Completed in 2021 (including source)

Completed - August 17th 2021

Finally completed a kdrama in a long time lmfao

The portrayal of autism felt authentic and not over-exaggerated, so kudos to the writing and actor. I loved the dynamic bond between the main trio of Geu-ru, Sang-gu and Na-mu. 

Each episode had its special story, and it's been a long time since I've watched a series that hit a home run on my emotional buttons. I was surprised to have found the show is based on true stories which makes these episodes more impactful. 

Despite the shorter episodes than the usual kdrama, Move to heaven clearly addressed backstories and gradual character development in a consistent structure, especially for Sang-gu, who grows throughout the series. Beautiful camera shots and colour schemes, including aerial shots, were used. The ost may not be unique, but it was appropriate and fit the given scenes. 

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - October 3rd 2021

Although nothing new, interesting concept. I wish we could have got more backstory on the presumed antagonist. Guessing they are building up for a new season. Prepare to see red minions be flooding the socials during Halloween.

Netflix (Eng subs/dubs) 

Completed - July 1st 2021

Although the story pattern somewhat remains predictable, I loved the inclusion of Yuri. She was a challenge to Nanno and a mortal awakening for her. 

The ending teases at a potential season three, so I would be interested to see another season for more backstory on Nanno. 

The opening was also artistically pleasing, enjoyed it!

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - July 5th 2021

This was a nice documentary. The structure of the documentary felt like highlights rather than deep exploration, but overall it was an engaging documentary. I was able to learn more about one of my fave kpop groups, Blackpink.

Netflix (Subs)

Completed - July 4th 2021

As an anime first viewer, I was really hesitant to delve into this series especially the live-action film. 

Great performance from the cast. I loved Furukawa-san's narration and there were so many good quotes in there. The production quality is also top tier as well along with fitting ost. 

The pacing was so-so and in some episodes I found it to be slow, but overall, I liked how they added something new to the ending while making it a memorable one. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

ED Song - In the display - Akane

Completed - July 5th 2021

My first impression summarised: Korean Guardians of the galaxy 

The acting, production quality and CGI was top-notch. However, the story lacked a sense of depth, especially with the antagonists motive. It felt very surface level. Other than that it was a fun and thrilling binge. 

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - March 9th 2021

This was definitely one of the best and interesting approaches to a zombie genre. 

The concept reminds me a little of Zombieland.  An average guy with low self-esteem who grows to become a badass shooter. The part where the zombies all have personalities reminds me of the clown in the first Zombieland film. 

I was expecting to see more scenes of Hiromi being a badass, but I guess the story focuses more on Hideo's growth in his confidence over time. 

Nagasawa Masami also plays a badass in this film. This is the third time I've seen her, including Kingdom and The Confidence Man JP. 

On Netflix Japan (Eng subbed)

Blu-ray (Eng subbed)

Completed - July 1st 2021

Great performance from the cast. Consistent pacing and build-up from past to present. Felt bad for Kido (of course the others too). I legit forgot this was a revenge film, so despite how I saw the twist coming it was still pretty good.

Decent production quality and nice use of colour and symbolism. 

Netflix Japan (Jpn subs)

Stream on DTV

Eng fansubs provided by SkewdS (Softsubs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - June 27th 2021

“Karma is the consequence of an action”

Review

Netflix (Eng Dub/Subs)

Completed - December 25th 2021

The characters and story stayed true to the source material, so kudos to the producers. 

However, not much is fleshed out due to the short number of episodes. 

Ost and cinematography worked well together in some scenes. 

TVER (JPN subs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - August 1st 2021 

First viewing Rating - 8.0/10

A decent performance from the cast with consistent story pacing. 

The music was meh, but the film quality was present. 

First viewing through a family friend

Completed - July 15th 2021

Kissing for business ;)

Wow, this film was more interesting than I had initially imagined. The premise has a slight supernatural theme to it where Kasane and Nina switch faces (and personalities). The whole character arc of Kasane was chaotic and eerie. It made me feel a bit bad for Nina's character as her life, her identity was slowly being taken over. 

Although I found the story, acting and ost very good, I wish we got to see more of the characters' backstories. However, I soon realise that there is so much creators who could cram in under 2-3 hours duration.  The eerie insanity and identity obsession from Kasane got me keen to see a sequel film. I wish to know more about the continuation and the outcome of Nina's life. 

Overall, the film pacing was decent but rushed towards the third act. The strong point of this film was the performance of the two female leads, Tsuchiya and Yoshine-san. 

Stream on Amazon Prime (Subs)

DTV

ED Soundtrack: Aimer - Black Bird

Completed - July 9th 2021

Dropped at EP1 - 2015   Picked it up - Jul 7th 2021

I'm a fan of the original manga/anime including the early live-action film trilogy so, I had low expectations when the drama series was released. I had dropped this series while it was airing back in 2015. However, I came back to it because of the positive reviews and comments. This was an intriguing take on the death note story. The long duration and build-up unravelled the insanity which Kira had took over Light and it's shown quite clearly here.

At first, I did not like the direction on Light's character as his personality was altered to an emotional and impulsive guy rather than the calm smart type. As the story progressed, I became more invested and appreciated his character direction. It made me believe Light can be based on a real person. While I've gotten used to Light's character, I didn't quite enjoy the direction on L. The changes from a  calm and mysterious detective was turned into a cocky clean freak character. I found myself surprised to have rooted for Light rather than L which is a first.

Kubota did a great job conveying the different sides of Light/Kira. The voice and facial expressions were both terrifying and convincing.  The supporting cast did a good job portraying their characters. Of course, some cast was over the top, but that may be the Japanese acting style or direction.

CGI and music were not spectacular, but decent enough to match the drama's tone.

Raw (Eng subs) via Nyaa or HULU Japan

Completed - July 2nd 2021

Probably one of the films that had me engaged from start to finish. 

Fun and thrilling action and straightforward film.  However, not enough depth or built upon the characters backgrounds. 

Overall, a story of family and brotherhood bond. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - Jan 22nd 2021

Some of the scenes left in the director's cut could have benefited the 4-episode drama series. 

Strong impacts in performance and film stay true to the source material.

Stream on Viki (Eng subbed)

Blu-ray and DVD (No subs)

Completed - June 28th 2021

Didn't expect myself to finish this in one binge. At first, the first few episodes were slow, but it got intriguing after ep2. 

The concept and story structure eerily reminds me of Gantz. It's scary to think a survival game could easily replace and remove you from your reality. 

The acting was convincing compared to your usual all-female cast dramas. I actually enjoyed this series. 

Bandai (Eng subs)

Completed - Mar 23rd 2021

My first impression going into the first episode, I thought the story would explore the roots of Dr Shuto's past and how the zombies (golems) came into existence. 

This 10 episode series shows scenarios of obstacles that challenge the humanity of these characters. 

If you are seeking a zombie genre that's full of action-packed thrills, while this show includes some of those, it may not be your forte. The series focuses more on the human elements rather than the zombies (golems). 

Personally, I had not shipped anyone, but I could see people's reason for shipping some of the pairings that were shown. 

I ranked this show an 8 because the story is still uncompleted. 

Also, some plotholes needed to be answered. 

Hulu Japan

TVER (with VPN, Softsubs by Manx-cat on  d-addict)

Completed - Mar 26th 2021

A lot of emotional rollercoasters. 

Hotta Mayu as the FL nailed her performance in the humourous, tense and emotional scenes. 

In a span of 60 mins, we get to see many of Tamaki and Satoshi's perspective while also includes the mum's pov. The Dad is given a few moments throughout the episode, but he gets the shortest screen presence compared to other characters. 

The key topics in this special would include family acceptance. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - Mar 30th 2021

Fun characters

Breaking of the fourth wall was a brilliant concept

Very surface level character exploration 

Wouldn't mind a season 2 

WETV (Eng subs)

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - April 5th 2021

I loved the action scenes

Storywise it's a bit short, and it got me curious to know more about the backstories of our main characters. If given more depth, the stake and pressure of the FL would have been more convincing.

I wouldn't mind seeing a full-length drama series or film. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - July 6th 2021

Quite an adventurous film with a determined female lead.  It was definitely a change in perspective on the livestock industry. There were a few English actors that overact, but it didn't distract from the overall viewing experience. 

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - August 19th 2021

Great cast, but poor writing and little duration to expand on a  fully developed story

Blu-ray Raw (No Subs)

Completed - July 9th 2021

The premise and plot structure were very similar to High and Low: The worst therefore my thoughts on this certain film didn't quite keep me interested. However, the action and cast were great.

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - December 19th 2021

This was a fun binge with silly moments between the characters. 

I appreciate the creators for sticking to the source material, however, I do wish there was more emotional exploration with Aoki and Ida's Pov. I also believe the side pairing of Hashimoto and Akkun could have been fleshed out further. Judging by the last episode it seems unlikely that they would continue with a season 2. It can be possible to have a film adaptation similar approach to Cherry Magic. 

Overall, the best chance for more character stories is to visit the manga. 

TVER (JPN SUBS) - VPN Needed 

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - August 21st 2021

The story stayed faithful to the original source, so kudos to that. 

The acting had its flaws, but it didn't stop me from looking forward to new episodes every week.

Crunchyroll (Eng subs)

WETV (Eng subs)

Completed - June 22nd 2021

This was pretty decent. The series had a chill vibe. I do wish some of the hobbies and interests of the young Shun and Nagisa would have been mentioned in the sequel film. Because of that the film and series feel completely separate. I felt bad for the girls and surprised me how supportive they turned out to be.

Stream on Viki (Eng subbed)

Completed - July 2nd 2021

It was alright. Great performance and production quality. I really loved the animation, but the story didn't quite keep my interest.

Blu-ray & DVD

Netflix (Eng subs)

Completed - July 24th 2021

It has a cool concept, but the overall film execution is missing some depth. I love the friendship dynamic and suspenseful moments, however, I wish to have seen more backstory on the chip and insomnia experiment. There were so many unanswered questions that left me feeling not fully satisfied.

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - July 17th 2021

Calm tone and slow-burn storytelling 

The story concept is an intriguing one, however, the film mainly relies on flashbacks which make the storytelling repetitive and less impactful. It got interesting when there was a conflict between the personalities, but it all fizzles out too quickly.

The film is very slow-paced and can be dull if you're excepting something suspenseful such as the American film, Split. I would consider this a slice of life and documentary themed film. 

Blu-ray and DVD (No subs)

Completed - August 26th 2021

I haven't watched the drama series, so I went in this blind. 

The action and relationship dynamic were interestingly decent.  However, the plot revolving around the characters didn't quite stick. The ost had its ups and downs, but at least the shot scenes were nice to see. I also appreciated the call back on some scenes, such as the American documentary linking to the end scene. Overall, it's a fun, chill and slight action-packed popcorn film. Don't expect too much from it, though. 

Blu-ray Raw (No sub yet)

Completed - May 16th 2021

Slow-mo had some nice shots. 

The characters didn't really connect with me despite there being a good cast. 

The story was sometimes a bit hard to follow with the constant flashback and forth through present times. The first half was more exciting than the ending. 

The ending song was brilliant. 

Blu-ray (no subs)

Completed - July 10th 2021

Dropped - 2020  Picked up - Jul 2021

Welp, that was disturbing. It had a strange vibe of American Psycho and Beetlejuice.

The story pacing was slow, but it got slightly interesting in the third act. The acting was very over the top and made it hard to enjoy the film. Therefore, the rating is lowered. 

Netflix Japan (Jpn subs)

Completed - July 7th 2021

The story premises was interesting and we viewers are shown many cases of the supernatural phenomenon. Mostly targeting people with their own struggles (e.g. suicidal thoughts, depression, Jealousy etc). However, the film doesn't give enough room to get to know the characters, especially the main leads. We are given so little backstory on them the gradual build-up towards the climax fell weak. 

The visual effects and CGI are somewhat decent. The performance felt stiff for some of the supporting casts, but the main leads were able to keep the story engaging. 

I believe this film would have been better as a drama series similar to my thoughts on "The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window." Each side story was structured in an episodic format therefore, the obstacles the main female lead, Sayuri was solving felt very rushed. 

Watched it via DVD (eng subs) through my family's friends house

Completed - July 13th 2021

The premise was cliche, but the acting and action was nice!

If looking for something short to watch I would recommend it. However, its better to watch the series first (Kamen Rider Build) because it could help understand the characters' backstories. 

Netflix Japan (JPN Subs)

Completed - Dec 9th 2021 

Basically a recap of the previous 7 episodes. It was a binge watchable show, but they left out a lot of scenes for the side pairing and supporting characters. 

Viki (Eng subs)

TVER (Jpn subs)

Completed - Jan 16th 2021

The short music video conveys a story between these two FL through music, camera shots, costume design and body language. 

The one down-side is the short duration. I would like to see more exploration of the two characters. 

Official Youtube (Eng subbed)

Completed - June 28th 2021

The action scenes were both decent and fun

The story had good pacing, but it lacked some spicy thrills. 

I loved the costume designs for the antagonist's suits and guns. It had a star wars/Tron legacy feel to them. 

Netflix (Eng dub/subs)

Completed - April 20th 2021

A short film (promotional commercial) with less exploration on the main leads. 

Despite the limited character development, I appreciated the relaxing and less dramatic tone of the film. 

Both leads had chemistry which is a bonus!

Official YouTube (Eng Subs)

Completed - June 6th 2021

This was a nice short film. The pair's chemistry was present, but some acting felt too anime-ish (from my pov). 

I would be interested to see an expanded story based on this short film and pairing. 

Official YouTube (Eng subs)

Completed - March 25th 2021

Very short, and the story seems to have a continuation.

The pairings status still seems pretty one-sided, which is sad but bittersweet. 

Raw (no subs)

Completed - April 28th 2021

Very forgettable. 

Cool visual actors, but it's more of a sims 4 ad than a short film. 

Official YouTube (Eng subbed)

Completed - April 19th 2021

SPOILERS:

Seeing the trailer alone made me feel hesitant. The film plot fell flat, leaving a hollow feeling after watching it. 

My main reason for watching was because of Mizuhara-san, and I wanted to give Japan another chance for GL. 

Although it was appreciative that the main leads have a backstory, the film's plot is all over the place. Mizuhara's character has intercourse with two men throughout the film despite being a lesbian (maybe bi). The goals of these two leads made no sense to me. I could see what falling in love is like. You lose a sense of logic and wish for that person's happiness, and sometimes you find yourself to be selfish.  But killing someone and losing it all, that is very extreme and feels unrealistic. 

Another issue I had with the film was the relationship. It was toxic asf. 

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - July 20th 2021

Probably one of the most forgettable films out of this year's watch. If ya looking to expect friends to lovers trope, it's best to look elsewhere. I went in with low expectations and just for the random chaos.  I loved the random pencil animations. It's a clever way to illustrate and express the character's imagination with a low budget. 

The story and preview had some interesting potential, but the story flow was zig zaggy all over the place. Overall, at least the ending was somewhat realistic with how they decided to conclude Saimon and Tada's relationship. 

Raw (No subs)

Amazon Japan and US

Completed - June 3rd 2021

The story and acting was very surface-level exploration. 

Also, the ending effect was a bit cheesy. Without the added glitch effect, the acting and set-up would come across as more natural. 

The kissing was decent (5 stars)

Official YouTube (Eng subs)