Jojo

Cat's got 5 lives and so does the mouse!

Time loop stories are risky business. They can be addictive brain teasers when done right or endless deja vu when done wrong. Mobius starts with a bang, where Ding Qi ( Bai Jingting) gets 5 chances to redo and live the same day, and whatever sticks around Day 5 is the final outcome.
However, when a story is built on the idea of re-tries, the repetition of sequences somehow dilutes the tension and I think that is where Mobius didn't entirely work for me.

On paper, the idea is airtight. The rules seemed crisp and logical.
The early episodes (Ep 1-5) were sharp and I was completely intrigued. It felt like a tight, high-stakes setup. Every failed attempt felt like a nail-biter. It was fun to see Ding Qi outsmarting the criminals and fate.

I honestly thought this drama was going to give us different cases spread across the 16 episodes, but after the first introductory case, we get stuck in one giant MOMA investigation.
That shift wouldn’t have been a problem if the loops had actually kept the tension alive. But after a point, repetition took over. Instead of ramping up tension with each attempt, they kind of drained it. The loops started dragging, especially the third loop. It doesn’t feel like suspense anymore, just reruns. We did get new revelations and characters, but the way they were delivered failed to keep my 100% attention.
Instead of feeling like fresh layers being added, it often felt like the same scenes stretched thinner with slight tweaks. By the time the big pieces actually connected, the earlier loops started to feel more like filler and a just mere dry run for the 5th loop.

I feel this was 3 or 4 episodes extra. 12 or 14 episodes would have told the same story in a tighter, more impactful way.

And also, Qi’s whole “I will just reset, no biggie” mindset got to me a few times. I understand he was focusing on important details but sometimes that line just kept reminding me that this (that particular loop) doesn't matter. It took away that tension because I knew the 5th loop was what they were focusing on. Somehow, the whole 5-time loop idea ended up being both the twist and the trap!

Another thing that I thought was out of place was the romance. Even though it was minimal, unfortunately, I couldn't feel any chemistry between the leads. They work better as colleagues or friends navigating tense situations rather than romantic partners. It wasn't distracting to the point of ruining the show but we would have gotten the same story more or less without it.

Still, it’s not a total loss. The concept remains clever and I found the camaraderie between Ding Qi and his team. Even though the drama relies heavily on personal choices, he doesn't act in a vacuum. His team around him supports him, especially his boss Duan Zheng. The level of trust was amazing. The team isn’t always front and center, but Qi never forgets that he’s not alone. He knows he has people who have his back.
Also, all the sprinkles of comedic moments kept it from feeling too grim. It was portrayed as very unintentional but was genuinely funny.

Another positive aspect was the production. It gave me those slick, almost American thriller vibes. It is a Netflix-licensed drama, so I wasn't expecting anything less than that. Cinematography was very sharp too. Somehow, I was never confused between the loop and which timelines we were in. The cities were filmed beautifully.

Acting-wise, BJT was very charismatic as Ding Qi and kept me invested even when the writing was slipping. Janice Man was An Lan, who didn't get much material to shine, but she played her role well, except for her chemistry with BJT. Other actors also did a solid job overall. I have no complaints in this department.

And lastly, about antagonists of the drama. Credit where it is due, for almost 60% of the drama, I couldn't guess who the real squid (culprit) was. I want to keep this review spoiler-free, so I will speak about the antagonist in the comment section with a spoiler tag.

Overall, Mobius does have the bones of something great with its unique premise, talented cast, and a very polished production, but somewhere along the way, the pacing and tension don’t quite land. Instead of building that urgent, ticking-clock energy, it leans more into style than momentum, circling back without always pushing forward.

I would recommend giving it a watch, just don’t plan to binge it all at once. Had they actually followed the airing schedule without releasing the express package, I might have rated it better. It's a decent watch.

Quick TL/DR if you don't want to read the whole review.
✨ What worked for me :
- I liked the premise. I found it clever.
- Overall acting performances
- Team dynamics
- Production and cinematography
- Antagonist's reveal

✨ What didn't :
- While the premise was unique, the execution could have been better and tighter
- Romance because not every story needs it.
- The plot dragged a bit in the middle, though it picks up in the last 2 loops.

7.75/10

Thank you for reading my review! <3

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The phone rang , but it wasn't the drama I was waiting for!

The drama had all the right elements to be a good mystery-thriller but unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to its initial premise. The first half had me completely hooked but by the end, I felt kind of let down by the lacklustre conclusions and rushed pacing. Don't get me wrong, its wit's far from being terrible but definitely a disappointment, especially when you compare it to the intrigue and mystery that were introduced early on.

The plot itself was solid - Baek Sa Eon, a man with a prestigious fancy political background and a complicated shady past was a pretty interesting lead. The whole mystery surrounding his wife Hong Hui Ju, her kidnapping and then the phone calls had me invested The tension and suspense that built up in the beginning were great but as it went on it lost its spark when logic took the backseat.

Sa Eon’s character started off as this cold, calculated guy and I liked how complicated his character was. Being the youngest presidential spokesman sort of gave him some serious depth. There was a mystery to his persona, tough on the outside, but you could sense something softer beneath. In the first few episodes, his portrayal was spot-on and I was all in. However, as the episodes progressed Sa Eon seemed to lose that sharp edge that made him so compelling. Instead of continuing his evolution as an "intelligent, scheming and smart character", he fell into a more predictable, emotional fool arc once he started to fall in love. The transformation felt abrupt and unrealistic, as though the writers decided to abandon the complexity of his character in favour of giving us a more conventional romantic storyline (which we didn't ask for, if I might add that).

Hong Hui Ju also started with a strong, mysterious presence as well. Her selective mutism and tragic backstory created a sense of depth that initially seemed promising. But as the plot unfolded, she too began to fit into those cliche familiar tropes, damsel in distress being on the top.
After clearing the air between her and Sa Eon, she made decisions that seemed out of character, acting impulsively and putting herself and Sa Eon in danger. Instead of her being a strong, self-sufficient character which I was rooting for and saw glimpses of in the earlier episodes, she got caught up in the predictable romance too which undermined the mysterious tone it was initially trying to maintain.

Now, the romance between Sa Eon and Hui Ju? It was sweet, no doubt. They had great chemistry and the moments between them were tender and kisses were done very tastefully. But I wasn’t watching this for a love story. I came for the suspense and the mystery which was the initial setup and honestly, I felt like their relationship kind of stole the spotlight. While it had some nice moments, it pushed the darker, more exciting parts of the show to the side. As a romance drama, I would give it a much higher rating but a drama where the first two genres are mentioned as mystery and thriller, it was just not it.

The antagonists were another weak point for me. I had all these crazy theories about who was behind the kidnappings and the shady dealings of the past and the buildup created a lot of anticipation. But when the big reveals finally came, they were so underwhelming that I sorta felt disconnected from the story. The plot twists that were supposed to be shocking ended up feeling predictable, anticlimactic and just meh.

Also, can we please get a spin-off for the second couple because the chemistry was so evident! There was a certain softness in their interactions, an intimacy that didn’t need any grand gestures or dramatic declarations. I wish they got more screen time that could have actually done justice to their love story.

Overall, what could’ve been the show of the year for me turned out to be the first disappointment of 2025. While it’s not entirely bad but compared to how it started, the drop in quality is pretty hard to ignore.
I would recommend this if you're a fan of the leads and want to see what the hype was all about. But honestly, go in with tempered expectations.

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The surgical squad: more than just stitches and jokes!!

This medical drama was such an entertaining watch. It totally nailed the balance between intense surgeries, humour and a little bit of action. It was light enough to keep things moving but still emotional enough to make me care about the characters' journeys.

The drama is centred around Baek Gang Hyeok, this larger-than-life trauma surgeon who has done it all, from fighting in a war zone to working in high-stakes surgeries. He is now leading a trauma team at a hospital where budget is an issue. At first, his unfiltered personality might seem a little too much but somehow it worked for me. He was loud, bold and
unapologetically daring. Despite his tough exterior, there was a certain depth to his character with a strong sense of loyalty to those he cared about.

His camaraderie with the team was another selling point of the drama for me. It was a mix of great teamwork, chaos and just enough confidence somehow to pull off a miracle even when things were going completely sideways.

Yang Jae Won was the ultimate underdog. For real, watching him face his fears head-on (even though forcefully xD) to standing up on his own when things got tough was everything. It was also funny to watch him break his shell with one hilarious misstep at a time.
Han Yu Rim was the kind of character who was more annoying than helpful at the start but over time he really grows a spine. He was the surprise source of comedic relief when things got too intense.
Cheon Jang Mi was the nurse who kept things running smoothly in the background while keeping everyone's spirits up. She was playful but her dedication was evident enough in everything she does for her patients.

Honestly, there are definitely some over-the-top moments and I am not really sure how realistic the medical stuff or surgeries were. It was kind of exaggerated at times but the humour and everything else going on made it up for me. Also, I wanted to see more focus on Baek Gang Hyeok’s past. They gave us a few glimpses here and there, but I felt like they could’ve gone into more detail. His backstory, especially with his experiences in war zones and his journey to becoming the trauma surgeon he is, could have added a lot more depth to his character.

Overall, this was a solid watch. Yes it has flaws and it's has the medical drama cliche tropes, it may not be the "perfect" but it fun from start to finish!
Recommended If you’re into fast-paced medical dramas with a good mix of humour, action and some emotional moments.

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Beauty is skin deep but self worth is deeper!

8.3/10
The drama tries to dive deep into the struggle between outward appearances and the pursuit of inner beauty. It tackles the topic of self-esteem, societal pressures and the growing acceptance of plastic surgery, offering a thoughtful take on how personal choices and transformations can coexist with self-love.

One of the strengths of the drama is its avoidance of black-and-white judgments. It doesn't demonize plastic surgery or suggest that it is a quick fix for happiness. Instead, it tries to paint a more balanced picture, showing that personal beauty is a complex and evolving journey. There is also a strong message about inner beauty, with characters learning to appreciate kindness, intelligence, and vulnerability over mere aesthetics.
It does well dealing with the stigma surrounding cosmetic surgery, presenting it not as a superficial act but as an expression of an individual's right to feel comfortable in their own skin. It reminds us that we are multifaceted beings and our worth is not solely determined by how we look.

The protagonist, Katagiri Mirei, is a woman who has always been self-conscious about her physical appearance from childhood. Struggling with societal standards of beauty, she decides to undergo plastic surgery, hoping to reshape not just her face but her sense of self-worth. Her journey highlighted the emotional complexities that come with making such a decision.
Initially, she judged everyone through the same lens, quick to form opinions on surface-level impressions. However, as the show progressed her perspective gradually shifted and she began to understand that it's just not physical appearance or traits that define a person, but rather their confidence, sense of self and how they treat others around.

Sakaguchi Kei was one of those laid-back, unbothered ML with a soft heart though burdened by his own past traumas. Despite his aloof exterior, he serves as a wake-up call to the FL, helping her understand a deeper or authentic sense of beauty, I liked his character for its complexity and sincerity, even though he was cold but still stood up when needed.

The romance between them was sweet with little to no unnecessary drama with an easy flow making it feel grounded. It has that Japanese touch of chaos-ness, but it somehow is adorable here rather than cringe.

Enomoto Honami as antagonist was straight-up unbearable. She needed help but she chose to figure it all out on her own, leaving a trail of wrecked relationships in her wake. It’s clear she had demons, but that doesn’t make her behavior okay and give her pass to treat people like trash. Only at the end did it start to make sense, but still it wasn't execuable. The actress did a great job because I couldn't feel any sympathy for her character.

Overall, for a 10-episode drama, it was a good and light watch, raising a few thought-provoking questions to reflect on the perspective of beauty and acceptance without judgment. 
I would definitely recommend it.

Note: I haven't seen the Korean version or any related content. Plus I watched this while watching an emotionally heavy drama Light shop, hence enjoyed it more.

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Complex characters, compelling performances but obsession masquerading as romance!

This drama begins by convincing you it has something to say, and then slowly tests how much you are willing to tolerate in the name of “romance.” It is definitely not unwatchable, especially the first half, which is weirdly interesting and binge-able but in the second half ( to be specific, after episode 10), I was a little bored and exhausted. The drama does flirt with complexity and self-awareness but sort of abandons all that in favour of insisting that obsession counts as romance if the lighting is good enough.

Starting with the story, it revolved around Fan Xiao and You Shu Lang, who are in this deeply dysfunctional relationship (though the writing sometimes seemed to be determined to present it as tragic and meaningful rather than alarming. I digress). Initially, it was about power, control and cost of dependency. There were a lot of psychological standoffs that worked in their favour because it made me feel uneasy at times. But the problem was the writing trying to sell it as a successful romance rather than a cautionary and tragic one. The line between morally grey and morally absent kept getting thinner and almost disappeared at one point.

Talking about characters... Fan Xiao is the kind of character who makes you pause mid-episode and ask yourself, "Am I supposed to be impressed or concerned?"  The drama will insist very confidently: impressed. But unfortunately, logic in me had follow-up questions. Oh, so many of them!
On paper, he is the peak BL male lead mater: rich, powerful, emotionally constipated and convinced that he is the smartest schemer. He is calm and oddly composed but if only he were using that composure to emotionally bulldoze everyone around him. *Very red flag. Very CEO of him*
To be fair, he is compelling. He is strategic, very observant and terrifyingly consistent. Where he collapses as a romantic lead is the accountability. The writing treats his trauma like a coupon for bad behaviour. He says sorry, looks sad, but then never stops his schemes. It's just rinse, repeat every time. The "supposed redemption" just happens only through vibes.

Still, as a character, he is interesting. Like as a boyfriend? NO! Run away! Far away! But as a case study in why charm, manipulation and control shouldn't be confused as romance? Very effective.

Coming to You Shu Lang, he is a simple man who is just trying to live a reasonable life, an activity Fan Xiao clearly doesn't support. As a character, I did sympathise with him and for a few episodes, he did push back. He questioned, resisted and pushed through all the naivetes even though he was pushed on edge. But as the universe's chosen victim, he is just trapped.
But as they say if you are not a part of the solution, you just become the problem. And it was partly true in the case of Shu Lang. He had this image of Fan Xiao before things hit the fan, but even after that he sort of still held on to it in his head and never actually moved on. In the last episodes, it felt he was more interested in Fan Xiao than vice versa.

Chemistry-wise, and the positive aspect of this drama was really good. The tension between them is evident and the push and pull between them worked (at least at the start). The physical intimacy, attraction and closeness between them were nicely done and the confrontation were genuine. Even when the story struggled to justify their bond, the performances sold the connection convincingly.

Pacing also becomes an issue in the latter half. Somehow, at some point, the intensity stops feeling tragic and just starts feeling monotonous. Or it was because you get to a point in a show where you know this is how the characters would react or not react and it loses the edge of unpredictability. I think this is what happened here for me. Fan Xiao never truly changes, Shu Lang reacts as per the books and it starts in the boredom territory.

In terms of acting, the performances were good. I felt happy, sad, upset and downright enraged at the characters, so it's definitely a win for the leads on how they portrayed their roles. The supporting cast was more of a showpiece. Sadly, I couldn't find anyone compelling to remember but they weren't bad either.
From a production standpoint, it looked polished. The visuals looked very moody and fitting and while we could have gone without a few close-up shots, it was overall nice. Same for the editing and dubbing. I was bothered by it slightly but other things were more distracting than this lol.

Overall, this was messy, manipulative, frustrating and occasionally compelling and sometimes everything at the same time. It wanted to be dark and complex and while still delivering a comforting resolution and sadly, these goals don't coexist comfortably. There is no doubt that the performances are strong and the messy story is luring but you will not only have to suspend disbelief but also judgment. And that's a tall order, no matter how good the tension is.

Will I recommend it? Yes despite not giving it a high score! The review and score are from a critical perspective, considering everything. If I had to just go with vibes, maybe 0.5 or 1 extra.

Will I defend it? Pfffttt that is a hard sell.

If you have liked the show, please take my thoughts with fist of salt and also know this is just my opinion among many. Thank you for reading my review! <3 Greeting of the season!

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A sweet love story if you squint, ignore all logic and pretend your brain is on vacation!

This is a drama I would have definitely enjoyed a few years back or when I was a teenager.

Teerak who is supposed to be on the cusp of "adulthood" , can't take the most basic steps without relying on others. The constant indecision and need for validation from others felt like an unnecessary plot device. Instead of exploring the genuine struggles and challenges that come with transitioning into adulthood, he ended up being reduced to mere caricatures of helplessness! Also, his sister's constant interference in his life wasn't helping the case. Though he does improve over time, the development feels too little, too late.

Muenfah on the other hand was the ultimate Tsundere, cold on the outside but warm underneath. I found his character rather endearing, driven by logic and reason, a contrast to Teerak's emotional turbulence.

Don't get me wrong, Teerak and Muenfah's relationship was sweet and they had good chemistry but it felt very surface level. I felt no real depth in both their characters.

The camaraderie between Teerak and his friends and Muenfah with his group, however was the highlight. Their interactions offered a welcome distraction and kept me invested in the story.

The second couple, Real & Hia provided somehow the comedic relief but somehow their love story wasn't convincing. The pace felt off and uneven. I wish they gave them more screentime to make their love more believable because they definitely had chemistry.

Acting : Thomas's acting was decent and believable, but Kong's performance in the emotional scenes felt somewhat underwhelming. The supporting cast also does a good job with what the script has to offer. Again, the characters are not written with enough emotional depth for me to see if they were really good or bad.

In the end, this drama missed more than it hit. While it's certainly light-hearted and digestible , a perfect palate cleanser, it lacked the substance and emotional depth that might have made it memorable. Recommended only if you're in the mood for something easy and don't mind characters who behave like toddlers.

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Can love survive when it’s built on lies? Can obsession ever be pure?

I have very mixed feelings about this drama. I like it for the convoluted plot, forbidden romance and a costume BL from China but at the same time it's watching soap opera to pass as Shakespeare! But I do applaud the effort.

First thing first, if you are here for a cookie cutter romance drama, run the other way around because it is anything but that.
The drama doesn’t try to sugarcoat its plot. It’s messy, complicated and at times very frustrating as hell. It is a dark, twisted descent that leaves you with questions on what is love and how love can be anything but also destructive and beautiful! How isn't it just about warmth, gentle touches but also about unhealthy obsession and power struggle! How passion can heal you but also be destructive to shake kingdoms!

It is a story of Duan Zi Ang, an assassin who falls in love with his childhood friend Xiao Shuhe all while plotting to bring the kingdom's downfall and avenge his parents.
What stands out here isn’t sweetness or innocence. It’s the tension. To be completely honest, I do not sympathise with both the characters but the plot was compelling enough for me to want to see how far they both would go! 
They are trapped not just by duty or bloodline, but by their own desires and regrets. Very early on it is clear, their love story is fragile, intense but also doomed! Every interaction they share is a question.  Are they lovers? Enemies? Pawns of a bigger game? The drama never lets you be sure. Instead, it plays in the gray area where love bleeds into obsession and somehow dedication becomes control. There are moments of tenderness, but they are fleeting and laced with tragedy.

Another thing that I enjoyed was how politics wasn't too overpowering and boring. Somehow I enjoyed the tussle that it brought between personal feelings and political/professional duties! Though the war conflict aspect could have been way better.

Also, I was actually invested in the toxic love story between the Crown Prince and Huo Ying. Almost convinced myself that it was headed somewhere dark and interesting… until it spectacularly crashed. I saw it coming from the synopsis but those two had so much chemistry and you can't just ignore them.

Coming to what I have conflicting feelings about is the overall pacing. While the story before the assassination feels well developed, the second half of it feels a bit dragged. The conflicts were very predictable and somehow monotonous. It was delivered intensely but you could see the trainwreck from afar.

The second glaring issue was the choppy editing. At times, it felt downright confusing, with scenes jumping around so abruptly that making sense of the story became a real challenge. I know it isn't a big production, but I feel this wasn't consistent...few episodes were fine but where there was transition between past and present, that is where the issue was.

The cinematography was pretty and I did like their costumes especially Shuhe's hair accessories. Also, few of the angsty dialogues were really good and hit home.

Acting wise, I found both the actors pretty decent, like they gradually grew on me as the drama progressed. It was hard to get invested with the awkward delivery especially in the first few episodes . However, as the story picked up, so did their acting. Emotions landed more authentically and their interactions started to feel more believable. By the middle and end of the drama, they definitely found their rhythm.

Overall, if you are in the mood for something that messes with your head, leaves you questioning loyalty and makes you root for a love that probably shouldn’t survive… this is exactly what you’ve been looking for. It has its flaws but it is surprisingly enjoyable!

** Fav quotes **
ᡣ𐭩 Between us so much is beyond control. But no matter how chaotic the world gets Shuhe, I am still Duan Zi'ang

ᡣ𐭩 By the end I couldn't tell if I was deceiving him or deceiving myself.

I am going to talk about the ending at the bottom, please do not read/scroll below if you don't want to know.
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The ending ( SPOILERS AHEAD)
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And about the ending… if you were expecting anything even remotely different from what we got, congratulations, you have officially earned the title of my delulu friend because me too. Somehow, I saw it coming, but that doesn’t make it any less of a trauma. Serving such a beautiful episode only to hit us with that tragic ending felt like a cruel joke. Still, I loved Shuhe finally meeting his Gege and clearing out the misunderstanding.

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You are more than what meets the eye!!

The premise of the drama might sound like your typical twin switcheroo at first glance but honestly, it hit way deeper than I expected. It is not just about mistaken identities but also about second chances and a gentle reminder of how easy it is sometimes to lose ourselves trying to live a life we think we are supposed to as per societal standards.

The drama was a mix of both light and heavy tones. On the surface, it feels simple and kind of comforting. But there is this emotional weight underneath. The type that hits you after, when you are just lying there thinking about it way longer than you expected.
One of the biggest things that I liked and surprised me was how little we know about the people around us including our own family. Everyone is lowkey fighting their own battles and they might have just gotten really good at hiding the hurt. For me, there was also a silent message to be kind.
This was also a harsh reminder that when people do speak up mustering the courage after holding it so long, sometimes instead of support they are isolated and shut out.

Yoo Miji and Yoo Mirae are twins who look exactly alike but their lives could not be different. Miji is more of a carefree soul but compared to her, Mirae is rigid and driven but both of them quietly struggle in their own ways. When they decided to switch places, what seemed like a bold and sort of reckless move tuned into something very emotional. Somehow, through each other's lives, they began their journey to understand their own pains, regrets and fears a little better.

The drama also talks about workplace bullying and doesn't shy away from showing darker realities on how it affects an individual. It questions how people in higher positions with respected careers can treat and save the wrongdoers while isolating the vulnerable. I was glad it wasn't overly dramatised as it felt so real.

Coming to the romance part of the drama, I was more than fulfilled. Both the couples had such different vibes, but they delivered. The chemistry felt real and the moments were tender without being over-the-top. No forced drama, just growth, vulnerability and the kind of love that makes you smile like an idiot at your screen.

Miji & Hosu: Two people who found each other in their most desperate times without even realising it.
Hosu is a lawyer who looks like the perfect ML who has it all together but is really just trying to survive every day without falling apart. He doesn't do anything loud but his journey of letting go of the silent grief he has been holding. It literally brought tears to my eyes.
His personality is very different from Miji and somehow they both complement each other so perfectly.

Mirae & Sejin: They were that awkward but adorable couple, the kind I will root for because their vibe is soft and sweet, even if they are a little clumsy.
But if I am being honest, my biggest issue with the drama is how little we actually get to know both of them. Compared to Miji and Hosu, their story feels undercooked. Even though they are supposed to be main characters, they kind of end up feeling like side characters, more like a stepping stone in someone else’s journey than the focus of their own.
Mirae does get more screen time than Sejin, but I still feel like I never got to truly understand her. We saw her react to things but rarely got to sit with her inner world or see where she was coming from. It’s like watching from the outside but never being invited to sit with them and understand their emotions.

The two mothers (Hosu & the twins) also have their own little stories of struggle and acceptance. Hosu’s mom looked perfect like her son on the outside, but she kept her struggles on the low, showing strength through quiet sacrifice and just dealing with them silently. Meanwhile, the twins’ mom wore her emotions on her sleeves. They were different, but both of them showed that hardship and acceptance come in all forms.

Also, I feel they could done better with the LGBTQ representation. This is 2025 and I feel "they are friends like family" is just old and dated take. I don't think it was fooling anyone.

Acting-wise, Park Bo Young stole the show. To play two different characters who are as complex and different as day and night was incredible. The emotions and laughs landed just right. I wasn't confused even once between both her characters and that speaks volumes about how well she portrayed it. Park Jinyoung as Ho-su was also a standout, he was perfectly cast for the role. All the other supporting cast members also brought their A-game, especially the actress playing the young version of the twins.

The cinematography was beautiful and I really liked how the transition from past and present was smooth. Flasbacks were really important here and the way instead of using it as drama , it added the much needed layer to each character with their present personalities.
It was Netflix licenced, so the budget wasn't an issue and it shows.

Overall, this drama felt like a mirror, reflecting both our inner emotions and the realities around us. It was soft, painful, comforting but honest. It's been a while K-dramas made me feel this way.
I would 100% recommend it.

----------***** ----------
There are many quotable lines from the drama but here are few most favourites -

“It wasn't until I lived as someone else that I realized my worst enemy was myself.”

"Yesterday is over. Tomorrow is yet to come. Today is yet unknown. Let's go!"

“No matter how pathetic or messy it looks, anything you do to survive is brave.”

----------***** ----------

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoy this drama as much as I did! :))

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" In the vast sea, how likely is it that a lost fish gets to reunite with it's shoal!"

At its heart, this drama is all about the characters - their struggles, growth and the quiet, powerful moments that shape them. It relies heavily on what is unspoken and unsaid rather than grand gestures.

Since this is a character-driven narrative, I will not delve into the story by its events but by what both the main characters brought to the table and how they allow themselves to be seen. (Spoiler free)

Hirukawa Haruki: Hirukawa's character is deeply shaped by the trauma and abuse he endured from his parents, especially from his dad. At the first glance, he is what you call a high school delinquent - rebellious, tough and indifferent to all those around him, making him unapproachable and even slightly intimidating.
Despite his tough demeanour, he unintentionally internalises the abuse and starts to believe that he is no better than his father! While his father had a major role but I feel his mother is equally responsible too for abandoning him and never actually checking up on him. Her lack of empathy towards him only reinforced his feeling of being unworthy and making his sense of self-worth fragile.

But after meeting with Minase, something shifts. Minase sees him for who he is with all his flaws and still doesn’t judge him. That acceptance brings out the side of Hirukawa he has kept hidden and guarded . That tenderness, hope, and a desire for a future that doesn’t feel so impossible when he is around Minase.
His journey is all about healing, slowly learning that he deserves love even though his past still haunts him. Minase slowly became his anchor, helping him realize that love and acceptance aren’t just for other people but for him too and he is most deserving of them!

Minase Jin: Minase is initially a passive observer, standing and watching from the sidelines as a spectator of his high school drama. At first, he seemed like a perfect student with great grades, well-mannered and seemingly unaffected by the complexities of life. But beneath the surface of this ideal life lies a man under high societal expectations from his mother and where his future is laid out to him with certainty without considering his choice.
He keeps his distance from Hirukawa because he is aware of the difference between his privileged life and that of trouble markers. Though the distance is not out of judgment but is more like a quiet fear of disrupting the delicate and carefully constructed life.

But as Minase slowly begins to understand Hirukawa the walls start to crumble. His growing affection for Hirukawa is not only deeply romantic but very empathetic and accepting. His love for Hirukawa becomes the catalyst for his own self-discovery to confront his fears and insecurities.
Minase started as a spectator in his own life but with Hirukawa he learns to actively engage with the world around him.

Together they created a safe place for each other where they can grow and heal, both together and individually. They transcend all societal expectations with a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength.
Slowly the distance between them is replaced by a quiet understanding that what once appeared to be a different universe is actually not so far apart.

Against all odds, they found each other—two souls as different as night and day with a quiet longing that defied logic and reason.

In the end, it was their differences that made them whole, even as the world around them seemed to push them apart. Their bond was fragile yet undeniable, a quiet rebellion against fate, a love that defied the tides of time and change.

Both the actors delivered nothing short of amazing performance considering this was my first time seeing them. They managed to capture the raw, unspoken pain of their characters with such grace and authenticity. Every subtle gesture, those gazes and the deep internal monologue felt real.

The cinematography is stunning, especially the water scenes capturing the stillness and movement of the water in contrast to the feelings in perfect harmony.
Also, the title track OST was very catchy and beautifully complemented the scene wherever it was used.

Overall, this was a heartfelt exploration of growth, vulnerability and healing which was both raw and hopeful. I am definitely recommending this. This as a binge watch would give a better watching experience than on air.

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Across every lifetime, my soul will always find yours!

It has been a while since I watched a xianxia, and this was a perfect choice to take me out my costume drama slump. I was entertained from start to finish. It had all the elements of a typical xianxia, but instead of repeating it note by note, it somehow exceeded my expectations with the usual setup. A grumpy immortal cursed by fate, sealed on top of the mountain, meets a modern-day office worker who accidentally gatecrashes into a mystical realm. This is equal parts romantic, tragic and humorous.

✨ Character Sketch :

🔥 Sima Jiao: At first glance, he is this powerful, cold and revenge-hungry being who was buried alive for 500 years. He is called "Lord of Mercy", which I thought was a cruel joke, looking at his terrifying exterior, but then, as we went on, I started to sympathise and ultimately understand him and his actions. I don't blame his rage because imagine being trapped and isolated for so long, that is bound to mess anyone up.
For him, trust is dangerous, but once our frost fish navigated through that icy mask, we are introduced to a very soft, tired and lonely Sima Jiao.
What I really liked about his journey was how we were able to witness the growth step by step. It wasn't some 180 overnight turn. He was still slightly grumpy, sarcastic and broody guy we saw at the start, but also Sima Jiao, who can now express care, jealousy and finally break out of his shell and trust people.

🐟 Coming to our Frost fish, Liao Tingyan: She healed what she didn't break. She isn't your typical female lead. She is a chill, go with the flow person with a great sense of humour who was thrown into this mystical world and all she does is try to stay alive without losing her mind. And she is lazy! She doesn't care about power, scheming or fighting. All she wanted was to go on a vacation and chill. I liked how her character was unbothered about the materialistic things like fate or power. And when I say unbothered, I don't mean careless. Initially, she did come as a damsel in distress at times, but if I put into perspective that this cultivation world, full of immortals and demons with deep-rooted grudges, must be so new to her, it kind of softens that feeling.
Her relationship with Sima Jiao was definitely the highlight of this drama. I loved how she treated him as "human" and not some terrifying beast people portrayed him as. Sometimes she was an annoying roommate, sometimes the boss and eventually someone who calms him down. To understand that "normalness" is exactly what he needed. She was the sunshine in the storm and what our demon lord wanted and needed.

❤️ Chemistry between Tingyan and Jiao: Ohh, to be loved by Sima Jiao !! <3
The romance was absolutely top-tier here. I can find no flaws in it. I loved them together. It amazes me how Sima Jiao would scare everyone, but suddenly is such a soft and understanding person to Tingyan and would bend backwards to make her happy. And the passion...so intense. I liked how much balance they both bring together. She always kept him in check, and he somehow accepted her with all her quirks. The sweet banter, the tension and the unwavering devotion to each other made their romance so much better.
And the kisses...
In all the lifetimes, Jiao and Tingyan would never stop choosing each other.

✨ The drama has 3 arcs -

Immortal Realm Arc: Building it
Demon Realm Arc: Breaking it apart
Human Realm Arc: Rebuilding it

🤝 Immortal Realm Arc: The first arc where all the stage is set. This is the strongest and my favourite arc. The first 19 episodes had me in a chokehold. It had everything from humour to the ultimate journey of Sima Jiao being ruthless to lovesick.

🗯️ Demon Realm Arc: This is where all the real drama and angst began. We experience all the emotions here, from shock to grief to longing to vulnerability to some xianxia kind of action. This is where we see a new Tingyan who is now a part of this cultivation world. And a Sima Jiao who would go to any lengths to make her happy.

🥰 Human Realm Arc: This last arc of this drama, and somehow, the romance overpowered everything. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it, but I felt too much was happening in the last few episodes. Though all the ends are neatly tied, it felt a bit messy. We also got a very xianxia-coded ending, and I have no complaints.

✨ Supporting Characters :

🐍 Hei Nianju: My little loyal serpent companion was endearing from start to finish. I loved his bond with Sima Jiao, and I also liked how Sima Jiao treated him with respect. I really liked his character growth, except for his love line with Ruling.

🤷🏻‍♀️ Ye Ruling: She was a character I just couldn't like. In my opinion, she got off very easily. The whole lack of a redemption arc felt very partial. I kept waiting for little snake to bring that up, but as they say, love blinds people. She was okay in the second and third arc, but I couldn't bring myself to forgive her for the 1st arc.

💢 Shi Qianlu: Our main antagonist was truly despicable. He was every bit evil from start to finish and was definitely cunning. There are a few loopholes around how he gets things done (Eg: How did he find the FL before the ML, even after being injured to death). I also felt he overstayed his welcome. A little too much screen time was given to him.

😒 Fen Qi: He was the second male lead, and, except for bringing in the jealousy arc, he came off as stupid. What he called love was just a mere illusion of a person who doesn't exist. I didn't find him too compelling, but rather very obvious. I mean, I knew from the very start he would be swayed easily and cause unnecessary chaos.

😠 Sima Shi : I understand Sima Jiao's hostility towards me. I did understand him as leader but as a father , he failed big time. I really wished instead of him, we had interactions with Sima E instead. But the exchange with him brought a whole new development to the story, so I am not too mad about it but still...

✨ Acting: The leads were fabulous.
Arthur Chen was fabulous as Sima Jiao, especially in the emotional scenes where a lone tear stole all the show. He was the ultimate Sim Jioa. No ifs and buts. Wang Yin Lu as Tingyan was a refreshing and apt pick. She had great comic timing without making it feel too forced. The rest of the cast also brought their A-game. I have no major complaints in this department.

✨ Writing & Production: CGI definitely could have been better at times, but it wasn't distractingly bad. The costumes and make-up were beautiful throughout, except for the fish costume of Tingyan. I felt the makeup was a bit juvenile. Cinematography was beautiful, especially when they were in Soul Manor. The black and white costumes with vibrant background were definitely a bold and beautiful choice. The OSTs are beautiful too and complement the scenes so well.

Coming to writing, if you watch a lot of xianxia with a cultivation theme, you might find a few cliché tropes here. That being said, props to the writing for effortlessly blending the modern lingo. I loved this. (Touch the fish still makes me giggle.) The pacing does feel a bit slow in the middle, might frustrate you too, but I assure you it's all seemed worth it to me.

Overall, this drama isn't without flaws, but if you are someone who enjoys romance, this is a treat. It is chaotic but somehow very wholesome.
I would 100% recommend it. Not for the out-of-the-box premise because it isn't but for Sima Jiao's journey of choosing love when trauma has shaped you. For Liao Tingyan, to show you don't need to "fix" him but support and be there for them. And their beautiful relationship that surpasses the test of time and generations.

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoy the drama as much as I did.

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Weather forecast : Soft romance with rarely any storms with side of predictability!

The premise of this drama was a second-chance romance between Mashiro and Kanade, who randomly met each other one afternoon in a cafe. What follows is a journey of two lost friends who awkwardly try their best to find footing in this relationship and somehow the whole process is both complicated and strangely familiar.

The romance was simple and sweet. There were no earth-shattering plot twists or real angst. Surprisingly, there was communication between them and somehow, both of them healed the parts of each other just by being there.

But with that comes predictability. The setup is textbook, and somehow it sticks to the syllabus without taking any risks. They could have wrapped this in maybe 8 or a maximum of 10 episodes. It felt a little draggy and I was a bit bored.

There is also a troubled parents subplot for both leads, which adds some extra layers of family drama to the story. I actually really appreciated Kanade’s confrontation with his father. It felt genuine and was handled with a surprising amount of care, giving their strained relationship real weight. On the other hand, Mahiro’s issues with his mother fell a bit flat. The deep-rooted negligence and resentment just vanished, and his mother had a change of heart after a quick chat and mere words. It feels a bit too convenient, in my opinion.

And Kannade's nosy co-workers at the start really annoyed me. I would have to climb a whole mountain to believe that kind of behaviour was remotely professional or appropriate. They did get better as we progressed in the drama though.

Also, those dead fish kisses were just not it. It's 2025, and if you are not comfortable, don't do it. I would rather see them hug it out and actually show some real connection than painfully stare at two people struggling to make a kiss happen. I mean they both had chemistry and somehow the kisses dragged it down!

Acting-wise, Ikeda Masashi as Kanade was good. I found his acting and portrayal of Kanade very believable. Hori Natsuki as Mashiro was overall decent, too, but in emotional scenes, he felt too stoic.

Overall, this was kind of sweet, comfortable and low-key healing in small doses, but nothing that would break new ground. It was nice, but not particularly inspiring.
Will I recommend it? Maybe if you are looking for formulaic romance that delivers exactly what you expect.

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A sweet office romance, if you can ignore the pacing and some filler characters

This office romance ticks off many of the classic cliche rom-com tropes, yet still manages to maintain a certain charm and sweetness that makes it enjoyable overall.
The story features three couples working in the same office and with each other.

The main couple Kurosawa Tomonari & Morita Aoi was by far the highlight for me. Their relationship was simple, sweet and
I liked how they avoided the usual drama with those annoying prolonged misunderstandings. The ML was genuinely sweet from the start and the progression of their relationship felt organic. I was rooting for them from the get-go.

The second couple, Sakamoto Ryo and Ichikawa Ayaka, is a noona romance that had potential but sort of falters in execution. The pacing of their relationship felt rushed, particularly when it comes to the development of Ayaka’s feelings for Ryo. Her feelings came out of nowhere and left me wondering when that even started. They were sweet, but it felt rushed and a bit forced.

The third couple, Ozu Kei and Oshima Kei, just didn’t work for me. There was no real chemistry between them and their storyline felt like an unnecessary subplot. Their lack of connection made their presence feel more like filler than something important. I wish they could have spent more time on the other two couples to give a more fleshed out story.

One thing I did enjoy was the friendships between the boss group and their employee group. It added some warmth to the story and gave a good balance to the overall vibes.

If you are looking for a quick, light rom-com with minimal drama and you don’t mind the typical Japanese pacing, this is a good pick. The relationships could have been developed a bit better, but the main couple is cute enough to make it a fun one time watch.
7.8/10

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From Mobsters to Meatballs : A story of change and found family!

My Sweet Mobster is a story of two childhood friends whose lives diverge dramatically: one becomes a 'charismatic' mobster, while the other becomes a content creator for kids.
The series begins with exaggerated comedy that might be off-putting to some . Still, if you manage to stick with it for a few episodes, it slowly evolves into this heartwarming and sweet story about a criminal gang trying to reform their lives and fit into the society. It's both endearing and surprisingly touching.
The drama raises the question: "Can people really change?" However, as we witness the efforts, I want to believe it. I cheered for their every success - big or small.

The characters are nearly well-written with their own quirks and flaws adding a unique entertainment value. The romance between the leads was enjoyable but the camaraderie between the ML and Thirsty Deer employees was the highlight for me! Also, the bond between FL and the employees was so natural, healthy and funny! I loved it. The concept of found family is beautifully portrayed! <3 A special mention must be made of the ML’s voice, which is absolutely delightful to my ears.
I enjoyed the second couple's limited interactions. The pace of their story was a bit fast but considering the less screen time they had it makes sense.

But the show stumbles towards the end. Like always, K-dramas can't be just romcoms. They will introduce an unnecessary thriller /murder as subplot. I would have appreciated it if it added intrigue or mystery, but it felt a bit forced. The whole 'my dad is a gangster and I can't do anything about it' was such a drag for me.

Another thing that detracted me from the story was Mr. Prosecutor! Did he not get the memo of him playing the second male lead and not the father or guardian of FL who decides everything right for her? His heart might be in the right place but Man doesn't know boundaries AT ALL and he is a person of law!
While the ML was endearing at most times, when it came to sad scenes or portraying being vulnerable, he felt a bit flat. I couldn't connect to him in those scenes. And I would have loved it if they delved into the backstories of all the members. Their backstories would have added a deeper layer to their characters rather than just being silly.

Overall, what started as a slapstick comedy quickly escalates to an engaging plot with somewhat of a unique premise. The story attempts to tackle deeper themes but only scratches the surface amidst the laughs.

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Awkwardly Ever After!

The series beautifully portrays a shy woman in her 30s who is a virgin, alongside our ML who struggles with regrets of a lost dream and has serious self-esteem issues. They both have their own demons to face!
What's great to watch is how they motivate each other to be a better version of themselves (both directly and indirectly). The emotional connection between them provided the much necessary comfort they both needed to get out of their shell !

Despite some lack of communication, they don't drag it out unnecessarily. The story is genuinely sweet and their chemistry shines through.

There are side stories too tackling themes like loneliness and work-life balance but I felt too many sub plots were present considering the run time! Though they gave a happy ending to each!

The English translation of the title is terrible and the synopsis is way too vague and doesn't do justice to the depth of the story.
I would definitely recommend this drama for the characters and their awkward heartfelt journey!

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A story of longing and yearning from the Days of Disapproval !

Though this movie was released in 2020, it's reminiscent of a classic 1900s film, portraying the struggles of a queer relationship amidst societal repression and how homosexuality was not to be accepted by family and the society in the social unrest period.

The story follows the intricate relationship between Birdy and Jia Han.
 It was complex and intriguing at the same time. The depth and vulnerability of both the characters were heartwrenching and was portrayed beautifully.

The story is set up in an 'All boy's school' with Jia-Han and Birdy meeting and bonding immediately. There are subtle hints of their intimacy at the start. Even with the obvious hints, I liked how the romance was not rushed delivering a believable chemistry.

Ji-Han's struggle in trying to come out in a homophobic society contrasts with Birdy's attempt to suppress his feelings and be accepted into societal norms. (The famous star-crossed romance).
The acting was phenomenal by both the leads. The craving, the yearning, the constant push and pull for each other. Holding each other and crying during the shower and the telephone conversation scene were the peak for me.
The editing of this drama is also noteworthy. I like how the narration is done by Jia Han and how the scene seamlessly goes into flashbacks so effortlessly to tell us the story.

The story felt more of Ji Han's point of view and I would have liked more context of Birdy's thoughts. I felt his character was bit under developed. His decisions here and there defied reasoning.

However,  the ending was too abrupt for me. Abrupt won't be the correct word- Unsettling maybe. It serves as a realistic, sad and overpowered portrayal of lingering feelings and effects of societal repression. You can feel the tension, suffocation and smell the regret.

It could be considered a sort of a happy ending in the grand scheme of things.  It does show and give a glimmer of hope for the future generations.

This movie is like a harsh reminder of all the struggles faced by queer community and I do recommend this despite its minor flaws

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