Reviews

Story: It's clearly said that this is Nodame Cantabile's remake, but somehow i didn't feel that way. The center of story were pretty much the same, but i liked how this drama managed to have a great development between the characters more. That being said, i personally think that we can't really compare these versions, since it have 'its' own way to tell the stories and have a quite big difference on delivering it to us. I haven't watch Nodame Cantabile, so i was kinda happy to have this as a 'new' drama and have nothing to compare at all. The story progressed at a good pace, though there were some draggy scenes. This is a totally about growth of characters. Some people wondered why this drama gave them feeling that this is not a 'musical' drama, while Nodame Cantabile was totally great at managing those aspects. It was music that brought to them together, and i could say that this version was intended to gave us the more realistic things about how these characters manages to got themselves aware about their fear and being able to overcome it together. It has depth in its story, even though it still felt a little bit 'unoriginal' since it's a adaptation.

Acting/Cast: Great. Amazing. I've got nothing to say when these character were slowly became the biggest point of how this drama could be so great even though i don't expected this drama to came out this good. Joo-won was great as always, and Shim Eun-kyung was amazing to have made her 'own' Nodame without trying to be the j-drama Nodame though she unconciously did that on few first episodes. Il-rak was just likeable character, while i don't expect Yoon-hoo to be a lovely character towards the finale. Everybody has done a great job on potraying their character.

Music: Definitely great. No comment for this because i just LOVED all of the songs. Including the OSTs!I've been listening 'Listen To My Heart' by Melody Day for weeks, and has never got bored of it.

Rewatch Value: It was cute and lovely. I'll rewatch this when i have times, although i really don't rewatch the completed dramas that i've watched.

Overall: 8.5/10
It was an unexpected good drama, and one of dramas that i won't forget 'cause of the feelings that it gives to me.
[SORRY FOR BAD GRAMMAR :)]

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Finally all 80 Episodes are subbed! First I never expected myself to really watch these 80 episodes because when I started the drama last year I thought it would be a typical mini-drama with around 16 eps. And I couldn't understand how a drama with this plot could actually have 80 eps.
But now I'm not regretting a single minute I invested in this drama and fully understand the length of the drama.

It's hilarious, has it's serious and romantic scenes a perfect combination.
It may have started of as something similar to Coffee Prince (korean drama) but then every character in this drama gets more interesting and has their own side story.
It isn't only about the loveline between the two main characters (or five according to this MDL page) but it also interlinks the other characters.
There are many twists which made the drama more interesting.

And let's not forget about the wonderful actors Wu Vanness, Zeng Joanne, Zhang Michael and Wang Zi who did a wonderful job.

The only negative point is the length of the drama BUT It's definitely worth watching for fans of the genre Romance-Comedy.

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What made me decide to watch this is its title itself and when I saw that it's a light drama then I decided to watch it. I can't stand too serious heavy dramas especially long ones since it will make me feel bored. After watching this drama, I can really say that it's totally worth it! It's an entertaining drama with a lesson. It teaches you about the 'priceless' things in life but at the same time it's not too preachy to the point that it's irritating and that's what I love about this drama. It touches hearts but at the same time entertaining enough for you to stay and finish it.Of course, Kimura Takuya's acting here is superb and I do love Karina here as well. The rest of the actors did great even the villains. The story and character development is just fine for me and I will definitely watch this drama again whether alone or with groups of people. A realistic drama that's worth your time!:)

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Love is simple, really

“I'm scared that you'll disappear right in front of me.”

I am truly impressed with the execution of Our Dating Sim. Considering that it is a story that revolves around a misunderstanding, there is little to none of the commonplace tropes like 'miscommunication" and 'walking away while the other is talking' or the dreaded 'jumping to comclusions'.

I needed to start my review with this because I totally thought these would be tediously utilised by the drama, but instead ODS gives us two beautifully authentic people who have their own ways of dealing with emotions which leads them to a place of conflict and a separation for more than 7 years.

With a run-time of only 15 minutes, the show makers have utilised every second to build Lee Wan and Shin Ki Rae's relationship, with each scene contributing to their story in a meaningful way. Every conversation, every little thought adds something to the story and this is really important for a short series.

They have done this and more than what other longer series provide us, and within an obviously limited budget. ODS has proved that having a small budget is not an excuse for a lackluster production (side-eyeing certain other korean bls which have recently aired). There is a small cast too, but the show in itself never feels empty.

Then there are the actors themselves who brought their all to the screen and delivered one of the best kisses in bl history, gotta talk about it considering physical intimacy is a very lousy point for most Korean bl dramas. The characters feel mature and there is a visible difference in them between their youthful friendship days and their older mature selves. The chemistry between the leads is palpable and it helps that scenes of physical intimacy are peppered generously throughout the series.

They behave a a real couple would, and as people who have missed each other during a long separation, and deal with their own anxiety of losing each other once again. There are little dating sims recreated at the end of each episode, each giving a little view into what a braver Lee Wan would have done in his school days. Although Lee Wan was not brave then, he has changed now and the show ends on a hopeful message that although life is a game and there is little certainty to it, it is his choice now to be with Ki Tae and that is all that matters. To stay in the moment and to choose one another.

An unexpectedly well done series and a must watch for those looking for a sweet, fluffy way to pass the time without too much unwarranted and uncalled for drama. 8/10

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Recommended

This drama was pretty good. I was waiting to watch it because all the episodes were not uploaded on You Tube. It was pretty disappointing to see reviews cause many of the reviewers had dropped the drama and wrote it was draggy. But for me this wasn't the case, though you need to fast forward some moments if you don't like slow scenes. I completed the whole series in 4 days and I'd say it was pretty interesting.
The story was really really a good piece. Ya! as many of the viewers complaint that the concept of VR Game was totally dead in the series then probably they haven't finished it . The writer has given almost satisfactory reason of why did they show the story like normal ones instead of showing it from the perspective of the male lead Xia Shi. I won't explain more or else the ending would be spoilt for my dear reader ( who so ever is reading this review). I would say if you have started watching this then don't drop it cause last 6 episodes would make you satisfied.
the cast was perfectly fit for the show and the acting was superb!!!!!!

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Despite having to get used to it, I really enjoyed the non-chronological style of storytelling adopted by the movie. After all, our memories are never recalled in chronological order, even though our lives may be lived that way. The story is not laid out neatly for you, but the trajectories of the friendships are clear enough to the viewer by the end of the movie.

The ending is given to you right at the start of the movie, and it's certainly not a happy one. But it sets the stage for the viewer to fill in the blanks. The music is bare bones - appropriate for the bleak tone of the film (no pun intended). The colour palette of the movie and scenery also serves to set the mood for the movie.

Lee Je Hoon is thrilling as the protagonist, swinging from sincere and heartfelt, to threatening and fearsome.

A heartwrenching but rewarding watch.

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Every fujoshi's dreams

Me no doku sugiru shokuba no futari is a rather light series. We follow the life of Oto-san who is working as an accountant in her company. Oto is a rather serious person and devoted to her work; however, she has a small secret. She is secretly shipping two of her colleagues. I don't want to get into too much detail because I think that I would spoil all the fun; but, in this jdrama we are able to see how the mind of a fujoshi works and what is reality.

Even though it has 25 episodes each episode is only, approximately, 5 minutes long; so, you could watch that in just one sitting. The two male actors have a good chemistry and that makes it easier for the audience to sympathise with Oto and understand her fujoshi thoughts.

Maybe something that bothered me was the open ending. In every episode we could see that there was an explanation for the interaction of the two actors, but the end is open to what could and might happen. I think that there are planning for a new season. If not, then I will be very disappointed with this kind of ending.

But anyway, it is a cute series, with no drama, that is ease on the eye. Watch it :)

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During what could be considered a slow drama year, Wakamono Tachi (“Young People,” international title: “All About My Siblings,”) was greatly anticipated from the first. One exciting aspect manifests itself in its status as an anniversary drama, a fact that often denotes heightened quality. Another comes in the form of Shugo Muto, who wrote the script for this remade series as well as last year’s excellent reboot of Kazoku Game and the beloved 2005 Densha Otoko. Yet for an overwhelming number of potential viewers, the prospect of another reunion between cast members Mitsushima Hikari and Eita—with the added bonus of fantastic Tsumabuki Satoshi—constituted the biggest delight. So with all these expectations riding on its back, how did well Wakamono Tachi fare?

Regrettably (how it pains me to begin with that word!) soaring expectations might cost this drama points with viewers. While Wakamono Tachi manages to score a place in the storied collection of worthy Japanese “life dramas,” it cannot be called perfect or even particularly groundbreaking. We follow the trials and tribulations of the orphaned Sato siblings, as well as those of their romantic prospects. Most story arcs focus on one sibling/issue at a time, detailing how the family pulls together so as to overcome it (or not). As might be expected from such a system, certain parts watch stronger than others. Characters Asahi, Satoru, and Hikari are front and center for the better episodes, most of which are warm and emotional. However, as focus spreads to the youngest siblings (and onward to the “girlfriends” and “boyfriend”) it becomes harder to swallow parts of the writing. Certain plots begin to touch upon the melodramatic and the tone/time frame for others ceases to reflect reality, though otherwise most events are thoughtfully placed. As strongly felt as the finale was, I could not but want for better closure. Several more episodes might have alleviated these issues, and I doubt viewers would object to extra time with the Sato family.

My favorite aspect of Wakamono Tachi must be its vibrant and quirky humor. The siblings primarily communicate in high-speed bickering around the dinner table, which often yields audacious and unbelievable dialogue. Many members of the Sato family are also wrestling fans, and so the most difficult emotional conundrums are solved over hearty talks—and outdoor brawls! What results is an unexpectedly lovable and relatable family that, despite any oddity, ends up working its way deep into the viewer’s heart. No matter the issues with the script, one begins to feel as though they will miss them when the series ends. I also believe the financial state our heroes are portrayed in (almost destitute!) helps them remain understandable. It is refreshing to meet with an every-man and his family for once, rather than a privileged member of the upper crust.

Without a doubt, Wakamono Tachi cast well. Tsumabuki Satoshi wins viewer sympathy as the sincere, hardworking Sato Asahi, whose more cliché characteristics are eclipsed masterfully by a strange mix of immaturity and fatherly instinct. A figure inherently good, Tsumabuki-san infuses Asahi with fetching laughter, contagious tears, and a performance most memorable. I'm not afraid to admit I fell in love. The widely lauded Eita settles into another complicated role as Sato Satoru, who explodes onto the scene as a menacing figure—but might his true self be loyal and loving? Mitsushima Hikari is safely one of the best actresses of her generation, and so in Sato Hikari maintains her standard. Hers might be the most precariously balanced story in the series, caught as it is between two moral poles; however, Mitsushima-san dons the role without the barest suggestion of difficulty. As for the other parts of the cast, most performances were passable to good with an almost universal connection of chemistry (particularly within the Sato family). If there were any weak links, I’d point either to Nomura Shuhei (Sato Tadashi) or Yoshioka Hidetaka (Shinjo Masaomi) but only when compared to the “big three.”

For those who concern themselves with music, this series employs a decent enough score with a good sense for incidental pieces and silence. Perhaps the only song worth writing home about would be the beautiful theme. It is provided by sweet-voiced Moriyama Naotaro, “Wakamono Tachi (Young People)” after the title of the drama. This gentle and nostalgic vocal suits the overall feeling of the series with surprising strength, even as it accompanies the credits. These show the characters, interspersed between the candid photographs of other (perhaps real?) examples of the modern Japanese youth.

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This drama was interesting and heartbreaking but at the same time can be hilarious. It has a lot to do with loyalty, betrayal, friendship, trust, teamwork, and of course romance. I specifically liked the brotherhood/sisterhood in this drama. The romance of the main leads were a bit eh. I did not know when they started liking each other and why? Still asking that now since I finished it. The annoying part is that I remember the female lead kept calling the male lead Yang Feng's name over -5 times in a row. It got the point that I did not want her to speak another word.  If you like xianxia dramas [fantasy with martial arts action scenes+special effects] I would recommend it. But if you hate watching a character(s) get saved over and over when at the brink of death then don't watch it

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If you are looking for a typical historical drama with a romantic triangle/quadrangle and a plot you can guess after three episodes, this is not the show for you.

If you are looking for a rich story, filled with three dimensional characters, that slowly draws you in, you should definitely add this to your list.

The story develops slowly and things are not always what they appear. The story is set in a fantasy world with a long and complicated history, a world where no one is simply "good" or "bad". The characters are complex and it may take a number of episodes for the viewer to fully understand their motives. Everyone exists to achieve their goals, whether it is for the benefit of their family/tribe, to uphold long-kept promises, or for personal ambition/advancement. Resist the urge the fast forward through episodes or you will be completely lost trying to follow shifting alliances and palace intrigues.

Visually, this is one of most lush and masterfully filmed TV shows I have ever watched.  Much is conveyed through the use of color, framing, how long the shot is held, etc. The show is worth rewatching for the visual aspect alone.

For the most part, the cast is simply superb and brilliant. There are plenty of fresh, pretty faces, but also older actors picked for their abilities. The principal actors worked hard to help you understand their internal turmoil and deeper motives.  Granted there are a couple of minor characters who were cast for their looks rather than their acting ability or perfect Mandarin pronunciation. But I'm just being a bit nitpicky.

Overall, this show is worth watching. Just know that things may be confusing. It may take some time for you to make sense of it all. Just like real life.

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Great movie. For a fictional event, this had all the heart pounding agony of seemingly real events. Extremely well written and directed. Terrific acting by all involved. Bae Soo Bin has always delivered as has Jin Goo. Both are actors I really admire. Im Seul Ong's first performance was truly a foreshadowing of his potential. Given who the cast was originally selected to be, I can't but be happy for the delay in filming. These actors were perfect in their roles. There isn't an unnecessary character in this movie. I was spellbound to the very end. I HIGHLY recommend this movie for the historical value, but if you are an action film buff you will love it. It's an edge of your seat ride all through it. The brilliant and remarkable use of animation at the beginning of this film to depict the brutal and horrific events of the massacre were actually, to me, more graphic and effective at realizing just how monstrous this event was. Even sadder is the fact that this happened in 1980, only 34 years ago. So this event is a living and painful memory for every adult citizen of Korea.

Also remarkable, but unsurprising, is the opposition this film received that almost kept it from being filmed. From wiki: In 2008, the film was originally set to be directed by Lee Hae-young based on his own adapted screenplay titled 29 Years, with Ryoo Seung-bum, Kim Ah-joong, Jin Goo, Chun Ho-jin, and Byun Hee-bong cast in the lead roles. But the production came to a halt once investors pulled out from funding the film ten days before filming began because of its controversial politically sensitive content, and rumors were rife that the pressure had originated from the conservative government.

After nearly four years of languishing in pre-production limbo due to financial difficulties, online donations poured in from 15,000 individuals amounting to ?700 million (US$646,000), with singer Lee Seung-hwan contributing another ?1 billion won (US$923,000), toward the film's ?4.6 billion (US$4,246,000) production cost. Another investor was television personality Kim Je-dong. The crowdfunding enabled the production to finally begin filming Lee's script with a new cast and director on July 19, 2012. Filming wrapped on October 10, 2012. The film's ending credits roll for more than 10 minutes, as they include all 15,000 donors' names.

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On-Par with Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms

"If you're not watching this, then you're missing out"
I thought I was gonna hate this but I decided to give it a try today and it's life changing, as person that drop cliche series quickly. This drama is really good, instead of leaving the viewers with questions; it didn't leave any expenses and started from narrating the old God Realm up to the newest one, true to its title "poetry" the scenes were beautiful. I cried and laugh but don't worry y'all its not tragedy. Basically this drama did what most of the dramas out there is missing, a stable story line with proper execution of narrating the events properly. I had to sign up just to review because people should watch this hidden gem. I've watched a lot of dramas and this is definitely on the top.

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