Blkittykat

This, but fully developed

I love sports dramas. Absolutely love them and the setting for this one was much like every sports drama I love but so unlike them as well. A football team is purchased by an entertainment company and actors, idols and models from that company are soon on the player's roster of the football team.
The team's just been relegated, their teamwork is non - existant, and the new players have been brought in to improve the image of the team and help them get back into the spotlight but the thing is, the new players are not exactly pro - footballers.
Each of the leads have their own baggage, they're immediately at odds for some reason or the other and they have very interesting connections to each other.. the plot is writing itself.

But this is also the plot for a full length series, maybe an hour each episode. Eight 25 minute episodes are enough to make a complete story, but again, not with this many storylines.

I loved most of it, honestly, I binged the episodes in a day. The major plot was solid, a football team in dissaray, recently bought and gone through a major upheaval, teammates who don't get along well, players who can't play football and the necessity to get the team together before the next season.
And unlike other sports dramas, the entire focus here was on the players finding their own way, there wasn't a manager or a coach who was the lead rallying the team together.

And because of that, there was a huge ensemble cast, like I mentioned above, characters with their own aspirations, baggage and connections to other characters. They were extremely interesting characters as well, a ton of different personalities in one dressing room, and the best of them all were the leads.

I loved the leads. First, because they are a prime example of one of my recent favourite tropes: losers in love. Where they've been simping after each other for years, and have essentially fallen in love with each other minutes after they meet officially. Their enemies to lovers storyline mixed with the losers in love energy, paired with the insane chemistry the actors had made for a great love story. The characters were written in a way that they complemented each other when they were together and supported each other as individuals and I just really loved them together.
The other two (almost) couples were also very sweet to watch, and I really would've loved to see more of them together, because they were developed, but not fully.

Developed, but not fully, that was the only problem with the series. The huge ensemble cast didn't really get the character development I wanted them to, and neither did the major plot. In a bid to tie up all the loose ends within the plot, they ensured that every conflict and character who could be a potential loose end, only to tie everything up within minutes of them being introduced.

That was my only complaint if I'm being honest, that tags along on the back of a bigger complaint, asking that plots and plotlines be more developed, especially when they have this kind of potential. I still very much enjoyed the series and would gladly recommend for a light and short watch.

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Brilliance

I've stopped expecting brilliance from crime dramas, I don't really watch for the suspense anymore either and even with the promise of comedy, after watching the first few episodes, this was at it's best going to be a fun watch.

Atleast, that's what I thought.

This was pure brilliance, I can't hype this up enough, it's brilliant. I wouldn't be too put off by the number of episodes, because before you know it, you've binged 14 episodes in three days and you're just sat on your couch with the dorkiest smile on your face wondering how to fill the void this show will inevitably leave in your drama watching schedule.

This is one of the best examples of a story driven by both plot and characters, and it's so well balanced that you don't feel like either one is being forced down your throat. Each plotline is different, not just within the series, but some I'm seeing for the first time in any series. Because the plot arc changes every two (or three) episodes, you're invested just enough in the case to immerse yourself in the backstory, sometimes be moved by the emotions, and watch the team solve the crime, but not so much that it takes away from what I thought was the absolute best part of the series: the team themselves.

Dorks. The whole lot of them, in the best possible way. There's never a dull moment with the five of them, I almost thought I would bust a gut during some of the scenes. All the characters are way too funny, unnecessarily funny at times and I loved it. But we also got to see so many different sides of them, the happy, the sad, the angry and vulnerable. Sometimes the cases had very personal connections to the team and it was great how the focus shifted to each member while still maintaining a good team balance. There wasn't one character who got more attention than another here, it was an ensemble through and through, with five vastly different characters. I just loved them all.

I'll be honest, crime/thriller is still one of my favourite genres, despite the fact that it rarely surprises me anymore. When it does, it's brilliant and even though it didn't here, it was still brilliant. This isn't a show you love the minute you pick up, but I can ensure by the time you finish it, you'll love it.

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And the music played them off..

Rule of thumb, if you're going to be making a series called First Note of Love.. maybe have more than one note of music and love?

This seriously needed way more music and romance than it had, because even though as a series about grief and moving forward this was actually pretty good, there was definitely more they were trying to bring to the story. And unfortunately, none of that actually came through.

There was just way too much going on for it to no real impact to the story, trying to stuff in grief, romance, music and all the technical aspects that go with it in twelve episodes will give you exactly something like this, half baked for the most part. Half of the story was about finding yourself again after going through something difficult (which again, was well done) and the other half was about producing music, booking a venue, recording the music.. and the romance was just randomly there.

The romance definitely had potential (both the couples) and the premise did too, but they really messed up the execution on so many fronts. Way too much technicality, way too many flashbacks and not enough scenes focusing on the music or the romance, which should have been the main focuses!

I don't know, they missed several beats when making this and bit off more than they could chew. If this had twelve, one hour episodes, I could see how all that they tried to include would make sense, but with around twenty five minutes for each episode? It's not feasible and it showed. Which was dissapointing, the way it just slowly tapered off until you just wanted the story to end because nothing new was happening. Too bad.

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I guess they tried..

After 80 episodes of repetitive storylines, frustrating characters, one - dimensional villains, and dramatic,  cliché writing, I began to wonder if this series was actually necessary. Technically, they did leave us with an almost unsatisfactory ending to Senior High, but eh-

⚠️ CONTENT WARNINGS ⚠️
The show contains depictions of violence, SA, murder and much more. I found it pertinent to include this because the depictions are rather explicit, and caution may be exercised before watching.

There was nothing quite innovative about this series story wise, sure it had a few good plot twists and several tense and thrilling moments, but this was essentially a rinse and repeat of the Senior High formula. Only difference, the audience knows who the villains are all along. There's no mystery and suspense, and even though this kind of story has it's own appeal.. 80 episodes? It's too much. Everything just kept repeating itself over and over again, and at one point it gets predictable and boring.. and the exact same thing happened with Senior High. The longer they went on, the more the quality declined.

But thank goodness for character development huh, because that aspect pretty much carried the show here. Naturally, some characters remained consistent in their recklessness and irrational behaviour, but it's the way all these characters stood by each other that got to me. New and old, it felt so satisfying to see characters who weren't painted in the best light previously get the kind of development they deserved and then witness the bond they developed be strong enough that they would run towards danger for one of their friends was amazing.

The acting was great, every single member of the cast had the chance to showcase their skills and where the story let me down, this and the character writing really impressed me.

Yes, this was over the top and kind of frustrating to watch, but I have to admit, I did enjoy some of it. Despite the fact that a lot of storylines didn't have satisfying endings, the actual ending was just as rushed as Senior High's was and.. it was series that I went hot and cold on, but for the most part it was entertaining and I guess that's something.

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There is only one you in the world

Part one was near perfection, and this was a masterpiece.

I'm still reeling from what I witnessed because what began as a revenge plot turned into one of the most poignant retrospect about life.

It's all too complicated to explain the experiences and emotions that Yi Jae is put through his 12 reincarnations, the pain of leaving his loved ones behind, losing someone he loves, living not knowing who he is, and living as if he isn't really living. It isn't until he finally experiences the memories and feelings of the 12 people in full does he truly start living.

Once again, the cast just, wow. I have no other words to describe how amazing this cast was. The guest stars, it is incredible how each of them portrayed their own characters, in addition to portraying their character as Yi Jae. Seo In Guk and Park Seo Dam get an extra round of applause, they played off each other so well, and boy can Seo In Guk act! Admittedly, these four episodes were much more emotional than the previous ones and he brought his A game.

This was a genuinely incredible drama, it is difficult to deal with this many genres and still provide a flawless production in just 8 episodes. However the interpretation, whatever it was that caught your attention, this is an enjoyable ride, through and through.

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Right You, but is it the Right Time?

This miniseries is like a lullaby in the best possible way, might lull you to sleep accidentally but genuinely warm and comforting.

The series is about the leads, just the two of them. Phat is heartbroken and staying with his friend and her younger brother Mhok. There is an instant connection between Mhok and Phat because they have a backstory but it is also incredibly obvious that Phat is not ready to date yet. His friend decides that a series of rituals and methods to help Phat forget his ex is the way to go, and when these don't work, the gang turns to copious amounts of alcohol that leads to serious conversations between Mhok and Phat, and moments that help them both heal from the past love they each carry.

This story was deeper than I expected, albeit a little slow because of the abundance of scenes that lent nothing to the story like the rituals, but for 2 episodes, they manage to keep your attention by instigating the feeling of "will they, won't they?" A good series weighed down by some unnecessary elements.

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The Moment : Since is the continuation of The Moment I Need You, and it seems nice. A nice little look into the lives of the leads since the first series, these five episodes seem to be just that, but that’s all. Just a tiny window into their lives. Was it really necessary, no, but is it still enjoyable? The question seems to be just that. The quality, top notch. The series itself? A pleasant suprise, but it is it anything more and if it is,is it worth a watch? The answer seems to be yes.

THE STORY:
The story follows Mok and Bay on vacation, but Bay’s boss and the boss’ best friend are also vacationing at the same resort. That’s pretty much the story. What was the point of the story, I have no clue. It’s filled with these cute moments between the leads, but I still don’t know what this series is about. Is it leading somewhere? I honestly don’t think so. And yet I’m hooked. There’s just something about this series that I can’t really explain, but it got me to watch all of it and I think that’s what matters.

THE ACTING:
The acting is good. The chemistry is there, but not in a way that it slaps you across the face, it’s more of a gentle caress. I will say that while some scenes do feel stiff and akward, the acting has remained consistent with the first season.

THE PRODUCTION:
This is one of the aspects greatly improved upon. The first series was dark to reflect the mindset of Mok, but this one is light and fluffy, showing just how much Mok’s state has improved. A few details like these are highly appreciated and add an extra dimension to an already good story. The problem here is with the number of episodes. How they will manage to weave an entire story into five episodes of fifteen minutes each is my concern. Hopefully they pull through and give us an actual story.

THE OST:
It’s light and sweet and makes you feel the love. What more can I say?

THE NEGATIVE:
Nothing quite so negative about this series. It’s a beautiful love story and maybe we need that kind of giddy optimism of sunshine and rainbows in our lives.

THE ENDING:
So guess what! Mok was paying Kim from 2moons ( I know his name is Copter, but calling him Kim is just fun! ) to take pictures of Mok and Bay to create a pendrive of moments. That mystery is solved. It was a happy ending overall and after the crapfest that was the Shipper’s ending, I really needed this.

When we watch television some us wish to escape reality, some want real stories, but what everyone really wants is a good way to spend their free time. I’m still on the fence about this series. It’s good, but not in a “ Oh my God, you need to watch this right now.” way, but rather in a “ If you have free time it’s a good watch” kind. While there may be no rhyme or reason to why this series was produced, I will say that this is not a waste of time. Give it a try when you have time . Thank You!

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The second instalment of the Girl Next Room series is a sure hit. It’s funny, heartbreaking and heartfelt. This instalment is about Mimi, a girl who has several phobias and a radio DJ who begin talking at three in the morning due to Mimi’s fear of ghosts. They begin talking every night and slowly begin falling love, but what Mimi doesn’t know is DJ Titan is actually Than, her classmate with whom she has a mutual hate.

THE STORY:
The story is very well written. The parts about Than, Peemai and Dausou were extremely heartfelt. Mimi begins to talk to Titan, and begins to fall in love with him, but when she discovers that Than is Titan, she is shocked. When asked who she likes, Than or Titan, she is unable to choose. Only after hearing Than’s past does she realise she loves Than, the one behind the mic, despite his persona.

THE ACTING:
The actors were amazing. Every single one of them. You rarely find series’ with such actors so it is a must watch. Special shoutout to Gun , because he seems to be in every GMM production and always manages to play his character perfectly, however different they may be.

THE PRODUCTION:
Production was perfection! All the storylines were handled very well, especially the Bi/Pansexual storyline of Mimi’s best friend. That is the representation we deserve!

THE OST:
I didn’t pay much attention to the OST, as it was quite forgettable.

THE NEGATIVE:
The only negative was seeing how Mimi treated Than, saying that she loved DJ Titan and not Than, despite them being the same person. At times Mimi got too annoying for me, but despite this a very enjoyable story.

THE ENDING:
Quite a satisfying ending. Despite the fact that Mimi and Than got together, the more satisfying story was Than and Peemai becoming friends again. No hate, but it was obvious that Mimi and Than would get together from the beginning, but seeing Than and Peemai put together their differences after the trauma they experienced really broke me.

I hope this review was helpful to those contemplating on this series. It certainly is a must watch and will not disappoint you. Thank You!

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The family drama I did not sign up for

Just off the bat, I want to mention that the one-shot camera action made me so dizzy, but I'm quite impressed.

Not with the story though, god! What in the messy, dysfunctional family genre was this? Watching it, I had only one thought throughout - they're all terrible people. It wasn't really funny (or I didn't get the toilet humor they relied on for half the plot), none of the characters are relatable and even when you think you start to understand where they're coming from, another piece of information that's more awful than the last comes out.

The entire movie spans at the most, 24 hours, and we get to watch the six Sevilla siblings unpack their entire lives on the anniversary of their mother's death - which they've rescheduled for their convenience by the way - retrospectively, that should have told me everything I needed to know.

There's no redemption arc, no point where the story picks up positively, it's just terrible people being terrible for two hours. We just get to see their first conversation as a group in who knows how many years. Maybe they were meant to be terrible throughout and there's no real point to the story but at this point I do not really care, I'm just glad it's over.

There are much better movies with this trope - I would assume, I haven't watched many like it but even then I can tell this wouldn't be the standard.

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Love in a Theatre

The foremost thought I had - all 10 minutes I watched - was Sʜᴜsʜ﹗﹗﹗﹗﹗﹗﹗
You are in a movie theatre, why are you talking? They did not stop talking, I don't care if it was during the ads or the movie - don't talk!

Second, what happened? You met during the ads and you're already talking about dating? The deepest conversation they had was about popcorn!

Third - that must have been a terrible movie because all they did was talk, eat and sleep.

Finally, I know movies essentially show us two people falling in love within two hours, but these guys actually fell in love in two hours, half of which they spent asleep!

This was silly lol.
But kind of cute.

And also, don't stick around after the end credits, those theatres need to be cleaned - go out and have a conversation!

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I wish there was another path in the game

I probably shouldn't be laying into a mini-séries like I'm about to because I don't think it was ever intended to be a classical masterpiece, but it's kind of hilarious how quickly this fell into so many tropes without really needing to


➖ An MC who does not stand up for himself, has the personality of zero but has three men interested in him romantically at one point or another - check.
➖ A tsundere ML who's sole expression is displeased and also has the disposition of a moody piece of cardboard - check.
➖ A slimy ex who does nothing but complain and yell - check.
➖ An evil female character who only works to plot the downfall of the MC - check.

Off of the plot alone - where an electrocution caused by a computer lands one of the leads in an RPG type of situation - this had incredible potential but they messed up at the first instance by having the ML end up as the "player" instead of the MC.

Imagine, Yeong Won, our MC is a game developer in charge of writing the script for a new game his company is producing. He gets electrocuted accidentally and when he wakes up, he finds that he can see all the elements of the game in real life - including the dialogues he wrote. And his mission? Make sure his boss doesn't absolutely hate him like he does at the moment, before the game goes to market.

But instead, we got Tae In, our ML, being the one who was electrocuted, and the "player" - his mission? Make Yeong Won like him, and later fall in love with him.

I cannot explain the amount of HR violations either of these scenarios would entail, but we do love a good office romance.

But I'm going to continue to dwell on the way this could've actually been amazing - because it could! In my imagination, Yeong Won would've been the "player", which would've given him the chance to have a personality besides pretty. A comedy of errors would've worked so well here, even if it may be basic, Yeong Won trying so hard to make Tae In like him, but it's not the tricks that work, it's the genuine moments between them.
This way, Tae In also gets to have a personality while still being as stoic as the writers clearly wanted him to be. It's not new but it's fresh and funny and light hearted, everything I want it to be.

Instead we got a melodrama.
In trying to reverse the roles, the plot fell into so many traps it laid out for itself. The writers seemingly forgot that this started out with Tae In needing Yeong Won to like him, and the only way to do that is by saving him from his ex and himself. Obviously.
The ex and his new girlfriend were the worst additions to this series, I can forgive two leads who don't move their faces an inch in 59 episodes, but introducing trash to get them together - I cannot forgive.

Yeong Won is always sad and getting slapped, Tae In is a secret chaebol, there is an unnecessary amount of slow running shots, what more could you expect from a kdrama, really?

My imaginary plot and it's resolution can end with Yeong Won telling Tae In about the mission, or Tae In telling Yeong Won he also had a mission (it's not really fleshed out), but the actual ending sucked. Not because it's not what I wanted, because it made no sense. Like some last minute resolution for the sake of it.

This would not be the first mini-séries I would recommend, there are other better options but if you are looking for a short background watch, it's not the worst option.

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A spinoff I need a spinoff of

This was a really sweet spinoff and now I kinda want to see Sakuma and Yamase have their own series as themselves, not characters from the series. Well the fictional series. No wait. We get my point.

Hiru no Yume follows Teppei and Yamato, and their love story after the events of Daytime Dream, the drama that was filmed in S1 of At 25 in Akasaka.

It was obviously very short, kind of like an actual special you would get of a side couple that had five seconds of screentime in the main series, and of course I would have loved an actual full fledged story here.

But again, this was very cute, we got what I imagine was part of the special they filmed within the series, we got to see all the leads again and the chemistry between Takuma and Shoma is actually amazing, would love to see them in a spinoff of Akasaka or in a different series.

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I mean.. it's a special..

It's a special episode that once again followed the story of the original special almost to a tee - just two episodes instead of one and both of them combined ran for a shorter amount of time than the original did.

And again, it was panaromic beach views, romance and NC scenes and it felt more like a part of the series than an actual special, so that's something.

There's not much else to say here, chemistry was the same as the series, almost good. I wasn't bored, so that's something.

And I'll take it yeah.
It was weirdly sweet, kind of fun and both objectively and comparatively not bad.

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Umm.. uhh..

I always find it interesting how weirdly fun (albeit equally unhinged) mini vertical series could be if they were full length shows. They're weirdly fun as is as well, but this one was.. oh.. this one was..

It started kind of fun. Your usual amount of incredibly improbable plotline with a combination of very over the top and no facial movement acting. It kept going at that pace.. and then it got strange and bad?

Because it's a mini series, the plot can literally be explained in three sentences - Pat and Leon meet when both of them are in rather unfortunate situations, that somehow ends up with them in a pretend relationship. So Pat takes on the job of Leon's manager to keep up the ruse and because he's taking care of his younger brother and needs money coming in. But of course there's a bunch of problems that crop up, with each of them lasting around five minutes.

I don't know how to rate this - it was okay until it wasn't and over before it began, so, it was kind of bad? I don't know, just like their last series, if you want to aimlessly scroll but still watch something, it's perfect, because that's what I did.

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