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Wow, a lot of kisses!
Ok I watched this jdrama after watching clip on Asian Crush's Youtube channel & reading the synopsis.What I like
1. The kisses - I was pleasantly surprised by the quantity & quality. Hase had insatiable appettite for Momo. The actors did these scenes well.
2. Female lead's characteristic - I enjoy seeing her growth. She was assertive at the end but still remains compassionate.
3. Pacing - Fast-paced and I had to binge!
4. Music - This is one of the few eastern dramas that I enjoyed the opening song. Dreaming night is so catchy.
5. Colleagues - I enjoyed watching camaraderie amongst Calico Cafe staff.
What I dislike
1. Plot - There isn't a proper plot for this drama. I was wondered a lot about the direction of the series throughout.
2. Supporting cast - I wish Fukami's relationship with Hase was elaborated further.
Favourite scene
Cafe lesson no. 3 because I never expected it!
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Sweet love story
This series was recommended on reddit for its story & romance scene. I enjoy it & would say that it's one of the few good mini series.What I like
1. Romance - I love it when male lead is attuned to female lead's needs and always prioritise her first. Love the scenes when he did housework. They are quite affectionate with each other. I also like second lead romance though I wish there were more scenes focusing on their growing romance.
2. Butterfly slave plot - Fascinating though I wish the writers had not gotten rid of it so viewers can see how characters accept the condition and become more empathetic.
3. Rain Lu - great acting. She conveyed various emotions well from innocence, delight to upset and disappointment.
4. Length & duration - I don't fancy historical drama but I like this series because it's short & concise.
5. Cameo - I like cameos from The Killer is also Romantic. Already have it in my watch list so I am going to watch that series next after completing this review.
What I dislike
1. The 3rd act - I feel it is too rushed especially the last 3 episodes. I'd like to know more about Lord Wu'an struggles.
2. Flashbacks - I know it's important as viewers got to learn about how Chengfeng & Qianyue's relationship developed but those episodes did not excite me.
3. Chemistry - There are many romantic scenes between 2 main leads but I don't feel much sexual chemistry coming from the actors.
Favourite scene
When Qianyue appeared as butterfly slave to Princess Baozhu. Beautifully shot & highly suspenseful.
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Another side of Song Jihyo
I only watch Running Man whenever my favourite Korean groups are guests so I got to know Song Jihyo from there. This drama introduces me to Song Jihyo the actress.What I like
1. The writing - It has the right balance between the characters' personal and professional lives, the drama & comedy. I enjoy medical aspects. Reminds me of Grey's Anatomy earlier seasons when the episodes were so engaging.
2. Main characters' development - It's wonderful to see
Jinhee & Changmin grow as individuals and as doctors. Jinhee especially. Changmin is so cute whenever he is cheeky.
3. Romance - Glad that this second chance romance develops slowly. Jinhee especially needs to understand her worth first before committing to a relationship. There aren't many kisses but when they kiss, I feel their love and longing for each other. Their intimate scenes are quite sexy.
4. Changmin's father - his kindness reminds me of my late uncle. That quiet but wise character.
5. Songs - I love the opening track and the other song that always accompany sad scenes.
6. Death & bereavement - humbling is the best word to describe those moments.
7. Choi Jinhyuk - my first drama starring him. This role was meaty role and he nailed it. His hairstyle made him look like a flower boy but he is manly.
8. Song Jihyo - I enjoyed her acting too. She conveys Jinhee's doubts very well.
What I dislike
1. The overbearing mother
2. The length - 21 episodes are a lot for kdrama. Nevertheless I hardly felt bored watching the episodes.
3. Gossipy colleagues
Favourite scene
When Jinhee informed Changmin why she kept in touch with his father. It's very touching that I cried a lot.
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Fast-paced & enjoyable romantic thriller
Destined to meet you is one of the best mini dramas I have watched.What I like:
1. Lu Yan Qi - great actress with brilliant comedic timing. She also did vulnerable scenes very well. The watching movie together scene was hilarious! She also portrayed the different ages of Rong Rong quite well. She looked pretty & youthful in the photo.
2. Jin Rong Rong characterisation - love girlboss , no-nonsense & take charge attitude.
3. Writing - Brilliant comedic scenes. The villain's characterisation is also good, not a cliche, 2D character.
4. Directing & editing - Brilliant for a mini drama of 20 episodes with each episode lasting less than 15 min. I like the pacing of the story.
5. Supporting characters - I like Jin Xi Chen & her executive assistant.
What I dislike:
1. Age difference between both main characters - 5 years seem to big considering real life age gap is 3 years. Wish Cong Bei was working adult instead of university student but then some scenes wouldn't work that well.
2. Grandpa - small issue. Got the impression that he's known Cong Bei for awhile. Not sure why Grandpa likes Gu Cong Bei so much.
Favourite scene:
When the aircond in Rong Rong's room malfunctioned. Rong Rong showed her vulnerability to Cong Bei.
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Started great then it fizzled
I was excited to watch this mini drama after seeing it featured in a few top mini drama lists on YouTube. The drama started off great but then it fell flat.What I like:
1. Intriguing start - The 1st 3 episodes were intriguing. I was delighted to see a "smart" female lead who managed to escape from interrogation. I was also pleasantly surprised with the bed scene. Cunning!
2. Right hand man - General Liu was the smartest character out of the bunch.
3. Dai Gao Zheng - A lot of reviewers mentioned him so yes, I agree. He has good looks & body. Acting wise, he's ok.
What I dislike:
1. Female lead characterisation - I mentioned earlier she was "smart" but my gosh she became unbearably silly as the series progressed. I can't get over her decision to pursue Tian yi when she already willingly agreed to become Yu Ze's fiancee. What a silly girl!
2. Writing - was bad. I almost stopped at episode 19 but persisted because there is fast forward button. I chose 4x option just to make sure I complete this mini drama. I think the episodes could be reduced to 24 or even 18. The conflict was dragged too much.
3. Ending - omg what a silly one. How can a stupid, cowardly girl become menacing to gangsters? And that very last scene I really don't understand
4. Physical abuse - You experienced and witnessed beatings but omg why stay in abusive household???
5. Chemistry between main characters - to me, lackluster.
6. Fashion - I dislike the clothes worn by Tiangyou, female lead. Pink dresses made her look childish and with her characterisation, she was indeed a baby. The last qipao she wore had weird colour combination and doesn't look nice.
Favourite scene:
The bed scene between Tian yi & Tian yao. As I said earlier, cunning!
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Saccharine sweet new adult romance
Hidden Love is saccharine sweet I almost got toothache. Very light cdrama focusing on first love. Chen Zheyuan reminds me of Chanyeol of EXO, kpop group☺️What I liked:
1) I really liked Sang Yan and his interactions with his younger sister, Sang Zhi. Victor Ma rocks the role.
2) The actress who played middle school Sang Zhi was really good despite not resembling Zhao Lusi.
3) Sang Zhi's characterisation once she was an intern. She didn't waver easily when her love rival threatened her and harassed Jia Xu.
4) Their kisses and intimate scenes were hot.
What I disliked:
1) 1st half of the series was slow.
2) Don't like how Sang Zhi was infantilised at start. I find her cunning because she knew how to manipulate her parents and brother to do things for her. I also don't like that she hero worshipped Jia Xu.
3) I am on indifferent about Jia Xu. Yeah he has conflict like any other main characters but I don't find him interesting enough to root for him.
Favourite scene
Everytime Sang Yan bickered with Sang Zhi
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My advice to FL - "Trust yourself!"
I was excited to watch this series because older woman, younger man is one of my favourite tropes and a few of director Ding Zi Guang's dramas are in my watchlist. The series started off great (I love episode 1) but after 10+ episodes, I became frustrated. I dropped this series because I couldn't watch a self-pitying female lead and refused to waste almost 720 minutes on this mess.What I liked:
1) He Can Yang - He is the reason why I pushed through until episode 24. He is easygoing but dependable and caring. I like that he always offer to listen to one's concerns.
2) Best friends Song Xue and Yang Xiao Yu - I like scenes where three of them hang out. Song Xue gave great advice most of the time.
3) Song Wei Long - Wow, so handsome. I love his smile. He resembles Taehyun of kpop group Tomorrow x Together.
What I disliked:
1) He Fan Xing characterisation - She is hardworking, independent, level headed when it came to work. I liked her character at first but when she lied to her school friends about her boyfriend, I was livid! I also despice her for feeling sorry for herself even though she was the one that ended the relationship. I also dislike Fan Xing for confiding in Ye Lu Ming rather than in her best friends whenever she had relationship problems.
2) Ye Lu Ming - I liked him at first and understood his sadness about "the one who got away". However I don't like once he schemed his way into Fan Xing's family. Devious!
3) The romance - I enjoyed romance between Fan Xing and Yuan Song before the breakup. Since their relationship is secret / "forbidden", I think the director could have done more romance scenes e.g. in the store room, hidden touches, surprise kisses. Anyway I am disappointed by choices made by Fan Xing - she totally not believing in herself, that's why she dictating how her first love should be.
Favourite scene
When Fan Xing took care of Yuan Song when he was ill
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Deceit & scheming - what a mess!
Fake relationship and contract marriages are my favourite tropes. I was intrigued by this drama after reading many positive reviews on MDL. Boy was I disappointed! I couldn't stand the immature behaviour so I dropped this series after episode 10.What I liked:
1. The cooking - I like cooking & food scenes from quatro cheese kimchi to samgyetang and fried chicken.
2. Yeo Reum - he has great body and smile. Despite the lie at the start, I liked his character the most. He always thought of Jang Mi's welfare.
3. Jang Mi's kindness.
What I disliked
1. Jang Mi's characterisation - she's too nice until people took advantage of her (Hoon Dong, Gi Tae, Gi Tae's mum, Hyun Hee). Girl, it's OK to decline phone calls especially when you are in loo.
2. Gi Tae's characterisation - he's bland for a male lead. I dislike him for berating Jang Mi whenever she was in trouble even when she was locked in his building.
3. Every character, from Gi Tae' s family to second & third leads, is deceitful and always scheming. The only ok character is Jang Mi's father.
4. Childish behaviour - I stopped after 20 minutes of episode 10 because Jang Mi & Gi Tae still avoided each other. Too much push even when halfway though the series.
Favourite scene
When Jang Mi saved Hoon Dong from embarrassment at the auction
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FL's lack of trust in her relationship with ML infuriated me
I really liked Zhao Fei's performance in Bai Ri Bu Shu so I checked out her list of dramas and found this. This drama frustrated me and after 1 hour 20 minutes of watching (mostly fast forwarded), I decided to stop wasting my time & drop this drama.What I liked:
1. Sub-plot - FL was investigating her father's case - he was framed for something he didn't do. I found the deep fake issue fascinating.
2. ML characterisation - I liked that he always stood by FL's side and kept reassuring her. This is probably my first drama of Zhang Li Ren. I was captivated by his performance here. He has a soothing voice
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's assistant & FL's relatives.
4. Styling - I liked most of the outfits worn by FL & ML. The red & blue qipao was pretty.
What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - Gosh, she seemed clueless and easily intimidated. I was infuriated with her for going along with an offer after being blackmailed. I think Zhao Fei was miscast in this drama. With her sharp, matured features, her visuals and acting didn't match the character's damsel in distress persona.
2. Romance - At 1 hour mark, FL was threatened with fake sex video. Instead of turning to ML who was already acknowledged as boyfriend, she decided to go along with perpetrator's demands. It was clear that she had no confidence in her relationship and I just couldn't accept this crap anymore. I also didn't sense any chemistry between Zhao Fei and Zhang Li Ren.
Favourite scene
When ML visited FL's house & met her aunt
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Heartwarming & hilarious tale about raising an instant family
I am a fan of He Cong Rui and Xu Meng Yuan's acting. This drama has been in my plan to watch list for 2 months. I decided to watch today on my iQiyi app because I am preparing a reddit post for the upcoming Father's day.What I liked:
1. The kids - OMG the kids caused such a ruckus. The boy Pei Wuyou is a smartass. The girl Pei Wulv is less talkative but when the two are up to no good, they are too much to handle.
2. Writing - There are so many laugh out loud moments. There are many warm, tender, tearjerker moments too. My favourite is when the boy stated the differences in how he was treated by his "biological" mother vs how he was treated by FL.
3. Acting - Wonderful performances by the cast as this series has both comedic and dramatic moments.
4. FL characterisation - It's great to see hardworking FL who cares for the family she raised.
5. Supporting characters - I liked ML's & FL's best friends for dispensing sound advice to both of them. His parents were a fun bunch.
6. Romance - Even though there are only 2 kissing scenes, their romantic journey was a delight to watch. They started of as married strangers then became co-parents and then partners for life. I think their love language is acts of service.
7. Pacing - 99 episodes went by so fast. Good pacing but the last 4 episodes were too fast.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - ML's ex wife wasn't punished for her threats & false claims. There is season 2 of this series so I hope she got comeuppance.
Favourite scene
When FL was heartbroken to find out that the Peis lied to her.
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Yao Guan Yu excels at smirking & sneaky seduction
I was intrigued by Yao Guan Yu so I chose to watch this drama on Damazone youtube channel 3 months ago. This is my first drama from both Yao Guan Yu and Zhang Yi Lin. I hate to say this but this drama is forgettable. Not a drama I'd watch on repeat.What I liked:
1. Yao Guan Yu - Damn, he gave me 'Leo Yang in Undercover Affair' vibes with his smirks & sneaky seduction. The amount of teasing and flirting, damn!
2. Styling - Great outfits worn by FL & ML. The red dress at the start of the drama was gorgeous!
3. ML characterisation - Despite the cocky flirty exterior he put for FL, he was devoted to FL.
What I disliked:
1. Romance - Despite the good looking visuals of both YGY & ZYL, I felt that their chemistry was lacking. Too much push from FL, ML was too patient in their relationship.
2. Writing - Somehow this drama is not memorable to me. I couldn't remember a single scene so I had to rewatch before writing this review. I found the running time was too long as well.
3. FL characterisation - She's cool, independent woman but as a lover, I wish she had sorted out her feelings earlier. I couldn't connect with her character and I don't know whether to blame ZYL or the director.
Favourite scene
The introduction
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Wow wow wow, I was very impressed by the brilliant writing and heartfelt acting.
I discovered this drama on Dramazone YouTube channel - the title caught my attention. I had not seen work of Liu Yi Fan and Wang Bing Xiang so I had little expectations. Gosh, I enjoyed this drama tremendously that I submitted this drama as New Title and submitted Liu Yi Fan as New Actress. I watch this drama on repeat till this day.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She's kind-hearted and I love it that she was concerned about the impact of her "past" actions onto ML. I also liked that she never gave her ex another chance once he betrayed her. Liu Yi Fan gave a perfect performance for this role.
2. ML characterisation - I liked that he's rational and willing to accept and adapt to his new circumstance. He also has empathy. I was also impressed by Wang Bing Xiang's performance.
3. Romance - Slow burn but so rewarding. I loved when ML comforted FL about her past action that could not be changed. I loved that main couple talked about their feelings. I'd say ML's love language is act of service.
4. Styling - Loved the styling for both ML & FL. I loved the all black ensemble worn by both FL & ML.
5. Writing - Wow wow wow, I was very impressed by the writing / script. It had depth for a fast-pace made-for-phones drama. I cried at least twice.
6. The ending - OMG, I cried! It was so heartfelt.
What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, FL's ex was a douchebag who did not want to be accountable for his actions. The SFL is annoying with her scheming.
Favourite scene
When FL treated ML's wound
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Female CEO embroiled in family saga but found love and support from former schoolmate
When I first discovered vertical dramas in December 2024, Dramazone Youtube channel was my go-to channel. I watched this drama there and I loved it so much. 'But Mr. Shen Is Too Charming' remains, till this day, in my top 10 vertical dramas that I watch on repeat.What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I like a strong female characters but when there is a strong female CEO as the main character, I love the drama even more. Lin Shu Tang is a smart & beautiful go-getter who has to face challenges from her own family. I liked her resilience. Lin Shu Tang was brilliantly portrayed by Si Jia Li.
2. ML characterisation - Shen Si is devious but does not have malicious intent. Despite having a crush on her and helped her in the past, he doesn't want her to be obligated to him. I really like that.
3. Romance - Damn, their intimate scenes are really hot. Kissing scenes were well shot. There were sweet moments too. He lent a shoulder for her to cry on.
4. Styling - I love the styling for both FL and ML. The white business suit worn by FL reiterated her power at the office.
5, Supporting characters - I really liked ML's friend especially in the hospital scene.
What I disliked:
1. FL's family - Wow, the family saga is just too much. I empathised with FL.
Favourite scene
When FL was hospitalised and ML came to visit
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Amazing crime drama with wonderful cast & intriguing cases
I wanted to watch more non-romance dramas this month so I picked 'Under the Skin' because this show was highly recommended on a few reddit posts. I enjoyed it immensely.What I liked:
1. Acting - I have watched dramas of Lu Yan Qi and Baby Zhang but was unfamiliar with Tan Jianci and Jin Shi Jia. I was very impressed by their acting and supporting cast too. Some guest roles made an impact on me for example Jiang Ge (episodes 1-3), Qu Lan Xin & Ren Xiao Xuan (episodes 3 - 5), Chu Tian Qi (episodes 10 & 11).
2. Character development - I really enjoyed watching Shen Yi's growth as an artist and as an individual. He was like a superhero whose power is sketching & painting. Captain Du Cheng also had some growth as a police officer.
3. Drawing - I love seeing the sketches done by Shen Yi although I found him to be too perfect. Like he's a savant. I also enjoyed the drawing on the blackboard especially the one in the last episode.
4. Pacing - I liked the format of this series - thank gosh it's not one case per episode because most cases were complicated and needed more time to be investigated.
5. Supporting characters - My favourite is Du Cheng's sister. She appeared after halfway mark of the series but her appearance were integral to the main arc. I also liked Jiang Feng, He Rong Yue and Li Han.
6. Music - The score reminded me of Queen's Gambit score. Anyway I liked the score a lot!
What I disliked:
1. Supporting characters - Baby Zhang's character was very interesting so I wish she had more screen time.
2. Rash - Shen Yi made a few rash decisions in order to catch culprits. It's silly because he was a rookie cop and inexperienced in handling dangerous suspects & culprits.
Favourite scene
When Shen Yi led a case instead of Captain Du Cheng
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Second chance romance with cute grandpa-grandson moments
I have watched Wang Jia Mao's work before but this is my first Hou Cheng Yue drama.What I liked:
1. Family - I really enjoyed the interactions between grandpa and grandson in this drama. I also like seeing grandson caring for his mother.
2. Ho Cheng Yue - FL has different sides to her (fallen socialite, mother, ex-lover, businesswoman) and I liked her acting.
What I disliked:
1. ML characterisation - His actions were emotional when FL was hired as his employee by his father. He should be professional at work & put aside personal feelings at the office.
2. Romance - The drama started with FL & ML being in love but due to FL circumstances, they broke up. Because ML was a jerk when FL worked at his company, I was not sold on their romance.
Favourite scene
When ML's father visited FL at her home and met her son
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