Reviews

Shout out to Hosaka

This was such a cute little drama. Starts off rather fast which I liked because it gives us more time with the characters to see their growth and feelings evolve. Both main leads are crazy beautiful. Saw some reviews who didn’t like the acting but honestly it wasn’t bad. In fact I think they did well. I am not a fan of friends to lover trope but I swooned over these two.
I love Hosaka who gave solid advice all around to our main leads. I remember that actor from Jack o frost! Hopefully he can land a main lead in the near future because he’d be so good!
The drama was short, sweet, and will leave you wanting more.

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Cute yet Cliché

Ceo and Assistant become close. Someone falls hard only for there to be this push-pull of emotions till they become an item late in the series. The ML and FL were cute yet chemistry seemed forced at times and super-safe in other times. No real petty issues which was refreshing. The misunderstanding and knight in shining armor moments seemed a bit cliché. The SML and SFL were very cute and relatable with how their relationship started, blossomed and progressed. The end was a bit dialog heavy in trying to tie up loose ends and fill in expressed completion of all connections. Yet the cast was solid, the storyline was good but cheeky. Nevertheless, this is a good watch.

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A very different but more enigmatic and charismatic Meguro Ren

Subjective Gut Rating: 8.25

“Trillion Game” shows us a different side of Meguro Ren. He’s no longer the gentle, quiet or shy character that we know in “Kieta Hatsukoi”, “Silent” or “As Long as We Both Shall Live”. In “Trillion Game” he’s the ruthless, calculating and scheming Haru. It does take me a little bit to get used to this new Meguro Ren. I’m glad he branches out to different roles, but personally, I am not a big fan of over-the-top anime/manga acting. So I much preferred his shy roles. Having said that, Meguro Ren is charismatic and really does shine in this drama. It’s hard not to focus on him when he’s on the screen.

His counterpart/business partner/friend is a total opposite of Haru. Gaku is a shy and introverted computer geek. As the genius hacker, he complements Haru very well. The duo tackles the internal and external crisis of building a business seamlessly. I have enjoyed watching their friendship and partnership grow, and especially the trust they have in each other. Although Haru is more enigmatic, we do see character development from Gaku and how he’s slowly changed.

Playing Princess Kiri is the beautiful Imada Mio. Kiri is sassy, cool and sassy. You won’t see a trace of her shy portrayal of Miyo in “As Long as We Both Shall Live”. When she’s alone, she dazzles. When she’s with Haru, the chemistry is there, even if there’s really no romance in this drama. It’s lovely to see both Menguro Ren and Imada Mio play such different roles together. I always look forward to the eye-catching and somewhat over-the-top outfits that Princess Kiri wears. Every time she shows up on screen, she has a different outfit. It’s like her own fashion show.

Rinrin the human AI is the moral compass of Trillion Game. She steers the ship through rough waters and keeps it on the right path. As the honest, ethical and passionate President, her character might be more one-dimensional than the other three.

This is not a serious business drama, nor a romantic comedy. Comparatively, it’s not as overdramatic as other anime/manga live adaptations I’ve seen. It’s fast-paced and with a decent supporting cast. The two veteran actors are great,and a good contrast to the younger cast. In order to build the Trillion Game, you will see Haru and Gaku overcome each challenge and build the company one piece at a time. These building blocks can seem repetitive at times, and also appear to be quite easy. You can also guess where Haru is going and that he's always 10 steps ahead of everyone. I would have liked to see more backstory of the supporting cast, but there isn’t enough time for that. I think I enjoy the second half of the drama more than the first, when the stakes are higher and Meguro Ren’s character is less over-the-top but has become seriously manipulating.

With 10 quick episodes, this is an easy and enjoyable binge. Would I have loved to see a little more romance developed between Haru and the Princess? Yes. But sometimes, the unspoken but obvious affection and interest could be just as sizzling.



Completed: 12/13/2023 - Review #382

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A fantasy drama like no other, must watch!

Really loving this fantasy drama, a story between the young immortal gods, both main leads are still naively young but Ayin is smarter. It doesn't start with some romance but it'll progress how the main leads had to work and support each other inorder to release them from master/servant contract bestowed towards them. And of course both are not happy about the situation but this is where their destiny with fun and adventure begins.

The first 4 episodes is about Ayin meeting Gu Yin for the first time and already this is hilarious with Gu Yin accidentally killing the 2nd phoenix before even meeting her ; then later he found a water beast egg that a part of Feng Yin scattered soul went inside the egg .... I love how A Yin despite being only a water beast she actually plays an important part of Gu Yin's development of his power. Gu Yin is too naive and makes you wanna smack him for his gullibility. While Ayin got a good heart to heal others as well as too smart with a good for his own good, she could tell from what is bad and good. There are already some signs of feelings development after Ep5 and it seems Ayin fall for him first and Gu Yin despite showing signs of emotions may not realize it so soon.. With the first 8 episodes you can watch now in Wetv, the story is already captivating with interesting story lines between the Yin, a diligent Shuining Beast, and Gu Jin, son of the true God whose magic power was sealed . How they will overcome their predicament will show in each episodes with how things are developing and it'll get more interesting! just can't wait to see more of the episodes!

As for the main leads, ZhaoLusi truly delivers a brilliant acting in her role here as a smart and innocent water beast, Ayin with her original cute voice; then changes to Feng Ayin for a more matured demeanor character worthy of a princess... Wang Anyu also suits well in his role as the naive and powerless immortal god, it seems he really portrayed his acting well when you just hated this guy for being lazy, naive and happy go lucky LOL he did well i think ... i hope he wakes up and realize his true feeling towards Ayin soon....

As for the CGI I do believe that it was brilliant and amazingly well done, the back drop and scenery is quite vivid and colorful depicting the three realms; luv the heavenly setting the most of course but also having light cgi is good not because of low budget but sometimes simplicity is best, like the one in the death realm with only purple flowers and darkness around nothing to exagerate about after all this is xianxia.

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A Top-Notch Series: Awesome Acting, Great Story

Introduction:
"AJTL" is a captivating narrative that effortlessly keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. With a blend of excitement, touching moments, and meaningful connections among characters, the story unfolds with surprises, creating a memorable journey. While the storytelling is smart and engaging, the narrative's brilliance is slightly marred by the writers' decision to kill off numerous important characters, leaving viewers with a bittersweet aftertaste.

Characters:

1. Ren Ru Yi/Ren Xin - Female Lead:
A refreshing departure from the typical damsel in distress.
Initially a skilled assassin with trust issues, she undergoes significant growth, becoming a team player who embraces collaboration and trust.

2. Ning Yuan Zhou -Male Lead:
Embodies everything positive in a male lead character.
Shifts from an aloof persona to an adorable and clingy character, adding charm and engagement to the story.
Supporting Cast:

3. The squad is a highlight, providing more than just comedic relief.
Significant character development, especially in the princess, showcases impactful relationships shaping the characters.
Even initially annoying characters, like LTG, undergo substantial transformation, adding depth and nuance to the narrative.

Acting:
1. Top-notch performances elevate the series.
2. The main actress, a veteran returning to acting, delivers an awesome portrayal.
3. The less experienced male lead impresses, showcasing excellent chemistry with the veteran actress.
4. The ensemble cast contributes to a cohesive and engaging portrayal of their characters.

Music:
1. The soundtrack is a standout feature, complementing the series.
2. Sung by the exceptionally talented LYN, who happens to be the male lead, the music adds a layer of brilliance to the overall viewing experience.

Conclusion:
"AJTL" is a compelling series that successfully combines excitement, character growth, and meaningful connections. While the decision to kill off important characters may evoke mixed emotions, the smart storytelling, exceptional acting, and standout music make it a journey worth experiencing. The series leaves a lasting impression, with characters that evolve beyond stereotypes and a soundtrack that enhances the overall brilliance of the narrative.

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Mediocre

It took me a while to remember why I had decided to add this series into my watchlist because it was a toxic train wreck for the first maybe 17 or 18 episodes and then I remembered that it was because of the SML lol. I had seen him in a costume drama earlier this year and wanted to see him in a modern. Though his character delivered, the rest was mediocre at best.

Pros: Very few; SML just stole your heart and the show. He wasn't just eye candy but he played a professional young director very well. I thought that if they had switched the women for couples 2 and 3 it would have actually made much more sense. I refuse to fault actors for crappy storylines and therefore I think both ML and FL did the best they could under the circumstances. The opening credits were far more exciting and interesting than the show itself. OSTs were on point. Only reason this series got to a 6.5 and not far lower is because once all the toxicity was vented out and Ding Dong some version of matured, it was pleasant to watch. Also liked the supporting characters and the real mature kissing.

Cons: I don't understand why they stuck the SML with Ding Dong, ML's baby-voiced sounding sister. That really felt like a forced relationship even on the few occasions towards the end when she acted her age. The budget was obviously nonexistent here because the ML who owned a massive company had maybe 3 or 4 suits and shirts to his name. FL had the same exact hairstyle for all 24 episodes; a basic messy bun which she even sported on her wedding day.

Also how do you string someone in a harness with ropes that are tied haphazardly? Any drama we've seen, it's wires and cranes all super secure with people as back up. So we're supposed to believe that the mega rich producer couldn't afford a crane? Plus the one rigged into it was going to be his own sister? And that when the accident happened only SML ran to save her like Superman while others were just standing around with pads clasping their hands? What even? Suspension of disbelief was required a lot.

Ok the biggest elephant in the room was the absolutely psychotic way the FL behaved for a solid chunk of the show; the creepy wall of ML's photos, "couples clothing" when they weren't even together, copying his signature into a journal a zillion times, not to mention the beyond ridiculous confession and forced kiss. First she spent about 4 or 5 episodes reminding him of his failed attempt at a relationship which was like rubbing salt into a wound and was sadistic at best. Then the forced kiss and the phony sounding confession "I like you because you're handsome, rich, and loyal", either she's a gold digger or describing a poodle. Yes he rejected her, but she acted like he just murdered her best friend. He didn't owe her squat honestly even if he was getting ready to admit his own feelings for her, she became this one woman vengeance train. Even when he did everything he could for her (like take her to the hospital and watch over her), the things she said to him were just plain mean. Furthermore, who confesses at the workplace? That's so unprofessional! She could have asked him to a restaurant or something.

Not saying his own stalking traits once he decided to "woo" her weren't questionable; like moving across the hall to her new place, following her on her blind dates, telling her she shouldn't go on them (just because you're courting her, doesn't mean others can't) acting jealous at every turn, elevator semi-forced kiss. I'd say overall, she was worse of the two of them but all the creepy stuff did show they were made for each other.

Would I recommend it? No. People in the comments are saying that only young people don't like this series; it's quite laughable because as a 40 year old professional, I want to watch a drama with substance but not one with a psychopathic mindset passing for a romance; life is crazy enough. The actors are better off watched elsewhere.

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Drama is good only because of A Yin

I confess that I just didn't drop this drama because I love Zhao Lu Si.
Yuan Qi irritates me with his passion for a woman who has nothing to do with him, I loved A Yin, she's super fun, it's a shame she's in love with a muggle, who doesn't know anything about anything.
I know that Yuan Qi is the son of Shanggu and Bai Jue, but his father was much better than his son.
In short, the drama is good only because of A Yin, because if it were a matter of Yuan Qi we would be lost, I sincerely hope that it improves in the next episodes, because as it is now, it's not good at all.

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Love can change everything

If you want to get surprised don't sneak peek come blank without expectations you never get disappointed trust me its worth This drama show us how to love our special ones
The scriptwriter, screenwriter, cinematography, editor and director they done splendid work
Especially -- cinematography somany scenes are looks fresh and amazing
The artist are as usual did their marvelous work all leads and there chemistry are fabolous
Wei Zhe Ming & Huang Ri Ying their screen presences is mesmerizing in all scene's
They are perfectly made for each other couples character in this drama wowwwwww
Yang Shi Ze and Zhang Mu Xi as usual they done their best like previous dramas
Thanking you [ I May Love You ] team for their wonderful job im impressed-----------------

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The Last Immortal is a stress reliever

Everything about this drama is great! The first 8 episodes are pure eyecandy! I love Zhao Lusi's voice and everyone else's! The costumes are so on point! The cgi 100%. I am enjoying the adventures of Jin and Ayin. Can't wait for new episodes and with too much time on my hand this week taking care of my child who is home sick, i got to watch ALP to get a gist of Jin's origin.

I love how each character is portrayed. The best artists are well fitted to their roles. I cannot wait for the angst and see all the casts perform with high emotions. I have no idea if it's from a novel but i love the surprises i see each time i watch new episodes. I am watching it with anticipation of light entertainment.

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A rollercoaster of emotions

Was this the best bl I have ever watched? No. Did it have an innovative plot? No. Still, I was waiting for the end of the week just so I can watch how the story will unravel.
When I first watched the trailer I was really excited and this series didn't disappoint me at all. I enjoyed each and every episode and I'm definitely watching this again.
The actors we all know already are amazing but is seems that the took their acting to the next level for this one, especially First and Khaotung.
This may not be everyone's cup of tea. It's intense and toxic for sure but, for me at least, it was enjoyable and memorable.

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Dropped at 14

So it looks like someone deleted my review because it was negative. So I am writing it again. This is an abnormal romance. The FL belongs in a psychiatric clinic. She needs some major therapy. The ML did not owe her anything . Don’t even know the logic behind this story. I dropped it at 16 because I could not take the toxic love story with stalking, harassment and some pathological concepts. I got a lot of hate for making that’s comments but this is the reality of this story. This is not normal at all - yet it is getting an almost 8 rating . Not sure for what that rating is . I guess if it’s hot and heavy no one cares what the story is about.

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Good payoff for low time investment

For those that detest long, trope and filler-laden dramas, At the Moment is a good antidote that deliver interesting short stories without the exasperation. The drama is an anthology of 10, loosely connected love stories set in the Covid era of Taiwan. With a star-studded acting lineup featuring many of the notable names in Taiwan entertainment and solid production, the show definitely delivers on the technical side. And for those who are tired of fake-looking kissing scenes, the drama delivers pretty realistic kissing and intimacy scenes. Though due to the short length of each stand-alone episode that's less than an hour, many viewers may miss the deeper connection, complicated plot, and greater runtime of a typical drama.

Since the episodes are so short, I will only provide my rating for each episode rather than a review that will inevitably be full of spoilers. Overall, I enjoyed the earlier episodes more than the later ones. I think this is partly due to the novelty and vibe of the format wearing off toward the later episodes as some of the stories felt less unique and repetitive of the general vibe and formula of the earlier episodes. Several of the love-stories also felt more hollow as we are not shown the strong and intricate reasons why the characters would suddenly fall deeply in love with each other, some may be hinted but much is left to viewer extrapolation or imagination.

👍Ep1 - 8; 👍👍Ep2 - 8.5; 👍👍ep3 - 8.5; 👌ep4 - 7.5; 👌ep5 - 7; 👌ep6 - 7; 👌ep7 - 7.5; 👍ep8 - 8; 👌Ep9 - 7; 👌Ep10 - 7

***Component Ratings***
✔️ Overall - 7.5 + (0.5 MDL bump) --> 8.0
✔️ Plot - 8
✔️ Theme / Message / Impact - 7.5
✔️ ✔️ Acting - 9
✔️✔️ Visuals - 8.5
✔️ Audio - 8.5
✔️ Rewatch - 7.5
✔️ Accessibility - 8
✔️ Subtitle quality - ?

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