Overrated - The Ending Was Abrupt, misuse of the other main actors
I have to say, Love For Love’s Sake left me baffled by the hype surrounding it. I’ll admit I’m not a fan of open endings, but even setting that aside, I struggle to understand the praise this BL drama receives. The production quality felt underwhelming, and the storytelling left much to be desired.Character Inconsistencies: First, the MC is isekai'd, until he is not. He is actually given a second chance, by death? or god? Idk, but is he death or is he not? IMO Taevin wasn’t convincing at all, he felt forced. Another thing is that for me it seemed that Cho Joo Wan either struggled with the role, or the character itself was poorly written. One moment, Yeo Woon is shy, mad and scared of everything; the next, he’s confidently kissing a stranger and becoming the center of attention. The inconsistency in his character arc made it hard to connect with or root for him.
Plot Issues: The storyline was riddled with inconsistencies. For example, at the beginning, gang are swooning over Sang Wo, but within minutes, he’s an outcast, and then suddenly, everyone loves him again. It’s a rollercoaster with no logical progression, leaving the story feeling disjointed and superficial.
Production Missteps: The production didn’t help matters either. The overly loud crickets in the last episode completely shattered any mood the scene was trying to create. Moments that should have been emotional or meaningful were ruined by poor sound design. Also, they underutilized Oh Min Su, to the point that Min Su has followed all his costars, and doesn't want to be associated with the series anymore, because how they simply ignore his wishes to be paired with Chongki.
Unnecessary Scenes: Some scenes felt so out of place and unnecessary that they detracted from the overall experience. The exaggerated running scene, smoking scenes and the "end of the world" were jarring and added nothing to the story. These moments seemed to exist purely for shock value rather than serving any narrative purpose.
Pacing Problems: The pacing was another significant issue. While the story started with decent momentum, it quickly lost steam. Entire episodes were dedicated to events that didn’t add anything new, like half the drama focusing on taking tests. It felt like padding rather than meaningful development.
Final Thoughts: I fail to see how Love For Love’s Sake deserves the acclaim it gets. Between the inconsistent characters, poorly executed production, and filler-heavy storytelling, the show falls far short of delivering a quality experience. I’d rate it closer to a 3 than the glowing 7 or higher that others seem to give it. It’s overrated and a disappointment overall.
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Worst Series I have ever seen
My headline should be, stop doing Thai vs Korean BL, it is ridiculous and unrealistic.Because this is the first thing detrimental to the series this whole I understand what you are saying is like??? We don't talk like that in real life.
It could have been way better if they incorporated some Thai dialogs and Korean dialogs between the main leads, but no. They just magically understand each other.
But this is far from the main issue, what the f* is that plot? Like for real the whole murder plot then back to romance felt like a tonal shift and I couldn't take this series seriously.
The ending, the revelations and the confusion of characters made this hard for me to finish, which I regret I did. this is among the worst series I have ever watched.
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I Saw You On My Bad Review
I watched this show mainly for Putter, Surf and JJ.The arc with JJ was heartbreaking, the chemistry from Surf pair was heart wrenching and the pair with Putter was heart flopping.
This was a somehow good production, but the story is lackluster, the settings are like poorly done and Ryu's acting skills suffered a little in this show.
But bear with me, I think that Ryu suffered because JJ and Putter acting skills were very on point so the director didn't know what the direction to do with him, because he is a good actor.
And this is another point of contempt, the direction seemed to don't know what to go with the story, so they threw in everything they could to the wall and see what could stick.
But nonetheless I think that if Putter and Ryu act again they should get a proper direction.
By the way the special episode got right what this entire series didn't get.
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Disappointing, but surprising CBL
I watched this a couple of years ago, probably when it aired.Then I was watching some short BLs then I came across this. At first I thought it would be a Taiwanese production, but shocking to me it is not and it LGBT chinese series.
The ending is disappointing as most of other reviews and stuff pointed out, but what can we expect for a Chinese gay media?
The ratings are also a tad bit low for what this production aimed and delivered, I had the displeasure of rewatching it though and this was a mistake, it has 0 rewatch value and made me feel anger of what could be done to make this better because there is so much room for a good series.
So, if you are reading this, watch it and forget, but also mark it down so you don't waste your time like me.
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Disappointing Straight Washing series
As someone who read the novel I felt this show was really underwhelming.I know that they had to dilute the story so it could appease Korean public, but it made Heesu look pretty much like a support character in his own series.
So let's dive into it without spoilers.
The series has a promising start with the I fell in love with X by mistake or unintentionally, it is a common trope and it if explored correctly it would be amazing.
The case is, it wasn't, they switched the order of some reveals including confessing to X, they didn't leave the ending ambiguous as if X was in fact in love with Heesu from the beginning and they had a unnecessary couple that took too much screentime.
They also changed several plot points which hurt the actual script and made little to no sense. In the end they are left with a stark bland adaptation that could have been one of the best series in a while, but got lost in interpretation.
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Mediocre at its best
Well, the series failed to impress me. They had butter, knife and cheese, with good actors, good plot and good music. But they failed to make it count. Several fillers and additions to the series felt out of place. If the series had a linear approach and had more past life iterations they would have nailed it.I think that having the main character sort of sticking to the nature also defeated the purpose. In no way past lives they are reborn with the same physical appearance and it was such a bummer. They had so many actors in the series, they could have used them as different iterations and it was a huge let down for me.
The way they introduced those past lives was also, "here you go" and "just have it your way" kind of experience. And how did he get the freaking godmucking photo?
Having Mikael/Sin Bi as an angel figure also made it feel like, "we can make paranormal stuff".
All in all, the series had an amazing plot, an amazing actors, if a remake were ever to be done, they could nail it, but as for this one it is a 6, with little to no rewatch value.
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Comfrontational flawed leads daring to love again — the misunderstanding trope strikes once more
Business as Usual (adapted from Moscareto’s web novel of the same name, also known as Eul’s Love) tells the story of Kim Min Jun (Chae Jong Hyeok) and Chae Jin Hwan (Seong Seung Ha), first lovers who fall apart, only to meet again eight years later at the same publishing company.Back then, Min Jun’s insecurities and a spiral of jealous misinterpretations turned their romance toxic. Now older but not necessarily wiser, he faces the man who broke his heart or maybe the man he never stopped loving. Jin Hwan, meanwhile, is determined to prove their story isn’t over.
Director Min Chae Yeon (Happy Merry Ending) and writer Kang Rim cleverly weave past and present, showing how time changes people and how it doesn’t. The series doesn’t glamorize love, it digs into self-doubt, miscommunication, and fear of abandonment. But it also offers second chances and the possibility of healing.
On the surface, Jin Hwan seems overconfident, even manic in the way he hides his bitterness and sadness. Min Jun, quiet and withdrawn, appears to be the more vulnerable one. Yet, like in the original novel, the series flips this expectation.
Behind the façade, Jin Hwan is the sensitive one, deeply in love but trapped in a constant fear of rejection. Min Jun, meanwhile, is consumed by paranoia, convinced that someone as “pathetic and unlikeable” as himself could never truly be wanted by someone as magnetic as Jin Hwan.
This dynamic pushes Jin Hwan into the role of the submissive, always clinging, always chasing, doing whatever he can to preserve even the faintest hope of being “more than friends.” It’s this love reversal that forms the emotional core of their story.
Carried by the chemistry of its leads, Business as Usual embraces the “misunderstanding trope” once again, but with enough raw honesty and emotional weight to make it feel fresh. At heart, it’s about two flawed people daring to confront the past and maybe, just maybe, love again.
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Masterpiece
This is simply a masterpiece.It is like an Asian Call Me By Your Name, except it isn't.
The acting, the filmography, the photography, the settings, the plot, everything was masterfully done. I don't think it should be done differently and I don't think it should be changed or readapted it is perfect the way it is.
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Musical BLs are my weakness
Let's start with the headline.This BL is what it is supposed to be. A musical BL, and it is stellar in this sense.
What got me frustrated though was the unnecessary Thai subplot, but we can live with that because both are hot. I think that they should have some Thai here and there and have both talk in Taiwanese, since the BL is mainly Taiwanese.
The plot is awesome, but the child playing that part felt rather odd, the songs, the acting, the settings are beautiful done.
I cried at the end and cried here and there so if you love musicals this is another one to fall in love with.
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I Want to be a VIP Only
I totally disagree with the review labeling this series as “cute but cringy", "boo", "cute but bland", "very bad" For me, it was a solid 10 10 10 across the board. Plot, acting, soundtrack, and rewatch value all hit the mark perfectly.The story of Gu Jing, the quirky and independent chef, and Liu Li, the emotionally vulnerable yet endearing novelist, felt both heartfelt and nuanced. The dynamic between the two leads was a masterclass in slow-burn romance. Their connection evolved naturally, showcasing a blend of subtle attraction and deeply rooted companionship that made every interaction between them meaningful. The emotional depth of their scenes together left a lasting impression.
Plot: 10/10
Some may consider the plot as "simple", but I felt it was engaging, the connection between Gu Jing and Liu Li, felt that they were destined to meet, like they meet before sometime in their lives. While some may label it predictable, I found it comforting in its simplicity and how straightforward it was, allowing the focus to remain on the characters and their emotions. Each episode weaves subtly how romance, emotional vulnerability, and personal growth may happen.
Some may say that it overused "cliched tropes", but again for me they were executed with care and intention, the directors knew what they wanted to convvey. The love triangle and family conflict added just the right amount of drama without overshadowing the core romance. I could nitpick that I wish the second couple went ahead and I hope they revive/fulfill it in the future.
The episodes 7 through 10 showed emotional depth and resolution, and the journey felt complete and fulfilling. This is the kind of plot that resonates long after the final episode, because oh boy I miss them.
Acting: 10/10
The acting in this series is nothing short of stellar. Stan Huang as Gu Jing exudes charisma and emotional depth, perfectly portraying the reserved yet caring chef. And oh boy he is sexy, oh my god I couldn't stop but crave for this man. I wish he was my VIP Only and this was a master chief in how they achieved that. His subtle expressions and the energy in his eyes made every scene compelling, even when his character wasn’t saying much. He brought a natural authenticity to Gu Jing’s internal struggles and his growing feelings for Liu Li.
Xuang Chen as Liu Li was equally remarkable, capturing the character's naivety and emotional vulnerability with finesse. His portrayal of Liu’s doe-eyed innocence and eventual emotional awakening felt believable and heartfelt. Even in moments where the character’s actions might seem frustrating, Xuang Chen’s skill ensured that Liu Li remained endearing and relatable.
The chemistry between the two leads was electric, elevating the series to another level. Their interactions were filled with unspoken tension and warmth, making the slow-burn romance feel genuine and deeply satisfying. They made every glance, every touch, and every moment of connection meaningful. This duo carried the series beautifully, and I’d eagerly watch them together in another project.
Soundtrack: 10/10
Like every VBL project, the soundtrack was an absolute highlight, seamlessly enhancing the mood and emotional weight of every scene. The theme song was a perfect fit, memorable, evocative, and resonant, it beautifully complemented the series’ romantic and introspective tone.
Beyond the theme song, the background score added depth to pivotal moments, whether it was the soft, tender melodies during intimate scenes or the more dramatic tunes during moments of conflict. Each piece felt carefully chosen to amplify the emotions on screen, immersing the audience in the story.
Far from feeling overused or out of place, the music blended naturally with the narrative, becoming an integral part of the viewing experience. It’s the kind of soundtrack you’d want to listen to long after the series ends.
Rewatch Value: 10/10
This series has an incredible rewatch value. The heartfelt progression of Gu Jing and Liu Li’s relationship, combined with the subtle nuances in their performances, makes it worth revisiting. Every rewatch reveals new layers of emotion and details that I may have been missed the first time.
The simplicity of the story is its strength, it’s the kind of narrative that offers comfort and warmth, perfect for those moments when you want to indulge in a tender, feel-good romance. The chemistry between the leads is so compelling that watching their journey unfold never feels old or repetitive.
Whether it’s for the charming interactions, the emotional highs and lows, or simply to relive the cozy atmosphere of Gu Jing’s restaurant, this series invites you to come back and savor its beauty again and again.
Final Thoughts:
I may sound repetitive, but what others might dismiss as "cliched tropes" felt like deliberate and thoughtful storytelling choices that added emotional depth to the narrative. The love triangle, family conflict, and personal growth arcs weren’t overdone, they served as reflections of the challenges Gu Jing and Liu Li faced, both individually and as a couple. The undeniable chemistry between the leads, the emotional weight of their story, and the warmth of their connection made this series an absolute gem for me. It’s heartfelt, beautifully acted, and an absolute must-watch.
P.S.: And let me just say, Stan Huang is the reason enough to re-watch this. He’s not just an amazing actor but a fine piece of man. I don’t usually oversexualize men, but OMG, this man could have me watching him cook some toast for hours.
P.S.2.: Another thing: I’ve noticed people bomb-reviewing VBL series, which is so frustrating because they are genuinely some of the best series released in recent years. The depth of storytelling, the compelling characters, and the emotional resonance these series deliver are unparalleled, and how well they are interconnecting them. I just wish their duration were longer to explore even more of their magic. They’re really, really underappreciated, and it’s time they got the recognition they deserve.
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Fresh, bubbly, the best happy little pill in 2024
I watched this series without any expectations and I wasn't disappointed, sure there were some details which could be improved, but Aou and Boom, Marc and Poon really stole the show.I really hope for a second season, or for another show featuring Aou and Boom, I recommend to everyone who wants a daily dose of happiness.
10/10
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Masterpiece
IMHO, The On1y One stands as one of the best BLs of all time. Few series have ever resonated with me on such a deeply personal level, and I doubt anything will surpass the emotional impact this show delivered. My only concern? The possibility of it not getting a second season, which feels like a disservice to the brilliance of this story.Storyline: The narrative is masterfully crafted, seamlessly blending elements of romance, personal growth, and emotional depth. The adaptation is not only faithful to the source material but also elevated by the thoughtful liberties taken by the director, producers, and editors. These creative choices didn’t just complement the story, they enhanced it, creating a richer and more immersive experience. The attention to detail in the lighting, cues, and soundtrack left an everlasting impression that I’ll carry with me for years.
Themes and Dynamics: The way the story explores two people, Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang, who are so similar yet fundamentally different, is nothing short of captivating. The trope of "love at first sight" intertwining with a slow-burn passion is executed with precision. Jiang Tian’s immediate infatuation with Sheng Wang contrasts beautifully with Sheng Wang’s gradual, growing love, creating an emotional push and pull that had me enthralled from start to finish.
Characters and Chemistry: Their connection, from an initial brotherly bond to a romantic partnership, is profoundly moving. The evolution of their relationship feels natural and deeply heartfelt, making their moments together all the more impactful. The supporting characters, often overlooked in many series, are given such depth and backstory here that they enrich the narrative and make the world feel authentic and lived-in.
Production Quality: The visuals and sound design are exemplary. The lighting choices highlight the emotional tones of each scene, the cues subtly underscore the themes of love and growth, and the soundtrack is nothing short of magical. It ties every element together, elevating the series to a level of artistry rarely seen in the genre.
Final Thoughts:
The On1y One is not just a series, it’s an experience. It’s a story of love, growth, and connection, told with a depth and artistry that sets it apart. The profound bond between Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang, paired with the exceptional storytelling and production, ensures this series will remain unmatched in my heart. A second season would be a dream come true, but even as it stands, The Only One is a masterpiece that deserves all the accolades and appreciation it can get.
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Top Notch Acting, but too much hype
The Story, I appreciated the effort to stay faithful to the book, with an almost 1:1 adaptation. However, I found myself wishing for more creative freedom in certain areas by producers, directors and actors, to make it more cohesive on-screen adaptation. This is very paradoxical for me, because I love faithful adaptations, but there was something uncanny for the series.This became especially apparent in two episodes that seemed to lack direction entirely. The storyline and acting in those episodes felt heavily improvised, which disrupted the flow and made those episodes stand out, but in the worst possible way, from the rest of the series.
The acting and music were definitely the highlights of the show. The performances were strong, passionate and full of life. The soundtrack complemented the series beautifully, adding a emotional tone that made all the sequences powerful. Kudos for choosing T-Ara.
However two points, the series lacks significant rewatch value, I would never rewatch it. And lastly, the hype, I was skeptical over the series, and ultimately the show fell short of my expectations.
Overall, Love in the Big City had its moments but struggled to deliver a consistent experience, leaving me a bit underwhelmed. It’s worth a watch for fans of the book or those curious about the buzz, but it didn’t quite live up to its full potential.
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