Ding Yu Xi to the rescue

I will start off by saying this.. The FL would have ended up dead in a ditch somewhere in the name of investigation if she hadn't been married to the ML.. The characters in the drama are not well developed.. The ML literally carried the entire show.. Should have been a 30 ep drama at the max.. The cases and investigations in the second half were just plain stupid.. And she was getting promoted in every few episodes while all she managed to do was almost getting herself killed or her husband.. Lu Chui Chui was miserable.. Apart from Jing Lin every other side characters were just meh.. And as always there is a pathetic pervert hitting on a married woman in this one as well.. I dont understand why such characters are glorified..

The first half of the drama was good.. It had a good pace and made me wanna watch.. But the second half just went downhill.. Losing its momentum and falling flat compared to the beginning.. The pacing in the second half dragged and it felt like the drama was stretching beyond its limit.. There were no plot twists in the last few episodes.. Just some stupid power moves which actually was pretty stupid.. It was just a poorly thought out conclusion..

Still you cant expect every drama to be Blossoms in Adversity or Who Rules the World.. The biggest disappointment for me was how the ML's character completely failed to do himself justice.. He started off as this badass intimidating figure feared by everyone.. But by the end he was reduced to someone who was being taunted by the FL’s friends and even a random kid.. It felt like all his strength and presence just disappeared.. Overall its just a one time watch.. It’s not something I’d rewatch..

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Edge of Your Seat Suspense.. Thriller That Keeps You Hooked..

Undeniably the best thriller drama of 2024..

The drama boasts top notch production quality and excellent cinematography.. Though the beginning can be frustrating.. As the ML is gaslighted into a confession and his family suffers manipulation and helplessness.. It effectively sets the stage for a gripping and intense thriller..

It gets even more frustrating.. How they mistreat the ML's mother and how they try to protect the person who tried to Kill her.. How helpless the ML is.. Yeah it gets on your nerves..

The story progresses too slow at the beginning.. But that makes the eventual twists even more impactful and makes it even more interesting.. A proper thriller that slowly unravels and pulls you deeper into its web of suspense with each twist and turn... That's how it is.. I am glad I waited to binge watch it.. Because there’s no way I could have handled waiting a week between episodes.. Watching the ML spend more time in the ER than his house after getting out of prison was a bit much..

Besides the ML and SML and Ha Seol.. The rest of the characters were truly awful.. Most weren’t just bad they were outright evil.. Manipulating and feasting on others pain.. Even the detective who forced the ML’s confession was being gaslighted by the chief.. It’s a story packed with evil people.. I mean nobody felt a hint of remorse of regret for what they did..

Initially, I felt bad for Choi Na Gyeom. She stood by the ML for 10 years, visiting him in prison when even his mother didn’t. That devotion was admirable. That was quite something.. But how he kept pushing her away.. Ignoring her.. That felt bad.. But well.. She turned out to be a psychopath.. A total psychopath.. But Go Bo Gyeol nailed her role..


Around episode six the story starts coming together... Everything starts to make sense and just when you think you’ve figured it out.. Another twist drops and then another.. It keeps you hooked till the very end.

There were a few flaws though.. Like the unrealistically clear footage from a foldable keypad mobile phone.. Seriously.. how was it not grainy??

Anyhow.. Black Out delivered a satisfying conclusion.. Though I would have loved to see the ML’s friends suffer more for their actions.. They lost what they valued most and ended up in jail but they deserved even worse.. They deserved more pain.. More and more and more pain..

For the first time in a long time.. I was fully immersed in a Korean drama.. It was one hell of a rollercoaster ride..

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No Way Out: The Letdown..

The drama had a slow start.. With the production quality being average right from the beginning.. The first four episodes were particularly disappointing and didn't hold my interest.. It wasn't the pacing that was the issue.. But rather the lack of any real engaging content.. Honestly the only reason I continued watching was for Greg Hsu and his character.. Who should have made his appearance sooner..

One of the most frustrating parts of the storyline was how unrealistic it was for the wife to wait 13 years to file for divorce.. He was a convicted serial rapist and murderer.. No court would have denied her divorce petition in such a case.. And she would have obviously got the child's custody as well.. This plot point was not only illogical but also stupid..

Despite his limited screentime.. Greg Hsu a.k.a Mr. Smile was the highlight of the entire show for me.. His undeniable charm and compelling presence stood out.. I was glad to finally see him at the end again.. Hinting that he will have a significant role if there’s another season.. He absolutely deserves his own drama.. And with rumors that he might be getting one.. I am hopeful we will see more of him.. Especially since his character's still alive..

One another major disappointment was the music.. None of the scenes had good bgm.. Which was disappointing..

Overall.. There really weren’t many good things to talk about.. Just an average drama with a half baked story and poor execution..

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Behind the Scenes of As Beautiful as You

" In my position, I have my own hardships.. Love is not everything in my life.. I cant sacrifice the whole of Dongyang for my personal love.. I cant guarantee that you are the only one in my life.. But in love, there is only you.. " Han Ting had a more realistic approach and was the more matured one in this drama..

The storyline was good but doesnt break any new grounds.. We have seen similar plots aplenty.. However.. It’s well executed without the unnecessary distractions often found in C dramas.. The chemistry between the main leads were really good.. But the FL’s choice to attend her ex’s wedding especially since he’s marrying her close friend felt like a bad decision.. They tried to make it look like its normal.. But its not.. And her breaking into the ML's safe.. That was such a pathetic move.. She should have asked him openly instead of doing that.. Most of the problems in dramas can be solved by having an open heart discussion with your lover.. But for some reasons they choose to complicate it.. Like many C dramas this one is stretched with too many episodes and fillers.. Overall it's a good watch.. Xu Kai is charming as always.

Dont forget to watch the special episode.. It gives the perfect closure..

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Echoes of Emotion..

5 Friends.. 2 Love Stories.. Both as good as the other in their own way.. Beautiful friendship.. Well written story and executed even better.. From the beginning to end there's absolutely no nonsense in this one.. Just pure love and friendship.. This is what you get when the writers/directors/producers dont force include an annoying SML/SFL, Annoying misunderstandings, forced feminism, Unnecessary breakups for absolutely stupid reasons.. The ending was well paced and I think that this is one of the most acceptable happy endings.. I hope other producers and everyone watch this and take notes..

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Conventional Drama with Minimal Impact..

In a world awash with romantic dramas and emotional rollercoasters, a 16ep series must offer something truly captivating to stand out.. Unfortunately, this drama falls short of this mark leaving much to be desired.. The narrative lacks significant depth.. And the chemistry between characters is rather mediocre.. The romantic elements are decent but lackluster with no particularly ambiguous or complex themes.. The drama lacked the depth needed to truly engage with the viewers or atleast with me.. Overall it’s a “so-so” affair.. Neither compelling nor terrible.. But undeniably underwhelming..

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The Tyrant.. A Missed Opportunity in The Witch Universe..

I honestly cant believe this is part of The Witch Universe.. What was this even about?? There was no real story.. The action scenes were bad.. VFX were poor.. The color grading was even worse.. With such a strong cast this is the best they could do??

First of all this should have just been a movie.. The four episodes felt like fillers with a slow dragging storyline. .. They could have atleast fitted in a well choreographed action scene just to compensate for the weak plot.. Jo Yoon Soo's acting didnt do her character any justice.. Her coldness just felt forced.. And Kim Seon Ho was completely underutilized.. He is a great actor.. And though his acting was solid here.. It wasn’t enough to save the series..

Considering the potential of the cast and the The Witch movies released before this.. It’s hard to believe they couldn’t deliver a more engaging series.. Instead it was a drawn out.. Underwhelming experience.. Overall The Tyrant was a major letdown for me..

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Dark Elegance: Gannibal

Gannibal has a riveting story that takes viewers on an unexpected journey into the dark corners of human nature.. From start to finish, This series is a masterclass in storytelling, story development... The plot of Gannibal is hauntingly intriguing with a gripping narrative.. The cinematography is atmospheric..Creating a striking contrast between the serene beauty of the village and the dark, unsettling undertones of the storyline... The only disappointing fact is that the second season is not yet released.. Its delay is something unacceptable considering how they ended the first season.. Overall, Gannibal is a must-watch..

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From Promising Beginnings to Disappointing Endings..

I rated this drama 8.5 based on the first 7-8 episodes.. It started of really well with spot on comedy.. Great acting and steady story development.. However after those initial 7 episodes the characters became bland.. And the forced humor felt out of place.. Even thats understandable conisdering this is a romcom.. But Some of the choices the characters made were really nonsense..

Constantly being let down by the Korean writers who struggle to deliver satisfying endings.. They Often resort to forced breakups.. Unnecessary time skips.. And last minute reconciliations.. As if thats the only way they know to end a story..

I honestly didnt understand the need for Cha Hui Seong's story.. She is in an open relationship and the couple sleeps around with other people.. Then she gets pregnant but she doesnt know whose baby it is?? What sort of dilemma is that?? What lesson is the writer trying to convey?? Modern relationships have no morals??

The second couple was interesting.. With Lee Sang Yi delivering a solid performance like in his other dramas.. Han Ji Hyun had her moments but her cuteness felt forced at times.. And her acting was all over the place.. She is a good actress but i hope she doesnt follow the ' i need to do smut to get the recognition i deserve ' mantra.. Spice up Our Love was an unnecessary spinoff filled with cringe and cliche romance.. I am looking forward to her next drama with Lee Min Ki..

The main couple's story started off really good.. The first seven episodes were genuinely hilarious.. But unfortunately took a fall afterward.. The ML supported the FL through her struggles and was always there for her.. Yet she broke up with him right after her mother’s funeral.. She clearly lacked empathy there and it was just a dumb thing to do.. He loved her mother as if she were his own and she didn’t allow him the time to grieve.. Son Hae Yeong was a mature character.. But her decisions felt childish and selfish.. Instead of facing the hard times together.. She cruelly cut him off.. Leaving him alone when he needed her most.. How is that love?? Kdrama FLs often take love for granted.. I wished they wouldnt get back together..

The conclusion felt rushed.. With a last minute reconciliation that didnt do any justice to the way the story developed.. The FL didn’t even try to stop the ML AGAIN.. He had to chase after her to make amends..

" I never regretted letting you go " Thats what she said..

In conclusion.. While the drama faltered after the first seven episodes.. It still delivered memorable moments and strong performances..

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Friends to Forever.. A Heartfelt Journey in You Are My Lover Friend..

In a genre filled with familiar tropes and cliched romances.. You Are My Lover Friend tries to set itself apart by taking a more heartfelt approach.. Exploring the slow burn of friendship evolving into love.. With genuine emotion and subtle moments You Are My Lover Friend captures the beauty and complexity of realising your love for someone who’s been by your side all along..

Really loved all the characters in the drama especially Cheng Hui.. He was really fun to watch.. Feng Wei Ran and Jiang Yan An's relationship was another strong point in the drama.. And I also enjoyed the dynamic between the ML and his mother.. It added a lighthearted enjoyable touch..

However.. Honestly.. The drama would have been better received if it was just 20 or 24 eps.. The main couple could have gotten together sooner.. As there was no real reason to delay it.. There were quite a few unnecessary subplots that didn’t add much to the story.. And the whole 'Brother Yang' thing became repetitive.. It was honestly annoying hearing them call her that so many times..

One of the positives of You Are My Lover Friend is that it doesn’t rely on a complicated story arc.. For me that’s refreshing.. There are plenty of dramas that overuse angst and tension.. But luckily this one didnt follow the same path..

Overall.. You Are My Lover Friend offers a refreshing take on the friends to lovers trope.. Even though the drama feels unnecessarily stretched, It still remains an enjoyable watch for anyone craving heartfelt romance..

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Chasing Love The Korean Way

The drama starts with the FL taking money from the ML's mother to break up with the ML.. Honestly.. If you love someone truly.. No matter the reasons.. You wouldnt normally do that.. And her reasons were ridiculous.. Then begins her struggle to breakup with him and get over him..

She broke up with him because he is rich?? Feeling she wouldn’t fit in with him or his family.. Most of the drama, she kept judging the ML because he is rich.. She had the audacity to ask him ' Did u ever skipped lunch because u couldn't afford it? ' That was her reason to breakup?? He was rich?? He loved her wiht everything he had.. Apart from the fact that he hid how rich he is.. Did he make any other mistake?? Most people don't know how to cherish true love.. The ML deserved someone better..

She acted like the most mature and smart character in the drama.. But I felt it was the ML who despite seeming childish at times.. Showed the real maturity in their relationship..

" You were afraid you would get hurt and let go of my hand right away.. "
" I know I am pathetic for not being able to get over you after breaking up.. But even in this moment I am only worried how to keep you from getting hurt.. So how could you do this to me?? "

ML was really pathetic.. But he wanted to fight for his love.. Unlike the FL who was waiting for a reason to runaway.. I don't know who was more pathetic..

I understand she went through her own hardships.. But that doesn’t give her the right to judge someone else’s life.. He showered her with love in every way possible.. While all she did was hurt him when he was trying to protect what they had.. Even when she got back with him.. She chose to have dinner with someone else instead of the ML.. Her situation was understandable.. But she could have shown some decency and spared her boyfriend the embarrassment instead of indulging some random guy’s interference in their relationship..

The second couple literally stole the show.. I found myself wanting to see more of them than the main couple.. They deserved more screen time.. And their relationship really called for deeper exploration.. Their chemistry was captivating.. And the moments they shared felt more genuine.. It would have been great to see their story developed further..

Overall.. The drama falls short of expectations..The FL's choices undermined the genuine affection of the ML.. In contrast, the second couple shines with authentic chemistry..

P.S.. Moon Sang Min needs to find a new agency or start picking good scripts for himself if he doesn't want to waste his career doing dramas that doesn't treat his career well.. This drama was an average one.. But He could do better..

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Yearning for Better Endings

The drama started off on a great note.. Their first meeting being chaotic again.. I thought this season would include some thriller elements but it didn't.. I dont remember why i even thought that..

This season started off with their reunion scene but it just didnt feel right.. FL clearly saw him when she kicked his ass in that room.. But she didn't recognise him?? She had to watch the cctv footage to finally realize who he was?? Just didn't make any sense to me..

Bae Hyeon Seong really surprised me with how good he was.. I am equally impressed by the scripts he chooses or are chosen for him.. Throughout this drama he was outstanding..

Another Flaw.. The Detective who was supposed to be following him only found him after the accident.. Where was she before that?? There was no way for her to find him so quickly if she was not already following him.. And she knew about the abandoned building as well.. That's another stupid mistake..
One more.. After escaping from the cops he went straight to his house.. I mean are the police stupid enough to ignore the house of an escaped suspect?? Seriously?? Shouldn't that be the first place they secured?? He was there for over an hour easily.. And then the detective.. She came alone?? To look for an escaped suspect?? And then all at once nobody cared about him and his connections to the assault and murder cases??
If I’m going to nitpick.. There were several flaws.. Compared to season 1, this season had a lot more mistakes..

In season 1 I felt she should have killed Kato instead of Ichiro.. If she had done that.. Maeda wouldnt have been able to build this empire or even be alive for that matter.. Well.. I suppose they wouldnt have had enough material for another season if that had happened..

" Do you know why hell is a dreadful place??
Because it never ends..
He and I couldn't be friends.. So I decided to become his hell instead.. "

Claudia Kim's back again.. Another powerful performance in her brief screentime.. She really was obsessed with the Jang Tae Sang.. And i dont know why her character is listed as Guest role in MDL.. She had support role.. More screen time and impact than typical guest role..

In Season 1, both Park Seo Joon and Han So Hee didnt outshine each other in terms of their performances.. They were equally good.. But season 2, Park Seo Joon truly outshines everyone..

" I don't remember when but everything started to fade away..
Why I'd been fighting, What I'd been fighting for, And even my rage..
I couldn't overcome a certain yearning..
I existed but I wasn't living.. I missed her.. All I wanted was to see her..
I wanted to embrace her and hold on to her..
Just once would be enough if it meant I could see you.. If it meant I could hold you "

Ep 5 was simply the best episode of the season.. The yearning.. The fighting.. The emotions.. Just incredible..

Something I noticed in the first season is that the creatures were influenced from The Stranger Things but chose to ignore it because it wasnt too obvious.. But this season they made it too obvious and evident that it was heavily influenced..

I was really disappointed at the fact that they didnt show us how she ended up in that river with shenshin at the end of season 1?? They should have addressed it this season because it clearly doesn’t make any sense.. I am still curious..

I am not satisfied with the conclusion.. After 69 years of yearning.. They are separated again?? If there is another season.. I might change my rating for Season 2 to an 8.5.. But for now it just doesn’t feel right.. Kdrama writers continue to falter with their endings.. Season 1 was definitely better..

Overall Season 2 had its moments.. It ultimately fell short of expectations.. Particularly in its ending.. The follow up seasons of dramas are supposed to tie up the loose ends but this just leaves me with more questions than answers.. I Hope there is another season..

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