Reviews

Yoon Shi Yoon carried this show!

This was a unique Rom-Com that had me intrigued from the first episode with a unique, fresh angle than other Rom-Coms. Usually, the FL is the underdog, with a “Cinderella” story, with a ML as Prince or if not, the ML is a surprise Chaebol. In this case, Do Yong Shik, wonderfully depicted by Yoon Shi Yoon, is the tragic ML. The FL is the affluent, capable urologist who treats Yong Shik’s condition. The first episode really grabs your attention with all of the not-so-subtle visual metaphors to erectile dysfunction….I was laughing so hard (no pun intended,ahem).

Unfortunately, after the set-up with the first two episodes, things went south IMO, due to my medical background kicking in. I really had a problem with the lack of ethics with the FL urologist taking the bet with her ex? boyfriend/colleague psychiatrist on the ML being cured of ED within a month due to their childish pride or whatever. Even the FL’s sister chastised her about it. Also, the psychiatrist looked at Yong Shik’s medical records BEFORE she asked him to consult with her about it (ethical violation). Then, when Yong Shik decided he was too embarrassed after unknowingly having his first love give him a rectal exam (preposterous to begin with because a doctor would’ve properly introduced herself prior to the “drop your pants” situation, but I had to let it go in realizing they were setting up the comedic value)…ML goes to the psychiatrist (unknowing he’s her boyfriend) and he sets up the poor ML with a “urology consult”, giving FL his full history WITHOUT HIS CONSENT! At this point I’m yelling at the screen, “you can sue them”, asking myself, are there HIPPA laws in Korea? There are so many other instances of unethical medical practices that Yong Sik could’ve just reported them, sued them and started making money from that….

Then, when FL and ML get romantic, ML sees her phone ringing with the psychiatrist ex-boyfriend on the screen and flinches and backs off, feels insecure again, and she pouts like a whiny B! First of all, she is his urologist (shouldn’t have been though, conflict of interest) and she crossed the line by getting sexual with him (and ML even says “they crossed the line”) She still pouts and rants about him later. They all know that he has anxiety issues and PTSD and low self esteem, but FL acts petty and so does the 2nd ML psychiatrist.
The only redeeming female characters were, ironically, “Jennifer” the Transgender Shaman best friend of the ML and the FL’s sister.
Yoon Shi Yoon carried the show! His acting was phenomenal. To portray the anguish and embarrassment that the ML had to go through….I had to do a double take before I realized he was the ML from “Flower Boy Next Door” (they even alluded to “flower boy thing is not popular anymore”, LOL).
This is the first romance k-drama where I actually would’ve been okay with the ML ending up with not the FL, but her sister (who showed more morality and maturity) or someone else. I wasn’t really invested in FL. In the end, it was really Yong Shik that helped himself overcome his fears (which is a great message for anyone trying to overcome similar issues) and it was Yoon Shi Yoon who carried this story.

Read More

I don't understand the logic in this drama

the beginning of the drama, the beginning of the FL and ML meeting is very dramatic, I like how it uses a natural way

but I had to stop watching this drama when the story didn't make sense after I watched 15 episodes. I don't understand why you have to bring ordinary people when you are at a dangerous fire scene?

WHY???

this doesn't make sense, especially since they are untrained people. The scene that shows the firefighter laughing because the female character said something funny after the fire was put out, I immediately slammed my cellphone because I couldn't tolerate this anymore.

ENOUGH! I can't stand watching this drama anymore!

The storyline is too forced and I don't like Zhang Jingyi's acting in this drama, even though I was waiting for it because I had watched her previous drama. The expression on his face is like there is no emotion or change, I regret that.

ML's acting is good, but that's all.

Overall, I don't understand why this drama has a script that doesn't relate at all.

Read More

Not your "typical" love story, but a really good harem drama that's told in an interesting way

Before starting this show, I saw a lot of people on here complaining about the ML looks, the age difference (in the show), the many concubines etc etc. I almost didn't watch because of this. But then I decided to give it a try and see for myself. I'M GLAD I DID!

The FL is one of the best written (imo) FL in harem drama for a while. She's smart, but not too smart for her own good. She knows when to play dumb, but not so "dumb" that others take massive advantage of her. I will not even describe her as stubborn, as her actions/reactions don't come off as that. I describe her as determined. But at the same time, she knows when to give in and bide her time. Even though the other concubines (save for one so far) are always scheming against her, they actually admire her and knows she's a worthy opponent. I really hope they don't mess up her character.

This is an amazing drama that deals with palace intrigue and harem fighting. It's quite interesting how all the characters are portrayed and the decisions they make and the consequences of it all. Even the evil characters have a reason for doing what they do, not just because they evil for evil sake. Though I hate concubine Yao, I can see why she does what she does. Props to the writers! So far, nobody is overacting and everything is going seamlessly. Props to the director.

Some on here are saying the ML and FL don't have chemistry. I respectfully disagree. The leads definitely have chemistry. This is not a "pure" romance story so people can't project their fantasies on it, so they are turned off. I think most of you are biased because the ML is not your ideal young idol ML and there's no unnecessary filter on him to make him look otherworldly. I think this is unfair.

I read some comments on here saying the story is too fast paced and there's no time to process. I respectfully disagree. I think it's moving at the right pace. If it was any slower, it will be boring. If yall are really paying attention, you will notice from episode 6 to the current ep 12 we are still dealing with the death of the son. Every scheme, plan and actions taken were all to oust concubine Yao for her crime. Everything that you think that happened "too fast" or not given too much attention was all in the plan to deal with that woman. Didn't you guys notice, even the emperor had a plan. It all adds up. So while it may seem things are moving too fast, it's actually slowed down in the sense that every reaction was because of that one incident. So, the pacing is quite well.

I think the first arc is over for now. (we might come back to it because the main wife is using the death of her son to guilt ML). Episode 14 just brought us into a new one. Now lets wait and see how all the other concubines are going to deal with the FL pregnancy. Will the FL still leave? And how that new scheming concubine will be dealt with.

I'm excited to see how all this plays out and how the ML and FL end up!!

Read More

Gentle Bros

Post: My Thoughts So Far

Itchaya - (The first brother) I hated the fact that Kaewklao had to constantly make amends for her sister’s wrongdoing. Her sister was having the affair with Itchaya’s father who was constantly cheating on his wife and on his mistress. I felt bad for Kaew because she was pulled into her sister’s mess, while at the same time she was still helping out their mom. Throughout the misunderstandings between Itchaya & Kaew, they both realized their feelings for each other due and became a couple, despite his mother’s overbearing behavior.


Thames - (The second brother) Nueng had grown on me throughout. At first, I had thought that she had came off as arrogant. But, she wasn’t arrogant. I felt that she wore her heart on her sleeve,she knew what she wanted and how to get it. She didn’t play games when it came to taking care of business and she enjoyed being independent. Now, her so called best friend Vivi had no tears falling from her face as she was finding ways to backstab her friend because she felt that Nueng wasn’t treating her like a friend. Overall, Nueng became a better person for Thames instead of Vivi.

Read More

The beginning of the story was good

It would be better if the number of episodes was reduced further.

The beginning of the story was good, I was very interested in how dramatic the FL and ML meeting was depicted. I really liked the shooting in this drama at the beginning and this is also what made me first interested in seeing it.

but unfortunately the storyline became boring in the next 20 episodes, I skipped a lot because there were a lot of things that didn't need to be explained but appeared and that made me ask, what's the point?

the acting was good, I felt the chemistry between the two main characters and also the supporting characters

As for the OST, I remember but didn't really enjoy it

I know this is a slow burn drama, but for a genre like this I think it could be simpler and straight to the point

Read More

OK, but disappointed with the ending

The first Chinese drama I watched was on going. The story is good with an interesting beginning but I had to pull my hair out when I saw the acting of the extras.

but it's ok.

Next, this story goes on about the beginning of the two main characters meeting and falling in love. it's a bit boring here but I keep watching because I'm waiting for something interesting. I first knew about this drama from TikTok footage and was interested in the footage when FL and ML were at the same workplace, so I was looking forward to it.

In terms of storyline, this is good, I enjoyed it because there were small child characters which then added to the dynamics of the story, which made it even more interesting, but at the end of the story, I started to lose enthusiasm to see it, I think it was episode 28. because I thought it was too long and tiring to watch. followed.

therefore I took a break to watch it and returned to watch it after the drama finished.

That's why I skipped the last two episodes because I felt bored. Then you have to be disappointed with the ending of the story which is far beyond predictions and too forced. if it was over with them finally being together, that would be so much better.

Ost? I don't remember ever hearing a song in this drama

acting, I like ML's acting, but FL still needs to develop more, but in this drama I also like Wang Churan

Read More

Could have been more, but still a trailblazer!

Going into Only Friends, I knew the plot and vibe weren't my cup of tea and that I was there for the cast and for the sexy scenes. I greatly appreciated the performances from every single cast member, but a true stand out for me were Mark Pakin and First. I haven't seen Mark in a role that let him shine like this before. He did a phenomenal job!!! He was the perfect Nick, and his eyes were always acting overtime. What an incredible performance! He and Neo portrayed some of the most risky and vulnerable scenes, acting in very explicit scenes as actors with such huge visibility, and they KILLED IT! I'm incredibly proud of them and loved their performances. First was also phenomenal as always. Similarly to Mark, his eyes just do so much of his acting... he was a joy to watch through and through. Book was also a stand out and I loved him as Mew. Mew was probably one of the best characters!
As far as the STORY goes: I had quite a few issues with some of the plot decisions, especially in the latter half of the show. I felt that Ray was let off the hook way too easily too many times. But I loved TopMew's story and genuinely enjoyed all their scenes. I was also pleased with the way Boston and Nick's story ended. I hope Nick enjoys a happy and sexy relationship with Daddy Dan! I think the show tried to do too many things and suffered from the breakneck pace at which they had to film and edit. If they had had a bigger bidget, 1-2 more eps, and taken more time to perfect the show, things would have been better. It's disappointing that GMMTV is so cheap when it comes to a trailblazing show like this. All the sexual intimacy was done so well and that's so important. The production deserved better.
And of course.,..what a perfect final scene! Mix!!!!!! Everyone's beloved!!!!

Read More

It is bad, not the worst, but it is bad

If you're looking for a show that will change your life, this isn't it. If you're looking for a good story that will give you a message, this isn't it. But if you have free time, want to watch something with your meal, and are looking for something that won't strain your mind too much, this is it. In the story, all characters are in the gray zone except 3 of them.(two of them are black, one of them white, white is the only girl btw:) Some of them are very light gray, some are close to black. This may be the most admirable aspect of the story. You can empathize with almost all the characters or get angry and hate them at the end of the story. This choice is completely It is left to you.

The first episodes of the series are very fluent and different. But the cliché of bringing an ex-lover to open a new path has turned everything upside down. With such a clumsy move and the continuation of the lazy writing technique, the story jumped out of the window. Even though you understand the motivations of many characters until that hour, everything becomes a confusion after that hour. Characters exhibit self-contradictory behavior. Which is the failure of the scenario. The scenario also has inconsistencies within itself. While the kissing scene of one of the characters who has a boyfriend with someone else may cause major events, another character's not taken into consideration at all and is even applauded. In the series, everyone cheats on each other or everyone kisses everyone else, but these do not serve anything. The characters act as if nothing happened. They made everyone kiss to eache other for just get more interaction on social media and these scenes serve nothing. In short, it is another series where the weak and bad scenario is tried to be saved with popular actors and Nc scenes. It is bad but not the worst, but it is still bad.

Read More

another my comfort drama with criminal genre(?)

I remember the first time I watched this drama I was bored and confused, but then I was very happy to have found this drama because it was rarely talked about.

I watched it right after it ended so I could finish it in two days.

The role I thought was evil turned out to be good and there were many unexpected things in this drama. I really liked the unpredictable dynamics of the story, and the comedy was natural and very funny.

Unfortunately, the ending for one of the characters was unsatisfying even though it made sense too.

Their acting is also good especially with the well-written tone! I was amazed by the unexpected comedy that emerged from the characters. Even though this story only focuses on prison, it's not boring!

You can watch 3 episodes first, it's difficult at first but this drama is worth trying!

Read More

A little confusing but great

The whole Doom and God storyline was a little confusing. What were they doing? What could they do? Did he have powers? He was driving everywhere but apparently could appear wherever he wanted. It was confusing but not to the point that it made the series less great in my opinion.

Park Bo Young is one of my favorite actresses. I thought the chemistry was off the charts with In Guk. The second couple (love triangle) was tense at times but sweet. I think she decided on the right guy.

My favorite character was her brother. My gosh he was super funny and this was needed as I cried my eyes out several times.

it was a big emotional buildup to the last episode and I was ready for a fantastic ending with a beautiful wedding. There was a happy ending but no wedding. I just don’t get why she avoided marrying him. This series needed a wedding and a send off to a honeymoon to make it a really satisfying ending. Not sure why this couldn’t happen since it seems like they were grasping at material. Everyone making kimchi could have been cut for a wedding.

These few things deducted half a point or this would have been a 10!

Read More

Messy!!! (in the best way)

Imagine the messiest person you know - someone that always has drama, makes too big of a deal about things, etc. Now imagine six people like that who are all (loosely) in the same friend group. That's the plot of Only Friends.

The show was NEVER boring. I was screaming at the TV and pausing to take deep breaths every single episode. You've got Mew (Book), Ray (Khaotung), and Boston (Neo) who are all pretty close friends (plus their lesbian friend Cheum (Lookjun)). In an attempt to help Mew get laid, Boston sets him up with his friend Top (Force). Mew and Top hit it off, but instead of a one night stand, start going on dates. Things start getting messy when Boston and Ray seem to be jealous of this relationship for different reasons; things get messier when bar singer Sand (First) meets Ray, and Boston starts seeing Nick (Mark). These six "friends" seem to be anything but - and they are much too willing to hurt each other in order to get what they want.

This show was super fun. It was the boldest show I've seen from GMM, and it was done well. With this many characters, it's hard to keep them all interesting and dynamic, but they did an excellent job with it. It was juicy all the way through without a moment to rest. And while I sometimes do wish there were more happy moments throughout, or more instances of positive character growth, it was extremely entertaining to watch and had me yelling at each character for different reasons. Definitely worth a watch.

Read More

Damn that was Good!

Only Friends is a show with little to no flaws. It is modern so if you are not a fan of mature scenes or topics I can say to skip this one. It's a fun story that keeps you on the edge of your seat on what will happen next. The soundtrack was great, and the setting and direction were great. The actors did an amazing bringing their characters to life everyone has chemistry. From episode 1 to the Final I never got bored they always gave us something to make us excited in every episode, It was a happy ending yall and yeah kind of the Euphoria of Thailand but not as intense. A story you don't see often written about how some young people live and I love that.

Read More

It was so worth it to wait every week

What a ride!! Only friends, a group of friends with a lot of backstabbing, cant stay loyal, a lot of kissing and NC- scenes (mostly from Boston).

It was a very well written serie with a bunch of great actors. Everyone acted sooo good. My favorites were sandray and bostonnick. Almost everyone was a red flag and I loved it! Everyone kissed everyone and there were couples you wont usually ship.

It was the best serie this year (imo). Im gonna miss this. I hope we get a season 2!! I hope Boston comes back from New York and there is Mix who seems interested in Book's character. This is interesting!! Cant wait!!

Read More

Heartwrenching From The Start

I was quite interested in this drama initially because I saw that Park Eun Bin was starring in it and I have absolutely loved her acting in recent shows like Extraordinary Attorney Woo.

From the synopsis and previews, it seems like this drama will lean more on the light-hearted side but from the first episode I was surprised at how much of a more serious and dark tone that the show leaned into.

Will update review accordingly.

Here is my organized yet unorganized overview and first impressions of episode one that I wanted to do because it truly will set the stage for the rest of the series to come and it gives such a well-thought out backstory of the characters we will follow. I thought it was a very strong start to the series. Here we go...

We follow our main character Seo Mok-Ha, who is portrayed on the surface as a "brainless fangirl". She is such a huge fan of Yoon Ran Joo who is a very popular singer and is shown during that time period as having sold the most albums ever as a Korean female singer. Seo Mok-Ha also dreams of becoming a famous singer one day. She wants to enter a fan video contest submission for Yoon Ran Joo and she needs someone with a video camera to help her out, so she enlists the help of Jung Ki-Ho, who is portrayed on the surface as a "money-grubbing lunatic" to help her film and edit it. He is always looking for ways to make money with odd jobs and side hustles at the school. Things like trying to get paid just for letting people borrow his phone or ride his bike. The two students relationship is contentious at the beginning but the filming of the fan video is kind of the starting point that leads to a budding and deeper connection between the two high school students.

As we peel back the layers a little bit though, the audience comes to learn that both Seo Mok-Ha and Jung Ki-Ho are both victims of abuse at the hands of their single fathers. It is very triggering how diabolical the two fathers are and the scenes where abuse takes place are very hard to watch. It honestly makes me think about how many people in this world have to go through the same abuse that these characters have to go through day in and day out. It truly hurts my heart just thinking about it. That's a scarring pain that you carry with you throughout your life.

As we get near the end of the episode, we see that Jung Ki-Ho is trying to make sure that Seo Mok-Ha gets to Seoul to meet up with Yoon Ran Joo and Lee Seo Joon (who I am assuming is Ran Joo's manager and company owner?) since she won first place in the competition. To back track a little, Seo Mok-Ha was discouraged to even submit her video after an incident where she called the police on her father after one of the many incidents where he beat her up so badly. And guess who the police officer ended up being? It was Jung Ki-Ho's father who abuses his son just the same. Jung Ki-Ho picks up on the fact that Seo Mok-Ha is being abused by seeing the bruises on her arm when she's talking to the police (Seo Mok-Ha doesn't realize that Jung Ki-Ho is being abused as well until towards the end of the episode where she sees photos he took of his bruises in his notebook).  Jung Ki-Ho ends up submitting the video without her knowing. After Seo Mok-Ha has a breakdown at school, Jung Ki-Ho lets Seo Mok-Ha know that basically if her father gets violent again that she should come immediately to his house and he will help her and she does just that. 

They end up on the boat waiting for it to set sail to Seoul but Seo Mok-Ha's father ruins the plans by showing up on the dock looking for her and Jung Ki-Ho gets off after letting Seo Mok-Ha know that now it's up to her to brave this journey alone and tries to stop the father as best as he can but he gets beaten up BADLY (WHY WERE PEOPLE JUST STANDING THERE WATCHING THIS KID BASICALLY ALMOST DIE?!?!?!?!?!?) and the father jumps on the boat viciously looking for his daughter and she's running away from him and she ends up jumping off of the boat and the father does too and from there is where the known synopsis of her being a castaway on the island for 15 years starts. I also want to point out that right when she first gets to the island, we see that her father has been washed upon the shore and is dead. The story moves on and we briefly see her life and how she lives on the island in the present day, but quickly a drone spots her and that's basically the point where she's rescued. 

So, now we move into her adjusting to her newfound life 15 years later after being rescued from the island and see all that ensues.

I am genuinely curious about how they will proceed with the characters and their stories as the show moves forward. I want to see who and how Jung Ki-Ho is in the present day. I want to see what this second male lead is all about. I want to see what's the deal between the singer and the manager/company owner. I want to see what happened to Seo Mok-Ha's father after all of these years (I honestly hope he rots). I want to see how they will play out this whole singing aspiration of Seo Mok-Ha as well. I have so many questions!!!--- I hope the show leans more into the human condition and being more on the emotionally gripping side with a dose of comedy but we will see.

Side note: I am already loving the cinematography and editing choices! And the acting is wonderful!

This show has shot up to the top of my list for shows I am most looking forward to watching week by week!

Read More