emberzmars

Simple story involving role reversal

I decided to watch this drama because 'female CEO' was tagged to it.

What I liked:
1. Role reversal - The drama started off with FL being assistant to ML. After an incident, FL was given the chance to be boss to ML. I enjoyed watching FL being a CEO & tackling work issues. She was assertive & quick thinking.
2. Shen Hao Nan - Even though this drama was short & underdeveloped, I like his acting. I like his haircut too - kinda reminds me of Wang Anyu in Falling into You.
3. FL's ally - I like this character who could be a love rival.

What I disliked:
1. FL haircut - Her haircut in earlier scenes before she wore bucket hat, was hideous. Aged her - she looked like an aunty.
2. Writing - This story had potential but sadly underdeveloped. Would like to see the different dynamics between FL and ML before and after the incident.

Favourite scene
Business meeting when she outsmarted board members

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Good melodrama focusing on empowered woman

I was keen to check out collaboration between Meng Na and Wang Yi Ran after checking out their dramas separately.

What I liked:
1. Shen Ruon characterisation - She is independent & quick thinking. She's always 2 steps ahead of her enemies. It's great to see her grow professionally throughout this drama.
2. ML's mother - Wonderful to see a supportive mother in law even at hard times faced by FL.
3. FL's family - I like watching the contrast between thr supportive FL parents and her money-hungry grandmother & uncle.

What I disliked:
1. Romance - There were some kisses but I wish there were more affectionate moments between FL & ML. I also wish there was co-dependence between them.
2. Lu Heng characterisation - He was underdeveloped that I felt like he was a side character. Lu company felt more like FL's company than ML's company.

Favourite scene
When ML's family hit with tragedy & FL stepped in to hold the fort

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Wacky drama but with depth and great acting

I came across this drama on reddit and decided to watch after reading good reviews and knowing that Yan Zi Xian starred in this drama. I was highly entertained by this series.

What I liked:
1. Ye Zhao Nan / Guan San Mei characterisation - Wow, the character had so much depth & growth. I love the contrast between San Mei and Zhao Nan but there was at least one similar trait - intelligence. I love how she is quick thinking, likeable, funny and compassionate.
2. Romance - I love how romance developed between San Mei and Liu Xuan Ming. They were hostile towards each other at first but then slowly developed friendship and later love. I also enjoyed the secondary romance in particular the assassin Tan Rang and Princess Yun Luo. There are plenty of hot kisses in this drama and not just from main couple.
3. Acting - I was impressed by acting from Zhang Yue Nan, Yu Xuan Chen and Han Yu Tong. I am familiar with Han Yu Tong because of her work in vertical shot dramas but gosh it's so fun watching her played a scheming love rival.
4. Yi Yang Jun characterisation - What a rice development for this character. I find him compelling because Yu Xuan Chen had such presence and aura, sometimes he outshined Yan Zi Xian.
5. Comedy - This drama is one of the funniest Chinese dramas that I have watched & enjoyed.
6. Supporting characters - There were many characters that I enjoyed watching in this drama e.g. The Three Stooges, General Jin Fu (damn his body was hot!), Ke Qian Yue, Yao Hu.
7. Role reversal - I like how this was showcased in the drama because we see both sides. I also enjoyed female empowerment trope in this drama.

What I disliked:
1. Princess Qi Meng / Qian Hui Rou - Great way to use Fan Wei's talent but I found the two separate individuals were very similar. I also couldn't figure out servant Bai Lu's loyalty toward Qian Hui Rou because Hui Rou's past.
2. Zhao Jin's love arc - I also didn't enjoy his love arc because it didn't seem natural.

Favourite scene
The start of the sisterhood and the kissing that follow suit

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Enjoyed it for the acting & location but FL performance was underwhelming

I am a fan of Wang Zu Yi after watching his performance in 'The Only Girl You Haven't Seen', which I watched when I was on vacation in China in November 2024. After returning home, I decided to watch this series.

What I liked:
1. Acting - It's wonderful to see Wang Zu Yi and Hou Dong acting together in a series for second time. Both gave great performances again. I also liked the acting from Han Yu Tong and Zheng Nan Xi.
2. Xian - I was surprised to see Xi'an Ancient City Wall featured in this series because I visited Chengdu & Xi'an just before watching this series. Love the scene when ML & FL went to their house rooftop and saw the City Wall.
3. The ending - I like it because I think it's fitting for ML & FL.

What I disliked:
1. Ji Shu Yi's acting - There wasn't much spark between Wang Zu Yi and Ji Shu Yi. I think Ji Shu Yi couldn't match the intensity of Wang Zu Yi's performance so their scenes together were lacklustre. I also didn't feel like rooting for FL and reconciliation because of the acting.

Favourite scene
ML & FL going to their house rooftop which overlooks Xi'an Ancient City Wall

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I like this drama because of kisses and Xiao Bai

I got to know about this series after reading a reddit post about C drama with many kisses. This drama reminds me of 'Love Me in Three Days' because both ML needed kisses from FL for survival and 'Night of Love With You' where ML is the antagonist,

What I liked:
1) Romance - I am surprised by the number of kisses as this story is a period drama. It's great that there were scenes of getting to know each other and falling in love. I also like how Female Lead Sheng Xian explained the mechanics of tv kisses.
2) Xiao Bai - My favourite character in this series! I think Wu Tian Hao should be billed third in the cast list.
3) Supporting characters - I also like Sheng Lian Hua, ML's right hand man and the fourth prince.
4) Style - I love the comic panels in this drama.

What I disliked:
1) Villain - I think the arc is too simple.
2) The ending - OMG, what was that ending? I wish they had gone with an ending similar to 'The Resilient Dr Ling'.

Favourite scene
The plot twist in episode 17

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Left hanging by that final episode

This series appeared on my Youku dashboard and I decided to watch because of the title. Despite the very short duration, don't waste your time watching this drama.

What I liked:
1) Supporting cast - I like FL's best friend, male colleague and grandma.
2) Visual - Yu Yi Fu is tall but baby face.

What I disliked:
1) Writing - I like marriage of convenience and this drama is alright. It had potential to become good one but fell short.
2) The ending - I was dissatisfied by the ending. I wish there were more episodes to elaborate on the plot twist.
3) Romance - It is definitely lacking.

Favourite scene
When FL & ML kissed.

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Simple & cute tale of merman - human in love

I was interested to watch another merman drama after completing My Merman Brother. So I clicked 'Play'.

What I liked:
1) Brothers - Despite characters being underdeveloped, I like that the 4 brothers have distinct personality. I was attracted to Gu Ze San from the get go because of he was mysterious.
2) Tone - It's simple and fluffly. This series feels very new adult aka protagonists in early 20s coming of age.
3) Bai Qing characterisation - I like how her character was written - I didn't expect the plot twist.

What I disliked:
1) Plot - I think certain arcs could be developed more.
2) Romance - They were sweet and that first kiss was kinda hot. However I wish their romance story had more substance i.e. we see more scenes of the main couple falling in love.

Favourite scene
When Bai Qing's life was threatened

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Sexy business rivalry drama that could use more kick

I am big fan of Wen Mo Yan because of her work in 'The Only Girl You Haven't Seen'. Oh boy, this drama is something alright.

What I liked:
1) Kisses - Damn the kissing scenes were very hot. Episode 1 was already spicy and episode 16 gave me a shock! Both Wen Mo Yan and Shen Hao Nan had great chemistry that they were able to portray lust and passion in their makeout scenes.
2) Han Qing characterisation - Kudos to Wen Mo Yan for taking this role. She's got the acting chops to play a sexy siren (her voice and legs are sexy). I like that Han Qing stuck to her principles - she's not into framing innocenet people.
3) Shen Hao Nan - Damn, he is handsome and kinda resemble Mark Tuan of kpop group GOT7 (go watch Crash & Burn or You Calling My Name video to see the resemblance). This is my first time watching his drama and he played the role well. I'm keen to check out his other work.
4) Styling - I like outfits and styling for female and male leads. Stylist must work hard on Shen Hao Nan's hair because the way it's coiffed seemed intricate.

What I disliked:
1) Writing - ML Feng Si Qian is trapped by stipulations made by his father in law but I don't "feel" that much suffocation from him. If the writer had made it clear that his selfworth is tied to the company then his character would be more compelling. I think the villain could be more complex too instead of a straight cut greedy character.
2) Certain scenes - I don't like the scene of Han Qing playing violin in episode 1. The camera angle wasn't good so she looked possessed. Plus that scene doesn't add value to the series.
3) Romance - I wish we were given more "at work" scenes because I think that's how Feng Si Qian fell for Han Qing. I'd like to see them slowly falling in love instead of being told that they were in love.

Favourite scene
Han Qing tended to Feng Si Qian wound then they made out.

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Well written, fast-paced romantic suspense series

I can't remember what led me to this series but glad I watched it. It covers many genres: romance, thriller, action, drama and a bit of science fiction. With 16 episode format, I think this series can be adapted into Korean drama.

What I liked:
1) The writing - This series was well-written and engaging, thanks to its tight running time (16 episodes with each episode lasting 25 to 45 minutes). Even though I figured out the doppelganger, I appreciate knowing the intent behind this doppelganger arc. I also like that 3 supporting characters (Ding Bei Fan, Tian Sui, Jiang Tian Cheng) had substance & played important roles in the storytelling.
2) An Yue & Xu Xi Xi's characterisation - It's wonderful to see contrasting personalities of these individuals but the evil twin wasn't evil all the time. I understood and sympathised her despite the mean demeanor.
3) The romance - For a romantic suspense series, there was good amount of romance between female and male leads. Makeout sessions were hot but my favourite is the first kiss - I was surprised. Yilia Yu and Tsao Yu Ning seemed very comfortable with each other, so the development of their love story seemed natural.
4) Acting - Good acting in particular Yilia Yu, Tsao Yu Ning and Wu Hao Ze. The latter was a standout because he was earnest at playing a newbie in entertainment industry who is attracted to a talent manager that already has a suitor. Tsao Yu Ning did well in expressing different feelings such as desire, concern, anger, love.
5) Action - Wow, the action scenes were impressive. The fights were well choreographed and even the 'blast from the past' scene was good.

What I disliked:
1) The music - I think there are 2 separate English songs used in this series. The lyrics are sound though I would tweak some words of the main song to make it more meaningful. The only thing I cannot stand is the voice. The song is too loud (sound mixing needs to be fixed) and singer's voice doesn't suit the song/moment.

Favourite scene
When the bomb was about to explode

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Goofy, charming ML the reason I enjoyed this series

I watched Strong Woman Bong-soon in December 2023 after completing Strong Girl Nam-Soon in November 2023. Yes, I was late to the party.

What I liked:
1) Ahn Min Hyuk characterisation - I found him goofy & very charming. He had golden retriever persona. I like that he's cool with being labelled gay - seems like he is not homophobic. I also like that he wasn't intimidated by a physically strong woman. Role was played brilliantly by Park Hyung Sik.
2) The romance - I like how their relationship developed. They were boss-employee first then lovers. The Min Min scenes were excellent. Made me miss moments when I was flirting & giddy with excitement.
3) In Gook Doo - I also like his character and Kim Ji Soo. Serious cop who is oblivious to his best friend's crush on him.
4) Comedy - Comic relief mostly provided by Secretary Goo and the random gangster led by Kim Kwong Bok. I enjoyed those scenes though I found some scenes quite random.

What I disliked:
1) Childlike FL - In general, I don't like cute, childlike female leads especially when they are already past mid-20s. I don't like how Bong Soon was written as she didn't use her strength well as a bodyguard.
2) Too many in one series - This series cover various genres (thriller, fantasy, romance, comedy). While I enjoy romantic thriller, I found the slapstick comedy didn't gel well with the pverall storytelling.

Favourite scene
The Min Min scenes because it made me giddy!

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Refreshing twist on business rivalry and marriage of convenience

I noticed this series when browsing my iQiyi dashboard. I wasn't familiar with any of the cast. However I thought I should watch this series after reading MDL reviews. Glad I did it!

What I liked:
1) The romance - Because Female lead and Male lead had different personality (she was more serious, no-nonsense businesswoman while he was bright but confident architect), I expected a lot of "push" in the development of their relationship. Luckily the "push" factor wasn't too long as Female lead realised what a great man Male lead was. I love how natural and comfortable both were with each other. The hand holding, the affectionate gaze, the kisses, the playful banter...I felt like watching a real couple in love.
2) Ye Cheng Su characterisation - At first I was apprehensive about his character because he appeared childish. However he proved me wrong when he took business matters seriously. I like that he was patient and secure about his capability and his relationship with Gu Ling Se. His character has shown a lot of growth by the end of the series.
3) Supporting characters - Most of the supporting characters were well developed. I enjoyed watching Bei Chen (especially his random utterance of English words), Secretary Jin, Mu Qiu Hui, Uncle Zhao, Piao Piao. Even Gu Huai Heng, Gu Pei Ya and Jiang Han was a delight to watch
4) The plot - I find this series rather engaging as it has nice balance of personal and professional lives of the FL & ML. I also like the arcs of Jiang Han and Pei Ya.
5) Outfits - I love the outfits for Gu Ling Se. The leather jacket and tight pants for motorcycling made her hot while the dresses made her pretty.

What I disliked:
1) Business aspect - I was slightly lost after Gu Huai Heng made his big move. I didn't like how that affected the relationship between FL & ML. I also expected some explanation about Future Corporation's direction after the acquisition but nope, there as none.
2) Ye Cheng Su's hairstyle - I don't like his hairstyle except the one in the ending because that hairstyle made him looked much younger than Gu Ling Se and less serious about work.

Favourite scene
When Gu Ling Se surprised Ye Cheng Su with the lantern festival

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Light, fluffy vertical drama with good looking leads

I love Zhang Chu Xuan's performance in 'Captive love from the mob boss' so I went to look for her work. The synopsis was interesting so I searched and found a full movie version of this series on Youtube. I clicked 'Play', what else?

What I liked:
1) The romance - I like Gu Huai Yan and Duan Qing Yu from the start of this series. That one night stand reminded me of 'Fated to Love You / You are My Destiny'. Sweet and playful romance between them - a lof of physical touch. It's cute to see Gu Huai Yan acknowledges his feelings for her and acted on them.
2) Visuals - Both Zhang Chu Xuan and Lu Shan Dong are very good looking although Zhang Chu Xuan's styling for this series made her look like university student rather than a working adult.
3) Pacing - Easy to digest series because of its fast pacing.
4) Similarity with other dramas - This series reminds me of 'Follow My Dear General' due to the rashes and 'Love Me in Three Days' due to the treatment.

What I disliked:
1) The ending - Quite flat for me. Wish they would talk more about his medical condition, their feelings and future together.
2) Subtitles - Some episodes were missing subtitles, if I am not mistaken. However due to the fast pace nature of this series, I could roughly guess what is happening during those episodes.

Favourite scene
It was raining and Duan Qing Yu taught Gu Huai Yan about dating

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Light. fast-paced and unmemorable micro drama

I wanted a short length series that I can watch in one evening. I enjoyed First Kisses immensely even though it's a micro drama so I decided to watch this series.

What I liked:
1. The romance - For a series that last less than 2 hours, Just Fiancée has good amount of kisses. I like that both leads didn't play dumb after their first kiss and that their kisses were playful in nature.
2. Grandpa - He was nice even when knowing that he was fooled by his grandson. That scene of him reliving his past was adorable.
3. Lin Duo Duo - At first I thought he was going to act like his sister but he was more respectful. I was surprised by his action during the ending.

What I disliked:
1. The project - I feel that Su Yu should do more due diligence before deciding to continue the Xiaolin Bay project. He should have asked for status report because then he wouldn't get hurt.
2. Lin Shao Shao - She doesn't respect Su Yu. That harrassment could get her in trouble if reported.
3. Editing - Instead of 5 minute per episode, this series should be extended to 10 minute per episode so there would be more time to develop main characters and plot.

Favourite scene
When Su Yu apologised to Qiao Mai for neglecting her at the party

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Refreshing take on fake relationship and nerd/geek tropes

Whenever I am in the mood for mini dramas, I'd scroll my dashboard on WeTV. The title peaked my interest and I instantly click 'Play' after reading synopsis.

What I liked:
1. Xie Yu Fei characterisation - In this drama, the nerd/geek is the female lead Xie Yu Fei. I love her character - she's intelligent, self-assured, open to new experiences. I love it when she scolded Yao Zhen Zhen for overstepping the line but at the same time, acknowledges Yao Zhen Zhen's strengths. It was disheartening to see Yu Fei upset - those two scenes almost made me cry. Xu Jia Qi was amazing and very pretty as Yu Fei.
2. Writing - I enjoy watching fake relationship trope and gosh, this mini drama put a refreshing twist on it by ending the charade before halfway through the series. It's also great to see the growth of Ling Yang's character. He became less childish and more responsible for his future.
3. The romance - Gosh, I love that Yu Fei took initiative to kiss. Even though there aren't many kissing scenes, you see their love grows through their actions e.g. Ling Yang's cooking.
4. Supporting characters - I love the besties Qi Qing and Guan Pei as they are extremely loyal and protective of Yu Fei and Ling Yang.
5. Styling - I really like the styling for Yu Fei and Ling Yang. The leather jacket, white shirt, tie, jeans and combat boots on Zhang Zhi Yao - amazing. Don't mind the repeating combo. I like actresses with short bob but mature styling (i.e. no fringe). Xu Jia Qi looks pretty with every outfit even when she wears a plain tshirt at home.

What I disliked:
1. Factory sub-plot - Not a dislike but I wish this sub-plot was given more depth. It'd be nice to see how Ling Yang manages his family's legacy and how Yu Fei supports him through this path.
2. Yu Fei's parents - I don't like people looking down on others just because they have more formal education.
3. Wedding scene - I wish this scene had included the professor that asked Yu Fei to go on a blind date with Ling Yang. He was crucial to their love story, he should be at the wedding.

Favourite scene
When Yu Fei informed Ling Yang that she likes him

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Light & fluffy but with some spicy scenes

Watched this series after enjoying First Kisses starring Guan Jin Lin, who acts in this series.

What I liked:
1. Gender role reversal - I love that female lead Lin Wei Xu is state preceptor who is capable of martial arts, while the male lead Fu Su is a hostage/guest that subservient to the female lead.
2. The romance - The kisses and hand biting were hot. There were hugs too. That last scene was cute though wish the director had taken a spicier route. I also like that Lin Wei Xu is forward and frank about what she likes in Fu Su.
3. The plot - Straight-forward and engaging at the same time.
4. Merman make up - Even though merman has blue eyes, white/silver hair and fins near his ears, his physical appearance didn't throw me off.

What I disliked:
1. Master's murder - The motive for murdering the master seems silly.
2. Unresolved mysteries - How did Lin Wei Xu get her cold disease? What actually happened to Fu Su's mum?

Favourite scene
When Fu Su saved Lin Wei Xu from the cold attack

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