J-atty

How To Stay Undead?

I'll make this short. It was very entertaining from beginning to end. Though I've seen many ghost/ ritual stories, this was a cut above the rest in the same vein. Specifically the occult without reincarnations. The actors delivered for the most part. Pavel was good in his role. Graphics, make up and special effects set the scenes which made it credible. This is the best I've seen of Michael and TopTen as a cp. Finally in sync and comfortable interacting with each other.

My criticisms lie in the structure of the story itself. Thup moving from victim to resident spiritual advisor to boyfriend to procedural advisor. How many hats? His methodical way of thinking seemed to outshine those who have been officers for years. Singha's questionable protection practices. Singha losing it at the end and going all crazy instead of trying to free them. While it is said mentally ill people do possess superior strength when in psychosis, but like he outsmarted and overpowered every one until the end. Victor / Bom did a spectacular job.

I'm not a fan of Pooh and his acting abilities. It's on the short end but here it was passible. His nasal monotone does not help. The script was well chosen to suit Pavel's. I will also suggest that Pavel next to Otto gives a more believable dynamic that Pavel with Pooh. It's underwhelming, with Pavel carrying the weight.

Overall, very intriguing and entertaining.

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What the hell?

There is no amount of Me and Thee, Sangmin Dinneaw and Jack and Joker lunacy could have prepared me for this. It's good that it was done with the most outlandish plot cuz nothing else would have worked. You want to but you can't look away cuz you have this need to know what else could they possibly do. Turns out, a lot. Pockets of entertainment.

Overall, there were humerous moments throughout with a heavy dose of melodrama. The father was a trip. Loved his performances. He had the uncanny ability to show up just at the right moment. I liked the craziness of it all. It was light, fast moving and ultimately entertaining tho a bit redundant. Too many unnecessary clashes.

Donut's voice is something I cannot get used to. Even with a lowered volume and 2x, it felt like a drill into my brain. Didn't like it in TBNW and here. I will say he has potential as an actor. Forth is effortlessly natural. They're good for each other.

Is this format a plus for them? Who knows. I'm reminded that TleFirstOne began with a 2 min vertical series and their popularity has grown enormously. So here's hoping they get to that level also, tho I consider this a step down from TBNW. Probably they haven't found their niche.

Brain activity needed - none. Watchable - yes.

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A Love That Wouldn't Die

I can not let go of the hold this series has on me. In 12 ep, they managed to break me over and over again. Perfectly paired they have delivered the best yet. The desire, the angst, harsh decisions, resolute convictions and in the end, a love that didn't die.

Caught between two kingdoms, political plots and selfish ambitions, Zi Ang and Shu He, fought to be but in the end, on opposing sides, they fought each other. Finally, left with no other option, Shu He takes revenge but ultimately creates the only world they can live happily in. Free to be as they were meant to be, they greet each other with a smile. I will not go indepth with every detail as this entire series is worth viewing with fresh minds.

I easily bypass how small the production was Zhang Zhe Xu and Min Jin performances blotted out what was lacking. Central to the plot that delivered, was their meeting and the intense love borne of it. One raging and rash and the other sure and serene. Yet, both were bonded forever

The supporting cast is worthy of a mention. All of their parts were handled believably. This is a series I can fully recommend as its execution was effectively painful as it was beautiful. A period piece that will never age. It's worth watching time and time again.

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Are they already dead?

The problem with Exclusive Love is that the formula being used is outdated. The storyline is actually interesting on paper, but the experience of it was not. Where was the drama? The well modulated tones of each actor seemed more of a sedative than an energizer. It does nothing to the performances that drag on for no apparent reason. 10 episodes in, and I was questioning why all this could not have wrapped up in 5. Granted, they're part of the funeral business, but they're not dead.

Moments are missed when the romance could have been enhanced but falls flat. TDZ asks WZ to lay on a table to show him how the dead, in their final moments before burial, are treated with respect. He proceeds to use oil to massage WZ. They're interrupted, and I happily say with good reason. It did not have the intensity needed and was as boring as paint drying. TDZ, who has feelings for WZ, was not affected by actually touching the pliant flesh being manipulated by his fingers.

The impending death of TDZ's brother brought no urgency to the story to push it further but more of the dull lackluster acting. On hearing that, Ian has feelings for him, WZ is shocked. I am truly grateful for the addition of Ian, as he is the only one who seems to still be in the land of the living. The second couple fared a little better but not by much. The subterfuge of JH inadvertently got YQ to the point of reaching the alter. A double wedding that fit well into the lifeless pattern of this series. The one aspect that really irked me was the living funeral. Why? Anyone will speak kind words when they know that you are dying. How everyone treats you in the course of your life is what should matter.

Taiwan used to produce intriguing storylines and enigmatic acting. Sadly, this is a reminder that everything changes and has an end. In this case, thankfully, also. 12 episodes was too much of this dribble. If after watching, your consensus is the same, don't say I didn't warn you.

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Pure Entertainment

It was ludicrous, hilarious, dramatic, poignant, heartbreaking and endearing but most importantly very entertaining. The thin bare plot broke down after ep 3 and picked back up in the last 5 minutes of ep 9, but it's worth sticking for everything else. The both cp have chemistry in bucket loads. Just a glance, a deep inhale or a gentle touch and the atmosphere was crackling with electricity. I must admit it hurt when Chen Gong (?) died, he also had a presence that filled the screen.

Yes the script was chaotic, childish and unbelievable at times but forgiveable when taken in entirety. China producing in Thailand, what else could be expected. Am I waiting for S2, yes and hopefully with a slightly bigger budget. Will I expect better, no because it will make S1 insignificant. Let this stay in the lane it has chosen: pure entertainment.

The only reason I gave this an 8 because I was never bored, even in the nonsensical moments.

Taken in the vein it was produced in, you will enjoy.

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Il Jo and his love

You know a story is entertaining when you bypass all the flaws and still switch on, anticipating the enjoyment of what is to come. Yes, there were major flaws. Repetitive dialogue. A clueless, possessive dictator when all the clues were right before his eyes. How could he not know that Jeong In was threatening Il Jo? Why did he take so long to take action? Why did Il Jo allow himself to be a punching bag, when he could have come clean from the moment he knew Jeong Han loved him? Yes, the flaws were in the script and a bit of over the top petulant acting. Hey, that's Korea but they deliver.

Il Jo stepped into Jeong Han's life and his heart. He held up the mirror, causing him to see his true self and showed him how to love. From the moment this started, I was curious to see how they would meander the course to be together. There were moments of rage, disdain, pity, passion and love. The spots of humor enlivened the mostly dark and sombre plot. Jeong Han, in his delirium, begging Il Jo to stay, when in fact it was Jae snapping him back to reality was good. At the end, through all the muddle, they found their way back to each other. For his miniature stature, Il Jo weilded most of the power in their relationship by his actions. The cafe owner proved to be a true friend. Although, he had other wishes for Il Jo, he backed his decision to return to Jeong Han. His happiness meant more.

Jeong and Yoon acted well together. Their break up scene in the bedroom was raw and phenomenal. Their happy moments - cute. Their physical interractions - intense. Admittedly, Lee Dong Joo shone in the role of the drug addicted psycho half brother and helped make the series that much better. Perfectly cast for he delivered with his depravity. The series length was perfect and also the last few scenes at the airport. Jeong Han needed to trust what he had with Il Jo and allow him to make his own choices. It ended on the right note.

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When you think it couldn't get worse.

I think what was shocking for me was how mind numbing this was for a Korean bl. The mls could not save what could be described as the most horrible script ever. They also needed to feel comfortable in the roles which was apparent they weren't. Loud smacking kisses are supposed to convey passion? The direction, pacing, dialogue, body language needs serious work. BDSM? More like a cringy take on the subject. The whipping scene. Why? What? I have seen Jae Hun / Jung act much better than this. Hae Jun / Kim is on par with what he previously did, so I wasn't expecting any better. Why was this stretched to 10 ep when clearly there wasn't enough material? Just poses and voice overs and staged acting. No real flow or rhythm. Truly disappointed.

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The Prince, The Princess and The Dreamer

I loved it! Melodramatic to its core and that's exactly its charm. Every episode either ended climatic or had drawn a strong emotion whether good or bad. One could never call LITM boring. The story was well thought out and acted. To say that the ml were the stars alone would be a bit far from the truth. The majority of the cast were engaging to the point that some were very entertaining. Inthra and his wife brought the humor which gave the series the right balance for it to be enjoyable.

The build up to the finale was so well executed that I did not miss more of Saenkaew and Sasin's cute moments. Every character was given ample time to develop and push the story along in the right direction. Pin, through all she endured, proved that ultimately love would win in the end. There were a few moments that one would wonder if she was a distant relative of Dhevi's. Those she cherished did her dirty. She was allowed. By refusing to continue being a pawn in everyone's game, she found her voice and finally understood what true love was. I believe her character was the most evolved.

I refuse to believe that Prince Kamfa was Saenkaew's father. He was throwing hands and feet whenever and whomever he felt needed it. Khamsu, proved to be a very strong and agile right hand man. Oh, a chuckle or two did escape me. Kamfa definitely acted like he was from the streets. His intentions were understandable though most times not warranted. How does a parent give their child over to the world to ravage. I will not say that this was his only motivation but from a position of royalty, as I said, understandable.

Grandma, I loved her, but she could have kept those lips shut at times. Again, here we could see how her character was used to escalate the rising anxiety. She did what every grandmother would do. Love their grandchild unconditionally. Homthip deserves her place in their family. A worthy confidante for the lovebirds.

Sasin and Saenkaew love story evolved. It took its time to grow, be recognized and embraced. This was so good that it bordered on great. The revelation in Sasin's eyes, beautiful. He himself didn't know until it was too late. He was drawn to be in his presence for the smallest of reasons and Saenkaew half way through became his willing partner. The director deserves an award for creating one of the most beautiful scenes. Sasin smilingly eats out of Saenkaew's palm and the look of dawning wonder on Saenkaew's face. There was only one way for their story to end. The drama between their meeting and forever after, brought enough excitement to make the 12 episodes worth it. Sasin forgiving being shot for the sake of love, is one for the books.

I readily admit, the last episode was rewarding but too sweet. Then again most melodramas are. I would have preferred that karma return to all, but hey, Sasin and Saenkaew's hands weren't clean either. So, the ending was acceptable. The scenery, wardrobe and direction: no complaints. In true melodrama style, copious amounts of tears flowed; Saenkaew's, Pin's and mine. This is worth the watch.

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Funny and Sweet

This was a nicely done series that truly was a pleasure to watch. All the characters were likeable and visually a perfect match. While this is classed as a romance, what stood out was the strong bonds of friendship between them all. They stood together and always willing to assist in times of need. A little ribbing along the way but the honesty was remarkable.

Ter and Hill's story was told over the entire series mainly as the connection to all the characters. It was a bit childlike and innocent but filled with too much saccharin. Sweetness overload. Pond's acting range is so far above this series that it was a struggle to see the benign look on his face every week. One would think he took a valium or smoked something, to be so bland. I hope he doesn't repeat this error. Earth is the perennial Peter Pan character and it has become tedious. Any rage or frustration was shown in flashbacks. In the present, Ter was treated like fine China with no real passion. Cotton balls and tender touches. This is not college age. I will say, Ter as a shipper and concerned friend was a nice watch.

North and Johan's relationship from beginning to end was the highlight we didn't know we needed but craved weekly. Maxky and Bas are natural comics with amazing chemistry and they aced every scene. North is the love everyone should have in their lives. Simple, dedicated, loyal and honest. He took his time to know his mind and once he knew, he held on to Johan as if his life had now begun. Johan, after waiting three years, finally had the opportunity to give back to the person who gave meaning and direction to his existance. He shed the coat of playboy and surrounded himself with the greatest joy he will ever know. North claiming his man publicly... pure gold. This is the stuff love stories are made of. Perfection. My only issue with Johan is the way North has to kiss him to get what he wants. It gives the impression of using this as payment for his love. Poor message. It fits his high handed character's traits but not nice to see.

The promised second season should see the completion of the other stories. With 17 episodes of this, I believe all could have been told had it been lengthened to 20 with 5 chapters per couple. Phoon, Fah, Arthit and Dao would have to wait. The hope Tiger got from Nao leaning his head on his shoulder was a nice touch to the ending.

The script between Hill and Ter could have done with a couple revisions as it was not enticing and a bit repetitive. Jo and North hit the mark very well with funny tit bits and romantic interludes. The comradery amongst all was a great addition to the script. Conflicts were handled swiftly and not lengthened to prolong an already lengthy series.

Rewatch, definitely yes. Mainly for Jo and North but all the friendhips of Arthrit and Fah.

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The Cat Whisperers

I put off watching this because I'm not a fan of animals 'speaking'. It's the voices and too many animal shots. But something kept nagging at me and I couldn't let it go. I feared I would miss out on seeing Khao in a different setting. I'm happy that I gave in.

The show served a meal of predictably. The calmness of the script was so against what they were in for the past few years and it took a lot of getting used to. I began to wonder when the exceptional would happen. Then Lynx had a dream in the last episode that would leave me a mess. Napkins aplenty. He pulled one of the most emotional farewell scenes ever written. The ribbons streams, the messages and his tesrful pleading with mother. His actual goodbye to JuJu the next morning was so eloquent in the understatement. The tear that fell then the breakdown. Perfect.

Khao deserves the praise. He fluctuates effortlessly between his emotions. He can reel it in and dish it out with the perfect pitch. First did well also, as the cat whisperer. More sedated but that's the role.

The other support actors did deliver in their roles. Great is another who has the power to captivate and charm.

I am so glad that I got to see this. My main thing is that it landed on the perfect balance and left a warm feeling at the end.

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Badly Burnt

Let's get into it.
The visuals beautiful. Dew's smile - dream worthy. Dew, Gun and Off's acting, in that order - believable for the most part. Gun crying - nice to see but became less effective with the copious amounts seen. Chemistry between DewGun - blazing. Chemistry between OffGun - pedestrian. The artwork, at first - esthetically pleasing. With every painting, the phallus being the focal point, begs the viewer to wonder, did Jira have penis envy? When did he see Pheem's? Overdone. Oversexual. Pain and freedom can be depicted differently and effectively. Thankfully, his last was different. Gun's wardrobe - great taste, impeccable. Pheem's pain and frustration - resonating, palpable, undeniable. Koh strutting around bare chested - underwhelming. This did nothing to create the illusion of his anxiety and oddity. It just screamed too much money to care about anyone but himself. Everyone was disposable. When he did wear clothes, I'm guessing the subliminal messages on his tees were to shape the scenes.

Now to the storyline. Script was on the original side. Dark. Emotional. Self realization. Fear of authenticity being replaced by a machine. What I didn't like about the script - when characters flip flop and then the last couple of episodes suddenly know what they want. From the jump, Jira reiterated repeatedly that he hated Koh. Now we all know the end game. It's expected. Nine out of ten episodes of hate, insert one vengeful kiss, one fantasy encouraged kiss and a crotch fondle, and there he was, back pressed to the bed with feet pointed to the ceiling. Lying to the other characters is one thing, lying to himself was tedious. From their first meeting Koh had Jira tethered and he yanked it at will. So who were they fooling? My only rewards for watching that nonsense were the rage room and PheemJira infront of the camera in Mawin's audition. Beautiful art.

Since money and their differing views on AI's effect on authentic art were the chasm between them, this could have easily captured at least three episodes of fiery entertainment. We got nine episodes of petulance from all the characters with a few pockets of sparkles. Collectively, the characters were not that likeable.

I started this expecting the emotional tug of war between them. Truthfully after episode two I was over it. In Thai series it is very rare that one of the ml are allowed to be seen kissing anyone but their partner. Pheem's attempts were painful. Artistically and realistically. If Jira said that he liked Pheem and they were in the room. Why was his response lackluster from the start? What was his goal? BOC delivers great content. Honest work. Gmmtv is sadly trailing behind. It's like a well decorated cake but flavorless.

My consensus: this could have been wrapped in eight episodes. Four for the PheemJira nonsense and four for KohJira nonsense. Side note: I especially didn't like the butler coercing Jira to wait for him to procure a taxi or he would be in trouble with Koh and Jira giving in. A grown arse man cowering and Jira's spineless petulance. Nope.

A lot was dealt with in the last episode and then nothing really. Jira got a spine - I can live without you. Pheem being the bigger man and bridging the space between them. Koh stopped yanking the chain and held boundaries. I did like the spots of humor between Pheem and Mawin , it gave a lightness to the absurdity and their friendship. AJ and Emi were perfect.

A story such as this would have been more effective with the audience viewing the dynamics rather than every moment being explained. Faults an all, it's still watchable and as I said there were moments that were good.

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It's a comedy, right?

Gu jin nan qiu, what can be said? Don't! Unless you have 3 min to spare and need a good laugh at the pure absurdity of every episode. If not, don't. This is the worst. Waste of effort on both parties. The entire production and the viewer. I will admit I stuck around when I switched from viewing it as a drama and turned it into a comedy. Only then it became bearable. Special mention of the volatile cousin and the security guard. One pranced around like a vindictive prima donna and the other a bumbling clown. Yes, heavy on the melodrama.

I'm leaning towards the idea that the director gave them free reign to do whatever they wanted. Nothing and I do mean nothing was cohesive, consistent or rewarding in any way. Had they got a better script, toned down the cousin's erratic melodrama, kept the meter at the other three actors and built from there, it might have been passable. Even though the budget was limited. This was the lowest of the low.

Visuals were there. OK, one good thing. Seriously, do better. Yes, there is an audience for China bl. There will never be an audience for chaotic absurdity aka crap. The open ending created a bit of interest within the chaos but still lost.

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Engaging production of love and dance

This lived up to the expectation of two polar opposites falling in love in the world of dance. One fiery, bold and full of passion on and off the dance floor. The other elegant, polished and a perfectionist. Visually and tempermentally contrasting, they fought to find the balance. What one lacked the other supplied in movement style and execution. They sharpened each other whilst falling in love. Sugiki and Suzuki were well matched but never equals.

They commanded the screen. Every frame held my attention from the moment it began to the end. The storyline was as expected and then it wasn't. They both admired each other for their technique and style. Being drawn to one another reached a head on the train. That scene was artistically and beautifully done. Previous hesitations, gave way to honesty. It is within this honesty, that Suzuki pushes and prods to get more of him. Sugiki opens the doors for him to reach to greater heights. Their love is apparent in every action. Their love language - dance. The final scene was as I hoped it would be. Previously, Sugiki rejected a night with Suzuki acknowledging they could never be one. In the final scene, in front of the entire Japanese Dance competition, Sugiki proved his love. He chose Suzuki as his dance partner. Unwilling to face the hurt of seeing Sugiki dance with his partner, Suzuki's back was turned. Then he heard him. Shocked, hesitating for a brief moment, he reaches for the outstretched hand and follows. At the end, uncontrolled, Suzuki kisses him. He responds. His parting words give Suzuki the clarity he needs. He smiles.

I loved the entire production. Machida and Takeuchi filled it admirably. My only drawbacks were that even in the heated part of their relationship, it still felt a bit clinical. Reserved. The kiss on the train did not up the pace in their interractions at it still felt restrained. There was no hunger from Sugiki. If this was a parallel love, where was Suzuki's voice? I'm hoping there is another part that would place them head to head and equals. Also, the backdrop for the Cuban style community was admirably done but it lacked a bit of credibility.

Final take, this was worth the wait and the watch.

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Not there yet... so why?

Sukfilm usually delivers in this format. Short. Low low budget but decent. While the storyline in itself was interesting enough, the tall male lead was not. If it wasn't for the cheeky and cheerful disposition of the shorter male lead, there would be no need to watch. He is as stiff as cardboard and has the personality of paint. His sister, his friend and obviously his love interest had some vitality, he sadly was very tedious. I should also add, it's not all the scripts fault, which was more choppy than usual, it's him. Sadly, he appeared in another, Bound Contract and pretty much was just as unlively.

Sukfilm produced much better fare in the past. Bad Guy, Blue Boys and Soeul Blues had better actors, continuity and script. So what's going on. I hope this is just an anomaly and they revert to getting the best actors that can deliver within budget.

These shorts are usually a sweet treat where much brain activity is not needed. This left a mostly bland taste due to one actor, which is a shame. Still, I'll be looking out for more from Sukfilm or at least rewatch the good ones.

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Dirty Handshakes and Fake Smiles

Politics is a dirty game and Mandate brought everything and served it well. Corruption at its core with back door deals, murders, payoffs and power hungry derelicts who refuse to die quietly and continue to rage against time. Their personal lives used as chess pieces for gain and strategy. Yes, Mandate was the one to watch and truly enjoy.

This is not an ordinary bl as many would have began viewing to enjoy seeing love spark and blaze bright to the end. This was a political drama that happend to have a bl secondary story. It was sobering in every way. Their meeting, the disagreements, Dr Nong's learning curve, their both failings and ultimately the inevitable fall out from their actions. Dr Nong and Wi lacked one critical part in their relationship - trusting that communication between them would always be truthful and open. Desparate to hold on, Dr Nong's unwise decision would almost be his most fatal act. Thankfully, Wi proving in the end, his experience and the ability to see the end game, would be his saving grace. They will have their moments.

Of all the deals made the most disheartening was Jump. Allowing himself to be used as a distraction from Dr Nong. Loyal to the core but at what price.

Boy's acting, especially his last scene, was supreme. Ben proved how much he has grown as an actor and was beautiful to see. The rest of the supporting cast rounded out what could be the most solid acting after Shine. Nong, Pitta and Akk were believable and committed to their roles.

The pacing, cinematography, direction and script tied perfectly together to create the intrigue, emotional pangs and revengeful schemes. The suits and ties of deception. The few moments of bl between Dr Nong and Wi were as it should. Tender, savoring and deep. Their moments together would be just as captivating as the primary plot. I loved it all.

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