Reviews

Great Premise Ruined by Poor Writing

The first 4 episodes were fantastic. Like 'edge of your seat, trying to piece everything together' type of fantastic. However, the latter half takes all that away and ruins it. The story is filled with plot holes and relies on idiotic characters to further the plot and raise the stakes - Spoiler, the stakes remain dead in the water.

I think the writers had a great idea. Combining tradition, i.e., shamanism, with technology, a killer app, and a not-so-stable friend group was a solid idea. If only they hadn't made their characters' one consistent character trait be bad decision-making.
Tbh, of the 5 main characters, the one character who (largely) made smart decisions throughout was Kim Geon U. Even Ha-Joon, who was presented as the logical friend, was only proverbially saved by the bell from adding his name to the kill list of that app

Generally, I expect such shows to have dumb characters. It's part and parcel of the genre. Frustrating, yes, but you've got to sacrifice a few for the theory of evolution by natural selection. However, when the majority of the group is dumb, the viewing experience becomes frustrating.

I wish they had given me

1. Better, smarter characters - Personally, I believe that smart characters make for a better viewing experience. As a viewer, I'm not dumb, so the writers shouldn't treat me as such. Stupid mistakes being the thing that consistently pushes the plot is insulting my intelligence. And undervaluing my time

2. Tighter plot - There are so many plot holes with the main and even supporting characters. I could list them out, but I'm not enjoying typing this out. Part of me suspects that this could have been intentional for them to try to create a hook for the 2nd season. However, that just made this season feel incomplete.

It's like buying a sandwich and finding out it's all crust and a few unseasoned lettuce leaves. Then being told that you now need to get a 2nd sandwich so you can get all the other good stuff - The actual bread, the sauce, and the meat. Why TF would I buy from you again? Not only did you make me waste my money, but you could end up giving me another crust sandwich and telling me to wait for sn 3. No, thank you.

3. A better villain - Honestly, I'm lowkey tired of the whole 'insecure bully from a broken family' narrative. When the show started, I had hoped that the backstory of the app would be quite sinister. They classified it as horror after all. However, learning that all this happened coz one girl wanted to bully her one genuine friend... *insert hard eye-roll* come on now. Kwon Si Won being evil for the sake of being evil is just... meh

PS. Actually, I don't mind a villain who's evil for the sake of being evil. But they need to face smart and resourceful 'heroes' for the story to stand out and keep me hooked.

Three Extra Thoughts

a. I will say, the most memorable thing was the eye in.... was it episode 3 or 4? That eye made me jump. I think it (and the 1st time we see Do Hye Ryeong slit her throat) were the only parts of the entire story that felt like they fit adequately with the horror tag

b. There is a lesson here about choosing better friends. About not staying friends with mean people simply because of history. About not trying to save everyone because (again) of history or coz you're a nice person

c. If they were to announce a 2nd season, I suspect that Na Ri would be the villain in that one - based on the after-credits scene. I, however, will not be tuning in. Netflix hasn't had a great track record with sequels, even when they had strong 1st seasons. Look at shows like Sweet Home, BloodHounds & the 1st 2 seasons of Alice in Borderland. Strong starts that were butchered later. This show didn't even have a strong start. I'm doubtful that the 2nd season will be anything good.

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Under a veil of snow everything appears sparkling, even the puddles.

The most remarkable aspect of this drama is how quickly it goes from an original story with intriguing characters to a jumble of unlikely events and dubious purposes.

Gradually, my overall opinion of it has also diminished. Today, about a month after I've finished watching it, it's almost as if I'd never watched it: it left me with nothing meaningful. This happens when an exaggerated emphasis is placed on the exterior of things, rather than their substance.

There's no doubt that this show is aesthetically satisfying; in fact, it's all about pleasing the eye.
Starting with the male protagonist. Constantly bathed in a soft, almost mystical light, with strands of hair blowing in the breeze from permanently open windows—in the dead of winter—his expression somewhere between stoic and impenetrable, the Marquis of Wuan offers a picture of beauty as perfect as it is pointless.

I won't deny it, I was initially fascinated by him too: the mystery surrounding his character had great potential. Instead, not only did this mystery take an astonishing and frustrating amount of time to unravel, but when it did, it had more holes than a Swiss cheese. He is a warrior who is never warrioring, a husband who is never husbanding and a leader who is never leading.

In some ways, all the male leads in this drama suffer the same fate: all damned good-looking—did they find them in a catalog?—they make questionable choices driven by obscure motivations.

By the final episode, it's painfully clear why: the entire drama revolves around the heroine, Everything else is a byproduct, and an often confusing one.
So we have this super pretty, lively and independent butcher who finds herself a husband of convenience and - according to the synopsis - slowly falls for him. Unfortunately, she suffers the same fate as the viewer: she falls for his outer appearance, nothing else. She knows nothing of him, he doesn't give anything away and she is too busy bossing him around and going on with her pigs slaughtering to even raise the slight doubt. And I was left there grinding my teeth in frustration.

There are 2 different scenes that threw me out of this romance for good:

[SPOILER]
the first when he kisses her and she slaps him as a result, accusing him of harrassment. Girl! You've just packed his things and decided on a divorce, he even asked you to go with him, you've previously plotted to seduce him by washing your feet in the same basin (awful moment) and now you're suddenly all indignant that your husband dared locking his lips to yours! Gahwd. Not to mention that with one slap she could have sent him flying to Japan.

The second happens when they reunite in the battle camp, where he is YET again injured and he misses YET another good occasion to reveal his identity. And Fan Changyu is still oblivious, since her strength is not in the brain. I threw something.
[END OF SPOILER]

By then, I couln't care a dry fig what happened to them or their frustrating romance, where they are married one minute, then they are not by the law, then they are again, then...
It troubles me that I found myself more invested in the second couple's story. This is indeed problematic inasmuch as the male character is nothing short of a psychopath. Far from me to find it romantic, nevertheless Yu Qianqian and Qi Min made me feel something, they were complex, twisted and tragic.

What is left is a convoluted, never fully explained plot of a petite beauty who becomes a stronger version of Princess Xena, a Marquis of Wounds and a palace intrigue that was revealed early on but for some reason was treated as a mystery till the end.

I'm not going to rewatch this drama. Even worse, I haven't even rewatched single scenes - yes, I do it when I fall in love with a couple. It didn't happen here.
Next.

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good one

i almost went from rating this to 7 from 8 because a mess at ending it's good for passing time I disliked short drama , but after watching 2 I changed my opinion it's better to watch short one than wasting time on 40 eps , this would have been better as slow burn , would be perfect,but it's not slow burn since it short drama

at start - A comic World plot, I really like it most of the manwha have this plot it's so much trending I don't understand why Koreans haven't made a single kdrama on this and CDRAMA are doing it instead, I was going to quit after seeing first ep because plot - she has heart attack will die if she doesn't kiss ml , I don't like this but this doesn't stay till end and later I got hooked on the drama till end , it's rare for me to get hooked in CDRAMA but CDRAMA do not have stories like that

in middle story focus is suddenly crime I was annoyed I am here for romance not crime it takes many eps

last after they finally date they breakfup right away because ml going to disappear from comic world but FML stops by getting killed and restarting the story I was really going to be annoyed by story ending like that but they get back together at end , happy ending

i enjoyed so I gave 8 ,it's not 8 but most CDRAMA are not interesting as this one ,the other overhyped
the fashion was good, little good comedy, the leads randomly confess without much development as story focused more on comic story than romance , I wished there were more scenes between the main leads
has good romance

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10/10- A Masterpiece Of Beautiful Trauma

Read This Before You Watch 🌊🍂
I am writing this through blurred vision because I honestly don’t think I’ve stopped crying since I hit play on the first episode. I absolutely loved Mr. Plankton, but please take this as a serious warning: this drama is a soul-shattering experience. It is a 10/10 masterpiece, but it’s the kind of show you watch once, get the trauma, and then lock away in your heart because you can never put yourself through it again.
The "Anti-Fluffy" Slice of Life
If you are looking for a lighthearted, fluffy rom-com to relax with, turn around right now. This is not that. This is a raw, gritty, and devastatingly beautiful slice-of-life story that explores the darkest corners of loneliness and existence. It tells the story of the "saddest life" imaginable, and it doesn't pull any punches. I found myself crying every single episode—not just a few tears, but full-on sobbing.
A Warning to My Fellow Watchers
Please, if you are currently going through a hard time in your personal life, do not watch this yet. It is heavy. It deals with terminal reality and the feeling of being unwanted in a way that is almost too much to handle. You need to be in a stable headspace to survive this journey, because once it gets under your skin, it stays with you forever.
Cinematography & The "Plankton" Vibe
I am completely obsessed with the visuals. The places they traveled to were so breathtakingly pretty—the vast landscapes, the quiet roads, and the coastal views were like a fever dream. It makes the sadness even more poignant because the world is so beautiful while the characters are hurting so much.
And then there’s the music. "All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray..." Hearing California Dreamin’ will never be the same for me again. Every time that song played, it felt like a physical weight on my chest. It perfectly captures that drifting, "plankton" feeling of being lost at sea.
[Minor Spoilers] The Heartbreak of the Journey
Seeing Hae-jo, a man who feels like he was a "mistake" from birth, literally wandering the earth to find a drop of belonging is gut-wrenching.
The way the drama handles his terminal diagnosis isn't just a plot device; it’s a ticking clock that makes every second of "found family" feel like a knife to the heart.
Jae-mi being the only person who truly sees him, even while she's dealing with her own premature heartbreak, is the most tragic kind of love.
Final Thoughts
This drama is a work of art. It’s a 10/10 for the acting, the scenery, and the sheer emotional honesty. But it is a heavy burden to carry. Watch it for the beauty, watch it for the "California Dreamin'" vibes, and watch it to feel alive—but have your tissues ready, because it will break you.
Rewatch Value: 0/10 (Because my heart would actually explode, but once was enough to change me forever).

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Surprisingly Fun and Absurd

I wasn’t sure how I felt when I first started watching this—I didn’t quite understand the direction. But the longer I watched, the clearer it became that this isn’t meant to be a serious drama. It’s highly comedic and intentionally absurd. The story centers around a vampire who enters a marriage alliance with a mortal trapped in a virtual reality game. This structure kept me engaged from start to finish, and I’d definitely recommend watching it—with one disclaimer. While the story wraps up well, it does leave room for a second season—though there's been no update so far. However, I have no regrets watching it and would rate it highly among the dramas I’ve seen.

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True Beauty (2020) - The Ultimate Feel-Good Comfort K-drama! ?

First of all,this is a LONG review so if you want a quick small one, you can skip! Let's start!
If you are looking for a drama that perfectly balances the fluffiness of a high school rom-com with the weight of real-life issues, True Beauty is an absolute must-watch. I just finished my journey with these characters, and I can honestly say I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT. It is a rare gem that manages to be hilariously entertaining while remaining deeply meaningful.
💄 The Artistry of Makeup & The Mask We Wear
What I loved most was how the drama handled the theme of beauty. It wasn't just about "becoming pretty." It explored the psychology of makeup—how it can be a tool for confidence but also a prison of fear. Watching Lim Ju-kyung master the art of makeup was so much fun, but the real beauty of the script was seeing her realize that her worth isn't tied to her eyeshadow or concealer. The aesthetic of the show is 10/10; the colors, the fashion, and the "glowing" cinematography make every episode a visual treat.
❤️ Dealing with Trauma & Finding Deep Meaning
Don't let the bright posters fool you—this drama has serious depth. It dives deep into the trauma caused by school bullying and the immense pressure students feel to fit in.
[Slight Spoilers] The emotional weight of the story really hits when you learn about the tragic past of the three best friends (Suho, Seojun, and Seyeon). The scenes where they confront their grief and the guilt they felt over their friend's death are intense and very emotional. It shows that true healing only happens when we open up to those who love us. It’s a story about forgiveness—not just for others, but for ourselves.
🚫 The Perfect Cure for "K-Trauma" Avoiders (ㅋㅋㅋ)
We all have those friends who stay away from K-dramas because they don't want to deal with "K-traumas"—those soul-crushing, depressing endings that leave you in tears (ㅋㅋㅋ). This drama is for them!
While there are definitely moments that will make you reach for the tissues, the show never loses its "spark." It’s a feel-good journey through and through. The humor is top-tier (the "Okey Dokey" dance and the chaotic family dinner scenes are legendary!), and the ending is incredibly satisfying and warm. It’s the kind of show that heals your heart rather than breaking it.
🎭 The Legendary Love Triangle: Team Suho vs. Team Seojun
The chemistry in this show is off the charts.
Lee Suho: The way he loved Ju-kyung for her "bare face" and her soul was the definition of true love. His character arc from a cold, lonely boy to a supportive partner was beautiful to witness.
Han Seojun: My heart literally ached for him! The "Second Lead Syndrome" is incredibly strong here. Seeing him hide his pain behind a smile and a motorcycle helmet while being the ultimate protector was both sweet and devastating.
🌟 Final Verdict
True Beauty is a love letter to anyone who has ever felt "not enough." It teaches us that while the world might judge us by our covers, the right people will love us for our chapters. It’s a mix of comedy, heartbreak, makeup tips, and life lessons that I will never forget.
If you haven't started this yet, what are you waiting for? Grab your snacks (and maybe some tissues) and enjoy the ride! 💓

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A beautiful and healing drama

I came in watching this with no expectations cause slice of life dramas are usually not my fav genre but i'm glad i did. It is such a beautiful, healing and heartwarming drama. I was feeling a little down when I started this, so I resonated with Yeoreum so much that it kind of healed me as I watched the drama. I love it so much and especially Yeoreum is such a well written character. She is the most sweetest, kind hearted girl ever. I loved the bond that she had with Bom, it's prob one of my fav aspects of the show along with the sweet sweet grandma. Light plot but not boring at all and filled with wise wisdoms.

As for the romance, they make me giggle from cuteness. The chemistry is probably among the best i've watched and very effortless despite how subtle Yeoreum and Daebeom's interaction is. I feel like Seolhyun is incredibly good at potraying that giddy and shy girl with Daebeom that it made me root for them even more. Although, i do wished they had more romance during the show. But at the same time, i also kind of get that the writer didn't want to make it the highlight or main subject of this drama. A little kiss would've made me the happiest Yeoreum and Daebeom shipper lol.

Acting wise, i couldn't find any flaws. Both the main leads delivered very well. Seolhyun surprised me with her acting, it is so natural so it was so easy to get immersed with her character. I loved her drunk scenes so much lmao. The rest of the cast also did well.

The only complaint that i would say about this drama is the murder plot. I feel like killing the grandma was a bad move from the writer and also that the murder mystery plot was unnecessary and draggy. I feel like the healing plot was already enough to carry the drama. The grandma is such an important character in my opinion, so when they killed her i got really turned off. It kind of defeated the whole purpose of this being a healing drama. Hence, why i deducted my points for the drama. Murder plot was very annoying to watch and i also disliked the annoying library noona, she was so controlling it irked me to death.

Overall a very fun and good watch

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Love the storyline. Seems typical taken to the past to change their life for the better but still showing that there are still things that cannot be changed and we have to accept it.
Typical one of the leads with trauma that needs dealing with.
But overall fun banters and some life lessons can be found.


Acting wise;
I love everyone’s acting, very convincing but I found the Male Lead’s character insufferable. Really really hate his character always interfering and being unreasonable even when he meant well to bring his parents together. Just thought it was a bit much.
Was expecting more screen time between his parents and their romance.

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when the word 'cute' decides to manifest into a dorama.

picture this: you happen to stumble upon a handsome stranger, fall in love at first sight, spend years pining and then fate happens and you two meet again, your mutual feelings bursting out the moment you lay eyes on one another. and then it only feels right that you ride off into the sunset together...

…yeah. well. absolutely none of that happens to miss sakura nanase.

sure, the first part checks out 'cause she does meet a ridiculously good-looking doctor who sweeps her off her feet. she does spend years not seeing him. but when she finally joins the staff at his hospital, not only does he fail to recognise her—he's also the resident "devil of cardiology," an indifferent and insensitive doctor who made it his personal mission not to let any imperfection slide.

the premise sounds like a cliché because it is a cliché, let's not pretend otherwise. but 'koi wa tsuzuku yo doko made mo' is that kind of cliché that works—the enjoyable, heart-fluttering "i know exactly what's coming, but iam still squealing anyway" kind.

nanase's journey is the real gem here. watching her grow from a clumsy little grey mouse into a confident, capable nurse is highly rewarding. simultaneously, her gradual development makes her relationship with tendo kairi more profound 'cause—shocking, totally unexpected plot twist—she gets her man completely obsessed with her (as she should).

despite kairi himself following the classic dorama blueprint of an indifferent jerk becoming an indifferent loverboy, he's actually a pleasant presence to have on the screen. mostly because he never belittles nanase for no reason. instead his brutal honesty when criticising pushes her to grow rather than shrink and that is pure gold in the rom-com genre, which used to lean on humiliation for the sake of "romantic tension." as if.

safe to say that no one serves doctor x nurse power couple quite like kairi and nanase, love them for that.

full disclosure at the end: for every adorable moment, there's at least one scene that made me physically pace around my room from secondhand embarrassment. but that's part of its charm, too—it hands you romance on a silver plate, sprinkled with a bit of cringe as seasoning, and makes your heart flutter.

it's cute, easy to watch and leaves one emotionally satisfied at the end, which is all a heart of a hopeless romantic could want.

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