Reviews

Not for the Anti-fans

This is the second series I’ve seen in real time. Usually I binge-watch all the Asian dramas I want to watch. The series makes me think and I try to review my knowledge of Greek Mythology as I view the storyline every week. I enjoy the romcom elements. I relish watching Park Shin-hye being so kick-ass with her combat skills bad-ass with her pink guns. Despite being such a hardcore female, Kang So-hae still has a soft and vulnerable core. Despite his genius, it’s great to see Han Tae-sul being so playful, witty and funny. Just seeing the range of Cho Seung-woo in this drama is a treat. Maybe I should check out an episode of Stranger.

As for the story, all the questions seem to have been answered. The leads belong in a different time-space, it would be a stretch to expect a happily-ever after. This is not straight-up Makjang or full-blown romcom as others prefer. It makes you ask questions, formulate theories, draw conclusions. It makes you appreciate Park Shin-hye and Cho Seung-woo even more, propel you to check out their past and future projects.

Read More

No.

I'll be very honest with this review because I have a lot to say about this series.

Many people overlooked the toxic, abusive and just plainly ridiculous plot lines this series had just because of Mew and Gulf, which is very sickening to me. I can't actually believe this series got so much love with all of these aspects that shouldn't be a part of a healthy relationship. I watched this series in hopes of them correcting the mistakes made earlier in the series (sexual assault, serious bullying etc) but they just made it worse. Not only did they not do anything to show that what Tharn did to Type in the beginning of the series (rape) is not okay, they also showed physical abuse and manipulative behavior between the characters (Type mainly being the toxic one). The toxic behavior from Type was explained as him being overly jealous and apparently easily agitated but that is not a reason to punch your s/o.
What else was wrong with this series? The representation of mental illness. The total ignorance towards Type's mental illness was terrible. The way everything was displayed made me feel disgusted. I don't even have any words about that.

There is so much media that discriminates and shows only negative sides of gay relationships and ignorance of mental illnesses. It's literally 2020 so it's time to show healthy representation of gay people and mental illnesses. Tharn type is not that.

Read More

A must watch

This series has been one of my Top favorite series. I totally recommend this series who loves kdrama.
Would have never expected this series to have everything in it. It has Romance, Drama, & comedy.
from 1st episode this series is hilarious
The actors Shin Hye sun after angels last mission with all lady like acting doing this role was one her best decision.
And kim Jung hyun after CLOY omg was so excited to see him in this series.
All the characters are taken so well, not just the main actors but the one supporting them. Lady choi & Royal chef is too cute you fall for them. This series will be on my re-watch list all the time.

Read More

I could not believe I have watched REAL already, I've been dying to watch it to see for myself, how the movie is really. Why is that KSH mentioned it is a representation of his 20s while many fans are questionsing why he took the role. Also about the bed scenes, non-existing plot, bad directing, too long running time and being a bad move etc. So here's my take of the movie: 1. KSH's showed acting we have never seen from him before. I especially like his portrayal of the masked Jangtae young - the thub scene ; the cry laugh scene with the other JTY and the cry/laugh scene in the car - were my favorites. He reminds me of HIsuka's character in HunterxHunter. He was able to show the softness of the character perfectly. It truly is a work to be proud of. KSH is an actor - given a scary script which he knew he can play - and so he did. What a man can be he must be. He deserves a major award for this. 2. Bed Scenes - I would understand this is not something young korean fans would expect, well anyway the move is rated19. And for an adult film, the scenes were carefully shoot - the characters are extremist and so the bed scenes has to match the characters desires. The scenes were quick and obviously unreal (i mean why would other people even think it was real *** - and to those labeling it as cheap Bed scnes must be sleeping throughout the movie and just woke up and see the few seconds bed scene. ) 3. Non- existing plot - The film is not the typical A love B. C is the villain and D gets all the symapthy and wins in the end. KSH during showcase expected confusion from public and mentioned about watching the movie more than once.I think the film's aim is for viewers to share opinions and interpretation. I would need to rewatch the moview with better subs - there were many sub mistakes when `i compared it with the trailer subbed in english - i'd give the plot another chance then edit my review later. 4. Bad Directing - I must agree the action scenes were out of tune - there are a few impressive moves -nice attempt - but the raid scenes were weak. BUt the rest of the directing was not bad at all. 5. 2 hours running time - I didn not find it lengthy nor dragging, maybe because I don't mind watching kim soo hyun alone for hours and hours ,3 chapters are necessary for the script, I believe. For me it was just fine. 6. Other casts: there is nothing to hate about Suili, she did a good job. Suzy's appearance was ridiculuos it was not even for 2 sec. thinking she had the body tatoo done for 30mins just for that scene, or maybe they cut it bec of some reasons, and IU? I did not see her at all. 7. Overall: REAL is definetly not a bad movie, but I must say it is not everybody's genre. I look forward to watching it with better subs to give a more accurate review. But it is undeniable how great kim soo hyun acting was - watching his characters alone is worth it the plot is just a bonus. hehe. i would definetly watch it on BIg Screen more than once if only it will be shown in the country where i am at. I will still recommend the movie - let me know what you think. I certainly enjoy watching kim soo hyun for 137 minutes.

Read More

One of the Best Sapphic Adaptations till Date!

Set in the 1950s, “Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born” delivers a classic retelling of two Korean art forms- Gukgeuk and Pansori.

I spend a lot of time learning the intricacies of these two folk arts, which are quite liberal and intriguing as compared to those in my motherland. For those unaware, Pansori is Korean genre of musical storytelling performed by a singer and a drummer, where the singer tells the story by singing and the drummer accompanies her on the drum. Incorporating this aspect into Gukgeuk was the main highlight of this show, which refers to a theatrical performance that combines singing and dancing. In post war era, Gukgeuk was extremely popular and women portrayed men’s roles. In short, it was an all female- production which had a cult following from the 1950s to 1960s, after which it rapidly declined due to the rise of films. “Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born” delivers a subtle romance with homoerotic tones. Adapted from the webtoon “Jeong Nyeon” (정년이) written by Seo Irae (서이레) and illustrated by Namon (나몬), the original storyline was a sapphic love story. Even though the show is a censored adaptation, the all-women ensemble renders itself useful in maintaining the sapphic flavors.

Read the complete article here-

https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2024/11/18/jeongnyeon-the-star-is-born-series-review/#more-1325

Read More

Normalizing toxic relationships 101

This show is the worst thing I've watched in a while...
Why is it normalized that Diao and Kuea are literally SCARED of the people that should love them?
How are Kuea and Lian supposed to be close
childhood friends even though they can't have a conversation about anything else than their relationship? Don't they have any common interests?

The characters of this show are puppets, flatly written to somehow drive the barely existent "plot" to some fan service, (there are so many unnecessary kiss scenes!) and then slip into the next recycled filler material about how they betray and gaslight eachother. These relationships are so unhealthy!
I was also just disgusted by the way that Hia Yi and Hia Lian treat Kuea and Diao like they are their dogs, it was infuriating! Two of the few things they did right in the show were letting Kon Diao stand up for himself and having Kuea be determined to call off the engagement (Only at first unfortunately). The glaring problems in their relationships were rather ignored instead of actually solved.

Despite the weird premise of the show I was genuinely hoping that the main couples were going to develop a meaningful connection over time, but there was barely any development. In fact for example, instead of showing his rebellious side more as the show went on, it felt like Kuea adopted a part of the "Annabelle " mindset more and more as his real personality. Just saying yes, smiling, shallow sweet talk and ditching the last bit of depth his Character had, until his breakdown when Lian proposed to him (The only emotional moment, I could actually get invested in). But afterwards he quickly paddeled back into mindlessly
obeying Lian.

Onto the next problem: Yi and Lian seem always keen on making Diao and Kuea as dependent on them as possible, taking their autonomy and controlling them, which is being portrayed as cute and caring, but it is plain toxic.

The "friendship" between Yi and Lian was also very lackluster, when they were meeting up they always just seemed annoyed and were missing, like pretty much any relationship in the show, any real common interests apart from being business partners.
Fortunately at least Kon Diao and Kuea's friendship was overall supportive and one of the few positive parts in the series.

Side note: I do appreciate the effort the actors put into portraying the characters well, but even good actors can't save a badly written show.

The only romantic relationship that wasn't absurdly unhealthy was the one of Syn and Nuer, they seemed to actually be on one wave length and even though their relationship was also lacking depth, it was still very cute and worth watching.

I truly believe that this show was made for a kind of thirsty viewers who don't really care about the plot as long as there are plenty kissing scenes between two hot actors (even if the kisses don't really feel romantic), as this is the only way I can explain why this show isn't as widely called out for what it is:

(also tldr) A substance lacking excuse for kissing scenes with a plotline almost exclusively consisting of normalizing unhealthy relationships, a few good songs and 10 minutes of preachy dialogue in the beginning and end, that can't be taken seriously, because nothing said is actually reflected in the show.
They should have called this series "normalizing toxic relationships 101"

I'm very disappointed, what a waste of time!

Read More

Vinchenjo Quassano is *chef's kiss* - [update: the drama is a cathartic experience you won't forget]

If you are looking for a comedic, thrilling, creative, and oddly-satisfying drama to brighten your weekend, then Vincenzo is it!

STORY: If you liked dramas like The Fiery Priest or Chief Kim, then you will love the plot, characters, action, dialogues, and style of story-telling here. It's absurd, wacky, funny, but also very serious in its themes of crime, corruption, revenge, and justice. There is a good-mix of lovable characters and crazy evil villains (the main bad-guy is perhaps the biggest surprise, definitely takes the crown for the most iconic villain reveal!). The plot twists, comedic timing, chemistry between characters, and anti-hero vibes are immaculate. Also, so many great one-liners!!

CAST: Song Joong Ki, Jeon Yeo Bin, Ok Taecyeon, need I say more? With such a star-studded main and supporting cast, I think that should be enough to urge you to watch! All the actors and actresses are perfect in their respective roles and bring the characters to life. Vincenzo and Hong Cha Young have chaotic energy as partners and I'm all for it (I also ship them so much!!). SJK's Italian rants leave you mesmerized and laughing, and JYB's unique take on the quirky, eccentric female lead will leave you dying for more! And Taecyeon's acting as a ditsy, lovable English-speaking intern is (almost*) the best thing ever!

MUSIC: Thrilling, catchy, exciting. I love the vibrancy of the OST and the Italian/opera-inspired music that plays whenever something funny happens (especially when poor Vincenzo is suffering LOL).

RE-WATCH: The drama isn't even over yet and I already rewatch episodes, so there you go!!

If you haven't started watching this yet, what are you doing?! This drama is the highlight of my weekend, and now that we're nearly half-way in, I've been itching to write a review. So far, I am loving every minute of the drama, so I had to share my thoughts!

EDIT 5/3/21: Just finished the drama and I stand by everything I said 6 weeks ago! Vincenzo is a masterpiece and I dig the message at the end. The cinematography and production quality are absolutely top-notch. The entire cast and crew were absolutely wonderful and let's just say... there are bad villains, and once in a while, there are good villains too. A special shoutout to my precious baby Jang Han Seo. Excuse me while I go cry and feel empty for days now that the drama is over. What a cathartic experience.

Read More

Save yourself from this mother-daughter melodrama

This drama was way more mother-centric than romance, so anyone here for romance mainly will be disappointed. I don’t mind if it’s a family drama but the decisions made by the mother from start to finish will rile you up. Not to mention that there are constantly annoying, good-for-nothing characters with no redeeming qualities popping in one after the next. There are some good moments but the ratio of melodrama to fun moments tips the scale too much. I only stuck around for the main couple, their relationship was good to watch. Otherwise, definitely wouldn’t recommend this - it’s too stressful and brings a lot of unnecessary negative emotions and melodramatic moments.

Read More

Where Wounds Become Strength and Two Hearts Learn to Beat as One

The First Jasmine begins as what appears to be another arranged-marriage political drama but gradually reveals itself to be a remarkably layered story about trauma, justice, power, and healing. Set in the fictional Dachu Dynasty with Tang-inspired aesthetics, the drama follows Ye Li, a woman released from eight years of isolation on Lishan Mountain to marry the politically disgraced and crippled Prince Ding, Mo Xiuyao.

Although it embraces familiar historical romance tropes, the series distinguishes itself through meticulous character writing, emotional maturity, and philosophical depth. Rather than relying on plot twists alone, it builds its story through psychological realism and carefully developed relationships.

YE LI: TRAUMA, REVENGE, AND HEALING

Ye Li is one of the strongest female protagonists in recent historical dramas. Calm, intelligent, and calculating on the surface, she is deeply scarred by the tragedy on Lishan Mountain, where she watched her family and friends die during the plague while remaining powerless to save them.

Bai Lu portrays this duality beautifully. Her hallucinations of the dead are presented not as supernatural events but as believable manifestations of unresolved trauma. The drama never sensationalizes her suffering, instead showing how trauma fragments the mind while allowing someone to continue functioning outwardly.

Her revenge is never driven by blind hatred. The four straw figures she keeps symbolize carefully planned justice rather than impulsive violence. Even her decision to eliminate Empress Dowager Guo Jin last demonstrates patience and political understanding. As the story progresses, revenge gradually transforms into healing as she learns to reclaim agency and build meaningful relationships again.

MO XIUYAO: STRENGTH BEYOND PHYSICAL POWER

Cheng Lei delivers one of his finest performances as Mo Xiuyao. After years of political humiliation, disability, and grief, he remains remarkably restrained, expressing pain through subtle expressions rather than exaggerated emotion.

His character challenges the traditional image of the invincible male lead. Although physically crippled, he possesses extraordinary intelligence, leadership, and emotional maturity. His recovery is satisfying not because he becomes physically powerful again, but because the audience has already learned to admire him before he ever stands.

His relationship with Ye Li develops naturally through trust, mutual respect, and shared suffering. Moments such as quietly caring for each other, cooking together, or simply watching the moon become far more meaningful than dramatic romantic declarations.

EMPRESS DOWAGER GUO JIN: A TRAGIC RULER

Guo Jin is arguably the drama's most fascinating character. Unlike conventional villains, she genuinely improves Dachu through tax reforms, women's education, infrastructure, and social policies. Yet every achievement comes at the cost of countless innocent lives.

Her final conversations with Ye Li explore one of the drama's central questions: does successful governance justify immoral methods?

Ye Li's grandfather once described Guo Jin as talented but lacking benevolence. She understood power but never fully understood compassion. This distinction becomes the philosophical heart of the series, separating effective rule from humane leadership.

Supporting Characters and Moral Ambiguity

The drama refuses to divide its characters into simple heroes and villains.

Mo Jingli's childhood trauma explains—but never excuses—his obsession with power. His final realization that he genuinely loved Ye Li despite originally viewing her as a political asset gives his downfall emotional weight.

Even Xu Wanzhou's controversial decisions stem from desperate attempts to save lives rather than selfish ambition. Throughout the series, good intentions repeatedly produce devastating consequences, creating a world filled with moral ambiguity instead of absolute right and wrong.

Supporting characters such as Lin Tinglan, Qin Cang, Li Feibai, Lady Yusheng, Wen Ran, and Feng Zhiyao all receive satisfying emotional arcs that strengthen the overall narrative rather than existing solely to support the protagonists.

THE CHESSBOARD PHILOSOPHY

Chess serves as the drama's central metaphor. Ye Li's grandfather teaches her about "solitary pieces"—pieces that become isolated from the rest of the board.

This metaphor defines several major characters. Guo Jin isolates herself through power, Mo Jingli through ambition, and Ye Li through trauma. Each discovers that isolation ultimately leads to emptiness, while genuine strength comes from connection and trust.

Rather than celebrating individual achievement, the series argues that relationships are what ultimately give life meaning.

TRAUMA AND RECOVERY

One of the drama's greatest achievements is its portrayal of psychological trauma.

Ye Li's hallucinations, emotional detachment, and gradual healing feel authentic rather than melodramatic. Recovery is portrayed as a slow process supported by understanding, patience, and love rather than miraculous transformation.

Similarly, Mo Xiuyao's hidden disability symbolizes emotional wounds carried in silence. Both protagonists learn that healing requires vulnerability rather than isolation.

The Lishan plague itself is particularly heartbreaking because it has no mastermind behind it. Sometimes tragedy simply happens, making the story's exploration of grief feel even more realistic.

FEMALE AGENCY

The series incorporates meaningful feminist themes without becoming preachy.

Women consistently demonstrate intelligence and leadership. Ye Li repeatedly outmaneuvers experienced politicians. Guo Jin transforms the country through reforms. Lin Tinglan pursues her career independently, while Princess Lingyun and Wen Ran each display remarkable resilience.

However, the drama also acknowledges that female authority often requires tremendous sacrifice. It celebrates women's achievements while recognizing the unequal burdens imposed by society.

THE SLOW-BURN ROMANCE

The romance succeeds because it develops naturally.

Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao begin as political partners before gradually becoming emotional anchors for one another. Their relationship is built through everyday acts of care rather than endless misunderstandings or exaggerated romantic gestures.

Their emotional confessions feel earned because they emerge after episodes of shared hardship. Cheng Lei and Bai Lu rely heavily on subtle acting, making small expressions often more powerful than dramatic speeches.

Secondary romances are equally meaningful. Feng Zhiyao and Princess Lingyun represent love destroyed by politics, while Li Feibai and Lady Yusheng explore freedom, choice, and respect rather than possession.

PERFORMANCES

Cheng Lei gives a career-defining performance. His physical acting convincingly portrays disability, while his emotional restraint makes scenes of vulnerability especially powerful.

Bai Lu delivers one of her most emotionally nuanced performances. Ye Li could easily have become another stereotypical "strong female lead," but Bai Lu instead creates someone whose strength exists alongside profound psychological fragility.

The supporting cast consistently elevates the material, ensuring even secondary characters leave lasting impressions.

PRODUCTION

Visually, the drama favors a restrained style. Warm domestic scenes contrast effectively with the colder political settings, while the dreamlike cinematography during Ye Li's hallucinations subtly reflects her psychological state.

Fight choreography is elegant without becoming excessive, and the soundtrack complements emotional moments without overwhelming them.

Although some CGI backgrounds appear artificial, these issues rarely undermine the overall experience.

## STRENGTHS

* Rich psychological characterization.
* Excellent performances from Bai Lu and Cheng Lei.
* Thoughtful exploration of trauma and healing.
* Mature political and philosophical themes.
* Organic slow-burn romance.
* Strong pacing with very little filler.

## WEAKNESSES

* Some visual effects feel noticeably artificial.
* A few minor supporting characters remain underdeveloped.
* The political resolution is slightly rushed compared to the careful buildup.


The First Jasmine stands out because it treats its audience with intelligence. Rather than relying solely on romance or palace intrigue, it explores grief, justice, political morality, and the importance of human connection with surprising maturity.

Its greatest strength is its refusal to simplify people into heroes or villains. Nearly every major character exists within shades of grey, making their choices feel deeply human. Combined with excellent performances, thoughtful writing, and one of the most satisfying slow-burn romances in recent historical dramas, the series delivers both emotional impact and philosophical depth.

Despite a few production flaws and a somewhat rushed ending, The First Jasmine remains one of the strongest historical dramas of the year. It proves that familiar genre conventions can still produce something memorable when supported by careful writing, nuanced performances, and characters whose emotional journeys feel genuinely earned.

Read More

This so lacked a lot!

Lame movie!

So much missing and so chopped up! They left out so much important info. It was so confusing at times. Like.. how did he know it was her and visa versa? One minute they are watching a tree being chopped down and then you see them in a restaurant. She really has nothing to say and acts all mad at him. And why? Oh ya... They finally explain (mind you it was a very short explanation) it at the end when she refuses treatment and chooses to die!🙄 She gives up on life when there are so many people who show her their love. And who did she marry? I am guessing the “rich” guy? Because we see the “brother” walking alone at the end? Did she die? Did she decide to get treatment? Grrrrr!!! So many frustrating questions and no answers!

Sheesh! At least make a show straight forward! Make it flow smoothly from one scene to the next. Don’t leave us hanging and don’t leave important parts out. That is why I Hate the series “Cheese in a Trap” but love the movie. The series leaves you unsatisfied at the ends but the movie gives a good ending. Personally I prefer the series because it had all the important info in it and it was really well done, but the movie lacked all the important stuff. But at least it had a good ending unlike this movie. That show is honestly a toss up for me. 🙄😂

The story would have been beautiful if it was written and executed right.

The cast I think did the best they could with how it was probably written.

I love the main actress. She is really good and I have watched a lot of her shows. I can honestly say this one did not impress me.

Rewatch? Nope! If I did it would be because of the actress. Nothing else.

Read More

Not sure if I believe in magic, but I do believe in the reality this show sets us in

This drama regrettably leaves viewers with many unanswered questions by the end of the last episode. Too many plot holes and too much craziness that probably can't be fixed. Ever.

But the show's beauty lies in the fact that none of the above bothered me by the end of it. I genuinely enjoyed the glitch this show put me through and the heartstrings it managed to pull in me. The darkness of the plot is tamed by the sweetness of the relationships in it, and I can watch the actors play their roles so well all day. Probably not all will find this show to be sane or worthy of a serious watch, but if you are missing this, you might as well have lost a chance to learn the meaning of true magic.

Read More

I'll really miss this!!!! this is the ideal cliche romcom! the fluffiest of the fluffs!! a really well balanced cliche that had it's own "flavor" and interpretation of the usual cliches.
I loved all of the characters and their relationships!
Do Min Ik is the sweetest most adorable playful male lead, Jung Gal Hee is the ONLY acceptable cute female lead, Veronica Park is legendary, Ki Dae Joo had the cutest smiles, Gal Hee's mom and brother were great support and comedic relief, doctor Goo Seok Chan and the 3 secretaries..
to give a critical non biased opinion other than "fluff"... this had a weak plot that was carried solely by the actors, and yet it was able to pull itself together and wrap things up perfectly?

I don't want this to end! I demand a 2nd season! the adventures of my secretary's married life? I want more....


my rewatch values are either a 1 or a 10, and I'll love to watch this again~

Read More

Slice of Life medical drama with funny moments

Likes: The great ensemble cast and their easy chemistry. The funny moments

Dislikes: It was a bit forgettable.

I usually don't like medical dramas, but this one was easy to watch because of Director Shin Won ho's distinct style of using an ensemble cast and creating a nostalgic vibe with bits of humor. Just like with his previous works in the Reply series and Prison Playbook, there's a sort of subdued tone to his dramas that focuses on community rather than plot.

The ensemble cast was great particularly Jo Jung Suk who again shows that he's capable of great comedic and dramatic acting and Shin Hyun-bin who does such a great job making the aloof expressionless chief resident so likeable. The chemistry between the cast felt so organic that it was fun watching the banter and the friendships play out.

There were plenty of moments that made me laugh, but there were also many moments where I was bored. While I found the drama overall an enjoyable watch, it was also one that was forgettable. I wasn't dying to watch the next episode...more like there was nothing else to watch, but if you enjoy these types of dramas then I think it won't disappoint.

Read More

Ha! I'm gonna get shot for this but I loved the remake just as much as the original, if not more! I watched both right while they were airing, and personally, I just loved the remake a lot. I think much of that was due to my love for the cast even prior to the drama beginning (knowing many of the guys from Tenimyu and whatnot), but just overall, I feel like it was made really well.


First off, I never liked Maki as Mizuki. She was far too girly and din't play the role well enough. I thought Acchan captured the boyish character way better. Her hair, her appearance, her voice, and just how she portrayed Mizuki was much more like the manga! Yes, I am kind of biased though because I am an AKB fangirl.

Next though, Nakamura Aoi was a far better Sano than Shun was. Although I love Oguri Shun, his Sano had no emotion. Nakamura Aoi's acting had far greater depth of character, which showed that he was a caring person but just unwilling to reveal that side. Shun's, on the other hand, was just completely emotionless. And having read the manga, Aoi definitely was much more like the original manga Sano.

Anyways, I'm going to cut off the comparisons there are just focus on why I liked it now. First, SAITO TAKUMI. Okay I remember when I heard they were making a remake, I immediately thought "OMG if anyone could live up to Kamikawa Takaya's legacy as doctor, it HAS to be Saito Takumi. And I was right. I mean, who else but Takumix could portray a gay guy that well?! This guy is the KING of BL movies!! He was absolutely perfect.

Shohei was sooo funny!!! Of course, Toma will always be everyone's favorite Nakatsu~ But c'mon! Shohei was just as ridiculously hilarious~ Plus, his and Acchan's connection was cute. Honestly, Acchan's connection with ALL the cast was great! But the part that made Shohei's Nakatsu THE BEST? His interactions with Tomo!!!! Okay like actually SHOMO

Read More