Reviews

What a rollercoaster of emotions

Can i just say MSI was amazing! Highly recommend this to anyone who loves to go through all the emotions when watching a drama. Shout out to the actor Poom Phuripan who played joe, he was absolutely amazing, he is an actor who can act with his eyes, and his acting was so natural. I really felt like he was Joe. He also is absolutely gorgeous! (To be honest i think all the cast are handsome) All the actors i feel were really well casted, the villains were villains, youll shout through the screens at them 🤣 (i wont spoil who the bad boys are) Make sure to watch this!

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Impressions of Season 1

‘Girl from Nowhere’ is an impressive production that explores the impact of our choices. The series features Nano, the personification of karma, who reminds us that every decision, whether good or bad, carries inevitable consequences. Each episode reflects deep social themes, challenging the viewer to confront complex moral issues.

Right from the pilot episode, it's clear that the series leaves no room for boredom or predictability. With surprising twists and turns, the premiere sets the dark and intriguing tone that guides Nano's journey, keeping us on our toes from start to finish.

‘Hi-So’ is another standout episode, tackling the emotional and moral price of privilege. In a precise and provocative way, it questions power structures and the quest for social acceptance, leaving an unsettling but necessary feeling.

My favourite, ‘Lost and Found’, is unique in that it shows karma affecting third parties connected to the protagonist, rather than directly affecting him. The approach to indirect guilt and the consequences of other people's actions is brilliant and emotionally striking, making this episode unforgettable.

‘Girl from Nowhere is not just a series; it is a powerful reflection on morality and the complexities of human choices, told in a captivating and provocative way.

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not sure why it got an 8.9...feels like it ends at episode 19

to be honest the drama is neat and filmed well, but the plot is not super interesting. Maybe i've seen too many cdrama. They get married in 19 then the plot kinda fizzles out. The only thing left would be for him to find out what his evil dad did, but i don't even care lol. Also, the crown princes aren't super important in these 19 episodes.

The biggest fault of the drama is not creating a major enemy in the beginning (besides ML's dad vaguely).

Got annoyed by FL playing hard to get halfway in the drama. Reiterating, you feel like there's no pressing hooks to the plot to keep you wanting to watch.

I'll give it a 6.5 even though i dropped it, maybe other people would like it. But it's the same plot of minister wanting power, king not trusting his subjects.. By IMDB standards this drama is no way worth a 7.

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Even if it broke me in little pieces, totally worth it !

I loved this drama : it is an incredible multilayered story that I binge watched over the course of a week-end. It brought me a lot of emotions as well as of thinking as the scenario unfolded and I was trying to figure things out following the clues laid out by the writing. I am greedy so I wish that they had more episodes to explore the lore and all they hinted in the last episode. Having said that, the ending was satisfying and the doors opened in the last episode are rather fun than frustrating.

This drama is an adaptation of the webtoon "Shop of the Lamp" by Kang Full. After Moving, his collaboration with Disney proves once again to be super successful : he is definitely a screenwriter upcoming star I want to keep following closely. In addition to a strong writing, this drama features a gallery of characters portrayed by a very good ensemble cast. There were definitely some outstanding performances (such as the one of Ju Ji Hoon that I will not forget) but overall acting is constantly good on all the parts.

The production was very good: there are a few scenes and images that will remain I feel in my memory for a very long time. The special effects were excellent and there was an interesting unnerving tension in the way the scenes were filmed. The soundtrack was perfectly fitting the heavy atmosphere. The making really participated in the feeling of oppression I felt while watching the show. I think the editing though could have been improved between some of the episodes. Some great cliffhangers were often followed not directly which was a bit anticlimactic in the moment, even if it was often done for very good reason in terms of storytelling.

I would recommend this to people that are looking for a thrilling series with a great gallery of grey and interesting characters. It is not for the tender hearts as I feel there are some horrific elements that can be tough to go through and you may want to check the triggers if you have any. I really think it is a worthy watch that will take the viewer on an emotional rollercoaster. It might need a bit of time for the viewer to connect all the pieces of the puzzle together, but once you got there, it is immensely rewarding.

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Intelligence & Amazing Chemistry Worthy of 2 Lifetimes

Picked this up for both leads though only follow MZY (I’ve loved her acting since CQL) and the plot. Originally this was supposed to be LYR's first ML role but his modern drama aired first and he did really well in both. I didn't know this was a rebirth type of deal but they actually just turned it into a dream which was a nice departure from the usual transmigration storyline. The leads intelligence & amazing chemistry was really worthy of both.

Pros: Let's clap for the finally promised and attained HE! The storyline was always moving along. There was never any dragging. I loved how smart both leads were and their intelligence made them into the ultimate power couple. I like how the first life was handled in the first episode and it was a called a dream by the FL as only she and SML remembered it. I also really love the fact that though this was only 34 episodes, it felt like a lifetime literally since the first episode. And also that in life number two, she went back to being a child as opposed to the usual first life adult, second life adult. How she followed the book at first and then just went with gut instinct. DZ and SM were destined in every life and their chemistry was palpable and it was like they could finish each other's thoughts.

Learning how to kiss from the director and his wife BTS was hysterical and they actually mentioned in an interview that they watched something like 800 videos on kissing. I always found it funny when human beings nearly in their 30s had no idea how to make out and directors had to even explain that portion. Some people may think that MZY was expressionless but I disagree; she showed contemplation, happiness, anger, fear, exhaustion, embarrassment, surprise though many a time the expressions were on a smaller scale, I think that is better than over dramatic in a drama like this. LYR was fierce and at the same time protective and loving as SM. Made all of us want an SM in our lives. The small things they did for each other to protect each other meant a lot especially when they were taking down the antagonists big or small.

I was very glad JY (SML) was playing double agent and not really turned into a traitor in life number two. I think his job was the hardest having to do all that while all of these chess pieces moved around. He knew how things were going to go from life number one but still unexpected things were going to happen and he had to be ready for them. Him unexpectedly falling for DZ when he never had any feelings before was a bit of a hindrance. I loved the side characters like the twin maids and twin guards though sadly we lost one, GY was hysterical and I loved how he took care of SM though wish we saw more of him, all her bookstore intel gatherers, General Yan, Mr. Chen, his uncle Meisun (his death was the catalyst in both lives; though with different outcomes, still painful), CJ and JR made for a cute couple. Grandma rocked and I love grandma's like that in series. Crown Princess and CP's wife. DZ's dad took a little time to thaw but finally he got it right, her half sister also in the second life was good though tragic, Ansu was nice though love dumbed her down, she eventually did the right thing when she came to her senses of marrying a monster. I liked how the emperor was grey but ultimately made the right decisions as did the CP.

There were a lot of antagonists in this one from her step monster and shitty fifth uncle, to his father and brother, LQ, that horrid eunuch who killed them in the first life, and of course the mastermind being the empress. They were all about power and it didn't matter who they harmed to get it, even each other. LQ, eunuch, and empress were the best antagonists as was his father. Everyone else will be spoken about in the cons.

The emperor choosing to save SM from the hate poison instead of using it on himself was probably one of the best decisions he made the entire show. Also, it was funny how once peace was achieved and the 5 year time jump happened, the leads had a daughter but complained that raising a child was harder than doing business or fighting on the battlefield lol! The comedy though not often in this show, came through when necessary. Little girl had both of her parents courage and intelligence and they were suffering for it. Thankfully, when she was old enough to start school, they sent her off to her great grandmother and grandfather and ran off to travel and just have alone time as well as probably work on baby number 2 😉. There is a small funny scene with her after the ending credits of the last episode that you should watch. Brings the word fate into the forefront again.

Costumes, sets, OSTs, and some of the fight scenes (especially in episode one) were on point.

Cons: Not a lot of these but they were here. Starting with the antagonists that I didn't like; the step monster was an annoying pawn that I had to use the ffw button on and really was the only time I did that in the whole show. She was desperate and horrible. Her actions (coupled with those of the other villains) caused her own daughter's death. But still they didn't off her. That said 5th uncle was even more rotten but his death was a copout. After everything he had done to DZ and others, even though he "went out on his own terms after clearing the rest of the D family of any possible retaliation", it just seemed too light for him. Death by arrows while protecting the woman who recommended him to the emperor in the first place was just eh to me.

SH, the psychopath that supposedly only turned into that after he lost his status; I don't believe it. They shoved his emerging psychopathy into like two episodes and the way he treated Ansu before and after he married her and even before when his "mom" was alive was questionable. You could tell there was something wrong with him from the get go and it should have been more properly fleshed out. But his death at the hands of Ansu was very appropriate though I wish she had told him she knew he killed her brother.

That last fight scene in the palace; yes I know the guards had limited bullets as I was explained the history, but why didn't the main palace guards use those crossbows then like the other army soldiers running into the palace as they fired multiple rounds and reloaded or even regular bows and arrows are a lot faster than swords. It sure as hell beats just standing there. That entire scene was just thrown off for me. Help the Ding Army out! Don't just stand there watching them die until reinforcements rush in. It was off. The fight scenes could have been a bit better towards the end. Felt the last few episodes were definitely rushed, could have slowed that down a bit with more fleshing out earlier on.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely! The storyline moved along very well and it was the second chance, don't accept fate, and love with all of your heart show that you just want to hang onto. Great characters and actors; one of the better dramas of 2024.

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Great continuation of the original story. *spoilers*

The relationship of Teh and Oh faced new hardships as they got older and they both dealt with them in their own way.
Throughout the series Oh behaved maturely, didn't want to jump into conclusions even after he saw Teh cheat with his own eyes. At the same time he maintained his pure and naive attitude, letting Teh hurt him over and over again. Teh on the other hand, although older, was just as immature and selfish as in the first series. His character was rather unlikable, making all the wrong choices and saying all the wrong things. I do see that he loves Oh, however he keeps messing up and continues hurting him, expecting to get yet another new chance, which to me is just cruel.
As a hopeless romantic and strong believer in destiny I am satisfied with how the series ended, but in real life, if I was one of Oh's friends, I would advise him strongly not to go back to Teh, because he clearly has some emotional issues to work through, and before he does, he's no material for a long term partner.
The acting was brilliant, the cast portrayed the characters and their emotions in a natural way. I also appreciate the visual aspect of the show, the shots and color grading deserve praise in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend it.

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One of the best GL series

I guess I won't be the only one if I say it's one of the best GL series we have at the moment.
Starting from plot; I'm big sucker for Friends to lovers so no wonder I was sold from first minute. The side plot including Wanwiwa's trauma and what happened with Pleng's father was also great and actors did amazing job.
LMSY chemistry is INSANE, and I'm hoping they get another series soon because both Sonya and Lookmhee did spectacular job. Other actors also was amazing and tbh it's hard to find an actor who was bad imo.
On the other hand I find that "sisters" plot unnecessary and disgusting. Idk but I feel like author of novel have some weird fantasizes about "forbidden" topics. Also I'm kinda sick of homophobic mother/grandmother characaters in every GL. Like, been there done that, NEXT.

Overall; I adore this series and LMSY. Can't wait for their next project.

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Not so hidden agenda

The description of plot and actual plot in series doesn't have much in common since Zo pretty soon find out he idolized Nita instead of loving her.
To be honest; I enjoyed this series. At first I thought it's just silly lovey dovey romcom but at the end of the series we find out its not so glittery pink because both main characters have family issues which was showed in realistic way and as person who relate to Joke, ngl some tears escaped my eyes.
I also enjoyed second couple's plot, I think it's nice to see gay character understanding that they can't stuck forever in bubble and hide, especially when you're hurting your loved one.
Some scenes was unnecessary long; small talk between characters, characters standing in front of building for few seconds. I skipped some of it.
Going to characters and actors; I LOVE GRANDMA, she's absolutely my favorite. Also I fell hard for Joong and his smile... this man is so adorable and played Joke's characters so good especially when i have comparision to Fadel from THK where the character is much different. Joong really did great job.
In Dunk case; I think people are too harsh. It wasn't Oscar worthy performance but he wasn't bad, I can list at least worse 5 actors/actresses. He had better and worse moments. For example the first kiss scene was phenomenal. You can see all of Zo's emotions, I think its one of scenes which Dunk nailed.
I think the biggest flaw of this series is music. I'm also sick of BL characters singing and playing guitar. Just STOP I'M BEGGING!!!
There were also some threads without sense but in conclusion it's cute series. Did I like it? Yes. Will I rewatch it? Probably no.

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Underwhelming

Actors are great at portraying their given characters.
Music, setting and shooting are all solid.

Story:
The ML is an angel among men. He puts up with a cold and spoiled FL and spends years chasing her and constantly putting himself forward. He doesn't have a selfish or even self-protective bone in his body. He's all about her and all in. While it's swoon-worthy to watch, it's unrealistic to expect anyone to endure so much for another and remain strong in the face of such opposition from the other party. He deserves so much better than the FL.

The FL was the next thing to awful because it was only to the ML that she was so cold and untolerant. To everyone else, from he colleagues to the ML's parents to became her surrogate parents, she is sweet and understanding. It's only to the ML that she shows the worst parts of herself. She's alternately cold, mean, and selfish. She blames him for things he didn't do wrong and puts him through hell for no good reason. In her own sweet time, all on her own timeline of course, she finally wises up and decides to marry him. Being the angel he is, he of course accepts her back with open arms. The FL experienced a lot of hardship as a child and teen. But that is no excuse to take it out on other people. And as I said, she could play nice with everyone around her despite her trauma, jsut not the ML. I find that to be unacceptable. Why he fell for her and continues to pursue her is beyond me.

The second couple is a mess. They act like a couple of kids playing house with the maturity of high schoolers. I see zero growth from the FL. All she can do is throw tempter tantrums, throw hands and shriek. No clue what the ML gest out of their relationship tbh. But he himself is a child too. The best I can say for him is that he edures her well and always "pulls his punches" during their fights-figuratively, since he'd never lay hands on her. He always apologizes first.

The sweetest couple is the third one. The divorcee whose long ago crush came true. They were sweet.

The lawyer who went nuts ,the mean girl trainee, the friend who was there to cause jealousy...I don't know some it fit and some of it came off as the writers trying to stir up the uneccessary.

Overall, I wouldn't rewatch.

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I wanted a trople...deal. (My unlikeable review)

So here is my unlikeable review.

This 'wreaked my eyeballs'. So, here's my take and why I left a high rating. I started this because I adore, absolutely adore our FL. I love our ML as well, but I came here to watch out FL and Shin gives like she always does. Now for the story plot, I understand why people have given this such a low rating because they are stuck on the early toxicity of our ML. It's hard to swallow if you are not used to seeing it or are just absolutely over it. I come from a mental health background and I'm an older Millenial watcher, so taking this in as a story about mature love, one that goes through the ups and downs. One where I think this story writer is trying to show how to give a love story through the lessons of that 'rocky' road intermingling with mental health/trauma and grief. There is a LOT here.

For me, I kind of got it. Which made me not totally sour and clock out. I hate that our ML's background was used to make us pity him in a sense, but at the same time, it really wasn't about that, it was an understanding of how he became where he was and in all his 'trauma' was someone who did love her, and saw that he was being damaging. It was why I never rooted for him. LOL I really wanted our SL to win and toward the end, once EVERYONE got therapy (This didn't happen, it was a hope), I wanted a healthy Polagamy *wink* because I ended up understanding EVERYONE'S POV. This is why I gave this review what I did.
A complicated bit of maturing into love.

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an old-fashioned soundtrack and very heartfelt storyteling.

A simple coming of age story within a fusion fantasy sageuk. 2013, 24 eps, written specifically for weekly tv with plenty of episode-ending cliffhangers. An early star wars vibe -- little shaggy around the edges (unintentionally funny FX, continuity problems etc) but very heartfelt storyteling.

Nice and long and easy to keep track of - an old-fashioned soundtrack has themes for each bit (comic, martial, sad, love...oh and patriotism, see below) and some good songs as is usual with idol drama; Lee Seung Gi and Bae Suzy are as usual sincere and loveable. Yoo Yeon Seok gets some nice meaty drama space and uses it well.

Something bingeable w/o stress. I could track it across the room while cooking w/o being able to see the subtitles (and without knowing Korean!). Analog std fantasy narrative familiarity helps.

The gumihos as nature deities envelop the film in lots of greenery and shades of green (notice how Suzy's color choices track her affections). I love the little lights that magically encircle Kang Chi and the prior Wol Ryung..look, they start to follow Suzy too! A pretty nice grotto called moonlight gardens...

But...you have to be into it to endure the cheese. I love ep12 where the sadness and the sweetness really twist your heart. But for some eps ... since the comic bits really make the show, when it gets too serious,,,

There is at least one glaring anachronism (see if you can catch it during the 'cage-fighting' sequence). I had to skip most of the beginning episode -- they tell the backstory up front with a shade too offensive language about 'noble blood' 'dirty blood' and 'lowly courtesans'.

The series plot revolves around the grown children of the original pair and there is a good effort to respect sex-workers and espouse an equality based on nationhood which should transcend the trad. hierarchies. (Well...tell me another one)

The portly beatific Admiral is a real national hero from the Japanese invasions of the 1590s. It isnt enough that the show's hateful villain is a rapist and a greedy corrupt power-hungry evil piece of work, but omg he is a collaborator with the Japanese as they perfect their invasion plans.

Viki subtitles can always be a little weird but this set was very uneven. Timing was off occas. and diction mistakes occurred. Nevertheless this show has my deepest affection. It is already on my rewatch list even with its imperfections. Try it and see what you think.

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The acting and chemistry were the only things I watched for

The Trunk was a mind-blowing, heart-pounding thriller that left me speechless. The twists and turns were expertly woven, and the performances by Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin were phenomenal. But...It's not your typical cute K-drama. The plot revolves around a mysterious trunk that holds dark secrets. It's definitely not for the faint-hearted, with some disturbing elements. But if you enjoy psychological thrillers, it can be a watch!
The plot twists were a little predictable. Also, while the mystery was engaging, the resolution felt a bit rushed and underwhelming. Plus, the side characters were quite underdeveloped.

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a mostly satisfying ending to the first season

i don't know what to say really. again a 3pm-2am watch the very next day after watching "The Gifted" LOL. There were a lot of plot twists, and I'm not really sure how I feel about them all. I don't know if it was too much, or if I just felt uncomfortable about not being able to "feel" how the story and how the plot would unfold. But even so, even if it was "too many" plot twists, I think it's good if a story is able to make you feel that way--when you really aren't sure how things are going to turn out, who's going to make it to the end--and I think it's the first time I've felt this way to this great of an extent. I will say that **mild spoiler**, all the plot twists seemed to cover up the holes in all the obstacles and successes the characters' faced, but at that point I was just going with the flow tbh i had no thoughts after getting betrayed over and over again as a viewer. I also didn't feel all that satisfied by the ending, but it was an adequate ending to an otherwise wonderful, wonderful show. I would recommend this. **

I also just wanted to add that i love all the characters and the shots of the class every time pang enters. i also really like the quotes at the end of each episode

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