This review may contain spoilers
This drama had been recommended to me quite a lot and I finally decided to give it a shot. A very cute and slow burn love story, while also having a really great found family story that goes on as well. The one downfall to such a great story - a not so great ending - so if you're looking for something that ends happy and leaves you feeling satisfied, this isn't the watch for you. While the overall story and characters make this drama so worth it, the end made it fall so flat for me and actually had me a bit disappointed and confused. I will add - a lot of people have a problem or find it problematic about the age gap in the relationship (900+ vs 19), but if you can look past this it's a great love story about fated and destined love.
-- Spoilers Below --
Kim Shin is a goblin that has been sentenced to live out an immortal life as punishment for the many sins he committed in his first lifetime. He has a ghostly blade stuck in his chest and the only way for him to be able to die and rest peacefully is to meet his destined, Goblin's Bride, and have her pull it out. From the outside, you can tell that Kim Shin is caring, loving and kind. He loves giving out tiny miracles and helping people out, but also harbors deep trauma and sadness from his life. He has outlived everyone that he once knew and will continue to do so.
Eun Tak is a senior in high school who can see ghosts. From a young age, she has been able to see and talk to lingering ghosts, but avoids doing so after her mother dies. She runs into a grim reaper as well, but is able to make it away due to the kindness of a granny passing by. She lives her life out with ghosts pointing out and telling her that she's the Goblin's Bride. On her 19th birthday, she decides to finally make a wish after her life is in a rut. Dealing with her abusive aunt and family to being bullied in school, she needed something. After blowing out her candles, there appears Kim Shin behind her. It starts a whirlwind up and down relationship between the two, where she knows she's the Bride but Kim doesn't believe her. They slowly fall in love and begin to actually feel for one another.
Wang Yeo, or known more as Mr. Reaper, is Kim Shin's friend that he lives with. He leads people on their death journey, helping them on their way before their next life. He himself knows that to become a Grim Reaper, you have to commit a great sin, but cannot remember his past life at all, not even his own name. He eventually runs into a woman on the street and feels as though he as seen her before and begins crying. This sensation doesn't only happen the one time, but again when he see's a painting that Kim Shin had been keeping of a woman. He falls in love with Sunny, a beautiful and witty business owner, and tries to be a normal human towards her. While at some point, she grabs him and he sees her entire lifetime, learning that she was involved in his and Kim Shin's, her being the latter's sister. They learn of his real past life, that he was the King that slaughtered many, and even was the cause of death of Sunny and Kim Shin.
Every single happening in their lives happens because of an evil entity named Park Joong Hun. He caused the car crash that Kim Shin reversed to safe Eun Tak, and he causes every little happening of possible death to her after. They eventually figure out his true identity and in the climax of the show, Kim Shin pulls out the sword and banishes him. Not long after he himself is banished to a world of nothing but snow and cold. 10 years go by and Eun Tak has no recollection or memory of the Goblin, but can feel in her heart that she is mourning the loss of someone/something important to her. Her and Sunny help each other out, both dealing with their grief of losing a loved one. Eventually because of the contract they made before his passing, Eun Tak makes a wish and he comes back. It takes a while for her to regain her memory, and after that it begins a happily ever after. They get married and everything seems well...
This is where I begin my small rant on the end of this show. After they get married, Mr. Reaper is waiting on a deadly car crash that is going to kill an entire bus of kindergarteners. Before this is slotted to happen, Eun Tak drives by and waves at him before continuing on. At this moment is when he realizes that she is about to die and get her death card and that HE was the reaper she was destined to see at age 29 just like he was at 9 and 19. She ends up sacrificing her life to save the kids, due to her destiny of having to die. A couple of years after her life ends, the Reaper's punishment is over and he can reincarnate in his next life. Before this he also leads Sunny to her afterlife and reincarnation. At the end, it's shown that all 3 (Eun Tak, Mr. Reaper, and Sunny) have all reincarnated, but Kim Shin is not apart of Mr. Reaper's or Sunny's new life, but they end up together again. Him and Eun Tak meet up again in Canada when she is 19 again. It ends with them seeing each other again.
My faults with this ending is in the bigger picture, was what he did that awful to deserve this bad of a punishment? Even the Reaper, who is Wang Yeo, has his punishment ended and can move on. It's also stated several times that you have 4 lives, and they should all be on their 3rd or 4th. So Kim Shin gets to continue and live on even after they can't come back anymore. Just a sad and flat ending for all of the build up.
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We're here for romance, right?
Not sure why this drama gets so much hate from some people. Perhaps they expect Korean culture to be something its not? Perhaps they hold the Mi Rae character to unrealistic standards? There are a lot of comments saying its a 'damaging message' and the leads can't act etc. I can understand that response in some people, but I loved this drama, personally.This drama starts off with an emotional bang; it's a little trite but everyone has gone through pain like Mi Rae (not maybe to the extent she has) growing up, and it hits home in a painful way. I found myself hooked and bawling after the first ep. It does such a good job of setting up the story, and the first half of the drama is good at showing the internal struggles of Mi Rae and the hateful things she endured as a teenager.
And I think this is where some people get lost. The issue is that the drama sells itself as a coming of age story about a girl who was bullied and is learning to love herself-- and yes it is totally that-- but ultimately at its core, the drama is a love story. And if you are going into it hoping that it will be a massive life-changing drama where the protagonist makes leaps and strides and grows as a person and says, 'eff society, eff beauty standards,' etc, you will be disappointed. It's not really that. I mean, it is powerful in its message, and it effectively saying that but not very directly. Yes it makes a comment on superficiality of people, and It's also about how personality trumps beauty... and characters do grow etc, but its not a massive feminist message. As for a strong female lead.... well, the lead is strong, but she is also a late bloomer and very beat down. She is incredibly stunted in the beginning and there are some 'damsel in distress' moments in this, especially in the first half of the drama, but these fade away as Mi Rae finds her courage. But if you hate damsel tropes, this is not for you, as there are many of them in this drama. There is also a lot of meek attitudes. However in the context of the society in which its taking place, the deference makes sense to me. There is a scene in the start where awful stuff is being said by seniors, and none of the freshmen speak up towards them--in the comments section of those episodes people were incredulous about this. I wasn't-- Cultural hierarchy is a big thing in Korea-- As an example, there was a tragic plane crash in Korea where the co-pilot couldnt stand up to the Captain because of this kind of cultural deference, despite the fact their lives were in peril. In that context, people not speaking up makes sense to me. Though they actually improve in this and many characters grow a backbone later on, I understand the initial hesitation. Not only are cultural and sexist roles at play, peer pressure is also a thing.
In fact, this drama benefits from people viewing it from the lens of Korean culture in general-- its not really trying to stand up against plastic surgery or anything like that. Like it or not, Korean culture is obsessed with beauty and plastic surgery-- its emphasized in the beginning where the mother and daughter walk through Gangnam station and there are massive ads for plastic surgery places everywhere. Furthermore, there are many many shameless moments of vanity by various people in the cast, not just the college going males who objectify the girls they go to school with, but even Mi Rae's mother who constantly comments on both her daughters beauty "Now she's pretty...." and the beauty of guys that like Mi Rae. This is definitely annoying, but it isn't addressed in the drama at all. I mean, why objectify men when Mi Rae herself has been judged so harsh? But in the end, it IS realistic. These are the way people view each other; it's not ok, though, and it is called out in some ways, but in the end, just like in society, objectification and judging of peoples appearances is just something you cannot eliminate. No matter what you look like you cannot escaped being judged.
So again if you want a strong feminist message, this isn't the drama for you. If you want a semi-realistic story about an incredibly insecure and stunted girl who falls in love for the first time and the cute moments that ensue because of that, then maybe check it out.
I personally enjoyed the story; though its not perfect and there are a lot of gaps in it. In the end they seem to cram a bunch of side stories to a close all at once and dont do a great job of resolving them, and there are major characters they stop using and/or only use when it suits them. This is disappointing because the cast is huge and the side characters are great; perhaps there are too many? There is a cute friend character in the beginning that you think will have a B story but halfway through you stop seeing here. All the 'B' stories kind of suck in my opinion; mostly because they don't really gain traction like they should and are executed badly. Again as I said at the beginning-- this is ultimately a love story, so in that context its understandable the other plots dont line up in a great way, but I would have liked a few solid B and C stories, honestly.
Moving on. I personally thought the acting was great; Im Soo Hyang shines as Mi Rae-- her character grows with her. At first it seems like she perhaps doesn't have much range, but I think this is intentional. Mi Rae's self esteem has been completely flattened, despite being feisty inside, and the drama does a good job of showing this. Someone said that Im Soo doesnt look like someone 'overly done' so that peoples judgments dont make sense, but I disagree. She (while still extremely pretty) does fit the ideal of a 'Gangnam Beauty' to me, and yes she looks a bit older, but in the context of the story it makes sense.
A lot of the comments criticize Cha Eun Wo's acting in this and I disagree heartily. Yes, his character is distant and wooden, but it is intentional. If you think that Cha Eun Wo can't act then you totally missed the point of Do Kyung Suk's character--he is a guy that has learned to repress all feelings and he is very direct and reactionary. The point is that he is also emotionally stunted-- despite being opposite ends of the spectrum looks wise to Mi Rae, they are actually very similar internally. His friend comments at one point that Kyung Suk has no friends as he never lets anyone in; that he is unapproachable and distant, and Cha Eun Wo does a great job showing that. His micro-expressions convey it all; especially at the beginning where he goes from blank to a flash of anger when a side character is being antagonistic towards him. His character is especially intense, and it is again, intentional-- you can tell by the fact the director gives the young versions of Kyung Suk the same blankness. Also, As Do Kyung Suk grows and such, he shows more and more emotion, and his aloofness fades somewhat.
If you take this purely as a squee-inducing love story then its a 10/10 though. This has some of the cutest moments (even if they are tropey) of any drama I've ever seen. Some bits are even cuter than my holy grail of dramas 'A Witch's Romance' -- that's the gold standard of love stories for me, haha. So this drama is really seriously cute. But the slow burn is incredibly slow, and almost painful, but worth it in my opinion. I didn't fast forward once, even though I was eagerly awaiting the cute parts. Moreover it makes sense-- these may be college students but they are shy broken and inexperienced people in various ways and it makes sense that their love will not all be immediate and smooth sailing. I also wanted more-- the chemistry is there between the leads, but they dont give it as much passion. Thats my only gripe with the love story. Its passion is hinted at only briefly, and I would have liked more.
Another niggling criticism for me, that there is not a lot of depth to anyone except Mi Rae-- you dont get into the thoughts and feelings of many of the other characters except a few. This makes it feel more like a shojo manga than anything, though it makes sense if it was based on a web toon. I would have liked more development in this area, personally. It makes everyone, especially the love interests to Mi Rae, seem kind of unreal. Even the TA character, who is extremely nice and personable, lacks depth sometimes. You know he's nice, but you dont know why or who he is really. Same with Kyung Suk; this lack of depth almost makes him feel like a mary sue sometimes.
Still, a cute drama, I recommend. I would love to see a sequel but I'm not sure how that would work, but I really did enjoy the world and the characters a lot. Check it out if you want an adorable romance between beautiful people.
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This review may contain spoilers
There’s not much to say that can do this movie justice. It’s beautiful and slow paced,taking its time to unravel the story and personalities of each character that is important to the story line. It shows a wholesome love between two women very nicely, having those giddy moments of them being playful,and obviously sexual moments. But it also shows a more realistic side to romantic relationships, tension, “bickering”, lying,etc. And may I include, the realistic side of being lgbt+, a scene in particular breaks my heart and almost made me want to cry as I also wanted to wipe my feelings of homosexuality away, and it’s the moment where Yoon-ju is drunk, overcome by emotion due to Jisoo acting strange, she pulls her male friend Yeong-ho into a kiss, trying to erase her feelings for jisoo almost or perhaps her homosexuality. From then on, it only gets “sadder”,I won’t get into detail but that should say enough. But despite almost half the movie being lonesome, the ending tied it up well, although not a bad nor good ending, it was left open, leaving the watcher (or Atleast me) feeling bitter sweet, but at the same time content, that Jisoo could apologize and show her actual feelings one last time. Was this review helpful to you?
Basically a recap of TT S2 + long trailer for Don't Say No
If you haven't seen TharnType 2 and don't want to probably just watch this! It's practically a short overview with highlights from the LeoFiat storyline with a few added scenes. In saying that, being 60 minutes, you're obviously not going to get the full story so some parts might not completely make sense. If you are interested in understanding it better you could go watch TT S2 - which has some extra Leo Fiat scenes that aren't in here but mainly ones that explain the situation/relationship between Type and Fiat.If you've forgotten what happened or particularly love the pairing this is also probably for you! Since I've already seen TT S2 I was a little bugged at first since I had already seen most of it, however it was a nice and short recap (especially if you watch it at 1.5x speed or skip though a few parts).
For people who have already watched and don't care to see their scenes again I would honestly just go to the 4/4 part which should be about 45mins in. From there, they are all new scenes I believe. Before that there are a few added voiceovers and screens which pop up in a trailer (I'm so sorry I don't know their name) but won't necessarily be worth watching or add to the story if you've already seen or are skipping through.
I know in the series I was sort of annoyed about character development but I think in the bathroom scene we get a bit of them growing as characters which I was super pleased and excited about. Also communication! Woohoo! From there I believe it sets up and gives a bit of context to what Don't Say No should be about and gives you a mini introduction I guess.
Overall, this is probably a one time watch- especially if you've already seen Tharn Type S2.
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Secretive Intense Fast-moving
I’m intrigued by the background setting of this story. Adapted from a popular novel by Ma Bo Yong, the same author for Longest Day in Chang’an and Secret of Three Kingdoms, this story is set towards the end of the first female emperor’s, Wu Zetian’s, rule around 703 – 705 in Luoyang. Like the other earlier dramas, this drama is fast paced and heart-poundingly intense. The nail-biting story is abound with mysteries, conspiracies and hidden villains, layers after layers with multiple meanings for interpretation.The author brilliantly mixes fiction and non-fiction together creating a fascinating story. The plots and sub-plots may be fictional, but many of the people and places, with probably the exception of the main characters, are real historically. Having said that, the names of the main characters could have been adopted from real people during the era but unrelated to the events (for example, Wu Siyue has rather similar homophones to Wu Zetian’s father’s name, Wu Shiyue).
It would be a fascinating watch if viewers are equipped with some understanding of the background setting so that all the elements in the drama, big and small, including dialogues and events, become interesting clues as the story unfolds. As it goes, the background becomes pivotal for the enjoyment of the viewers and I’d like to provide a brief explanation here.
After the death of her husband, Emperor Gaozong/Li Zhi, Wu Zetian maneuvered swiftly, created her own dynasty, Zhou, and soon proclaimed herself the emperor, basically taking over the throne from the Li family despite her own sons who were still the rightful heirs to the throne under the Li lineage. These have created various factions, with conflicts between the loyalties to the Li lineage and Wu’s family and followers. In the drama, we see these two factions at each other’s throat, jumping at any opportunities to put their opponent to death, for example, the King of Jin, Wu Shenxing (NingWentong), constantly pits against the Crown Prince Li Dun, and he him. The politics and infighting were enormous and deadly, which are captured vividly. It is under this setting that the story becomes captivating and rich. The hidden undercurrents propel the plot: who is the ultimate villain? Is it the Li’s trying to wrangle back power from the hands of Wu, or is it the Wu’s clan trying to legitimize their claim to the throne and pass on to their future generation, or is it someone else?
The story begins with the whistleblowers, who are historically real, risking their lives to try to send a secretive message to the Emperor. Before Wu Zetian came to power, the informant system was in existence to gather information on opposing forces to the throne. The use of secret boxes for the informants to submit information is rather similar to today’s suggestion boxes. Ironically, the inventor of the secret box was eventually executed as he was accused of his involvement in a rebellion through the system he had invented. This is rather similar to the case of Louis XVI, the last King of France, who was decapitated by the guillotine that he had invented.
The first episode where the three main leads are introduced is rather haphazard with fast moving events, sometimes in slow motion and camera work flying everywhere causing confusion and head spinning (at least for me). However, thereafter, such haphazardness almost evaporates and is replaced by seriousness and absorbing story telling.
Though romance is not the focus here, it does brush on light romance with Baili Hongyi (Wang Yibo) who initially opposes to a marriage arranged by his father, but gradually falling in love with his wife, and Gao Bingzhu (Huang Xuan) and Wu Siyue (Song Qian/Victoria Song) developing mutual admirations and love for each other.
Huang Xuan is a veteran actor and his acting skills are solid. He brings out the turmoil of his character, in his avenge for his buddies and the woman who has helped him countless times. Huang Xuan is convincing in all his roles, as a low life or as an investigative spy in the secret service. I like Song Qian’s acting too. As Wu Siyue, she is righteous, trusted by the Emperor and the Crown Prince, and abides to the book, Song Qian gives the viewers a wonderful performance here. Behind the scene, Wang Yibo is well known for being rather quiet with a cold look which fits the Bali Hongyi character very well and his acting captures the essence of the character, giving the viewers a lovable performance.
My Verdict
Luoyang is the ancient capital of China's thirteen dynasties. With such a location, this is an intriguing watch. Exciting and nail-biting. Starts with a head spinning fast pace in episode one, each episode is laced with danger and hidden conspiracies, one twist after another. This is a big budget production with not only great actors, the attention to details is immaculate, from costumes to headgears, everything is said to be as close to the real thing as possible. Accordingly, the production has prepared, among others, more than 5,000 sets of costumes with accessories, and more than 15,000 sets of props, striving to show the prosperous scene of Luoyang in the heyday of Tang Dynasty.
This drama has a great start. Unfortunately, like most Chinese dramas, it dwindles towards the ending. In fact, the ultimate villain seems to be rather haphazard and illogical to the overall plotting.
It is still a great watch for me, but with a giant plot mismatch ending, I'm afraid it's not a perfect one.
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I can not begin to describe what this drama is, and what feeling this drama induces in me. A sense of nostalgia that is almost misplaced because I have never lived in that era, I have never experienced that life. Still, I miss it. I almost wish I could live it.
What power must a drama have to induce this feeling in me, I can not fathom. I have only felt this way for two dramas so far, Padiwarada & Prissana. It's a beautiful feeling.
It was hard to obtain all of the English subbed episodes of this drama. However, a very kind soul here on MDL shared the episodes I did not have with me, and for that, I am always going to be grateful. Thanks, Ma! <3
This drama can be described in many ways. Maybe like an afternoon rain after a hot summer day. Maybe the clear 5 AM breeze right before the sunrise. Perhaps the velvety smoothness of melted chocolate. LOL, this drama has made me almost whimsical. I'll admit, I appreciate it for that.
The plot was well thought and well laid out. Personally, I did not feel like the story dragged at any point. No episode felt like a mere filler and everything cohesively blended in together to form various love stories all in one drama. Of course, our main lead's love story took the longest to unravel, but it was not one filled with extremely agonizing obstacles formed by third parties ~ and I appreciated that.
All the obstacles that were initially formed were between the two main leads themselves. Their ignorance, their feelings, their pride, their misunderstanding, their love. Just them. They messed it up and they fixed it.
I also appreciated how much depth and time other secondary characters got. There was a lot of characters to relate to, appreciate, roll my eyes at. But none that was cruel without reason. Even the second female lead and her mother I could not begin to think that "this does not happen in real life!" because I can definitely say their characters are real enough. They are not crazy without reason or cruel without a mind. I appreciated that also.
All in all guys, the copies of this drama may not be the best. It's a bit of a blurry mess. After all, the drama was released in the year 2000. That is almost 19 years ago, and the lack of quality in the video is understandable~ but the plot will make the lack of video quality almost seem like nothing. It did that for me. This is definitely a 10/10 drama for me. I doubt I'll ever find something like this again, and that almost makes me sad.
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Ghosts of the past
I'd just like to preface this by saying that this isn't really a horror drama, it's more gothic, so you may end up disappointed if you're expecting to be scared while watching this drama.Detention, an adaptation of the game by the same name (you don't need to play it before watching), isn't about scaring the pants off of you, but is more about topics of guilt and trauma. Mainly, how those feelings from the White Terror period in Taiwan still haunts people, with some clinging to that past, while others feel trapped by it (the living and the dead alike). A spotlight is shone on these things by following the main character Liu Yun Xiang and witnessing her own pain and struggles in the present, as it's through her feeling of connection to the ghost of Fang Rui Xin that we learn more about both girls and their past.
There are ghosts in the drama, but they aren't scary at all (though this depends on how good/bad you are with horror imagery in general), and they function more like "the ghosts of our past/our country's past" and the need to face that past and break free. Really, it's people in places of power that are scarier than the ghosts in this drama.
I thought the story was good and the main characters well acted. There are moments I wished I felt more of a connection between Yun Xiang and some of the other side characters in her life, but I think that's just how the story chose to go (probably to drive her to seek company with Rui Xin) and not so much an oversight due to poor writing... so it's just a personal preference.
Even though the topics in the drama can be serious, I liked that the drama still had small moments of joy/hope - it's not setting out to depress you at every turn, but more intends for you to witness, acknowledge, and then carry the information it gives you forward to make a better future, if that makes sense.
It was an interesting watch, and had me looking up more about Taiwan's history, but I can't say it's a drama I'll be sitting down to rewatch often. Still, I'm glad I watched it.
TW for this drama: suicide, grooming, sexual assault.
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And it was pretty good. The plot was interesting. The way the story plays out is good.
The music was super good. And another element that added to the beauty of the drama are the frames of childhood that most of the episodes ended with. It really underscored the importance of the relationship Ha Neul and Seo Gun shared.
The main leads are great. The side characters are sometimes annoying, esp the second female lead who starts off as the typical 'hang on his shirt sleeves and pretend he is in love with you' drama-land girl.
There are probably two things I wish were different:
Gong Yoo's character is of a more serious and burdened frame of mind. So basically, I missed seeing his smile. Having Gong Yoo as your lead and not having him smile? That wasn't cool.
And, then the ending- which isn't bad. Just okay. They could have given us some more. (No smile there also)
Besides these, this is a good drama with two strong leads and a beautiful soundtrack.
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There are no perfect families. Even with the same blood coursing through our veins, we all remain human; living in close quarters, we’re bound to have differences. Disagreements will accompany warmth and support, affection and acceptance mix with disappointment and misunderstanding. But when we have nowhere else to go, we can always return home (right?) Yet like any other relationship might fail, so may a family—romantic as it sounds that familial bonds are unbreakable. So much is stacked against this most important of relationships, though the ideal is that word again: “unbreakable.” Outside external problems like financial concerns, personal failings and instances of abuse and neglect constitute the most daunting. You see, while there are no perfect families, there *are* many unhappy ones.
Kazokugari (literally “Family Hunting”) takes this idea to ask some harsh questions. At its very worst, can a dysfunctional family be saved? If things appear hopeless, should the entire institution of family be torn down—even if that necessitates murder? When we’re hurting too much, is it better to live or die (and do we have the right to make that decision for others)? To answer, this drama uses three intertwining stories whose themes and importance overlap. Our main characters combat their own demons separately, but each is being suffocated by family issues and lack of direction or comfort. What links the three are the family suicides (murders?) which haunt their city; as they sink deeper into the mystery, they’re drawn closer together for better or worse. Of these, two combine beautifully (Hizaki and Sudo) though alone Hizaki was far and away the most interesting character in the series. The third, Detective Mamihara, ends up feeling the least focused and connected despite his story’s thematic importance. He’s ultimately one of those characters that might have worked better as a supporting character.
But the brilliant, atypical nature of Kazokugari begins with *how* it tells the story: this drama is a strange chimera of the horror and family genres. Touching scenes often find themselves sandwiched between ones that might seem more at home in a slasher flick. Like in Karamazov no Kyodai, isolated disturbing imagery is used to transition scenes (for instance, perfect fruit that turns to reveal rot—just before the mold is sliced away by an unseen hand). Viewers may find themselves warmed to the core, then frightened off the edge of their seats. My only issue would be that sometimes these elements are pushed too far and muddy the intent, which is to create an uncanny atmosphere. When things worked out it was great, but sometimes my reaction was “Huh,” rather than “EEK!”
Just like her character Hizaki, Matsuyuki Yasuko hooked my interest from the first. This is my third encounter with this talented actress, and I’ve come to realize she often stars in excellent projects. That suits her, since her performances are just as exemplary—and she maintains her standard here. Her vivid expressions betray the character’s feelings to the core, whether it’s an insight to her hollow pain or a rare moment of peace. Ito Atsushi, whom I have great affection for, absolutely pales in comparison. But while he might not have the charisma of his character's favorite Basquiat, he holds his own in terms of everyman relatability and likability. Of the rest of the cast, I wanted to point out as notable Kitayama Hiromitsu. His Keitoku was excellent and much-needed comic relief that somehow fits right in despite the dark themes of the drama.
Music wins a high score for two reasons. First, the orchestrations are perfect mood-setters. No scene would have half as much impact without them, whether creepy or tender. My favorite example will be the inclusion of tragic Ozaki Yutaka’s heart-wrenching “I Love You.” It’s used devastatingly in many scenes; if one knows the lyrics, it enriches the context. There’s also the lovely theme (“Shout” by androp) which ends each episode with a suitable bittersweet feel. Secondly, the sound effects in this series are just genius. These offset dialogue and actions with fabulous timing, giving them new atmosphere—whether it’s a painful sentence being repeated in horrifying tones or some cruel violin riff.
Please be forewarned this drama includes depictions of domestic abuse by and against children, blood, and disturbing imagery. Sensitive viewers may find some parts unpalatable.
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The real story is a love affair, a ménage-à-trois that at one point seems beautiful and perfect until the cracks in the façade eventually begins to be seen (can such things really be that way for long anyway?) but even though you know (from scene one) that it’ll end badly somehow, there’s something wonderfully alluring here that sucks you in and you’ll watch in fascinated sympathy how things fall apart.
Or maybe that’s just me. Except, no, it can’t be just me; the story is based on an award winning novel, and what is more; some of the basic elements of the plot have been used many times before. Evidently, people fall for it, the story of an innocent young girl getting lured in by an older, glamorous and decadent couple that laughs affectionately at her because they can barely remember what it once felt like to be naïve like her… I have read it before, and I’d read it again. In this version of the relationship of three, there were the things I had anticipated, and things I couldn’t see coming. (I imagine some people would criticise the ending, but I – being the sentimental fool that I am – like it.) I would really love to read the original novel, though, to find out about a few things I’m wondering about…
I have to admit, though, to being somewhat biased, not only for liking the theme but also for liking the male lead, Iura Arata. My expectations were high, because lately I’ve just been going through his minor supporting roles and I’ve been waiting eagerly to see him in a main role again. With this character, I got more or less what I wished for – an intellectual seducer with a dark secret and a gentle heart. (From a fangirl point of view: so hot!!) Katase Shintaro and his wife Hinako are elegant, seductive people and experienced in the ways of the world while also seeming to live in their own little universe that only a select few are invited to. The young student Fumiko – they call her Fuu-chan – is lucky or unlucky enough to be invited. She is thoroughly seduced by their overwhelming presence in her life and watching how this happens, inevitably as it has to happen, is very enjoyable.
Fuu-chan is a simple character, the kind of character who just is who she is and becomes dear to the others because of her kind and gentle spirit. There are no surprises in this character, but that’s not to say that she’s shallow. She is just as fascinated as she is intimidated by the couple's passionate, free-spirited lifestyle but she learns to like and accept them. Ishihara Satomi pulls off this natural cuteness almost surprisingly well and I didn’t doubt her for a moment. Tanaka Rena as Hinako is equally convincing: this pleasure-seeking, somewhat whimsical femme fatale kind of character could easily become over-the-top but somehow the actress manage to balance on a thin line, gradually revealing Hinako’s vulnerability. As for Iura Arata, well, this kind of role just suits him – he may have done it before but if you need an actor who can dive deeply into the darker realms of passion and do it with true conviction, he’s your man. This character is the one who goes through most of the changes, or rather, the way we look at him – through Fumiko – changes when we get to understand him better.
I have to give this a ten overall. This story may not always be subtle but it’s elegant and vibrant, erotic without being graphic, and with some surprises in the second half. The enjoyment lies in the character's interaction and all the emotions, and all in all, this is very well done! Even though the characters are driven to the edge of reason, this is not done for dramatic effect or because of drama clichés (e.g. jealous ex lover, annoying parents, etc), this is motivated by the story’s and the characters’ inner logic. Even the old “moth-to-the-flame” metaphor is taken to the next level. (Not gonna lie; I was thinking “no, please…” the moment the moth flew in, but thankfully the writer knew what she was doing!) It’s like a Greek tragedy; you know that something bad will happen, but once it does, you know that it couldn’t have been any other way. And through it all, they do truly love each other.
Is this a movie I would rewatch? Maybe! I found some beautiful and swoon-worthy scenes in it. As for the music, I suppose it did add to the atmosphere every now and then but overall I didn’t really notice it.
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Unlike the romance in My True Friend which has come from love-at-first-sight, the romance in this drama is built on trust and understanding. The two main leads Sun Li and Luo Jin are both veteran and excellent actors. Luo Jin plays the Xu Wen Chang character who is a calm, unrestrictive office manager of a large multi-store realtor company. His leadership style is laissez-faire whereby he allows his people a free hand to achieve results in an ethical manner. His subordinates adore him and give him a nickname Gugu, meaning paternal aunty. Xu Wen Chang is kind, sincere and diplomatic. His magnanimity eventually melts away the ice of Fang Si Jin (Sun Li/Betty Sun) who is a co-manager of the same office. When Fang Si Jin is transferred to work there, her goal is to replace him eventually. But after months working with Xu Wen Chang, she finds out all his qualities and gradually falls in love with him. Fang Si Jin is an ambitious real estate agent who would go all the way out to do anything to close the deal. She’s up-tight, suspicious and calculative. But after spending some time under the warm office culture that Xu Wen Chang has inculcated, she starts to change. She sees humans in people and begins to love her subordinates who also come to adore her for her determination and compassion.
Every character has his/her own flaws, story and challenges, and this drama has carefully developed the characters and help them grow to meet and overcome their hurdles. The office culture here is very heart-warming; everyone is watching out for each other’s well-being and they are united like a big family.
This drama is an eye opening for international viewers on how brutal and stressful it is to live in a city like Shanghai. As a realtor, the work is hard and the competition is fierce. But most of all, all denizens in the city work extra-ordinarily hard and they are determined to achieve their goals, overcoming any obstacles that come their way. It also depicts all walks of life in the city – the good, the bad and the ugly. The good ones are beautiful and heart-warming, and the bad ones are ugly, greedy and unethical.
This drama is definitely a wonderful watch, especially if viewers want to better understand life in Shanghai. The depiction is authentic and realistic. It has provided me self-searching calls to look deeper into myself and to want to become a better person for others.
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the cliff took the wrong victims, it should have been the writers of the second half
it's rare that a show appears to give such clear insight into behind-the-scenes drama but if you told me the same writers wrote the story before and after both character and show fell off a cliff halfway through, I wouldn't believe you.first half was a moderately entertaining, somewhat formulaic historical drama with all the lost child, palace abuse, ridiculous CGI wolves, and contrived finding oneself in bed with the enemy tropes that your heart desires.
second half was like one of those meals made with leftovers from the fridge, only the chef has no sense of smell or taste and their glasses are steamed up so they don't see too well either. it's a mess, with things that might have been edible if they hadn't been cooked all together with stuff with a best-before date of 2016.
highlights were the flawless Liu Lingzi, whose tightly controlled Meng Zhenzhen deserves far more praise and a far better drama for her skills; Liu Xueyi's peerless cheekbones and always solid grasp of his characters; Gao Han's crying; many of the sidekicks; Meng Huaijin and the weird cousin relationship; and being amused by how many viewers thought the 3rd and 4th prince were the same person. the OST is delicious by itself and Reno Wang's outro track has found a permanent place in my Cdramas playlist.
the lowlights are too numerous to mention and ultimately all of these efforts were overshadowed by a storyline lacking any type of integrity.
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Drop Everything and Watch this
You know what i literally re rated everything i have watched till date cuz after watching this series my standards have gone so high that i don't think any drama or atleast any mystery thriller would get close easily.I am the type of person who focuses on two things : the story and the characters. Even if one is done right and is consistent, i am generally satisfied. Here, the story is the hero. The direction is brilliant but definitely the story carries everything on its back. I love creepy stuff, and i have watched a hell lot of things so nothing creeped me out, nothing scared me but based on my experience ppl who don't watch stuff like that will definitely be uncomfortable.
Now, another word i write and it will be a spoiler and i don't want to ruin anyone's journey to watch this masterpiece. Go watch it and if you don't understand something after finishing it, we can discuss or even in the mid but don't drop it just bcuz it might weigh down on your brain. I mean seriously dropping it would be disrespectful to art.
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Best Gone Into BLIND
I am not someone who doesn't read synopsis. I am not someone who doesn't watch 500 trailers and read reviews and comments before deciding to start a show. I am basically someone who will already know much of the plot before watching a show or movie.I am TELLING you, don't DO that with this one... just don't. Don't watch any trailers or read spoilered comments. Even the little bit of synopsis currently on the page at time of writing this is a spoiler.
What SHOULD you know about this show?
Yes, there is romance, but romance is more a product of the show than the PURPOSE of the show. Without the romance the show LITERALLY would not be able to happen as it does as it is integral to the plot, but it's not a "3 dates" type romance where they meet, have a few meetings, confess, and have an ending. Instead, the romance unfolds among misunderstandings, shared history and self-doubts. Turning points happen over issues with trust. Yes, this is vague, I know.
Aside from the romance aspect though there are plenty of themes surrounding: "What is love", "Does not feeling something make you bad", "Women's roles in society run by men", "Whether getting help as a woman from someone who HAPPENS to be a man is disgraceful", "People's roles being dictated by another person". There are two other themes that I feel run the show but mentioning them, while not being "technically" a spoiler, would be a spoiler in spirit so I won't.
If you do not like horror, steer clear as this is VERY horror laced. One minute you will be in feel good land, the next you want a blanket and to turn the lights on. If you find the 1st episodes are NOT creepy then you will probably not find any of the rest. Personally, I am not a horror fan and may be having some nightmares about various aspects of this show.
Above all else... EVERYTHING you are told is true... until it isn't.
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This review may contain spoilers
Waste of time
Story: Doesn't have any. Should I say this drama is a total waste of time and the FL is the most annoying character I've ever seen? 3 men are totally head over heels for her & she's just acting like a stupid so called popular girl. She keeps rejecting everyone, actually that's not the problem here coz she has her reasons but the main hypocrite thing was when she told her friend that she can't love anyone coz she doesn't believe in love nd next day she is in love with a person whom she never met irl, who's only in her social media. Not even 1% realistic 🤦♀️Acting/Cast: They all are rookies so it's neither so good nor so bad.
Music: It has some nice music. Isn't that why the name of this drama is "your playlist"?
Rewatch value: I'm never gonna watch this again until someone points a gun at me👁 👁
Overall: As an AROHA I'm a bit frustrated.I still can't believe they fooled us. They even made sanha's character as a dumb who is a top idol of the nation & totally in love with a girl who doesn't give a f*ck about him & insults him every chance she gets?? I don't know why the company made sanha doing this🙄 In the drama description they wrote "Yoon San Ha" as main character but he's definitely not. He got a very few like maximum 30secs of screen time in each episode. They just used sanha as a bait to make views for their not-so-good drama.
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