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The picky and smitten Crown Prince and his personal chef turned Crown Princess | WXYs so adorable!
I can't think of any other way to start this review aside from talking about the most controversial aspect of this story—which is the ending; so here you go.Honestly, I am not sure where to direct my frustrations towards the ending of this drama to...should it be to Ling Xiao Xaio (FL) or the writer and director?
The story was going smoothly not until it reached ep. 10-11 that parts of it started becoming more and more questionable—LXX not knowing that getting into a relationship with the Crown Prince can result to her becoming the Crown Princess or Concubine is absolutely ridiculous to me. I know that she's inexperience and naive when it comes to love and the whole romance thing but isn't it common knowledge that you'll end up as one if you ever get tangled with the Crown Prince? Like make it make sense to me why she doesn't realize that despite him mentioning it on his very 1st confession? Seriously! ><
Also, her rebuttal of "But I am just a Chef" whenever she's facing the "Being in a relationship with the Crown Prince means you'll automatically be the Crown Princess" is pure madness to me. Like, Girl!? Do you need a wake up slap or something?—Yes, you indeed are!! But, it's the Crown Prince who you are being lovey dovey with and not just some random commoner, so there are most certainly consequences along with it!
Lastly (for this section of my review cause I want to talk about the good aspects of the story after this), what's with the dual ending? That was just so random from this production really... They created all the drama only to show us that LXX actually chose the latter option and ended up having the opposite life of what was initially presented. I myself got it, at the very least, since I am so used to trivialities of c-dramas but still, why? What for?
Moving forward... One thing I adored and enjoyed about this drama is their playful yet excellent presentation of the cooking process and the people's reaction whenever they're eating LXX dishes. The animated effects and facial expressions were extreme yet doesn't look cringy to me. In fact it contributed a lot to the overall charm of the drama.
Their eloquence and smart choice of words in terms of describing the taste of the dishes were also satisfying that it made me drool and even more hungry while watching it. I should really learn from them in regards to utilizing my adjectives. Haha!
Phasing - The sequencing and variety of different events each episode were impressive. It gave the characters significant amount of time to show off their individual personality and appeal. It also makes the storyline compact because we get a decent screentime for each of the events that made the story coherent and doesn't felt rushed.
Another thing I love about this drama is its overall theme revolving around positivity, kindness and self-worth. This is one of the main reason why I have let them slide in terms of their audacious representation and blatant act of breaking palace norms and etiquettes—well aside from the fact that this is an Idol drama and some aspects should've been expected to be like that. Hehe!
Lastly, I just want to mention how I appreciate both of the main leads. I love LXX bright and wise personality. An extremely capable and wonderful woman. + Getting to watch Wang Xing Yue in this innocent and lively role during the early years of his acting career makes me elated.
Story - 9.5, Although the last 5 episodes made me feel bored watching it, I just cannot deny the fact that it was actually a pretty good drama overall. The ending wasn't bad either. My issues is with LXX, the writer and director alone.
Acting/Cast - 10, I'm truly satisfied with all the cast, more so, their acting. It was on point and I never feel bothered about anyone during my whole watch experience. Gotta give it to WXY though, for nailing his character so hard!
Music - 10, Straight up perfection! I really love all the music used in this drama. I love how they corresponds to the scenes they're used to and I love how fun and exciting they all sounded.
Rewatch Value - 9.0, I love it a lot but I just don't see myself watching it from the very 1st episode to the last. I would surely watch some of WXH cute and adorable moments in this drama though.
Overall - 9.5, This being an Idol drama is one of the reason why I was way more lenient to it than usual. However, I also don't want to ignore and diminish the fact that this drama do really have such a good story which is the main reason why I am giving it such a high rating despite my mini-complain above. It was overall a good and enjoyable drama to watch.
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We grow & prosper with the right person | A Mellow & Wholesome school romance drama like no others!
Ding Xian, if I hadn't had you in my life, I wouldn't be the person I am now - Zhou Si YueI don't know how and where to start with this review, but... I just wanna let people know that this is not your usual clichė school romance drama. For some reason, even when the leads look young and innocent they were able to pull their characters with utmost precision and conviction. I guess the saying "Looks can be deceiving" fits these sets of actors the best.
If there's one thing I wanna address as early as now, it's probably how amazing this story executed different types of Parenting. At first, I really hated Ding Xian's mom for being pretentious and control freak but as the story progresses, I realized that she was made like that to show us how a normal citizen more so a Mother survive in this kind of society. It's a representation that all the tough and strict treatment we received from our parents growing up are some of their techniques in giving us lessons and protection. And it was also their way to obtain assurance and peace of mind that we're doing fine outside of their eyesights.
In terms of story progression... I would say that this production has done it magnificently. It has different phases and stages but something I truly look up to them is how they kept the characters rational and mature almost 95% of the time. I can't even remember a single moment when I got aggravated for extreme ridiculousness from any of the cast. This is something worthy to be mentioned because it's really rare for a drama not to use those ludicrous plot devices to heighten up the show. I genuinely respect and admire them for that.
When it comes to the love story and overall romance... I would say that I'm exceptionally satisfied on how they deal with the Main leads. Both Ding Xian & Zhou Si Yue already have a foundation and I was glad that they were able to utilize it to expound more on how mature and logical they are in handling their relationship. In terms of Song Zi Qi & Kong Sha Di's love story... I guess, I should already be thankful that they were still featured quite a bit during their University days and even got a spotlight for themselves during their own conflicts. Which is way better in comparison on how Jiang Chen & You Ke Ke got offscreened for the rest of the 2nd half of the show. Dang! We only see them once during the Spring break reunion and the rest are just update of them getting engaged and pregnant. Tragic!
Also, I wanna commend this story for not entirely destroying any of the characters. I find it fascinating how they can keep on being considerate and civil even to those who treat them badly. Like how? I really need to learn that. Cause I tend to always retaliate back once offended. Hahaha! Kidding aside, I'm just really pleased on how Su Bu Cong turned out to be after getting a bit misdirected to the wrong path. I mean, among all the characters, he's that one person I can't afford to witness go astray. Cause he-is-that-FINE! and I'm glad they never taint that good aura and reputation of him.
Lastly, cinematography, design and color scheme really brought this dramas mood and ambiance in a completely different level. They may have enriched some of the colors and design but it never, even once, hurt the overall quality of the drama. I'd say It even accentuated the hidden charms of this production as a whole.
P.S. Aside from Si Yue & Bu Cong's cute rivalry. One thing that really left an impression in me are the words from Si Yue's father.
"Not the right time? When is the right time?" - Zhou Zong Tang
Story - 10, I honestly even tried 'quite hard' to find faults and something dislikeable about this drama so that I can give it a 9.5 at best but the way they delivered and executed the whole story left me no windows to put my criticisms on. I can't say it's flawless but it has that aura and vibe where you just can't be audacious as to criticize it in any way or form. It was well-created and properly put together. A School romance that's far ahead compared to those tiring overly clichėd ones we're all used to.
Acting/Cast - 10, Spectacular and perfect choice of Artists! Aside from Chen Zhe Yuan, I was really worried about the rest of the cast since I'm not really familiar with them but their performances proved me wrong. They played their roles very well and I never really felt any awkwardness watching any of them. And as I mentioned above... Even when they all look young, their acting and aura tells me otherwise. They're professional actors/actresses who were chosen for their specific roles because they deserved it.
Music - 10, Entirely addicting and satisfying. It has that emotional and sentimental impact. At first, I was kind of indifferent towards the Opening OST but as time goes by, it became the emotional source/drive that made me so vulnerable and sensitive to every single moment. I swear! Be it romantic, happy, sad or emotional scene as long as you got that song playing on the background I'll immediately become a mess. Not to mention how equally good the other songs are.
Rewatch Value - 10, I'll take this section as if it's a question of whether I'll willingly recommend this to others or not. And of course, that's a YES! I will never regret watching this masterpiece and would love to see more people watch this as well. This is a timeless show that can really measure up to those popular dramas out there!
Overall - 10, Do I even need to explain why? This production exceeded my expectation and truly satisfies me a lot. My decision of watching another contemporary drama after a long while is really worth it. Not to mention that the last one I watched was Chen Zhe Yuan's Mr. Bad. Anyways, I'm really glad I picked this drama among my long drowning list of C-drama shows! Pick this and you'll never regret. I Promise!
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Story of how Liyan (father) & Taebong (Son) longed for their father's love, trust & acknowledgement.
This is a quest of a mischievous and intelligent boy in finding his biological father while going through a lot of things a kid seemed incapable to do just to meet, see and feel his father's presence and affection.This story is amazing! Although it showed some unpleasant actions such as hacking, lying and doing things without a parents concent. It also shows how capable a young and desperate kid can be. That they can go to lengths just to achieve their long desired dream.
I know it's my fault for watching and getting spoiled by almost half of the movie through Youtube clips but hell! I'm already in the verge of tears 5 minutes after it started. Just to witness a supposed worry-free kid inquiring and investigating about his own father hurt me so much. He was deprived of a complete family and have been yearning for one for years, to the point where he started to do his own research to get information about it and hopefully meet him.
"Mom, I wanna go home". - Go Taebong
This specific scene at the bridge part of the movie shattered my heart into millions of pieces. To see him begging and hoping to be with both of his parents is very painful to see. + My heart hurts whenever Liyan denies all of his touches and affection. It must've been extremely heartbreaking for a cheerful kid to be rejected and shoved away like that; When all he wanted is a fatherly love and a complete family to grant his highly anticipated wish.
It only shows how important a complete family support is to every children. They'll always seek for it no matter how much love they're receiving because of curiousity, longing and incompleteness.
Liyan's initial reaction is also understandable because who else in this world wouldn't feel buffled and indifferent towards someone you just met and is claiming to be your child? I know that he seemed really harsh and inconsiderate but I'm just grateful that he gradually loosened and warmed up towards Taebong and Miyeon.
I also appreciate how they took their time to show us Liyan's willingness to do his duty to Taebong and hopefully he can start "Making Family" with the 3 of them.
The highlight of the film is the parcel sent at the end to Liyan which contained the compiled and perfectly edited video clips taken by taebong during his whole quest in finding his father. That was the most heartwarming moment of all.
Lastly, The plagiarism issue doesn't seemed to make sense at first but it turned out to be one of the most important devices set up to mend Liyan and his father's relationship. The scene where Zhou Muxeng watch Liyan's artwork and finally stood up for him in the press conference truly touches my heart. Parental love is truly unconditional. No matter how old and accomplished someone is, we all need and yearn for it.
Story - 10, This is one of the most heartwarming movie I've watched this year and the most heartbreaking as well. I cried so much watching it but I never regret every single milisecond spent on it. It was like a treasure I luckily found after all these years. I'm overly elated and satisfied with this story.
Acting - 9.5, I was flabbergasted on how Moon Mason greatly executed his character by pouring so much genuine emotion in playing this tough role. I was speechless and is completely astonished of him the entire show. Aarif Rahman is spectacular as well and I never find any flaws in his acting. He's just great in terms of facial control and overall body movements. The main reason I gave such rating is mainly because of Kim Haneul... I don't know if it's with the dubbing, but... her acting just doesn't feel natural to me. She has this unsettled and awkward expression when executing her scenes which I find lacking.
Music - 10, I love the opening and ending music of the movie as well as the casual and soothing background sound/tune they used in every scene. I just appreciate how they never overdone anything. Specially the sad/sorrowful scenes. I badly wanna deduct a .5 for the horrible dubbing to Mason & Haneul but I feel like it's kinda reasonable since they're koreans trying to speak chinese. So I'll let it pass.
Rewatch Value - 10, I would watch and recommend it to everyone a million times just to take a firm stand on how precious and beautiful this film is.
Overall - 10, I feel like giving it a lesser point is a big slander and insult. This is clearly one of those story that serves and hits all the right vulnerable spots. A story that tells us how important a whole family support and presence is to everyone; no matter how old or young they may be. This show deserves more love and support.
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Experience the warmth of a Family while savouring mouthwatering dishes.
I don't even know why I'm writing this but I guess I enjoyed the show so much to the point that I'm willing to make this review. Anyways, this will be as brief as possible so bear with me. (Unfortunately, It wasn't... Hahaha!)I actually only watched Episode 8-9 in which YoonA was in and I just can't help but to admire this show for being wholesome and just overly fun. The 'Family' vibe they've been constantly uttering like a slogan, at first, felt forced and generic to me but as you continue watching the show you'll start to feel the coziness and comfort they all have created.
Watching all these extremely busy artists go on a trip to just enjoy the scenery, eat delicious foods and share hearty laughs enriches my soul like a breath fresh air... therapeutic and freeing.
Although the 3 host have different vibes, they've surprisingly created this soothing chemistry that can make the guests at ease. Even with the seniority involved, you can just feel that they genuinely get along with each other.
Finally, the Guests... I feel like we've got 2 of the most nice and polite people come to this show. YoonA, despite the constant bias treatment and of course, as the only female on this program still blended in perfectly. Her synergy just worked out naturally with everyone. Kim Byungchul on the otherhand felt like the introverted and reserved member of the family. He loves to enjoy time by himself while still making sure that he got to bond with the rest of the members during the vital moments. I love his eye smile the most and would love to be someone like him in the future—finesse, soft-spoken and extremely peaceful person.
P.S. The Deer/Im Couple Siwan & YoonA made this show even more enjoyable for me. Love their casual and natural interactions and playfulness towards each other.
Story - 10, An enjoyable and ertertaining travelog that a Family should watch during their bonding time. It will surely keep you entertained the entire time.
Artists/Cast - 10, Perfect hosts with the most ideal guests. They genuinely felt like a family on a vacation trip. Chemistry is on point and full of warmth.
Music - 10, They nailed it! One thing I love about korean shows is how versatile and resourceful they are in choosing music that will fit the vibe of any program they're working in. It was done intricately and flawlessly.
Watch Value - 10, I certainly will! Specially when I wanna relax and just enjoy my time with a show that can provide me hearty laughs and mouthwatering foods.
Overall - 10, This show has the perfect recipe for having some of the best artists in the industry who are willing to bond and enjoy their precious time with each other while sharing some of the best and authentic dishes in the places they go in.
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Felt way too short for such a great story ♡
This series felt extra short simply because it is that GOOD! There are Short Series that makes me get bored even when it only has 10 minutes per episode but this piece is really cute and fun to watch that I was stucked on my seat the entire time.One thing I hate about this is that, It's too short! I mean I know that all of K-BL are like this but is it wrong to ask for more? HEHE
Anyways, I'm just proud that Korea is taking their time and doing it step by step in producing BL series. They're getting braver and courageous each passing year that they finally have Kissing Scenes in BL series these days.
Story - 9.5, The story may be short and too fast-paced and all that but i never felt like it lacks something. A well made series that was put together excellently.
Acting/Cast -9, The cast did great in delivering their respective roles and what surprise me is that majority of them are Idol turned actors. I never prejudice idols but they surprise me a lot since they seemed experienced in some ways.
Music - 10, Great choice of Music. Opening, Filler BGMs and even ending song is good. They did well choosing and matching the song to each scenes.
Rewatch Value - 10, Will definitely rewatch it. It was short and you will just forget time watching it like LITERALLY it's that well done.
Overall - 9.5, An absolute drama. This series screams intelligence! A well produced and created drama. Will definitely recommend.
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Catching? more on, marrying the Demon | Drowned in the World realm ~ Lowkey multiple bed scenes.
"Don't imagine you can see through everyone around you. There are two sides to everything. The closer you get, the sharper the hidden edge becomes." Liu Tai ZhenPLEASE NOTE: There's happy ending for this drama. So make sure to finish the ending credits to watch it. =)
Finally found the kind of story I am craving for, for the past few weeks. It must be destiny at this point, really!
I've been searching for a lighthearted costume romance drama but unfortunately wasn't that lucky for the past weeks but for some reason, after looking for various actors/actresses works on Mydramalist, Tian Xi Wei caught my attention...I was even reluctant since I am not so fond of Xu Kai after watching him on Ancient Love Poetry, but still gave it a shot; and right now, all I can say is that this must have been destiny guiding me to the right path. Because not only did I enjoy this drama so much but also made me appreciate Xu Kai, specially his almond and amber colored eyes. Additionally, I was so surprise to see Winwin (Dong Si Cheng) here. He's my ultimate bias after Luhan and although I know his projects, this one complete went off of my head. So seeing him here made me squeak out of pure delight and excitement.
The story and the whole drama was just perfect for me. It was lighthearted, easy to follow, and most importantly...full of heartwarming and silly moments. I love that the story wasn't flooded with heavy plot twists and rather allowed it to flow like water—smoothly and naturally—without getting bothered by any complex and unnecessary plot devices. So I am truly grateful to this production for sparing us from frustration and heartache.
The climactic scenes were skillfully executed. I was totally feeling the tension when the leads were finally revealing their true identities to one another. Personally, it was a highly anticipated moment, and watching them deliver their lines with immense aura, emotion, and grit made me grip my seat tightly, as I couldn't contain the chills running down my spine knowing that they met the expectation I had for that particular scene.
The antagonists (Wu Zi Shu & Rat Elder) were dealt with in an unexpectedly satisfying and abrupt manner. I expected both of them to be included in the final fight, but was quite surprised by how they were ended with ease. I'm not complaining though, because seeing them perish was truly satisfying; it saves us from further damage they may cause.
I also love the path they took to develop the leads' romantic relationship. Their frequent interactions allowed them to naturally flourish their curiosity and feelings, which resulted to them gradually falling in love with each other. The storyline for the 2nd CP was also impressive. It was well structured and they were given proper context and screentime to build and deepen their understanding and connection to one another.
Kudos to the props, costume and design team for their magnificent and outstanding craft. The actors/actresses stood out and shone even brighter thanks to their impressive and skilful touches. Even the costumes for the supporting roles were remarkable. Particularly, the intricate owl costume. That full head piece totally rendered me on a state of awe. The best!
Ultimately, I'm grateful towards the production team for still giving us a happy and silly ending. I'm glad I finished the ending credits, because if not, I may have missed their most deserved happy ending. It was interesting and silly to see them using the body-swapping-dolls during the end; and I must say that it was such a clever idea to have men experience childbirth.
Lastly, is what I consider as the highlight and most savoury aspect of this drama—their bed scenes! This came out as a total surprise and fascination to me. I don't know why but it do seems like they purposely and blatantly made each bed "sleeping" scene leave a hint as if they've done the 'deed' numerous times every freaking night! Wu Zhen's bare shoulders were constantly on a roll every single time she's waking up in the morning. The most sexually active CP of all c-dramas I have watched ever since.
Also, I was hysterical by how aggressive Mei Zhu Yu was during their kissing scenes. It's as if he's eating something scrumptious, he can't get enough of it. Specially in Ep.26 when Wu Zi Shu is peeping through their window. Man was GIVING his all—showing all he's got by presenting a spectacular performance.
Another episode of this was in Ep.27 when the 2ML (Mei Si) asked the FL (Wu Zhen) if her waist is in pain, then Mei Zhu Yu literally choked on his drink. Hinting of something they've done before coming to the family banquet. At that point, I just know they've tried countless positions. Haha!
P.S. I am so sorry for dedicating 3 paragraphs just to express how satisfying their off-screen bed scenes are. Cause their actions alone speaks louder than any actual footage.
"Wu Zhen, you were the one who got me involved with this world realm. You can't just abandon me like this." - Mei Zhu Yu
Story - 10, It was smooth sailing, straightforward and extremely entertaining to watch. A feel-good drama that will allow you to binge-watch the entire thing without feeling bored or stress.
Acting/Cast - 10, Highly satisfied of the cast! I have always loved Tian Xi Wei but seeing her here made me love her more. I have never expected/imagined watching TXW in a XianXia or WuXia drama (doing action scenes) since she's always been an adorable and delicate lady to me, so seeing her here being feisty and cool made me adore her more. Small but terrible! And as I mentioned above, this show has become a gateway for me to appreciate Xu Kai better. Hopefully, I can pick up one of his drama again soon.
Music - 10, I genuinely love the songs used in this production. The smooth and soft entrance of the BGM was excellent; it was never overpowering and slowly helped set up the mood for the scenes. The songs complemented the scenes they were used in; and through that, they were able to resonate the emotions with me/the viewer as well.
Rewatch Value - 10, This is one of the best lighthearted and smooth-sailing show I have come across in a long time. I will surely rewatch it if I have time to do so.
Overall - 10, I don't think I need to say anything else at this point. This is a remarkable, entertaining drama I would recommend to everyone.
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I had High Expectation....
I watched this series with an expectation that it would be great but for some reason I find it underwhelming and quite disappointing...The story started great and it was doing well, not until you reach the latter half of it and realizes how would it end? Usually I get really ecstatic over it but it was different this time, It's more of worries and confusion that I had while reaching the end.
I felt like there's a lot of things going on in this series that made it less appealing to me. I even got bored at times but thank god they got good action scenes and that saved and redeem the story a little bit for me.
Story - 7.5, The story has become sooo dragging at one point and I felt like it has so much plot twist that made it lose it's color and excitement. They should've focus more on building the story itself and creating more relevant progress.
Acting/Cast - 9.5, Acting wise they all did exceptionally good! I felt the emotions they are trying to portray and deliver and that's a good indication of great acting and casting for me.
Music - 7, They used less music for this drama but it's quite understandable since the drama was set for suspense and action scenes. Anyways, I enjoyed the moment they used the LP Player. Such a mood and a game changer.
Rewatch Value - 7, Honestly, I'm lucky to know that this is part of a series cause if not I might need to watch it again just incase I started to watch the other Candle in the Tomb Series. That saved me some time.
Overall - 8, Nonetheless, it was a decent drama. Aside from the fact that they have to improve something on their story bulding department the rest are really well created!
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