up their scenes.
To add up the osts, the sound tracks, I love it mahn and even the lyrics of the osts. Honestly this series is a mess and it triggered my trust issues. I couldn't and I still can't trust anyone of them not even my favorites and still this is so worth it. Highly Highly recommended!!
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It was okay, until it wasn't
Be prepared to watch this only for the ML (who is not only handsome, but also really kind as well), because the FL is nothing but an annoying, selfish, self-centered jerk who should have no business being married to ANYONE, let alone this dude.There's being independent and working for your dreams, and then there's trampling over everyone and sacrificing every single person in your life to get there.
But all that aside, EP 22 in particular was the one that dropped this rating from a 6 to a 4.5. If you can't see how spending a night in the hotel room with another man - and then defending your poor choices to your husband - could be detrimental to your marriage, then you don't deserve to be in one.
I truly wish the ML ended up divorcing her, but we all know how this stuff works. They always do forgive after a one (barely sincere) apology, don't they?
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This review may contain spoilers
I had eagerly anticipated this drama ever since the casting news dropped, mainly because of two reasons: my admiration for Lee Dong Wook and my affection for the "PiChi Couple."Initially, I didn't set high expectations for the story, intending to enjoy watching the leads fall in love again. The first two episodes confirmed my expectations of a cliched plot, but episode 3 pleasantly surprised me with character growth and a more substantial plot than anticipated. As the series progressed, I found myself increasingly drawn to the story and characters, including the side characters, all of whom shared great chemistry.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the portrayal of a healthy relationship between the main leads, devoid of traumatic pasts. Their pure and naive love was endearing, and I found myself swooning over their cuteness. Their relationship emphasized trust and comfort, which resonated with me deeply.
The CEO Yeon and Choi-Dan couple were standout side characters, providing moments of laughter amidst the romance.
Although I was disappointed by the inevitable breakup trope, I appreciated that the drama didn't prolong the angst excessively.
Regarding the music, I enjoyed all the OSTs, especially "Make it Count," "What if Love," "Goodbye," and "Photographs."
Overall, if you're in the mood for something light-hearted, I wholeheartedly recommend this drama. I certainly plan to binge-watch it again soon.
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Winner Takes All
Squid game is a South Korean children’s playground game that was popular back in the 1980s. It is similar to hopscotch but with a more expansive playing area and team-based approach. It forms the basis of the game setting that is featured in Squid Game.Production Details
The drama is written and directed by the award-winning Hwang Dong Hyuk, known for critically acclaimed films The Fortress and Silenced. Jung Jae Il, who is known for composing the score for Okja and Parasite, serves as the music director. Produced by Siren Pictures exclusively for Netflix, this is a pre-produced drama with all 9 episodes released worldwide on 17 September 2021. It is given an R-18 rating and contains sexual references, nudity, and violence. Strobing effects present in certain episodes (especially episode 4) may cause discomfort for photosensitive viewers. Other trigger warnings include scenes of violent deaths, as well as gratuitous blood and gore.
Premise and Plot
456 participants competing in a “Hunger Games meets Battle Royale” series of challenges modelled after traditional South Korean children’s playground games for a chance of winning the jackpot of 40 million won, rising up to 45.6 million won with the elimination of all other participants right to the last person standing.As for who the organisers are and the reason for the competition, all shall be revealed as the story unfolds..
The story revolves around the points of view of a number of characters who share one thing in common - they are in serious need of cold hard cash to resolve their respective predicaments. Central to the core narrative is the main character and protagonist, Seong Gi Hoon, a gambling addict down on his luck who is facing debt problems and child-custody issues, as well as dealing with his mother’s deteriorating health.
What I Liked
As expected of a Netflix original series, I enjoyed the production quality and values, unique set designs and costumes, exceptional cinematography especially during some of the stunning choreographed action sequences and the game or challenge settings.
The cast is outstanding, comprising veterans in Lee Jung Jae, Park Hae Soo, Heo Sung Tae, Kim Joo Ryung and Oh Young Soo, among others. The newcomer Jung Ho Yeon gives a decent debut performance complete with the North Korean accent. I was pleasantly surprised to see brief appearances by Gong Yoo and Lee Byung Hun. Even with limited screen time, their charisma absolutely shines through to light up the production.
The edge-of-the seat thrills and suspense plays out in a riveting pace. This drama is well worth the binge because it is as captivating as it is addictive to consume in a single seating. Moments of extreme tension are aplenty along with the heart-wrenching emotions which are deftly interspersed amidst the high-octane action sequences throughout. I particularly enjoyed the epic final showdown between the finalists in the concluding arc of the drama.
The music score composed by Jung Jae Il is sublime, along with classic compositions used courtesy of the Budapest Scoring Orchestra and Big Band. They include The Blue Danube by Johann Strauss II, Trumpet Concerto in E Flat Major by Franz Joseph Haydn and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. A cover of Bart Howard’s Fly Me to the Moon also plays a major part as the BGM for one of the more stunning game sequences in episode 1.
What Could’ve Been Better
As much as I enjoyed the drama, I thought 9 episodes were somewhat overlong. 6 or 7 episodes would have made the storytelling more compact and compelling. A significant portion of the drama was taken up by the story-building of the main character as well as four other major supporting characters. I appreciated the respective backstories of tragic circumstances and such but those components impacted on the pacing of the more engaging aspects a little bit. In addition, the final episode did feel dragged out unnecessarily.
The characterization of the ML Seong Gi Hoon (no 456) wasn’t convincing to me, although I accepted it as part of the drama’s depiction of “character growth”. How an irresponsibly hopeless father, unfilial son, and washed-out gambling addict suddenly developed a moral compass, sense of righteousness, and leadership traits came across as somewhat unrealistic.
Overall
Notwithstanding the qualms I had and as long as expectations are tempered, Squid Game represents great entertainment value complete with a sufficient dose of suspense, thrills and excitement in a nicely packaged production that makes it the perfect binge-worthy viewing experience for an evening at home.
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This review may contain spoilers
The Reality of the Industry
Story: Wow, I’m so amazed at the quality of this series, including the cinematography, production, and fantastic directing. This series really exposes the worse sides of the industry, specifically the BL sides. We see the subtle homophobia when choosing actors, and prioritising NSFW scenes over a healthy, slow and natural bond forming through Gene’s writing. I love that the series he wrote is called “Bad Engineer” because I feel like it might be a subtle dig at all the Engineering BL’s that have slowly gone downhill. There have been several overused themes in other series such as the “kissing while drunk” scene that was taken here and well played out. Despite Nubsib repeatedly chasing after Gene, he didn’t accept Gene because he knew Gene was drunk and couldn’t really consent to anything. Although Nubsib is still very pushy he also respects personal boundaries and takes good care of Gene, which makes me very happy as sadly a lot of BL series tend to romanticise sexual harassment, which is not okay. We also see homophobia from parents that should love and support their children, yet will turn their backs on their own family members just to make themselves look better, which is really sad. Although I was a little annoyed with the jealousy and childhood friends plot line I’m glad they turned it around and demonstrated what a healthy relationship should look like when Nubsib and Gene actually started communicating properly. I do like that Nubsib waited for Gene and never forced him to come out, but I think he could have been more understanding before the press conference about how Gene must have been feeling. I was happy that things turned around in the final episode where we saw Nubsib and Gene exchange sweet kisses and interactions, and they got the happy ending they deserved. I also loved the multiple alternate endings from different romance films/novels/plays as it was a bit of hilarity to distract from the fact that the series was ending.Characters: Poompat as Gene- When this series was first announced I recognised the actor from somewhere, and later realised he was from the famous KA lip care and sunscreen ads. However, this is his first series as a main role, which you would not have guessed based on the quality of his acting. For me, a good actor is someone who can create a character the audience can really relate to, and Poompat did a perfect job of this. Gene is such a sweet, innocent guy and I love that despite not being able to write the stuff he truly loves, he makes the best out of it and isn’t afraid to call out his boss and the directors of their (less than desirable) thoughts and words. Gene is just as clumsy, awkward and embarrassing as myself, which I think is why I love him so much. I really love that despite Gene’s awkwardness, we can still see his emotions through his eyes such as his jealousy during the interviews. I can completely understand Gene’s fears of coming out but I’m glad that he’s surrounded by people who can love and support him for who he is.
Kao as Nubsib- Kao has already cemented himself as a fantastic actor after his role of Korn in Until We Meet Again, and has further demonstrated his amazing acting abilities here. Nubsib is definitely the personification of “serious guy who is only friendly around his lover” and Kao did a great job portraying this. One little thing I did notice when he was talking to other characters like Tum, he always looks very serious but when suddenly seeing Gene his eyes light up and entire expression changes. I love how naturally Kao can pull this off, and yet again I’m being dazzled by his good looks. I also love how, despite knowing that he messed up by not being honest with Gene, he admits he was wrong and makes the effort to communicate and let Gene know what he’s thinking. He’s very understanding and does’t force Gene to come out when he’s not ready which made me happy to see no pressure from him. Finally he chose Gene over all else and wanted both his own happiness as well as Gene’s so he waited for the best time so he and Gene could be together without any constraints.
Bruce as Aoey- While Aoey is a character I have a lot of mixed reactions, I can’t deny that Bruce is probably the best actor in this series. Although he seems cute but far too needy/clingy/annoying, I do like that he was already openly gay and doesn’t try to hide this fact (fun fact, Bruce is gay in real life so we have another LGBT actor which is fantastic), which is a nice step up from the typical “I’m not gay I just love you” lines. However, in episode 5 we really got to know his character more, including why he acts and behaves the way he does. If my parents and siblings were so unsupportive like that, then I honestly think I would have rebelled and spiralled off the deep end, so I admire that Aoey doesn’t let his family hold him back. Although Aoey is quite selfish at times, whenever he cries I automatically feel really bad for him, especially the episode 11 scene on the live video and even more in the final episode after he finished the live stream with his fans. One of my favourite sayings is that “A good actor can make you experience different emotions even from the slightest change in expression” which definitely goes to show just how amazing Bruce’s acting skills are and I hope we can see more projects with him in the future, maybe as a main role this time.
Music: The music and sound effects are perfect, they are well placed and really help the overall mood of scenes. In a funny scene sometimes they’ll add little sound effects which make it even more hilarious, and the music is really nice to listen to.
Overall: I absolutely loved this series and how they weren’t afraid to call out specific aspects and show the reality of what the industry is really like. Both Kao and Poompat have a lot of chemistry and all intimate scenes with them made me almost feel invasive, like I shouldn’t be watching something so personal. I hope to see all the actors in this series again, especially Bruce in a main role, and I’ll definitely be rewatching this very soon!
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Potential wasted due failure in execution and lazy script writing
Reasons to watch this drama✅ Hot Oppa with cute expressions
✅ Shower Scene which showcases his abs
Error 404, no other reasons found
just like how you were dumbfounded by my reasons to watch this drama, I WAS BY THIS DRAMA.
The writer of this show is like my college professor, trying all possible ways to get over finishing, the syallabus (script) asap meanwhile the students (audience) has no clue about what is going on.
Now let's get the review more likely the rant, started →_→
My initial view on the female lead was that I admired how she wasn't damsel in her distress and wasn't portrayed as a pushover or a crybaby. She embodied independence despite not having a job, maintaining strong morals, but the lack of communication between her and SML OH MY GOSH, like girl you have fake marriage with SML not the ML, it was awfully weird that she never told anything to the SML when they literally called each other bestfriends. Despite that, her subtle expression and acting, she's a great actress, you can watch her movie The Call, tremendous job there.
On the other hand, one major drawback of the drama was the male character. Excuse my bluntness, but while I adore Ji Han, his character had flaws. His opinions and views about certain individual often regressed, returning to square one inconsistently. He was too obsessive towards his brothers life, for idk what reason 😭
SML stood out as the most clueless and unaware character throughout the drama when in fact the story revolves around him. IMO he should've been the highlight of the show, but he was treated nothing less than a side character. He consistently lagged behind by at least 2-3 episodes in understanding what was happening, even when it concerned his own marriage. Unfortunately, his queer character arc wasn't sufficiently explored, representing a significant waste of potential.
Chae Woon was the most unproblematic SFL, they tried to portray in bad light but she was the only sane and realistic person here, sadly her screen time was not less than of a cameo despite being SFL
When watching a romantic comedy, the romance aspect is crucial for it to truly shine for me. However, in this drama, while the romantic element is touched upon, it lacks full development, leaving me feeling unsatisfied. To illustrate this feeling, consider the analogy of being served instant coffee instead of filtered coffee at a café, "you'd be upset, won't you?" Just as instant coffee represents a diluted or say incomplete experience, the romance here feels incomplete, lacking the depth of connection, affection, and chemistry expected in a romantic comedy. When key aspects like romance are only partially explored, it leaves me feeling as though I've only glimpsed a fraction of what could have been a more fulfilling experience.
Like instant coffee, it can be hit or miss; for me, it was a miss. Definitely the premises of the drama, was intriguing and new twist to contractual marriages, but the lack of plot, character growth, confrontation, communication and meaningful storylines, along with underdeveloped romance, made it a huge miss. While the characters had potential as the writing miserably falls in the other half of the show, making everything remained undiscovered and underdeveloped.
I personally lost interest by episodes 5 and 6. My attention span is short, so if a show isn't good, it doesn't hold my attention but as I start a drama I never drop it. There are many better romantic comedies out there, so it's not worth wasting your precious time on this one.
So skip this , you ain't missing anything (+_+)
Thank you for reading my review^^
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