Second Wind

A refreshingly cool wind that blew a young, heart-fluttering love my way.

This far exceeded my expectations. I expected mediocre and was greeted with the memorable innocence of a first love, sincerity in words, actions, and music, conflicts that hit and weren't dragged out, and a beautiful dream small enough to carry in your pocket yet expansive enough as to fly out into the world.

This felt like a secret so gorgeous I wanted to keep it to myself. But I believe it deserves to be seen by many.

Side Note: Don't worry, the chemistry is there and romantic moments aren't brushed aside. This couple shines wonderfully and makes you root for them all along the way.

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More like a glimmer rather than being starstruck

I've said it before and I'll say it again: This should have been a movie. Or, at least, been released all at once. The cut-off of many episodes felt unsatisfying and, overall, just got in the way of the flow of the story.

Also, it seemed like scenes were missing, and I'm sure a longer runtime would have added more depth to it . . . However--strangely--I'm not mad about it.

Maybe it's the indie vibes and solid acting that won me over and made me see past its flaws.

Just about Zuho: I do have to bring up how great it was to have him, being the fairly famous K-Pop Idol he is, actually speak out against the hate he was getting for acting in a BL, and not just that, but openly voice his support, love, and respect for the LGBT+ community in his response.

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When a Cheeky Bastard Meets a Goody-Two-Shoes

It's absolutely ridiculous, cheesy, makes you scratch your head and ask why, self-obsessed with a mix of laughingly-bad-side-character-acting, a dash of awkward fight scenes, a healthy dose of suits and abs in rags, chemistry that chemistrys, leads that act like the rent was due two months ago and the power bill is coming in the mail on Monday, and, above all, just a shit ton of fun.

When you have a drama with nonsense characters, over-the-top plot points, and cheap effects that is self-aware of its soap-operaness and also has a main romance with sizzling chemistry and sly grins from both parties (one more mischevious Cheshire-cat and foxy than the other though), you have yourself some quality entertainment.

I had a blast not only watching this but pondering what could possibly be awaiting me in the newest episode.

My recommendation? Pop some popcorn, kick your feet back, hit play, and have a good time.

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Sincerity and Hilarity

I just . . . <3 ❤❤❤

Such wholesome and supportive MLs! Ida and Aoki were everything good in this world.

The first episode did an amazing job setting up not just the characters and comedic style of the drama (which I adored) but also showing who Ida and Aoki are as people.

Ida is the kind of guy who thinks about things very seriously and carefully and despite not being exposed to/experiencing what many others already have is open to something unfamiliar to him. He also cares deeply about the feelings of others and always takes them into consideration, though he appears quite stoic and awkward at times. Lol.

Aoki is the kind of guy who doesn't let jealousy guide him in acting in ways that would benefit him personally while hurting others. He is willing to make sacrifices for the people he cares about even if it is to his detriment. And, he is very outwardly emotional and expressive, but also quite shy at times. Lol.

That was an impressive thing to accomplish in just the first episode alone.

This is the kind of drama that will not only make you cry from laughing so hard at Ida's dry humor, Aoki's meme-worthy and iconic reactions/facial expressions, Hashimoto's violent/impulsive nature, and Aida's blissful ignorance, but also from how much consideration and kindness oozes from the MLs.

Ida's sincerity was seriously too much for my poor heart to take! And Aoki made my cheeks ache from how many times I couldn't contain my giggles and abrupt bursts of laughter! Needless to say, I along with many of you now have to figure out a way to share custody of the absolute mood that is Aoki Sota.

Something a bit underrated and beautiful I didn't fully notice about this drama until it had a few episodes left was Aoki and Ida saying statements Directly expressing their emotions about things related to their relationship, and also the other paying attention and taking them seriously. Such as, "That made me upset," "That made me happy," etc. Saying This thing you did made me feel This. Basically, "I" statements.

I can't think of very many dramas that do this/have done this.

I've actually read that couples counselors will advise their clients to communicate in this way to directly address their feelings and not be accusatory when/if they're upset with their partner. Yet another reason for me to adore Kieta Hatsukoi and the precious couple in it.

This drama was not only a great showcasing of healthy and communicative relationships, it was also highly addictive. I rewatched each episode (until it was completed) about a dozen times before the next one aired.

Regarding representation, I could not be more happy! Aoki was a wonderful and respectful representation of Bisexuality. It was also delightfully easy to show. He was in love with Hashimoto and then he fell in love with Ida. Simple. He didn't declare that he "doesn't like boys and just likes him" (I hate that trope so much) nor was there any line indicating he never truly loved Hashimoto and was just "confused." He didn't deny his past love and also accepted his present love. I could cry!

I think this was as perfect Bi representation as you could get without actually saying the word Bisexual.

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Spoiler that shouldn't be a spoiler because it's a Trigger Warning

It's insanely rare and nothing short of a miracle to have anything LGBT+ related when it comes to China. It was enough reason for me to watch it so that we get more.

It didn't have a big budget, of course, but I liked it for the most part. I was going to give it a 7/10.

But, then . . . They went the route of Addicted. A.K.A. There was a forced scene.

I'm giving it a 6/10 trying to push that aside in my mind and act like it didn't happen. I shouldn't have to! Because why the hell did you guys have to do that? Why?

Things were going well. The group of friends was fun together, it was light-hearted, and the two MLs were sweet together.

You let about a minute of screen time taint an otherwise fine and enjoyable drama. What a waste.

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Moving Forward

To think that it was only in 2020 when (arguably) the first Korea BL Drama was released to now in 2022 when we have Korea's first Gay reality dating show is truly surreal.

They managed to make this show comforting but also not shy away from hardships. While watching I was wondering to myself if they were ever going to discuss coming out or the posible consequences of being on the show at all, only to see them dedicate one episode specifically to having everyone share their experiences and feelings on the matter. I felt like the creators of this show genuinely cared about Queer people and sharing their stories.

In Korea, we've gone from merely having some side LGBT+ characters to some dramas centered specifically around them and their romances to actually portraying real Queer people on the screen.

His Man and Merry Queer are important stepping stones, for sure. Let's not just stop here though. Let's keep going!

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When it was great, it was great. When it was bad, it was reallllly bad.

How to start this?

Was I disappointed? Yes.

To be fair, the crazy amount of teasing and build-up kind of set my expectations ridiculously high.

This drama is a mess. It starts out fucking epic. I got Night Manager vibes, which was a great sign. Then, I think after episode 7, it started to lose itself. There were still some great scenes with good dialogue, interesting symbolism, cool fight scenes, amazing cinematography, and fantastic acting. But they weren't the majority.

Obvious Problems:
#1. Let's be honest here: the third couple was unnecessary. Screentime devoted to them could have been put to better use.
#2. Unnecessary connections. Not every character needs a thread from their past connecting them to everyone!
#3. Once the main couple got together, they both got really stupid, fast. Lol.

Other Problems:
#1. While this was more comedic than serious, the comedy was still a bit much at times.
#2. The story should have been more focused on the mafia aspect. Sometimes, it felt like a side story.
#3. The finale seemed to throw everything at the wall. Will I get over the shorts? No, I will not!

Saving Graces:
#1. Vegas. Vegas, Vegas, Vegas. He ate up every scene. The visceralness of him was on another level. He made me conflicted, which is what some of the best characters do. One moment, he was clearly the bad guy; the next, he was a shivering puppy, and then he was a mix of everything. Bible . . . Just . . . Wow.
#2. Pete. God, the emotions he made me feel. He deserved so much more screen time.
#3. Vegas and Pete. They made me want to skip scenes with Kinn and Porsche. THEY MADE ME WANT TO SKIP SCENES WITH KINN AND PORSCHE! Also, they made me write a poem.
#4. Tankhun. Iconic! He is THE moment!

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Polyamory

What started as almost a typical cheater-husband-discovered-and-wife-struggles-to cope-plot quickly became a heartfelt drama about not only society's judgement of the not "normal" but also one's internal judgment, the struggle to fight for one's own happiness, and the willingness to open oneself up to new possibilities, all featuring genuine people trying to do the "right" thing. And beyond just that, the scale of "like."

If you're looking for an exploration of relationships that is complicated but worth it in the end, then this is the drama for you.

I only want a monogamous relationship. I may not understand--I say "understand" because I myself have felt some annoyance hearing Straight people say they "understand" my being Bi, because, to me, you can't truly understand something unless you live it--what it's like to be polyamorous. But I can accept the reality of it because it is someone's reality, I can learn about it, and I can widen my understanding of the world past my own nose. I feel that's what this was trying to say in the end: You don't have to "get it." Just try to grow and see more than yourself.

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Worth your time

(Minor spoilers)

What got me to start this was knowing the ML from another drama and enjoying his performance as well as the absolutely gorgeous poster. I went in with average expectations, and I was not disappointed. It was even better than I imagined.

Watching Kieta Hatsukoi and this back to back was an interesting experience. This featured a fairly masochistic character, some unhealthy relationship dynamics, and ominous music and shots. It's also somewhat dark but honest about it, with characters who are at times morally grey. But, believe it or not, you can enjoy this and Kieta Hatsukoi.

This was an addictive drama that always made me curious enough to go back and rewatch the recently released episode about six times before the next one was released. I had to pay attention to see what I may have missed. And there are quite a few small details that can be missed.

It was also wonderfully shot, had moments that promised something dangerous, and the music in particular really lended to the eerie/uncomfortable atmosphere at times. The light masochism was also quite interesting to watch. Not to mention they did a great job at building tension between Hira and Kiyoi. You feel those stares.

The way this was shot in particular really lended itself to the idea that Hira views Kiyoi as a King/God. They did an amazing job of making us see him the way he did too. On a pedestal. Above him. Some untouchable ethereal person. He comes into the classroom and a light shines on him while petals fall gracefully around him. He turns to the camera and gives us one smile and our heart stops. Or with symbolic moments such as Hira getting down on one knee to kiss his hand and even that small touch is so precious and he feels unworthy for receiving it from his King.

One last compliment:

The ending shot literally looks like a painting based on ancient times. They literally look like art pieces. I want to capture it and frame it on my wall. Just... Hats off to the person who directed this and the people who filmed it.

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They tried?

I feel bad that I'm giving it such a low rating. But this just didn't measure up and I have to be honest.

I'll try my best to explain why.

The first Color Rush was a combination of light horror and romance. It didn't solve the mystery it introduced, which felt disappointing, but it was great nonetheless.

It knew not to give up absolutely everything about this world with Monos and Probes. And its effects, music, narration, tone, and slow build made it believably "otherworldly." Plus, there was good chemistry between the MLs and a fascinating and twisted balance of power between them. There was mutual feelings and mutual obsession and tension at the mere possibility of them being around each other.

When people saw it they not only wanted the mystery solved/explored they wanted to see more of the unique world they created, right?

This second season fulfilled that wish. Incorrectly. It dumped too much of the world on the viewers and despite being about the same length as the original (about five minutes shorter each episode) constantly rushed through everything. There was no time to process, it was, "Let's get to the next scene." And, the action was weak, there wasn't any believable tension or weight to the story or characters' actions, sets and effects looked too cheap, and the writing wasn't up to par. Not to mention the ML didn't act like his character would have in his situation. I would expect him to have done something rash and/or be wallowing in misery. Rather than that, he seemed just a bit upset and to be going about life fine. Where was the despair? The agony?

And of course, writing out the other ML was the biggest reason this failed. But, we all knew that.

All in all, I'm disappointed but not surprised.

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A sparking marble in the grass

The first couple of episodes, while charming, had me fearing mediocrity. But over time, I grew to see a surprising level of quiet depth and maturity in the leads. These young men have been hurt and are still dealing with hurt. One is more naive and hopeful, though, while the other is disillusioned with reality and terrified.

Takara's fight to not fall into the same depths as his mother and fear of himself the moment he mirrors her behaviors, even slightly, in particular, stood out to me.

"If I want something, I must have it."

What it must be like to fear your own wants and feel the need to push your desires aside in case you just might take a treasure into your hands, keep it from the world, and unwillingly crush it.

I would like others to see what I did, but I understand if you don't. Regardless, I found this a precious watch that I almost want to keep to myself. My own "treasure."

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A drama sure to check off many people's boxes for their "ideal type" of drama

This was such a refreshing firework of a drama! The two leads, in particular, made it crazy fun to watch with their so-far-out-there-they-might-as-well-be-floating-in-space personalities that were only heightened when they shared the same air. And they were consistently predictable yet unpredictable, leaving me either correct in my predictions while also being pleasantly befuddled at the path taken or both puzzled beyond belief and amused. Meanwhile, the side couple offered something unique with the often overlooked issue of financial inequality in a relationship and the myriad of ways it can affect it, including self-inflicted shame, pressure, and guilt.

It was a true delight tuning into Boys Be Brave. I highly recommend giving it a go! Especially if you're into "quirky" characters and dramas.

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Impossibly Disappointing

Sigh. Sighhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

I'm not going to explain why this drama failed in detail. Others have already sacrificed many of their brain cells to do so. Instead, I'll give you a short rundown of my thoughts.

Wedding Impossible had potential. It had a bit of a unique premise, a wacky start promising some over-the-top fun, and the opportunity to say something/showcase Queer representation in a mainstream K-Drama. I don't have to tell you that it failed on all counts.

I looked back at my notes and found one I made after the first or second episode: "Here's hoping they can achieve a fun drama while treating the Gay ML's sexuality and coming out with respect."

Oh, poor Noir. You naive, sweet summer child.

As the episodes progressed, it was clear the drama forgot or simply no longer cared about its premise. And rather than focus on what was supposed to be the main point of intrigue/source of hi-jinks and conflicts: Do Han using this sham marriage to hide his sexuality. They leaned into anything BUT that. And whenever the opportunity presented itself to delve into his struggles, how staying in the closet affected his relationship with his family, how the fake marriage was affecting his best friend and brother: They barely touched on it or simply pivoted and went, but what about the car accident from years ago, what about the poorly-built-up main romance, what about company politics and backstabbing, what about whining and complaining?!

And the worst part! The worst part is that this supposedly fun rom-com-style K-Drama not only didn't give the Gay ML a love interest (which is just plain Homophobic if you ask me): IT. WASN'T. FUN.

AND ANOTHER THING! Is it just me who finally noticed that they rarely used the word "Gay?!" Wtf. Are they scared of it?! If I didn't know the plot/wasn't paying attention, I would have no idea what Do Han's "secret" is when they're talking about it in some scenes!

By the time we got to the last few episodes, I just wanted it to end already. I found myself frustrated, annoyed, and just . . . Annoyed at myself for hoping for better.

If you're like me, a Queer person who, despite the odds, is kind of hopeful for good mainstream LGBT+ representation in your Asian dramas: I'm sorry to myself and you that we stuck this one out. Let's just collectively agree to go rewatch the Queer cuts from Nevertheless and Love with Flaws, drink some wine, and wait for Hwang Da Seul's next masterpiece.

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Don't watch it! You'll regret it! (This movie doesn't deserve the overall user rating it has)

One word: Rape. Rape that is excused and diminished. It's treated like he just accidentally stepped on him. That's how much they don't care about it and act like it's nothing. Everyone, including the victim, acts like it's something to just move on from and forgive and forget. Not okay! And "cultural differences" is not a valid explanation/excuse. He also almost rapes him a second time!

There have been some shows and movies I've watched with some questionable consent scenes. I can dismiss these scenes (majority being kisses obviously) for a lot of shows/movies, because it's questionable At Worst, they have only completely consensual scenes from then on, and I recognize that it's not real. There have also been some (like Love by Chance) where there is a side couple that has a rape scene and uses it as a romantic trope, which is absolutely gross. I can skip it and watch the other couple/couples and be fine, because they aren't the focus.

This is not the case with this film. This film has one "couple." And it's not questionable consent at all; it's undeniably rape. I couldn't look past it or skip it. This was a waste of my precious time on this earth.

The only thing I'm getting out of watching this is that it was another movie added to my watchlist. That's it. I saw a thing. Unfortunately, it was horrible.

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Tumbling down a rabbit hole of problems

Was it warm and healing as advertised?

Not really, no.

This drama was at its best when it had this just-go-with-the wind vibe. But, for some reason, they decided to throw in a bunch of out-of-nowhere tragedies and drama that eventually took over and left warmth and healing on the backburner.

And while the ML was being sweet and thoughtful the FL was letting herself be walked over by others to an annoying degree. I can take slow growth in a drama, that's fine. But she actually didn't change in that respect. Also, the prominent excusing/dismissal of abuse left a bad taste in my mouth, tainting a lot of my attempts to enjoy Summer Strike.

I don't know, I guess I just expected more; which is funny because I started this drama on a whim.

Do I recommend watching it? If you're looking for more kind MLs, sure. Otherwise, this might be one to skip.

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