Jojo

Meant to be a perfect package, but felt more like a rough draft with a hint of chemistry!

This had a unique and promising premise, a group of divorcees coming together to create an insurance policy for one of life’s emotionally and financially taxing experience. With the ever-increasing divorce rate as a backdrop, the idea of treating divorce like an unpredictable disaster was sort of intriguing and fresh.

Unfortunately, while the drama had its good moments, it didn’t quite live up to the boldness of its concept that it promised. The narrative felt muted and at times, downright dull and boring if I am being honest.
The plot often settled for surface-level storytelling, weighed down by repetitive boardroom scenes, overly sanitized and clean conflicts and a reluctance to explore anything too emotional. There were so many arcs that could have been fleshed out but everything was at surface level and packaged pretty.
The writing felt hesitant, as if it was trying not to ruffle feathers, resulting in a story that lacked a bite.

Let’s start with the strengths. The main leads, No Gi Jun and Kang Han Deul were the heart of this story for me. Their relationship was built on mutual respect, empathy and most importantly, excellent communication. It’s rare to see a romance so subtle portrayed with no dramatic grand declarations, just lingering glances, stolen touches and quiet meaningful actual conversations that slowly build a healing connection. It felt mature and grounded, and it’s this sincerity that makes their chemistry work. Their dynamic is what kept me watching. Their relationship was not "on your face romance."

Another highlight was the third couple. They brought a lighthearted, chaotic energy to the show without slipping into childishness considering they were the youngest. They didn't have much screentime but I wasn't bored seeing them! Their relationship could have been explored more though.
Alternatively, they could have explored more single life monogamy dynamics of A Yeong. I thought they will give it more attention because it was introduced quite a few times in the story!

However, the drama slowly begins to fall apart as it starts.
The second lead couple was a complete mismatch. Their chemistry didn’t just fall flat, it barely existed for me. Every scene they shared felt exaggerated to the point of parody, like they were stuck in some over the top skit. The dramatic reactions, the awkward attempts at romance felt like filler with no real emotional weight.
As individual characters, they did have something to offer to the overall plot whether it is drama or comedy but the second they were paired romantically, it was like all that potential vanished. They would have been better off just being part of the main circle, adding value without the forced love line.

Also Jeon Na Rae’s behavior was honestly more annoying than anything. Her constant confrontational vibe was just exhausting for me. Instead of adding tension or drama in a meaningful way, she just stirred things up for no real reason. What made it even more confusing was that she had her own thing going on with An Jeon Man, yet she was still acting like she had a say in everyone else’s business especially No Gi Jun. It felt totally unnecessary the way she kept poking her nose in his life even though he was married twice after her.

The business-heavy plot, while very ambitious on paper, often felt bogged down by business jargon and unrealistic portrayals of this whole Insurance corporate world. The 12 episodes felt too stretched! The different divorce cases every few episodes also was a hit or miss for me. A couple of them were interesting and emotional, while others felt bland or underdeveloped.

The comedy in the drama was a bit uneven too. There were moments where the humor worked, but a lot of the time it felt overdone. Thankfully, the show dialed it down in the latter half.

The acting was decent, all things considered. It is not something you would run home about or hand out awards for, but it was passable and had its moments. The script itself was pretty weak and didn’t give the cast a lot to work with, but the actors still managed to deliver grounded performances. Honestly I came in expecting more, from both the story and the cast so maybe that is why the letdown feels stronger.

Overall, this whole thing was kinda all over the place. From uneven storytelling, pacing issues and some pretty underwhelming subplots made it fall short of what it could have been. Recommended only if you are here for the main couple, Lee Dong Wook or any of the cast but if you're not, you are not missing much by skipping this. I kind of
stayed for the leads, tolerated the rest.

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A story of survival with four musketeers and a big bad wolf in the shadows!

This season goes way beyond brains versus brawn , it was personal, way more messier and more human.

Si-eun wasn’t just playing chess with bullies anymore. He was stuck in his own head, sort of drowning in everything that went wrong. You could tell he was not just tired, he was done. His grief didn’t scream, it just lingered, thick in the air, showing up in the way he stared too long, the way his hands trembled ever so slightly or how his voice hesitated before answering. He was unraveling quietly, piece by piece, trying to figure out who he was now that everything he trusted had either broken or disappeared.
It wasn’t just about beating enemies anymore, it was about surviving for his own sanity and not making the same mistakes again.

But it wasn’t all heavy and dark. The friendship between the "Fantastic Four" (yes I’m sticking with that) brought a kind of comfort that really stood out. There was something so genuine about the way they had each other’s backs. It wasn’t dramatic or forced, just simple moments of care that made everything feel a little less bleak.

For the first time, Si-eun didn’t feel completely alone. He had people beside him who didn’t need him to be strong or strategic all the time ,just there. And those small smiles and laughs they shared, the quiet understanding, honestly made me smile too. It felt like something he had been needing for a long time and finally, he got it.

The friendships in Season 2 held strong in ways Season 1 never could. ( I SAID WHAT I SAID!)

I hadn’t read the original source material, but I have zero complaints about the new characters that were introduced. Every actor did a great job and each character really felt like they belonged here.
Park Hu-min, Seo Jun-tae and Ko Hyeon-tak were especially impressive to me. They perfectly captured the essence of being this goofy, fun-loving ones, but there was always something deeper going on with them. Even when they were joking around or keeping things light, there was this subtle layer of vulnerability that made them feel so real. They each had their own demons to face and I could see that in their performances.

Acting was solid across the board for me.
I am especially gonna talk about Park JiHoon because as always he was phenomenal. There’s something in his eyes (It's hard to move on). The pain, resolve, sadness that just magically works and enhances every scene. Somebody give that guy a baeksang please!

The one thing I had an issue with was the antagonist, Na Baek Jin. To me, he didn’t feel as much of a villain as the show tried to make him out to be. They presented him as this serious, mysterious figure, but I still don’t feel like I understand why he ended up where he was. I needed that backstory to really connect with him and fully hate him. Without that depth, he felt a bit one-dimensional.

As for Geum Seong Je, the other antagonist, I had mixed feelings. Since Junyoung was playing the role, maybe I was biased and started seeing the good in him, hoping he would somehow turn out better. But that wasn’t the case. His character felt a little brief, which left me wanting more. I think with a bit more exploration. I hope season 3 ( if there is) serves that!
Also, the styling choice of his character was oj point! Those glasses and hair served !

Overall, for me, this season was right on par with season 1. It didn’t disappoint at all! I’m keeping this review spoiler-free, so I won’t get into specific events, but I can honestly say the season made me happy. Sure, the writing had its moments where it felt a bit uneven, but I binged it all in one sitting and that didn’t bother me too much. It was still easy to get hooked and stay invested.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Please, go watch it!

Thank you for reading my review/rant!

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If I were the king, this plot would be chained up in the dungeon !

If this drama were a dish, it would be a beautiful Choco lava cake...beautiful on the outside, but sadly missing that melty, gooey centre. Imagine the disappointment...
On paper, the concept was a straight-up feast for a food centric romcom. A modern Michelin-star chef is tossed into ancient Joseon, cooking for royals, with time travel. What I didn't expect was for it to be bogged down by adding the plot at the last minute.

Let’s start with the plot or honestly, the garnish that tried really hard to look important. Political scheming, treason, secret agendas… Except most of it never actually landed. The conspiracy gets teased in the first 2 episodes, then disappears into the background for the majority of the drama, only to be awkwardly pulled back near the finale. You could remove all the palace intrigue, dead-parent mysteries and sabotage nonsense and the cooking scenes would still work perfectly.

Pacing is another tricky ingredient which they failed to master. The drama devotes several episodes to a single cooking competition that could have cut short if they really wanted to accommodate and address the palace politics .
Also, the FL traveling from the future and knowing what’s going to happen but still waiting until swords are drawn felt completely absurd. I get that she doesn’t remember the exact dates of events, but she knows who the culprits are and could have easily warned the King. One counter argument is that the King might not have believed her, thinking she was joking but after several episodes, he clearly does start trusting her. It’s as if everyone...the FL and the writers included forgot they introduced a tragic backstory at the start, because it goes completely unaddressed in the middle episodes.

I need someone to sit and explain the why's to me... Why as in not why we needed those subplots but why as in , why weren't they addressed as a part of the drama from the start and only like a finale afterthought. When the drama tries to get serious, it trips over its own feet… and the moment it goes whimsical, oh look they suddenly remember there’s a tragic backstory lurking somewhere.

And I refuse to talk about the ending because the drama didn't bother explaining either!

Where the drama truly shines is in the kitchen. The food sequences are glorious and very realistic with sizzling pans, carefully plated dishes, exaggerated reactions that somehow make you drool and cinematic close-ups. It is bound to make you hungry. No complaints here.

Coming to the romance, it is slow-burn, awkward and sweet at the start, but in my humble opinion, it never fully blooms. Till the end, I thought FL wasn't in love with the King. They had fragmented chemistry, but it wasn't convincing enough. Though I didn't mind it much considering that it didn’t hog the spotlight and let the main plot, ‘Food,’ take the stage.

Acting-wise, the leads do more than the script really deserves. LCM as the ML, brings the king’s charisma effortlessly. His portrayal is solid and he nails both the goofy and the emotional moments. Yoona as FL Yeon Ji Yeong was also good especially in the cooking scenes. The supporting cast had some good names that were underutilised, like Kang Han Na as Kang Mok Ju.

Production was very polished and grand. The money was well spent on the elaborate sets and costumes. Plus, the cooking scenes and the setup looked really authentic as well. I also like the concept behind the title of every episode. A lot of thought was put into aesthetics, but I wish they had spent as much care on the writing to do overall justice.

Overall, this could have been a perfect light-hearted historical slice-of-life drama if only it hadn’t tried to juggle a dozen unnecessary subplots. Last few episodes felt like a different drama. I did enjoy the cooking aspect, but the rest of everything was mediocre.
Will I recommend it? No. It's not even a small commitment. Every episode is 1 hour+.

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoyed/enjoy the show more than I did!

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Healing Romance!!

Story - A slice of life with a unique premise and well-written story were one the strongest points of this c-drama. The pacing of the story was slow yet soothing and healing. It was full of life and will make your heart ache in a tragic way at the same time. The balance between the sombre and happy moments makes it stand out!
The dialogues and conversations between the leads healed something in me that they never broke!

Acting - Li Xian's portrayal of Chen Mai Dong and Zhou Yu Tong as Zhuang Jie was exemplary. Both ML and FL have an undeniable and ineffable - charm and chemistry.  The gradual affection with a lot of simmering tension between them was such a treat for the eyes.
Both the leads were not perfect, had flaws but were brave enough to acknowledge and deal with them. The acting had realism.
Chen Mai Dong truly defined "Healing yourself is connected with healing others!" And MY MAN DID THAT. Zhuang Jie was a bit indecisive and selfish at times but self-realisation dawns on her soon rather than dragging it, putting healthy dynamics on display. At times she was sheer embodiment of "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!".
The side characters contributed to the story well. I liked the bond between the FL and her siblings and how CMD's grandmother played Cupid in the initial episodes. I liked how all the characters were pinning and conspiring for the leads to stay together (FL's mother was a hard cookie but joined the party).

The ending was on a happier note but a bit open-ended but also makes you realise how short life is to hold grudges!
The cinematography of the drama is noteworthy especially the location and the painting at the end was done beautifully! Though the editing and dubbing were a bit choppy in a few instances but wasn't distracting enough.

Overall, a heartwarming drama I would recommend.

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The law’s got a face... but It’s hiding!

Faceless / Shotai is a suspenseful crime drama that highlights just how flawed and corrupted the justice system can be and how it affects the innocent.

It's a story of Kaburagi who is wrongly accused of murder and has escaped prison, becoming a fugitive. Throughout his journey he meets several people, each with a new identity,  to find answers on his own when the system fails him, earning the trust from all of them.

Faceless was an appropriate english title for this. The disguises he adopts definitely serves the practical purpose in hiding his identity, but they also symbolize the psychological pressure to forced to exist as anyone but himself.
There is an eerie tension surrounding everyone, whether it’s the suspect or those investigating them.
The background score was really on point, adding a lot to the suspense without being too extra. It totally helped build the vibe and kept things tense in the best way.

The only issue for me was the pacing. The first half felt extremely slow compared to the climatic second half. They were trying to paint a picture in the first half, but it could be expedited a bit. And maybe they could have provided more context about Kaburagi and his background to help connect more with him as a character.

The acting across the board looked solid with everyone fitting perfectly into their roles. No one seemed out of place or unsynchronized. Yokohama Ryusei particularly stood out in the emotional scenes.

Overall, this was a good movie that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end, questioning some serious flaws on how law works and serious consequences of turning a blind eye.

Note: I have neither read the novel nor seen the series, so this review is based solely on the movie, without any prior background.

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Strong start, dull second half! Just go in expecting a wild ride, not a perfect one!

Good Boy felt like a high-budget group project where one person insisted on running the whole thing their way, while the rest of the team, who are capable and ready, just stood by. It had a team setup but ended up spotlighting only one voice whether it made sense or not. It started with promise but somewhere along the way, the team lost its focus and simply hoped the presentation and visuals would carry all the weight.

The premise had a unique and cool concept where ex-national athletes turn into cops and somehow form a task force. The first few episodes really had me intrigued. The team dynamic was chaotic but somehow endearing and enjoyable. It had the right mix of action, comedy and emotional moments. The antagonists were really strong and smart at first and the little cat and mouse chase was interesting.

But as the novelty wore off, the cracks started to show. All the things that I enjoyed in the first half, from the vigilante justice theme to the emotional trauma, are still there in the second half, but it just stopped making me feel anything.
The pacing became inconsistent. Some parts dragged unnecessarily while the others just sped through without any significant development. And the tone whisplash here was real. One minute it was intense and the next we had an awkward comedic moment that just felt out of place. The villain arc that built up so well and gave me the impression that it was going to shake everything up, it kind of fizzled.

Another thing that exhausted me was how "perfect" Yoon Dong Ju (Park Bo Gum's character) was. I know he was the main lead, but the dramatic focus he got was borderline overkill. It's almost comical how much plot armour he carried around. He got beaten black and blue and still managed to dust himself off and take on an entire troop like he was invincible. Every time he pulled a reckless move, the rest of the team had to jump in and do damage control. Honestly, it became more of "THE YDJ Show" than an ensemble setup.
That brings me to team dynamics. Initially, I enjoyed the found family set up and expected an equal footing for the leads, but I felt they were reduced to mere cheerleaders. Don’t get me wrong, Park Bo Gum did a great job with the flimsy script he was handed. This isn’t a dig at his acting. But wasn’t this supposed to be a 'TEAM EFFORT'. (They originally had him on the poster, but later switched it to feature the whole team (current one). Honestly, if the story was always going to revolve around just one character, they probably shouldn’t have changed it because it ends up feeling a bit misleading.)

Coming to the romance section, sadly I felt a noticeable lack of chemistry between the leads. It was mild and fragmented at best. There were moments that almost worked - subtle concern, soft glances but none truly stuck. They felt more like friends or teammates who had each other's backs. I feel that part of the issue is how the drama juggled multiple tones. Romance here felt more like an afterthought. It wasn't compelling enough to root for nor subtle enough to ignore and concentrate on other parts. Honestly, the bromance between Park Bo Gum and Lee Sang-yi's character had more chemistry than the actual leads and that says a lot.

Acting-wise, Park Bo Gum was excellent. He was the reason I stuck around. From action sequences to emotional moments, I couldn't find any faults. For a drama that kept dropping in quality, his performance was one of the few highlights. Lee San Yi, Oh Jung Se and other side characters did a great job. I have seen them in other works before and with what was given, I feel they justified their role.
My real gripe was with the female lead’s acting. I had only seen her in Love Alarm before and chalked it up to a weak script, but here she genuinely felt like the weakest link. Her emotional scenes were flat. They felt too stoic, too restrained and even when she cried, I knew she was acting. It just wasn’t convincing. Now, I’m not saying she’s a bad actress. Honestly, I haven’t seen enough of her work to make that call but in this particular role, when you put her next to the rest of the cast, the difference was glaring.

Cinematography and production were backed by a solid budget, and it showed. Visually, it was polished. The action sequences were well-crafted. I particularly enjoyed the neon-lit fight scene.

Overall, Good Boy desperately wanted to be deep, emotional and thrilling but instead of pulling it all together, it kinda tripped over its own ambition. The premise and the first half delivered but the execution in the second half was dull and repetitive. It is definitely charming and chaotic at times but it started to feel more like a sunk cost situation towards the end. I would only recommend it if you are a fan of Park Bo Gum or action dramas.

Thank you for reading my review! <3 I hope you enjoy the drama more than I did.
This is a subjective take based on my personal experience with the drama. If you enjoyed it, please take this review with a grain of salt. I am a huge fan of Park Bo Gum and honestly, no one is more disappointed than I am to be rating this so low.

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Spring vibes and uncomplicated love in full bloom!

This drama is one of those feel-good, easy watches that you turn to when you just want to unwind, not necessarily for a gripping plot, but for the overall vibe. The story itself is very simple, but that’s part of its appeal. There’s nothing deeply profound about it but somehow, it manages to lift your spirits with its lighthearted energy.  At its core, it tells a familiar love story, but it does so with such tenderness and warmth that it became a comforting escape for me.

It’s about self-discovery, the importance of learning to love yourself before we can fully embrace someone else.

What really stood out to me was how much I ended up enjoying both the male and the female lead. They weren’t perfect and they had their awkward, cringe-y moments, but that just made them feel real and relatable. Their chemistry was undeniable and despite their flaws, they were a very charming pair.

I really appreciated how their relationship avoided the typical misunderstanding trope that often drags down. The issues they faced were minimal and resolved in a natural, unhurried way, without unnecessary drama or over-the-top delays. This made their journey feel more realistic,actually focusing on genuine growth and understanding rather than dragging out tension.

The cinematography was nothing but beautiful! All the shots with spring vibe , the costumes , everything was done well and complimented the theme of the drama so well.
I also appreciated the small details, like the metaphors using herb names as the episode titles at the beginning of episodes. It’s a subtle touch, but it made a big difference in setting the tone for each episode. I found it really clever how those names fit the mood of the story, adding an extra layer of meaning.

Zhang Ling He and Xu Ruo Han in my humble opinion aced their roles. ZLH portrayed his character with a perfect balance of charm and vulnerability, while XRH's performance was full of subtle emotional depth, making her character easy to connect with. I didn’t notice any inconsistencies in their acting—each moment felt genuine and natural.

Also FL's parents here were nice and supportive, which I thought was a refreshing change from the typical unsupportive parents in the dramaland.

The only thing that kind of annoyed me was the FL's friend giving unsolicited and stupid advice here and there. It felt extra. Also, I couldn’t vibe with the second couple 's romance at all but thankfully, it wasn’t overdone and I’m glad the screen time dedicated to it was kept to a minimum. The main plot stayed on track and that’s what mattered most.

Overall, this was a refreshing watch, perfect for those looking for a light, feel-good experience. I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a sweet, uncomplicated romcom with little to no drama.

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Promising, light hearted premise that drifts in the second half!

The series unfolds the evolving journey of the childhood friends Ai and Yu, from rivalry to affection while incorporating supernatural elements.

The chemistry between Ai and Yu was undeniable, especially in their initial playful banter and eventual support for each other. As the drama progressed, their bond grew strong although the miscommunications led to unnecessary tension that could have resolved more easily.
Yo and Ing's story added an entertaining layer to the overall drama. Their romantic struggles with humour and relatability were executed well in the short screen time that they had. The supporting family brought a certain comforting warmth to the story. Yu and Yo's interactions with Ai's parents was heartwarming to see.

However, what started as an interesting supernatural romance fizzled out in the second half. The pacing felt uneven, especially in the second half. It started feeling dragged repeating the same scenarios without much progression. The slow-burn romance was sort of appealing but then considering the long history of them together, it was frustrating at times as to how the characters reacted particularly when the love-rival subplot was introduced (multiple times -_-).

The supernatural element introduced initially felt very anti-climatic. The supernatural was used as a catalyst for Ai to Yu in romantic light , but it lacked the necessary development to evoke curiosity or tension. I wish they focused a bit more on that rather than on the common tropes.

Overall, An interesting premise that started strong but falters in its execution during the second half. Recommended if you are for something light and entertaining to watch that doesn't delve into profound themes.

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Not your typical BL!

First thing first , the intro of this series was MASTERPIECE!
If you are expecting this to be your typical BL , it will disappoint you. I understand the rating on MDL. This is not a cup of tea for everyone.

The story does seem fragmentary at points leaving you with many unanswered plot holes but it has clever presentation.
The symbolism , the contrasting color frames , the angst , the hurt - You can feel it all in this 5 episode drama.
The acting by both the leads was convincing enough.

Not a fan of open endings but in this case it was justifiable. 
The conversation after their dinner was cruel yet realistically hopeful.
Yoon Dae needed to understand that " If you never heal from what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you."
For him to be Soo Hyuk's home and vice versa, he has to ground himself first. Finally someone teaching him self love without manipulating and scarring him.
Soo Hyuk was torn but held his ground this time. He wanted Yoon Dae to really be his home rather than being a liability.

The ending depicted they both finally broke from their same pattern and that counts as "sort of" happy ending (At least for me).
Though it's not a perfect 10 for me but still very close to it. I hope there is season 2 with longer run time.

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Cute and easy, but won’t stick with you!

This is a good pick for a lighthearted romcom that is a perfect one-time watch. It offers all your classic elements you would expect - from charming moments to some funny and punk rock twists with an overall feel-good vibe from start to finish. While it doesn’t break new ground in terms of plot, it does just enough to make you smile and feel good by the end.
The pacing is just right, with a blend of humor and sweet moments that kept me entertained without getting too heavy or too complicated for a romcom.

The chemistry between the leads was good. Their connection felt real and cute, giving off an effortless vibe. Whether they were joking around or having those sweet moments, they somehow just clicked.
From playful banter to tender moments, you can tell they genuinely enjoy each other’s company. Their interaction felt natural and not forced, which added a certain depth to their relationship.

The gaming element at the beginning was actually a clever subplot. It felt seamless and didn’t come across as childish which I feared when I read the synopsis, instead bringing a fresh dynamic that added an extra layer of fun to the plot. I wish they kept more of that in later part of episodes too.

The SML Kim Sin Won was definitely a highlight for me. He was such a sweetheart and I loved that they didn’t make him compete with the ML for FL's attention. That was a nice change from the usual love triangle drama. On the other hand, the SFL wasn’t always my favourite. She came across as kind of immature at times, especially when she pulled away from SML but made him feel like it was his fault. I get needing space, but it would have been nicer if she didn’t act like he was in the wrong for it. Honestly, I think I would have been okay if they hadn’t ended up together.

The supporting characters were a mixed bag and in the background except for throwing some curve ball here and there. The female lead’s dad was such a sweetheart, adding a lot of warmth to the story in the little screentime he got. I liked his supportive nature and his bond with both his kids.
But the male lead’s grandmother! Yikes. I just couldn’t get on board with her till the end. I am sorry but no amount of redemption arc could make me forget how cruel she was to a child.

The acting was decent all around. No complaints really, everyone did their thing with what they had, even if the script wasn’t exactly mind-blowing. They still made it work and brought the characters to life.

Overall, while it wasn’t anything groundbreaking, this still served a good time. Recommended if you are looking for something light and feel-good.

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The curse broke but so did my expectations at the end! Overall a fun watch!

The drama had the idea and bones of being an exceptional and unique story with its horror theme, curses lingering across lifetimes, ghosts seeking vengeance, star-crossed romances and a richly layered backstory dipped in Thai folklore and karmic justice. Very heavy and ambitious themes, and for the most part, it did manage to successfully capture my attention. Where it stumbles for me is the last episode! 

The entire story revolves around Khemjira, a young man suffering from a curse stemming from his tragic family history, where every male heir is destined to die before turning 21. To seek help, he meets Pharan/Master, a skilled, reluctant but very hot shaman.

For me, the drama excelled at handling the curse part (for the most part). The main theme was reincarnations and choices made across lifetimes and karma being carried over. I don't agree with them in real life, per se, but if I just speak in context to the drama, it did make sense to me. It's a story about how knowingly or unknowingly, lies can be weaponised into something tragic.

Where it falters is the last episode. Before the finale episode, this was an easy 8.5- 9 to me and I kind of expected them to explain all the plot points logically. But watching the last episode felt like unwrapping a humongous present that is wrapped in layers, only to find something very underwhelming inside. You still appreciate the effort because it’s a gift… but that doesn’t make it any less disappointing.

My disappointment stems from the fact that, after building up such a solid reason for the curse, performing rituals and maintaining that tension for so long, and then resolving it so anti-climactically, was part shocking and part disappointing to me. I want to keep this review spoiler-free, so I won't discuss the details of the curse, but the resolution was more of "because it had to happen, because it is the last episode" rather than answering the actual whys. Also, I still didn't get answers as to why this was the last timeline. Not answering it looked like plot convenience and a loophole that should have been addressed.

Another thing that took me out a bit was the dialogue delivery. I don't know if it was me, but sometimes there were huge pauses and gaps between the lines. I don't know if it was a deliberate directing choice but it came out more as distracting than meaningful.

Coming to the Romance aspect, I have no complaints. I found both couples very endearing. Pharan and Khem’s chemistry is basically a masterclass in denial. Like, they could write a whole thesis titled “How to Not Be in Love While Obviously Being in Love.” I enjoyed the slow-burning vibe until it lasted.
Our second couple, Jet and Chan, had this chaotic, goofy vibe around them, and I love how good the communication was between them.
Also, props to the team for managing both couples so well. I never felt they ignored or sidelined the second couple for the mains. We got two love stories that stood on their own, yet they still fit perfectly into one larger narrative where everyone mattered. It felt balanced, intentional, and genuinely well-woven.

Another aspect of drama that impressed me was Rampheung as the antagonist. I loved how layered she was as a villain. I am glad they didn't make her a love-sick cartoonish ghost. Her backstory had reasons that justified her centuries of resentment. She was terryng and while she hasn't done great things, I couldn't help but empathise with her.

Acting-wise, there were some solid performances on the board, but a few misses too or should I say a miss. Starting with Namping as Khemjira, the centre of this storm. There is no denying that his character demands that fragile, scared look, but honestly, his performances don't match the intensity that the script demands. He came off as too blank. Instead of seeing his true vulnerable side, I see hesitation. I know it's his first project and by no means am I hating on him but when I put him in contrast with every other actor in the drama, he is weak in comparison.
Keng, as Master on the other hand, carries his role like someone who understands the emotional language of stillness. As Pharan, the reluctant shaman drawn into Khem’s cursed orbit, he manages to project both weariness and care with minimal dialogue.
Green as Rampheung is easily the drama's heart. Every scene she’s in feels ten degrees more charged. Rampheung’s blend of vengeance and sorrow could have slipped into caricature, but Green keeps it simmering rather than boiling over.
FirstOne, as Jet was like the emotional palate cleanser this series desperately needs. Where others drown in curses and guilt, Jet brought spontaneity and warmth. He nailed all the emotional scenes so well.
Tle as Chan isn't the most dynamic character, but his presence feels reliable. Tle nailed the needy vibe.

Production-wise, it was excellent. The sets were detailed, and all the rituals and supernatural battles were choreographed with care. The horror elements, though not plentiful, were executed nicely too. Make-up and costumes were on point. The choice of opening credits is also praiseworthy. It matched the overall vibe perfectly.

Overall, while it was not perfect or how I expected it to tie all the knots, I did enjoy it. It was a very ambitious project from DMD. There are definitely a few "it is what it is" moments, but for a one-time watch, it was an entertaining ride.

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Life gives tangerines, love turns them sweet, a journey through struggles and growth with realism!

8.7/10
This drama wasn’t about a passionate love story that swept you off your feet, rather it was about the journey of two people who loved each other through thick and thin, in every phase of their lives. It was realistic, capturing the hardships and complexities of their relationship as they navigated various challenges. We have seen this several times in dramaland, but the portrayal here felt sincere and deep. Each time they faced hardship or joy, I felt like I was right there with them, crying when they cried, laughing when they laughed.

Yang Gwan Sik and O Ae Sun’s romance wasn’t the usual typical fairy tale, but it was so comforting in its own way. While there were moments when I didn’t get why they made certain choices, but their loyalty to each other was unmatched. The way Gwan Sik literally crossed oceans for Ae Sun spoke volumes about the depth of his love and commitment. Gwan Sik’s as a husband and his daughter's father is something I could write essays about.

O Ae Sun had a tough childhood and the only person who ever really had her back was Gwan Sik. And he didn’t just have her back, he protected her with everything he had. But Ae Sun herself was a strong, fiery woman and an even fiercer mom. She was determined that her daughter wouldn’t go through the same struggles she did. The way she showed her protective love was so bittersweet, it honestly made me cry a few times.

Watching her journey with Gwan Sik, I realised, it was never about love but survival in the most romantic way possible. To me, this is what real love is, not star-crossed lovers, but two people who fight against all odds and still manage to be soft and gentle with each other.

The drama also touched on the subject of the parent-child relationship with such raw honesty, reminding me of a universal truth that as a child, it was easy to argue with my parents and feel frustrated by their decisions. But as I grew older, I began to see things from two perspectives - mine, which often felt difficult with my own struggles and expectations from life and the perspective of my parents, where I realized they were facing their own challenges. The drama gave me a humbling experience here and there. It was a reminder that sometimes, you can't truly understand someone’s choices until you walk in their shoes or at least try to. It beautifully captured that emotional journey, showing how perspective can change as we grow and mature.

With realistic portrayals come realistic disappointments from our projections. (Lol xD ) I feel a certain way about when a mother chooses to favour one child over the other. One child is left to fade into the shadows, while the other is bathed in her undivided attention, somehow because they are the living embodiment of her own unfulfilled dreams.
While I do appreciate how the drama portrays both men and women with depth, this issue of favouritism really bothered me a bit. The mother’s desire to ensure her daughter doesn’t face the same hardships she did is understandable and I don't think there's anything wrong with that. However, I felt the boy was somewhat neglected in the story.

Gwan Sik and Ae Sun as Geum Myeong parents should and would win Oscars for being the best parents , a woman could ask for but sadly in the case of Eun Myeong , they missed the mark. They did try to come around in Vol 4 but for me, it was a little too late.

Also, compared to vol 1 and 2,vol 3 and 4 felt a bit off in terms of pacing where few arcs felt streched out and also the transitions between the past and present seemed somewhat random, something I didn’t notice in the first two volumes.

The acting was excellent across the board and I have no complaints. The main cast, IU and Park Bogum, were at their absolute best. The supporting cast also had some incredibly seasoned actors and their performances only elevated the drama whenever they were on screen.

The cinematography and the opening credits were also remarkable. The struggles of village life, the beauty of the sea, the vast open fields and the stunning sunsets were captured beautifully. In fact, I never skipped the credits once. You can sense throughout, that the budget wasn't the problem.

Overall , it was raw and messy but in all the right ways. For anyone who has been through tough times, whether it's financial struggles in childhood or personal battles against societal pressures and expectations, this would get to you. It somehow also teaches you that life goes no matter what.

Tangerines here were like problems in life - unexpected, sometimes sour and hard to handle at first. But when life hands a tangerine, it may not be clear what to do with it right away. Over time, though ,the bitterness can be peeled back, revealing the sweetness inside, turning something challenging into something worthwhile. It’s about making the best of what life gives, even if it’s not what was wanted or expected. The drama did a good job at that. (At least what I inferred)

I would definitely recommend this drama and would also recommend a tissue box on the side for the ugly crying that will follow. xD

Thank you for reading my review! It was difficult to write this one without spoilers. I hope you enjoy the drama if you give it a try! <3

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Feelings have found their name and it’s sweet love!

This mini drama is 6 ep , roughly about 10 minutes each, all centred around the classic friends x lovers trope. It was a soft, easy and light hearted watch.

The chemistry between the leads was definitely the highlight for me. I love their silly playful banter and tension. It felt very genuine. I liked and understood the hesitation. I think both of them liked each other but the thought of risking their friendship and crossing the line kind of terrified them. Considering how short the overall time was, I wasn't expecting much of a character development or a full fleshed out story but not over complicating things here definitely worked out for everyone.

Also, I love the trio's friendship was so healthy. No unnecessary drama, no toxic vibes. No Jeon Su was such a supportive, low-key comic relief and his bond with Jaeyul and Dowan was honestly so wholesome. Major props to the writers for NOT turning this into a dumb love triangle.

Acting wise, I found the overall performance satisfactory. I have seen Lee Jae Hyeop in Sweetheart service before , but he was way better here in my opinion. The rest of the actors were new to me,but they did their thing.

Production-wise, GND Studio has been pretty decent. My only complaint is why they didn't release a few episodes together instead of one per week or at least just increase the runtime for the story to have a bigger impact and continuity. I literally binged five episodes in a row and had to wait a few hours to see the final episode. But I also understand that waiting a whole week for ten odd minutes is frustrating.

All in all, it is a simple feel good story that is not asking much. It never tries to be what it isn't , that is no complex layers or intense character development.
I will definitely recommend it if you have an hour to kill and don't mind some light, fluffy fun but don't expect anything ground breaking.

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Just Lost...

The whole premise of this 4 episode BL drama was literally drama within a drama. Sounds interesting but the execution was messy and ultimately not satisfying. Maybe short run time (every ep is about 10 min) is partly to blame.

Now it starts on an "artsy" and dramatic note but the concept ended up being confusing than clever. The vibes at the start was nice, even though the production was small.
But then nothing happens for first 2 episodes... No emotional or any substantial progress. And just when you think something is gonna happen, they pull the most overused move ever, throwing in a random female character to stir drama.
The ending was chaotic but somehow satisfying and the strongest part of it all.

Acting wise, it was average at its best. Somehow I couldn't feel the chemistry between the actors. There were moments here and there with some good kisses but it was all too hazy to leave an impression.

Overall, this is my 3rd drama with this production and i feel this was the weakest of the bunch.
Will I recommend this ? For the quality and story, no. I would rather recommend Trapped in Osaka and A sketchy Job from the same company.
But if you still want to support them, sure. Just don't go in expecting too much! :)

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Too much drama, not enough harvesting!

6.8/10

I chose to watch this completely on a whim and it was cute at first but then it kinda lost me towards the end.

I wasn’t expecting deep character development or anything and was also fine with some clichés but the SML and SFL were so frustrating. They had no respect for boundaries, constantly interfered in other's business which made it feel less like a rom-com and more like a drama for drama's sake. The whole "breakup and reunion" thing was way too predictable and dragged out which just got annoying.

But all was not lost.It does have its cheesy romantic moments. The bickering was fun too. They had this perfect mix of teasing and tension, like they couldn't stand each other but also clearly liked each other.
The pace felt fast but considering the run time and it's a mini drama, it's understandable.

Overall , It’s okay for a one-time watch. I went into it looking for something light and for the farm feels but wish they kept it breezy. Also it could’ve been way shorter too, so much filler with the same repetitive story lines.
Recommended If you’re into the arranged marriage trope and don’t mind some cheesy drama with cliche tropes. But definitely not the worst out there.

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