J-atty

The Best Interest of Everyone

What's right may not be legal and what's legal may not be right. The opposing views on euthanasia was discussed in great detail and according to the end, legality won. I want to say unfortunately but the other side of that coin would send a message of acceptable wanton killings.

It is legal to execute a prisoner by lethal injection but illegal to give someone peace who suffers daily from excruciating pain.

The plot was very interesting, thought provoking and with a few unexpected surprises. The acting was wonderfully done by everyone. A Thai production of this caliber done in 8 episodes is a miracle in itself. The pacing, flash backs and character development produced a drama worth watching and watching again.

The divide between Thiu and Kan was bridged for only a moment and what a beautiful moment it was. Their moment of intimacy was tastfully done as expected from mature individuals. Thiu, tho a bit hesitant due to Kan's wound, encouraged by Kan, gave in. I must admit I was not expecting this as the previous meetings would show desire alone. Truthfully, I would have preferred for it to have not happened due to the ending.

The only question that should have been asked of Thiu but it wasn't...

If his mother, in extreme pain, had begged him to end it, would he have stepped back and refused, leaving her to suffer. The morality of these situations are ambiguous from the both positions taken.

Boss, the pharmacist, gave a stellar performance. From lover, to psycho, to unrepentant murderer. The difference between him and Kan would be the matter of choice. The patients chose Kan. Boss forced his choice on them. His death was his choice and I was happy that he was not a hypocrite at the end. Rin, a surprise, kept her self righteousness to herself on hearing the truth but with conditions. Every story was not rushed and given enough time to be completed adequately.

The ending was as society would want but it did not hurt any less.

"Would you confess?"
"Only if it's you."
Painfully, they hug. Placing a petal in Kan's handcuffed hands, Thiu says, "I love you."

Both Kan and Thiu proved how much they loved each other.

Beautifull writing. It tugs at the emotions that are kept in check. Sammon, the author, and Sirilux Srisukon, the screenwriter, thank you. The dialogue was enhanced by every actor's performance and well worth the praise. I will look forward to seeing these actors in the future. I hope a S2 is made.

Go watch!

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Yes, it was okay

I'll make this as direct as possible.

They tried. Mostly delivered in script, acting, pacing and cohesiveness. They lacked in conciseness of ep, length of series, unnecessary moments, circular story patterns and there were some moments that gave pause for the purpose. Why? Like tone down Meng (voice) and LatteKim nc (rushed slightly non feeling performance and Kim's expression). Less is more.

Net, JJ, Tonnam, Kim and Latte in that order. Net gave a plausible and endearing performance which I loved. JJ comedic skills were nice but stretched on for too many episodes. Were there kinks still to be smoothened in their responses to each other? Yes. Are they beautiful and full of chemistry? Undeniable. There was not a moment that they did not light up the screen when they were together. Tonnam (Chuai) was a delight everytime he was on screen. Perfectly cast here. Kim did well for an effeminate male in the past and Latte, hopefully, with more experience would grow smoother in delivery. Though I did like his more pensive moments than the clownish.

Side note: Writers please retire any name that will be shortened to Thi/Tee. Enough of the Phi Thi, please.

Resolving a time travel plot would have issues if not handled correctly. Having a character re-appear in the past is more easily explained than him disappearing right before your eyes and from your grasp. That is grounds for a mental institution for life or constant care from Dr Jom. Their meet in the future was really cute tho. Then the resolution at the ruins solved the modern day ache.

I didn't expect much and it stayed in that scheme so I was not disappointed. Would I recommend to watch, yes.

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Sigh

You will wonder why this was made:
1. Ambitious project for the short form genre
2. Unique for the format
3. Actors with fair skills
4. Ep 1 and 8.

Then there are the reasons why it should have cooked a little longer before being served:
1. Limited budget showed.
2. Sang Min/Minu's only two facial expressions. He did much better in Why R U, Please Teach Me and Love In Protocol.
3. Whatever the 'kissing' was.
4. Minu and Lucifer romance felt contrived.
5. Never felt the gravity of the situation. Came across as something to be viewed for the unintentional humor, cringe, audacity.
6. The knife in ep 8. This one is personal: felt out of place for a urban killing. Probably in the woods with a bear somewhere but for a vampire, hmmm.
7. The script wasn’t bad per se but very very generic.
8. The fight scene.... double sigh

I do think that for the moments it worked, it should be watched.

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Nicely Surprised

This is a okay piece of work. The perception that without known actors and a large budget it would not be enjoyable is false. The shift between past and present was handled well. From mdl's profiles they appear to not have much experience, but they did well, bringing both time jumps to life.

I like period pieces as it operates within boundaries to create a believable story. The costuming and dance sequences were nice. The acting was good enough. Fone a little more at ease than Tar. Tar/Rak's autocratic biased father to the point that a few slaps was needed but not given. A bit too much, but the authoritative indignation fitting for the period. It's a pity, that death always brings wisdom.

There are some flaws with the script.
It could have been better without expected moments eg the great escape, the bitter intended bride, the banished son living in the same town but the father doesn't care to know. Some unrealistic as Tan, of low birth, is allowed to keep casting spiteful words towards Rak of high nobility, without serious repercussions. Still, it was used as a tool to create conflict in a world that didn’t have any other. They could have cut down on the shrieking. Too much at times from Rak's father and Sandy. Lastly, they are in love but vow to stay by each other's side until death without the physical aspects. Their love for the art is enough. Hmmmm

The changes that occurred were rushed in the last episode but needed to bring it to an end. I would have preferred a more realistic ending but it is what it is. Thankfully they didn't rush Lucky and Sandy's relationship to make it cute.

Despite all the irregularities, this it was okay.

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Than and His Nine Lives or A Guide To Stupidity, Chet 101

This is what this should be called. Either one would fit cause no way common sense or brain cells were used in this entire series. The sequence of events proved no one cared for their lives at all. The reach for power and revenge was vicious and relentless. Even if most of it was nonsensical.

Than has been injured so many times and still survived that it became laughable. The ring probably gave him the power of instant healing, who knows. Chet, like a petulant child, was giving tantrums left and right and was so crippled by his 'lovely' parents that he couldn't see truth. Pheem literally had to connect the dots like a pre school teacher for him to see what others could. Then, again, 6 feet of handsomeness was daily right infront of him and nothing happened. Pheem, rather than include Than in the final plan, does everything in silence and causes Than more unnecessary emotional pain. Everything else aside, that action was unforgiveable. Thanet, ping ponging between his children, was disgusting on every level. Like why were they all vying to be related to that? The shots fired at everything else but the real targets downgraded the credibilty of the series.

I enjoyed seeing a strong woman. Risa's bodyguard was worthy of her screen time. Daou stood out a little more as he can deliver an emotional sceen with true sincerity. The acting was ok but while I expected it to be dramatic, it was a bit much. Chet and Thanet both throwing their papers in the same frame, caused a few eye rolls and sighs. The plot was fine, even though the end was expected. Risa, plotting her way, without being caught until the end was good, also.

The predictability of every scene really didn't work in its favor but it was not unwatchable. There were a few decent moments. Just not enough to warrant a rewatch.

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More important things to do

The subs are horrible. After reading, you just have to make the best guess possible as to what they meant to convey. Overall, I've seen Yu Bin in much better productions. My Damn Business comes to mind. So this was a let down. The other ml came off as being too direct. There was no real charm to him other than his husky voice and smile. The staged interractions were clumsy. Their physical responses to being touched were decent. There is a something between them. Budget aside, this was lacking in more ways than one. If you like Yu Bin, as he is a consistent actor, give it a watch.

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My Bias is Ae Jun

Ae Jun is a star. He was so adorably cute and personable when no one was looking, that there's no other choice but to like him. His bright smiling eyes brought countless moments of joy as he crushed hard over A-ONE and his ultimate bias Si Yeol. As would anyone bumping completely by accident into their fantasy, he frose but for a moment and retreated within himself. Unwilling to let Si Yeol know how gone he was for him and his inside connections to him, he became an awkward introvert.

Si Yeol, on the other hand, was a piece of work. Consumed by an obsession for Ju Ha, and misunderstanding the external relationships, he sets about a plan to hurt Ae Jun. Along the way, when all was told, he succeeded in hurting all involved and more than any other, he hurt himself. Confronted by his actions, he realizes too late after the damage was done, that he had fallen hard for Ae Jun. The bubbly bright smile had captured him.

The kiss. I felt so rewarded by their reconciliation and the kiss. Perfectly soft and tender.

Ju ha has been in fighting mode since the series began. Fighting to understand why Ji Kyusong broke up with him. Fighting his feelings of rejection. Fighting to move on. Fighting to get him back. Fighting to not love him more than he already does. Ji Kyusong, caught at the end with no other excuses, finally gives in. He had loved him so much, he had pushed him away so that he would not have a negative impact on Ju Ha's career. What he forgot to take into consideration was that Ju Ha had a mind of his own and he wanted only him.

It has been a very very very long while that I have seen a Korean bl that was so light and fluffy and bringing so much happiness with and about adults. I cheesed hard when the cast of Jazz For Two made a cameo. I missed them, too. Kevin did a fantastic job in bringing Ae Jun to life. Standing next to the big teddy bear Kang Min, you can't help but fall for their chemistry. No doubt, they worked well together. His towering over him conveyed how much he would protect him. Ae Jun's mini melt downs with Ji Kyusong, brought countless smiles.

While I do appreciate more hard hitting heart wrenching stuff, it's good to switch it up and appreciate a little gem when it catches your eye.

Recommend to watch: Approved!

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When Zai Rong met Lu Xiao

Yes, once again, China has stepped into the arena and delivered. Well, for the expectation from China. Place two decent actors in a scarcely decorated room with the right script and watch soft magic happen. The acting, esthetics, and chemistry between Lawrence Zhang (Zai Rong) and Su Yu Hang (Lu Xiao) carried this short series. Immediately, upon meeting, they held the screen captive. This presented itself as the beginning of the life LX and ZR would share. Do not expect more.

Cornered into an upcoming arranged marriage, ZR seeks the help of LX to extricate himself and live freely. Unfortunately, his family and their connections may not allow for this as there may be severe consequences. The moment ZR looked into LX eyes, he knew he didn't want this to end. LX, an actor, is naturally charming and proceeds to play the part he was hired for. To be ZR love interest. While preparing for a visit from the intended fiancé, LX gives ZR what he craves. A warm ear and genuine attention as they bond. ZR nestles within LX arms and believes that his lifetime love will come. He desperately wants to believe. LX has told him so.

The budget used in the production of this series was not extravagant and truthfully not necessary. All that was needed were these proficient actors, an ocean wall, and two rooms. Together, they made a beautiful couple. The viewer also believes in LX by the way he held and reassured ZR. He was the man for him. Their dance, mesmerizing. The fiancé pleadings and silent exit were gracefully done.

Five episodes were enough for this to be told with little to improve on. No excesses, no lulls, evenly paced. The script was simple but effective to propel the story along. The last episode had a slightly different texture to the previous as it felt performative. The music a bit erratic. Ultimately, everyone involved did well. This was a very nice watch.

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Finally, at the end....

Synopsis: Kevin and Jamie were close school friends who drifted apart before Kevin emigrated to Australia. Kevin was willing to embrace himself and Jamie was not. Years later, Jamie goes to find Kevin after attending a school reunion and hears his ex school mates discussing Kevin's situation. He had been hospitalized at some point for depression. They meet and discuss their lives. Then Jamie asks him if he has any desire to return to Hong Kong. Here the story begins.

Kevin openly talks with Jamie about his need to be on medication to keep him functioning. He accepts this as part of his life. He knows those who see him, recognizes how closed off he is and keep their distance. All except Fai, a teenage gay student, who takes a liking to him. Jamie, who has placed his mementos of their relationship in a box, watches on. After dinner, Fai realizes that Kevin is into Jamie and after a brief altercation, walks away. Kevin, lost and lonely, turns to promiscuous sex to get some sort of feeling within himself. Frustrated, he throws the pills away.

His agitation off of the drugs, the actions he takes, finally culminate in his decision to go back to Australia. There he was at peace. Living in a world in which Jamie is so close but still unavailable to him, proves to be too much. Jamie, previously disengaging himself from his past by dumping his mementos in the bin and proposing to his girlfriend, follows him into the street from another reunion. He can not deny himself or his feelings anymore. He begs him not to leave.

The unknowing element of this film creates the interest. There is a stillness felt throughout which builds to a climax at the end. I loved this film for the realistic depiction of depression. The drugs manage his depression but also diminishes any response to stimulation. He feels empty. Nobody, ever discusses this. Lei Jeun Sek nails it. At every stage, he allows the viewer into his desperate mind and what he is feeling without saying a word. The flashbacks and pacing are perfect. My mainstream heart would have loved to see more interaction between Jamie and Kevin. They acted well with each other but it is with Fai that we get the honest responses. This was definitely a palate cleanser from the generic bl being offered and a good watch. Try it, at least once.

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1 min

Previously stated, I'm not a fan of 1 min episodes. 81 of these were irritating. The plot was not riveting and neither the setting. The very limited budget was evident. The loud shrewish quarreling between the uncle and aunt would make you wonder if there was any love between them. This too was tedious. The acting could have been better as An movements were stiff and unnatural.

The mains complemented each other and this is what kept me watching. Their confessions made for a tender moment.

If a full version without the breaks be uploaded would make a better watch.

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LIFE

If you are looking for a feel good story with no drama this is it. It's simple and formulative. It doesn't surprise in any way and yes, the cook gets his man. Still it left me smiling, and anxiously waiting each week for approx 30 min of cuteness. Isumi and Amasawa delivered every week. Truth be told, it shouldn't take 9 episodes for this series, but I'm glad it did. At a relaxed pace, it showed the internal struggles of one sided love and the courage it took.

College student meets older policeman and ends up cooking for him. Along the journey, Isumi falls in love with Amasawa. Amasawa, not thinking beyond their friendship, doesn't realize until the confession. That's it. Yet, Isumi and Amasawa are a pleasure to watch as they match so well. Think Mitsuya's Planned Feeding with a younger cast. At least, Isumi got his kiss. The main actors are easy to believe in their roles which was a huge plus. No exaggerated interactions beside the usual misunderstandings but they always thought of each other's happiness.

I will miss them as it doesn't take much to fall in love over good food with a smile.

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Thirty Too Late

I have never been so frustratingly angry with a series but real life is exactly like that. We can't go back to right the wrongs especially when we stood silent then and let the evil prevail.

Tae Ju's costly mistake was putting his sister before himself. Younger Tae Ju was rash, righteous and angry. Older Tae Ju was tired, reflective and apologetic. From an objective pov, his sister did not deserve half of the care he gave. How can she call Cha Mun Jin good?

Those lost to the evil that gripped the town never regained what was lost. Lives lost, futures destroyed because politics, pride and public performance fell under severe scrutiny while searching for a solution.

The entire cast did well. Tae Ju and Ji Won's frustrations were felt. Si Yeong became more twisted than Gi Hwan. The cries of Seok Man and Hye Jin's parents were haunting.

This would probably alienate those wanting retribution for all but it ended as it should. Let reality prevail. It didn’t start with perfect intentions and it ended in the same vein.

A very frustrating but satisfying watch.

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Sometimes, when trouble comes knocking, you have to stand and fight.

This was emotional, entertaining, action driven, humorous and a fitting S2. Keeping most of S1 formula with minor improvements. No lagging. A more ruthless villain. The gore, agony, broken limbs and fight scenes were epic. Not going to pretend that it was too graphic, for me it was perfect. They delivered again, one hundred fold.

Sometimes unknown adversaries attack. Your only choice is to fight back. S1 Geon U's mother created the initial access. S2, without provocation or invitation, they came for Geon U. They got beaten but always got back up. The heart of a boxer. What Geon U had to learn the hard way, nasty opponents have to be fought in the same vein.

The brotherhood was stronger than before and beautifully portrayed. U Jin's love for Geon U's mother and vice versa, was heartwarming. The support they gave each other without jealousy was wonderful. Every actor delivered in their performances. The ending would suggest a S3 and I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully, we get to see more of Du Yeong and his knives.

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Don't!

I can't help but wonder if they had replaced Cho Myeong Gyun with Jeong Ri U how much more entertaining this would have been even with rookie Hyun Woo. We know what these scripts are like at 7 min but this ......

The guy is terrible. His low voltage drops an already limiting script to comatose level. It's either he's working for free so they use him or he's related to the producer. One would think with more exposure he would get better, sadly no. Another irritating character, the bartender (Lee Jae Sung). My skin actually crawled. Not worth the effort. My 4.5 is for the rookie. Better but marginally.

Concensus: a resounding NO!

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Goodbye is never easy

Saying goodbye is never easy especially with the one you love. I liked the premise, the execution and visuals. They fit. The theme from the prequel was maintained for continuity and it was very subdued. They realistically dealt with a situation that could have gone differently. Thankfully, there weren't any desperate moments. The one drawback is that this wasn't necessary to be made as is. Had this been a 4 part series showing the aftermath of the decision after the designated period, it would have worked better. This feels unwarranted. It's less than 20 min in total so give it a watch during lunch break.

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