This review may contain spoilers
Don't Forget Your Dream, Don't Forget Your True Self...
Master of My Own is one of those polarizing dramas where many viewers lauded the show as one of the best C-Dramas of 2022, while others criticized it for being too slow or boring. For me, I enjoyed this intelligent and inspiring show, and I think it is misunderstood and under-rated on MDL.Instead of being a typical rom-com or other more established genres like melodrama or horror, MOMO is a "slice of life" show, which concept is much hazier but provides a different kind of enjoyment especially when the viewer can relate to the story.
MOMO's appeal for me is how well the show depicted the everyday experience, the recurring themes of family and friendship, the struggles of daily life, and the stark portrayal of the good and bad sides of human nature. I also appreciated how the screenwriter and director teased out the characters' personalities, thoughts, emotions, and motivations by effective use of good dialogue, music, meaningful gestures, and props.
The story centered around Ning Meng, an ordinary young woman working towards her dream. There is a certain maturity about this drama, as it beautifully and realistically portrayed the growth, the angst, the resolution, and ultimately the success of our FL in her personal and professional lives. Ning Meng was hardworking, optimistic, plucky, and intelligent. Through talent, effort, good luck, and lots of faith in herself, Ning Meng navigated with grace and determination through the world of capital markets and investment.
Finding love with the ML, Lu Ji Ming, along the way was the icing on the cake, but that was not the show's focus. The main couple's romance was a slow-burn one. It started with them being on unequal footing, to one of friendship, and finally culminating in a way that I found satisfying.
Our main couple's journey was engaging for me, as they went through different experiences and ended up on the same path, working towards common life goals. As Ning Meng's confidence grew, Lu Ji Ming's ego took a beating. As Ning Meng's career took flight, Lu Ji Ming's crashed. Throughout it all, both showed worthy character growth and development. In this show, the main characters' little and large struggles and triumphs were well-written, executed, and acted.
Lu Ji Ming started off as a chauvinistic jerk boss who disparaged the FL's aspirations to be an investor. Shown initially as a successful investor who obviously thought that he was superior to everyone else, it became apparent that Lu Ji Ming was a quietly generous person who cared about loyalty and principles. Still, even though he had some redeeming moments as he showed concern, advised, and protected Ning Meng in his own arrogant way, I find it most gratifying that Lu Ji Ming did not end up with Ning Meng early and easily. Our poor ML had to struggle through some humbling moments first, but Ning Meng was there to support and encourage him.
The show hit the jackpot by casting Seven Tan as Ning Meng and Lin Geng Xin as Lu Ji Ming. They had great chemistry, and the dynamics between them were entertaining. Acting-wise, I am impressed. Seven Tan is a gem! Her acting as Ning Meng left a firm impression, and I was blown away by her superb performance. Lin Ge Xing clearly has the acting chops to pull off a cold to warm character like Lu Ji Ming. His expressions were on point, and in this show, in that persona, Lin Ge Xing exuded a certain charm and charisma.
I am a sucker for tall men and significant height differences between couples, and this show used it very effectively. It is not enough that Lin Geng Xin has an impressive height; the show also gave us Liu Cang as the SML.
Liu Chang's character, Su Wei Ran, got a lot of hate for being the creepy SML who could not move on past his first love's betrayal. His actions were selfish, and his desire for wealth and recognition was condemnable, but at the same time, it was relatable to real life. I had high hopes for his character development, and he did not fail me in the end. Liu Chang did well in portraying this lost soul. With his eyes alone, he showed the hopelessness and defeat that Su Wei Ran must have felt between doing the right thing and fighting his own desires, insecurities, and jealousy.
Without a doubt, the entire ensemble was great. The way the characters interacted with each other and dealt with life in general reminded me of how the people I know and I would behave in real life. The characters were nicely developed and, being adults, actually behaved like adults. None of that childish drama that the writers usually throw in to create conflicts.
I wish I knew more people like Lu Ji Ming's best friend, Ceng Yu Hang, who with his high EQ, was the "voice of wisdom" and the catalyst for many good moments between our main couple. Also, watching Ning Meng's parents, Xiao Yang and Xiao Song, and their funny interactions with our couple was time well spent. Not only that, there was a message of female empowerment with wonderful supportive relationships between Ning Meng and her best friend, her colleagues, and her boss, Shi Ying. Shi Ying was a true role model, and I would have loved to have a mentor like her.
The clothes and makeup also stood out for me because the show did not go for an idol drama feel with overdone makeup or avant-garde outfits. The actors looked normal, good-looking nonetheless, but refreshingly ordinary. I like how they styled Ning Meng from beginning to end. She looked cute in her glasses, albeit a little dowdy. It was nice to see how she naturally and realistically improved her outer beauty as she started to pay more attention, like using contacts, changing her hairstyle, and wearing more stylish outfits.
Finally, to top it off, the soundtrack was memorable for me. The way the show wove the songs and background music into the story was fitting and set the scenes and moods perfectly. Enclosed below is the link to the OST list, and I also included the link to the heartwarming song played in the background as Su Wei Ran reflected and pondered about his future.
Overall, I recommend that you try this drama out and see for yourself. Thematically for me, MOMO is a show that encapsulates life in many aspects and topics. It touches upon self-identity and personal growth, love (romantic and familial), friendship, respect and loyalty (to self, family, and principles), societal obligations and problems, the balance of power, wealth and inequality, and more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0ynz1wLE-k
终于可以说出那句我爱你 I can finally say that I Love You - 谭松韵 Seven Tan
寓言 Fable - 希林娜依·高 Curley G
甜蜜来袭 Tian Mi Lai Xi - 王赫野 Wang HeYe
那么多 So Much - 金玟岐 Vanessa Jin
寓言 Fable - 田园 TianYuan
那么多 So Much - 姚婷婷 Yao TingTing
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGDeerbW5z8
夜空中最亮的星 The Brightest Star in the Night - 逃跑计划 Sky Escape Plan
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There is NOTHING to hate.
UPDATED REVIEW:- perfect pacing, no boring scenes
- literally will make you feel satisfied, anxious, happy, giggly, scared, you also WILL cry on the last episodes.
- warning, you WILL get attached to the characters
- music was 10/10
- character development was top notch for ALL the characters
- main villain got her ass kicked (very very satisfying)
- a MUST WATCHHH 10/10
OLD Review after watching 5/10 eps
at first I gave this drama an 8.5 but then I sat down and really thought about it and realised that there is actually NOTHING I don’t like.
Side note: MYEONG Ja Eun is the most adorable pookie pie to ever pookie I just love her so much and the actress needs more roles!!
1. All the actresses are really good. This drama is the debut of Shin Seulki & Jang Daah and they are BOTH SO GOOD! Not to compare but if you look at the actress in the impossible heir, it’s her debut drama but she is terrible and everyone agrees. Seulki and Daah both show how it’s possible to act well in your debut drama.
2. The plot is really good.Definitely keeps you on your toes wondering what our female lead and the villain Jan Daah will do next.
3. Everything is just executed so well. The Ost fits the scenes, it’s very well written.
4. It’s very well paced and there is not a single boring part. I usually watch my dramas in 1.25x or 1.5x speed but not this one, I didn’t even use the 10x much.
Overall: there is a nothing to hate about the drama. It is very satisfying whenever our female lead has the upper hand and gets your heart pumping whenever she’s “losing”. It is worth your watch, no disappointment here!
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Perfect soft angst.
You know that perfect angst that rather than making you feel like you want to die, makes your heart flutter? That was it.Truth to be told, it strongly felt like every fanfic ever came to life and... it works. Pinning over each other for years, longing and wanting the other, but never taking the step forward, protecting each other, making sure the other is not hurt. All the best tags we can find in fanfics are here too. While the story is extremely simple, the directing, editing, acting, ost... everything works in such a harmonious and perfect way, I fell for the show and died a few times waiting for the next episodes to air.
Some people wished it was longer, but I honestly disagree. With this type of plot it would be hard to make a good show, which wouldn't be a cheap fan service. The storytelling here was perfect. Not once was I confused about the plot or characters' motivations. They used the screen time efficiently and showed a cohesive story from the beginning till the end. I think extending this drama could ruin it.
Tae Joo and Kang Gook are nothing alike, but that's why they work so well together. Playful and flirty Tae Joo driving the stoic and collected Gook mad. The dynamics of them, the jealousy they tried to tame... That's the highlight of the show- amazing chemistry between Gi Chan and Eui Soo.
Usually I don't pay that much attention to ost, but the songs used here were truly amazing and fitting. If I noticed them, it means they were really good :)
So why not 10, if I loved it so much?
There were a few scenes where I was not completely convinced by Gi Chan's acting (like the talk with his dad in the last episode). At times I could not connect to the emotions he tried to convey. Since the cast was small and the plot was simple, it all relied on the acting skills of Gi Chan and Eui Soo. I believed every line Eui Soo said, but felt disconnected from the few delivered by Gi Chan. What's more, I wasn't the biggest fan of how they executed the last few scenes. Not to get into spoilers, I was happy with the content, but not crazy about how it was presented and structured.
That said, I would DEFINITELY recommend watching.
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Amazing Romance with Adorable Alien and Hot Man
This is absolutely an adorable drama. Light-hearted, cute, simply makes one laugh out loud for the silliness.Wan Peng, playing the role of the alien girl, Chai Xiao Qi, looks like your next door neighbor's daughter with uneven teeth. It is precisely this look that makes her so adorable, pure and authentic. As an alien from another planet, she has never experienced love as we humans do on earth. All she's aware of works in high tech systems and codes. So while on earth, she is super sensitive to opposite hormonal beacons and strongly attracted to them. Despite being an alien, she is kind, upstanding and fair. New to me, but I must say Wan Peng is such an excellent actress and she nails the role perfectly. She is simply natural and convincing.
The male lead, Hsu Thassapak, plays the character Fang Leng. Appropriately named, Fang Leng is very good looking, cold and emotionless, with a loving heart for his little half brother. When their paths cross, the events that followed Chai Xiao Qi the alien and Fang Leng are hilarious, sweet and sexy. Also as a new actor to me, Hsu Thassapak is extremely good looking and hot with a perfect physique. Every move he makes is simply elegant and classy. He is such a wonderful actor and I'll be watching out for his new dramas.
Fang Leng has an unflattery name of being a casanova or a playboy, as he has a condition of not remembering or recognizing any women he dates after a rainstorm. Gradually, unaware of his own emotions, Fang Leng falls in love with Xiao Qi. Despite his condition, he does not forget Xiao Qi.
And for Xiao Qi, her goal is to retrieve her transponder so that she can return home to her planet. But no one can control love, not even for an alien; she falls for Fang Leng. She is tormented - to leave her love or stay and be away from home forever.
I love the relationship between Fang Leng and Xiao Qi, both caring for each other but at the same time, trying to hide their concerns for each other. I also love the relationships between Fang Leng and his little brother, and Fang Lie with Xiao Qi.
And of course, there are the antagonists, Fang Leng's employee, his ex-girlfriend, his step-mom and step-mom's brother. However, whatever schemes they come up with trying to hurt either Fang Leng or Xiao Qi, somehow, one way or another, the schemes are never successful.
Oh, have I mentioned the CGI tortoise? It's so adorable and well done.
This is a lovely drama to watch to help with my withdrawal syndrome from "The Untamed". Great chemistry. Must watch.
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This isn’t your ordinary healing drama, it is a piece of sweet candy with a slice of life filling, wrapped in a layer of melodrama, wrapped in a comedy. The balance is perfect, and when you savor it, you feel the taste of life, where joy, elation, sorrow, bitterness, numbness and relief become one and shape who you are. And through experiencing those emotions, that is how our characters Woo Seo Ri and Gong Woo Jin mature from a mental age of 17 to 30 together. I appreciate Seo Ri’s optimistic approach towards life, and I’m sure that if I had experienced the same thing as she did, I wouldn’t have been able to smile in the same way. She is truly a strong person who knows how to appreciate the beauty of life as it is.
The side characters were also memorable and beautiful. The dorky and caring Yoo Chan, who introduced us the life motto “Don’t think, pill (feel)!”, Jennifer, the mysterious butler who is a living encyclopedia, and Deok Gu/Fang, the dog who is worthy of winning the Dog Oscar of the year. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to get over them, and I genuinely wish I had friends or a family like them.
Despite how emotionally beautiful the relationship and growth of the characters were, there were still some parts which could be played out in a better way. Since this was originally meant to be a 40 (20) episode drama but got shortened into a 32 (16) episode drama near the end, the pacing was off in the latter half of the plot. All the dramatic things happened at the same time, and secrets were revealed all at once. Originally this was acceptable, but given that the first half of the story was very slow-paced and stretched out, the sudden speed-up became unnatural and destroyed the momentum of the story. Nearing the end, things that were once suspenseful felt like they no longer mattered to the audience. I once considered that maybe the pacing would’ve been better if it had been 40 (20) episodes, but I felt like there was not enough material to last for that long either.
All in all, this is the kind of drama that you will enjoy if you are looking for a heartwarming story about people growing up together, approaching devastation with optimism and learning to face traumas head on, and supporting one another. This is not the sort of drama where you will be kept at the edge of your seat. This drama is purely character-driven with a little bit of plot to drive their change. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed every minute of it and I never felt bored (mind that I’m a person who dropped What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim, Weightlighting Fairy Kim Bok Joo due to boredom).
The OST is highly worth mentioning, especially the classical music they put in each episode to match the themes. It really pulls on my heartstrings and enhances the emotions of the characters.
I would definitely recommend this drama to anyone who likes lighthearted, slice of life comedies and sincere genuine relationships. "Monster Rookie" Yang Se Jong and Shin Hye Sun truly brought their characters to life, seeing how different they are compared to their previous roles. A must watch!
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the acting is great. obviously sato is a good actor and mone is really good too. the actors are able to convey both comical and serious scenes well without being too over the top (like some manga adaptations)
overall if you want a great lighthearted fluffy drama where the leads are really cute then i recommend it. like i said it’s not a medical drama to be taken seriously so if you want that don’t watch this as you’ll probably get frustrated at the inaccuracy lmao. watch it for the romance, not the medical aspect.
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School Trip: Joined a Group I’m Not Close To
73 people found this review helpful
Cliché, but charmingly so effective
StoryWhat immediately works here is the focus on a single main couple. I’m not against series with secondary couples, but giving the story this tight focus allows the emotions between Watarai and Hioki to fully breathe. The plot itself is simple... probably the most cliché out of clichés, but that simplicity is exactly why it works. It’s not a story that feels deeply personal, yet it hits in a strange, nostalgic way, almost like healing the teenage version of myself who had never experienced this kind of love as a gay teenage boy. The longing and intensity in Watarai’s gaze, his patience, and the eventual reciprocity from Hioki make it all feel tangible. I wish I could’ve been bolder like Watarai back then. To be reciprocated by someone you don’t expect after waiting so long is the best feeling in the world
Acting and Cast
The performances elevate the straightforward story immensely. Fujimoto Kodai carries his role with a natural ease, impressive for his age, while Hideyoshi Kan’s expressive eye expressions every time he looks at Hioki communicate so much without a word. Their chemistry is absolutely top-notch and it feels effortless and gives weight to moments that might otherwise feel ordinary
Characterization
Watarai’s characterization isn’t flawless. His possessiveness occasionally gives me the ick, to be honest. But that imperfection is what makes him believable. Teenage love is messy, intense, intimate, and flawed, and this portrayal embraces that rather than sanitizing it into a “perfect boy” stereotype. I also appreciated the supportive networks or supporting characters around them, from Morisaki’s brother to their circle of friends. It adds a grounded, lived-in feel to the story. It is just so easy to watch and comforting
Rewatch Value
This is a show I could revisit multiple times, alongside favorites like Eternal Yesterday, Cherry Magic, and My Love Mix-Up!. For me, the replay value is undeniable, a full 10 out of 10
Music
While the soundtrack itself didn’t stand out, in my opinion, the musical score is carefully crafted and adds a subtle layer that enhances the dialogue and emotional exchanges between Watarai and Hioki
Standout Moments
The kissing scene deserves particular commendation. I really wasn’t expecting that from a high school romance in a Japanese BL. Watarai’s gentleness in the first kiss was clearly mindful of Hioki’s inexperience, while the second kiss escalated with more passionate intensity, conveying a natural progression of emotion. He didn’t even stop there, the seemingly improvised stolen kiss at the end, which didn’t seem part of the script, added a layer of spontaneity, suggesting that the actors fully understood the emotional beats of the scene. They knew exactly what they were doing. Tbh, I was fully expecting a fish kiss, which I would’ve understood since that’s how it’s kind of described in the novel, but man? I just loved it. It’s so refreshing to see a real, proper kiss in a Japanese BL, which I think it elevates the intimacy between the characters and grounding the romance in authenticity
Critiques
If I were to nitpick, it would be the added line, “I like you whether you’re a boy or a girl.” It wasn’t in the original novel, and while I understand the intent, it feels a little forced and slightly disconnected from Watarai’s previous lines. It reads as a concession to a broader audience, mostly straight viewers, rather than an organic moment in the story
Overall
This isn’t a BL for those who demand tightly plotted, highly polished narratives. It’s a simple, heartfelt story that resonates, reminding viewers why they fell in love with this genre in the first place, and sometimes we just need a little escape from reality. I think this is exactly why this BL series worked so well. An MDL overall 8.7 score is a fair rating considering how good it actually is
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This was so good!
Wow, I can’t believe I already finished this drama! I loved it so much and genuinely enjoyed every part of it. Honestly, when I first started watching, I kinda regretted picking it up while it was airing because waiting every week for a new episode was actual torture.I loved how the story developed, the romance, and OMG—the chemistry between the actors was insane. I would’ve loved an extra episode just focused on their dating era, but I’m still pretty satisfied with what we got in the finale. I adored their moments together and how slowly and naturally they fell in love—especially the ML. And the kisses?! (//ω//) There were only two scenes, but they were absolutely unforgettable, lol.
The romance was very soft and subtle, built through quiet moments, shared silences, and emotional safety rather than big dramatic declarations. It’s in the small, everyday interactions where their bond really shines—lingering looks, gentle teasing, and the way they slowly learn to trust each other. So when we finally get a confession, a kiss, and a compliment, it actually feels earned. Their relationship works because it grows with healing, not despite past trauma, making it feel genuine, comforting, and emotionally satisfying. ♥
I also loved the OST—especially It’s Me by Kim Jae Young. I’ve been playing it nonstop because it’s just so beautiful. And his voice?! Gorgeous. I had no idea he could sing that well. It’s also kind of wild that he’s friends with Byeon Woo Seok and that both of them sing and have dramas where they play idols.
I also enjoyed the mystery surrounding the bandmate’s murder. We were all out here making theories, and in the end, it was such a twist! (At least for me) I did suspect the real culprit for a second, but then everyone (myself included) got distracted by the manager and the CEO. So yeah, I liked the twist—even if the mystery side was a bit weak, as a romance? I’m fully sold.
Overall, I loved this drama. It might not be a masterpiece or the greatest thing ever, but within its genre, it really stands out. I’d 100% recommend it, and I’ll definitely be rewatching it in the future! (･ω･ﾉﾉﾞ
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A drama you won't regret watching but will regret not watching ?
NO TOUCH!! ( If you know you know:))
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Finally a drama that was able to snatch the place of my favorite drama and I think it'll stay there for quite some time.
Basically, it was on my watchlist since the release of the trailer but I couldn't watch it at the time of release because I prefer binge watching. Then I didn't watch it for months because I want to keep good things for my bad days and then finally I watched it and I loved it far more than expected. Everything about it was perfect to me.
Storyline was amazing, the cast and the acting was stellar, the music was amazing.
It was filled with humor. Like it can make the viewer cry and laugh at a time. The friendship was soo soo good, the bonds formed was natural.
The best thing was the character development. I hated some characters at first but the way they evolved was so good to watch.
The Queen have my heart. She is a spectrum of acting. The King was so warm and righteous but fun at the same time.
The other characters also did their job perfectly.
The trio of Queen, Court Lady Choi and Hong Yeon is so precious 🥺and also of the King, Prince Yeongpyeong, Byeolgam Hong and Kim Hwan . Royal Chef Man-bok was hilarious. Each and every character did their part perfectly. I wish I could write about all of them.
The villians were quite powerful in acting.
I liked the end. Tbh Instagram spoiled the fun for me since it is full of spoilers but many viewers were not satisfied with the end but it seemed perfect to me.
Overall, I loveddddddd the drama and now it left a void in me.
I'm going to miss it so badly😭😭😭
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The acting and chemistry between So Ji Sub and Han Hye Joo are what make this movie great. It's no secret I am a huge fan of So Ji Sub and I am very glad to see him do such a great job as Cheol Min ~ a man with a violent past who is struggling to rise above, better himself and repent the mistakes of his past. But I couldn't give this movie a higher score than 8.
Only You actually has a really great story set up: The rough, bad boy boxer unexpectedly meets a spunky, upbeat, innocent and mostly blind girl and they fall madly in love. Angst ensues when he tries to raise the money for an operation for her sight. I was thrilled watching the development of their romance. The way this movie played out would have gotten a higher score from me if they wouldn't have added the recycled element of connecting fates. The totally over used plot device of fate tying two lovers together is what drops the overall score for me. Time and again I see this scenario used in Korean movies and dramas and it gets old.
But the scenes between the lovers are filled with sweetness, sizzling chemistry, humor and heart. So Ji Sub is an extremely emotive actor who portrays every emotion in his eyes, expression and body language. He's just plain good. Call me a fan girl if you will but the man is talented. Han Hye Joo is also a favorite. I really liked her in Postman to Heaven and even more in Only You. She's one to watch for I think. I'd really like to see her in a drama again.
All the technical elements are there. Gritty, harsh lighting and gloomy settings and set design are used for his world and warmer light and more lovely settings are used for her world. When they are together everything is brighter. A nice touch by the cinematographer.
The music was very nice. Memorable in the opening sequence, in the love theme and the closing credits. I gave it a 9.
The re-watch value I give a 7 because in my case, the strength of my liking for the lead actor will have me watching this again. Others may feel differently.
Only you is a typical love story: touching, filled with angst but also includes a lot of light moments as well. I recommend it highly for all of us romantics out there.
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First let me start off by saying Etsushi Toyokawa as the handsome, deaf-mute artist Sakaki Kohji will stir your heart. A wonderfully emotive actor, I just love performers who can express a million feelings with only their eyes and this guy totally nails it. It’s not possible to look at him and not be moved. I thought the female lead went a little overboard with all the ‘aegyo’, but thankfully she toned it down a bit toward the second act. Once things took a more dramatic turn in the latter part of the drama I could see that she had some good acting chops, but unfortunately the material she had to work with was a disservice to her character. Supporting cast were like pestilence, especially Shiori and Ken, but in some scenarios Hikaru too. I was too annoyed by them to care about how they deliver. I just wanted them to go away.
Acting aside, this love story just completely captures you away. I enjoyed watching the unique challenges the male lead's deafness introduced to his life and relationships. The Japanese, as per usual, are masters in depicting regular everyday life in all its sweet mundanity. No flash of wealth, no chauffeur driven chæbols. Just an ordinary slice of life about two young people trying to figure stuff out.
Kohji and Hiroko’s chemistry is apparent from the start. They steam up the screen with every glance, every touch, every intimate embrace; and there's just something wistful & nostalgic about the exchange of love letters written by your lover's hand. I enjoyed the music - repetitive though it was, but certainly fitting and beautifully sung.
For a while there I couldn’t believe I was watching a Japanese drama, because for sure the Japanese just don’t do romance this good, do they? And an older one at that. When I found out the same writer who wrote Orange Days wrote Aishiteiru that pretty much explained it. The sweet sentimentalism, the pure headiness of falling in love, the slow build up of passion, it’s all there. Though this time around it’s the guy who has the disability, their love evokes those same warm, wonderful feelings Orange Days did. I was on cloud nine.
Sadly by ep 9 this setup starts to unravel. It’s not possible for Asians to give us a simple love story without all the nonsensical drama … can they? One hopes, but the sick feeling that blossoms in the pit of your stomach tells you something’s up, and sure enough the usual tiresome drama cliches start to rear their ugly heads. By ep 10 an otherwise well developed script takes a most illogical and drastic turn. Things go from bad to WTF in a minute, and by the final episode the show is irrevocably ruined. I was stunned.
It made it really difficult for me to decide on a rating because the first 8 eps and the last 4 eps, esp the final 3, felt like 2 entirely different dramas. And to add insult to injury the terribly ambiguous, unsatisfying ending left me feeling let down and bitter. Mostly, I felt really bad for Kohji. The guy got a raw deal. I wanted something better for him. He didn’t deserve all that crap. If I were to rate this drama based on the first 8 episodes it easily nets a 10. Not because it’s a masterpiece of any kind, but because the emotions resonate so well & so deeply. In the end my 9 rating here is also a reflection of this fact. Eps 9 - 12 get a 1 because ‘pathetic’ is truly an appropriate label for ensuing events that were totally unnecessary and foolish.
So here’s what I recommend, chingus. Go ahead and watch this show in its entirety at your own risk. But if you need to have or prefer to have a happy or relatively satisfying conclusion to a drama you’re about to invest 12 hrs of your life in, stop after the 8th episode. Arassoyo? Save yourself the grief and just create your own ending. I sure wish I had. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
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MHIYD chose to present itself as a romantic comedy. In other words, it promises its viewers funny moments while its protagonists develop a sweet or maybe light-hearted romance. Of course, any regular k-drama watcher knows that even a romantic comedy gives its couple harsh obstacles which can become tiresome at some points, but they eventually overcome them and everyone would be happy in the end. MHIYD's biggest flaw was that it actively made 'the obstacle' the center of the story and managed to ultimately rob the show out of its comedy and romance altogether. So, instead of watching two couples fighting obstacles to find love, we had to suffer as they fought love to NEVER be together. Consequently, there was only distress through most of the last third of the drama. Forget opposing parents and meddling second leads, crazy future ahjummas are the worst!
And after all the trouble, we were told that all of this meddling was much ado about nothing. I won't spoil it for you but here's a close metaphor. Imagine that someone crashes a wedding just before the "I declare you husband and wife" part arguing that the couple can not be wed because they're in fact blood-related siblings and if they get married, a horrible disease would plague the nation and everyone would die. Fifteen episodes later, said-wedding crasher discovered that it was the wrong couple, to begin with, and all the created mess was a big mistake. Oops!
The finale could have worked out if the drama wasn't fixated over the romance and chose to focus on the characters' personalities and lives challenges.
The saddest part is that MHIYD had a strong cast and refreshing characters. I would have loved to see more of Kim Shin and my favorite So Yoo Kyung. The pairings had chemistry and charm. Watching all of those interesting characters becoming dull and running through empty circles when they could have easily shined (if crazy ahjumma just let them be on their own) was such a pity, even a shame! Such a waste of potential.
The acting was good. The music was fine I guess.
Obviously, the rewatch value is low.
One more major flaw: I still can't believe that the production cast K-drama's Kissing Queen as their female lead and we still got no kisses! (I'm sorry I had to get it off my chest!).
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Pure ! They are so pure… I just wanna hug all these pure souls and no leave them go never!!
Lets go to start:
- Plot : Something new without introducing new things to the romcom (Yeah it sounds so twisted)
- Cast: ABSOLUTELY PERFECT. The leads are so extra and pure that I can't say nothing more.
- Drama itself: It had the perfect amount of love, comedy and good acting.
- Music and effects: SO CUTE AND FUNNY!
If you wanna spend a good moment watching a drama, buy this! Yeah, spend all your time and hours watching them. Embrace the cuteness of Seo in Guk (what a gem, is this puppy even real?)
Con: mmmmmm maybe the drama topic tips? But Bah you almost don't realize it and I gave up trying to find dramas who delete these topics.
If you wanna find yourself smiling when some of these characters are smiling, this will be your drama.
Have a good time queens and kings of shopping.
See ya!
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I was planning to watch this drama after it finish airing because I thought it would be a nightmare to wait for the following episodes yet I found an MV about the first four episodes and couldn't wait any longer so I end up watching those four episodes back to back and that's how the journey began.
2)Storyline/Plot:
Generally speaking, the drama's storyline is unique; gathering numerous factors of perfection to create marvellous events with amazing changes each episode. Moreover, script writers knew how to keep viewers interested even if there were unwanted events during the episode, its ending will leave you impatiently wondering about what will happen next. This drama's story is an intelligent combination between breathtaking events, amazing characters changes and great action moments.
Positive Points:
*This drama had one of the most outstanding story's development since it went deeper and deeper every episode in order to show many angles and many events that became greater with each episode passing by.
*Script writers knew how to insert "epic moments" in order to drag the audience intention, when we're not waiting for something to happen, it surprises you and give you the "OMG" moment; that was intensively present in this drama. I just love it when a storyline surprises me, it makes it hard to predict anything from the beginning till the very last end.
*Main Genres:
--->Action: Even though this is mostly an action drama, fighting scenes weren't randomly present, it was calculated in order to make viewers eager for those scenes. The action in this drama has delivered a lot of emotions especially when the situation get intense.
The action scenes were always exciting to watch whether it's because of the storyline that lead to action development or because of characters who had amazing gestures and moves during action sequences.
This drama's action differs from other action dramas, the national hero element(Gaksital) gave the drama uncommon plot changes but that doesn't deny the fact that martial arts were perfectly present. I've seen martial arts in other Korean action dramas and I have to say that it didn't feel like Bridal Mask's martial arts; it was smartly added in a fascinating way to make it absorbing: It was flawless.
--->History: This drama was set in the 30's during the darkest period of the Korean history. At the beginning, it may seem disregarded because "Joeson"'s history is none of our concern yet as the drama goes on, events will make it impossible to imagine this drama in another era. Watching historical dramas may seem boring for some people but this drama's setting wasn't the ancient history which made it modern enough to enjoy watching it.
The historical element has made the plot more expressive because the writers focused on the historical side more than the fictional side.
--->Romance: Actually, it could be considered as a negative point since it hasn't deliver a lot of emotions. However, for an intense drama that's full of action, it was the right amount. It's true that it was light but it had deeper meanings since most of the romantic stories started in the past and continued in the present.
The romantic flashbacks were smartly added, it wasn't like most of other dramas that add flashbacks to gain space in the drama's time, it was present were it needed to be.
Negative points:
*As for me, I didn't sense any negative points in this drama's storyline yet there were some political talks that bothered some viewers since it took a lot of space yet that doesn't affect the general story not even the slightest bit.
*Another point: some people wouldn't enjoy this drama if they didn't watch it while it's airing because there were too many repetitive scenes at the end of some episodes.
Story: 9.5/10.
3) Acting/Cast:
*Joo Won:
I haven't seen Joo Won in any other production so I was introduced to his acting skills through this drama and what an introduction! I was so trapped in his acting skills especially at the first episodes and as the drama went on, I became certain that he has an outstanding acting and let's not forget action scenes that were perfectly done.
The role was grasped in an amazing way, I've felt the actor through his screaming, his moves and everything that he's done *Claps*
Speaking about the character, Kang To amazed me ever since the drama began. I was moved by his personality and his charisma. As the character changed, it was like there was another person: Different perspective and different actions that built a whole different character.
Whether it is Lee Kang To, Sato Hiroshi or Gaksital, the character will give you an amazing ride to make you fall for it more and more with each episode passing by.
*Park Ki Woong:
I've only seen him in an horror film before so I am not very familiar with his acting skills. Here, his acting reached me in a perfect way plus the action scenes where he took part were done in a great way. We've got to give credit to Park Ki Woong for his amazing acting skills and his incredible way of portraying the role.
Shunji's character is an unpredictable character, it had many crucial changes that made it unbearable somehow. The changes in Shunji's character are beyond belief, the personality switch was incredible. It was sort of synchronized with Kang To's character transformations yet Shunji's deviation was much profound.
*Jin Se Yun:
I haven't seen her in anything before, I would rather not to judge her as an actress so let's say this was an introduction. However, it would have much better if this role was portrayed by a mature actress.
Mok Dan character didn't appeal to me like Kang To's and Shunji's, that's all what I will say.
*Other cast: Starting with Rara to every supporting role, this drama has an amazing cast that knew how to pull off their character in a great way. There were many characters that can stick in your mind because of their acting skills or their action performances. It was well chosen even though I don't recognize half of them.
*Relationships:
--->Bromance: The bromance in this drama was consuming from the beginning until the end; there was a lot of hard and sweet moments between Kang To and Shunji. The conflicts between the lead males made this drama more captivating. Everything that happened between Kang To and Shunji was interesting to watch; it was one of the most exciting relationships in this drama.
--->Romance: Like I said earlier, the romance was light so we can't possibly talk about chemistry but the side romantic stories were good.
--->The triangle: This drama's triangle is nothing like other Korean dramas triangles, it was gripping due to Shunji who was nothing like other Korean second lead males and Rara who's also different from any other second lead females.
*Appreciated characters: While watching this drama, I liked many characters like Katsuyama and Abe; those characters aren't very important in the drama's storyline yet they left a great impression.
Cast: 9.5/10.
Acting: 10/10.
4) The ending:
Many people were surprised by the ending. As for me, I thought it would be a similar ending ever since I started watching the drama because an intense drama can't have a calm ending.
I appreciated the ending, it was a realistic closure for this type of drama plus it makes sense.
The closing scene is masterpiece of art, it was so great to watch.
The ending: 9.5/10.
5) My impression (How did it affect me):
*I was captured by this drama ever since I started watching it, I kept impatiently waiting for its episodes to come out every week; it literally made me obsessed over it.
*This was one of the few dramas that I didn't skip any parts while watching it. 28 episodes is considered long somehow but I haven't felt those 28 hours passing by.
*Is this drama memorable: Absolutely! This drama gained a spot in my favorite dramas list, it's one of the greatest Korean dramas that I've seen so far, it brought me the unexpected and the originality.
My impression: 10/10.
6) Overall:
It doesn't matter what genres of dramas you like to watch, this drama have the potential to make you go obsessed over it. I recommend it to anyone who's looking for a great storyline with breathtaking acting skills and amazing music and let's not to forget the marvellous action scenes.
Overall: 10/10.
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The pros are miles long but i'll sum it up without getting too wordy.. hopefully:
- a very easy watch with good flow that keeps you going from an episode to another. Even when the story are simple daily lifes of students
- nothing over dramatic or makjang
- no hateful or annoying characters
- wonderful friendships of diff types and forms
- great rapport of ML and FL. And very natural progression of frenemies to deskmates to being each other's drive and support
- realistic potrayal of school life. Including struggles of studying, of hopes and dreams and the fears that comes with it
- ML despite earlier depicted as rough ard d edges n curt in speech but never overtly so. His sensitive, cating n even protective side comes out. As the drama continues he makes you swoon with the simple actions
- FL nvr potrayed as most beautiful or most dumb. Shes the average girl with her own charm, cute and doesnt try to overthink too much. She has her own strengths and limitations and own dream too. I love she was nvr overly "desperate". She instinctively does things that touches n moves the ML.
The length of the drama was just great. Never draggy.
The acting may not be the most perfect. Zhao Yi Qin was good at potrayal of Lan Tian Ye. He had the level of charisma without coming off pompous. He was cool without being cold or stiff. Li Jia Qi, this is her second work i've seen. I thought she was adorable in Meteor Garden as Xiao Yuo. Theres some sameness in her portrayal but while she might not be as versatile, she never came off as cringy or overact. ML and FL had believable chemistry and i think their acting was greatly helped by the story and directing.
For whatever reason you are hesitating to watch, hope this review gives you the push to start this drama.
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