Along with the Gods 2: The Last 49 Days
0 people found this review helpful
49 Days of Flashbacks
This sequel filled in important narrative gaps by finally answering the lingering questions about the main characters' origins. This made their journey more compelling for the audience and contributed to the overall intrigue of the film.However, the numerous flashbacks disrupted the narrative flow. The fragmented plot and inconsistent pacing prevented this film from being as engaging as the first installment in the series.
While not as endlessly rewatchable as the original, the sequel still offers impressive special effects and a great balance of action and comedic scenes, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the first film.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Here's what I think (i loved it)
I really liked the movie. What I appreciated the most is that they treated it as an adaptation rather than a remake, perfectly preserving the original storyline.I especially enjoyed how it was adapted to Thai culture, particularly through the use of comedy, which is a distinctive element of Thai entertainment. It felt stronger here than in the original Taiwanese version, but it still remained coherent within the story. It lightened the overall tone (don’t be mistaken, it is not mainly a comedy movie) while reflecting Thai culture beautifully. Menn is a bit goofy, and the film as a whole balances humor and cultural depth really well.
The choice to replace the original Taiwanese KTV Club with a Boxing Club is another cultural statement. It shows how deeply this version is rooted in local culture. This movie was clearly made first and foremost for the Thai audience, and only secondarily for international viewers, something also reflected in the guerrilla marketing campaign held in Bangkok.
The way the film tackles issues of identity, sexuality, and the concept of ladyboys (themes deeply felt and lived in Thailand) was, in my opinion, magnificent. From Titi’s character, with his construction and PP’s performance, to his ex-boyfriend, his father, certain moments of Menn’s journey, and several side characters, these topics were explored from multiple perspectives. The result is a portrayal that gives the audience a more complete and less stereotypical understanding of how these issues are perceived in Thailand. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, alongside acceptance, diversity, and freedom there’s also hate, intolerance, and prejudice. Facing those things isn’t easy. Sometimes you just put on a mask of indifference and keep going, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay.
I’m used to seeing BK and PP in other kinds of works or in concerts, but I truly appreciated the director’s vision here. I could sense the male gaze (the director is a man), and there were only two specific frames I didn’t fully enjoy because, to me, they disrupted that sense of “realism”, the immersion that the storytelling builds. Still, I understand how they tie back to Thai culture.
The color palette is stunning, meticulously planned and, together with the styling, it creates a whole universe of its own. I laughed a lot at the shirt-changing scenes, especially at the beginning when one of the shirts had “Brescia” written on it, cause as an Italian that was unexpected and very amusing. I watched the movie together with my best friend and I sort of glitched for a moment as I said “wait a minute… Amo, does that shirt say Brescia or am I seeing things?” and we had a good laugh.
The locations are also remarkable, combining the essence of Thai culture with subtle Chinese influences in a seamless way.
The only moments that felt noticeably different to me, probably due to my emotional attachment to the original scene, were some small details in the final hospital scene, where Menn talks with his father, and of course, the change from the KTV Club to the Boxing Club we mentioned earlier.
I really appreciated the post-credit wedding scene as it gives you hope for another life. A little bit of sugar for the viewer, although I can’t say if it was related to the whole fancon/marketing or to the movie itself. The bittersweet feeling at the end still lingers, but if you already knew the story, you probably expected it. Before the film’s release, there were talks about the possibility of a different ending, which brings me back to my earlier point about adaptation VS remake. I truly appreciate the fact we weren’t given a happy ending just because.
I also love how Chinese culture keeps showing up in their works, it being related to the fact that both of them are of Chinese descent and part of the Chinese-thai community in Thailand. I appreciate its constant presence, kind of like an Easter egg for fans. For those who follow the actors, like I do, it creates a deeper bond not just with the characters, but with the actors themselves.
I've seen people debating about the whole 'unrealistic' aspect of ghost-weddings, but it might just be because it's not a storytelling too common outside of asian culture. You should always try to watch something with a perspective related to the culture it comes from.
Was this review helpful to you?
I like the way it shone✨
To be completely honest, I personally love this movie. Despite all the criticisms it received right after releasing the trailer. The CGI is very well constructed, such as the monsters, the backdrops, and when they use their skills. I may feel this way because I haven't read the novel or the webtoon, but even if I had, I wouldn't say this adaptation is any worse. Certain points include how much effort the crew has put into this project.For such a fantasy-packed, well-written source material to turn into something visually believable isn't an easy feat. The whole time watching ORV, I felt like I was literally drawn into their world as a bystander, watching everything unfold; how they tear each other apart due to greed, how people became the actual 'monsters' in the world when faced with life-and-death situations, and how there's still hope in humanity as long as we change...one after another. The CGIs and the ensemble cast's brilliant acting made this all happen.
Talking about acting, I would give my utmost praise to all the cast members, especially our adorable Lee Gil Young and the steadfast Jung Hui Won. Oh, and not to forget our soldier guy, Lee Hyeon Seong~ Na Na did an exceptionally great job here! Her action choreography is top-notch! Additionally, our little Gil Young is so cute whenever he does that pose to call forth the insects~ XD
Another unpopular opinion of mine would be about Pil, the Goblin. He's a cute chap in my point of view. He's the "cute, but can k!ll" type of existence. His 'cooperation' (kind of) with Kim Dok Ja was interesting, and I love him getting confused whenever Dok Ja mentions something that the new 'players' aren't supposed to know. He could become a good partner lol XD
My only dissatisfaction is that there were so many unanswered questions for this movie, and although it wrapped well, I hope there will be a continuation. The open ending has hinted at new possibilities, which could take an intriguing turn (hopefully) in the future. However, I doubt there will be one with how the reactions were.. :'D It's quite sad though...
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Too Gross To Be Funny
**This is just my opinion. I appreciate all of the hard work that went into the making of this movie. Thank you.**Most of us have laughed at the crude/rude humor of Homer Simpson, South Park, Seth Rogen, Adam Sandler, etc. I'm no exception. I thought this movie would be like a Korean version of that kind of humor. It's not my go-to thing to watch but I was looking for something different. I wasn't expecting it to be that gross though. How gross you ask? Well... There are some things you just shouldn't do. Or aren't funny I should say, because they made me sick just watching it. In one scene alone, a guy um, "finishes" into a skillet, cooks it and then makes it into a sandwich and feeds it to someone. You should not ever feed some unsuspecting person your bodily fluids. It's just so gross. I'm ranting, I know. I couldn't stand it and dropped it. If you're into that kind of thing, then more power to you. Have fun. Either way, consider yourselves warned.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
The Acting Was Incredible, The Story Not So Much
**This is just my opinion. I truly appreciate all of the hard work that went into the making of this movie. Thank you.**Honestly, I nearly stopped watching a few minutes in because I thought it was going to be really bad due to how dated and strange the hair and costumes looked compared to what I'm used to seeing in historical dramas. They weren't horrible. They were just very, very different. I'm glad that I kept watching though, because the acting was superb. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable.
I didn't like the story because it was about a powerful older man---the King---who "groomed" (****** grooming is the action or behavior used to establish an emotional connection with a vulnerable person with the goal of ****** abuse ) Hong Rim from the time he was just a child to be his "partner". Hong Rim never really had a choice in the matter or the ability to say no. His relationship with the King started when he was so young that he just thought he was gay as well. Later, the King, unable to consummate his marriage with his Queen and produce an heir, forced Hong Rim to that for him as well. Both Hong Rim and the Queen are being violated in this scenario. Fortunately Hong Rim is kind and gentle and what could have been another horrible experience turned into a pleasurable one for them both. Unfortunately, when they developed feelings for each other, the King immediately tried to put an end to it. I won't go into more detail than that.
In summary, this movie is well worth the watch if you are over 18 and aren't squeamish. There are a lot of violent scenes and the adult scenes are very, very graphic. You can see everything but the front lower bikini area. I was shocked by how much it showed. I can't say how shocked, lol. They are done very tastefully and extremely well though.
Was this review helpful to you?
A letdown
Calling this a sequel to Gil Boksoon is disappointing and an utter insult. I wanna call this assassin's romance. Most of the action scenes were skipped until the match at the climax. What is this? The genre listing for this movie should definitely be changed. This was a waste of my time. Part of my disappointment definitely came from the casting, specifically Im Siwan, whom I knew I could rely on for action stuff. LOL. The problem with this movie has nothing to do with the casting and everything to do with the plot. I was bored in the first 30min and I should've just stopped right there. For a movie that's supposedly action, thriller, mystery and crime I think it doesn't even satisfy half the genres.Was this review helpful to you?
"Love is the strongest weapon of all"
Love is a twisted path when one person is a fraidy cat scholar and the other is a tantalizing ghost. 1987’s A Chinese Ghost Story set the bar for Hong Kong haunted offerings that would follow.Newly anointed tax collector, Ling Choi San, travels in tattered shoes with no money for food or shelter. The town he enters refuses to put him up for the night and sends him to the Orchid Temple. What Ling doesn’t know is that the monks there are no longer living and other creepy creatures have set up housekeeping, along with a virtuous Taoist swordsman. At the temple he meets a beautiful young woman who hides a deadly darkness.
Leslie Cheung made a great bumbling scholar who inadvertently saved himself and others through his clumsiness. The schtick only caused me to want his character to be eaten a couple of times with the rest of his screen time resulting in a more endearing response. Joey Wong’s ethereal Lip Siu Sin was believable as both the seductive and vulnerable ghost. Wu Ma stole the show with his bearded ghost hunting swordsman. Always confident and under control he looked out for the good-hearted, if not very bright, tax collector.
Tony Ching Siu Tung both directed the film and worked as one of the martial arts directors (there were five). Much of the martial arts was sword work (often magical) and/or wire-fu with Wu Ma carrying the load on the fights.
A Chinese Ghost Story offered ghosts, zombies, a powerful life-sucking tree demon, and the lord of the Black Mountain with his underworld army. Nothing an old swordsman, an inept hero, and a lovely ghost couldn’t handle. The special effects and storytelling may have been dated but the film certainly had its charms. As always, I rate older films in these niche genres on a curve.
4 October 2025
Trigger warnings: Snake, a tree with an enormous tongue, implied wolf killings, zombies, decapitations, and a brief sexual encounter.
Was this review helpful to you?
Routine as the Main Character
The film follows Hirayama (Kōji Yakusho, winner of the Best Actor Award at Cannes), a middle-aged man who works as a cleaner in upscale public restrooms in Tokyo.
His life is marked by a daily, rigidly structured ritual: he wakes up, tends to his plants, drives his van listening to cassette tapes of rock and folk classics (The Velvet Underground, Patti Smith, Nina Simone), cleans the restrooms with almost ritualistic dedication, and, at the end of the day, dedicates himself to his passions: reading and photographing trees.
Wenders transforms this repetition into poetry, showing that happiness resides in the intention and presence dedicated to each moment. Hirayama's routine is not a prison, but a choice that allows him peace.
Themes and Style
The Beauty of Simple: The film is a powerful reminder that true joy often lies in small acts and genuine human connections. It is seen as "motivational" without being forced, teaching through the protagonist's silent example.
Mystery and the Past: Unexpected encounters—such as the arrival of Hirayama's niece or sister—slowly disrupt his routine, forcing him to reconnect with a past he has clearly left behind. The film is subtle and doesn't provide definitive answers as to why he abandoned a seemingly more affluent life, leaving the interpretation to the viewer.
Dialogue with Ozu: Wenders's work is widely praised for its reverence for Japanese cinematic masters, especially Yasujirō Ozu, in the way he observes and appreciates Japanese daily life with tenderness and precision.
Acting and Silence: Kōji Yakusho's performance is the film's driving force. His performance is full of subtlety and depth, conveying a serenity that conceals mysteries. He uses bodywork and expressiveness to provide answers in the absence of words.
Critic's Conclusion
Perfect Days is considered by most critics to be a masterpiece and one of the most unforgettable films of the year. It's a "zen" film that invites audiences to shift their perspective on work, loneliness, and the search for meaning in modern life, showing that "simple solves everything." The ending, in particular, is often cited as one of the most moving and beautiful moments of the season.
It's a film that celebrates the "now" and the ability to find beauty even in the cleanliness of a public restroom.
Was this review helpful to you?
Good action, great chemistry nothing more
This action drama is the definition of a solid watch. It has an interesting story and executes its action sequences effectively, making for a genuinely fun couple of hours. However, it's the kind of movie where the star power shines brightest, perhaps compensating for a plot that is merely good rather than exceptional.The highlight of the entire show is the pairing of Ja Yun and Gong Ja. If you loved their dynamic in Our Beloved Summer, you're in for a treat here. Their chemistry is effortless, and every scene they share is engaging. With actors of this caliber, you know you're getting great performances, and they certainly deliver, elevating the entire production.
Ultimately, this is the kind of movie that gets high ratings but doesn't quite earn a spot in the 'masterpiece' category. It sits comfortably in the middle: a good, entertaining film that’s worth your time, but perhaps not one you’ll rush to rewatch immediately. It’s definitely a strong watch, powered by two fantastic actors.
Was this review helpful to you?
Omniscient Reader: The Prophecy
I feel like I'am a queen of unpopular opinions this year, but well what can I do? I really like it and had good time.So disclaimer: I did not read book/manhwa - probably will not, only because of huge To be read list, cause this movie totally made me curious about it. More disclaimer: I do not care if adaptation is 1:1 with original material, I really do not give a sh*t about it. Also I often watch something before I read it and that made me want to read. And even if I read something and then watch adaptation I expect it to be different, that is a whole point for me - to make it not exactly the same. For example I love Percy Jackson's movie - I loved every single book which I read because of movie - but I do not like series, which is more book accurate. Same thing with shadowhunters.
Moving on - I love this film and can not wait for more (although I prefer series) - it was so fun I totally consider watching again. love how some moments it looked like game or actors looked animated. Simply totally my vibe.
Because I do not know original material changes does not matter to me at all.
Acting - in my opinion was very good. Story went pretty fast, there was no boring moment.
Jisoo - she will be the only one I talk more about - simply because I like her acting and I know it was more than controversial :she did amazing, she really did (she need more roles like this), also her screentime was good in my opinion, we had a little of her background, she slayed her scenes, was totally badass and stood out - more screen time would make less impact, so in the end it was in her favour.
To sum up - if you like a genre, then a must have!
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Light and Sweet
Love Untangled isa sweet, funny, and little bit heartfelt movie that had me both smiling and tearing up by the end. The story balances lighthearted moments with bit of emotional aspect making it a decent watch.If I had to nitpick, the “self-sacrifice breakup” after the hospital scene felt a little predictable, and I wasn’t a fan of how the movie leaned into the idea that straight hair is prettier. While I loved that the female lead eventually embraced her natural curls, I wish that positive representation had been there from the beginning.
That said, these are minor flaws in an otherwise good film. The friendship, humor, and emotional depth make Love Untangled one of the feel-good movies. it's perfect when you want to watch something that's light and fun 😊
Was this review helpful to you?
Exaggerated Movie by Many Reviewers
In general, the story are solid. But that's it. Another things about this movie are basic. For somebody who's looking for funny awkward romance by teenager, you can pick this one. But if you looking for something full of emotion, hard working protagonist, or hiding value from the movie, forget it!The acting only rely on facial features. It's too much. They label it as romance, yet it's more like awkward romance. More to add is this movie also rely on beautiful scenery as a background. IMO Hiyori Sakurada acting are stiff and every reaction are far-fetched. She maybe thought that with pouting lips she'll be recognize as cute girl. The male actor are ironically doing same things. Doing something like 'cool guy' things is so yesterday. He looks like idiot that don't know how to express emotion well.
Was this review helpful to you?
This movie is just soothing,relaxing and healing
This movie is just soothing,relaxing and healing.As someone who loves cooking and find it therapeutic.I loved how the food she made was just comforting. This made me try out to make those dishes too. Countryside movie which is simple but gives some kinda message to live freely and in a own way!! Totally loved it!!!Was this review helpful to you?
Beautiful Chaos
You know what? I still can’t believe how much I like this movie.Backstory: I had thrown this show in my “never to watch” BL list. (Yes, I have a list like that haha) Why? Well, cos I read the synopsis and thought “Infidelity? Hell no.” And on that note, let me just say, the synopsis isn’t really doing the movie justice. There’s more to this movie than you’ll read in the “about.”
Now, yeah I know it’s a manga adaptation and as someone who hasn’t read the manga and only watched the show… I love it.
Someone is probably thinking, “So, how did you end up watching this when you swore never to watch it?” Good thinking… it was on a Thursday evening when I had nothing else to watch and I was bored out of my mind , then I revisited my NTW list; this was the first show on the list.
And that was how I started it.
Let me just add that the title “The Cornered Mouse Dreams of Cheese” is metaphorical. And this story is a metaphor that touches various sensitive themes.
Many people would interpret this story differently but what the story is to me is about a man who is inherently gay but unaware about his own orientation (hence never found satisfaction with women and always chooses infidelity) this man meets another man who is openly gay, and the openly gay man helps him figure out his romantic and sexual orientation.
And for the first time, the man who is gay and unaware found a reason to love and stay committed but he found it in another man.
TCMDOC has made it to my “Best JBL movies” list and found its place in my top 3.
If you’re like me and you’ve written this movie off, please watch it.
Was this review helpful to you?
Could the Negative Reviews Be Wrong??
I came to say check out the line-up of Korean A listers, but the reviews have me scared to even attempt watching this, but since I love to binge watch, I will wait until more eps air. I will have my ear to the plow to see if Ahn Hyeo Seop and Ee MInho are enough to garner enough (positive) buzz for this drama....Was this review helpful to you?
