elpis

thanks a ton, I actually overlooked that box completely!

Great idea and execution too! It would be helpful if you could add a link as to how those interested can find out more about MDL's process to submit an article.

> j-dramas are anything but formulaic.

This is what I wanted to talk about. Jdramas cover an amazing range of subjects and are not afraid of taking on difficult plot lines/characterisations. Its this diversity that I love most.

I just finished rewatching this drama, and found I'd enjoyed it as much as I did last year when I binged through it in a week. Such a great cast, amazing performances all around, particularly the female leads. This time around I had better appreciation of Lei Jia Yin (Chen Jun Sheng), who's played a difficult role pretty well.
The subtle yet gentle poignant romance sucked me in again and left me hoping for them! I don't know if Season 2 will come through, do wish for it, however don't think I will be able to watch it without Ma Yi Li. She was perfect as Luo Zi Jun.

Only a Japanese drama would have such a unique plot line! I rather enjoyed the drama! And did not hate the main lead like many others seem to have.

The ending however made me sad - rather than learning from the love she lost (Mii-chan), she chose to let the colossal betrayal validate her original take on love, becoming even more transactional in her love live. If only she'd dealt with her trauma and spent some time on introspection! But sadly and perhaps more realistically she cynically chose to easier way of "opting" out of the love-betrayal cycle.

Anyway I particularly enjoyed and appreciated the confrontation scene in episode 8. Lasting nearly 20 minutes the scene was gripping in its intensity without any dramatic background music, any screaming or high octane dialogues, or even showy camera work. Hats off to the director and the actors.

Hopeful open ending I would say !!

Ah, you have to add Before We Get Married (Taiwanese drama, 2019) - incredible chemistry and multiple super hot scenes!