Alright, I guess?
K-dramas can't cope with 12 episodes these days either, y'all. They should cut it down to 8 once and for all ?♀️Either way, this was entertaining of course. It's worth a watch just for the wacky comedy and maybe the secondary couple bcz of their chemistry. The main couple, on the other hand... It's not that they DON'T have chemistry or anything, their story is where they lost me.
The first half was seriously fun and romantic, but they looked like they were running out of ideas as their story went on. Therefore, what we saw was unnecessary backstories and plot twists being shoved in left and right. It felt like way too much was happening at the same time, and in the end, everything was only slightly brushed along and half-assedly concluded. Had they only focused on the romance and the comedy, this could've been a really good romcom. Unfortunately, the writer (who also wrote 'Her Private Life'-- which suffered from the same repercussions towards the end) seemed to run out of ideas and it was... obvious.
I like Kim Young Dae.... when he's being unserious and funny. The man cannot play a quiter/less animate role for the love of god, I'm sorry. On the other hand, Shin Min Ah was quite nice to watch. I really liked her character for 70% of the drama, and I think she was able to bring that extra oomf to 'Son Hae Young' as well.
The music was whatever. None of the tracks were catchy or distinctive.
In conclusion, even though it was a 12 episode drama (plus the screentime they wasted on Kopiko, Subway, Bananapresso Coffee, BMW), it could've benefited from lesser episodes and lesser dumb plotlines.
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Glow-in-the-dark stars & delayed confessions!
Good show. It was a decent fun K-BL after some time (in my opinion, since it's the first one I completed in a while)While a lot of individuals complain about the 2nd couple being more interesting and under-appreciated-- I say, nope. They barely had scenes, and that left them underdeveloped and also... idk, they were the same old angst shit. *SPOILER* the ending suggests they'll most probably do a sequel for this couple, but I'm not sure I care enough *SPOILER END!*
Now, to the main couple-- I thought they were cute and their individual characterization made them unique. I also liked how they both changed and developed as individuals with the help of each other. Their chemistry was adorable and while I would've liked a teeny tiny bit more romance, in conclusion, their story was sweet. In contrary to many viewers' illogical hate towards his character, I think Jung Ki Sub is the highlight of the show. The occasionally pretty cinematography was a plus point too.
In conclusion, this was cute for what it was. Nothing extraordinary, or something I'd rewatch-- but, cute.
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So, who is the monster?
I actually watched this about 2 weeks ago, but I guess I just wanted to recollect my thoughts about this film before I could write the review because... woah, this was so interesting. Mesmerising. It made me think a LOT.How this film unfolded the mystery through each character's perspective was so smart, and so well done. I just couldn't tell what was going on or what the main plot was at all, until it switched to Minato's perspective. At the beginning, we saw a single mother be just as confused as us viewers were-- what was her son doing? Why was he acting like that? What was going on with him? We felt her confusion, pain, struggle and then just as she was convinced that the teacher was the perpetrator, we were fully convinced too. If I were to speak further than her perspective, I'd be spoiling heavily because after that, everything blew my mind away. Nothing she thought were true. Frankly, I've never seen anything else quite like how this film is told.
The acting from all actors alike was brilliant. Passionate. I will never get how child actors can be such good actors at such a young age. They literally did just as well as the adult actors on the film, and to be this much talented already gives me the chills because wth am I doing with my life ?
Amazing film. It's the kind of movie you can't help but hold your breath in for the entire 2-hour runtime-- even if you feel like your head might explode at some point.
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"You changed my life, Day."
This was a beautiful journey, from beginning to end. Emotionally charged, carefully crafted, and you can tell how everyone gave all their passion into this drama.Like, can y'all believe these two did 'Vice Versa' just 2 years ago? GROWTH, darling. All they needed was a better script and a director who could truly grasp their full potential as both individual actors and together. Cracking chemistry that can move a viewer to tears easily. I truly believe they carried the show.
That being said, I do have a couple ? reservations when it comes to the writing. Obviously the best written BL drama that came out of Thailand in 2023, but still, I can't pretend like the writing was flawless. Some character decisions fell a bit short of logic for me, and a little more focus on the supporting characters would've been nicer in the 2nd half. HOWEVER, that's just me being nitpicky and annoying lol this was awesome.
*BIG SPOILERS AHEAD*
As in usual style, the last two episodes were definitely a let-down compared to the rest of the drama. A bunch of illogical conflicts were thrown in to use up the time, like a stupid break-up that could've been easily resolved with a bit of communication and even a time skip. Besides that, I hated that sudden eye donation twist in the last 5 minutes. I thougt we would finally have a healing story about a blind character that shows hope in life despite of it all because it would've been so realistic. I really don't get why they had to shove that last part in ?♀️
Anyways, overall, it was still such a good watch. I'm pretty sure I won't forget about how it made me feel anytime soon.
I'll be out here... missing them ?
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If I had to speak more honestly, it is true that this drama is pretty childish. BUT sometimes when you watch too many heavy and intense dramas, the lightweighted and no-brainer ones turn out to be enjoyable in order to take a break from the heavy-plot preferences.
I mainly loved the female protagonist. Her character was really different from the usual nosy and annoying female characters in other cliche romcoms. She was strong, likable and if I myself was one of the Kang brothers, I'd definitely fall for her too. There's this strong and intense love 'square' throughout the drama and I must say this- For those who dislike love triangles or 'harems', this drama is not going to impress you a lot. I myself dislike them too but somehow this drama got me anticipating for each episodes.
So, simply saying, this romcom is a good one when it comes to mood-lifters or basically a refreshment from all those complicated dramas. It's simple, fun, the romance is cute and the story itself is a no-brainer and is definitely light-hearted. You might want to save this drama in your 'Plan To Watch' list if you haven't watched yet- in order to binge on this drama after finishing an intense drama with a tragic ending or such.
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This drama was able to portray teenage life in such a fine way, it wowed me. The struggle of teenager with school and family, the enjoyments of a teenager, etc. are perfectly defined through this drama.
For me, the male lead Huo Biao's character would never fail to make everyone fall for him. Overall, all the other characters are also lovable.
Besides the impressive story and the amazing characters in it, the cinematography is beautiful and I love the nostalgic concept of the 90s. The OSTs are great too. The cast also has done a great job in acting each of their characters and were able to portray them in Ann excellently way.
If you're looking for a drama with a pure and realistic plot, alongside with fun-lovable characters and amazing production, this Chinese drama is it. Give it a chance, you won't regret it. ;)
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This review may contain spoilers
I had waited for this movie ever since it's first still image came out and I was so FRIGGIN excited seeing how the summary sounded promising and the still image looked quite attractive (of course) So, right after this movie got subbed on the day my finals ended, I looked nowhere else and sat down instantly to watch it. So, here's the review. The story -
The plot of this movie is heartwarming and adorable. A guy falling for a tough female transfer student and then helping her to skip classes and secretly have tteokbokki- already sounds fun. I love movies or dramas which show a long-term story because the characters development in those are pretty exciting. Now comes the talk about the ending.
I personally think the ending of the movie was highly realistic. It makes you sad and makes you want to cry but seriously, the ending couldn't have been better but worse if it was a happy ending. It would look unrealistic and somewhat random if it had a positive ending with both marrying each other. Yes, the ending made me cry as well. But if I had to say it honestly, I disliked the male lead character ever since the high school and college part of the movie ended. He became selfish, and if anyone was in the female lead character's shoes, he/she would have moved on from that guy too. So to me, the ending was pretty much perfect.
The cast-
The cast was perfect too. Everyone played their roles in an amazing way. Park Bo Young is undoubtedly an amazing actress. She can play any roles out there and her acting skill is so diverse and impressive. The rest of the cast is the same and they were amazing too.
So, overall, all I have left to say is that this movie was a great one- a movie which can make you have all kinds of emotions. A real emotional roller coaster- kind of movie. I truly recommend it to everyone!
P.s- I had watched the movie right when the subs came out but I'm extremely late with reviewing,,
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The most self-aware and entertaining cliche-fest you'll watch in a long time.
Let me just start off by saying that this drama, by no means, is flawless. Not even close. Nuh-uh. If we're talking logic and realism, you won't find it here for the most part. In regards of the thriller/mystery aspect, it's way too convenient. There's way too many co-incidences and the cops are non-existent. The world in this drama is perfectly curated for the main characters-- a fantasy, if you say so.Then, what's up with my rating? Oh, yeah. Did I not mention how effing entertaining this drama actually really is?
'Guess Who I Am' is pure mindless entertainment. If you're willing to overlook everything that isn't related to the romcom aspect of this show, this drama is an easy ride. The fun main leads, accompanied by equally spunky supporting characters, ensure that there won't be a single boring moment as long as they're on-screen. Everyone has amazing natural chemistry with each other and the actors seemed like they were genuinely having fun on set, which made things all the more better. Coupled with actually hilarious moments, sweet kisses, warm hugs, loving stares and much-appreciated communication-- as a romcom, this drama is top-notch. This was like one of those mini c-dramas but with longer episodes and honestly? That's literally what I was asking for since those mini ones barely ever hold my attention.
In conclusion, if I had to rate this drama as nothing more than a rom-com, it'd be a 9/10. But admittedly, everything else is nonsensical. However, this is literally the best guilty pleasure I've seen in a long while. For the sake of the romances, laughs and chemistry-- definitely worth the watch.
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A 'moneyboy' with no love to give, and to give no love to.
This was very artsy. The way it was filmed, shot, directed-- it's like one of those indie films you'll fall alseep to if you aren't paying enough attention.The story isn't anything extraordinary, but it sheds light on the lives of those who are engaged in sex work in a conservative society such as Asian countries-- precisely the life of the main protagonist of this film, who is a character I never truly understood or found myself rooting for. He's self-centered, pushes away or cuts off people who genuinely cares about him, and doesn't know how to appreciate the small but positive aspects of life. You want to care for him since his family situation is sad and frustrating, but at the same time, you can't find the urge to. You can't tell how he feels, if he cares or if he... well, anything. It's not the acting, because I thought the few actors this film had are great, but rather how the ML is written to be. He was, in conclusion, a snob-- and what's the good thing? This film is aware that the main protagonist is a snob.
One thing that bothered me, since I'm a pretty regular film person, is how this movie was entirely filmed. There are many gorgeous artistic shots (which I couldn't screenshot at all because I had to watch it in 360p lmao), but the single-camera stiff distant shots at a constant began to get on my nerves at one point. Besides that, they only ever play a single The Shining-esque background music every three scenes which suddenly makes you wonder "is there gonna be a jumpscare soon?" just for you to remember that you're not watching a horror film. The only reason I didn't rate this any lower than 7, though I could have based on how much I was entertained by this, is the club dancing scene because it made things feel alive for once.
Do I recommend this? Sure. At least it's not another depressing LGBTQ film where someone dies at the end or the couple can't get together. I appreciate their attempt at a different angle for LGBTQ films.
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First of all, the story is definitely the sweetest story you'd find in a BL drama. 'Love at first sight' sounds dumb in reality but this drama showed it in such an adorable way! Plus, this entire way of showing the stories of a few side couples. I usually don't like dramas with many side couples but this drama changed my mind. I freaking LOVED all the other side couples (esp. TinCan is LIFEEE) their stories were different, interesting and exciting. However, this drama's story was beautiful and really heart-warming, and by that– I mean ALL the couples in it.
And now secondly, the cast.
I would have given a 10/10 rating for the acting but apparently I didn't because I felt like the actor who played Pete was a little lacking and it–NO OFFENCE– kind of made me uncomfortable. Whatsoever, I definitely fell in LOVE with Perth (Ae). His acting, his gestures towards Pete, the way he looked at him with his eyes— definitely was AMAZING. Their chemistry was also 'no joke'. As for the second couple TinxCan, those two are just a match made in heaven. Seriously. Their story is so touching, so beautiful. And oh my, their chemistry and their love for each other almost gave me a heart attack of happiness. I definitely wish for a sequel of them both ending up together— or else I'm gonna throw hands. Other than these two, I also definitely adored the other couples.
So, lastly, all I can say is that this BL thai drama is a MUST WATCH and definitely recommended. As it was my first time watching a BL drama, I had a whole lot of fun in an unexpected way and lots of heart wrenching excitement. :)
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Hajimete Koi wo Shita Hi ni Yomu Hanashi
1 people found this review helpful
At first, this drama was my everything. I watched the first two episodes in a single whim and it pulled me right into it. The story felt fresh, sweet and heart-warming. In fact, the chemistry between the leads was already amazing. The other two second leads in the reverse harem, were also great! The female lead was a somewhat realistic 32-year-old and I found her quite strong at times and sweet.
Now, the real thing is how this drama depends on a person's taste or choices. This drama definitely does not suit everybody's taste, and I noticed that as I continued to the drama. In the middle, the plot from my view became a tad-bit boring and kind of predictable. Not that I dislike predictable plots, something important felt missing in this drama. It was sweet and really cute in the beginning but things start to change in the middle. Maybe because the amount of waiting that had to be done for each episode to come out may have decreased my excitement for it and thus I wasn't looking forward to it anymore? That's possible.
Overall, this drama was pretty good in my opinion and the objective of the story was touching and nice. It reminded me of the Japanese movie 'Flying Colors' in many ways and I personally loved that movie. About the cast, the actors was amazing at portraying their characters. My most favorite thing about this drama is the music. The OST 'Happy Birthday' was such a good song!
This drama actually depends on your preferences and taste so I suggest you give it a try to see if it suits you :)
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Sweet fluffy romcom, plagued with inconsistencies...
I could've really loved this drama-- I mean, I was ALL in after I watched the 1st episode. Adorable characters, the biggest cinammon roll ML after a long while and a blooming romance I was totally looking forward to.But what started as a sweet little romantic-comedy eventually became a pile of cliches I didn't enjoy and the FL's wavering, indecisive and stupidly frustrating character was unfortunately the perpetrator of all that.
I don't like hating on FL characters and calling them the cause of all problems in a drama, but this time? I'm sorry but I can't think of any other reason why my enjoyment for this show plummeted during the 2nd half. Again, I watched the show over 3 months so maybe that could also be a huge influence. But mostly, the FL is a mother teresa/selfless-type character who made me feel like I was watching a romcom from 2010 that didn't age well. That, and all the dumb conflicts they pushed in towards the end that I could care less about.
That being said, I did like the acting from everyone in the cast. Chae Jong Hyeop was absolutely adorable, and I'm still going to wait until he's in something that I will consistently like to the end. I know Nikaido Fumi's a great actress, but the role she plays here doesn't do her acting justice and it's hard to appreciate her in this drama, although she probably gave her best into it. Their chemistry was actually really cute, in spite of the language barrier. The OST's nice, as I usually expect from J-dramas.
In conclusion, a true disappointment. I think the writing's the only thing you can blame for the downfall of this drama. Seriously, they had everything a romcom could ever need to be great-- but oh well.
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A show that follows the lives and stories of modern couples, in a unique format.
‘Lovestruck in The City’ is another 2021 drama that realistically portrayed adults in the modern busy world. In a relatively unique format for Korean dramas where the characters are supposedly featured in a documentary, six adults who are connected to each other in various ways share the regular issues and struggles that they face in their relationships and daily lives.In the first episodes, many viewers will find it hard to adjust themselves with this drama. The transitions from the documentary interview parts and the story parts will get some confused for sure, but viewers wouldn’t find it too hard to get used to it eventually. While the drama wanted to execute the stories of all three couples and their stories, the drama ended up focusing a little too much on a single couple to the point that they seemed to have little to no charm despite of good chemistry, and the lack of focus on the other characters and their stories make it hard for viewers to emotionally connect to them or ‘care’ for their stories. Due to the very reason, I personally couldn’t find myself to be in love with the characters. Many will relate to the struggles of each character like I did at times, but relating to them doesn’t mean you will absolutely love them.
Now, about the acting, it’s the one thing that I really loved. The cast did an amazing job with each of their performances, and for a bit of a special mention, Ji Chang Wook was brilliant when it came to the emotional scenes. While his character personally lacked for me, his acting makes up for it. Kim Ji Won was good as always, but I’ve seen better performances from her.
The cinematography definitely needs to be appreciated. There are many beautiful sunset beach sceneries that I absolutely loved, and am sure others did too. Besides, the music was great too. It suited the mood of each scene perfectly, and I think the production quality of this drama takes the prize at most.
In the end, a 7.5/10. I’m often prickly with my ratings, so I suggest you check at least 3 episodes due to its new format to see if it suits your taste. I hope you found this ‘huge’ review to be useful :)
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