Beautiful and Provocative Series of Love and Healing that Transcends Time

I'm going to sound like a broken record in these reviews of Korean shows, but they continue to surprise me with deep, complex, and beautiful stories, such as this one. I can usually tell when a series is getting to me because I feel it in my heart and soul, and I end up watching several episodes at once because I cannot get enough. "Live Up To Your Name" is such a series for me.

The series follows two doctors. One from 400 years ago in Joseon, and one from today. Heo Im (wonderfully played by Kim Nam Gil) is the most brilliant acupuncturist of his time--perhaps of any time, if truth be told--and yet he wonders why he's stuck in a "lowly" post of a small village rather than being exalted by the King of Joseon. And given a proper position worthy of his talents. Dr. Heo Im soon finds himself transported to the future when he is shot by two arrows intended to kill him.

Next, we have Dr. Choi Yeon Kyung, an equally brilliant doctor as a cardiologist who sees patients as a means to an end. They are there to be saved. She has little-to-no personal contact with any of them. It is ironic that a doctor's greatest strength is often perceived as a weakness: caring. Even hospitals and other doctors expect their physicians to act like robots.

Both characters are victims of traumatic pasts which hinder their true gifts from shining through. And, ironically enough, it's through each other that they not only learn to heal and learn from the past but to also love.

We have Eastern medicine meeting Western medicine, like two halves of a coin, both are equally effective and necessary. Western medicine tends to focus more on the physical body. Eastern medicine--especially in the case of acupuncture, is a science handed down from the last Golden Age that had more to do with healing the body through its various energy centers. The body is, in fact, made up of energy, and doctors from that age understood and knew how to manipulate that energy in order to heal various ailments.

I love the mystical needle box, which provides enough magic without the need for explanation and the power it represents. The acupuncture scenes were always the most fascinating to me.

This series provides us with some incredibly beautiful and touching moments as both characters learn about each other through each other, and in the end, become the doctors they have always meant to be. Thus, living up to their name. However, it is the undeniable chemistry between Nam Gil and Ah Joong that really makes this series soar!

I've seen Kim Nam Gil in "The FIery Priest" which I also enjoyed. Every time he cracks that big grin, it makes me laugh--and in a good way! He is such a master of bringing charisma and spirit to his roles. He's like a child lost in modern times when he first arrives. He's a little mischievous and a little conceited, but you can't help loving his character anyway. His emotional range is also spectacular, and you really feel what he's exhibiting.

I have not seen Kim Ah Joong in anything until now, but she equally impressed me, bringing her own incredible range to her role. First, as a doctor who is much like a robot, to a wondrous beauty who begins to shine like the sun as soon as allows her heart to open. Her scenes with Ha-Ra.

The character of Yeon-Yi was so adorable, that I enjoyed those scenes with her. I think this young actress (Shin Rin Ah) has a very bright future!

Heo Im imparts the true wisdom of healing: that it isn't just the doctor who is involved, but the willingness of the patient is equally necessary. And, yes, sometimes, despite all efforts, people still die. Adn doctors should not see this as a failure.

As with so many K-dramas--the series is complex, and expertly imbues heartfelt moments, with inspirational ones, to scenes of complete hilarity. I don't believe anyone does this to such perfection like the Koreans. They are deftly able to navigate and cover so much of the emotional spectrum, that one cannot help being utterly amazed by it.

This series is one of my favorites--and it deeply touched my heart--and it's become extremely challenging to pick out a "top 5" of K-dramas, because there have already been so many that I have watched that have been so good! And yet, having only watched shows over the last 5 years or so, I feel like a kid in a vast candy store, knowing that there is still so many more to watch! I can prove extremely challenging to decide what to watch next!

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Perfect Chemistry In This Touching Opposites Attract Series!

We've seen a lot of opposite atracts shows, series, and films, but not many of them are drawn up quite so wonderfully and heartfelt as this one. Much of the success of this series has to go to Mina Shin and Seon-Ho Kim with their incredible chemistry.

Dr. Yoon (Mina Shin) is a successful dentist who loves living the good life full of fancy clothes, expensive cars, and everything else that goes with high-end living. She makes no apologies for her lifestyle. Perhaps it's because she's really known nothing else.

Upon leaving her job, due to conflict with her boss, Yoon leaves for the small seaside town of Gongjin. The last place she felt happy as a child. There, she meets Chief Hong, a man who seems capable of doing literally everything! He works a slew of jobs, all for minimum wage. In short, he enjoys the simple life of service.

Of course, at first, these two opposites do not get on very well. Yoon finds herself stranded in the town on her first day without money or even able to get funds due to a power outage. She's soon at the mercy of Chief Hong, who ends up putting her to work pulling the guts out of squid with the local women. You can only imagine how well Yoon is able to adapt.

Without a job and a town without a dentist, Dr. Yoon decides to open up a dental clinic. The series is much about Yoon learning to appreciate a different lifestyle that is very different from anything she's ever experienced. This, of course, includes Yoon learning how to be a team player and adapt to the locals as well as the town itself. "Grandma" Gam-ri all but steals the show and our hearts.

As you can imagine, Yoon and Chief Hong soon become attracted to each other. However, Hong has a dark past that he soon finds is catching up with him. The question becomes: will his past destroy things with Dr. Yoon before they've even started?

Dr. Yoon represents those people who can only think about themselves. She comes off initially as fussy and conceited. However, the longer she spends in Gongjin, we see her begin to learn how to love and appreciate others. And Mina Shin has that million dollar smile and those golden dimples to brighten our days with!

Chief Hong is a man who is a complete opposite. He thinks mostly of others, even at the expense of himself. In short, he doesn't believe himself to be truly worthy. And he has no idea just how much he's loved and adored by the people of Gongjin.

Both are two sides of the same coin. Both have to learn how to adapt. You cannot love others without first loving yourself. And you cannot love others at the expense of yourself either.

Of course, as Chief Hong's secret is uncovered, only those who see him for who he is--by his constant example of a man with a good heart--we know that he was not responsible for what happened. Those unable to forgive him are simply cowards who decide that it's easier to play the role of the victim rather than take any responsibility. I was slightly disappointed in Dr. Yoon's reaction to him; that she didn't seem to know him nearly as well as those he's lived with in Gongjin. Everyone else tried to check up on him. She didn't. It's easy to be there for someone when things are good. It's challenging--and even more important--to be there for someone when things are difficult. Also, one should never put pressure on someone to reveal that which they are not ready to tell. Yoon was quite selfish in her demands. Fortunately, she wisely realizes her mistake and tells Chief Hong that he can tell her when he's ready.

We get a lot of laugh out loud moments as well as some truly touching ones that are sure to tug at your heart. Koreans are masters of incorporating both elements into their stories. The people of Gongjin will surely warm your heart and perhaps make you even wish that you lived in such a community!

All in all, this is a fantastic and delightful series! I loved and adored all sixteen episodes! And it's proof that you can have good and likeable characters still, in world that seems to want to bombard us with dark ones. This show was refreshing like a wonderful day at the beach, which only made me wanting even more!

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Hospital Playlist Is Like a Warm Blanket On a Cold Night!

There have been a number of "hospital shows" over the years. And yet, with so many, Hospital Playlist is unique. Why? Because it sticks with its strengths: chemistry between the five leads and staying away from the typical hospital politics.

Instead, Hospital Playlist is about people. It's about how we, as people, can endeavor to treat others just a little bit better; to put ourselves in the other person's shoes rather than resort to snap judgments. If you remember Patch Adams, you'll find that--for these five doctors at Yuji Medical Center--the people matter more than the disease or injury. In other words, it no longer pays to be indifferent and to block out natural emotions.

Hospital Playlist is actually a fairly light show. Yes, it has some tense moments, but overall, it never gets bogged down in melodrama. Instead, it relies upon the unique chemistry of the five doctors who've known each other since medical school. And once a month, they get together and sing a song. Hence, the Hospital Playlist.

Each doctor specializes in a certain field. First we have Ik-Jun, who is a general surgeon but specializes in the liver and liver transplants. He's the lead singer of the group, and in many ways, he's the glue of the group. He's the first to crack a joke or do something humorous to lighten the tension. And Jung-Suk Jo is masterful at this! He's got as much talent for comedy as he does for singing. He never takes things too seriously. His job is important, but treating his staff and his patients with respect is always of utmost importance to him.

Next we have. Song Hwa who is a neurosurgeon. She's kind, dedicated, and a bit of a workaholic. HIlariously enough, she's someone who THINKS she can sing, but she can't. Actress Jeon Mi Do is actually a professional singer, so to see her purposely sing out of tune is impressive.

Seok Hung is the somewhat aloof but dedicated gynecologist in obstetrics. He's every bit as caring about his patients and staff even though it's not always obvious.

Jun Wan is the brilliant cardiologist who can appear cold but to characterize him this way would be a disservice. Underneath the tough exterior is a man with a heart who believes that hard work and dedication is a key to success.

Last, but certainly not least, we have Jeon Wong Ahn, the professor of pediatrics. Nurses and parents alike adore him for his unique way of handling children. He relates with them. He talks with them, and he never sees them as just another patient.

There are many touching and heartfelt moments throughout the series as we journey along with them through the days, weeks, months, and even years. Don't be surprised if you find yourself shedding a few tears one moment and then roaring out loud with laughter in the next. That's the Hospital Playlist. In the end, it provides comfort. It provides hope that people can still treat each other with respect, with compassion, and with empathy.

If you're a music lover, you'll find a cache of great songs, all sung and performed by the characters. At the end of each episode of Hospital Playlist, we are reminded not to take life so seriously. We're reminded that life is supposed to be joyous and fun.

At some point, I will definitely want to re-watch this great series. So, if you're looking for something that is light, with many feel-good moments, as well as many hilarious ones, I'm sure you love Hospital Playlist!

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What It Means To Be A Hero

I'm not entirely sure why Kenshin resonates so strongly with me. He's an inspiring character who tries his best to atone for his past. A past frought with the slaughtering of an untold number of people. And yet, he strives to be a better man.

A number of people have defined "nobility" as being better today than you were yesterday. And Kenshin seems to embody that.

We're finally treated to the mastermind. The one person who's basically been behind everything Kenshin has had to deal with from the previous trilogy. We thought Shishio was bad, and he may still arguably be the worst, but enter Enishi, the man who financially backed Shishio, his warship, and everything else.

To fully understand Enishi and his vile hatred toward Kenshin, you'll need to have seen "The Beginning." In fact, I would recommend seeing that film before this one.

Kenshin, once again, is trying his best to live a quiet, peaceful life. But now, everyone he loves and cares about is under attack by Enishi, who will stop at nothing to maximize Kenshin's suffering.

The beauty of the film comes in the last hour or so when many Kenshin's allies and former enemies alike, help him to run the gauntlet of hundreds of Enishi and Heixing's men. Heixing being Enishi's own connection with the Shanghai underworld.

What we see is a transformation of character in former villains who now see the wisdom of Kenshin and his lifestyle. It proves that as soon as one man vows to change, it creates a ripple effect for others to do the same.

Kenshin also finally reveals his past to his friends, how he got his scar, and why he vowed to change his ways. Tomoe saw the goodness in Kenshin even before Kenshin or Kaoru did. It usually only takes one person to have faith to start the ball rolling!

Once again, we have epic action sequences that, somehow, is even moreso than the previous trilogy. But also, the action lies at the periphery of a much deeper film that is full of heart, wisdom, and inspirational characters. And mostly, it shows us a glimmer of a path of what a true hero looks like. And what it truly means to be noble.

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One of the Best Action Trilogies I've Ever Seen!

There's a reason that there aren't many good sequels out there, let alone two to make up a trilogy. The first film is usually the best with significant fall-off from there. I can only think of a few trilogies that are rock solid from first to last. This is one of the few.

Kenshin finds himself back with his old master. He doesn't know if Kaoru is alive or not. We can see the despair and rage in his eyes. He pleads with his master to teach him the ultimate technique that might help him defeat Shishio and his minions.

People with Kenshin's past often find it more challenging to live. They view their own lives as sacrifice and recompense for a tumultuous and far-from-ideal past. Kenshin's master has to remind him that he cannot fear life, and he can't look at his own life as being of less worth than anyone else's. In other words, he can't sacrifice his life to save others because he views others' lives as being greater than his own. This reminds me a bit of Nathan Algren from "The Last Samurai" who is so wracked with guilt and shame that he pretty much wishes for death, and he can't help but wonder how and why he's escaped death so many times.

We also find that the new government--out of fear of Shishio--puts out a call for Kenshin's arrest at Shishio's demands. First thing is first, of course. Kenshin needs to recollect himself as well as find himself before he's ready to take on Shishio.

The climactic battle doesn't disappoint as Kenshin and a few of his newfound allies--some who are former enemies--fight side-by-side to rid Japan of its most evil and devastating enemy. The battle sequences are so long that even I was starting to feel as tired as the characters who were fighting. And, of course, the same question remains: can Kenshin defeat Shishio without killing him.

Kenshin is easily one of the deepest and most profound heroes in recent cinematic history. A man who doesn't say very much, but we know and admire the complexity of the man and his newfound mission: to save those who cannot save themselves and to do so without taking a life.

In many ways, Kaoru is Kenshin's rock. She serves as a reminder, that no matter how difficult it may be, Kenshin can serve his mission and live by his code. Kaoru serves as the ultimate companion. The person who believes in us even when we begin to doubt ourselves. And perhaps it is the deep, underlying philosophy at the core of these films that makes them delve far deeper than any typical action film.

In short, this is one of the best action trilogies I've ever seen, and the action lies on the periphery if its heart, its wisdom, and the belief that a man can, indeed, change.

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Things Begin To Heat Up In This Gripping Second Film!

Kenshin is trying his best to live a peaceful life. He lives at the Kaoru's dogo along with his new friends, Miss Megumi and the humorous Sanosuke.

Of course, a man with the past that Kenshin has, there are always those desiring his downfall. Others seek him out for help. And the new government does just that when Shishio shows up with a massive army and colorful lieutenants, each one embodying a different form of crazy. Shishio, however, seems to be every dark trait rolled into one. This is a guy that makes the Joker look partially sane.

After Kenshin sees the decimation of Shishio's first attack, and the weeping and wailing families of Shishio's victims, he agrees that Shishio must be stopped.

I love how, in each film, Kenshin's enemies become harder and fiercer, bringing about more difficult challenges. And with each challenge comes the ultimate one for Kenshin: will he resort to killing in order to save?

Once again, the characters are spot-on. They are colorful and flamboyant, each bringing something interesting to the table. New characters are introduced, and none of them disappoint.

And, of course, the action sequences are unparalleled. At least, for me, as I've not seen anything remotely close to this. I've seen some featurettes on youtube, and I'm astounded by how fast and precise the action sequences are put together.

But, as good as the action sequences are, they are not hollow because they go together with a fantastic story, with Kenshin as its centerpiece. A man trying to change, and being challenged at every turn. Being told that he's insane to even try by virtually everyone except the one person who believes in him: Kaoru.

Pathfinders are those who create their own path. And most of the time, it's unique and original to the point where they are mocked by society and those who say, "You're crazy! It can't be done!" Pathfinders prove that it can if we only have the courage to try.

I'm also not sure you can stop with this film. A cliffhanger almost invites you to look at your clock and then say, "The hell with it!" before immediately starting the next one!

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A Fun and Delightful Series That Will Likely Tickle Your Funny Bone!

First of all, I love the uniqueness of this series. Bringing in an international cast of actors and actresses, all of whom, quite obviously either live in Korea or are from Korea. I love how all of them (American, European, etc.) are fluent in Korean, giving the series a very authentic feel. All of the inflections and syntax and pronunciations sound dead-on to me! I guess I'd have to be fluent myself to notice any peculiarities or inconsistencies.

The series is about a group of college students who are all from somewhere else (America, Australia, Trinidad, Thailand, Sweden, etc.) and living in the dorm for international students.

The stories are mostly episodic with stories lasting only one or two episodes with a few minor storylines carrying over into subsequent episodes.

Pretty much all of the performers are very good--to--excellent. Carson, Se-wan, and Hyun-Min are the strongest, in my opinion, with very good performances from Minnie, Youngjae (Sam), Terris, and Joakim (Hans). Shin Hyun-Seung (Jaime) is good but tends to come across as a bit wooden at times. You'll notice that most of the characters use the same name as the actor/actress.

We have fairly typical scenarios of college kids trying to navigate life, studies, and love. Sometimes, they fumble and trip over themselves and others, and sometimes, they find ways to be there for each other.

My only real "knock" against the show is that I wish they didn't use a laugh track. We don't need to know when to laugh. Most of the laughs are pretty obvious, and the show would be better without it. But, that's a minor thing which won't prevent me from watching.

All-in-all, this is a fun series. It's only 12 episodes long, but it's quite obvious that more seasons will be coming, which I will be looking forward to.

If you're looking for a short series that is fun, with likeable characters, that isn't too heavy or overloaded with melodrama, you'll enjoy this series!

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A Fairly Typical Romantic K-Drama

As far as romantic K-dramas are concerned, this one is pretty typical and predictable. Frankly, I prefer romantic K-dramas that think more outside of the box. Such series like "Lovestruck in the City," "Because This Is My First Life," to infinitely far superior series like "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" or "Crash Landing on You" are far more preferable.

Still, the series works, for the most part, despite the significant drop-off in the last three or four episodes that had me waiting for the series to just finally end with the repetitive cliched formulas. I mean, how many times can a girl run away and have the guy chase after her? Once, okay. Twice, and you're pushing it. More than that, and it because tedious and completely overused. Such plot devices show a lack of creativity on the writers' part.

We also have the typical, "only a rich man can save a woman." It's sad that this is such a misused and overused plot device that must seriously mirror the cultural norms of Asian countries. How sad that nothing can be further from the truth.

So, we have the spoiled, rich son of corporate tycoon who is conceited and only interested in his own pleasures. However, Jin-Wook might be said to have grown and matured the most by the end of the series. He is also not afraid to step out of his father's shadow and go against the norm. He will also speak his own mind.

Then, we have the relatively shy, immature, and very insecure Yumi who sees herself as a victim of what everything thinks about her and her mother (who happens to be a former adult film actress). Yumi has no idea how to take life by the reins and not care about what everyone thinks. She blames everyone else for her problems, which also tends to make her quite the coward. She fabricates stories and excuses to hide her insecurity as well as the shame she feels regarding her mother. And when things blow up (as you know they will in K-dramas like this one!), she again blames everyone else for the messes that she, herself, creates. In short, she is incapable of taking any kind of responsibility for herself and her actions. And somehow, she no longer needs glasses after the second or third episode!

Of course, we also have the friends (one man and one woman) who each also have feelings for our two protaganists. After all, it wouldn't be a standard K-drama without at least one. One is a spoiled newscaster who thinks the world revolves around her. The other is a quiet, shy young man, who is much like Yumi herself. He failed to help her as a classmate, and now he sits in the shadows with anger and jealousy for his own ineptitude.

Despite all of these things, the show still works. Perhaps it's because of the obvious chemistry between the two leads. For the first nine or ten episodes, I was also hopeful that this wouldn't end up being a typical K-drama, as I found himself quite vested in the story, which started to crumble in the last few episodes and became very typical.

Frankly, I'll keep seeking out series like the ones I mentioned above; those writers who are capable of writing something new, different, and something that pushes the envelope. I find those types of show far more enjoyable!

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Just So Much Fun!

I’m actually reviewing this show after my second time watching it with its sequel due out sometime next year, I believe. I never realized that I hadn’t written a review yet.

Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is a delightful series that combines romantic comedy with a thriller twist. Koreans are masters of utilizing more than one genre within a series, and they do it so effortlessly that you wonder why more TV shows around the world don’t try to do the same. It takes a special kind of writer to be able to integrate genres that seem so opposite.

Bong Soon is a young woman endowed with super-strength—strength that seems to rival Wonder Woman, at the very least. Bong Soon is a charming character, even if she’s a bit lazy and not very bright. However, none of these things prevents her from enacting justice where and when needed, although she’s much like a young Clark Kent from Smallville. She just wants to lead a normal life. However, like most heroes, she has a weakness: if she ever harms an innocent person, she will lose her powers. Her gifts are ancestral, handed down among the women of her family.

As the series begins, Bong Soon only has eyes for Lieutenant In Gook Do of the police force. Gook Do is a former classmate who doesn’t seem to see Bong Soon as anything other than a silly girl who often makes poor decisions. Gook Do is a hard-nosed officer who can be a bit brutish and chauvinistic. He has no qualms about telling Bong Soon what to do and how to live her life, even when such advice isn’t asked for.

Bong Soon finds herself entangled with Min Hyuk Ahn, the CEO of a gaming software company when he comes across her beating some thugs to pieces. As he is being stalked and blackmailed, he hires Bong Soon as his personal bodyguard, which works out well because he’s now one of the very few who knows her secret. Min Hyuk is almost a polar opposite to Gook Do. He’s boyishly charming but also tends to be a bit immature, self-absorbed, and a bit possessive and insecure. This completes our “love triangle” as Mr. Ahn and Gook Do are soon rivals for Bong Soon’s affections and interest.

What really rounds out the series is a quite disturbing psychopath who becomes obsessed with collecting women off the street and holding them in an underground dungeon below an auto junkyard. And frankly, this aspect is done just as well as the comedy.

Plenty of moments will have you on the floor with laughter. Kim Won Hae nearly steals the limelight from Bo Young Park in his dual role. First, as a thug who gets beaten up so many times, that his gift for comedy is priceless. Second, he also plays the role of the Strategy Team Manager at Ainsoft, a very effeminate man whom you can only compare to Nathan Lane’s role in “The Birdcage.” I’ve seen Kim Won Hae in a number of roles, and he can wear any hat and do any role that is asked of him.

Bo Young Park may well be one of the cutest actresses I’ve seen in 45+ years of watching shows. She is so tiny and has an almost childlike innocence, that you can’t help but be pulled in by her vulnerability. She is also so adept at wearing her emotions on her sleeve, especially when she’s crying, that you forget she’s acting! The scene when she’s sobbing while being chained to a bomb is especially heart-wrenching, as she begs Mr. Ahn to leave her so that he can save himself, but he refuses. I have seen Park in several series now, and if she has one flaw, it’s in her chemistry with her male love interests. She just never seems entirely comfortable with them. It’s in this area that her vulnerability is often transformed into walls, which makes are appear guarded. Still, she is a phenomenal actress.

While the series may be a bit predictable, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. People have loved superheroes for a long time, and Bong Soon may well be one of the most charming and delightful ones to come down the pike in a long time. And while we’re enamored with her powers, it’s always the human element—those aspects that people can relate to—that makes her character shine! Bong Soon is simply just another young woman trying to navigate her life and figure out what she wants to do with it. She does have a propensity to take the easy route when it comes to work rather than go through the necessary steps, which is why she’s perceived by family and friends alike as being a bit lazy and not very goal-oriented.

Some parts of the show actually don’t quite fit, such as the mob boss’s interactions with a Korean Hindu, which was a bit humorous but never really did anything for the story. Bong Soon’s little groupie kids were funny early on, but they more than wore out their welcome as the series progressed, leaving the viewer to wonder why they were still there.

Overall, this series is simply a ton of fun. Aside from the thriller aspect of the show, it never takes itself too seriously. Like Min Hyuk Ahn and Gook Do, you may well find yourself enamored with Bong Soon Do too!

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Fantastic Series Still Goes Strong with Season 2! Will We Get a Season 3?!?

"Age of Youth" or the Netflix title of "Hello, My Twenties" is a charming, funny, fresh, and often addictive show to get into. I was disappointed to see that Netflix only had Season 1 available. Yes, that is how much I enjoyed it! I wanted to keep watching! Overall, I liked Season 1 slightly more than Season 2.

This intelligent and creative show is about five young women who live in a share house. Of course, they come from different walks of life, have different backgrounds, and much like most people, each of them carries a secret. Like any roommates who share a living space, they get along, they laugh, they cry, and they often argue and fight. But make no mistake. These girls truly love each other and do their best to be there for each other. That is truly the beauty of this show. It proves that a "family" doesn't have to be your nuclear family. In fact, it's a bit interesting and ironic, that in some cases, these girls seem closer to each other than with their parents.

There are some truly touching moments that might tug at your heartstrings, some incredibly hilarious moments that might get you laughing out loud for a spell, and even some thought-provoking moments. In short, this show has just about everything.

First, we have Jin-Myung Yoon. Yoon doesn't say much, but when she does speak, she is honest and sincere, even to the point of being blunt. She comes across as cold, but she really isn't. Her "tough" exterior hides the wounded woman suffering through the pain of believing that she's alone. She's cautious about who she opens up to, and when she does, Yoon speaks her mind. She has a challenge of truly connecting with people and showing them who she is. However, she loves her roommates, and will do anything for them. She works three jobs and goes to school. She is the most mature of all of them, and she is my personal favorite.

Next is Ye-Eun Jung, who is probably the most immature of the group and has some serious self-esteem issues. She adores her boyfriend, despite the poor way that he treats her. Everything is about status with her. She cares about how she looks, what she wears, how much she weighs, and what everyone thinks about her. She is prone to be thoughtless, but she is also cheerful, cute, and despite her clashes with Kang, she also cares very deeply for her fellow roommates.

Ji-Won Song is the most energetic and creative of the bunch. She also has absolutely no problem expressing herself. She's never embarrassed. She will also frequently take the initiative in activities where others are hesitant. She lives her life a bit on the edge, and sometimes gets a bit carried away with the "truth." She is rarely ever down or upset, and she is the one most likely to try and cheer up a friend.

Kang Yi-Na is the only one who doesn't share a room with anyone else. A woman with a tragic past, she works as an escort. She also has no vices about walking around with little/nothing on, which makes some of the other roommates uncomfortable. She has more "life knowledge" than the other girls, especially about how men behave. She isn't tricked by the antics that men play, and this gets her into fights with Ye-Eun over Ye-Eun's naivety about her own boyfriend. It's a toss-up as to who is tougher: Kang or Yoon.

Lastly, we have Eun-Jae, who is the newest addition to the house. She is also the youngest with the least amount of life experience. Coming from the country, she is a young woman who is extremely naive about how things work. It is also very difficult for her to speak her mind or even speak up about things until it's already reached a boiling point. Very sweet with a timid personality, she is very much like the "baby sister" of the group. All of the other girls feel a sense of "protectiveness" toward her. I think I still prefer the previous actress to this one, but they're both good.

Not only is the writing top-notch, but so is the acting. These five women have a certain chemistry that can't be overlooked. They know their characters inside and out, and they make the show work! Each brings something special to the table, but it's those moments when they are truly looking out for each other as well as being there for each other that demonstrates the true power of the show.

I would guess that many people would love to have a "family" like this! Why? Because no matter what happens, at the end of the day, they truly love each other, and isn't that what a family is?

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The Performance of Haruka Fukuhara Makes This One of the Sweetest Shows I've Ever Seen!

This is my first foray into the world of Japanese television, and frankly, after over 40 years of watching shows, this is already one of the best that I have ever seen.

I've enjoyed a number of memorable TV characters and icons over the years, and Nao, who is expertly portrayed by Haruka Fukuhara is right up there. She captivates you with a her sweetness, her naivety, her pureness and innocence. I don't recall seeing this type of role being done so well. Perhaps that it is why it is so memorable, touching, and altogether poignant.

Fukuhara has a gift for acting. I've always said that when an actor/actress can act without words but by using simple facial expressions to convey exactly what they're feeling, then that is the sign of a master at their craft. It isn't something that can be taught either.

Good Morning Call is based upon a manga series about a high school boy and a high school girl, due to a scam, end up sharing the same apartment together. You can easily predict some of the situations that this will create.

Nao is a young girl whose parents have moved to the countryside and have left her in the city so that she can continue to attend her high school. Her best friend is Marina. Nao is a girl who is about as pure-hearted as anyone can be. But, it's not over-the-top. She is quite naive, and she has a talent for getting into trouble. She's a bit clumsy, and she's not the best at thinking things through. She can also be as skittish as a mouse, jumping at the smallest noise or when someone unexpectedly "pops up" in front of her. This is all done for comedic effect. Most of the time, Nao will make you laugh as often as she touches your heart.

Uehara, Nao's roommate, is the most popular boy in school. Girls gush and swoon over him, wishing and hoping that he might show one of them some interest. However, Uehara is someone who isn't interested in the silliness of those girls. He's a character with a tragic past who is extremely independent. He works at least two jobs to make ends meet as well as being one of the school's top students. Uehara, however, can come across as a brooding person who is unfeeling and unsympathetic. Many viewers have characterized him as being rude and mean. On the other hand, Uehara speaks his mind, and he's not given over to flattery. You know that a compliment from him actually means something because he's sincere, and Nao knows this. Shun'ya Shiraishi does a very good job of playing the complex character of Uehara. Uehara may not be there when Nao wants him, but he's always there when she NEEDS him.

These two characters bounce from one problem to another which keeps the story lines fresh and interesting as well as the friends and other characters who come and go throughout the course of the season. At any rate, you'll find yourself cheering for both of these characters.

Good Morning Call is one of the best and most fun shows I've seen. It may not be for all tastes. You have to be open to the cultural differences to fully appreciate the beauty of the characters and the story. At any rate, Haruka Fukuhara's Nao is a character you won't be forgetting any time soon, as she burrows her way into your heart to weave her sweet magic.

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Fairly Flawed But Enjoyable Series

There is some deception involved in the poster of this series. You may think that it's almost entirely about a young man, who adopts a second identity, in order to win the heart of the young woman he loves. This is only the case for about half of the series.

Fall in Love With Me tells the story of a advertising industry mastermind, who feels that he has lost his vision and creativity. Lu Tian-Hsing inadvertently meets Tao Le-Si on his way to a presentation. After the presentation, rather than be bombarded by the press, he slips out in a makeshift disguise and comes across Tao Le-Si's own small team in the middle of shooting a commercial. Tao Le-Si's team believes that he's the actor who is sent over to help. Lu Tian-Hsing not only finds himself enamored with the creative process of the company, but also with Tao Le-Si herself, who is the CEO of OZ Advertising, a small company originally founded by her deceased older brother.

Lu Tian-Hsing takes time off from his own company, SkyRider Advertising, in order to work for OZ and help the nearly-failed company, re-establish itself. He does this by transforming himself and creating the false identity of Xiao-Zu. Of course, OZ's staff is quickly impressed by Xiao-Zu's ideas which immediately lead to successes for the fledgling company. No one, however, is more impressed than Tao Le-Si who sees the same vision in Xiao-Zu that her brother had.

Lu Tian-Hsing not only transforms his physical appearance, but his personality as well. AS Lu Tian-Hsing, he is gruff, rude, and condescending. However, he is also extremely confident, and teaches others through empowerment, even if his methods are a bit questionable. As Xiao-Zu, he is kind, shy, compassionate, and supportive. Of course, Tao Le-Si falls in love with Xiao-Zu, not knowing that he's really Lu Tian-Hsing, the arrogant CEO of Skyrider whom she despises.

Anyone who has ever watched this type of formula (because there have been quite a few) will easily see the pitfalls and even the outcome of what will take place between these two characters. This only covers the first half of the series as Lu Tian-Hsing realizes that his disguise is too good, and he needs Tao Le-Si to fall in love with Lu Tian-Hsing, and not Xiao-Zu.

The second half has to do with the vicious and depraved family circle of Lu Tian-Hsing's adoptive family.

Step-brother Lance is the COO of Skyrider, and he only has dreams of destroying OZ Advertising (a company he views as a threat) and helping his sister, Huan Huan marry the only man she's ever loved: Lu Tian- Hsing. This the plot behind the second half of the series. How is Lu Tian-Hsing supposed to win the love of Tao Le-Si and keep OZ Advertising intact with his rich and powerful family doing everything that they can to destroy OZ as well as the love between Lu Tian-Hsing and Tao Le-Si.

The second act of the series is far darker and more intense than the first half, which is mostly light, fun, and very sweet.

The acting in this series is pretty much first rate. My only issue was with Beatrice Fang (Huan Huan) who sounds like an 8-year-old girl when she speaks. After a time, the whiny, pouting, screaming personality becomes grating and very one-dimensional.

Virtually all of the characters have flaws. However, the rock of the series is Tao Le-Si, whose power it is to believe in people and have faith, even with those who abuse her. Over time, we see her grow in strength and confidence. Much of this is due to Lu Tian-Hsing's help. He doesn't pity her. Instead, he urges her to be strong. In the end, we even wonder if Lu Tian-Hsing is worthy of her love.

My biggest issue with this series was the end. I'm all for happy endings where everything works out. I'm not for contrived endings where the depraved characters are suddenly and miraculously transformed with little-no explanation for the resurrection. In this way, the ending feels rushed and barely plausible. Additional scenes between Huan Huan and Lu Xian-Hsing as well as between Lu Xian-Hsing and Auntie Li should have been utilized to help make the viewer believe that the ending, not only worked, but was very much plausible. Unfortunately, we don't get that.

The dual-identity also didn't work entirely well for me either. You'll wonder why Xiao-Zu can be so sweet and loving to Tao Le-Si, but Lu Xian-Hsing lacks that ability initially. Granted, he's "acting" as Xiao-Zu, but his feelings aren't fake. So, why is it that Lu Xian- Hsing is unable to tap those feelings? It makes no sense. Instead, we see Lu Xian-Hsing constantly grabbing Tao Le-Si by the arm and hauling her off while he loses his temper soon after because she's not complying with his wishes.

Overall, the series is enjoyable despite the flaws. You'll have to get used to some very immature and unloving characters along the way in Huan Huan, Lance, and Auntie Li. Ultimately, I found myself rooting for Tao Le-Si more than anyone else, including Lu Xian-Hsing. Tao Le-Si proves that love does, indeed, conquer all.

Please note that this series can be watched on Netflix and it is spread out over 32 episodes.

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Beautiful and Horrific Film That Stays With You Forever

There are those films that are so poignantly powerful, that they stay with you forever, even if you only see it once. Such movies that have left a permanent imprint upon me are movies like this one, "Schindler's List," "Sophie's Choice," "Platoon" and still others. These are films that are so disturbingly realistic because they hit you right where you live.

I'm a TEFL teacher who has taught in four different countries, including South Korea. The most depraved crime that always hits me the worst are those perpetrated on children. I've had many children as students over the years, and even the mere thought of something happening to them pains me beyond comprehension. We like to think that there aren't any monsters out there, but sadly, there are. What makes it even more frustrating are inept justice systems, like the one in Korea, that more or less, rewards the criminal based on some insane notion that, just because the criminal can't remember anything due to his intoxication, then he deserves a lighter sentence.

Still, this film is touching in the power of family and friends who rally behind Hope, doing everything that they can to help her and her family recover. I cannot imagine anything more distressful for a parent than to endure something like this. As a parent, all you want to do is protect your children and make sure that they're safe. Hope's father is especially traumatized when he attempts to help clean his daughter up after escaping the maddening media, only to discover horrifically that she's pleading and crying for him to stop. In his attempt to help her, he partially relives and reawakens her assault.

The way in which Hope's father tries to reach his daughter is pure love and magic. He feels that the only way to help her is to step back himself and take on the persona of her favorite cartoon character. If these precious moments don't strike a chord with you, then I really don't know what can.

Another powerfully touching moment is her schoolmate who comes to see her after she's come home. He bursts into tears, wracked with guilt, for not having walked with her to school on that fateful day. Hope's father is especially sweet in comforting him.

Hope has to recover, not only from the assault, but from the effects as well, both physical and psychological. I had a colostomy for the first five years of life, so I know what it's like and what it means to be different in that way. That resonated deeply with me.

The performances in this film are outstanding, especially Re Lee (Hope) who plays the role with such sweetness and purity that you cringe and pray, that what is about to happen, doesn't happen. She has the face of an angel, which makes all the more horrific. Nothing truly graphic is shown, but a couple of images are likely to stay with you.

Kyoung-gu Sul (Hope's father) also turns in a powerful performance as a distraught father trying to heal his daughter as well as deal with the his own anger and outrage concerning Choi (the assaulter) and the inept legal system. Just as he has helped to save Hope, Hope saves him in the end.

"Hope" is one of those movies that I will likely only be able to watch once, but I've already discovered that once is more than enough for me.

I can only pray helplessly that no child should ever endure something so terrible as this. If only we lived in a world where this was true. Children, with their innocence and purity, cast the brightest light, and among the brightest is certainly Hope's.

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Mostly Fun & Cute Series About Overcoming the Obstacles for Finding Love

"Murphy's Law of Love" tells the story of two characters, Jai-Wei and Xiao-Tong who find themselves unlucky in love. The series opens with both characters at the end of their prospective relationships. Jai- Wei proposes to his girlfriend, only to be turned down. Xiao- Tong is at a dinner with her boyfriend, hoping that he will propose, but instead, finding out that he desires a break-up. Since both events take place nearby, it's fairly predictable that the two characters inadvertently bump into each other.

Xiao-Tong is a psychologist who works at an internet dating company. For all of her philosophies about love, it's clear she knows very little about it. She's a young woman who is virtually incapable of thinking for herself. She's a bit whiny, moody, and she has a tendency to pout a lot. Xiao-Tong is someone who has been hurt so much in relationships, that she's unprofessionally given in to believing Murphy's Laws about love. Funny that psychologist is so pessimistic and negative that she would knowingly adopt such a fanciful set of arbitrary laws. Nevertheless, Xiao-Tong is a very guarded character. On the outside, she puts on a front that everything is just fine. Of course, nobody buys it. Inside, she's whirlwind of pain, angst, and self-loathing. She fails to understand that the secret of love is to, first, love yourself. You can't give what you don't have. And both characters fail to understand that true love is about the absolute courage it takes to be completely vulnerable.

Across the street is Jai-Wei who heads in own company that is in the business of renewing life through divorce. It's not as horrible as it sounds. Jai-Wei helps people come to terms in a relationship, learn to let go when it's time, and teach couples how to move on amicably. Jai-Wei is a young man who rarely smiles, has a somewhat gruff exterior, and is a bit insecure. We learn that he's had a tough past full of rejection and neglect. People who don't say "goodbye" is especially hard for a man who's in the "letting go" business. Underneath, he has a big heart. Except that Jai-Wei's problem is struggling to hold on to what he has. This puts unfair pressure on the women he's with.

However, the biggest difference between the two characters is that Jai-Wei doesn't give up. He's tenacious, and he's unwilling to allow the pains of the past to prevent him from taking a chance on love. Xiao-Tong, allowing herself to be ruled by Murphy's law, is overly cautious and unwilling to "take the plunge" when things become challenging or difficult. She's more prone to escape and run when she fears that she might get hurt again. You may not be at all surprised by which character "comes to terms" with themselves first.

Of course, like most series like this one, you have the "rival" characters, who are largely predictable and typical. You also have the character of Jai-Wei as a rich man pursuing the woman who is still living with her parents and being ordered about by them. These are the same parents who love to meddle in their daughter's affairs. Meddling always about yourself and never about the person you're proclaiming to help. It's still ironic that so many people in the world actually believe that a person can't be happy if they are not in a relationship.

The series also has the "secret past" for one of the characters that is a hurdle and an obstacle that must be overcome if things are to progress. In many ways, Eastern romance stories can be just as easily bogged down by formulaic situations as Western ones.

Still, the series is mostly very cute, and above all, it's light. It doesn't get tied up in too many twists and turns, nor does it get too melodramatic.

As a western viewer, just remember to try and put your "prism" aside. You still have the controlling Asian male who loves to order his girlfriend around, tell her what she's going to do or not going to do, and who also loves to grab her by the arm. Obviously in the west, if a man tried that, he'd likely end up with a black eye or worse. However, in the east, it's not so frowned upon. After living in South Korea and China, I've seen my share of this type of behavior. If this easily offends you, then you may have a hard time watching this series.

The performances are very good across the board, and the scenery of Taiwan is an added bonus.

Of all of the Asian series I've watched so far, Korea's "Descendants of the Sun" is easily my favorite with Japan's "Good Morning Call" just behind it. Still, if you're looking for a good time with some laughs and nothing that gets too serious, this is an enjoyable series

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Take a Pass on this Convoluted and Highly Unrealistic Show!

I've been watching a number of Asian shows lately, and most of them are good, while a some are even terrific.

I will point out that I didn't make it past the 12th episode. I couldn't believe what I was watching. The show is extremely uneven with the characters, and so unrealistic with some of the story elements, that I'd finally had enough!

The story is about Xiao-Shu a young woman in her late twenties who runs her own radio station. She's just caught her boyfriend cheating on her, and she quickly befriends Zhou Zhen, the son of a notorious gangster who's no longer in the business.

Xiao-Shu, the daughter of a retired policeman, despises gangsters and anyone who takes advantage of others by abusing their own power. She uses her radio station to lash out against such people, and thus, makes an instant enemy of Zhou-Zhen's father.

Meanwhile, Zhou-Zhen takes a job at the radio station to see what he can do to alleviate Xiao-Shu's feelings toward his father (even though she had no idea that they're related), and obviously, to also be closer to her.

This Taiwanese drama/comedy is highly formulaic, taking on the same character-types and plot developments that are in nearly every other Taiwanese drama. I've watched "Fall in Love With Me" and "Murphy's Law of Love," both of which are predictable but infinitely superior to this jumbled mess.

At one point, while Xiao-Shu and Zhou-Zhen are up on a mountain, a drunk driver flies down the path, nearly hitting Xiao-Shu. She hears a crash, seconds later, only to discover that the driver is drunk, and he's just hit a small boy, who lies unconscious on the side of the road. For a moment Xiao-Shu stares at the scene. Any normal person in a story that makes any kind of sense, would have had Xiao-Shu crying out with distress and rushing to help the boy. Instead, she completely ignores the boy and charges at the driver, who is trying to flee the scene. At one point, she actually opens the back door and jumps in.

That was it for me! Nobody with any brains at all, or with any sense of concern and worry over a child being hit by a car, would ignore the child completely and jump into a car to stop the driver! Nobody! Xiao-Shu had her phone with her, and she could just as easily have snapped a few pictures. Instead, we get a convoluted and contrived scene so that Zhou-Zhen is forced to help her. I ended it right there, barely five minutes into the episode. It was too amateurish to bear. How can anyone, calling themselves a "director" or anyone calling themselves a "writer" come up with such a mess?

If you're looking for something of much better quality, I recommend the two shows that I previously mentioned. The best drama I've seen yet out of the Asian market is still Korea's, "Descendants of the Sun."

Avoid this mess! It's just a waste of time.

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