When the Phone Rings (2024)

MY HEART CALLS YOUR NAME

***DISCLAIMER: This is just my opinion. We don’t have to agree and I’m not here to argue with anyone.***

TLDR: My review is long so if you don’t have time, just skip to the final thoughts section.

OVERVIEW:

The drama begins with Baek Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo, a couple married for three years but trapped in silence due to mutual animosity and Hee Joo’s selective mutism. Their fragile relationship worsens when Hee Joo is kidnapped by a masked assailant who threatens her life to get Sa Eon’s attention. After escaping, Hee Joo’s resentment towards Sa Eon intensifies. She uses the kidnapper's phone to communicate her demands of getting a divorce. As the story unfolds, the couple must face their unresolved feelings and decide if they can move past their grievances to navigate the crisis together. The drama delves into their emotional struggles, tackling themes of trust, love, and redemption amid various external challenges.

__________

IN MORE DETAIL (SPOILERS AHEAD):

Fist off, I liked how When The Phone Rings (WTPR) was able to captivate me in 2 episodes, usually dramas take 4-6 episodes to draw me in but this one did not. It felt like a breath of fresh air and after the first episode I went immediately to the next, without a break or hesitation.

The vibe of this drama is right up my alley; it’s a romantic suspense drama with mystery / thriller aspects, arranged marriages and a bit of tension between the leads. The transition from childhood friends to lovers adds a charming twist. I enjoyed it! It was the perfect antidote for those times when you’re in a drama slump, looking for something quick, bingeable, and effortlessly captivating. I found it especially revitalizing, as I was starting to feel that K-dramas were losing their spark.

The storyline was quite engaging, even if it leaned heavily on makjang tropes and required a hefty dose of disbelief. Flaws are a given in any show, and this one is no different. However, each character and far fetched plot line served a purpose, and in the context of this drama, it all somehow worked.

Honestly, sometimes, you just crave a cheesy, cliché drama that feels like a warm hug. Watching their slow-burn romance blossom into heartfelt confessions and breakthroughs was simply enchanting. Their unconventional love story touched my heart in ways I didn’t expect.


MIXED EMOTIONS:

Initially, In A appeared menacing but ultimately reveals a non-threatening nature. It seems unreasonable for her to expect Hee Joo to resume speaking just because her surgery was successful, allowing her to hear and talk again. That part annoyed me because it seemed selfish, especially after relying on her as a substitute for so many years.

It was disheartening to find out that Do Jae was scheming against Sa Eon, even though I had a hunch about it. While I might be able to brush off his treachery, the memory of him starting a fire and pushing Hee Joo off a cliff, leading to her serious injuries, is hard to shake. Moreover, the fact that Do Jae managed to survive after being beaten, stabbed, and nearly drowned stretches believability to its limits. In reality, both of those events should’ve left them severely injured or dead.

The second couple didn't resonate with me much; they seemed to lack the spark I was looking for. Their love was more subdued and comforting, unlike the fiery connection of Sa Eon and Hee Joo. Despite this, I was pleased that they revealed plans for marriage at the end.

While I recognize that Sa Eon should have learned sign language sooner to communicate with Hee Joo, it's important to consider his peculiar upbringing. To the Baek’s, he was only a spare, which positioned their marriage as a business arrangement. He maintained distance, feeling unworthy of genuine affection. Nonetheless, I commend his later efforts to learn, which showed his desire to connect with her on a deeper level.


DISLIKES:

The 5th episode was likely the weakest link in the series; it felt like a filler and earned a modest 7/10 from me. I was hoping for more excitement, but it just didn’t deliver.

I believe this drama could have reached greater heights if it had targeted a more mature audience. The 13+ rating restricted the depth of the romance earlier on. Still, I admire Sa Eon’s gentle approach; patience really is a virtue.

Sa Eon’s so-called family treats him like a mere pawn in their game, completely disregarding his humanity and identity. It’s heartbreaking to see him, an orphan, uprooted from his life simply because the grandfather chose him for his own agenda. His existence has never truly belonged to him. The flashbacks of his childhood, especially when he was forced to eat fish broke my heart. On the other hand, it was endearing to see how back then he offered his plate to Hee Joo when she was forced to restrict herself. These little parallels between past and present add to the story and highlight Sa Eon’s unwavering care and protectiveness towards her.

I really wish we had seen more of the mother taking responsibility for forcing her daughter into silence. Honestly, she came off as way too nonchalant, and it’s hard not to see her as a deeply troubled and insensitive individual. Everything seems to revolve around her, with her excuse being that she wanted a better life for Hee Joo than the one she experienced. Sure, but in doing so, you subjected her to a different kind of suffering! The mental and emotional scars are not something that just fade away. That’s my main issue, along with the overused trope of parents trying to make amends and seek forgiveness.

I also felt like the news report at the end particularly with the use of fictional country names mirroring real-life ones was unnecessary.


LIKES:

This series featured a stellar cast, the actors played characters with a sense of authenticity and realism. Yoo Yeon Seok delivered as usual, I don’t think I could ever imagine anyone else playing Sa Eon now. Chae Soo Bin brought her own unsuspecting charm and innocence to the role, while also being super flirty and daring when she was 406. I liked seeing her range. She deserves accolades for her impressive sign language performance.

Conversely, the kidnapper exhibited a commendable performance. Finally, there is a villain with a compelling backstory, clear motives, and justifications for his actions. While I did not feel sympathy for him, I appreciated the depth of his character. His troubled relationship with his parents nearly elicited pity. However, I found his demise somewhat too quick and simplistic but then again, you can’t always have it your way.

In my opinion, the finale was a total treat for fanfic enthusiasts. Given that this story started on Wattpad, everything that unfolded was spot on, and I’m not even a little bit sorry for enjoying every second of it. I swear, watching the last episode I was giggling and smiling so much. The people who get it get it and the ones who don’t, don’t. In my opinion they’re just out of the loop or above cliches altogether, but then again, everyone has their own preferences.

I’m glad there was no love triangle or 3rd person attempting to sabotage the couple. Additionally, the absence of a trivial breakup is refreshing. Sa Eon’s departure was indeed heartbreaking, primarily due to his difficulty in confronting Hee Joo after realizing he was the son of the person who inadvertently forced her to be mute following the accident which killed her brother. I think these events laid the foundation for their eventual reconciliation in Argan, similar to dramas with military themes.

I liked how Hee Joo engaged in conversations with those who had a deep connection to Sa Eon, as it allowed her to feel closer to him. It’s such a relatable portrayal of loneliness and confusion; those small interactions were her lifeline during those tough days.

That kidnapping scene where she was blindfolded, it felt like it was lifted straight from a romance novel. It had the essence of multiple shows and movies blended together, but honestly, I didn’t care because Sa Eon looked incredibly handsome while rescuing her.

The cinematography is impressive. While some may dislike the imaginative scenes, I find them endearing as they offer a glimpse into the characters' thoughts and showcase more charming moments between the couple. I also value the subtle hidden details they added that help’s to convey the emotions of the leads.

The OST is also amazing. The first time I heard the captivating opening track, "Hear Me Out," and saw the theme, I thought it was quite intriguing. The first experience hearing “See The Light” was thrilling, and Lim Hyunsik’s vocals are powerful. "Numb", for "May I Love You," and "I Feel It Now," are my top 3 song, as it expresses the emotions of our leads so well. Honorable mention for "Say My Name" which is beautifully sang by Yoo Yeon Seok and shows off his amazing voice.


LOVES:

The leads chemistry is off the charts! I was breathless by the end of episode 2 and again in episode 7. The way they match each other's energy was electrifying. Their intimate scene following the kidnapping was truly something. The filming was excellent; the directors captured the perfect angles and flow. While some viewers criticized the earlier kiss in episode 10's epilogue, I believe the final scene redeemed everything. As a romance enthusiast, their love story resonated with me, and their unwavering connection was evident. The last 15 minutes of the finale were everything, showcasing them as newlyweds finally experiencing happiness after 11 episodes of struggle. It was a satisfying happy ending.

I also appreciate how, in the jungle scene in Argan, Hee Joo initiated the kiss. It was refreshing shift in dynamic showing her taking control. After all of Sa Eon’s encouragement throughout the drama to pursue her desires without hesitation, she finally embraced his advice. Talk about a well crafted arc! And let’s not forget the scene that followed was absolutely sizzling!

What I truly admire is how they handle their issues with such gravity. The years of pain they endured were no joke. The moment between In A and Hee Joo, where she realizes that clinging to the past only breeds sadness, was particularly poignant. I loved how they both showed mutual respect, with Hee Joo letting go of her resentment towards In A. That was a genuine breakthrough that really tugged at my heartstrings.

I loved the character development of Hee Joo. She transforms from a timid and naive person into a confident, determined woman who pursues her desires. Her newfound courage to confront those who have wronged her is inspiring. Similarly, Sa Eon undergoes significant growth, enduring numerous challenges before ultimately finding his happiness.

Sa Eon's affection for Hee Joo stands out, especially considering he was brought up devoid of love. He was raised to be perfect, to make up for the faults of his fake parents and to preserve their legacy. Although he developed reserved and distant demeanor, his tenderness towards Hee Joo is heartwarming and his sweetness shines through. While he may appear rough around the edges, his love for her is unmistakeable. From the start, their hearts have called each other's names; it was merely a matter of time.

The beauty of that final scene lies in the fact that there were no pretenses this time around. Hee Joo was honest about her feelings, simply wanting him to return home. The progress they have both made in these 12 episodes has been truly remarkable.


FAVORITE QUOTES:

“𝘞𝘦’𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺. 𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”

“𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘊𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.”

“𝘚𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘥. 𝘚𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘩 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥.”

“𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘺.”

“𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘵. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘵.”

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘶𝘱. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬. 𝘚𝘢𝘺 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.”

“𝘛𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘛𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘉𝘢𝘦𝘬 𝘚𝘢 𝘌𝘰𝘯 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘏𝘦𝘦 𝘑𝘰𝘰.”

“𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

“𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦. 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯𝘦-𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦.”

“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥-𝘪𝘯. 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”

“𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘉𝘢𝘦𝘬 𝘚𝘢 𝘌𝘰𝘯. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”


FINAL THOUGHTS:

This drama was an absolute delight! As a fan of heavier and more emotional stories, it was a nice change of pace to watch something lighter that didn't leave me feeling drained. Some persons would beg to differ but for me, this drama was not that deep. It was simply a joy to watch.

All in all, I simply loved how they blended almost every genre together, the mystery, thriller, romance and romantic suspense which kept you on your toes and had you eager to watch the next episode.

This drama was made for yearners and slow burn lovers. Yu Yeon (formerly Sa Eon) and Hee Joo perfectly encapsulate that dynamic. I love the name he chose and their cozy little married life. The ending was so heartwarming, especially the scene where he tells her if she wants their home to be more lively they need to add to their family and then lifts her bridal style to the bedroom.

Is it a masterpiece? Absolutely not. Is it binge worthy and enjoyable? Definitely. WTPR may not be perfect, but it had me hooked! Although the last 2 episodes faltered a tiny bit, the show's overall excellence still prevailed. It provided a much-needed escape, lifting my spirits and making for a gratifying watch.

Would I recommend it? Yes, especially to persons who are beginners or just watching for a good time. I even roped in 4 friends to watch, including two who had never even watched a K-drama before. So far, they’re loving it, and it’s fun to have people to discuss the episodes with.

The romantic suspense and chemistry was brilliant. The leads were so captivating that they definitely earned some extra points in my book. I genuinely loved them, and I can confidently say there was rarely a dull moment in this drama for me.

I need to see YYS and CSB in another project together. Also, what is Yu Yeon up to at the end? He looks like he’s giving some secret agent vibes fr. I just can’t get enough! This drama definitely deserved more than 12 episodes. 16 would have been perfect. Fingers crossed for the possibility of a 2nd season!

I averaged my scores for each episode and my overall score for this drama an 8.75/10. With that being said I've decided to round it back up to a 9/10 because the review section is currently being bombed. I will reassess and adjust my score once the ratings normalize.

__________

SIDENOTE:

While some claim WTPR is overhyped, I believe its popularity is well-deserved. It captivates and entertains throughout. Everyone has different preferences, WTPR met mine. If you are still unsure, by episodes 2 to 4, you'll know if it suits your taste; if not, it's best to move on. Manage your expectations to avoid disappointment, and remember it’s literally based on a Wattpad novel.

I tried to keep my review neutral, concentrating on the main points of the plot and my viewing experience. It is important that we maintain a respectful and focused conversation without any political biases or jumping to any premature conclusions.

Anyway, that’s my two cents lovelies.

As always,
Thanks for reading & happy watching!

˚ʚ♡ɞ˚

Read More

The best drama of 2024

First of all i like to appreciate the acting of the leads and all the supporting cast. Yoo yeon seok and chae sobin gave their best acting in their career. So good the sign language specially. Rest of the cast second leads, office staff, villain and parents all acted so well.
Story/production/screenplay/direction: the story is so enticing and captivating there is zero filler scene in this drama. Every episode feels like a roller coaster ride and a whole film. So many emotion are shown in single episode. The production of the drama is top notch. From the styling to the outfits every thing is outclass .
Chemistry: this is the best chemistry i have seen between the leads in any k drama. Even the behind the scene of this drama are trending because of their chemistry. All the kiss and hugs scene are so good and natural.
Ps the OST Are so good specially see the light is so amzaing is already in billboard global top 10. And the song sung by yoo yeon seok himself is just cherry on the top. He is so talented.

Read More

WTPR has everything can expect from a kdrama

Reviews are subjective but honestly I’ve never rewatched any drama as many times as this one while it was still airing… not even my beloved CLOY. For me, it’s perfect: the script, directing, camera work, the length, the tempo, no unnecessary or cringe scenes, and so many details are well thought out. The OST as well, and best of all, the acting and the chemistry between the main leads. We see a rarely seen nowadays top class acting from not only main leads but also supporting actors.
Of course it has a few parts in the form of illogical and slightly realistic consequences of various accidents, but this is a common technique in this genre and is no more miserable than in other dramas, and it does not affect the story or the pleasure of watching.
To be fair, I haven’t seen a lot of the iconic and older dramas yet, but I think I’ve watched over a hundred various dramas already, and this one has everything I expect from a kdrama. For me, it’s in my top 3 and I will rewatch it more than any other series for sure.

Read More

Turn your brain off and enjoy

This drama is super fun, if you set your suspension of disbelief at Max and come with your expectations in check.

You may love this drama as much as I did (contentious finale included) if:

1. You like soap operas, trashy romance novels, and/or wattpad fanfics (or if you're old like me good ol' ff.net)
2. You love romantic thrillers with a high tolerance for makjang plot points
3. You love angsty desperate romances
4. You aren't nitpicky about the smaller details

You may not like this drama if:

1. You want a green flag ML, everyone is unhinged here do not expect normal people behaviour from pretty much anyone
2. You have a low tolerance for miscommunication (or the complete lack of communication)
3. You have a low tolerance for batshit plot twists
4. You hate the time skip/separation trope

As a makjang tropey romantic thriller this is great fun. Absolute junk food of a drama. Grab some popcorn and buckle up.

Read More

Two wounded hearts heal each other: Shattering the chains.

When the Phone Rings tells the story a married Couple, Paik Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo, whose marriage was arranged by their families. You can call their marriage a political one. Paik Sa Eon comes from a prestigious family, a family of politicians, he's also the presidential spokesperson of Korea, the youngest ever. Hong Hee Joo is the second daughter of Chungwoon Daily, a media corporation. Their marriage is icy and strained with minimal communication. However, when Hui Ju is abducted, the feelings that's been kept hidden surfaced, changing their lives and relationship.

Personally, I think Paik Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo are each other's destiny. Why? Here's are the reasons: Paik Sa Eon comes from a respectable family, but he didn't get to feel any warnmt from his parents, or shall I say his fake parents? It's scheming all day long. He's nothing but a tool for his parents to gain power. Plus, he's not even his parents real child, they only value him because of the glory he brings the family. Hong Hee Joo on the other hand situation is also similar, she's forced by her mother to keep silent, not uttering a word for years. She's forced to pretend she couldn't speak even though she could. There's a difference between not wanting to, can't, and being forced to not. Being forced into something is the worst experience. These two have suffered greatly because of their families, they are two wounded hearts who healed each other and brought meaning into each other's lives. Previously, they're living a life without warmth, a life without a confidant, but these all changed with their marriage. An arranged marriage turned into happiness for them, it provided them what they both could call a home. I love how their relationship developed rapidly into a happy union. More importantly, I loved how they healed each other.

Just how much can a person's past, family secrets, and family sins become the shackles of your present? This drama digs deep into that. I loved it precisely because of that.
When this drama started, I thought Paik Sa Eon didn't have feelings for Hee Joo and that he'll only develop feelings for her afterwards, but I got it all wrong, they both had feelings for each other. To my surprise, Sa Eon fell for Hee Joo long before their arranged marriage. Just as their relationship was getting better after the failed abduction of Hee Joo, the shackles of the past comes in. I guess that's why they say, for every action, there's a consequence". However, Sa Eon and Hee Joo weren't suffering the consequences of their wrong decisions but from their parents. Sometimes I do wonder why the innocents are the one's who usually bear the sufferings of the sinners, it's not fair. It's clearly their family who committed the sin but they are being tormented for what they were dragged into because they were born into the wrong family. Their family that were supposed to be a support, a home to go back to became the chains that bind them. People make many choices in this world, but the one thing we don't get to choose is our family. Many would have chosen their parents in a heartbeat, but sadly, humans are not given such a chance.

When Paik Sa Eon's fake mother said, "I want you to feel the same pain your father made me feel". A lot of thoughts came to mind, thoughts in form of questions, questions without answers. "Why should he bear the sins of his father? He's not his father, is he? So, why must he bear his sins, even though he's a different person from his father"? After all those questions, I came to realize one thing, and that's the fact that people will always try to pin what's not yours on you, what's left is for you to not admit and take responsibility for what you did not do.

That siad. I really have to hand it out to Yoon Yeo Seok and Chae Soo Bin for their awesome acting and natural chemistry, they had me hooked almost throughout the episodes.
The first drama that made me liked Yoon Yeo Seok was Hospital Playlist, he left an impression on me with that drama. As for Chae Soo Bin, I haven't really watched anything of her until I watched When the Phone Rings. She is indeed a great and awesome actress like many say. At first, I wasn't sure the pairing would work, plus, I'm not really a fan of "older man/younger man" stuff, however, the chemistry of the FL and ML really surprised me. This is one of the few dramas in which the leads chemistry really amazed me. A massive applause to these two wonderful actors (Chae Soo Bin and Yoon Yeo Soek) for their captivating performance.
But of course, that's goes without saying, the performance of the whole casts.

Are there scenes I loved the most? Of course, there are, too many that I can't mention them all, but I'll mention some. Generally, I'd say I loved the times of "406" more, why? It's because during those parts, there were excitements, angst, and anticipations. The three scenes I loved the most during the 406 era were when Hong Hee Joo fell off a cliff and she called Pail Sa Eon for help with 406, that scene showed just how much he loves her, and how far he's willing to go for her. It's really good to see the care he has for her. It's a rare affection if you're to ask me. Another one is when Hui Ju called Paik Sa Eon with 406 again when she's in the hospital, when Paik Sa Eon said, "are you pretty? And Hee Joo replied with does it matter to you whether the person threatening you is pretty or not?" That scene made me laugh sooo hard. Lastly, the scene I loved the most is when Hee Joo finally confessed to Paik Sa Eon that she's 406, that scene cleared up a lot of misunderstandings. They finally mended their relationship after three years. "406", a number that's supposed to orchestrate their divorce became what made their marriage stronger, I loved how "evil turned into a blessing" for them 💞
I also loved the OSTs, especially See the Light by Lim Hyun Sik and Numb by Lim Yeon!


As for the ending. Indeed, the last four episodes were very confusing. It's as if it's a different writer who wrote those last four episodes. The plot was all over the place. I had to rewatch those episodes before I could get a grasp of what was going. And even though I did get a grasp of what was going on, I couldn't really figure out what happened in those episodes, even though I rewatched them. Also, what's with the charity thing? Plus, how did Paik Sa Eon end up in that terrorist zone? Hagan, was it? I don't even recall.
The most annoying part is how the romance of the second leads came out of the blue. There were no scenes of how they became a couple, nor were there any scenes of Ji Sang U's proposal to Na Yu Ri. Thinking about all those anomalies really makes me mad. Plus, as second leads, Heo Nam Jun and Jang Yu Ri had less screentime than the supporting roles. Although I loved this drama, I can't help but point out where it lacks.
However, even though it had all those anomalies, I loved the fact that Paik Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo got their happy ending. More importantly, the fact that they're able to break the chains and overcome many trials and dangers together, hand in hand. Although they got separated for some time, but the result still turned out great. I also loved the fact that the villains received their well deserved punishment, although I still think Paik Eui Yeong didn't receive his well due punishment, but, I'll not go further on that.

Is When the Phone Rings plot new? No? But if you're to ask me, "is when the Phone Rings interesting and captivating despite all its anomalies?", I'd answer with a big YES! It's a captivating drama.
If you're looking for an interesting mystery/romance drama, this one is the right pick for you. You won't get bored,at least, not until you reach the last four episodes. It's a drama that'll keep you glued to your screen. Now I'm not saying it's a perfect drama, like I said above, it has its flaws, but above those flaws are its merits.
In a nutshell, When the Phone Rings has come and go, but it left a strong impression on me and many, so strong we start to think, "what to watch after this?" It's a drama that'll live on in our hearts for long time. Speaking of top notch acting, natural chemistry, family plots, dark secrets, mystery, emotional rollercoaster, and romance, When the Phone Rings has all these. After much thoughts, considering all its merits with its flaws, I decided to rate it 8.5/10
Finally, to all When the Phone Rings watchers and MDL users, I wish you a Happy New Year 🎊🎊🥂

Read More

Cliche done right

Cold and possessive male lead with a mysterious past , check
Cute and silent female lead with a trauma , check

This has to be one of the best dramas of 2024. With such a strong start, it captivates you and keeps you on the edge.
Marriage of convenience , childhood acquaintances, estranged couple, ... these tropes were executed in a way they didn't feel cringy and further added to the plot. If you want to relive your wattpad days , its for you.

The acting, the plot, the chemistry ,the cinematography , pacing, dialogues, twists and attention to detail were so well done. The acting of not only the leads but also the supporting cast , especially the real Baek Sa-Eon amazingly done. From what you can expect from a romance thriller kdrama, it delivers. In most of the parts, there is nothing unnecessary and the plot flows seemlessly . The romance scenes also served.

Not to mention the OSTs , so beautiful . See the light has become one of my favourites.

It did a good job for most of the part . The start was impeccable . We get a couple who have been married for 3 years but just for name's sake , the male lead having liked the fl since the beginning and them slowly getting to know each other as they face problems that threatens their very being. We get angst, tension and intensity which dissipates in the later episodes. As we transition to the last few eps, they were a little underwhelming compared to the rest of the initial parts and becomes a little over dramatic and random , doing absolutely nothing to the plot . The logic flies out . But the ending make up for it so ...

Special mention to the second lead couple . They stole my heart . Their dynamic was fun and natural . I wish we had gotten more of them.

I am giving it a 9 for the overall job it did ,overlooking some subplots (*cough* argan *cough*) and for the terrific start.

If you love cliches that give you the feels , jump straight into it.

Read More

One of the best chemistry I've seen...

FL and ML for sure showed how it should be done. Natural, spicy and at the same time sweet chemistry was the whole point of the show.

Supporting actors were awesome. Just wished we've seen a bit more of second couple.

Last episode was a bit of a downhill in certain situations and events, but if you'll find it a bit boring or unnecessary, just fast forward those to sweet ending! One or two episodes shouldn't impact the other 10 for it to get a huge drop in your personal ranking.

I've seen worse melodramatic, overdone moments in other dramas for sure, and in this drama they were small and just funny to observe.

Every episode kept me on edge (I watched as it aired), so binge watching is certainly a way to go!

Read More

basically everything but the kitchen sink

I tried to put the least amount of spoilers (there are still some) for the people who are looking to read the reviews before watching.

Probably one of the best dramas to come out 2024. It was consistent with cliff-hangers and constantly had you at the edge imo. It was also one of the more spicier dramas to come out this year.
In terms of acting YYS and CSB both did really well and had the craziest chemistry, and I'll be honest when I first saw this came out on Netflix I wasn't even planning on watching it but I got bored and saw the first two episodes and was immediately hooked because of the "dark romance" which isn't usual of kdrama and because of their chemistry which I really was NOT expecting at all. I will say though YYS stood out a lot more in this drama, he portrayed real range and nuance, to where I forgot I was watching him act which is truly a high compliment. He showcased raw emotion and you can just see how much work and thought he put into his character even from the BTS. As for CSB, she learned a whole language for this role and that's real dedication. I do think at times she was a little too expressionless, but to be fair that was most likely a character choice given her trauma and her backstory.

YYS and CSB's chemistry was crazy. I do act in theater so I know how close we get as a cast especially with your specific scene partner and so I can say that their chemistry is genuinely one of a kind on and off screen which is what I think made this drama so good. They both clearly put a lot of work into creating a good rapport off screen to where it translated so well on screen. I would say in terms of intimacy even though it was 13+ or 15+ it was pretty heavy for kdrama; I do wish they would've milked the mole on her leg bit, but I guess that could've become 18+ real fast so perhaps they couldn't go too far with that.

Now onto the plot. Was it ridiculous at times? Yes, but overall I'd say it was solid. It was definitely something new and fresh tied in with old cliches but it was done well. Even if there were a good amount of cliches--like that first kiss haha--it was balanced with a lot of newer lines and ideas so it never felt too chummy. I think the pacing was probably the best by far until ep 12 which was rushed but I'll forgive it given how consistent they were with having us on cliff hangers every week. I think the wait was probably what added to the fun of this drama, but this is definitely a rewatchable/bingeable drama as well. I do wish HJ wasn't constantly getting kidnapped! But if you're looking for basically every kdrama trope in one drama, this is it. I mean we had everything except amnesia (THANK GOD).

A lot of people didn't like the finale...I too felt like it was so different than the rest of the drama it almost felt like a whole new drama, but it came back around 20 min till the end so don't let all the chaos about 12 deter you from watching. This is pretty typical though for dramas, they'll be super good and then the ending will kind of knock it down a notch, I suppose that's how you know the writers and everyone are human though.

ALSO I will address it, the last episode does have a mistranslation where they inserted a reference to real life events, do your own research is what I will say, but in English it's not translated properly which Netflix is notorious for. I truly wish they didn't even insert this scene in the drama, I don't think it was necessary and kdrama is fictional and real life is real life, I don't know why they felt the need to write it in.

All in all I'm giving it a 9.5/10 overall. It was fun waiting every week and now I'm sad...lol

Read More

Spiderman will have a hard time with this tangled web

Like some other high profile k-dramas of late, I'm in two minds about this show. On the one hand, it totally nailed the romance. It was a slow burn in the beginning but when they jumpstart their relationship it is a sizzler! It hits you in the feels from all directions.

I think they hit the jackpot when they selected the leads for this drama. They really acted their hearts out. Bravo! Their chemistry will keep you warm in the depth of winter. I won't spoil the story because it has a nice twist early on but it has its flaws.

I know you are expecting this as I mentioned my reservations about high profile k-dramas. Namely the A-plot is very manipulative. It is like a piece of art that has been crafted specifically to be seen from a certain angle. If you look from the side then the illusion is broken.

To wit, the show has the ML protecting the FL by taking her away from her dysfunctional family but then spent 3 years treating her like a pariah. I accept his eventual explanation but Korean writers have problems with timescale. When 1 month will do, they'd go for 1 year. In this case we went for a grandslam. Why 3 whole years? Most prison sentences are shorter than that! 3 months is more reasonable. Why labour the point.

When you are dealing with years, other factors comes into play like resentment, despondency and resignation. So he took the FL from an abusive and unloving home and put her into a cold and unloving home for over 1000 days. Yay...?

You can sense the writer-nim micromanaging the plot to be as impactful as possible. Ditto the timing and backstory of the antagonist. Hey, don't looking too closely. This is ART, dammit!

The writer-nim then hit us with the angst bomb. No trope was spared. The mess those families are in will keep a team of therapists employed for years. I know it is part of the overarching plot but it can be overwhelming when twist begot more twists. Secrets are like nesting dolls. You just become numb.

The worse part is after all the pain and suffering, the ML repeated the same mistake. He disappeared for 6 months to punish himself while disregarding the FL's feelings. Of course, she finds herself in a dark, dark place and being tormented continually. Her life effectively grinds to a halt. Is he selfish or clueless? Neither label puts him in a good light.

The heart fluttering scenes after their reunion are major highlights but it is like being given a candy after having to drink a bitter draft.

BTW, I find the made up Argen plot poorly done. It is awkward and unnecessary. I can also see a storm brewing over the fictitious war where 2 thinly disguised middle eastern countries took some Koreans hostage. What is the point of that? It was on screen for 20 seconds but it will haunt them for a long time.

I have no doubt this series will be a huge hit and for good reasons. However, I'm not 100% onboard. There are lots to like but there are also bits that left me cold. On balance, I enjoyed the show and I would have no problem watching a highlight reel of the OTP's romance. That is definitely the glue that held the show together. I would have scored this higher if it is more focused on that. As it stands, it is a potboiler in needs of a script doctor's deft ministration. Peace.

Read More

A Must Watch!

This show was SOOOOO GOOD! I can't even begin to explain how much I loved it. The plot twists? Mind-blowing. The acting? Top-notch. Everything about it was so well-done, and the pacing? Perfect. I wasn’t bored for even a second. Every episode had me on edge, completely hooked and dying to know what would happen next.

Hong Hui Ju and Hong In A’s interactions were absolutely adorable. They were so sweet as sisters, and their bond felt so genuine. I loved their little moments together; they added such a heartfelt layer to the show.

And then there’s Hong Hui Ju and Baek Sa Eon’s chemistry—WOW. They were incredible together. The way they looked at each other, those subtle moments of connection—it was everything. Their relationship had so much depth, and I loved every second of it.

Now, let me just fangirl for a minute because Yoo Yeon Seok. Oh my god, his tears? I’m not even kidding when I say they destroyed me in the best way. This man knows how to pull at your heartstrings like no one else. Every emotional scene was pure magic because of him. I’m officially obsessed and already lining up his other dramas to watch. He’s just THAT good.

The plot itself was so well-crafted. Every character had a role to play, and nothing felt out of place or unnecessary. It’s rare to find a show where everything fits together so seamlessly, but this one nailed it. Every scene and every character added something valuable to the story.

That said, the ending? Eh, not so much. I really don’t think Baek Sa Eon needed to “go missing” just to stretch things out for an extra episode. It felt unnecessary and kind of threw off the otherwise great pacing. And as much as I adore Chae Soo Bin (she’s clearly a talented actress), I have to admit Hong Hui Ju’s cluelessness got a little frustrating at times. Like, girl, please, read the room!

But honestly, those minor complaints don’t take away from how amazing this show was. The acting, the story, the emotions—everything just hit perfectly. I’m in love with this drama and already planning to rewatch it. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re seriously missing out!

Read More

A Captivating K-Drama with Stellar Performances and Minor Flaws

This is one of the best K-dramas I’ve watched in a while. While it has its flaws, the overall production was outstanding. The plot was intriguing and, for the most part, well-executed. Watching it weekly as it aired kept me thoroughly engaged, eagerly anticipating each new episode.

Pros:
Outstanding Acting:
The performances, especially from the two leads, were phenomenal. Yoo Yeon Seok delivered a masterclass in subtlety—his ability to convey deep emotions through slight facial movements and the way his voice cracked was truly remarkable. Chae Soo Bin was equally impressive, and their chemistry was absolutely perfect.

Compelling Story:
Although the script had a few issues, I loved the story. After skimming through the novel (English translation), I truly appreciated the changes the screenwriters made. I loved the drama-version of Baek Sa Eon a lot better than the novel-version. My favorite alteration was having Hong Heejoo discover earlier on that Baek Sa Eon already knew her identity as the mystery caller. This allowed for more open communication and heartwarming interactions between the couple, which I adored. The ending tied up all loose ends effectively, although it did feel slightly rushed after spending too much time on Baek Sa Eon’s disappearance.

Brilliant Storytelling:
The narrative was beautifully presented, with thoughtful parallels and shots. For example, the line “Call me when you have a corpse” was repeated three times throughout the series, each time in a different context and evoking distinct emotions from the characters. These subtle touches added depth and richness to the storytelling.

Cons: The only con I found was with inconsistencies with the script:
Aside from the usual K-drama tropes—like characters surviving falling off a cliff with no broken bones or any visible injuries or scars magically disappearing overnight—my biggest disappointment lay in the final episode. Baek Sa Eon’s six-month disappearance felt so out of character and inconsistent with the story’s progression. For someone as considerate (especially towards the FL’s feelings and well-being) and steadfast as Baek Sa Eon, it seemed implausible for him to leave the female lead in such a manner, especially over something that was not his fault and beyond his control. This was particularly jarring given how explicitly she had shared her fears of abandonment in a previous episode. While this plot point might have worked in the novel—where the two leads did not openly communicate much—it felt forced and misplaced in the drama, where their relationship was built on mutual understanding.

Read More

Full on tropes but are well executed.

It never promised a groundbreaking - oscar worthy masterpiece, but it was perfect on its own right.


For the future watchers and those starting the drama right now. The ways you can actually enjoy this drama.


1. Always think of the drama logic. The show is for pure entertainment, a guilty pleasure. If you are here thinking it would be a realistic drama, then you won't enjoy it. Abandon the technicalities and your personal projections.

2. It is a thriller romance, so both genres are entertwined. You will feel the angst and frustration, but you will also feel the intense chemistry of the leads.


3. Plot-wise, your questions will be answered as you go along the rest of the episodes. Any other "logic" you are thinking of, please refer to number 1.


4. Instead of thinking "how/what will I do in this situation" it should be "how/why did Heejoo & BSE do that". Then you will enjoy this more. Again, point number 1.



But seriously, as a long time drama watcher, I am easy to please. As long as the leads acting are great, intense chemistry and good communication are present, idrc about the craziness around them. So for those who are like me, you will enjoy it.

Read More