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Eun Hwan Ki Storyline Works...Romantic Dynamic Does Not

There is actually a difference between an introverted person and a shy person. An introvert is someone who tends to be more within himself/herself. They usually don’t have any problem being alone. While they can struggle to interact with others, it’s not always the case. They have no desire to be the center of attention or be placed in the spotlight. More and more psychologists are finding that being able to be alone is a strength rather than a weakness. It’s not the same as hiding oneself away out of fear. That would be shyness.

My Shy Boss is a decent romantic drama at best, with two characters who stand on a mountain of integrity among a sea of supporting characters who struggle to find any at all. Eun Hwan Ki is a master of ideas, and while he doesn’t realize it, he’s also a master of dealing with people. However, he’s also a bit of a recluse who prefers the quiet solitude of his penthouse apartment rather than handle the day-to-day interactions with employees and clients. He’s immensely creative and has a knack for seeing things that others fail to see. He’s also a great listener, but his biggest problem is that he always puts others ahead of himself. He’s the guy who’s going to take the hits, put himself in front of the bus, and do whatever it takes to protect those who are unable to protect themselves. In many ways, he’s the true hero of the story, and he has the humility to do so without asking for anything in return.

Seo Yun Jung is other. This is a woman that others should try to emulate. She’s no wallflower, and she has absolutely no problem pursuing what she wants. She’s also the only other character who is perfectly comfortable with herself. The scene that made me stand up and cheer for her was when she turns the tables on Eun Hwan Ki’s father. This isn’t a woman who can be used, bought, or sold. And she had absolutely no problem taking issue with the despicable actions of Eun Hwan Ki’s father and telling him straight to his face. While I understand that Chae Ro Woon is the love interest of Eun Hwan Ki, I was really hoping (even though I knew it wasn’t going to happen) that he would have ended up with Seo Yun Jung. She’s a pillar of strength, who isn’t just someone who can be a romantic partner, but one who will easily stand with Eun Hwan Ki no matter what. Chae Ro Woon cannot say that. I lost count how many times she oscillates back and forth, back and forth. And Seo Yun Jung is far more mature as well.

You’ll need a clipboard of names to keep track of all of the “who likes who” at any given moment. I’ve never seen a drama with so many dynamics; so many that you just might get a headache.

Most of the characters are people who are looking for love and attention in all the wrong places. They truly believe that they cannot be happy unless they are with someone. What they fail to realize is that it is literally impossible to find happiness in someone else if you fail to find it within yourself first. Why? Because you cannot give what you do not have.

If you love yourself, you will never contemplate suicide as an answer to being denied/rejected.
If you love yourself, you will never harm yourself or use it as a means of getting attention.
If you love yourself, you will never feel empty by being alone. In truth, you will find it empowering.
If you love yourself, you will never allow anyone to use you for their own selfish reasons.

Chae Ro Woon—much like Eun Hwan Ki—is an outcast within her own family. She’s the outgoing one, and nobody knows how much her older sister is suffering until it’s too late. The sad thing about suicidal people is that you cannot save someone who does not want to be saved. If someone is bent on killing themselves, they will find a way. Chae Ro Woon is very much like a kid. She’s immature, selfish, and she doesn’t realize the mess she’s made until it’s too late. Rather than trying to find out the truth about her sister, she reacts emotionally, and irrationally, and hellbent on revenge.

It's always hard to hate someone once you get to know them. Chae Ro Woon begins to wonder if she has it right as she gets to know Eun Hwan Ki and realizes that he’s not the monster that she thinks he is.

There are a number of cowardly and despicable characters in this series. Eun Hwan Ki’s father is about as vile and violent of an abuser as you’ll ever likely to find in a “parent.” He’s ashamed of his son for being quiet and shy, and he has no problem being abusive—both physically and mentally—toward him. Such a person has no business calling himself a parent.

There are several problems with this series. First, people who are that suicidal and prone to hurting themselves as Eun Yi Soo (Hwan Ki’s sister) can miraculously heal themselves. Most people need some kind of professional help. Hwan Ki makes a grave mistake by not helping her get the help that she needs. The writers should have taken this far more seriously than they did. I’ve known people who have attempted suicide, and it’s no quick fix. However, Eun Yi Soo at least seems to understand that her problem stems from not loving herself, which is true. That’s a good first step. Given that Korea has the 3rd highest suicide rate in the world, I would have hoped for a more thoughtful and realistic approach to this part of the story.

The romantic dynamic between Eun Hwan Ki and Chae Ro Woon just doesn’t entirely work. First of all, the two actors have good chemistry together but NOT good romantic chemistry. Again, I thought the Eun Hwan Ki/Seo Yun Jung was better from a romantic chemistry standpoint, even though they didn’t really share any romantic scenes. The romance between Eun Hwan Ki and Chae Ro Woon was like watching a grown-up and a kid. Park Hye Soo just doesn’t have the chops to act out romantic scenes realistically. She tries to flirt, but comes across more like a child wanting attention, which was annoying more than just once! This is largely due to Park Hye Soo being miscast. I would have had Park Hye Soo play Eun Yi Soo (the sister) and Gong Seung Yeon play Seo Yun Jung with Jang Hee Jin taking up the role of Chae Ro Woon Jang Hee Jin was fantastic in “Flower of Evil”. Jang Hee Jin has far more range and acting prowess than Park Hye Soo. And as I’ve said, the constant back and forth between Eun Hwan Ki and Chae Ro Woon became tedious and unrealistic very quickly. Soon, they’re kissing, and next they won’t even touch each other. That was just silly.

By episode 15, I was just waiting for the series to end. It loses much of its steam in the last two episodes, and the story feels like it’s treading water, trying to limp toward the finish line of the last episode. Of course, we get another childish scene with Park Hye Soo because she doesn’t get a Christmas card from Eun Hwan Ki. Chae Ro Woon is what we call a “high-maintenance” girl.

I found myself far more intrigued with Eun Hwan Ki and how he was able to empower his small team of “misfits” to start believing in themselves. While they each helped him to develop more courage to stand in the spotlight, we also see what he’s done for the members of his team. Eun Hwan Ki is also a man—much like Atlas—who’s caring the weight of everyone on his own shoulders. He’s noble and courageous. We only wish he’d use just an ounce of that strength and belief on himself. If they had left the romantic aspect out of the story, this would have been a far more compelling series because the strength of the story is Eun Hwan Ki, and Yeon Woo Jin did an absolutely fantastic job with the role. My only issue was that his “shyness” was handled with a lot of inconsistencies, but that is a small issue.

Overall, the series is okay at best. If there is a central theme to this series, it’s for people to start putting themselves first. Learn to love yourself before you decide to share that with someone else. “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay” is still the best drama series yet made on people who are psychologically and emotionally scarred. And just because you have feelings for someone, doesn’t mean that they should automatically reciprocate. And, yes, love is about courage; about taking risks and putting yourself out there. The quiet ones who never tell others how they feel will always live a life of regret.

And if you know someone who’s attempted or might attempt suicide, get them professional help! Sometimes, you have to acknowledge that you love someone so much that you cannot help them, but you will find someone who can!

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Let Yoo In-Na and Lee Dong Wook Touch Your Heart!!!

What is the price of fame and integrity? Must one be sacrificed to insure the other? In this day and age, many celebrities are in the spotlight more than ever before. With social media being a constant problem, it’s more challenging than ever for celebrities to live their own lives. That’s not to say that it can’t be done. Some of the world’s biggest stars are able to separate their personal lives from stardom. Such people like Tom Cruise, Denzel Washington, and others are able to maintain their private lives while doing their job. For the most part, anyway.

If there as a “most common theme” for romantic comedies and dramas, it’s the “opposites attract” dynamic. It’s been done so often that it’s often a surprise when one that works actually manifests. “Hometown Cha Cha Cha” is still one of my all-time favorites because of its genuineness and not falling into the cliches that are so typical and rampant in such series. “Our Beloved Summer” is still my favorite series involving “young” love.

I saw the high ratings of this series, but I kept putting it off because I wasn’t sold on the fact that it wouldn’t be like every other one that’s come down the pike. Boy meets girl, they don’t get along, they magically start liking each other, a conflict arises (usually a third-party boy/girl who’s interested in one of our stars), and they resolve and get back together in the end.

What makes Touch Your Heart so endearing is the performance of Yoo In-Na and also Lee Dong Wook. Things start off in a typical fashion, but the journey is deeper than expected. And what surprised me was that the writer didn’t throw anything into the series to churn things up. They remained true to the characters. Another reviewer posted that this was a binge-worthy series. Frankly, I found myself starting out watching one episode, then two per day, and soon I was up to three. The reviewer wasn’t wrong in that.

A popular actress, Oh Yoon Seo finds her career nearly destroyed by a scandal involving drugs and a stalker. She’s trying hard to make a comeback, but even her agent can’t overlook that she’s also infamously known for her “bad acting.” However, she’s finally given a small window of opportunity to star in a legal drama series. It’s agreed that if she wants the part, she must gain some knowledge of how things work in the field of law. Thus, she’s sent to work for three months at a small, but fairly prestigious law firm.

Oh Yoon Seo is almost childlike in her naivety and immaturity. Never having had to work in a place of business before, she’s a bit like a fish out of water, lacking professionalism and experience. She shows up on the first day in a party dress that’s too low up top and too short at the bottom. She has a tendency to pout and whine as well as rely heavily on others to do things and make decisions for her. She’s someone who looks to be in her late twenties or early thirties but acts very much like someone in their late teens. Now, such characters have been done to death, and frankly, nearly all of them end up coming across as annoying and often unlikable. A seasoned actor knows how to take a character—who can come across as unlikable—and make them likeable despite the flaws. Yoo In-Na is a true master at her craft. She knows Oh Yoon Seo inside and out. She brings charm, elegance, and an almost childlike innocence that makes were so endearing to the viewer. Despite caring too much about being popular, and what everyone thinks about her, by the end of the series, she finally learns how to stand on her own two feet and appreciate what is truly important in life. It’s not fame or popularity. It’s having someone with you who vows to be with you no matter what. There isn’t enough fame in the world to buy a companion like that.

Attorney Kwon Jung Rok is the best lawyer in the firm. He’s also the coldest and stuffiest. He’s so immersed in his job that he has little time for anyone or anything else. And he’s given the unenviable task of taking on Oh Yoon Seo as his secretary. It’s hilarious how put off she becomes when he doesn’t even know who she is. He could care less that she’s a popular actress. And, of course, the two of them do not hit it off well. He chews her out about her attire and lack of professionalism in the workplace. He has a job to do, and he makes her understand that she’s not there to goof around and tinker on the internet. And he has absolutely no qualms about telling her exactly how he feels about her and their situation, which he never asked for, and initially sees as a burden.

One thing I tend to really like about Korean series is how they make their characters change and grow. As Kwon Jung Rok and Oh Yoon Seo grow closer together, we see Kwon Jung Rok begin to lighten up and enjoy himself. He’s like a stiff block of ice that slowly begins to melt. He’s very formal in his speech and how he carries himself. We even begin to see him smile—something he never really does from the outset. Conversely, we also see Oh Yoon Seo begin to appreciate the work ethic and what it means to do something well. Perhaps she was never considered a good actress because she never put in the time and effort. She relied solely on her popularity. But she also begins to realize the strength in being able to stand on one’s own feet. And Kwon Jung Rok is a master at that. He knows he’s not popular at the firm or around most people. He knows the things that are said about him, but he really doesn’t allow those things to affect him. In short, he lives his own life without excuses or apologies. Oh Yoon Seo cannot say that about herself.

Another fascinating dynamic that is handled extremely well is this: exactly how does one date a well-known celebrity and handle all of the things that go with that? It doesn’t take long for Kwon Jung Rok to find himself thrown into the deep end of that world. A world of gossip, criticism, and scandal are popular everyday things that a celebrity must deal with. Thanks to Oh Yoon Seo’s annoying and meddlesome manager, he convinces Kwon Jung Rok to end the relationship. I’ve said it in other interviews: I can’t stand meddlers. Such people are like wolves in sheep’s clothing. They claim that they have the other person’s interests at heart, when in fact, the only person they are thinking about is themselves. Her manager never considers discussing it with Oh Yoon Seo, and the reasons he gives to Kwon Jung Rok are entirely selfish and about him.

Break-up scenes have been done so many times in so many series, that you can easily see them coming. In most cases, the breakups are not handled well. This series was no exception, especially when you summarily discount and dismiss everything that has gone on before. Kwon Jung Rok breaks up with Oh Yoon Seo, and there’s barely even an attempt at discussing things or trying to figure out why. Yes, Kwon Jung Rok gave reasons, but it’s exactly because it was so out-of-the-blue, that Oh Yoon Seo would have realized that something was off. I wish writers would put more thought and intelligence into these moments.

The performances across the board are stellar. This is the third drama I’ve seen with Oh Jung Se, and he’s simply incredible in everything I’ve seen him in. I’ve seen him as an autistic character in “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” a hardened criminal in “The Good Detective,” and now as the often-comedic CEO of the law firm.

I truly loved the integrity of Kwon Jung Rok that he never really wavered in his devotion and trust to Oh Yoon Seo. He never saw her as a celebrity but simply as a woman he fell in love with. Isn’t that what everyone—including celebrities—want? Perhaps that is why Oh Yoon Seo fell for him as well.

Yoo In-Na has a way of completely captivating the viewer with her charm. This is the first series I’ve ever seen with her. I was blown away when I read her profile and read that she’s 40! She has a way of conveying emotions with simple expressions that just make you want to cuddle up to someone like that. However, I also loved seeing begin to grow stronger as Oh Yoon Seo finds the courage to deal with things herself, rather than always relying on other people. And, of course, the end—which was the one thing I was hoping for—when she finally announces her relationship to Kwon Jung Rok at the party. Yoo In-Na also has an absolutely captivating smile! Her whole face lights up!

No one should have to apologize or make consolations for anyone in how they live their lives, celebrities included! I’m constantly appalled by the things that agents, studios, and managers ask celebrities to do, all for the sake of money and promotions. Such people are weasels and have no integrity.

This was a wonderful series that is light, often filled with very humorous situations, but also conveys important messages. Live your own life. Don’t live by anyone else’s rules. To do so is to give your power away. Learn to have fun and enjoy yourself. And perhaps above all, never compromise your integrity and self-respect for fame and popularity. Such things are always fleeting and do not last, while integrity and self-respect are assets to carry with you for the rest of your life.

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True Magic Is Believing in Yourself and Creating Your Own Path!

Woe to those who allow others to dictate their lives and their path. There is nothing so tragic in the world as those who allow themselves to be controlled by others. True magic—true courage—is about forging and creating your own path, no matter how many people object or attempt to destroy your hopes and dreams.

The Sound of Magic is a beautiful story, full of life, love, wisdom, and a bit of magic! True magic is believing in your Self and creating your own path. And that is the central theme of this series.

Yoon Ah Yi is a smart but struggling high school student whose life has been riddled by nothing but hardship. Her mother is gone, her father is in severe debt and stays away for long periods of time, trying one “get rich” scheme after another, leaving the adult responsibilities of taking care of her younger sister and paying the rent to Yoon Ah Yi. Her life is exhausting and non-stop, leaving little—if any time—for joy and fun. In short, Yoon Ah Yi has had to grow up very quickly, which leaves her to wonder where her childhood has gone. But soon, her imagination is awakened by the magician.

Next, we have Na II Deung, the top student at the local high school. He’s put under such pressure by his teachers and especially his parents—to do whatever it takes to be number one and to succeed academically. For those who are unfamiliar with educational pressures in Korea (as well as other Asian countries), I will say that as a TEFL teacher who worked in Korea, Taiwan, and China, the depiction of the hardships that many students have to deal with is quite realistic and true. I actually had a student tell me that his mother was so disappointed in his recent test scores that she told him, “If you can’t do any better than this, then you should just throw yourself off the balcony!” I couldn’t imagine any mother saying such a thing to her son. Most of these kids are not given any choice in how they live their lives. This is true regarding their school, university, job, and even marriage. Kids are expected to “fall in” and do what they are told to do because parents arrogantly and ignorantly, think they know best. And we see that Na II Deung is suffering immeasurably from the enormous pressures—until he meets the magician.

Ri-Eul is easily the most compelling character of the series, leaving the viewer to ask the same questions that Yoon Ah Yi and Na II Deung ask: is he really a magician? With a twinkle in his eyes, Ri-Eul simply asks, “Do you believe in magic?” As we know, children have no problem believing in any kind of magic. Their purity and innocence cause them to believe without question. As it’s stated in the wonderful movie, “The Santa Clause,” Seeing isn’t believing. Believing is seeing. It’s only when the cynical nature of adulthood sets in that magic becomes something that is silly, childish and severely mocked and frowned upon. And yet, what is life without it? Ri-Eul brings a childlike vision of the world; that just because you grow up doesn’t mean that you have to stop believing. But what makes Ri-Eul so wonderful and compelling, isn’t the tricks and magic that he uses. It’s his use of that magic to help Yoon Ah Yi and Na II Deung begin to believe in themselves. To help them realize that you don’t have to “fall in” and let others tell you how to live your life.

Of course, as with all “strange” and “outside the box” characters, the world tends to shun and persecute such people, and so Ri-Eul becomes the leading suspect in a murder investigation. It’s sad that the world always tends to view such people as “dangerous” when it’s actually the world’s fear and desire to control everyone that is truly dangerous!

There are some great songs in this fantasy series which is also a musical. And the acting performances across the board are stellar! However, it’s Ji Chang Wook’s performance as Ri-Eul that really brings it all together. Without his ability to tap into Ri-Eul’s childlike innocence, the series wouldn’t be the same. The series—like so many Korean dramas—is full of wonder, humor, wisdom, and heartfelt moments that make you introspect and ask the question: am I living the life I want? And if not, it’s never too late to start.

Robert Frost’s famous line in his poem The Road Not Taken—two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference. And that is one of the core messages of this series. Na II Deung may have delivered the best line of the series when he says, “Flowers don’t grow on asphalt. They grow on bumpy, dirty roads.” So, which is the better life?

Give yourself permission to dream, to believe in magic, and most importantly, to believe in yourself. Dare to dream and to create your own path, no matter what anyone says or does. People will put you down and get upset because you’re not doing what everyone else does. This is usually a huge clue that you’re doing right by who you are. Approach the world with childlike wonder and innocence. Stop to look at all of the magic around you, whether it be a tree, a field of flowers, or a butterfly. It’s everywhere.

The world—especially our young people—are in dire need of this kind of message. When I was growing up, The Dead Poets Society was my inspirational film to help me to question what I was doing. We should all endeavor to be more like Ri-Eul—to live the life we want and not allow the world to push us down. After all, all of the magic we ever need or want is within us. Don’t be afraid to use it, and certainly don’t be afraid to believe in it.

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The Wisdom of Woo Young Woo!

It is sad that the world is not more accepting of those with mental or physical handicaps. Given a chance, we find that such beings are more than capable. Everyone can contribute to the world, no matter how big or small.

If you’re like many other people who’ve seen this beloved series, you’ll find yourself immediately enamored by Attorney Woo Young Woo…no matter how it’s flipped, it reads the same! And no matter how much you try to look at Woo in a different way, she’s still her charming, cute, and beautiful self!

We all need a Woo Young Woo in our lives. Such people are often devoid of egotistical traits. There is no animosity or hatred behind their words. And when they love, they love completely. How many people in the world can claim this? We often look at people in the world like Woo Young Woo as having problems. And yet, I daresay, perhaps WE are the ones who should be more like her! Such is the purity of innocence. To have the essence and wonderment of a child. And why are children so wonderful? Because they’re like sponges who are free of shame and guilt—such traits are learned behaviors that are sadly instilled in them by parents, society, culture, religion, etc. Woo Young Woo is like being an eternal child, and that is not a bad thing! It's something we should all aspire to be.

Like very few autistic people, Woo Young Woo would be classified as a savant. Someone with incredible mental abilities to remember pretty much anything and everything. Such a skill makes Woo Young Woo an amazing asset as an attorney, despite her lack of ability to read people and understand various emotions. Sudden emotional outbursts tend to frighten her, and she’s not immediately comfortable in foreign environments. She also has an aversion to being physically touched. But don’t let these things fool you since Woo Young Woo has more charm than most people can begin to dream about.

Eun Bin Park gives a tremendous performance as Woo Young Woo. The only other characters I’ve seen that match hers were autistic performances in “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay,” and “Move To Heaven” (two more incredible Korean dramas if you’re looking for something!). Eun Bin Park will have you laughing, smiling, and occasionally tearing up with her delightful performance. She may well have given us one of the cutest characters I’ve ever seen. And yet, she also shows us the absolute brilliance of Woo Young Woo as an attorney. Yes, we’re talking about someone along the lines of a Perry Mason. But what makes her truly remarkable is her integrity; her unwillingness to compromise her values in doing what is right. How many attorneys can claim that?! Not very many, I’d wager.

And, of course, because of Woo Young Woo’s innocence, she also brings with it a childlike naivety which makes her vulnerable to those who would try to take advantage or mistreat her. It can be a bit painful sometimes to watch those scenes, as all you want to do is be like Jun-Ho and do your utmost to protect her.

Woo Young Woo describes herself once as a narwhal living among beluga whales. She knows she’s a bit peculiar to most people, but she not only learns to adapt but to accept herself as she is. I would actually go even further and say she’s like a gold nugget among lumps of coal. She’s far more precious and special than even she can comprehend or realize. And part of the charm of the show is watching those who doubted and even abused her, begin to soften and realize how precious she really is.

Another beautiful aspect of the show is the simple, and yet beautiful romance between Woo Young Woo and Jun-Ho. And the reason why it is so incredibly unique is because Jun-Ho fully accepts Woo Young Woo as she is. He never asks her to change or be anything other than who she is. In short, this is one of the rare depictions of unconditional love that many people search for, and yet very seldom find.

Extraordinary Attorney Woo is a true delight. It’s also light drama in case you’re searching for something that isn’t too heavy. And the court cases are always very intriguing to watch as we wait and see what magic Woo Young Woo is about to pull. I’ve already heard that a second Season will be made. And well, I never get tired of Woo Young Woo’s love and talk of whales. I definitely want another season of this charming and delightful show!

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Cowardly and Weak Characters and Writing Nearly Torpedo This Series!

This series was fairly strong through the first 12 episodes. It should have ended there, rather than filling the last four episodes with needless drama and uninteresting stories.

"Our Beloved Summer" is easily the best K-drama about young love that I've yet seen. It had intelligent, likable characters with a nice, smooth, and non-cliched story. This series falls well short of that one. The only thing that saves this series from the depths of despair is that it has strong performances by most of the cast.

Unfortunately, we have a menagerie of weak, cowardly characters, that for a while, are at least likable. That is, until they continue to demonstrate cowardice and weakness until the end.

Choi Dae Hyun is an honest and good-hearted young man nearing 30 who owns a convenience store. He treats his customers with respect and kindness. However, when it comes to his love life, Dae Hyun is about as dense as they come. In our culture, he's what we call a "whipped" man. Someone who has no say or power with his girlfriend. She calls the shots. She abuses him to no end. She toys with him like a puppy, and yet, he hasn't the brains or the guts to do anything about it. It's hard to feel sorry for people like this because they are part of the problem. The abused is just as much responsible as the person doing it.

We also have Saet Byul, a master of martial arts, and a young woman who falls hopelessly in love with Dae Hyun. She also has the task of raising her little brat of a sister. However, Saet Byul isn't very responsible. She provides underaged high school kids--including her sister--hard liquor to drink. She also never has the guts to seize opportunities when they present themselves. She also commits the most brazen act of cowardice by running away when she deems herself unworthy of Dae Hyun. Frankly, I never would have wanted her to come back. The writers proved how inept they were with the characters by creating plot points that go against the characters they created. There is no way Saet Byul would turn down Dae Hyun's initial offer of love. The writers simply felt the need to fill another few episodes with pointless drama. Yet another reason why the show backfires.

We also have two typical Korean mothers who dominate, interfere, and meddle in their children's lives. Of course, the key reason has nothing to do with love at all, but about money. It's sad how many people in this world equate success with money. Such parents have no business being parents. They claim to "know better" when they clearly do not. And meddlers may claim that they are doing it for someone else, but that is a lie. They are only doing it for themselves. And, even though I understand that this is an Asian culture, it's truly sad when a 30-year-old man can't stand up to his mother and simply tell her the truth.

We also have several uninteresting characters in Dal-Shik--who is funny in some respects--and Eun Byul, Saet Byul's bratty sister. This actress was the only one whose performance was cringe-worthy. Always uttering her lines in that whiny tone. And her story was left open-ended, as was Dae Hyun's sister.

By the 13th episode, I found myself no longer invested or caring about what happened between Saet Byul and Dae Hyun. Both pretended to be honorable, but they were cowards instead. I even fast-forwarded through most of the final episode because it was that bad. Oh, and you had one of the worst cop-out kissing scenes I've ever seen in the last episode.

However, as I said before, the performances were mostly very good. Ji Chang Wook has a real gift for comedy and the delivery of his lines. I thought that he was simply outstanding. It's just too bad he wasn't given a better script to work with.

Kim Yoo Jung was also very good as Saet-Byul. She has a dazzling smile that reminds me a lot of Lynda Carter from the 1970s. Both have unparalleled smiles. Only Mina Shin can equal her, except that Mina Shin has done a far superior job in picking good roles. Shin is still easily the much better actress.

I've always loved Kim Sun Young. I've already seen her in a few roles, including "Crash Landing On You" and she's just a brilliant character actress. It's too bad that her role was very much wasted here as a woman who is clearly ashamed of her husband and family. It's always sad to see a parent have shame for those closest to them. It simply speaks to their own problems and issues.

I really wanted to like this series, and as I said, I did for a while until it was bogged down in useless, petty melodrama and cliched plot lines that no longer fit the characters. This series is definitely a "must miss" in my book. I want characters that end up with redeemable traits as well as being likable, even if they don't necessarily start out that way. This show gives us characters that I'd never care to get to know or cheer for. And that is what is truly sad.

Now I need to quickly go and find a quality K-Drama to wash the bad taste of this one out of my mouth.

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Beautiful and Provocative Series of Love and Healing that Transcends Time

I'm going to sound like a broken record in these reviews of Korean shows, but they continue to surprise me with deep, complex, and beautiful stories, such as this one. I can usually tell when a series is getting to me because I feel it in my heart and soul, and I end up watching several episodes at once because I cannot get enough. "Live Up To Your Name" is such a series for me.

The series follows two doctors. One from 400 years ago in Joseon, and one from today. Heo Im (wonderfully played by Kim Nam Gil) is the most brilliant acupuncturist of his time--perhaps of any time, if truth be told--and yet he wonders why he's stuck in a "lowly" post of a small village rather than being exalted by the King of Joseon. And given a proper position worthy of his talents. Dr. Heo Im soon finds himself transported to the future when he is shot by two arrows intended to kill him.

Next, we have Dr. Choi Yeon Kyung, an equally brilliant doctor as a cardiologist who sees patients as a means to an end. They are there to be saved. She has little-to-no personal contact with any of them. It is ironic that a doctor's greatest strength is often perceived as a weakness: caring. Even hospitals and other doctors expect their physicians to act like robots.

Both characters are victims of traumatic pasts which hinder their true gifts from shining through. And, ironically enough, it's through each other that they not only learn to heal and learn from the past but to also love.

We have Eastern medicine meeting Western medicine, like two halves of a coin, both are equally effective and necessary. Western medicine tends to focus more on the physical body. Eastern medicine--especially in the case of acupuncture, is a science handed down from the last Golden Age that had more to do with healing the body through its various energy centers. The body is, in fact, made up of energy, and doctors from that age understood and knew how to manipulate that energy in order to heal various ailments.

I love the mystical needle box, which provides enough magic without the need for explanation and the power it represents. The acupuncture scenes were always the most fascinating to me.

This series provides us with some incredibly beautiful and touching moments as both characters learn about each other through each other, and in the end, become the doctors they have always meant to be. Thus, living up to their name. However, it is the undeniable chemistry between Nam Gil and Ah Joong that really makes this series soar!

I've seen Kim Nam Gil in "The FIery Priest" which I also enjoyed. Every time he cracks that big grin, it makes me laugh--and in a good way! He is such a master of bringing charisma and spirit to his roles. He's like a child lost in modern times when he first arrives. He's a little mischievous and a little conceited, but you can't help loving his character anyway. His emotional range is also spectacular, and you really feel what he's exhibiting.

I have not seen Kim Ah Joong in anything until now, but she equally impressed me, bringing her own incredible range to her role. First, as a doctor who is much like a robot, to a wondrous beauty who begins to shine like the sun as soon as allows her heart to open. Her scenes with Ha-Ra.

The character of Yeon-Yi was so adorable, that I enjoyed those scenes with her. I think this young actress (Shin Rin Ah) has a very bright future!

Heo Im imparts the true wisdom of healing: that it isn't just the doctor who is involved, but the willingness of the patient is equally necessary. And, yes, sometimes, despite all efforts, people still die. Adn doctors should not see this as a failure.

As with so many K-dramas--the series is complex, and expertly imbues heartfelt moments, with inspirational ones, to scenes of complete hilarity. I don't believe anyone does this to such perfection like the Koreans. They are deftly able to navigate and cover so much of the emotional spectrum, that one cannot help being utterly amazed by it.

This series is one of my favorites--and it deeply touched my heart--and it's become extremely challenging to pick out a "top 5" of K-dramas, because there have already been so many that I have watched that have been so good! And yet, having only watched shows over the last 5 years or so, I feel like a kid in a vast candy store, knowing that there is still so many more to watch! I can prove extremely challenging to decide what to watch next!

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Perfect Chemistry In This Touching Opposites Attract Series!

We've seen a lot of opposite atracts shows, series, and films, but not many of them are drawn up quite so wonderfully and heartfelt as this one. Much of the success of this series has to go to Mina Shin and Seon-Ho Kim with their incredible chemistry.

Dr. Yoon (Mina Shin) is a successful dentist who loves living the good life full of fancy clothes, expensive cars, and everything else that goes with high-end living. She makes no apologies for her lifestyle. Perhaps it's because she's really known nothing else.

Upon leaving her job, due to conflict with her boss, Yoon leaves for the small seaside town of Gongjin. The last place she felt happy as a child. There, she meets Chief Hong, a man who seems capable of doing literally everything! He works a slew of jobs, all for minimum wage. In short, he enjoys the simple life of service.

Of course, at first, these two opposites do not get on very well. Yoon finds herself stranded in the town on her first day without money or even able to get funds due to a power outage. She's soon at the mercy of Chief Hong, who ends up putting her to work pulling the guts out of squid with the local women. You can only imagine how well Yoon is able to adapt.

Without a job and a town without a dentist, Dr. Yoon decides to open up a dental clinic. The series is much about Yoon learning to appreciate a different lifestyle that is very different from anything she's ever experienced. This, of course, includes Yoon learning how to be a team player and adapt to the locals as well as the town itself. "Grandma" Gam-ri all but steals the show and our hearts.

As you can imagine, Yoon and Chief Hong soon become attracted to each other. However, Hong has a dark past that he soon finds is catching up with him. The question becomes: will his past destroy things with Dr. Yoon before they've even started?

Dr. Yoon represents those people who can only think about themselves. She comes off initially as fussy and conceited. However, the longer she spends in Gongjin, we see her begin to learn how to love and appreciate others. And Mina Shin has that million dollar smile and those golden dimples to brighten our days with!

Chief Hong is a man who is a complete opposite. He thinks mostly of others, even at the expense of himself. In short, he doesn't believe himself to be truly worthy. And he has no idea just how much he's loved and adored by the people of Gongjin.

Both are two sides of the same coin. Both have to learn how to adapt. You cannot love others without first loving yourself. And you cannot love others at the expense of yourself either.

Of course, as Chief Hong's secret is uncovered, only those who see him for who he is--by his constant example of a man with a good heart--we know that he was not responsible for what happened. Those unable to forgive him are simply cowards who decide that it's easier to play the role of the victim rather than take any responsibility. I was slightly disappointed in Dr. Yoon's reaction to him; that she didn't seem to know him nearly as well as those he's lived with in Gongjin. Everyone else tried to check up on him. She didn't. It's easy to be there for someone when things are good. It's challenging--and even more important--to be there for someone when things are difficult. Also, one should never put pressure on someone to reveal that which they are not ready to tell. Yoon was quite selfish in her demands. Fortunately, she wisely realizes her mistake and tells Chief Hong that he can tell her when he's ready.

We get a lot of laugh out loud moments as well as some truly touching ones that are sure to tug at your heart. Koreans are masters of incorporating both elements into their stories. The people of Gongjin will surely warm your heart and perhaps make you even wish that you lived in such a community!

All in all, this is a fantastic and delightful series! I loved and adored all sixteen episodes! And it's proof that you can have good and likeable characters still, in world that seems to want to bombard us with dark ones. This show was refreshing like a wonderful day at the beach, which only made me wanting even more!

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What It Means To Be A Hero

I'm not entirely sure why Kenshin resonates so strongly with me. He's an inspiring character who tries his best to atone for his past. A past frought with the slaughtering of an untold number of people. And yet, he strives to be a better man.

A number of people have defined "nobility" as being better today than you were yesterday. And Kenshin seems to embody that.

We're finally treated to the mastermind. The one person who's basically been behind everything Kenshin has had to deal with from the previous trilogy. We thought Shishio was bad, and he may still arguably be the worst, but enter Enishi, the man who financially backed Shishio, his warship, and everything else.

To fully understand Enishi and his vile hatred toward Kenshin, you'll need to have seen "The Beginning." In fact, I would recommend seeing that film before this one.

Kenshin, once again, is trying his best to live a quiet, peaceful life. But now, everyone he loves and cares about is under attack by Enishi, who will stop at nothing to maximize Kenshin's suffering.

The beauty of the film comes in the last hour or so when many Kenshin's allies and former enemies alike, help him to run the gauntlet of hundreds of Enishi and Heixing's men. Heixing being Enishi's own connection with the Shanghai underworld.

What we see is a transformation of character in former villains who now see the wisdom of Kenshin and his lifestyle. It proves that as soon as one man vows to change, it creates a ripple effect for others to do the same.

Kenshin also finally reveals his past to his friends, how he got his scar, and why he vowed to change his ways. Tomoe saw the goodness in Kenshin even before Kenshin or Kaoru did. It usually only takes one person to have faith to start the ball rolling!

Once again, we have epic action sequences that, somehow, is even moreso than the previous trilogy. But also, the action lies at the periphery of a much deeper film that is full of heart, wisdom, and inspirational characters. And mostly, it shows us a glimmer of a path of what a true hero looks like. And what it truly means to be noble.

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One of the Best Action Trilogies I've Ever Seen!

There's a reason that there aren't many good sequels out there, let alone two to make up a trilogy. The first film is usually the best with significant fall-off from there. I can only think of a few trilogies that are rock solid from first to last. This is one of the few.

Kenshin finds himself back with his old master. He doesn't know if Kaoru is alive or not. We can see the despair and rage in his eyes. He pleads with his master to teach him the ultimate technique that might help him defeat Shishio and his minions.

People with Kenshin's past often find it more challenging to live. They view their own lives as sacrifice and recompense for a tumultuous and far-from-ideal past. Kenshin's master has to remind him that he cannot fear life, and he can't look at his own life as being of less worth than anyone else's. In other words, he can't sacrifice his life to save others because he views others' lives as being greater than his own. This reminds me a bit of Nathan Algren from "The Last Samurai" who is so wracked with guilt and shame that he pretty much wishes for death, and he can't help but wonder how and why he's escaped death so many times.

We also find that the new government--out of fear of Shishio--puts out a call for Kenshin's arrest at Shishio's demands. First thing is first, of course. Kenshin needs to recollect himself as well as find himself before he's ready to take on Shishio.

The climactic battle doesn't disappoint as Kenshin and a few of his newfound allies--some who are former enemies--fight side-by-side to rid Japan of its most evil and devastating enemy. The battle sequences are so long that even I was starting to feel as tired as the characters who were fighting. And, of course, the same question remains: can Kenshin defeat Shishio without killing him.

Kenshin is easily one of the deepest and most profound heroes in recent cinematic history. A man who doesn't say very much, but we know and admire the complexity of the man and his newfound mission: to save those who cannot save themselves and to do so without taking a life.

In many ways, Kaoru is Kenshin's rock. She serves as a reminder, that no matter how difficult it may be, Kenshin can serve his mission and live by his code. Kaoru serves as the ultimate companion. The person who believes in us even when we begin to doubt ourselves. And perhaps it is the deep, underlying philosophy at the core of these films that makes them delve far deeper than any typical action film.

In short, this is one of the best action trilogies I've ever seen, and the action lies on the periphery if its heart, its wisdom, and the belief that a man can, indeed, change.

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Things Begin To Heat Up In This Gripping Second Film!

Kenshin is trying his best to live a peaceful life. He lives at the Kaoru's dogo along with his new friends, Miss Megumi and the humorous Sanosuke.

Of course, a man with the past that Kenshin has, there are always those desiring his downfall. Others seek him out for help. And the new government does just that when Shishio shows up with a massive army and colorful lieutenants, each one embodying a different form of crazy. Shishio, however, seems to be every dark trait rolled into one. This is a guy that makes the Joker look partially sane.

After Kenshin sees the decimation of Shishio's first attack, and the weeping and wailing families of Shishio's victims, he agrees that Shishio must be stopped.

I love how, in each film, Kenshin's enemies become harder and fiercer, bringing about more difficult challenges. And with each challenge comes the ultimate one for Kenshin: will he resort to killing in order to save?

Once again, the characters are spot-on. They are colorful and flamboyant, each bringing something interesting to the table. New characters are introduced, and none of them disappoint.

And, of course, the action sequences are unparalleled. At least, for me, as I've not seen anything remotely close to this. I've seen some featurettes on youtube, and I'm astounded by how fast and precise the action sequences are put together.

But, as good as the action sequences are, they are not hollow because they go together with a fantastic story, with Kenshin as its centerpiece. A man trying to change, and being challenged at every turn. Being told that he's insane to even try by virtually everyone except the one person who believes in him: Kaoru.

Pathfinders are those who create their own path. And most of the time, it's unique and original to the point where they are mocked by society and those who say, "You're crazy! It can't be done!" Pathfinders prove that it can if we only have the courage to try.

I'm also not sure you can stop with this film. A cliffhanger almost invites you to look at your clock and then say, "The hell with it!" before immediately starting the next one!

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A Fun and Delightful Series That Will Likely Tickle Your Funny Bone!

First of all, I love the uniqueness of this series. Bringing in an international cast of actors and actresses, all of whom, quite obviously either live in Korea or are from Korea. I love how all of them (American, European, etc.) are fluent in Korean, giving the series a very authentic feel. All of the inflections and syntax and pronunciations sound dead-on to me! I guess I'd have to be fluent myself to notice any peculiarities or inconsistencies.

The series is about a group of college students who are all from somewhere else (America, Australia, Trinidad, Thailand, Sweden, etc.) and living in the dorm for international students.

The stories are mostly episodic with stories lasting only one or two episodes with a few minor storylines carrying over into subsequent episodes.

Pretty much all of the performers are very good--to--excellent. Carson, Se-wan, and Hyun-Min are the strongest, in my opinion, with very good performances from Minnie, Youngjae (Sam), Terris, and Joakim (Hans). Shin Hyun-Seung (Jaime) is good but tends to come across as a bit wooden at times. You'll notice that most of the characters use the same name as the actor/actress.

We have fairly typical scenarios of college kids trying to navigate life, studies, and love. Sometimes, they fumble and trip over themselves and others, and sometimes, they find ways to be there for each other.

My only real "knock" against the show is that I wish they didn't use a laugh track. We don't need to know when to laugh. Most of the laughs are pretty obvious, and the show would be better without it. But, that's a minor thing which won't prevent me from watching.

All-in-all, this is a fun series. It's only 12 episodes long, but it's quite obvious that more seasons will be coming, which I will be looking forward to.

If you're looking for a short series that is fun, with likeable characters, that isn't too heavy or overloaded with melodrama, you'll enjoy this series!

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A Fairly Typical Romantic K-Drama

As far as romantic K-dramas are concerned, this one is pretty typical and predictable. Frankly, I prefer romantic K-dramas that think more outside of the box. Such series like "Lovestruck in the City," "Because This Is My First Life," to infinitely far superior series like "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" or "Crash Landing on You" are far more preferable.

Still, the series works, for the most part, despite the significant drop-off in the last three or four episodes that had me waiting for the series to just finally end with the repetitive cliched formulas. I mean, how many times can a girl run away and have the guy chase after her? Once, okay. Twice, and you're pushing it. More than that, and it because tedious and completely overused. Such plot devices show a lack of creativity on the writers' part.

We also have the typical, "only a rich man can save a woman." It's sad that this is such a misused and overused plot device that must seriously mirror the cultural norms of Asian countries. How sad that nothing can be further from the truth.

So, we have the spoiled, rich son of corporate tycoon who is conceited and only interested in his own pleasures. However, Jin-Wook might be said to have grown and matured the most by the end of the series. He is also not afraid to step out of his father's shadow and go against the norm. He will also speak his own mind.

Then, we have the relatively shy, immature, and very insecure Yumi who sees herself as a victim of what everything thinks about her and her mother (who happens to be a former adult film actress). Yumi has no idea how to take life by the reins and not care about what everyone thinks. She blames everyone else for her problems, which also tends to make her quite the coward. She fabricates stories and excuses to hide her insecurity as well as the shame she feels regarding her mother. And when things blow up (as you know they will in K-dramas like this one!), she again blames everyone else for the messes that she, herself, creates. In short, she is incapable of taking any kind of responsibility for herself and her actions. And somehow, she no longer needs glasses after the second or third episode!

Of course, we also have the friends (one man and one woman) who each also have feelings for our two protaganists. After all, it wouldn't be a standard K-drama without at least one. One is a spoiled newscaster who thinks the world revolves around her. The other is a quiet, shy young man, who is much like Yumi herself. He failed to help her as a classmate, and now he sits in the shadows with anger and jealousy for his own ineptitude.

Despite all of these things, the show still works. Perhaps it's because of the obvious chemistry between the two leads. For the first nine or ten episodes, I was also hopeful that this wouldn't end up being a typical K-drama, as I found himself quite vested in the story, which started to crumble in the last few episodes and became very typical.

Frankly, I'll keep seeking out series like the ones I mentioned above; those writers who are capable of writing something new, different, and something that pushes the envelope. I find those types of show far more enjoyable!

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Just So Much Fun!

I’m actually reviewing this show after my second time watching it with its sequel due out sometime next year, I believe. I never realized that I hadn’t written a review yet.

Strong Woman Do Bong Soon is a delightful series that combines romantic comedy with a thriller twist. Koreans are masters of utilizing more than one genre within a series, and they do it so effortlessly that you wonder why more TV shows around the world don’t try to do the same. It takes a special kind of writer to be able to integrate genres that seem so opposite.

Bong Soon is a young woman endowed with super-strength—strength that seems to rival Wonder Woman, at the very least. Bong Soon is a charming character, even if she’s a bit lazy and not very bright. However, none of these things prevents her from enacting justice where and when needed, although she’s much like a young Clark Kent from Smallville. She just wants to lead a normal life. However, like most heroes, she has a weakness: if she ever harms an innocent person, she will lose her powers. Her gifts are ancestral, handed down among the women of her family.

As the series begins, Bong Soon only has eyes for Lieutenant In Gook Do of the police force. Gook Do is a former classmate who doesn’t seem to see Bong Soon as anything other than a silly girl who often makes poor decisions. Gook Do is a hard-nosed officer who can be a bit brutish and chauvinistic. He has no qualms about telling Bong Soon what to do and how to live her life, even when such advice isn’t asked for.

Bong Soon finds herself entangled with Min Hyuk Ahn, the CEO of a gaming software company when he comes across her beating some thugs to pieces. As he is being stalked and blackmailed, he hires Bong Soon as his personal bodyguard, which works out well because he’s now one of the very few who knows her secret. Min Hyuk is almost a polar opposite to Gook Do. He’s boyishly charming but also tends to be a bit immature, self-absorbed, and a bit possessive and insecure. This completes our “love triangle” as Mr. Ahn and Gook Do are soon rivals for Bong Soon’s affections and interest.

What really rounds out the series is a quite disturbing psychopath who becomes obsessed with collecting women off the street and holding them in an underground dungeon below an auto junkyard. And frankly, this aspect is done just as well as the comedy.

Plenty of moments will have you on the floor with laughter. Kim Won Hae nearly steals the limelight from Bo Young Park in his dual role. First, as a thug who gets beaten up so many times, that his gift for comedy is priceless. Second, he also plays the role of the Strategy Team Manager at Ainsoft, a very effeminate man whom you can only compare to Nathan Lane’s role in “The Birdcage.” I’ve seen Kim Won Hae in a number of roles, and he can wear any hat and do any role that is asked of him.

Bo Young Park may well be one of the cutest actresses I’ve seen in 45+ years of watching shows. She is so tiny and has an almost childlike innocence, that you can’t help but be pulled in by her vulnerability. She is also so adept at wearing her emotions on her sleeve, especially when she’s crying, that you forget she’s acting! The scene when she’s sobbing while being chained to a bomb is especially heart-wrenching, as she begs Mr. Ahn to leave her so that he can save himself, but he refuses. I have seen Park in several series now, and if she has one flaw, it’s in her chemistry with her male love interests. She just never seems entirely comfortable with them. It’s in this area that her vulnerability is often transformed into walls, which makes are appear guarded. Still, she is a phenomenal actress.

While the series may be a bit predictable, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. People have loved superheroes for a long time, and Bong Soon may well be one of the most charming and delightful ones to come down the pike in a long time. And while we’re enamored with her powers, it’s always the human element—those aspects that people can relate to—that makes her character shine! Bong Soon is simply just another young woman trying to navigate her life and figure out what she wants to do with it. She does have a propensity to take the easy route when it comes to work rather than go through the necessary steps, which is why she’s perceived by family and friends alike as being a bit lazy and not very goal-oriented.

Some parts of the show actually don’t quite fit, such as the mob boss’s interactions with a Korean Hindu, which was a bit humorous but never really did anything for the story. Bong Soon’s little groupie kids were funny early on, but they more than wore out their welcome as the series progressed, leaving the viewer to wonder why they were still there.

Overall, this series is simply a ton of fun. Aside from the thriller aspect of the show, it never takes itself too seriously. Like Min Hyuk Ahn and Gook Do, you may well find yourself enamored with Bong Soon Do too!

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Fantastic Series Still Goes Strong with Season 2! Will We Get a Season 3?!?

"Age of Youth" or the Netflix title of "Hello, My Twenties" is a charming, funny, fresh, and often addictive show to get into. I was disappointed to see that Netflix only had Season 1 available. Yes, that is how much I enjoyed it! I wanted to keep watching! Overall, I liked Season 1 slightly more than Season 2.

This intelligent and creative show is about five young women who live in a share house. Of course, they come from different walks of life, have different backgrounds, and much like most people, each of them carries a secret. Like any roommates who share a living space, they get along, they laugh, they cry, and they often argue and fight. But make no mistake. These girls truly love each other and do their best to be there for each other. That is truly the beauty of this show. It proves that a "family" doesn't have to be your nuclear family. In fact, it's a bit interesting and ironic, that in some cases, these girls seem closer to each other than with their parents.

There are some truly touching moments that might tug at your heartstrings, some incredibly hilarious moments that might get you laughing out loud for a spell, and even some thought-provoking moments. In short, this show has just about everything.

First, we have Jin-Myung Yoon. Yoon doesn't say much, but when she does speak, she is honest and sincere, even to the point of being blunt. She comes across as cold, but she really isn't. Her "tough" exterior hides the wounded woman suffering through the pain of believing that she's alone. She's cautious about who she opens up to, and when she does, Yoon speaks her mind. She has a challenge of truly connecting with people and showing them who she is. However, she loves her roommates, and will do anything for them. She works three jobs and goes to school. She is the most mature of all of them, and she is my personal favorite.

Next is Ye-Eun Jung, who is probably the most immature of the group and has some serious self-esteem issues. She adores her boyfriend, despite the poor way that he treats her. Everything is about status with her. She cares about how she looks, what she wears, how much she weighs, and what everyone thinks about her. She is prone to be thoughtless, but she is also cheerful, cute, and despite her clashes with Kang, she also cares very deeply for her fellow roommates.

Ji-Won Song is the most energetic and creative of the bunch. She also has absolutely no problem expressing herself. She's never embarrassed. She will also frequently take the initiative in activities where others are hesitant. She lives her life a bit on the edge, and sometimes gets a bit carried away with the "truth." She is rarely ever down or upset, and she is the one most likely to try and cheer up a friend.

Kang Yi-Na is the only one who doesn't share a room with anyone else. A woman with a tragic past, she works as an escort. She also has no vices about walking around with little/nothing on, which makes some of the other roommates uncomfortable. She has more "life knowledge" than the other girls, especially about how men behave. She isn't tricked by the antics that men play, and this gets her into fights with Ye-Eun over Ye-Eun's naivety about her own boyfriend. It's a toss-up as to who is tougher: Kang or Yoon.

Lastly, we have Eun-Jae, who is the newest addition to the house. She is also the youngest with the least amount of life experience. Coming from the country, she is a young woman who is extremely naive about how things work. It is also very difficult for her to speak her mind or even speak up about things until it's already reached a boiling point. Very sweet with a timid personality, she is very much like the "baby sister" of the group. All of the other girls feel a sense of "protectiveness" toward her. I think I still prefer the previous actress to this one, but they're both good.

Not only is the writing top-notch, but so is the acting. These five women have a certain chemistry that can't be overlooked. They know their characters inside and out, and they make the show work! Each brings something special to the table, but it's those moments when they are truly looking out for each other as well as being there for each other that demonstrates the true power of the show.

I would guess that many people would love to have a "family" like this! Why? Because no matter what happens, at the end of the day, they truly love each other, and isn't that what a family is?

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The Performance of Haruka Fukuhara Makes This One of the Sweetest Shows I've Ever Seen!

This is my first foray into the world of Japanese television, and frankly, after over 40 years of watching shows, this is already one of the best that I have ever seen.

I've enjoyed a number of memorable TV characters and icons over the years, and Nao, who is expertly portrayed by Haruka Fukuhara is right up there. She captivates you with a her sweetness, her naivety, her pureness and innocence. I don't recall seeing this type of role being done so well. Perhaps that it is why it is so memorable, touching, and altogether poignant.

Fukuhara has a gift for acting. I've always said that when an actor/actress can act without words but by using simple facial expressions to convey exactly what they're feeling, then that is the sign of a master at their craft. It isn't something that can be taught either.

Good Morning Call is based upon a manga series about a high school boy and a high school girl, due to a scam, end up sharing the same apartment together. You can easily predict some of the situations that this will create.

Nao is a young girl whose parents have moved to the countryside and have left her in the city so that she can continue to attend her high school. Her best friend is Marina. Nao is a girl who is about as pure-hearted as anyone can be. But, it's not over-the-top. She is quite naive, and she has a talent for getting into trouble. She's a bit clumsy, and she's not the best at thinking things through. She can also be as skittish as a mouse, jumping at the smallest noise or when someone unexpectedly "pops up" in front of her. This is all done for comedic effect. Most of the time, Nao will make you laugh as often as she touches your heart.

Uehara, Nao's roommate, is the most popular boy in school. Girls gush and swoon over him, wishing and hoping that he might show one of them some interest. However, Uehara is someone who isn't interested in the silliness of those girls. He's a character with a tragic past who is extremely independent. He works at least two jobs to make ends meet as well as being one of the school's top students. Uehara, however, can come across as a brooding person who is unfeeling and unsympathetic. Many viewers have characterized him as being rude and mean. On the other hand, Uehara speaks his mind, and he's not given over to flattery. You know that a compliment from him actually means something because he's sincere, and Nao knows this. Shun'ya Shiraishi does a very good job of playing the complex character of Uehara. Uehara may not be there when Nao wants him, but he's always there when she NEEDS him.

These two characters bounce from one problem to another which keeps the story lines fresh and interesting as well as the friends and other characters who come and go throughout the course of the season. At any rate, you'll find yourself cheering for both of these characters.

Good Morning Call is one of the best and most fun shows I've seen. It may not be for all tastes. You have to be open to the cultural differences to fully appreciate the beauty of the characters and the story. At any rate, Haruka Fukuhara's Nao is a character you won't be forgetting any time soon, as she burrows her way into your heart to weave her sweet magic.

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