mysecretsoul

Ah, has his recent work gone down in quality somewhat? That's too bad, but I guess it happens...especially as the actor ages in the industry. I always hear about Devil Beside You though, so maybe I'll give it a shot. :)

I seem to write mostly articles and recaps these days. In the past, I would work with fiction, but...it becomes frustrating at times.

Your mother is amazing, haha! I wish I had the power to marathon like that; so many dramas would get knocked out at once. Unfortunately I've never tackled a big sageuk either, unless taiga drama counts... Ryomaden and Shinsengumi! were big watches, anyway.

I just want to applaud you for excellent taste in actors and actresses, haha. It's wonderful to see Kim Myung Min AND Joo Sang Wook being loved. They're just great.

I found time for In The Mood For Love. Thanks for the recommendation! I enjoyed it very much. I initially rated 9, but a final ranking will take some thought.

Most impressed with the intimate cinematography. Many shots felt like we were stealing glances of characters, almost voyeuristic -- without seediness. Pairing these with more "artsy" sequences, like the main couple passing one another on lonely trips to the noodle stand, the balance was perfect. I loved how the faces of their spouses were never shown! And it also feels remarkably timeless despite being a period piece (and over ten years old); the story has a classic feel and look.

Acting was also top notch. Though dialogue was reasonable, much of the script's power came from what wasn't said aloud. Both leads are fantastic with body language. Oh, and the device of whispering secrets into the ground and burying them...wow.

Sometimes I feel like a newbie as well, since I only just returned to the watching scene. In the past I tended to stick with Japanese shows, so nearly all Korean dramas are new to me. Also, at this older juncture, I can't stomach some of the genres (like idol). So I tend to miss a lot of hyped shows anyway.

I agree Hong Kong film can be quality; they do various genres, especially action, quite well. I wasn't aware that they did dramas there though! How interesting.

Somehow I missed that you spoke Cantonese :o It's such a beautiful language, so that's truly cool.

Same. My first dramas were the current popular Taiwanese, but I moved right onto Japanese since it felt more familiar. Thanks so much for listing some of the ones you've seen. I actually feel like the only person that's never actually seen Mike He yet...I should get on that.

Ah, that's exciting to hear. Apparently they have the film on Netflix, so I'll try to watch it tonight.

How interesting you work in film though! It explains why you have such a wonderful eye for quality. I've never had the opportunity to hear from the prospective of a creator before, so your explanation of the critic relationship truly enlightens. And I will not ask, but if you ever feel more confident of them, please do show them! There are a lot of fun watches at festivals like that, and I'm sure your works are no exception :)

I know right? It probably came from manga/anime, since it's more plausible there. Although, it'd be a lot of fun to see that scenario lampshaded. "Doesn't this only happen in idol dramas?" "Let's never talk about this again." XD

Oh, no problem! You seem nice to talk to *and* have a great list, so I just had to add you~

I absolutely adore Kim Myung Min. His acting is a total gem, so I tend to work slowly through his filmography so as to not run out. Professional is a great way to describe him :)

That's awesome then; we have a lot in common. Do you write something in particular, like poetry or other works? It seems you like historical dramas as well, since I spy Queen Seon Duk in your favorites.

Hopefully that's a good thing, haha. I try to balance clarity with conciseness, but I'm not sure I'm hitting the mark at times.

I try not to read other recaps while I do a series, but that's hilarious. Pomade X,D

Lol! I'm considering just continuing to call him Dr. Acula. It's just too much fun. I share your sentiments about him though; he's a real piece of work.

As to the Chae Kyung-Choi connection, it's possible I may have misunderstood. The scene is suggestive and it makes other plot points more sensible...but maybe a rewatch is in order, just in case. :) I have to agree the character herself seems somewhat useless. It's like she's only there to take Do Han off the singles market.

I'm kind of confused about the suspension as well. In a hospital with others of his caliber and skill, perhaps they'd do such a thing. But it's quite clear the only other pediatric doctor in the hospital with experience leading surgeries is Doctor Ko, so....

The behavior of most of the other residents is particularly bad. I just want to shake whoever let them be doctors, because their empathy is so low. >.<

Thank you so much for the warning ahead of time. :) It's good to know what you're in for with movies like that.

Oh, tell me how you like Salaryman once you get going! I've started to become wary of hype myself; it seems to alter the drama experience too much. That's a title I was interested in too though...I just love Jung Ryeo Won. :)

Historicals always seem to pick up speed as they progress, right? :)

I'm actually preparing to restart Empire of Gold! For the first two weeks, I tried watching it live...but that would have driven me crazy. It seems like something that would be fun all at once, just to keep the details and atmosphere rolling. :)

Hoping particularly to see Hwatu. History's always fun! And even if it is 50 episodes, it's just that much more Joo Jin Mo. Bring it on :,)

Hm, I'll have to take care then. When I go to view it, I'll sample how much I can take and go from there. It does sound like an intriguing film though.

That sounds very promising! Sometimes I feel the need for a simple, colorful, sweet Taiwanese romance. It's good to hear there's a very good one waiting for me when it concludes :)

I'm not sure if we discussed it. Do you often watch Taiwanese dramas? Do you have other recommendations, if so?

Hello again! It has been a while right? Thanks so much for the birthday wishes. Sometimes it's so strange to get a year older.

I noticed you've kept with Knife and Flower. How do you feel about it so far? It looks so beautiful, but it seems like something I'd want all of at once to start :,)

That's so kind of you to say; I'm honestly flattered. Though I write reviews for fun, I like to give my exact thoughts on the matter. It may get wordy at times, but in the long run it's worth it. :) Feel free to ask or recommend me anything. I might take some time to get around to it, but I'll definitely check no matter what. For now, I'll start with In The Mood For Love~

Also thank you for the sweet birthday wishes! I hope our relationship will be more friendly than hateful, despite how it usually goes with filmmakers and critics, haha. The stars point to yes! XD

It's wonderful to hear Lovers portrays mature romance. Sometimes it can be nice to see candy love, but real passion is a must. I couldn't imagine some of the usual tropes applied to something like a serious crime drama...it'd be horrifying. The cop suddenly falls on top of his quarry; they share an accidental kiss...!?

Ah, yes! Lee Jun Ki played the role of "Boy," in The Hotel Venus. He looks somewhat different than he does now though; his appearance before military service to now is much changed in my opinion. It was so nostalgic to see his sweet, round-faced look again, haha.

I definitely agree with your more specific points, especially about the narration. As much as I love listening to Kusanagi-san's voice, that is. Thank you for asking my opinion, I'm flattered that it could be useful to you. :)

Once I complete the episode 4 recap for Good Doctor, I'll have to give that film a shot. Since I've finally fallen between dramas, it's about time for me to start Lovers as well, so you'll probably get a lot of commentary on it from me soon~