Great drama, great ending and great chemistry!!

This Chinese drama is refreshing!! YES, finally one that is done right, although I believed it was filmed in 2019?

Zhao Jiang Yue is a top manager in the company, just turned thirty and has never been in love or in a relationship. Gina Jin who plays the FL is off the charts in this- gorgeous, beautiful, dressing makeup and hair all done so well! Very good acting as well. I loved the way she teased her bf. Her male counterpart Gu Jiaxin is the son of the CEO, forced to be ZJY’s assistant by the mum. Although he’s a rich kid and didn’t want to work at the company, he’s thoughtful and kind, and eventually starts falling in love with ZJY.

Their chemistry is SO SO GOOD!! The stealing glances, the hand brushing against each other, the “I will protect you” manoeuvres, the intensity, the longing.... my gosh!! Can’t get enough! The other side couples are not too bad as well. The only criticism I have is the character Li Yan Ran. She appears after a few episodes, and she is the MOST ANNOYING PERSON EVER!! Her character just ruined the whole drama- seriously. I understand the writers need a female rival, but this does not cut it. UGH!

The music OST is also very enjoyable and memorable. Definitely highly recommended drama- very refreshing and feel- good overall with a great ending!! Must watch :)

Read More

Not a 10/10 for me

If you’re wondering whether to start this drama, just know that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. And just because I expressed my different opinion about this drama, I received hate from those who loved it. But that’s ok, it’s contrary to popular opinion and I guess some just cannot have an open mind.

The pace and the storyline is quite fast and interesting. I did not really fancy the first 25 episodes. The general storyline of starting university, facing its ups and downs was fine. However I could not like the ML and the way he treated the people around him. And the way the FL just followed him like a puppy just didn’t sit right w me. Episodes 26-36 was much better as it showed more maturity and development in most of the characters.

The one I felt most sorry for was Lao Gao. Yes, what he did was terrible, very malicious and downright horrible. BUT… I do believe Li Xun had a part to play in how he turned out to be. And the fact that till the very end- Li Xun was not even a little bit remorseful of how he treated Lao Gao during the early days was truly sad.

Li Xun was the most disappointing character of all. At the start of uni, he was arrogant, tactless, self-absorbed and narcissistic. After going to prison for 3 years, you would have thought that he would change, be more humble, learn a tough lesson in life no? Truly.. no. He comes out of prison, he’s still the same incorrigible stubborn a**hole. He even admitted it himself. There were many many things he could have done better:
1) Treated his teammates in his IT club with more respect, more courtesy and be less condescending. That is a mark of a good leader.
2) He should have treated Zhu Yun with more dignity and respect. Instead of doing things his own way, he shld have been open and honest and letting her decide and make her own choices. Not manipulate the situation “for her own good”.
3) Zhu yun- in a way I respect her for sticking by his side. She could get past all his flaws and “help” him become a better man. But in that manner, I felt she lost her own self respect and what could have been a different future.
4) make more effort in trying to convince ZY parents. At least show them how much he loves her, that he will take care of her etc.. after all, that’s what most parents want for their children anyway. That assurance. nope nothing… didn’t even try. Or try harder. Ok the mum was over board and pretty much condescending (just like LX) and prejudiced towards him as well. But I did not agree with them getting married just like that behind the parents back.

The ML had a god-like complex, where he thinks he is the best and he is superior. If he had changed towards the end of the drama (which had some hints of it around Epi 30-34) but come 35/36 again he showed his superiority, I may have liked him more ;)

Anyhow, in conclusion: the drama itself is quite good. I just won’t glorify the ML’s character and behaviour or agree with his actions. So it’s not your typical hero/ fantastic/ romantic/ “perfect” ML, FL.. just watch with an open mind:)

Read More

A little of CLOY and Les Miserables. SO SO GOOD!!!

This is a definite gem, not to be missed!

Firstly, the acting and entire cast did a great job. First time I’ve rated a 10 for acting. Kudos to Lee Do Hyun- he is an amazing talented young actor. I loved him in 18 Again, and this one did not disappoint at all. There’s something about him that seems so natural and real, he draws you into his character. Go Min Si was fantastic as well- loved how she portrayed her character. Evil father is the same actor as the evil general in Crash Landing On You, so you can expect some vicious manipulation and heartless behaviour. His story was left open ended though, we don’t know if he faced any justice for his crimes. The two kids did a great job as well!

The storyline was superb- first time I’ve rated a 10. it was tragic and sad, and made the audience feel angry at the injustice and abuse of power. Many times I was shouting at my screen ;).
(Spoiler ahead) If only they didn’t lie , if only he didn’t get engaged, if only they left Gwangju earlier! Why didn’t they????!!!! Etc etc etc.... (End spoiler )
The writers managed to blend all the plots including the romance and some humour altogether really well. The last few episodes focuses more on the uprising, how the students and innocent people were being beaten and eventually killed.

The love story between Hwang Hee Tae and Kim Myeong Hee was so beautiful, so deep and so real. To be honest, I felt they never really stood a chance from the beginning. Although they knew each other for a short time, their love endured throughout so many years.
(Spoiler- I literally cried and cried when myeong soo told Hee tae that they found her - and when he read her prayer note :(:(:(:(:( End spoiler)

Hmmm, the music and songs didn’t really leave an impression on me, not like the OST from CLOY which I still listen to! I wouldn’t be able to rewatch it also- I won’t be able to handle the aching in my heart.

This is not a romance- this is a tragic love story. It has the feels of CLOY and Les Miserables. Be prepared- the best Kdrama I’ve seen this year. All the others are boring... lol.

Read More

Started well, but went downhill after that...

First few episodes had a good pace and lots happening. We see FL catching her fiancé having an affair, she calls off the wedding. But because they work in the same place, they still see each other. You get scenes where she’s telling him off for not only cheating on her, but scamming her for money as well!!

The ML also gets dumped by his gf, who happens to be the person who is having the affair with the FL’s ex fiancé! And guess what? The two cheaters actually get married!! Also in the first few episodes, the FL and ML have a fling, which eventually becomes a relationship.. which is great! However, after they get together, things seem to change in their relationship dynamics. You don’t see much chemistry or PDA or much development in their relationship. It gets quite dull and boring.

The exes are annoying as hell, after getting married they realise they are having problems, arguing a lot... and the most annoying thing is, when they argue, they run back to their exes (yes the FL and ML) for comfort and advice!! It’s beyond ridiculous. What kind of foursome dynamics is this???!!!

Sigh... this one had so much potential. Pretty disappointed with the how it’s turning out.. but will finish it since it’s only two episodes left. :(

Update: The last two episodes were boring unfortunately... :( and the ending hug and kiss from Song Kang and Park Min Young lacked any sort of chemistry or passion :(:( (sorry! )

Read More

Slow and boring

This had the potential to be quite interesting. Two people who are connected by their emotions, with some mystery and crime reaching twenty years back.

It’s slow and boring because it’s repetitive. Maybe it could have been better if it was just 12 episodes? The romance was slow burn, not much sizzling tingling feeling, the mystery kept going back and forth which was rather confusing. The best dynamics I would say are the mother and grandmother. You don’t see this kind of kinship very often, and they are are actually mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.

I wouldn’t recommend this, not worth your time. I kept ff quite a lot. And I can’t even remember the ending now... lol.

Read More

Not sure why others are giving it a bad review?

I was hooked!! From the first episode. It’s classy and sophisticated. It’s gripping and smart and witty. I’m not watching it for the romance at all, so I guess it’s probably why I’m loving it.

Oh Soo Jae is a top notch female lawyer at a prestigious law firm. It’s basically a revenge story- how she was betrayed and lied to seven years ago; and how she came from nothing to making it to managing partner. However she had to sacrifice herself and her happiness to get to where she’s at now; and have the ultimate revenge on the people who destroyed her life and are continuing to destroy the lives of others.

There’s revenge, mystery, murder, unsolved crimes, outsmarting your enemy, being a few steps ahead, mastermind, scheming, and yes a little bit of romance. It’s not your typical boy meets girl and fall in love type of romance, and I can understand why some are cringing over it. I don’t mind the noona romance.. what I don’t really like is Bae In Huyk’s character. I love the actor, but his character seems rather childish and throws tantrums haha. The love triangle doesn’t seem to quite jive, but like I said, I’m not watching it for the romance.

The bad boss- Choi Tae Guk is one character I really love to hate! Yes- he’s doing the character justice and I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds. The music OST doesn’t seem to have any memorable songs.. so just watch it for the gripping storyline, and Seo Hyun Jin. One of her best roles :)

Update on final episode: [skip if you don’t want spoilers] Choi Tae Guk had it too easy... the impact of the good guys revealing the truth was not portrayed enough. The producers shld have given 2 episodes for that. For all the evil they have done, the 3 fathers, 3 sons and all the ppl involved- MORE shld have been shown on how they suffered and justice be done. The ending was disappointing.

Read More

Annoying supporting casts

Check out Instagram account Cykodramaqueen for video clips of this drama:)

I liked the development of both leads Lu Jing and LIANG Chen. Both were smart and intelligent, and talented in their respective fields. They were both dressed very well, especially in Chanel, Valentino and Balenciaga. Their romance from not knowing their identities in the game to getting engaged- it was mature and well done. Their chemistry was good too, with many kissing scenes ;)

I loved the OST and the cinematography- very well done. I also loved the gaming aspect of it- with Lin Yi playing the Asian James Bond! The FL in the game was annoying though- cos she couldn’t even throw a grenade properly. The make belief concerts, singing and violin/ guitar playing was quite fake- too obviously fake. It would be better for actors to act the skills that they can? I read that Lin Yi is majoring in Ballroom Dancing- it would be nice to see him dance.

What I didn’t like:
1) SML - so so so annoying. I skipped most of his scenes
2) Ma Shan Shan SFL- also so so so pathetic. Until the end I still don’t get why she was so hung up on her ex bf till she can’t even move on after so many years?
3) Love rival- Jia Yun (cringe..) His looks alone was cringe.
4) Lu Jing roommates - man... so immature and stupid.

I don’t know why the producers made all the supporting cast so annoying and immature. They could have done with less and maybe cut from 31 to 25 episodes and just focus on the main leads?

Also, the last episode of the plane turbulence- completely unnecessary! Like what... you need another 10mins to fill in the gap? Sigh... otherwise it would have been a great show.

Read More

Not what I expected :(

What did I expect? Epic battle and fight scenes; strong and political power struggles; a distinguished underlying romance with very fierce chemistry and loyalty... Wrong expectations perhaps?? What I got was- family drama with lots of bickering, spats, some comical characters, some bitchy characters, actually lots of bitchy catty annoying female princesses/ nobles; and the FL doesn’t even like the ML at the end of episode 26! Lol....

Many reviewers are loving it. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Wu Lei and ZLS and I had high expectations. But I suppose I had different expectations than what was produced. It was a little bit like Pride and Prejudice- with the grandmother and mother’s character. The storyline basically centred on Cheng Shaoshang and her relationship with her mother. Yes the story focused a lot on her background and character development, which many reviewers loved, but for me it was too concentrated and too draggy. The mother loves her daughter but she’s going about it all wrong! The mix of comedy with the tragedy and seriousness just didn’t jive.

I skipped most of the scenes on conspiracies, battle plans etc.. just didn’t find it interesting. It was basically getting justice for his family? honestly Wu Lei’s face was just the same the whole time. Except for two scenes where he had to fake laugh.. which was too hilarious.

The romance? FL we engaged to someone else whom she liked. As events turned out, the engagement was broken off and the ML swoops in to propose. At this point of time, she accepts because she is forced to, but she doesn’t like him hahaha. Not your typical romance storyline albeit, but again I couldn’t jive with it. But the way Ling Buyi is mesmerised with her is quite dreamy :)

Acting is great, cinematography was excellent (loved the meeting in the forest scene. Reminded me of The Lord of the Rings). Not a fan of the family drama, the battle plans nor the overwhelming female cattiness. Romance I liked a little.. sorry guys! :(

Update: There’s actually 50+ episodes? So after episode 27 the storyline and romance development gets more interesting. And we can see Cheng Shaoshang slowly changing and growing up.

Read More

Better than Season 1

Yes I liked this better than Season 1. Probably because I like Jinyoung (who plays Yu Ba Bi) ;)

S2 introduced some new cells which added to the humour and storyline. I especially liked the tongue cells having tea together LOL!

Yu Ba Bi was great!!! Until he wasn’t ... :( he was the perfect guy and bf. Until he too started lying and hiding things from Yumi, with the ruse of not wanting her to worry, or overreact. Is it a guy thing to think like that? Whereas all the women want is for their man to be honest and open. Yumi was right to be upset and hurt, but I felt it didn’t warrant such a quick break up without even talking it through and giving some time to think and breathe. I also understand why BaBi was upset that she could break up so easily, as if her love wasn’t deep enough to hold on. And couldn’t she trust him? Couldn’t he hv been more honest?

After the break up, the character of BaBi didn’t make sense any more. It seemed the writers just needed a reason for the 2nd break up. Him hiding the accident, thinking of regrets and then proposing marriage?? What the... and they didn’t even discuss their issues after getting back together. Such poor and unhealthy communication. No relationship can last like this.

However I did like the professional development of Yumi becoming a writer. But Wung becoming a CEO in just two years?? That’s a bit far-fetched. I really loved the scene where he and Babi met at the hospital and they had a who’s-better-for-Yumi tiff off. Hahaha

Don’t expect too much with the storyline. It’s not a happy ending per say, but a good realistic one. :)

Read More

LONG and repetitive... but good:)

Do you like historical dramas with lots of conspiracies, power struggles and epic battle scenes? Then this is the one for you.

Let’s start by saying the production is very good. The cinematography, the costumes, the sets... all very well done. The music background and OST is very memorable and well-suited with the characters and story. The actors all portrayed their roles very well, with a few annoying characters and typical Chinese hahaha evil laughs. Wu Lei who plays the male lead Ashile Sun imo carried the whole drama. He’s only 21, so him portraying this character was amazing. He’s definitely one actor to keep an eye out for. Plus he’s also very good looking ;) and yes there is a shirtless scene;);) Lol.

As with all too-many-episodes dramas (this has 49!!) the storyline became repetitive. Every 5+ episodes there will be an introduction to a new town, new characters, new problems... but same ol’ greed for power. It can get rather confusing with so many different names.. unfortunately towards episode 30+ I started skipping forward. The plot is predictable- you know who will die, when they will die, and the good guys usually outsmart the bad guys. Haha...

The last episode was DISAPPOINTING. many characters and side plots were left unfinished, and of course the main couple love story did not have a great ending. It was a happy one, but no great epilogue. It is true there is hardly any skinship... there are lots of hugs✔️, intensity✔️ and chemistry✔️, but no kiss ;) You do get a great view of two birds kissing though lol. BUUUUTT, this was way better than One and Only.

Another character I liked was Hao Du, how he evolved from being a goody-two-shoe always following instructions but not using his common sense- to learning to think for himself, sacrificing himself and fighting for the woman he loves!

The fight scenes are the best!! Well choreographed with lots of Kung fu style movements and intensity. There’s also a legendary football match in Epi 1, which is fantastic how they set it in ancient times and infused martial arts into it. What I didn’t like was most of the huge battle scenes were shown using anime... I don’t know why it was done that way. I read maybe it had something to do with Covid restrictions at that time.. or maybe time or financial constraints.

All in all, a definite recommended watch although I hoped it could have been better. :)

Read More

Skipped A LOT!!:(

It was boring. I’m sorry to say.. I love Park Min Young, but her last few dramas were a drag.

The storyline had no backbone, the pace was dull and the chemistry was just lacking. The sub-plots with the family history, the 2ML family issues and the office colleagues - all did not hold any interest for me. Humour wasn’t funny; romance wasn’t sizzling; PMY wardrobe was good, and she looked good (although I think she’s done too much surgery on her face? :()

Watch only if you have nothing else… but nowadays there’s plenty good stuff to watch! Lol

Read More

Waaaay too looonggg!!! UGH!

This could have been a great, inspiring drama if not for a few blaring factors:
1) Stupid break up scene✔️
2) Too many side characters and side plots✔️
3) Too many episodes ie became repetitive and going in circles✔️
4) Love triangle or quadrangle ✔️

Ok this is what I liked:
It’s a sports drama. So I really like the training aspects, the games, the competition, the stress, the ups and downs, the emotions, the struggles- all were very real. Sometimes it got too emotional and had too many pep talks, but it was ok. Looks like the actors could skate really well too :)

The love story between Li Yubing and Tang Xue- I also liked. From being bullies to falling in love. I especially liked Epi 26 where he professed his love for her in front of the whole crowd at the ice rink! Very man :):) What I did not like was as usual- lack of communication which led to a break up. In my opinion, Tang Xue was the one at fault for not being honest. She herself hates being lied to, and she yet she lied to her bf and stood him up many times! Although she couldn’t tell the real reason, she didn’t have to lie and stand him up. What did you expect him to think and react??

All the other side couples/ storyline were too much- I practically skipped all the scenes about Huanhuan & bf, the other roommate and Deng, any scene regarding veterinary, some scenes of the coaches bickering, oh and the most irritating Zhou Ran and Bian Cheng!! Can’t stand the way she talks- just wanna slap her! It was a very predictable storyline so even though I skipped quite a bit, I didn’t miss much.

There were a few good moral and life lessons to learn which I did appreciate. It made me tear at some scenes too. And I liked the ending where they acknowledged all the past medalists for China in the Winter games. Bravo!

Read More

Very sweet and highly recommended

From the first episode to the last, it was simply captivating and yet sweet at the same time. I’m sure most have had the all too familiar storyline of having a crush on your older brother’s friend at 13/14yo. I know I did;) and that crush became my first bf at 18yo! Sadly though it didn’t last haha.

Sang zhi had a crush, which turned into a very real liking , going to great lengths to be with him, and it eventually worked out for her. I absolutely loved the young actress at 14yo- she had a natural talent. Sang zhi at 14 was very outspoken and confident, so I’m not sure why at 17, she became rather quiet and reserved. That didn’t really make sense to me. Maybe the writers wanted to portray how she grew as a person in university. But still, her character development didn’t seem to jive.

ML Duan Jiaxu was extremely well acted by Chen Zheyuan. Minimalistic change of facial expressions, his eye connections and how he moves his mouth- all very convincing and engaging. Oh his tears!! [Spoiler- the scene where he spoke to his comatose state father, and after that when SZ hugged him.. OMG it was SO TOUCHING!!! Cried and cried) Well done CZY… a very promising career awaits you!

Storyline was beautifully written. Initially I was a bit concerned on how she would let him know about her feelings, then how he would turn from seeing her as a little sister to looking at her as a woman. The writers did a good job with that transition. Many many good principles and morals to learn from the storyline too; and how SZ handled the “other woman” and her friend aka her supervisor was admirable and so matured.

As for the romance development- also very very good pace, good chemistry, LOTS AND LOTS of PDA :):):) although the kissing was a bitttt forced I felt. ZLS has kissed many many of her male costars ;) so maybe .. idk haha. I’m expecting too much? Lol. But YES!! From the accidental kiss, to the first light touch kiss, to holding hands to the roller-skating kiss etc etc.. plenty to look forward to;)

Definitely highly recommended for a youth drama! Simply enjoy this one:)

Read More

Supporting casts were better than Main Leads LOL

A light and fluffy drama about Esports, training in the team, its struggles & ups and downs; and of course falling in love. Lots of sweet moments & kisses between the two leads, but what made the show for me was the rest of the teammates, coach and manager. They each had their specific trademark and unique characters which you will grow to love.

The gaming aspect of it was great to watch. I loved how in the middle of the game, the audience would be sucked into the game and be in the midst of the battle itself. The graphics and animation is superb and out of this world and this is another highlight for me. Two thumbs up!

Now comes some blaring factors that did not sit too well with me. [SPOILER AHEAD]
1) Lu Si Cheng and how he treated the girl he likes. Just like what Jin Yang said- he’s like a kindergarten kid who likes the girl by bullying and pulling her hair. Yes that’s how I felt in the first half of the show when he was so called pursuing her. He called her names, bullied her and was rude. When he confessed, he only gave her two hours to decide because he had to know if he could get a good night’s sleep. What the?!!
2) When Tong Yao was harassed & assaulted by Xu Tai Lun in the corridor- she bit his arm in self defence to set herself free. For that, the captain scolded and punished her by locking her out of the base camp for the rest of the day. And wouldn’t let her have her dinner until she ‘realised’ her mistake. ###!%*>*!?## What the heck??? In my opinion she did the right thing and the captain shld have been protecting her instead of punishing. Stupid.
3) When Tong Yao received the threatening package from the Anti-Fan.. and the upper management of ZGDX wanted her to apologise to the perpetrator instead of finding out the truth and protecting your team members???!!! What lousy team managers and sponsors. Instead the captain had to do it himself which affected his own training and game.
[END SPOILER]

Yeah, these factors just didn’t sit well with me. As for the acting, I’m sorry to say I didn’t think the two leads were that great, especially FL Cheng Xiao. To me she couldn’t act at all. (And who wears a sweater and short shorts to an interview??) Best supporting actor goes to Chubby! :):)

Apparently the show is getting a lot of negative feedback from netizens, particularly from the esports industry. I also noticed in the show, they were drinking a lot of RIO at the beginning, (product placement), but not as much in the later half. Tsk tsk...

The last episode was very intense and I loved it!! The battle song was hilarious, and it was nice the script gave Smiling the victory end. I also loved how Ai Jia climbed to the audience to kiss Jin Yang (lovely 2nd couple). Too bad the last kiss on the stage was cut :( Generally had a feel-good ending.

Read More