This review may contain spoilers
The most irritating FL ever
Things I loved1 That it was related to law and to a boss and a new layer and also the living together trope. I love all these things and was excited to start this series.
2 The 2 FL. What a beautiful and subtle actress. I was interested in her story as well.
3 The 2 ML. What a decent character and I was really invested in the relationship between the second couple. I was glad it ended well.
Things I liked
1 The ML as an actor. But and that's a big "but" here he played someone I didn't like at all. A pity since he became one of my favorite actors after Love Between Lines.
2 The other lawyers. I thought they wee all decent people and there was also some humor when thy interacted so that's a plus.
Things I disliked
The lack of chemistry between the leads. When you see Love Between Lines and My Page in the 90s you understand that here there was no chemistry at all. I blame the female lead and the way the characters were written
Things I hated
1 The ex of the 2FL. What a stupid, Machiavellian character. Every time he appeared I wanted to smack him. I'm happy he paid some price in the end although it wasn't enough.
2 The ML character. Not the actor, but the character. At first I thought it would be the cold and softhearted CEO I like and don't mind even if I saw the character a million times. But what bothered me as the series advanced was that he had some beliefs and that he tried to impose them on the FL. It wasn't funny after a while to talk about how she should eat, talk, behave etc. One of the most irritating male characters I've ever seen. He never redeemed himself for this kind of behavior. HI don't mind his lawyer beliefs but his personal ones. I can't imagine who in their right mind would accept to listen to someone tell them how to live under the cover of being together and love each other. That wasn't love, it was toxic and not warm or sweet or anything. There were some good moments but really not that many. I dare say I felt like he didn't like playing with her. Either it was the director who didn't know how to do his job or the ML disliked the FL.
3 The FL. Oh God. What can I say for this actress and her character? A disaster would be accurate. At first I loved her. I thought she was beautiful and charming and the beginning was strong enough to make root for her. Then the downhill started. She can't act other than as the robotic clueless female and it never changed. She never learned to stand for herself until the very last episode. I didn't like her spineless character who every time she said I'm sorry and I apologize and I'll do whatever you want. What the heck? I never labeled a FL as a pushover because I can accept a lot of the humor and the dynamism and the chemistry is there. but there was none of these. She continued to be stupid and to behave like a ten years old. The fact that she can't act sealed the deal. Now I drop her other series I was looking forward because I can't stand her. If you are more than 25 don't act like 10 unless you are talented enough to bring the laughs or the cuteness like Esther Yu. Here the actress blew it and made me mad.
4 The writing of the characters. I never want to watch another series from this screenwriter. He created two toxic and appalling main characters. I gave it four only for the second couple and the coworkers.
5 The mistress case and the way the FL acted. She may had a point about the adultery and the other woman but why the heck did she think it was right to not give to the little boy what he deserved from his father. Crazy thinking. I was shocked and that's when I stared hating her. She thought it was right for a little infant to pay for the adults mistakes just because her sister has been cheated. Despicable.
Was this review helpful to you?
5 just for the ML.
Things I loved1 The ML. He's one of my favorite actors and his voice is the best ever.
Things I liked
1 The 2FL. She needs some more acting lessons, but she is pretty and a bright light in this drama.
Things I disliked
1 The chemistry between the leads wasn't there. He had more chemistry with his costar in Master of my Own and I find her awful and a true mismatch for him. Yet the chemistry was there and i gave it a 9 despite the actress.
Things I hated
1 The whole age gap for the second couple. A few years it's fine, but he looked his age and he was 50 plus when she looked even younger than her real age. I didn't hate them, but I can't put their relationship in the like list either. Too much a real age gap.
2 The FL. She's an awful actress. Nothing more to say. She doesn't know how to do comedy and she's not talented enough to make serious scenes believable.
3 The third relationship. Stupid, toxic and unnecessary after the first few episodes.
Was this review helpful to you?
Too many uninteresting stories
Things I liked1 The premise. I thought it would be great to explore the theme of the secretaries but they never delivered.
Things I disliked
1 The ML. I didn't care about him. He never was enough charming or compelling to make me care.
2 The FL. She wasn't good. Something bothered me in the way she acted. Her character wasn't great either. Annoying and unlikable.
3 The rest of the cast. None was good enough in my opinion. The problem isn't maybe the actors but the characters that were not developed enough. I think this is its major default. Everything stayed superficial.
4 The script. It was all over the place. They didn't know how to continue or end some plots and it was irritating. I love tropes and clichés but when they give me the feelings and make my heart flutter. Noting happened here so it felt like I wasted my time for things I've seen a million times done better.
5 Lack of chemistry between the leads. There was none to be honest.
Was this review helpful to you?
The main couple didn't have any chemistry
Things I liked1 The second couple. Funnier, more interesting, more everything in a good way
Things I disliked
1 The ML. I couldn't stand his hairstyle. I tried again and again and after a while I gave up. It's not that it's an awful style, it's that it doesn't work on him. I also didn't like that he accepted to be the punching ball of the idiotic FL.
Things I hated
1 The FL. Her character was righteous and mean without any reason. She felt superior to the rest of the world and she wasn't. I truly disliked her character. I wish the story was about the second couple.
Was this review helpful to you?
Awful can't describe it
Things I liked1 The second couple. They were the highlight of the show and that's why i gave it 2. Otherwise it should be minus 100.
2 The editor. She should be the heroine with another male actor. That series I would watch anytime. Gorgeous, talented, great character.
Things I hated
1 Everything else.
2 The ML. What an unattractive untalented actor. There was no chemistry with the FL and it was creepy seeing them together. I have no idea if there is a big age gap between them but to me it seemed there was. He has no redeeming qualities, he's no green flag, he's red flag all the way. Controlling and without anything to like. I think he goes to the top of the actors I never want to see again.
3 The FL. What a stupid character and the actress didn't do it any favors. She isn't a good actress and she played the clueless stupid damsel in distress in a way that I wanted to scream. Why on earth would she fall in love with that controlling idiot? No backbone whatsoever. A terrible example for any woman out there.
Was this review helpful to you?
Awful acting
Things I liked1 The FL. She's one of my favorite actresses. She's gorgeous and she plays comedy well. In this one though, liked is a strong word. I just don't want to say I disliked her, but it was limit. Playing cute all the time and scream so many times did my head in.
2 The premise. I liked the premise because it's fun and promised something different. The execution though, no that great.
Things I hated
1 The ML. Maybe he's a great actor and I'm being unfair, but to me it was impossible to watch him after a while. It was like I was watching a plastic person. I have no idea if he had plastic surgery or not, but he seemed like a plastic doll to me. When I read that he's cute and handsome, I wonder why I can't see any of these. Not to mention I don't think he's a good actor.
2 The FL friend. What an awful actress, playing cutesy and talk like a baby all time. Stupid and irritating to no end.
Was this review helpful to you?
Untalented ML
Things I liked1 I liked the actress who plays the FL. She's cute and even though I don't think she's the best actress out there, she isn't bad either.
2 Some of the other characters. I think the cast was quite good.
Things I hated
1 The ML. I tried so many times but he's truly one of the most untalented actors I've ever seen. I watched several dramas he's part of and the only one I could stomach is the My Secret Romance. It would also be better with another actor, but the FL did enough to make him bearable. In this one he's particularly bad and not endearing in any way.
2 The script is quite bad. Some lines are so cringe I was embarrassed for the actors.
Was this review helpful to you?
How to ruin a cute premise with an awful FL
Things I liked:The premise. It's not original, it has been done before, but it's fun and it could result to a great romantic comedy series. Spoiler alter. It didn't.
Things I disliked:
1 The SFL. Contrary to others I thought she wasn't a great actress and I didn't care for her character to be honest.
2 That there was no one I could rule for. Maybe it's the first time it happened.
3 The ending. It's not that I wanted her back with her ex, I wish she disappeared in think air anyway, but the whole romance ending was so underwhelming. Not romantic in the least. Actually, that's the issue I realize. This series was far from romantic, it didn't keep the promise the premise made.
Things I hated:
1 The FL lead. What the hell was that? Not only an awful actress, but also an awful character. Why the heck would I care about this person? She was a terrible friend, terrible employee and terrible girlfriend. The worse: she was a terrible romantic comedy heroine. I don't care about beauty. I've seen countless series and movies where I find the main characters unattractive, but they compensate with charm, wittiness, intelligence, something.
Here we have an unattractive woman who tries hard to pass for cute and charming. Well it didn't work and it irritated me beyond reason. Why the heck would they hire that person, the most unappealing I've ever seen? The role asked for a charming person who could dress well, have at least good hair and posture. Just someone who cared a bit. So I'd never recommend this series and I regret wasting my time.
2 The execution of the concept. They started with a promise they never kept. I didn't laugh once. I didn't care once. I didn't got moved once. Total failure and with this it took first place on my list with the worst dramas I've ever watched. Number 1 is claimed.
Was this review helpful to you?
Uncomfortable, borderline creepy
Why I dropped this series1 The FL was awful here and she didn't know how to act as a young woman so she made me me cringe a million times and I felt uncomfortable since she reminded me of a 12 years old. I also hated her voice to the point I wanted to mute her. This coming from someone who adores her in other series, rom coms and historical dramas. So weird that she made me feel this way here.
2 The ML. If that's what people find attractive these days, well, I have nothing to say. He wasn't attractive to me and not talented either. I didn't care about his character either.
3 No chemistry between the leads which is maybe a good thing since their relationship was creepy to me.
4 The message the series vehicles. Young women are stupid and it's fine. NO IT'S NOT.
5 Tried too hard to make us believe there was a story somewhere and characters with something to say. Guess what? Not if you're an adult.
6 I can't believe the same director who did Love is Sweet one of my favorite series did this crappy drama. On the other hand not everyone has the charm of Bai Lu and the ML is Love is Sweet. Funnily enough I hated this couple as much as i hated the 2nd couple in Love is Sweet. Same uncomfortable vibes.
Was this review helpful to you?
Too dark, too convoluted, a crazy soap opera without rhyme or reason
Things I liked1 I thought the acting was quite good. Maybe not every scene was great, not every actor/actress was perfect but they were all decent.
Things I disliked
1 The two older sisters. They weren't appealing characters I could stand behind. Their actions were stupid sometimes and their love for their sister wasn't enough to make me like them. All sisters were unappealing characters.
Things I hated
1 The little sister. What a stupid stupid character without any redeeming qualities. Her behavior was inexcusable and no I didn't like how things ended.
2 The villain and all the villains actually. How they never were punished really and how serious things were left unattended.
3 The script. Ridiculous is the best way I can describe it. The writer(s) thought they were too smart to have to make things make sense. Guess what? It resulted in a mess of a series I'd never recommend to anyone. Next time take the time to develop the characters and write a plot that doesn't resemble to a child's fantasies without rhyme or reason.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Something went wrong
Things I adored1 The premise. High school and geniuses and the prospect of Best Friends to Lovers trope. Sign me in. This had everything to become my favorite drama of the year. So I still try to understand where things went awry.
2 Qi Yan. His character was my favorite from start to finish. I liked how natural the actor was, how his character evolved, how much chemistry he had with everyone. he was a true friend, and a smart, funny and kind person who stayed true to himself. The actor did a great job and I hope to see him in other dramas as the main character.
3 The young leads. They were so talented and so cute. One of my favorite arts of the drama. The chemistry that the main couple lacked was present with the young leads and hat made all the difference. kudos to both of them.
4 The sketches at the end of each episode. They were so well done and one of the best parts of the drama. I caught myself waiting for them at the end of the episode and I loved almost all the scenes they chose. Good job.
5 The high school part. I don't know why everyone wanted them to move to the adult era. Yes I wanted that too, but I wasn't in a hurry. I loved everything about their high school days. They were at their best, all of them, and their friendship shone through. I loved their interactions at school and outside and how they were there for each other. Honestly after finishing the drama, I think this was the only thing that was worth it. I wish they had kept the same quality for the adult era, but for me it went downhill.
6 The relationship between the FL and her brother. It was great to see them bickering but also support each other. I loved particularly the high school era although it was still fine later when they were adults. Both had chemistry and conveyed well the siblings banter and love. One of my favorite parts of the drama.
7 The leaf scene. It was cute and romantic and meaningful and one of my favorites.
Things I loved
1 The FL. She is beautiful, adorable and I'm sure she'll have a great career. I haven't seen yet in any other dramas, I don't watch historical dramas, and I hope she does more modern dramas with better scripts and more chemistry with her partner. I still loved her even though I think in the adult era her character was quite dull and annoying even. I loved her a child and as a teenager. She did a great job to convey who she was and honestly she was a great person. She lost me when she was adult because I didn't see any of her genius characteristics and she even became stupid. I hated her inner thoughts about love, her inability to get what she felt etc. It was like they changed her for someone dumb.
2 The parents of the FL. They were good people and good parents. It was good to see such a different way of parenting than the stupid parents of Bai Hu. I enjoyed their family vibe.
3 Fu Xuan. I had seen the actor in Shine on Me and unlike others didn't hate his character. I got him, but the actor himself didn't impress me. Here he was good though. It suited him to play a lighter character, although still serious. He was probably the most adult when they were at school and later. I liked how he resolved his rivalry with the ML. There was no need for drama and I was happy with it. I was also happy he remained friends with all of them. I never wanted him with the FL, but I didn't want him to go away either, so in my book this is a good thing. It means the actor did a good job. I wish he found someone as well, but well, I want to imagine he will.
4 Ze Qiu. The brother of the FL. The actor was cute and he conveyed a lot of warmth and also cheekiness as the brother of a genius. I loved watching his scenes and I wanted him to succeed and find his path. I was happy about his relationship as well, although he lost me a bit when he confessed and when he decided to marry so soon after he feigned a relationship with his future wife. It didn't sit well with me and I didn't feel it was earned. Also it didn't work for the character. I still loved him.
5 Ting Ting. She was one of my favorite characters, especially in high school. The actress is beautiful and talented and I loved her as adult as well. She was successful and hard working and a good friend. I was hoping for her to be in love with Qi Yan and they had great chemistry, although once again I found them more natural in high school. I hope the actress finds a role she will shine in as main lead.
Things I liked
1 Bai Hui. The actress did a good job and she is beautiful and talented. She frustrated me a lot though and I wish she was bolder and stand up to her parents sooner. When she did, she ddin'0t a good job either, she just tried to smooth things and that annoyed me. She should be her own woman and tell them the truth that they were terrible parents instead of crying and lamenting about how they suffered.
Although I was all in for her to be with Ze Qiu, and they were cute sometimes, the whole thing wasn't as goods as I was hoping when they made it clear they'd end up together in the high school part. I was hoping for more romance and cute moments. Also It would be great if they gave us more scenes with her and the whole band in high school and take the time to make the transition from enemies to friends smoother between her and the FL.
2 The ML. I didn't love him or his character but I liked him enough. I don't know what to think of the actor. I've seen him in other dramas and I always felt he could do better. Here, though, I'm not sure he could. He didn't pull off the high school part, but would? He doesn't look like a teenager, I think he looks older than he is even, and don't start me on the hair. Awful is the best I can say.
That said, I loved his character in high school. I didn't mind at all the competition, and his relationship with the FL as friends was believable. My issues are with the adult era. I disliked the arc they gave him. Not endearing to me, rather frustrating and the only thing I liked was his long hair. They gave him an edge that was welcome because the actor looks boring and bland to be honest.
Things I disliked
1 The whole wedding theme with Bai Hui and Ze Qiu. I love that ended up together and they were a great match, but honestly that part was cringe and made me roll my yes. Why would you go down that path when they were so many much more romantic and natural ways to show they were in love and ready to move forward. I would get it if all Chinese dramas were like this and it was a cultural thing but it's not the case, so I just don't get this kind of writing.
They didn't even kiss and suddenly they plan a wedding? Who the heck does that? And the whole time he was talking without looking at her and it was so maddening. I loved his character but this was too much and illogical. Sorry. This drama started so well and then added a bunch of stupid things that ruined it in some way. Such a shame.
2 The lack of chemistry between the leads. Unfortunately, I didn't feel any romantic chemistry between them. There was some as friends but nothing extraordinary either. He was looking too old for her and they had more a sibling vibe. I was happy before the drama started, I thought they would be great together, but I was quite disappointed.
3 The lack of romance. I thought the director did a terrible job in the romance department. It wasn't only the lack of chemistry between the leads, it was the whole thing. The confessions felt flat, with a small exception that between Qi Yan and Ting Ting. It was the only one that felt somewhat natural and even this wasn't earned. There were some terrible kisses, although a few decent as well. The narration of the love story between the leads felt flat and didn't steer any emotion in me. I wish we had more time to enjoy the relationship between Qi Yan and Ting Ting. All in all, a disappointing part of the drama. Even the wedding proposal felt flat to me.
4 The romantic interests for both Ting Ting and Qi Yan. They were useless and didn't add anything to the story.
5 The patient story. The actress was beautiful and the story touching, but honestly it wasn't what I wanted in this drama. The ending made things worse. I shed a tear or two, but it still didn't make me like the whole arc.
Things I hated
1 The scene of episode 25 where she goes to ask why her heart races etc. Oh, my God. I mean, I get it. It was supposed to be cute but it made me mad. The dumping down was so insane I curded the writer and the director. Not the fault oft he actors, but what the hella was that? She may not be experienced and yes, there are naïve 22 year old girls, and I was one, but come on. Don't take us for fools. She can handle so many difficult situations at work and with her friends, but she can't imagine why her heart races? Give me a break. It wasn't cute, it was cringe as hell and honestly I changed my rating from 8.5 to 8.
I give everyone the benefit of the doubt until you take me for a fool. The discussion with Ting Ting and her advise was fine and it could be funny, but the whole thing was so stupid that I didn't even enjoy that. Then she continued to behave like an idiot and sorry but being a genius doesn't mean you don't get basic things. She was like possessed with the sprite of idiocy. It was so annoying.
2 Bai Hui's parents. What despicable people. I'm not sure what to say about them other than they were the biggest hypocrites ever and the worst parents. I didn't agree with what they said once and it was so obvious that the only thing that mattered to them was to control their daughter. I know there are parents like them in real life, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating. I hated them with all my being and wish I could make them disappear every time they were on the screen. Stupid effing idiots.
I hated that they tried to give them excuses and to redeem them. What the effing hell? Why would they do that? Didn't they see how their daughter suffered? Give me a break. I wasn't a genius, but I come from a modest family and my parents wished we all go to university and have a better life than them.
Guess what? I went and obtained two university diplomas and a doctorate. I speak five languages and I chose my life. My two sisters didn't study after high school, and same for my older brother. My younger brother studied a lot of things that he liked and he can do anything he puts his mind into. Not once they treated us differently. I wasn't any better because I went to university and we were praised for the same things. Kindness, generosity and uniqueness. We were also scolded for the same things. Stubbornness, intolerance, laziness.
That's what good parenting is. You give your children everything they need to choose their path, and you love them equally, no matter what path they choose as long as they are kind and tolerant people.
So, yes I hated the way they tried to pass their attitude as normal. Hurting your children because you failed is the worst you can do as a human being. So no good will toward them from me and Bai Hu should have told off them earlier and not accept to be scolded for being herself even in the last episodes and when she was an adult.
3 The ring the ML chose. One of the ugliest I've ever seen. Enough to feel the urge to mention it. The ad was cringe but the ring itself awful.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Comedy, Romance and a Social Commentary. Just perfect.
Things I adored1 The ML. I have no idea why anyone would thing he can't act. Same as with the FL, I can't imagine anyone play the role as well. I felt everything he felt so he must have done a good job. I never doubted his feelings for the FL and his character was a green flag from start to finish. He's handsome, sure, one of the most attractive people in the world if you ask me. That wasn't the reason I loved him. It was because he made the character alive and he loved the FL. He was always on the right side and did everything he could to protect her without hurting her. The break up was stupid, I'll give you that, but it was also logical. As the FL said, he was more miserable being alone spending his says in a foreign country at a hospital. I can't find any faults to the actor and the character. I wish I could rewatch the drama from the start and feel again everything. I will one day for sure, and I will look for other dramas with the ML.
2 The FL. She was perfection. I can't imagine anyone play the part that well, whether it was as a beautiful girl or as a less beautiful. To me she was beautiful anyway. She is a good actress. I didn't like her other dramas, not her specifically. She did a good job anyway. it's just that in this one she make me laugh and cry and care. I wanted her to be happy, I wanted her to be successful, I wanted her to have friends and be free from her burdens. I was with her from the first minute to the last. I was irritated by some romantic scenes that didn't go as far as I was expecting and wanting, but all in all she nailed every aspect of her role.
The role itself is one to stay with you. Who didn't experience some kind of bullying in their life? I consider bullying the unkind words, the snide comments, even her mother's behavior. So every time she suffered I wanted her to rebel and hit back. In some way she did and that is what I loved in her character. She was strong, she suffered, but didn't let them win. She did a great job when she cried, when she played cute, when she played innocence... I have nothing negative to say about the actress or the role. Great job and I wish she find such a good role again.
3 The relationship between the ML and the 2ML. This is how you give viewers something to love. You start at point 1 and naturally get to 10 without it feeling forced just to advance the story. I hated the 2ML at first and eagerly waited for the day the ML would fight back so I could see his fall. Then I started seeing who they really were, glimpsing their past and friendship, and my heart began to mellow.
Both boys were victims of fate, stupid decisions they had nothing to do with, and life. Still, I never expected to love their bromance so much. I was just as happy for their relationship as I was for the romance. I truly wish there had been a follow-up. Their relationship was so well done that you couldn't help wanting them to be friends again. Seeing them slowly start to trust each other again was incredibly heartwarming, not to mention all their funny moments.
The actors did a fantastic job, probably the best I've seen in a series with this kind of relationship. I have to praise the screenwriter and director again for their attention to detail and the way they conveyed all those feelings. This was one of my favorite parts of the series, along with the main couple's romance.
4 The 2ML. Where do I start? I don't have 2ML syndrome. Never. I can't remember a 2ML ever being my favorite; I'm always with the ML. Same here, I never wavered. That said, he's my favorite 2ML ever—not because of the FL alone, but because of his character and evolution.
I understood everything he went through: the dark phase with the suicide and blaming the ML, his feelings for the FL and realizing he'd never be the one, then struggling to move on and find another way to be happy. I fell for him every step of the way. Among the hundreds of characters I've watched, he's the one I'd most want to see happy.
At first, I wanted to smack him because I knew he was unfair to the ML, but little by little he became that perfect friend you just want to hug and make the pain go away. He cared for and protected the FL, stayed with her when she needed him, and pushed her toward her happiness. The staircase scene broke my heart. When he told her to run if she wanted to catch the ML before he left, my heart bled for him. Even his memories of the FL hurt. He was caring, honest, smart, and funny. He would be the perfect ML—just not here.
I loved how he stood up to the bullies and the "friend," even when the FL knew nothing about it. He handled the confession perfectly too. If the writer ever gives him a story where he finds love, I'll be the happiest. The actor did a fantastic job and deserves praise for making me fall in love with a character I hated at first.
5 The main couple. I know I've already talked about them, but after watching hundreds of dramas, I have to give their relationship a separate entry because I rank them in my top 3 without a doubt. They were perfect for each other. Even when they were at odds in the first episodes, watching them interact was a delight.
I'll be honest: the kisses didn't mesmerize me. I expected better. They weren't terrible, but they weren't up to the quality of the drama. That's my only complaint. Everything else was perfect—the little details, the way they looked at each other, smiled, held hands, got jealous, teased each other. Their chemistry was unparalleled.
I wish they'd do another drama together. My heart fluttered the most because they were the same age, so everything felt natural and rewarding. The fact that he knew about her made me feel she finally had someone in her corner. When he protected her at school, my heart exploded. This is how you create swoon-worthy moments that stay with you.
They're one of my favorite couples, along with You're My Lover Friend, The Love You Give Me, and Love Is Sweet. I loved the couple in Hidden Love, but the age issue always made it feel less perfect. Here, it was perfect from start to finish. Definitely one of my favorites.
6 The relationships. I loved each relationship in this drama. I mentioned most of them in other entries, but there are still some I need to highlight. The relationship between the three friends, the ML, the 2ML and their friend who died. It was so heartwarming to see, I loved every scene they were together. The relationship between the main couple of course, between the sisters, between the two ML, between the the 2ML and hi sister, and here I want to mention his mom as well. She was there for a few scenes but they were so well done and so real. The friendships at school and the relationship of he parents of the FL with the Ml and the teacher. The relationship between the owner of the comic book store and the FL and the ML. As I said all were done in such a good way I couldn't help loving them. Even the less prominent characters had their shining moments.
7 The humor. I didn't expect to laugh so much, but although there was a heavy topic touched the interactions between the characters were so funny sometimes that it lightened the whole heavy feeling that weighed on you seeing what was happening. There were so many moments, but randomly: the wedding, the dumplings preparation from the two ML, the friends of the ML and the 2Ml teasing them, the teacher and his difficulty to deal with his fierce girlfriend. They even managed to make cute and funny the drunk scene with the ML. I hate drinking and the culture of it, but he was so cute and the dialogue so funny.
But the humor was also in the exaggeration like when the 2Ml talked about himself, or the scene the father saw them kissing at the ML?s house, or the hospital scenes between the ML and the 2ML. Another one with the ghost story as well as the hiding of the FL at the hospital. I'm sure I forget a lot, but all on all it was a fun drama and as I said I didn't expect that.
8 The details. What made me adore this drama are the details. The screenwriter and the director don't leave anything that they don't put care in. from their past to the connection to the future, the first snow story, the scenes they chose to show how their love for the FL grew or how the FL felt, everything is quasi perfect. My heart felt everything every time. The way they ended together in bed, the way every episode ends, the way the relationships are repaired or break. Everything is meticulously done. I loved that they didn't kiss while he was drunk and they made love after a few hours had gone by.
9 The ending. I think I read that some found the ending rushed or didn't like it. I thought it was perfect. We had time to tie all loose ends and we had enough time with the main couple to be happy for them and with them. The wedding, the friendships all was there. Most of all we had the chance to see the 2MLwith the FL and with the ML and feel that everything will go well. Was it also heartbreaking for the 2ML? Of course, but it couldn't finish any other way. I loved the comic book store scenes, it was the perfect way to end it for the main couple. I also loved that we saw them, well, saw is a big word, but we imagined them making love. To me it would be unfinished if they wouldn't act this way after so many years in love. So to me it was the perfect ending. I would rank it on the top 3 of all the endings I've watched and I watched a lot.
Things I loved
1 The premise. I thought it'd be difficult to make it work, but I was so wrong. They did a fabulous job. Everyone played so well their part that it was believable and got me laugh, cry, yell. I felt everything they wanted to convey in each and every scene and to be honest I don't remember any other series that made me feel so different emotions and so deep. Kudos to the writer, the screenwriter, the director and the cast. I wish I could start over.
2 The sister. At first, she got on my nerves but little by little I loved her. The actress is beautiful and she truly embodied the character. I won't deny that some scenes irritated me, especially those that had to do with drinking, but at the end of the day, she was a good person. A good sister, a smart and dynamic career woman and she had principles. There's nothing really that could make me dislike her. I loved that she was different from all Kheroines, but also different from her sister. It was interesting to see the dynamic.
3 The brother. Another character who irritated me at first and whom I loved in the end. That's something the screenwriter needs to be praised. That all the characters show growth. He was funny and touching and it was sweet to watch him interact with the 2ML's sister. I also loved his relationship with the FL. He got me in tears a few times when she was suffering and he was there for her any way he could.
4 The school days. It was interesting and well done. From bromances to female friendships and from teacher student relationships to romantic relationships, every bit helped paint a canvas that was interesting and vibrant. I loved every interaction happening at school even when it was heartbreaking because that's what gave the series its value.
5 The sister of the 2ML. Although she didn't have many scenes, she was great in these. I loved how naturally she came to interact with the FL and of course her relationship with her brother. I also loved how she was with the FL's brother and how they left things, it was cute and logical at the same time and I loved that they didn't force any romance. We can leave it to our imagination.
6 The wedding of the sister of the FL. Oh, my god, it was over the top but so funny. I can't believe the things that happened. So ridiculous and at the same time so well done and fitted to the tone of the series and the character of the bride. The bride was also very beautiful and the kiss scene the cherry on the top.
7 That they didn't follow the novel to the letter. I never read the novel but it seems that the FL dates the 2ML when the ML is abroad. Thank goodness they didn't go there. I would have hated that. They gave us enough interactions to make us feel for the 2ML without crossing a line. I know in real life things could go otherwise, but I'm not watching dramas with romance to experience real life. Give me realistic scenes for everything except romance. I want the romance to be ideal and make my heart flutter. That's all. I loved the 2ML but if they had kissed or dated I'd be devastated, so thank you to those who decided against it.
Things I liked
1 The mother of the FL. I won't lie, for at least half the episodes I wanted to smack her. I understood her problems with her husband, but what did that have to do with the children, especially the FL? I felt so sorry for her having such an abrasive mother. But they did a great job redeeming her. She also had some funny scenes. That said, she irritated me so many times that I can't say I loved her. I liked her, though.
2 The father of the FL. Honestly, he must be one of the characters I don't know how to rate. He loved his children and was a decent person. Then again, he caused so many issues for his family, it's a miracle he could stay. I loved his interactions with the FL and his other children, and the funny moments with the ML when he stayed at his house. He was a decent person, and that counts. I wish we could have seen some success for him, but well, this stayed realistic.
3 The relationship of the sister of the FL and the teacher. It wasn't perfect, but it had its moments, and it was sweet how lost he was when he met her. I loved that he accepted her and didn't try to change her. I loved that both were ready to work on their differences, and there were many instances when this happened. Some were touching, some funny, but so good to see.
4 The friendship between the FL and Su Jin. That's a tough one because there were things I loved and things I hated, so I'll go with the middle. I wasn't happy with how their relationship evolved. I was fuming and wanted the FL to never speak to that "friend" again. But it wasn't in the FL's character to hold a grudge forever, so staying true to who she was, she had to forgive her. I wouldn't. I can't forget the pain the FL went through because of her jealousy, and even her abusive father doesn't make me forget or forgive.
That said, I was happy to see her apologize and turn a new leaf. Seeing the three friends reunite was touching, but I couldn't help thinking I'd do exactly what the FL did, and that leaves me with a bitter taste. You can't break someone's heart and expect everything to remain intact.
Things I disliked
1 The father of the ML. I was happy for him to get closer to his father, but to be honest to me it felt more like the character of the father was there to serve for the breakup and the suicide story. Did I mind? No, not really. It was well done and not so on the nose so it was good. It just wasn't rewarding that in the end he paid, but the ML also paid. Why would he have to upend his life for a father who was never the father he deserved?
Things I hated
1 The bullying. That was hard. It's such a hard topic for me I had trouble watching some scenes. But it was also good to remember what students all over the world go though. I wish the teachers had more to say about it and I wish the stupid students who perpetrated that paid one way or another. They got off unscathed other than the scolding and threatening from the 2ML. He was great, but it wasn't enough for me. These girls never learned a lesson and seeing they continued to harass the transferring student even later in the drama was frustrating to say the least. I wanted to kick their behind so badly. So sensitive topic, dealt quite well, but not deep enough.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
How to ruin a decent plot
Things I loved1 The premise. It had so many possibilities. It didn't deliver on any.
2 Kim Young Dae. He didn't have much to do but he was good especially in the action scenes.
Things I disliked
1 The Ml. Not because of his character, that's a given but I didn't care for the actor either.
2 The introduction of stupid plots and characters no body cared about.
Things I hated
1 The FL. What an awful actress. She earned an award for that. What? Because she had no expression it was considered good acting? Let's be real. She's not a good actress and the character she played was also awful. She faked that she didn't know her stupid husband cheated until the end and that's ticked me off. She was either a fake manipulative person or a morn. Why should I care for any of these? She thought she was too smart. She was ridiculous. At the end of the day I think this was just a parody. Not a good one, but better than take it as a real plot. The egg line sealed it for me. No one would ever say that with a straight face. The ending as well was a given that this was a parody.
2 The ending. I wasted my time for this? So meta, not, so stupid, so manipulative.
3 The whole divorce and political plots. The characters were the worst and I didn't care for any of these. Happy though for the divorce. But they left so many things unanswered I feel like it was disrespectful to the viewer.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Uplifting, Refreshing, Realistic, Heartbreaking
Things I adored1 The FL. She was perfection. She was her own woman. A strong woman who doesn't let anyone dictate her life. The world needs more people like her. I grew up in a small rural community. I know too well the struggles and how difficult it is to be your own person and shut out the noise. Everyone has an opinion, everyone is meaning well. At the end of the day no one lives your life. Her character is wonderful. From start to finish her strength is the highlight of the series.
2 The grandma. Such a great character. You don't expect her to be that progressive, that independent, that wise. My grandma was a strong woman with a sense of humor and she had only one rule. He grandchildren were not to be bullied by anyone. I miss her 20 years later like she left yesterday. I miss her arms around me, her unconditional love. It hit me hard this series because of the relationships between the characters.
3 The relationship with the father. I had a father who always told me I trust you to do the right thing. Even when we weren't on the same page, he never wavered his support. I realize how rare and how lucky it is to have that kind of parents. never take for granted your parents and your family. I miss him every day. I cried a lot at that last scene between the FL and her father. It was so well done, so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.
4 The scenery. It was breathtaking. I grew up in the mountains and in the city. I'm a sea girl over and over. Which shows that it doesn't matter where you grow up, your heart wants what it wants. But these landscapes were gorgeous. You dream of waking up every day with that view stretching out your window.
Things I loved
1 The FL family. Frustrating at times, but the family dynamic was realistic and tug in my heart so many times. Great depiction of how complicate family relationships can be. But you know if you have the chance to have that kind of family that love is what gets you through.
2 That she got a career. I hate series that pass the message that having a personal life, a family life and a career is incompatible. I loved that the FL was strong enough to no care and follow her path. It was great to see her succeed.
3 Her friends and cousins. Another support system that everyone needs in life. Again when you have it, don't take it for granted.
Things I liked
1 That the two grandfathers got to reconcile and started a new chapter. It can only be good for the little one and there's never enough love out there for children. Not a bad ending for them.
Things I disliked
1 The behavior of the ML. I could say hated it but I won't. because he was immature, but he wasn't a bad person. I know there are arguments to make about it, but to me, he was more immature than anything else. I don't dislike that he left pursuing his dreams. I think that was the right outcome. I have no doubt the screenwriter wanted to pass a message. That he'll be back a different person. Someone worthy of his child. Is it fair for the FL? No, of course not. She stays and he can live his life free from any constraints. But that's only one part of the story. What good would it be to have someone miserable and spineless and immature in your life? Better give time to time and let him grow up. No resentment, just a wise decision many should follow. Don't accept less than what you worth in life. Better alone than in bad company. So I'm quite happy with his arc.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
I was expecting much more
Things I adored1 The first poster I saw. I thought, that's my kind of rom com. I thought to be honest that they would live in different apartments, and I was pleasantly surprised to find out they were living together. I think it would be great if they lived as neighbors, but here we had more chances for bickering and romantic moments. So the premise was great for me and I was excited to watch it.
Things I loved
1 The ML. First of all, I find him handsome and that always plays a positive role to me when the series is a rom com. I have seen him before in Filter and I liked him, but the FL wasn't good enough for me, so it influenced his performance as well. Here, I found him much more handsome. I tried to watch the Love Me, Love My Voice, and he was gorgeous, but unfortunately the series didn't work for me because of the FL. So this is the first series where I liked both leads and him in particular.
He nailed the arrogant but kind lead, and honestly if not for him this would be a dull drama. I loved the banter and I loved his character. He was never truly mean or truly spoiled. He made the effort to change and he changed. Yes he did sometimes small things that could be interpreted as such, but he was the perfect tenant at the end of the day. He never took advantage of the FL, he paid for everything she did and it was part of his growth arc. He was always there for her. He brought a lot to his character with his acting and I loved him.
I loved how smart and hardworking and honest he was in every aspect of his life. Yes, he kept something important from the FL, but let's be serious, it was nothing that had any negative impact on her. I want also to add that he can kiss.
2 The father of the ML. He was a decent person and I was happy to see the the ML and him have a good relationship. I didn't find the actor particularly good, though.
3 The father of the FL. What a kind, understanding father. I wish he had more scenes.
Things I liked
1 The FL. So, this is difficult for me to write because I thought she would be great in this role, and she wasn't. What went wrong? Quite a few things. Let's start with the trivial. I didn't like at all her hair. It was always unkept and not in good way. The color didn't work, it made her look older than she is, and that bothered me during the whole series. This is the second drama I watched with her, and in the How dare you? she was gorgeous. So I expected her to be beautiful here as well. But the hair didn't do her any favors. I think it should be much lighter. Even worse, she was dressed as a 40 year old suburban housewife. I can't describe how much I hated her outfits. I probably liked two in the whole series, and just liked them. I didn't love any of her outfits and clothes are important to me in a rom com. The ML had some debatable outfits as well. But mostly he was dressed quite well. I hated that her friend and the ML talked about it and yet she never changed to a better way to dress.
These were the trivial reasons I didn't love her, but there were many others. Her character in the first episodes put me off. I though I had been transported back in the fifties. Who the heck thinks the way she thought? She got on my nerves a lot during these episodes and I was truly happy she broke up. Not because she deserved someone better, but to see her eat her words. Never a good sign to start with disliking one of the leads.
Her character was equally bad in the last episodes. I particularly hated the discussion with the father of the ML where she corrected him about living together with he ML like she was a 16 year schoolgirl, when she was in a relationship before and we saw her with the ML at the hotel. Stupid, illogical dialogue that made me dislike her.
Same illogic decision to sell the apartment and then act high and mighty when he complained. I'm not sure what happened to the screenwriters, but they surely made a mess of the last episodes. Her work attitude bothered me as well. A doormat, and to be honest she changed a bit too late for me. Then, there was her attitude in general. Sometimes she was bitchy, especially in the last episodes and that ruined a bit the series for me. I didn't get why she was like that. He never did anything to deserve that kind of coldness. The banter they had at first gave place to cold and detached comments I didn't appreciate. It's like the screenwriter lost the plot. It felt like she didn't care about him, and he was the only one to make any effort.
I have a lot more to say about her character. She had some great moments where she teased him , or when she laughed with his antics, but there weren't enough of these moments to make up for the lack of swooning moments. There were not enough kisses, not enough heartfelt moments, not enough chemistry in the end.
So, although I can't say I disliked her, I didn't love her. I though she was bitchy without reason, cold without reason, and that she looked so much older than him bothered me a lot. It felt like she didn't put much effort to be honest. Even in the last episode, when she talked with his father she came off as arrogant and bitchy than funny and witty. I regret another actress didn't have the role. I'd love a remake with a new actress. I have quite a few I think would be better playing the part.
2 The friends. Both were good friends, but I didn't care really for any of these. Yao Jing Jing was a bit much sometimes and although I find the actress good and gorgeous, she didn't have a lot to go here. Dang Yu wasn't interesting enough to me and I didn't care much about her love story.
Things I disliked
1 The secondary couples. I didn't care about any of their relationships.
2 The 2MLeads. Both were uninteresting to me and I fast forwarded their appearances after episode 20.
3 The mother of the 2ML. Yes, she was intrusive and have no patience for that kind of sticky mothers.
4 The ex. AI apart, he was an awful actor and his character was nonsensical. We never saw him have any growth and maybe it was the voice they used but it was so unnatural to listen to him that it was creepy.
5 The ex of the ML. I'm not sure why she was there in the last episodes. She was an idiot and we didn't need her to be part of the story anymore. Stupid if you ask me.
5 The FL superior. Yes, she was an ambitious woman who lost her way but what I didn't like was the way the FL looked up at her and forgave her. Why the heck? She was a greedy, immoral woman who tried to undermine the ML. Another reason I disliked the FL.
Things I hated
1 It wasn't romantic enough. It didn't deliver what the poster and the premise promised. No swoony moments, not enough chemistry. Apart for a few moments, it was bland in the romance department. The proposal was another dark moment. The ring was gorgeous, the proposal itself awful. Why did I went through 36 episodes? For that? Not even a kiss. Give me a break.
Was this review helpful to you?
