If anything you should take away from this is that is it a top tier historical C drama
This drama truely lived up to the hype, I've watch each episode atleast once, since writing this review1. This might be the best Cdrama ZHL has ever been apart of & probably TXW
I've become quite familiar with ZHL work over the past couple of years with TBT, TPR, SOFK & much more and he has improved alot and is able to capture so much in a shot. I wouldn't hesitate to say that this may be his best work yet, and I'm excited to see what comes next, especially if he continue to improve. TXW im less familar with her work as I have complete a piece from start to finish before, but this really made me fall for her HARD! Her facial expressions top notch, her body movement and line is beautifal in every shot and she brings FCY to life.
2. Thank you to the staff, director and producers
They truely brought this to life. It's hard to a production to continuesly carry a show to the end at such quality and I wouldn't say a second was waste, for the world building, charater development and the pschological elements they were able to bring out so beautifully. This made wish we could extend the number of episodes again or have some more canon episodes, but I am satified with what I got. I'm going to miss these charaters, but they definately made this a series you can rewatch endlessly.
3. Supporting leads really carried their storylines throughly
Can i just say how goregous everyone was and how I felt how deep each of the charaters archs went and how every shot with the supporting roles were so well done. It felt easy to understand each charater and if it wasn't atleast it made you feel some type of way which I find hard in Cdramas at this caliber.
Overall Rating a solid 9.7
(I may revise this later on)
They cut alot of scenes which I had scene in behind the scenes shots by fans and the story in which I went through with, but I get there were reason for that. But I can't help but miss those moments and it would help fill some small gaps left in the story. But it doesn't impact the overall story so it made sense for time or other reasons *cough cough*. And finally I think towards the end of most C dramas they tend to be weaker due to various reason while it stay good, it could have had some minor improvements which would make the last main arch more complete. This could also be due to time limitations but I just can't help it.
If anything you should take away from this is that is it a top tier historical C drama, no matter what
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We only realize the true value of things when they’re about to end
Number One offers a quiet yet deeply human cinematic experience, built on a simple idea that gradually reveals profound emotional depth. From the very beginning, the film avoids loud storytelling or fast-paced events, choosing instead a calm and reflective tone that allows everyday emotions to take center stage.At its core, the film explores the relationship between a mother and her son—something universally familiar—yet it presents this bond in a unique and thoughtful way. A subtle element of fantasy is woven into the narrative, not to dominate it, but to add a symbolic layer that enhances its meaning. This blend of realism and imagination feels natural, never forced, and gently leads the viewer to reflect on themes like time, value, and the things we often take for granted.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its deliberate pacing. Rather than rushing through events, it takes its time, allowing small details—glances, silence, and ordinary moments—to carry significant emotional weight. While this slow rhythm may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer action-driven stories, it perfectly serves the film’s introspective nature.
The performances follow the same understated approach. The acting is subtle and sincere, relying more on expressions and presence than on dialogue. This restraint adds authenticity, making the characters feel real and relatable, and allowing emotions to resonate even in the quietest scenes.
Visually, the film leans toward warm tones and soft compositions, creating a nostalgic and intimate atmosphere. The music is gentle and unobtrusive, complementing the scenes without overwhelming them, which further strengthens the emotional impact.
However, the film’s slow pace and melancholic tone might not suit every viewer. It is not designed as light entertainment, but rather as a reflective experience that requires patience and emotional openness.
In the end, Number One is not driven by dramatic twists or intense action, but by feeling. It is a film that lingers quietly, encouraging the viewer to appreciate the deeper meaning behind simple moments. It speaks more to the heart than to the eyes, and for those willing to engage with it, it leaves a lasting impression.
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2"Its true value lies in its meaning"
Raining in the Mountain was another gorgeous King Hu film starring Hsu Feng. I didn’t find it as compelling as Touch of Zen, but you would be hard pressed to find a lovelier cinematic experience from the 1970s than this film.Merchant Wen An is traveling to a remote temple with his concubine and servant. The abbot is in ill health and ready to name a successor. He has asked Wen, General Wang Chi (accompanied by the vile Lt. Chang Cheng) and the illustrious Buddhist scholar Master Wu Wai (accompanied by numerous beautiful women) to the temple to help him make his decision. Unknown to the abbot, Wen and Wang Chi are there to steal the Mahayana Sutra written by Tripitaka himself. Wen’s “concubine” is actually the notorious thief, “White Fox”, along with her cohort, “Gold Lock.” Aside from the thieves lurking behind every corner, at least two monks are vying for the top position by throwing their lot in with the powerful men. Into this volatile mix enters a thief who was falsely accused and sentenced to the military. Chiu Ming has the potential to upend everyone’s plans.
First, it’s important to acknowledge the true star of the show, the 8th century Bulguksa Buddhist temple in South Korea that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple sits on a mountain, surrounded by forest, and was architecturally a thing to behold. Most of the scenes were shot on site. The film had also been restored which I am always grateful for.
While ostensibly a martial arts film, there weren’t many fights, the longest occurred near the end of the film. Much of the film involved people lurking around corners, running to hide, and generally slinking about searching for the sacred scroll and attempting to avoid detection. If people weren’t skulking in the shadows, they were making deals to be chosen abbot or deals that involved access to the scroll. The irony was not lost that these devout Buddhists coveted the scroll and were willing to lie, commit theft, and/or murder to obtain it. As the abbot said regarding the tattered paper, “Its true value lies in its meaning.” The monks competing for the abbot position were more interested in power than enlightenment. After complaining about the food, the monks were told they’d have to start farming and working harder at alms. Wait, we don’t actually want to work! The new abbot was going to have his hands full if he could manage to stay alive!
King Hu’s cinematography was stunning. I have watched many films from this era and it would be difficult to find one more aesthetically pleasing. The music perfectly enhanced the story and scenery. The actors all gave fine performances though some performances were more captivating. Other than the long length of the film and repetitive prowling scenes, I enjoyed Raining in the Mountain. The final fight and flight scenes were actually quite humorous, even as characters died. I’m not sure King intended them to, but they were reminiscent of a Looney Tunes cartoon. Raining in the Mountain contained no rain and was more philosophical than physical, at least until the epic game of keep away. If you enjoy 1970s historicals that are light on kung fu and heavier on Buddhist ideology, shot on an amazing location, this might be one to try.
22 March 2026
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1Fear of loneliness, and Fear of what happened after Love is found
Subjective Gut Rating: 8.5Objective Rating: 8.0
Disclaimer:
The high rating might be skewed and definitely subjective because I am looking for a happy, stress-free watching due to real life’s stress. “Boyfriend on Demand” gave me a dose of happiness in the virtual and drama worlds. Therefore, you may not agree with my rating or review, and that is A-OK 🙂
The general plot of “Boyfriend on Demand” is nothing special. There are many similar dramas already, with characters escaping reality’s struggles and addicted to an alternate reality. But of course, this will eventually blow up, but through the process, the main characters usually find their way of knowing who they really are, and as in rom-com fashion, find love at the end of the process. “Boyfriend on Demand” follows a very similar script. Whether this is a good or bad thing, depends on what you are looking for.
The first half of the drama focuses a lot on the different virtual boyfriends our female lead, Mi Rae, met in virtual reality. Guest stars Seo Kang Jun (eps 2-5), Lee Soo Hyuk (eps 1-2) and Choi Si Won (eps 9-10) have the most screen time, respectively. Seo Kang Jun, with his beautiful and sparkly eyes, is definitely the star of all the guest stars. He reminds me of his sweet character in “When The Weather is Fine”. His pink college heartthrob storyline and the perfect green flag captures the audience’s hearts. He is just so damn beautiful. Let’s not forget the mature second-chance romance boyfriend who is considerate and caring. Who wouldn’t want a VR boyfriend like him? We were actually first introduced to cold chaebol, played by the sexy Lee Soo Hyuk. You know, the cliche CEO is cold to everyone but doting on the female lead? Yup, that’s him. This is probably the closest to me watching a mature and sexy Lee Soo Hyuk in a romantic comedy. There are several other virtual boyfriends introduced (though limited screentime) that are also quite fun.
Some might complain that the drama focuses too much on these VR boyfriends early on, especially if you are a fan of Seo In Guk. He does have limited screen time but this is to set up the character development of FL for when their romance finally develops. Afterall, this is a story of Mi Rae, and all the other handsome guys are just part of her journey. But don’t worry, Seo In Guk has plenty of scenes later on. His dual roles are fun and I love seeing a shy guy open up. His cute flirting and courting of Mi Rae are endearing.
There are many reasons for women to sign up for “Boyfriend on Demand”. It could be accidental, or they are lonely, or they are stressed out in real life, or they just need a space where they could date around and not be judged by society’s eyes. This drama scratched the surface of some of these reasons, though not in detail. But no matter what, this ‘secret’ will eventually be revealed and these women will have to deal with the aftermath. I personally felt that the writer’s story arc didn’t quite receive the full closure in respect to the backlash, but it did close on a personal note.
Mi Rae’s journey with these boyfriends helped her grow. The revelation of her use, though predictable, was handled well. I shed a few tears in the last couple episodes, but not in a really sad and angsty way. I felt for her and also her boyfriend’s hesitancy. Of course, one could criticize that all you need is to talk to each other. Very true, but in reality, it isn’t that simple and the drama doesn’t drag that for long.
Despite mixed reviews, I really had a great time binge-watching “Boyfriend on Demand”. It might not have offered anything unique, but the colorfulness, the ridiculousness, the comedy (not too over-the-top), the cuteness and fluffiness, and the romance all work for me. As I said, I am intentionally seeking out dramas like this to satisfy my need. It worked out perfectly for me. Now I am recharged! Do I recommend it? It really depends on what you are looking for. For something fun, colorful and easy…of course! For something unique and not cheesy…probably not.
Completed: 3/22/2026 Review #676
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This review may contain spoilers
The Stray Kids song made this 10/10 for me.
The sequel was more interesting to me than the first film. While the original felt repetitive, the second avoids relying on that same structure and instead branches out in a more engaging way.The middle of the movie is definitely confusing, but things start to come together toward the end, which makes the payoff more satisfying.
That said, I do have a major issue with the ending. I usually enjoy a happy ending, but this one contradicts its own rules. Earlier, the film establishes that if you die during the final body search created by the shard, you die for good. However, both Rikuto and Misaki die during that last search and are still brought back to life after Takahiro completes Asuka’s body. That inconsistency really took me out of the story and didn’t make much sense.
The post-credit scene hints at the possibility of another sequel, so only time will tell where the story goes next. It was also nice to see a returning character from the first film return for a brief cameo.
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R*pe
Yuck. No, thanks. Even without the raping, I don't know how anyone could continue to watch this nightmare. The story line and acting is truly awful. It is underdeveloped and the emotions seem forced and fake from basically everyone. The only decent character was the assistant.I am also so over one actor playing twins in a series. I think this is the worst bl I have ever watched. Continuing to watch this would be worse than having dental work with no anesthetics, which I have done more than once.Was this review helpful to you?
"YOU WERE A GOOD PIG IN THIS LIFE, BE A GOOD PERSON IN NEXT " FAN CHANGYU/ WEI CHANGYU
I like every character in this drama, even when they make mistakes, their intentions are understandable. Still, I have to admit the last episode made me cry. I don’t know why they cut the scene where Lord Li sees the twins of the main couple and remembers his old friends, if they had kept that from the novel, I would’ve been in pieces.OVERALL SOLID 10/10
I felt bad for Sui Yuanqing, Wei Yan, Wei Yuan, and even the 13th Lady, but I grew to hate Qi Min. At first, I thought he was a tragic character, but his later actions made me despise him even more, especially when he destroyed Lord Changxin’s family, the very people who had raised him.
About our LEADS : YAN ZHENG/ XIE ZHENG X FAN CHANGYU/ WEI CHANGYU
I loved their chemistry and their love. I adored the moment when Yan Zheng said, "Anybody can be prince consort except Xie Zheng, I only love you in this lifetime." I admired their yearning for each other, how they supported and trusted one another without any misunderstanding, and how they were both strong generals.
I also liked Lord Li and Sui Yuanqing’s blind trust in his family, even his troublesome brother. He was a good person, at least for his family.
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This review may contain spoilers
Romance thrillers are the best
Overall ImpressionWhen the Phone Rings stands out as a highly engaging thriller with a strong emotional core. Despite its darker themes, it has significant rewatch value, largely due to the strength of its central relationship and character development.
Characters and Performances
The highlight of the drama is the dynamic between the leads, played by Yoo Yeon-seok and Chae Soo-bin. Their chemistry is convincing and carries much of the narrative. Yoo Yeon-seok delivers a layered performance, portraying a character shaped by identity struggles and emotional restraint. Chae Soo-bin is equally effective, particularly in her use of sign language and non-verbal expression, which adds depth to her role and enhances the emotional impact of the story.
Character Development
Sa-eon is written as a character who struggles with emotional expression due to his upbringing and lack of personal identity. His initially distant behavior toward Hui-ju reflects this internal conflict rather than simple indifference. While some of his decisions—such as going to a war zone—can seem extreme, they are consistent with his psychological state and past experiences. His development becomes more apparent after key events, particularly as he begins to confront his own emotional limitations.
Hui-ju’s character arc is equally significant. Her low self-esteem and silence are rooted in her upbringing, making her one of the more complex characters in the narrative. Her gradual shift toward asserting herself and seeking change provides an important counterbalance to Sa-eon’s development.
Plot and Structure
The drama effectively combines thriller and romance elements. One of its strengths is the gradual revelation of information, which maintains suspense across episodes. The use of incomplete information encourages viewer engagement and adds tension to the narrative.
However, certain plot points rely on heightened drama and may feel less grounded. While these moments can be justified within the emotional logic of the story, they occasionally weaken the overall realism.
Themes
A central theme of the drama is the importance of communication in relationships. Despite the strong emotional bond between the main characters, their inability to express their thoughts and feelings creates conflict and distance. The story suggests that emotional connection alone is not sufficient without clear communication.
Supporting Characters
The second leads are handled in a restrained way, avoiding unnecessary romantic conflict with the main couple. This decision helps maintain focus on the central relationship. While their own chemistry is less pronounced, their presence supports the overall narrative without becoming a distraction.
Conclusion
When the Phone Rings succeeds primarily due to its strong performances and emotionally compelling central relationship. While some narrative choices rely on dramatic exaggeration, the consistency of the characters’ emotional arcs allows the story to remain engaging. Its combination of suspense and romance, supported by effective acting, makes it a memorable and rewatchable drama.
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if you like cute stories this might be 4 u
don't be fooled by me dropping the drama 1 episode from the very end.the fact is that I can stand fluff to a certain extend and even though I like cuteness I must take it in small doses🤣.
Let's start with the plot:
Young medical student is rumored to be the new girlfriend of the top guy at the school. To disperse these rumors she enters an agreement with said guy to show they are just friends but along the way they catch feeling for each other.
The plot is pretty simple but still enjoyable.
Let me tell that the first 10 ish episode are hilarious. I found myself chuckling multiple times.
The main leads have good chemistry and their acting is so good.
Especially the ml dead pan delivery had me dead.
I appreciate the FL from previous series. Funnily enough everytime I see her on screen she is heartbroken 🤣.
one if the secondary couple (the cousin) kinda feel like a parody of main stream drama couples. They are so stereotypical ridiculous that they become funny.
The main love story is entertaining (for the most part) and sweet but unfortunately they suffer the same terrible fate of other dramas... After they get together the drama is basically over.
the other secondary couples are quite irrelevant to be honest.
In the first half of the drama we witness the struggle of a mediocre student and her indecisiveness when It comes to school of future carrier. I really enjoyed that part because geniuses are rare and we all struggle one way or the other.
Unfortunately when the main couple gets together these struggles feel a bit like a "filler". They are still there but I feel they are more of a plot convenience than a character development.
To be frank the "conflict" in the drama is not enough to justify 24 episodes and some dynamics drag out for too long.
The last 5 episode were boring as hell.
Would I still recommend this drama?
yes, but only if you really like cute stuff.
The first episodes are funny, the middle part is dragged out and the final episode are filled with so much "sweetness" , which is not my cup of tea, but many people would probably enjoy all that fluff.
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Confused. Diffused.
There is no doubt this drama starts with a bang. Bold images fill the screen. The colours are striking by design. The theme is noir. I'll try keep this spoiler free.The writer-nim has a clear focus initially. She has a story to tell, and it was a powerful one. It lost its way over its short 8 eps run. The connecting logic falters. Alas, the sum is less than its parts.
If we just focus on the ending, it works, but it doesn't feel right. It is the ending we have to have because the production won't take the high road.
The case is closed. The perpetrator is punished. All the hard societal issues are still there. So, what is the message? What is the point?
Initially, I thought the writer-nim was building an exposé on our obsessions with luxury goods, acquisitiveness and social status. There are many poignant moments early on. They are stark and impactful.
Unfortunately, the story got tangled up with its own narrative. Our FL underwent multiple transformations. It is like watching someone's holiday snaps. Flick, flick, flick. I understand the FL needs to evolve into her final form. It just doesn't feel like a coherent journey.
On top of that, we'd witness her actions yet her reasoning is more nebulous. Is she good/evil/chaotic/lawful? Sometimes there is a hint of a deeper motivation (mayhaps revenge?), but she will counter that with her next move. It is confusing and unsettling for the viewers.
Where this show excels is the portrayal of excess consumption and decadence. I can fully appreciate how those temples to luxury function now. This is matched by the FL morphing from a salaried Iona to a couture wearing goddess. There is no doubt Shin Hae Sun is the star. She gave it her all. She is the focal point of many scenes.
Here lies the fundamental problem. As a thriller, it is passable. It ticked the boxes mechanically. As a social commentary, it starts strong and then the message got confused and eventually faded away. Instead of a strong "burn the house down" ending, it becomes a tacit acceptance of the status quo. The boat is rock steady.
In the end, this show is watchable in a superficial way. It pains me to write this review as there are scenes and moments that will stay with me. It could have been so much more. Peace.
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What are we pursuing?
It’s strange, but lately, it feels like Zhang Linghe is in every drama I watch.For me, his best role was in *Story of Kunning Palace*. In that series, he played a more mature character—one who truly demonstrated the emotional depth and expression of an adult. I still remember that cave scene to this day.
That said—
The first half of *this* series seemed to have a little bit of everything; at the time, I really hoped the female lead would evolve into a supportive and capable partner. However, once she arrived at the military camp, she started doing things that were... well, hard to make sense of. Her character development went backwards, even making decisions for other people that she had no right to be making.
I understand that the Marquis wanted a wife who wasn't intimidated by this kind of lifestyle, but she could have easily demonstrated her strength in other ways, rather than turning the plot into a "female general" trope.
Furthermore—it took 26 episodes for him to tell her who he really is. Their relationship lacks the sense of maturity it ought to possess. Ironically, it is the other male lead(Deng Kai)—despite being a quite unhinged and toxic figure—who actually embodies the desire, pain, sorrow, and longing that are characteristic of adult relationships.
I became a little bored with the main couple due to the male lead not really doing much for most of the show despite being a famed general, while female lead becoming too nonsensical. Deng Kai as the villain & the plot with his brother was really the only reason I stuck around for the show.
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started strong then lost its potential..
this drama in its first 19 - 20 episodes was great on many different level , great script, acting and character building, then when the second arc began when xie zheng returned to the army and linan mascara everything was going downhill real fast , the kept dragging and focusing at something ridiculous 'ML real identity' which could have been revealed to FL early on than 26th ending they kept dragging and forgot that they had a main storyline they had to finish , the palace arc was so rushed ,wei yan supposedly the main villain yet he never got any decent screen time on the other hand qi min who kept planning revenge for so many years was defeated so easily in half of an episode maybe less😕 wondering what was all this building for if we are going to get a rushed ending .this drama kept focus on 2 couples qi min and yu qianqian and our main couple but why did they leave out gongsun yin and princess royal ?
what also annoyed me is the war scenes were extremely rushed, and the very small number of soldiers that appeared despite saying the sui army had 30,000 soldiers obviously that was not the case (may it was a budget issue) but it was really annoying watching soldiers appear and suddenly disappear in the next shot .
when ML knew that changyu was wei qilin's daughter (supposedly the traitor who cause his father's death 17 years ago) of course changyu had nothing to do with it but at least you could have showed us he was reluctant to be with her or at least didn't forget his goal to avenge his father and that he cared it seemed like he only cared about changyu , it was the opposite way around changyu was the one who distanced herself .
last episodes were a bit rushed yet it held some great plots , li huaian coming to his senses and stop helping his grandfather with his plan to put qi min on the throne , grand tutor li already knew that qi min was an unfit and ruthless ruler yet he was doing it for power and that li family becomes stronger than wei family in court .
sui yuan qing's ending was also well deserved (betrayed and alone ) but at least he did a good deed before he died.
what wei yan did 17 years ago they made it seem that it was the emperor's fault but he was not free of guilt as him trying to get rid on FL and her sister afterwards was extreme and unjustified .
wei xuan sacrificing his life to XZ was a bit confusing , he said it was because he saved his mother but throughout the whole drama we saw wei xuan complaining to wei yan that he prefered XZ over him and was clearly jealous and about it , I thought he hated him so that scene was out of nowhere for me.
this drama has the most ridiculously funny emperor 😂 laughed at almost all his scenes , not your typical cdrama emperor , yet his ending was sad .
song yan's discovery of ML 's identity and that FL became a general was quite funny and his dismissal of his position was well deserved after what he did to FL .
after all what has been said , this was a great drama that lost potential midway .
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Family Drama to the Extreme
I loved this soapy family drama. It reminded me of the Korean drama Penthouse, but only involving family. Everything that could happen to one family did including murder, rape, kidnapping and drugs. I don't watch alot of Thai dramas, but this one was pleasantly suprising. I would definitely watch this again when I'm looking for some mindless, soapy drama.Was this review helpful to you?
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Just finished this drama and I feel a little disappointed with the plot development. The writing could've been little better and more logical. The plot is predictable where either lead has to be killed by the other. Ther wasn't anything new or unique. Only the soccer part was little fresh but not much emphasis was given to it.
The cast did their best, it's just that the story was lacking. It didn't have a strong start but towards the end it got engaging.The romance was decent, not the most compelling at first, but it improved towards the end.
I don't know why are people hating on Hye Yoon, she just did her best as Eun Ho and i don't think anyone could've been more suitable for this role. Talking about chemistry, it's just that the story direction wasn't strong enough to show intensity between the leads.
I would love if it had more episodes, and the plot could make more sense.
Things I feel could be added/improved-
* More focus on Kang Si Yeol making his local football team better after the switch and achieving success
* Geum Ho's ( eight tailed fox) romance with the member of Kang Si yeol's fc should have been shown
* Unnecessary 2 long leaps of 9 years
* There should have been more episodes to explain things better
* Purpose of Eun Ho's immortality and her deals with rich people
* What happens to Eun Ho when Kang Si Yeol died due to old age
Overall it was a little disappointing, the makers and story did injustice to such talented and gorgeous leads. I was excited since last year but this isn't what I expected
Also I hope people won't hate on the leads unnecessarily because they did well and don't compare their chemistry to leads in Lovely Runner because both have different plot and all dramas can't be the same. People need to understand this
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Little did I know...
Well, first of all, story is nonexistent... İt's only a premise about a straight guy seeking help from a sex therapist, only to turn gay after having sex...
Well, in another show, I'd make a song and dance about it, because sexualities don't work that way.
But considering the 50 shades of positions they acted, I myself almost turn gay while watching ~~
Acting, was convincing, I didn't like the stoic face the therapist had all the time, not because of anything, but because it made me feel uncomfortable watching it, I understand it's part of the character personality but still, I was repulsed so I fast forwarded.
The ending for me was a bit vague, I don't understand the letter thing, and the last look the therapist gave the ML before leaving, what did it imply!? I was watching 3 episodes of uncomfortable sex to get a glimpse of something uncomprehended by the end. Did they want to show that something may happen between them? Because all I got was, the ML having 4 days of extreme sex to end up with depression and probably worse mental state than before.
I don't think this is supposed to be treated as a series, it's literally corn, so watch it if you feel hørny and want to watch some gay pørn or something ~~
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