This review may contain spoilers
The beginning clearly shows the trap set by the police and the justice system. Asking a "suspect" the same question over and over again until she contradicts herself. (We have nothing to say to the police, let's never forget that. And they always lie.) They decide that her reactions are not "normal". They convict her on the basis of evidence, evidence that they have carefully fabricated, because that is our role as good prosecutors and good police officers.They humiliate her by putting her in prison. They are all very pleased with their work. And terribly hurt when their convictions are contradicted by the facts.
You are deprived of your voice, your freedom, your privacy, you are lectured, your life is rewritten, you become a number to be humiliated.
At least Bach, Oscar Wilde, Jean Genet, Varlam Shalamov and François Villon wrote beautiful books there.
We also see how the lawyer uses the media to put pressure on the trial and restore some dignity to his client in the public eye. How he exposes the abuses of the police, who are always quick to crack down (their sole role) and never willing to listen to the victims.
The characters in this series are truly fascinating ! The one with the electronic tag who wants to do the right thing but is involved in repression, in particular, and finds room for manoeuvre. The prison guards and the uncomfortable inmates. Seeing their reactions, witnessing their exchanges, perhaps understanding them a little...
The slow pace serves the story well, illustrating the steamroller effect of the authorities on their subjects. And alongside this, we follow the resolution of the mysteries surrounding these people. The story always moves forward and never drags unnecessarily. It is brilliantly well written.
We don't know. We only saw death, not before. We don't know the circumstances surrounding the loss of this husband, about whom we know only a few fragments of his life. And the story continues, life goes on. Certain shots follow one another in a particularly meaningful way, illustrating the condition of the two prisoners, such as the door of one's isolation cell, where the camera lingers after it closes, followed by the gaze of the mother feeding her daughter, locked up in her home with an ankle bracelet. She takes her isolation with her.
The mother hears her daughter laughing with the friends who are looking after her for the day and chooses not to disturb them, leaving. The lift doors close behind her, the scene cuts, and the other woman in prison stands behind bars.
Kim Go-Eun is mind-blowing as an evil creature whose mind remains a complete mystery to us. We have no idea what's going to happen with her. Fascinating.
Jeon Do-Yeon also gives an admirable performance as the lost mother, plagued by doubts and guilt. Which she shouldn't normally feel, unless...
There are some tough moments in this series, but no scenes intended to shock. No, we are spared the images, and we don't need them. Generally speaking, I don't understand why anyone would want to show us horrible things. And here, as in Homebound, we get a true representation of COVID-19, dignified and accurate, terrible. Every time I see it in American films or series, it's to ridicule the victims and the people who were afraid, and it makes me incredibly angry, this disrespect from pedants. (I'm talking about you Ari Aster)
Naturally, as always with well-crafted thrillers, you're disappointed when you get to the bottom of it. Nothing can match all the machinations that have gone before.
PS : Lie detectors have never proved to be effective in what they claim to prove. On the other hand, with limited yes or no questions, you can make people say whatever you want. Practical. Like forensic psychology/psychiatry, you can prove whatever you want.
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The investigations get tangled up and the humour makes a lot of very borderline things acceptable. The further we go, the darker it gets. So, there you have it, a good investigative K-drama despite all these nasty tirades that I address with virulence, waving my finger at the sky.
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The staging of the first episode is stunningly beautiful. The moment with the fireworks... incredible. And of course, the extremely tense action scenes add to the visual dazzle. (Those Chinese streets with their ubiquitous red and green neon lights are strange.) There's plenty of humour with this hero who thinks he can rely on his comic book to predict the future, but things don't necessarily go as planned.
Each episode is a new story. It could be a doctor who's a bit useless because he has a phobia of blood. A bride in a comic book who won't let herself be relegated to a supporting role. (A shootout in a church, not even a parody of who we might imagine.) Or a guy who can teleport...
A Chinese drama with only 12 episodes is rare. Unfortunately, it runs out of steam very quickly. The first episode was the highlight. The humour and action more or less disappear as the series progresses. And the subplots turn out to be very simplistic.
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The money problem really serves as a plot device, and very quickly takes a back seat. And even though the series is quite entertaining, it never really develops its ideas. But it only lasts for eight episodes, so... The villains are not nearly as exciting as they think they are. This habit of kidnapping people becomes predictable. The last episode disappoints in this regard.
Lee Jun-ho and Kim Hye-jun are always a pleasure to see in their roles that combine action and humour. Maybe next time they'll do better ?
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Light entertainment that is ultimately unmemorable.
Cat for Cash unfortunately struggles to find its footing. While the premise of a cat café should offer the ultimate "cozy" atmosphere, the primary setting lacks organic charm, feeling more like a staged set than a lived-in neighborhood restaurant.The narrative relies heavily on tired tropes—from a sudden, unknown brother to a debt collector subplot—that feel disconnected from the central heart of the story. To its credit, however, the show attempts to give the cats genuine agency. With their distinct backstories and Tiger’s magical ability to understand them, they are intended to be active participants in the narrative rather than simple background.
Despite these efforts, the show failed to generate enough interest to make their world feel real. Even the professional depth of FirstKhaotung cannot go far without a believable environment to inhabit; without a grounded reality to anchor the characters, the performances feel restricted by the artifice of the production.
Ultimately, Cat for Cash is passable as light entertainment, but it remains unmemorable for those looking for a story with a soul.
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This review may contain spoilers
A must watch enemies to lover show
I'm so glad that I decided to watch this show, I was not a huge fan of enemies to lover storyline but this was soo good! There are a lot of scenes I love but I particular love the scene where the ML regained his memory, it’s so beautiful and thoughtfully executed, unlike the usual predictable memory loss trope. It really shows just how deeply the female lead loves the male lead, especially when she promises not to leave him. Both of their performances truly shine here. The way CZH transitions from disbelief, to gradual realization, and finally to regaining his memory is incredibly well done, you can see every shift in his micro-expressions, which makes the whole moment feel so real and powerful.I also love how both the FML and ML are both strong in their characters and the FML did not become dumb after she lost her memory like most other shows. Another scene that I found good was when XJY died, I can’t believe I actually cried at that scene, the acting was phenomenal. It really shows how even a supporting character can have so many layers when both the writing and the actor’s portrayal are this strong.
I also love the ending because it calls back to so many moments from the first episode and weaves them into the finale. Details like the female lead covering his eyes and the bow make everything feel full circle and intentional.
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Different stories about the glory of youth done hilariously cute and heartwarming!
This is my 2nd time watching this and it is such a breath of fresh air! Simple and straightforward story! If you want a break from the usual plots of historical dramas this is a must watch!Other than the usual comments of saying this is just an idol drama; weak female lead and all that truth is we are so accustomed to seeing the strong female leads being marketed these days but strong is defined not only in being good at martial arts, battle seasoned girl, revenge driven cunning females.
Strength also comes in doing the best that you can in what you love and what you are good at. And you can see that in this drama. Different couples with different struggles and how they overcome all of them together.
WHY 10/10 REWATCH VALUE?
Chemistry of the main couple is top tier! Song Wei Long's very manly appearance-alpha male kind of appearance was accentuated because of the cute and very feminine appearance of Bao Shangen! What a charming couple! Their natural banter made this drama natural-sometimes viewers don't like to admit it but their dynamics as a couple was more attached to reality than the usual dramas where the couple have instant unusual strong bond like huh? In here you can see their relationship was built with misunderstandings, confusion and tests of trust as a couple which they've overcome in their own ways-it's an arranged marriage yes but the thing is they found their way with each other navigating and overcoming the trials along the way
Fight scenes: they spent time orchestrating the fight scenes to really highlight the contrast of the male and female lead-Song Wei Long really stood out in this and all the other fight scenes were also great!
Character Development of female lead: If you are impatient enough- you won't get to enjoy her character development that many of the other comments easily hate on her! First, among all the drama's I've watched this female lead has high self-awareness-she acknowledges her weakness, knows what she likes and doesn't and fights for what she believes in. She may have been raised as a sheltered young lady of noble family; for many this is such a weak female lead and a letdown, but you know, her background and the way she grew does not make her any less of a woman. There are those with the same upbring like hers but with a wicked and vile hearts. She paves her way in the world in her own little ways-as I've said strength and measure of prowess of a woman is not only measured with abilities shaped by society.
You'll love the stories of the other couples too- I think this is why it is titled as such. In our youth it is a constant journey of discovering and rediscovering ourselves different stories reflecting the glory of our youth indeed!
Overall, it is straightforward, with unexpected twists in the plot especially from the villain arc but indulged with the best chemistry of the main lead, heartwarming and light story with hilarious tone!
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A long awaited letdown
I am speaking purely as a drama watcher here - I am aware there is a whole fandom for the source material and I’ve never read it. I have no idea how close or far this might be to the original story and whether fans feel the ML is portrayed as they hoped.So with that established, what a letdown this is for me as the final chapter in Yumi’s story. This is the guy I’m supposed to think should be her forever person? I don’t find him unsympathetic—I actually relate to him a lot—but they’re not selling me on the romance at all. There’s so little spark or energy between them, he’s hot and cold with her in a way I do not find at all endearing, and most importantly his personality and communication style just seems like a bad fit for her emotional needs. I don’t believe in this romance at all, and with only two episodes left I don’t think I’ll get there by the end of the story.
Other aspects of this are frustrating, as well - the side plot with the other writer is repetitive and annoying, some of Yumi’s own behavior is ridiculous, and it even feels like the writers have lost their touch wrt writing smart and witty lines for the cells. As a huge fan of the first season, I am also finding it pretty irritating to hear OSTs from that love story used again here. It just feels all wrong. Disappointed to have waited so long for this.
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I like sweet, simple stories
Despite all the negative reviews, I decided to watch this series and I loved it. It's a sweet, soft romance with no hard edges. Short enough that the story doesn't drag. In fact, the things people criticised were the things I liked. ;)Firstly, yes Do Ha is kind of childish but I'm not cynical enough to detest that. Age doesn't always harden you towards the world. You can still be simple and innocent at 27.
Secondly, I'd also pick the best friend for him. Jyeon knew him the best and loved him through his actions for 10 years. The perfect boss or the overwhelming barista didn't stand a chance romantically.
If you like simple, sweet romances, this might be something you like, despite the reviews.
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What BL Should Be
“Moonlight Chicken” is a profound, grounded exploration of the human condition that transcends typical BL tropes. It is a story built on a foundation of serious people dealing with the heavy weight of external reality—money, family struggles, love, and the fragility of life.Earth and Mix anchor the series with a mature, weary chemistry that feels lived-in rather than idealized. Earth brings a quiet, burdened dignity to Uncle Jim, a man whose walls are built from years of financial struggle and past trauma. Mix provides the perfect counterpoint as Wen—persistent, world-wise, and deeply sympathetic. Their connection is authentic because it’s forged in the messy, unglamorous reality of their everyday lives.
The supporting cast is just as exceptional. Khaotung delivers unrequited love and family duty with heartbreaking subtlety, while Mark Pakin is an absolute standout as a young man thrown too soon into adult responsibilities, but who faces them with warmth and integrity.
Gemini and Fourth’s storyline is a wonder of sensitive storytelling. By refusing to treat Heart’s (Gemini) disability as a tragedy to be pitied, the show creates a beautiful arc of communication and equality. Seeing Li Ming (Fourth) meet Heart where he is—without pity—reminds us that the most powerful love is a conscious effort to understand another’s world.
By focusing on relatable, flawed characters in a working-class environment, “Moonlight Chicken” proves that the most meaningful romance isn't found in a vacuum, but in how we support each other through the challenges of real life. It is raw, beautiful, and deeply human.
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Dream of Golden Years, Quietly Brilliant, Loudly Missed
How I Accidentally Watched 36 Episodes and Now Have Feelings⭐ 8.5/10Let me be upfront: I did not intend to get this emotionally invested in a Chinese drama about a woman who falls asleep in 2026 and wakes up in 1983. And yet. Here we are.
The premise is your standard transmigration setup -overworked, underloved corporate woman Xia Xiaolan gets zapped into the past, into the body of another girl with the same name. Convenient! She wastes approximately zero time having an existential crisis (same, honestly) and immediately gets to work building a life, a business empire, rescuing her mother from a toxic situation, and generally being the most competent person in any room she walks into. She has future knowledge, sure, but the drama is smart enough to remind us that knowing things and *doing* things are very different , she still has to hustle every single step of the way.
Now, fair warning: if you came here for swooning romance and dramatic kiss scenes in the rain, you may want to recalibrate your expectations. The romance is very much present, it's just mature, subtle, and sweet rather than loud about it. Zhou Cheng (Zhai Xiao Wen) shows up as the most emotionally stable man in the history of Chinese television. No tantrums, no misunderstandings left to fester for six episodes, no "I love you but I'll push you away for your own good" nonsense. He just... supports her. Consistently. Across years. It's almost suspicious how healthy it is. Their relationship stayed consistent through the whole drama: soft, supportive, and mature. You'll find yourself jealous of a fictional woman from the future who lives in the past. Such is life.
The supporting cast is genuinely wonderful and not just wallpaper. The cities are fictional and the important political developments largely unmentioned, but the show uses its 1980s-90s backdrop beautifully watching the economic boom unfold through Xiaolan's sharp entrepreneurial eyes is oddly thrilling. The costumes deserve a standing ovation. Zhou Ye looks like she was personally designed for that era.
Now. THE ENDING. *Deep breath.*
No hug, no kiss, no real glimpse of life after the reunion , just a soft moment and then credits. We know Chinese censorship has opinions about transmigration stories being too appealing as an escape from reality (can't imagine why), so the return to 2026 was always coming. But did it have to be so *brief*? We spent 35 episodes watching this woman build a whole world, a family, a career, a marriage, actual twins, and the return to the present gets fifteen minutes and a vague glance across a street. A glance! After decades! Girl deserved at minimum a dramatic airport run.
The fan theory that Zhou Cheng somehow followed her across timelines to find her is the emotional lifeline many of us are clinging to, and honestly the show earns that interpretation. The idea that he might be a time traveler himself, looping through time just to find the timeline where they finally meet, makes everything hit deeper.
In short: watch it for Xiaolan's incredible growth arc, stay for the understated romance that sneaks up on you episode by episode, and maybe prepare a small complaint letter to Chinese broadcasting standards about the ending. It won't help, but it'll make you feel better.
**Would I rewatch it? Absolutely. Am I still thinking about it? Embarrassingly, yes.
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"The slower you go, the further you can reach"
Wings Over Everest felt like a patchwork of other mountain climbing films going back to the Eiger Sanction (1975) or the Archer Sanction (2015) for that matter. It might have worked if they had grounded the mountain climbing in some measure of realism. Not even Yakusho Koji could save it.What I liked:
There were beautiful shots of the mountains. Score one for Mother Nature!
Yakusho Koji-I would watch him in anything and this film is exhibit A of that dedication.
Austin Lin made for a cute Cowboy helicopter pilot. Zhang Jing Chu as Xiao Dai Zi portrayed a feisty heroine who did what was needed to be done to save herself and her team.
The cast was an interesting international crew: China, Japan, Canada, and Taiwan though with some questionable dubbing at times.
What didn’t work as well:
The bad guys were obvious and their motivation was weak.
The opening scene let the audience know to check their brain at the door regarding mountaineering and rescue. Dai Zi may have been a great climber but she had a terrible habit of falling off of cliffs. I stopped counting at 4 times. Perhaps due to unacknowledged oxygen deprivation or hypothermia, she also had strange hallucinations.
Oxygen schmoxygen. Who needs it? Or protective goggles? Or any gear to protect from the frostbiting wind and cold, not to mention (literally) blinding sun.
I know the final mountain scene was supposed to be touching yet was so ridiculous it reminded me of a scene from Ice Age: Collision Course (2016). Why couldn’t there have been a dinosaur or UFO? Go all in on throwing logic off the mountain! That might have bumped my score up!
There were times when I turned my brain off that the film had its moments, but they were few and far between. Stupid logic and stupid laws of physics interfering with movie magic. To “summit” up and not to “be-lay” the point but Wings Over Everest was an okay movie if you like the actors and/or scenery but it likely won’t “rock” your world.
27 April 2026
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In the meantime, you can watch the drama on YouTube: "CEO Hid Love Due To 12Age Gap—Until He Saw Her In Another Man’s Arms!He Realize Fallen Deeply Love."
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ekqg75zUp8&t=3s)
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Overhyped?
This was one of my most anticipated drama this year because of the leads. Unfortunately, I cannot believe I am actually considering dropping this.IU is a great actress but her character here fails to give her justice. Personally, I find her character irritating in the way she acts all cutesy cutesy. There is also the way she keeps shouting at the end of every sentence. Calm then BOOM!
BWS on the other hand, I cannot say that his is a case of poor acting. For me he is just portraying the role of a stoic prince. Not much to comment on actually. Would love to see him in something else. Maybe a more serious drama.
Together, I am not feeling much of a chemistry from them. BWS worked better with KHY in Lovely Runner, in my personal opinion.
So, the reason I am dropping this would be more because of the storyline than the actors. But if you love a romcom that is light and shallow, give it a try. ...you might end up enjoying it.
PS.. To toxic commenters, please respect my opinion. No need to agree with me. To each his own.,,,
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There is nothing to dislike about this Drama!
- My first C-Drama! It`s an amazing Series - the Visuals are out of the World, the Acting is soooo good from everyone, the Story is also good, even though I found some things confusing and some things came out out of the Blue (at least for me) but these were really minor stuff and can be easily overlooked.- Loved the Main and Side Cast - u have ur Characters u root really hard for and the Antagonist or Evil/bad Characters make a good job that ur Blood is boiling while seeing them lol
- The Chemistry between our Main Couple is amazing, and they make visually such a good Pair! I would really, really love to see them again in Future Projects, preferably as Lovers again hehe. I only wished we could have seen even more Romantic Stuff between them. The other Couple (iykyk) had more Tension and things going on (which ofc also suited them) but would have loved to see that for our Main Pair too.
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