A MASTERPIECE
It has been years since I’ve watched a drama that gripped me and impressedMe as much as “Blossom”. It sours high into my all-time favorite list as one of the best historical Asian dramas I’ve ever seen, in my opinion.
Now let me tell you why.
The writing. The acting. The chemistry. The cast. The cinematography. Everything is top tier. “Blossom” takes the rebirth trope and brings it new life, reminding me of how much I loved “Perfect Marriage Revenge” in 2023. It tells an incredibly compelling story of defying one’s fate and fighting against injustice in the face of vast opposition. The characters are fleshed out and well-rounded, and their intertwining stories suck you in and leave you stuck in a binge session keeping you up too late at night!
Our two leads were flat-out exceptional. Their characters were brilliantly and compellingly written, and the actors absolutely NAILED their roles. And don’t get me started on the romance. It was beautiful. No dramatic breakups, no angsty will-they-or-won’t-they… Instead we find two characters with amazing chemistry who, once they figure out the other, they latch on for dear life and commit to fight together and for each other come what may.
“Blossom” has the charm and excellence that historical C-Dramas need to maintain consistently. It was a gripping story and all-around phenomenal drama. I cannot recommend it enough.
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Historical Drama at Its Best
I could write a novel. A whole novel. I could write a whole novel on why you should watch this. “Fall In Love” is perhaps the best historical drama I have ever watched. I cannot begin to describe its excellence. But I will try, lol!First of all, a C-Drama that never drags? Is that possible?! I’m telling you in all honesty I binged all 36 episodes in 4 days. I could NOT stop watching. Each episode will leave you wanting more. The political intrigue and the realities of war present cliff-hangers you can’t just breeze past, and the pacing of the plot is excellent. The plot, itself, is excellent. This is the best writing I’ve seen from a Chinese drama.
Secondly, the two leads. Like seriously. Aside from their stellar, top notch acting, the character development was brilliant. Commander Tan goes from self-centered and power-hungry to becoming an honorable man willing to fight for the woman he loves and for his country. And Wan Qing is one of the most self-sufficient and strong female leads you will ever have the pleasure of watching. They work brilliantly together—both in terms of sizzling chemistry and in complementing each other’s strengths.
This will have you bawling your eyes out one moment and grinning ear to ear the next, and it ends on such a note of hope in the strength of love and brotherhood.
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Romance, mystery, and macabre
What a journey I’ve been on as I watched this drama. Truly a brilliant show—acted, directed, written, and produced with excellence.Pros:
* The romance — Very rarely do you find a couple like this. For one, our actors were brilliant and their chemistry was fire! They were so at ease with a multitude of kisses. Secondly, they are committed to each other. Totally and completely. No messy breakup or miscommunication. When they decide to be together in episode 16, they never—and I mean NEVER—go back on their word to fight side by side for justice. If you love Song Mo and Dou Zhao in “Blossom”, you’ll love Yan Chi and Shen Wan in “The Coroner’s Diary”
* The leads — I already know I love Ao Rui Peng, but I was new to Landi Li. They killed it! Their acting was just plain phenomenal. More than that, these characters were written phenomenally. Shen Wan is a FL for the history books. Drama writers, take notes. She is strong, brilliant, determined, just, and loyal. Yan Chi? Drama writers, take notes again. He is brave, resilient, protective, kind, and fiercely in love. Class one green flag.
* The writing — Very rarely I have I been able to finish an ancient historical detective drama. This one, though? It was top tier. The cases are so intricate, and the overarching political plot ended up being absolutely mind blowing.
* Production — The costumes will blow you away. The makeup will too. The OST? Excellent. The sets? Excellent. The action scenes? Excellent.
Cons:
* Gore galore — I love American cop shows so I didn’t expect to be a wuss when I watched this. I was not prepared for the level of gore that would accompany some of these murders. There were five murders in particular where I could barely handle looking at the body. There’s a serial killer arc in the second half that left me almost nauseous with how brutal the murders were. Violence, in general, is perhaps abnormally abundant for a romance drama, especially in the last half.
* Pacing issues — Typically in the Chinese mystery shows, a case will be wrapped up in two to three episodes. This one averages about five episodes per case, with every case having more than one murder involved. This lowkey annoyed me because I often was more than ready to move to the next case, but they’d just kill off someone else and it would drag out another episode.
* This last one is just an opinion thing so I won’t even call it a full con, but I think we deserved to flesh out our ML’s past much more. We got way more screen time of FL than the ML, which is fine, but the ML’s backstory ends up being integral to the main plot and so the fact that we barely see any of it kinda felt unfinished to me.
Overall, I get the hype for this show. “The Coroner’s Diary” is one of the best Chinese dramas I’ve watched this year. Definitely recommend.
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HIDDEN GEM
Where do I begin? Where do I ever begin? I watched “Rookie Cops” just because I had nothing else to watch and was desperate… The first night I sat down and watched it, I think I knew that I was about to go on one heck of a ride?The ultimate ensemble cast that makes you deeply love all these rookies as they do life together? Check. A romance that was simply amazing with fantastic kiss scenes, chemistry, and development? Check. Acting that is just plain great? Check.
Humor that will literally make you laugh out loud? Check. Suspense that will have your heart racing? Check. An element of mystery that honestly keeps you guessing till the end? Check.
“Rookie Cops” is a hidden gem here on MDL, and it is infinitely worth the watch. I loved “Police University” when it came out, but this is another level. Can’t recommend it enough.
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A Well-Executed Noona Romance
This drama has an excellent start, and I truly mean excellent. If it would have wrapped up at 24 episodes, it would have been a ten for me. But the last ten episodes really ruined the way he for me by needlessly dragging out what would have been such a perfect show.Pros:
• Chemistry, chemistry, chemistry — Our two leads have some of the most effortless, comfortable chemistry I’ve seen in a show. It’s as if the actors have known each other all their lives. They truly look like they enjoy what they’re doing, and every moment is perfect because of that. Plus, the kiss scenes are to die for.
• Lovable leads. Yi Ke and Guangxi were some of the most lovable leads in a C-Drama I’ve ever watched. They are strong for each other and never give up on their lives. Not to mention, the second and third couples were also very endearing, which isn’t always the case.
• An engaging and realistic love story — This avoids, for the most part, the pitfalls of over dramatic and unnecessary twists. Rather, what see is a couple that faces the realities of life and their age gap with determination and maturity, and, eventually, that determination pays off.
Cons:
• The last ten episodes — I’m irritated as I write this, because, the last ten episodes dragged out the story so unnecessarily. They added things last minute and added conflicts that left me frustrated. And, in the end, the last episode left me going, “That’s it?” Even though it was happy, I think we deserved to see more of their happiness instead of separation.
• Did they ever truly resolve the age gap? — In the end, because Guangxi is in a different phase of life, we see their struggles are not yet over, and, while it may be realistic, I was very unhappy with this.
Overall, it was great. It really was. I still recommend it. But the reality is I skipped and skipped through the last episodes and it was a chore to finish. But, all in all, still a great drama with even greater leads.
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Starts Strong But Fizzles Out
I am shocked I finished this. But here we are.It had some good moments; but “Miss Truth” falls prey to the pitfalls of many Chinese dramas: poor pacing and unbelievable twists.
Pros:
• The love triangle was one of the best I’ve ever seen in a drama (until the end which was so bizzare). It made the two leads getting together all the more satisfying.
• Chemistry of the leads - They were amazing together. Acting between them was so natural, and it left me longing for their scenes together.
• The scrappy FL is strong and flawed in a lovable way. Great acting on her part too. Would love to see more of her.
• Overarching plot was also good!
Cons:
• Awful, awful pacing. I skipped through a ton, and I wouldn’t have finished it if not.
• The plot twists were out of hand. Most of them were just straight up absurd and made no sense to the story. I was so freaking done with them that, by the end, when the real villain was revealed I actually rolled my eyes.
• The way the FL treated the ML for a majority of the storyline got too much for me. I was actually getting irritated with her right before they got together. Plus, when it finally happened, we barely saw them together and we got one kiss haha.
Would I recommend it? Not sure.
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This review may contain spoilers
Fun Watch with Great Chemistry
I have tried (AND DROPPED) many historical C-Dramas, but the amount I have liked has been slim. Knowing this was a web drama, I had even lower expectations. But “Supervisor Husband” far exceeded them. It was a fun watch.Pros:
• Off the charts chemistry! Our two leads were both good characters and actors on their own, but together they were dynamite. Not to mention, I’m just 6 episodes, there are SO many kids scenes, and they are done so beautifully and with real passion and chemistry.
• A funny parody of drama tropes. This story knows how to balance the seriousness of a historical drama with some hilarious tongue-in-cheek moments as it pokes fun at all the ridiculous tropes in C-Dramas. It made me laugh out loud.
• Good pacing. Because it’s short, this drama delivers an excellent story without dragging on. I watched it in one day and really enjoyed the whole experience. Plus, who doesn’t love a happy ending?
Cons:
• The second male lead (the fourth prince who was supposed to be FL’s original lead) is one of the most annoying characters ever. I cringed when he was on screen.
• The ending, while happy, was really confusing. I’m not entirely sure what happened, but, at least they’re together… I think.
• Bad acting from the supporting cast and extras. This is typical of web dramas and C-Dramas in general, but I found it distracting in this one.
Overall, this is a fun watch. It’s a quick binge with great chemistry and a fun story.
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Tropey and Cliche, but Somehow You Get Sucked In
Is it new? No. Is it tropey? Yes. Did I enjoy it anyway? Absolutely.Pros:
• The male leads in this show having some serious acting chops. Both of them bring emotion so much that you’ll get chills. And our main lead in particular is not only a great character but also just an amazing actor. Both of these guys were written and delivered very well.
• A good story that balances sweet romance and intriguing mystery. The story packs quite the punch in just 7 episodes, and it doesn’t drag. It reminded me of “Love Together: Trial Marriage” and “Begin Again”, two dramas I loved.
• When they face their major adversity in the show, NO MESSY BREAKUP! They handle it exceptionally well. Our FL brings her best acting here.
Cons:
• Tropey and predictable for the most part. The mystery was a little bit more complicated, but as a whole, you could see through it. What can I say? We’ve seen it before.
• The FL was often unlikable, and her acting was nothing compared to the two men or even the like ability of the second female lead.
• A little open ended. We get a happy ending for the main couple, but the end felt rushed, and we got no closure for the second male lead or his romance with the second female lead. That was disappointing.
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A Dark but Beautiful Revenge Romance
If you’re hesitating about watching this, stop. It is a RIDE. I have watched about ten dramas in the past month and have barely made it into any of them. However, this one… wow.“My Lethal Man” is an intense show. Intense emotion, intense mysteries, intense chemistry. The acting is phenomenal, and the writing keeps you hooked and guessing. Our two leads absolutely astounded me, both as actors and as characters.
This show may be the most beautiful one I’ve ever seen as far as chemistry goes. They are electric. The kiss scenes are quite literally the best I’ve seen in a drama. And these two look like they are actually in love. I don’t have words.
It’s a melodrama; so expect some of those crazy twists. But, surprisingly, it doesn’t fall prey to the ridiculousness of many C-Dramas. And, it despite the angst, the writers deliver an excellent ending with our characters having developed so beautifully and finally finding healing.
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A Fun Romance That Will Suck You Right In
If you’re looking for a light story with heavy chemistry, it’s this one. This show was so sweet and heart-warming. So let’s dive into specifics.Pros:
• The leads. The freaking leads. I have seen these two in other dramas, and they never cease to impress. I love both of them, and together they were dynamite. Their chemistry was top notch and absolutely swoon worthy. Kiss scenes that will make you rewind! (This goes for the second couple too. Love the actors in other shows and adored them in this.)
• Great pacing. This story isn’t bogged down with the ridiculous break ups, mean parents, fill in the blank. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s a rom com that is fun and adorable, but in the serious moments, the actors shine. Honestly, it’s all executed really well. I was pleasantly surprised.
• Natural development in the romance. The romance in this is also paced perfectly. To be honest, there’s only a short time where they’re not together because they find themselves in a sort of relationship early on. They don’t ball at it. Rather they feel it out and realize it’s worth the risk. Then they communicate and grow together in a beautiful way. And did I mention the chemistry? I’m gonna mention it again. So good.
Cons:
• Subplots. Some of the subplots in the show were very weak. The third couple literally took me forever to invest in. Frankly, I hated both people at the beginning and it took me a while to get over it. But eventually it won me over I guess… but only after a lot of fast-forwarding.
• The villain. She was just plain annoying. I could not stand her. I skipped through a lot of her scenes out of boredom and irritation. Even her redemption arc wasn’t enough to salvage her for me. She was written so poorly.
All in all, it was a fun drama. Maybe it could have had more depth, but, honestly, in a drama like this, you get exactly what you expect.
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Imperfect But Still Enjoyable
I had decided to quit this one at about episode 18 after ploughing through, but I came back and gave it one more try. Honestly, I’m really happy I did. This was far from a perfect drama, but, if you’re willing to work through some slow pacing, it’s a really great watch.Pros:
• CHEMISTRY. Loads of it. The two leads are truly have some of the very best chemistry I’ve ever seen in a drama. It’s up there with some of the most swoon-worthy drama couples. They can’t keep their hands off each other, but it feels so natural as if they just always have to be touching. And the kiss scenes are absolutely phenomenal.
• The main leads in general are great. They are both well-written and we’ll-executed characters. Their acting is next level.
• A well resolved ending. After a lot of weird pacing and annoying tropes, we really do get to see such a sweet and satisfying wind down in the last three episodes even if they have some sad moments. Very beautifully done.
• Finally, an engaging secondary couple that you’ll love, an overall good plot, and an amazing OST.
Cons:
• Pacing. The pacing is really really rough. Frankly, I skipped on and off through lots of episodes, something I try to avoid doing. If I hadn’t, I would have dropped this. It drags and drags, and just when something is about to resolved, they throw in another conflict.
• Unrealistic. You will definitely have to suspend your disbelief in a majority of the medical areas and musical. Things in this show would never fly in the real world. It’s almost bizarre sometimes.
• The supporting cast. Besides our secondary couple and our FL’s parents, honestly, the entire supporting cast is nothing special. A lot of characters annoyed me more than anything else.
• Finally, there’s a few plot holes and a lot of inconsistencies in the show that never really make sense. And the description on Viki isn’t a very good description of the show’s premise.
So there’s my review. Do with it as you well. “Oath of Love” was a good watch with two leads who are to die for and an ending that had me grinning goofily through my tears.
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Just Captivating Enough to Keep You Invested
I truly don’t understand the low ratings. It’s worth the watch for sure. It’s a 30 episode C-Drama, why are people shocked that it has moments when it drags, lol? They all do, haha! But in all seriousness, I think “Love at Night” was charming. The main female lead was amazing. Her character development and her unwavering career-woman vibes set her apart from so many weak-willed C-Drama ladies. And the chemistry between both leads is to die for. This is PACKED with amazing kids scenes that are worth the wait (they get together about the halfway point).Besides that, the secondary romance—could have done without the third one but it was okay—was a whole show of itself. I felt like it succeeded everywhere that “My Fated Boy” fell flat on its face.
The ending is a bit rushed and weird but still a happy one.
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The E-Sports Romance We All Needed
Where do I begin? I was interested in this drama originally just because of “Go Go Squid”, but wow... just wow.The acting is amazing. The pacing is well done. The story? Great. The chemistry between the leads? Great. Honestly, everything is just great.
The struggle of the FL as she tries to make a name for herself in the world of gaming is so inspiring. She has to endure so much to reach the point she does in the finale. And a lot of it is thanks to the support of the ML. They make each other better, and one thing I loved to see was how, when things got really bad towards to end of the show, there wasn’t a ridiculous break up and dramatic distancing themselves. Instead, he fights for her, and their relationship becomes stronger than ever.
And don’t even get me started on the kiss scenes. Oh my goodness. Your heart will flutter, and you’re going to have to rewind to rewatch!
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A Masterpiece but Heartwrenching
A masterpiece of acting and writing. No doubt about it. From beginning till end, this is cinematic gold. No wonder it’s ratings have been through the roof.If you love historical dramas, you can’t miss this one. It fills its episodes with so much history and the unique culture of Joseon. It’s captivating really. I feel like I didn’t just watch something, but I learned too. Not only that, but this captures the intrigue of the court better than most dramas. The plots and betrayals kept you watching each episode in anticipation and fear haha.
The chemistry between the leads is literally unbelievable. There were many moments I had to rewatch scenes. I only wish that she would have truly opened her heart to him.
But, in the spirit of an honest review—and this is simply personal—the final episode left my heart shattered. Doing some research, I found they stayed true to the lives of the two main characters, but I wasn’t emotionally prepared for such a heart-wrenching finale. To be honest, I had to skip through some scenes to keep from bawling. The ending itself was also odd to me, but I will admit that it brings the series to a satisfying end.
My heart couldn’t quite handle the reality of the story. To see her fight his love so long and then to suffer greatly when she finally gives in? That was a sucker punch to the gut.
But, objectively speaking—because I want to write an honest review—even the pain made for an excellent and realistic melodrama. It accurately depicts the struggles of life in the palace, not sugar-coating for the sake of a happy story.
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Great Premise but Failed to Deliver
It has its charms, but ultimately the lovable cast isn’t enough to push this to its full potential.Pros:
• Our main ensemble was spectacular. You fall in love with these characters and root for them to the end. Their acting was good, and their characters were endearing. They all had great chemistry together as well.
• A great premise. The actual story idea is a fresh one and a good one at that. It has potential, and I enjoyed it for something new.
• A heartwarming story of friendship. This is probably one of the strongest factors this drama has going for it. The brotherhood and friendship in this were beautiful to watch.
Cons:
• Pick a genre. Yes, the friendship aspect was well done, but the rest of the show couldn’t decide what it was. Was it an idol drama? Was it suspense? Was it comedy? Was it romance? Ultimately, none of these genres were explored enough to give this show a solid foundation.
• Pacing. Because of the lack of foundation, I found that I ended up getting bogged down halfway through—even though it was only ten episodes. It didn’t have that special something to keep me going. I skipped through and finished only because I loved the characters and wanted to see the finish.
• Personally, I felt like the ending was odd. They “wrapped up” the suspense angle—which was cheesy imo—and then opened the door for another season? Not sure that’s worth it.
As much as I wanted to like it, “CEO-dol Mart” is a no for me. If you want idol drama, try something like “Imitation” or “So, I Married the Anti-Fan”. Check out my drama lists for more recommendations.
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