Finding Yourself
Aristocrats tells the story of two women from different social classes, family backgrounds, and outlook on life who embark on a journey of self-discovery and finding their place in the world, amidst the constraints of familial expectations, gender discrimination, class system and traditional values that are deeply ingrained in Japanese society, particularly amongst the upper class or, in the context of the film, the aristocrats.Based on the novel Ano Ko wa Kizoku by award-winning author and essayist Mariko Yamauchi, which was serialised in the monthly magazine Syosetsu Subaru in 2015 and published as a book in 2016. Yukiko Sode, who is a notable indie-film director, wrote the screenplay adaptation and directed the film. Yasuyuki Sasaki serves as cinematographer while Takuma Watanabe composed the original score. Aristocrats had its world premiere at the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival in 2021.
What I Appreciated
The character-driven and female-centric narrative is told from the perspectives of the two women, Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki, structured in a converging parallel plot format. Certain flashback sequences are involved but, for the most part, a linear storytelling approach is adopted which preserves the overall cohesion and coherence of the multiple POVs. A number of themes concerning conservative social constructs, narrow mindsets and stereotypes are manifested while the concepts of marriage, friendship and love are also explored to a certain extent.
Running at just over 2 hours, this film covers quite an extensive scope but gives the impression of taking its time to allow the various elements to breathe and gradually sink in. Nothing ever feels rushed or abrupt as the tempo of the storytelling remains delicately poised all throughout. This aspect is complemented by the equally subtle cinematography technique that renders a series of exquisitely framed moments. A more subdued colour grading is employed with a slight textured effect that filters the warmer colour palettes. The gently imbued orchestral accompaniment that induces an introspective mood provides the finishing touches to the end product - a motion picture that showcases visual aesthetics and technical artistry.
Where the production truly shines lies in the exceptional cast performances, particularly that of the main leads. Kadowaki Mugi and Mizuhara Kiko are hugely impressive in their respective portrayals of Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki. Understatedly emotive and compellingly nuanced, these two fine actresses certainly possess the gravitas to utterly enliven the entire film with their commanding screen presence. My only qualm is that I wished both had more scenes together.
Final Thoughts
Aristocrats, at its core, represents an in-depth character study of the internal struggles of two young women against the backdrop of a deeply traditional society amidst the hustle-and-bustle of cosmopolitan Tokyo. It is bittersweet yet inspiring and the story eventually ends on a high note which provides a fitting closure where both leads finally discover their true worth and find their place in the world. This has been a truly evocative viewing experience.
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That having said, the movie touches some taboo issues, but take them in the most natural way possible. it shows a dysfunctional man whose life goes even further away from from what can be called normal as he starts to live with a girl who has lost everything due to natural catastrophe. There are very few supporting characters and the background story remains vague which adds to the mysterious character of the movie.
It is slow paced, so you've got to be prepared for this. The viewer is supposed to feel the climate rather than be shocked and rushed through series of events. So take a good time for this two hours of tragic drama. And try to get swallowed by the emptiness of the coldest parts of Hokkaido.
The acting is superb. We've got two very different actors, acting-style wise, age wise, who managed to create an amazing emotional blend that creates a kind of awkward harmony. Needless to say, Asano Tadanobu greatness is very much visible here and he suits Jungo's character very well. On the other hand, very young Nikaido Fumi proves once again how versatile actress she is.
The few supporting ones are good as well and create rather coherent background.
Music is again a background issue that basically helps to set the mood and proves it really well.
As a summary, one more time: do not expect fireworks, if you look for entertainment it hardly there. But if you don't mind that you might get tangled up in something disturbingly beautiful.
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Surprisingly I loved it!!!
This is a bizarre series, slow-paced and sweet in its own -um unique- way!I will try to explain why I like this series so much, even though admittedly it had its shortcomings. Personally, I like the main couple and their dynamics. It is one of those rare times that we get the chance to see a couple of two similar personalities that suit and complement each other. Both MLs are introverted, quiet and a little bit depressed. I enjoyed how they seemed to attempt to achieve a more happy outlook and get some goals in their lives -especially Mon- through each other's influence. The dedication they both showcase to each other and the support and friendship that progressively turns into something else were the wining points for me. If you're looking for an intense romance, full of declarations of undying love or jealousy outbursts, this would not be your cup of tea. But if you like to see how a very closed off, nearly antisocial guy re-opens up his heart through the care and support of the one person that strives to help them resume following their dreams, then maybe you'd love this as much as I did.
Also, it is notable that the second lead here not only isn't annoying and exhausting as usual, but he's lovely and his intense feelings for the ML do not go unnoticed by the viewer. He is so lovable and honest that you find yourself supporting him and wishing to see him happy and loved as well.
The music was maybe the most bizarre part of the whole series. At times I tried to decide if it even fit the scenes or made them more awkward but after a point I got used to it. Also, having Soh being a music major and having his own band, I think maybe they could have developed their music choices more. This, however, in addition to the long pauses in several scenes. gave you the time to get into the characters' mentality and inner thoughts.
In general, this series is a breath of fresh air that will give you some time to think, relax and appreciate what most of us take for granted everyday. The cinematography is very well done, and the characters are complex and flawed. I got really invested while this series was airing and the excitement for what would come next never left me. They did follow some cliché patterns that could have been avoided, but as it was very mild in terms of the shock element, those moments gave us the chance to get to know the characters and their feelings better. The ending for me was the perfect way to end this series and suited both characters but also the reality of such a relationship! I hope more people give this series a chance and can enjoy it as much as I did!
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Story: Divorce lawyers of opposing sides find the love spot as they both work though the bad luggage they acquired from previous relationships. Not a new storyline, just a well acted and directed story.
Actors: Main leads chemistry was simply delicious and heartfelt. The side actors (and their stories) were well matched and performed.
Music: well matched and placed
This drama might resonate with any viewer who has been through any major life events and survived to be better on the other side. The leads have magnetic chemistry which make this so delightful to watch.
Rewatch: 46eps is long to rewatch but I might hop around to view episodes to keep these characters and their journey as a reminder on some key life points on love, marriage, divorce and smiles. Well done drama.
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TSY shines in her role as Ning Meng, our feisty, stubborn and kind to fault dreamer that starts out as a secretary to a successful businessman but ends up becoming a boss woman in her own right. We are given a front row seat to her growth from the very start to the end and you'll find yourself cheering her on through all the trials and struggles she endures. I've always been a fan of TSY (and it was because of this that I even started this drama in the first place) and this has turned into one of her best roles to date. She is perfectly casted as Ning Meng and undoubtedly, it's her charm and likability that makes this drama so good.
I'm not the biggest fan of LGX and will issue a warning that he is completely unlikable as Lu JiMing for the first ten or so episodes. You'll find yourself wanting to hit him, trip him down a flight of stairs and throw a drink (or five) at his smug face. In that sense, LGX has done a great job in his role. However, as much as this is a drama about Ning Meng's growth in her career, it's also a drama about Lu JiMing's individual growth from becoming an arrogant CEO who takes his temper out on everyone around him to becoming a truer version of himself that learns how to communicate and be more honest. As awful as his mouth is, he's someone with integrity, grit, and a good investor (but a terrible boss).
Many will say that the romance is lacking in this and they would be right. This isn't your standard lovey-dovey romance with lots of cooing and kissing, but a drama with one of the most realistic takes on love and relationships. The secondary female lead isn't an awful scheming woman but a mature one that knows herself and knows when to retreat. The secondary male lead is a bit more challenging but an important reminder that love isn't the be all end all and not an ultimate savior.
Perhaps it's the advantage of having both a female director behind the lens and a female scriptwriter but for once, I truly felt that this was a drama that was focused on the female lead and not just the female lead in relation to the male lead. A truly solid 8.5 drama but a 9 for the fact that it doesn't fall back on the typical romantic stereotypes and manages to inspire and end with one of the most satisfying endings for a drama I've seen.
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1We will feast on the enemies flesh and drink their blood.
Full River Red is an ancient dark comedy whodunit set in Song dynasty. It is Zhang Yimou's most commercially successful movie to date That is no reason to dislike it. For Zhang Yimou never fails to stun with the sheer brilliance of his cinematic vision and his ability to provoke and capture profound human emotions. It is his narrative style that tends to be weighed down by illogical, at times exaggerated plot points and inconsistent characterisations that rarely does justice to his incisive camera language. While there are traces of these habits, this twisty, stab-happy mystery is the tightest plot I have seen from him in years.As much as the critical political and societal undertones of Zhang's earlier works discomfited the Chinese government, his recent works are now accused of pandering to government propaganda. Every Western film critic has remarked upon the movie's jingoist note with a sense of unease. The Chinese title Mǎnjiānghóng/满江红 or crimson river sets the tone from the start. This eponymous poem attributed to patriot Yue Fei is ubiquitous; it spoke to me even before I could understand its prose. People's hero Yue Fei was a revered Song general who relentlessly defended his homeland against the invading Jurchens. He was betrayed by the enemy within, a jianchen/奸臣 treacherous official Qin Hui who goes on to be prime minister. What happened to Yue Fei is one of history's terrible injustices, one that still resonates eight hundred years later. The common people appeased their deep sense of sorrow and thirst for justice by deep frying dough sticks in oil yóu zhá guǐ/油炸鬼 or deep fried guǐ/ 鬼 or devil, which in Cantonese is a homonym for Hui/Kuai/桧 in Qin Hui. When I was a kid, my dad used to rant about the dastardly Qin Hui every time we bit into his favorite crispy fried dough sticks.
The movie opens four years after the unjust death of Yue Fei. A Jin envoy is murdered on the eve of his meeting with Prime Minister Qin Hui. The important missive he carried is missing. The unfortunate night patrol is put under the knife as heads must roll for this diplomatic disaster. Desperate to buy time, corporal Zhang Da convinces Deputy Commander Sun Jun that he may be of value in solving the case. They make some small progress and are given two hours by Qin Hui himself to recover the missing missive. Thus begins a high-strung, knives drawn chase through the serpentine military compound as they question unreliable witnesses and fend off duplicitous officials vying to get their nefarious hands on the missing letter.
In a departure from Zhang Yimou's signature, bombastic color drenched cinematic style, the palette is muted, somber and haunting in its clean lines and simple, gorgeous grey toned soberness. There is a sense of profound gravitas that overhangs the thrill and suspense of unraveling the conspiracy at hand. The pacing is start stop as the narrative slows down enough to allow important plot points to soak in only to pick up again to the tune of a clattering amalgamation of hip-hop and Chinese folk music as they race through the complex to pin down the next clue. The body-count piles up as suspects are dispatched suddenly and brutally with dark humor that is as sharp as the knife play. I won't spoil the ending other than to say it is wildly, enormously satisfying and yet it still respects history.
In terms of the cast, it really doesn't get better than this. I was surprised by Shen Teng and Jackson Yi's chemistry and how humorously they convey just the right mix of conflict, mistrust and empathy. I must applaud both Lei Jiayin and Zhang Yi for taking on roles outside their comfort zone. I could see that Lei Jiayin absolutely relished playing the vilest most hated villain in Chinese history. While far from the monster of my childhood imagination, his Qin Hui is still a wicked, cunning creature but also realistic, mortal and even almost human. To me, the memorable highlight of the drama was to watch one of China's very best actors recite the titular poem. Yes it is a very patriotic poem but its message is universal - everyone loves their country for better or worse and will defend it with every ounce of their being. This is the one time that Zhang Yimou's famous digressions is actually fitting and gives a deeper meaning to the story. The movie's big message is also universal; that there are some truths that must be revealed at whatever cost.
This movie hits all the right buttons for me - a dark comedy conspiracy thriller with a touch of wild history around characters that set my imagination and sense of right and wrong afire as a child. It smacks of Zhang Yimou's hallmark provocative brilliance with small flaws and is one of the rare times I enjoyed his storytelling almost as much as his visual composition style. This is an 8.5/10.0 for me.
Full River Red (follows the toned down movie translation):
My last words reflect my thoughts
Full river red
My hair bristles with anger
I lean against the rail
The rain has stopped
Looking at the sky
I let out a cry
Emotions well up in my chest
My achievements in the past are merely dust
I fought bravely with the clouds and the moon
Don't wait
When your hair turns grey you can only regret
The national shame has not been avenged
When can my hatred be wiped away
Riding war chariots we will tumble the Helan Mountains
We will feast on the enemies flesh and drink their blood
When we recover our lost lands
We will satisfy people's demands
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Whodunit
Despite the rather unimaginative title, Who is the Murderer tells you exactly what this drama is about without the need to check the genres, tags or even read the synopsis. The thing with whodunits is the less you know heading into it, the better for your overall viewing enjoyment. In fact, I would suggest that you skip the synopsis entirely to avoid being spoilered.What I did know beforehand though was that this drama is the third entry to iQiyi Mist Theatre’s Light On series for 2021. For the uninitiated, the Mist Theatre Light On series which was launched in 2020 focuses on high quality thrillers (typically crime) presented in short format (around 16 episodes or less). At least, that is the planning intent by the Chinese OTT provider. Unfortunately the first two offerings of the year, The Pavilion and Wisher, IMHO, didn’t live up to the high standards set as far as the quality of the screenplay is concerned and in comparison with some of last year’s higher-rated productions. The good news, however, is that Who is the Murderer finally broke that trend and turned out to be the best yet, of this year's batch. How the fourth drama in the series, Gold Panning, compares when it airs later this week remains to be seen.
Principal photography for the drama began in August 2020 with Wuxi serving as the primary filming location and the setting for Haizhou City, both of which are located in Jiangsu province. The director helming this production needs no introduction for he is none other than Sun Hao, who famously directed the much-loved Joy of Life. The plot is based on an original screenplay by Chen Wei Han and Kong You You.
A neo noir psychological crime thriller focusing on the mystery of unsolved serial murders that span a period of 17 years, from 2000 to 2017. The plot revolves around three main characters - Leng Xiao Ping, the hardboiled Violent Crimes detective who is haunted by the past; Xia Mu, the promising young police recruit with demons of his own; and finally Shen Yu, the enigmatic psychologist with her own hidden motivations. All three somehow discover an inextricable connection to the unsolved murders.
What I Liked
This drama is slow burn yet gripping where the suspense never truly lets up once it grabs a hold of you. The pilot episode starts off very strongly with frantic action and extreme urgency that establishes the background of the mystery. From the second episode on, it eases into an engaging tempo where the story transitions into the present day. The plot features a number of unexpected twists that are smartly written and delicately revealed. Utterly surprising yet makes total sense, with neither the fanfare nor suspension of disbelief. I especially enjoyed the subtle cat and mouse games that ensues between the three characters.
The roles are very well crafted, where each of the three main characters is given much depth and complexity. Merely stating that they are extremely grey with many dimensions doesn’t do justice to the elaborate characterization. The same can be said of the other characters, whether in a supporting capacity or simply guest appearance. Not a single character appears out of place in this drama.
The acting well and truly breathes life into the characters without compromising the ingenuity of the design. In Zhao Li Ying’s second appearance this year since Legend of Fei and after the birth of her son in 2019, her portrayal of Shen Yu is perhaps one of the finest in her career. Nuanced, sophisticated, calculated, and profoundly complicated. This drama wouldn’t be the same without her masterful performance.
Likewise Xiao Yang who plays the detective, Leng Xiao Bing. Aside from the brief instances of levity, the level of street smarts that he infuses into his character is convincingly smooth. His version of hardboiled isn’t overly gritty and actually comes across as quite affable. My first time seeing Dong Zi Jian and his depiction of Xia Mu is quite interesting, to say the least. He manages to convey the necessary emotions in face of challenges that his character gradually goes through, in the course of the story.
The production design is top notch, in terms of the cinematography technique and framing of the visuals, as well as the art direction. I love the application of softer colour grading, as opposed to the typical edgy darker schemes of noir productions. Additionally, the flow of the storytelling is not interrupted by the infusion of flashback sequences and references to the earlier timeline.
As far as the music is concerned, I enjoyed Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata during the stylish title sequence and the outro theme by Jin Minqi. Full listing as follows:
Moonlight Sonata
藏 Hide - 金玟岐 Jin Minqi
藏 Hide - 徐明浩 Xu Minghao
你看 Look - 金志文 Jin Zhiwen
What Could Have Been Better
In terms of the technical execution, the editing is somewhat inconsistent where certain scene transitions do not appear as seamless as it should to match the general quality of the camerawork.
The conceptual vibe of the storytelling is quite pronounced throughout the drama, which may compel viewers to strain their concentration in making the connection to certain plot points. This appears to be a stylistic choice rather than a deliberate attempt to dramatize the depiction of events. Sometimes it works and at other times, it becomes somewhat confusing.
As much as I have enjoyed Dong Zi Jian’s performance, I feel that his appearance does not suitably match his characterization at times. He looks more like a college kid than a promising police recruit or probationary detective. His mannerism as well as propensity to disregard authority and instructions are somewhat jarring compared to the other characters who appear more believable in their roles.
Finally, the ending. It did feel somewhat underwhelming. I honestly anticipated a more mind-blowing conclusion to the whole overarching mystery...
Overall
Notwithstanding the criticisms, Who is the Murderer represents a return to relative form of iQiyi’s Light On series and is one of the stronger C-drama thrillers to be released this year. It may not be flawless and while it doesn't end as strongly as it starts, I do appreciate the intricacies of the storytelling and the compelling performances of the leads, particularly that of Zhao Li Ying.
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How to Make Millions before Grandma Dies
17 people found this review helpful
A simple and beautiful story about love and grief
This movie will be in my memories for a very, very long time.The whole storyline was nothing out of the ordinary, but that was precisely why it works. It was so, so relatable that it hurts to think about because it reminded me of my own experience in life with my grandparents.
I cried throughout the entire movie. The cinematography was gorgeous, and reminiscent of growing up in an Asian household.
I highly recommend this movie. But it's definitely not everyone's cup of tea. If you're a fan of the slice of life genre, then this movie is for you.
Nothing dramatic happens throughout the movie, it just tells a story about a grandmother who is dying, and how the family deals with the aftermath of the heartbreaking news.
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A warm story that stayed with me
I have to say, before starting this drama, I wasn’t really sure what to expect other than the reverse age-gap trope (which, I’ll admit, I totally love). But once I started? I literally couldn’t stop. I got so hooked on the story, the plot, and the cast! (´｡• ᵕ •｡`) ♡ From the very first episode of Sniper Butterfly, I was completely drawn in, and by the end, I was moved in a way few Cdramas manage to achieve. I just loved it so much!Speaking of the cast, I already knew Ke Yu (Daniel Zhou) from 'Always Home', but this drama made me love him even more—or honestly, I just completely fell for him. His acting was amazing. I loved how cute and shy his character, Li Wu, was at first and how much he grew throughout the show. I’ve seriously just unlocked a new green flag character; he was a total angel! ʚ₍ᐢ. .ᐢ₎ɞ And also, yeah... the boy can kiss, and I’m still not over it. (〃ﾉωﾉ)
On the other hand, I still can’t believe Michelle Chen is 42. She looks so young! This is my first drama of hers, and she’s so talented; she handled her character in such a mature and realistic way. And can we talk about the fact that there’s a 19-year age difference between the actors in real life? You can tell she’s older, but not by that much! In the drama, the gap is about 9 or 10 years, and I loved that it didn’t feel forced. Their chemistry is so good that you actually forget about the age gap sometimes.
Also... the kisses!! They were so intense. (〃ﾉωﾉ) I mean, I had no idea Ke Yu could kiss like that! There’s one scene in particular that stands out from all the rest (and trust me, there are A LOT of scenes), but I will never forget that one in episode 5 when Li Wu is drunk (in the present day). That scene is officially living rent-free in my head forever. <3
The OST is also so beautiful! It fits the vibe of the story perfectly and really makes all the emotional scenes hit even harder.
I also really liked that there weren't any toxic characters or annoying villains (except for the FL’s ex, who was a total jerk). Her parents were great, and the best friend and other side characters were super likable too. The subplot with the FL’s friend and the ML’s friend’s uncle wasn’t my favorite, but it wasn't bad either.
I appreciate how they handled the age gap without making it feel "grooming-y" or weird. Everything happens slowly, which gives you time to process it without it feeling forced, which I think is great. Even though some people found the real-life age gap uncomfortable—which is a fair conversation to have—it didn't bother me at all or ruin the experience for me. I’m super satisfied with this C-drama and will definitely be rewatching it in the future! (ﾉ^^)ﾉ
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Best Lakorn of the Year
The review might be biased from my side personally,Since this drama is all about positivity , you'll be reading this without any negativity.
anywho. lets start summing up
If you're someone who's looking for a family drama/lakorn that is not too intense but its everything inside like humor, laughter, tears. fun, romance and friendship, then this one is the best yet you could ever watch in your life.
I started watching this lakorn since 2 months ago. Never missed any episode. Every episode was worth the wait. Binging all the way through and so much emotions going through within this two months because of this show itself. I laughed, I cried, I cringed, and mostly I smiled all the way.
Now lets talk about the actors & the characters
Toey - Watched Toey's performance in Timeline before (the same co-star with James Ji). Was deeply touched. Completely a different developed character with what she's playing as Mata. I did read lot of news and reviews for the main character that Matalada only and can just be played by Toey. That she is Mata and Mata is her. I can see why.
James Ji - One word, natural. Quite natural as Penneung/Purim, The way I see it, he's just playing himself in the lakorn as himself cause sometimes I forgot, he is James Ji and Penneung is his character.
The chemistry for both of them is undeniable. I've been following up the news, events and project about them since Timeline which is in 2014. I could say, they're just passed as lovers in real life. But it takes two to tango as what they said. Anyway, just happy and glad that they're very close in real life too. That what makes Mata and Penneung is perfect for each other.
I'll summed up the others characters as short as I can. Tri-Pang-Riri, just happy and satisfied that they can be friends. Not picking any side for the pair really either Tri-Pang or Tri-Riri, cause I love their characters very much. They had their own wounds and reasons.
Father Grace, speechless for this character. He is the main one and the reason why Mata was born as one of the most loveliest person in the planet. Same goes to Aunt Vee.
The Cage - Type of gang that I think everyone should have or meet at least one time in their life. So much fun
The doctors - Type of gang or family that everyone needs, supportive.
Music
Love, love and just love. Just wish they have a full soundtrack list and score. Would love to add in my spotify list.
Overall
8/10. Pretty sure will watch it over and over again after this cause I'll miss them.
Possible sequel - positive to say, its possible. For Pang-Tri-Riri perhaps. Maybe Mata & Penneung with Tee Ruk (their baby) too
Now, to those who is missing Matalada. I strongly recommend for you guys to watch Timeline. Also, prepare tissue 🥹
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This review may contain spoilers
a masterpiece that's it
Oh my fcking gosh! That's all i'm saying for the end. This drama is depressed, dark and it has a very hard content! 2022 kdramas are so weak and very awful so far, but this one is amazing!Perfect cast, amazing acting, great music, well written & interesting plot. The child actors oh my god, i think they are in the same age like me, like wow, they are insane, i think their career will grow. I watched it because of Kim Sung Kyu, because he is my favourite actor of all the time & well it worth it. That man is an amazing actor, all of his dramas are a masterpiece. Also Kim Dong Wook's acting, goddamn, he's really talented as well. I don't know a lot about Chae Jung An, but all i've seen was a beautiful & talented woman who deserves to be casted in better dramas.
About the plot + characters: Maybe this drama is hard to watch for some people, bullying/school violence is a really "important" thing in this kdrama sadly, and the ending was a heartbreak. I have to say the female lead wasn't so important, tbh she isn't really a lead character, she is just here. The two male leads, oh gosh both of them are a rollercoaster. But i think both of them deserved better. I've seen the movie but this is way better!! Cheol had more screentime, he deserved it. But i thought only Hwang Kyung Min will die and then Jong Seok watches it. But sadly no, both of them died "did what Cheolie always wanted...". Also the way Kyung Min said "let's go to see Cheolie" broke my heart. Then i started to cry and i guess i'm not the only one. The last scenes of the kids made me cry as well. This drama deserves higher rating, ranking and it deserves to be popular. I don't wanna compare this drama to 2521 but this drama deserves that 8.9 rating more than 2521 (imo, please don't k-word me i love KTR with my whole heart). That's a 10/10 from me!
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Strange, but Good.
I kid you not, this mini-drama would've probably been buried beneath the plethora of mini-dramas getting released every month, had it not been for the very impressive performance by the cast. I barely watch mini dramas as almost everyone of them have terrible acting or is just plain wish fulfillment.Also, had this been a full length drama, I can foresee the wars that would've taken place in the comments section. (Some people might find some scenes particularly triggering or difficult to watch.)
Coupled with a very tropey and common storyline, almost similar to something written in a wattpad fiction, Maid's Revenge was hilarious and an emotional viewing experience for me. Hilarious because it's entertainment value is 100%, if you manage to turn off your brain.
The final episodes start to descend into a more serious atmosphere, though.
Emotional because somehow, the writers managed to convey that each character was different. [For example, by episode 2, we barely know about the Governor, except that he is an almost insane muscled dude who had a penchant for pulling a gun on literally everyone who stepped on the wrong stair.]
By EP20, we are aware of everyone's intentions, goals and why certain characters made the choices they did.
I had begun this for Chen Fang Tong, whom I had seen in Always Have, Always Will last year. Having never seen her in a serious role, I wanted to check this one out. Plus, the release schedule along with the run time was perfect for me to watch everyday.
I was not disappointed by her performance. The male lead, Dai Gao Zheng was surprisingly a strong actor.
The entire small cast were excellent and convincing.
The storyline/plot was delivered well. Within roughly three and a half hours, we have a clear idea about everything. Kudos to the production team for that.
Chinese Republican dramas are something I washed my hands off a long time ago, so this might be the first one under this genre. I was wary about certain tropes that helped me predict the turn of events.
The plot has several acrimonious elements towards the end.
I won't say I'm completely satisfied and I certainly won't say no to seeing the two leads paired again in a proper drama.
7.5 might be an overblown score. But, for a small budget production, it was surprisingly well made, minus the budget constraints. It was entertaining enough to keep me hooked and I for once, do not regret starting this.
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CUTENESS OVERLOADED!!
I never thought I was gonna write a review for this mini drama....but it really deserves one...the whole drama was filled with cute scenes....this drama is underrated tbh ….Story:- well..well!!! this convenience marriage plot was great....im not a big fan of manga....but this literally captured my heart...!...it was different in some way from the other contract marriage stories~
Acting :-both male lead and female did a really good job...they were totally natural with whatever they did !!
I WOULD TOTALLY RECOMMEND YALL TO WATCH THIS DRAMA!!!
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This review may contain spoilers
I especially enjoyed the irony in this title, because like most love stories, finding love and keeping love is not at all easy. It is anything but, a piece of cake. For me, this movie was a hot mess. Severely flawed leads, random Michael Jackson’s Thriller/ Drag Show-esque Play scenes thrown in, and a storyline that is a bit all over the place. Also, abusive relationships… abusive relationships…. EVERYWHERE! From verbally, physically, sexually to emotionally. (Or guys who only want one thing) However, the FL was not an innocent flower herself, and very much a self-sabatoger in both her life and relationships. Honestly, she was her own worst enemy in this film. Towards the end she starts to grow, and becomes independent, successful and happy. And then, SPOILER, decides to go back to her emotionally abusive relationship that cheated and lied to her… and it was made to look like a happy ending… YUP… that happened.
However, all in all, I cannot say that regret watching it. It was an okay film and it kept me interested the whole way through wondering what would happen to this odd bunch of characters. In addition, the acting was really good especially given the questionable plotlines. I also appreciated that during its intimate scenes it was more realistic in that it wasn’t necessarily glamourized. There was awkwardness, there was laughter. It wasn’t always sunshine and daisies. And since I find this this a rarity in most movies, I found it refreshing.
Overall, it was okay. Worth watching once, if you want a mature drama that is less romanticized and closer to real life in that it contains flawed characters, who do not always make the best decisions, and things do not always work out perfectly in the end. However, very low re-watch value.
Happy Drama Watching!!
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Gosh, where should I start? I really didn't expect myself to like this horror movie. It wasn't so scary, but the story really moved me. I cried buckets at the ending! :'(
Story: Wonderful. The story was not the best, but very wonderful. It's a bit scary at times, but the overall story really moves you.
Acting/Cast : Love Park Min Young's acting in here. I could see her expressing every of her line very well. The acting was quite good overall.
Overall, it is a good movie to watch. If you're into one of those VERY scary horror films, this one isn't for you. But if you're not into super scary movies, and you want a horror movie with a good story line, I recommend this! ^^
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