2
A Quirky Fantasy
HOTEL DEL LUNA (2019) is a really fun and quirky Kdrama. The cast are all very colorful and interesting, the acting is good as well. Sometimes the story is a bit odd but usually pretty good overall. Very interesting storyline."When he's invited to manage a hotel for dead souls, an elite hotelier gets to know the establishment's ancient owner and her strange world."
Overall, "Hotel Del Luna" is a very quirky and memorable Kdrama about a mysterious and mystical Hotel by the same name. The show has a little bit of everything in it including drama, fantasy, comedy, romance, mystery, horror and action. The vibe is very original and very memorable.
Was this review helpful to you?
An Interesting Rom-Com
STRONG WOMAN DO BONG SOON (2017) is a sweet Korean drama with silly yet thoughtful portrayals of gender and gender roles. While it is a romantic comedy, it certainly has its tender and sad moments as well."Do Bong-soon is a woman born with superhuman strength that comes from the long line of women possessing it. When Ahn Min Hyuk, the CEO of ainsoft, a gaming company witnesses her strength he hires her as his personal bodyguard."
Overall, this was a cute drama. It was funny and sweet, and at times touching. Recommended for fans of romantic kdramas and outrageous comedic situations. Cute and funny!
Was this review helpful to you?
Killer Monsters
SWEET HOME (2020-2024) is an original spin of the traditional zombie horror story, (based on the popular Manwa) but here we have unpredictable and bizarre creatures rather than hordes of the same-old same-old zombies.This series isn't perfect but the characters are all memorable and unique, the atmosphere of the building is very intense and the survival aspect are very well portrayed.
"Hyun, a loner high school student who lost his entire family in a terrible accident, is forced to leave his home and has to face a new reality where monsters are trying to wipe out all of humanity. Now he must fight against all odds to try and race against the clock to save what is left of the human race before it's too late."
"Sweet Home" is a really cool series especially if you are a fan of dark and gorey Kdrama's, horror shows and monster fighting genres. Definitely an exciting watch! Lots of action, drama and thrilling moments!
Was this review helpful to you?
A Kick*ss Drama
WEAK CLASS HERO (Weak Hero Class 1) despite its corny name, was a pretty baller Kdrama. I went into this one not really expecting a whole lot, keeping my mind open, but ended up deeply intrigued.This was a pretty cool kdrama. The series is in the action / thriller genre and was very exciting! The characters and story make this series a very compelling and memorable one.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Romantic Tragedy
ONE AND ONLY was a great Cdrama, especially if you like historical period and costume dramas. I admit, I had a difficult time getting into this one at first. I had a few false starts and dropped it several times before going back to it, due to the seemingly predictable and generic romance. It really did develop and pull me in.Once I finally got going however, I discovered it was a really good show, and quite short in terms of average Cdrama length (24 eps instead of 60-80+ eps). I noticed it used flashback scenes, not overly frequent, but perhaps more so than other dramas in order to condense the storyline. While I do enjoy the longer series (as they create a depth and deeper emotional bonds), but this was a nice change of pace.
" A young man determined to become a general takes a mute, ill-fated princess as his disciple, forming a forbidden bond amid palace power struggles."
The actors were all very good in their roles, and the characters were all very likeable as well. The story was a bit slow starting, focusing on the friendship and blooming romance aspect rather than on the rest of the story, but gradually became more interesting and compelling, especially as villains and other main characters stepped into play. I really enjoyed the music as well, it was very fitting.
Overall, ONE AND ONLY was a great watch. I recommend if you like historical romantic Cdramas. Must warn, it is tragic and emotional.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Feminist Thought Drama
PALE MOON is a K-Drama that features blended elements of both the romance and thriller genres. While quite a bit slower in terms of pacing, (especially for a thriller!) it is a shorter series than typical k-drama series (10 episodes as opposed to 16 + episodes).This series is a female centric series and can be considered a bit of an examination of feminist school of thought, with main themes such as the trodden housewife / middle aged woman seeking new life purpose, learning new skills and advancing herself, finding worth in herself; a woman developing herself to be independent and professional, seeking her own desires and identity; a woman under the control of her husband that struggles to break free despite the societal constraints.
While the characters choices are morally and ethically gray and debatable, the psychological aspects made this an interesting process and excellent food for thought, as well as a conversation starter.
This is the kind of drama that could have done without the romance plot, in my opinion. I understand they wanted that dimension, a love interest, but I felt it wasn't truly believable, interesting or even all that necessary.
Aside from the fact I’m not a fan of infidelity, on screen or otherwise, I do feel it slightly detracted from the impact of the other aspects of this series or perhaps the chemistry was lacking, rather than having the FL find love, strength and happiness on her own and in herself, becoming independent first (and then romance later on, if necessary at all). Also, it does tend to make it difficult to root for any MC (male or female) that practices infidelity.
However, I was happy to see a middle-aged, slightly older female lead and romantic interest. In many other dramas, the middle-aged female in this age range usually turns out to be some kind of villain archetype.
Overall, this was a refreshing change of pace from some of the more overplayed romance drama themes out there, but I do feel like it could have been a bit more of exciting (for a thriller series) as well as adding much more depth, on the psychological and emotional levels as well. This series was still a very well made show and worth the watch. Glad to see drama's switching things up.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Time Travel Mystery
ERASED (2017) is a sci-fi, mystery J-Drama series. It is about a man with abilities to time travel, episodes that he calls "Revivals", and he ends up going back in time to when he was a child in fifth grade, and when three of his classmates were kidnapped and murdered, in order to prevent the tragedies. The series is really well-made and acted, especially by the younger cast. It had a gripping premise and keeps you guessing and wondering."After finding his mom killed, Satoru's time-traveling ability takes him back 18 years for a chance to prevent her death and those of three classmates."
This was a great series, based on the manga series by the same name, that builds up with suspense and keeps you on the edge. Recommended for fans of anime, J-Dramas and short (16 eps) Netflix mystery series.
Was this review helpful to you?
Taipei in the 80's
LIGHT THE NIGHT is a Taiwanese Drama, and was a really well done series, albeit much different than the usual crime dramas out there. It was very slower moving, and at first a bit hard to really get into it, but this does improve with time and patience. I must say that the era of the 1980's in Taipei made for a very interesting setting. Actress Ruby Lin, shines bright, as always."In the red light district of 1980s Taipei, women at a popular Japanese night club navigate jealousy, heartbreak, friendship and love."
The quality of the series is evident and the acting is top tier as well. The story, while a bit slower paced initially, gets pretty good. Overall, this was a very well made series, very intriguing.
Was this review helpful to you?
Physics is Dead.
THREE-BODY (The Three Body Problem) is a psychological Chinese science fiction series about humanity's first contact and the subsequent invasion of a mysterious and an highly advanced alien civilization. It is a highly slow paced series, heavy with dialogue and concepts. The series starts slow, then slowly builds momentum, and then gradually picks up speed, offering some incredibly compelling subject matter, story and concepts in the process. This is a highly intriguing and intelligent series, based on the likewise brilliant book series by Cixin Liu, "Three-Body Problem".This Cdrama was very interesting, but perhaps more suitable for people interested in hard science and scientific theory rather the usual light hollywood-esque space/alien sci-fi generally pumped out in other modern cinema. This story isn't really about the aliens, at least not in the sense of traditional "alien" science fiction. It is a very slow burn story. THREE-BODY has more depth and certainly expects the viewer to think and follow along, not just watch. The story is diluted only a little due to the book-to-film process, otherwise it contains much original dialogue, theories, story developments etc. The complex story is well portrayed, and quite mind-bending at times.
While at times the show can seem a bit dry, especially in the beginning (being somewhat heavy with dialogue and scientific conecpt), it definitely picks up speed as the series progresses, though it could never really be called fast-paced. Personally, I respect that about this series. It intends to retell the story the way it is most suitably told, as closely to the method that the author used. While certainly high quality, it doesn't seek to flash and awe, and never stoops to alter its content in order to sell or appeal to general audiences.
THREE-BODY never feels overly rushed or underdone as some series these days often tend to be. I enjoyed almost everything about it. The visuals and aesthetics are high quality and for the most part stunning, the music vastly suitable, and the casting was well-fitted to the characters in the book. The story really captivates and draws you in, keeping you entangled in its complexity and subtleties. Gotta love this gorgeous yet intellectual drama.
Was this review helpful to you?
Friendship & Revenge
ITAEWON CLASS (2020) was a fun, fast paced revenge drama filled with quirky characters, with humor, action, drama, friendship, business and teeny bit of romance. This series was really well made and well written, although a bit predictable in some ways (love triangle etc). I watch a lot of series / dramas and find some similar storylines among many of them, especially in revenge dramas. However, I really like the diversity of characters, as well as the bonds of friendship featured throughout."An ex-con opens a street bar in Itaewon, while also seeking revenge on the family who was responsible for his father's death."
Overall, this was a fun Kdrama, and definitely worth the chance. It had heart-warming aspects, as well as humor and drama. Somehow both heart-wrenching and light-hearted. A fun watch & great to see more of South Korea's city of Itaewon in a show.
Was this review helpful to you?
Quirky & Sweet
EXTRAORDINARY ATTORNEY WOO (2022) was a wonderful Kdrama, filled with memorable characters, as well as having a beautiful, moving and inspiring story (and sub stories). The Autistic heroine Attorney (Woo Young Woo) is really such a memorable character, and one of the few representations of autism in females that I've seen.This series was such a heartfelt drama depicting a brilliant young woman with autism whose passion for justice and upholding the law, is not held back in the least by her limitations. Quite the opposite, in fact. It's wonderful to watch her overcome any and all obstacles, grow as a person and ultimately thrive.
This Kdrama was really sweet and so full of heart. It's so endearing and entertaining, unforgettable. A wonderful, heart-warming watch!
Was this review helpful to you?
Thoughtful Culinary Experience
MIDNIGHT DINER (2009-2014) was an excellent Japanese series about a small diner open from midnight to seven a.m. in the morning (12am-7am). The diner is visited by all sorts of interesting, bizarre and sometimes even shady characters, all with their own backstories, reasons for visiting the diner, along with special memories associated with their choice of dish. Some are Yakuza, some gay night club workers, some are struggling enka singers, but all have stories to share.Along with the many character's stories that are gradually revealed as the show progresses, this series also features cooking and many different Japanese recipes, making this a unique experience for food enthusiasts, as well as culture aficionados alike.
This is a very mellow and simplistic series, but one that has a very quiet, heartfelt and thoughtful atmosphere to it. I really enjoyed this and can thoroughly recommend. I must say however, that this show is for adults only as there is some light nudity present and the content can sometimes be risque and emotionally heavy. Overall, this series is a gem and I will be looking forward to watching the sequel series as well.
Was this review helpful to you?
Low-Key Revenge J-Drama
BURN DOWN THE HOUSE (Mitaraike, Enjou Suru) was an interesting Thriller / Mystery Revenge J-Drama series, but ultimately felt lacking to me. It started out with thrilling promises and a darkly intriguing premise, a mysterious house fire that tore a family a part and a girl seeking revenge and redemption for the life that was stolen from her, by a conniving future stepmother. This series seemed so fascinating but ultimately didn't really live up to the promises it made. It moved slowly and the "thrills" just weren't really there for me."Follows Anzu Murata, who— thirteen years after the home of the wealthy Mitarai family was burned in an mysterious and devastating fire— infiltrates the house of the Mitarais as a housekeeper in order to reclaim the house and family that was taken from her."
Overall, it was a cool series, but not quite as interesting as it had initially seemed it would be. I frequently felt distracted and uninterested as the series went on and its slower pacing came unexpected for being advertised as a thriller. The acting, settings and visuals were really good and the main character Anzu Murata was likeable and relatable as well. It was still worth a watch, but just expect something a bit more mild for the thriller genre.
Was this review helpful to you?
A Sweet & Funny J-Drama
ONLY JUST MARRIED (Tonin kodoke ni han wo oshita dake desu ga) is a sweet J-Drama Romcom that was worth the watch. Firstly I must say the male lead definitely under preformed here, in my opinion, and was just a huge let down. I don't really know the actor but he almost sunk this love ship. He was very hard to stand, with a few little instances of being "meh-okay" sprinkled throughout. Maybe it's just me? The female lead, however, (Akiha Ohkado, played by Nana Seino) was awesome, totally lovable and really grows on you though, so she definitely stole the show. She made it worth the watch and made it highly memorable. She's definitely an upcoming name to keep an eye out for in future years. Just loved hero much! So fun, quirky and genuinely down to earth.Even though the male lead frequently grated on my nerves, the show was quite pleasant besides, with an assortment of interesting side characters as well, a few great settings and some cliché, but still enjoyable sub-plots. Overall, a good watch and pretty enjoyable show, mostly for the female lead's sake. The romance was alright in the end. =)
Was this review helpful to you?
A Political-Societal Drama about Elites
LOVELY VILLAIN was an interesting slow-burn Taiwanese thriller Drama. It felt like a slower-paced, socio-political drama mashup of "Stepford Wives", "Mean Girls", with commentarial undertones of the Korean movie Parasite. Don't be fooled into thinking it's merely a slice-of-life drama, about family life in a wealthy gated community. This series focuses heavily on inter-social-political relations and elistist power struggles. While the pacing of this did move a bit slowly, it certainly was intriguing and got better with time."While posing to be her rich upper class sister, Han Zhenzhen, moves her unhappy poor lower class family into an prestigious high-class community where she can't help but get involved in the power struggle for the position of community Chairman among with her female neighbors."
This series is all about politics, motivations and power. Rich vs. Poor. Upper Class vs. Lower Class. Psychological and political intrigue. The struggle for power and dominance drives this thriller. Alliances, factions, who to trust. The position of power is the "Chairman" or head of the community. The Chairman is given power in government and there is a brutal warring for this position and privilege. Not only power but title, reputation and prestige as well. A heirarchy ladder within the elitist group of wealthy people. Overall, this was a interesting watch and I'm glad I gave it a chance, as the intrigue developed over time and it gave a lot to ponder on.
[NOTE: There are some triggering images and themes, i.e. Suicide. Bullying. Rape/Sexual Assault. etc.
Was this review helpful to you?
