Meteor Garden (2018)

I loved it!

Finally I can review this beautiful drama.
So, first of all you need to know that I've never seen the original story, I've only seen this 2018 remake.
All I can say about it is that I loved it. It's even more special to me because it was the first Asian drama I've watched and from then on I was in love:D

This drama is actually really long (49 episodes), but if you're really into the story then it will be over in a second.
Also, I loved the cast! They were perfect and played their roles very well. I didn't give the highest rating for acting, though, because there was a thing that really got on my nerves: The kisses of the lead couple. They seemed so unrealistic, no mouth movement and it didn't seem passionate.

I loved the plot, I really did, but sometimes I felt like I was emotionally torn because in one moment everything seemed allright and then suddenly, it wasn't. And as I said the series is quite long, so there was a lot of it.

But what was perfect were the OST! I listened to them 24/7 after I finished it. The music was just so fitting.

And last, but not least, the ending. I won't spoiler you, but the ending was just perfect. No open ending, no confusion. It was really good.

I really recommend this drama to you, if you are into Rom-Coms and heartbreaking plots.

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First of all, Hana Yori Dango is one of my favourite manga of all time hence so I was quite ecstatic to see yet another adaptation of such a classic love story we know we always fall for lol. I've watched many different past adaptations of this story before with Boys Over Flowers being the first series that introduced it to me. (Keeping in mind, it was majorly popular in Philippines back then as well). Not to mention I had read the manga too so I'm quite familiar with this lovely story.

Having many past adaptations of the same story, Meteor Garden 2018 kind of did set the bar high to me and for all the people who are familiar with the other previous versions probably does so as well. I was quite interested on how they are going to adapt Hana Yori Dango in their own way hence so, after seeing the trailer on Netflix, decided to give it a go.

What I really like about this series is the fact that it was quite lighthearted and just full on mellow. It didn't include any severe bullying or any rape/sexual topics of any kind as oppose to BOF or in the original manga for example. It's something you can gladly watch around younger people and to be honest, it gave it an honest and innocent feel to it that I quite like. It's like one of those love stories that I love to watch as a young girl and fawn over (yes, I'm cringy af).

Being the most recent adaptation of the story after BOF back in 2009, this is the most modernised adaptation of Hana Yori Dango we have seen so far. When I watched the 2001 version and the manga for example, I didn't have the connection that viewers at that time would have because I wasn't born at that time lolol. It was the norm back in the days but not today, so having watched this adaptation gave me some kind of relatability because I'm someone who lives at this time and age. It was pretty refreshing to see a story that was probably made 20 or so years ago become so modernised like this. It incorporated some aspects that I quite like for example the fact that the series included some Western songs as their Ost for example 'River' and also the amount of diversity shown and that for me, made it quite meaningful. I fell in love with the soundtrack oml. Among all the other versions I had seen, this series by far is my favourite in terms of the soundtrack. I often listen to the playlist of the songs because it's that good and I was very pleased they included songs in which I was familiar with already and that people know off.

I do like the Cast chosen, I find Dong Shangcai to be quite similar to Geum Jan Di from BOF which is really not a problem though I wouldn't mind if the character would be a bit more unique and different kind of like the 2001 and 2005 version and not stick to the same concept. The rest of F4 is just pure gold, they're all equally as adorable to me especially Lei sjdjdnfnxxn. However, in terms of acting, I do think it could have been better. There are some moments where it feels out of place and that it didn't exactly resonate to the audience what the actors are trying to portray.

The story/plot of course is not anything special of some kind. To those who are not familiar of the previous adaptations of the manga would have thought differently however seeing as I'm familiar with the storyline already, it did lose that excitement and appeal since we basically know what is going to happen in the story anyway. The fact that I stuck this long was merely the fact that I was curious as to how they'll go about it and see how they will adapt the manga. Of course seeing the same storyline over and over again would have certainly bored people to death, however it is probably something I will never get tired off after seeing the same storyline so many times.

But anyway, it's a good show to watch. I haven't see the rest of what the series has to offer yet so we'll just have to see but it seems to be a pleasure to watch so far. It had managed to kept me excited and motivated when waiting for the new episodes to arrive on Netflix so I can say it is certainly on my good list of shows. It's not the best but it's not awfully bad either. Who knows, it might be on par with its predecessors which I'm certain it will.

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Well everyone is just expressing what they feel upon watching the MG2018 sereies. Some are negative, some are positive and some are just okay. But everyone has it's own views and comments. We should respect that anyway.
I find this new series "cute" because the story has it's own twist. Of course, they should add a new flavor based on the trend today.
Overall, I love the 3 versions I've watched so far (Taiwan, Korean and MG2018).
All the characters from these 3 versions give justice on what they portray. Aside from they are all good looking, yay!
Looking forward for another remake in the future! :-)

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I was excited to watch this drama I thought it would have the doki doki romance moments even with the plain to see build up of the fl and ml's romance relationship. But I have got to say I was BORED. I stopped at ep 6, yell at me for giving a poor review but not even finishing the drama but I can't help but feel lack luster with the depth and story line of this show. I mean the fl is not lovable but annoying. The misunderstandings or her attitude is not cute. And the side character whatever her name is, the one that was a previous classmate but joined the fl and her best guy friends circle. I have no clue what her back story is, poor but maybe doesn't like that she is, maybe like the ml but is insecure. Whatever the problem is , she not only boring, a waste of screen time I just don't like the girls attitude and what is her role is this story.

I loved lei and jing's characters they probably is the reason I even lasted until ep6. But the fl and ml are not carrying me further in this drama. I don't get the high ratings and rave reviews of the show.

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I am a fan of all versions but MG2018 caught my heart maybe because I'm a very hopeless romantic teenager.

From the start, I am looking forward to this drama. I am updated with the casting and how the story will go on so when it was release I was so excited. Though many are comparing MG and MG2018, it can really stand on it's own. The cast is superb, Dylan makes a great Dao Ming Si and Shen Yue's cute even if she acts tough. Darren can be cool yet adorable. F4 is indeed handsome and acts like teenage idols in school lol. The story is refreshing and the new faces which matches those of college students can really make me cry and smile.

Watching it makes me wish for my own Ah Si and Lei. Even the side characters' story is a total pinch in the heart! I love this version so much!

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*mild spoilers

Speaking as a general fan of HYD adaptations but a greater fan of the original manga/anime (I've gone through the Korean, Taiwanese, Chinese and Japanese adaptations but barely remember them), this adaptation was generally enjoyable!

Despite some strange pacing (particularly at the start of the drama) and rookie acting, the series managed to hook me for a couple of months during its running (until real life pulled me back and I couldn't find the time to follow it, not of the drama's own fault). The drama is eyecatching (locations, actors, etc), which helps, but I was drawn in most by how closely it aligned to the manga's original plotline. Watching the newest episodes always prompted a rereading of those corresponding chapters in the manga, and then some in anticipation of the next few episodes. Plus, the caricature/ridiculousness present in the manga (which is the nature and norm for manga like HYD) helped me stomach the caricature and sappiness of the drama.
(Likewise, the weakest points of the story (so far) have been moments when they've diverged away from the manga: ex: replacing Shancai's reflective character development in the fishing village with Caina/Terence, removing Daomingsi's double (and with that, character development for Shancai).

Overall: Watch this if you enjoy seeing HYD adapted--enough to accept some flaws. Watch this while reading the manga to appreciate the closeness of the adaptation + how iconic scenes from the manga are adapted to a more modern/contemporary setting. (and help you deal with the flaws)

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This review is my opinion so I hope you guys take it in consideration. Well so far I really like this drama to bad that I have only seen 14 episodes. But I must say that I am really excited to watch the other episodes. I love the chemistry between the lead roles. I am super happy with the actors that they had chosen. The music is not the best but they are some songs that I really enjoy. The story is amazing and I really like the way they are making this drama. So far this is my favorite version of this story.! Not only because the actors are really good but because is a more modern version of the F4 situation. Overall I really love the drama and I hope that the next episodes will reach my expectations. Really recommend this drama you guys will not regret it. Hope this review helps and remember this drama only has 14 episodes aired so you guys still have time to catch up.

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might contain few spoiler

"Meteor Garden 2018" is an engaging and captivating drama that took me on a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish. I was pleasantly surprised by how well this remake of the classic Taiwanese drama stayed true to the essence of the original story while bringing fresh and modern elements to the table.

The storyline revolves around a group of elite college students and an ordinary girl, Shan Cai, who is entangled with the four handsome and wealthy members of the F4. The character development in this drama is outstanding, and I found myself growing attached to each member of the cast. Shen Yue, who played Shan Cai, delivered a strong and convincing performance as the feisty yet compassionate heroine. The chemistry between her and the F4 members was palpable, adding depth to the romantic subplots.

The drama's pacing was well-done, with each episode leaving me eager for more. It's filled with humor, heartwarming moments, and intense conflicts, all of which kept me hooked. The love triangles, rivalries, and friendships are beautifully woven throughout the narrative, making the characters' personal growth and relationships feel incredibly real.

One of the standout features of "Meteor Garden 2018" is the stunning cinematography. The luxurious settings, fashion, and even the subtleties of facial expressions added to the overall appeal of the series. The OST (Original Soundtrack) perfectly complements the mood and adds depth to the emotional scenes.

Though the drama occasionally borders on melodramatic, it never loses its charm. It successfully highlights themes of love, family, friendship, and societal pressures. I could relate to the character's struggles and triumphs in their personal lives and academic pursuits.

"Meteor Garden 2018" is a delightful drama that brings the timeless story to a new generation. It blends nostalgia with a fresh perspective, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. With its compelling characters, beautiful visuals, and a well-balanced mix of drama, romance, and comedy, this series left me eagerly awaiting each new episode. If you're a fan of heartwarming, coming-of-age stories with a touch of romance, this is a drama you won't want to miss.

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Alright. I think for this drama i have to jump directly to the point. "NOT MY CUP OF TEA" . The drama itself is a lighthearted and bubbly adaption as compared to all the meteor showers.The first two episodes were intriguing but i was bored out of my mind through the rest. I haven't been much into the drama only the first six episodes but i can say that there is no such background story. Not payed much heed to F4's family struggle.

The acting at some point was a bit lousy?For me Rui hanazawa's character did not get much justice, the chemistry didn't work well for me. The rest of the cast for me did an okay job not much to applaud but not as bizarre either. Although you can clearly see that there's quiet some money spent on the shooting. Cinematography was nice.

HOWEVER i like the fact that this adaption did not follow up to heavy bullying and potential rape scenes. If your'e more into soft slice of life romantic comedies then the drama is for you.

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I was never a fan of the F4 series, I watched it just becoz everybody's going gaga over it, and becoz i had a crush on Barbie Hsue. that's probably the reason that amongst the versions, i like the Taiwanese one, though critics rated the Japanese version the highest.

Hana Yori Dango (Jap), Boys Over Flower(Kor) and Meteor Garden (Twn) are all F4 Series.
It also catapulted the main casts to full stardom.
Shun Oguri, Jun Matsumoto, Shot Matsuda, Tsuyoshi Abe made their mark. Shun Oguri and JM were my fav Jap idols. Love Shun on Nobunaga Concerto and Rich Man, Poor Man.
The Korean version boasts an array of good-looking casts, Lee Min-ho, Jonghyun, Kim Bum and Kim Joon. After BOF's high ratings and popularity, these boys were literally put to pedestals.
My favorite version, of course, is the Taiwanese version of Jerry Yan, Vaness Wu, Ken Chu, Vic Chou and of course Barbie Hsu. Jerry Yan, Vaness Wu and the rest of Meteor Garden cast became international celebrities.

And now the new Meteor Garden. Seen the first 5 episodes. My verdict is that Dylan Wang will be the next Lee Min-Ho/Jerry Yan. This will also open up doors for Darren Chen and the rest of the main casts (Liang Kang, Shen Yue and Wu Xi Ze). So far so good, I like the new take, it's fast and crisp, the casts are not only really hot good-looking but are good actors too. And BTW the OSTs were dope too.

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