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Completed
Les Belles
17 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Feb 23, 2025
26 of 26 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 7.5

Chasing Freedom, Finding Love: A Journey of the Heart.

This is the tale of Luo Ling Yu, a young woman determined to escape an arranged marriage, not only to protect her parents' legacy but also, later on, to safeguard her own freedom. Along her journey, she repeatedly crosses paths with Lu Yun, and their fates gradually become entwined.

It’s a classic costume drama, filled with humor, charm, chemistry, slightly caricatural antagonists, and engaging intrigue, everything we expect and love from this type of series. I wouldn’t say it reinvents the genre, because it doesn’t, but it’s a well-crafted story that allows us to follow Luo Ling Yu’s journey with excitement as she bravely fights for her freedom. She’s such a delight to watch: bold, endearing, and unafraid to go after what she wants, including the people she cares about. It’s refreshing, especially when so many female leads tend to take a more passive role when it comes to love.

Lu Yun, on the other hand, is the definition of a green flag: sweet, protective, and sometimes adorably jealous. But what I appreciate most is how both he and Luo Ling Yu actively are supporting each other in moments of doubt.

Beyond just the romance, what truly makes this drama shine is its compelling and multi-dimensional characters. The princes and noble ladies aren’t just decorative figures in the background, they have their own ambitions, struggles, and personal growth that make them feel real and engaging. Some of the friendships and relationships are particularly beautiful to witness, like that of Prince Heng Yang and Luo Ling Yu, whose bond is built on mutual respect and understanding. Their dynamic, along with many others in the series, adds emotional depth that makes the story even richer.

I won’t reveal more about the plot, but if you’re looking for something lighthearted, cute, and full of romance, this drama is absolutely worth your time.

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Revenge of Others
22 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Dec 14, 2022
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 6.5

Entertaining but Predictable, A Solid Yet Unoriginal Revenge Thriller

This series is undeniably entertaining, offering all the key ingredients that keep an audience engaged, friendships, romance, suspense, mystery, and a touch of violence and action. It’s a formula that works, but it's not groundbreaking.

At its core, it follows a familiar narrative: a protagonist seeking revenge or trying to uncover the murderer of a loved one. In this case, the setting is a school, which isn’t particularly original either. The “high school murder mystery” trope has become a trend, where students must uncover the killer among their classmates, each hiding dark secrets.

However, some aspects felt underdeveloped. Certain characters lacked presence, compelling secrets, or even a true sense of revenge. Despite the title, Revenge of Others focuses on just one primary revenge arc. The series does, however, emphasize violence more than similar shows, with students resorting to torture and brutality, treating death as less of a taboo.

The female lead, Ok Chan Mi, often came across as overly naive and impulsive. She frequently jumped to conclusions based on speculation rather than evidence, acting as if her assumptions were facts. One interesting element was the portrayal of her twin brother, not as an innocent victim, but as someone with his own flaws.

The final two episodes felt somewhat unsatisfying, which is often the case with series like this.

Overall, Revenge of Others is an engaging watch with solid production, acting, and a dark tone. However, it doesn’t bring anything particularly new to the genre. It’s enjoyable but predictable.

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Taxi Driver Season 2
61 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Apr 10, 2023
16 of 16 episodes seen
Completed 2
Overall 7.0
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 6.0
This review may contain spoilers

A Hollow Follow-up Lacking Depth, Stakes, and Emotion

To be honest, I found this second season disappointing. What set the first season apart from typical, formulaic action dramas was its emotional depth.

In season one, we were introduced to characters united by tragedy, all carrying emotional scars and trauma. It felt raw and compelling. In contrast, this season lacks that emotional weight. The characters simply move from one case to another with a sluggish, detached pace. Rather than evolving, they become more exaggerated and superficial, resembling the over-the-top, predictable action dramas I was hoping this series would avoid.

I expected something grittier and darker, something that would leave me on the edge of my seat, but it fell flat.

The antagonist barely has any screen time, sometimes appearing in just one or two scenes per episode, or not at all, even after being revealed. The story also lacked intensity; the protagonists handled obstacles too easily, making the plot feel predictable and unchallenging.

There was a noticeable increase in comedic elements, along with excessive product placements, which further diluted the tension.

Overall, this season felt easy, predictable, and uninspired. It didn’t build on the depth of the first season. When the premiere ended with a mysterious sniper, I was excited, expecting a gripping storyline. But in the end, that plot point didn’t amount to much, and the characters showed no real growth. Even the club storyline, which initially seemed promising, turned out to be dull, the antagonists were oblivious to their enemies, making the conflict feel lifeless and uneventful.

It was a letdown. I don’t know if the show’s popularity made the creators complacent, but I expected more effort. That said, not everything was bad the action sequences and production quality, especially the stunts, were well-executed.

If there’s a third season, I hope for a return to the depth and intensity of the first. But given the show’s success, I have a feeling they’ll lean even further into the cheesy humor and lighthearted tone.

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Between Us
9 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Jan 14, 2023
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 6.5

Missed Potential: Enjoyable But Lacking in Development

The series is a spin-off of Until We Meet Again, which I chose not to watch initially due to the lack of interest in most of the cast except for Boun and Prem. I was waiting for a full story centered on them. However, my main issue with the show is its scattered approach. The "side" stories of the two other gay couples took up a significant portion of each episode, leaving the main couple's story underdeveloped. It felt like their relationship was not given enough focus, and at times, it seemed like the writers struggled to properly develop their storyline.

While I understand the need to incorporate the other couples, it ended up overshadowing the main relationship. The progression of their relationship was slow and often felt random, making it feel lackluster and bland.

Despite this, I believe the actors did their best, and their performances were not the issue. Their characters were endearing, and as an audience, it was easy to root for them. Unfortunately, it seemed like the writers relied on piecing together scenes without a cohesive narrative, which ultimately hurt the series.

Overall, although I know many fans may feel differently, I found the series rushed and poorly written. I was hoping for more, especially since the actors showed a lot of potential. That being said, I would still recommend it as it's still enjoyable, but I hope future projects for these actors come with stronger scripts and better development.

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The Prisoner of Beauty
12 people found this review helpful
by Anais
20 days ago
36 of 36 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.5
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 7.5

Beneath the Veil of Duty: Love and Legacy

The story follows Xiao Qiao, a sharp and resilient young woman from the Qiao family, who has to step into her cousin’s place to mend a long-standing rift between the Qiao and Wei clans. Fourteen years ago, a broken promise led to the tragic deaths of Wei Shao’s father and grandfather, fueling his desire for revenge. To protect her family and fulfill the clan’s political goals, Xiao Qiao must win over Wei Shao and convince him to marry her.

Their relationship begins on rocky start, filled with mistrust, hidden motives, and lingering resentment. While Xiao Qiao walks a tightrope to keep her clan safe and win Wei Shao’s trust, he struggles between his thirst for vengeance and the growing bond between them.

As both navigate the treacherous waters of family politics and power struggles, especially from the ambitious factions on Wei Shao’s side, they begin to see each other beyond their roles and expectations. Despite their occasional manipulation of each other for political gain, genuine trust and respect start to grow between them.

The story hooks you from the very first scene with stunning visuals, including high production quality and breathtaking set designs. However, after a dozen of episodes, it starts to slow down and lose its sense of direction. As the couple settles into their relationship, the pacing becomes noticeably dull, and if not for their chemistry, it might be outright boring. The plot seems to stop challenging the audience and instead focuses solely on the couple seducing each other. That wouldn't be an issue if that was the premise from the start, but we were promised a deeper, more interesting story that ultimately fails to deliver.

Also my second gripe with this drama is the acting. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve enjoyed Liu Yu Ning’s past performances, and it was great to discover Song Zu Er. They do have solid on-screen chemistry, which helps carry the story, but when it comes to individual performances, the acting feels just decent at best. It doesn’t quite stand out or leave a lasting impression (it can be bad at times).

That said, I recommend watching it. It’s one of those series where the chemistry takes the lead that fan of romance will enjoy.

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Completed
Sweet Home Season 2
14 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Dec 1, 2023
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 7.5
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
This review may contain spoilers

A Slower, Emotionally-Driven Season Leading Up to Bigger Things

Season 2 introduces several notable changes from the first.

Firstly, the budget has clearly increased, evident in the greater use of CGI to accommodate the growing number of monsters. The sets are larger and more diverse, offering new locations for exploration, and the cast has expanded significantly.

The group, however, finds itself divided. Hyun Soo is traveling alone, with Sang Wook trailing behind. In the first part of the season, not much happens on their side, aside from Hyun Soo grappling with an internal existential struggle. He witnesses monsters, once human, being killed, and sees innocent humans becoming victims of monsters, leaving him uncertain of his place in the world and where his loyalties lie.

Meanwhile, others are desperately trying to reach a safe haven, only to end up in even more perilous situations. Yi Kyung, on the other hand, is focused on finding her husband, but in doing so, is confronted with a harsh reality.

While the second half of the season is far more engaging, with an exciting storyline, I did feel frustrated by the absence of some key characters and the limited screen time for Hyun Soo.

Overall, though, there’s something missing in this season. It feels more like a transitional phase, an appetizer leading into the main course (season 3). While there’s plenty of action, the pace often feels sluggish. Still, the series manages to convey a surprising amount of depth and emotion. It makes us empathize with both humans and monsters, creating a complex blend of love and hate, which was executed brilliantly. Several beloved characters face tragic fates, adding a cruel twist to the story.

In summary, while the season is slower-paced with a deeper emotional focus, it guides us through a journey of hardships centered on humanity.

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Completed
Weak Hero Class 2
6 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Apr 26, 2025
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 7.0
Rewatch Value 7.0

Solid, Yet Missing the Spark

I feel like this sequel is a bit bland. Everything, from the interactions to the plot progression, even down to details like the episode lengths, feels very consistent, almost too much so. It’s not necessarily a bad thing; you'd expect some continuity from season 1. But with Netflix involved, I thought they might take a few more risks with the writing. I was hoping for something a little more dynamic, and instead ended up with a sequel that felt monotone, even if it was solidly put together.

I felt like Si Eun deserved more time to explore his feelings, thoughts, and inner struggles. The first season handled the characters’ depth wonderfully, but in this sequel, it felt rushed and too repetitive.

That said, Jihoon still stands out with his acting, and I still enjoyed the other characters, even if the sense of thrill wasn’t quite there this time.

I get the sense they made this sequel mainly to wrap things up cleanly, and to capitalize on the show's initial popularity, but as the producer once said, it wasn't originally planned to have a sequel and I can understand why.

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Pinocchio
6 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Nov 16, 2022
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 6.5
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.0
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 6.0
This review may contain spoilers

Full of Potential, But Struggles to Make an Impact

Pinocchio centers on Choi In Ha, a reporter with “Pinocchio syndrome,” which causes her to hiccup whenever she lies. She befriends Choi Dal Po, a seemingly ordinary boy with a mysterious past and hidden talents, including a sharp memory and eloquence. Together, they navigate the world of journalism while uncovering their own truths.

My main issue with shows like this, especially ones that are nearly a decade old, is their lack of boldness. Pinocchio has a lot of potential, but it’s bogged down by cheesy, overly sentimental moments. It doesn’t fully engage the audience, particularly for a drama that blends revenge and romance.

While the cast is talented, the portrayal of Ki Jae Myung as a murderer feels weak. When he admits to killing people, his brother, Ki Ha Myung, reacts with pity rather than shock or disgust, which undermines the gravity of the situation. The script fails to build enough tension or intrigue around Jae Myung's character and his revenge arc. More mystery, darker themes, and intense scenes would have made the flashbacks and brotherly moments much more impactful.

Ha Myung’s character should have been portrayed as colder, more resolute, and horrified by his brother's actions. This would have created a much stronger emotional core for the show.

Seo Beom Jo’s character, on the other hand, is problematic. His stalker behavior toward Choi In Ha is romanticized, but the show fails to truly highlight the discomfort of this dynamic. If the intent was to make him a stalker, it should have conveyed the anxiety such behavior generates, rather than downplaying it to make it seem less sinister.

Ultimately, the series loses momentum halfway through, with the brothers' reunion becoming less of a focus. Jae Myung fades into the background, popping up only sporadically in the visiting room. This felt like a missed opportunity to explore their relationship more deeply.

In terms of performances, Lee Jong Suk, as Ha Myung, shines once again. His portrayal of the character’s emotional depth, whether in his relationship with his father, brother, or Choi In Ha, is consistently engaging.

Unfortunately, Choi In Ha’s character is underdeveloped, and the rest of the cast doesn’t leave a lasting impression, likely due to mediocre writing.

In conclusion, Pinocchio isn’t a must-watch. However, for Lee Jong Suk fans, it offers a solid performance worth seeing. For others, it’s easy to pass on.

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Completed
Connect
7 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Dec 7, 2022
6 of 6 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.0
Story 7.5
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 6.0
This review may contain spoilers

Intriguing Concept with Room to Grow

The series follows Ha Dong Soo, a man whose organs are stolen by organ hunters, making him "connected" to a person who received one of his transplanted organs. He soon learns that the man with his stolen eye is a serial killer.

The series has received mixed reviews, and I fall somewhere in the middle. The premise is compelling, and I genuinely liked the idea. As a fan of thrillers, I thought the series had a lot of potential, and my interest grew as the episodes progressed. The plot is simple, and while some character relationships, like those between Ha Dong Soo and Oh Jin Seop (the serial killer), or Ha Dong Soo and Choi I Rang, are somewhat predictable, the story still holds intrigue.

The biggest issue with the series is that it feels a bit flat, much like its protagonist, Ha Dong Soo. He spends much of the time angry, running, and suffering, which makes him come off as a self-righteous, aimless character. Given his ability to regenerate and his immortality, I expected more charisma and depth from him. In contrast, Choi I Rang, another "Connect," was far more interesting. Some viewers didn't like her character, but I thought she was strong and captivating. She was mysterious, skilled in combat, fiercely protective of her family, and unpredictable—exactly the kind of character I hoped Ha Dong Soo would be.

As for Oh Jin Seop, the serial killer, his performance was neither remarkable nor poor, fitting into the typical portrayal of a killer. His arc throughout the series felt standard, though I did appreciate his modus operandi of turning his victims into unique pieces of art—this was a creative touch.

The plot mainly involves the characters running around, searching for each other, with no major twists or surprises. However, I did enjoy the regeneration scenes of the "Connect." The last episode, though, is where my interest peaked. It hints that everything was part of an experiment by scientists—surprise, surprise—and suggests that more could be revealed in a potential season 2. I'm particularly intrigued by the possibility of Oh Jin Seop becoming a "Connect." The idea of a serial killer with this ability opens up fascinating possibilities, especially in terms of interactions with Ha Dong Soo.

Overall, I would consider this series an appetizer, with the promise of a more exciting main course in a potential sequel. I recommend it for those who enjoy sci-fi thrillers, though it's not a must-watch. It's good, with potential for more in the future.

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Six Flying Dragons
4 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Aug 23, 2022
50 of 50 episodes seen
Completed 2
Overall 7.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 6.5
This review may contain spoilers

Heavy is The Head That Wears The Crown

Six Flying Dragons follows Yi Bang Won, the future third king of Joseon, and his pivotal role in the founding of the dynasty. The series is deeply focused on his journey, exploring his childhood, his contributions to his father’s rise to the throne, and the decisions that shaped history. It paints a detailed picture of his ambitions and vision for the country.

Made in 2015, the series has some noticeable flaws, including a modest OST, average special effects, and a few unnecessary scenes. The first few episodes feel disjointed, with major moments that should define the characters’ paths but fall flat, lacking the dramatic weight needed to truly engage the viewer. The plotlines can feel somewhat simplistic, and the strategies are a bit easy to predict. However, what stands out is the exploration of deeper themes like good versus evil, justice, power, and human nature. The show doesn’t oversimplify the characters, each one is portrayed with complexity, and the story delves into the difficult choices people make in the pursuit of their goals.

Although I didn’t develop a strong connection with the characters, each one brought something valuable to the story. Boon Yi, however, became frustrating as her character, once strong and determined, spent much of the series perpetually on the verge of tears. This constant emotional vulnerability undermined the impact of her initial strength. Yi Seong Gye, on the other hand, was depicted as indecisive and somewhat naïve, which didn't do justice to the gravity of his character's position. While the acting is generally solid, it doesn't always reach a remarkable level, especially with characters like Yi Bang Won, who sometimes felt too predictable in his emotional outbursts. Still, his portrayal remains the most compelling due to the intensity and complexity of his role.

Jung Do Jeon remains a central and influential figure, true to his historical role as a visionary. He first fought and schemed to overthrow the previous regime, aiming to reform the country, only to ultimately face Yi Bang Won, the student who had once believed in him and his ideals. It's a tragic turn of events.

The strategic aspects of the series kept things interesting, though the sets and costumes didn’t match the grandeur one might expect from a historical drama of this nature. The king's chamber, for example, felt too small to reflect the power and influence one would associate with such a position, and the costumes, while beautiful, lacked the intricate detail often expected from historical productions.

Despite its limitations, Six Flying Dragons is an engaging watch. The story itself, particularly the character development of Yi Bang Won and his journey toward becoming a ruler, was captivating. The show does a good job of capturing the complexities of power, ambition, and sacrifice. While some of the production elements could have been stronger, the storytelling keeps the viewer invested, offering a rich exploration of history and the personal struggles of those involved in shaping it.

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Healer
4 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Aug 28, 2022
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 6.5
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 7.0
Music 5.0
Rewatch Value 6.0

More Rom-Com Than Thriller, Falling Short of True Suspense

Healer tells the story of Seo Jung Hoo, a night courier known only as "Healer" by his clients, who gets involved with two journalists: Chae Young Shin, a tabloid reporter, and Kim Moon Ho, a successful journalist. As Seo Jung Hoo begins to uncover the mystery of his own shared past with them, the trio is thrown into dangerous situations. The show is praised for combining multiple elements that appeal to a broad audience—comedy, romance, action, and suspense. These different aspects work together to create a lighthearted, enjoyable drama that’s easy to watch. While the emotional scenes and familiar antagonist roles add drama, the overall tone of the show remains fun and often cheesy.

Although I understand why the series is so beloved, especially by fans who enjoy romance and light thrillers, it didn’t fully capture me. The show’s structure and tone are light and approachable, but when I’m in the mood for an action thriller, I tend to lean toward shows with more intensity and realism. Healer doesn’t offer the dark, raw edge I personally look for. Instead, it sometimes takes an almost surreal approach with exaggerated action scenes and characters, especially Seo Jung Hoo, who seems to possess almost supernatural abilities. This takes away from the realism I crave in a show like this. It also feels like the series doesn’t fully deliver on its thriller promise, leaning more into mystery and action with a lot of romantic fluff on the side.

Romance, while a major driving force in the series, is not something I enjoy much in shows. Though the chemistry between the leads could be engaging for fans of that genre, I never felt fully invested in the romantic subplot. I will admit, the performances were solid across the board, especially Park Min Young, who played Chae Young Shin. Her portrayal was relatable and multi-dimensional—she was strong, vulnerable, and both funny and kind, making her a standout. On the other hand, Ji Chang Wook’s portrayal of Seo Jung Hoo was decent but left me wanting more. He showed depth in his character, but something about his performance didn’t fully captivate me. As for Yoo Ji Tae, who played Kim Moon Ho, his performance was lackluster. I’ve seen him in other shows, and he often plays the same type of role, leaving me unimpressed by his portrayal here.

The show’s soundtrack also contributed to my mixed feelings. While the background music does complement some of the emotional moments, there were times when it detracted from the intensity. For example, the light, happy-sounding tracks that played during action scenes felt completely out of place and undermined the stakes. The overuse of an English song during the flashbacks and romantic moments ("Promise me this is forever") felt overly cheesy and took me out of the scene. While some may find this endearing, I personally felt it lessened the impact of the drama’s more intense moments. This also affected my viewing experience, especially in the latter episodes, where I found myself skipping scenes to avoid the repetitive songs.

In conclusion, Healer is a show that will appeal to those who love lighthearted romantic thrillers with some action and mystery. For people who enjoy those genres, the mix of humor, action, and a bit of suspense makes for an entertaining watch. However, for those who are looking for a darker, more realistic thriller, this may not be the right fit. While the acting is generally decent and the show’s fun tone might draw in casual viewers, I found that it didn’t live up to my expectations. If I had known what to expect, I probably wouldn’t have watched it, but for fans of K-Dramas that balance comedy and romance with a touch of action, Healer is certainly worth checking out.

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Not Me
4 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Apr 18, 2022
14 of 14 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 7.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 7.5
Music 6.5
Rewatch Value 7.0

A Gritty, Thought-Provoking Series with Strong Characters and Social Relevance

This series tells the story of Black and White, twin brothers who were separated after their parents' divorce. After fifteen years, White returns to Thailand and learns that Black is in a coma due to a violent attack. White takes over Black's life to uncover the traitor responsible for the attack, discovering his brother's involvement in a gang and a life he never knew about. The storyline is unique and captivating, even though the identity of the traitor was predictable early on.

The production is notably strong, with sets that enhance the gritty, raw atmosphere of the story. Unlike other polished series, this one makes good use of locations like garages, warehouses, and university streets to create a more grounded and realistic feel. The series also has a mature aesthetic, which fits well with its serious themes of justice, law, and LGBTQ+ rights, resonating not only in Thailand but worldwide.

The series explores important social issues, such as the influence of the rich and the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, while presenting relationships with respect and consent, a welcome change from toxic tropes in many shows. The characters, including strong women and the transgender woman Nuch, are well-developed and avoid the usual clichés, making them feel more authentic and empowering. The protagonists' desire to improve their country and society adds depth to their character arcs.

While the execution is smooth, there are a few moments that feel like filler, and the absence of the parents in the story feels a bit odd. The secondary gay couple, though not stealing the spotlight, also brings their own story and chemistry, showcasing their potential for a spinoff. Special mention goes to Gun Atthaphan Phunsawat, who plays both brothers excellently, capturing their distinct personalities. Overall, the series is entertaining and thoughtful, though not flawless, and definitely worth watching.

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The King of Pigs
3 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Apr 26, 2022
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 7.5

No Dark Deed Goes Unpunished

Trigger warning: This series contains scenes of heavy violence, bullying, and abuse.

The story revolves around two men: Kyung Min, who, due to certain circumstances, begins to remember the trauma of being a victim of school bullying. This recollection sparks a deep thirst for revenge and retribution, leading to a series of mysterious serial killings. Meanwhile, Detective Jong Suk, Kyung Min’s childhood friend and also a victim of school violence, finds himself tied to these vengeful murders.

The core of this drama is tragic. It explores the origins of school violence and bullying, which remain prevalent in modern society. The show doesn’t shy away from the darker side of human nature, delving into physical, sexual, and mental abuse that these children endured, often under the watchful eye of teachers and parents who either turned a blind eye or participated in it. The narrative is not easy to stomach, yet it’s compelling and hard to look away from.

The production and script are outstanding. Each episode keeps you hooked, especially when the story delves into the past through powerful flashbacks. As new perpetrators and shocking twists are revealed, the pace keeps you on the edge of your seat. The series also dives deep into the concept of revenge—a theme explored in many thrillers, but here it feels particularly gripping. The show effectively questions the justice system, showing how it often fails to provide true justice, leaving many to take matters into their own hands.

The actors deliver exceptional performances, particularly in their portrayal of Kyung Min’s desperate pursuit of justice and Jong Suk’s refusal to confront his past. The tension and emotions are palpable, drawing you into their struggle. This is a series that will make you think long after the credits roll. However, it is not for the faint of heart. If you're a fan of psychological crime and Korean revenge thrillers, this show will resonate deeply, but it’s not recommended for those sensitive to heavy themes.

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Weak Hero Class 1
7 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Nov 18, 2022
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 2
Overall 8.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.0

An Emotionally Gripping Prequel with Complex Characters and Heartfelt Friendships

The series delves into high school bullying through the untold backstory of Gray, aka Shi Eun, based on the webtoon Weak Hero. Unlike the webtoon, which quickly touches on the events that shape Gray’s antisocial and harsh nature, the series takes its time to build the world around the characters, highlighting the connections that will ultimately lead to their downfall.

The narrative is primarily seen through Shi Eun's eyes, focusing on his complicated relationships with both friends and enemies. Shi Eun is a deeply antisocial character, disconnected from his peers and uninterested in seeking companionship or approval. His cold, empty gaze, brilliantly portrayed by actor Park Jihoon, destabilizes those around him, evoking fear and curiosity from others.

The series is intensely violent, exploring psychological abuse, group violence, bullying, mistreatment, and child abuse. The brutal and raw nature of the scenes, especially in the opening moments, is gripping and shocking—so much so that it becomes almost addictive to watch.

What stands out in this series is the poignant friendship between Shi Eun and Soo Ho, a bond that becomes the emotional backbone of the story, especially for the upcoming season 2. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, boundaries, support, and protection—a true bromance that adds depth and warmth to the otherwise dark narrative.

The friendship between Shi Eun, Soo Ho, and Beom Seok adds another layer of emotional richness. At first, their bond is heartwarming, but the series gradually reveals the depth of Beom Seok’s trauma and his responses to it. In the webtoon, Beom Seok is portrayed as a shallow, jealous character, but here, the show adds significant depth to him, making us empathize with his pain and struggles.

Overall, the series feels deeply human and offers a strikingly realistic portrayal of the emotional complexities of high school life and the consequences of trauma. As a prequel, it sets the stage for the larger story, providing essential context for Shi Eun’s character and leaving us eager to uncover the full picture in the next season.

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A Killer Paradox
4 people found this review helpful
by Anais
Feb 9, 2024
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 7.0
This review may contain spoilers

The Chronicle Of An Atypical Killer

The summary of this series doesn't quite capture its unique appeal. At first glance, it may seem like another "vigilante" story with a dark protagonist who punishes criminals, playing a cat-and-mouse game with the police. However, the series takes a much more intriguing and original approach, setting it apart from the typical genre.

The story follows Lee Tang, a young man stuck in a slump with no real prospects in life. He works a dead-end part-time job, lives in a rundown apartment, and is largely ignored by those around him, fitting the classic "loser" archetype. However, his life takes a dark turn when he unwillingly becomes a murderer. What follows is a rapid descent into a world of crime, deception, and police pursuit, all while a bigger, more sinister game unfolds behind the scenes.

Despite the grim subject matter, there’s an odd sense of supernatural luck that seems to follow Lee Tang. Every time he makes a mistake, something bizarre happens to cover it up—whether it’s a dog unknowingly removing evidence, a fly obscuring a camera, or strange coincidences that keep him from being caught. It's a bizarre mix of dark drama with an almost comical twist, as the universe seems to work in his favor, despite his inability to cope with the consequences of his actions.

This isn't a comedy series, though. While the supernatural elements may seem absurd, the show maintains a consistent tone of tension and darkness throughout. It’s a thrilling, fast-paced drama that keeps you on edge without tipping into melodrama or over-the-top antics. The writing and direction shine here, as the story is visually compelling, enhanced by clever editing, suspenseful flashbacks, and an atmospheric score that elevates the intensity. For fans of thrillers, this series is a must-watch—it perfectly balances supernatural intrigue with gritty realism.

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