Reviews

The best and most important thing about Japanese drama is that it intensify events and feelings in a short period of time. In this drama , they showed a lot of feelings and showed that logical thinking, conclusion, and analysis are necessary, but not more important than relying on intuition. One of the thoughts that he focused on is family and its importance, and that brotherhood is the most important , It doesn't matter if we disagree or be different in thoughts or principles, but it doesn't lead to hatred or destruction. I also like the Japanese drama switching between events and people, what you expect the solution becomes the problem and what you expect the villain becomes peaceful and good.

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12 beautifully pulled shots of coffee

Would You Like a Cup of Coffee? is a KakaoTV production spanning 12 episodes, each being 25-30 mins long. Highlighting the ordinary and simpler things life has to offer, it is a heartwarming story of people, and of course-coffee!
The drama starts off with one of our lead characters, Kang Go Bi, seen exiting an exam hall after having failed to clear the civil service examination for what appears to be, not his first attempt at it. Struggling to find the right words, he texts his mom about it and is met with an encouraging and supportive response. The conversation ends with him deciding to get himself a cup of coffee and start preparing for the exam once again. It is for this cup of coffee that he stumbles upon 2nd Generation Coffee House and we get introduced to the owner and other lead, Park Seok. This cup of coffee that he gets served at the café is what awakens and confirms his passion for coffee, giving him a dream for his future and the determination to pursue the world of coffee.

Would You Like a Cup of Coffee is all about the microcosm of the coffee house and its atmosphere, and it pretty much excels at it. You don't have to be a coffee connoisseur yourself to be able to understand the emotion that goes into a job well done, or the passion behind the pursuit of perfection. There is nothing quite dramatic or exciting in the course of this series and its beauty lies in the fact that it is a story as ordinary as one can get.

The main characters, Park Seok and Go Bi complement each other rather beautifully, and it's their mentor-mentee relationship that makes this drama what it is. The other characters, either recurring or not, are sketched out sparsely, and are mostly used as tools to get a message across to the viewers.
The actors playing the main leads have done a great job and are convincingly passionate about coffee...it was wonderful to see how they gradually got comfortable with each other over a shared interest, as the drama progressed.

The cinematography and direction are worth mentioning, for each frame, each scene of this drama is aesthetically pleasing, subtle and artistic. The sort of sepia tone used in capturing this series is rather perfect and really sets the mood for it.

The format of this drama is like a potpourri of different types of people and themes, that leave lingering messages for the viewer to mull over. And just like a cup of coffee, it isn't a drama that should be gulped down in one go but something that should be savoured, enjoying one sip at a time. The episodes almost always provide a sense of closure to the viewer, yet leave it open to interpretation, and the balance struck in maintaining the two is seamless!
This drama doesn't have elements that would give it a mass appeal, but rather caters to a fewer number of people, all of whom would whole-heartedly enjoy this sweet, nuanced, slice-of-life story.

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Neo killed me with his acting!

I was supposed to read the novel (bookmarked it) but ended up watching the drama instead (didn't know it was the same until I did)! ------I don't regret anything tho.

First off, the story is amazing (obvs since I was gonna read it). The FL is the living definition of a strong, clever, independent (and rich) woman - she's basically like a Goddess and a subject of envy. The ML, perfectly matching her, is just as good (and cute. and cunning). They suit each other very well and look very good together. But the three things I liked the most in this drama are:
1. How FL's fam treats her (they're family-centered)
2. Neo calling the FL "Hua Hua" (man, I can see the hearts form his eyes)
3. The OST

And since I loved the drama, I'm still super in for the novel. It's so so worth rewatching!

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Not Good Enough

Korean Drama "Peng" had an interesting prompt in theory, but the drama fall short.

The main problems of the drama were the characters and the length. The characters, first of all, were superficial or just there to support the leads. The main character was depthless, boring and spoiled, with some specs of a personality in the end, but still, were not enough to save her. The boys were just a cell of a stereotype that they were supposed to serve, though some of them had more screentime and, hence, a bigger chance to be presented better. The rest of the characters poped up here and there to add a comment about the main character or support her.

Now, for the length, it was short, yes, but it wasn't handled well either. The story was thinly spread and rushly ended, though the ending was rather surprising, and, unexpectedly, enjoyable.

As for the performances, they were decent.

So, overall, 2 out of 10.

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Good Enough

Korean Drama "Work Later, Drink Now" is a heartwarming drama about a beautiful friendship.

With some romance, enough comedy, and the right amount of drama and tragedy to keep it real, the drama was short and enjoyable. It has a lot of drinking, yes, but it is more than just three girls having a good time. It has some crazy moments, along with a realistic plotline and a smooth outcome. The choice to add some of the previous moments of the three friends was a smart choice, however, it messed up the timeline and, sometimes, it even confused the story. Still, the dynamics between the girls were strong and that might carry the drama to a possible second season.

As for the performances, everyone did a great job with their performances.

So, overall, 7.5 out of 10.

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watched it for the nth time!

The story is really interesting. There are tons of transmigration drama out there but it's my first time watching one wherein the main setting is a place where women rule (already a plus factor). And although both leads could be considered as rookies, their lack of experience didn't prevent them from doing an excellent job. Both Ryan and Lusi's character set-ups -- cute, funny, kind, warm, sweet, and basically everything positive -- are also very likable. Coupled with the oh-so-amazing plot, what more could I ask for? ----- aside from season 2 ofc! (and naturally, with the same cast)

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Mostly stay because of the cute actors and their fanservice..

WHICH I HAVE NO COMPLAIN ON!
I quite enjoy their fanservice ^^
Their stories cant be said as something unpredictable, but I really like this kind of story! Where its easy, soft and fluffy with not much problem.

This got an interesting premise and a lot of possible plot.
They do a nice job! And sadly this is a 5 episode drama and they probably need to cut off many (possibly) interesting problem.

The cute actors and fanservice makes me stay want to stay here the most tbh! >< They are so cute. Although I haven't see that many character development on First. But I really like Play's character! And actually the acting coach's character is also a nice surprise! I really like that haha

Sadly, The music/sound is one of the part I don't like about this drama. The mixer of this drama is quite messy. Especially in 3rd episode. the change of the BGM feels a bit rough and sometimes slap me away from the drama, but I can still enjoy it after I got used to it! ^^

But I still enjoy this series! I really like easy and soft plot like this! I'll keep watching this to see the character and their relationship development! ^^

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Just finished last month but I wanna rewatch!!

I was actually hesitant at first because it was too long, but my cousin strongly recommended it to me so I thought it wouldn't be that bad. Good thing I gave it a go.

It was my first time watching Reba's so I don't really have any data to compare with. As for Lusi, I've watched almost all her shows (I'm a huge fan) and I wholeheartedly believe that this is (by far) her most praiseworthy work. Though she might not be the first FL in this series, it showed her full acting potential (the anticipation for her upcoming works is killing me!; especially waiting for WRTW and Hu Tong). Also, her (Leyan) short yet sweet interactions with (Hao Du) Yuning are just wow! I once thought that I wouldn't be able to ship Lusi with anyone else other than Ryan (Han Shuo) but guess I was wrong (NingLu's way too cute).

As for the story, all I can say is that it was really good. You can see the growth of each character as episodes passed. Hence, it wouldn't be an overstatement to say that this is the best historical drama I've ever watched!

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A heartbreaking journey

Reflection of you was a drama that I did not expect much from because it seemed very slow-paced, but something about the drama kept me hooked from the first episode. At first, I was curious as to the weird energy I felt between Gu Hae Won and Jung Hee, I must commend the mysterious element in the story that made the audience want to solve the puzzle, how it all made sense when Woo Jae was introduced and the role, he played in twisting the relationship between the two women. It was indeed an intense story of revenge, obsession, and infidelity. I loved the acting of all the cast especially the female leads, they really brought life into their characters making the unraveling of the story more exciting. The somber music and melancholic atmosphere were intriguing aspects of this drama. I also loved the chemistry between Jung Hee and Woo Jae despite the age gap, I literally felt goosebumps from their interactions.
The story seemed to center on the consequences of infidelity and the consequences it can bring, this is shown in Jung Hee's struggle to escape her past mistake and how it keeps haunting her no matter how hard she tries. It was also weird, from the story's point of view, I expected to pity Gu Hae Won since she was technically the victim having been cheated and betrayed by her husband and best friend, but I found myself understanding and supporting Jung Hee and her decisions. I could not understand Gu Hae won who wanted to not only hurt herself but everyone around her, I was weirdly relieved that she did not get her happy end either especially after she deliberately lied to Jung Hee's husband as to what had happened.
The person I pitied most was Jung Hee's husband who only loved her and wanted to protect his family at all costs, I felt he did not deserve the pain he experienced at the end and should have been told the truth. Though I found it odd that all the characters were punished in the end, butthere was no mention of how he had attempted to kill woo jae, it seemed to be buried.
But in summary, it was an enjoyable but heartbreaking experience, I perversely wanted it to go on, but it had to end. I may not have liked the ending, but I understand that a complex story such as this would not have a happy ending.

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I'm not too into revenge driven plots. Mostly because the story development sometimes comes off as clichéd in regards of character motivation, actions, etc,and this was that, to a certain extent; this isn't a perfectly executed dama. There are many elements that I didn't or found to be far fetched. Dare I say unrealistic? For example, Chae Jung An’s role in the story was an important one but the direction it had was very odd to me. Obviously this does happen but the way the character (Kim Seo Yeon) bounced between the two brothers was off putting and awkward. This plot is used often among its contemporaries, so it's harsh to solely point ‘Cain and Abel’ out for this. But then arises many flaws such as how easily she forgave Seon Woo when she found out his actions. In addition to that plot, there is too much underdevelopment regarding the father's lack of love and care for Seon Woo growing up. It's only spoken about and not shown. I believe there should've been more time dedicated to showing this. Make more use of the child actors' scenes given the actors at their disposal.

However, this was a compelling drama piece that gave our main characters (Lee Cho In and Lee Seon Woo) depth. Lee Seon Woo is both hateful and sympathetic, thanks to Shin Hyun Joon’s terrific portrayal of him, and Lee Cho In is someone with a heartful soul but is filled with burden and pain. Despite the characters getting darker as the drama progressed, the very essence of their being is kept no matter what. Lee Cho In out manoeuvring Seon Woo and his Mother despite their shady tactics that almost killed Cho In earlier in the story, was very satisfying. Getting rid of the main instigators, retaking what is his while they were helpless to stop him and making them feel shame and humility in their final moments to make a recipe for a great revenge drama. I'm surprised how little Oh Yeong Ji (Han Ji Min) had to do with that side of the plot as usually the female main character would have a more on hand role but she didn't and I'm grateful. Her character was very innocent and was a shining light in Cho In’s life among the hateful walls surrounding it, and everything she did, or was a part of, was befitting for her character.

There were a few stand out performances in this along with an exciting story. This is worth seeking out.

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Good for a light watch to kill time

STORY:
- The skeletal framework for the plot, and subplots to stretch the drama are pretty good - felt they were fresh, dreamy and not forced (except maybe one). Plus the characters are unique and has a certain depth too.
- BUT writers have done only an average job in making these components into a good story. I really feel there was more potential to make this plot much much better.
- got to appreciate that decent focus was also given to friendships, family, and struggles of these characters <3
- imo, final episode was little hurried but satisfactory, especially since it gives closure on some matters.


ACTING:
Pai, Pure, Folk and even Waan were portrayed pretty well. But when it comes to chemistry, the gay side couple is still better. To be fair Itt-Pai kiss scenes do not disappoint but I personally boys give low "feels", AT TIMES.



Rest, including direction, production, music, rewatch value - I'd describe as "low to medium average".




FINAL VERDICT: Not something I regret watching. Overall, liked it. Not something of high quality story acting or direction but you can binge watch on a lazy day for the lowkey cuteness.

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..Glass Of God..

..so this is my first time to watch Misaki Aiba's film..
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..and good thing to see again Shihori and Nobuaki..
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..I've done reading the manga, but good thing I didn't remembered a lot of details, since I don't want to compare from these two..
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..I really enjoy it, though not a drinker but I love how they pick those drinks to mix until it gets done, even the history of that cocktail's name..
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..I remembered also the film Madoromi Barmaid...
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..the drama just right so balance with a very little love story, well, honestly, I didn't mind it at all..
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..overall, it just a slice of life of how someone's pursue the current situation - a career..
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..but as what the film says, it is "a way of life"..

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How to keep others from wasting their time

I'm going to sound pretty harsh, but it would've saved me many, many, many hours watching this series if I saw a review that didn't beat around the bush.

5 reasons to avoid this series at all costs:
1.The story does a 180 halfway through. The story goes from a romcom to something unrecognizable after 10 episodes. There where things I liked and things I disliked in the first 10 episodes, then everything I liked was taken away at about episode 11. Why?

2. Mr. Hyde. One of the reasons I watched the show was for the male lead character. He was funny, sweet, protective and delightfully weird. Then he suddenly changed for no understandable reason (yes, you guessed it - at around episode 10). He became distant and uncaring and became someone the viewer can't recognize. To make things worse he never came back to the guy you liked so much.

3. The romantic relationships. The ML chased after the FL for months and then, when he finds out she likes him back, he snubs her. Why? No damn reason. He leaves her twice, once for a month and once for a year without any contact at all - once again for no reason. If your boyfriend goes overseas and doesn't say goodbye and doesn't have any contact with you for a full year without an excuse would you take him back? A year is a bloody long time to ignore someones calls and messages and to then just say "I was busy".

The secondary couple is a man who is so sweet and nice he is like a little puppy. He ends up with the FL's sister, who is the equivalent of Cruella Deville and the wicked step sisters in Cinderella rolled into one.

4. The FL is childish without ever really being charming. She is also that person who can get trampled on again and again and again and just comes back for more without ever needing the other person to truly show remorse. There is no groveling in this story and it is sorely needed.

5. The story is just plain weird and that weirdness never serves a purpose. It was disjointed and the pacing was way off. Halfway through the story was actually over, but there was still 10 hours to fill.

I really wish I didn't waste my time on this show and if I ever invent a time machine the first thing I'll do is go back and warn myself not to watch this train wreck in the first place.

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A traditional drama with medical and political aspects

A strong strategist FL for a change is quite a welcome change. The plot was intriguing at first then it turned unrealistic really fast.

FL was supposedly wise, then why did she impulsively attacked the emperor just like than? Of course, she'll be caught and taken to prison. She was suddenly successfully rescued with a new face and a new identity. Then her journey of finding justice begun.

A wise, patient, kind, selfless and pretty FL plus a legal husband, a childhood sweetheart, a sickly cousin and a fiancee from her dead bestfriend is now my new definition of "it's complicated".

Too slow phased for me plus really unrealistic scenes were too much.

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