Hello, i was able to read the full version of it from wattpad itself (not translated tho and i'm filo btw) and that was way way back. I'm not sure if the story is still available or can be read for free + can be translated to english or other languages from the app./website. I'm so sorry 🥲
Since I forgot the details of the book/novel, I decided not to re-read it so I could approach the drama/series with a fresh perspective. Notably, the director mentioned that they wouldn't deviate from the original story, so I'll refrain from questioning the plot plus, i believe that everything happened for a reason (Kudos to Ms. Lara, the author of AMNSE.) Lastly, i'm going to be completely honest and won't beat around the bush.
Here are my thoughts on the series from episodes 1 to 5:
GOOD POINTS: 1. This is, by far, the best adaptation from the Filo-Wattpad series. 2. The cast is excellent, with appealing actors and actresses who bring the characters to life. I'm impressed that many of them are new to the industry (some familiar faces here and there especially the influencers), and few like Ashtine (Jay-jay) really stood out. 3. The soundtrack, particularly the intro song, is nostalgic and again, addictive. Growing up, it's like one of the most popular songs, often played during morning exercise routines at school or in a dance routine. 4. The bond of the cast, both on-screen and behind-the-scenes, is undeniable.
NEEDS IMPROVEMENT: 1. Some cast members, especially Andres (Kiefer) - since he's the male lead, need to work on delivering their lines and expressing themselves more naturally. While there were standout moments, there's still a bit of an awkwardness that detracts from their overall performance. 2. Certain scenes feel stale or dry, which can make the viewing experience uninteresting at some time(s).
Nonetheless, I believe this drama is worth it because it successfully caught my attention, much like how it did for the international viewers.
Please support them by watching it legally on the viva one (app).
Ep. 2 and 3 made me realize that there are more talented participants that we should look out for aside from the popular and talented ones that we already knew.
TEAM RHYTHM GIVE ME THAT: Definitely had the best teamwork, most balanced, and most talented participants. I know that JL was the center and for me, he's always been the MVP but i think Juwon really deserved the title. Don't get me wrong. While JL excels objectively and technically, his predictability diminishes the surprise factor (because he already made it from the get-go, like he already exceeded my, our expectations). Hence, he's already perfect as he is - from singing, dancing, and even up to his facial expressions. It feels like there's little to no room for improvement anymore. More like, this show is made for him and his future members. Then I also want to give this to Shuaibo and Sirin. Shuaibo consistently embodied his charismatic persona, notably with the rose gesture. Likewise, Sirin (whom I didn't even know from the start) also impressed me with his outstanding performance. As for Daisuke and Steven, pretty much okay but not the best. I guess for Daisuke, it's because he wasn't suitable for this song to begin with. He did well with his parts though. Unfortunately, it's the opposite for Steven. He was the most suitable for the song but it's quite disappointing how he appeared to be nervous, like quite stiff on his facial expressions however, vocal and dance-wise, he also did great. Lastly, the most unfortunate one who is Royce. His limited lines and screen time made it impossible for him to be noticed and for that, i felt bad for him. Nonetheless, they deserved to get that first place.
BAGGY JEANS: Such a letdown. I don't think i need to explain further. The numerous shortcomings in this performance made its ranking inexplicable, like i don't even think that they deserve it (sorry not sorry). Still, job well done to the leader for directing the team.
TEAM BEAT BOYS NEVER DIE: The producer or El Capitxn's decision to choose 'Girls Never Die' was wrong to begin with, considering the predominantly female fan base and of course, how it empowers women. It's a song that has a special place in our hearts so, that was already a huge minus from the get-go which is not even their fault and that sucks but yeah, overall, only Woongki and Jiangfan stood out to me. Also, can we like all agree that Jihun needs to get out of the show? Don't come at me with the evil editing stuff because i didn't see it that way. He's DRAGGING the team, he dragged the team. If he has no conscience after this and continues to display the same attitude, please just get out.
HARD CARRY (BENCH): Deserve to be first place imo. They did few mistakes but to be honest, it's hard to pull this song however, i was surprised with how impactful their performance was. Hanseo, Kairi, and Yuito carried this team.
TEAM GROOVE MISSING YOU: Another song that's hard to pull off. Imagine trying to make the vocals and choreo. work? and they did it. Indeed, one of my favorite performances but i guess it's just that few members made mistakes especially Kyungho (?) but yes, Park Han, Joohyoung, and Zen Zen’s vocals devoured.
SECOND CONFESSION: While deserving of first place, the performance lacked distinctive elements, like I couldn't seem to find trainees who had an impression. Still, they did great as a whole and overall, enjoyed their performance.
P.S. WILL EDIT THIS REVIEW AS SOON AS I FIND TIME. AS FOR NOW, I HAD TO SLEEP.
Here's my two cents: (1) So far, it's one of the best dramas that is currently ongoing. Unfortunately, it's just not well-promoted but i feel like with its peculiarity and storyline, it might blow up. I see some edits already on TikTok. (2) Both episodes were able to deliver the plot and catch my attention in the best possible way. A nuanced blend of comedy and dark theme/s creates a captivating contrast. (3) I love how it managed to cover up real issues, it's a drama that is very timely. To be more specific, from episode one where the bullies tried to use deepfake (iykyk) (4) The whole family is just crazy and i love it sm. Just a warning, it has a lot of violent scenes so, if you're not used to it, i don't recommend.
After watching the latest episode, here's my two cents: (1) The 2ML is somehow necessary but just not interesting and challenging. He didn't feel like a main character rather a supporting character, like a filler. Also, I just don't find him suitable at all for the FL. I mean visually, he's just like one of her students or a brother and it's just weird/strange at its finest. Plus the fact that his real age is only 24 years old compared to the leads who are in their 40s already. Moreover, I feel like he's getting so much screentime that it overshadows the main couple's chemistry (and worse, we're not even close to the chemistry of the ML and FL yet) (2) I already expected the friend of the FL to betray her at some point but what irked me was even at the present, she's a wench who will and will always ruin her friends' happiness, oh wait, is she even a friend to begin with? (3) I think that the adult storyline lacks progression. It is hindered by insufficient character development and chemistry. Their constant bickering, while indeed the comical aspect of the drama, stalls narrative growth (although again, i've said it before that it's the point of the drama but it would've been better if it's balanced) (4) From the latest episode, we learned that the FL's character transformation underscores the devastating impact of losing one's purpose or the will to live. When she's still young, she lost almost everything which led to her current self being dreary, flat, and hence, unlikeable to the majority. It's as if she's just surviving and not living anymore. (5) I enjoy how the scenarios engage or involve the students, suggesting that they (the adults) were once students as well. It's like they (the FL and ML) could see themselves in them. (6) Their teenage version seemed to be the whole plot for me, like i was surprised with the ending of the latest episode. It's giving the WTPR, where the ML acts as if he doesn't care or he didn't care but the truth is, he's always been there for her.
I'm loving this so far, even though i'm already fed up with romcom. dramas. Believe me, i'm super picky, but this caught my attention along with WTPR. I know we still have a long way to go for the adults because they've just met (as adults) so there isn't much of a chemistry yet but we'll get there. On the other hand, I hope they (producers, directors, or whoever is behind this drama) won't quickly end the younger version of the main leads because they're actually the reason why I got invested. They're so compatible with each other and their expressions always get me. For side context, I'm familiar with Minki because i've seen him in a couple of videos from a YouTube channel (iykyk) and his previous drama which was "Night Has Come" Glad that he pursued acting because he's doing great. Likewise, Yeju embodied her character or her role to the point that I could see her as 'that' in real life. Not to mention, the way she smiles gives me butterflies.
For the storyline, it felt like unboxing a gift. Things are starting to unfold, which as a viewer excites me because we get to see their past which led to what and who they are right now (the present).
Also, i'm seeing comments about the adult versions of the main leads, why they're still childish or still bickering for their age. Are we forgetting about the title? I mean, isn't the whole point of the drama? Still, I also somewhat agree that it shouldn't center on that idea alone despite it being the comical aspect of the show. It should just be enough until we get to see their mature sides, of how they're going to grow fond of each other again and resolve their issues because in the end, it's what we're rooting for the most.
Lastly, the outfits of the FL? I don't see anything wrong with it. She's a P.E. teacher after all but if you managed to finish both episodes, there's a bigger issue which is from their families and that's the answer to it.
Watching the previous series such as "Judge from Hell" and "Mr. Plankton" definitely raised my standards again for k-dramas thus, making it difficult for me to find another one. However, this drama surpassed my expectations.
With only two episodes, it won me over. Initially, I didn't have plans on watching it because I'm not a fan of both the actor and actress. I'm only familiar w/ them because I have watched few of their dramas or movies before but wow, who would've thought?
I literally screamed, giggled, and kicked my feet. Like Mr. Plankton, the amount of tension and chemistry (of the leads) drawn me in. It is something to die for and most especially, i did not expect it at all.
Not to mention, the accuracy of the characters (I've heard that it was a web novel? although i'm not familiar with it) but one thing's for sure, the actors definitely embodied their roles. Above all, the storyline and the amount of plot twists? Couldn't say more. Well, I already knew about Hui Ju's secret but the ending of episode 2 wherein it was revealed that Hui Ju will be marrying a man (an asshole btw) of another company (?) which became one of the reasons why the brides were switched.
I think i need a little push with this one. Based from the ratings that i've seen, it's good so far which is why I already started it. However, I couldn't seem to get myself attached to it? I'm at ep. 4 btw. Can anyone spoil me the overall progress of this drama? Thank you.
P.S. First impression really matters to me and the episodes that i've watched didn't seem to impress me much so i'm asking this so i could see the whole picture of it (of course aside from the obvious ones)
Don't get me wrong, i'm a fan of Linyi and Shenyue. I was able to watch their previous works such as PYHOMS, Derailment, ELS for Linyi and ALSB, Meteor Garden, UFMT, and Mr. Bad for Shenyue.
Some people here might have questioned Hae Jo's decision and found him annoying for ruining Jae Mi's life, specifically her supposedly wedding, but honestly, i would do the same. It's not that what HJ did is right but he felt that there's still hope.
In my opinion, this is what i've seen throughout their journey together. In HJ's pov, it's the "I don't want to lose you but i'm scared you might lose yourself because of me (due to his standing and his condition)" but in JM's pov, "I already started to lose myself the moment I lost you (when they broke up)"
Despite their desire to be together, the anguish that they felt parting their ways is beyond words and it's even painful when you know that they also grew up having no one else beside them.
Just finished the drama in one sitting and let me tell you, i cried a river. Definitely a masterpiece. These three (JM, HJ, and even EH) deserve the whole world and i wish i can hug them like for real. The way this drama was able to capture the essence of life while not forgetting it to be humourous and romantic drawn me in. It's like a mix of romcom, tragedy, and slice of life.
Indeed the truth about life is to seize the moment and cherish the people around you because at the end, no matter what your status is, when the time comes, you just have to face it and can't go back.
And in terms of JM and JH, in another universe, i hope they're together and happy like one big family.
Wow, I had no expectations with this drama. In fact, it wasn't even on my watchlist. Not until I stumbled with it because I couldn't find other dramas to entertain me, and hence, I decided to try it.
I'm at episode 2 and so far, i'm enjoying it. It was honestly not the storyline that i'm looking for based on the title alone but i'm hooked. What even impressed me more was the acting of both ML and FL. Take note, I'm not even a fan of either though I was able to watch Strong Girl Namsoon and All Of Us Are Dead starring LYM in it whereas Save Me for WDW. But really, i'm very pleased.
With regards to the plot, i'm already aware of the possibilities with the ending. I mean are we not supposed or expected to? They have already given it in the first episode. Still, I hope it's a justified ending, not rushed nor impossible.
Okay, i'm seeing a lot of negative comments and bad ratings with this drama and i couldn't agree more. Don't come at me with "There's only 2 episodes" and? I think it's really important for viewers to have a good first impression of the show because it revolves majority of their decision whether to continue the drama or not anymore. Personally, I enjoy romcom dramas and KSJ's previous work which was Business Proposal is one of my favorites. I also quite enjoyed Today's Webtoon, a decent watch i believe.
However, with this one, i just couldn't grasp the whole drama. I don't know if it's because it started too hasty? or the amount of exaggeration? or the lack of depth towards the characters and the story? Overall, it just feels like a web drama to me, even the beginning of episode 1 didn't feel like an introduction but rather climax (?)
If you're bored and got nothing to watch, this is something you can try, at least to kill your time and entertain yourself.
P.S. I'm a fan of KSJ and LJW. I've seen their previous works which is why i'm disappointed with this because i kinda expected knowing both are good in acting, especially KSJ.
Someone said here in the comsec. that this is good for a one-time watch and i couldn't agree more. I've always been picky with dramas but this is something that i was able to finish like at least, 'cause i tend to stop watching dramas that weren't nice from the get-go but this was different. Of course, there were imperfections but this is a fantasy drama after all. I wouldn't simply criticize the smallest details or the little things that somehow bothered me. Nonetheless, a recommendable drama though I wish this was on Netflix because it could've reached a lot of viewers.
My sister and I tried watching this today. Unfortunately, we weren't able to finish it because everything just felt lacking. Don't get me wrong, i'm pretty familiar with Win and Janella. I've seen most of their works and they're both good in acting and well-known towards their respective industry/industries. I'm just disappointed because I had huge expectations with this.
Plot-wise? Common but decent enough. Acting? Not really. Chemistry? Had a potential.
I'm not sure if it's because of how they delivered their lines but sadly, their emotions just didn't reach to us. In some parts, it felt stiff and unnatural (Just to clarify, i know that there would be difficulties in terms of their communication and the languages they've used but i appreciate their effort/s)
Not to mention, i didn't like how they visually portrayed Janella's character specifically her makeup. I understand that she had an illness (based on the comsec. here) but it just could've been better.
Overall, props to them for trying. It was so nice to see Win taking international projects so as Janella.
I personally love the concept of the show like how they tried to make it less hierarchal and burdensome for the participants. However, I found it superficial how these mentors choose which trainees to pass. Nonetheless, i wish all of them the best!
I still prefer the original but this is good compared to other adaptations. I think they were able to somehow capture the same expressions and of course, the plot. Unfortunately, i couldn't seem to find the vibe that i was looking for (i feel like it was the cinematography because the chinese version seems to be more realistic in a sense, like muted but in a good way? Because this drama felt more bubbly and vibrant) They did change it a bit but glad that the majority of the parts were the same w/ the original. Don't get me wrong, i know that this drama only has 16 episodes thus, they will not be able to cater everything which is why the changes is what i'm excited about. I know that adaptations shouldn't be exactly the same as the original but hopefully, they will be able to give me that feeling i've experienced when i first watched Go Ahead.
Did i binge-watch this drama in just one day? Oh well yes. I thought this would be a cringy ass drama with the same narrative or plot recycled over and over again but to my surprise, the writer/s and the director/s somewhat decided to take a different approach or a little turn to how the story will fold. The idea of punishing perpetrators according to what they did to their victims is one I find really appealing. I personally think that it's the essence of the drama.
At the same time, while PSH had already broken her "usual" image, I think this drama brought out the best in her even more. I often see her as a monotonous actress due to her similar roles in different dramas or same type of characters and stiff expressions but she really surprised me with this. KJY is also spot on with his character. I've seen him couple of times in other dramas but i'm glad that he nailed this.
Above all, i love the direction of this drama, like where it's going. I don't think you have to examine more thoroughly with this drama. That's just the way things are. The demons were sent to the real world to complete their missions and punish the sinners before they go to hell. The point is, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth and i think that's just it.
i agree with everything u said, i literally get bored after watching 2 or 3 episodes but i watched the 10 episodes…
Although it's unfortunate for those chefs who got less screen time (especially during the blindfold mission wherein their process of making their dishes were cut) but it was indeed effective. I didn't even skip nor tried to fast-forward the scenes.
This is by far one of the best cooking shows i've ever watched and it's even crazy how i don't usually watch shows in one-sitting and i often get bored but i was able to finish all of the episodes just today.
The good sides, i thought it was incredibly well-made or in short, a good production (the budget was insane) and fairly balanced in every way, such as the arrangement of two judges (Paik Jong Won and Ahn Sung Jae) with contrasting perspectives about food ; one who is taste-driven and one who is meticulous. Likewise with the mission/s, it was just, progressive, and entertaining (the only downside was the restaurant challenge in which they had to select one teammate to drop and those teammates were to form a new team and purchase their own ingredients. to make it worse, the announcement was made after other teams had begun. and oh, not to mention, after the formation of a new group, there was obviously a lack of manpower, like one less compared to another team was really crucial given that the people they're serving were mukbang creators. unfortunately, that's the reason i believe why they got eliminated. the tendons looked good and delicious but the serving time was a bit slow. despite all of those instances, props to them because they managed to climb up near the three teams.) Another positive aspect of the show was its pacing. I'm glad that they didn't beat around the bush and instead focused on the most intriguing parts of the show + who left the most impression, nor did they create much drama. Lastly, i would give this to all the chefs who participated in this show because honestly, each one of them are really impressive. I'm really surprised with Napoli Matfia, Comic Book Chef, Triple Star, Cooking Maniac, Self Made Chef, Edward Lee, Goddess and Queen of Chinese Cuisine, Lu Ching Lai, Choi Hyun Seok, and many more.
Down to the unfavorable sides of the show (personally okay?), apart from things mentioned above, just the concept of black and white spoons which was effective and noteworthy but it's also the reason why it felt quite off, like sort of scripted in a way? I noticed it during the blindfold mission where the judges seemed to pick 2 from the black spoons to balance the idea or the concept making them, 11 white spoons and 11 black spoons because the next round was 1:1 battle. Nonetheless, this wouldn't affect my rating and how i love the show, i would give this 10/10!
P.S. White spoons were able to prove why they're white spoons in the first place but black spoons have also shown that they're capable of beating them.
It's the what-ifs but also the realization that you have to live in the present because you might miss something that is as precious or valuable to you. It's a well-written story with Qing, a character that represents a lot or majority of us but it's also Xiao Xiao who reminded us that we have to seize the moment and make memories with the people we love.
Here are my thoughts on the series from episodes 1 to 5:
GOOD POINTS:
1. This is, by far, the best adaptation from the Filo-Wattpad series.
2. The cast is excellent, with appealing actors and actresses who bring the characters to life. I'm impressed that many of them are new to the industry (some familiar faces here and there especially the influencers), and few like Ashtine (Jay-jay) really stood out.
3. The soundtrack, particularly the intro song, is nostalgic and again, addictive. Growing up, it's like one of the most popular songs, often played during morning exercise routines at school or in a dance routine.
4. The bond of the cast, both on-screen and behind-the-scenes, is undeniable.
NEEDS IMPROVEMENT:
1. Some cast members, especially Andres (Kiefer) - since he's the male lead, need to work on delivering their lines and expressing themselves more naturally. While there were standout moments, there's still a bit of an awkwardness that detracts from their overall performance.
2. Certain scenes feel stale or dry, which can make the viewing experience uninteresting at some time(s).
Nonetheless, I believe this drama is worth it because it successfully caught my attention, much like how it did for the international viewers.
Please support them by watching it legally on the viva one (app).
TEAM RHYTHM
GIVE ME THAT: Definitely had the best teamwork, most balanced, and most talented participants. I know that JL was the center and for me, he's always been the MVP but i think Juwon really deserved the title. Don't get me wrong. While JL excels objectively and technically, his predictability diminishes the surprise factor (because he already made it from the get-go, like he already exceeded my, our expectations). Hence, he's already perfect as he is - from singing, dancing, and even up to his facial expressions. It feels like there's little to no room for improvement anymore. More like, this show is made for him and his future members. Then I also want to give this to Shuaibo and Sirin. Shuaibo consistently embodied his charismatic persona, notably with the rose gesture. Likewise, Sirin (whom I didn't even know from the start) also impressed me with his outstanding performance. As for Daisuke and Steven, pretty much okay but not the best. I guess for Daisuke, it's because he wasn't suitable for this song to begin with. He did well with his parts though. Unfortunately, it's the opposite for Steven. He was the most suitable for the song but it's quite disappointing how he appeared to be nervous, like quite stiff on his facial expressions however, vocal and dance-wise, he also did great. Lastly, the most unfortunate one who is Royce. His limited lines and screen time made it impossible for him to be noticed and for that, i felt bad for him. Nonetheless, they deserved to get that first place.
BAGGY JEANS: Such a letdown. I don't think i need to explain further. The numerous shortcomings in this performance made its ranking inexplicable, like i don't even think that they deserve it (sorry not sorry). Still, job well done to the leader for directing the team.
TEAM BEAT
BOYS NEVER DIE: The producer or El Capitxn's decision to choose 'Girls Never Die' was wrong to begin with, considering the predominantly female fan base and of course, how it empowers women. It's a song that has a special place in our hearts so, that was already a huge minus from the get-go which is not even their fault and that sucks but yeah, overall, only Woongki and Jiangfan stood out to me. Also, can we like all agree that Jihun needs to get out of the show? Don't come at me with the evil editing stuff because i didn't see it that way. He's DRAGGING the team, he dragged the team. If he has no conscience after this and continues to display the same attitude, please just get out.
HARD CARRY (BENCH): Deserve to be first place imo. They did few mistakes but to be honest, it's hard to pull this song however, i was surprised with how impactful their performance was. Hanseo, Kairi, and Yuito carried this team.
TEAM GROOVE
MISSING YOU: Another song that's hard to pull off. Imagine trying to make the vocals and choreo. work? and they did it. Indeed, one of my favorite performances but i guess it's just that few members made mistakes especially Kyungho (?) but yes, Park Han, Joohyoung, and Zen Zen’s vocals devoured.
SECOND CONFESSION: While deserving of first place, the performance lacked distinctive elements, like I couldn't seem to find trainees who had an impression. Still, they did great as a whole and overall, enjoyed their performance.
P.S. WILL EDIT THIS REVIEW AS SOON AS I FIND TIME. AS FOR NOW, I HAD TO SLEEP.
(1) So far, it's one of the best dramas that is currently ongoing. Unfortunately, it's just not well-promoted but i feel like with its peculiarity and storyline, it might blow up. I see some edits already on TikTok.
(2) Both episodes were able to deliver the plot and catch my attention in the best possible way. A nuanced blend of comedy and dark theme/s creates a captivating contrast.
(3) I love how it managed to cover up real issues, it's a drama that is very timely. To be more specific, from episode one where the bullies tried to use deepfake (iykyk)
(4) The whole family is just crazy and i love it sm. Just a warning, it has a lot of violent scenes so, if you're not used to it, i don't recommend.
(1) The 2ML is somehow necessary but just not interesting and challenging. He didn't feel like a main character rather a supporting character, like a filler. Also, I just don't find him suitable at all for the FL. I mean visually, he's just like one of her students or a brother and it's just weird/strange at its finest. Plus the fact that his real age is only 24 years old compared to the leads who are in their 40s already. Moreover, I feel like he's getting so much screentime that it overshadows the main couple's chemistry (and worse, we're not even close to the chemistry of the ML and FL yet)
(2) I already expected the friend of the FL to betray her at some point but what irked me was even at the present, she's a wench who will and will always ruin her friends' happiness, oh wait, is she even a friend to begin with?
(3) I think that the adult storyline lacks progression. It is hindered by insufficient character development and chemistry. Their constant bickering, while indeed the comical aspect of the drama, stalls narrative growth (although again, i've said it before that it's the point of the drama but it would've been better if it's balanced)
(4) From the latest episode, we learned that the FL's character transformation underscores the devastating impact of losing one's purpose or the will to live. When she's still young, she lost almost everything which led to her current self being dreary, flat, and hence, unlikeable to the majority. It's as if she's just surviving and not living anymore.
(5) I enjoy how the scenarios engage or involve the students, suggesting that they (the adults) were once students as well. It's like they (the FL and ML) could see themselves in them.
(6) Their teenage version seemed to be the whole plot for me, like i was surprised with the ending of the latest episode. It's giving the WTPR, where the ML acts as if he doesn't care or he didn't care but the truth is, he's always been there for her.
For the storyline, it felt like unboxing a gift. Things are starting to unfold, which as a viewer excites me because we get to see their past which led to what and who they are right now (the present).
Also, i'm seeing comments about the adult versions of the main leads, why they're still childish or still bickering for their age. Are we forgetting about the title? I mean, isn't the whole point of the drama? Still, I also somewhat agree that it shouldn't center on that idea alone despite it being the comical aspect of the show. It should just be enough until we get to see their mature sides, of how they're going to grow fond of each other again and resolve their issues because in the end, it's what we're rooting for the most.
Lastly, the outfits of the FL? I don't see anything wrong with it. She's a P.E. teacher after all but if you managed to finish both episodes, there's a bigger issue which is from their families and that's the answer to it.
With only two episodes, it won me over. Initially, I didn't have plans on watching it because I'm not a fan of both the actor and actress. I'm only familiar w/ them because I have watched few of their dramas or movies before but wow, who would've thought?
I literally screamed, giggled, and kicked my feet. Like Mr. Plankton, the amount of tension and chemistry (of the leads) drawn me in. It is something to die for and most especially, i did not expect it at all.
Not to mention, the accuracy of the characters (I've heard that it was a web novel? although i'm not familiar with it) but one thing's for sure, the actors definitely embodied their roles. Above all, the storyline and the amount of plot twists? Couldn't say more. Well, I already knew about Hui Ju's secret but the ending of episode 2 wherein it was revealed that Hui Ju will be marrying a man (an asshole btw) of another company (?) which became one of the reasons why the brides were switched.
P.S. First impression really matters to me and the episodes that i've watched didn't seem to impress me much so i'm asking this so i could see the whole picture of it (of course aside from the obvious ones)
Don't get me wrong, i'm a fan of Linyi and Shenyue. I was able to watch their previous works such as PYHOMS, Derailment, ELS for Linyi and ALSB, Meteor Garden, UFMT, and Mr. Bad for Shenyue.
In my opinion, this is what i've seen throughout their journey together. In HJ's pov, it's the "I don't want to lose you but i'm scared you might lose yourself because of me (due to his standing and his condition)" but in JM's pov, "I already started to lose myself the moment I lost you (when they broke up)"
Despite their desire to be together, the anguish that they felt parting their ways is beyond words and it's even painful when you know that they also grew up having no one else beside them.
Indeed the truth about life is to seize the moment and cherish the people around you because at the end, no matter what your status is, when the time comes, you just have to face it and can't go back.
And in terms of JM and JH, in another universe, i hope they're together and happy like one big family.
I'm at episode 2 and so far, i'm enjoying it. It was honestly not the storyline that i'm looking for based on the title alone but i'm hooked. What even impressed me more was the acting of both ML and FL. Take note, I'm not even a fan of either though I was able to watch Strong Girl Namsoon and All Of Us Are Dead starring LYM in it whereas Save Me for WDW. But really, i'm very pleased.
With regards to the plot, i'm already aware of the possibilities with the ending. I mean are we not supposed or expected to? They have already given it in the first episode. Still, I hope it's a justified ending, not rushed nor impossible.
However, with this one, i just couldn't grasp the whole drama. I don't know if it's because it started too hasty? or the amount of exaggeration? or the lack of depth towards the characters and the story? Overall, it just feels like a web drama to me, even the beginning of episode 1 didn't feel like an introduction but rather climax (?)
If you're bored and got nothing to watch, this is something you can try, at least to kill your time and entertain yourself.
P.S. I'm a fan of KSJ and LJW. I've seen their previous works which is why i'm disappointed with this because i kinda expected knowing both are good in acting, especially KSJ.
Plot-wise? Common but decent enough. Acting? Not really. Chemistry? Had a potential.
I'm not sure if it's because of how they delivered their lines but sadly, their emotions just didn't reach to us. In some parts, it felt stiff and unnatural (Just to clarify, i know that there would be difficulties in terms of their communication and the languages they've used but i appreciate their effort/s)
Not to mention, i didn't like how they visually portrayed Janella's character specifically her makeup. I understand that she had an illness (based on the comsec. here) but it just could've been better.
Overall, props to them for trying. It was so nice to see Win taking international projects so as Janella.
Can't wait to see the next episodes!!
At the same time, while PSH had already broken her "usual" image, I think this drama brought out the best in her even more. I often see her as a monotonous actress due to her similar roles in different dramas or same type of characters and stiff expressions but she really surprised me with this. KJY is also spot on with his character. I've seen him couple of times in other dramas but i'm glad that he nailed this.
Above all, i love the direction of this drama, like where it's going. I don't think you have to examine more thoroughly with this drama. That's just the way things are. The demons were sent to the real world to complete their missions and punish the sinners before they go to hell. The point is, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth and i think that's just it.
The good sides, i thought it was incredibly well-made or in short, a good production (the budget was insane) and fairly balanced in every way, such as the arrangement of two judges (Paik Jong Won and Ahn Sung Jae) with contrasting perspectives about food ; one who is taste-driven and one who is meticulous. Likewise with the mission/s, it was just, progressive, and entertaining (the only downside was the restaurant challenge in which they had to select one teammate to drop and those teammates were to form a new team and purchase their own ingredients. to make it worse, the announcement was made after other teams had begun. and oh, not to mention, after the formation of a new group, there was obviously a lack of manpower, like one less compared to another team was really crucial given that the people they're serving were mukbang creators. unfortunately, that's the reason i believe why they got eliminated. the tendons looked good and delicious but the serving time was a bit slow. despite all of those instances, props to them because they managed to climb up near the three teams.) Another positive aspect of the show was its pacing. I'm glad that they didn't beat around the bush and instead focused on the most intriguing parts of the show + who left the most impression, nor did they create much drama. Lastly, i would give this to all the chefs who participated in this show because honestly, each one of them are really impressive. I'm really surprised with Napoli Matfia, Comic Book Chef, Triple Star, Cooking Maniac, Self Made Chef, Edward Lee, Goddess and Queen of Chinese Cuisine, Lu Ching Lai, Choi Hyun Seok, and many more.
Down to the unfavorable sides of the show (personally okay?), apart from things mentioned above, just the concept of black and white spoons which was effective and noteworthy but it's also the reason why it felt quite off, like sort of scripted in a way? I noticed it during the blindfold mission where the judges seemed to pick 2 from the black spoons to balance the idea or the concept making them, 11 white spoons and 11 black spoons because the next round was 1:1 battle. Nonetheless, this wouldn't affect my rating and how i love the show, i would give this 10/10!
P.S. White spoons were able to prove why they're white spoons in the first place but black spoons have also shown that they're capable of beating them.