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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If i could write it
This is one show I watched when I first started during the pandemic and loved. In my own context, it’s a near perfect production. Story, acting is spot on. It moves you to tears as you feel everything happening. Life, emotions, decisions, are so relatable. Highly moving and lead actress Uee is splendid. Her portrayal of her character, especially in her condition, is so real I guarantee you’ll cry with her. So, many great write ups have been written of what to expect. I’m not gonna dig more into that.If i could rewrite it, i would have taken out her condition. It’s a much more compelling storyline. Cold man makes a complete turnaround would have being perfect. He gains a family, is a loving dad. Complete transformation is enough to make this a favorite go back to. That’s my thinking after rewatching this.
It’s a great drama.
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This review may contain spoilers
Long but my cup of tea
If you’ve read anything I’ve written before in review section, you’d notice I tend to give high ratings. I mostly visit to share my viewing pleasure (seldom unpleasant except for maybe one) whether it be the story or even acting. I say this mainly because I see quite many viewers did not particularly like this drama. Of course it’s alright but let me share mine.I don’t find anything quite new with the plot and storyline. We here who enjoy asian dramas can probably agree we’ve seen way too many, therefore it’s normal to see revolving plot lines. This drama involves four women, each with a love interest. After seeing Lin Shen in Dating in the Kitchen I found him charming and wanted to see more of his work. Not disappointed here. His role is quite different but lots of similarities. Wasn’t too sure about Elvira Cai but she made it work here. She comes out as being too strong minded but I think it balances with her counterpart. This pairing is good.
If you’re patient enough, it’ll all come together. There’s a mystery as to why one of lead girl hates main lead guy. It’s about relationship development of the four girls. We can like or dislike these characters and their personalities or life but that’s exactly why they’re written. There’s something to learn about from everyone. There’s pain and scars we carry but they don’t necessarily need to keep us from moving on happily. Those are central themes if you stay long enough in this story, you’ll get.
As I said, there’s enough variety in this story to keep me entertained. It’s not perfect but find me one without a single complaint of some sort. This ends well for all cast, especially the main leads who were just lovely when they finally became lovers, rather than enemies. Would revisit this again for sure.
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Well worth the watch
Surprise, surprise! I am totally a rom-com watcher since I found Asian dramas (k, c, t, j, lakorn) during covid. Surprisingly I found myself wandering into this because Luo Jin was very good in Royal Nirvana. Not expecting myself to stay through first episode, I was hooked til ep 18 (subtitled) and browsed through rest not subtitled to end (41 total). I will absolutely go back to finish once fully subbed. I add that subs are really good so thank you also to great subber.The great thing about watching international dramas is that we get to see things done aside from where we live. The structure of the Chinese legal department is interesting. The division in this series (2nd Execution Division) is to enforce outcomes already decided by court. Sharp uniforms, teams, with police backups makes for very intimidating and for most part, effective outcomes.
It’s a legal drama. Writing is really good. Cases are so interesting but beyond that is the presentation of life situations that we can identify with and linger on. It’s so in depth that it’s not as easy resolve as we think. Writer goes deep to dig into the root and more than often, I cried identifying with such situations of our humanness. Lots of slice of life here.
Luo Jin definitely delivered. His feelings for situations is well expressed in his eyes, sometimes no words is needed. He really has horned his skills as an actor, much admired. The team, the elder cast, everyone are good. I’ve never seen works of female lead so I’ll just say im on the fence on her role.
It’s not romance driven but there’s subtle “feelings” of leads which adds to the intrigue. This is such an excellent drama and im afraid it’ll go under radar. I’ve spoken for it and very happy to have watched.
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Lucky stars counted
I’m not sure why I’ve put off watching this although I’ve come across it so many times. I count myself lucky because i finally did and totally enjoyed it. Here’s why:First, I’m a sop for romance and this story has a great one. So as not to spoil it for you, I just want to give brief highlights.
ML has endured the pain of guilt of something that happened which wasn’t his fault but nevertheless painful. FL is someone who desired to be a fashion designer but always felt she brought about bad luck. Their interactions weave a tale that may sound familiar in others you’ve read or watched. The pair that seemed to not get along journeyed on a path involving overcoming hurdles of self doubt, inner turmoil, but strong support for each other.
The cast. Jerry Yan. My goodness he’s a great actor. He has emotional scenes that you can’t help but be greatly affected because of his acting. He really gets into the role and his pain will probably be much more felt bc you can’t help but pity him as you practically feel his hurt. Yes he’s very handsome but I really enjoy his work to care about those things.
Shen Yue. I think this is my first drama watching her. She’s a budding good actress. I love her character, kind, considerate, fun, and devoted. She played her part well, nothing coy but just natural. I’m a new fan and her smile? Contagious.
Wei Zhe Ming. Now I do know this actor and one of my favorites. Though he was second lead, he was very much liked. His character was sort of sad but in the end, things worked out. Though it’s totally unfair to me not to list them all, every other cast members were great contributors to this made story. The parents of Shen Yues character were so wonderful. We all know and have seen real nasty selfish drama parents but here, in them at least, they showed how parents should be…kind, supportive. The friends of fl and their boyfriends were also so cute.
Note of warning. The common complaint from so many is the lack of clothes type worn by Jerry Lans character. Yeah, but so? Letting you know in advance if it’s gonna be a problem for you. To me, yes I noticed but I was too invested in the story itself not be a big deal. Whatever reason it was for lack, I’m sure it’s not actors fault. Or he’s like me, not caring how many times I wear something as long as I’m comfortable??
Second warning is age gap. I don’t know what it is that bothers people (of course they have right to their own) but the way these leads carried out their roles was nothing short of true love and adoration for each other. They were the perfect pair and no gap is in it except maybe In people’s twisted thinking. Let these two things not deter you. This is definitely worth the watch and spoiler…………..ending kiss to a happy couple. Oh yeah, NEVER FORGET, the ost, is so endearingly inserted throughout im humming it as i write. Thanks.
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Sweet Is Sweetly when Love is Lovely!
I'm gonna start out by saying that C Dramas are on a craze crazy good marathon. At least for me, this is the 5th drama in a row I've watched and I'm well pleased with each.So many have given great reviews so mine will be short with some snippets of things I enjoyed without giving any or much spoilers. A one too many of its kind, two younger friends meet again when older and fall in love. The synopsis here adds that the girl gets seriously sick when she cries. In one of the most beautifully acted scene I've seen is found here..."I feel like crying". Wow! Just tenderly beautiful. Yes, it's a predictable plot but the beauty of it is that the cast, especially main leads Leo Luo and Bai Lu, made the characters their own it's like watching a real couple love story. Yes, that's how much chemistry they have. Added is the second lead love story of Riley Wang and Xiao Yan as well as other love interests that add to the fluffiness of this drama.
The other nice thing about it is that it wraps nicely, no real loose ends like many shows that gives us five minutes of couple meeting together and then end.
OST called "Things I Do For Love" is such a catchy ballad that played at end of each episodes keeps you in the feels. So, its a great cuddle up movie for the cold winter, let it warm you. Thanks
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Worth the Buzz
I sometimes have the premonition that when something is hyped, it’s most likely not worth it. Honestly the over posting about the drama beforehand got annoying that I considered unfollowing some platforms. Fast forward, I tuned in right away when it aired, and I’m blown away at how much I am enjoying it. My gosh first episode had me so invested I was so impressed with the cinematic quality. It’s like the real life scene of the animated Ariel under the sea . Bravo well done.So much attention is given to main leads (deservedly so) but really though, everyone of the cast and their contributions deserve applause. I watch the older veterans and am so impressed at how they do so well with their lines and acting their parts. What to do without them right? So grateful for their work.
Production team did really well planning out each scene that the story flow is great as we can easily follow the story of the enslaved pearl harvester heroine. Lusi really put in the work to her character as she is shining. In fairness, as I’ve said, everyone is playing their role really well.
Join in the fun as the story unravels. It’s a fun ride and of course we got long ways to go but so far, it’s a very promising story that hopefully will end as it started, on a very high bar.
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This review may contain spoilers
Double something that may be happiness.
I had high hopes when I first saw previews. Middle age couple at second chance love, check. Children involved (sort of like Five is Enough that I really liked), check. Cast are pretty well known, check. Alas, mid point now and it’s not connecting. I feel like it’s all over the place. It’s confusing who the main cast are. It doesn’t feel like it’s the leads. They have less screen time than everyone else that are supporting. Even if it’s the others, it’s confusing what the central plot is of those characters. At least to me, there isn’t substance as to what they want to relay of those characters. Example are the in-laws of the male lead. So much time on them yet???? Then female leads ex and his wife have so much screen time yet, it’s going in circles and they’re more of annoyance than bringing meaning to story. Trouble lies in the writing that lacks depth.As for the leads, disappointingly underwhelming. FL is overly cute, smart, independent, yet fails to effectively draw me in to her character. ML is, well…..flat out boring. His voice, his actions, his life, has no command. He asks for cheek kisses and when she gives him one, it’s like middle schoolers who are just experiencing love for the first time. Eh, judge for yourself. I may totally be off according to you.
Mind you all this can have a total turnaround in next half. Currently though I’m just not feeling it. I will see it to the end and hope writer and directors gives this great cast some justice to finish strong.
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Too much time
This is a cute drama but too many flaws for comfort. Cute that it’s a very typical hate/love, cold/warm, rich/poor plot. Not so much as it takes too long for them to find love and as a result, you lose some brain cells.Weirdly, the actor has those lazy smoldering eyes that made me want to know him more. At the end I can’t decide whether I’ve accustomed myself to his acting or not. Main actress is too clumsy, silly in character that you love her or hate her. It depends on your tolerance. I just felt it carried on too long.
In conclusion, I personally think that it’s okay to watch one, skip several. There’s just too much recycled back and forth storylines. The ending reward is worth it. Why? It’s like a revelation. It’s like the sleeping giant has awakened. The male lead can definitely smooch. lol. So, if your tolerance is fine with major cliches, go for it. If it’s too much, you aren’t missing much with some skips. Fuzzy warmth for sweet ending is worth it.
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Likable with pauses
I’ve read the others reviews and I think we all seem to agree, it’s okay. Why? It’s somewhat fluffy that you continue to click next. There’s a cuteness to it, the lead’s chemistry despite him throwing her away on an unverified allegation. I mean we can imagine that kind of existence, though it’s very unlikely forgiveness comes that easy. We should totally know by now that “don’t ever appear before me again” means next episode they’re interacting. She or he is cold maybe two episodes and next their eyes are lingering and pining, etc.Besides the cliches mentioned by others, I’m adding these. She is disguised as a maid, end up in situation where they sleep together, she disappears next morning and he casually asks if she went to work. Huh? Little boy calling her mom at first mtg. Huh? Too too many unrealistic scenarios it’s mind boggling. Of course we should also by now be used to these type of things, especially in low budget very short episode dramas.
There’s galore of bad dramas. This at least has a cute couple that carries the faulty premise. HEA!
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First, I think it’s an adorable making. I enjoyed everything except perhaps the last episode. I’ll share why but first my likes. I think the story is decent mind you it was coarse. There’s holes in the story that was head scratching but they managed to make clarity that gave some clearance. Maybe it’s bad editing. Personally for me, it’s the leads that keeps viewers strapped. I loved their interactions, even when he was cold and rude, yet she stayed her own grounds. This was a seriously cold man but she sure did win him over with her natural cuteness and kindness. I loved that.
It’s definitely a HE but last episode was underwhelming. Maybe they were in a rush or just in a brain freeze? Their reconnection was a dud. Closing out a good drama should end with a bang, yet…it didn’t. Yes they made sure everything closed properly, except that it didn’t leave you with a wow…it’s more of, okay. Because of that it’s low on my rewatch. Other than that, it’s really cute.
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This review may contain spoilers
I would have written a fair review of this drama but I feel like it’s senseless. I spent so many hours watching to be totally disappointed in the way it ended that I feel that I totally wasted my time. Is it fair then to write this review? I wish I would have known so that i could have made a fair decision of my precious time I can’t get back.My ratings for story and acting is fairly high because it definitely was an engaging story. Three women and their growth, in relationships and career. The three men in their lives. The supporting cast were also good. Lots to love and moments of let downs that just keeps you on edge of seat or firmly comfortable. Slice of life of various situations that any one of us can face so its value is great.
Why then give an ending that just leaves an avid viewer unimpressed. Doesn’t make sense to wrap this up like this with just voice thinking. Huh? Total letdown. Go ahead for what I thought of it, not bad. However, if you want to take a risk on being left deflated, then at least you’re warned. That of course is my personal opinion.
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I think everyone did their parts. This drama is 90% veteran casts and I like it. I can appreciate their art. Though I started because of Lin Yu Shen, he actually doesn’t have a lot of screen time and didn’t really become involved til around episode ten or so. By then I was already invested as I wanted to see the development of the plot.
I’m not talking bad about this actress but it was so hard to adjust to the character JYiDi. Credits to the cameraman because in her parts it pans so long on her reactions it gets frustrating. It would have been tolerable if she had some great profound script after staring at her face that is pondering, looking like about to say something. Yes she does have some meaningful lines but in comparison to not, had to skip over. Maybe it’s because I’m not familiar with her and her acting but yeah, that character was pretty bland. In fact, very minor significant character though it may seem she has a major role.
Overall I enjoyed it. Definitely could have been done in ten less episodes because plot of same business schemes became repetitive. Lost its gist towards middle in parts. Lots of loose ends with characters of female leads sister, parents, etc. Would have wanted to see them again but they just disappeared. Too bad because I think this could have been so much better.
So, if you like a business story with a smart and honest female lead this is good. Romance is a fading hint but missing if that matters. Give it a shot for the veteran actors.
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We pick and choose the ones of this plot line so I enjoyed this one because I thought the leads were suitable. I mean it makes the gaps, messiness of the plot holes bearable enough to want to see the end. In my opinion this could have wrapped with less episodes as it became too much fillers that were unnecessary. It had all the elements of a good story of a beginning, middle, and end but too much delving into other things to try to keep it longer then just became dragging. I think you will like this couple if you’re into a cute relationship and will most likely bear through.
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