Reviews

Very enjoyable revenge palace drama.

The revenge plot was really well done and overall pacing of the story was great. Watching all the machinations in the imperial palace/harem, secrets slowly coming to light, and plotting of our cunning Male Lead really made this an enjoyable series. We also had a very smart Female Lead who was able to take care of herself no matter where she ended up. She was never a damsel in distress and despite not being physically powerful, she used her smarts, wits, confidence and strong personality to get herelf out of sticky situations. Also, this is one of the few cdramas where the Emperor actually has common sense and isn't immediately influenced by rumors or accusations. Honestly you probably wouldn't think this should matter since the Emperor is not a character we would care about unless they are the main lead, but it does matter when the story revolves around the palace. So I had much less frustrations watching this drama because everybody that mattered in the plot line was actually smart and did their jobs as you would expect them to. This overall made the drama more enjoyable compared to other palace themed dramas. There was just one character death I didn't like, it was so unecessary to the story aside from wanting to make viewers sad, so I didn't appreciate that at all.

In terms of romance, even though they I liked the pairing, I found the romance lacking a bit from the main couple imo. I personally felt more romance between the FL, Second Male Lead and even Third Male Lead because we got more healthy moments of affection/love shown between them. We only got to see more romance with the main leads towards the end, but even then it was more of a domineering type of love that could make you feel uncomfortable to watch. So I wish we also got to see more sweet moments between the main couple; or at the very least I would have liked to see FL be more expressive of her love with the ML like she was with TML. Granted the FL and ML's personalities and story lines don't really give off sweet vibes so it also makes sense that their love was more on the intense/obssessive/toxic side.

In addition to having a smart Emperor, other unique things I liked that weren't necessarily present 100% of the time but we did get to see were:
1) Bestest boy ever Second Male Lead who only wants the best for his crush and isn't possessive of her; 2) Non-competitive sibling relationship between the FL and her sister; 3) Healthy friendships between FL and other women; and 4) Parents apologizing to children.

Overall very satisfied with the revenge plot but would have liked to have more romance from the main couple. Bailu acted really well, crying scenes were so emotional. ML needs to work on his expressions but overall great job from him too and the rest of the cast.

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TOOO GOOOD. That's all I can Say.

I am going to keep my review simple.
This drama is incredible.
The plot. Romance. Comedy. Thrillers. Powers. Third Wheeling and the family are well portrayed!
Bong soon family tho! Omgod! I love them, especially the mom (Hwang Geun Ju) AHHHHH! I LOVE HER SO MAuch! What a fine mom! HER OUTFIT! HER CHARACTER AHHHHH I CANNOT!
Ngl! I SHIP NAM SOON MORE WITH THE VILLAIN! I'm sorry Kang Hee-Sik! I definitely did not expect BYEON WOO SEOK to be a villain but DAMN! He was good!
His moments with Bong sooon tho!🥺🥺🥺🥺
But anyways! I LOVE THIS DRAMA❤️
Definitely my rom com drama with POWERS.
Definitely Missed the OG STRONG WOMAN DO BONG SOON🥹🥹
——
Waiting for P2🥹🥹
12:15am 11/29/23

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A Queen's Tale

This drama will forever be at the top of my most enjoyed traditional kdramas. This is what I call a masterpiece, a well-done drama by all standard. The plot is amazing and the acting is incredible. The order in which events unfold in the drama is unique and fascinating. It has a bit of everything; romance, comedy, palace life, palace politics, sorrow, etc.
The drama vividly and beautifully captures the life of royals as well the bond between a mother and her kids irrespective of her position in society. The bond Queen Hwa Ryeong has with her children is so great and she goes to any extent to protect and shield them from harm.
The drama also highlights the fact that evil is much more prevalent in the royal household than anywhere. Concubines plotting against the queen, grand queen dowager killing people off to make sure her favored ones take the throne, a prince plotting against another prince, a royal physician killing a prince, the royal kitchen used as a means to poison the grand heir, amongst others. So much evil exists in the palace. However, it doesn't always prevail if there are people who can rise against it.
The drama is really interesting, satisfying and worth the watch.
Oh, how I love the queen. The entire story was centered around her and her acting was perfect. As a queen, she was outstanding, bold, courageous, compassionate and would do anything to subdue evil and unfairness. It was rewarding to see her efforts yield results:
She was able to find out the root cause of the late crown prince's death.
She was able to protect her children.
She was able to protect the wife and children of the late crown prince
She was able to secure her position as queen
She was able to bring queen dowager's evil deeds to an end
She removed all obstacles that interfered with Prince Seongnam becoming the next crown prince and even found a situable princess for him.
Most importantly, she was the greatest support and confidant to the King. No one had his back like she did.

I loved the princes especially the grand princess. Each prince had their own charm, dynamic, way of composure and view of life that spiced up the drama. It was just beautiful to watch.
Hats off to those who did the cast selection for this drama. The actors delivered and nailed their roles. They certainly ate and left no crumbs.
I highly recommend this drama. I've watched it thrice already and I will re-watch it again. It is worth the watch.

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Kinda cute, but will also make you feel something

When I was looking for something to watch from Nana, I was intrigued by this because i also saw Arthur Chen in the cast.

I wasn't really expecting anything when i watched this, all i know is i just wanna watch something where Nana is in it. In the beginning, it was kinda meh, like the way they built up the characters and the story was uninteresting at first because it's like your typical youth love story with family drama in it, but when it got to the 2nd half of the story it actually got better, because the love triangles got thrown in. also, they've expanded on the family drama and i was like "Ohh? this is serious..." like suddenly i found myself caring for FL and ML and curious where the story would go, though it was predictable (in a good way).

The characters were okay because again it's your usual youth love story, but the dynamic between FL and ML was still cute along with the other side characters and also with the parents, and then again when it got to the 2nd half with all that drama and love triangle shit, the dynamic got even more interesting, the lines even though the mains are just high schoolers, carry such emotions and the way we get to hear what they think in their minds makes you feel for these characters.

Since this was in the early years of Nana and Arthur's career, the acting wasn't really the best, but it was still good. Arthur still has that smug expression that i saw in him in L&P, he's really good at acting cold characters. Nana, it was kinda of weird for me because i found her acting here much better than her acting in 'The Great Ruler' even though this movie was 3 years before TGR, I think it's got to do with the characters that she's playing, in TGR she was playing a Cold Goddess Princess that hasn't interacted with the mortals so she doesn't how to talk and act with the mortals, in conclusion, she's being held back by the character, while in here because of the heavy drama in the 2nd half she gets to showcase some ranges of emotions and expressions.

So yeah, good movie. I would probably rewatch it again and i highly recommend it if you want something cute but also with something that makes you feel.

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Disney+ Unleashes Gripping Vigilante : A Dark Hero's Quest for Justice

Disney+'s newest offering, "Vigilante," adapted from a webtoon of the same name Vigilante (비질란테), written by CRG and directed by Choi Jeong Yeol, follows the story of Dark Hero Kim Jiyoung. He takes justice into his own hands, targeting criminals who exhibit no remorse for their past crimes.

This fast paced action thriller makes us ponder whether criminals genuinely regret their actions and if the legal system provides adequate punishment. The narrative explores the loopholes in the law, compelling the male protagonist to assume the role of a vigilante in order to combat societal evils.

While acknowledging that vigilantism isnt an ideal real world solution, the series encourages viewers to question if criminals receive their due justice. This introspection becomes the catalyst for the emergence of the dark hero.

Kim Jiyoung traumatized by witnessing his mothers murder in childhood channels his anger into becoming a vigilante when he sees the murderer display no remorse.

The show introduces other interesting characters, such as Cho Heon, a former gangster turned police officer determined to apprehend the vigilante at any cost. News reporter Choi Miryeo provides the vigilante with a list of criminals to pursue while Cho Kangok, the series most intriguing character is an obsessive fan of the vigilante.

All these characters are unique in their own right. Cho Heon aims to catch the vigilante but doesn't want him to be attractive, fearing public sympathy. Cho Kangok's obsession adds a real and entertaining dimension to the drama.

While the limited length of 8 episodes x 45 minutes prevents an in depth exploration, the show manages to remain captivating and avoids monotony.

Nam Joohyuk's performance in the titular role stands out, showcasing an insane range of emotions.

If you ae a fan of action crime thrillers, this is a binge worthy watch.

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When society allows dark justice to take its own course.

Vigilante is another noir series inspired by a webtoon which tells the story of Kim Jiyong, a young man who witnessed the murder of his mother when he was young by a violent individual and suffered the injustice of the law by only sentencing the murderer to 3 years in prison.
Twelve years later, Jiyong finds his mother's murderer who still roams the streets freely with 18 convictions, and he takes justice into his own hands.

We follow Jiyong who becomes a vigilante, reciprocally punishing criminals. I have to say that there is a familiar echo in the cases we are shown and the reality we are experiencing. So many times criminals have been released because the law worked in their favor rather than that of the victims. That's probably why the show is so enticing, it's a sad reflection of reality.

The series also portrays how this initiative is the start of a domino effect on society, where a debate takes place on justice, its application and by whom. The public seems to support his initiatives, to the point where other citizens join in to give justice for the victims, even inspiring a copycat and reducing crime on the streets when criminals turn themselves into the police by fear to face "the Vigilante".

The plot is introduced more broadly with a bigger antagonist in the corrupt police chief and his links with seemingly untouchable CEO and politician who kill people to hide their dark deeds without repercussions.

I must say that Nam Joo Hyuk had a great performance in the role of Jiyong, this character is complex and sometimes even unnerving, he is so righteous that it borders on psychopathy (much like Batman in that sense). His micro expressions are a delight for the eye while his character is a young man of very few words. Although we don't delve much into his background, and the series weighs very little on the emotional side beyond anger, I manage to feel empathy for his character, when he feels terrible pain and loss, or when he screams his rage. He has some scenes that are gripping. Honestly, I hope Nam Joo Hyuk will give us the pleasure of diving into more thriller productions, as much as he's lovely on romcom series, he has potential for more.

As for the rest of the cast, the actor Lee Joon Hyuk was a revelation for me, it was more the script that worked in his favor than the acting itself, but I liked his extravagant and insane character. It's rare to witness a copycat who is not only supportive of the one he's copying even after being rejected, but who is actively helpful. I can only purely enjoy his character for what he is : entertainment. Although I wished they dived deeper in his backstory.
Kim Sojin is also a standout, probably the first time I liked following a noisy reporter, Miryeo. I like that she doesn't let herself be intimidated and like everyone else in this series, she's a little crazy to actively court and protect a violent man but her personal trauma explains it.
The biggest disappointment remains Yoo Jitae, I definitely cannot be convinced by this actor, I have seen him in many series, and his range remains minimal, his acting decent or even bad at times, I remain unconvinced by his characterization of Cho Heon, who only knew how the crack his neck. I know it's to give an unnerving mannerism but Nam Joo Hyuk managed to do that just by tilting his head, in comparison, Yoo Jitae remains bland.

I liked the overall production, with dark tones, great fighting choreographies and realistic sets, the soundtracks are amazing (they need to release those already), and the plot is simple to follow without messy and overly done plotlines.

The only downside would be the lack of emotional depth overall and backstory for the main characters, I had very little care for the characters who died or suffered (aside from Jiyong) and that is probably due to the limited number of episodes but as the ending is hinting the probability of a second season, I think we'll deep dive into some characters stories (specially Cho Kang Ok).

Overall, I can't recommend it enough, it's a very entertaining series and worth your time.

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Mommy’s Counterattack is a nice miniseries. Although it is not an award winning miniseries, it is quite entertaining. The actors did a good job bringing their characters to lie and the leading couple developed a fairly good chemistry within the restrains of plot and length of the drama. Some of the supporting cast were not up to par with their character’s role but they it was not awful as to deter the viewer from enjoying the short drama. The storyline could’ve benefited from several more episodes and lengthier duration but, overall, it is a fast paced and enjoyable watch.

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Zhang Kangle is just so ethereal

I am literally watching this show just for him. It was worth watching with a cute and simple love story.

There is no break up or misunderstandings so I enjoyed it.

I watch it in 2x speed, skip some scenes because it's just too boring for me but it's fun to watch too.

A feel good drama with cute chemistry for each couple so just watch it while you have a plenty of leisure time.

Even tho there is no wedding scene and amount of skinships it manages to make butterfly in my belly esp. the secound couple.

Afterall, I enjoyed it and not regret watching it.

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This show was a disappointment

The drama wasn't executed properly, Guem ju, Nam Soon s mother had more screen than namsoon herself, at some point it felt like I was watching the show of namsoon s mother, the main leads's chemistry wasn't great either nam soon and Kang Hee Sik barely spent time together, tbh namsoon spent more time w ryu si o. The drama is really confusing the storyline is messed up, and they r many useless characters with no purpose.Plus Namsoon s grandmother and her boyfriend were really cringe.
Well overall in the end this drama was watchable and funny,
You can watch it if you want to but it's a okay okay drama👍🏽

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A business melodrama that it is decent to watch. Elaine Zhong did a great job in this drama.

"Rising with the Wind" is a modern about the failure of a shoe company and how Jiang Hu, with Xu Si's help, rebuilds her dad's company and retains his legacy.

The Synopsis: The story revolves around the revival of a national brand in the face of the impact of e-commerce. Xu Si, an investment professional who moves back to mainland China from a Hong Kong investment bank, meets Jiang Hu, the only daughter of the chairman of a national clothing conglomerate. Due to their differing business philosophies, the two are at odds with each other.

When Jiang Hu's father's company suddenly goes bankrupt, she is plummeting from the heights of success. Meanwhile, Xu Si—who has always been ambitious—sets his sights on the rubber-soled shoe brand "Tengyue," which was once created by Jiang Hu's father. Determined to save "Tengyue" at all costs, Jiang Hu—despite her downfall—engages in a fierce battle with Xu Si. Ultimately, their interactions and struggles will determine the fate of "Tengyue" and whether it can be revived.

I really enjoy this drama, and Elaine Zhong is a good actress. I think Simon Gong is better in modern drama than in historical dramas. He played a calm and collected investor with smart and wits as he guided Jiang Hu in saving her dad's company after his death.

Their on-screen chemistry is good, and I think the 2nd CP was an unnecessary filler, even though she played the designer for the TengYue shoe company. Wu Xuan Yi cannot act.

Can't wait to see how Xu Si and Jiang Hu develop their love interest for each other; at least in episode 20, Xu Si tells Jiang Hu that he is pursuing her. She is unsure and doesn't want to ruin their mentor/mentee relationship.

I am giving this drama an 8.0 rating because I like the main CP and acting. The ending is a bit cheesy, but overall it is a decent drama.

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Great love story with lots of life lessons ....

The story line is unlike any other story I have watched. It brings to the forefront a rare and lethal genetic condition for which we currently do not have a cure. It is definitely worth the watch as you see the struggles from the patient perspective and the unrelenting love of the ML. Acting was exceptional for both the ML and the FL.

I was one of those who was not going to finish watching it because ther FL dies. I do not like sad endings but I cannot really say that it was a sad ending. The ending was more of bitter sweet. The FL does die at the end of the story but this is done very tastefully and it just presented in settle way. There is no mentioned of her death anywhere but it is just understood.

This story more than anything shows the great love, devotion of a great man who gave his all for the love of his life and for science as he tried to find the cure of his girlfriend's illness.

It is definitely a must watch!!

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I super love this series

perthchimon was an unexpected pairing for me but in this series, they really had the best chemistry and I love how they portray the emotions of sailom and kanghan. The story is also great not just a typical enemies to lovers story but something more. The series also taught us different lessons and that's also what I like about this series. Chimon and perth are good actors and this series really suits them well. I must say that dangerous romance helped me in living this stressful life. When I watched this series I couldn't stop wanting for more because there's only one episode per week so I had to wait but every episode that they release is a must watch so
I would also like to commend the ost of this series. I never thought that chimon has that angelic voice and also perth. All in all, I recommend this series to y'all cuz I really liked it, and maybe if u try you'll like it too

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Cute And Mostly Realistic.

29min and enjoyable. Believable attraction and love, lots of cuteness, and an amazingly realistic heavy make-out scene. Also realistic hyper-awareness of interactions and pda around others.

FYI there is a tiny scene after the credits.

General Spoilers below.
There was one spot where the cinematography was very memorable; the mom and the boys along the fence after she finds out about their true relationship. Very striking and emotional.

What didn't work for me:
-The disturbly weird thing the mom says about her chest and her son. Just, why??? What parent would say that?
-What was the point of the guy sleeping outside his boyfriend's home if he wasn't going to stick around to talk to the mom?
-Seok Yi didn't cry at all believably in the scene with the girl drinking. But it's a very short moment.
-Cuts between scenes were always abrupt.
-The song montage at the end. Apart from the fact that the version I found didn't have subtitles for the song, it was still weird; it felt like a completely different film all of a sudden. It went from a realistic slice-of-life feel to a surreal symbolic feel.

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