nfabjoy

Flawless story. Uninspired execution

Nine , Nine is such a good story with great mechanics and messaging that I really enjoyed.

There wasn't a lot of hair pulling physics at play which I found refreshing. Instead, the physics employed where the physics of emotions. That no matter what you do in time, a person's essence will remain true to character and form. The push and pull of character essence staying true throughout time made for an enduring watch with stunning character portraits.

It scored a mediocre 7/10 because the presentation of this beautifully woven story was dull and uninspired. It lacked x factor, charm and charisma. This drama has zero personality and at times, that made for boring watches. It took me literal MONTHS to finish this drama as a result.

Its my hope we see a remake of this beautiful story because for sure , it is lovely . Maybe a modern one from South Korea again or even an international one, Hollywood style . Even a movie . I would definitely watch !

OVERALL- the story is quite literally flawless and resolved very well. The character portraits are some of the more enduring I have seen in all of dramaland and it gets it 7 top marks from that. However, it was low key boring.

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One of the best fusion dramas out there!

Queen In Hyun's man is everything a romantic drama should be . Charming , swoon worthy and ROMANTIC. However , the writers of Queen In Hyun's Man did not think that was enough! No sir. They took it a step further with time travel elements , time slip too and the celebrity world.

This drama really gave alot in the chemistry , romance and simplicity departments. So much so that the angst purgatory stage that every drama deems necessary to have was actually quite lovely! And I hate angst.

The motifs , themes and conclusions were utterly satisfying and the reasons why it does not score a full ten is because the story was not expansive enough and just felt like there were two people . This is mostly because the supporting cast seemed to just exist and the FLs friend was annoying. I really despise noisy characters and she just had a banal way of speaking which was not even funny. However , these off elements do not take away from the charm of the drama.

Other than that- its perfect ! The OST is chef's kiss too. I loved how it had the fusion of Joseon and modern which did so mich for the continuity of the drama !

I highly recommend it . Its super duper refreshing ad will remind you what ROMANCE is supposed to look and feel like.

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A passable Zombie movie that you can watch if you hate scary movies

As far as Zombie movies go - this is a good one .
As far as movies go - this is an okay movie.

#Alive has a great introduction and really compelling acting from Yoo Ah In , His acting chops really made the movie feel full and really well lived in even though he was the only human for the duration of the movie.

What brings this movie down is its failed logic and lousy set pieces. Theres not much to get or learn from this at all. Its barely emotional and does little to move the viewer. Not to mention that it is not scary.

However, it is passable and I was able to finish it , albeit in two sittings. Ha!

I wouldn't jump to recommend this movie . Its not special enough but if you are someone who wants to dip their toes into the genre then this is the safest option OR if you are an avid fan of the zombie genre - then go for it ! Though I must warn it is no Train to Busan .

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This drama is ELITE

Powerful, stirring, brilliant—you name it, Six Flying Dragons is it.

JUST WATCH is the only justice I can give a show of such brilliance.

"It explores the tensions between pragmatism and idealism, caution and action, ruthlessness and moral rectitude" with great story telling and screen play greatly depicting the urgency of the times .

It truly is an EPIC that astounds in cinematography , cast , screenplay and production.One would find the most geneorous character portraits and most delicate writing treated with reverence and imbued with deep reflection.

I personally loved the insights and moral instruction offered in SFD. Every great thing requiring a certain sacrifice was a trope spun on its head . What is victory ? What is a loss ? Were also deeply explored. It also pondered the mechanics of villainy in great art . That , perhaps , the most noble people with zero greed in their hearts are the most dangerous because they cannot compromise for a greater principle and lack empathy and pity for the common man as their views are rooted in elitist sense of self ? Or maybe its the ones with the most persuasive tongues that are the violent ones? Or that people with darkness and resentment in their hearts have a much needed push and pull to be moral characters with great empathy. What ever insights you pick up on ,what is for sure is that there is no endorsement of path .What is right is history .

JUST WATCH . Epic sword fights and epic relationships ensue.

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An intense yet feel good drama

The premise of While You Were Sleeping really caught my eye as I have some experience on dreams and precognition so the emotional connection to the drama was quite solidified . However , bias aside, this drama did so well in world building and being very elemental . The fact that it is a legal drama with romantic and fantasy elements made this drama thrilling and very full bodied.

The full bodied nature of the drama meant everything was well fleshed out. The stories of everyone from the guy in school , the lawyer in the firm, the prosecutors to the intimate relationships were highly generous and very rewarding . It almost came across as a slice of life drama which I highly appreciated . The creation of an ensemble of likeable characters made the WYWS world feel full and very much lived in, and that’s probably the thing I liked most about While You Were Sleeping.The pathos illustrated made the characters likeable and easy to relate to and seeing them making hard decisions in the best way they knew how was a great continuity and relatable factor for the audience.There was also enough external conflict in highly villainous characters to keep it exciting and spicy too.Not to mention that this drama is HILARIOUS as well.

As for the romance business - it was all very pleasant and warm.In fact -the romance displayed here will go down as one of my personal faves in Kdrama land because of the ease that it was. It was not angst ridden and the understanding they had for each other was highly rewarding . Everything was so pleasantly soft even with the second male lead!

However , on the flip side ,the main element is not widely explained but I forgave that because it really isn’t about the intricacies of the plot but its really about the character growth born from the main element.

As for the acting and cast all I can muster is that there are 3 VERY hot male leads in Lee Jong Suk , Jung Hae In and Lee Sang Yeob that make this drama VERY easy on the eyes . A hot villain in Lee Sang Yeob ? Yes please!

Ahem , on a serious note though -the supporting cast was flawless and a standing ovation is in order for the very sweet portrayal of Han Woo Tak by the commendable Jung Hae In . I thoroughly enjoyed his restrained yet thoughtful enactment of Woo Tak and quite frankly - I will follow Jung Hae In wherever he goes and thats that.As for Lee Jung Suk - he was okay ( I never find him spectacular ) whilst Suzy Bae is not horrendous at all as some like to say. Though , its very obvious that the two could have been more emotive because Jung Hae In really showed them up . Just saying.

Now for music - its the softest ost out there that perfectly exemplifies the romance. The music also did well in atmosphere modulation too. I particularly loved Suzy Bae' s songs but essentially - the OST is very good .

OVERALL- The whole drama was really about the effect that people have on other people, and recognising that no matter how small a decision seems to you, it could alter someone else’s life irrevocably. I found that quite poignant about WYWS that I I highly recommend this watch.

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A total first rate movie

I discovered this movie after I read a very comprehensive article on MDL from a fellow user.

I have always been very much interested in pieces that depict corruption and upper class ills that result in social tragedies. I find them intriguing and when they are done well, they usually become my favourite pieces of television and film in the end. I like them because these types usually present humans in their most empathetic that is :liable to make mistakes ,prone to corruptible personality elements and people that tragically get caught up or even worse ; giving into the throes of villainy. If you are like me and enjoy these aspects - then one can watch and perhaps endure this 3hr first rate movie called Inside Men.

Its title is practically the movie and its heroes are your anti heroes . No one is really good in this movie or pure as snow. The villains are particularly socially nasty and the protagonists are just looking to survive in the cut throat world that they find themselves in . Its got political aspects to it as well.

The acting was amazing especially from Lee Byung Hun whom I have just discovered and I am pleased to know that he made award history with his role scooping up three prestigious film awards in one season!Jo Seung Woo who was co lead came in with some slow burning pathos that blows you away in the end . Baek Yoon Shik also came in slow burning though that quickly turns to something seething. The crowning moment was definitely the acting.

Though the movie is quite nearly perfect- I do wish its dialogue was more quick , pregnant and pronounced to match with the overall quality of the movie. One does not go away with the idea that they have watched something profoundly dynamic but rather something flawless albeit with no charm.

Therefore - I would not be surprised if one may find this a watch like Argo also known as "this is a good movie that is also boring".Its the only film that comes to mind to explain this vibe. Some loooooooove Argo and others have misgivings . I hope you like Inside Men when you watch!

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Scintillating watch albeit weak plot resolution

My Country is a really entertaining watch for sure despite my average ratings. It’s knee smacking screen play , emotionally appealing and very easy on the eyes even with all the gore and blood .

I appreciated the entertaining first episode as first episodes for saeguks are notoriously known for being doze fests. I also liked how character driven this action piece was even with all the swords and blood. The friendship and military intrigues spiced with intense villainy were really nice to watch and kept me anticipating the next episodes. In fact -The first five episodes were all perfect with killer quotes that really set the mood for the show to be thought provoking and hinting at a profound watch but alas....

I advise those contemplating watching My Country to read up or at least brush up on the history of Goryeo and the transition period into the Joseon Dynasty . If you don’t - you may be a deer in the headlights especially post episode 5. ( watching Six Flying Dragons May help ) They throw around historical incidents like cheap candy with no context or reverance . I actually resented that aspect quite strongly . One point gone .

Furthermore- the insertion of romantic currency was weak , unimaginative and pointless. Romance does a lot to bring dimensions to not only characters but the story as whole.Unfortunately this was done poorly and ended up taking away from an already dynamic screenplay. There was a lot of romance story lines picked like a love triangle but poof! Drooped! Did Sun Ho like Yeon ? Who did Chi Do date? Where was Bang Won’s wife whom in history was quite instrumental? Etc. Two points now gone .

The portrayal of historical contributive factors to Joseon Dynasty became highly problematic in the end . For example- Gibangs were important as information safe houses and were quite instrumental in the founding of the Joseon nation . And this sense was achieved in some aspects but only for it be diluted into a personal dating service for a character was just nauseating . Three points gone .

The acting for the most part was the shows crowning moment . Jang Hyuk was spectacular with his fan and top knot although I think he was wasted . Ahn Nae Sung was just brilliantly horrible as the villain and Woo Do Hwan really acted his butt off ! I really hope he gets some award for his performance because he was VERY VERY GOOD. The Orange Marmalde girl was just marmalade boring with her dry toast love interest in Yang Se Jong who should stick to modeling . Other than those two - everyone was excellent!

As for the music - I really didn’t like it all. I get they made this drama for a younger audience and so on and so forth but EDM in a Goryeo fight scene was just whack . The songs are personally forgettable. 4 points gone.

Costumes were really good though . Apltly portrayed the times and military conquests. One always had to be battle ready and their clothes really showed this urgency.

OVERALL- this was a good show to watch live and I am glad I did watch it live because binge watching would not have softened the blows of the flaws. The plot resolution was slightly bad and the insertion of the plot twist in the last two episodes was very blindsiding to the viewer in a not so good way . It’s an entertaining watch though but should not be a first watch for a saeguk or a Goryeo - Joseon dynasty .

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Really liked the beginning then it got so tedious

I do not know where it went particularly wrong but what I do know is that at the halfway mark - I lost utter interest .

To start with the positive , the premise of the show is great and worth a starting of the show. The brilliant AI Robot and the circumstances surrounding his creation were really captivating story points. Where it went wrong for me was the very quick resolve of the situations in the world of Are You Human Too? It kinda got rid of its angst and X Factor that it could have had going for it . Every great piece of screen play has great tension and pull and the writers were adamant in getting rid of it at all costs which I thought had a purpose but then served as BORING.

So ? Everyone KNOWS EVERYTHING, what is the point and you are telling me we have 10 more eps to go???? Doing what ?

Then , the female characters in the brilliant Mom scientist and the kicking ass bodyguard just all became weeping heaps despite the strong backgrounds. Honestly , I was exhausted .

Then there was the obsessive second female lead who also seemed to have a rather strong intellectual pursuit and she was bogged down to a literal bedside BUT we were introduced to her running PR of a whole conglomerate! AAARGH

The plot twists seemed forced too like they were correcting their past mistake in resolving everything too quickly by eps 5 so they cheaply threw in some pointless plot twists.

And the last gripe was the romance . Just a no from me. Badly presented . Badly done . Kang So Bong was just not written to deliver.

And no - I do not think that this show had any brilliant commentary on being human and being a robot as most people suppose.

Overall - I really tried but the points listed were just too overwhelming for me to continue.

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Everyone is right in their own way about this show

This show really conflicts me.

Firstly - its a fresh take on a rom com and it actually wears well for a drama that is almost 10 years old. Its fun , snappy , sexy and jazzy. Enough to pull you in. It has your very OTT silliness with a great balance of seriousness. It becomes strikingly clear that there is a sound commentary on family trauma etc. So when people praise this drama for its high emotional IQ- it is very much deserved.

Now , for the conflict - the ride to resolve was highly aggravating. The female lead and the second male lead contributed to this aggravating ride. Furthermore , the story exposition was just off. Too much unnecessary suffering for the female lead . She took waaaaay too many emotional L’s and the concept of her whole self sacrificial schtick went on for far too long . Sure there is more than meets the eye with this drama and that is enough currency to watch but I felt the exchange rate was not fair . I didn't truly get my money’s worth though it pushed valiantly on.

So in the end , I watched on fast forward until an eventual drop to an indifference of even seeing how it ended.

Overall- would I recommend ? No . But for those who like their rom coms to have a spin , a realism and maybe even a sexy , there may be something for you.

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You will have a higher EQ after watching this !

When it comes to K-dramas that balance heart, humor, and humanity, Tomorrow stands out as a masterclass. The cast is a massive part of why this drama works so well—they’re magnetic, oozing chemistry and handling their roles with an incredible blend of nuance and depth. Watching them juggle comedy and tragedy so effortlessly was a treat, showcasing a balance even seasoned actors often struggle to achieve.

One of the most compelling aspects of Tomorrow is its anthology-like storytelling. Each episode unravels a new story, shining a light on various social issues, making this series more than just entertainment—it's a conversation starter. The social commentary is where this drama truly soars. From bullying to bulimia, comfort women to elderly isolation, and the often-overlooked realities of the celebrity industry, Tomorrow dives deep.

Most notably, it tackles the weighty subject of suicide with unflinching honesty and profound empathy. As a mental health advocate, I was deeply moved by the show's ability to bring awareness to these topics so thoughtfully. The analogy that suicide is like being trapped in a burning building—choosing to jump rather than endure unbearable pain—was handled with such care, making the message resonate deeply. This show gave me a higher emotional understanding of the pain behind these decisions and the importance of compassion.

The sprinkling of romance was another unexpected but welcome element. I’m a sucker for understated, epic romances, and Tomorrow delivered. It was subtle, meaningful, and beautifully woven into the larger narrative without overshadowing the primary themes.

In short, Tomorrow is a drama that stays with you. It’s heartfelt, socially conscious, and emotionally resonant—a must-watch for anyone who wants their entertainment to leave an impact.

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The best version of all them and the best in the Japanese series

Hana Yori Dango 2 is up , up , up there In the most searingly romantic things I have come across. No kidding and no blasphemy but this iteration personally is the best one out there .

1. This is the most truthful depiction of the comics tbf . I count it as the best version of the male protagonist too . He is flawed and realistically human .

2. This is the best female protagonist. She’s spunky till the end and has the “tough weed energy” that is not feminised out of her like they do in the other adaptations . She also has her equal share in love declarations that are very heart rendering too . She definitely carried the romantic weight equally . You don’t really see that much in the other adaptations

3. The F4 have very strong compelling character portraits as individuals compared to other adaptations. *if it counts for anything : the cast is waaaaaay better looking than most adaptations. It may not be the flashiest one out of all of them but they are more appropriately cast in terms of age and appearance .

4. The male leads corporation has a very good story of its own with full bodied characters and intrigues that are well spun.

5. The antagonists in this adaptation have great full circle moments that make them very compelling in the end .

6. The obstacles against love , as is synonymous with this series are of course many but never come across as gratuitous and banal . In fact, they add a lot of entertainment, relationship depth for all involved and peeling of layers . Speaking of obstacles, the second male lead romance is deftly dealt with in the Japanese version. In some versions , notably the Korean one , it seems the second lead is waaaay more deserving of getting with her than the lead himself . Other adaptations don’t handle the fact that the second male lead is indeed her first love but not her forever love. They rely too heavily on the trope of “first love” when that’s really not it . In fact , it’s because she knew she loved the male lead that she could say that indeed , her first love must have been the second male lead . But she would have never reached that substantial realization without truly loving and most importantly , knowing she loved the male lead.

7. The most important reason for me and why it triumphs over all the other ones is that it’s so ROMANTIC! I can compare it to the feeling one gets when they watch the Keira Knightley Pride Prejudice ! Absolutely squealing in joy at the sweet romance displayed !

Overall : love this drama ! I even cried at the end and I don’t really cry at happy endings but this was so sweet and romantic . If you are a fan of Boys over Flowers - this is a must watch but you must watch the first one !

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An amazing rom com

Something about 1 percent hits all the right boxes. It's a contract relationship done right, it is very funny, very romantic and a drama with a message. It hit a home run on everything a drama should hit.

The chemistry between the two leads is also scintillating and very refreshing in the land of open-eyed kisses. Moreover, the business element of the drama was adequate without overpowering the romance. I particularly loved how we did not go through the angst purgatory stage that romance dramas like to delve in . Everything still just flowed even when there was that tension.

The music was also very good and the supporting cast all had very compelling story lines. Usually in dramas like this, the support cast are just fillers but not in Something about 1 Percent.

The message was also solid . "Someone's 1% can be someone elses 99% of luck"so be kind. Essentially.

Did I mention that the chemistry is SIZZLING ????

I definitely recommend this drama.

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A melo that is a bit meh

Took me a really long time to write this review because I have been contemplating whether I liked it or not and my conclusion is that its meh.

I can totally see why this drama commands top marks . Its a super mature watch . It depicts life . It depicts unconditional love and depicts dignified poverty . Its super compelling with beautiful relationships of a familial nature .The two leads were phenomenal .It actually had something to say . I loved all that about it and thats why its gets 7 top marks as a watch.

As for the remaining three marks- the acting and writing had to pull it through over the meh mark to the brilliant mark and unfortunately , it did not have the capacity for that . Certain components of the cast over acted such as the two mature female leads and Ahn Ji Hoon was awful . In fact, what was the point of his character as the distant nephew/son in law in the first place?

Conversations were repetitive and drawn out . Sentiments did not evolve but instead found themselves in predictable and sappy territory. Which was disappointing because this show had portrayed itself as highly mature and clean but that was not the finished product.

Moreover . the pacing was just a bit off . Most things were a slow burn and then all at once all of a sudden .

Overall: Not a bad watch . Not a top tier watch though but it does enough to go the long haul.

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