Role Reversal (RR)

Here I will only include titles I watched (either ongoing, completed, or dropped) and my thoughts on them related to role reversal. I've often been disappointed by RR representation in RR-tagged/recced dramas so I'm taking the liberty of going through as many as I can (find) and offering my thoughts on them so it'll hopefully save someone some time or expectations. (ツ) 

✦ For a complete list of RR dramas, check out This One by Ree.
✦ Also check out the brand new RR Drama Lovers Club! (The explanation to certain tropes mentioned here can be found there)

If you have any RR recs feel free to let me know either in a pm or comment! 

✦ Other Lists: Role Reversal MASTERLIST
✦ SIMKL: RR (Movies)RR (TV Shows)RR (Anime (wip))

── ⋅ ⋅ ── ⋅ ⋅ ── ⋅ ⋅ ── 

Role Reversal (RR) meaning: Where the traditional m/w relationship roles are reversed. These can vary greatly in what kinds and to which degrees 

Organised from most RR to least (in my opinion). Includes non-romantic RR too (e.g. cool & protective sisters, stay at home fathers, etc)

⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️You will probably find some spoilers down below, I'm not holding back :P
If the ranking is off then that's because I moved stuff around T_T

Arclei Dec 9, 2023
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  • The Other Half of Me and You

    1. The Other Half of Me and You

    Chinese Drama - 2021, 32 episodes

    8.5

    Very RR. Alternate universe where the gender roles are flipped and oh my god do they deliver. FL nailed the suave charmer role. 

    Rewatched it and it's as good as I remember. Femboy/mascgirl rep at its FINEST. It really took the standard formula and just wrote women and men into the opposite roles. 

    Tags: CEO FL, Secretary ML, Cool FL, Cute ML | Femboy ML x Mascgirl FL, Boss FL x Employee ML, Rich FL x Poor ML | Matriarchy, Male (Love) Rivalry | Deadbeat Wife x Househusband

  • My Lady General

    2. My Lady General

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 23 episodes

    7.0
  • Hail to the Princess

    3. Hail to the Princess

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 20 episodes

    7.0

    VERY RR. Matriarchy done good. It's by no means perfect but it's of the better ones I've seen with us actually being able to see all positions of power being occupied by women. Men also actually appear as husbands and fathers! 

    Then there's the MCs. ML plays the supporting role to the two FLs. He often needs to be saved, he's protected and cherished and the FLs do most of the dangerous stuff/scheming without him. One FL is charismatic, and reckless while the other is the calm genius and ML is the sweet emotional support!!!!! 

    There isn't a whole lot of skinship going on but the RR vibes are defs there. FL always talks about wanting to protect ML and see him happy, hardcore crushing stuff while teasing him because they're 'besties'. I will say the trio was giving more poly vibes but I love that too so 10/10

    Tags: Concubine ML, Suave FL, Strong FL & SFL, Cold SFL, Innocent ML, Cute ML, Supportive ML, Flirty FL | Flirty FL x Naive ML, Friends to Lovers, Strong FL x Weak ML | Matriarchy, Women Get Shit Done

  • Secrets of the Shadow Sect

    4. Secrets of the Shadow Sect

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 24 episodes

    9.0
  • Goukon ni Ittara Onna ga Inakatta Hanashi

    5. Goukon ni Ittara Onna ga Inakatta Hanashi

    Japanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes

    Very RR. I mean, the RR dream, really. Cross-dressing tomboy, masc-presenting FLs (yes, 3 OF THEM) who pursue and woo three cute MLs. ML & FL have the confident, flirty, assertive FL x shy, flustered ML dynamic. She makes all the moves and leaves him blushing. Then the tertiary couple has the cool, somewhat aloof woman with a total cute puppy boyfriend, like omg!!! The dudes are definitely taken aback at being pursued, save for TML who's so obliviously adorable that he loves it. SO CUTE. Secondary couple seem the least RR so far but I'll see how it continues 

    ➤ Impression after 2 eps (Still watching)

    TLDR: Tomboy FLs, Cross-dressing/Masc FLs, Flirty FL x Shy ML, FL chases ML first, Assertive and confident FL, Cool girl SFL x Cute puppy TML

  • Love and Leashes

    6. Love and Leashes

    Korean Movie - 2022

    9.0
  • Zhang Gong Zhu Zai Shang

    7. Zhang Gong Zhu Zai Shang

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 27 episodes

    9.0
  • Love Counseling

    8. Love Counseling

    Korean Movie - 2018

    7.0

    Very RR. Set in an alternate universe where men can get pregnant, ML has a pregnancy scare after FL manipulates him into [doing the deed] without protection. Since it's an alt universe type deal, all the gender roles are reversed so FL is a 'cool' douchebag and masculine while ML is soft, sensitive and feminine. 

    WARNINGS: SA

    Full review

    TLDR: Douchebag FL, Sensitive ML, Weak ML | Strong FL x Weak ML, Mascgirl x Femboy | Mpreg

  • Please Love Me

    9. Please Love Me

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 24 episodes

    7.0

    Very RR! FL is a CEO, and ML is a model she hired for her company's promotion. She's strong, mature, grounded, and focused on her career, while ML is a smitten, cute, and immature puppy. She's older than him, so the dynamic is also refreshing in a good take at noona romance. She's also quite dominant, enjoying making ML flustered but also just looking out for him in the more casual dom kinda way. Absolutely underrated RR rep <3

    Tags: CEO FL, Model ML, Strong FL, Cute ML, Puppy ML, Mature FL, Innocent ML, Dominant FL, Submissive ML | Warm ML x Cold FL, Boss FL x Employee ML, Older Woman/Younger Man, Femdom x Malesub 

  • Beauty Killer

    10. Beauty Killer

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 20 episodes

    7.5

    Very RR. Very nice RR representation! Matriarchy setting that though rather nonsensical and shallow offers some cute RR moments for the leads.  FL is a manager tasked with making something out of ML's inn so they have a boss/employee thing going on (and FL loves to tease ML to no end). FL is absolutely smitten with ML, pursues him, flirts with him, spoils him, etc. Meanwhile ML is a total feisty tsundere that totally doesn't like her, okay? ML is also a musician by profession

    TagsFlirty FL, Bold FL, Assertive FL, Tusndere ML, Shy ML, Protective FL, Jealous FL, Muscician/Entertainer ML | Boss FL x Employee ML, Bold FL x Shy ML | Matriarchy, FL chases ML first 

  • Ho Goo's Love

    11. Ho Goo's Love

    Korean Drama - 2015, 16 episodes

    8.0

    Very RR! Amazing representation of RR (somewhat problematic rep of OTHER things but that's for another list). ML is sweet, caring, and cutesy while FL is cold, distant and rude. Not to mention ML's family are very RR as well with the mom being rowdy and taking the lead in the relationship while the father mostly looks out for the kids and takes care of them. ML's sister is also more like a typical brother, rude, a bit of a bully, and always picking on her brother but still being protective of him 

    Tags: Cute ML, Strong FL, Cold FL, Warm ML, Supportive ML, Bubbly ML, Rough SFL, Protective SFL | Warm ML x Cold FL, Rough SFL/Gentle SML, Brotherly Sister/Sisterly Brother | RR Family Dynamics | Girlboss x Malewife (ML's parents)

  • Hotel del Luna

    12. Hotel del Luna

    Korean Drama - 2019, 16 episodes

    9.0
  • Dong Lan Xue

    13. Dong Lan Xue

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 30 episodes

    9.0
  • Fall in Love with  Mr. Mermaid

    14. Fall in Love with Mr. Mermaid

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 20 episodes

    3.5

    Very RR. ML is an innocent merman that recently escaped captivity and FL is a cool CEO. ML is very naive, childish, and cute while FL is more mature and grounded one, taking on the role of his protector (he literally asks her to protect him from the bad guys and she often assures him throughout the drama that she always will <333). The pacing is extremely fast so we quickly get a lot of FL spoiling ML and he kinda becomes like her pretty stay-at-home boyfriend. She protects him and is also pretty possessive of him (in a normal kinda way, dw) like MLs typically are and ML loves being her pretty boyfriend. 

    Tags: CEO FL, Merman ML, Secretary ML, Strong FL, Cold FL, Innocent ML, Cute ML, Clingy ML, Sensitive ML, Protective FL | Cold FL x Warm ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Protector FL x Protected ML, Girlboss x Malewife, Boss FL x Employee ML | FL saves ML, FL carries ML, Stay-at-home boyfriend ML

  • Begin Again

    15. Begin Again

    Chinese Drama - 2020, 35 episodes

    7.5
  • Begin Again: Special

    16. Begin Again: Special

    Chinese Special - 2020, 1 episode

    6.5

    ^ Bonus content. 1st short was adorably RR. Protective and cool FL with a scardy cat ML, cuteness 100 tbh. Rest of the shorts had rr vibes like the rest of the show 

    Tags: Protective FL, Badass FL, Cool FL, Sensitive ML, Scared ML, Cute ML | Protector FL x Protected ML

  • Tea of Destiny

    17. Tea of Destiny

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    7.0

    Very RR. Rowdy, rough, heroine FL x Weak, posh, clever ML. Honestly, pretty good RR rep. FL is actually rowdy and doesn't need saving and ML has limits and requires saving from FL. Really enjoyed it

    TagsAssertive FL, Rowdy/Brute FL, Posh ML, Martial Artist FL, | Strong FL x Weak ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL | FL saves ML

  • Oh My General

    18. Oh My General

    Chinese Drama - 2017, 60 episodes

    7.5

    Very RR. The classic RR story. FL is a rough general who pretended to be a man for years, she's an excellent fighter and a total tomboy while ML is a spoiled nobleman who can't fight worth an ish and is a total brat. ML starts off kinda mid asf but later grows tf up and they really support each other. 

    Tags: General FL, Tomboy FL, Strong FL, Badass FL, Weak ML, Prettyboy ML, Femboy ML, Spoiled ML, Bratty ML, Mature FL, Supportive ML | Strong FL x Weak ML, Mascgirl FL x Femboy ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL

     On Hold

  • Hiyama Kentaro no Ninshin

    19. Hiyama Kentaro no Ninshin

    Japanese Drama - 2022, 8 episodes

    9.0

    Very RR. I mean, ML gets pregnant, enough said. Even before this, FL gives off more masc vibes and throughout the drama she very much has that on-the-fence boyfriend vibe (yes, yes, douchy AFFFF). ML becomes a boyboss and has quite some vulnerable moments which we love. Defs became more emotional and gentle as the drama went on!! Their dynamic is obviously quite RR with her having to look after him cuz he's pregnant. 

    Tags: Strong FL, (kinda) douchebag FL, Emotional ML, Sensitive ML | Mpreg

  • Shufu Maison

    20. Shufu Maison

    Japanese Drama - 2021, 6 episodes

    7.5

    Very RR. An episodic minidrama about the lives of 5 men living as househusbands in a househusband-exclusive apartment building xD In order from most RR to least RR couples/episodes: 

    • Ep 2: Overworked caretaker househusband (+ stay-at-home father). He's on top of everything and so devoted to his family and he's even part of a housewives' club (PEAK masculine behaviour, we love to see it)
    • Ep 4: Reserved corporate househusband (+ stay-at-home father). He's extremely diligent in the hosuehold affairs, approaching it like a corporate job which he thinks he wants to go back to only to choose taking care of his family instead (I loved all the characters in this one, tbh, even the wife and the daughter were adorable. My fav ep!).
    • Ep 3: Younger influencer househusband. Older woman/younger man AND the wife is kinda more like the manager. He feels like he's being used more like a content farm and less like a husband (this one was adoooorable) 
    • Ep 1: The main MC. His story develops even in the later episodes. He's the average type of chill guy who suddenly becomes a househusband and has to learn how to do it, the POV character, if you will. He really comes around and ends up devoted to his new job and we love to see it. 
    • Ep 5: This one wasn't RR and that was kinda the point. He's only a househusband until he can finish his studies and he has no intention of being a househusband. He does come around but it really was his wife putting in 80% of the work.

    I didn't mention the wives a lot because it's male-focused and ngl the wives were quite lacking in depth but the drama is 2hours total so everyone was kinda lacking a bit in depth, lmao. My favs were Ep 2 & 4

    Tags: Househusband MLs, Breadwinner FLs | Girlboss x Malewife
    - Ep 2: Parenting RR Dynamics, Stay-at-home Father ML, Sensitive ML, Caretaker ML
    - Ep 3: Cute ML | Older FL x Younger ML, Manger FL x Influencer ML
    - Ep 4: Parenting RR Dynamics, Stay-at-home Father ML 

  • Wen Yao

    21. Wen Yao

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 28 episodes

    6.0

    RR. Slight romance. This drama delivered role reversal in both the main relationship and the cases they solve. FL is a strong and badass warrior, the cold and aloof kind while ML is a cute and quirky detective type, very warm and caring. They start off pretty close and ML has an adorable crush on FL and even imagines her wooing him (adorable/10). Due to the nature of their dynamic, FL is ML's protector and saviour, always watching over him and ready to destroy anyone who touches him. This dynamic was so giving, I wish we got more romance. 

    As for the cases... We're first introduced to the leads when ML uses himself as bait to get captured as a sacrificial groom (he was dressed as a bride so we even get femboycore, aaaa). The entire case revolves around a series of missing grooms said to have been killed by a vengeful ghost (female, duh). The rest of the cases have some atypical situations like female rulers in a patriarchy, etc.

    Tags: Strong FL, Badass FL, Fighter FL, Weak ML, Protective FL, Cold FL, Warm ML, Sensitive ML, Cute ML | Strong FL x Weak ML, Protector FL x Protected ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL, Cold FL x Warm ML | FL saves ML (a lot)

  • Love Starts from Marriage Season 2

    22. Love Starts from Marriage Season 2

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    7.5

    RR. FL is a CEO, though ML is also from a wealthy family, he's bullied by them and thus isn't well off until later. FL is domineering, cheeky and flirty while ML is calm, gentle and submissive. She takes the lead in their relationship, even 'forcing' him to live with her. For quite a while ML is her stay-at-home husband, doing the household chores while she is the breadwinner. Later on she secures his position in his family's company so she basically builds him up entirely (she also owns his workplace briefly). There's also an adorable scene where she makes another grand gesture to win him back and AUGH!!! my heart. ML does end up saving her a couple of times but FL isn't helpless or childish which is sooo refreshing for these F!CEO dramas.

    I will say they fumbled the RR in the ending more than I would've liked (mostly the final 5th) but whatya gon do. 

    Tags: CEO FL, Calm ML, Flirty FL, Strong FL, Dominant FL, Submissive ML, Househusband ML, Determined FL, Tsundere ML | Femdom x Malesub, Boss FL x Employee ML (briefly) | FL chases ML first

  • Sousa Kaigi wa Living de!

    23. Sousa Kaigi wa Living de!

    Japanese Drama - 2018, 8 episodes

    7.5

    RR, subtle but very present (the drama is not romance focused tho, more of a family drama but both leads are married). ML is a househusband who's the more caring and nurturing type while FL is a cop who's more cool and rough. I love them so hecking much

    Tags: Househusband ML, Breadwinner FL, Cool FL, Badass FL, Strong FL, Nurturing ML, Calm ML 

  • Chasing Love

    24. Chasing Love

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 24 episodes

    7.5

    RR. Cute puppy ML x strong, feisty FL in the 1st arc, but the 2nd arc takes place in a matriarchy. FL peruses ML and he's very much a tsundere (though admittedly far sweeter than the usual) and she's all forward, trying to woo him. 10/10 rr dip kiss scene AND FL teaching ML how to shoot an arrow scene, would recommend. Also FL's mother, the empress actually has a husband who loves her dearly and takes care of her 10/10. There's still the expected traditional things things in the drama so yeah

    Tags: 
    - Arc 1: Puppy ML, Strong FL, Smitten ML
    - Arc 2: Tsundere ML, Flirty FL, Assertive FL, Strong FL, Shy ML | Royal FL x Commoner ML, Bold FL x Shy ML, Girlboss x Malewife | Matriarchy, Husband abduction, FL chases ML first | Empress x Consort Supporting Couple (FL's parents)

  • Hong Dou’s Journey through Time

    25. Hong Dou’s Journey through Time

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 24 episodes

    7.5

    RR. Ended up being more RR than I was expecting o-o The drama is split into two arcs, in the first one, FL travels through time and gets close to ML who's an idol. He's very much a flustered tsundere turned puppy while she behaves like the empress that she is, periodt. In the 2nd arc they both travel back to FL's time and ML becomes FL's concubine. He does chase her first which was less than ideal but in the 'trying to win favour' kinda way for the most part. He also befriends two fellow concubines and they form a brotherhood as they each try to win the empress' favour xD There's also some platonic-RR with a neighbouring kingdom where the princess presents her little brother as a consort for FL. He's the embodiment of a himbo and deserved better while his sister is the scheming evil one 

    Tags: Empress FL, Concubine ML, Strong FL, Weak ML, Bold FL, Warm ML, Mature FL, Cute ML, Bubbly ML, Quirky ML | Cold FL x Warm ML, Empress FL x Concubine ML | FL has a harem, Male Concubine Supporting Characters

  • Parallel World

    26. Parallel World

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 38 episodes

    9.0

    RR. FL is this suave, flirty, chill jokester type ML is very bothered, passive and easily flustered. He's the 'looks tough but is very soft' type. He also plays caretaker to her quite often and she saves him pretty much all the time. Both leads kick butt in a power couple kinda way, yes, however FL does way more of it and is way better at it, ML is the designated driver. 

    Tags: Strong FL, Badass FL, Flirty FL, Shy ML, Cool FL, Suave FL, Protective FL, Caretaker ML, Babygirl ML | Strong ML x Stronger FL, Protector FL x Protected ML, Gets-in-trouble FL x Always-worried ML | Prince in Peril ML

  • Lao Ban De Qi Yue Nan You

    27. Lao Ban De Qi Yue Nan You

    Chinese Drama - 2021, 25 episodes

    3.5

    RR. FL is a domineering and actually p cool CEO. ML is a down on his luck waiter who ends up becoming her secretary and contract boyfriend after she saves him from being taken advantage of (like OMGGGG, knight in shining armour much??? She even pays for his mother's(?) hospital bills, like c'mooonn). FL is flirty, forward and cheeky while ML is shy, submissive and awkward. (she show was made with pocket change and a dream but I would LIVE for a longer version of this, like omg)

    Tags: CEO FL, Secretary ML, Flirty FL, Assertive FL, Shy ML, Cool FL, Dominant FL, Submissive ML, Sugar Mommy FL | Boss FL x Employee ML, Girlboss x Malewife, Rich FL x Poor ML | FL saves ML

  • Damn! I'm Tempted

    28. Damn! I'm Tempted

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes

    7.0

    RR. Peak brat ML x brat-tamer FL dynamic if I've ever seen any. ML was the prefect tsundere bratty kitten and FL was just so cool and mature, effortlessly managing his petty outbursts and needy tendencies. FL comes to ML's company to guide him for him to inherit his family's company so she is also somewhat like his mentor. Also the amount of times FL brings a clingy drunk ML home is far too many- bro does unfortunately have a drinking problem xD The first 3/4ths are super RR, then it kinda goes a bit into traditional territory with ML proposing and going into "I'll protecc u" territory but it' whatever IG. 

    Their steamy scenes are incredible, tho. If you need a fix of puppy eyes and whiny "jiejies" this is for you. 

    Tags: Strong FL, Mature FL, Immature ML, Naive ML, Innocent ML, Kitten-turned-puppy ML, Calm FL, Dominant FL, Flirty FL, Bratty ML | Mentor FL x Mentee ML, Brat ML x Brat-Tamer FL, Dom FL x Sub ML 

  • The Princess Royal

    29. The Princess Royal

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes

    8.5
  • The Romance of Tiger and Rose

    30. The Romance of Tiger and Rose

    Chinese Drama - 2020, 24 episodes

    8.5

    Fairly RR. Most of the RR happens because of the matriarchy setting (think, fathers taking care of the household, male courtesans, female rules/officials/guards etc.). It's explored okay-ish (still lacking but at least there's an attempt) and the secondary couple were quite cute and rr (musician x princess. Both are gentle and sweet towards each other which is a refreshing dynamic for sure and the musician is really giving mommy bf vibes and I've never seen before or since, but I'm obsessed). 

    !!!!Lead couple aren't RR

    Tags: Princess FL, Consort ML, Tsundere ML, Flirty FL | Royal FL x Consort ML | Matriarchy, Husband abduction | F!Master x M!Servant (supporting couple), Male Courtesan Supporting Character

  • Beautiful Vampire

    31. Beautiful Vampire

    Korean Movie - 2018

    7.0

    Fairly RR. Vampire FL x Human ML, FL is tragic and gloomy (cat energy) while ML is cutesy and sweet (retriever energy). It's got the age gap, FL struggling to control herself with ML (cuz of the vampirisim), ML being bridal carried, protective mother-- what more can one want?

    Tags: Vampire FL, Puppy ML, Cute ML, Strong FL, Physically Strong FL, Clingy ML, Cold FL | Vampire FL x Human ML, Older FL x Younger ML, Sunshine ML x Gloomy FL | FL saves ML, FL carries ML, ML is FL's weakness (?)

  • My Merman Brother

    32. My Merman Brother

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    5.0

    Fairly RR. FL saves ML from his captors and takes him in as her boytoy/pet/concubine. She's dominant but I'd say more domineering which wasn't quite to my liking but it's still fine. ML is adorably pouty and cute, loving the possessive attention of his new 'owner'. Their dynamic is quite RR save for the fact that ML still saves the day (because of course). 

    Scene of note: ML going into merman 'heat' and FL being his only remedy- I am not making this up.

    Tags: Government Official FL, Concubine ML, Pet ML, Merman ML, Dominant and domineering FL, Submissive ML, Flirty FL, Assertive FL, Cool FL, Mistreated ML, Possessive FL, Cute ML, Puppy ML | Dom FL x Sub ML, Master FL x Servant ML | FL saves ML, BoytoyHusband abduction 

  • Happiness

    33. Happiness

    Korean Drama - 2021, 12 episodes

    7.0

    Fairly RR. FL has this easy-going badass pro thing going on that's so common in MLs and is thoroughly refreshing to see on a woman. She's the best at her job, a hell of a fighter, and constantly takes initiative in her life, not taking ish from anybody. ML isn't really lagging behind since he's a detective and a good one at that, but he's way more bubbly, constantly worrying about FL and the peopleTM, and always smiling at her. He supports her, letting her do her thing, knowing she's more than capable of taking care of herself and of him. He also is the more sensitive one, taking risks for the people while FL just wants to protect him and keep him safe <3 

    Tags: Strong FL, Physically Strong FL, Badass FL, Cool FL, Sweet ML, Supportive ML, Fearless FL, Assertive FL, Protective FL, | Strong ML x Strong FL, Power Couple, Chaotic FL x Worried ML | FL saves ML, Power Couple

  • Feng Jun

    34. Feng Jun

    Chinese Drama - 2025, 60 episodes

    6.0

    Fairly RR. Honestly I was positively surprised with his hidden gem!! Quite an unusual watch in the sea of RR minidramas. FL is the ruling empress of a (seemingly) patriarchal kingdom. ML is her loyal general who attends the concubine selection and with the help of previous life shenanigans, they fall in love. In terms of RR, this one ranks pretty high but arguably the best part of it, is that the role reversal felt somewhat more realistic and subtle. They neither go to the extreme of literally reversing the roles nor to the 'there was an attempt' territory, it stands kind of in-between which makes it refreshing. 

    In the sea of RR reverse-harem dramas that are basically just the traditional stuff but FL holds a higher position, this one stands out. It really felt like all the men were concubines trying to win their wife's favor in a more expected and RR kinda way (without being only domineering and possessive. They had their moments but there was more to it). ML especially was a (manipulative) drama king. How he'd immediately tear up when another man approached FL and cry woe-is-me to have FL's attention (dw, she liked only him) was peak RR goodness. FL also made quite a believable empress (poor writing aside). She was no child whining constantly. 

    Both steamy scenes were very interesting. One was clear femdom the other was... role reversal but different. Definitely very interesting. I'd recommend checking both out (I'd link timestamps but the videos change in length often, it's a bit past the midway point).

    ML still takes on a more traditional role as FL's protector and general which is why this didn't rank higher. Dynamic-wise they're RR, relationship-wise they're somewhat RR but it mostly stems from their dynamic/positions. 

    Tags: Empress FL, Consort ML, Strong FL, Protective FL, Seductor ML, Homme Fatale ML | Reverse Harem, FL has multiple spouses 

  • Saitama no Host

    35. Saitama no Host

    Japanese Drama - 2023, 8 episodes

    6.0

    Fairly RR. Slight romance. FL is tasked with making something out of a failing host club with quirky hosts. FL is the aloof and slightly mean kind, she's strong (like also literally, she kicks butt) and determined and very protective of her boys. The MML is this super shy awkward angel who's also the most popular host (xD). There are a lot of pretty boys everywhere (with interesting fashion styles, I will say) with even one supporting character being a femboy (an ALT femboy at that) and ngl, I didn't realize just how DEPRIVED I am of femboys I have been, good grief- Hell, even the host's uncle is super feminine. Twas lovely~

    Tags: Host MLs, Manager FL, Strong FL, Protective FL, Sensitive MLs, Martial Artist FL, Badass FL, Cold FL, Shy ML, Socially Awkward ML | Boss FL x Employee ML, Cold FL x Warm ML | Host Club, Femboy supporting characters 

  • The Blue Whisper: Part 1

    36. The Blue Whisper: Part 1

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 22 episodes

    7.5

    Fairly RR. Started out very RR, later faltered (mostly in pt.2 which is why I didn't include it). ML is the sweet and naive prince (a merman, yay!), FL is the hardened and cold warrior. Also the secondary couple which is basically girlboss x malewife (bonus points for the malewife being a literal catboy) and also the tertiary couple were the woman is very forward and confident while her man is shy and reserved (at least when it comes to relationships). 

    Tags: ML trusts only FL, FL is ML's tamer (literally), Husband abduction
    - 1st Couple (ML & FL): Merman ML, Prince ML, Guardian FL, Flirty FL, Innocent ML, Shy ML, Cold FL, Kind/Warm ML, Strong FL, Naive ML, Catty ML, Protective FL | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Flirty FL x Shy ML, Protector FL x Protected ML
    - 2nd Couple (SFL & TML): Catboy TML  (literally), Cold SFL, Warm TML, Househusband SML | Girlboss SFL x Malewife TML, Master SFL x Subordinate TML, Cold SFL x Warm TML
    - 3rd Couple (Supporting characters): Assertive F, Flirty F x Shy M, Dom F x Sub M

  • My Uncanny Destiny

    37. My Uncanny Destiny

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    6.5
  • The Legend of Zhuohua

    38. The Legend of Zhuohua

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes

    9.0

    Fairly RR. I'd say the lead couple fall more into egalitarian territory but FL fawns about ML's beauty a lot, shamelessly chases after him and takes initiative, ML calls himself FL's lover rather than the other way around, etc. But then there's also the secondary couple with a female villain x the one person she actually likes. She's so commanding of him, takes what she wants from him, is assertive afff and he rather eagerly lets her-- Yes, they're toxic but it is RR

    Tags: Assertive FL, Blunt FL, Strong FL, Supportive ML, Evil SFL, Kind SML, Gentle SML, Supportive SML, Dominant SFL, Ruthless SFL | Egalitarian relationship (leads), Badgirl SFL x Goodboy SML, Villain SFL x Subordinate SML | FL chases ML first (leads), Strong Female Villain, 

  • Monster Hospital

    39. Monster Hospital

    Chinese Movie - 2021

    5.0

    Fairly RR. FL is a powerful demon who's cold and aloof, ML is a scholar with a child who needs saving (it did have some unusual themes though. Yes, I mean Mpreg)

    Tags: Demon FL, Strong FL, Weak ML, Cold FL, Aloof FL, Warm ML, Innocent ML, Single Father ML | Strong FL x Weak ML, Demon FL x Human ML | Mpreg 

  • Ye Cheng Fu

    40. Ye Cheng Fu

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 16 episodes

    6.0

    Fairly RR. Role reversal extends only as far as the matriarchy concept goes which by itself is already rather shallow. The lead couple are RR on the surface but traditional in execution. ML is still the more powerful, intelligent, capable one and ends up saving FL left and right while FL is little other than a bratty damsel in distress. At least they do have some cute RR moments between the leads, which I'm ngl is mostly carried by the ML (and his super charismatic acting). 

    Regardless, ML is still somehow the more RR-coded one. He owns a brothel which he runs with his boy squad™. He's also a dancer, queenmaker, a drama queen, and his relationship with his mother plays an important role in the drama. FL is lowkey toxic as hell (so yay for the rr in that aspect ig?) and other than that just whiny. 

    Tags: Warrior FL, Dancer ML, Courtesan ML, Brothel-owner ML, Queenmaker ML, Prettyboy ML, Cold FL, Coquettish ML, Puppy ML, Warm ML, Flamboyant ML, Toxic FL. Courtesan SML, Playgirl SFL, Flirty SFL | Warm ML x Cold FL | Matriarchy, RR mother-son dynamics

  • Drama Special Season 10: Socialization – Understanding of Dance

    Fairly RR. Of the more down-to-earth type of RR. FL is taller than the average and ML is shorter, they're partnered up for a dance and must find a way to make it work and overcome their insecurities. A lot of social commentary on gender roles through a fairly lighthearted lens. Quite tasteful about it all, both leads finally realise that being different isn't bad and embrace their switched gender roles (that RR dance scene at the end was 100/10).  

    Tags: Dancer ML, Nice ML, Loner FL, Bubbly ML, Warm ML, Distant FL | Tall FL x Short ML, Warm ML x Cold FL, Sunshine ML x Gloomy FL | RR partnered dancing 

  • An Ancient Love Song

    42. An Ancient Love Song

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 14 episodes

    10

    Fairly RR. FL seems to remember things that happened between ML and her while he does not so she is the one to pursue him and pamper him in the beginning. She's also an empress so there's a lot of pampering going on. FL is a badass martial artist that fights like a demon while ML is an ordinary guy whom everyone seems to want to kill so she saves and protects him a lot. 

    TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Weak ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Empress FL, Noble Woman x Common Man, FL saves ML, Protective FL, Dominant FL. 

    Still watching... 

  • Secret of Three Kingdoms

    43. Secret of Three Kingdoms

    Chinese Drama - 2018, 54 episodes

    9.0

    Fairly RR. FL is cold and aloof, unafraid of making the tough calls and very distant and broken (her answer to everything is violence and I'm here for it) while ML is warm and kind, far too innocent and idealistic for his own good. In pretty much everything, FL is more experienced (love, politics, etc) while ML is not. Though he's the emperor, she definitely takes the lead in the relationship. Secondary couple have similar vibes but more badass power couple vibes since both are fighters. SML still has that "I can fix her" energy tho. Admittedly the RR vibes falter a bit for the leads and entirely for the secondary couple as the show progresses, ML becomes more assertive and FL calms down a lot which kinda leaves them more in egalitarian territory than RR, still a massive W tho <3

    TLDR: Warm Man/Cold Woman, Innocent ML, Mature FL, Puppy ML, Broken FLs x I-Can-Fix-Her MLs, Badass SFL, Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

  • Monster Hunt

    44. Monster Hunt

    Chinese Movie - 2015

    7.5

    Fairly RR. Girlboss x Boywife. FL is a monster hunter who ends up having to protect a 'pregnant' ML. She's strong, he's weak, they end up co-parenting with ML taking on more of the maternal role. A bit of the RR was played for laughs unfortunately but all around quite nice. 

    TLDR: Strong FL, Weak ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, FL saves ML, Warm Man x Cold Woman, Mpreg

  • The Flower and the Empress

    45. The Flower and the Empress

    Chinese Movie - 2019

    4.5

    Fairly RR. I dropped everything I was doing to watch this movie RAW- Matriarchy setting which was thoroughly executed, arguably of the best I've seen (I mean female empress, princesses, officials, soldiers and they like behave like the opposite sex too? Like the men take care of the kids and look out for each other- like IT WAS GIVING OK). FL is a badass princess while ML is a pretty dancer with his goal being the bestest dancer UwU She saves him multiple times (even saves him from being taken advantage of) and he's so smitten, like omg. Unfortunately it later falters a lot and loses the RR focus. ML trains and becomes a powerful warrior and they become more of a power-couple, which is fiiiiiiiiiiiiiine, I'm not piiiiiiiiiiiiiissed :))))

    I apologise for the lackluster description but I couldn't find any subtitles :((( so this is based on my limited mandarin knowledge and context clues. I know I missed a LOT so I don't dare bitch more about the random supernatural path the movie took ?

    TLDR: Matriarchy, Warrior FL, Strong FL / Weak ML (first half), Dancer ML, FL saves ML, Soft ML, Kind ML,

  • Love Crossed

    46. Love Crossed

    Chinese Drama - 2021, 36 episodes

    8.0

    Fairly RR. All the boys are naive and innocent. FL is bubbly but assertive and rather forward (and so incredibly, tremendously down bad, we love to see it) while ML is definitely a tsundere (he was kinda giving spunky kick-yo-ass but a guy). She is the forward one, actively perusing him and he's very shy and flustered. SFL is a cold and aloof CEO (+ her assistant is a man) while SML is the gentle and nurturing type. Still seeing how their dynamic progresses but so far, he's giving a bit mommy BF vibes to her workaholic loner. 

    TLDR: CEO SFL, Assertive FL, Innocent ML, Down-bad FL, Tsundere ML, FL saves ML, Nurturing SML

     On Hold (11/36)

  • Ooku

    47. Ooku

    Japanese Movie - 2010

    7.5

    Fairly RR. It definitely wasn't as RR as I was expecting, it was however more gay than I was expecting xD The RR extends mostly as far as the world does. IMO it was actually a pretty good adaptation of a matriarchy stemming exclusively out of need (due to the high male mortality) and thus has a lot of patriarchy-like elements as it transitions. 

    FL is veryyyy RR. She's extremely badass, mature, wise, you name it. ML is the free-spirit type, very focused on being a samurai so less RR unfortunately. The drama takes place in what's essentially the harem so there's a lot of men being extra and petty (and very, very gay). Unfortunately not a whole lot of women, even FL shows up only at the midpoint. 

    TLDR: Matriarchy, Male-Harem, Concubine ML, Shogun/Empress FL, Strong FL, Badass FL, Escort (prostitute) ML (briefly in the beginning) 

  • Men Zhu

    48. Men Zhu

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 36 episodes

    5.5

    Fairly RR. Valid enough attempt at role reversal, nothing wow but better than others

    TLDR: Sect Leader FL, Dom FL x Sub ML, Master FL x Servant ML

  • Flex X Cop

    49. Flex X Cop

    Korean Drama - 2024, 16 episodes

    9.0

    Fairly RR. Unexpectedly very RR for a crime/thriller with little romance but a LOT of subtext. FL is a rough, cold, no-nonsense tomboy chief detective and ML is a bougie flamboyant and adorable rich heir. ML ends up working under her and FL can't stand him. Despite their initial hostility, FL saves him often and he even goes to her when he's scared and she reluctantly (but is it really?) always helps him. ML can handle himself but he still needs saving often. 

    There's also a supporting character that gives off a lot of dom energy, often grabbing ML and SML in domineering ways for the case (*wink wink*). 

    TLDR: Warm ML/Cold FL, Strong FL, Badass FL, Strong ML x Stronger FL, Protective FL, Protector FL x Protected ML, Babygirl ML, Power couple, Tomboy FL, Flamboyant ML, Prettyboy ML, Casual FL x Extravagant ML, Girlboss X Malewife.

    ➤  Impression after 4 episodes

  • My Beloved Wife

    50. My Beloved Wife

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 20 episodes

    Fairly RR. General FL x 'Weak' cute ML. 

    TLDR: General FL, Consort ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Cute ML

     On Hold

  • Phoenix Lands in the World

    51. Phoenix Lands in the World

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 24 episodes

    5.0

    Fairly RR. FL is a powerful sect leader, ML is her concubine (yes, that's his position. he's her plaything). Similar premise to SotSS but unfortunately less RR goodness. FL transmigrates so her supposedly badass persona ends up being more typical, ML on the other hand remains more rr but it's not great rep tbh.

    Then there's the secondary couple, SFL x SML. Now THESE TWO were giving. She's protective, hot-tempered, aloof, domineering, possessive, the whole thing while he's sweet, kind, nurturing, calmer and always trying to do damage control. She even says that he belongs to her <33333 Unfortunately their scenes together are basically nonexistent and they're mostly written off after the first couple of eps. 

    TLDR: Sect Leader FL, Concubine ML, Matriarchy Sect, Warm Man SML x Cold Woman SFL, Possessive SFL 

  • Marry Me, My Queen

    52. Marry Me, My Queen

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    4.5

    Fairly RR. Slight RR within the main couple. FL is the ruler, ML is her consort. She's also a bit of a player/flirt and has concubines (but they're more like guards) while ML plays hard-to-get. The secondary couple give more RR goodness though, SFL is a domeneering warrior while SML is submissive nobleman. Nothing deep but pretty cute and she's assertive AF.

    TLDR: Queen FL, Consort ML, Flirty FL, Playgirl FL, Tsundere ML, Dom SFL x Sub SML, Assertive SFL, Shy SML, Concubine SML

  • Female CEO Love Me

    53. Female CEO Love Me

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

    5.5

    Fairly RR. Bossy female CEO x tsundere male employee 

    TLDR: CEO FL, Assertive FL, Tsundere ML, Boss FL x Employee ML

  • Wake up to Fantasy

    54. Wake up to Fantasy

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 25 episodes

    6.0

    Fairly RR. FL is an empress, ML is her consort who's there to kill her because she's evil, however turns out FL has two personalities. Because of this premise, FL spends most of the show as a bit of the dumb naive FL type ;-; Her alter ego is deliciously domineering though. ML embarks on a quest to save FL from herself (lol) so he's quite caring and sweet towards her. I will say that the story is about FL which is very refreshing for Cdramas especially. Even in the end, she tells ML that her ruling matters more to her than her love life and he agrees to stay by her side and help her. 

    I'm a bit conflicted about where to rank this one so I'll just leave it here for now. 

    TLDR: Empress/Queen FL, Consort ML, Caring ML, FL Focused Story, Strong FL, Cruel FL. 

  • Run On

    55. Run On

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    9.0

    Somewhat RR. Mostly the secondary couple. SFL takes the lead in the relationship while SML is the cutesy one. She's a CEO while he's a broke art student. Wasn't too big a fan of them though. 

    Lead couple are quite egalitarian imo. They kinda give the same in the relationship, there are no overly big gestures from either of them without it being reciprocated. Both give and take the same, so it's very healthy and balanced. I will say that FL is quite assertive, stubborn, and no-nonsense, while ML is quiet, shy, and reserved. She's also quite protective of him 

    TLDR: Protective FL, Strong FL, Assertive FL, Passive ML, Shy ML, Egalitarian Relationship (leads) | CEO SFL, Puppy SML, Warm Man SML x Cold Woman SFL, Older Woman SFL x Younger Man SML

  • The School Nurse Files

    56. The School Nurse Files

    Korean Drama - 2020, 6 episodes

    6.5

    Somewhat RR. Not romance focused First off, FL is the ACTUAL main character, instantly +10 points. The romance is subtle which imo worked for the best. FL is a badass monster hunter and ML is a special boy (<3) who she has a magical connection with (he's literally a recharge station for her). She's strong, bold, brave and selfless and he's her pretty companion who's trying his best to understand. She saves him a lot, is super protective of him (as well as her students) and is jealous of the others that want him (double meaning of 'want' for his ability and/or for his heart, mmmmm). ML is also a teacher which is apparently a common babygirl job. 

    TLDR: Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Badass FL, Strong FL, Brave FL, Weak ML, Supportive ML, Eccentric FL x Grounded ML, FL saves ML, Sidekick ML, Assertive FL, Protective FL, Jealous FL, Nice ML. 

  • The Eternal Love Season 3

    57. The Eternal Love Season 3

    Chinese Drama - 2021, 30 episodes

    7.0

    Somewhat RR. The embodiment of r/therewasanattempt. They tried to do the matriarchy and sometimes they did fine but... overall, it was quite underwhelming in this department. They had some good things for sure, FL having two husbands, SML was giving malewifecore, secondary and tertiary couple were kinda giving, but ultimately, it wasn't great. I've since watched more historical cdramas of all kinds and I must say that the RR is present, despite being shallow. It also doesn't help that this is a sequel and not a standalone. 

    TLDR: Matriarchy, Reversed harem (Two husbands), Assertive FL, Flirty FL, Tsundere ML, Nurturing SML, Gentle SML

  • Fake Love

    58. Fake Love

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 63 episodes

    7.0

    Somewhat RR. FL is a rich CEO, ML is a poor bartender barely making ends meet to save his sickly girlfriend. FL wants him for nefarious reasons so after she saves him from being harassed by women, she becomes like his sugar mama, paying for his expenses and for his time ;) ML is very much like her boytoy, sticking by her side, warming her bed, and cooking for her. FL is dominant but in the 'serve me' kinda way and ML is submissive in the 'yes, ma'am' kinda way. It's not as RR as one hope might think but it's pretty good nevertheless. ML still has his protective BF moments but so does FL and far cooler so it balances itself out xD 

    Allow me to just quote the title on YT: "She took out three gold bars and bought the poor boy as her bedmate." (it is not clickbait but maybe a lil exaggerrated)

    Tags: CEO FL, Stay-at-home husband ML. Cool FL, Sweet ML, Cute ML, Dominant FL, Submissive ML, Shady FL, Sugar Mommy FL | Rich FL x Poor ML, Dominant FL x Submissive ML, Sugar Mama FL x Sugar Baby ML | FL saves ML

  • Flower of Evil

    59. Flower of Evil

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    8.0

    Somewhat RR. FL is the cool breadwinner while ML works mostly from home and takes on more of the household & child-rearing jobs. FL saves ML plenty of times, too and is protective of him. 

    Tags: Breadwinner FL, (mostly) Stay-at-home Father ML. Strong FL, Protective FL, Motherly ML | FL saves ML 

  • The Ingenious One

    60. The Ingenious One

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 36 episodes

    Somewhat RR. FL is an excellent martial artist. She's a badass who fights like a demon and she's HELLA strong. Meanwhile ML is a weak trickster who can't fight at all and relies on his smarts or others (usually FL) to save/protect him. She saves him multiple times and manhandles him plenty. She teases him and he's both intrigued by her but also scared. 

    Tags: Martial Artist FL, (kinda) Bodyguard FL, Strong FL, Weak ML, Cold FL, Badass FL, Babygirl ML, Flirty/Teasing FL | Brains ML x Brawns FL, Cold FL x Warm ML | FL saves ML

    On Hold (08/36)

  • Kuragehime

    61. Kuragehime

    Japanese Drama - 2018, 10 episodes

    8.0

    Somewhat RR. Not really RR in themes, tbh... The coupling is rather traditional but on the healthy side (no toxic ML or FL!!). ML is a cross-dresser and honestly rocks it which is the most RR aspect of the drama (it is one of the main aspects though, so) and FL is lowkey fascinated by him and his beauty.

    Tags: Cross-dresser ML, Femboy ML, Prettyboy ML, Coquettish ML, Smitten FL, Flamboyant ML | Plain FL x Flamboyant ML, Designer FL x Model ML

  • Ore no Kawaii wa Mousugu Shohikigen!?

    62. Ore no Kawaii wa Mousugu Shohikigen!?

    Japanese Drama - 2022, 9 episodes

    8.5

    Somewhat RR. Pretty ML who depended on his cute persona and good looks all his life with a cold, socially awkward FL who doesn't get the hype. 

    Tags: Prettyboy ML, Vain ML, Drama Queen ML, Flamboyant ML, Warm ML, Cold FL, Simple FL, Cute ML, Bubbly ML, Puppy ML | Cold FL x Warm ML, Calm FL x Dramatic ML

  • Mad Doctor

    63. Mad Doctor

    Taiwanese Drama - 2022, 10 episodes

    8.5

    Somewhat RR. FL is a famous doctor who's tired of life. She's aloof, chaotic and a drunk. Meanwhile ML is the town puppy, always helping people out and generally warm. She's also established to be quite a bit older than him and she's his first time which is also a whole thing xD There's also SML who very warm and bubbly and super squeamish about doctory-things. He also kinda acts like FL's protégé 

    Tags: Deadbeat FL, Puppy ML, Himbo ML, Cold FL, Quiet FL, Cute ML, Warm ML, Stern FL, (kinda) Mean FL | Cold FL x Warm ML, Older FL x Younger ML | FL led narrative | Warm SML, Cute SML | Bossy SFL x Sweet SML

    On Hold (06/10)

  • Rise from the Ashes

    64. Rise from the Ashes

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 24 episodes

    8.5

    Somewhat RR. More egalitarian than role reversal but it had some elements. FL is an extremely strong person, confident, sure of herself and very, VERY is and though ML isn't exactly weak, he does let her take charge more often than not, often even saying he likes being used by her (for revenge, ok, buttttttt-). We stan a supportive king. They're the definition of Gaslight, Gatekeep, Girlboss and Malewife, Manipulate, Manwh--e, tbh. FL is also more experienced in love due to having been married before and ML is a flustered mess about it so she often takes initiative or pulls an uno reverse on him xD Lastly, the story is about FL so she's the MAIN main character. 

    Tags: Strong FL, Confident FL, Assertive FL, Cunning FL, Supportive ML | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

  • Nothing but You

    65. Nothing but You

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 38 episodes

    7.0

    Somewhat RR. A very well done noona romance with some RR elements as well. I will start this off by saying that ML really embodies the 'young man wanting to impress an older woman' character type which isn't very RR xD That being said, the age gap is handled very well with FL being mature, grounded, and protective and ML being a cutie vying for her affection and trying to prove himself. Their dynamic felt quite egalitarian in the end since both put in equal amounts and balance each other out very well. 

    Tags: Strong FL, Protective FL, Puppy ML, Cute ML, Mature FL | Older FL x Younger ML, Mature FL x Immature ML, Experienced FL x Virgin ML, Manager FL x Talent ML, Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

  • Startling Love

    66. Startling Love

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    Somewhat RR. ML takes his sister's place in a wedding and pretends to be her in her new family. He really goes all out with his disguise both looking and behaving the part. He's not actually like that outside of his disguise but it's still amusing and pleasant to see. FL is strong, bold, and assertive, protective of her sister-in-law (ML lol) despite not really being a fighter (she protects him from himself). Sister-in-law ML x Sister-in-law FL isn't an RR dynamic I thought I would ever see but here I am

    SFL takes on her brother's identity (ML) in order to get close with what's actually ML's husband (what should've been her husband). The family dynamics are honestly a mess.

    Tags: Cross-dresser ML, Cross-dresser FL (briefly), Femboy ML, Assertive FL | ML pretends to be a woman | Cross-dresser SFL

     On Hold (subs are bad so I'm waiting...) 

  • Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West

    67. Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty II To the West

    Chinese Drama - 2024, 40 episodes

    6.0

    Slightly RR. Slight romance same RR secondary couple once again. Cold warrior SFL x Weak sweetie SML. She's just so cool, getting things done and being his enforcer and protector while he runs around solving mysteries. He's not helpless exactly but he literally cannot fight so she's like his bodyguard girlfriend.

    Note: Ranks higher than season 1 because they're together since the beginning.

    Tags: Martial Artist SFL. Strong SFL, Weak SML, Badass SFL, Cold SFL, Warm SML, Babygirl SML | Strong SFL x Weak SML, Brains SML x Brawns SFL, Cold SFL x Warm SML, Protector SFL x Protected SML | SFL saves SML

  • Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty

    68. Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 36 episodes

    9.0

    Slightly RR. Not romance focused but secondary couple have the cold, badass, fighter woman x warm, sweet, can't-fight man dynamic which was very sweet even if it didn't appear often 

    Tags: Martial Artist SFL. Strong SFL, Weak SML, Badass SFL, Cold SFL, Warm SML, Babygirl SML | Strong SFL x Weak SML, Brains SML x Brawns SFL, Cold SFL x Warm SML, Protector SFL x Protected SML | SFL saves SML

  • Hilarious Family

    69. Hilarious Family

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    8.0

    Somewhat RR. Multiple couples but some have RR vibes. Most obviously there's the youngest daughter x the prince. She's very rowdy and strong, a local heroine as she likes to call herself. He's a prince who's quite shy and reserved. She manhandles him a lot. 

    Then there's the mother (FL) and they family friend who has a thing for her (SML). He's submissive to her and tries very hard to please her, meanwhile she's tough as nails and uninterested. 

    Finally, there's the second daughter (SFL) and the family servant (ML). The least RR out of the three but she often has to look out for him and stand up for him and he IS her servant 

    Tags: Strong FLs, Assertive FLs, Gentle MLs | Master FL x Servant ML | Strong Woman x Weak Man (supporting couple). 

    ❌Dropped @ Ep 15 for now

  • Family Matters

    70. Family Matters

    Korean Drama - 2024, 6 episodes

    8.5

    Somewhat RR. Very slight romance. RR more for the family dynamics. The lead couple have a bit of a girlboss x malewife thing going on. She's also cold and struggles to do feelings while he's warm and affectionate. Ultimately though, their dynamic is more egalitarian and power-coupley than RR though she is stronger than him, the story focuses around her, and she calls the shots. 

    Family dynamics: Especially in regards to FL's parental dynamic with both her children. First her son (TML), who's a total mama's boy and he admires and loves her greatly, wanting to be like her. He's gentle and considerate like his father. Then there's the daughter (SFL), who's rough and mean and has a competitive and kinda distrusting relationship with her mother (giving Jason & Bruce, iykyk). There's also the relationship between both teens (twins), SFL and TML. She's significantly stronger than him but he can hold his own.

    Finally the evil organization that's run by a woman known as The Mother, while The Fathers manage the children. It was surprisingly RR. There's also a consistent winx-like theme where the women seem to obtain power while the men are their center/caretaker, which I always think is interesting. 

    Tags: Strong FL, Protective FL | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Power Couple (leads), Egalitarian Relationship (leads) | Role reversal family dyanmics | Mean SFL/Kind SML (siblings), Strong MLs/Stronger FLs, Fighter Woman/Handler Man

  • Nobody Knows

    71. Nobody Knows

    Korean Drama - 2020, 16 episodes

    9.0

    Somewhat RR. Not romance but I didn't ship leads this much in a LONG time. Strong, badass, cold detective FL & warm, kind, weak teacher ML (AND SHE'S TALLER THAN HIM). They're dynamic was GIVING so much RR. He worries about her, she protects him, he tags along and she's reluctant, he breaks through her cold and aloof persona and she warms up to him-- what a DUO! 

    Also FL is basically the typical depressed workaholic detective but a woman and she's protective of her son-figure too so some great and unusual 'mother'-'son' bonding. Also, the drama is basically the reversal of the usual 'woman is brutally murdered and the men fix the problem'. This time it's a boy who's the victim and a woman solves the problem, 10/10

    Tags: Detective FL. Deadbeat FL, Strong FL, Cold FL, Badass FL, Warm ML, Protective FL, Nurturing ML, Supportive ML, Weak ML | Cold FL / Warm ML, Tall FL / Short ML 

  • Joosama ni Sasagu Kusuriyubi

    72. Joosama ni Sasagu Kusuriyubi

    Japanese Drama - 2023, 6 episodes

    7.0

    Somewhat RR. Very short and left somewhat inconclusive (hoping for a season 2) but an extremely cute and wholesome subtle RR story (leaning more into the noona territory). ML is the cutesy, bubbly and energetic one while FL is strict, stern and more mature. 

    Tags: Mature FL, Cute ML, Puppy ML | Older FL x Younger ML

  • Scent of Love

    73. Scent of Love

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 14 episodes

    7.0

    Somewhat RR. Started out promising, faltered later on. FL is a demon who saves ML plenty of times. I wouldn't go as far as to say they're perfectly RR but there are some elements here and there, a lot of noona vibes tho

    Secondary couple also had some RR elements. SFL was a cross-dresser and SML was a himbo king that was completely smitten with her 

    Tags: Demon FL. Strong FL, Physically Strong FL, Badass FL, Supportive ML, Cold FL, Aloof FL, Warm ML, Tsundere FL, Sweet ML, Cute ML, Puppy ML, Innocent ML | Older FL x Younger ML, Cold FL x Warm ML, Supernatural-Being FL x Human ML | FL saves ML ||| Cross-dresser SFL, Himbo SML, Warm SML | Girlboss SFL x Malewife SML

  • The Little Dragon Girl

    74. The Little Dragon Girl

    Chinese Movie - 2022

    4.0

    Slightly RR. Was debating adding this one for a while... Basically, the story is about FL while ML plays her supporting role. She takes the lead, she's the only fighter, she takes no ish and she also kinda sorta abducts ML to come with her. Meanwhile ML is kinda just the boyfriend™ who tags along and needs to be saved. The only reason this wasn't a "Hell yeah" is because both still kinda behave traditionally

    Tags: Dragon FL, Strong FL, Fighter FL, Kind ML, Warm ML | Malewife Abduction, FL saves ML 

  • Shijukara

    75. Shijukara

    Japanese Drama - 2022, 12 episodes

    8.0

    Slightly RR. A dark affair drama between a married older woman (40) and her young male assistant (22). This seems like a standard noona affair drama but it's more RR than that. Firstly, ML is her personal art assistant, he often cooks for her and even manages household chores so she can focus on her work. ML is also an escort for older women which plays a pretty important part in the story. There's also a scene in ep 4 where ML's childhood best friend (F) tries to force herself on him and he's very shaken after this so he calls FL for help and she saves and protects him (There's more to ML's sex work and this is all framed from an interesting perspective where it's very clear that ML did NOT like it and this is taken seriously). 

    Ultimately the leads' personalities are somewhat traditional so their dynamic isn't giving as much as it could but FL is older and more mature and ML is younger and more (emotionally) unstable. 

    Tags: Assistant ML, Prostitute ML. Protective FL, Emotional ML, Mature FL | Boss FL x Assistant ML, Older FL x Younger ML, Tall FL x Short ML, FL saves ML | Female SA perpetrator/Male SA victim

  • Kao ni Doro wo Nuru

    76. Kao ni Doro wo Nuru

    Japanese Drama - 2024, 9 episodes

    7.5

    Slightly RR. Could've been more RR but it wasn't. ML is the more RR one of the lead couple, he's a femboy (and cross dresses on occasion), very emotional and sensible and the younger one of the two. FL on the other hand is a pretty standard traditional (japanese) FL with a meek personality. The story is about her growth so she does improve and gain confident and agency but yeah. 

    Tags: Manic Pixie Dream Boy ML, Feminine ML, Femboy ML, Crossdresser ML, Cute ML, Plain FL, Emotional ML, Sensible ML | Plain FL x Flamboyant ML, Femboy x Femgirl, He Falls First-She falls Harder. 

  • Imawa no Kuni no Alice

    77. Imawa no Kuni no Alice

    Japanese Drama - 2020, 8 episodes

    8.5

    Slightly RR. No romance (but there IS subtext). FL is a badass, able to survive very well on her own in the death games. She's very athletic, clever, self-sufficient, and a bit cold but ultimately still a caring person. Meanwhile ML is just some guy but he's smart. He can't really fight but he survives fairly well on his own too. Throughout the drama FL often saves ML and protects him (though not as much as I would've liked D:). She also teaches him survival skills like hunting, filtering water, etc. It's implied that they have feelings for each other but nothing was confirmed. 

    A duo (M/F) of supporting characters have power-couple vibes. She's also quite a bit taller than he is. Source.

    Tags: Strong FL, Weak ML, Protective FL, Prince in Peril ML, Cool FL, Cold FL, Warm ML, Babygirl ML | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL, Protector FL x Protected ML, Bold FL x Meek ML, Mentor FL x Mentee ML (briefly) ||| Tall Woman/Short Man (supporting character duo)

  • Fox in Fuso

    78. Fox in Fuso

    Chinese Movie - 2020

    3.5

    Slightly RR. ML is being pursued by 3 women, all of whom are very protective of him. He can't really fight (he's a doctor) while they can. He's carried to safety more than once and lowkey objectified too. I'd say ML is more RR than any of the FLs since he's the gentle and kind prince-in-peril type who only really cares about helping people and love. Meanwhile the FLs are kinda written more traditionally and not all that feminist 

    Tags: Strong FL, Protective FLs, Sweet ML, Babygirl ML, Gentle ML | FL saves ML, FL carries ML

  • White Snake

    79. White Snake

    Chinese Movie - 2021

    4.5

    Slightly RR. FL is a powerful demon, ML is a weak himbo scholar who sees the good in everyone. She saves him bunch of times and does most of the butt-kicking. Giving more subtle girlboss & malewife vibes

    Tags: Demon FL. Strong FL, Weak ML, Puppy ML, Sweet ML, Nurturing ML, Himbo ML, Cool FL | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Supernatural-Being FL x Mortal ML, Strong FL x Weak ML

  • Gyeongseong Creature

    80. Gyeongseong Creature

    Korean Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

    6.0

    Slightly RR. Slight Romance. Wasn't expecting to find RR subtext here of all places but here we are. FL is a cold and aloof badass fighter who takes nobody's crap. She consistently does the bulk of the fighting and saving. Meanwhile ML is an emotional, rich socialite that's good with his mouth (he still holds his own in a fight but nothing compared to FL and ends up badly wounded from it). FL saves him often (she even had to physically drag him away when he had a deer-in-headlights moment), takes none of his smooth-talking and manhandles the crap out of him. 

    Tags: Sleuth FL, Socialite ML. Strong FL, Badass FL, Cold FL, Warm ML, Prince in Peril ML, Protective FL, Babygirl ML | Girlboss FL x Malewife ML, Strong ML x Stronger FL, Cold FL x Warm ML, Protector FL x Protected ML, Doer FL x Talker ML, Power couple (leads) | FL-led action scenes

  • Heart Medicine

    81. Heart Medicine

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 25 episodes

    5.0

    Slightly RR. Badass demon FL x Sweet human ML. She's assertive and more dominant, also meaner while he's sweet and naïve, seeking out her affection. 

    Tags: Demon FL, Strong FL, Badass FL, Dominant FL, Submissve ML, Cold FL, Warm ML, Cute ML, Sweet ML, Puppy ML | Cold FL x Warm ML, Supernatural-being FL x Human ML, Dominant FL x Submissve ML 

  • The Enchanting Phantom

    82. The Enchanting Phantom

    Chinese Movie - 2020

    7.0

    Slightly RR. Mostly supernatural badass FL x Weak scholar ML. She saves him multiple times but still kinda falls under the seductress role so...They were still cute 

    TLDR: Demon FL, Puppy ML, Strong FL, Sweet ML, Supernatural-Being FL x Mortal ML, Girlboss x Malewife

  • Laplae the Hidden Town

    83. Laplae the Hidden Town

    Thai Drama - 2024, 20 episodes

    5.0

    Slightly RR. Definitely not as RR as I was expecting. The matriarchy is female-only and still somehow... traditional. Despite being like a tribe, the matriarchy still acts like any other matriarchy portrayed in media, very patriarchy influenced. They do, however, have a 'devil-hunting' season, which is basically a mating season where chosen girls go out to the regular world and 'hunt down' (seduce) a 'devil' (man) to get pregnant by. The wording was interesting, and it's nice to see women being proactive and assertive, but that's about it. I was honestly expecting it to be darker for sure, but the whole thing is like PG, so...  

    Then we have the leads. Both FLs are assertive and chase the MLs; however, FL is still fairly traditional. She's very much like Rapunzel and quite the damsel in distress, but she still makes all the moves on ML, so we got something. SFL is far stronger in every aspect. She can fight, is fearless, and goes for what she wants. She also ends up with SML, who can't fight at all. ML is the free-spirited type who wants to wait until marriage and is very sweet; SML is more Flynn Rider/Aladdin -coded, but he becomes a clingy bf once SFL gets pregnant and demands he must take care of her.

    Full review

    TLDR: Matriarchy, Female-Centric Plot, Husband hunting, proactive FLs / Passive MLs, Assertive FL x Shy ML, Strong SFL x Weak SML, Protective SFL, Girlboss SFL x Malewife SML. 

  • Love Me Fearlessly

    84. Love Me Fearlessly

    Chinese Drama - 2021, 16 episodes

    6.0

    Slightly RR. This definitely was an unexpected bit of RR fluff. Miniseries following two couples, FL and ML who are the more traditional couple only that they have quite some girlboss x malewife energy with ML even being the more sensitive and emotional one while FL is jealous and possessive (sure they give off a more traditional approach to the dynamic like overbearing GF x simp BF but they have their moments) and then SFL and SML who are the more RR ones. SFL is SML's boss and she's quite domineering and cool while SML is very shy and innocent.

    TLDR: Girlboss x Malewife, Cool FL, Emotional ML | Boss SFL x Employee SML, Domineering SFL, Naive SML, Shy SML 

    100th Title Added!!!

  • A Dream

    85. A Dream

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 22 episodes

    2.0

    Somewhat RR. Started out promising but then lost the plot like a little bit in. The beginning is quite RR with FL being this badass empress dowager that has plenty of boytoys (main one being ML). Then it goes into typical cdrama royalty annoyances of ML being weirdly strong (and plot twist, he's the crown prince from another kingdom and she marries him as his consort at the end) and way too much attention put on awful 'politics' T_T Y'all, I don't recommend 

    Tags: Empress Dowager FL, Eunuch ML, Servant ML, Sassy ML, Flirty FL, Concubine/Plaything ML | Master FL x Servant ML, Flirty FL x Flustered ML | FL saves ML

  • Destined

    86. Destined

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 40 episodes

    8.5

    Slightly RR. This one appears to be more traditional than it actually is. Both characters ultimately do display expected gender roles but with twists. FL is mature and jaded while ML is carefree and naive which leads into the "I'll make a man out of you" situation (FL to ML) where she gets him to grow up. FL manages the household affairs AND all the family businesses while ML works on studying and getting a good official position. ML also has this underlying fear of FL which is peak (it's healthy, I swear) and FL doesn't take his crap (which yeah is framed a bit traditional but I die for puppy MLs wanting to be praised, oop-). 

    Also there's MLs parents who very much have the girlboss x malewife. She was the one that built their enterprise from the ground up and she manages all the family businesses while the father happily tends to his plants <3 Lastly, 

    TLDR: Girlboss x Malewife, Strong FL, Cute ML, Naive ML, Mature FL x Naive ML, Matriarch FL, Puppy ML, Feminism | Girlboss x Malewife supporting couple. 

    ❌ Dropped.

  • Yes, Her Majesty

    87. Yes, Her Majesty

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 20 episodes

    7.5

    Slightly RR. Faltered quickly after the very beginning. FL was the empress and ML was her consort which was rather endearing, bbut plot twists happened.

    TLDR: (beginning) Empress FL, Consort ML

  • Painted Skin: The Guo Jingming Edition

    88. Painted Skin: The Guo Jingming Edition

    Chinese Movie - 2020

    9.0

    Slightly RR. General FL ftw and her husband (SML), though also a warrior, stays at home due to an injury while she goes do cool girl stuff (lowkey living for this set up). ML is elegant and gentle and has a bigtime crush on FL which gives rr vibes too, kinda giving that naive supernatural creature x rough human vibes. Admittedly, it was very short so 

    TLDR: General FL, Power couple, Stay-at-home husband SML, Gentle SML, Kind SML, Established couple, Homme fatale ML, Naive ML.

  • The Sweet Blood

    89. The Sweet Blood

    Korean Drama - 2021, 15 episodes

    5.5

    Slightly RR. Really not as RR as I thought it would've been (or could've been), tbh. We have a supernatural romance between FL who's a half-vampire and ML who's a human and has very desirable blood. She's protective of him and saves him plenty and he's quite the prince in peril (like genuinely super weak, kinda walking into danger type). She's also cold and grumpy while he's sweet and warm. I definitely think ML was more RR than FL. Even while writing this it seems more RR than it *actually* is

    TLDR: Strong FL x Weak ML, FL saves ML, Supernatural being FL x Human ML, Cold FL, Warm ML, Cold Woman x Warm Man, Grumpy FL x Sunshine ML, Sweet ML, Shy ML. 

  • He from the Deep Sea

    90. He from the Deep Sea

    Chinese Special - 2024, 20 episodes

    2.5

    Slightly RR. Not bad RR rep all things considered. FL is a CEO and ML is her assistant. He does pursue her first and save her a couple of times  but she looks after him, spoils him, and allathat. She's cold and aloof and he's cute and bubbly. He's also a merman who talks with animals so very disney princess-coded (but he also kicks butt because OFC he does)

    TLDR: Girlboss x Malewife, CEO FL, Merman ML, Cold FL x Warm ML, He falls first-She falls harder

  • My Mermaid Boyfriend

    91. My Mermaid Boyfriend

    Chinese Drama - 2022, 20 episodes

    4.5

    Slightly RR. ML is the more sensitive and bratty one (a drama queen, if you will) while FL is stuck having to deal with his shenanigans (aka, the reversal of the typical bratty FL & done ML). Also merman ML AND she has to save him 

    TLDR: Bratty ML, Naive ML, Innocent ML, Prince ML, Merman ML, FL saves ML, Supernatural being ML x Human FL.

  • Nagatan to Aoto: Ichika no Ryourijou

    92. Nagatan to Aoto: Ichika no Ryourijou

    Japanese Drama - 2023, 10 episodes

    8.0

    Slightly RR. More egalitarian than RR but some elements were still present. FL is 15 years older than ML and it really shows. She's way more mature and grounded while he's not immature but definitely lacking in the experience she has. ML is very supportive of FL as she achieves her dreams and the narrative follows her pretty exclusively. They were giving gentle power couple.

    TLDR: Older FL/Younger ML, Noona romance, Egalitarian Relationship (leads), Slight Girlboss x Malewife, Strong FL, Supportive ML

  • My SO Has Got Depression

    93. My SO Has Got Depression

    Japanese Movie - 2011

    8.5

    Slightly/Subtle RR. The lead couple fell more into egalitarian dynamic than role reversal but the vibes were still there. ML is soft, gentle and sweet and FL is very similar but more bold and protective. She supports him through his mental illness, encourages him, and even becomes the main breadwinner during his recovery period (years). Genuinely such a girlboss x malewife <3 So domestic and cute. 

    TLDR: (Emotionally) Strong FL, Bold FL, Soft ML, Shy ML, Gentle ML, Girlboss x Malewife, Breadwinner FL x Stay-at-home husband ML, Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

  • xxxHOLiC

    94. xxxHOLiC

    Japanese Movie - 2022

    8.5

    Slightly RR. Not Romance ML has this sort of mentor/mentee situation going on with FL (the mentor). She's strong, calm, calculated and strong while he's emotional, weak, and naïve. ML is such a prince in peril and needs to be saved like all the time and FL delivers (she's also SUCH a domme, like omg, I'm still mad they made ML so young). ML also literally becomes FL's maid and cooks for her, like, CMON!! There's also the main antagonist who... uhm... how to say this... ushe's down bad for ML- Like... touchy down bad, iykwim [insert skull emoji here]. Knowing ML is a high schooler made those scenes highly disturbing but yeah, there's that... T_T Interesting tho 

    TLDR: Not Romance, Strong FL/Weak ML. Prince in Peril, FL saves ML, Mentor FL/Servant-Maid ML

  • Wan Wan Lei Qing

    95. Wan Wan Lei Qing

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 24 episodes

    5.0

    Somewhat RR. Definitely not as RR as one might think. FL is the empress with a large harem of men. Amongst these men there are four main ones. Three are vying for her attention while ML is trying to kill her (and he's the one she likes T_T). Their personalities are very... what you'd expect (Men of the Harem inspired, it would seem). You have the mature and sophisticated one, the pretty 'easy' one, the tough fighter, and the hard-to-please MC. Despite them all being concubines, they all have jobs which is... yeah, I blame censorship. All of the dudes save for ML are somewhat RR-coded but still kinda lackluster. FL on the other hand is very strong and independent but actually. She is mature and level-headed and a good ruler. Unfortunately, it just... missed the mark with the RR... 

    TLDR: All-male-harem, Empress FL, Concubine MLs, Confident FL, Strong FL, Tsundere ML. 

  • Homme Fatale

    96. Homme Fatale

    Korean Movie - 2019

    7.5

    Slightly RR. ML is a courtesan, tends to be somewhat flamboyant, and has what were considered more traditionally feminine hobbies (flower picking, dancing, etc). Totally here for the male entertainment aspect (which was giving a lot of host club vibes) but ML ultimately had more playboy vibes than anything else. Lead couple are NOT rr but the brief secondary couple had the assertive woman x shyer man 

    TLDR: Courtesan (prostitute) ML, flamboyant ML, Assertive woman x shy man

  • Nv Wang Bi Xia, Yan Zong Qiu En Chong

    97. Nv Wang Bi Xia, Yan Zong Qiu En Chong

    Chinese Drama - 2023, 100 episodes

    Slightly RR. FL is the ruling empress in the past while ML is a general. She behaves like an empress and demands to be treated as one even in the present day. Meanwhile ML is stuck trying to figure out what's wrong with her and has to play along. Definitely does feel like they weren't quite sure of how to tackle the RR so they fluctuate between RR and not in a very weird and inconsistent way. 

    TLDR: Empress FL, Superior FL x Subordinate ML, Strong FL.

  • My Female General

    98. My Female General

    Chinese Special - 2024, 5 episodes

    Slightly RR. Very short and simple watch. FL is a general in historical china who travels into modern times. She's bold and rough, acting very much like a pretentious general (she can also fight and stuff) and ML is her #1 supporter even though he has no clue what's going on 90% of the time xD He doesn't really show up much at all, tbh. The romance is basically nonexistent 

    TLDR: General FL, Rough FL, Strong FL, Supportive ML

  • The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale

    99. The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale

    Korean Movie - 2019

    8.0

    Subtle RR. Slight romance The women are the emotionally strong ones while the men are more emotional. FL and TML have a bit of a protector x Protected thing going on which was pretty cute and he was kinda giving himbo but bro's a zombie so rip. SML and his wife very much have girlboss/boyloser vibes with the wife wearing the pants in the relationship and him mostly following her lead. All the women are protective and badass while the men mostly panic and need to be protected

    TLDR: Strong FLs, Girlboss/Boyloser, Protective FLs, Naive TML, Cute TML, Himbo TML, Slight romance

  • Kitty the Killer

    100. Kitty the Killer

    Thai Movie - 2023

    5.0

    Slightly RR. no romance. ML is the only man (the handler) in an all-girl organization of assassins. While all the girls are badass fighters, he's just an office worker who stumbled upon this so he lags behind a lot. The girls roughen him up, tease him, and ultimately protect and save him while he supports them as a father/uncle-figure. 

    TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Weak ML, The One Guy (ML in a mostly female setting), Female Fighter/Male Handler, Female Assassins, FL saves ML

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