This review may contain spoilers
Can we talk about the visuals in this drama? Because WOW. Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei look so good together, it’s insane! But it’s not just about the looks—the story actually hooked me from the start. I love how their relationship grows naturally. It’s the perfect mix of sweet moments and a bit of drama. Definitely my favorite C-drama of the year so far!" Was this review helpful to you?
"We are not horses": How the world missed the true point of Squid Game
I’m writing this review almost a year after the final season’s release. I don’t want to go into the plot, the pros, or the cons—all of that has already been said in other reviews, and I completely agree with them. I want to talk about how such a profound and relevant story (especially in today’s world) was turned into a joke, a TikTok trend, and memes. So..."Squid Game" was never truly understood in the way it was intended. Many couldn’t understand the characters’ actions, including those of Gi Hun. "We are not horses, we are humans" —these final words of the protagonist carry a meaning that only a small fraction of fans truly understood.
Many see only death and violence in this story, turning the characters’ tragedies into a "cool meme scene," forgetting that these deaths, the fear of living on, the fear of dying, and the loss of loved ones are about real human pain, not entertainment. These people died, but for what? Their problems fell onto their families, who now live with the feeling that they were deliberately abandoned. No one tried to truly understand Nam Gyu, Thanos, Min Su, Sang Woo, and the others —their deaths were turned into a pitiful joke.
Gi Hun didn’t die “for the sake of a baby”, he saw no point in living, saw no point in that money —he simply couldn’t take it anymore. He returned the second time to end it all, he wanted to stop the game and save everyone. But when everyone died, he was overwhelmed by guilt, hatred, and depression. He promised Jun Hee he would save the baby at any cost —and he did.
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This review may contain spoilers
This is perfection.
I have no idea how this got a 7.5 rating when for me it's a clear 10! I'm in love with this series! A very beautiful story, beautiful actors and a beautiful message of love, before which nothing matters! I would like another series to see their happiness. Successful surgery, restored vision and the continuation of their acting career together! I love these actors so much! I will miss you!Was this review helpful to you?
Loved It So Much I Bought The DVD
Honour is a great watch, the plot twists alone keep your head on a swivel. Just when you think you know, you don't. This is a thriller through and through and highlights social issues that span across borders, bringing awareness to a shadowed part of society that has long existed but found it's new path in the digital age. Series ended in such a way that this story could be all there is, but with room enough a s2 isn't entirely unlikely. I would be here to watch a s2 if they decide to do it.The OST is fantastic, I listen to it all the time in between airing eps and long after. The acting was impeccable with such a great cast that I hope they come together again for another great story.
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No tail to tell
There can be small spoilers.Well I really hoped that in the end it would be 8/10, unfortunately I have few problems with this drama eventhough I liked it.
As far as it is a mix of Doom at your service (which I love with my whole heart) and Tale of the nine tailed (which also is a perfect drama) something was missing - probably lack of 4 more episodes. Really as far as it felt too long at moments it also felt like it was missing some story/development, It was like any drama from this genre which was 16 episodes cut down to 12 episodes but in wrong places. They could tell more about villains, past of gumiho, they struggles or if Lee Si Woo was a reborn?
I do not really liked soccer/football plot, there could be less of it - but it simply my "no". Hmm I also do not like time jump, 9 years was too much - in general I think that they fu*ked up timeline (or translation).
Move a little to characters:
1. Kim Hye Yoon - it is not a first drama where I saw he (first was Snowdrop) and to be honest ( I am not pride of it), really shame on me) I was not planning to watch anything with her because her visuals was something off for me, but she was amazing. I know that her character was supposed to be annoying at times but I liked her, she potrayed everything perfectly.
2. Lee Si Woo - she was also amazing as gumiho.
3. Jang Dong Joo - I have to admit that I was etiher hoping for some love triangle (I really felt more chemistry between KHY and him) or with LSW. I am also happy with his storyline and that in the end he was not a villain.
4. Lomon - I know that as main I should put him higher but unfortunately he was my biggest let down in this drama. I was not really seeing their chemistry because of him, I did not like his character simply because of his personality, how he was so arrogant at the beggining and eventhough there were supposed to be some development I did not see it, he turned out hmmm I do not want to say pathetic but I really do not know which other word to use. It is not hate to him, I know he is good actor but maybe directing failed here or simply his character was poorly written - at the same it was nice to see that it was now female character who dissapeared.
*Woo Da Vi - I loved her cameo, they could left her as new KHY's friend, personally I feel like it was missed opportunity.
To sum up - not bad, I believe that some people will love it.
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Good one
Why every single chinese Drama have extra couple 1,2,3 ? y'all should focus on making main leads story better than coming up with more ? i thought the story was going too slow , and confess was dragging long unnecessarily? has good romance and enough kiss scene, I can't believe the drama I want to see kiss scenes doesn't have except from 1 and others would have many ?what I didn't like in the story
their first kiss accidental still was forgotten and pretend nothing happened ? idk why drama do this and right after that her first crush pops up which was completely unnecessary and she suddenly gives more time to him ? and doesn't know who she likes seriously? finally at the end of 5-6 eps they confess
the 2nd couple doctor and student story felt weird and good same time she was too mature he was too childish and looked like kid teenager, didn't expect them to date that soon , dating was okay but pregnancy? and that guy even if it's his child I don't think he has right over the decision forcing her to not abort? and suddenly agree and she was changed her decision too ? and choose to have child ? i liked the start of their story but not the end ? i don't like sudden pregnancy story and on top of the guy forcing her to not abort
2nd and 3rd couple were too bad I think
the 3rd is worse the ma yi yi she chases guys randomly and falls in love too easily and then goes back to ex ? that's really dumb if from the start she showed the friends lovestory was better
i liked all characters but story is very poorly written for 2nd and third couple not satisfying and 1st couple story is good no problem but 2nd and 3rd take too much screen time
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Momentum fades...
The show started really strong—even if the plot wasn’t entirely new, it was solid, and I appreciated that the FL didn’t “lose” her character after being transmigrated into another world. I also liked that they didn’t dwell too much on the transition from a master‑disciple relationship to romance (you know how one character usually gets stuck in an annoying denial phase, refusing to accept the budding romance and acting meaner to divert).I appreciate that they didn’t shy away from intimacy, but the introduction of dual cultivation felt lacking and unpolished. Since I haven’t read the novel, I had to look up what the heck FL was doing on the unconscious ML’s body—while in their soul manor, they were also being intimate. I don’t mind intimacy, but I wish it had been given more context and grace. Perhaps censorship played a role, but there must have been a better way to introduce it. The way it wasn't properly set up felt off and honestly gave me the ick.
Initially, I liked the FL’s acting, but as her character went through different phases, I wished she had conveyed more varied expressions instead of relying mostly on wide eyes to signal emotional disruption. The ML’s acting, on the other hand, was strong. He was meant to portray a calm, tsundere demeanor, and he did so without exaggeration.
Overall, the plot began with promise but eventually dragged. There were numerous plot holes, and secondary characters weren’t given enough space. The latter part felt rushed and unrealistic, and the urgency to wrap things up was palpable. By the time I reached episode 30, I found myself fast‑forwarding through most of it.
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An absolute must-watch
I have never expected this to become my new favourite costume drama. My favourites among costume dramas are usually deduced from the amount of tears I cried while watching because I'm not someone who cries easily.I just finished watching so I'll keep this short and maybe update it later once I take it all in.
Honestly, you have no idea what you're getting into. It starts fun, unserious, a little silly. Around EP 10, it goes downhill FAST. Currently, I don't even have the words to describe the atmosphere, the music, the characters, nothing.
The reason I put 9 stars for the story instead of 10 is that in the middle, the plot was a little hard to follow. It might be because of the English translation therefore I don't want to take off more than one star.
The acting and casting was absolutely incredible. The music was well chosen for every scene and beautiful. Rewatch value is a 10 because it was that good. I'm definitely going to rewatch it once I forget about it a little bit.
Another thing this drama (and especially the actors!) did very well is playing with sympathy. No matter how much or how little screentime a character has, you will absolutely cry when they die. So many characters died and I bawled my eyes out during every single death.
The only one I have never felt sympathy for was Prince Duan. Tang XiaoTian did a magnificent job portraying him because I hated every single scene he appeared in.
This is a must-watch.
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Such a Satisfying Drama!!!!
Li Yun Rui and Meng Zi Yi were GOLD in this drama. After Pursuit of Jade, this pairing truly exceeded expectations.
The chemistry between them is fantastic, both tall, stunning, and effortlessly captivating. Every shared moment feels magical, and their connection keeps you hooked.
The plot revolves around second chances in life and the desire to change one’s fate and honestly, it’s executed beautifully. The first episode is especially powerful. On a cold, snowy night, our silver-haired hero rescues the heroine from a crashing carriage, setting the tone for their intertwined destiny. The visuals are breathtaking and easily one of the best opening episodes I’ve ever seen.
This is a beautifully paced slow-burn romance, done right. I loved every episode.
The highlight for me is the female lead, Dou Zhao. She’s incredibly smart, savvy, and resourceful, literally minting money and handling every challenge with brilliance. I absolutely love strong female characters, and she never disappoints.
The couple is adorable, with sizzling chemistry that makes their journey even more engaging. The friendships and betrayals feel deeply personal, adding emotional depth to the story. The drama is neatly wrapped up in 34 episodes, and the OST is so good you’ll want to keep it on loop.
The story just keeps getting better and crazier, with not a single scene wasted. The director does an excellent job showcasing each character’s growth and development.
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE. This is definitely one I’ll rewatch every year.
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I Wanted To Like This....Sadly I Did Not!!!
***First off, this is just my personal opinion. If you love the drama, I'm happy it touched you in a way it didn't for me.***I went into this thinking the casting line-up is pretty good, so the drama will be fantastic. I just recently watched Han Ji-Min in Love Scout and liked the drama. However, I must say The Practical Guide To Love was a huge let down.
Where to begin?
First, the FL has the capacity of an elementary student when it comes to navigating love in the adult dating pool. I also found her rather selfish and inconsiderate when it came to the two male leads. I mean, who strings two guys along for that long and doesn't realize if they have a connection yet. Yet, she is blatantly kissing one and not the other. If this was real world logic both guys would have left early on in the game, not waiting patiently for her to pick and choose at her own will when she is ready as they obviously know about each other.
Secondly, I liked Han Ji-Min in Love Scout because the role seemed to suit her very well as being a somber boss that needs love and care in her life. However, I feel like that same somber acting carried over into this drama and just made her boring. I don't find her character alluring enough to draw in two guys of this caliber at all. In my mind I kept thinking that if Jung So Min or Chae Soo Bin would have taken the role it would have been so much better. A more versatile and personality- drawing character would have made this role stand out.
Lastly, let's talk about the romance. It was so lack luster to me. When they had their first kiss, it was just as bland as the FL's character. I sensed no passion or chemistry at all. TBH....she had more chemistry with SML and it probably would have ignited some passion into the story if they would have chose that direction instead.
So, my final thoughts: This drama taught me to always choose the boring, safe relationship and to not act on attraction or feelings. Because apparently you can't find a guy that gives you both in life.
Wrong!!!!! There is no reason why a person can't find a stable relationship with someone while they also give them butterflies. LOL!
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A Good Thriller That Gets Lost in Its Own Story
“It was really a roller coaster of emotions and thoughts, but I still think the script could have been handled in a more consistent way. The story is very confusing at the beginning — up until episode 3 I was seriously thinking about dropping it, but after that it got a lot better.***SPOILER ALERT***
CWK’s storyline didn’t make sense to me. Why would the father hide his own daughter’s death, protect his murderous wife, and still swap the other girl for his own? That’s a lot of villainy, and at no point is the father (who barely appears) portrayed as abusive or cruel. And the whole memory loss thing felt extremely forced.
To me, the only plausible reason for the father and stepmother to go along with something like that would be if CWK herself had killed her sister. Maybe while they were playing. Maybe the girl hid in the fireplace and died in an accident. Then they would have done everything they did to protect her. In the end, that would have been her real hell. But the way it was explained in the show just doesn’t hold up.
The whole brothers storyline could also have been handled better. The ending felt rushed and Red Cry was caught in a very silly way. On top of that, we never really understand why he became a killer. Was he abused too? Did he even try to look for his brother when he came back? And why did he come back in the first place?
Which brings me to the next problem: the script drags on with repetitive flashbacks of CWK and her sister. The poor use of the 16 episodes makes CWK the only character with real depth, which becomes frustrating at times because the other protagonists seem to have motivations driving their actions, but we never actually get to see them.
The relationship between detective KJH and his girlfriend? Did she lose a child? Why did he react that way when he found out she was pregnant? I thought he had also been abused as a child… but apparently his life was good, like Eun Ho said. So where did that abnormal fixation on “every life matters” come from?
And what about the last-minute drama with the police officer? And the little boy Shi Wan?
Final verdict: The story is good. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good thriller, but the lack of focus in the writing really holds it back.
PS: A lot of people excuse Eun Ho because he had a sad life, but not everyone who has a sad life becomes a murderer. That’s not a justification.
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just be ready to cry your eyes
it was really good but I am still waiting for the season 2 because what do you mean the mL was all by himself in the kingdom i get that maybe he was at fault but he just wants to live with is love and why will his brother do that to him and I don't still get it if it was is brother that impregnated is wife but I still hate him no matter what just in the movie but I have what this movie like 2021 why can't I get over it, it was too painful to get over or move on this is why I hate sad ending movies, it will be hard to move on, and I am so sorry for the young brother and his wife they deserve a better life than them going like that and the elder brother is a big fool and so stupid why are you falling for your wife sister and you don't care about your dieing wife it was so stupid to doWas this review helpful to you?
makes you miss Lin'an
while i agree with some reviews that the story wasn't that complex, i still highly respect the team for a job very well done! cinematography, cast's visuals and their acting, character developments (i love how they all grew up ) PLUS music were perfect ✨ I miss Lin'an and the villagers so much even though its a fictional place in the plot 😭 I wanna read the book so bad as I am very curious of the changes and scenes that were cut off. wanna know the other character's endings 🥹❤️ DEF A REWATCH WORTHY DRAMAWas this review helpful to you?
How is this good?
Had to make an account after finishing this, what a horrible portrayal of a relationship. Selfish, stupid, overdramatic woman lead who cries about every single inconvenience, and a man who prioritizes his own comfort, justified his lies under "caring", and then keep convincing himself that it's the right thing to do. And somehow people are swooning over this just from the cinematography tricks. Toxic couple surrounded by great other stories. Trash drama that's only good if you ignore the main couple.Was this review helpful to you?
A Calm Sea and Beautiful Days with You
1 people found this review helpful
Very heart-fluttering and cute love story.
Such innocent love from both of these two shy individuals who never had experience when it comes to romance/love. They are so cute and watching this was heart-warming, seeing each of them open and become somehow comfortable with each other. ML is so handsome and FL is so cute. Their awkwardness is pretty understandable given they are both inexperienced interacting with the opposite gender and they haven't spend much time together as couples because of ML's work.I can't wait for season 2 where they become very comfortable and less formal with each other already.
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