Role Reversal (RR)

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 oh my god is it 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. 

TLDR: Matriarchy, CEO FL, Femboy ML x Mascgirl FL, Cool FL, Cute ML, Boss FL x Employee ML, Rich FL x Poor ML, Male (Love) Rivalry, Deadbeat Woman x Househusband. 

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

TLDR: Matriarchy, Innocent ML, Cold FL, Suave FL, Women Get Shit Done, Flirty FL x Naive ML, Concubine ML

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

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

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

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

Very RR. Very nice RR representation! Matriarchy setting (though rather nonsensical and shallow), FL is absolutely smitten with ML, pursues him, flirts with him, spoils him, etc. Meanwhile ML is a total feisty tsundere.

TLDR: Flirty FL, Tusndere ML, Matriarchy

Very RR! Amazing representation of RR (somewhat problematic rep of OTHER things but that's for another time). 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. 

TLDR: Warm Man/Cold Woman, Cute ML, Strong FL, RR family dynamics 

^ 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 

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

TLDR: Assertive FL, Rowdy/Brute FL, Posh ML, Martial Artist FL, FL saves ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL

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. 

TLDR: Mpreg, Strong FL, Emotional ML. 

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).
• 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 really RR imo. 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

TLDR: Houshusband MLs, Breadwinner FLs, Girlboss X Malewife | 2nd couple (ep2): Father ML, Mother FL, Stay-at-home Father ML, Sensitive ML, Caretaker ML | 3rd couple (ep3): Older woman/younger man, Manager FL x Influencer ML, Cute ML | 4th couple (ep4): Father ML, Mother FL, Stay-at-home Father ML.

Very 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. 

TLDR: CEO FL, Calm ML, Flirty FL, Strong FL, Femdom x Malesub, Dominant FL, Submissive ML, Boss-Employee Relationship (briefly), Stay-at-home husband/Househusband ML, Determined FL, FL chases ML first, Tsundere ML. 

Very RR. A 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. ML starts off kinda mid asf but later grows tf up and they really support each other. 

TLDR: General FL, Prettyboy ML, Strong FL x Weak ML, Tomboy FL, Femboy ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL

➤ On Hold

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

TLDR: Househusband ML, Bread-Winner FL, Nurturing ML, Cool FL

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

TLDR: Puppy ML, Strong FL | Matriarchy, Tsundere ML, Flirty FL, Husband abduction, FL chases ML first, Empress/Emperor Consort supporting couple 

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 

TLDR: Strong FL, Weak ML, Cold FL, Warm ML, Cold Woman x Warm Man, Empress FL, Concubine ML, M!Concubine Supporting characters. 

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. 

TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Stronger FL/Strong ML, Protective FL, Protector FL x Protected ML, Caretaker ML, Babygirl ML, Flirty FL, Shy ML, Princes in Peril 

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 Their dynamic is very RR. 

Tags: Strong FL, Strong ML x Stronger FL, Badass FL, Assertive FL, Fearless FL, Protective FL, Power Couple, Cool FL, Sweet ML, Chaotic FL x Worried ML, FL saves ML. 

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 has gentle vibes I've never seen before or since, tbh). Lead couple aren't RR

TLDR: Matriarchy, Tsundere ML, Husband abduction. F!Master x M!Servant (not leads), Courtesan (prostitute) supporting character

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, Homme Fatale ML, Seductor ML, Reverse Harem, FL has multiple spouses

Fairly 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)

TLDR: CEO FL, Secretary ML, Boss FL x Employee ML, Flirty FL, Assertive FL, Shy ML, Domineering FL, Submissive ML, Girlboss x Boywife, Sugar Mommy FL, Rich Woman x Poor Man, FL saves ML, 

Fairly RR. FL is domineering but in a rather underwhelming attempt at RR kinda way, I'll take whatever I can get but it's worth mentioning. ML however is adorably pouty and cute (but still the butt-kicker because of course).

TLDR: Dom FL x Sub ML, Master FL x Servant ML, Merman ML, Domineering FL, Submissive ML, Concubine ML

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?

TLDR: Supernatural-Being FL x Human ML, Older Woman-Younger Man, Sunshine ML x Gloomy FL, Puppy ML, FL saves ML 

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

TLDR: Assertive FL, FL chases ML first, Egalitarian Relationship (leads), Strong Female Villain, Bad girl SFL x Good boy SML, Villain SFL x Subordinate SML, Dominant SFL

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~

TLDR: Host Club, Host MLs, Strong FL, Protective FL, Sensitive MLs, Martial Artist FL, Badass FL, Cold Woman x Warm Man, Shy ML, Socially awkward ML, Catty 5th ML, Femboys

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). 

TLDR: Innocent ML, Flirty FL, Cold FL, Kind ML, Merman ML, Husband abduction | Girlboss SFL x Malewife TML, Catboy TML, Cold SFL x Warm TML

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)

TLDR: Demon FL, Strong FL x Weak ML, Mpreg, Single Father ML, Cold FL, Supernatural-Being FL x Human ML

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. 

TLDR: Matriarchy, Cold FL, Warrior FL, Prettyboy ML, Coquettish ML, Puppy ML, Warm Man x Cold Woman, Dancer ML, Courtesan (prostitute) ML, Queenmaker ML, Courtesan (prostitute) SML, Playgirl SFL

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).  

TLDR: Tall Woman/Short Man, Nice Male Lead, Loner Female Lead, Bubbly Male Lead, Warm Man/Cold Woman, Sunshine ML x Gloomy FL, RR partnered dancing

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... 

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)

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

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,

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)

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) 

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

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

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

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

➤ On Hold

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 

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

Fairly RR. Bossy female CEO x tsundere male employee 

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

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. 

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

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. 

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

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)

TLDR: CEO FL, Cool FL, Sweet ML, Cute ML, Rich Woman/Poor Man, Dominant FL x Submissive ML, Sugar Mama FL x Sugar Baby ML, FL saves ML 

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. 

TLDR: Breadwinner FL, Motherly ML, FL saves ML, Protective FL

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. 

TLDR: Strong FL x Weak ML, Badass FL, Martial Artist FL, Smart ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL, FL saves ML, Flirty/Teasing FL

➤ On Hold (08/36)

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.

TLDR: Cross-dresser ML, Prettyboy ML, Femboy ML, Smitten FL

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. 

TLDR: Prettyboy ML, Warm ML, Cold FL, Warm Man/Cold Woman, Drama Queen ML, Vain ML

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 

TLDR: FL led narrative, Cold FL x Warm ML, Deadbeat FL, Puppy ML, Himbo ML, Older Woman / Younger Man, Warm SML

➤ On Hold (06/10)

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. 

TLDR: Confident FL, Strong FL, Cunning FL, Supportive ML, Girlboss x Malewife, Similars Attract, Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

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, Older Woman x Younger Man, Protective FL, Mature FL x Immature ML, Experienced FL x Virgin ML | Egalitarian Relationship (leads)

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.

TLDR: Cross-dresser ML, Cross-dresser FL (briefly), Femboy ML, Assertive FL, Cross-dresser SFL, 

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

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 

TLDR: Strong SFL x Weak SML, Badass SFL, Brains SML x Brawns SFL, Cold SFL x Warm SML, Protector FL x Protected SML, SFL saves SML.

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.

TLDR: Strong SFL x Weak SML, Badass SFL, Brains SML x Brawns SFL, Cold SFL x Warm SML, Protector FL x Protected SML, SFL saves SML.

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 

TLDR: Strong Woman x Weak Man, Strong FLs, Assertive FLs, Gentle MLs, Master FL x Servant ML

❌Dropped @ Ep 15 for now. 

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. 

TLDR: Older Woman/Younger Man, Bubbly ML, Mature FL

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. 

TLDR: Strong FLs, Protective FL, Girlboss x Malewife (leads), Power Couple (leads), Egalitarian Relationship (leads). Role reversal family dynamics. Mean SFL/Kind TML (siblings), Strong MLs/Stronger FLs, Fighter Woman/Handler Man

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

TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Cold FL x Warm ML, Weak ML, Tall Woman/Short Man, Protective FL, Nurturing ML

Slightly 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

TLDR: Older woman/Younger man, Supernatural-Being FL x Human ML, Strong FL, Badass FL, Cold FL x Warm ML, Puppy ML, Innocent ML, FL saves ML

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

TLDR: Strong FL, Fighter FL, Kind ML, Malewife Abduction, FL saves ML 

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. 

TLDR: Older Woman/Younger Man, Assistant ML, Boss FL x Employee ML, Protective FL, Prostitute ML, Emotional ML, Tall Woman/Short Man, Female SA perpetrator/Male SA victim 

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.

TLDR: Strong FL, Weak ML, Brains ML x Brawns FL, Protective FL, Prince in Peril ML, Cool FL, Babygirl ML, Bold FL x Meek ML, Brief Mentor FL x Mentee ML, Girlboss x Malewife, Romantic subtext | Tall Woman/Short Man (supporting characters)

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 

TLDR: Protective FLs, FL saves ML, Gentle ML, Sweet ML, FL carries ML

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

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

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. 

TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Cold FL x Warm ML, Protector FL x Protected ML, Doer FL x Talker ML, Babygirl ML, FL-led action scenes, Girlboss x Malewife, Power Couple, Princes in Peril

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. 

TLDR: Badass FL, Cold Woman/Warm Man, Supernatural being FL x Human ML, Dom!FL x Sub!ML, Puppy ML

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

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. 

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!!!

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.

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

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.

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. 

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

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.

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

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)

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

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. 

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

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.

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

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

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

Very slightly RR. No romance (though tbh, it WAS giving throuple but I digress). FL has a lot of older sister/protector/cool girl energy and she's the only one amongst the three leads that can actually fight. She also saves the MLs a lot and is very protective of them. It's subtle and platonic RR but I was in love 

TLDR: Strong FL / Weak MLs, Badass FL, Protective FL

Slightly RR. Not romance but the vibes were there. Both TML and FL are shamans but FL is the more skilled one so though not confirmed it seems to be a master/disciple situation. FL is very strong, badass, and cool and ML is like her sidekick, supportive and attentive of her and following her lead. She's also very protective of him. They're together the entire film but their dynamic is very much in the background.

TLDR: Strong FL, Badass FL, Supportive TML, Master FL / Disciple TML. 

Subtle RR but the leads were very much giving depressed FL x manic pixie dream boy ML which is the reversal of the usual trope so a win in my book! 

TLDR: Manic pixie dream boy ML, Normal-person FL, Strong FL, Naive ML, Innocent ML, Supernatural being ML x Human FL.

Slightly RR. There's a couple but there's basically no romance. SFL is bold and outgoing, forward and unapologetically herself. She's dating SML who's very shy, reserved and softspoken. He works from home so he does all the household chores and she even refers to him as a "pet" at one point. 

TLDR: Girlboss SFL x Malewife SML, Shy SML, Bold SFL

Very slightly RR. RR dwindled a lot after the first ep however ML does remain fairly awkward and puppy-like throughout the drama. He's supportive and comforting p much everyone. He does give off quite some 'loser virgin' energy but it gets better (his virginity is also pretty important to the plot and not in the typical kinda way). Girlbosses run the drama but none were really giving a lot of RR. FL was bold, confident, assertive and strong, but they're not really together a whole lot and their interactions are sour... Then SML and his girlfriend do have a BDSM somewhat Femdom/Malesub relationship but they're otherwise very traditional. 

Ep 1 - This episode was by far the most RR-coded and set my expectations high so here's the standouts: Girlboss x Boywife dynamic with the leads. FL even takes charge in the bedroom and WOO we love to see a pretty boy smothered in kisses (this scene was defs a nice treat, highly recc). There's also a pretty big emphasis on ML's virginity which is framed in an interesting way in this ep but that doesn't really carry later on in the drama. Then there's the platonic RR, ML and SML are friends with SFL who's a no-nonsense kickass and she protects the two boys from being bullied.

TLDR: Girlboss x Malewife, Strong FL, Weak ML, Badass FL, Shy ML, Confident FL x Shy ML, Protective FL, Assertive FL, Puppy ML, Platonic RR, Protective SFL, Slight FemDom x MaleSub (supporting character)