This review may contain spoilers
Quaranthings: The Series (2020): An Underrated Top-Tier Pinoy BL Series
“Quaranthings: The Series” deserves a higher rating than its current My Drama List (MDL) rating. It’s definitely underrated. In eight episodes, it has consistently proven that it’s a top-tier Filipino (Pinoy) boys' love (BL) series.In terms of plot/storyline, “Quaranthings: The Series” never lost track of what it's all about throughout its entire run. It’s about two boys from different class, economic, and educational backgrounds who developed love for each other while on community quarantine because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Personal and social contexts were clear with real-life issues like gender identities and sexual orientations, family relationships, economic difficulties, and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Class and gender, and to a certain extent, even religious consciousness were explicit on this series. Character background and character development for flawed characters Judah and Rocky were solid. Pace was terrific. Each episode contributed to the unfolding of the plot/storyline. And there weren’t any dull moments from this series. I did have some issues with some of the scenes (e.g. drunk sex scene) but all in all, I enjoyed most of the scenes. Most of the loose ends with regard to Judah's grandmother and mother, Rocky’s father and family, Kyo’s relationship with Glenn, and Kyo and Rocky’s relationship were resolved. Even with all the emotional rollercoasters throughout its season, in the end, we did get our happy ending!
Screenplay was relatable and well-balanced with enough cute, funny, and naughty lines and with sufficient dramatic and socially sensitive dialogues. There were relevant political commentaries as well. Highlighting its social consciousness, it had non-preachy socially sensible lines about being poor (“It's hard to be poor in this country;” “It’s easier to be true to yourself when you don’t have to worry about money;” “When you’re poor like us, there are so many limitations. There’s so much internal conflict”), homophobia (“Do you have some type of internalized homophobia?;” “Homophobia is so outdated”), sexual harassment (“I hate people who sexually harass others”), religious gay conversion therapy (“She was planning to send me to some Christian conversion retreat like I’m some sin that can be prayed away”), being gay (“Dad, remember when I said there’s someone very important to me? This is him, Dad. This is Judah. Dad, I’m gay”), etc.
Acting was generally natural especially the performance of Royce, who’s a magnificent specimen of a man -- really handsome and sexy! Royce never overacts. Everything’s just right with his acting. Kyo, a cute newbie, was alright especially in portraying an unapologetically queer character. He was on point in a lot of scenes but he was also flat in a few scenes. But he did improve a lot and towards the end of this series, he had very strong dramatic performances. Both Kyo and Royce made me shed lots of tears. They had good chemistry together. I relished the banter between them and I loved their intimate moments. The sex scene was tastefully done but I would have preferred less camera tricks on the kissing during that sex scene. The kiss during the finale was a bit tamed but it was sincere and heartwarming. The supporting cast members especially Karl and Jan were fine.
Production design, camera work, and editing were done using simple techniques but were executed cleanly. I love that there's an Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez photo, Martin Luther King Jr. quote, and Thai BL series posters. I'm actually impressed with how they're able to make do with their limited budget. I’m still intrigued by the meanings of those phallus-depicting paintings in the living room though. Audio was uneven. I love Karl’s rendition of the soundtrack “Sansinukuban” (My Universe) and it was perfectly incorporated on the episodes throughout this season. The soundtrack “Ipu-Ipo” (Whirlwind) performed by Kyo also sounded good.
Overall, I would certainly recommend rewatching “Quaranthings: The Series.” With its solid plot/storyline, largely natural acting performance, and mostly clean production, it’s quite underrated. It’s a top-tier Pinoy BL series and I hope it gets appreciated for how excellent it really is.
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I remember watching this film in a "Friends night", I wasn't the one who chose it but I appreciated the choice.
2) Storyline/Plot:
Generally speaking,the film's story wasn't original or great but the script writers knew how to get the audience intention.
Positive Points:
*This film is directed to any type of audience since it has the elements that would keep most of viewers attracted.
*Main Genres:
--->Humor: It made this film cool and light plus laughter scenes were so diversified and frequently present especially at the beginning. It's the type of humor that keeps you expecting more, the funny scenes were hilarious especially for those who like comedy because when you don't laugh, you would be smiling.
Even though this genre wasn't present in the middle or near the end but it's considered as highly satisfying.
--->Romance: Since it's a romantic comedy, the romance was fair enough to the film's genre. I wouldn't say it's the most attractive romantic story but it was acceptable enough to consider it as a positive point.
Negative Points:
*I will mention that some situations were badly expressed in a way that would make you think that story lacked something.
*There were some blank moments during the film.
*The story wasn't really that special nor very captivating, it's the humor that gave it charm.
Story: 7/10.
3) Acting/Cast:
*Kang Dong Won:
I am always amazed by this actor's skills, charisma and the way he portrays his roles. Here he was a little different from his other productions but I would say that this film proved his amazing acting skils since he can adjust to any character.
Speaking about the character, I would say that it has the kind of naive personality but it gave me good laughter moments. I wouldn't judge Choi Hee Cheol deeply because its actions were set by the story so I rather praising Kang Dong Won acting.
*Kim Ha Neul:
I am sort of used to her roles, this actress is predictable somehow. Here, it wasn't any different but her way of expressing the character was appreciated. However, I have to admit that her way in portraying the role was a little weird at first then as the film went on everything was set smoothly.
The character is one of those independent females. Ju Yeongju lies and professional pretens made the character appealing and enjoyable most of the time plus it was really convincing.
*Other cast: most of them were acceptable exept Ju Yeongju friends, they were really annoying to watch. I speacially liked the grandmother, she was really funny because of the line that she always say.
*Relationships:
--->Romance: I wouldn't say there was a great chemistry here but it's all due to the storyline.
--->The leads relationship with the family and the village members: it was really cool to watch; it was sort of heartwarming and great to see how everyone treats each other.
Cast: 7/10
Acting: 8.5/10
4) The ending:
It was predictable yet cool.
Then ending: 7/10
5) My impression (How did it affect me):
*I was giggling with my friends almost most of the time, it was fun.
*There weren't a lot of boring moments plus it was entertaining.
*Is this film memorable : If I will keep any memory of it, that would be because of the funny moments that I had while watching this film.
My impression: 8.5/10
6) Overall:
*If you like romantic comedies then you may want to watch this.
*If you would like to laugh then this is for you.
*If you're looking for an entertaining film to pass time with then watch this.
Overall: 7.5/10.
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Definetly unique from the usual C-dramas
I realised Man with a career and Women with passion are super sexy .This drama is mostly about the business world out there, this revolved around companies and investments, how the market works and how is the market competition like. This is 60% business and 40% romance.
I Love watching dramas where leads are 2 grown up mature individuals who have their own career to focus on, this mixed with inspiration and growth is totally my cup of tea.
I saw many dramas where leads go through diffult times and BOOM , without focusing much on their struggle and growth they achieve success, i am telling you this series explained the struggle and cruelty of enterprenuership in much detail without compromising on the romance .
Oh gosh the leads chemistry was LITTTTT!!! . I absolutely loved how they wrote their characters. Xu Si this man is a perfect portrayal of an investor and loved watching him though i was kinda annoyed by his choices and overpowering behavior.
Now lets talk about our inspiring and bold female lead Jiang Hu, she is a character that we can look up to. Tough initially we saw how broken and dejected she felt, she picked herself up, banged on every possible door looking for opportunity and did her best to stand on her own feet again and proved that no matter where talent goes it will standout.
Loved the leads together, though i was kinda annoyed by Xusi in the ending few episodes and the situations around JianHu , there was no single episode that disappointed me . Oversall this is satisfying and worth a watch
Things i dint like -
--> The abrupt and unnecessary cuts
-->ZhaoYang and YangJian's relationship, i have my own prejudice against them and no possible reasoning can convince me to change my opinion on them
Points worth mentioning -
--> How they designed Gao Yi's character and his story , was satisfying
--> If you are here for Zhe Ming especially someone like me who watched him as ML and liked his dramas , dont expect much screentime here as mentioned in casting list he has a support role
--> The osts are worth listening to, just concentrate on the lyrics they are just lovely and inspiring.
It is definetly not the place/ company you are in that matters, its your attitude and confidence that will make you shine. - BY ME😄
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First of all it was the longest drama i ever watched, despite this i never once skipped a scene i watched all of them. The story line was one of THE BEST historical dramas i ever seen, i loved every bit and never got bored. The way the story was told is like unlike any other, it takes you from the ending to the beginning. Actors suited their roles gratefully.
but but but but......
personally the last scene was so frustrating to watch i almost gave up. at the end it kinda dragged but, would i say 39 hours were worth wasted hmmmmmmm probably.
I would suggest people to watch this do not let the length of the epsiod e put you off
over and out :)
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a simple and playful JBL
It's easy to watch and enjoy this drama, the story is a bit forced, but the characters are cute and their messy romance draws you in.The story follows Mamiya, a sweet dilligent type who followed his childhood dreams to become a Beauty Consultant, his coworker Sahashi is the opposite type, known for relying on his pretty face to attract customers. Though Sahashi teases Mamiya for his hard work ethic, he finds himself drawn to Mamiya as the one person who actually acknowledges his efforts and skills. Not wanting to lose to Mamiyas long-term unrequited love, Sahashi wastes no time making bold moves, and the romance between them starts suddenly.
The characters have a decent charm to them that keeps you interested, to be honest theres little depth to the story or characters, but enough to keep you watching all the way through. The actors are cute and don't overact much, and production quality is good.
If you're bored and looking for a short binge with some cuteness to it, give it a try!
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Corporate espionage with a slice of life
Storm Eye is about a team of dedicated law enforcement officers tasked with investigating criminal activities relating to the potential theft of technological research undertaken by a leading tech company in Shuangqing City. This team, operating under the purview of the Ministry of State Security (MSS), is a collaboration between the provincial government and the National Security Bureau of Shuangqing City. The investigation is primarily focused on the sophisticated web of economic crime orchestrated by a secret criminal organisation with a connection to past transgressions and its current intention to steal proprietary technology from Dinghua Group.This drama is a combo package with multiple genres incorporated into its premise. In addition to the overarching plot on criminal investigations, it contains side stories and character arcs revolving around slice-of-life aspects of family, romance, and office politics. The seriousness, thrills and suspense are balanced by the emotional scenes, introspective moments and some light-hearted ones too.
This 2019-produced drama features decent production values and a script that’s well above average. There are no discernible plot holes, clichéd plot devices or sudden inexplicable shifts in characterization conveniently added for dramatic effects. The story unfolds at what I would call “engagingly casual and unrushed” pace with a gradual development of the main characters, their backstories and relationship dynamics, where the depth of the plot and the portrayals of the characters are conveyed realistically and convincingly.
Some viewers may feel that the story progression is overly slow-burn and lacking in urgency, but I believe this is attributed to the build up of what would later be revealed as the convoluted grand scheme of the criminal operation. I personally think on the whole the key elements of the plot are relayed evenly over the course of 40 episodes, where the simmering tension throughout finally comes to a gripping climax amidst certain surprising turns of events.
To clear any misperception, it’s important to understand that despite the description offered by the synopsis and tags, this show is not about secret agents and evil villains frantically facing off with guns blazing. There are no outrageous stunts involving high-tech gadgets, parachuting off planes or slick martial arts moves. This isn’t the usual police procedural of cops going after robbers or murderers either. The action scenes are rather limited, it must be said.
This is a smartly depicted drama featuring corporate espionage with emphasis on intelligence gathering, surveillance procedures and undercover infiltrations. It’s worth mentioning the usage of the Sky-Eye system by the MSS involving satellite tracking technology as well as the urban network of CCTVs to apply visual and trait recognition as well as GPS monitoring for tracking potential suspects to aid in their investigations.
The protagonists are intelligent and resourceful while the antagonists are satisfyingly clever and ruthless adversaries with their own counter-intelligence capabilities and complex schemes. Both sides engage in a delicate game of cat and mouse involving much subterfuge and elaborate machinations culminating in an even contest where the battles are won as equally as they are lost in this drawn out war of attrition. The sensible and mature depiction of characters as being very human rather than the typical stereotype caricatures enables us to comprehend their motivations, actions, emotions and insecurities. The narrative is not just about the good guys versus the bad guys or simplifying everything to be either black or white but it is instead represented with a healthy dose of realism where individuals are morally layered with shades of grey and the concept of right or wrong is never perfectly defined.
The characters are very well conceived and realistically written, and comprises several interesting character and relationship dynamics. There are no illogical or exasperating characters while the interactions between the various characters are very organic and there is no dramatic angst anywhere near this show. These characters are brought to life by fine acting of the entire cast, notably a reunion of certain Eternal Love cast members. Another plus point is the fact that the main cast dubbed themselves for this drama. Zhang Bin Bin and Yang Mi lead the cast by portraying the MSS agents assigned to the case. Zhang Bin Bin’s Ma Shang is bright, cheerful and affable. He’s competent at what he does and is able to transition seamlessly into his role of an undercover agent. Yang Mi’s An Jing, on the other hand, is much more down to earth as the team leader of the Shuangqing City Bureau. Together they form a great partnership in work and in rekindling their past romance.
Two people that truly surprised me are Daisy Dai and Lawrence Wang Xiao. Daisy’s characterization of Miao Fei and Lawrence’s Cheng Lei are praiseworthy indeed and both of them demonstrated their impressive range through the development of their characters. The rest of the cast are equally compelling to watch. Wang Dong’s nuanced portrayal of Qiao Xi Chuan and Ning Xin’s Zhou Lian are intriguingly layered characters that I appreciated. Liu Rui Lin’s stoic and stone faced Du Meng takes a while to warm up to while Zhao Wei Lin played the single tropey but rather entertaining character in the show, in the role of the international hitman Bian Fu. I have to mention the veteran cast of actors who played the parents of the leads. Their experience shows and they are superb during the family-oriented slice of life moments which are genuinely heartfelt and convincing. I truly enjoyed all their scenes together and they even had some really amusing story arcs.
The show is far from perfect, however, and I do have major qualms concerning certain aspects. I feel that the inclusion of a tragedy involving a supporting character toward the end is quite unnecessary, and how it transpires is poorly executed. This relates to the choreography of the limited action sequences which, frankly speaking, is mediocre. Questions have to be raised as well on the authenticity of the procedure for making arrests.
The English-speaking segments, in particular the dubbing in general, isn’t great. The accent is quite laughable for the main villain who is the mastermind behind the entire scheme. The dubbing synchronisation for Wang Dong is quite poor but at least the spoken English is better. Zhao Wei Lin is part American so he sounds the most convincing while Lawrence and Daisy dubbed their own dialogues. The inconsistency in the dubbing, unfortunately, is quite obvious and is the one aspect that needs to be improved for future productions of C-dramas.
On the other hand, I’m quite pleased with the musical aspect for this show. The opening theme used for the title sequence is dramatic and martial-themed which fits with the premise of the story. Likewise the four tracks in total that are used with rather appropriately written lyrics. Track listing as follows:
Black Tea 平凡的样子 (电视剧《暴风眼》片尾曲) by Sun Xionglou 韩磊
Ellipsis" 省略号 by Jian Hongyi 简弘亦
Brave Enough 足够勇敢 by Tan Wei Wei 谭维维
It's All OK 都可以 没关系 by Jin Wen Qi 金玟岐
Despite encountering the few blips, I have thoroughly enjoyed Storm Eye particularly for the mature themes depicted and the engaging pace. I believe where the show excels is in the realistic portrayals of its characters and the direction of the story. If you’re looking for a drama with a sense of realism, compelling dynamics and evocative moments with an infusion of some suspense and tension, then consider giving this show a try.
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Now I found the reason why this drama conquered a very high rating in Korea, 50 episodes I bet it’s worth watching till the end. I never found any dull moments from the start until the end. The screenwriter knows how to produce a good drama. When time goes around here there, everyone has their character and a reason to be there. In the end, we couldn’t find anyone to blame because they’re fated to be there and everything happens for a reason.
If we try to understand it, not try to pull it too much, and never try to push it too far, we are actually been here because we are destined to be this way. Massive conflicts in this drama teach us that we are today as we are and no one to blame and no need to regret it. Just accept it with an open heart and move forward.
Ujae’s determination finally changed, he learns to be a person who can give and take when he needs to. Seo young once fights for her pride even from her husband, in the end, the only thing that she wanted to and can comfort her is to be truly herself. My favorite characters are Ujae’s parents, even if you find them harsh and self-centered but actually, they’re warm-hearted and forgiving parents and believe in things with just simple common sense.
Seo Young’s aboujie, his kind of heart always leads to misunderstanding, and Seo Young always misjudges him. After reconciling, I bet your heart once at ease because everybody understands each other’s feelings.
Music the most Melody Day – Like Back Then, there are no words that can express how much I love this song. So beautiful.
For the viewers below 15’y.o, I prefer parents to guide them because this drama carries heavy messages and deep meaning, which sometimes could lead to misunderstanding.
Finally, Seongjae, or CNBLUE’s bassist Lee Jungshin, for his first drama ever, I rate him 9/10. He is so talented and doing very good job in acting.
I recommended this drama to ALL. I promise it is worth your precious time
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Most ambitious crossover since Avengers Infinity War
Initial thoughts: THERE BETTER BE A SECOND SEASON. You hear me Domundi? THERE BETTER BE A SECOND SEASON!!!I just asdfkajsoaoakajdoalalsnsoamans. sjkmlajdian 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯 And then he just 💣💣 and then I went 🤯🤯🤯 and then they were like 💥💥💥💥 and it was like 🤫🤫🤫 but some folks just had to 🗣️🗣️🗣️🗣️ ooh I was PISSED. But that 💉💉💉💉 I 👏🏽can 👏🏽barely 👏🏽process.
Full (and more coherent) review to come.
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This review may contain spoilers
Wedding Impossible — When Love Is Trapped Inside a Lie
Wedding Impossible is a drama that only reveals its true emotional weight when watched in one sitting. Seen weekly, the characters can feel inconsistent or frustrating. Seen as a whole, their contradictions begin to make sense. This is not a perfect drama, but it is far more honest than many people give it credit for. Beneath the rom-com structure lies a story about fear, legacy, and the damage created when survival depends on deception.A Marriage Built on Fear
At the center of the story is Lee Do-han, a chaebol heir living in fear of his grandfather. After his former boyfriend is violently attacked, Do-han flees to the U.S. But he is pulled back by family duty: his grandfather wants him to take over the company and, more importantly, to get married. What makes this storyline truly disturbing is the implication that the grandfather already knows the truth. He fears the “scandal” and, as later revealed, is even responsible for the attack that forced Do-han into exile. His love is conditional, shaped by legacy rather than compassion. To protect himself, Do-han chooses a fake marriage with his best friend, Na Ah-jung. At first, she refuses, believing honesty is the only moral path. But reality is rarely that simple. Economic need, emotional pressure, and loyalty push her to accept. This is not romance. This is survival.
The Brother Who Loved Too Much
Lee Ji-han, Do-han’s younger brother, is the emotional anchor of the series. He has lived in his brother’s shadow, rejected by his grandfather, blamed for his sister’s death, and treated as disposable. Yet he remains fiercely loyal. When he meets Na Ah-jung, he falls for her without knowing who she is. Once he learns she is to become Do-han’s wife, he sees her as a threat and tries to sabotage the wedding, believing it to be a lie—without knowing how deep that lie truly goes. When the truth is finally revealed, Ji-han’s anger is often misunderstood as homophobia. But the drama makes something much more painful clear: his rage is about betrayal, not sexuality. He is hurt because his brother never trusted him. Because everyone knew except him. Because love built on silence still wounds those closest to you.
As he says, in essence: “You can hide from the world. But you cannot hide from the people who love you without hurting them.”
This is where the series becomes emotionally real.
A Reflection of Reality
This drama speaks to a truth many people recognize: living in the closet is not just about protecting yourself—it is also about the invisible damage left behind. Women married to men who cannot love them. Families kept at a distance. Brothers who lose the chance to truly know each other. In chaebol culture, where reputation equals power, the stakes are even higher. A scandal can erase a legacy. And fear becomes a prison.
Why the Drama Divides Viewers
Online reactions often criticize Wedding Impossible for being messy, slow, or emotionally inconsistent. But much of that comes from watching it weekly. The story is built on long emotional arcs that only make sense when seen continuously. It is not a drama you return to often. But it is not the failure some claim it to be. It is a quiet tragedy hiding inside a rom-com costume.
Final Thought
Wedding Impossible is not about who ends up together. It is about the cost of living as someone you are not. And that cost is never invisible.
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The Queen slayed it .....
Tbh, I went into this drama without any expectations and I felt so satisfied after watching the entire show. I am hesitant to watch modern dramas with more than 24 episodes, because I have seen too much draggy plot where ML and FL fell in love, broke up and then reconcile again. But We are All Alone is an exception, though having 36 episodes, I never felt bored watching this.Things that I like in this drama;
1.Realistic Truth of Drama Industry
I have wanted to watch a show about drama industry long ago, but never found one. This show portrays FL as an agent, encountering ups and downs in her career. Those ups and downs are not unpredictable but very realistic, they show about realistic truth of making and producing dramas, the ugly side of rumors and fandoms.
The story itself is not very special, but it was executed very beautifully.
2. Strong Female Lead
I would not want to see a dumb and unreasonable female lead in this kind of drama. Fortunately, our FL is so strong, and solves things out with her own capabilities. Qin Lan is perfect in this role, she can act very well and I would say the casting choice is very well done.
3. Production value and Acting
I don’t like those Chinese modern dramas with dubbed voice, where the voice is off. But this show uses their own voice, and it was recorded on-set.This makes me love this drama more.
I would say this is the best Godfrey Gao’s best drama I have watched and sadly, who would have thought that it would be his last drama?
Besides ML and FL, all the supporting casts did a very good job as well.
What I don’t like in this drama:
1.Overly Dramatic Lin Xiang
Lin Xiang character played a very important role. She causes all kinds of troubles for our FL, and this is her character, I understand. But sometimes, I feel like she is portrayed as an overly useless character. I think there won’t be an A-list actress as useless as her character portrayed.
2. Too much screentime for FL’s Dad
I would say, I enjoyed the storyline but her dad’s screentime is a little too much. But that’s understandable.
I’d recommend this drama if you would like to escape from lovey dovey stuff and see the life of a career woman. Kudos to the production team and director for making such a high quality drama.
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Story----It's the first korean gay movie and i was so so suprised how good it was...Of course there were some bad moments...But it was okay since this movie wasn't supported at all...The story is unique for me and possible-to-happend because in past ages those relationships happend often so i was happy that finally someone make the hystory come to life!
Actors-----The actors..hmmm chemistry was a bit stiff here because they knew what are they risking but it wasn't completely off so i had no problem while watching this!^_^
Music----No no no big no..There was boring music almost non of it so big dissapointment for me!
Rewatch value---I keep rewatching this very often since i love the theme of the movie and i love almost all yaoi made movies/shows.So when i'm in mood for live action yaoi i always watch this!
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One of the Best
First Review!First Thoughts! - It is really gripping! The story is well-told in a way it feels like you know more than they actually tell you. I constantly doubt myself, (is he the one? Why would she do that?). There are so many twists that I would never see coming even, it's constantly keeping you on your feet as if you blink you'll miss something important. I feel like I am trying to solve alongside the detectives, nothing is as it seems.
FINAL THOUGHTS - I HAVE just finished this drama and wow, I knew from the first episode it was going to be a crazy ride and I wasn't wrong, I found myself shocked right up to the last second I never really knew where the story was going to go the writers were definitely not predictable (except for one instance).
The emotions portrayed from the Leads were exceptional I truly felt everything they were going through. The thriller, crime, psychopath concept was really well done and very interesting. The story felt fresh and new I don't think I have watched anything quite like it.
I would 100% recommend watching it.
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Well written plot with well versed actors
Before going into the story if you want to know about watching it i recommend it strongly for ppl who love court dramas with unique way of winningWith out of box ideas not just fighting with "truth always prevails " plot
Actors played their part really well and namkoong min really is versatile i loved every part of his acting
Story will make u hooked in ep1 it started as a comedy and ep12 ended with a comedy note but because of particular 2 ep and actors chemistry you may find yourself you can't laugh like before becoz you know what that smile on ML meant for
Story has good comedy, little action, bromance,lots of thinking,and a heart wrenching pain for 3ep atleast
Music plays a major role in that particular 2ep and helps with the story
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Nice aesthetics and feelings, petty outcome for 2nd lead syndrom victims
"Every life is a work of art. And it becomes complete when all pieces come together."What started as a very heartfelt journey had a somewhat wishy-washy end - and no, I'm yes, I'm saying this because I was under the influence of the stressful second-lead syndrome. But not because he didn't get the girl - I swear!
Our Beloved Summer on a first look basis seems to have any troop to appease the typical k-drama viewer: haters-to-lovers, second lead syndrome (to some, at least), artistic shots, unjoyful and earnest quotes, and a very nice soundtrack to back it all (I'm a sucker for any Sam Kim OST, sue me!).
And it does! I fell in love immediately with it all, the way everything felt like it was worked to the detail, with both the heart and the mind. This series felt clever yet sincere. I found myself rooting for every character, even NJ who I didn't enjoy 75% of the time. They were complex, more than pretty cardboard on a screen.
However, OBS was a victim of what I like to call "The Episode 13 Curse" where, around the episode 13 (from 11-15 usually), it looses its essence. The main characters' plot was pretty much concluded, still the writers thought this kdrama clearly needed more emotional trauma and suffering (the overdone type), especially for Ji-Ung, which pissed me off. At least, from the little they developed his plot in the last episodes, they added a delicate streak to his journey. I'm still pissed, since it felt...wasted, tossed aside, so we could have 30 minutes of lovey-dovey scenes. They could've easily spared some time and level everything.
By all means, I didn't hate the main leads. They had cute chemistry, I'm just the type of viewer that enjoys the push-and-pull more than the icing on the cake, the chase more than the destination. Basically, I love to see two people getting closer, but not them being close, does it make sense? Well, still, they were adorable, and almost everyone in the series is impossible to hate. In the end, I felt like this is the type of drama that is meant not to be watched, but to be carefully appreciated. The ending was just bittersweet to me.
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