Stand or Fall
True to its title, you’ll either take a stand or a tumbling fall, you choose. I’ll just try to give my impressions and hopefullyit’ll give you some perspective if you’re on the fence.
Cons: subtitles where I watched was so bad that to really follow the gist of the business side of it, tends to keep you engaged. I mean you can definitely infer a lot (if you’ve seen one business drama you quickly pick up that two sides are working to advance, except there’s the other doing everything to sabotage that effort, right}. It was hard to follow along the business aspect of it, and it wasn’t anything so mind blowing to keep you teetering. In fact, it was a bit frustrating.
Pros: the cast! I always give grace to the hard working cast, no matter how the final product turns out. These are veteran casts and I automatically warm up to this type of series. They did a good job with what given. Whether by choice of what they agreed in contract, I always feel that there’s a hold back in level of chemistry. I’m so glad that one marriage portrayed did not add a cheat tag, but that the workaholic husband became mindful of his wife and supported her. I’m tired of cheating theme dramas so one married couple who worked through theirs was refreshing. The other married couple thought, at least, justice was served. As for main couple, they could have had more ‘them’ screen time but they were cute.
Overall, it’s not a bad production. I mean there’s lots they probably could have done better but still, it was fine. I liked it and if you have time, it’s worth seeing.
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This review may contain spoilers
Wasn’t magical, but strong females.
This is pretty decent in that the main women, Su Fei (FL) and An Ming (SFL) did not wallow in tears of ‘why me, poor me’ after hubbys infidelity. In fact, they stood their ground, never wavered to stand high on their decision to leave the past.I’m weary of weak, submissive, self sacrifice, wavering decision written women characters. The main two here shows how to stand on their own. That’s what I like most.
The story is nothing new. Two female leads bonded by chance over one knew the other’s hubby was being naughty. This formed a unique friendship. In the business world they battle wits to outdo, and manipulate. How? You’ll have to find out. I guarantee there is no tropes though as these females know how to walk and won’t be falling. Story paces well. All the side characters, from cute children to annoying ones served their parts to add flavor to the story. Stirred together, it’s pretty good entertainment.
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Friendship and Brotherhood at its best
It’s too bad there hasn’t been reviews on this wonderful work. The lack of reviews then obviously drives down ratings and interest. Too bad!The story itself is truly an overused narrative. A couple divorces, unexpectedly I might add, and there is your baseline. Corporate business is the setting, more or less, as the motivated drives to succeed and the opposition has its differing ambitions. Couple ended up working in same company so from there, it’s your guess where it leads as I don’t want to give spoilers.
Here’s the thing. Three men, in their forties, fifties as close friends as close can be. They are next to each other when facing a crisis, laugh hard when a celebration calls for, brainstorm to problem solve, etc. The friendship is so admirable. What a bond of men! In giving advice they are spot on, in lightening the mood they are witty with enough humor to change a serious atmosphere whether sad or good. I’ve smiled ever so often and moved too by the words of wisdom. Yes, each of these men have their own stories outside of their friendship, but guaranteed each were in support of each other when needed. Their stories, struggles, strengths and weaknesses are embodied in a strong brotherhood to make anyone envious of such a friendship. Forty episodes that i barely ever ffwd. Writing is good, deliverance of veteran actors are great. Subtitles aren’t always coherent but it’s good enough to understand the main points. I guess I’ve watched too many dramas to have a pattern I look or read between and this is one I was proud to fully enjoy regardless of.
I’m glad they produce dramas that goes beyond the seemingly favored audiences who like younger pretty boys and girls images. Don’t get me wrong, I do too. It’s just that the older viewers that I fall into also enjoy seeing cultured veteran characters. This is not to say this drama is only for matured audiences. Its message is same as other dramas but delivered by very handsome and beautiful veteran actors. Hope you can give it a try.
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I love lead pairing and their chemistry
This isn’t really the only drama I enjoyed the pairing but perhaps I haven’t come across one lately in my watching that these two awakened my interest. I haven’t seen the works of either so it was quite refreshing as if watching my first cdrama. These two compliment each other matching their arduous feelings. There’s a scene in the office that was embarrassingly lit.I liked how the male lead decided his feelings for the female lead is more important than his supposedly revenge. It doesn’t drag out which is a relief. There’s plenty of couple moments of sweetness instead of often last episode get together. Yes there’s an annoying character who tries to make trouble but lead guy is never swayed. Those things is what I often want to see and this drama has it. Sure it’s not perfect but overall, I highly enjoyed this for its simplicity, and overboard cuteness of leads.
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Not everything is black and white in a marriage.
I really enjoyed this drama and felt it was written well. I’m with a partner whom I enjoy life with and raised pretty good kids. As good as it is, definitely it’s not free from rough edges and heavy patches. I think though the key is honesty and willingness to compromise…of course love isn’t questioned. This drama at least put perspective into what Not to do for a healthy marriage so if anything, learn from this relationship.Hallelujah we have a very strong minded smart female character. I’m very satisfied with her performance and I’ve been on the fence with this actress until Fake It Til You Make It which I feel her character is similarly acted(Elvira Cai) . Male lead (Shao Feng) was good acting as the pompous ass jerk. His credit though is that he adored his son.
@Dedra70 in her review has an excellent breakdown of this drama if you want to know more. I just wanted to give credit to the cast and producers/writers of this story and hope that more people will give it a chance. It’s not rom-com, rather, it’s a look at how to build good and better relationships. Give this show a try as there’s some things to take away.
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What I find refreshing is just that. Little by little layers are delved into so that we understand the characters as they develop. Not only that, it’s family oriented, gives us slice of life moments. It has palace intrigues, secrets, birthrights, and of course scheme.
Towards the end of season, as General declares his love for Shaoshang, it’s a perfect arrival to season two where we have lots to build on as we anticipate the direction of the leads romance. Mind you, there’s loads of great moments of the story to keep us entertained, laugh out loud, shed some tears, etc. I give so much credit to entire cast, yes leads and younger cast members but also salute to older members for their great contributions. It’s a well put together story so don’t be a sleeper on this great production. Just read subs fast cuz lots of script conversations. Enjoy!
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Money doesn’t solve everything.
I started this series because subbing was fast. Not expecting a lot as description was vague, about a single mother, meeting up with other women of preschool children, Surprisingly for me, I stayed with it, now waiting for few more episodes to go.The story: A single mother got her son into a sought after kindergarten school, meets the elite moms of the group, and thus embarks on a journey of ups and downs. There are about five families in story with their own struggles. Through their stories, it engages us in life as seen through theirs with themes such as infidelity, bad investments, parent involvement in marriage, rebellious children, high expectations on kids, etc. While lead is single mom and kindergarten teacher, screen time is focused on all these families so this is one where we can say leads are multi. Leads include the kindergartners who are very much a part of the story.
It’s a drama about life. There’s much to take and appreciate. While the group belong in upper class, we can learn what NOT to do or become. No matter how much more money people have, they experience the same hurts and pains of ordinary people so it has much to offer about life and it’s challenges.
It kept me engaged. Episode to episode keeps me glued to see next. So, if this is the family type of drama you like, you’ll enjoy it. There’s a slow burn romance of single mom so it’s cute. Enjoy
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This review may contain spoilers
It’s really sloppy writing and directing in my opinion. I mean (you’ll see), just some things are so unrealistic it’s ridiculous. He’s about to look at marriage certificate when phone rings so he doesn’t. I mean you look at it while on phone is probably what ninety nine percent of humans would do. There’s no slow motion in opening a chinese certificate , come on. On and on he gets close to finding out just before something intercepts. I get they’re trying to build the suspense but by the second interruption, it’ll only build your bad vocabulary and brain spasms. Yes, nineteen episodes and she’s still at dodgeball full swing.BUT, it’s not bad. As a commenter said in comments, watch with your smart cells off. It’s a sweet popcorn watch with whole kernels here and there. Leads are eye candy and seriously though, main guy really does have smoldering eyes that are too lovely to skip over. Lots of skinship that some see as aggressive. I know it’s fiction only in my sight so you can say it’s weird that I find it romantic pursuit.
So, don’t be turned off too quickly and give it a try if you’re looking for a fluffy sweet romance. If you’re serious minded and hate overloaded cliches and plot holes, it’s not for you.
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The story here is a plot line seen way too many. CEO, cold, strict, recently returned. Woman is poor, tries to make in competitive business world. They meet, clash….yes! That’s the premise of this one, with the schemers in background, family secrets, etc. I’ve seen so many idol cast dramas of this sort the plots become very predictable. The difference for all these business/office genre is the cast and makeup of the story. The cast!
The main leads are older. Depending on individual watchers, as an older person this was a refreshing change. (not that I don’t watch idol star casts). Wei Gao (Wang Juan) and Zhang Qi (Su Mo) as leads were nicely paired. Their chemistry could be better but they did well enough i didn’t mind it. It’s just a nice change. Side characters who were the leads supporters are just as awesome. They complimented the leads by way of friendship. The supporting younger cast, Tianlu (Ren You) and Wang Jian (Zhang Mo) added depth as they were the peacemakers, the alternative voice of reason. They were great. My all time favorite though is Zhong Sheng (Zhao Yao) She was a strong character that portrayed a young woman who studies hard, and expresses and follow suit with wise judgment.
I enjoyed this a lot and really think you will too.
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Do Not Miss Out
I can affirm and confirm that this is one of the best (if not best) romcom drama this year. I can stop at episode ten and be very satisfied. In fact, it would be the most perfect beginning to an ending. For me especially, i find it more rewarding because i found it on my own without seeing or reading beforehand about it. Like the drama, Tell Me You Love Me, these two are like a gem that snuck quietly in when I wasn’t looking, yet hold the fiercest of satisfaction to become an embedded treasure.My reason is simple. First the story. I’ve seen it all. Rich and poor, hate to love, first sight love, cold to warm, etc. I think I may have seen something similar as this, reformed mobster, girl falls in love. Yeah im sure I have. Regardless, I love it here.
The cast! Absolutely the best! The side characters, especially the ml “reformed” family makes me wanna have a bunch like them too. They’re hilarious, dedicated, and lifetime friends once in their circle. They are such an important bunch in this drama that made it super extra fun. Leads? What a perfect pairing. Uhm Tae Goo as male lead is superb as the cold, no nonsense, guy turned soft. Oh my gosh, how he acts, reacts at his own change of falling in love is hilarious but so so heartwarming. True to the saying, she fell first but he fell harder……add butterscotch with honey dripped in savory chocolate. Han Seon Hwa as female lead is soft, kind, and plays her role perfectly. Not only is she beautiful but she’s the one to tame and jellify the man.. Everyone, even fl best friend and her love interest are cute. Everyone in the cast makes this drama memorable.
Like I said, for me it’s perfect. Well weaved, acted, and one to definitely go back to over and over. It’s so good. If it ended at ep 10, it would be perfect. Glad though there’s six more of these guys that’s making my drama watching so fun. Don’t miss out on a gem.
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Here’s another first for me. The music. Like the Hawaii Five-O older catchy theme music, I always looked forward to this ones and bops to it. Then, there are two songs sung brought in during those climatic moments. Both are very good but the one by female artist is so beautiful. After a great episode, I’d linger on just letting the soothing song sink in. I have no idea what it’s saying (no translation) but it’s fine, it touches deeply. I’ll later find out but that is one beautiful voice. Oh yeah, can’t forget to give credit to cast. Mature cast, perfectly selected…bravo.
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Usually I’m a rom-com person, will stray to a good law story (Suits) or political (Designated Survivor) once in a while but I haven’t in a bit. I saw the poster of this one, liked the looks of the leads, read the synopsis, twins, detective work, sounded interesting, started 1st episode and after three days not straying, just finished and very satisfied.
This show is about really good police investigative, forensics mystery work and it’s very riveting and intriguing. Dedicated to the core are its cast who never seems to stop working nor have a life beyond the uniform. For that you are very tuned into the mystery episode after episode with little rest to your imagination and emotions. The mysteries relate directly to the main people of the story which is why you’re deeply involved. You love them and hate them. Martial arts skills are great in the fight scenes and hands down applause for the training obviously put into this work. Though it’s not the focus, yet, the warm and tender relationship of the leads adds the flavor to this. Their romance is just beautiful with the maturity you crave in the eye candy idols cast dramas. Kisses are sweet and no big eye surprises or stone bodied hands glued to side either. Kisses are as it should be…clingy, returned, with warm hugs. Lol. Sorry but I’m so over the other unrealistic ones so was very satisfied in the sweet moments of this one.
The cast are all new to me but I’m gonna give them a shout out.
Bosco Wong dual plays twins Beichen and Beishen. Both have love interests so lucky him, he’s intimate with two beautiful women..haha. He’s so poised and dedicated to his work as a medical examiner that his character is strengthened by his intelligence and raw honesty, as he really needed to be to keep the woman he loved.
Julia Ye Qing plays Gu Chu, fellow medical examiner and love interest of Beichen. Beautiful and also poised, I love her facial expressions appropriately portraying her emotions. Her best yet was at the most, and I mean most painful moment of her character life. She’s great.
Gu Gao Wei is Capt Luo. This guy is absolutely professional in his character field. He’s handsome and enigmatic and also a poised leader. I researched him and found this is his first main lead role and he nails it. I would love to see him in another lead role where he gets the girl.
Liu Xian Da is Guo Chao, partner of Capt Luo. He’s reckless because he’s eager to be a good cop to catch the bad guys. I feel like he grew so much in the series and I can’t decide if it’s the character growth or actor growth. Handsome and naive, he grows to be a very resourceful cop.
The two antagonists are so good too. I mean the evil look, demeanor was perfect. Everyone on the team were good and big clap to them all. As to the ending? You’ll find closure I think.
I don’t know how they determine the popularity of shows and it looks like this isn’t favored. It’s seriously good though and if you feel you need a divert from other genres, give this one a go. I believe you will like it a lot. My overall opinion is a 9.5, low rewatch value because it’s no longer a mystery. Try it.
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It’s a drama for mature minds. It’s a nice break from idol casting. It might not be for everyone but I think if you’re willing to be patient and stick with it, producers and writers did a pretty decent job, and of course the cast who is delivering. I’m up to episode thirty and my attention hasn’t been hindered. Well…perhaps a tad here and there with the slow burn romance. Otherwise, this cast deserves an audience and I hope you give them a try.
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This review may contain spoilers
What comes after love is stronger love!
I try to not to give any spoilers but at the risk I do, I went ahead and gave caution so read at your choice.I like the idea of cross country romance and Lee Se-Young is one of my favorite actresses so this is exactly up my alley. When earlier news of this collaboration came, I was excited yet couldn’t help but wonder if it would flop. I wasn’t aware of actor Kentaro Sakaguchi (definitely a fan now and will check out his works) and in the clips of first readings, i wasn’t drawn to him that he could pull it off. Fast forward to the actual drama five episodes in, i can say that i really love it. As expected Lee is killing it in her role and Kentaro is perfect.
Here’s the thing. I’ve seen a lot of comments hating on the character of Jungo (Kentaro) because he comes off as nonchalant, selfish not being in tuned to Beni’s (Lee) needs. As i see it, two people met and fell in love quite quickly. They hit it off almost spontaneously so i don’t think cultural differences had too much effect, if any. In my opinion, they just had so much going on in their own individual lives that along the way, they couldn’t find balance. Before they met, they had goals and aspirations. In finding his, he seems aloof to her needs. In her needs of loneliness being in a foreign country among other things, she felt he was selfish and didn’t care about her. In all relationships to healthily progress positively, there’s got to be much compromises, give and takes. They definitely loved and were happy (wonderful chemistry) except, love alone does not sustain a good relationship.
In the gap of many years apart, one thing never changed. They still loved each other. So, going into what will happen is anyone’s guess as ending in last episode comes next week. This is my ideal. They loved fast. What comes after love? It’s knowing each other better, clearing misunderstandings, appreciating each other, compromise and love even more. That’s my hope.
I thought writing is really good and engaging. Because it’s short, i am able to absorb every word and actions. It’s a good flow. Acting is really good. Jungo is as his character calls. He’s quiet, stoically so that he can come off as boring and frustrating. His personality derived from a hurtful past that molded the way he is. I like his character because he’s himself, never changed. People should never change who they are even for someone else. Adjustments to compromise with your partner (give and take) yes, but stay as you are. Beni i find hard to sympathize with. Her early development with Jungo was so sweet and she radiated. Her latter self as shown after they meet up again seems puzzling too harsh on herself. She should have been happier, she’s engaged, back home and progressed in her career yet, her demeanor is that of a spurned woman. She acts cold, sad, dejected all around. Huh? Why? That’s an oddity i found and didn’t understand that part. Yes she hated Jungo but other than showing it towards him, she just came off as a real cold person to a point of, if looks can kill. Ha
I find this series so good that it’s definitely on my rewatch list. It’ll move up lots if i get the ending i am hoping for.
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Pleasantly very good
These are things that I find very pleasant about this drama that you might also.1. The chemistry of the leads. I’ve seen both artists works in their rom-coms and they are among my favorites. They are so natural here. Thank goodness there’s not a lot of push and pull in their eventual come together. It’s actually quite mature and once committed, their screen displays are so sweet.
2. Story of small business development versus big isn’t new. It’s about dreams to stand out on own ideas and hard work. That development may be the gist of the storyline but it’s good enough to give us a look at the people. The side stories of the people around the leads adds are sweet and complex that adds flavor.
3. The “intruders” are not too complicated. You have the dramas where you’re seething from beginning to end practically. Not here. It’s very mild but you gotta have some hiccups somewhere right?
Who needs more complications when we have enough in our lives. If you’re looking for a drama that keeps you attentive to what’s next in each episode, especially in seeing a healthy beautiful relationship, then this is a good one to watch. Well, there are two more episodes during this writing but I’m convinced it’s a done deal drama. Give it a chance and I believe you will be pleasantly satisfied.
Update*********done with! As I predicted, to the end it’s very satisfying. Enjoy.
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