This review may contain spoilers
Dramatic and Suspenseful
It was clear from the structure and casting that this show was going to be more about the drama than trying to generate any deep lasting romantic relationships, and it that, it was quite effective.The way the lies were handled certainly added to the drama by creating considerable suspense. The fact that some of the lies were much more serious than others was part of this, as viewers could never be sure if any particular lie was going to be a dealbreaker. It’s true most of these lies would not have been much an issue in my country (perhaps only Taeyang’s and Hanui’s). But I understand that South Korea is a much more conservative (and paternalistic) society and things like being a divorced mother are seen much more negatively.
It was clever of the show to end with a montage illustrating how most of the contestants ended up gravitating towards people who were the opposite of what they said they were looking for at the beginning.
It's true that many of the participants do not come off looking particularly good. I wasn’t much of a fan of Daon, but Taeyang, and particularly Hanu, were such complete jerks that in the end I couldn’t help but sympathize with her. Besides, she was just playing the game the way it was supposed to be played. Meanwhile, those two are the kind of smug stuck-up players who give guys a bad name. I’m glad the woman eventually figured this out.
The exception was of course Hanui, but I had to sympathise with her anyway, even if I question her insistence on chasing Hanu even after he made it more than clear (and quite rudely) that he didn’t consider her up to his standards. Perhaps she was trying to prove something to herself?
I didn’t particularly like the panel. There have been better panels on other shows.
Overall, when it comes to reality dating shows, I would rate Pink Lie a step above Single’s Inferno and both the Korean and Chinese versions of Heart Signal, but well below Nineteen to Twenty, EXchange/Transit (S1 and S2), and My Sibling’s Romance.
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"In this life, the next life, for all lifetimes, the two of us will always be entwined."
Honestly, I wasn’t even planning to watch this drama when I started it—I had another one lined up—but the hype was everywhere, and I just couldn’t resist. And yeah… the hype is 100% deserved. I already had a feeling I was going to like it, but it completely exceeded my expectations. The acting, the stunning cinematography, the OST, the chemistry between the characters—everything was so well done. I barely have any complaints, to be honest.I absolutely love seeing my man Zhang Ling He finally getting the recognition he deserves. I’ve been following him for years, back when he wasn’t as popular, so seeing him blow up now makes me so happy. (ﾉ^^)ﾉ He never disappoints with his acting—he’s improved so much and really proved he’s way more than just a pretty face.
Also, I just added a new actress to my favorites list because Tian Xi Wei completely surprised me. I don’t remember seeing her in anything before (or maybe I did and just forgot), but she totally won me over in this drama. I’m definitely planning to check out more of her work.
Zhang Linghe and Tian Xi Wei together were just so cute together—I mean, their chemistry was incredible and so fun to watch. They balanced each other perfectly, making their relationship feel natural, engaging, and like a true, powerful couple. And if there’s one thing I absolutely love, it’s a man who yearns and is completely gone for the woman he loves—and our marquis was exactly that. >//< I loved the way he looked at her, how he took care of her, and how much he longed to be close to her. He definitely raised my standards even more. (/ω＼)
The villains were so good too—I loved them because I hated them, which just proves how amazing their acting was. I really hope to see them, and the rest of the cast, in more projects.
Overall, this drama delivered everything it promised and more. Now I’m dying to read the novel because we all know adaptations always change or leave things out, so my expectations for the original story are even higher. This drama is honestly a gem. 10/10. ✨
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This review may contain spoilers
This was honestly the funniest Thai drama I’ve ever watched. I did not expect to binge all 18 episodes, but I flew through it because it was just so fun and easy to watch. For the most part, it really worked, though I will say the latter half had about 2–4 episodes where things got a bit confusing and I was questioning how we even got there. Still, overall, I genuinely loved it.Starting with the main couple, Nin and Chom, their chemistry was great. I came into this right after watching So Wayree, which I loved but could admit was toxic, so I was looking for something lighter, and this delivered. I didn’t expect the whole country-and-village vibe mixed with comedy, but I really enjoyed it. While I do think there was more passion in So Wayree, it didn’t take away from the sweetness here at all. Their relationship started as a marriage of convenience, with Nin helping Chom, and it slowly grew into something real. What I appreciated most was that early on, they actually communicated well. Misunderstandings only really became an issue once feelings got deeper, which felt realistic. I’m such a fan of them.
Mom was the main “villain,” if you can even call her that. At first, her dynamic with Nin was hilarious. The whole mother-in-law versus son-in-law back and forth was genuinely one of the best parts of the show. Watching them outplay each other was so entertaining. But over time, it did start to drag. She became too controlling and forceful, especially with her daughter’s life, and it got frustrating. I was especially annoyed when she kept introducing new men to her daughter. At that point in the story, I just wanted the main couple to solidify their relationship without unnecessary distractions.
For the side couple, Noina and Wasu, I adored Noina. She was so cute, and honestly, she carried that relationship. Wasu, on the other hand, was a bit frustrating because it always felt like he was still lowkey hung up on Chom, even if it wasn’t explicitly said. It just didn’t feel like he fully showed up for Noina, which made the pairing feel a little one-sided. On the brighter side, the dad was great. I loved how he balanced out the mom, and their dynamic added a lot to the story.
One of my absolute favorite aspects of the drama was the village and country setting. That was really the heart and soul of the show. The community, the friends, the grandma, the constant dancing and festivals, it felt like there was a celebration every other episode, and I loved that. It added so much warmth and made the drama feel alive. It was also nice getting a glimpse into Thai country life and culture. Overall, this drama just made me happy. It had its flaws, especially with some dragging conflicts and frustrating character choices, but the humor, the setting, and the main couple made it such an enjoyable watch.
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A relaxing but frustrating journey
I almost dropped this drama multiple times. Yang, played by Arthur, was incredibly childish, and I couldn't connect with his acting. He always has this blank, dumb expression on his face, which made it hard to take his character seriously.On the other hand, Fei was a standout. I rooted for her from the very beginning. She gave her best for Yang, but he just kept acting silly and irresponsible. He had no sense of responsibility or interest in supporting his family.
Where the drama truly shined was the second couple, Hua and Jing. Their journey to love was beautiful, and honestly, I was more excited for their scenes than for the main couple.
Now, let's talk about Lin Mei – the most annoying character ever.
The good news is that Yang eventually improves, but the road there is painfully long. The drama will draw you in with the beautiful 1970s atmosphere of China, and you will enjoy that aspect. But 29 episodes was way too long, especially since the beginning felt like a waste. Yang eventually finds his ground and protects Fei in every situation, but I just could not connect with him because I don't really like the actor.
The ratings and praise for this drama are very high, but for me, it lands on the better average side. It has its moments, and the second couple is lovely, but the frustrating start and slow progress hold it back.
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I was hoping for a BL about a dentist/patient with a phobia, but ლಠ益ಠ)ლ
PLOT: Sant, a student and streamer who tests desserts, ends up with a terrible toothache. He gets treatment at the dental school from a student, Jay, who takes care of him (even outside of school). The two end up becoming a couple, despite Captain, a love rival. Kak, Sant's best friend, has a crush on Yada (Jay's friend, bisexual, who's in a relationship with her girlfriend). But Yada gets dumped by her...+++Mark and Ohm are both excellent actors with great chemistry.
+++ The cast is good: Jimmy, Poon, and the others.
BUT:
### Slow direction, with ridiculous twists, a wacky, even absurd tone. This wants to be a comedy, but it failed.
### Empty and poorly written story.
### Unbearable series even in FF.
=> Please, stop wasting the actors'talent and resources on scripts like these!!
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J'espérais une BL dentiste / patient avec phobie, mais j'ai été déçue
PLOT: Sant, un étudiant & streamer "testeur de desserts" finit par avoir 1 belle rage de dents. Il se fait soigner à la Fac dentaire, par 1 étudiant, Jay, qui prend soin de lui (y compris hors de la fac). Les 2 finissent par former un couple, malgré Captain, 1 love rival. Kak, meilleur ami de Sant, a 1 crush sur Yada (amie bi de Jay, en couple avec 1 fille). Mais Yada est quittée par sa copine ...
+++Mark & Ohm sont tous 2 d'excellents acteurs, avec 1 belle alchimie.
+++ Le cast est bon : Jimmy, Poon, et les autres.
MAIS :
### Réalis° lente, avec des twists ridicules, un ton farfelu voire absurde.
### Story vide et mal écrite.
### Insupportable même en FF.
=> SVP, cessez de gâcher le talent des acteurs, des ressources, dans des scripts pareils !!
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good actresses, but bad writing
excellent casting, good actresses, but terrible dialogues. I don't know where Faye got her writers from, but the fact that one worked for "girl rules" should have been a good thing. Unfortunately they didn't do a good job with her series.I hope Faye realizes this and gets her next project handled by better writers.
Maybe buying a decent novel wouldn't be bad
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I might sound a little biased, but I have always loved series that allow me to see culture and beautiful sceneries, and this one delivers that so well. The way it presents Thailand adds a certain depth and charm to the story, making it feel more immersive rather than just something you watch casually. It creates an atmosphere that stays with you, making each episode feel more meaningful.
What truly surprised me the most is how much I have come to love the cast, especially Net and JJ. I did not expect to get this attached, but their performances feel sincere and natural. Net carries a quiet intensity that makes every glance feel important, while JJ brings a softness that balances everything so beautifully. Their chemistry feels effortless and genuine, not forced, but something that grows on you the more you watch. There are moments where they do not even need dialogue because their expressions already say everything, and those are often the scenes that leave the strongest impact.
The story unfolds in a gentle yet captivating way. It does not rush, and that is what makes it stand out. Instead, it allows you to sit with the characters, to understand them, and to slowly connect with their journey. It is more than just romance. It touches on timing, longing, and the quiet complexities of love, which makes it feel deeper and more reflective. I often find myself thinking about the story even after the episode has ended.
The music blends so seamlessly with the series that it almost feels like part of the storytelling itself. It enhances emotions without overpowering them, making certain scenes hit even harder. There are moments where the music alone can bring back the feeling of a scene, and that kind of impact is something not every series can achieve.
This is also the kind of series that holds strong rewatch value. It is filled with small details, subtle expressions, and quiet moments that you begin to appreciate even more the second time around. Watching it again feels like revisiting something familiar yet still meaningful, like holding on to a feeling you are not quite ready to let go of.
Overall, Love Upon a Time feels like a quiet gem that truly deserves more attention. Net and JJ definitely deserve this series, and it is clear how much heart was put into bringing it to life. I really hope more people give this a chance because it is honestly worth it. We all have different preferences, and that is completely okay, but sometimes trying something new leads to unexpected favorites. Who knows, you might end up loving this series just as much as I do. ִֶ ִֶָ🪽་༘࿐
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Trauma and Healing
Trauma healing in community. Life may not be fair, but it can be lived well. These are messages woven in the fabric of the story, well crafted and superbly delivered by an amazing cast. Loved the relationships, backstories and scenery. Ji Chang Wook andChoi Soo Young worked well together, and along with Sung Dong Il, they anchored the story with realism and depth. Loved it. So good.
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Bait and Switch
I ended up speeding through this series, which reflects how uneven its pacing becomes. The first couple of episodes promise and deliver on gang-related doctor activities, but the story soon pivots into a chaebol power struggle. Though still decent, it abandons the very premise that made it compelling.The acting is solid and the characters are interesting, but the story leans melodramatic with a slight makjang feel. I wish it had continued developing the gangster storyline alongside the chaebol plot to draw meaningful parallels, or explored its trauma themes in an active, present way instead of relying on past exposition.
The series introduces strong ideas—gangster medicine, trauma, and class power—but never fully develops them. In the end, it settles into a simple love story when it had the potential to be something far more layered
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Pursuit of Jade Had Me Hooked From Episode One
Historical dramas are not usually my first choice, but Pursuit of Jade completely pulled me in from episode one. Even with 40 episodes, it kept me interested and emotionally invested the whole way through.Zhang Linghe and Tian Xi Wei were the highlights for me. Their chemistry and character balance made them so enjoyable to watch. The female lead brought strength, courage, and determination, while the male lead brought intelligence and strength. Together, they balanced each other in a way that made their partnership feel natural and engaging.
The supporting cast also deserves praise. Snow Kong, Deng Kai, Li Qing, Yu Zhong Li, Ren Hao, Lin Mu Ran, and the rest of the supporting characters all added something important to the story. Even the children stood out and brought some of the sweetest moments in the drama.
I also want to give credit to the director and writer, because this drama was strong enough to pull me into a genre I do not usually prefer. My only disappointment was the ending, which left me wanting more. I am hoping that means there is more to come.
Reading other reviews is great, but watching it for yourself is even better.
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This review may contain spoilers
This was honestly such a fun watch. I mainly came for Yaya Urassaya and James Jirayu, and I really enjoyed their dynamic as Neung (James) and Poom (Yaya) as they weren't quite enemies to lovers, but more of that playful, teasing, always-getting-on-each-other ’s-nerves type of relationship. I love that kind of dynamic, and their chemistry carried a lot of the show for me. That said, it definitely dragged at times, mostly because of the villains. The main villain girl, who liked Neung, made things feel repetitive, and Paen’s mother was honestly exhausting—both of them just kept creating problems over and over again. The misunderstandings also went on a bit too long, especially since Poom’s character was so tight-lipped. I really wish she had spoken up more, because a lot of the conflict could have been resolved faster.For the side couples, P’Pu and Paen were cute overall. P’Pu was easily one of the most entertaining and charming characters. I wasn’t fully sold on Paen at first, mostly because of her chaotic family, but it was clear she really loved him, so I was happy they worked out. Her mother, though… still terrible, and the way she “changed” because of money was lowkey funny but not exactly satisfying. Paen’s brother (who liked Poom) was actually a good, supportive character, and I felt bad for him, but I do wish he stood up to his mom more, especially since he was basically the man of the house.
Another pairing was Khun Chai and Poom’s sister, and I actually really liked their relationship at first. It had the potential to be one of the show's cutest dynamics. But toward the end, Khun Chai, not fully seeing the woman right in front of him, was a bit of a turnoff. Still, they managed to wrap it up in a cute enough way. As for the villains, I feel like they technically got consequences, but it all felt very behind-the-scenes and not as satisfying as I wanted. I’m not usually someone who wants harsh punishment, but here it just didn’t feel like enough payoff after all the chaos they caused.
Overall, I’d say my favorite character was Neung; he was bratty and enjoyable to watch. The most frustrating characters were definitely the villains, who really dragged down certain parts of the story. Even with those issues, the drama was still entertaining and kept my attention, and I had a good time watching it.
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Tongue-in Cheek and lots of fun
Campy and cheezy in all the right places. Having a pretty female playing a guy is always hard to believe that characters can't figure it out. But this series works out the issue in a nice way. Love the tongue-in-cheek cultural references. Plenty of tropes that didn't take themselves too seriously. Young love, good music, old style love triangle with a lively trouble-maker--what's not to love?Was this review helpful to you?
Committed Makjang and Funny!
I've never seen a makjang before and it was AMAZING. The actors were all committed to their roles. The antagonists were unapologetically evil, conniving, easy to hate and funny. The protagonists, especially the FL and 2nd ML kept the story emotionally grounded. I absolutely loved the Emperor and his mother. Highly recommend this series--according to AI, it is a very pure example of the genre. Highly entertaining! Enjoy!!!Was this review helpful to you?
Toxic Pointlessness
At the beginning of the series, there were details regarding abuse that really caught my interest. However, as the show progressed, these details surfaced far too late. Moreover, the overwhelming male dominance in the cast was a major disappointment for me. The romance between the two female leads was given very little screen time. It felt like these elements were suddenly shoehorned into the 6th or 7th episodes as an afterthought because the show wasn't gaining enough traction. In that regard, the series failed. While the premise is excellent, the opening is perfect, and there are several compelling scenes along with a stellar cast and atmosphere—the overall execution felt slow and aimless.The most positive thing I can say about the series is how well it portrays the power struggle. None of the characters are truly "good." Naturally, people involved in such schemes would harbor some level of darkness within them. I'm actually glad the series was short; enduring this much toxic masculinity for 16 episodes would have been incredibly difficult.
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