Overrated
This show was going to be great if it ended at episode 6... but it didn't.First thing to clarify, I hate the kid in this show, his character was the most annoying and was waiting someone to beat the crap of him for good or push him in front of a car so that there is less screen time for him and I didn't have to listen to him anymore. Maybe it's too much but each time I saw him I had the urge to drop the show right there.
Now that we clarified the hate relationship with that character lets continue...
The first 6 episodes was interesting and I was enjoying the show but afterwards everything was going downhill.
The show was trying too much to make each episode some kind of a turning point... I hate him, no I love him, then I hate him again and I love him once again... this game is played till the rest of the show and it was annoying as hell.
I never had a show that had me switch the character I hate the most after each episode (except the kid, he was number one in my hate list).
Pretty much the shows was trying the push the agenda that all men are cheating pigs and women are stupid enough to keep loving/forgiving them nonetheless... maybe it's overgeneralization, but that's the logic that the show was trying to sell us.
And that ending... oh my god... saying that it was stupid will be a compliment to the movie industry. I had to watch a 15min repeat of a whole scene from the previous episode just to finish it... and when I did there was one generic and totally stupid ending, where the previous episode ending (without the last stupid part) would have been a better ending point.
The saving grace was maybe the acting which was really good but no acting can save a bad screen writer.
So how did I score it:
1-6 epsiodes - 9/10
7-10 epsiodes - 7.5/10
11-15 epsiodes - 7/10
16 episode - 6/10
So the final verdict is 6/10 and I wouldn't recommend it to watch it.
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Did Love Alarm Season 2 Ring Another “ Alarm” Bell For Bad Story-writing?
With a nearly two year gap between season 1 and 2, an additional director Kim Jin Woo onboard, anticipation from drama fans about the fate of Jo Jo ( Kim So Hyun)’s love life, and high expectations about the overall production value , it may surprise a lot of reviewers scrolling through some of the top reviews, how many fans have scored the drama with adequate ratings. Some of these comments tend to argue along the same ineffable and biased notions that it was a “ bad ending” and “ not as good as season 1”, however, how does the story actually play out through an objective criticism in terms of characterisation, coherency and storyline in season 2?
“ Love Alarm Season 2” picks itself up during the initial time-skip of season 1, with previously “ high school” characters now ensuing careers or studies; Jo Jo is a university major, her current “ complicated ” boyfriend Lee Hye Young ( Jung Ga Ram) works as a technician at JoAlarm ( the development company for “ Love Alarm”) and former flame Hwang Sun Oh ( Song Kang) is becoming a famous national model and endorser for the app, however, Jo Jo has been hiding a secret about her app that allowed her to cut off the signal in order to inhibit her true feelings from Hye Young and Sun Oh . With the desire to reveal her feelings again, Jo Jo decides to pursue the mysterious Brian Cheon in order to unlock this feature.
Before addressing anything about the show, it is probably most prominent to point out the confusing chronology at times within the opening of season 2, by not initially “ leaving” off from the cliffhanger of season 1. Although it is understandable that a wide gap between seasons could have left viewers a little cloudy upon events and thus starting on a different storyline wasn’t “ too illogical”, it was a little head-scratching that screenwriters Lee Ah Yeon and Lee Na Jung didn’t attempt to even address or explain this suddenly “ different” storyline from season 1’s ending. This naturally left a massive hole within story development, not least for our main trio and their previously poorly-tackled characterisation from the past season.
Kim So Hyun wasn’t entirely “ unwatchable ” within her role as Jo Jo, but her performance did feel a little lacklustre due to general line deliverances. In terms of Jo Jo’s character development, there were a couple of more notable traits for Jo Jo than her season 1 counterpart , by actually acting out upon her emotions rather than remaining “ obliviously unaware” as well as a fairly traumatic backstory. On the other hand, Jo Jo still failed from breaking her initial mould as the “ prosaic heroine” of the series due to the same ridiculously staid personality traits imposed onto the character by screenwriters Lee Ah Yeon and Lee Na Jung.
The most evident example of this being Jo Jo’s “ complicated” feelings between Hye-Yeong and Sun Oh, which whilst evidently used to “ heighten” the tension of Jo Jo’s love life, still seemed fairly cruel by Jo Jo’s similar indecisiveness as the first season at times, by not forthright addressing her affections rather than leading on both male leads in such an immature manner . ( This is advocated by a later plot development which proves Jo Jo’s true nature.)
It is important to address this factor of immaturity, due to the evident age difference from different seasons often allowing a character to develop and mature as a consequence of their experiences. Instead, Jo Jo seemed to make the same mistakes as her past self by making ridiculously stupid decisions questioning how on earth she lived so long, let alone pass her exams to get into university. This is exemplified in an early scene of the series when she is working at the convenience store and hears a love alarm go off and her stalker’s uncomfortable actions towards her, Jo Jo’s first thought is to walk home by herself, talk to her stalker and then proceed to run away without thinking to call the police or at least her friend Mon Soon ( Bae Da Bin) in order to ensure the same thing doesn’t happen again. Whilst this scene was used to “ drive tension”, it did seem to gloss over the uglier possibility of what could have happened to Jo Jo as a consequence of her stupidity in reality as well as the more “ romanticised” tones of emotional and physical abuse appearing in the series.
This naturally draws us onto the biggest elephant in the room since season 1, the “continuously brooding” ( and “ preferred” love interest by many devoted fans of the series ) Sun Oh. Similar to his costar, Song Kang is a fairly good actor, however, his performance consisted mainly between stoic, constipated expressions and furious yelling for a major proportion of the series.
Arguably there were some better insights than season 1 into Sun Oh’s fairly estranged relationship with his mother Jung Mi Mi ( Song Sun Mi) and his unhappy family life, however, rather than screenwriters allowing this to gradually mature or allow Sun Oh to develop from his inferiority complex in season one, his personality is still written off as fractious, immature and egotistical within his portrayal in season 2 by often storming off, breaking things and hurting others in the procedure. In particular, this is seen through how Sun Oh interacts emotionlessly his “ girlfriend” Yook Jo ( Kim Shi Eun) and often manipulating her overt feelings towards him, as well as his interactions with Jo Jo.
With his unrequited love towards Jo Jo since high school becomes the main highlight of their “ possible pairing” for many fans and whilst it is understandable why Sun Oh felt anger or upset towards Jo Jo not replicating her feelings, it does not excuse some of his terrible actions towards our female lead. Sun Oh’s actions of publicly embarrassing Jo Jo in front or her classmates , kissing her without permission whilst she is respectfully dating Hye-Hyeong and then throwing another temper tantrum by flaring up in Hye Hyeong’s face without accepting or apologising for his mistakes , made him an incredibly difficult individual to truly romantically pair with Jo Jo by his lack of respect towards her feelings ( and his former best friend Hye Young).
This naturally draws us to the lovelorn Lee Hye Young, who viewers are made aware early on in the series that he is aware of Jo Jo’s ambiguous feelings towards him in their relationship , yet nevertheless does not force or implicate Jo Jo to give him an answer. Whilst Hye Young remained the most respectful towards Jo Jo as an individual and as a love interest, his obsequious beliefs that “ one day she will love me too” seemed a little questionable towards Hye-Young’s fairly hot pursuit of his own feelings towards Jo Jo in in season 1. Consequently, the introduced relationship between the two characters felt more “ obliged” in order to keep the “ storyline moving ”, than intricately complicated as it should have been with Jo Jo’s feelings. In addition to this, there still remained many unanswered questions towards how Hye-Young landed a job at the company as well as more realistic insight into his qualifications at work whilst presumably not in full-education.
Perhaps the one actual interesting element of the second season remained within the mysterious appearance of Brian Cheon ( Ki Do Hoon) who makes the characters ( most notably Jo Jo) wonder if he is actually their “ dead” classmate and seemingly former developer Duk Gu. Whilst this is an overarching storyline in parts of the episode, the ending result felt incredibly letdown and lacklustre by lacking development or screen time as well as wider development for second female lead Park Gul Mi( Go Min Si), rather than in favour of the heroine’s questionable romantic pairings.
As a consequence, the pacing of the show felt oddly imbalanced between moments of genuine interesting development, and dragging scenes of puppy dog eyes by Hye Young and Sun Oh towards Jo Jo from a distance creating many notable plot inconsistencies . The ending of the series was more a matter of opinion that particularly “ bad” or “ good”. Diehard fans who haven’t really acknowledged the direction of the plot, may feel disappointment, yet whilst still undeniably half-baked in comparison to the initial premise introduced in the show back in season 1, it was not an entirely “dire ending” for the show as well .
Ultimately, “ Love Alarm Season 2” did initiate more mature themes and backstories behind our characters, however, lacking character development, inconsistencies, a coherent and riveting plot line in a fictionalised reality and rushed development in parts, made the second season feel more like a surreal dream phase, than a coherent and complete finale for “ Love Alarm”.
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The Shipper is a love story, but not in the way you think.
From day one, as people fussed over endgame, what is and isn’t BL, what was appropriate for TV or what wasn’t, I felt something was different about this show. Scratch that—I knew something was different. The writing had something to say, and as I continued to watch the series unfold, what I wanted this show to be didn’t really matter to me anymore. I was simply content to see where the director, Aticha Muilanie (who has proven herself quite adept at injecting narrative with purpose), wanted to take us.The Shipper, at its core, is a humble parable. It’s about trusting in yourself and trusting in others. It’s about learning to forgive and to be forgiven. Growth. Relationships (in and out of them). Love…
The Shipper is a love story, but not in the way you think.
This is a story about what it means to be loved. To understand that, no matter where our place in the grand scheme of things, we are worthy of being loved.
That seed is planted from the very first episode and carried all the way to the very end through all the shenanigans and hijinks that ensue. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry, but most importantly, it will make sure you remember what it has to say.
With its expertly directed cast, excellent use of colour, pleasing camera work, and charming soundtrack, it’s a grounded fantasy that’s hard to say goodbye to. I know I will be coming back to it again and again.
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OVER THE TOP! SUCH A MEMORABLE SERIES! <3
Please, love everything!!! Maybe because it's from a novel so it's well-written. Well-written, good dialogue and everything is perfect! There's so much motivating and touching dialogues. The plots are seriously great and amazing. Not to mention the values. Too many values are given in this series. Lately, if you feel like you don't believe in love anymore, please binge-watch this series. Full marks!! There's no draggy and messy at all but kept me craving for more and more. Such a perfect series and this is what I want! It is not a repeating drama, not typical enemy-lover story omg I'm getting tired. This drama had such meaningful stories. Gotta says finally I found the best Cdrama for this year <3333 And of course it will be my favorite drama for all the time!Their acting is much better. To be honest, no one can replace Chen Feiyu and Zhang Jingyi as Li Xun and Zhu Yun. The chemistry of the main lead love love love! The way they looked at each other were full of love and everything felt so pure. I love Zhu Yun's character the most. I love everything about her. If I'm a man I'm gonna date her then never let her go. SERIOUS TALK! What a beautifully portrayed characters that will stay in my heart for a long time!!
Every OSTs are sooooooo good! Suits the situation, the vibes are indescribable!! The effects of the OSTs, every time I listened to the songs, I miss the drama and keep wanting to rewatch the series. Yes, I’m not moving on!
Will rewatch this drama again and again. Highly recommended! 100% RECOMMENDED!!
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This review may contain spoilers
MISSING THEM ALREADY!
I started this off with good intentions and I was right to do so! This series is just overall sweet and gives me what I've been needing after the toxic relationships in the past BLs I've watched. If you are unsure to watch it, hopefully my review makes you decide!THE STORY:
Kaido Amane moves to Enoshima and decides he may want to actually find someone he loves, instead of just sleeping around. While there, he comes across Yamasuge Ryuji, a boy around his age, who works at a restaurant. After becoming friends, Amane quickly realized his feelings for Ryuji. But, does Ryuji feel the same way?
First off.. let's talk about the characters. Amane is bubbly, but a straightforward guy when it comes to his feelings. Ryuji? HE IS A GREEN FLAG! When I say a GREEN FLAG, I mean the GREENEST FLAG. He's probably one of the greenest flags I've seen in JBL. Ryuji is understanding, and nice. He didn't leave Amane even when he knew that he had feelings for him. He considered his feelings and didn't EVER act like he wasn't there. When Amane confesses to Ryuji, he doesn't really know what to do because he never thought of his feelings this way towards the same gender.
COMMUNICATION IS KEY!!
There was no misunderstandings between the two. Why? BECAUSE THEY TALKED IT OUT. When there was a problem, they talked it over. Why is that a good thing? Because some BLs, Japanese or not, always are miscommunicating and have all sorts of problems. And they never fix to probleme until EPISODESSS later.
THE 2 KISSES IN EPISODE 5??? I SCREAMED AT 6AM. They were so cute together, and even though it was so short, it was so enjoyable!
This series is so cute and I'll definitely be rewatching it! If you want a BL without any misunderstandings, with adorable leads and a adorable cat, watch THIS!!!
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Just an Encore is absolutely beautiful, and heart wrenching at the same time. The characters are not perfect, they get jealous, they can be selfish and petty. And yet it is precisely these qualities that make them so lovable, and more real.
But I won't lie, the reason why I loved it so much can be summed up in three words:
He Xin Liang.
He has set a new record for book boyfriends. He is so damn caring, patient and sweet,..... andjust all kinds of amazing.
Your heart breaks for him so many times.
He is just...too good.
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Intriguing but slow and boring
I waited every week eagerly for a new episode of My Liberation Notes and I watched it till very end...The characters were definitely intriguing and unique and were played really well by the actors especially Lee Min Ki and Lee El. Btw Lee Min Ki's character had one of the best character arcs I've seen in kdramas. And that's a win for the writer to create such interesting and realistic characters. Yet overall I found the show to be boring and slow and pretentious at times. MLN has been compared a lot to My Mister, the writer's other show and My Mister was a slower show too, but it was sharper and more engaging. I actually thought some episodes were more similar to Be Melo, in the way the characters talked and random situations occurred. The other common thing with My Mister is that MLN teases the audience when it comes to the romantic relationships. In My Mister there was the age gap issue but here I'm not sure why the director and writer choose to stay away from any romantic scenes. How I think about it is don't show all this tension between the actors if it's not ending up in anything and it also seemed very unnatural and stark for them to have feelings for each other but hardly show any intimacy on screen.The dialogues though random are well written and thoughtful. But the show overall is very dialogue heavy which can be a disadvantage for non-Korean speakers, but I enjoyed that part to some extent. MLN was going for something interesting but the writer doesn’t do as good of a job to tie things together and make it engaging enough. You may like the show if you like deep philosophical conversations and if you're an introvert you may relate to the FL atleast in the first few episodes. But the show leaves with too many loose ends and the reveals or mystery the show builds on and creates anticipation on are not as interesting in the end.
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This review may contain spoilers
Started it for Jisoo, Stayed for Amber
Amber was the only rational person in this drama, she was understanding, pure, nonjudgmental and she went after what she wanted but she didn't take hwan's bs and called him out for it, honestly I wonder how she was written by that same writer xDeveryone else just loves to inflict pain and suffering onto themselves and call it "love".
yeji loved to play the victim card "why are you back to ruin my peace", "I'm the most miserable woman on earth"
hwan was crazy enough to say "I want to ruin my life" for someone who keeps refusing him, "I want to suffer", the dude had alot of problems ;/
jin was all sad and wallowing in self pity and he diverted all his angst onto controlling others
the mom is honestly so distant she doesn't deserve to be a mom
and the dad looks nice but again yet he only used hwan as his caregiver then yeji as the substitute
yeji's mom is living through the pain that was "unshcokingly" done becasue of yeji
yeji's aunt is crazy and overdramatic
and they had the audacity of wasting time on the side side characters and their messed up romance
so basically Amber is the only normal person, she's sweet, fun loving and she's adorable and naturally cute and happy, the only time hwan genuinely smiled was when he was around her.
in the end they just added more ridiculous plot line after the other and they literally ended it with "I shouldn't have done that" ;/
yeji was wrong for accepting the marriage but she was even more wrong for fueling hwan's feelings and then she had the audacity to act as if hwan only "noticed" her good deeds while she was the one leading him on ;/
and with everything, in the last ep they were crying over how they can't be together, just to let them reunite and then go back to "we can't be together" and cry some more. it should've ended by ep31 but it should've just stayed as a noona romance with small doses of brotherly rivalry like a normal kdrama xD
this is what happens when they hire a horrible writer with zero planning skills...
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On both sides of the mirror
Aksorn (Beck Pitchayutt Chatchawansombut) and Songjam (Parky Napavit Tewaphankul), in their respective first major roles in their acting credits, represent two young people who are fighting for the same cause: the pursuit of happiness and love, which is not only that of romantic love but also that of love for one's own identity.Adapted from the web novel 'Memories in Letters' (ท ร ง จำ ใ น อั ก ษ ร), by Hungrybird, the eponymous drama of six episodes of about 35 minutes each, is one of the most beautiful, emotional series and addictive Thai of recent years, and follows the love story of two young people in two different worlds and the miracles that come with it.
Playing on the series' title, Parky plays the character "Songjam," which means "Letter," while Beck plays "Aksorn," which translates to "Memories," a rebellious soul searching for love, understanding and happiness.
The two protagonists quickly fall in love and treat each other with love and care, which makes the loneliness, the absence of the mother and suffering the intolerance of the father in one of the worlds make Aksorn's life happier. On their respective sides of the mirror, feelings will begin to grow between the two young people towards each other, while they discover their sexual orientation and identity.
With an extraordinary ability to guide the viewer's imagination, the script, written by Nirattisai Ratphithak, presents us with an adventure that mixes reality and fiction, which explores the world of parallel universes. This is a supernatural story of romance and mystery with which any teenager and young person, and older ones too, will immediately identify.
The protagonist and main narrator, Aksorn, moves into a bedroom on the top floor of an old building after being kicked out of home by his authoritarian father, who does not accept that his son is a writer. After a meteor shower, accompanied by an earthquake, Aksorn discovers that a mirror left by the previous tenant in his room has become a portal to another universe, specifically to a bedroom inhabited by a young adventurer who is not afraid to defy the laws of physics.
As they deepen their relationship, Aksorn forges a mysterious connection with the boy who lives inside the mirror in his room. From the first exchanges, both young people feel emotionally and physically attracted to each other.
Jinthaphat Sakkaen's photography contributes to the effort to tell a story set in an extraordinary reality that defies all logic, following the romance between these two young people and the obstacles they will face to be together.
'Memories in Letters' takes place in a surprising and unique environment, divided into two different worlds located opposite each other. The distance that separates both sides barely exceeds the width of a thin crystal, but the natural and physical conditions of each of the worlds make accessibility from one place to another extremely difficult. The boys can see each other, but not touch each other.
Aksorn is a university student of Literature who has lied to his father about the course he is studying at the university and who likes to read the work of Oscar Wilde in one of the two worlds that are on both sides of the mirror. His passionate nature is responsible for fueling his dreams of being a great writer. For his part, Songjam is a happy and smiling young student who dreams of being a doctor and who likes to dance and listen to music recorded on vinyl records in the world opposite to Aksorn's.
One day, an online novel about two people from two different worlds who meet through a mirror becomes the fascination of readers. However, it turns out to be based on the life of Aksorn and his lover. Who wrote this story? How did the writer learn about the personal history of the two young people? Is Songjam the author? Who is Likit, the only clue that surrounds the mystery? What will the complex network of human relationships and time travel on which the story revolves have in store for us? Is there any way the two guys can meet in person? Will they be able to live their romance? Will love triumph?
While the novel may be the only key that breaks the wall between Aksorn and Songjam, the mirror, the only obstacle that separates them, remains at the same time the only thing that unites them.
Eager to be reunited with his loved one, during another meteor shower, Songjam manages to jump to the world of Aksorn through the mirror. However, while it is in the right area, it arrives 27 years early. Luckily, he meets a kind young woman, Likit (Nattatida Klinsuwan, Pear), and Pallop (Pattarapol Kantapoj, Dew), who will give him a roof over his head and help direct his steps.
The three of them living together in perfect harmony, as the years go by, Songjam grows closer to the young couple and finally confides in Likit the truth about him and his incredible story. It is a story that, after being heard, Likit begins to turn into a novel that he will leave unfinished, the same novel that Aksorn will find almost three decades later online, creating a complex web of relationships and time travel.
Years later, Songjam, now a prestigious doctor, changes his name to Kyo and reunites with Likit and Pallop in bittersweet circumstances, when these two, now married, arrive at the hospital after a car accident. Although Likit succumbs to post-traumatic injuries, Kyo is able to save the baby she is carrying. Pallop then reveals the name of the child he holds in his arms: Aksorn.
Playing with verisimilitude, realism and fantasy, the series seeks a coup d'état and achieves a surprising, but incredible, twist in the plot: Likit and Pallop are Aksorn's parents, and Songjam has always known this and has been present in their lives waiting for the child to be born, grow up and, as a man, in the future, be able to find him in another era through the mirror that he will intentionally leave in a bedroom on the top floor of an old building. Without a doubt, an unexpected and moving twist that adds depth to the narrative.
This romantic drama with a touch of fantasy is the first BL series from Studio Say-Yes.
As in every love triangle, in this story about coming of age, friendship, love, discovery and acceptance, a third character is missing, and this is Khiao, played by Atirut Kittipattana, the well-known actor, singer and presenter of Thai news, who plays a doctor with a secret identity that will cause an important twist in the story.
As the enigma adds new layers of suspense and intrigue to the already captivating story, the trio will travel together, on both sides of the mirror, and we will learn more about them and their past. But will it be a true and classic love triangle?
I am struck by how Beck's character offers an image of a gay teenager who, despite his youth and family trauma, has maturity when it comes to relating to others, and maintains a healthy relationship with those around him, something which is sometimes missing or failing in other series of the genre, as it is not written and represented as delicately and carefully as on this occasion.
Through a modern fairy tale, 'Memories in Letters' demonstrates the interest in making homosexuality visible during the adolescent-youth stage approached from everyday life, that is, without the characters experiencing it with drama or histrionics, as traditionally happened.
Homosexuality as a theme is inserted not only in fictions aimed at a youth target or audience, but also in audiovisual content intended for adults, offering greater understanding to those who deal with adolescents, that is, family members, friends and those people in their school environment who participate in their personal and psychological development.
The musical themes "Crossing Paths", performed by Atirut Kittipattana and Parky Napavit Tewaphankul, and "Definition of Love", by Soravit Thitipawat, reinforce the action on the screen to tell this amazing story of love that overcomes all barriers and limits of its realities going beyond science and its properties, and that, in addition, demonstrates that with a low budget you can also work on the genre when there is passion and creativity for the story you want to tell.
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A surprise in each episode: A love in four worlds. It's even better than you think.
(You just have to watch it to really understand.)(I'm in episode 12,May 3, 2025 ) This drama was reshot, but it is almost impossible to understand where they did it, as all the scenes look so natural and in place. The chosen actress is talented, and the chemistry of the main pair is very good. A love that crosses 4 worlds. A passionate god who does not give up on his camellia and makes all the sacrifices for her. A carefree camellia, as soon as she is born she already finds herself around the god of flowers, Jinxiu. She enters his life without asking permission and soon wins the heart of Jinxiu, who is chosen to be the emperor of heaven, but due to this, he cannot relate to a mere Camellia. There is the brother, Kunlum, who was born under the same star (which indicates who will be the next emperor). The emperor's wife, we don't know whose mother she is (of the two brothers ? From Jinxiu ? From Kunlum ?), from neither of them ? This hovers for 12 episodes, (I don't know the next ones, as it hasn't been broadcast yet), but I think the empress privileges one of her children. I don't know if it's the emperor father who privileges Jinxiu, and the empress privileges Kunlum. There is a flower (something powerful, I don't understand what it is, it looks like a black peony), inside Jinxiu's body, which has a lot of power, and the emperor is containing this force within Jinxiu. (It's something I don't understand, we need to know what the next episodes will show us). But this drama has humor, adventure, many sweet scenes of lovers, sacrifices, dilemmas, secrets, intrigues. And there are other characters in this story, complex and interesting (Kunlum,Lui Yao, Baicha, Liu Jiu), each with their own complex story. No scene is wasted, because the characters, none of them are boring. (We want to know how the story ends: Will Jinxiu be able to overcome fate, which says that the Camellia has no future, and make her reborn as an immortal and marry her? Or the Camellia, will forever be a mortal and can never stay with Jinxiu? (Or will Jinxiu, as in the book, become a mortal?). I haven't finished the book yet, so I don't know how it ends in the book (but there are many modifications in the drama already noticed in relation to the book, which were much better in the drama). There is also another powerful, magical element, the ice dew, which interferes with some events in this story. Many questions in this fascinating story! Come watch with us.
(I'm in episode 13,May 4, 2025 )
Background for something that is going to happen:
Although episode 13 was not as interesting as the previous 12, but it is the previous facts that worked towards what will happen on the "Cangyun" mountain. This fact is that depicted in the 2021 trailer, Jinxiu dressed in red with a raised sword, and Hong Ning is on the ground crying and screaming at Jinxiu and a lot of fire around. All of this is the backdrop for this climactic moment that will happen.
Episode 14: The Sword Test.
I just watched it now, and I think this episode is great. Better than episode 13, although episode 13 also has key points in this relationship. And it's a totally necessary episode, (they're living their mortal lives). And I liked all the interactions. Jinxiu x Hongning. HongNing x Kunlun, Kunlun x Luiyao. Even the apprentice boy, HongNing's friend, he also helps the episode to be full of humor. And Jinxiu watching everything, (sneaking and solving the problems), running the place, he's the boss of Cangyun Mountain. (The noodle moment was funny).
Episode 15: She loves me. She loves me not.
I loved seeing Jinxiu thinking that Hong Ning was in love with him, and he should make her stop feeling that way. (and the conversation with the chrysanthemum about it was also hilarious). I rewatched it a few times. I liked the scenes. Liu Xue Yi is always great at the humorous scenes (I was reminded of the drama "Qing Luo"). "She said I was handsome"😁😁🌸🌻
And the story of Kun Lum and Luyao also always captivates me. He is another hilarious, and interesting one. The apprentice, Hong Ning's friend is another perfect addition to the episode. Besides Lujiu.
The drama is very good and wonderful. And it deserves 10, because it's a true love story. What I like is that their love is so convincing. Jinxiu and his camellia. And this feeling of a kingdom of flowers has no end, I love it. And even Jinxiu and Kunlum's brotherly love is very beautiful to see. It convinced me and won me over.
PS: What I can't miss is this drama. I have to savor each scene until I reach the beautiful conclusion of the story.
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STORY: There's no point denying it, I'm more of a romantic comedy kind of girl. Mainly because melodramas are often black and white and revolve about people crying about everything and anything instead of actually doing something about it and the end isn't always worth all this pain. That's why I think Secret Love is so perfect: you can either see it as a sad -okay tragic- romantic comedy or a hilarious melodrama. You just get the best of both genres. The writing plays obviously a big role in it. The characters are layered and feel authentic so you can't help but being drawn to them, drawn to the story itself.
Bonus point, it definitely makes you want to read Wuthering Heights and anyone that promotes -good- literature has my approval.
ACTING/CAST: The cornerstone of a drama is its two main leads. They need to be good actors since they carry the show and to have chemistry together. The one behind Secret Love's casting couldn't have done a better job. I don't see anyobdy who could have played MinHyuk better than JiSung did, showing both his tenderly sulky side and his ruthless side. It's his acting that makes MH's character so lovable. HwangJungEum -oh HJE- it's the first drama I see her in and I hope it's not the last. I don't know how to put it into words, her character would usually be one that annoys me to no end but from the start I just really cared about her. When she cried -and man does she cry- it doesn't annoy you, it just breaks your heart and when she smiles, it's just like "yes, yes do get some happiness for once girl, you deserve it!". Don't even get me started on the chemistry between these two. Just their first scene together screamed OTP. Let's not forget BaeSuBin who did an amazing job as AhnDoHoon. He is just as perfect at playing nice guys as he is at playing scheming ones. I love the actor but man did I want to punch ADH in the face more than just once. I think I could rant on every single actor that starred in this drama so I'm gonna stop with the main three. I'm just going to add that with IHYV and now Secret Love LeeDaHee keeps growing more and more on me and I hope to see her play in more dramas.
MUSIC: The soundtrack of the drama may be its weakest point. Don't get me wrong I love it but the track Secret Love (why autotune WHY) doesn't really match the mood and the lyrics of Ailee's song (well the English verse really) sounds a bit cheap. I have both these songs and the rest of the soundtrack on my phone but yeah you have to call a spade a spade. Also since JiSung sang for the soundtrack -which I defintely won't complain about- I would have liked to also have a track sang by HJE -I mean she was a SINGER before turning actress- or even better both of them doing a duet. Oh well maybe I'm just being too greedy.
REWATCH VALUE: Like I said earlier the characters are layered and the writing isn't just one hot mess. The acting is great and the soundtrack just fits. Also I utterly loved the ending. So yeah I could definitely watch it over and over.
OVERALL: A well-written story, so well-written that I'm actually keeping an eye on ChoiHoChul (I mean if his first screenplay was THAT good, can you imagine the ones that will follow!?). It doesn't matter if you are more drawn to melodramas or romantic comedies. The bottom line is there's a high chance for you to love it.
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This review may contain spoilers
My Creditor Became My Boyfriend, Then My Husband ?❤️?
Just finished both episodes of the JohanNorth Special (Ep. 1 – 48 mins, Ep. 2 – 55 mins), and I’m giving it a full 10/10 what a warm, heartfelt treat for fans of Fourever You! 🥹💕I’ve always loved Johan and North as a couple. They were one of my favorite pairs in the main series, and I’m so glad the creators gave them this continuation. The story picks up seamlessly and focuses solely on their life together no unnecessary drama or extra characters, just pure domestic bliss.
✨ From North being a devoted househusband cooking, cleaning, and fussing over Johan’s health to Johan coming home from work and spoiling his baby with love, gifts, and attention, every moment felt intimate and real. Even their little quarrels felt grounded in care, not the usual overdone jealousy tropes.
💋 The bathtub NC scene was hot and romantic intimate without being excessive. And let’s not forget Johan’s proposal at the campsite. It wasn’t under the stars, but his heartfelt words in broad daylight still completely melted my heart. 💍
🎄The ending, with the two of them celebrating Christmas cuddled up with their duck plushie, was the perfect final touch sweet, soft, and full of love.
Maxky and Bas have undeniable chemistry they’re so adorable together that I couldn’t stop smiling. The episodes flew by, and not once did I feel bored. Sure, the plot is simple, but that’s the beauty of it a slice of life glimpse into a maturing, loving relationship. Honestly, one of the greenest, fluffiest BL couples out there. 💚
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Great Acting, Lovely Story, Super Cute & Funny
The xianxia genre is hugely popular among younger viewers, so I’m surprised this series isn’t rated higher on MDL. On other Chinese platforms, the ratings are even worse. Personally, I loved "Love Never Fails"—the story is intriguing, the acting is excellent, and the writing is coherent. Though it has similar vibes, for me, this story is so much better than "Ancient Love Poetry" and rivals "Love and Destiny" and "Eternal Love". The only reason I can think of for the low ratings? The leads, though seasoned actors, aren’t idol stars that younger fans usually go for.The Story
This is a love story between a god and a young camellia (a red tea plant) demon girl. They meet across lifetimes and realms, falling in love again and again—only for each reunion to end in heartbreak, loss, and death. Their love leaves scars, yet every time they reincarnate, they’re drawn back to each other.
Multiple antagonists try to tear Jin Xiu and Hong Ning apart, but their love endures. With each lifetime, more of the grander plot is revealed. There’s a conspiracy lurking beneath the surface, and the show slowly unravels it. For example, Jin Xiu is said to be the Heavenly Emperor’s son… but also not. Even the empress doesn’t know his true origins; Hong Ning is called a powerful demon king, yet she’s just a love-struck girl trying to protect the one she loves. By Episode 35, we still don’t have all the answers—and that’s part of the fun.
In her first life when she first falls in love with Jin Xiu, Hong Ning was heartbroken and jumps into the Cleansing Well, losing her memories and cultivation to be reborn as an ordinary human in her second life. Meanwhile, Jin Xiu is banished to the mortal realm as punishment for defying the Heavenly Emperor. He keeps his memories and becomes Hong Ning’s protector while running a cultivators’ academy. Fate brings them together—she becomes his disciple, they fall in love again, and get married. But their happiness is short-lived.
In their third life, Jin Xiu loses his memory and becomes a general, while Hong Ning (now a demon catcher) remembers everything, harboring a love/hate feeling for Jin Xiu for what he had done in their previous life, which was utterly a misunderstanding manipulated by the villain. Despite the initial hatred from Hong Ning, they fall in love again, and join hand to take down the devil demon and save the town.
After completing their trials successfully, they return to heaven. Hong Ning becomes the Flower God and Jin Xiu is preparing for the future Heavenly Emperor role. But power isn’t what they wanted. All they ever wished for was to love each other freely. Unfortunately there are more mysteries to unravel and pain to endure.
Characters & Acting
Jin Xiu (Liu Xue Yi) – A powerful god, heir to the Heavenly Throne, and the feared Punishment God. But his true form? A golden peony. As a child, he saved a dying camellia plant (Hong Ning’s soul) and sent it to nurture and grow in the demon realm.
Jin Xiu is disciplined, dutiful, and stoic—until Hong Ning crashes into his life. Liu Xue Yi’s acting is phenomenal. He nails the intimidating god everyone fears, then flips to being awkward, silly, and hopelessly in love. His expressions—whether embarrassed, smitten, or heartbroken—are perfect. You can’t help but feel for him.
Hong Ning (Hu Yi Xuan) – A camellia demon saved by Jin Xiu. To repay him, she cultivates, rises to the heavenly realm and boldly declares her love. Even after losing her memory and power during her first trial, she finds him, and continues finding him—whether as a disciple, a demon catcher, or a goddess.
Hu Yi Xuan shines in this role. She transforms from a naive, bubbly demon to a grounded disciple, then a sharp demon catcher, and finally a composed goddess. Each version feels distinct, and she plays them all flawlessly.
Many viewers complain about Hong Ning's naive character in the beginning and give up on the drama before seeing her remarkable growth. This is a shame because Hu Yi Xuan delivers an impressive transformation, taking Hong Ning from a lovestruck girl to a powerful goddess. The character development is actually one of the drama's strongest points - if only more viewers had patience to see it through.
Kun Lun Jun (Ao Rui Peng) – The adorable, mischievous little brother everyone wishes they had. Jin Xiu dotes on him, even when banishing him to count flower petals as punishment. Throughout his tribulations in the human realm, he's still as adorable and mischievous, and becomes Jin Xiu disciple in one lifetime, and cousin in another.
Ao Rui Peng is hilarious—his character is a walking disaster, but so lovable. He brings chaos and laughter every time he’s on screen, yet his growth into maturity feels natural.
Final Thoughts
Despite some confusing moments (like the dream arc in Episodes 8-9) and occasional pacing issues near the ending, Love Never Fails remains thoroughly engaging and delightfully humorous. The drama masterfully balances tension and comedy—one scene shows Jin Xiu intimidating his disciples with his stern presence, while the very next reveals those same disciples clowning around behind his back.
I firmly believe Love Never Fails deserves to stand alongside xianxia classics like "Love Between Fairy and Devil". In fact, I found it superior to "Ancient Love Poetry" in nearly every aspect—its storytelling feels more cohesive, the acting more nuanced, and the character development significantly deeper.
What makes this drama even more impressive is its behind-the-scenes story, which was brought to my attention by one of the viewers (see comments below): Filmed three years ago, it faced major setbacks when the original female lead (Yuan Bing Yan) was replaced due to legal issues. Hu Yi Xuan stepped in and reshot all the previous scenes—often working solo with green screens, juggling multiple character versions day and night. The fact that this seamless transition isn’t noticeable across 40 entire episodes speaks volumes about her professionalism and the production team’s skill. Knowing this only deepens my appreciation for Hu Yi Xuan’s phenomenal performance and the drama’s against-all-odds quality.
At its heart, this is a drama that blends swoon-worthy romance and laugh-out-loud comedy with the bloodshed and tragedy of classic xianxia. If you’re a fan of the genre’s emotional depth, intricate mysteries, and powerhouse performances, ignore the underwhelming ratings. This hidden gem isn’t just entertaining—it’s a testament to artistic resilience.
Strongly recommended!
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