1
1Why seek therapy and help when you can just fall in love with your best friend!
The drama runs on the premise of the childhood friends x lovers trope. And when I see this trope, the first thing that comes to my mind is slow-burning romance where two people who grew up together with embarrassing memories and inside jokes, slowly come to the realisation that they are in love with each other all along. The yearning...the pinning.... the subtle hints...The holy grail of slow burn romance.But what I got was anything but that. Instead of character development, gradual tension and those push-and-pull monologues, what I got was fast-forward confessions with abrupt mood swings and no subtlety.
There was barely any tension or emotional build up. Just a series of "Oh, I guess I love you now" in a very reckless way.
Character Descriptions-
Han Tuo: In the BL world, we are familiar with a lead having a tragic past or a childhood trauma. A'Tuo was no different. This man didn't need a relationship, but a therapist. Despite having a backstory, none of it translates into actual depth. His internal conflicts existed but briefly and for name's sake. I wanted to sympathise with him, considering how emotionally distant his mother was and his abandonment issues by his mother, but somehow how it was portrayed and how he dealt with it as a character annoyed me.
His way out was to trauma dump Junxi with an invisible PowerPoint presentation with two slides - "I am sad" and "I love you". With his backstory came possessiveness on another level. If we remove the romance angle, it is controlling and manipulative. And let's not forget his communication skills, or lack thereof.
At best, he was an overgrown child desperately trying to prove that he is the centre of Jun Xi's universe and that being together is the ultimate solution to all his problems.
Lu Junxi: He was a third wheel in his own relationship and not in a cute way. He was always reactive to A'Tuo's mood swings and possessiveness, and somehow I wondered if he even liked him, or was it just the pressure and the anxiety that came with not having your childhood friend around that you mistake it for love. He makes all his decisions with the legendary stone, paper, scissors game and loses more often than you think.
Romance between them wasn't healthy, but if I remove the problematic lens, it was cute in fragments. It thrived on the notion that one partner constantly crosses boundaries because "that is how they show love", while the other passively accepts as if that's what love is supposed to be like.
There were many aww factors, especially when they were being absolutely sweet and domestic to each other. The way they bickered over the smallest things with silly arguments and small acts of care did entertain me, and I did enjoy their boyfriend era.
They had decent chemistry overall with some good kissing scenes, but honestly, the red flags were raised so high that there is no way to sugar coat them.
Lin Xiao Yang: She was such a breath of fresh air. She was understanding, supportive and out of the trio, the most sensible. I have many issues with how characters are written in the drama, but I am glad writers didn't turn her into the cliche female lead in a BL drama that we usually see, who only causes chaos and is irrationally protective. I wish they had explored her character more or in general, her friendship with the duo.
The other side character, He You Mei, was a hit and a miss for me. I liked her for her quirkiness, but sometimes her behaviour was abrupt. The emotional scene of hers came out of nowhere, and with much context.
I liked Junxi's parents for not being the stereotypical asian parent we see. Them being supportive and treating A'Tuo with so much love was heartwarming to see!
Acting-wise, I found both the leads passable. I mean, the emotional scenes could have been way better, but it wasn't unwatchable. The rest of the cast also did decently based on what the script had to offer, but nothing outstanding.
Writing & Production: I think writing was the weakest link here. The character arcs were painfully uneven. I kept expecting meaningful emotional growth both for the individuals and their relationship, but it rarely appeared. At times, we seemed on the brink of progress, only for the story to backtrack and reset us near square one. On top of that, there were far too many flashbacks to their teenage years, most of which didn’t add much to the present-day story. It felt unnecessarily redundant. Production seemed decent as well. The sets were clean, and the locations felt believable. (The college had students and everything).
Overall, this isn't a masterpiece by any stretch, but it's oddly entertaining in its own way. I reviewed it very critically but if I keep my brain aside, it has a weird charm to its flaws.
Will I recommend it? Maybe, but with a giant asterisk. If you are in the mood for some low-stakes entertainment but a clumsy attempt at romance and a hint of sweetness... then yes. Also, their height difference was really cute.
But if you are here for a deep, healthy relationship with a well-developed character arc, please look elsewhere.
Thank you for reading my review! I hope you have a good day! <3
Was this review helpful to you?
This is so annoying, and so sad.
Like everyone before me already pointed out, the lead actors did a brilliant job here. They are so natural together, it's a pleasure to watch them interact.
But even cute has its limit, at least for me. I didn't know of the writer switch until the last episode, but the difference was evident. What used to be a quirky, funny, sweet and sexy script suddenly turned into a sugary, childish, cutie cute one, with these two chirping to each other for the duration of six, never-ending episodes.
When mutual love has been loudly declared, the lie has come into the open, the antagonists are out of the games, what is left in terms of expectations? Who cares what they eat and when or how many times they hold hands?
Somehow, they used all their good cards at the beginning of the game, only to drag it with uninteresting little scenes till the end. By the third ice-cream I was ready to smear it on the face of the director.
Also, I was left wondering what happened to the majority of the characters? Were they sucked into some drama black hole, or sent en masse to Paris where they are happily eating escargots?
The music was somehow schizophrenic. At the beginning I though it was horrid, with those very childish pop songs used at every turn. Then it improved a lot, it became more varied and able to enhance the feelings. At times it was hilariously chosen. Then it changed again and became a simple background sound, which I forgot a few minutes after it was played.
Re-watch value is obviously low, unless something heavy hits me on the head and I think this drama's only got 11 episodes.
Was this review helpful to you?
extremely dissapointing
I am sorry but I am shook the ratings for this show are so high. The plot has very little substance and it seems unsure of what direction to take. MC was an elite student then suddenly becomes a violent guy who doesn't beat people with his smarts he just beats them by grabbing the nearest weapon. I thought he was going to do some Sherlock Holmes, brains over brawl kind of thing but nope. That can't even be considered character development, that's a 180 change in personality with no explanation. Had high hopes for this series based on reviews but was shockingly disappointed.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Let me start by saying that I LOVED the 1st season of Scarlet Heart. I had recently come around to watching period dramas and was recommended that I watch it. And boy was I not disappointed...I wish the same could be said of this second season. Let me begin with the obvious: season 2 is set in modern day, so the feel is completely different as are the problems all of the characters face. The beginning started somewhat strong for me. There were flashbacks to season 1 and a few of the characters' reincarnated selves in modern day was a nice touch. story: the plot was weak sauce. Nothing we drama fans haven't seen before: love triangle, poor girl catching the eye of the rich heirs and deciding who she truly loves. The revenge plots did keep me interested with just how far the characters will go for 'justice' and the truths behind long-kept family secrets. But the doppelganger storyline wasn't needed AT ALL. Plus, after the first few episodes, there isn't a whole lot of interaction between the main couple (Zhang Xiao &amp; Yin Zheng) until episode 15, and even then the build up felt too rushed. Maybe because I couldn't really get a sense of time passing, or how much time passed from one problem popping up to another being resolved.
cast: the actors did what they could with the script they were given. And after watching the whole drama I know why more actors from the first season didn't sign on for the 2nd. From episode 1 to the finale the main actress was ALWAYS crying or on the verge of tears. It got to the point that her tears meant nothing to me as a viewer because she cried SOOOO much.
music: It didn't move me, and it wasn't memorable. But it served its purposed to give dramatic flair when needed.
Rewatch: Dear God NO! Knowing how it all came together and ended, I'd rather just rewatch the first season and pretend that (potential SPOILER ALERT for season 1) Ruoxi chases after 4th Prince in the museum with a smile on her face and a sense of hope. Honestly, had the 1st season ended on that note I wouldn't have bothered with the 2nd.
Overall: I'm harsh on this BECAUSE the 1st season was so good. In comparison, season 2 is a 5, but as a standalone I'd give it a solid 7.5. So in fairness, the actual 7 i'm giving this is more than it deserves :-(
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
The most realistic love triangle you will ever come across
No matter what way you think the show is going to go, it will pull you in the opposite direction. That, my friends, is what I enjoy most.I'm going to start with the cast. Don't listen to anyone who says they appear robotic, it's garbage. If you take the time to realize what wars go through Daon's eyes or the way Shinwoo silently looks at TaeKyung with longing, you'll know what I'm talking about.
TaeKyung is made to be a bold, forward character who will always say what he is thinking. He used to be a loner before he decides it's time to make some friends. Once he makes those friends, his life spirals out of control. It's new for him but in the best way possible. I love Tae as a whole, I want him protected at all costs. There is so much I can say, like how well he deals with so many situations. He was written so perfectly.
Daon is a people pleaser which has come to be my biggest issue with him. Not only that, Daon seems to think he can decide when to pick TaeKyung up like he's some used toy. I adore Daon, but not for TaeKyung. Daon has far too much development to be done, that's that. Regardless, I do enjoy his character because I relate to his backstory the most. We all have pain we hide and we make mistakes we don't realize. Therefore, I will never hate Daon but only see that he is perfectly human.
Shiwoon is the best boy outside of the love triangle. There is never a moment where you will question if you love this character or not. He's the best wingman. The Best friend. The perfect addition to the show that we didn't realize was needed until we met him. Shiwoon has an obsession with phone games and a whirlwind attitude that is playful and joyous. No matter what scene he is in, you'll find yourself excited he's there.
Shinwoo is last because I probably have most to say on this character. At first, Daon was my favorite as Shinwoo was kind of a bystander. Then came episode 6 or maybe it was seven--Shinwoo was my favorite character and there was no changing my mind. The way they show you what goes on in Shinwoo's world, down to showing us the different sides this boy has. The growth they put on him was extraordinary and I've never seen anything like it. Shinwoo will always be the best boy in my heart, no matter how this show decides to end. I wished for more scenes with Shinwoo in the beginning but started understanding why they lacked by our current standing. I love the way they built Shinwoo. He's a bit unrealistic, but at the same time, boys like this had to be imagined from somewhere. I'm sure they exist, but so very rarely. This boy will forever hold a special place on my list of favorite characters. They wrote him so incredibly well, I'll never get over it.
Now, onto the story: I happen to think this show isn't exactly what I'd call cliche, more as it's really realistic. It shows not a single character among the boys to be an evil one. They all equally have their problems and they have reasons for the actions they portray. It puts you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. I committed the sin of watching this show before it was completed, but I don't regret it. It makes you think and the number of theories I have come up with is astronomical. I didn't think I could become so hyperfocused on something again, but here I am, wondering who TaeKyung is going to end up with. Though, as it seems, all signs are pointing to Shinwoo. They do have that one unlikeable character, but even so, she does add to the story. I still want her to be thrown in a dumpster behind her school, but I know that won't happen. They'll redeem here, but I wish they wouldn't.
The music is AMAZING. Stan A.C.E.
I hope if you are reading this, you decide to watch it. I didn't want to give away too much of the story or spoil it while writing this. I tried to leave as many spoilers out as I could.
Enjoy your journey when watching this show, I sure did.
You won't regret it.
You can find the episodes on WETV or Viki.
xoxo
Yoongles.
Was this review helpful to you?
Campy romcom has solid chemistry, with great FL and adorkable ML
For a low-budget romcom, this was pretty fun and entertaining. Gao Hanyu is adorkably hilarious playing the "cold CEO" who finds himself completely discomposed and thrown off kilter when his fake, contract actress girlfriend suddenly becomes a strong and fearless independent woman with uncanny knowledge about subject matters he is passionate about.I am not always a big fan of romcoms, but I found myself snort-laughing out loud in every episode, especially during the first half dozen or so. Right from the opening scene, the antics and set-ups in Exploration are slightly over-the-top in classic romcom fashion without veering into the slapstick genre, so for me, it totally works. And of course, there is no need to quibble over points of logic or think too hard or too seriously about any plot holes -- these will be a given in this genre and calibre of C-dramas. The story does take a more serious turn, and there are a couple of small misunderstandings, but I didn't mind those or the developments in the last two episodes that bothered other viewers -- they're all short-lived and the ending is still a happy one.
Gao Hanyu isn't the most expressive actor, but he has great comedic timing, and exudes charm and charisma, making him a consistently entertaining watch. He also has great chemistry with his co-stars, and Song Yanfei is no exception. Overall, they are supported by a very likable cast. Unfortunately, the weakest link is around the secondary couple -- the little sister becomes extremely annoying pursuing Gao Ling. Given some of the great, healthy messages elsewhere in the drama, I wished they had followed an unconventional route with that storyline. (Aside: For those discovering Ryan Cheng for the first time, I recommend checking out the short-length mini-drama A Familiar Stranger.)
The drama could have been tightened significantly to 16 episodes instead -- a similar length as Dine with Love, which is the better of the two dramas. The pacing and momentum slowed down towards the middle and never fully regained its original footing. Even so, despite its flaws I thought it was an entertaining and easy binge.
Was this review helpful to you?
i don't rely on reviews but, “this one deserves all the love it can get.” so i had to do one
HERE ME OUT. I NEED HUGS. THIS IS SO BEAUTIFUL.i’m so happy i decided to watch this. i don’t usually enjoy dramas that focus solely on female independence because many tend to portray it as mere reckless underdeveloped character. but this one? hands down, THE BEST. it made me laugh. it made me CRY buckets. but in the best way possible. every little thing was perfectly executed.
they managed to capture the quiet struggles of womanhood—how societal norms can feel like an invisible cage, limiting women despite their ambitions. the female lead defies expectations, not through reckless rebellion, but with grace, intelligence, and resilience.
and the ml? a WHOLE GREEN FOREST. not a trace of fragile masculinity. such a rare gem. never once threatened by the fl’s independence—he respects it, genuinely. “he knows exactly when to step in and when to hold back, making decisions with careful consideration. he’s gentle, not because he’s passive, but because he understands her deeply—reading her in a way that feels truly intimate. this trait itself isn’t rare, but what is rare is his unwavering consistency in staying true to his values. and with this, he unintentionally creates a warmth of comfort—a place you’d seek refuge in. you feel safe, not just because of words, but because his actions stand as proof.
this is not just a story, but a mirror to reality. i feel for those who have read the novel because the writing is just as IMPACTFUL. i’ve saved so many screenshots of lines that tugged at my heartstrings.
PLEASE WATCH THIS. it’s a must. you’ll come to understand the different struggles of being a woman in a world orchestrated by men. maybe i resonated with it so deeply because i’ve watched my own mother suffer—belittled by relatives, by my father, by friends, all to protect their own pride at her expense.
this drama gets it.
Was this review helpful to you?
Douglas Adams rotates in his grave....
The answer of this "BL" is not 42. For me it's a very generous 3 :)First, the over-acting and the "cat" actors are neither cute nor good. It's just hardcore cringe. How someone can give this a 10 is beyond me... It has no substance, no develeopment AND most importantly there is no real romance involved. It's a Bromance and the real thing the main character loves is the food. The production itself is ok, but it's very low budget even for Thai standards. The best of this series are the BTS in the credits.
If I had not a migraine yesterday it can get you one... Overall, if you like BLs avoid it, it's not worth your time.
Was this review helpful to you?
Was this review helpful to you?
A Story That is Better Than Most
This is the kind of BL series I want.No toxicity, no 3rd party, no fake friends, no complicated story line, just pure love with each character., and the conflict between them. To me, the whole story revolves around one simple line - "Have A Safe Flight." Misunderstandings and two persons, one who lacks trust and one who cannot express his feelings.
The cast is excellent, the two main characters both very good looking, have the ability to convey their feelings through their expressions. I binge watched and was never bored, never felt the need to fast forward through any scenes.
If I have any complaints; lack of realistic kiss scenes. Honestly, when I watch a bl series fake kisses are a bit of a turn-off. My rating would have been a 10 if the kiss scenes were more realistic. Still, the series is one I will watch again someday.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Gel nails, Airdrops, Blackpink and Teenage Angst
While these boys and their crushes and rejections had them peeing themselves on zoom calls, mine had me saving someone son’s name as ‘Psalms 45:2’ on my phone. Also, these boys had me out here frustrated and stressed. Cuz: Fou4Mod is in love with Chian, who is in love with Bua, who is in love with Baabin, who is in love with Fou4Mod, who is in love with Chian. It was a love circle and it gave me a headache. Let me explain.The CRUSH CIRCLE OF GELBOYS.
Chian—>Bua—>Baabin—>Fou4Mod—>Chian
See, a love square. Everyone had a crush on someone who didn’t like them back. Children please put that phone down and see the life happening in front of you. But of course, that would have been too easy, and there wouldn't have been any drama. No, but really, this whole show was a giant headache of stress and idiots in love. I was stressing for someone to shut up and be with someone, so we'd have some peace. Then of course, all the nonsense ended with Chian—>Fou4Mod & Baabin—>Bua. People, I could have told you this family tree weeks ago. All that teenage angst and for what?
These boys, oh these gelboys. Was having a crush ever that serious? YES, yes it was, and I'm sure we all understand why. Most of us have been there: Crying your eyes out at 2am to a sad song while going through their socials, stalking them in person and online, the panic when you see them and you aren't prepared, the stress of what to wear on days you know you’d see them, the delulu scenarios you make in your head to love songs, then the absolute pain and heartbreak when your crush announce their dating Janet from Class B. Like, what does Janet have? Sure she looks good in lipgloss and her hair always does that thing, but… whhhhhy Psalms 45:2 why you didn’t love me back when in my head we married to a Taylor Swift song???
Anyway, what I'm trying to say is that, although all these 4 characters should pay your decision is dumb taxes, having been in their shoes and understanding the angst that is being a teenager, I don't blame them. I'm actually surprised they figured it out in the end and everyone went where they were supposed to be, and those who needed to apologise did, and those who needed closure got theirs too. Me, I'm still stalking Psalms 45:2 on instagram. Janet's hair still does the thing... love that for her, but also not.
Fou4Mod
This boy broke his own heart over and over again. He knew he was being kept on the hook, knew Chian was in love with Bua, but still he went ‘ah, it’s fine let’s be whatever’ and then made a whole delulu relationship out of it, thinking it would turn real. And the whole time, my arse was like: 'This aint disney honey, that frog aint gonna turn into a prince'. Then of course he decided to hurt two innocent people for his own selfish reasons, poor Baabin and Faifa did not deserve what he did to them. Did I feel sorry for him, yes, cuz we all do stupid things when our heart is involved, but really, most of the problems he had were caused by himself, so at the end of the day he deserved some of the hurt. I'm glad he wised up in the end, put himself first until he was ready to give Chian a fair chance.
Chian
Yes, at some point everyone hated him for how he treated Fou4Mod but he was honest about where his heart was, sure he led Fou4Mod on, but he was also being kept on the hook and looking for a way to heal his broken heart, so really can we fault him for everything that went wrong? He did learn in the end, when he lost Fou4Mod and saw that he’d been stupid. It was good on him that he kept fighting and waiting after knowing his true feelings. I also felt bad for him at some point, and after he came around, was okay he ended up with Fou4Mod. Frankly would have been fine either way.
Baabin
Poor boy had me wiping pixelated tears from my screen during that episode when he got his heart completely shattered. No, baby was so sad. That scene broke me, made me form a protect Baabin squad, only to immediately regret it when he started putting Bua on the hook as well. Like, that was not on the bingo card child, reset. The whole time I was like: 'boy if you don’t stop your nonsense and love Bua back this instant, dafug you mean all that meant nothing?' No, but our kind-hearted baby immediately denounced Bua when Fou4Mod started his ugly crying, dude??? But I can’t fault him, the heart wants what it wants, so…
Super glad he later explained his reason, that yes he liked Bua back, of course he did, but he kept denying his feelings cuz Fou4Mod didn't like Bua and he didn't want to hurt his friend's feeling. Glad Fou4Mod came around on Bua, and was happy for Baabin, it's what those two deserves. If they hadn't end up together, I'd have been a bit sad.
Bua
I never blamed this dude for not liking Chian back. And after learning about his family situation I understood him more. He’s deprived of attention at home, and Chian gave him some, so of course he didn’t want to lose that. I don’t know about you, but you can get jealous when your friends get new friends and you start feeling like you are losing them. Yes, he was wrong for keeping him on the hook, but I felt so sad for this boy the last two episodes like... no honey, if he don't like foreigners with blue eyes and brown hair, it's alright, I don't like his stupidity either. In the end, I was glad he said his peace, and Baabin came to his senses, cuz if I had to see these 4 characters cried more ugly tears I'd have rioted.
Listen, the overall matter is that, all these 4 characters were wrong and right at one point, none of them were saints or completely green. But given that they were teenagers dealing with first loves and whatnot, I don't fault them for being dumb and downright mean in some cases. Now they’ve experience it, and they are more wiser for it. I hope.
I knew the very moment I finished episode 1 that this drama was going to be a favourite of mine. Everything from how it was filmed and directed, the documentary feel of it, to the cast, to the music, to the script made me enjoy it a lot. Sure it was very relatable and made me remember some stupid mistakes I made not so long ago, but I enjoyed it for that reason too. The way this was filmed put us right there in the moment with the characters, it felt so raw, and I liked that a lot. Look at that, Thai bls finally giving us something new to gosh over after a long time. Kudos director-nim.
Anywho, great show, the best out of Thailand this year so far. Looking forward to seeing more work from the 4 leads in the future. I recommend this to all bl lovers, and those who loved the director's previous work, it's worth a watch. Be warn though, it's teenage stupidity and angst in full force.
For anyone wondering...Psalms 45v2...: 'You are the most handsome of the sons of men; grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever.'
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
This drama is like 30% romcom, 20% melo & 50% outlandish school life plot. I liked the cheesy romcom, I accepted the melo, but I absolutely hated the school life part. I consider myself very tolerant, when it comes to kdrama logic, or fiction in general, but this was just really really bad. Starting with the 27 years old guy goes back to school to get revenge, then moving onto the "let's save the school" plot & all the other various events that happen at school, it's just a plain terrible script, or at least it is bad from an adult viewer's perspective. Maybe the target audience is 14-16 years old kids, for them this drama might have been a lot more fun, I don't know. I didn't buy Seho's character development either, it's not believable to me. Some positive points to note are like the chemistry between the main leads, or that the writers didn't make the triangle too annoying, the OST is quite okay, also Boa is like the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. (I have no problem with the slice of life in a school setting genre in general, this drama specifically is just below average)
Was this review helpful to you?
Steamy Fun, Zero Plot, All Chemistry!
Wow 😳 First time I’ve seen a BL series with intense NC in every episode. Honestly, the creativity every week had me eagerly waiting for the next drop! 🔥 Who doesn’t love a little heat mixed with their drama? 😏What plot? 😂 After 12 weeks, we still don’t even know what the characters actually do at the office. Are they working, or are they just... distracted by their growing feelings? 😂 Just a bunch of horny workers navigating their emotions, and honestly, I’m here for it. Sometimes you don’t need a deep plot to enjoy something—this series is so silly in the best way. I laughed and cringed at the same time, loving every moment. 🙌
The dynamic between Jun (the mischievous intern) and Sorn (the serious, no-nonsense guy) is pure chaos in the best way. Jun’s pranks? Iconic. Sorn’s reactions? Hilarious. The slow-burn tension between them? Unbeatable. 💖
Episode 1 - The outdoor handjob scene in the first episode? So intense and full of chemistry—it was a perfect start to a wild ride. 😳🔥
Episode 2 - first ten minutes blew everything out of the water — the heat was absolutely palpable. Jun sliding onto Sorn’s lap, the teasing lip kiss, the slow-burning music, and the pink and purple haze created a scene dripping with seduction. It delivered one of the most electrifying and provocative kisses I’ve seen in a long time. Jun’s innocent belief that Sorn was merely “teaching” him how to kiss made the moment even more sinful, especially with Sorn savoring every second with unmistakable hunger. The first ten minutes of Episode 2 didn’t just maintain the tension — it turned it into a smoldering fire. The plot might be wild and utterly ridiculous, but honestly, I’m completely addicted.
Episode 6 - After watching Episode 6, one thing’s clear: Jun is not innocent. At all. 😈
First, the couch scene — he could’ve sat anywhere, yet he deliberately chose to sit right in front of Sorn, between his legs. The tension? Palpable. That wasn’t just casual — that was silent seduction. 🛋👀
Second, the infamous banana car scene 🍌🚗 —
These were his actual lines:
Jun:
“Want my banana?”
“It’s a big one though.” 😏
“Perfect in my hand.”
“Big, juicy bite.” 👅
Then, without missing a beat, he peels the banana slowly… locks eyes with Sorn… and takes a long, deliberate bite. 🔥
Sorn:
“Can’t you eat like a normal person?” 😵💫
Let’s be honest — Jun knows exactly what he’s doing.
He’s not innocent — he’s dangerously seductive, and he’s loving every second of it.
Will it win awards for intricate storytelling? Probably not. But did it give me 12 weeks of pure entertainment and laughs? Absolutely! And I will always come back here to re watch all the NC scenes.
Was this review helpful to you?
Barbenheimer Couple✨
Is he just a Ken? NO, he's the Barbie and she's just a Ken 🤣✋🏼 Mobster? WHO? Man goes on mute mode whenever he's with the FL. Peak girlboss energy.Here's the story: Seo Ji Hwan is the CEO of a company named "Thirsty Deer," run by ex-convicts. Eun Ha, on the other hand, is a YouTube content creator for kids. Their paths cross, leading to a series of misunderstandings and embarrassing moments🤣
Seo Ji Hwan is such a simp, and I love him for it! 🤣 He's always protecting everyone in his company like they're family, and those wholesome moments with his brother? Pure gold✨
Eun Ha is naive but not a plain old damsel in distress. I love her caring and loving personality, and she still has that strong, fierce side💪
Their love story is so cute and cringey and well put out down honestly. It's slow, they are hesitant, awkward yet so respectful, communicate so softly with each other and it is so natural that no one is chasing anyone they both develop their feelings gradually grow over time.
But the second lead? Ugh, soooo annoying! I skipped through most of his scenes. Man wants to be FL's daddy but acts like her father. 🤡 Why does he make choices for her and decide what's right or wrong for a grown-up adult? It's beyond me 🙏🏻
✅ The chemistry between the leads and their relationship had just the right amount of angst to keep me hooked!
✅ Loved the brother-in-law and Eun Ha's bonding moments!
✅ All the events they put together were super cutesy and fun, like a feel-good montage!
✅ The ML's in action scenes?! dang, i wish we had more scenes, such a versatile actor!
✅ The conversations were well-written and felt so natural.
✅ Personally I liked the SL couple! Their mature romance was like a breath of fresh air, so intriguing!
❌ The prosecutor? Totally unnecessary. Plus, why does he act like he's part of the police force? 😂
❌ The whole gangster subplot was a snoozefest. I couldn't care less and definitely couldn't take them seriously! 🤣
Overall, it has its fair share of clichés and melodrama, but with that nostalgic old romance vibe. It’s a feel-good, heartwarming rom-com that I’d definitely recommend! Hehehe!
Was this review helpful to you?
Our life experience in this world condensed into a beautiful cinematic exhibition
This is my first review for MDL, so please be kind with me 😊I stumbled upon this movie by chance, but I am very grateful to know that this "type" of movie exists. I know this is based on the video game "The Exit 8" but it is unlike any other movies based on games. This has lots of esoteric symbolism. Everything in this movie has a meaning. I mean, everything! Hidden in plain sight.
Cinematography and directing are tight and very interesting, to the point that we as the audience can feel that we are involved in finding the "anomalies" and making decisions (I found myself shouting "move ahead!", or "no! go back!") basically becoming part of the movie. We just don't watch passively. I'm not familiar with Genki Kawamura's other works (the director of this movie), but will be sure to check out more from him. Top-notch screenwriting as well.
The entire cast' acting is amazing, especially the main lead, Kazunari Ninomiya. It's one of his best performances. A cameo appearance by Nana Komatsu is also a welcome addition and perfect for the role (because she's now a mother, right?).
Now, what makes this movie perfect is not the production, but the hidden meaning behind all the esoteric symbolism, because it can help us in finding the realization. It is up to us to find the subtle clues by paying attention to the details of our surroundings, and then make meaningful connections (This poster represents one thing, that "walking man" represents another, the boy represents that, and so on and so forth).
Once we are able to make a connection about that whole experience of being "stuck in the loop" actually represents our life in this world, this movie can help us to exit this matrix. All we need to do is to keep moving and pay attention to our surroundings (see the signs, anomalies, glitches in the matrix, etc.), not get distracted by things this world offers — like things that are not essential or needed for our escape, also to persevere and be patient on our journey, and to not repeating the same pattern of mistakes again that can make us to regret. Those are the values brought up in the movie.
Simply said, this is ultimately the best movie in years. Of course, only "those who get it will get it, and those who don't won't", but even if you don't seem to get it, just pay attention and be patient in watching the movie (patience is required, as in living a life in this world) — then try to make a connection to your life. Your life may not be the same again.
Good luck in finding the exit!!
10/10
Was this review helpful to you?
