It's a Journey that will stick with me for a long time.
What an experience The Journey to Love drama was. I don't think I have ever cared so much for so many characters in a drama before like this one. Usually 4 characters at the most lol. The casting is superb. Each character was so perfectly casted and each played the role to their fullest.What a beautiful drama about love, friendship, loyalty, revenge and power. Their acting of joy, grief, obsession, love, self-confidence, insecurity, you name it, was so so so well done. It was palpable. The music was outstanding and highlighted their good and bad moments. Perfect for the emotional toll I went through watching each scene.
Another strong point about this drama is the character development which I believe added to my caring so deeply for each of these characters. Characters I didn't like, developed into characters that I hoped would stay safe in battle. Highly recommended.
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An overall fun series with a great cast that stands out for their strong chemistry
When this series was announced as a coming-of-age story, I was very excited about it because it’s been years since the last time I watched one of those and I thought it would be very refreshing. Despite some flaws, the series is overall very fun, true to its genre, and delivers what was promised, a youth story about hot-blooded police students. It also exceeded my expectations as a rom-com.THE GOOD
# A cast with great chemistry and characters with diverse personalities:
‘Rookie Cops’ isn’t completely focused on Seunghyun (Kang Daniel) and Eunkang (Chae Soobin). Although there are specific moments where Eunkang is the bigger protagonist, both characters are constantly surrounded by their friends, who also have their own stories and moments, but when together they have a lot of funny and cute interactions. This makes the series mostly light and bubbly. The chemistry between the 8 young actors is the biggest factor that made me enjoy this series overall. In particular, actor Park Sung Joon as Daeil, shines through and is the glue of the squad.
# The kisses are swoonworthy:
Some of the best kisses I have seen on a series/drama in general. Kang Daniel was a very pleasant surprise for a first time idol-actor. If there is something nobody can question is that he is clearly a good kisser, and Chae Soobin also delivered although nobody was doubting her. Second couple also blessed us with some hot kisses.
# Fast-paced:
For some people the fast-paced plot might feel like there are parts of the story missing, but I think in general most people would prefer a story that doesn’t drag. In this case, ‘Rookie Cops’ has a main conflict that slowly builds from the beginning of the series through flashbacks, but side conflicts/cases are generally solved within two episodes.
# Cinematography and props:
I have to mention the beautiful cinematography and post-production coloring this series has. It’s truly a stand-out, with great locations and the right angles that enhance especially the outdoor scenes, such as when Seunghyun and Eunkang are sitting by the river after a bike ride. There was also so much attention to detail when it comes to the props, in particular episode 11 features a comic version of ‘Rookie Cops’ which was specially made as a prop for the series since this is an original story.
THE BAD
# Script with several flaws:
While I think Lee Ha Na (screenwriter) did an excellent job portraying the growing bond between the main cast and the heart-fluttering romance. And the first half of the drama is mostly fun and light, her attempts to include more dark themes to make the story more meaningful and give it more depth, mostly fall short and shallow. With two-episode conflicts involving victims of bullies or gangs, in all of them I was left with the feeling that something was handled wrong or something was missing. The coincidences in this series are also so many that you would think Korea is the size of a peanut. They are beyond the typical “destiny” moments to the point of absurdity.
I did say the story is not completely focused on the main leads. However, there are times when a big chunk of certain episodes focus heavily on Eunkang, and time is wasted on showing us her parents just bickering. This wouldn't be so much of a problem if equal time was spent on developing the male lead’s story as well, or if Eunkang was a more likable female lead. However, from the beginning Eunkang shows she is the impulsive and reckless type who decides her future career following her teenage crush. She starts to (slightly) grow once she gets closer to Seunghyun as he shares some of his wisdom and calmness with her, and not only supports her but also saves her every time. Sadly, our man Seunghyun ends up being pushed to the sidelines a lot just to elevate Eunkang. Although the main conflict involves his father and him in a way, we don’t get to see enough interactions between them to better understand Seunghyun's admiration for is father, or anything about his childhood or teenage years unlike with other characters.
All that said, I think Chae Soobin herself and her chemistry with Kang Daniel are strong enough that one can ignore a lot of questionable moments her character has and enjoy the series overall and even rewatch it, at least for all the fluffy and light moments.
My biggest problem with the script however, is related to a major event that happens towards the end, which left me with a strong bittersweet feeling. I thought it was completely unnecessary, random and brought nothing to the actual progress of the story nor the final development. This is the main reason why I can’t give this series a higher score.
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Lastly, I wanted to give my own opinion about Kang Daniel’s acting which was commented on a lot. If you go into this series expecting a dramatic performance for the Oscars, you are going to be disappointed. This is not that type of show to begin with. Kang Daniel is quite green in the first three episodes, especially during scenes that require more emotional intensity. But as the series progresses he shows much potential and delivers great chemistry with partner Chae Soobin. His character Wi Seunghyun is not one to show excessive emotions as he is the composed, responsible and righteous type. Kang Daniel is faithful to that portrayal until the end. His cute, playful or more rebellious moments happen when he is around Eunkang or Tak (Lee Shin Young). And his most vulnerable side is only shown at the very end when faced with his father. I thought Kang Daniel did well showing the sadness and disappointment Seunghyun feels but that he tries to repress. I also have to praise how he challenged himself with many physically demanding action scenes, despite this being his first acting project.
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An interesting dive into adult entertainment in Japan
At first I was critical but I wanted to watch it because Itsuki is in it. After the first episode I was hooked because of the lead character. This drama gives a very complex insight into not only the adult entertainment in Japan and how women fall into it, but also an overall oversight of society's expectations of women along with rather complex takes on different emotions. Each woman is flawed in their own way in this show, at first you might not like them at all but as it goes on you are shown more and more why they act as they do. I don't love all the characters but I somewhat came to understand them.To my understanding the acting is really great, everyone seems authentic and they manage to explore complex emotions of their character pretty well. Some character seem totally one dimensional at first but the actors manage to bring out the inner turbulence during each story. So far my only issue with the drama is that nothing seems to be really resolved. Issues you think have been taken care of are suddenly undone off screen and a character returns back to 0.
This drama had me really involved, I cursed and felt with them, I judged and then understood somewhat. It was a journey for sure and I am sad that it only has 12 episodes. It is deeply entertaining and I recommend it to anyone who is open to learn more about the topic of adult entertainment.
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I'm just the girl who likes lovestories - and if you like that too it really is worth to watch.
If you like good-looking taiwanese actors, too.
The serious scenes often are too long, but there are also very funny scenes.
Sometimes the characters aren't that authentic but they are lively. The Opening Music is from 'Fahrenheit'
It's(not only)a lovestory, that is foreseeable from the beginning, but you know: The journey is the reward.
That shy love between Wu Chun and Angela Zhang is heart- thrilling to watch! It's this 'One-and-only-forever-love'.
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This review may contain spoilers
Kill my Sins
The wandering physician Ye Ping An, entangled in an old and secretive case, arrives in Chang'an. Accused of mystical medical interventions, she manipulates minds and evokes fear, while the low-born magistrate Yuan Shao Cheng, craving power, seizes the opportunity to rise. A murder in Chang'an implicates Ye Ping An, but is she truly an innocent scapegoat or a mastermind plotting revenge? The first move in her intricate scheme has already unraveled.Story:9.5
This isn't a simple, ordinary drama. It's a mystery/thriller drama with mysterious cases. Ye Ping An uses many tricks to take revenge for those who died in a case he was involved in when he was young and to find peace. On one hand, he gains the trust of the Empress, and on the other hand, he allies with Yuan Shao Cheng. In this way, he tries to take revenge on powerful, cruel officials involved in the Inspector case. Meanwhile, he has the support of his friends Lu Dan Xin, Cai Lian, Ni Chang, and his aunt Gu Er Niang. This is a drama without a romantic plot but one where strong, intelligent women unite against their enemies. While Ping An fights because he was deceived as a child and caused the deaths of many women, Lu Dan Xin and Cai Lian are victims of the Inspector case.
Yuan Shao Cheng is a man who is constantly belittled and struggles for power because he comes from a Mang background. I admire a man who endures all kinds of humiliation to fight for his people. It's true that I hated him in the first 10 episodes. But towards the end, I realized how amazing he was.
Wu An Kang is a general who fights on the border for his country. He is also the son of Wu You Jing, the Empress's nephew. He is an honest general seeking justice for people like Ping An. I love his character and personality. By the end of the drama, when he loses everything because of his father's and sister's greed and ambitions, I feel both sad and angry. He didn't deserve this.
The Empress ascended the throne at a time when women were looked down upon. Having been an empress for more than ten years, Saint always tried to be just, to help women get their rights, and to treat her people well. Saint uses people of different characters like Ye Ping'an, Yuan Shao Cheng, and Li Jun to suppress corrupt officials in the country. I always thought Li Jun was the bad guy. I didn't expect him to be part of the forensic court and work for the Empress in the last episode. I think Saint made a mistake. She was very unfair to Wu An Kang. She wanted to send a man who contributed to the country and risked his life to an enemy country as a groom. When she failed in this, she tried another way. She even thought of dismissing An Kang, who returned from the second war. If the Empress had been fair in this matter, I would have liked her more.
I think Wu You Jing's character was not well-written. As the main villain, he had a very ordinary character. After being mysterious for a long time, he made many mistakes when he appeared. He thought his son, who risked his life for the country, would help him in his rebellion. And his daughter Wu Xian'er did many things behind his back. Wu You Jing's ignorance of this and his misjudgment of the Empress's actions make it hard to see him as the main villain. Apart from that, I didn't see many flaws in the drama.
In my opinion, this drama was excellent. It tells the story of strong, intelligent women uniting, a man fighting for his people, and a man risking his life for his country, only to be disappointed by his family. This is a masterpiece!!!
Cast:10
In my opinion, the right actors were chosen for all the characters in this drama. After watching Liu Shishi in the role of Ye Ping An, I don't think anyone else could have played this role so perfectly.
I'm watching Shawn Dou for the first time. I should thank 'Kill my Sins' for introducing me to such a talented actor. Shawn Dou is the best person for this role!
Zheng Ye Cheng is already my favorite actor, and I love his role here too. It saddened me that he had so few scenes. I would have liked to see more of his scenes.
I am also watching Xuan Lu for the first time. After this drama, I can say that I am a fan of her. She is both beautiful and talented.
I've seen Ding Jie in a few dramas before. As far as I remember, she played a maid in TSAZB. She is so sweet.
Rewatch Walue: 8.5
I have always admired dramas with such themes. Despite its heavy subject matter, it's a drama where human intelligence is portrayed very strongly. Maybe I'll come back to watch it again when I can't find other beautiful, worthwhile dramas. Anyway, there's no tragic ending for the main characters, so rewatching it is not a problem.
Overall: 10
Despite a few flaws, I think this drama has a very strong plot. From my perspective, this drama deserves a 10 out of 10. The actors' talent, the well-written storyline, and the strong characters cover the drama's shortcomings. If anyone wants to watch it, they should start without hesitation. The more you watch, the more you want to keep watching. However, I don't recommend it to those who love romance.
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Very nice
this might be one of the best GL drama out there.I really enjoyed watching this one i love how the story went and it was focused on how some people just dont understand some stuff about lgbtq but over the years that slowly changes also that ending was so good this was exatly what i wanted i would recommend this to anyone watching GL drama for the first time also i just wish it had more episodes i really liked it 10/10 from me also ayaka best girl she deserves all the happiness in the world cause she tried so hardWas this review helpful to you?
I loved that Ramil isn’t your typical vampire. He stands out with this almost innocent vulnerability, steering away from the usual dark and brooding vibe. That gave the supernatural angle a refreshing twist. Punn was the perfect match for Prem, and my sweethearts Boun and Prem delivered their usual captivating performances.
Overall, the cast did a solid job. Mark and Aun really stood out, and Dunk as Feratu was such a pleasant surprise. I’d love to see him play a villain someday. I adore Barcode, but I wasn’t feeling him as Ciar. If you’ve seen him in KP and DFF, you know he’s capable of so much more. Honestly, that was the biggest issue for me, the direction just couldn’t strike the right balance between romance and the supernatural.
What truly shined for me were the relationships. That dinner scene with vampires and humans sitting together like one big family? That was exactly what Ramil and Punn were searching for. It’s sincere and heartfelt, totally hits you right in the feels. I’m always here for that.
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The pacing and plot are well-thought out, albeit it starts off slow, it really drives forward after a few episodes. There are certain scenes that just really hit the mark (and even ones that made my jaw visibly drop). Both the spoken and unspoken parts of this script really shine. The cinematography is also astounding. Aside from the technical stuff, the themes and characters of this drama are just incredibly well thought out.
As for the acting, I truly must give a hand to the entire cast for bringing such a chilling narrative to life, because this fictional cult's story is unfortunately very similar to many real life events. Some may disagree, but for me, Seo Ye Ji made this drama. I've heard that some viewers may find her expressions to be bland or dull, but I strongly disagree. She displays a wide variety of emotions, and has great control over even micro-expressions; the only reason why it may have seemed dull at first is because her character is written in such a very conservative manner. The next outstanding performance came from Woo Doo Hwan. Not only is his character written to be so generous and wonderful, but Doo Hwan's ability to capture heartwarming, blood-chilling, raw emotion blew me away. Definitely rooting for this guy.
The music is suitable to this drama, but it's not really that good standalone.
Overall, this drama has been one of my favorites in terms of cast, character, and impact so far. I'm looking forward to the cast and crew's future endeavors, and I certainly hope this drama gets more love!
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This review may contain spoilers
STORY: Being one of the translators, I've watched this series dozens of times. Some parts of it can seem disjointed but after watching the entire show more than once, I understand it so much better. For one, the black & white scenes are an aside, which was partly confusing at first, but it's like a small narration of the whole story. Again, to fully understand all of the things said, and much that wasn't said, it helps to watch it more than once. If you are wondering about the ending before you watch this, see my spoiler in the comments section.ACTING/CAST: Some are noobs, all are young, all are cute.
MUSIC: Besides the two different opening songs, which I liked the second one better, there were 3 very good commercial songs. Check the links in the description of the final episode. I really liked the music in this.
REWATCH VALUE: To really understand it, I had to see it more than once. And it's so short, I didn't mind seeing it multiple times. Your mileage may vary.
OVERALL: Well, it's shot in 1080p, which is nice. It's a short production on probably a smaller budget with some young actors, but I did enjoy the show.
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I've read some of the Goong manhwa, and I wont complain and say the Prince (Inn) is just the same jerk as Goong (both the manhwa and the Korean adaptation) .. he kinda HAS to be in order to stick to the original manhwa...
but I will say... its cute, it has it's nice moments, and the evil Queen (holy guac, that lady should be asked to play a Disney villain) she's so great for the part.. but doesn't fit in with the rest of the characters... her acting stands out the most, it's too forced, and too wicked, not to mention her makeup always looks flawless!
Other than this observation.. I have found the series so far.. (14/20) to be kinda super extremely slow pace, but maybe I'm not being patient enough.
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Story: During the Ming dynasty, Hong Xi Dong is the leader of Emperor Zhu Yun Wen’s personal bodyguard detail. Then the 'Nine Turns Luminous Night Pearl' is missing and he's suspected to have stolen it. Two palace guards Peng Ze and Xu Xiao Tian chase him and they all somehow end up in the 21st century, where they meet a lookalike of Xi Dong.
Characters:
Hong Xiao Dong / Hong Xi Dong: Xi Dong is from the era of the Mings and Xiao Dong from the 21st century. It is unclear at the beginning whether they are the same person or reincarnations. Xiao Dong is a former police officer who became a private detective when his ideals about the police force were shattered. He has the ability to read minds and transforms into Xi Dong under specific circumstances, seemingly in the presence of Xian Ting (who he remembers as Xian Er once transformed). But is she the one responsible for the transformation?
Peng Ze and Xu Xiao Tian: Two palace guards from the Ming dynasty who end up in modern Taiwan. The initial episodes focus on how they adapt to the changes in the environment. Though they initially suspect Xiao Dong to be the thief, they are soon convinced (primarily by Mo Han, who undertakes the task of getting them used to the 21st century) that he is, in fact, the good guy. Then they join forces to find the pearl.
Zhang Xian Ting / Xian Er: Xian Ting is the "Go Go Go" poster girl of a news channel who is forced by her editor to wear weird costumes while reporting. She wants to be a principled reporter and report actual news. Seeing an opportunity to interview the palace guards, she contacts Xiao Dong. Though their relationship is strained in the beginning, she falls for him after learning about his past. Supposedly, she's the reincarnation of Xian Er, the wife of Xi Dong. Though Nikki shines in her role, she does look kinda shabby next to Jiro Wang sometimes.
Mo Han: One of the members of Xiao Dong's detective agency. Has idolized and loved Xiao Dong since he saved her from an assailant during her high school days. her image is that of a peppy girl, but inside she's caring and understanding. Once she realizes the love between Xiao Dong and Xian Er, she lets her feelings go and in turn, paves the way for a new love.
There are other characters providing the much needed comic relief. Overall, the casting and performance are adequate, if not exemplary at times.
Concluding Thoughts: The ending was not conclusive and indicates a second season. In fact, without a second season, the ending is downright ridiculous - simply too many open ends to be resolved.
Music: Both the opening (The Great Hero by Jiro Wang) and ending (Love Influenza by Kirsten Ren) are worth listening to a few times.
Rewatch: It is a complete drama with doses of romance, comedy and action. Can be watched again if time permits.
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Great message but delivery wasn't always there.
I enjoyed the show which is why I rated it quite high but I found the storyline a bit all over the place with no real depth.I loved the message of personality over looks, which can be shown in not only the main leads storylines but with all the characters. The "pretty people" were not all horrible and vain, while the "ugly/inadequate" were not all humble and nice. You were given a full variety of characters which made you really enjoy learning about their personality behind the "face value".
Though I will say I felt a bit disappointed with the main leads since while i did understand why they were both reserved, i was expecting their true personalities to be shown a bit earlier. I also expected more give and take between them, while it seemed like the male lead was extending himself and making a lot more changes within his life vs the female lead. The female lead seemed quite reluctant to help or extend herself to help the him but it is easily can be contributed to her insecurity and being unsure what to do in those social situations. Still the female lead did gain confidence and courage, she learned to find her own happiness that is not based on being "pretty".
In the end I just wished that we got more storyline after the main female gained her confidence, since that was when we got to really see her personality and also saw more of the male leads personality since she helped to bring him out of his shell. Still all in all it was a good series with a good message.
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The main story is of a serial killer, using an iron ball to satisfy his sadistic pleasures. When Jin Hyuk's wife is murdered in the opening scenes, the game is strong and you watch him (Jin Hyuk, not the serial killer^^) team up with Gwon Joo, who's cop father was also murdered by the same guy, as she heads the "Golden Time Team" at their local precinct.
A team that is dedicated to reaching any crime scenes within the golden period before it ends for the worse - 10 minutes.
With this set in place, we have to sit through this team being put into use, with my favourite side story, of a foster kid behind abused by his mum, in a repeat cycle of what happened to her so he called 112, to my least favourite set in a mental centre, where homeless people are being fleeced and then killed. Seemingly random, but providing leads to the serial killer. I didn't know whether to be pissed or happy. Happy, is what I went with. Imagine if I had sat through all those cute, protracted spin-offs and there wasn't a point?
The serial killer does not hide.
No, he is almost luxurious in the way he hunts and reveals himself. Extremely arrogant of being untouchable (typical privileged Korean kid, lol^^) However, he was willing to lose that power, just so it would create maximum torment within the two he was obsessed over. Jin Hyuk and Gwon Joo. One of the best scenes including Mo Tae Gu (and there were many) was when he was wheeled out of hospital, escaping, but yet he roared because he didn't want to escape, but be back in their clutches. Wow!
Kim Jae Wook is excellent, the best thing in the last four episodes.
Lee Ha Na has this breathy style of speech she adopted here, which I grew used too, so I was cool with the girl by the end.
Jang Hyuk was in the middle of these two, somewhere in terms of acting talent and commitment.
I could see myself rewatching the first two episodes, and the last four alone. That's it. For that, I will give a high rewatch score.
If you like crime/detective dramas, this is the best one out of 2017 for sure.
But the year is early yet 8D
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The Story: Our narration throughout the movie is done by Kyoko, whose point of view we mostly follow. She comes from a sheltered upbringing but takes part in socio-political movements and protests. Her participation comes from a desire to be totally opposite from the sheltered environment she grew up in, not necessarily because she believes in the revolution she is a part of. She steps into a whole new world after meeting Wataru, Yunosuke, and Ema at A Cappella, a cafe playing baroque music with its occupants reading literature and lost in thought. They are not interested in the politics and revolutions happening in society, but are rather in a bubble of their own existentialism and self-indulgence. Wataru and Yunosuke have been friends since they were younger and Ema is Yunosuke's girlfriend. The four are entangled in an inevitable destiny that cannot be escaped from.
Characters: Kyoko is an innocent and naive character who yearns to break out of her closed environment. Being involved with the three allowed her to truly be herself, also allowing her to own up to her own ignorance about music, literature, and more. They introduced a world that is free of judgment and prejudice. Vice-versa, Kyoko is a breath of fresh air to the three, especially to Wataru. She is not tainted by the world and represents an innocence that is long gone. Wataru is a mystery to Kyoko, as she is unable to understand who he truly is. Along with Wataru, Yunosuke is a tightly closed book and has a heavier mystery to him. Wataru and Yunosuke are like a glue that cannot be unstuck. Ema is enthusiastic and brightens scenes, her enjoyment displayed with Yunosuke’s presence. She also has a naivety with her love for Yunosuke overflowing for all to see. Ema's purpose seems to only be an admirer on Yunosuke's arm but she ultimately plays a large part in the end.
Acting: I cannot imagine these characters being played by anybody else than the actors in this movie. They embody their characters, almost to a point where it seemed like there was no line between the character and them. I was familiar with Saito Takumi as I've seen him in other projects, but even with that acknowledgment he blended into playing Yunosuke scarily well. He does already have that sultry and mysterious vibe but it was heightened with his acting of Yunosuke, especially with his deep honey voice. Narumi Riko did an excellent job at portraying Kyoko as a naive and innocent character, yet soul searching with her experiences. Ikematsu Sosuke shows Wataru's warmth, insecurity, and pain on a precise level. Saito Takumi and Ikematsu Sosuke are an amazing team together, they feed off each other extremely well and have great chemistry. Their glances and mannerisms show a depth to their characters. There are a lot of sex scenes in the movie, some I felt could have been cut for more characterization but others important for the story.
Cinematography: I really loved how this was shot. They use silence with specific scenes, which creates a subtlety and tension for what’s happening on the surface and below. Their usage of color did well at putting the viewer in the time era. It seems almost like a haze, restricting to less saturation and bringing out the depths of the darker colors. There is importance with the use of shadows for characters and scenes, most notably for Yunosuke and Wataru and at the tea house (a place that represents both a physical and psychological escapism from society). I also found it interesting that they used the actors' bodies as storytelling by showing to the viewer a truth that is unspoken.
A 10/10 movie that I recommend to watch. I think you can personally get a lot out of it, I know that I did. A few days after I watched this I could not get it out of my head. It's that kind of movie.
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