Hand to hand combat
Violent, but the hand to hand combat is impressive. Gun violence too - yikes. Story moves at a quick pace. “Visuals” are great. That’s the code word for good-looking leads. Acting is believable and you feel for the dilemma of the ML. I didn’t binge watch this movie because of the violence, but that’s best anyway.Was this review helpful to you?
Stand and talk
Stand and talkVery attractive actors, including the well-known Vin Zhang. However, I usually quit a drama early if the lines are delivered while the actors mostly stand still (whizzing around or so-so CGI are extra). Because Zhang’s other works are good, I’ll keep watching. My favorite actors incorporate small gestures, expressions and in-hand props to increase complexity (Zhang Wan Yi) and I don’t see that yet.
Was this review helpful to you?
Expressive acting, hilarious
I’m a 30-year follower of East Asian films and dramas.Chinese works, especially historical dramas, are often full-budget and intense with complex storylines and a large cast. Billions of views is not unreachable for China’s best works. One complaint is that more and more, capable actors have become zombie green screens for CGI.
Japanese films often explore spiritual conundrums, but the weekly serials tend to be insular and mundane. I’m avoiding the word “boring”. Japan’s public TV - NHK - is absurdly expensive and international audiences miss out on well-made non-fiction and dramatic content.
In contrast, Korean dramas are highly accessible. Facial expression, body movement and human-centered stories are the reason Netflix and other platforms have picked so many up.
“Bon Appetite…” is hilariously modern with a sarcastic nod to the historical genre. Super fun. Maybe I’ll expand my culinary repertoire.
Was this review helpful to you?
