Absolute Perfection (Or, as close as you can get)

I have so much to say and yet can only say very little.

This drama was so thoughtfully and delicately put together. The relationship between the MLs slowly formed to the point their connection was unmatched compared to others. Always barely a breath away from the other, and yet untouchable.

So how to risk stepping on a live wire?

A love that dare not speak its name.

The only reason I'm not rating it a perfect 10/10 is that a second season is desperately needed. Too much is left unsaid.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki, iQiyi, or GagaOOLala

Another HIStory series that is well done. It is very emotional and showcases discussions that are not usually shown in BL dramas. Warning: It is a rollercoaster of feelings. Despite that, I have watched this at least 10 times over.

Also, the little girl is so stinking cute. Every scene she's in is just a joy to witness. I really enjoyed the family aspect of this.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Even though they made my poor heart hurt from misunderstandings, this almost managed to be better than the first series. 

The acting was even better than before! I don't know how that was possible as the actors already did a phenomenal job last time! They really stepped up their game for this. I'm guessing they had to draw from some very personal experiences to convey the deep emotions that they did, especially for episode 2.

I am so tempted to give this 10/10 stars. Especially after the intense journey of emotions that was episode 2. My God.

The only reason I'm not is because I felt there was something, I'm not sure what, missing from the last episode. Perhaps a deleted scene?

They really did a great job with this though. It was a worthy follow-up!

The cinematography was everything. And I just  . . .  Was so moved by this.

Link to watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7IimAhjo9Q

Wow! This was a short film unlike any I've seen. The way they incorporated the colors of the Ace flag, placed you in the position of feeling like the woman during physical intimacy: crawling in your skin while hoping time speeds up, the quiet symbolism in the background. It was all so well-portrayed. I felt this truly spoke to the Ace experience.

Unlike some, I had a bit of a different interpretation regarding what the colors and, ultimately, the ending meant. The FL obviously dons the colors for the Ace flag, and then we have black and white. The Lesbian she meets up with and has sex with wears white, and her Straight boyfriend (and other assumed non-Queer people) wears black. By the end of the film, she gets in an elevator surrounded by people in black and chooses to zip up her black hoodie, declaring she is also black. To me, white represents the Queer Allosexual side, and black represents the Cis Hetero Allosexual (or Non-Queer Allosexual side, if you will). While she is truly Ace, she decides to conceal it. She could cover herself in white, but that would come with many more obstacles than if she took up the black mantle and blended in with the majority. Either way, she is concealing who she is; one comes with society's acceptance, though, making it the safer option.  

Can be found on GagaOOLala

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

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

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

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

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

Can be found on GagaOOLala or Rakuten Viki

I don't want it to be over! *sobs*

It continued on from the first series perfectly, but at the same time there were small changes in Hira and Kiyoi's dynamic; namely Kiyoi chasing after, propping up, and expressing more of his feelings to Hira.

I only wish the finale went out with more of a bang! Maybe that's just me not-so-secretly wishing there were six more episodes though. Lol. 

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or GagaOOLala

Saying I loved the ever-loving shit out of this would be an understatement! Gripping sword fights, an intriguing story, and a mysterious and talented ML? Yes, please!

My one minor gripe is that having the reporter FL felt rather unnecessary/annoying at times when I would have rather spent more time with Kakeru and the rest of the team. I understand that she served as a way for the viewers to learn what's going on, but still.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Very quirky, unique, and fun!

Never has there been such an amazing drama with amnesia. I can't think of any that did it better than this.

Yes, her memory resets every day. "To be continued, but she won't remember." But, her heart and spirit remain the same. She could be anything else and do anything else, but every morning she chooses yet again to be Okitegami Kyoko-san, Private Detective. That's just who she is. Who she chooses to be.

Can be found on free websites

How this drama filled my life with joy and laughter. Each Ossan's Love production from Japan always takes me along for a uniquely fun ride. They somehow manage to take the most ridiculous lines and situations and not only make them funny but heartfelt. I think Ossan's Love Returns somehow even managed to top its predecessors in this manner.

I cannot recommend this to you enough, my Dear MDLers.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

This is a rare case of not only poly rep but good poly rep and not only that, good Queer poly rep.

Our three leads don't enter into their three-person marriage knowing exactly what they want or having all the necessary information at their disposal. Polyamory is something new to all of them that they are discovering/exploring together.

And guess what? They're not perfect at it. They don't have firm boundaries around intimacy or have the best idea of how to approach things that convey respect for all parties involved.

But they learn and they compromise. And they come to see how perfect their three-piece Lego set is for them. How they can hold equal space for more than one person in their heart. How they fill in each other's gaps and bring out the best in each other. And above all, after many trials and missteps, they commit to their love even in the face of legal challenges and society's judgment.

Sannin Fufu holds a special place in my heart, without a doubt.

For those looking for poly rep and even more desperately than that, good poly rep, I would without hesitation recommend this. 

Can be found on Netflix

This was a very powerful and touching drama. I especially loved how, in this world of Japan, things appear hopeful by the end. It seems that because of this terrible law, people are now taking notice and caring more about minorities, those who are LGBT+, disabled, ill, of a different nationality, etc. 

Regarding Representation: I have only praise. I would recommend it just for the rep alone and how it showcases/discusses Queer people.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki 

Wow. This was one hell of a journey. I'm so glad I gave this a chance.

This was everything and more I was looking for in a Historical C-Drama:

A mentally strong, kind, and rounded FL✅
A smart, respectful, and understanding ML✅
A romance that is skillfully developed from an intimate friendship/bond✅
Plot twists and tragic events that are fitting for the characters and story✅
Engaging side characters✅
Gorgeous costumes✅
Sweet smiles✅

Can be found on Rakuten Viki or iQiyi

What can I say about this season that others haven't already said?

Somehow, they effortlessly managed to jump right back into the heat of things. It felt like we didn't even skip a beat since the last season! I would even say they ramped everything up. They leaned into cat-and-mouse games, presented already interesting characters in a new light, and, of course, got creative with the comedy.

Fan Xian was a force of nature but also a seething and hurt man, driven by morality almost against his will. He was also straight-up fine. His passionate anger toward injustice and willingness to sit with his grief but not allow it to overwhelm him brought fire into my own eyes.

Because I watched the first season not that long ago, I didn't have to live in agony for years on end like the rest of you. Here's hoping I don't have to take my turn and wait five years for Season 3.

Side Note: Can we talk about Second Prince? Because this man straight up chewed up the scenery like a damn goat. He was devious, he was childish, he was almost pitiful; he was a delight.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

or

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpghCOjR4QqouvusCZTvAgO2evXgYs1cy&si=rcY2GIDyuOwj4r9e

This drama was a true delight! It was somber and complicated, yet at the same time, threw out pure nonsense and refused to take itself seriously. It was as audacious and coy with its mysteries as its characters were with their scheming. Yet again, I am humbled by another quality C-Drama.

Thank goodness I only watched this this year, though, because if I had to wait 5+ years for a second season? I'd go crazy!

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Or

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTB73Ibi_X3H0oT42WnzzY_6lo3pQjNMW&si=44trDDHdIe65qcmq

Note: As if this didn't radiate confident Queer energy enough—or at least make this Queer lose her damn mind—the cherry on top of this magnum opus is that they straight up threw in a hinted Gay side couple, so how could I NOT give it a 10/10?!

This was . . . Everything. From the way they neatly executed an entire political plot with only two minutes to spare for each episode to the engaging romance and all-consuming and breathtaking chemistry between the gorgeous FL and ML, and, finally, to the dominating yet calming presence the FL exuded with every fiber of her being which made the dynamic between her and the ML a truly unique delight to witness. I was sat so far at the edge of my seat I was about to fall off.

Also, Ep 20?! *vigorously fans self* I am going back to replay that shit ten more times!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX0w6rCQl3mfoZjnddCNYgNfFfXKXRlYJ&si=44kkbyfPsE6ygzUm

This lovely, heartwarming drama managed to perfectly capture the sparks of young love and the limited time of our youth that, in the moment, feels limitless.

It certainly doesn't hurt that it also made me squeal from pure cuteness!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7SneaZWMW0otehz3rmR_7xVEaoW8yNVA 

This is Queer Joy!

A bumpy but oh-so-heartwarming road that makes me feel hopeful for the future. They may not listen now, but perhaps, someday, they will. Until then, be loud and proud. Let them know you exist, you are valid, and that you aren't going anywhere.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMPz9QG8YAxIjGoPfHFugXYAbumaqC0Cj&si=pt5K9KfFYk0cPehl

Go ahead! Fight me for putting it here!

I have a soft spot for this. It was one of my first K-Dramas. And, it's really funny. Plus, the soundtrack is everything. "Without words" is in my music library.

Can be found  on Netflix (with a VPN)

Or on free websites

I will be starting this today after seeing a friend was watching it on the feeds. It looks cute. And, it's only about 20 minutes per episode which works great with my schedule right now.

Update after completion:

At first this drama started out as being quite silly and almost following the enemies to lovers trope. However, over time as more background and detail was revealed about the characters, this drama became much more than I imagined. The beginning premise is basic. But, the characters are real, raw, have baggage and many imperfections, and have many deep conversations with each other about themselves and life.

It's entirely believable when we start to see feelings develop between them. And it hurts when they make mistakes and say/do things to each other they shouldn't have. These characters work through a lot and we go through it with them.

I don't know if I'm doing this drama justice in the way I'm describing it. Anyway, this is a surprising 9.5/10 for me.

A drama that discusses mental health in a respectful way and has a couple that feels incredibly real and honest about who they are.

Life-changing drama.

Boy, was this a captivating watch with a Bromance that seemed burned out only to come back with a scorching vengeance. Let me tell you, all the leads were engaging and worthy of my investment (the only thing I found just "okay" was the romance). But Jang Hyuk as Bang Won ? This man chewed the scenery like a straight-up GOAT. Like, forget everything and everyone. His powerful presence commanded him to be the center of attention. Sometimes I mistook him for being the main ML, because how could he NOT be?

Can be found on Netflix

"An ordinary day passes and another ordinary day comes. But life is still worth living. The past filled with regrets and the future filled with anxiety . . . Please don't let that ruin the present. Please love today radiantly. You have that right."

A comedic and sincere drama that cleverly snuck in the beautiful and heart-wrenching experience of aging and appreciating life with all its regrets and anxieties. Truly, radiant.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

When I tell you this was one of the most gripping K-Dramas I have ever seen! The fucking stress this caused me! I was biting my nails, screaming/hyperventilating, unable to relax for a single second!

As a person who can't handle face stuff (biting of the face/neck, poking out of eyes, etc.),  the mute button was my best friend here.

I demand consequences in S2, though, for the wrongs that happened here. Some people need justice, others need serious comeuppance.

Can be found on Netflix

I feel like the intro to this drama tells you everything you need to know. They saw what they never should have seen, and now they are running and hiding in the maze, trying to find some way out, only they get turned around as shadows lurk behind them and in front of them. There is camaraderie, clever and not-so-clever lies, brief smiles in a painful reality, failed plans, and blood-splattered footprints left on the path. "How did this all happen? If I'd never . . ."

This horrifying and engaging experience chilled me to the bone. It was a fateful car crash I couldn't tear my eyes away from. I fell hook, line, and sinker. But the question is, what did I fall for?

Can be found on iQiyi

What happens when a good man is thrust into a position of power? He stumbles under the massive weight put on his shoulders. But when he gets his balance, does he covet the seat?

Can a good man desire to govern?

Political games and plots played out over and over, and yet Acting President Park Moo Jin continued to fight to make decisions for the good of the people while keeping his principles, even when they weren't favorable to him.

If there was only such a candidate in my country.

"I just want a good person to win for a change."

Side Note: The epic stress this drama caused me was legendary.

If you are a dialogue junkie like me and like to see characters find the snake path in difficult situations, this is the drama for you.

Can be found on Netflix

Tell me how did I not watch this sooner?!

Layered cultures and conflicts, politics, race wars, class struggles, power plays, prophecies, and religion, all told within a new imagined age featuring the coexistence of the fantastical and the creation/advancement of civilization itself. The grand scale of it all astounds me.

And the costuming and commitment from the actors are just the cherries on top!

It's like if they took one of my favorite guilty pleasure TV shows, Reign, took out a lot of the unnecessary crap, actually made the pagan gods real, and gave some of the characters fairy wings and devil horns. Except make it make way more sense than how I just pitched it!

When I first put this on my list, I was only planning to watch Part 1. Now I see that is an impossible task! 

Can be found on Netflix

Now this was excellent! The bromance was bromancing and the crime-solving was criminally-engaging.

Sure, if I want to point out flaws, I can: I wasn't a fan of how they handled some more sensitive topics. But on the flip side, they really surprised me with their more liberal takes. On the part of Shen Yi in particular, there was a rather open and freedom-oriented perspective not only being voiced but being promoted by the drama itself.

I will warn you that you will get seriously sucked into this. So I hope you have enough time to watch two episodes at a time because limiting yourself to one each sit-down is challenging, if not impossible.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki (best subs) or iQiyi

This drama turned me into a dessert snowman melting into a sugary sweet puddle!

Other people have praised this drama enough. All I'll say is that if you like romance dramas that are sweet and slow, have little to no drama or conflicts, and feature a couple with great chemistry and communication who support each other and have a relationship as healthy as kale; this is for you!

Side Note: Seriously, if I start talking about how much of a green flag the ML is or how the FL is the embodiment of a prince who sweeps you off your feet, we'll be here all day! *blushes in "My Queen"*

It didn't top Hidden Love, but it did bandage my heart. Consider it highly recommended by yours truly.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

Pure heart and awesomeness—that was Cross Fire. Each match was an exhilarating experience, and I was constantly taken aback by the sheer creativity of the game sequences.

E-Sports was taken seriously here to the extent that I believe, regardless of your opinion going in, by the time you finish this drama, you will have no choice but to allow admiration to wash over you for these players' passion and fight to continue fighting.

My hat goes off to this drama. Even the sub-par subtitles couldn't dampen my enjoyment. 

Can be found on free websites

Watching Shi Guang struggle and flourish under Go master Chu Ying's guidance as he learned and became passionate about Go, touching and being touched by others who played it, was an unforgettable experience. The friendships and rivalries he created, the people who were lost along the way, and those who made it, as well as the setbacks and milestones, all made it a worthwhile and hard-won journey.

In particular, I loved Shi Guang's bond with his main rival and "secret" friend, Yu Liang. His quiet respect, drive to face him, and support.

As Shi Guang progressed and his passion for Go grew, so did my own. I may not understand the rules and complexities of it, but I now have a deep respect for the game. 

They truly make every game feel monumental.

Can be found on iQiyi

A few years ago, if you told me I would willingly sit down and watch a 78-episode-long C-Drama, I would have told you you're out of your damn mind!

I was taken on a carefully mapped journey that wasn't always pleasant, but great companions and an assured end made it all worthwhile. I wasn't always on board with the choices Ming Lan made or the positions she was put in. But what of my desires? I was happy if she was happy. And what a resourceful and intelligent FL she was to root for. Within the confines of rigid rules, societal standards, and ill-willed family members, she carved out a space of her own. Ming Lan earned my admiration and love.

And in the end, she got her revenge: A life well-lived.

My only real criticism is that I think they could have cut some scenes down, as it did seem to drag a bit. We don't have to see the entire process of walking from one location to the next, etc.

Side Note: I don't think I'll get over the insane use of the term "muddled." Even in serious situations, I couldn't help chuckling because, yet again, a pot is calling the black kettle "muddled."

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

I swear, this sequel was even warmer than the first movie. What a gentle and supportive love Aki and Haru have for each other.

Can be found on GagaOOLala

The main character is so different from the female leads I've seen before. She's not the typically goofy girl who trips all the time and blurts out whatever she thinks. She's incredibly reserved and says what she wants to say with her small physical actions and tells instead of words. 

The best comparison I have is Ram from My Engineer, but he's male. Both are characters in romantic stories with personalities I haven't seen before. I wish I had more like this! Then again, perhaps the novelty would wear off if that happened.

Really sweet, and heartbreaking at certain points. This movie dares you to challenge the way you think about people with trouble hearing, and gives you a different perspective. The relationship between the leads was also very natural.

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

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

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

Goodbye, Cheeky Bastard Charn and Good-Two-Shoes Tin. I will miss you.

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

Can be found on YouTube or iQiyi

When I tell you, I was just waiting for the quality to wane, but to my surprise, it only went uphill.

Each week, I would sit down and find myself grinning like an absolute maniac when I clicked play on the newest episode of Jack & Joker. I couldn't remember the last time I was so STOKED watching an airing drama!

The camerawork and lighting said expensive. The taekwondo scenes were more than believable; they were impressive. The cuts were smooth and creative. The acting from Yin and War was dialed up to 11! They breathed life into this drama and the characters Jack and Joker. I was enthralled by the language of their sincere stares, tender embraces, and self-sacrifices. And the gang hijinks, plots, and disguises were just SO fucking fun!

I think the biggest reason this drama was such a banger is that while keeping tensions high, it knew what it was. It knew when to be serious and when not to take itself seriously. There's a serious threat looming . . . But let's play Monopoly! We're all going to die! But . . . What if we kissed?

On top of all of this, there was this beautiful undercurrent message of forgiveness. From Joker desperately and sincerely working to earn it from Jack to Jack readily giving it with a smile and again with tears, to Joker reconnecting with his family and learning to value himself.

I'm sad that I won't have a new episode to look forward to next week.

All I can really say, though, is I am so amazed and grateful that for at least one day a week for about 1hr and 30 minutes (give or take), I got to feel fucking thrilled. And on a Monday, no less!

Thank you, Jack and Joker. I'm "zorry" *winks* this is the end for us . . . Until an inevitable rewatch, that is!

Can be found on iQiyi

My God, was this UNBELIEVABLY good. And it had it all: a sweeping soundtrack, superb cinematography, thrilling cases with high stakes, subtle call-backs and hidden meanings, outstanding chemistry between the leads, and soulmatey goodness.

It was romantic and action-packed, epic and whimsical, a comedy and a tragedy.

Did it look perfect? Not quite, no, but it was visually impressive! The CGI and costumes were colorful and creative, and where they lacked, the award-worthy performances of the actors made questioning anything feel unthinkable.

Treat yourself and watch this excellent drama!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYYyUhZKiEj5XgE3QYm10cAIhg2aNO--a&si=mQQ55FWGbLj2NI0l

Sliding into this special felt as smooth as just watching another episode of the drama. Excellent work!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYYyUhZKiEj5XgE3QYm10cAIhg2aNO--a&si=mQQ55FWGbLj2NI0l

What a wild ride this drama was! Lakorns really are a different breed!

Close-up shots and scenes shown in four different angles, snoopy characters who conveniently overhear important information, "sneaky" plots plotted aloud in open spaces where anyone might see, practically magic beetle orchid concoctions, aphrodisiacs, arranged marriages, loud grunting during fight scenes, bolting away only to go back, last-minute rescues, coughing up blood and violent bruising, and . . . Corpse mushrooms!? *gets sick again*

I loved the insane antics people went to just to keep/reveal "Thian's secret," the unbreakable brotherly bond between Thian and Yang (no matter what, Yang was on his side), the gentle and slow-moving romance of Thian and Jiu, the sweet and understated role Bua played in supporting Thian throughout his childhood, the bright presence of Phin with her uplifting words, and the eventual acceptance and encouragement by everyone for Thian to live his life in a way to make himself happy.

This was beautifully ridiculous, and I will, without a doubt, be coming back to rewatch it again and again.

I absolutely recommend you watch it.

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsxepgkpcQg_QpbWLUvjEc193qkNNJ4g3&si=Zf8tBK1qS4KVrpmS

With excellent actors in the lead roles, fake-outs and endless suspects, and an intriguing question at the center of it all, this was a thought-provoking mystery Thai drama to end the year with.

I loved that the focus was kept on euthanasia, what it means to die with dignity, and if following the law A.K.A. keeping up public morals actually serves people.

Don't come to this drama looking for a Romance. It HAS romance, but it is not a Romance drama (my best comparison of how this played out would be Manner of Death). Do come if you enjoy deep discussions, tension, second-guessing yourself, and slight romance.

Do I think some plot points could have been ironed out better with more details? Undoubtedly. But I'd say they accomplished what they set out to do, producing a compelling and atmospheric drama.

Can be found on iQiyi

One of the sweetest and most earned love stories I have ever witnessed.

They're as healthy and green as kale, and their chemistry is out of this world! She is SO lively and thoughtful, and he is such an observant and well-intentioned man.

If I begin to gush about them, I simply won't stop!

You've probably had it recommended to you or seen it on the feeds at least once. If you've ever felt even slightly tempted to watch it, I urge you to give in to that temptation. You won't regret it! 

Can be found on free websites

This drama . . . Was a true wonder.

What an entrance! What an introduction it gave! To have an event horrifying enough to break a person, be used as the backdrop for our leads' first meeting.

This had range and boldness, stellar performances, and amazing cinematography.

The way they illustrated Karan's powers through careful cuts and framing was seamless and gorgeous. And the "cherry on top?" The heavy price to pay for reversing time not only kept Karan's God-like power in check but also added to her character. They also had her visions blend with her nightmares, making her stepping back understandable and reminding viewers of the stakes. Clearly, they put a lot of thought into it.

I was intoxicated not just by the FL's chemistry but also by the endless possibilities of where the story could go.

Each week, when the episode ended, I found myself begging for another hour!

Criticism: The one aspect I wasn't satisfied with was how quickly and, honestly, forcefully they resolved Kliaokhluen's issues with her father. Years of parental abuse and neglect somehow didn't matter anymore because now there was one apology (and, guess what? Kliaokhluen told him he didn't have to apologize! *seethes*). Even when not long before it, their relationship was in tatters.

Side Note: Guess what? This is apparently the first Thai GL I'm rating a 10/10. Lol.

Can be found on iQiyi

I waited for Us for what felt like an eternity with bated breath. And though I didn't get what I expected (based on the pilot trailer), I wasn't disappointed in the slightest.

More than a romance, this was a story of commitment of a couple.

Dokrak and Pam had to push past their hesitations to be together, but once they did, they held each other through every storm. Never lashed out, left, or pushed the other away to "spare" them. They stayed when things were painful, supported each other from a distance when needed, and put their faith in their love.

No grand gestures or tragedy needed! Simply, "I love you and you love me. Us is all we need."

If you're looking for a healing watch with a warm love, I would recommend it.

Side Note: And no redemption arc for the shitty parent! We love that!

Link to YouTube Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLszepnkojZI7mOWtISfvxWVPikIM6yiXE&si=LnK_bid_w9y1QZag

This was such a well-crafted story of testing and expanding bonds of friendship.

As for the pair at the heart of it all, Shin and Saint, whose love for each other is almost indescribable, I have but Hozier lyrics to offer:

"If I was born as a blackthorn tree
I'd wanna be felled by you
Held by you
Fuel the pyre of your enemies . . ."
--NFWMB

"I would burn the world to bring some heat to you . . .

You are the reason I went through it, oh
The only meaning as I knew it, my-yeah
I can only do my best, I do not do this for myself
I'd walk through hell on living feet for you
I wouldn't be seen walking through any door

Some place that you're not welcome to . . ."
--Hymn to Virgil

"Each day, you'd rise with me
Know that I would gladly be
The Icarus to your certainty
Oh, my sunlight, sunlight, sunlight
Strap the wing to me
Death trap clad happily
With wax melted, I'd meet the sea
Under sunlight, sunlight, sunlight"
--Sunlight

"Leave it now, I am sky-bound
If you need to, darling, lean your weight to me

We'll float away, but if we fall
I only pray, don't fall away from me"
--I, Carrion (Icarian)

"When you move
I'm put to mind of all that I wanna be
When you move
I could never define all that you are to me"
--Movement

"Honey, this club here is stuck-up
Dinner and diatribes
I knew it from the first look of
The look of mischief in your eyes
Your friends are a fate that befell me
Hell is a talking type
I'd suffer Hell if you'd tell me
What you'd do to me tonight"
--Dinner & Diatribes

"When the meaning's gone
There is clarity
And the reason comes on the common tongue of your loving me . . ."
--Moment's Silence (Common Tongue)

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This is one of those one-of-a-kind dramas that you thank your lucky stars you wound up watching somehow.

It had toxic/messy people who got up to crazy shit and pushed people around who didn't deserve it, and on the surface appeared to be another typical over-the-top Lakorn. But when you really dug into it, it wasn't. It was so much more.

The unyielding love and parental/found family support this FL received through difficult circumstances, raising her up to be the brightest and kindest woman, surrounded by diverse individuals to take inspiration/strength from, was a thing of beauty to witness/learn about.

She walked into a room with a sad/angry individual and lit it up with her smile, grace, and understanding, leaving them a little ashamed and a little better for it, even rethinking their actions.

And her relationship with the emotionally detached but not at all cold ML was another wonderful journey of fun and commitment.

And as if all of that didn't make this drama beautiful enough, the careful reconciliations/redemptions they managed with characters I thought I could never come around to or see the good in, left me tearfully reaching for my own "magic shop."

I want to gush and gush some more about this drama, but above all, I just want you to watch it, too, and maybe, just maybe, see what I saw in it.

Can be found on Netflix (with a VPN in Thailand) or can be found on free websites

Great, yet frustrating for one reason: What school would possibly tolerate a student repeatedly assaulting another, and not expel them immediately?!

I love the chemistry between the couples, and this drama is a slow (despite the shortness) and intriguing watch.

I also have to commend them for their showcasing of some difficult topics such as violence, heartbreak, and the lingering effects of a physically/emotionally abusive relationship.

The actors did an amazing job. So amazing that I have reconsidered my rating, and am rating this drama 9/10.

I really didn't expect to love this so much!

Can be found on LineTV

For a drama with such a ridiculous premise as a teddy bear turning into a human, you'd think it would be nothing but a camp/cringe-fest.

While it does dip into the absurd/low-brow style of humor, with many jokes coming from a character's innocence/naivety compared to others regarding adult topics, talking chairs and slippers with comically large eyes, etc., it somehow becomes the perfect backdrop for serious topics. From societal issues and human rights to illness, trauma, and repression, they all become a little easier to swallow/put into perspective when seeing them through the once black-beaded eyes of a comforting stuffed animal to a new human, curious and overly optimistic about the world.

I can see why many found it dated (even for 2022) and others profound.

I say it stays its welcome just long enough.

Can be found on YouTube or free websites

I'm not exactly sure what I just saw. Or, at least what REALLY happened. But, it was REALLY good though. Not just good, great. Truly.

The acting was amazing, the shots were fantastic, and it almost made me cry. Scratch that, it made me cry.

Can be found on GagaOOLala or YouTube

This really was very Classic K-Drama reminiscient. I felt very relaxed and light while watching it. Took me back. At the same time, things were improved here.

The FL could be silly, but she was also very thoughtful, quick-thinking, empathetic, and not to mention snarky in the best way possible. At the same time, while the ML could be arrogant due to his skills and status, he was also childish himself, considerate, and a sappy romantic.

I really grew to love the main leads together and root for them in all their endeavors.

Now, onto the pièce de résistance: My favorite side couple.

It took me a bit to see it between these two, but once I did, I was all in. I loved the way Wang Mai Zhi was not only charmingly and hilariously cocky, but also almost a tsundere, and Wei Qi Zhen took his teasing but didn't let herself get walked over.

I heartily recommend giving this drama a shot! 22 episodes will feel easy, trust me.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This was a real treat of a modern C-Drama!

The leads were true, rounded, mature adults, both coyly and intentionally romantic, and highly ambitious and supportive of their partner.

They played "games" until they decided enough was enough, "I want to commit to you."

I felt warm all over watching them climb over papers and have their own personal realizations about their lives, ending the day coming home and sharing it all and enjoying each other's company.

Truly, a drama for the thoughtful romantics.

Highly recommended.

Can be found on Rakuten Viki

This was great! Strongberry always seems to do an amazing job with their short films.

I really liked the dialogue, acting, and the way it was shot. I'll definitely be watching it again. Honestly, it's amazing how much you can accomplish in 7 minutes with a short film.

Link to watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTa92oDTLqA 

Wonderfully shot and subtly told! Loved this!

Can be found on LineTV

Let me take this moment to be a spokesperson for this drama: If you're looking for consent like in Lovely Writer, it's to be found here. If you're just looking for good consent in general, it's to be found here.

There are flaws in certain plot points of course, but I still felt things played out in ways that made sense taking our characters' personalities and backgrounds into account.

Some of you may come for just those "scenes" but will hopefully stay for more, that being the consent and communication shown between not just the main couple but the side couple as well.

Regarding representation, because I would be remiss not to mention it, we had a confirmed Pansexual SML who was specifically called Pansexual at least twice and was described as being interested in/having dated men, women, and nonbinary people.

 Link to Review: https://kisskh.at/profile/8835865/reviews/171825

Can be found on LineTV