An amazing but simple movie that now lives in my head rent-free
This movie's summary sounded really bare but the trailer looked good and it was offered at a film festival so I decided to check it out. It was a damn good and I'm kind of obsessed with it right now! The story is about a high school student who witnesses a younger student being brutally bullied by her classmates and decides to step in, admittedly out of a hero complex. One of the most kindest MLs I've seen so far, he is so kind and sweet to her and they get closer... and then the story goes into some dark places but I won't spoil it, since it builds to a really romantic, heartwarming conclusion imo.The story wasn't groundbreaking or special, I'll be first to admit, all the weird little quirkiness aside, but it was still engaging and resonated with me. It was quite deep and heartfelt - it showed how even in the darkness of this world and human behaviour, there are still good people out here who commit to being someone's light. The acting was top-notch, especially on Ishii Anna's part. I didn't really notice the music that much but it wasn't bad.
Overall, an enjoyable movie, perhaps even one of my favourite out of all the Japanese movies I seen so far and I'll probably rewatch it in the future whenever it is available.
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Getting worse as time goes by.
(1) Story & Its Logic [-]Hah, I want to scoff. This is the drama that only knows the way to create the title, but doesn't know at all how to develop the story. Their story has only one idea which is "accidentally find love" as the title "一不小心捡到爱" says. Apart from the idea that the ML and FL accidentally meet and love each other, other things are totally a mess. There's no logic in any part of the story. The business part is especially wrongly portrayed. The decisions of each character that is supposed to be the elite class from the good educational background are illogical, irrational and I can't find the root of their characters.
Let's talk a bit about the business part as it won't be a spoiler:
- Everyone on the company board regards the contract that is forced to sign as legal despite knowing that it's obtained by force without the consent of the signee... Excuse me, guyssss. You don't have to discuss how to solve a situation like this at all. The contract is void when it's proved that the contract is done by coercion. How come the senior executives in this drama, including the ML and ML's family, are very less-educated in the basics of business law. This is so unrealistic to the point of stupidity.
- In front of the media, the executives openly quarrel about the share portions and fight over the chairman's position. And this is a company that is on the stock market. And the people fighting over the position are related by blood. This kind of immature action wouldn't only be unacceptable among the board members, but it would cause a big stir among the public and affect the reliability of the company that will eventually affect the stock price. If you can't foresee the consequence of this kind of action in public, you don't even have rights to battle for the chairman position. And when they ask the board to vote right there in front of the media eyes for the next chairman, damnnn... the board plays along?!! Ridiculous! The board wouldn't vote for the next chairman in an impromptu event like this and, top of all, they wouldn't vote for any of you following your immature fight before the media if they want to save the company.
Just a stupid story, I would conclude.
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(2) Character Design [-]
There's no characteristic in each character. There's only the writer who forcefully orders each character to think, speak, do what and what. All actions of the characters are just rootless. They stick to one thing like a robot without conscious consideration. They're like machines that stick to what they're programmed without wavering, but then suddenly change their mind again, and without cause, like they're re-programmed. There's no development in their characteristics. Their changes are incomprehensive as well as their prejudices, grudges, obsessions and stupidity.
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(3) Acting [-]
Overall is bad. FL makes quite a few trivial but awkward gestures. For the general gestures, she is ok, but when it's the details there're awkward parts. The ML is inexperienced in acting it's very obvious, but that also makes it refreshing to see him in love scenes. His ears are always super red... always like I don't know anymore if that maybe his ears' normal color. Good point about this drama is the chemistry between the leads, but this thing alone can't help with the overall bad points of it. The weakness of this drama is too strong.
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To have been anticipated for this drama is disappointing for me. To finish this drama is also a waste of time.
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This drama was a surprise, surprisingly insightful and realistic, not the fairytale I thought it would turn out to be. Watch it, you'll be glad you did.
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Am I the Only One with Butterflies? Season 2
13 people found this review helpful
I’ve waited for season two to come out and of course it’s amazing!! I bought the whole series on Vimeo and it’s affordable and definitely worth it.
You can tell that the channel, NEEZ has invested more in season 2 compared season 1. Which is an improvement as they placed English sub in each episode for it as well as the change in set. I’m glad there are finally more representation for the LGBT+ community on shows, especially if it’s international.
This webseries, is light hearted and tells a story about a woman, Jung-ah who has a crush on her manager who is called manager lee at her workplace. It’s relatable and makes you want to squeal every time both of them interact. I ship these two sooo hard!
It also doesn’t dwell too much about sexuality but focuses on the relationship that exist between these two characters. I really like how they portray that it’s the norm for Jung-ah to have a crush on her manager and doesn’t overdramatise it.
I hope in the future more channels like this create more LGBT+ related webseries/shows for people to watch as it creates hope for the younger generation that whatever sexuality they come into terms to, it’s okay for themselves to be who they are. As well as that there are shows they can watch and relate to.
Overall, it’s worth watching if you want to relate to someone who is having a crush on a woman who they think they can’t have but who knows actually...
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What I did like was Hong Ki's smile, the girls overacting, and them pretending pro-wrestling was a sport. I have never been a fan of wrestling, but when they did the moves it seemed funny and made me want to clothes- line someone.
All in all, unless you are a fan of Lee Hong Ki, pointless dramas about girls trying to be tough, or if you are a pervert and like to see girls in mid-drifts and skirts hitting each other this drama is for you. Otherwise the first 3 episodes are enough to understand the plot and I really wouldn't bother with the ending.
oh and I didnt understand the lack of common sense and magical happenings in the last ep. just a note.
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Get ready for an emotional journey
"Umi no Hajimari" is an extraordinary drama that captivates with its depth, emotional charge and thoughtful narrative. The drama deftly tackles important themes of love, parenting and family relationships, offering a range of perspectives that show the complexity of these experiences. The excellent acting adds authenticity to the characters and their struggles. Each character has their own unique emotional turmoil, and their development is shown in an authentic and moving way.Rena Meguro's acting is unbelievably realistic. His ability to convey the inner emotions of a father struggling to find balance in difficult situations brings his feelings through the screen.
Additionally, visual aspects, such as the picturesque landscapes of Japan, support the narrative, giving it an additional dimension. The shots by the sea are not only aesthetic, but also symbolic, emphasizing the emotional charge of the story.
In short, "Umi no Hajimari" is an emotional journey that shows the beauty of life, in its simplest and most difficult moments. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any drama lover who appreciates emotional depth and artistic quality.
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Masterpiece
Another masterpiece was ended. Never forget the lessons we have learned with this series. Contentment, Love, dreams, family, friendship, patience, and forgiveness. We only have one life to live so live your life to the fullest.We all waited for a year to make this happen and the production never fails to give us the. hundred percent
I never thought that I cried so hard for the final episode especially the airport scene and when Tian bid farewell in the village. I hate goodbyes so this kinda broke my heart. My heart is overwhelmed with happiness at the latter part. They gave us the sweetest ending that we all wanted.
I cannot stop smiling at the last part. They act like a married couple! I wanted to see more of this because they look good together!
The instrumental music was everything. It always gave me chills whenever it's playing. It makes the scenes heartwarming and emotional which gives me a signal to start crying.
I remember how emotional I am with SOTUS, UWMA, and ITSAY. 💗
We can all agree that the acting, music, production, and direction were superb! Everyone will probably demand for another season. #ATaleOfThousandStars #ATOTS #ataleofthousandstarsFinale #EarthMix #phupha #Tian #PhuphaTian #GMMTV #alaiwaph
𝓙𝓪𝔂
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This drama is definitely dated, and I'm not just talking about the flip phones, or horrible outfits. The story itself is a very basic romantic melodrama. All four characters are in an epic love square with all the usual plot points (rich vs poor, obsessive jealousy, mean parents, betrayal, stalking...) and this gets stretched out for 20 episodes, which means there are LOTS of flashbacks. I can understand the idea of having a tough time choosing between 2 men/women you care about, but It was really hard for me to take the romance seriously since I don't think that an abusive relationship with a crazy man is very romantic, even if he's rich and cute. Most of the characters behaved in ways that often seemed ridiculous, and was often frustrating to watch, but I couldn't look away... That's because of the cast.
I'll start with my praise of So Ji Sub, who is always amazing. It's no surprise that he was great. He was my favorite of the cast, and super cute (even with the stupid hair choices). He plays the mysterious, and brooding In Wook perfectly. He was the only character I rooted for throughout the show, but I also liked that he had a bit of a dark side... sexy!
I'm also a fan of Ha Ji Won, but I'm not used to seeing her play someone so passive. As Lee Soo Jung she spends a lot of the show being used, yelled at, or beat on. Her character is portrayed as innocent, yet money hungry, and was honestly hard for me to like or root for because of her choices. Ha Ji Won did an ok job, but at times was a little too melodramatic for my taste. Still, I did like her chemistry with the two male leads during their few rare happy moments. I also liked her relationship with her Bff.
This is my first time seeing anything with Jo In Sung, and his portrayal of Jae Min was certainly entertaining, though definitely over the top. Jae min is super entitled, and completely manic, but somehow still kinda sympathetic. Many of his scenes consist of epic crying, maniacal laughter, explosive anger, and dramatic begging. His "crazy" is the driving force behind the whole drama, so in a way he's what kept me wanting to watch what happened next.
The square is completed by Park Ye Jin as the... i'm thinking of a word that rhymes with 'itch'... Young Joo. Her character is subtly manipulative, and easy to hate. It takes a talented actress to portray such an unlikeable character so well. Many of the supporting characters deserve the same compliment.
So if you heard anything about this drama you know about the widely 'controversial' ending. I was not upset by the ending, but like much of the show, it was very frustrating. I like that the writers didn't go for the predictable people pleasing ending, and tried something more shocking, but it was still cheesy in a way. I certainly laughed inappropriately.
Oh, and the music... I think that the soundtrack was starting to drive me slowly insane, but it's the kind of OST where once you hear a song from it it draws you right back into the drama, so I guess that's a good thing.
Overall, I see "What Happened in Bali" as really bad junk food. I would never call it good, but I had fun watching it. I guess my love/hate relationship with this drama fits the theme of the show. It definitely kept my interest, even when the storyline started to drag. I wouldn't watch it again, but I would still recommend it. However, if you are looking for something light and fun, there are very few of those moments, so avoid this like the plague. This is NOT a Cinderella story. If you're looking for something to make you yell, and throw things at the screen, you found it!
Plus So Ji Sub is in it, and do you really need more of a reason than that?
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So, we as the viewer start to become very weirded out, and although the romance is cute, it is really problematic to our minds when we dwell on it. I have no real problem with age in general, and I enjoyed the dramas called: I love Lee Taeri, the Prime Minister and I, Big ( at first, until the story went downhill, I was fine with the the age gap). All of these dramas have huge age gaps, the biggest age gap from these dramas was 14 years.
I would not have minded the age gap so much if perhaps, the son was not in love with the same girl. But, I guess that cannot be helped. For those of you that have problems with age gaps, at least know what you are getting into before you watch it. But, I still recommend you at least try watching it. It may not be so bad for you. Plus, the romance gets kind of boring and in the end I did not care who she went with.
The romance in this drama was secondary to the father- son bromance ( I don't know what else to call it), that was happening in this drama. I loved those scenes and I want to rewatch this drama just for those scenes alone. So, if you love bromance scenes, this is a drama for you, as long as you can get through the first few episodes with little to no bromance. Then, bromance scenes start and the drama becomes adorable. I know why it was beating Pinocchio for ratings now. Despite the boring parts this drama had more bromance than Pinocchio.
I enjoyed the music overall and the overall acting was very good. I officially love Lee Joon as an actor. I am going to have to go back and watch all his movies and dramas. The plot overall was quite interesting and I did not mind the plot holes as much. Anyway, I would recommend you give this drama a try, but, if you don't like it, it's okay this drama is not for everyone.
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I wouldn't want to change a thing about it ...
Ever saw a drama that makes you think of all the things you missed in life just because you hesitated , just because you weren't sure , just because you thought that there probably will be a better timing for the same....well this drama pretty much made me reflect back on everything I ever missed ...just because I thought it wasn't the right time ....
it has always been about that perfect timing, right? but did someone tell you that the perfect timing you were waiting for, is now ....just do it ...whatever you want , whatever your heart tells you to ....don't hold back, for you might never have a second chance !
so now shall we move on to actual review ...the part above pretty much looks like a life lesson ....(and it wasn't just for you I wrote it for my self too)
the story ...as I said I wouldn't change a thing about it ...(skipping the synopsis....pls read it on MDL page)
the story line doesn't sound so promising ...I know that well but the drama just really makes you feel a hell lot of emotions in such a short time that you can't really find faults here ....bec you just spend all the time enjoying ...
when someone who really loathes amnesia as a trope says that she wouldn't want to change a thing about the drama....you gotta believe them . I have disliked amnesia because the writers often use it to just drag the story to make it to a 16 ep stuff and here it was pretty much the main plot ....but ofc done so well ....
I am all in for friendship and actually don't really appreciate the friends to lovers trope either ....but well they did do a great job with it too ....I wasn't annoyed even a bit by anything
as a watcher when you enjoy everything you have disliked most of the time then ofc it's the biggest compliment you can give to drama ....a drama that makes you reconsider your liking ! well I really enjoy watching such dramas ....and this one too belongs to my top rated dramas ....8.5 from me is a way good rating !
from a 4 ep drama if you expect a hell good setup then ofc you are bound to be disappointed ...but the lower your expectations the more surprised you'd be ...they do manage a decent plot build but ofc somethings are bound to be left out ...after all it's not like they had time to do an ep just for plot build !
the acting ...it was my first encounter with both the leads and they managed to make a mark with their skills ...I have checked other dramas too but I don't see many lead roles and they have mostly side roles in their account! I would really love to see them playing lead roles again cuz ofc I think they deserve it.
music I don't remember paying attention to it ....as for rewatch value ...I don't rewatch so imma not say anthing !
my fav lines from the drama ....
"Time flies....it's so fast I'm scared
Why can't it just slow down so that we can feel and experience more?"
"when I was so close to dying, when I couldn't think of anything else, I only thought of you , all the time we spent together !"
"In my life, in my youth, on that tough and lonely road you were always there , always there like air, you helped me breathe"
"The human memory is like a film, you cut the pieces and stick them together however you want, and in my memory, in my life, he will always be there."
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Sweet Romance, Great Acting
Since time immemorial, humans have fantasized to possess supernatural bodies, with powers to see through walls, to hear even the slightest sounds, to smell the faintest scent, to speed like a cheetah, to feel nature, and most of all, to stay youthful and to live to hundreds of years. This drama gives the viewers a glimpse of how such powers can bring as in Han Zheng (Bi Wenjun). Together with a love triangle, suspense, and investigation, this is a very delightful story.Han Zheng is a subhuman species (homo “whatever”), Qi people, living in the north. He has come to the south to seek his best friend who has disappeared with the “seed fire” which is of utmost importance for the survival of his species. In the south, he meets Su Jiu’er (Li Yitong) who is a sickly homo sapiens (Qian people) constable, brilliant in solving cases. Through unexplained reasons, they always find it soothing when they touch each other, and each time, Su Jiu’er feels rejuvenated. After some time, they both fall in love with each other. Together hand in hand, literally, they solve one mystery after another, and eventually expose the greatest conspiracy.
I must commend the production team in the selection of the cast. Bi Wenjun is tall and good looking with a face that says he can transform into his “natural” form anytime. He’s the perfect fit as the description of the Qi people are said to be tall and strong. His acting is very believable especially when he is flummoxed by the Qian people’s traditions and habits. In contrast, Li Yitong is petite and cute, and makes a very convincing feisty Su Jiu’er who is intelligent and not cringey. She has amazing chemistry with both Bi Wenjun and Chen Heyi who plays the character of Prince Wen Jun. Despite a love triangle, the friendship of the trio is warm and lovely, and makes the viewers root for both male leads.
All the characters, even the hidden antagonist, are lovable and the use of actors appropriate. The CGIs, fighting, horror scenes etc are believable and still maintain a lot of humors and jokes. Though there could be a few plot holes here and there (such as Han Zheng suddenly knows how to read Su Jiu’er’s letter in Qian language), it doesn’t lower my enjoyment of the story. My only regrets are, the potential of a great second couple fizzles out, and by the end of the story, the antagonist is still missing. It seems there will be a season 2 soon.
My Verdict
Great watch for all. Don’t miss it! Bravo!
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My First Review
This is the most heart warming family drama I have ever seen. I can rarely say that I've enjoyed every moment of a drama or was so excited for each and every episode but I did with Go Ahead. Most of the characters and their problems or scenarios we're so realistic, I could relate to almost all of them. Even though I usually don't feel a connection to the character's problems or a strong bond. There was so many scenes that made laugh, cry, envy, and think about my own life. Please do yourself a favor and watch this series. You will not regret it. It changed my life.Was this review helpful to you?
Best historical C-drama in 2022
This is so far the best historical drama that I watched (repeatedly hahaha). I love both the main leads. Zhao Lu Si as beautiful and clever Cheng Shao Sang really bring the story life and close to our heart. This girl show how powerful and independent a woman can be eventhough raised in difficult situation during war time. Being pulled in to the royals power struggling by her beloved one The Charismatic and Powerful General Ling Bu Yi played by Leo Wu, Our little cute heroine show bravery, integrity and we can see how her character develop during the series.I need to give my big applause also to Leo Wu (Wu Lei) who portray General Ling Bu Yi. Not just handsome, his acting is superb. If you see how clear his facial expressions portraying how General Ling Bu Yi felt in each episodes, his 110% effort in the fighting scenes, this prove Leo Wu is an A class actor in such a young age. General Ling Bu Yi who have conflicted heart between love and revenge, this character I think will always be a legend in C-Drama until many years to come.
Standing ovation also for Director Fei who have succesfully direct this wonderful drama. Romance, Family Issues, Betrayal, Royals Feud, and Wars are all nicely wrapped in smooth story telling and beautiful scenes. Selection of the casts is also superb, each casts really played well like melodius ensemble that compliment each others. This is the first long drama (56 episodes) that I watch continously without skipping ! And I even repeat again some episodes to appreciate the dialog.
Watching this drama starting my shallow obsession to watch C Drama again 😁hahaha… . I am now a confirmed fans of Zhao Lu Si 💜. All of her drama are already kept in my play list.. Plus I ship this WULU CP 💜💚 so hard ! I would love to see them again together in the next drama. 💚💜
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In all honesty, I couldn't discern a core theme of this movie, and I suspect that I might have missed many points the movie was trying to get across. But regardless, it was a great experience. Paradise was a culmination of many different themes such as distrust, cruelty, racism, escapism, and isolation. Overall, it's less so a mystery and more so a depiction of how low humans can be. It was everything I did not expect from reading the summary, and I was very pleased with that.
A huge portion of the movie is demonstrating how the cycle of cruelty can affect human communities. As you watch these characters sink deeper, it's eerie how relatable they can be despite their actions. Perhaps that was the creators' intent: to put the audience in the shoes of the characters to demonstrate the evil deeds they too are capable of committing.
Personally, the theme of escapism was the most relatable to me. Often I wonder why people are so naturally sadistic. It's left me questioning that maybe it's the environment I'm in, and maybe if I left things wouldn't be so bad. Perhaps there's a paradise waiting for me elsewhere. I was surprised how well the movie presented these questions that I've asked myself for years. Although, I admittedly still don't know the answers to them even after watching.
The Acting: Absolutely phenomenal. Especially the actor who played Takeshi. None of that Hollywood overdramatic bull shite. The actors seriously did an amazing job making these characters feel real.
The Story: Although not entirely a mystery, the question of the real culprit's identity was seriously leaving me on the edge of my seat. The characters were incredibly well written and down to earth. The realistic feel the characters gave off lended immense credibility to the realism of the character's actions.
Overall: I love it to death, but definitely not for everyone. I would say give it a try but the first chunk of the movie isn't gonna be enough to tell whether or not you'll like the whole thing. If any of the themes I mentioned earlier really click with you, I'm guessing you'll enjoy it
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