3IDRock

USA, NC

Before TV series, cinema became my first love. Since my early childhood, I have been a fan of film. Although I was a big fan of Hollywood films, my interest in international films began later in my teenage years. Mostly it was martial arts, thrillers, and Hindi. Although I have traveled and lived in several countries throughout my life, I have much to learn about cultural differences.

Since 2021, my interest in watching international television series has increased, so I am enjoying playing catch-up. Even though I have many international movies to credit, the majority of my watchlist here will be drama series. IMOP, the quality of K-dramas has been poor in the 1st quarter of 2025. But midway through August to September, things have really picked up. Can we change the childhood friend narrative a little? Writers have gone to this 100x over. Some are great stories, but switch it up a little!

Reviews and ratings: my thoughts...

Ratings and reviews here are essentially a journal to me. I am expressing my personal opinion only. A review is essentially a reflection of how a certain show resonates with an individual. It is possible for my opinions to be similar to or different from others. Even my most loved K-drama or Hollywood film doesn't bear a 10. Maybe 9.7, et cetera. Personally, I try not to review a series in full before halfway through the season.

With that said, my only concern with other members' ratings and reviews is not their differences of opinion. It's the reasoning behind it. The individuals for whom I am concerned are those who rate a show within its first 1-2 episodes with all perfect 10's but then in their review express several points of dissatisfaction. Or, they rate a show a 2.0 or 3.0 ONLY because it's not exactly like the webtoon. .... really?

A TV series or movie MUST be in my top two to five personal favorites of all time to even be considered ranking them with all 10's. That means I would prefer them over any other series or movie. They are the absolute best of the best.

A rom-com series isn't complete without the old, unstable footing. LOL

I think we can all agree that a lot of K-dramas are awesome. For me, a rating of 7 or higher is pretty good. One thing that will definitely reduce my personal ratings is when the writer/director makes the story go beyond logic to save the plot. Even at the cost of compromising the main characters' beliefs and origins. Incrediblely frustrating!

For example, a character may do something completely out of character to save the day, or the main couple may suddenly break up with no real cause for the sake of the story. It might even be the main leads going out of their way for a romantic moment rather than taking precautions after they were in grave danger. All to fit in a "chemistry" moment.

What's interesting and exciting to me? Strong characters that grow within the story. Their existence acts as a thermostat and compass. A co-lead or main support character helps both of them by the end. Whether it's finding true love, building a successful friendship or business, or even helping someone complete an important mission to save the world.

They're stories that are true to their theme and have the main leads "LEAD," not wander about within the story with no real purpose. At the same time, they do it without dominating because they have an awesome supporting cast that adds the icing and candles to the already fantastic story. For example, in the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz," the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion all help Dorothy on her quest to find the Wizard. This is just a small example that resonates with me personally. Some people think it's just their taste that makes a great show.