Not Your Typical Drama
Adapted from a web comic 一人之下, I am Nobody (异人之下) is not like your typical drama! This drama is interesting, engaging, and funny!! The drama seamlessly blends elements of Wu Xia, superpower elements, and fantasy in a modern urban setting. It features intense battles, intriguing characters, and a mysterious plot that explores the hidden world of 异人 (outsiders - human with with qi/ powers!)The story follows Zhang Chulan, an ordinary college student whose life takes an unexpected turn after his grandfather dead body was stolen. From that point onwards, he steps into the the Outsiders world, along the way he grow, make true friends, and also go on a journey of self-discovery!
I am Nobody plot is fast-paced, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats - it is funny and engaging making you want to know more about what will transpire. Although fast-paced, but the story still unfolds casually and unrushed, it still explains the characters, their backstories and relationship dynamics.
Other than a fresh genre, what makes I am Nobody stand out is it's well-crafted characters. Not only the main character, but the supporting characters are equally intriguing, like Feng Baobao, Wang Ye, Zhang Lingyu, and more. Each of them has their own unique powers and motivations, their character dynamics also makes the story more enjoyable! The portrayals of the characters are also conveyed realistically, each actor manage to imbues their character with the character characteristic, nuance and emotional depth, that makes it very enjoyable to watch!!
Not only that, but I am Nobody also has great CGI and also unusual editing! Most of the CGI quality is commendable, the CGI has fluid action sequences with stunning visuals that bring their powers and battles to life. In addition, the fight scenes are also choreographed with precision and creativity, showcasing a variety of supernatural powers and combat styles.
The drama has done an excellent job in capturing the essence of the source material! This drama is probably one of the best drama adapted from the web comic, it stayed true to the original essence of the web comic!You can see that there are some parts where they exactly follow the web comics, from the shots and also more!!
While I am Nobody offers an exhilarating viewing experience, it does have its share of complexities. The plot can be convoluted at times, and viewers may need to pay close attention to keep up with the ever-evolving narrative.
In conclusion, I am Nobody is a definitely must watch if you enjoy adventure and action-packed battles! With it's intriguing storyline, well-developed characters, and impressive animation, it is definitely worth watching!!
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Cotton Candy Romance
In Chinese, the terms 妹妹 (mei mei) and 哥哥 (ge ge) have double meanings - one refers to a sibling, the other can mean a lover. It is the mix up in the understanding and usage of the terms that has caused the hilarious misunderstanding of our naive characters that drives the plot. The love of one's sibling (platonic) and a romantic love can be confusing for someone who has never seen an opposite sex, let alone having a sister. This purity together with naivety leads to confusion and hilarious conclusions.For the Chinese, it is very common for an admirer calling the admired "ge ge" or "mei mei". Using such terms helps to reduce the embarrassment of being too blatant in a relationship especially if it's hidden, as well as reducing the barrier in the name of familial relationship. In this drama, these two terms are repeatedly and interchangeably used and construed by various characters for different meanings.
This story is a fusion of the modern world with the ancient xianxia world. Our Female Lead Shi Xia (Wu Qianying) has accidentally travelled to the xianxia world while searching for her brother Shi Dong (Dai Yunfan). There in the xianxia world she meets the immortal Hou Chi (Zhao Yingbo) and falls in love with him. Hou Chi has never seen an opposite sex, nor heard of the term “mei mei”, and has no clue what a “sister” is, for Hou Chi is the purest of the pure and has been trained for 200 years to take over the role of the united ruler of the universe. But adopting Shi Xia as his “mei mei” to love and to protect changes his life because he also falls in love with her.
I really like Zhao Yingbo’s portrayal of the Hou Chi character. Hou Chi does look like a piece of wood, drained of emotions on his face, lack of understanding of any worldly matters and human relationship. Though slow in his motion, he is not stiff, and he is intelligent and loyal. Therefore when he eventually gives the viewers a slight smile, we know he is truly in love. The actor has an untainted look as pure as a baby’s face, with his innocent mind asking adult questions, it is really a joy to watch.
Coming from a modern world, Shi Xia is as astute as any of today’s young adults. Wu Qianying’s acting here is not bad as a sometimes-rebellious little sister, and can be rather sweet and cute at times. She and Zhao Yingbo make a very adorable pair with great chemistry. I love Dai Yunfan as Shi Xia’s protective big brother. The dynamics he has with his little sister and her boy friend, Hou Chi, are funny and warm, and the confusing interchanging use of the terms “mei mei” and “ge ge” is hilarious.
My Verdict
This drama is silly but absolutely adorable. At first, I wanted to drop at episode 1. But I was like licking a cotton candy that I couldn't throw away because it's too cute and fluffy. There’s not so much of a plot here. Basically, Shi Xia tries to find a way back to her modern world and Hou Chi tries to become the ruler of the universe so that he can help send her back. Then there is a couple of not-so-evil antagonists who suffer mental illness because of their wrongful perception, and perish eventually. The OSTs are very pretty and calming, just like our Hou Chi character and his relationship with the first girl he has ever seen in his life. Despite all the flaws and stuff, I was rather enjoying it.
Entertaining! Great watch!
P/S Though this drama is listed as having 35 episodes, there is an extra episode that tells the modern life of our love birds. Don't miss it. It super funny, and cute.
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A different kind of pandemic
Much like how we’re all wearing our face masks to curb covid-infections these days, the folks in Dark Hole are doing the same but for a different outbreak - the kind that turns human beings into mindless zombies/ monsters/ mutants, though with varying effects for each person. So what makes this drama different from other similar stories and should you really be watching it? Let’s find out...What is it about?
On the surface, it’s another zombie/ monster apocalypse story that draws parallels with the likes of Kingdom, Sweet Home, Rampant, Train to Busan, and even Joseon Exorcist. I haven’t seen #Alive and Peninsula but based on the synopsis and trailers, they appear to share a very similar premise).
But where Dark Hole differs from the rest lie in 3 aspects:
- The original source of the infection is extra-terrestrial
- The method of transmission is via a rather ominous black smoke (as well as bites/ scratches, apparently)
- The intended purpose of all this, which I won’t spoil here (to be honest, I’m not completely sure myself)
It’s an inventive spin on a well-loved and long-established genre. South Koreans sure love their zombies.
The Plot
Far-fetched with seemingly endless sub-plots and countless characters. As far as apocalypse stories are concerned, this one infuses far more elements than I’ve noticed in other dramas. It’s set in modern-day South Korea in the small town of Muji. The scope of the story covers the entire town and in addition to the overarching mystery, we have mini character arcs, of which there are plenty. The notable action takes place at 5 main locations - the forest where the titular chasm lies, the local high school, the hypermarket, the municipal hospital, and one more which I won’t reveal to keep the suspense alive.
Speaking of story arcs, we have plotlines relating to a female police detective with a tragic past who is in pursuit of a serial killer who caused said tragedy; a “disgraced” former police constable with a sad family tragedy of his own which inadvertently resulted in his expulsion from the police force; a scorned female shaman who rediscovers her spiritual powers including the gift of precognition; a high school senior who is a victim of conspiratorial cover up pertaining to her father’s fatal accident, in addition to being bullied by her schoolmates led by a high school dropout who constantly harasses her. It doesn’t end there. Many more secondary characters with their respective mini arcs are featured throughout. The one thing most of them have in common, is their respective tragic backstories.
This drama is certainly not uneventful - the many characters and side stories make sure of that. The screenwriter is trying to interweave all these stories into the main plot but I think somewhere along the way, the overarching story very nearly got completely overshadowed. After a rather promising start with much potential, I found myself getting a little restless around the halfway mark. Having introduced the new characters into the story, their side stories eventually fizzle out without the slightest connotation of how they are connected to the situation at present.
For the most part, the script and characters are adequately written, with the main issue being that too many elements are included. Even for a 12-episode drama, it does feel a little dragged out with too many unnecessary sub-plots and characters. 8 to 10 episodes would have sufficed and probably 3 or 4 characters and their story arcs should have been left out. In the end they amounted to nothing anyway and I found myself hard-pressed to develop much, if any, emotional attachments to.
The Production
Dark Hole is an OCN production and billed as the fifth entry to its Dramatic Cinema Project, which is an initiative by the broadcast network to showcase the essence of well-made genres via productions that combine the format of movies and dramas. I think what this basically means is dramas that are the crème de la crème of OCN productions. I’m not exactly sure if this drama is deserving of that billing but for context, the first four entries to this project are Trap, Hell is Other People, Team Bulldog and Search.
The first ever drama directed by Kim Bong Joo, the screenplay is written by Jung Yi Do. Those familiar with his works would be aware that highly rated dramas Save Me and Strangers from Hell were written by him.
In general this is a decent production with regards to the technical aspects. The down-to-earth action sequences appear realistic while the use of visual effects in particular for “that thing” is appropriately utilized. The production design and use of multiple filming locations are seemingly well rendered. However, there isn’t much of a soundtrack or musical score of note to write home about. The stock music and sound effects used are serviceable for their intended purposes.
The Acting
One of the main reasons I watched Dark Hole, aside from the fact that I love this genre and to ease my bitter disappointment from seeing Joseon Exorcist being cancelled, is Kim Ok Bin. It’s my first time seeing her drama in its entirety. Having caught glimpses of her in The Villainess and other productions, I’m aware of her reputation and credentials as well as recognition of her previous efforts for which she has received a great many acting honours. For this drama, being the FL Detective Lee Hwa Sun of the Seoul Regional Investigation Unit, I have absolutely no complaints with her performance. Understated, nuanced, and charismatic, she is good value for her portrayal and I’m a new fan.
Lee Joon Hyuk is an interesting choice for the role of ML Yoo Tae Han, although at times his character feels more like a supporting role than the lead. I’m more used to seeing him in suits after Stranger 1 and 2, but he was convincing as a decorated soldier in Designated Survivor as well. He gives a satisfactory portrayal of his role here, where he does carry the persona of a likeable character who would be great in a leadership role during times of crisis.
The rest of the cast, including the child actors, give a decent account of themselves. Special mention goes to Oh Yu Jin who plays the schoolgirl Han Dong Rim. My first time seeing this 21 year-old actress, I thought she did a remarkable job in projecting the chilling aura of mystery and eeriness surrounding her troubled and complicated character, which is one of the few in the show that I truly relished.
Overall
In my humble opinion, Dark Hole is not the best in the genre. But if you’re a fan of zombie apocalypse stories or any of the cast or even an OCN follower, this drama might appeal to you despite its flaws. It doesn’t end in a cliffhanger and I doubt there would be a sequel or continuation to the story, therefore providing viewers with a closure where everything is neatly wrapped up.
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The Dew Best Story
This mini series, where to start; I was smiling at the sweet puppy love crush, Best was having throughout the series. The friends also made me smile, one of the best of friends to have really, except Dew's acquaintance cause that rat sure isnt a friend. Anyways, War's acting was amazing as always, tore at my heart and squeezed it when it needed to be and Yin improved as well, actually bawled when he did so yeah bring tissues along for your binge. Shame it wasn't longer to really show off their talents with a HEALTHY COUPLE's storyline. Loved the chemistry between the friends as well.As far as production goes, I was a little annoyed at the missing subs especially at a crucial part, luckily fans in the comments translated it but hope they fix it for the future watchers of the series, the cast deserves the best. Would I watch it again? Yes. It's my favorite YinWar series they've done. Gonna miss Dew and Best. Spin off for Ray and Dave seems possible from the hints of something going on throughout...or a second season would be great.
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Fascinating and disturbing
I already expected that I would have to say more positive things about this movie than the previous reviewers. Disclaimer: I feel like there might be several versions of the movie out there, I watched the official one on GagaOOLala.In short: I thought this movie was fascinating and somewhat disturbing, although not entirely satisfying.
Some background information on the movie would be helpful to better understand it. Sadly, I couldn’t find out a whole lot. I also don’t really know about the connections to “Bittersweet Chocolate”, as I have not seen that one. What I understood: the director wanted to pay tribute to classic Pink Films, a particular Japanese genre between art movie and porn. That’s also where the whole gangster/mafia background is derived from. Apart from some smaller Queer Film Festivals, the Movie had its probably most important screening at the Berlin Porn Film Festival, where they announced it as “probably one of this year’s most extreme movies” and explained that the director intended to portray a gay subculture obsessed with outdoor sex as well as a generation of women fascinated by gay sex. If anything, it can be derived from this background that the project was really ambitious. Most of it seems to have been done by the director himself in collaboration with his sister (?) and honestly, I am happy that there are talented actors like Gun Atthaphan out there willing to experiment with such projects, it really adds a lot.
Now, there are obviously things I did not like (or better: things I thought did not contribute in a positive way to the movie as a whole):
- The length. Two hours was way too long. If it had been filled with action (sex, torture, murder, whatever), I wouldn’t mind, but the overall pace of the movie was very slow. That is fine, but then you just need to cut it to a more digestible format. Many of the scenes could simply have been shortened, without cutting them completely, as they just went on for too long.
- The vagueness. By that I mean that there was a promising gangster story unfolding throughout the movie, but the hints given were too vague to understand it even in part. James and Mac had a talk about what? What deal did James and Cherry have? What happened to the drugs? Why did they keep Boy as a prisoner? The gang was dealing with drugs and offering sex work, but other than that the story did not explain any details.
- The character introductions. There were many interesting characters in the movie (and all actors were pretty good in their roles!), but the way they were introduced and how their screen time was split was really confusing. Gold Hair completely disappeared after the first scenes, James appeared rather randomly and Ladyboy and Big Boss were just thrown in somewhere.
But overall I did enjoy the movie. Positive aspects I would like to point out:
- The actors. As I said, they were all doing really well in their roles. Clearly, all of the characters had mental problems: Cherry was bipolar (and probably sexually frustrated), James a drug addict, Mac a BDSM addict, Boy was completely traumatised. I wish they had explored the Ladyboy and Gold Hair characters a bit more though. James got too little screen time, maybe because Gun did not agree to participate in more explicit scenes, but I really enjoyed his presence.
- The cinematography. The construction site was an amazing location for such a movie. The camera knew very well how to capture the scenery, both the buildings and the surrounding nature.
- The soundtrack. The strange drum beats during the explicit scenes and some interesting punk interludes fit very well with what was going on. The movie also wasn’t shy to work with long moments of silence.
- The story. Although I criticised its vagueness and its flawed character introductions, the overall messed-up story was fascinating. I think, with the few clear infos the audience receives, it can be condensed down to the fact that Mac was indebted with the mafia and worked for them as a prostitute. At the end he manages to quit and takes Boy with him, who he apparently fell for during his captivity, cutting ties also with the bad influence of his friend/partner (?) James. James probably kills Cherry for good and goes his own way (but he might also go after Mac and kill Boy as a witness of everything, who knows).
As I already said, I was not satisfied with the movie in the end. Less vagueness and better character introductions would have been great, and I also wouldn’t mind if it was even more “extreme” in some parts, that aspect wasn’t balanced very well. In any case, cutting it down to 90 minutes could work wonders. However, it is a movie that is ambitious, experimental, featuring good actors and giving a lot to think about. Definitely not for the mainstream, but I am thankful that such movies exist!
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1The boundless promise.
Feng Ren is a Gushi/骨仕, an enigmatic, lethal sworn blade whose sole reason of existence is to protect the coveted Wuliang/无量/Boundless Heart Sutra. He intercepts a blind boy Po Xiao, who may just be a decoy or may be the true custodian of the Wuliang Heart Sutra and together, they flee the city. On their perilous journey they learn each others secrets. Underneath all the half-truths and deceptions between them, an inexplicable bond, an unspoken shared understanding and trust grows between then. For such a short length story, the actors' chemistry and the depth and complexity of emotions they conveyed shook me. Every twist deepens their bond and the boundless promise they make to each other. The important message of this story is that with great power, comes great responsibility. This is dark and heartbreaking wuxia but the break of dawn that pierces the darkness is blinding and immensely powerful.Everything about this movie smacks of Guo Jingming's fabulous taste and hallmark aesthetics. If like me, you watch this after My Journey To You, it is quite clear that the drama expands upon many ideas in terms of style, plot and character design from this 37-minute movie. Feng Ren makes me think of Han Yasi and Po Xiao of Xue Gongzi. The narrative also explores how best to deal with a weapon of unaparallelled power. Due to its short length, the plot is tight with no unnecessary digressions and everything comes to a full circle at the end. It perfectly illustrates the power of a short story in how it captures the heart and the imagination with all that is left unsaid and untold. This is a simple, well executed plot that is a must watch and one that I am happy to rate 8.5/10.
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First and Last May With You
처음과 마지막 5 월 당신과 함께This is a sweet love story, with no cringe and an unnecessary love triangle. I was waiting for this kind of drama that shows life in 1980. I love the 80's and 90's and I would have liked to live in that period.
The set, clothes, cars and even old buses, every scenery and the camera filter they used gave me the '80s vibe. Even if I am not girly, I am a tomboy like Soo Ryeon, I liked all of Myung Hee's outfits and Soo Ryeon dress at the Engagement Ceremony. Ah and because I am a tomboy I loved Hee Tae and Soo Chan outfit too.
And all 31 instrumental soundtracks and those 10 songs with their touching lyrics fit Perfect the story.
Some of them made you smile when was sweet moments, some made you laugh when were funny moments, some made you feel scared and anxious and not forget about the songs that made you cry.
I LOVE the main characters. And Go Min Si and Lee Do Hyun are my favourite actors, actually i have many favourite actors but they are one of them.
First, let's start with HeeTae and MyungHee. Well, this is what I call An Outstanding Chemistry.
They are the definition of Good Chemistry.
They are just perfect on screen. I love their relationship development, it wasn't rushed and everything had its time.
Little by little they got to know each other and fell in love.
Now let's pay attention to their little brothers.
Myung Soo and Jung Tae their relationship weren't that great at the beginning but eventually, they got closer.
I liked the moment when the other kids were making fun of Myung Soo's father because he was limping and Jung Tae punched that guy. I felt so bad for Myung Soo is not easy to watch other kids making fun of your own parents. I guess that is where they started a friendship. And Jung Tae in the present day because of the unexpected incident in the past he was limping too. They didn't show it but I guess that they remained friends. Cause Jung Tae was the first to find out that Myung Hee was found.
I have another 2 more characters that I love
Soo Ryeon even if she is a bit selfish, I liked that she wasn't bothered that HeeTae and MyungHee loved each other. The only reason she wanted to get married to him is because of her father's company.
Soo Chan - he is the definition of a loyal friend that despite liking MyungHee he gave up and wasn't the villain that we all hate. He understood that MyungHee does not belong to him. Even if he was at first a bit disappointed that she wasn't wearing the shoes that he bought for her. But after seeing her happy with HeeTae he just let his feelings to cool down and remain friends.
To be frank, I thought that he will be a villain, but seeing him next to the hurt people and trying to help them changed my opinion about him to 180° from -100 to +100.
Kyung Soo is HeeTae's friend and the soldier that helped Myung Soo to run away. I loved the moment when he shot in the air and told MyungSoo to run away. Pretending that he shot him.
And also he is the last person that saw MyungHee and he is the old person at the train station.
There is a lot to say about the characters but all character shines when the plot is Strong and Interesting.
I loved the love story with strong and touching words in their dialogues. The dialogues made you smile laugh and cry.
Even if it's not the ending that I wanted, I still love the ending.
Even if this love story is not based on a real one, but I think that MyungHee and HeeTae's love story portrayed the love story of many people that had the same tragic final.
Their first and last May together was May 1980.
One thing that hit me hard is when in the present days HeeTae said
"The 41st May when you finally returned"
That just broke my heart, i burst into tears.
Youth Of May sounds beautiful, romantic, sweet, lovely and very sad.
MyungHee died but HeeTae suffered in their YOUTH OF MAY
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A story about two real humans!
Watch this film was a mix of feelings. This movie is about - without spoiler of course - two teenagers who are discovering themselves as homosexuals.In my opinion‚ this film is a masterpiece. It is well-written‚ well-directed‚ everything was perfect.
As I said: This is a story about two real humans and‚ as humans‚ there are pain‚ suffering‚ tears. However‚ there are happiness, desire - in a sexual meaning - and a happy ending after all the pain and suffering.
It was an awesome, amazing and great experience watch this masterpiece.
* This is my first review in English (I'm brazilian)
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Story:
The story is simply stunning, exceptionally well written, well-constructed characters with very human and powerful conflicts. It's different from other kdramas because, although there is a forbidden romance, what is really striking is how it shows the strength of family ties through many souls who can't find happiness because they are tormented by the past (and here, the past is represented by the piano).
To recapitulate. An incompetent former mobster, who has just found out that he has a son, marries a single mother. A few years later when the woman dies in an accident, the stepchildren hate as much the stepfather as one of them ignores him and the other is given to low life almost like revenge.
Thus in this story no one is willing to forgive: the stepchildren don't forgive the stepfather, the stepfather not forgive himself and the stepfather's son can't forgive himself for loving his stepsister. The only one who seems to be happy is the last daughter, who while filled with light the family, at the same time turns out to be the guilty to make the lovers' romance impossible.
Acting:
Absolutely outstanding performances. If I had never seen this drama, I would never have known that Korea also has its Al Pacino and it's called Jo Jae Hyeon. I take my hat off to his talent. On the other hand, I had never seen any work of Jo In Sung, but surely if you see this drama you will never see him in the same way. Most of the time he is covered with wounds and blood, hating his life and his stepfather. His performance is just extraordinary.
OST:
I started watching this show because I listened "Spring days of my life" by CAN, one of the most memorable songs in Korea. In the videoclip they showed scenes of the drama and so I decided to see it. Apart from this popular song, the OST is really very original.
To end. This drama is full of homesickness and teaches us that we never reach happiness without forgiveness. The stepson never understand the love and good intentions of his clumsy stepfather until he discovers how much he can love a child that is not his. Beautiful reflection and sample of how life turns on a dime. Deep message that leaves you thinking how ironic we are as human beings. Furthermore, most likely you'll end up with a fervent desire to learn to play piano.
1000% recommended!
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I haven't been this fascinated by a movie in a long time. Sure, excited and caught by movies but not fascinated.
Story - the story is awesome. The ending did not really go for my taste but I liked it better than expected, let's say - it fits the movie well. While in the beginning you start thinking "Will this movie really be interesting?" the characters suck you into their life and feelings and you cannot stop watching until you know what's gonna happen. I liked how the story went along and like I said the ending fits quite well.
Acting/Cast - First off, I'm amazingly happy that the actor for Jaeha (I just forgot his name right now), a really known and popular actor, is in this movie and it's not just made by newbies or so. This gives this kind of mature movie a more serious and experienced feeling. As for the acting - it was awesome. I loved it. Nothing more to say.
Music - You don't really notice but then you do. It fits really really well.
Rewatch - Probably. Pretty sure.
Overall - Overall, Method is a piece of art where everything was put together neatly. It's definitely interesting, although not to everyone's taste I presume, and I think all the parts fit so well together which makes it enjoyable to watch even if it is quite dark. I recommend it, definitely!
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Yeong's worst enemy....
This series had me until episode 6 and then it just was a dull hum until the end. It's was a beautiful realistic story. One of the greatest joys was watching Yeong move from being self indulgent over exhuberent college kid to a self aware realist, a published writer. This is also the greatest sadness. He drew on his experiences, his environment and poured it into his writing. Along the way he lost his sparkle.Gyu Ho and Nam Gyu both suffered the same fate. Yeong's inability to accept love without expectations caused him to lose two people who truly love him. It seems all his relationships were doomed due to his desire to have the razzle dazzle fireworks to continue throughout, without being able to accept the mundane. Only after they were over, would he be able to see what he truly lost and regretted. Not knowing his true self and his inability to be alone encouraged two relationships that should never have been. Habibi and Yeong Su came with hidden baggage, one abusive and the other just sad. Yeong Su lived in shadows and manipulated Yeong's niaivete to live in his internalized homophobia. Habibi, with a hidden wife and child, embarks on a journey with him, hoping to capture a bit of Yeong's sparkle to relieve his boredom. Seeing him too drunk and overworked, Yeong chooses himself and walks away. Both relationships were poor choices to facing a life of solitude and expected failures.
His mother is shown to have moved from denial, abhorring, to knowing, to minimally discussing. She doesn't accept his life but still loves her son.
The real charmers, the electricity powering his life, were his close group of friends and roomate Mi Ae. Yet, even with them, some bits of his life were closed. His HIV status is only shown to be discussed with Gyu Ho, who loved him enough to truly accept him as he is. Gyu Ho, after the cowardly way Yeong breaks up with him, never contacts him again. Though, through the bartender at their favorite spot, he let's Yeong know, he is still loved. Not yet ready to make any contact, in the end, it is his friends that he is seen enjoying the fireworks.
The story was beautifully told, and with flashbacks in the last two episodes, we get a fuller history of the reality of his best relationship, Gyu Ho. The sad part for me is that he began to let his status have an effect on him and as he took stock of his life, became more subdued. The last two episode felt like a gradual slide down from the high.
Every character was skillfully brought to life. Yeong was a free spirited over the top whitty self accepting non judgemental dreamer who was scared to dream and Nam Yoon Su killed it. This is a must see at least once.
Note to directors and editors at large:
Flashbacks: This is how it's supposed to be done. Ever flashback should reveal something new and actually propel the story being told.
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Jing Boran is the Hottest Officer in Uniform
He is a man who cooks, does house chores, and protects the country. What more do we want of a man? The writer gives the viewers a perfect man who loves quietly, hurts quietly, never complains, never seeks glory, is courageous and always wants to help and protect. This is a lovely series which can be boring for some for its slow, everyday life story, but lovely for many for its quiet romance, a romance many can relate to - no fanfare, just love and devotion (if such elements still exist). It is the romance story of a special force police officer.“Road Home”’s Chinese title, “Gui Lu” (means return road), is coined from both the main characters’ names. This is a story with beautiful scenes of the canyons and touching moments, spanning from high school in 2008 to the present time 2020.
Lu Chen aka Lu Yanchen (Jing Boran) is a special force police officer working under the explosive unit. He fell in love with Gui Xiao (Tan Songyun) in high school but they separated when they both sought different career paths. Years later they meet and fall in love again, this time for real. Knowing how dangerous Lu Chen’s work is, Gui Xiao embraces him wholeheartedly because she loves him. For once in Chinese drama, Lu Chen is not the type that says, “I leave you for your own good because I love you so much.” Lu Chen is delighted that Gui Xiao wants to marry him, knowing that there may not be a tomorrow.
Lu Chen is a very serious person. He is strict, doesn’t crack jokes, doesn’t laugh, and has few words. Most of the sentences he speaks are one-word sentences. For him, actions speak louder than words. He also has a complicated family story that torments him since childhood. Jing Boran has perfected his role. With a face that is not pretty but handsome beyond words, and a physique perfect for a tough law enforcement officer, Jing Boran tells the story through his facial expressions that say a thousand words which cannot be spoken. In reality, Jing Boran has a rather similar family story like the one in the drama. Perhaps he can feel the pains of the character better than the others can.
I love to watch how Lu Chen uses his coat to wrap around Gui Xiao from behind and gently holds her. These types of hugs are the most soothing, sensual and romantic; the warmth emanates through the screen, making the viewers soaked in peace, love and security. This is Jing Boran's amazing power and charisma; immersing in his embrace is so reassuring and warm.
Gui Xiao comes from a wealthy but broken family just like Lu Chen’s family. She is independent but when in front of Lu Chen, she becomes a little girl, totally dependent on him. With a face that passes easily as a teenager, Tan Songyun’s juvenile Gui Xiao is very believable and as an adult, her character becomes mature and continues to grow to be even more understanding and loving.
Official Sound Tracks
Two OSTs impress me the most - Youth is Well (青春无恙) and The Dust Maiden (灰姑娘). The former is touching with beautiful lyrics and tune that stays in one's mind. The latter is an old folk song that Lu Chen sings for Gui Xiao. The lyrics are appropriately expressing his feelings for her, and the tune is lively and cute.
My Verdict
This is a down-to-earth type of everyday life romance story. It portrays the life of a police officer on the front line, his love life, family and his sacrifices. There are quite a few episodes spent on just the natural and beautiful scenery of the north-west desert at the border. The pace is rather slow - there’s a lot of looking and waiting, but every second is precious to watch because the story is being told on the characters’ faces. There are no flowery speeches; the dialogs are rather common like things people would say everyday going about their life. All the characters are lovable, and there are no antagonists, though Lu Chen's father was initially thought to be one.
The story reminds the viewers of the sacrifices a country’s protective forces have to make, putting their personal safety on the line to ensure the safety of others. Their valor is admirable. Though the main character is a law enforcement officer, there are limited action scenes as the focus is on the romance development. Throughout, there are a lot of flashbacks, giving viewers the backstory of their romance.
The writer works hard to show the viewers how much the couple is in love with each other. There are a lot of kissing and intimacy scenes. One of the scenes even shows Gui Xiao staring at Lu Chen's naked body when he comes out from the shower. I wish she had gone up to hug him, or better still, gone into the shower with him. But this is a Chinese drama, and it has to pass censorship. Just some wishful thinking. The allusion that she is staring at his nakedness is rare in Chinese dramas.
This is a great drama for viewers who prefer a slow pace story with nothing much happening, for romance buffs who love a mature and quiet romance, or for anyone who just wants to look at Jing Boran.
Don’t miss it. Great Watch!
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