First of all, I am a big fan of the original Korean version. I really liked it. It was one of my first dramas ever watched, so I have very emotional relationship with that one. Thats why I was kind of worried, when I started this one. Because make-overs are usually not that good as originals.
Usually - but not always!
Actually, this version is great! It uses the original Full House plot in a good and very innovative way. Its not just a copy of the original, but it spices it up and re-creates it in its own way. And it works very well!
About characters and acting - this was my first thai drama, so I really didnt know any actors. But they totally won me over really qiuckly. Both leads are really cute and lovable. And their chemistry is exceptional! They have so many cute / funny / lovely / romantic scenes that will make your heart race! I will say just one thing to that... you will never look at an ice-cream the same way after watching this drama :D
As for side characters (overly nice and hansome second guy, bitchy second girl, annoying main girls friends, main guys parents ect.). I didnt really pay attention to them and thankfully, they didnt get much scrren time. Most of it was just the main leads, which made this drama exceptionally good.
I admit, that I sometimes skip some boring scenes in dramas. However, I didnt skip anything while watching FH thai. If I should compare between the original and thai version, they are even for me. They are very different yet I love them both the same. I will definatelly recommend this drama to everyone! (even to those, who watch only korean dramas)
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I finally got around to watching 71: Into the Fire. I think it took me this long,
because I am not much of a war movie kind of girl. I think the only war movie I actually like is Platoon which is set in the Vietnam war, but the others sort of bore me a little. But I decided to watch this, since a lot of people asked me to watch it and it has my ulitimate bias, Choi Seunghyun (T.O.P) in it. So I had to give it a try, since I have heard he is a great actor. (I havent seen IRIS)
Man am I glad I watched this movie. It wasnt the typical war movie, where there is a whole lot of strategy and stuff going on. I find that war movies bore me because there really isnt much emotion put into them, just a lot of fighting, with a tad bit of character emotion in it, and that really bores me, because we don’t get to know the characters’ back stories and all that important stuff that makes us realize these characters are human, and not just fighting machines. In this movie though, we had a lot of emotion. This is more of a sentimental movie, with a lot of focus on the characters, with the war built around that, and I think that’s why I loved this movie so much. We got to see a lot of the student soldiers, and their personalities, and got to know them, so we of course are more attached to them, and if they die, well that breaks our heart.
There is a lot of violence and blood in this movie, but of course it is a war film after all, so if that turns you away from it , I completely understand. And there is not a romance line, which obviously a lot of movies have and everyone wants, but to me love lines are not needed, so once again that may turn you from this movie. But I hope it doesnt, because all of those things are so insignificant , because this movie has heart. This movie is a “coming of age” movie, I have no other way to describe it, where boys become men, in a very sad kind of way. They may start out as students/immature little boys, but by the time this movie is over, you will see them as men who are willing to die for their country, and that is pretty great to me. You get to see many characters dealing with things, and scenes of extras having going through a hard time, which makes it even better, because even though they are not the “important” characters in this film, they still play a person going through this, and we get to see the scared/sad side of them too, and see how they become heroes, or not and I liked that about the movie.
The acting in this movie was on point. The actors, all of them, brought a lot of emotion and personality to their characters, even those who are not the main focus. Each person stands out on their own, and that made it great. Choi Seunghyun (T.O.P) did a great job with his character. He brought the emotional/scared side of his character out perfectly, while trying to be a good leader. I think that is pretty darn good if you ask me, since he isnt that experienced of an actor. I have to say Kwon Sang Woo did a good job as well. This is the first time I have ever seen him in anything, and he didnt disappoint me with his acting skills either. He played that character that you hate, but yet have to love. Though his character may be annoying, he had a lot of soul & heart, and Kwon Sang Woo showed that. Cha Seung Won also did a fantastic job at playing a North Korean commander. I have only seen him in one other thing, and I was impressed with is acting in that, and he yet again showed me how talented he is in this as well.
The cinematography was absolutely beautiful in this movie. I mean its a war movie, so I really didnt expect much in the artistic shooting side, but I was pleasantly surprised with the soft filter, the lighting, and the way that the slow motion and cut scenes were used, and that made it even more interesting to watch. The music complemented the movie, who doesnt love a nice orchestra piece? It made it even more heartfelt and some what intense as well.
Over all, I found this to be an outstanding film, and I can see why there are so many people who enjoy it. I must say though, you may not think you will cry, but you better have a couple boxes of tissues ready just in case. I know I cried a lot, towards the end, it struck my heart and ripped it out. So if you are looking for a nice movie, that may or may not be in your usual comfort zone, I think you should check this out. Don’t think of it as just a war film, because it is so much more than that. You will really appreciate it, and plus it’s based on a true story, which makes it even more interesting/heartbreaking. So give it a try, I don’t think you will be disappointed. There are many aspects of this movie that I think a lot of people, who like different genres of films, would really appreciate.
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Weak start, getting better with every episode...
While we are flooded with short KBL mini-series, this is a serious TV production. And it shows. The main actors are already established and even the best friend is a character we have seen in other series as supporting role.I like scifi and time travel always but I would lie if I would say the script does not have it's flaws. Sadly it has. Especially the color-blindness was not explained at all. Especially WHEN does he have it, is it just an after-effect due to his time travelling or did he had it all the time or did it develop gradually. It has such a prominent role in the story that I don't know WHY it was there. So it irks me still, why it wasn't explained at all. Also the fight between Woojin and his best friend was overly fast resolved without the proper appology. Teajun had the vibe of jealousy which was not done right. It gave me first the impression he is also interested in Woojin in a romantic way but that was just a fleeting moment and imho not necessary.
The cinematography was top notch giving the past and the "now" a different vibe - which it should. Also they did an amazing OST. The only gripe is the overly blurness of their first kiss in the beginning, this was a bit over the top. I disagree with some reviews here saying the did not have chemistry, I think they did. The glances and micro expressions did it for me, without the face to face aural confessions we are so used to. They don't need words to convey their feelings. In the finale Woojin said his smile had a sadness to it and yes, that's what was intended. This was a much more mature storyline compared to most school/university BLs we get to see nowadays which I appreciated.
Regardless of the flaws of the script, I enjoyed the series. It took almost a year after "Ball Boy Tactics" to get a proper KBL on the screen and I appreciated it. So while not perfect, it's worth the watch.
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Advice: don't question the story... just enjoy. XD haha
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Can't get over it!
Do you know why i gave this a full star? I'm a cdrama fan since 2021, and mangoTV dramas are always the best, that why sometimes, u can't find their episodes haha, and this one is the best, it's from novel, and even though i didn't read the novel i know that all the scenes in here did not change. I know very well the chinese attitude in writing a novel, that's why the series is soooo novel-like!! Love it, and also the casts are chef's kiss i loveee them! Their filming camera!!! It's soooo cool! Both leads are so perfect, they can show me what is in the novel. This series is my taste that's why i like it, also, this wang hedi is so handsome. I can't!Was this review helpful to you?
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Tragically Beautiful..
Mr. Plankton was a total gem from start to finish.. It truly set a high standard.. Delivered quality in every departments.. From start to finish there were no bad scenes.. No bad characters.. And not a single bad performance from any of the actors.. Each actor brought depth and authenticity to their role.. Made them essential to the story no matter how small their screentime is.. Cinematography was impressive.. The romance was just chaotic.. Messy and yet strangely perfect.. They were a chaotic couple.. And funny even when they shouldnt be.. And come on what more can you expect from a drama that had two marriages in the first episode and The ML kidnapped both the brides.. It was a rollercoaster of chaos and fun..The first scene itself screamed ' No happy ending here '.. And that was actually the way to go.. The entire story leading to that last moment.. ' His Death '.. That was the perfect ending.. No miracle cure.. Nothing magical.. Just a journey filled with Love..
Comedy and Pure Messy Romance..
At one point.. I genuinely feared that WDH wasnt just acting.. Maybe he was actually going through something himself.. He was that good.. He was really living the character..
The scene where Jae Mi kissed Hae Jo at that the bus stop after kidnapping him from the hospital honestly didnt feel like it was scripted.. It felt real.. As real as it can be.. Such a perfect moment..
And the last scene..
" In the end.. You are the final scene of my life.. I guess that means i had a pretty good life.. "
What a powerful way to end the story.. The ending was expected but heartbreaking nonetheless..
Overall.. Another strong contender for drama of the year.. Loved the characters journey and their warm connection and relationship with each other.. WDH certainly deserves an award for his performance here.. And kudos to the writer for that ending.. This drama is going to stay with me for a long time..
They entered our lives so effortlessly.. And in just ten episodes.. They left us shattered and aching..
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Because trust me you not going to regret it!
Okay let me start with the most important thing. Plot/Writing. Which seems like a lot of people complain about. Now I'm not saying it was 10/10 however I was not bored for even one second or had any problems with how the story was layed out. We start off the whole drama with a lot of questions which I personally liked as it made it much more interesting. The action and the misery parts were truly amazing. It is a rom-com kdrama so I wasn't really expecting much of a twists and exitment but I gotta say that I've never seen such a well balanced kdrama. We got the right amount of romance, comedy, action and fantasy. Masterpiece.
Acting:
I gotta say that this was the first time watching a kdrama with An Hyo Seop and Park Bo Young ( because yes I did not watch Strong Girl Bong soon) and Oh my God. I am a fan. Totally. Without a doubt. I loved her acting as I feel like she was able to deliver emotion in a really professional way. She was truly impressing. As for Hyo Seop I kinda felt like he was a pretty face rookie actor and in the beginning I thought that would ruin his character however I felt like it suited his cute, clusmy and a little bit dumb character. A lot of people criticized Cha Min's character and I might have to agree with that a little bit as I think they could've give more to Cha Min. More charisma maybe more seriousness however I think it wasn't a big problem as his cute silliness suited the drama
Music:
I have nothing much to say about this. It was just truly amazing and I am usually really picky with ost as I get bored of listening to the same songs through 16 episode.
Ending:
Another element of the drama that I read a lot of hate comments about. And I seriously thought for a good 10 minutes that I'm gonna hate the ending. But obviously I didn't. To be honest it wasn't anything special we seen it before but sometimes extravaganza endings can ruin a drama. I'm gonna be honest this was the ending I needed. Sweet and chill. And nice refreshing ending after all the excitement.
Overall:
I seriously don't get why this drama is getting a lot of hate. If you are unsure of watching it, Trust me! It's a worth watch. Perfect plotwist. And it is just so entertaining!!!
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"It was love at first sight, at last sight, at ever and ever sight."
Road Home is not your typical Cdrama, where you expect to see the most unexpected of them all.In essence, it's just a melodramatic, feel-good, piece-of-life sort of drama. Be prepared to see lots of romantic scenes, Kisses, hugs, long gazes, beautiful locations, and most importantly; how to LOVE and LIVE at the same time.
Plot summary:
This drama is focused on First love. Two youngsters fell in love at first sight and broke up due to fate's plan. Seems simple and predictable at times, yet they take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. How to grow up and cultivate the love you once lost. It's mature, warm, and heartwrenching at times; yet you will enjoy every single minute of it. Be ready to see flashback scenes and the younger versions of the leads and their interactions.
First Impression:
The drama starts pretty simply as the plot suggests. The pacing is decent, since the leads find each other rather unexpectedly and reconnect because they want to! There is no hatred felt from both side unlike what we see in Asian dramas mostly. From the first episode, you can feel their longing and desire. It's like they are destined to set foot in each other's lives once again.
As the story progresses, there are minimum complications, and no cringe-worthy scenes ( except a few scenes where the leads are cut and can't communicate well). There are no jealous exes or love triangles to mess up the drama. Just sit back and enjoy watching two long-lost, lovey-dovey human beings. However, the ML is a SWAT member, as a result, there are scenes exhibiting his life and work by himself.
Acting:
It was my first time seeing Seven Tan in a drama and I dare say I was impressed. She plays her character so well. You can easily see her development from a teenager to an adult through the course of this drama. She suffers in her childhood as it's depicted through the flashbacks and develops into an independent woman who wants to love and settle down. She expresses her feelings and desires fully and Gui Xiao makes you believe in love if you don't already lol
Jing Boran aka the Male lead Lu Chen. The heartthrob of this drama. I wanna applaud his acting in this drama. It's hard to deliver a rather tough and broken character in a drama, and i must say JBR did a wonderful job delivering a police officer's employment and love life. Not to mention depicting affection and brewing loving chemistry with Seven Tan.
In essence, he is just a simple guy who doesn't talk much but just look at the way his eyes and body move. That is another level of acting in my opinion. Some simply watched the drama for his good looks, Well, you're not alone!
All other actors involved in this drama deserve kudos. Everyone played their respective roles in alignment with the story and this is what makes the drama interesting in my opinion.( A special kudos to the kiddo who plays Qin Xiaonan)
Writing:
This drama is based on a romance novel and the Author is also involved in script writing of this drama, which is a great contribution. I haven't personally read the novel, yet those who have had before mentioned that this drama is closely following the novel's footsteps and we are not deviating much from the novel ( as the novel readers say, the drama followed the novel closely. so if you see things missing or don't make sense, the original book is the same). As a result, the author's presence had a great effect on the script and character development.
Yet again, the only downside was that the second lead had minimum screen time and their relationship was kinda rushed. So we are mostly focused on the main leads.
Production and cinematography:
If you have watched Cdramas before, you are fully aware that their production system is a bit different( In terms of using CGI and dubbing voices, however, in this drama the actors' original voices were used) But this drama uses beautiful locations and picturesque scenery. We see a variety of locations and buildings, camps and bases, and cities too!( not to mention the tents and camps they showed us!)
The episodes that are shot in Qining are the best of them all, which adds to the value of this drama. If you watch the drama, you realize the importance of this magnificent place for the lead's destiny.
Music:
The selection of music is a bit limited, however, the background classical pieces used in different scenes definitely bring about good vibes.
I just want to mention that if you're a romantic and die for romantic dramas with the least complications and cringe, and at the same time crave romantic scenes and beautiful chemistry, be sure to check this drama. It's a solid 10/10. highly recommended.
And another side note. Some did not like this drama. Understandable! Not every drama made in dramaland is aimed to satisfy everyone. But this drama is not at ALL lame and bland. It's designed for a more mature audience who wants to see something realistic and romantic.
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Now, that is what history remembers Wu Ze Tian as - brilliant, perfectionist, strategist & murderer. But is this the personal Wu Ze Tian? This series acted and produced by Fan Bing Bing give viewers a different take on the cruel empress - one that colours We Ze Tian as a kind woman who fell victim to broken relationships, lies and plots of others around her. A helpless and vengeful Wu Ze Tian??? Hmmm....I know many who are skeptical of this! At least I know my aging mum who's a bit of a Chinese history buff cursed this portrayal of Wu Ze Tian. All Chinese knew this empress as a cruel person - why is she suddenly a nice, innocent and victim-of-circumstance person? Perhaps, this is just another perspective - albeit a more feminist perspective of Wu Ze Tian. We all know that Fan Bing Bing's a consummate feminist and this is her attempt to give the world a different portrayal of powerful Chinese female historical figures. Her next project is a drama on Empress Dowager Cixi. The Chinese hated Cixi even to this day. There is a tradition in China where ppl spit at her grave and curse her even to this day - that is how hated this woman is. Like Wu Ze Tian, she murdered many - including her own children and relatives. She's also the woman who signed away HK, Macau and many important Chinese ports to the Brits so she could continue with her opium addiction. Unlike Wu Ze Tian who at least ruled the country wisely and contributed to the expansion of the Chinese empire, Cixi actually almost destroyed it. The Chinese saw the last of the Chinese emperors, partially thanks to her. So, how will Fan Bing Bing portray Cixi as a heroine in her next project? Let's wait and see...
Acting/Cast: Acting is good as all actors and actresses are very experienced. No problems in this department. The costumes are brilliant. Although the cleavages are common to the Tang dynasty's fashion, the elaborated designs, bright multi-colours and accessories may be a little too modern (and fanciful) to the time. There are also many instances when Wu Ze Tian has a more elaborate costume compared to the other women who were higher ranked than her. She even out-shone the emperor's costumes.. which is a no-no. It is obvious that the best costumes are reserved for Fan Bing Bing's main character of Wu Ze Tian which kind of created an unrealistic atmosphere. She should have gone with less elaborate costumes as befitting her station in the palace instead of insisting on being the 'peacock' of the lot.
Music: The OSTs are ok but not the main feature of this drama.
Overall: It's a good enough entertainment but let's be honest here, with 96 episodes... I don't know anyone who is crazy enough to re-watch this again. It is not the 'WOW!' kind of drama that would cause you to re-watch it. It's a once-off drama that is good enough to keep you entertained.
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Itazura na Kiss is a fantastic story but reality is that is a bit outdated and doesn't really reflect society nowadays no matter how romantic one is or is not on my opinion. Kiss me instead of sticking to the original and become known as just another remake of the story, it elevates it to an entire new level by giving it their own spin of it and make it actual without compromising the essential storyline.
Naoki aka Tenten is fantastic to watch. He's relatable as a person, not the arrogant genious every other version tried to make him as. Yes, he's a genius but he's human and the humanity of the character that Mike D'Angelo portraits is what differs Tenten from all the other versions for me. Tenten is by far the most complete character of all the versions.
Kotoko aka Taliw...she's sweet and clueless at times and she's simple but she's caring and genuinely in love with Tenten without going overboard or being annoying like other versions I believe, which makes me like the character and empathize with her.
Kiss me is not a copy paste of the other versions, making it more authentic and interesting to watch. The soundtrack is also quite good.
Overall, it is a great adaptation of Itazura na Kiss!
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I started this because of Jung Il Woo. I've seen him for the first time in High End Crush (go watch that!) and fell in love with his natural acting and expressions so I can say I had no expectations about the show to be frustrated.
It was beautifully executed (apart from the slow motion scenes that had me rolling my eyes all the time) and everything that makes this overdramatic (imo) are the headcanons of the Cinderella concept - evil step-mother and step-sister, absent father, diseased mother and a helpless little princess... wait. Helpless? Not so much and that's what I love about Eun Ha Won. Despite of her heart being too good for her own good, she's positive instead of victimizing herself, she goes get it, she stands up for herself and doesn't get oversensitive over things. She hangs it in there alright.
As for the male leads, Seo Woo was kinda cute (never seen an idol with that much free time! lol), Hyun Min is adorable (typical spoiled and arrogant brat we love to not hate) and Ji Woon... ah... now that it's over I kinda wish I had him to myself. At first he really annoyed me but as soon as he started smiling I was sold. Guess that has Il Woo's to blame, though. But honestly, his character is kind, protective, righteous and also stands up for himself and though he has a strong sense of pride, he didn't let it get in the way of his relationship with Ha Won (like it usually goes).
The side characters are appealing too... all but Hye Ji. (And that annoying fangirl but I really can't stand Cho Hye Jung's face so I think that's completely biased, ignore that). Perhaps she would be appealing too if Naeun COULD act at all but she's worse than a paper doll. Very much like Korea's very own Kristen Stewart right there, lol. I'm beyond pissed because she seemed to be doing alright in Twenty Again but in this show... is she perhaps Jaehyun's fangirl? That's why she got so affected? I could understand that...
Jokes aside, I kept telling my cousin how Cinderella and The Four Knights was a guilty pleasure of mine. Not so guilty anymore now. The ending was spot on, it wasn't intense as the others use to be and everything got solved and worked on. I felt completely fulfilled by it. Then again, the show starts out great, I was hooked from the very first episode but it takes a displeasing U turn on the second half that had me postponing it for a bit but the ending completely made up for it so much I had to come here and write a review.
This show isn't anything exceptional, not at all. But people tend to compare shows is different categories and that's unacceptable! If I was to give it a grade based on everything I've watched so far it would get... what?... a 5, perhaps a 6. But that wouldn't be fair at all - or right, for that matter. Cinderella and The Four Knights is a ROM-COM and AS SUCH it did such a WONDERFUL job. It's funny, good paced, has some elements you wish weren't there (but that's a given) and the chemistry between the leads is A M A Z I N G to say the least. I was in love with their chemistry because... I don't know if it's Il Woo's fault again but he generally seems very relaxed in scene. And they look really playful together, it's almost as if I'm seeing through it, as if he's just being spontaneous and surprising So Dam with things his character wasn't supposed to do. It's like I can see them having fun BTS, you know? And that... I really love that because.... even if it's unprofessional, it makes everything look natural and convincing.
And their kiss scenes... ooooooh boy. I don't know about the previous ones (except the drunk smooches that were the cutest I've ever witnessed *-*) but those on the couple last episodes are BREATHTAKING! I was squealing like a fangirl wishing I was So Dam bc damn, lol. Love the attitude and the natural look they have unlike any other kiss in every drama I've watched so far - all of them. *sighs* I wish I could kiss Il Woo too. hahahahaha I'm so sorry, don't mind me. x_x
Anywayz... I would SO recommend this drama if you're into rom-coms. Nothing new for sure neither did it intend to be (I'm guessing that from the title lol), but totally worth watching. ^-^
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1
1This review may contain spoilers
LOVING A HERO
If I could give this more than 10, I would just for the chemistry between Nan Chu and Liu Xiao. I absolutely love the chemistry between them. The first episode focuses more on the firefighters than on the relationship between the leads and led to some dropping the show, leaving low ratings. I stuck with it because Zhang Jing Yi is one of the most natural actresses who has a way of connecting with her costars. And this show is no different. I started to feel the chemistry between them quite early in the show. It becomes obvious that the ML is falling for the FL earlier in the drama and that she likes him too.What I love about Liu Xiao is that even though he is tough as he needs to be as a leader, he is soft when it comes to the Nan Chu. Watching this ML do something as simple as adjusting the FL's belt and making sure her uniform was on properly is sweet. It is especially sweet because he doesn't do this for anyone else. He is not only attracted to her outer beauty but also to the beauty within. Johnny Huang does an excellent job playing his character. I love the way he is with Nan Chu, and it is hilarious to watch the other firefighters' expressions when they see their leader doing special things for her. Johnny Huang's character, Lu Xiao, is not weak at all. He is strong, and he leads with empathy and understanding for his team. For this, he is loved and respected.
Nan Chu is strong in character. She will step forward to correct a wrong or to defend someone. She shows maturity and intelligence in her interactions with others. She is also a dancer, so there are some beautiful dance scenes. It was a big bonus to see Nan Chu perform a dance scene with Liu Xiao. I rewatched that scene many times before I could move on. I just wanted to keep watching it and will go back to it forever! I loved Zhang Ying Yi in Lighter and Princess and might even love her more here. She is now my favorite actress.
Once you get to know all the characters, including the firefighters, you will find yourself invested in their lives as well as the main leads. Therefore, as much as I am always looking for romance dramas, I do not mind any of these characters taking up air time. Bright Eyes in the Dark is much more than just romance or the lives of the two main leads when they are together. It is also about the characters finding their way in life and fulfilling dreams and goals. Nan Chu's career path is in dancing and acting while Liu Xiao's is in serving his country as a firefighter. And as much as Nan Chu sees Liu Xiao as her hero, she feels that while he protects the country, she will protect him. To Liu Xiao, Nan Chu is "like a piece of candy" bestowed on his life. You need to watch to feel the chemistry between the leads.
There was a comment in one of the reviews which said that "Wang Zi Qi played a bad character." NO. Wang Zi Qi played a character who is determined to reduce casualties with the use and technology and tougher training. He transferred in as a director. He pushed the team to improve and this only caused the firefighters to resist his methods. He is not a bad character. He just needed to learn how to motivate the team. He knew the ML years before and the ML is not against him at all. It was fun to see Lu Xiao (ML) help this new director fit in with the team. And he does eventually.
As I am waiting for new episodes to be released, I am rewatching from the start, and on the second watch, I see the significant details in episode 1 that you will understand more after watching the episodes that follow. Perhaps the producer should have opened the show with a scene of the couple that would hook the viewer rather than open with an introduction into the background of the characters. I am so glad I kept watching because now I cannot wait for the next episode.
THE ENDING
If you do not want to know about the ending. Do not read further.
I felt I needed to add this for those who might watch and be surprised at an ending they did not anticipate or like.
Before I go into my interpretation of the ending, let me say that I saw the live interview with Johnny Huang and Zhang Jing Yi where he said that the ML did not die. He said it was an open ending.
And before I go even further, let me say everything stated above still stands. I love the couple and the characters in the show. The characters were well developed. The relationship between the main couple was beautiful.
This drama deserves a 10. Many are changing their reviews because they are upset or disappointed about the ending because it seems the ML died. The drama ends with Nan Chu dancing on stage while the members of the fire department watch. There is an empty seat. But the scene shifts to Lu Xiao walking into the theater and sitting in the #34 seat. He claps at the end of the dance and no one but Nan Chu hears him. I interpret this as even though Lu Xiao is away protecting the country, he will always be there for her emotionally and in her heart. Another indication of the seat number could be to show that he did not sit in the empty seat that was saved for him. That seat was #1. He sat at #34 which from the signs, was located at the top right corner of the theater. It looks as if he entered an empty theater but it is clear that the back of the theater is empty. It could be he arrived late.
NOTE: In Chinese the #3 means life and the #4 means death. There is a significance in the #34. Perhaps the significance is that Lu Xiao's place in life is difficult as he is in a position that could go from life to death in a flash.
Whether you feel the ML died or not, or if this drama deserves a high rating, there is no denying how beautifully the emotions were depicted. I am leaving my rating of 10 even though I feel sad. I am sad because I will miss the main couple and the wonderful characters. Perhaps Lu Xiao did not die as Johnny Huang stated. He was away protecting the country. Nan Chu said, " You go protect the safety of the world. I will protect you." I am going with the premise that Lu Xiao did not die. And before you say the firefighters all looked so sad, so he must have died, perhaps they looked emotional because the dance was in honor of firefighters. And with that, I will rewatch the final scene again.
***As someone who does not like open endings and will avoid the shows that have them, believe me when I tell you this drama was beautiful on many levels. I have no regrets watching it.
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Surprisingly entertaining, give it a try.
I just kinda feel the need to say this; maybe try rating a movie or a drama after you actually watched a few episodes.Honestly, the sole reason I am watching this drama because of CZY― and that being said, I had no idea what to expect. In the first few episodes, there are indeed a lot of things to grasp, like who is who, how their 'world' works, the name of the sects and all that, but I think it was always like that with fantasy drama.
As the story goes, I found myself genuinely coalesce with the drama. It was somehow heartwarming to see the ML easily bemused by every little things he saw outside of Qingluan Peak. While people might say his character was rather childish, I think it was exactly what to expect from someone who grew up in isolation and never met anyone else except his father and the pig demon.
The interactions between the ML and FL also so funny to watch. One is sly and cunning, meanwhile the other one is kind yet naive and speaks whatever on his mind out loud. And their friendship evolves, I can't wait to see their character development!
Also, for the CGI, I think it was kind of decent. The fighting scenes were fine too. There was nothing big that bothers me so far. I hope it gets better!
[UPDATES AFTER FINISHED WATCHING.]
For this drama, I am kind of relieved that the journey has managed to steer clear of disappointment. (Though there are, of course, room for some improvements.)
But well, I could say, it's akin to the pride of a parent witnessing the growth of my children. Every second is a joy as I savor the unfolding story, relishing the arcs and development of each character. Every obstacle and setback that they encountered served as a tool― shaping the four main leads and their friendships into something beautiful. And even though their friendship might seem almost too perfect, I can't help but adore watching their dynamics. Where I could possibly find friends as genuine and supportive as them in real life? :[
Throughout the entire watching experience, not once did I feel the need to skip any part or conversation, as there were no unnecessary fillers. Every dialogue held significance for the plot. However, I must confess, the temptation to fast-forward arose during scenes featuring the infuriating villains who never failed to make my blood boil. (Side eyeing Su Yao and particular sect leaders as I type.)
(Here goes some small complains.)
To be entirely honest, I believe adding two or more episodes would have been perfect for this drama. There were certain aspects that left me puzzled. I personally believe it was essential to provide more details about what transpired after the great war. The abrupt one hundred-year time skip felt somewhat cruel, leaving me yearning for more insight into Lingsha's final moments with Tianhe― despite the inner conflict about my own emotional strength to witness it, a part of me still desired that closure. Also, I'm curious about how Tianhe lost his sight. Was it related to the divine bow? The connection remains unclear to me.
Towards the last few episodes, the CGI noticeably declined from the impressive quality seen at the beginning of the story. The fighting scenes, unfortunately, felt somehow rushed. I think, a bit more attention to details and time devoted to these aspects would have enhanced the overall watching experience.
In conclusion, it was a truly memorable journey. Zheyuan once again proving his acting prowess, leaving me in awe. His emotional performances drew me in completely, evoking my own tears and smiles in sync with his. While it was my first time watching the other three main leads in a drama, they portrayed their characters exceptionally well. And not to forget, the soundtracks have found a permanent spot on my playlist. Whenever these songs play, I can't resist replaying scenes in my mind. (Forgive me for the emotional indulgence.)
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A Thriller/Comedy with a touch of warmth short drama
This is by far one the best T-drama I've watched in years. It has a touch of comedy, thrilling adventures, warmth feeling and life lesson all in 12 episodes.I watch this without any expectation and got me hooked from the 1st episode.
The writer of this drama did a great job in depicting each story in all of the episodes.
I love how the characters developments for all 3 main characters were portrayed nicely.
Every actors and actresses portrayed their character very well.
(SPOILER)
I’m surprise that Derek Chang can play a villain as he has that good boy look and often play a good character (boy next door kind).
I love how they made Pu Yi Yong (PYY) become more mature as the story progresses and how he mastered the skill he was given after waking from his coma skillfully. His empathy towards others made him to be a great person despite all the lack of education. He was deemed as hooligans because of this. But he was actually a great person.
As for Cao Guang Yan (CGY) and Chen Chu Ying (CCY), they both became his faithful companion and sidekick ready to defend him anytime.
PYY's mom and CGY's dad were hilarious and make the drama fun to watch too. (of course other side characters were good as well, too many to mention).
Here are some life lessons can be taken from this drama (and maybe apply it in real life):
1. “You are most important” (this is an advice PYY’s Dad gave at the last episode). Although many will interpret this as being selfish, I actually think the dad wants PYY to love himself despite all the weaknesses in his life. One’s compassion and empathy are not a weakness rather it’s a skill that many people lack these days. I love how wise the dad actually is despite his silly actions.
2. “Never give up” This is what I also get from all the “creatures” that PYY help through his writing. Although they are not human but their persistence help them to move on.
3. “Obsession holds others down” This is why most “creatures” PYY encounter existed. A human obsession can be a scary thing just like hatred and jealousy. People blinded from all of these often can’t see or appreciate the things they have in life and beside them.
If you still hesitate to watch, don’t… just go and watch it without expectation. You’ll enjoy it much more. Every episode keeps you on edge (like I did). I’m totally gonna miss this drama every Saturday. I’ve gone attached to Pu Yi Yong character. I will definitely rewatch this drama later on.
Hope there’ll be a second season although Taiwanese drama seldom do more than 1 season.
Wishing other fan of this drama enjoy the drama as much as I did. ^^
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High Jumping Comedic Romance
What drew me to this series was the sportiness with a side of romance and drama. Wanted something fun and easy while watching heavier stuff. Only know Gina Jin from a previous show this year which was also an older woman/younger man thing but this one actually had a plot and good acting.Pros: I really liked the underdog kid ML who was always critiqued for being too short to do the high jump but nothing slowed him down. There was only an 8 year age difference between the leads and the ML was 20 when they got together. So to those who feel skeaved out by these kinds of scenarios; don't worry, everyone was an adult in this one. The chemistry between the leads was palpable from the get go. But it was the sportiness, comedy, and the ML's iron clad determination to continue to do what he loved that kept me watching. The FL was a great beginners coach and was very credible in her role.
The beginning and ending credits and OSTs were beautiful and all perfectly placed. I liked the pace of the story as it never dragged nor felt cliché. As a fan of track and field in the Olympics this peaked my interest and I was even more impressed that they cast an actual high jumper athlete to both help/encourage the lead in his role but also as one of the supporting characters; just made it feel more authentic. Was it 100% perfect in all of the sport parameters? No, but this was a drama, not a documentary, so it wasn't expected.
For a c-drama, this had very mature romance which was a nice added touch. There were no lips pressed together and wide eyed looks of confusion from whichever lead. Each kiss after the first and romantic first night together were very convincingly done.
Cons: This would have gotten a rare 10 from me had it not sent this great and light-hearted for the most part drama off the rails in the last 3 episodes with the crazy reporter and her unnecessary garbage plus all that other junk that then had to quickly spin a plot of ML going overseas to train with FL's dad. If this thing was to be included, it had to start way earlier. But honestly, it really was unnecessary because they could have had him enter into some competition and show him winning or something and build up to the last 3 minute proposal that was then quickly turned into a wedding in the last episode. It was very haphazardly thrown together and if not for that last out of left field portion, could have had a very satisfactory and strong ending. I also wish they spent more time on the sports then the romance; had it more 50-50 especially towards the end. Sadly, editing went out the window via a javelin throw and that portion missed the mark.
Would I recommend it? I absolutely would. Despite the last 3 episodes being just essentially fillers, it was a very funny, easy on the brain, natural, and great show to watch which I enjoyed very much and will totally rewatch my favorite parts.
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