With quite a simple story and even simpler characters, it was delightful to watch. This is another no-brainer, but a nice one nonetheless. I am not fond of anime humour getting injected in every Japanese film or drama, so this one was good for a change in that aspect. The actors were good and I really liked the chemistry between the two leads. Also, this movie lives upto its name 'Paradise Kiss'. It has a couple of kissing scenes which were the best I have seen in anything Japanese so far.
The film primarily focuses on fashion, so the clothes were great in this one. While it drags out longer than required, it is a relaxing movie. Just grab a bowl of popcorn and watch it when you're bored. It will surely provide you with good humour and some cute romantic moments.
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For starters, I am a very big lover of this manga. It isn't exactly a very smart story but what drove the entire plot of the manga had been random cuteness and a swooning chemistry between the leads. While the lead actors here are cute they fail to make me love them and rather came off as annoying. I don't know how old both actors are but I'm gonna be harsh and say they did a terrible job of their characters.
Shuusei and Aoi were unrecognizable to me as characters by the end of the film. With a story that originally hardly had any depth, the script of the film makes it shallower (as if that's even possible). Yes, the sudden romantic moments are cute but before you reach half of the film- you feel like you're watching a couple of teenagers' random romantic moments put together. The characters don't make sense and the flow of the story is practically non-existent.
I understand that not all movies have the same budget but for this the acting really ruined everything and not the lack of glamour. The humour, romance and story- everything failed me. Yet for some very odd reason I didn't hate the movie. There was something addictive about it that made me kept going. I couldn't wait to get to know what happened next nor could I wait for it to end. It was like a tug-of-war happening within me as a viewer.
One of the bright sides of the movie was the presence of Kiriyama Renn. Even his barely-there presence left more of an impact on me than the other actors could do. It was rather a waste of this otherwise talented man.
This is a harsh review and my ratings are all low and yet the overall score is fine. That's because I couldn't hate it being a fan of the manga nor could I hate the cliches in the film. As a one-time watch it hurts nobody but does stand as very forgettable in the long run.
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I honestly love this story. The ghost girl Sadako is... excuse me- awesome. She's a cool ghost! :D I love the kinds of events that take place in the film. The protagonist's character is excellent. The writer of the novel is nothing short of a genius because he twisted the original folktale in his own way. The director also adapted the novel in a different way and made it stand out. The direction is great. Kudos to the screenplay writer too! Most of the horror films made never make sense, but this one does. The backstory almost feels deep.
It has a nice piano tune in some of its scenes. The rest of the film is comparatively quiet and moves at a consistent pace. The ending was left in such a way that it was fulfilling as well as it left room for infinite sequels.
For me- this film is one of the few masterpieces in the horror genre. I can watch it any number of times and not get bored. Highly recommended!
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You Taught Me All the Precious Things
31 people found this review helpful
We get to see the story in two parts- one where the story begins and other six months later. It had me entertained, frustrated, depressed and happy. But only when a story manages in getting the right reactions out of you, you can say it was successful. And this definitely was. I was on a ride with all its characters throughout the span of 10 episodes. I can't believe how quickly it ended.
It has one of the most well-shot emotional scenes I have seen in dramas yet. The last two episodes had moments which had me close to tears. Some scenes were plain beautiful. Plus, the dialogues are exceptionally well-written. The OST was also great. Pink is one of my favourite singers and I liked the songs they picked. The background score is beyond amazing. I will keep listening to it until I get bored.
This is the kind of drama that you either love or hate. It might require some patience towards the middle of the story, but it is all worth it in the end. The plot loses its colour in this part, but I still wanted to know what would happen. I was very invested in the characters. Though its ending is predictable, it is difficult to guess anything in between. The writer will manage to provide you with a good twist every other episode.
It has some pretty solid characters. It reminded me of how humans really are like. All characters act in a way that would turn you off, but at the end of the day they are presented as very ordinary human beings. And that is how we all are- flawed. And we all make mistakes. This is exactly what the characters do- they screw up, but they also learn from their mistakes and move on. The character depth of Hikari was tremendous. She is initially presented as a thoughtless, immature bad girl to us. But in fact, she is lonely and has serious abandonment issues. I really loved how she grew up by the end. Also, the struggle of Natsumi touched me. She shows how important it is to keep fighting and never give up hope. On the other hand, I was pissed at Shuji. He was hard to like till the end. He has some good things about him too, but the bad ones really annoyed me.
There were some scenes of the school which didn't get through me. I don't know how it is in Japan, but isn't the private matter of teachers to not be discussed with the students? I didn't get why Shuji was so openly talking about his personal problems with the students. That was super weird. Maybe it had to with his honesty? I am confused about that.
As for the ending- it was perfect. Just how things should have been. This is the first ending that left me totally satisfied because it provided closure to each and every character. And every one got what they wanted. What better way than this to end a drama?
So, this drama is not just for light viewing. Unless you have the patience to sit through a story where you can't enjoy unless you think- this isn't for you. If you're up for complex stories, then go ahead. It will surely not let you down.
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In some aspects, I can say this show comes close to being genius. Hats off to its writer because he wrote one of the most challenging stories involving romance that I have come across in quite a while. I can say that the first seven episodes were absolutely not predictable. I am generally very good at guessing things, but this show proved me wrong every time. Even after a certain 'twist' at the end of episode 7, I was pretty sure about the outcome of the story and even that left me in surprise. This is the reason why this show has very few dull moments. There is always something that you won't see coming in every episode that takes place that thoroughly makes you laugh. It is a rather bold drama compared to regular Jdramas with few scenes of intimacy. It would appeal to a more mature audience. Also, people tired of cliches should definitely go for it.
This show has a good cast and the acting department was quite good. There were a couple of characters that came off as annoying- especially Usami but there were lots of other things that kept me occupied. Dynamics between all characters have been explored fully. The ending felt sort of forced, but even that ended up being funny. Every time a serious situation sprouts up, it eventually turns into comedy. It is a very lightweight drama. I loved the role of Matsuda Shota the best because his character was that of a playboy photographer. He carries out roles of bad boys pretty well. His female counterpart was ridiculous but I kind of fell for it too by the end.
Also, the psychology involved in the story is pretty interesting. Almost every theory they put forward made sense and could not be argued against. The psychologist's character was a freaking genius. He very splendidly changed his shades from good to bad and back again. Airu was also a solid character among all females. Right from the scene where they all get stuck in the lift, she became my favourite.
This drama has great comedy, good romance and great entertainment value. It makes you laugh without being too ridiculous, gives you romance without being cheesy and entertains you till the end. This is a highly recommended drama!
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A great storyline, solid cast and some incredible romance is all I look for when I want to watch a romantic movie and this one had it all. I am a sucker for cuteness along with hotness which the couple in this movie possessed. :D
I have been repeatedly let down in the past by a lot of movies- be it lack of romance, excessive melodrama, lack of decent kisses/chemistry between the leads or a sad ending. However this one did not disappoint me. The leads acted well, had good chemistry and were very pleasant on the eyes. The movie has a few sad parts but it's not too overwhelming. The romance was sweet without being cheesy and the humor was good without being over the top. Every thing was just in the right amounts.
Sometimes it's good to see the girl doing the chasing than the guy. It wasn't done in a horrible way. It was just kind of sweet and the guy was too. I loved the certain innocence their love had. I liked their kisses as well. There is also a minor side romance which was also cute. The only thing I didn't like was that a couple of things in the story were not required but it seemed like they were included just to make the movie longer.
The best part was definitely the ending. It was cute and reminded me of Bollywood movies. LOL. So I'd recommend to every person who wants to watch something light with a bit of seriousness. It sure won't disappoint.
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I didn't know that Ki Kwang could act this well. He was really charming and made himself believable as him (since he played himself here). I've never the main actress before but she was too cute for words. I usually have a problem with girls behaving like eight-year-olds but this girl was too likable. She didn't annoy me at all. Her chemistry with Ki Kwang was explosive. Their romance was wonderful and oh my- the kisses!! It wasn't just one or two open-eyed ones, there were many cute ones.
A few parts of the drama towards the end felt dragged to me so that's the reason I'm docking off a point. It wasn't perfect. It's just a feel-good kind of a story with solid puppy love!
This drama is fairly short with the length of a movie and that makes it an easy watch. It's something to watch with a bowl of popcorn in your hand while you sit in your PJs on a lazy Sunday. Go watch it now! You will not regret it.
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The characters are really deep and well-developed in spite of the entire theme being them Karuta players. I love the main girl and her passion and determination for the game was really inspiring. I also loved the dynamics between her and her friends and watching them practice and bicker was very nice. The way these characters come together and decide to go the Nationals was amazing.
The romantic aspect of the film wasn't much but I enjoyed whatever they showed. When the movie gets intense, they also throw in some anime humour which saves it from being too much to handle. I think this film can serve as an inspiration for anyone regardless of what goal you are aiming for. It also shows how not just talent, but perseverance and taking care of your health while working toward your goal is equally important.
The main actress is really pretty and the main actor was also cute. I don't know any of the other side actors but they also did good jobs of their characters. Like I said, a big traditional side to the film exists and that makes it way more intriguing to watch. Like in the poster, the costume of the main girl was very beautiful to look at. So there's an aesthetic value attached to the film.
I think(?) there's a sequel to this film which is MUCH NEEDED because the ending left scope for a lot to happen. I think this has convinced me to read the manga and watch the anime because I've clearly not got enough of these characters. There's also a lot more story that can be told and I want more- so yeah.
I am super glad I didn't pass it up because that would've been such a waste. Hopefully by the time the subs come out for part 2, I'll have read the manga and I hope there will be more romance. The leads are so cute that I-can't-even...... Go watch it. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
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The romance may have been the main part in the previous two installments but this drama overall outdoes everything on every level for me(opinions may differ for all). I can only call this drama a masterpiece because NEVER have I ever seen or read or heard of such a story in my life before. This drama made me think about the beauty of relations and what kind of love is love. It is a story about remembering the past and being grateful for what you possess.
The OST happens to consist of old songs remade and it is another beauty that only enhances the drama. Every single song is jjang and goes with the mood of the drama perfectly.
When it comes to the cast, the casting was perfect. Hyeri was given such hatred in the beginning but I knew she'd be good. But she really exceeded my expectations too. All other cast members were also cute and Jin Joo will always be my favorite kid. <3
The story in spite of being so beautiful, was flawed. Towards the last quarter of the drama the characterizations went bad and some plots drug out too much. Trying not to focus on the romance at all in the drama kind of ruined it in some ways. The romance was cute but the love triangle wasn't executed properly. I think it's okay because whatever the writer wanted was accomplished. I found myself changing ships midway and Deok Sun indeed ended up with the one I wanted her to be.
This drama was a real charm and gave me 10 memorable weeks which I shall never forget. I'll always rewatch this drama and watching it in one go would be a treat, because it was a torture waiting for every week for the subs to come out.
You may or may not like this better than the "best" Reply 1997 but it's surely an improvement over 1994 and leagues apart from the other two combined for me. But- PLEASE do WATCH it.
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While school dramas happen to be among my favourites because they are so enjoyable, this is the first time I was fully invested in one from the first episode to the last. I finished it in just a day and a half and had a blast while doing it. It had such spectacular scenes that they will definitely go down as classic Jdrama moments for me. Often quirky at times, it could get hilarious to the point you would just keep laughing. Other times it was either very touching or relatable because of some realistic issues in it.
In its heart it is a tale about friendship, human relations and above all- growing up and trying to be better people. I have to say this is the most consistent drama I have seen till date. Not a single episode, not a single moment ever fell weak or draggy for me. Plus its three-dimensional characters are what make this drama into a masterpiece. None of them ever turn out the way they seem. It reminds us of how we are all humans, in spite of the good and the bad in us. Also that embracing these traits is a must in order to respect yourself. I found this drama having some great quotable dialogues.
Anyway, at first look Hana is just a dork and Daichi is a no-good person. From then on how these characters grow is almost unbelievable. I found the aspect of Hana seeming smart but being a dunce, and Daichi seeming dumb but being bright very funny. I was very impressed by the performances of Naka Riisa and Narimiya Hiroki. They are both fantastic actors and can convey every emotional successfully. The supporting cast was also great.
I like to mention the relationship between Hana and her grandfather and also Daichi and his father were one of the best things about the drama.
Like lots of Jdramas, this one has some great moments of friendship also. If you watch this drama then try to get past the over-enthusiasm of Hana because she is such a likable character. This drama easily avoided lots of cliches but incorporates the most common one in mangas- a cold, rude, arrogant guy and a seemingly clingy and stupid girl. I liked their bickering relationship and the ending was hilarious if not fully satisfying.
I wish there was a season 2 since 10 episodes seems way too short for me. I am giving this drama a high rewatch value because I want to watch it again in its entirety.
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This movie is a tearjerker. If you have a heart, you'll definitely weep or at least get teary. The story is nothing too grand, it's rather a very simple account of a spoiled city boy living with his rural dwelling grandmother. What follows is the kid's bratty behavior and a grandmother you just want to pull out of the screen and hug. She was really that cute and lovable. I swear I hated the kid so much till the end. He treats his grandmother like crap, and yet she never gets angry.
The overall pace is somewhat slow, but it has been shown very realistically. Both the kid and the grandmother didn't seem like they were acting at all! I'd give a full 10/10 to the direction. In fact I think the movie deserved a whole 10 if not the ending that I didn't quite like. I would have made it into a very fair ending if I could. Instead it remained as a somewhat sad end if you ask me.
I also loved the fact because it shows us how greedy people have become in today's world. There are many people in the world who come from rural side, get educated and then move to the city for their jobs and settle there. A lot of times they leave behind their parents, never looking twice how they are doing. The kid's mother is an example of such a person. She was downright awful if you ask me. She leaves her child with her mother and it was apparent they didn't have a good relation. Not just that, she's completely oblivious to the conditions her mute mother is living in. Any person with a heart would never do such a thing.
LOL, sorry about my little rant there. I couldn't help myself since the movie so accurately portrays real people that it kicked natural reactions out of me.
Anyway, the other things like the background score and the cinematography were also done well. I've heard that this movie was received well internationally also and now I can see why.
Honestly, if you let this pass up you're missing out something that is very fantastic. Watch this movie with your grandmother if you could. :)
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As for the story, it is a plain one about a girl who finds out she is a princess. There wasn't much original in the plot and all the Imperial family politics bored me. I was lazy to complete this drama because I wasn't invested in the second leads either. By the way, I generally don't like judging actors by their looks but Park Ye Jin looked absolutely hideous in her hairstyle and annoyed the hell out of me.
After watching this, Kim Tae Hee is hands down the most easily likable actress in the Korean industry for me. I don't remember the last time I was so impressed with an actress playing an ordinary character in midst of a boring story. Also, Song Seung Hoon was equally good as Park Hae Young and complimented Tae Hee's character well. Plus, their awesome chemistry made me want more. Their scenes are all fluffy and cute. At least these two people didn't bore me.
Because this drama is a victim of poor writing, Lee Seol's character was also nothing special. But Tae Hee's amazing acting skills made her entertaining. Generally, I have a record of hating female characters which cry a lot or behave immaturely. But Tae Hee makes even this funny and enjoyable to watch. The drama had nothing but to rely on Tae Hee and Seung Hoon's talent to make it to the end.
Overall, it is an easily forgettable drama. But because it is light and has great lead actors I could tell you try it once. Recommended for fans of Kim Tae Hee and Seung Hoon!
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As the title suggests, it is centered on the brothers and all other relations in their lives. I am mighty impressed with how well the drama was made. The four brothers were all unique in their own ways and this seemed like a collection of Kdramas all in one. By the end, it was thoroughly fulfilling.
The story for each brother was very cute and likable. I especially loved the romantic plots of the younger three brothers. The older one was kind of boring and ajhussi-like at times for my taste but his romance was still cute. Not just that, the whole cast did a great performance and did justice to their roles. I am impressed with the females in this drama. They are stronger and bolder than regular kdrama heroines.
As in the acting department, I loved Uee a lot. She is definitely way above other idol actors I know of and was one of the strongest entity of the drama. Joo Won was hot and cute (as always) and had pretty solid chemistry with Uee. Their romance was so nice and had a rocking build up, proper relationship and the makjang elements in it. The second brother and the youngest one are the actors I don't know very well but I liked them too.
The only weak parts in the drama were towards the end. However, nothing was too bad. I have seen worse so this drama didn't lose much overall. In fact despite its length, the fact that it didn't bore me made me realize that it is one of the best Kdramas to exist quite possibly.
I strong recommend watching it. It's worth the time.
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The strength of the film lies in its story. They have tried to tell a tale which can be viewed as both funny and sad. I was thinking it would be funny throughout and was surprised to see they made it a subtle and quiet film. It is a really slow paced movie. But with each different face came a new actor which I thought was the best part!
The cast of the film is diverse (obviously) and after a while the concept really seemed scary to me. What the movie managed was to get the point across to me about how difficult and impossible it would be for such a person to survive in today's world. Plus, true to its title it does show that it doesn't matter what you look like and what is inside that truly does.
I loved Han Hyo Joo's acting in the film. Her reactions to the main character felt very real and relatable. My favorite cameos were from Seo Kang Joon, Park Seo Jun, Lee Hyun Woo and Lee Dong Wook. There were a couple more handsome actors too but I don't know their names. :P
Why this movie won't get a 10/10 was because it was way too slow, seemed like a part-melodrama and the ending was unsatisfactory. I mean I was hoping for a fairytale-like ending which didn't happen. The ending wasn't bad per se but it's alright to not like it as well, right?
Watch the movie if you're in for a slow movie with a meaningful message.
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In the beginning I was like, "Hey, this movie's just like Memoirs of a Geisha" (which I immensely love). I was pretty sure the movie would have a cliche plot and ending. However, sometimes it is INCREDIBLE when the story manages to prove every guess of yours wrong. Although the plot seems somewhat heavy, it manages to stay light because of the memorable, foul-mouthed anti-heroine. Another nice thing about the movie is how it incorporates dark humor and art together. The title 'Sakuran' also has a lot of meaning to it.
Everything about this movie is wonderful- its costumes, sets, cast, story and soundtrack. I honestly couldn't think of anything major to criticize about in this film. The movie is serious combined with funny and yet giving off an artsy vibe. The writing, the performance of the cast and the direction were all pretty solid. The camerawork was quite good too. In spite of an unrealistic-looking surroundings at a couple of places, the movie is great to look at overall.
If you love the culture of Japan, you will love this movie. However, this movie is for mature audiences and so it includes a lot of sexual content. The movie was very, very colorful and pleasing to look at from the first scene to the end.
I actually didn't know anyone in the cast so I had no expectations from them. However, I have to say all of them delivered well. The parts that were played by the leading characters were great. Another awesome thing about the movie is its soundtrack. There was both traditional and modern music used in this film and it suited the mood well.
Lastly, I HAVE to talk about the ending. I just didn't think it would turn out to be the exact opposite of what I guessed. The ending makes the movie very different and not cliche at all. I am not going to spoil the ending for any one so just watch the whole thing for its ending. It will totally be worth the time!!! :D
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