Reviews

I had so much fun watching this! Things just go boom when the leads meet.

Ep 1: I have realized that Lovely Runner set the bar too high for all the romcom's to come, so I can't help but compare everything that comes out to it. However, I can't deny that I laughed a lot throughout the first episode. I was looking forward to the show, ever since I heard about it. The ML is the real draw, the FL doesn't look so good with those bangs, however her character is actually funny to watch. Honestly, at this point, her sister who eats her feelings is more relatable. I can't yet figure out what kind of a person the ML is but he is fun to watch. Bubbles are such a good substitute to cigarettes. Let's see if he actually sues her for murder.

Ep 2: Oh wow! Since the moment they first met, they have been going at each other and it is so fun to watch! The verbal match is amazing. The first 10 minute of the show so far are so hilarious, I just had to pause and write it all down so I don't forget things as I go. It was interesting and kept me engaged throughout the whole episode. I like watching dramas like this, especially while eating food, it makes me appreciate and enjoy the food more. For a moment there, I had forgotten the drama description that said the ML has a gf and she hasn't broken up with him yet. I kept thinking maybe she was an ex. But she is not just a gf but a fiancé. That was fun to watch!

Looking forward to the next episodes.

Read More

A Delightful Romcom That Will Steal Your Heart: A Review

This film is an utterly delightful romcom, a treat for fans of well-executed romantic clichés despite the somewhat predictable "relationship in jeopardy" trope. While I'll delve into that later, let's first highlight the film's strengths. The two leads truly shine, especially Kim Se Jeong as Shin Ha Ri. She brings genuine authenticity and charm to her role, forging a deep connection with the audience. Her clumsiness never fails to elicit laughter, and her interactions with Ahn Hyo Seop as Kang Tae Moo are both endearing and humorous.

I particularly enjoyed Ahn Hyo Seop’s embrace of the quintessential rich male lead tropes. It was delightfully old-school and silly, yet he delivered it perfectly. The supporting cast was equally amusing, from Young Seo's cousin's random English words to Tae Moo's grandfather's love of daytime dramas.

With just 12 episodes, the drama maintained a smooth flow with minimal fillers. However, towards the end, the unnecessary introduction of a "relationship in jeopardy" subplot, lacking strong writing and execution, detracted from the overall quality. This weakened the final two episodes, making the ending feel rushed and unfulfilling.

Overall, it's still a fantastic romcom for those interested in this genre.

Read More

Short, cute and very engaging

First things first, I absolutely like how to the point and straight forward this drama is without having unnecessary cliche plots to extend the episode count.

This feels like a warm hearted hug that envelops you in the cuteness of it all. The actors have all done justice to their roles. I'm new to all of these actors and it was very refreshing to see their work, all have been good. It's cute how all the three love stories are nice, not overdramatic or unreal and have no third party tropes like second leads. As for the third couple, the story itself revolves around her meeting many men, so I don't count that as second lead. It's multiple leads. xD

I also quite enjoyed the friendship between all the people and how their characters developed over time. It is very heartwarming to watch. I also enjoyed the true friendship between the three women and how you see them supporting one another at different times. Though my fav friendship has to be the one between Yoo Shin and Ho Rang. It is hilariously cute.

For a change, we see a cold and aloof female lead as compared to the usual male leads and I quite enjoyed it. They have nicely developed the story and shown her diversity and range. I liked her chemistry with the ML although I would've preferred more hands-on romantic scenes but with her being underage (apparently) at the time of shooting, I'm glad they didn't.

Lastly, I'm at crossroads whether I liked the way they handled the bullying plot or not. At times I feel like it was well handled because it was shown as real as possible with showing the difficult choices victims make when speaking about their experiences. It throws light on how it is not easy to open up and come clean, all of which people think is very easy when they keep asking people to report such issues. However, at the same time, I do not think the FL's attitude and behaviour at most times was justified because of her experiences. She might not be a bully but she definitely comes across as one which is not a good place to be in specially when you've experienced it yourself. There is a thin line between ignorance and arrogance and this one leaned very heavily on arrogance for me which is why this does not get the perfect score from me.

Overall it's a very pleasant and enjoyable watch, 100% recommended. Very underrated. :)

Read More

Low budget, kinda simple but very cute.

First off, the music choices and sound effects just feel off. The effects are cheesy in a children's cartoon kind of way and the music doesn't necessarily suit the scenes. All in all it can be a bit off-putting.

Setting that aside if you focus on the acting I think they did quite well considering that only Kim MinJae had done any acting in the past. They do feel like genuine people and are portrayed realistically without being stiff or overacting.

The story is very basic and simple, which on one hand is a very good thing because there are only 6 episodes with barely 18-20 minutes run time each. However, they probably could have incorporated a little more if some of the scenes were shorter or if there were fewer flahback/memory scenes that we had *just* watched one episode prior.

My own personal conclusion is that I'm glad I watched it. It was a very cute, sweet show with no plot holes or unaddressed issues. I'm extremely curious about the ending and I hope they eventually continue the story. I do recommend this one, especially since it's such a fast and easy watch. It won't be winning any awards, but when you just want to watch a cute show that doesn't drag then this is a good pick.

Read More

messy plot, messy story and a messier editing.

while a cheating storyline seems to be an entertaining plot for this series, i couldn't force myself to continue watching this drama for more than 5 episodes, not saying the plot it's bad; but there's something about how they're telling the story that makes this drama impossible to keep watching after a few minutes into the episode.

i couldn't even recognize when they were showing me a flashback. the editing felt like i was time-traveling back and forth; i even kept messing up two of the male leads because of this.

this drama falls into the ones that aren't worth watching because of bad editing and directing rather than bad acting or even storytelling

also, i would've liked if they made it seems like the reason for the divorces weren't all for their spouses cheating, like... get a little more creative there.

Read More

Nothing Campus

Before anything else, I'll just say I don't want anyone who doesn't tell me that my eyes sparkle like a bus stand. I just won't have it.

Aside from that, there isn't much to say.

I've come to expect a certain quality from Strongberry, and even if it wasn't Strongberry, it all just felt.. very bland? Nothing really happened, they met, they fell in love with nothing else happening. Not saying that that's a bad thing, but here it was done in a very amateurish way that it felt bad. Theoretically, they could have done this story with just the leads, and they almost did because there are only four other characters and all of them had no feasible part to play. A second lead who stood no chance, a professor, a boss and a senior and that's as descriptive as one can get. Every aspect felt low in quality and I'm just not very impressed.

The only real thing to say anything about is the cute moments between the leads that were few amidst unnecessary drama and misunderstandings. It just all felt.. meh.

Read More

Love transcends all restrictions.

This is my first time writing a review for a show I watched, so you can assume CLOY was a swoonworthy watch for me. I'd say I have been in a kdrama slump before I discovered this masterpiece, and I'm still not over it. I already tried rewatching my favorite moments. I usually would mind rewatching films, but I have no problem with rewatching this a million times. This is a kdrama OG that everyone should check out. It deserves the hype. I became queen of tears while watching. The tropes are found-family, romcom, and forbidden love. And touch her & you die. While I do agree that the portrayal is not entirely accurate and that life in the North, in reality, is much more brutal with less leniency toward a traitor, CLOY still is an excellent execution for me. It broke my heart when the comrades were so wow away by Seri's house: an endless amount of electricity, running water, and warmth. But I had an enjoyable time watching. I was kept on the edge of my seat as the show progressed. I even got scolded by my mom because I was staying up late, unable to resist continuing the next episode.
Se Ri is a girl boss. She's a heiress with a charming personality--funny, chatty, and open; she's the opposite of what I would expect rich businesswomen whose fate ended up in NK to act like. She was self-sufficient until she had nothing in the North. But she still made something out of nothing and enjoyed the small moments of life. No wonder she not only captivated the village ladies but also the man whose face was her ideal type. She's very sweet to the comrades. I found comfort in those moments when they surrounded her. It's fortunate she had parents who supported her. Especially her dad who did not root for her death. Her mom also loves her dearly, it just took Se Ri time to realize how big that love is.
If Jeong Hyeok wasn't a captain, he would have shone way brighter and sexier in Switzerland. I live for his pout. His protective instinct always proves useful in dangerous situations; his quick-to-act personality and intelligent mind have come in handy in protecting Seri and his comrades from the bad guys. Se Ri was a perfect addition to his life; she made it more colorful. He thought he could've continued a life without dreams until Se Ri transformed it in the best way possible and he was able to resume his piano pursuits. His brother's incident definitely made him repress himself, until he met Se Ri. At first, it was just physical attraction like during his Switzerland trip with Dan witnessing her ridiculousness. Until later fate reconnected them after Se Ri paraglided into NK. It wasn't until the Pyongyang trip that he realized he was drawn to her. They both saw each other's vulnerability multiple times and comforted each other. I'm no chemist but their relationship speaks so much chemistry, that it's enough to light up NK. Can't forget about them caring for their plants!!!
I love the squad so much!! Including Man Bok. I'm glad he decided to be on their team, overcoming his obedience to Cheol Gang. I'm still not over how they'll never see Se Ri again or know how she's doing. I love all the fried chicken dining, gaming, and basically team bonding moments. I still can't believe what happened to Seung Jun. He and Dan were going to be end games. She isn't an open character, but he understood her so well.

Read More

Magical cocktail therapy...

Taste of Cat has a great concept, incredible cats and my favourite genre: fantasy. So why only four short episodes?

The cats take over their owner's bar late at night and help out strangers who stumble upon it. The drama covers two cases: a girl who finds out her ex is badmouthing her and a man who bumps unexpectedly on his ex and is ridden with regrets. The cats through drinks and more (fantasy element: body swap and time travel!) help them see more clear and sort it out!

Does anyone know what happened to these three actors? They are by far the most convincing. (and the cutest) cats I have ever seen! I could watch them play with a ball of yarn and throwing steamy glances to each other for hours: plot is not needed! So why did they sink into oblivion, doing bit parts, if any? What a waste! I looked them up while watching this short drama and the fact that their careers never took off as they rightfully deserved, made me incredibly sad .

The production is the usual for a korean web drama: some bad acting, some empty sets, some bad cinematography, though not all (the date was filmed soft like a dream...), I loved the original idea of the plot: the bartender listens to the customer's story in exchange for a shiny toy (bracelet, tie) and offers a corresponding magical cocktail!

Cute but too short! I know there is a sequel....still this concept deserves a better production and a longer drama!

review 100

Read More

The Ultimate Romance Kdrama

This kdrama was the best kdrama I ever watched and it’s absolutely perfect ahhh 😌. If you like romance kdramas, you must watch this. The plot was really exciting, unexpected, well-paced and I never felt bored watching this show. The actors were so talented and attractive and had great chemistry together. Ryu Sun Jae was especially dreamy and soulful… he’s really the ultimate lover. The production and writing was top tier and every episode left me wanting for more. The sets were so scenic and the music was amazing too. I really can’t think of anything I hated about this show.

Read More

PERFORMANCES AND CHEMISTRY

Kim soo hyun and Kim Ji Won - both leads deliver powerful performances. Baek hyun woo - bringing warmth & emotion role and Hong Hae in - balancing vulnerability & strength. Their chemistry is one of the drama's strongest points, evoking both heartbreak & warmth as their relationship evolves.

Particularly in portraying the realistic struggles of a marriage.

Kim Ji Won has proven her versatility as an actress through various roles in her career, and Queen of Tears is no exception. Her ability to adapt to different characters & genres. Her portrayal of Hong Hae in not only elevates the drama but also solidifies her status as one of the top actresses in the industry.

Kim Ji Won is a strong contender for the highest awards in television acting.

Congratulations to the entire team and cast of Queen of Tears! Their amazing acting and dedication have resulted in one of the top-tier Korean dramas. The show's portrayal of complex relationships and personal struggles has resonated with audiences, cementing its place as a must-watch drama.

Read More

I just wanna cry. So disappointed

(spoilers about the divine temple and his mother at the end)

After finishing the last episode of Season 2, I can't help but feel a mix of surprise and disappointment. While I did enjoy some moments, overall, I found myself questioning some of the creative choices and missing the magic of the first season.

Season 1 holds a special place in my heart. It's at the top of my list. I was so invested in it that I ended up reading the novel, which spans 746 chapters and over 5501 pages. To my delight, I discovered that Season 1 stayed true to the novel, accurately portraying the characters and the story. The martial arts scenes were executed well, although not as detailed as the novel, and every character was perfectly cast. Season 1 truly stands out as a masterpiece.

Season 2 sadly did not reach my expectations. Everything was rushed. The arcs completely changed. They were mixed. I did not recognize the main characters like a second prince or the crown prince. The villainess character of the story, the eldest princess, appears only in the last part of the season when she is THE main villain of the story. I am trying to think of one character who did not change, and I found one, Fan Jian, his father. Okay, let's make two, his father-in-law, the prime minister. And three with Da Bao (Kudos for this incredible performance! Not easy to play with realist a simple mind).

Fan Xian character went from being an arrogant mastermind to a submissive, almost tearful figure in the first part of the season. His actions, such as begging and kneeling in front of the emperor, were a far cry from the Fan Xian in the novel. I missed the strategic genius who could outmaneuver his opponents and exploit their weaknesses. Despite the change, he remained lovable, thanks to the acting skills of the ML (Zhang Ruo Yun). I felt relieved that his true personality returned in the last part of Season 2. But it was a little too late; I lost the excitement of watching the drama. Plus the unnecessary comedic elements introduced by the screenwriter detracted from the season's enjoyment even if some, I admit, were funny, it was too much. But too much change, too much difference in personalities. The magic of season 1 was not there.

The last 2 episodes were rushed. And where was the grand apotheosis expected in the last minutes of season 2? Those special moments that ended and left us all on our toes just like season 1? He got back his zhenqi. So what?

I am SO SO disappointed.

It was all talk, unnecessary talk, but no action. Where was the tyrannical zhenqi that took a considerable place in the novel? Yes, he touched here and there with his fist to show that his meridians were messing with his body, but no cultivation, no practice, and no fight except the big one in the season, which was very well choreographed. But only one? Did the production cut the budget in half? Because that's precisely what I'm thinking after the end of season 2. The teasers/previews were so good though… *sigh*

Yes, the story is quite extensive, spanning 746 chapters filled with numerous events, making it challenging to condense into just 3 seasons. I'm perplexed why the first season was a success, but the second season fell short. What could have gone wrong? Did the screenwriter lose his touch or encounter some personal issues? I ensured that it was the same screenwriter for both seasons, but I'm uncertain about the involvement of the art producer and other staff members. Don't get me wrong, the actors and actresses were equally good in both seasons. It's the material they were given that made season 2 chaotic.

The screenwriter made too many changes to the stories and arcs, which was the main problem. It was like stuffing an elephant into a mouse pit. It just did not work. Events that were supposed to happen at the end of the novel were added in the middle of season 2, such as revealing that the emperor was a grandmaster. I understand that a TV drama differs from a novel and that not everything can be included. I also understand that some characters may be missing, such as Sisi the concubine. However, it felt like the show was all over the place.

I'm grateful I only had to wait 3 months, not 5 years, to watch season 2. I also found a fantastic novel and discovered several talented Chinese actors I now follow. However, I'm disappointed that season 2 didn't have the same "wow" factor for me as season 1.

I didn't notice much effort put into the soundtrack, either. There wasn't much difference in the original soundtrack (OST) except for the generic and epilogue. I even recognized some of the music from season 1. However, one piece of music that I hope never to hear again is the Swiss yodelling. It was used, reused, and overused. One or two good jokes are funny, but several become clownish. I can't forget how the screenwriter mocked Jing Ge, the general of the black guards.

In the drama, there were many inconsistencies and changes in the characters' personalities. For example, Wan’er, who wanted to kill WuZhu, the most powerful character, and Cheng Ping Ping, a strong supporter of Fan Xian, became a suspicious foe, even though they are two genius soul mates in the story. Additionally, the second prince turned evil without really taking any action. Many characters needed more screen time for proper understanding. Sweet relationships never developed, such as the first prince (not that I read many in the novel but after the naive bland outburst at the meal 3+3, I expected to see her again!), the alcoholic empress (invented), and the undeveloped boring and useless Ming episodes(few dozen chapters in the novel). WuZhu acting like a crazy robot and demanding assistance from his sister were also confusing. Every single scene was full of confusing moments for me. I wanted to recognize the big moments in the novel, not a poorly executed remake with no depth and no logic. Production should have spent less on the flower's eldest princess and more on martial arts choreography! Where was the magic of the 300 poems? Where was the tension and puzzle of who was a friend and who was a foe? Gone. All gone.

The drama made quite a few changes to the original events. I constantly compared the show to the novel, trying to understand why the screenwriter made such extensive alterations. Some plotlines were easy to follow, while others left me very perplexed. I'm thinking about re-watching this season soon, hoping to gain a new perspective. I'm not entirely convinced, but I'm open to the possibility of seeing it in a different light.

After reading various reviews and comments, it seems that this season is not universally liked. However, there are also many outstanding reviews. I will check the reviews in a few months when the dust has settled. That will give me a better idea of whether this drama is a success or a failure. Considering there is a season 3 (confirmed during the press conference for season 2), I hope they will make the necessary adjustments!

Until season 3...

Spoilers as per the novel: (beware, those are S3 spoilers)
=========================================
** FX's mother, a mere 4 years old, possessed the intellect of an adult with a high IQ. She was not a teen. When she escaped, she went to Dongyi and grew up there. She opened businesses, helped the people and the country to be strong and independent with a sect of martial disciples and a grandmaster. But she wanted to help and change the world, Dongyi was not strong enough. She quit for Danzhou were she met the emperor, ChengPingPing and Fan Jian. The emperor was only a prince at that time. She helped him to become the emperor.
** She was raised in the Divine Temple, a sentient machine created eons ago (hundreds -plurial- of thousand years) to safeguard the new humanity that emerged after the Earth's annihilation by nuclear bombs. WuZhu, an AI cyborg, was created during that period and was the companion of the descendants of the creators of this machine who evolved with an AI. Over time, WuZhu also evolved into a being more human than machine, yet his strength surpassed even the most skilled grandmasters on the planet.
** The nuclear bombs produced radiation, which caused some humans to undergo physiological changes. Some became sensitive and gained abilities like zhenqi. With cultivation and knowledge, some became 9th-level aces and grandmasters. Grandmasters were very close to nature and had a universal understanding.
** The Divine Temple sent every few centuries emissaries to the human leaders to help them. It also eliminated anyone who could pose a threat to a long peaceful evolution. When FX's mother left with a mass destruction gun and WuZhu, she broke 4 laws prime directive and brought about significant changes in the feudal era with new inventions and creations that were not supposed to exist yet. This made her a big threat to the existing order.
** FX later visited the Divine Temple and learned about the hundreds of thousands of years of destruction, evolution, and the new civilization and the control the divine temple had on humans. The divine temple was partially destroyed at one point.
** The story has a happy ending. 😉

Read More

A NOT SO HIDDEN HIDDENGEM

Honestly, I started this cuz i had nothin to watch while waiting for LR lol. But this was surprisingly reallyyy good.
The main reason i loved this is the cinematography and the bgm (im a sucker for good production).
The actors were all really great (especially the little girl) and i loved how they focused on each person's background/ lifestory so perfectly.
There wasn't a single moment of boredom tbh and i loved that.
The story is a bit different from what we generally see and this one showed how two families can come together even if they hate each other.
All in all i would say a great one time watch!!

Read More