
A total fan service!
Before starting the review, I'll share my experience while watching "Lovely Runner." For the first time, I followed a show from Day 1 to the last episode. I used to wait eagerly for each new episode to be released and would watch it immediately—not just to avoid spoilers, but because the show had me giggling, kicking my feet, blushing, and feeling stressed all at the same time ><Let's start the review now?!
The story of the show “Lovely Runner” is centered on Im Sol, a hardcore fan who is heartbroken by the sudden death of her favorite idol, Sun Jae, as he tragically dies. As she is in the process of accepting his fate of death, Im Sol travels back in time to 2008 when Sun Jae is still a teenager. Not wanting to see her beloved one in his tragic ending, she attempts to alter his destiny.
Ryu Sun Jae?! WHERE do I start from, gosh?! HE is the need of the hour, for saving humanity and preserving human sanity HAHA. Byeon Woo Seok breathed life into Sun Jae like no other actor could. He was made for this role, setting a standard for male leads in the drama world. Sun Jae is such a refreshing character, brimming with expressions, energy, and excitement. From his giggles and blushes to his veins and vulnerability in love, I was in love with him 🤣And HE graduated from the University of Loserism with flying marks(◠‿◕)
Im Sol, the most adorable munchkin FL. Hye Yoon has captured my heart with her talent for portraying angst. Honestly, I did enjoyed her character. It made sense for her to hesitate, worry, and push away the ML to *some extent*. However, her decision-making lacked rationality. It's understandable that she often acted impulsively due to her circumstances, but when you are stuck in a never-ending cycle, it's important to take a step back and think logically, that's how I felt about it.
The chemistry between our leads was adorable, full of giggles and blushes, which might make you cringe (no, it is not! I'm just jealous because I haven't experienced this kind of love yet TT). They were a swoon-worthy couple that makes you want to experience a Wattpad romance irl, filled with countless little gestures, that gets you screaming externally/internally( ꈍᴗꈍ)
Tae Seong is now added to list of my favorite second male leads. He's non-problematic and full of fun. There was never a dull scene with him. I enjoyed his dynamic with Sol a lot. I wished they had given us more of his bromance with Sun Jae. I appreciate that the writer's made Tae Seong likable yet he never over powered the ML, and thus no SLS in this one.
Im Sol's Brother and her friend's story was veryyy random and off for most of the time, like it was too RANDOM to have a opinion about it. I felt like I'm watching a different show altogether, I skipped their scenes at times ngl. NO BRAINER in simple words.
Supporting characters were very nice as well, like no unreasonably bitch behaviour by either parents of the leads. I love how loving and supportive they were towards their kids and bickering is fine with me♡
OST's that you definitely need to check out!
• Sudden Shower by ECLIPSE
• Like a dream by MINNIE
• Spring Snow by 10 cm
All these OST's were so soothing to hear, I listen to them ON LOOP, no joke!
So where it went wrong for me:
•The time travel elements were frustrating to watch at times, with decisions feeling impromptu and unplanned.
•Use of misunderstanding as plot developments
•The female lead constantly pushing the male lead away, repeatedly, was tiring to watch after a point.
•The murder mystery plot was initially engaging but became frustrating due to its lack of motivation and random developments.
•The repetitive flashbacks, showing the same scenes over and over, were also annoying.
•Tae Seong not getting enough screen timeರ_ರ
This was a plot-driven drama that started off fast-paced with many rapid development happening in the initial episodes. However, by episodes 10-11, it slowed down. Comedic elements took over, and some scenes felt like fillers to many of the viewers. I didn't mind personally because the comedic timing in this drama was extremely on point but there were many flashbacks and repetitive scenes, so I ended up skipping scenes here and there.
Overall, Lovely Runner is a fluffy watch (can't say that, mystery plot can be frustrating and too stressful at times). But it offers plenty of giggles and a refreshing take on the romance genre. With great comedic timing and some interesting plot developments, bits of dumb writing but remains an entertaining watch rather than a flawless one.
If you're looking for a solid, no-loopholes story, intellectual time travel drama, this isn't it. The time travel aspect is far from perfect. But if you watch it as a romantic comedy, you'll be entertained.
Thank you for reading my review ^^
END
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The idea of the story was actually good. A mafia lawyer who come to Korea to take out the hidden gold but it ended up just like all other K-dramas talking about the corruption of the system. The creative ideas writer came up with each episode and those TOP TIER CLIFFHANGERS *Chef's kiss*. It is actually a unpredictable drama but but but Vincenzo was portrayed as so smart guy that he can't be beaten by anyone which I have never seen a drama where hero wins most of the time and this made the villain cheap indeed. And also made the drama way too boring *SIGH*
Song Joong ki did quite well in this. He got a lot better in Vincenzo I actually didn't like his acting much in DOTS but there were some scenes were I didn't actually felt his emotions .
Jang Han Seok the "SUPPOSED VILLAIN" was too relied on others that I never actually got to see his own potential. The female prosecutor is much more like a " ACTUAL VILLAIN".
The FL was annoying and her acting felt exaggerated a bit in the first 2 episodes a lot but later she got better too but yaa she definitely loud like that through out. She isn't a own strong independent FL but she listens to ML's plan and works according.
I didn't feel much bond between the tenants. The tenants were also selfish but they have a good character development in later episodes. And the BEST BOY Han Seo (Kwak Dong Yeon) That guy has so much potential but sadly he was just playing a support role :( After this drama he better get ML role.
The writer honestly wasted the potential of many characters(specifically villains) in the drama. The writer really did injustice to villains in this drama, they all were underestimated by writer.
The music is top notch to be honest. It really matches the vibe of the scene. It's catchy I really liked the music of this drama.
If you are looking for romance in this drama there isn't any actually much. The way they look at each other and them flirting AHH. You'll ship them so hard seeing those small things they do for each other. They developed a friendship while achieving there goals. It's actually a question if they had romantic feelings for each other. ROMANCE AIN'T THE MAIN FOCUS.
The duration of the drama was the biggest flaw here. This drama would have been good. If it was 20 Episodes with 1 hours duration or 16 Episodes with 1. 25 hours duration. Because a lot of scenes were filler indeed ( Mostly in Ep 18 & 19). But despite of those flaws it was a good watch for me!
If one day I suffer from amnesia I will watch this LOL just kidding. There were some moments and scenes definitely worth re watching .
END~
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The story revolves around a mother who had a teen pregnancy in high school, navigating through various struggles and sacrifices as she raised her daughter. The highlight of this show is Mother- Daughter dynamic. Considering their age gap their relationship felt so real, almost like sisters, with its mix of love and conflict.
PROS
There were moments when I found the mother's actions to be selfish, but I could empathize with her desire to live life on her own wishes. I was drawn to her extroverted and energetic personality, personally whole time I felt she should have been a cop instead of FL because she is so much involved in the cases than the FL was LOL.
I also found it good to see that female lead wasn't a brat, like she was one of the genuine and considerate characters in the drama.
I appreciate that the mystery aspect wasn't excessively prolonged. While it was a part of the storyline, it wasn't the main focus, making it an easy and enjoyable watch.
CONS
The romantic storyline involving the mother dominated much of the screen time, I eventually found myself growing bored of it.
It would have been great if both male leads had received more screen time to delve into their backstories. I was particularly interested in learning more about their lives, and it felt like there were missing pieces that prevented us from fully understanding them. Getting to know them better would have added depth to the story and made their characters more compelling.
Nevertheless, the drama offered a nuanced portrayal of familial dynamics and personal growth of characters that kept me engaged throughout.
Thank you for reading my review ^^
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NEED A LOT OF UNDERSTANDING
This drama requires a lot of understanding, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. Throughout the series, you'll see people experiencing various problems in their lives. This drama shows how people heal themselves and face their issues. Mental illness is a topic that many avoid discussing because society tends to judge those who open up about it. However, this drama, just from its title, tells us that it's okay to not be okay.In everyone's life, there are moments when you need someone's support, and that's perfectly normal. Humans are not always strong, and it's okay to ask for help to overcome your fears.
1. The animations and illustrations in the first episodes, as well as throughout the series, are praiseworthy. Both the screenwriter and director have done a great job, I must say.
2. The romance between the leads was perfectly balanced.
3. The acting skills of each and every actor were amazing; the drama felt real because of them.
4. Oh Jung Se's acting as Sang Tae was incredible; no one could have played the role of Sang Tae so well.
5. Moon Young and Gang Tae suffer a lot due to their past, yet they didn't leave each other even when faced with numerous problems. This teaches us not to abandon someone when they're suffering.
6. The mystery they maintain throughout the series keeps you excited for the next episode.
7. This drama's ratings were not fairly given by AGB Nielsen. I hope you don't judge it based on that. It's not a typical family drama; it requires a lot more understanding.
8. The plot was beautifully presented by the director.
9. Every episode has a story that is too intense to grasp easily.
10. Seo Yea Ji impresses with her portrayal of the cold-hearted Moon Young. Despite her selfish, arrogant, and rude behavior, she desires emotional connections with Gang Tae and Sang Tae. Moon Young's terrible past shaped her into a cold-hearted individual, but deep down, she is warm-hearted and acts cold to stay strong.
11. Kim Soo Hyun's character, Gang Tae, tries to discover himself throughout the series. He is burdened with the responsibility of taking care of his brother. Despite being called a coward by Moon Young, he still tries to protect his loved ones.
12. There is also mystery in this, didn't add much contribution to over-all narrative but still wasn't that boring.
While the pacing of this drama may be slow, its beauty shines through. It's a must-watch, truly praiseworthy. I hope you find it enjoyable. ~END~
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Cute kinda cheesy xD
Honestly i didn't have anyone idea about the drama when i started watching neither read anyone's review just saw the trailer and next moment started watching it and i really don't regret it>.< i wanted a break from crime and all other genre related to it and wanted a heartwarming and cute drama and i got it at right moment which could make laugh and surprisingly give small cute moments after every another scene .They made so cute moments sometimes that my heart flutter many times .This was my first cdrama which i willingly don't wanted to end:(When i started watching it i really didn't have any sort of those questions like should i watch it or not after watching first 2 episode because i have never judge a drama based on first two episode but after 3 episode the story went really great till the end yaaa it was cheesy but a good one.
Talking about the actors Darren Chen really improved his acting like i don't he was the same person from meteor garden all the jealously scene felt so cute i am his fan after watching this drama. sebrina( Sang Tian) she was cute in the drama and without knowing many times she was fooled by Darren(Wen Bing) saying Ti AMO without knowing what it actually does mean was literally the most adorable moment in the drama.
Talking about Drama the story was quite well executed they were some too cheesy moments but compared to the leads chemistry i really didn't put much attention on it.
It's a easy watch give a shot
~END~
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Why regret when we can get a second chance:)
Parent's sacrifice, their screts and them helping you without your knowledge. This is all about the drama is.Parents love their children undoubtedly,but not all can express their love. There are times when years after we regret some of our choices, but don't realise that the moment we made those decisions we were happy about them.
The story about the will surely make you tear up just like me. It seemed like comedy drama until it wasn't one.
The actors did really great job portraying their characters.
I also enjoyed the OST of this, it was damn amazing HAHA.
I won't re-watch it coz it's a really sad drama, which I totally didn't expect, and I don't wanna cry twice haha.
END~
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Endless suffering like a river;)
Cry me a sad river, flowing through the heart of a teenager, endless in its pain, sorrow, suffering, and agony. The river runs deep within, its currents heavy with the burdens of youth.Ren Min's portrayal of Yi Yao was absolutely phenomenal! Her facial expressions had such a depth and emotion that I was truly impressed.
Qi Ming is the most uncalled character, bro was pretty much a jerk, in the name of her childhood bestie.
Gu Sen Xi was my favourite character, he was an wholesome support to Yi Yao; I liked his character, their bonding and story line altogether.
❌ The backstory related to the main message of the movie was brushed off in flashbacks which made it extremely disappointing and confusing as I couldn't emotionally connect to the suffering of the character.
❌ Inconsistency and no proper closure to certain story lines.
Overall, I did enjoy the movie, but I wished everything wasn't so fast forwarded and was more detailed. Still worth a shot!
7.7/10
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Cute, Clumsy and Optimistic ♡
Each 5 minute episode consists of an instance. The dialogues and storytelling might be limited but still it didn't stop me from making me laugh or smile. I love how ridiculously silly and funny it was. The optimistic approach of the Higuma was so refreshing to see.I wish it was a bit more longer and detailed though, nevertheless I enjoyed those 5 minutes each episode to the fullest HAHA.
S2 was comparatively funnier than S1, but they made it even shorter:(((
8.4/10
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Love to hate relationship
This is a show, I can say I have a "hate-love relationship", hate and trash the characters but love the story🐻The characters have lowkey trash mindset on certain topics, but that's precisely what sets this show apart—they're raw and real, unlike the typical sugar-coated leads.
This reminds me of lakorns, except without the constant screaming 🤣 The show is wild, prejudiced, biased, sexist, misogynistic, and what not, but it does provide a somewhat realistic portrayal of human behavior. Specifically, it acknowledges that people with such attitudes exist, both among men and women.
My favorite part was FL's character; she was independent, hardworking, and had a great deal of self-respect for herself. Although I didn't always agree with ML's opinions, he still had endearing qualities, and I appreciated his character growth by the end of the show.
This is the NOT a type of show where you hear comments like "Oh, ML is such a nice person," or "He does so much for her," or "I want someone like him." Instead, it's about learning how people typically behave in the real world and not glorifying or romanticizing it, but rather calling it out for what it is.
Overall, one should watch it for the plot not characters because I was amazed by how non-cliché it was; it unfolded in ways I never expected. The characters do have problematic mindsets, but as I mentioned, it's reflective of how many people are out there. And the ending was satisfying!
Thank you for reading my review^^
END
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Promising start, boring second half
✅Impressive start, the premise was promising, like a demon in contract marriage + losses his powers. I was intrigued how they'll develop the story, and had me hooked till Ep8.✅ Song Kang being a hot oppa and showing his abs and couple having beautiful visuals.
❌ My boy is a demon, who has lived on this planet for hundreds of years, but he still has no clue about anything and acts like a pathetic lover boy ;/
❌The plot is lackluster with no interesting developments or engaging storyline in the second half of the show. It's extremely predictable.
❌Too much talk, not enough action. For a fantasy drama, I wanted more magic, but it was disappointing that they didn’t use it to its full potential. Unsatisfactory feeling.
❌ There was way too much focus on side stories. They weren't bad, but they were clearly just filler to stretch the show to 16 episodes. It could've easily been wrapped up in 12.
❌I wish the old lady was more involved in the story, her character was interesting and I thought she'll play out a huge part in the story but she didn't 😀 hmmmmm
And don't even get me started on the FL, girly your husband is a demon, what do you expect him to be???? A angel??? 🤣🤣
Overall, I felt this was a mix version of SWDBS and The globin lmaooo with lazyy writing, it had so much potential but route was too cliche and ended up becoming too predictable for my taste🤧
5.2/10
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Translate: " Please don’t leave yet, my heart isn’t satiated yet"
There were moments when dreams lingered unfulfilled or loved ones weren't prepared for the final farewell or they simply just wanted more time.
This drama can be perfectly described by those song lines. "May I Help You," or more fittingly, "May I try to help you fulfill your one last wish."
Is this episodic? I wouldn't say so exactly, because the stories continue into the next episodes, but there are plenty of stories covered throughout.
It's a very heavy watch. It's more like a slice of life, and you have to appreciate the essence of its pacing to grasp the emotions of each "death story." I have to say, I sobbed during many of the stories—it was definitely a cryfest for me.
So where did it go wrong for me?
❌ SFL entered randomly and exited just as randomly.
❌ They used many characters as "plot devices" after giving them so much story and character, only to ruin it by the end of the show.
❌ Some stories lacked depth or were simply too short.
❌ The history between the ML and SFL made the ML's character pretty inconsistent, given that he was very good at communicating.
✅ The leads were very good at communicating, their relationship was less heart fluttering but more mature.
✅ 80% of the death stories were so beautifully written, and I loved their execution.
✅I loved almost all the supporting characters, 1-2 were partially annoying but it's fine😭
Hyeri is a convincing crier; it's not just about her emotions and tears, but also the way her voice changes when she cries.
Jun Young, the man you are, his characters are always so radiant and interesting to watch, imma keep eye on your upcoming projects 🙈
Over-all, there were some noticable inconsistencies and some plot lines were extremely unnecessary but I still liked the show and it's worth a shot✨
Thank you for reading my review 🐻✨
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Unpredictable progression; cliche writing
She took her revenge in the most humane way possible, and it was still somewhat satisfying. The group of friends were actually snakes so their own consequences let to their downfall. She never stooped as low as the perpetrators, didn't resort to violence, and mainly took revenge smartly rather than impulsively.The folks who left her so messed up in her teenage years that she lived just to take revenge? Yeah, she dreamed up all sorts of delightful ways to make their lives a living nightmare. No limits, no boundaries—she basically wanted payback with interest which made me think this will be gruesome, violent, wild and scary but it wasn't, so it turned out a bit disappointing.
✔️ The story's progression remained unpredictable, but the perpetrators' side was too dull and bland.
✔️ Song Hye Kyo and Im Ji Yeon acting was extremely on point and impressing, whenever they were together I used get chills, especially Ji Yeon, girl scared the living shit outta me.
❌I get that the director/ writer wanted to play the psychological game, but it was too weak imo, considering the preparators never once regretted their horrendous acts. I think the writer didn't want to put FL as a bad person o r make her commit crime.
❌In the present, the perpetrators were very weak and easily overpowered by the FL, this was the very reason, I felt, their characters were one-dimensional.
The romance, subtle, that's how it was supposed to be, though I felt that even if ML's character had been completely eliminated, the plot wouldn't have been affected much but he was the typaa of rainbow-sunshinee person she wanted in her life.
Overall, I still enjoyed, it's great for a binge, and the actors acting is captivating as well.
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Somewhere between suffering and healing
Planning to watch this is like signing up for 10 Eps of misery, sadness and depression willingly 😶This was a heavy watch. It constantly revolved around thoughts of death, sickness and sufferings. Each character was miserable in their own life, it was gut wrenching to watch at times.
I felt so many emotions like grief, pain, forgiveness, unrequited love, hopelessness and healing.
✅ I really like the acting of all the characters, especially Zhang Zhe Kai, I really felt that man was sick, the tiredness and pain in his eyes conveyed his suffering so well.
✅ I personally was invested in all the stories, the main and side. It shattered my heart to bits each time.
❌ The story LIKE it was sad but I didn't get the whole point of the MAIN storyline, the writer kept introducing surprising twists but when you step back and look at the big picture its pretty dumb and unnecessary. It's like writer is trying to throw all possible complications to make the story more miserable forcefully 👾
This was a major drawback, which absolutely, made no sense to me at least;)
Anyways, the side stories were engaging as well, so I didn't mind, the music was sad (just like the drama)
By the end of the show, I had an extremely uneasy and anxious feeling and felt low for two whole days, no joke. The colour grading of the drama is very gloomy and on the darker side which makes it even more depressing.
So, overall if you wanna make yourself CRY, go watch it☺️
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Human being villain of his own life
What would one feel like if they knew they're gonna die but given an opportunity to save yourself, but don't know how and when, it will make you anxious and terrified but that is how death is, it can knock your door anytime 🚪 this is the story of Death's GameThe show's first half offered gut wrenching, glorifying, infuriating and thrilling stories but with less attachment to the characters In contrast with the second half which was more humane, filled with emotions, frustrating and heartwrenching.
Despite the cliche and predictable route taken in the second half of the story, it managed to keep me hooked because I was intrigued to see how it would conclude.
The second half, being more focused on emotions, I felt somewhat disconnected from the story as the first half didn't offer any of it. However, it still makes sense, as it reflects how individuals grapple with the importance of their own lives.
It offered a perspective on the value of life, prompting questions about whether it's too easy to give up on it, even though death may not bring happiness but definitely brings pain to your loved ones.
Overall, it was a great watch, despite some predictable storylines here and there. It kept me hooked until the end to see how everything would unfold.
It was 8.9 unless the ending,the ending kinda ruined it nevertheless the show was great;)
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This review may contain spoilers
Illness as the redemption arc
"Love Next Door" follows the story of two best friends, Seok Ryu and Seung Ho, who grew up together. However, as life became busier, they gradually distanced. Their paths cross again when Seok Ryu returns to the country, rekindling their connection.My review is kind of a reality check because Oppa couldn't distract me this time xD
How illness was magical bandage to all the problems:
1. Yeon Du gets a fever and collapses, and suddenly Dan Ho realises his mistake and responsibilities.
2. Poor Seok Ryu has to go through cancer just for her family to finally notice her and have their big emotional redemption arc. It’s as if a regular sickness wouldn’t have been tragic enough to get them to care. It had to be something huge.
3. The younger brother gets priority treatment because he was sick as a kid, and that status never seems to expire. It's not wrong but neglecting the other kid ain't fair either.
4. Then there’s the ML’s mom, whose short-term memory loss from stress is what finally forces them to have a real conversation about marriage. Because talking it out normally? was difficult for the writers:D
5. And, of course, the ML has to get injured at work for the FL SAY OUT LOUD her true feelings.
It’s funny how illness and injury are like the secret sauce to fix everything in this drama.
Things that consistently pissed me off?
1. Her mother. There's a fine line between suggesting a career path and straight-up forcing someone to return to a place they've repeatedly said, in language clear enough for even a toddler to get, they don't want to go back to. But no, she just had to be so persistently annoying about it, like her hearing was selectively off every time Seok Ryu said, "No thanks."
And as if that wasn’t bad enough, we get one episode—one—where she magically redeems herself, only to snap right back to her old ways immediately after. Classic. She continues treating Seok Ryu like she's a clueless 18-year-old, completely ignoring the fact that her daughter has probably figured out a thing or two about life by now. But nah, in mom’s eyes, she's still too young to know anything worth listening to.
The father was the only sane person in her family, but overly dramatic but I guess it was needed for his character.
2. Okay So I love Jung Hae In but his character, UHMMM, I'm not really a fan.
The first incident, when he was walking behind her and she started running because she thought she was being followed by a stranger—why was his response, "You should've looked back"? BROTHER, YOU COULD'VE SAID IT'S YOU OR CALLED HER NAME! What's with the victim blaming? 😭
Then, when Seok Ryu was sick, she tried to reach out to him sooo many times. Forget friendship, it was basic human decency to pick up at least once. Like, they've known each other for at least 10 years—what kind of dickhead behavior is that? I'm sorry, but if you were her friend, you would've put aside your feelings and at least reached out to her once. I SAID WHAT I SAID. They weren't even on bad terms! She has a boyfriend; I will never understand this kind of ghosting. It's not like she was even aware of his feelings, wtf. FELT SOO IMMATURE and then he hits you with a "I should've reached out to you sooner" shit smh.
3. Seok Ryu's ex coming back was the worst and most saddening thing for me. Like, what was even the point of him? I honestly felt bad for the guy. He wasn’t wrong to feel what he felt and to be in that depression mode—he was taking care of everything alone. Her family had no idea, but he was there, and it’s sooo pathetic how at the start it almost leaned toward him cheating on her. Messed up. And then Seok Ryu keeps him around without giving him a proper rejection or any real confrontation.
Things I liked
1. Seok Ryu sucked at being honest about her feelings and emotions, which is sooo relatable as the older sibling. I literally cried for her :( I liked how she finally found her dream.
2. Mo Eum? She’s soooo straightforward and easily the vibey person throughout the whole show—I loved her! Her bond with Yeon Du, I lovedd it so much.
3. One of the things I also liked was the ladies' group. That was one wholesome friendship, and all the ladies were so cutesy.
Honestly, the last few episodes were a bit of a dud. Nothing really happens! And that unnecessary fight between the aunties? Like, WHY was that even a thing:d
Overall, nothing stood out to me. Sure, the corporate culture and work-life stress were highlights, but beyond that... meh. The leads are cute, but that's about it.
Thank you for reading my review:D
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