emberzmars

Fun drama about transmigration, shared connection & codependency

I was in the mood for Sun Qian Xun's dramas so I decided to watch her historical drama for a change. The comments were generally positive so I had some expectations. Thankfully they were met.

What I liked:
1. Codependency - I liked that they were bound to each other because of their shared connection. It led to alliance / partnership.
2. Romance - I was surprised by their first intimate scene. It was the first time I saw Sun Qian Xun doing an intimate scene. Anyway the couple was affectionate and I liked the spicy, sweet and hilarious moments. The role play was amusing.
3. FL characterisation - It was cool that FL transmigrated during an internal meeting when discussing drama script. I liked that she used her knowledge to ensure her host wasn't bullied. Loved her bold attitude.
4. Acting - Good chemistry between two leads and it was evident that they had fun onscreen. However SQX was stiff during steamy scenes.
5. ML characterisation - It was great to see different sides of ML. Stern prince, concerned partner & affectionate lover.
6. Plot twist - The last 20 minutes was thrilling!

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL's half-sister was manipulative. She even framed her mother to save herself from difficult situation. ML's aunt was freaky & possessive for lusting over ML. FL's father was a scumbag- stupid enough to let his daughter played him.

Favourite scene
When FL saved ML from being assaulted by his aunt

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Fast-paced transmigration, inner thought drama with fantasy elements. I liked it a lot!!!

I am preparing a reddit post on Sun Qian Xun's dramas and decided to watch this drama as part of my assignment. I like Wang Nan's acting too so I had some expectations. Thankfully they were met!

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was cool, confident and smart - I liked her no-nonsense personality. She also kicked ass!
2. ML characterisation - He was a nice, gentle & sensible guy. He didn't take long to trust Lu Li's thoughts and once trust was built, his thoughts of her changed.
3. Acting - Sun Qian Xun & Wang were great in their roles. I particularly liked SQX's facial expressions when she was reading people's fate. It was also wonderful to see her performing some stunts. They also had good chemistry & synergy. The supporting cast did well too especially the actress who played the white moonlight.
4. Romance - Slowburn and sweet. FL came from a different world where romance wasn't a priority so I understood why it took awhile for her to acknowledge her feelings. There was warmth between them and the kisses were good albeit brief.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's mother and siblings. This is one of the rare dramas where there was no assistant to any of the main characters.
6. Tone - It was fast paced & lighthearted with good action sequences. VFX was well done too. Different from other inner thought dramas I have seen.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - While I enjoyed the arcs for both antagonists, I felt the male antagonist's arc lacked development.

Favourite scene
When FL saved ML at the cliff

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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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Started off great but letdown in second half. Yue Ke Ran's acting was good!

This drama was popular in subreddit CShortDramas when it was a fresh release. I got curious and watched it . The drama started off great but second half was a letdown.

What I liked:
1. Acting - Yue Ke Ran was brilliant in his role as he was convincing in portraying different emotions.
2. The pact - I really liked their discussion after confronting their spouses at a pool party. It was fascinating to see the start of their alliance.
3. ML characterisation - I liked that he was committed to his wife's happiness. He stayed at home and took care of the household when he was married to his first wife.
4. FL's actions - I liked that FL was quick to accept ML's feelings for her & then reciprocated his love. In most vertical dramas, FLs are shy or skittish with ML for a long period. I also liked that FL cut off ties with her ex husband after finding out about his affair.

What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - She was typical nepo baby unfortunately. I disliked her impulsive decision at a board meeting to promote her new husband & threatened directors who disagreed with her, leaving her father speechless. Where was the united front?
2. Antagonists - Former spouses of both leads were disgusting. Their friends who condoned their cheating at the pool party was disgusting too.
3. Romance - Sadly underdeveloped. Instead of showing moments of bonding / romantic development, the viewers were told about the romantic relationship during a confession scene. Too much focus on battles at work and against exes.

Favourite scene
The pact

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Wholesome, funny and heartwarming drama about the importance of family

I added this drama to my playlist after reading about positive comments in a sub-reddit but only felt like watching this evening. I LOVED THIS DRAMA A LOT!!! It is funny, heartwarming with family as its core theme. Highly recommended.

What I liked:
1. Acting - What a wonderful cast led by Li Ke Yi. I was pleasantly surprised to see Qu Gang because I usually see him in longer length dramas (including mini dramas). Great that they got him to act in this vertical drama!
2. Comedy - Some scenes were hilarious. Wang Pei Yan playing a bratty kid was just too funny.
3. Family theme - Family is the core theme of this drama and I love it! I enjoyed watching multigenerational interactions not just in the Ji family but also with outsiders such as the Aerospace Institute.
4. FL characterisation - She was intelligent and ahead of her time and luckily was given a second shot at life. I loved her no-nonsense and firm attitude. I liked that she wasn't preachy and authoritarian even though she could do so as the Matriarch of the family.
5. Writing - So many nuggets of wisdom in this drama. My favourite is when FL told Ji Zhi Yuan and his daughter that "just because someone apologises, it doesn't mean that we need to accept the apology". Damn right!
6. Music - Damn, there was even the theme song from Korean drama Extracurricular. As a music fan, I applaud this choice of song for the drama.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Wow Ji Zhi Yuan's girlfriend was money-hungry and manipulative. She even taught her daughter to be a bully and a green tea.

Favourite scene
When Ji Zhou Ye was formally introduced by his grandpa to Rong Yu

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One of Sa Gang Yun's finest roles

I am a fan of Sa Gang Yun. I saw this drama in his drama playlist on Youtube and decided to watch it because heck I wanted to see him in uniform. I liked this drama even though there is cheating element.

What I liked:
1. Sa Gang Yun - I'd say this is one of his best roles. His character had a commanding presence but he was gentle with FL and kids.
2. Romance - It could sense attraction brewing between FL and ML. FL was afraid of a romantic relationship until a near death experience. That scene was touching and hot.
3. Supporting characters - I liked FL's best friend, ML's right hand man (both were perceptive!) and the orphan.
4. Styling - Sa Gang Yun looked damn fine in a military uniform. I liked his body too especially when he wore a blank tank top.
5. Acting - The cast did well in their roles.
6. Duration - The drama is less than 100 minutes. Well-paced too.

What I disliked:
1. Rape - The first scene distressed me! No wonder FL was traumatised.
2. Antagonists - FL's soon-to-be-husband was controlling asshole. He cheated on her but didn't want to let her go. The mistress and her kid were horrible too.
3. Cheating - As much as I liked FL & ML together, I disliked that she was still married to the scumbag. They were still communicating.
4. FL's mother - I knew she had health issues but I disliked her for being dependent on FL's scumbag husband. I also disliked her for giving away the kid without FL's knowledge.

Favourite scene
When FL thought she had lost ML

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This drama almost has it all: action, comedy, romance, superb acting. Highly recommended

This drama appeared on my Youtube dashboard the weekend it was released. I was intrigued by the title and opening scene so I watched it. Wow, it was really good but sadly the link I accessed to watch was no longer working after 2 days. Highly recommended drama.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She was a badass! FL was a capable leader with good strategic thinking and goal setting skills.
2. ML characterisation - ML was a loyal, nurturing man who could have been a great leader if he wasn’t sabotaged by envious relatives. He was devoted to his family and I loved that!
3. Romance - Affectionate and respectful of each other. When they kissed, there was love and desire. I liked that FL was forthcoming about her desire to have a kid with ML - she didn’t trick nor drug him.
4. Acting - Brilliant performance by actor Tian Yu Wei & actress Wei Jia. There was an unexpected emotional scene when FL tried to jog ML’s memory by reenacting an intimate moment. I almost cried.
5. Comedy - This drama was surprisingly funny.
6. Action - Another great element of this drama is the fight sequence. Both FL & ML fought baddies. I liked the Wing Chun reference.
7. Supporting characters - I loved FL's right hand woman - she's another badass. The daughter was adorable too. Others such as FL's male subordinate, ML's grandma and bully-turned-ally were likeable.
8. Family - Family is the core theme of this drama from FL and her daughter’s dynamics to ML’s tumultuous relationship with his relatives.
9. Duration - Well-paced drama that covers action, comedy, drama and romance just slightly over 100 minutes (1 hour 41 minutes).

What I disliked:
1. Jealousy - This came from ML's family.
2.Ending - I wasn't expecting the story would end that way. I felt some questions were left unanswered.

Favourite scene
When FL & ML fought baddies

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Dysfunctional contract relationship with FL realising her worth in the end

I watched a few duds these few days so I turned to Huang Bo list of dramas and chose this one because of the 1 million views on youtube. So this is the pilot drama I have seen fans talking about. I had strong emotions while watching this drama. Overall I liked it.

What I liked:
1) FL's best friend - I loved Nuo Nuo for bringing FL back to reality. She gave great advice & reminders to FL.
2) Acting - Great performances by An Qi, Huang Bo & actress who played ML's ex. I shed a tear when FL considered abortion.
3) Styling - I liked the uniforms: pilots, flight attendants, ground crew. They fitted the cast. FL wore a lot of white so I wonder if there was any significance to the chosen outfits.

What I disliked:
1) ML characterisation - I hated Song Yi Chen for treating his wife with indifference during their marriage. I also disliked him for not setting clear boundaries with her ex - why was she allowed to hold his hand / arm? Why did he prioritise her during emergencies?
2) FL characterisation - Lin Rou was a doormat for allowing her husband to trear her that way. I also disliked her passive nature.
3) Romance - Severely underdeveloped. The only genuine romantic scene I saw was when both wore white outfits. ML never expressed his feelings for ML. However I must say the kiss at the start was steamy but moment gone once ML became a douchebag.
4) Antagonist - ML's ex was shameless. Despite being told off by ML, she still insisted that ML loved / wanted her.

Favourite scene
When FL told Nuo Nuo that she wanted to live for herself

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Excellent acting, writing and romantic scenes make this drama my favourite in the series

When I first explored vertical dramas back in December 2024, Dramazone Youtube channel was my only source for vertical dramas. I think the title of this drama caught my attention so I clicked 'Play'. I enjoyed it immensely. I watched a few Prince of Beijing Circle adaptations after this drama but "Bo Ye Courted a Hundred Times, and Miss Jiang Showed Mercy" remains my favourite Prince of Beijing Circle adaptation.

What I liked:
1. Romance - There was a lot of heat in this drama. High quality and quantity of kissing and intimate scenes. I also liked the romance development of the second couple because it contrasted with the romance development of the first couple.
2. Acting - Great acting by all four leads. Xu Jiang Shuai and Chang Dan Dan must had developed rapport because their characters' physical and emotional intimacy translated well on screen. The actor and actress who portrayed SML and SFL respectively did an excellent job too. I could feel their frustrations and heartaches even though I disliked them.
3. FL characterisation - I liked the complexity of FL. She seemed to put tough exterior when facing rivals but she also had a vulnerable side. I loved her at work scenes - she was knowledgeable and focused.
4. ML characterisation - I liked that he was smitten with FL and would do anything for her. Not only he was a great lover, he also became like a family to FL. The last plot twist was tragic - I was glad that ML apologised to FL immediately after finding out.
5. Styling - One of the best styling for vertical drama FL. Just impeccable. Chang Dan Dan must be petite because she wore stilettos most of the time.
6. Supporting characters - I liked Mr and Mrs Yan despite their son's horrible treatment towards FL. ML's assistant was also likeable.
7. SML's arc - Despite him being an antagonist, I must say that his arc is one of the best antagonist arcs I've seen in vertical dramas.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Damn, SFL was a traitor. I couldn't believe she would do such things to her best friend. I also disliked SML for cheating on FL. FL's family was horrible too.

Favourite scene
The confrontation at the playground

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Poignant tale about second chance at love and in life

This drama was recommended to me by a reddit member as we discussed second chance romance dramas. I wasn't aware of this story but the given synopsis was intriguing that I watched it 2 days after the recommendation. It was emotional & thought-provoking - I enjoyed this drama immensely.

What I liked:
1. Writing - Wow, just incredible writing that led me to question life choices. I loved the mature handling of second chance, not just in romance but also at life. I empathised with FL for the tough decisions she had to make regarding her relationship with ML. I liked that fantasy seeped into the story.
2. Acting - Sublime performance by Zhang Xin Yi. I cried a few times because I felt FL's pain. Li Meng Yuan was great too although I wish he had cried when he found out about FL's struggles.
3. ML characterisation - I liked him for genuinely wanting to work on their relationship. He was a confident young man who was inept at expressing his feelings and concerns for FL.
4. Romance - The drama started with a spicy scene which later made me emotional. Post-reborn FL was hesitant in following what had been done before and I understand those feelings. ML seemed genuine in pursulng FL (he's not about chasing the unattainable) and slowly they build trust & confidence in their relationship. I must say the kissing scenes were hot - Li Meng Yuan demonstrated desire & lust very well. Oh and I liked the supporting characters' romance even though it was super short.
5. Supporting characters - Wow I am impressed with the little arcs given to FL's mother, her senior and ML's mother. I also liked the open-minded grandpa of FL.

What I disliked:
1. FL's father - There isn't an obvious antagonist for this drama but I guess FL's father could be called a baddie. He was selfish and that meeting with ML's mother was extremely embarrassing. He didn't care about saving face.
2. Bai Yingluo - This "white moonlight" tried to ruin FL & ML's relationship but good thing she had very little screentime.

Favourite scene
When FL told ML why she was hesitant about being in a romantic relationship with him

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Second chance after a near divorce. Too bad I disliked FL

I watched this drama after watching Decad starring Zhang Ruo Chen and Wang Zi Yi. I love that version so much so I was curious about this version. I've always liked Zhang Lei's visuals so yes there was some expectations. I have mixed feelings about this drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Good balance of push & pull between ML & FL. There was a dash of spice in their romance.
2. Male model scene - This scene was brutal. I liked that male models went all out to entertain their target. And it was great way to punish SFL.
3. Styling - I liked the clothes worn by ML & FL.
4. The ending - Even though it is a cliffhanger, we get to see the attic.

What I disliked:
1. FL characterisation - Unfortunately I disliked FL. She had this mean vibe towards ML i.e. she always wanted to see ML cry and thought of ways to see him cry. She also seemed guarded even with ML, I feel.
2. Antagonist - SFL was annoying as hell.
3. Chemistry - There was lack of chemistry between Zhang Lei & Xu Dan.

Favourite scene
The ending

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Only liked the final 20 minutes because it's different

Huang Bo and Xu Si Qi had collaborated again and they had back-to-back 2 new releases. I watched this drama earlier than the other drama (which had ML reborn trope). Sad to say I didn't enjoy this drama as much as I'd have liked.

What I liked:
1. Third act - I liked the last 20 minutes because it was different from Bloom in the Shadows, which I suspect is the inspiration for this drama. I liked that bad people were punished for their crimes.
2. Supporting character - I liked FL's subordinate / accomplice.
3. Romance - I liked the scene in which ML was kissing FL while she was talking on the phone (brought me back to Huang Bo's Into the Abyss drama). I also liked when ML told FL that he knew about her secret identity.

What I disliked:
1. Tone - This drama is a remake of Bloom in the Shadows. I loved that drama because of its dark tones from characterisation of FL & antagonist, to revenge plans and seduction. It was thrilling because the drama was different. In contrast, The Palm Fell felt like any other vertical drama because of its editing and tone.
2. Acting - FL is vengeful, scheming and supposedly seductive but Xu Si Qi didn't hit the mark despite the existing chemistry & rapport with Huang Bo. She was miscast.

Favourite scene
Ending

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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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The best jdorama I have ever watched - brilliant acting, writing and editing!

This jdorama joined my playlist when I started watching jdorama last year. Decided to watch the series while on a staycation with family. My sister & I binged this drama in one day. It was très magnifique!

What I liked:
1. Acting - First and foremost, phenomenal acting by Takuya Kimora & Kyoka Suzuki. Wow they were immersed in their roles. The supporting cast was amazing too. Love it when they spoke French.
2. Writing - This is an underdog story with brilliant storytelling. I rooted for them to succeed from day 1. I was engrossed every single minute. Main & some supporting characters were given substantial arcs & growth. I love Chef Obana's eccentricity!
3. Antagonists - There are a few characters that posed challenges to Chef Obana & Chef Rinko's journey to achieving 3 star Michelin. Wonderful arcs for them!
4. Styling - I actually prefer Chef Obana's hairstyling when he was head of Echofille. Takuya Kimora looked like Benjamin Bratt during American movie Miss Congeniality. Ms Linda Machiko Richard had impeccable styling - very chic.
5. Editing - The shots of food (prep, cooking and even when they were at the market) made my mouth water. I also liked how important emotionally charged scenes were framed. I cried when some staff messed up.

What I disliked:
1. Mr Eto - I disliked him for being manipulative.
2. Chef Obana's decision - I don't understand the brash decision he made before the Michelin award ceremony. He needed to be acknowledged by his peers!

Favourite scene
When Chef Obana convinced Mr Minegishi the grear hunter

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An intricate tale of rivalry, cunning deception and first love

I chose to watch this drama because I was preparing to write a reddit post about Han Yu Tong's revenge dramas.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Shen Ming Xia was smart and scheming. Her revenge plan was carefully crafted so don't mess with her.
2. Acting - Good performances by the actresses who played the Queen and two concubines. While I liked Han Yu Tong's overall performance in this drama, at times I found her facial expressions too "hard" so I wasn't sure whether Shen Ming Xia was scheming or really being kind/genuine.
3. Supporting characters - I must say that antagonists were a delight to watch and hate. I also liked the servants who were kind to Shen Ming Xia.
4. Romance - I liked scenes of Shen Ming Xia's first love more than scenes of her blossoming romance with the emperor.

What I disliked:
1. Length - With a running time of 4 hours 7 minutes, it feels like watching a condensed version of Chinese period drama. I prefer modern drama and with bad subtitles, I struggled with this drama during the second act. However once moved into third act, I became invested in the story again.
2. Romance - Slow burn romance but only a few scenes. I would have liked if the romance between Shen Ming Xia and the Emperor was given more screentime. I want good, real kisses too.
3. Nails - Gosh I couldn't stand Han Yu Tong's long manicured nails. They felt out of place in this drama.

Favourite scene
When Shen Ming Xia saved a wounded soldier

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