Underrated Gems Worth Checking Out

Genre: Music, Comedy, Romance, Fantasy
Type: Movie (1½hrs)

Very cute romantic story about a 'long distance' relationship between two people magically connected

Genre: Thriller, Sci-Fi
Type: Drama (30min)

A very well crafted mirodrama with an interesting-- albeit a bit confusing-- Sci-fi premise. Definitely the kind of story you'd need to watch twice but so well done!

Genre: Romance, Drama
Type: Mini(micro)series (1hr)

Short but sooo well made. It's an episodic drama with an overarching plot and all were well-crafted with a strong beginning, middle, and end. The main plot especially was a pleasant surprise! So well done! Also a surprising amount of plot twists that you don't really see coming + good acting, direction, and quality! 

Genres: Romance, Drama
Type: Short Length Series (3½hrs)

Unlike anything I've seen before! The plot twists were so many and so refreshing! I love the initial set up and the plot twists kept making it more and more interesting! I love the story, the messages and the conclusion. Such a refreshing watch! 

Genre: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Fantasy (Revenge, Suspense, Investigation, Historical)
Type: Movie (2+hrs)

An intriguing parallel world (normal world & fictional world) story with mystery/thriller vibes. 

Genre: Romance, Drama, Sci-Fi
Type: Short Film (29min) 

The more unknown Edward Guo short film. Very touching story about aging, companionship, loneliness with an amazing OST and beautifully made

Genre: Youth, Drama, Friendship
Type: Short film (28 min)

An arthouse film. Definitely a standout for it's unique cinematography and art direction. It was a bit headache-inducing so keep that in mind. Story was simple but effective. 

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
Type: Short Film (15min)

Dystopian scifi story with spectacular cinematography. Most intriguing aspect is obviously the choose-the-ending part, which was quite interesting and unlike anything I've seen before.

Genres: Action, Thriller, Historical, Comedy
Type: Short Length Series (5hrs)

Surprisingly good for a short drama? Not at the same budget or quality level as the others but a good, quick watch. Interesting characters and story, good pacing and a rather unique take 

Genres: Action, Thriller, Comedy, Sci-Fi
Type: Short Film (8min)

A glorified sci-fi skateboarding sequence in the best way!! Not only was it beautifully shot, but the skateboarding was epic and the premise was hilarious! 

Genres: Action, Thriller, Psychological, Crime
Type: Full Length Drama (12hrs)

So fricking good? Great chemistry amongst all mcs, interesting storyline, nice cinematography, fun and unique characters, refreshing locations, the whole package, really.

⚠ Warning: Not for the faint of heart

Genre: Psychological, Romance, Drama
Type: Movie (2hrs)

The movie has a simple feel to it as it tackles a lot of taboo topics surrounding mental illness, specifically schizophrenia. It's a complicated and raw story with very good acting and a rather realistic portrayal of mental illness (at least imo as someone who does not have this illness).  

Genre: Psychological, Life, Drama (Healing, Friendship, Slgiht Romance)
Type: Short Length Series & Miniseries (2hrs) 

Adorably endearing minidrama about healing and plants. The story was simple, well-executed and endearing. An easy watch

Genre: Historical, Crime, Drama, Espionage
Type: movie (2hrs)

Very nice spy thriller. A lot of thrill, clever characters, angst, whump paired with a beautiful track and very impressive cinematography! A visual masterpiece! Loved the snowy setting which extended for the ENTIRE duration of the movie! 

Genre: War, (High) Fantasy, Historical, Action, Martial Arts, Adventure, Xianxia
Type: Movie (2½ hrs)

A grandiose epic the likes not often see these days. Very thorough production, compelling characters, amazing acting, and visually incredible! If you love epic fantasy, you can't miss this

Admittedly this one is popular outside of MDL but not so much within. 

Genres: Drama, Historical, Romance
Type: Short Length Series (1½hrs)

Unique and strong FL, interesting dynamics, steamy romance, quick plot, pretty shots, good chemistry 

Genres: Youth, Drama, Sports, Friendship, Slight Romance
Type: Movie (1+hr)

Heartwarming and lovely. A good and endearing approach on serious topics through a fairly lighthearted lens and a tasteful exploration of gender roles and expectations. Honestly, super cute and fluffy and that ending dance scene was sooo satisfying.   

Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy, (Friendship, Horror, Thriller)
Type: Miniseries (4hrs)

Unique and charming in the dark and gritty kind of way. Superpowers used to tell the story of three broken teenagers trying to survive. Phenomenal art direction, cinematography and aesthetics to really rail in the unsettling unnatural retro vibe. Everything from the performances to the OST to the CGI and practical effects were amazing! Criminally underrated. 

Genres: Historical, Drama, Martial Arts, Youth, Friendship, Slight Comedy, Slight Romance,
Type: Movie (1½ hrs)

Interesting, over-the-top dramatic setting unlike much I've watched before. Good fight scenes and parkour scenes. The story isn't all that, quite inconclusive and with some problematic moments but other than that, an enjoyable watch.

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy
Type: Movie (1hr, 47min)

Whimsical romantic fairytale the likes not often seen anymore. It was quite unlike anything I've seen since coming to MDL. Sweet and compelling ride. If you like unusual things and/or whimsical things, definitely check it out! 

Genres: Action, Mystery, Fantasy
Type: Miniseries (3 ½hrs)

So unique? Dark urban fantasy done right! Very interesting plot, setup, antagonist, pacing and characters (and so much whump). And those fight scenes?!? Absolutely incredible!! The only downside is the fact that it's short which does ultimately sacrifice a bit of the story but still so very worth it! 

Full review by me

Genres: Historical, Romance, Drama
Type: Short Length Series (3½hrs)

Minidrama quite well crafted and unusual!! Great story, unique characters, interesting plot, unusual world, etc though admittedly and noticeably low budget! A pleasant surprise! 

Genres: Comedy, Romance, Drama
Type: Movie (1hr, 50min)

A heartwarming film about disability with lovely characters and dynamics. The bond between the leads and their families was the highlight. I also enjoyed how quiet the movie was, really emphasizing the deaf representation!

Genres: Life, Drama
Type: Miniseries (4hrs)

Bold, interesting, and heartwarming. Once you settle into the wacky premise, the story is super tender and well executed. Good social commentary on diversity, gender roles, and labels paired with good performances and pacing! 

Genre: Historical, Romance, Fantasy, Friendship, Time-Travel
Type: Short Length Series (4hrs) 

Pretty solid world-hopping minidrama. Cute characters, cute romance, interesting premise and an overall serviceable production quality.

Genre: Drama, Comedy
Type: Short film (21min)

Absurdity set to the MAX but I'm sold. Honestly, this was so ridiculously unserious but they absolutely sold me on it so it was a really enjoyable watch. Though the ending left a bit to be desired this was a genuinely hilariously absurd ride. Definitely worth a watch!

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Life, Youth, Friendship
Type: Miniseries (7½hrs)

A fun, fluffy romcom. It had some unfortunate downsides but overall, I really enjoyed it. Characters were mature and interesting, the romance was cute (and the mains really worked well together as a couple), didn't drag on for too long and I had quite a few laughs. 

Genre: Romance, Drama, Sci-Fi
Type: Movie (1hr, 40min) 

A surrealist and beautiful film with a unique plot and execution. If you like unusual, wacky, and profound things full of symbolism then this is a must watch! What an experience! 

Genre: Historical, Mystery, Romance, Fantasy, Thriller, Suspense, Investigation
Type: Full length drama (15hrs)

A solid and interesting watch set in an unusual location with compelling drama as long as you can withstand lower-tier quality and not the most sound/deep plot or characters. 

Genres: Historical, Romance, Martial Arts, Fantasy (Comedy, Supernatural, Musical, Mystery)
Type: Short film (21min)

Unusual but tight. Good banter between the leads and a funny, albeit outlandish, story. Not too spooky but has supernatural elements related to death (but kept lighthearted). It is half a musical though so do keep that in mind! 

Genre: Mystery, Comedy, Romance, Fantasy, Friendship, Sci-Fi, Action, Suspense, Thriller, Youth
Type: Full length (20hrs)

Fluffy romcom with a twist! It's primarily a romantic comedy so the plot is very romance heavy and quite nonsensical but with an underlying mystery/thriller plot that ties in well with the unusual premise of the drama. 

Genre: Comedy, Medical, (slight) Romance, Healing
Type: Miniseries (8½hrs)

A very solid medical comedy. Realistic and raw in portrayal with a colourful and compelling cast of characters. 

⚠ Warning: Not for the faint of heart (medical related CWs, you see a lot)

Genres: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural
Type: Full Length Drama (17½hrs)

Not the best ending but a very legit thriller, of the better ones out there from what I've seen. Interesting plot with supernatural elements, smart characters, interesting dynamics, not the best but definitely better than given  credit for. 

Genre: Thriller, Drama
Type: Short film (21min)

I know Sci-fi when I see it! Mind-bendy short film about memories and regret. I think I kinda understood the end but I'm not too sure either. It was a lovely experience with an interesting story, fantastic OST, and lovely visuals, direction, and camera work. Though I am left a bit confused, I still thoroughly enjoyed it. 

Genre: Comedy, Romance
Type: Short Film (19min) 

Two introverts with a crush trying to communicate. This was such a pleasant watch! Short and teeth-rotting sweet. Cutest thing everrrr

Genres: Action, Drama
Type: Short film (19min)

A wacky manga-adaptation which really commits to the wacky. Hilarious and rather impressive over-the-top antics quite tastefully translated into a short film. I wish it were longer 

Genre: Military, Historical, Drama, War
Type: Movie (2+hrs) 

Visually STUNNING and an intriguing story that felt a bit more like a documentary than a movie but still an incredible watch

Genre: Psychological, Life, Drama, Family, Slight Romance, Healing
Type: Movie (2hrs) 

Heartwarming and raw. A tasteful approach to the subject matter of depression in a more optimistic light. Very refreshing watch, highly recommend. One of the cutest couples too

Genre: Food, Romance, Life, Drama
Type: Drama (4hrs) 

Simple and sweet slice-of-life with a sprinkle of noona romance. Mature leads, an interesting setting, and story. 

Genre: Romance, Drama
Type: Special (15min)

Simple, cute love story between two soft-spoken introverts trying to communicate in unusual circumstances paired with a good message about disability and respect. Both leads were absolutely adorable, such a cute watch. 

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Fantasy, Business
Type: Miniseries (4½hrs)

Extremely cute feel-good romcom. It's not serious and that's a good thing. Simple but wholesome story, cute main characters, and an overall fun watch! It also explores the fear of growing old through a fairly lighthearted lens which was definitely interesting.

Genres: Thriller, Wuxia, Fantasy
Type: Short Film (31min)

Short film but so worth it. Beautifully shot, good pacing, unique take. Very poetic and tugs at heartstrings

Still watching...

Genres: Thriller, Romance, Drama, Fantasy
Type: Full Length Drama (22hrs)

Unique affff. Fantasy/sci-fi bordering on absurdism. Unique premise, setting and plot, fun and entertaining characters portrayed excellently- Only downside so far is the slow pacing

Genre: Family, Drama, Life
Type: Short Film (44 min)

A heartwarming story about family and the struggle of trauma. The plot-twist was a welcome touch and the dynamic between aunt and niece was adorableee

Genre: Action, Thriller, Suspense
Type: Movie (2hrs, 8min)

Nothing extraordinary but a well-crafted action/thriller with an unlikely duo and a surprising amount of emotional depth. The action aspect was fairly lowkey as is expected but still, it was exciting. The OST was also very nice and the characterization was endearing and rewarding. Those plot twists at the end were either surprising or poetic and well presented so kudos!

Genres: Historical, Mystery
Type: Full Length Drama (11½hrs)

Visually absolutely breathtaking. Stellar cinematography, performances, locations and characters! Only downside is the story took a turn for the worst around the midpoint. 

Full Review by me

Genre: Historical, Romance, Drama, Revenge, Slight Fantasy
Type: Short Length Series (4hrs)

Unlike your average drama. Extremely strong FL who doesn't need saving and a respectful and supportive ML that make an excellent power couple seeking revenge! Solid story, a bit too fast paced but endearing mature romance and a nice production quality. A pleasant surprise

Genres: Historical, Romance, Drama, Political
Type: Full Length Drama (40hrs)

Wow... Where to even start? Interesting leads, phenomenal performances from every single actor, side characters matter, world feels vivid and real, good theme song, unique setting (dynasty and all), quite a thorough level of realism, formidable and badass villains, high stakes, interesting drama, shippable romance, wholesome bromance, strong female characters... Like, what is there NOT to like???

Genres: Romance, Wuxia, Historical
Type: Short Length Series (4½hrs)

Quite a treat. Good production value, unique characters (FL in position of power), role reversal, interesting plot, interesting characters, good pacing, steamy romance with good chemistry. Very solid but the ending is a bit lacklustre 

Genre: Psychological, Romance, Drama
Type: Drama (6hrs)

An affair noona drama where no one is in the right. A dark drama about all sorts of flawed people and their trauma and how it ends up affecting their lives and choices.

Genre: Romance, Drama
Type: Special (14min)

Genuinely sooo worth the watch for the vibes alone? It's a super simple story but it felt like those classic fairytales where a regular person travels to a magical world. Snow Queen/Polar Express/Classic barbie vibes. Genuinely LOVELY!!! What a surprise!

Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Type: Movie (1hr, 50min)

A very solid action/thriller with actually good action and thrill, very epic car chases, compelling characters (+++strong female lead, found-family AND accidental-child-acquisition) and a solid story all wrapped up with a proper thrilling OST that has you hooked. Really enjoyed

Genres: Mystery, Horror, Wuxia, Fantasy
Type: Full Length Drama (27hrs)

Once again, a visual masterpiece. So beautifully shot, 10/10 performances from everyone, interesting cases, good chemistry, good story- No complaints, really 

Genres: Romance, Life
Type: Short Length Series & Miniseries (30min)

Teeth-rotting adorable. It's a simple and fluffy watch while still telling an interesting story. The premise is unique enough to get you interested and the drama is cute enough to keep you staying.

Genres: Life, Youth, Drama
Type: Short Film (19min)

I honestly have nothing bad to say. It was a simple and thoroughly heartwarming treat of a short film <33

Genre: Food, Life, Friendship (Music)
Type: Short Length Series & Miniseries (1½hrs)

Cute, fluffy and heartwarming minidrama about an unusual family/friendship dynamic with well-crafted episodic-like arcs.

Genre: Life, Drama, Friendship
Type: Short Film (34 min)

A short film about a transgender woman dealing with every day prejudice and eventually moving on from her past. Very endearing and very bold

Genre: Action, Historical, Drama, War
Type: Movie (2hrs, 6min)

Compelling war movie that's interesting, intense, and impactful! There's a good balance of fighting (which is epic) and characterization that makes it more than just epic stuff on screen. It has a classic feel to it and the atypical setting (a small town set in the Goguryeo Dynasty) helps to make it standout amidst movies of similar genres! 

Still watching... 

Genres: Thriller, Mystery
Type: Full Length Drama (8hrs)

Beautiful cinematography, interesting setup & characters, great performances. Everything feels quite realistic and genuine. 

⚠ Warning: Not for the faint of heart

Genres: Historical, Mystery, Romance, Drama
Type: Full Length Drama (30hrs)

So beautiful. Amazing OST, strong FL, Older man x younger woman done RIGHT, nicely shot, beauitful costumes, interesting message, realistic portrayals, feminism, varied and unique characters, female villains, and interesting plot!

Genre: Thriller, Historical, Drama, Supernatural, Cult
Type: Full length (9hrs)

Lovecraftian horrorish thriller with a cult. Compelling mystery and interesting progression. Setting is unusual and the characters are endearing. It's a tad bit slow at times but definitely worth the watch! 

Genre: Thriller, Historical, Drama, Suspense
Type: Movie (2hrs)

A historical palace drama told form the perspective of an atypical main character. Very thrilling and interesting. 

Genres: Comedy, Romance, Sci-Fi
Type: Short Length Series (2½hrs)

So unique and quirky and surprisingly high quality for a minidrama! Tackles societal issues from the perspective of a man stuck in a world where the gender roles are reversed. Interesting concept, fun characters, quirky humour. 

Genres: Action, Thriller, Mystery, Crime
Type: Full Length Drama (14hrs)

Somehow stumbled upon this drama by accident, but wow, what a treat! Badass male lead, thorough depiction of mental illness (for ML!!), good fight scenes, interesting plot, good supporting cast, great acting, intelligent characters, scary and intelligent villains, thrilling, good mystery... Honestly, the only thing a bit lacking where certain supporting characters.

Genres: Thriller, Historical, Mystery, Horror, Suspense, Supernatural, Investigation
Type: Movie (1½ hrs)

Beautifully shot movie with a unique narrative style. The story is told from multiple perspectives and all are unreliable narrators. In the end, it's still not clear what *actually* happened, which could be considered a minus. Everything from the shots to the production quality to even the CGI was very well done and I truly appreciated the eerie mythology and folklore inclusion! 

Genres: Horror, Supernatural (Suspense, Tragedy)
Type: Short film (23min)

A solid soft-horror film. The overall production quality was very good and the story was simple but well executed!

Genre: Action, Historical, Crime, Drama, Martial Arts
Type: Movie (2hrs+)

Solid story, compelling characters, and phenomenal action scenes. The story isn't too complex but it works well with the action-packed narrative which made for a very engaging experience.

Genres: Action, Thriller, Psychological, Crime (Investigation, Mystery, Law)
Type: Miniseries (6hrs)

Better than expected. An overall solid action/thriller with dark themes and social commentary. The plot isn't anything to write home about but rather than being preachy and overly serious the drama takes on more a 'superhero' approach and thus embraces a more over-the-top style that is quite hard to come by these days, especially in Kdramaland. Acting and fight scenes were very solid, especially ML's.

Genre: Historical, War, Action, Adventure, Drama
Type: Movie (2hrs, 10min)

One of those classic war adventure stories with a small group of warriors defending the country (and in this case also the king). It was overall very solid and high quality. Beautiful cinematography, acting, fight scenes, and quite some emotional moments too! Definitely worth a watch if you like historical war/action/adventure!

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Sci-Fi, Youth
Type: Full Length Drama (8hrs)

Stunning AND interesting!! Unlike any cdrama premise I've heard before. Very interesting set-up, locations and premise (futuristic scifi? Sign me up!). Interesting & flawed characters (ungodly levels of stupid tho), good pacing, good chemistry, good acting, stellar cinematography. The story did end up being somewhat underwhelming near the end, though.

Full review by me

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Drama, Supernatural, Dark Fantasy, Psychological, Suspense
Type: Movie (1hr, 50min)

Definitely a confusing watch but also a stunning one! Definitely requires a bit of 'taking it for what it is' and not thinking about the plot *too* much but it's gotta be of the most whimsical, magical and beautiful looking films I've ever seen. What good art direction can do. 

Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Crime, Drama, Youth, Suspense, Investigation, Revenge
Type: Miniseries (5hrs)

A bittersweet slowburn and very poetic mystery/thriller focused on generational trauma. The story itself was fairly solid but not without issues. Beautiful cinematography and art direction as well as compelling characters and dynamics. Overall, a touching story and a lovely watch. 

Genres: Action, Historical, Romance
Type: Short Length Series (54min)

Steamy romance, quick and fast paced plot, unusual characters and dynamics, pretty shots