emberzmars

Light but thought provoking series exploring AI and loneliness

This underrated kdrama focuses on characters that go out of their comfort zone. I enjoyed My Holo Love because it has a great combination of genre (tech thriller, romance, drama, comedy) with great performances led by Yoon Hyun Min and Go Sung Hee.

What I like:
1) Dual roles - let me highlight on characters Go Nan Do & Holo, both played Yoon Hyun Min. Nan Do creates artificial intelligence (AI) called Holo. Yoon Hyun Min was brilliant in portraying both roles. Surprisingly at times Holo seemed more "human" than Nan Do.
2) Genre - I expected typical romance kdrama. I love the tech thriller angle with bits of comedy (who knew Nan Do could be funny) .
3) Writing - The series explored AI, which prompted me to think a lot but at the same time, the AI content is light and easy to digest. I cried at least in two scenes because of the dialogue and performance of main leads.
4) Acting - My first time watching Yoon Hyun Min & Go Sung Hee and I am impressed. Go Sung Hee seemed natural in this role. She should act in more main roles.

What I dislike:
1) I wish Chansung's character was meatier - perhaps leverage on his conflicts with his father.
2) I enjoyed Chansung's chemistry with Goo Yoo-jin. Wish they were given more screentime.

Favourite scene:
When So-yeon told Nan Do that she likes him and reassured him that he deserves to be loved. I cried during this scene.

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Enjoyable body swap story

After avoiding kdramas for a few months, finally broke my "fast" with this. Branding in Seongsu is a light romantic thriller
with bits of comedy.

What I like:
1. The mystery plot - was thrilling especially in the 1st part.
2. Acting - Kim Ji Eun & Lomon did well playing their roles (first
time watching their acting) although at times Lomon stole the show when he played Naeon.
3. Kissing - Wow Lomon can kiss. The first kissing scene was hot.
4. Song 'On my hill' - Love this song because the alluring beat is fitting for seductive moments.
5. Supporting characters - Team Underdogs out shined other side characters. Joo Rex reminds me of P1harmony's Keeho. Hehehe

What I dislike:
1. Villains - underdeveloped & tad predictable.
2. Supernatural element - wish they develop that element. It'd be interesting if the 'demon' is tied to Naeon's feeling of guilt.

Favourite scene:
As a non-drinkers, I enjoy the Mood project the most. I know there is non-alcoholic soju sold in Thailand because it is endorsed by Mark Tuan, a member of GOT7.

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Gripping romance thriller with sublime acting

I was on kdrama slump after disappointment of Dreaming of a Freaking Fairy Tale & Cinderella at 2 AM. On 26 November 2024, I was about to watch cdrama on Netflix during lunch when the trailer of 'When the Phone Rings' automatically played.
Mature looking male lead ✅
Arranged marriage ✅
Thriller ✅
Intriguing...I immediately clicked 'Play'. I was excited for the series!

What I liked:
1. Acting - Sublime acting by Yoo Yeon Seok & Chae Soo Bin followed by supporting cast such as Heo Nam Jun, Han Jae Yi, Yoo Sung Joo, Im Chul Soo, Park Yae Jun. Yoo Yeon Seok was great at microexpressions - just watch episode 6.
2. Romance - I wasn't fond of Baek Sa Eon's frosty attitude towards Hong Hee Jo at first but that facade was lost once he realised he could lose his wife.
3. Voice theme - Both Baek Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo lost their voice and autonomy at the start of the series. I like that the show their growth and resilience in reclaiming their voice and position within their family.
4. Baek Sa Eon characterisation - He was cold and distant at the start of the series, which turned out to be his defense mechanism against potential threats. I love watching his character growth. One thing is consistent throughout the series: his commitment towards his marriage. There were plenty of shots featuring his wedding ring. Would love to see more of his negotiation skills, which was hinted in the last episode.
5. Hong Hee Joo characterisation - She's soft spoken and dainty but grew stronger once she found convinction. She in a nightgown and being cheeky with Baek Sa Eon was my favourite part of her character.
6. Sign language - It's wonderful to see significant sign language scenes being featured in a tv series. My favourites were 1) when Hee Joo did live sign language interpretation during her interview and when she and Baek Sa Eon used sign language in the lift.
7. Music - 'See the Light' is wonderful song - it's been added to my playlist. I love the score especially the one featured during the rescue.
8. Thriller - I love the thriller suspense elements of the series especially regarding the kidnapper. The shots were gripping!

What I disliked:
1. Argan arc - Hee Joo going to foreign land alone was silly because she didn't have an exit plan.
2. Crime connection - I think the scenes that connect kidnapper to his mastermind and the orphanage were too simplified.

Favourite scene:
Baek Sa Eon-406 caller scene at the end of episode 6

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Queen Woo draws parallel to British film Elizabeth (1998)

I was intrigued by Queen Woo after seeing two versions of the series on Viu - "Why is there a censored version?". Read article and viewers' opinion on the explicit content which further led me to watch this series. Glad that I did!

I understand if the series creator and writer wants to dramatise the tale of Queen Woo as this technique has been done in Hollywood many times. I don't understand the fuss about its historical inaccuracies - if viewers wants Queen Woo's story to be true to history, then they should search for documentary not a tv drama.

What I liked:
1) Plot - I don't watch Game of Thrones so can't comment on the similarities with that series. However when I watched Queen Woo, I got this Elizabeth (1998 British film starring Cate Blanchett) vibe. That character growth, dynamics with prime minister and stance on political marriage (or in Queen Woo's case, remarriage) in particular.
2) Queen Woo characterisation - Queen Woo started off as a chess piece in the kingdom of Goguryeo and the 5 tribes. It's great to see her character acquired certain skills (fight training, military strategy/analytical thinking) before the untimely death of the King and used those skills confidently to revamp the top management of her nation. Jeon Jong Seo was excellent as Queen Woo. Her emotions were expressed in her eyes, mouth and body posture.
3) Prime Minister Eul Pa So - What a compelling character! He was cunning even from episode 1 I was suspicious already! I was drawn to Kim Mu Yeol - he was magnetic on screen.
4) Dynamics - I enjoy watching different dynamics between King Gu and Queen Woo and between Queen Woo and Eul Pa So. Ji Chang Wook did great in expressing different feelings of King Gu for his Queen - the gentle gaze, soft smiles and later part, indifference and Queen Woo's reactions to those feelings. I also like the chemistry between Queen Woo and Eul Pa So. The battle of wits, either through military strategy discussion or chess games, seemed like foreplay between them. Though it is not implied, I would not be surprised if he is attracted to her. I want them to be romantically together!
5) Battle scenes - Those scenes were thrilling & done well - - good choreograph and amount of gore.
6) Supporting characters - I enjoyed watching these characters on screen: Moo Gul, Mo Chi, Woo Sun, Bal Gi, Mil Woo. They enrich the series with their intent, motivations and actions.

What I disliked:
1) Explicit sex and nudity scenes - I was bothered by the explicit sex and nudity scenes because I feel that most scenes were unnecessary. The only ones that add value to the storytelling are Woo Sun / Shaman Sa Bi / King Go Nam Moo (she was drugged which led to that fantasy) and Third Prince and his wife (she was forced/coerced to have sex with him and overall that scene just showed how vicious he was) .
2) Side characters - I find some side characters were overdeveloped (too much screentime) e.g. Yeon Bi while others were underdeveloped e.g. Crown Prince, the clan in black robes. I would love to see more backstory from those characters / clans so me / viewers understand the importance of that tribe to Queen Woo's alliance and eventual ruling.

Favourite scene:
When Queen Woo confronted her sister. I didn't expect it would go down in that manner.

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When predatory swindler became the prey

I am preparing a reddit post on vertical drama actresses aged 35 and above and came across Liu Qing Xin. I realised I had noticed this drama when it was released but somehow was not compelled to watch it. I did it today and it was a great watch.

What I liked:
1. Writing - A refreshed plot with predatory swindler became the prey instead.
2. FL characterisation - Intelligent, focus and no-nonsense. I loved her determination to seek justice for her friend.
3. Acting - Amazing performances by Liu Qing Xin and Wang Hao Zhen. I could sense their characters' pain & anger.
4. Styling - I loved her outfits except the gloves. Fabulous rich woman vibe. ML also wore beautiful suits. Even prison outfit looked good on Wang Hao Zhen.
5. Duration - This drama is only 1 hour 45 minutes long. Concise storytelling.
6. Ending - I loved the ending which was done in 2 parts: i) FL creating a women's aid organisation and ii) wrap up of ML's arc. That's bold of him.
7. Supporting characters - I liked FL's daughter & male friend who supported her cause. I also liked ML's friend / colleague Kevin.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Wang Hao Zhen's ML is one of the antagonists. He's a con artist making money from rich single ladies. I hated his boss Qin Hao De and his employees for profitting from other people's misery.

Favourite scene
Jade bangle drama

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Ok watch but FL gave bland performance

I was browsing Shorts collection on iQIYI when I saw this drama. I was intrigued about Korean verticals because I am a fan of Chinese vertical dramas. I clicked play and gosh, this was a letdown.

What I liked:
1. Ji Ho Geun - Ji Ho Geun was very handsome. He added mystery to his character.
2. Romance - I could feel the sexual tension between FL and ML.
3. Antagonist - I liked his arc and the actor who played the character did well with given role. He is handsome too.
4. Styling - The styling for ML & SML was impeccable.
5. Supporting characters - FL's sister was likeable.
6. Length - Only 50 episodes so it was a quick watch.

What I disliked:
1. Park Xi Yeon - I was letdown by her performance. Her facial expressions were lacking and I didn't believe the helplessness that she was trying to portray.

Favourite scene
When ML saved FL

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Good for career-focused main characters but bad for the lack of spark between leads

I started to appreciate the acting of Liu Yu Hang and Liu Xi Yu recently so when this drama was released, I watched it within 24 hours of its release. Overall I must say I expected more from both of them. This drama left me feeling there was something missing.

What I liked:
1. Career - The drama revolved a lot around their work at the hospital. It's nice to see 2 career-focused characters on vertical screen.
2. Main characters - Likeable & modest. I liked FL's firm stance on professionalism.
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's sister & her close colleague. I also liked the male doctor.
4. Romance - Slowburn. A few kisses. It's adorable that she's shy about having their relationship out in the open. Sweet ending.
5. Tone - Minimal toxicity. I liked that there was no draggy antagonist arc.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - The doctor who had a crush on ML was annoying. Acted like a child. I also disliked ML's mother for being foolish & selfish. FL's ex boyfriend was annoying too.
2. Chemistry - I didn't sense any spark between Liu Yu Hang and Liu Xi Yu, which is a shame. Both of them can do great kissing scenes but in this drama, I felt like any passion / desire was put down as though it was unwanted fire. At times I felt their scenes together "sterile"

Favourite scene
The staircase

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A revenge drama with a slight dash of older woman-younger man dynamic

I love I Just Want You - a jiejie romance drama starring Lin Zi Xuan and Wu Tian Hao. So yesterday when my reddit friend told me about their second collab drama, I was stoked. I watched it last night and enjoyed it despite being disappointed in some areas.

What I liked:
1. Dynamics - I liked that FL hired ML to be part of her revenge against her scumbag husband. The relationship between FL and ML grew as time progressed. They developed feelings for each other and yes, there were some kisses.
2. ML character - I liked that he was not a follower. He also gave smart ideas in order to ensure the success of their revenge plans.
3. FL character - Smart, tactical & resourceful. Her revenge plan was elaborate.
4. Acting - Superb performances by Lin Zi Xuan and Wu Tian Hao.
5. Styling - Beautiful clothes worn by the cast. I liked ML's outfit when he and SFL shopped for handbags. There was an androgynous look with Wu Tian Hao wearing that particular belt.
6. Gym - This scene was exciting!
7. Supporting characters - I liked FL and ML's friends and acquaintances who helped with the execution of their revenge plans.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's husband & his mistress were evil scammers. She was a gold digger too - she had scammed a few men before.
2. Ending - I had a feeling that it was going to be a bitter one. The ending shouldn't be a surprise considering ML's health status which was known by FL at the start of the drama.

Favourite scene
When FL and ML discussed the step-by-step revenge plan

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Inner thought drama that lacked spark & wow factor

I got to know about this drama from subreddit CShortDramas. I enjoyed some of Wei Lin dramas and that Wang Bing Xiang drama with Liu Yi Fan / Tian Tian Yi. I watched this drama within 2 days of its release. It was alright but I expected more.

What I liked:
1. Tone - There was good mix of comedy and drama, making it lighthearted.
2. Acting - Wei Lin excels in comedy. She made her character likeable even though FL seemed silly at times. Wang Bing Xiang was alright as a domineering CEO.
3. Styling - Loved ML's outfits. I also liked the pastel outfits worn by the female colleagues in one gossip session.
4. Inner thought arc - It was entertaining to see ML's reactions to FL's inner thoughts.
5. Hug - I liked that hugging scene.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - Wow, her husband was gullible to be fooled by his secretary. Disliked both of them, ML's stepmother & FL's family.
2. Cheating - I am not a fan of cheating stories. So I didn't like that they initiated a relationship before FL was divorced.
3. Chemistry - I couldn't sense any chemistry between Wei Lin and Wang Bing Xiang. Their kissing scenes lacked intensity.
4. Lifespan - The lifespan countdown was an interesting concept that drew me to this drama. However this plot device was underdeveloped, which was a shame.

Favourite scene
When ML first discovered that he could hear FL's inner thoughts

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Well-written comedy-drama about self-worth & pursuit of happiness

I saw the poster when this drama was newly released. I thought it was cute but didn't plan on watching it until I saw a poster of a new Li Ke Yi-Wang Pei Yan collaboration today. So I thought "Why not watch Love Yourself More first?" Glad I did because this drama brought a lot of joy!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - I don't usually like university student FL because they tend to be immature but I liked Li Chao Chao a lot! She is smart & comical and most importantly I saw character growth. Wonderfully played by Li Ke Yi.
2. ML characterisation - What I liked the most about Chen Chi is that he was a good friend to FL. It's great that he listened to his mum's advice about giving FL room to make her own decisions and learn from that experience. This is my first time watching Wang Pei Yan and he excelled in this role.
3. Messaging - I loved that this drama explored a few concepts such as self-worth, pursuit of happiness. You can see these themes experienced by characters other than FL & ML. I liked that there is depth in this light & bright drama.
4. Comedy - I laughed out loud in some scenes. Good blend of comedic and dramatic moments.
5. Romance - Super sweet with some good kisses. Oh it's quite rare to see dramas with FL that has 2 boyfriends at different stages of her life.
6. Supporting characters - I liked FL's parents, FL's bestie. It's great to see SML as a character with substance facing life challenges.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's mother was haughty and horrible but she learned her lesson at the end. Even though I didn't like green tea & her mother, I enjoyed their arc because yes in real life there are people who chase status and wealth.

Favourite scene
When FL & ML took a taxi ride

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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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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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Frustrating drama in which FL & ML made assumptions about each other

I find Yao Guan Yu visually striking so I am always drawn to his dramas. This is my second drama of his, I am unfamiliar with the main actress Zhang Qiu Zi. This drama is frustrating!

What I liked:
1. Yao Guan Yu - His character was a Mr Nice Guy. Yao Guan Yu had enough charm for me to finish this drama.
2. Styling - I really liked ML styling including.the pyjamas, which looked expensive.
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's family because they genuinely liked FL. ML's bestie was good friend.

What I disliked:
1. Communication - OMG, 80% of the running time was spent on both FL & ML making assumptions about one another. Why are they not talking about their feelings. This is very frustrating!
2. Antagonists - SFL was insufferable! Pei Chi was way too nice to her.
3. Character development - Underdeveloped. I felt bored halfway through I started playing on my phone.

Favourite scene
When ML's father called ML to scold him for the alleged affair

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Light & fluffly

I am a fan of Xhang Chu Zuan & Shen Hao Nan so was delighted to find out that they have acted together.

What I liked:
1) Tone - This drama is light & sweet. Easy to watch.
2) Dynamic - It's great watching dynamics between Xhang Chu Xuan & Shen Hao Nan because they matched each other's energy.
3) Brothers arc - I like this dynamic despite the slight rivalry.
4) Villain - I like the arc because the actions affected ML so much.

What I disliked:
1) Family drama - FL having cruel family is common in vertical shot dramas and this does featured that trope.

Favourite scene:
When ML revealed his hidden identity to FL while they were in the car

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I enjoyed this series despite its flaws

Never planned to watch Strong Girl Nam-soon but yourdramachingu's clip on YouTube convinced me to give this series a go. I watched Strong Woman Do Bong Soon after this series so I had no expectation of Strong Girl Nam-soon. I see a lot of negative reviews for this series before writing this review. Here are my thoughts.

What I liked:
1) Family - This is the central theme of the show, which sets this series apart from its prequel. The FL had different upbringing because she went missing when she was a child but lucky for her, her adoptive parents were kind people whom raised her well. I also liked that Hwang Geum Joo felt secure of her role as biological mother of Namsoon. That scene when she brought Namsoon's adoptive mother to meet Namsoon was really touching - I cried.
2) The romance - I enjoyed watching the relationship of Namsoon and Kang Hee Shik. They got off the wrong foot the first time they met but later they became allies and eventually lovers. Despite Namsoon's childlike mannerisms at the start of the series, she didn't act like a child or played coy when it comes to romantic relationship. I like her take charge behaviour!
3) Kang Hee Shik - I like his character and as a romantic interest, I am more team Hee Shik. This is my first time watching Ong Seung Wu's drama. I think he did well in his role.
4) Homeless friends - I like both Ji Hyun Soo and Teacher No because of their kindness towards Namsoon when she was struggling in her environment. They also had story arcs.
5) Byeon Woo-seok - His visuals are insane, his high cheekbones and height amazes me. He is very handsome with that styling.
6) Music - I like Itzy's song for this drama.

What I disliked:
1) Comedy - There are too many slapstick comedy scenes in this series. I think this drama would rate better if the writer had focused more on the origin/genetic side of superstrength power in the format of drama rather than the use of the superstrength power in the format of comedy.
2) Characterisation of main female characters - There was so much potential with the developments of side characters such as Hwang Geum Joo, Gil Joong Gan but then they became bland. A lot people were turned off by Namsoon's characteristics which is the writer's fault. Perhaps the writer wanted Namsoon to exhibit similar characteristics as Bong Soon (childlike) but I think this is the wrong move because it led stronger comparisons and harsher comments.
3) Gil Joong Gan's love story - I don't have problem watching a love story of aged individuals. However given that this series focused too much on comedy, the love story of FL's grandma did not add any value to this series. Well other than creating suspicion of that guy's intentions.
4) Hwang Geum Joo - I hate that she fat-shamed her son. It was obvious that she favoured Namsoon because Namsoon was welcomed with open arms. Good thing Kang Nam In didn't harbour any negative feelings towards his twin sister. I also disliked the way Geum Joo treated her husband and brother.
5) Ryu Shi Oh - He's a clear cut baddie from the start but there was too much screen time for his character that people romanticised him. He did not fall in love with Namsoon, he was obsessed with her powers which is a total red flag. He has a fitting ending.

Favourite scene
When Hwang Geum Joo reunited Namsoon and her adoptive mother

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