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unhealthily rewatching it since 2019 - for Sugino & cute fluff moments
This film is simply my guilty pleasure - to watch Sugino & Ryusei over & over & internally scream at the heart-fluttering moments shown. Honestly if you compare with the other shows/movies I have rated 8 - this is definitely not in the same space, but given the unhealthy times I have rewatched this & it remains a comfort film, the rating technicalities can be overlooked.The story is delightfully simple and cute, with the perfect amount of fanservice to keep you hooked. It has its ups and downs, but nothing too intense or shocking – just a smooth, enjoyable ride. The three main leads deliver stellar performances, beautifully supported by the rest of the cast. The film concludes on a high note, leaving you grinning and blushing like crazy – I've been doing just that from my first watch to the present!
Best Part: Sugino Yosuke - just cannot get enough of this man. I have been following his works since long, and while this is one of his early ones and not enough to showcase his talent, I highly recommend watching him in Barakamon, Love's In Sight. Am not sure, but I feel he is still not the most popular J-actors, but he truly deserves to be. In contrast, Yokohama Ryusei is a more popular face and while I have seen him here and there - Cursed in Love is one of his best works I feel.
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Unique & Emotional Tale of Life, Death and Light Bulbs!
Stories that tip-toe around life and death always draw my attention. I often wonder what will happen to us after death or what if our loved ones who have passed away see us/be proud of what we are doing with life now. Which is why the upcoming Korean drama based on the same webtoon as this Chinese film has been on high priority for me since long. But I was really curious on the plot and therefore gave in to my urges - as I thought I'll get to know the story in a shorter time since it is a movie.And while I was prepared for an emotional ride and life lessons - the movie still captivated me with its unique narration, analogy, acting and hauntingly beautiful music score.
➥ POSITIVES | ✦ Unique Narration and Symbolism ✦ Emotional Impact ✦ Acting ✦ Cinematography ✦ Music ✦
The narrative delicately explores life and death, portraying poignant character journeys and deeply capturing human emotions. Innovative storytelling and symbolic light bulbs distinguish the film, initially misleading viewers into thinking it's a horror mystery before revealing deeper layers. Exceptional acting, cinematography, and music harmoniously amplify the emotional impact, connecting the audience to the characters' stories
➥ NEGATIVES | ✦ Predictability ✦ Pacing ✦ Length ✦
Having seen similar stories, I found the plot somewhat predictable, and while well-executed, it didn't deeply impact me. The latter part of the film (main leads' story) dragged slightly, and I ended up skipping forward in some parts, which lessened the overall experience. Additionally, the film felt too short to fully explore its themes, suggesting it might have worked better as a drama series.
➥ VERDICT | Despite some predictability and pacing issues which are more from a personal preference - the movie is a compelling watch that effectively pulls on the heartstrings. I recommend it, but be sure to have tissues handy.
➥ Note: Korean Drama Adaption | Given the movie felt short, I am eagerly awaiting the Korean adaption that will be a drama. Given how good the Chinese movie was and the fact that some of my favorite actors are in the lead role - I already have high expectations from it. I hope it will be more emotional, detailed and end up being a masterpiece of 2024. It would definitely be a good way to end the year, from a drama standpoint.
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one of the best cooking showdowns - came for Triple Star, stayed for the addictive format!
As a foodie + amateur cook, I adore culinary reality shows, especially MasterChef. But lately, they’re all about sob stories and unnecessary cursing—just cook and crown a winner already! While Scott Kang drew me in with his looks and talent (thank you, social media) - it is the format of the show that made be stick. Was planning to see only Triple Star's parts and skip the rest, but Korean show-makers really know how to deliver a crisp, thrilling show with really intense cliffhangers. I mean really when those challenges ended at a cliffhanger and the beats of ending credits rolled in - I was like ARGGGHHH no I NEED to watch the next episode - who won and who was eliminated!Though am not going to deny the fact that most of it is scripted and I was not really thrilled with the winner (he kind of had a cocky attitude from day 1 and the way he survived in last 8 made it pretty straightforward that they all knew the winner then and there). Still it was great to see - all the chef, their amazing work and some backstories!
The rating on MDL is for drama/movies as ACTING here would mean something else, so this is what I mean with my ratings:
1) Story = Format of the Reality Show: Was it thrilling, exciting and stuck to focus of cooking!
2) Acting = Talent of the Chefs, and Rating Mechanism by Judges, their Comments etc
Rest are as the word suggests.
Overall: Recommend watching this - as a way to pass time, and especially if you do like reality shows!
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❤️Special Mention - My Favorite Chefs & Why ❤️
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1) Triple Star (should have been the winner, but I guess it would have been obvious then too)
2) Chef Cooking Maniac - what a cutie, and his backstory really echoed on a personal level. #appearences-are-not-everything
3) Chef Edward Lee - what a genius! Made some of the most ingenious dishes.
4) Chef Choi Hyun-seok - love his salt theatrics before this show, and here what a cunning and winning mindset he had. I think he shocked himself with his own result in the survivor challenge. Or it was scripted.
5) Chef Jung Ji Sun - I think want to see more of her - loved every dish she made, especially dimsums. No wonder she is called the Queen of DimSums!
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Good But Not Gripping
Decent film, but I’ve seen better in this genre. While the cinematography and acting were commendable, the slow pacing dulled the final reveal’s impact. Typically, I expect suspense/crime thrillers to keep me on edge, with adrenaline surging at every twist and turn. However, this 2+ hour movie dragged to the point where I had to skip parts and watch others at 1.5x speed. Though the storyline was well-crafted with a good twist at the end, the lack of an adrenaline rush made it merely a good watch, not highly recommended. Watch it if you’re a fan of the genre and have time to spare.Was this review helpful to you?
Started Out Great - Made Average by Past Life Story & Airing Schedule
This was one of my highly anticipated dramas of 2023 cause of the story & Cha Eun Woo. The downfall of this drama was its airing schedule (frustrating) & the past life storyline in last 4-5 episodes (complete snooze-fest). The drama starts off very well - with the mystery of the FL's dog curse, romance & comedy that plays out as she tries to break the curse with the ML & the supporting characters who add to the crazy, witty and cute storyline. They should have stopped it with the curse breaking & modern love story - cause the historical/past life was just unbearable. It was the same old story of revenge/past lovers/misunderstandings and executed very poorly (I literally 2x speed watched it).❤️ What I Liked:
- Modern Storyline has a good mix romance, comedy & mystery (FL's dog curse, ML's fear of dogs & how they come together)
- FL's Acting is Amazing: even her human personality was dog-like which made it endearing, believable & not over-the-top.
- Main Leads have good chemistry & great visuals (making you scream internally at the cuteness)
- CGI was remarkable, one of the best technology + acting harmony!
- Support Characters are good, not overshadowing the main plot or leads but doing what they should: support & did it well!
😭 What I Didn't Like:
- Past Life/Historical Storyline: Complete snooze fest, did not even excite or intrigue me
- Past Life Characters: Because of the storyline, their presence seemed not required.
- Airing Schedule: It won't matter for the new watchers, but this was a very big factor cause the continuity was broken. So all the feelings that I felt - excitement, suspense, cute/happy were lost cause the wait was too long, frustrating.
⭐OVERALL:
- Good one-time watch, cause the plot is nice and delivered well (modern > historical)
- My rating is low cause it is not a earth-shattering-never-seen-before story + last episodes & airing schedule made it worse.
- Hence, 6/10 | Above Average Drama for me. Would have been a 7-7.5 had it aired more frequently, or binged it at one-go.
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Nearly Perfect Drama, Reaffirming the message "Life is a Gift. Don't Take it for Granted"
Death's Game on face-value may seem like a thrilling survival game between the human & the supernatural but is in fact a humbling take to address the rising suicide rates, especially among the youth and the impact it has on everyone. It is not an easy topic to address, therefore I must praise & thank everyone involved in this show for their brilliant writing, direction & acting to depict this difficult message. I have not read the webtoon hence my anticipation was exceedingly high with this drama given the premise & talented cast it signed on (The latter delivering more than what they promised). The drama is brilliant start to 2024, my only minor complaint remains with the ending episodes which makes is "Nearly Perfect"❤️ The drama is literally flawless 10/10 for PART 1 & till Ep 6 and half in PART 2:
With its gripping narrative as we see how the ML tries make the best of each new life he is given, banter with Death and tries to beat the game. It slowly takes the shape of a revenge plot, as the ML realizes all these different lives are in fact connected to a single antagonist, who also had an impact to his life & those who he holds dear.
✘ Issue 1:The revenge plan that takes up half of Ep 6-7:
The conclusion is satisfactory cause it is another good vs evil battle. But the execution of it seems over-the-top heroics, illogical explanations & just too basic especially for a plot that had build up the expectation for a grand conclusion, to fall flat at the most important moment.
❤️ Ep 8: Mixed Feels, Predictable & Confusing Ending:
The last life might have been done as a shock-factor, but by now we can see it coming. It is still powerful in driving across the messages of - how our actions in life & death impacts others, how time is never enough to express your love to those you care about, how some people even in the face of adversity keep trying harder while others give in. Again - this is a grey area, but the drama delivers it with a heart so kudos!
✘ Issue 2: The Last Scene
We are at the finale - hoping that the ML finds redemption & has a happy ending. But the way it is executed feels very rushed, with no preamble whatsoever and basically goes against Death's initial words/rules? I know that this drama addresses a social problem, but the ending left me crushed/puzzled than feeling good. Guess I will read the webtoon in case there is an alternative ending, but the drama ending had a meh effect for me.
❤️Overall: 9/10 (Part 1 is 10/10, Part 2 is 8/10)
Personally it is one of the genres that I enjoy along with a cast that I love. The BGM score is too addictive & I hope to discover it soon in a music app. The stories individually are a mystery & when tied together overall and with the ML's life it just takes it to another level. Wish the issues that I had were not there, and it would have been simply flawless. But even that, it is one of the best dramas I have seen for 2023/2024.
If not the whole series, I will definitely rewatch the episodes/scenes where the characters gets their way through wits or action, making you pump your own fist in the air for their wins!
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Promising Premise & Cast - Plot/Writers Failed to Deliver
I had picked this drama for the fresh storyline, promising cast and hint at the mystery element. It never started off on a ground-breaking level but was decent till the first half. Post that is when it went downhill - in terms of romance and mystery which even the good actors could not salvage. Sharing my take - short and detailed review, on whether you should binge or skip it ....❤️ Nutshell Review:
My Lovely Liar is a drama about a woman who can hear lies and runs a successful business to help people detect lies and save themselves from fraud. Despite her unique abilities, she struggles with trusting people – unable to make friends and form relationships easily. She meets a famous music producer with a mysterious past who she is attracted to. She is wary of starting a relationship with him but to her surprise, the guy is genuinely very truthful making her comfortable and they embark on a relationship while growing individually. But their relationship is tested when in a turn of events the guy shares about his past – which rings a bell (quite literally) in the girl’s ears, which can only mean one thing - he is lying!
The drama goes on to explore how the woman understands this guy (her Lovely Liar), investigating the mysterious past with him while discovering the nuances of her unique ability. Together they also navigate romance, past relationships, family, friends, new acquaintances and how it all shapes up their lives for better or worse…
❤️ What is Worth Watching:
♥ Good-Looking Leads: Kim So Hyun and Hwang Min Hyun
♥ Depiction of how social interactions and power of belief helped the main leads overcome their inhibitions
(works only for the first half though - the above formula cannot save the whole drama)
❤️ What Does NOT Work:
✘ Second Half of the Drama
✘ Wasted opportunity to utilize a good cast
✘ Wasted effort on romance and mystery – directionless since second half.
✘ Missed using drama to drive a social message on – habitual lying, frauds, dirty games in politics, police, music/media industry, journalism etc.
❤️ My Call - Binge or Skip:
SKIP IT! - Unless you have started it already and want a closure – then finish it (on 2x speed, maybe?)
OR you are a fan of any of these actors and just want to watch it for their sake.
---------------------------------------------------- ✧❅✦ DETAILED REVIEW ✧❅✦------------------------------------------------
✧❅✦ WHAT WORKS ✧❅✦
♥ Good-Looking Leads: Kim So Hyun and Hwang Min Hyun
♥ Depiction of how social interactions and power of belief helped the main leads overcome their inhibitions
(works only for the first half though - the above formula cannot save the whole drama)
They are a good-looking pair and delivered well from their end (can’t help if the writing is poor). Kim So Hyun is renowned for her acting skills, but this was my first time watching the ML. To me like many idol-turned-actors, he is not just a pretty face but was decent. Not groundbreaking but not a carboard cutout either. Sure, he has room to grow, I will not watch any new work of his solely for him, but he is someone who can do well given a good plot and directions.
Through each other and the support from friends and acquaintances, the main leads see that while there is still a lot of bad in the world, they can still open to each other and many more and not everyone will betray them. They grow as individuals as they support each other, get support from some people around them and in turn manage to support others who can use their respective talents.
✧❅✦ WHAT does NOT WORK ✧❅✦
✘ Second Half of the Drama
✘ Wasted opportunity to utilize a good cast
✘ Wasted effort on romance and mystery – directionless since second half.
✘ Missed using drama to drive a social message on – habitual lying, frauds, dirty games in politics, police, music/media industry, journalism etc.
The first half was decent & I expected it to get better, but rather it gradually becomes worse with the last 2 episodes just being super-meh, Especially feel bad for: Kim So Hyun (FL) | Seo Jung Yeon (ML Mother) | Ahn Nae Sang (FL Father) | Park Kyung Hye (FL Friend & Tarot Reader) | Jin Kyung (ML Mother) – because they are popular and some senior talents of the industry.
Also, Ha Jong Woo, Lee Si Woo – they were new for me but under-utilized else had so much to offer.
Worst misuse of Yun Ji On's talent: Have seen him in Tomorrow and he was remarkable. He was going to be here as well but the writers did him dirty with the latter half and ending.
✧❅✦ My Take on Themes ✧❅✦
Like countless recent dramas, the story progresses quite well in the first half (till Ep 8) and goes downhill after that in terms of writing. Therefore, even good/decent performances of the cast are not able to leave an impact both in terms of romance and mystery, which I felt were the two focus themes of this drama. Given the fresh storyline and some renowned names in the cast lineup, the expectations and excitement were high, but the bad writing could not sustain it and hence the ending was weak.
• Romance - 6/10
Could be an unpopular opinion but I liked the romance build-up in the first half. Not everyone can have the heart-and-flowers, bring you the moon kind of love story. I liked that the protagonists were wary of romance given their past experiences, but eventually believed in each other. They were awkward at first but that added to the charm. Neither were they boring as we witness some hot kisses (well, thankfully they were not the usual fish face/cardboard kisses of drama land).
But perhaps the writers & audience wanted more in terms of toe-curling, fluff romance and that is what degraded the romance angle for me as it lost the point how they were as individuals, and it looked very out-of-character to me. Even the romance of the supporting characters seemed strained and forced. Rather the writers gave us romance where it was unnecessary (parents of FL, other store owners) and forgot where required (ML/FL, Syaon/Chi-Hoon).
• Mystery - 4/10
The title "My Lovely Liar or Useless Lies" initially intrigues with questions like: who is the liar? what is he lying about? is her power foolproof? What is the past incident? But the initial anticipation dwindles after Ep 8, with random cliffhangers, changing suspects, plot twists deviating from the who-dunnit theme and making it boring. Even when the curtain is lifted to reveal the culprit & motive; it does not have a shocking impact, rather is quite expected at this point and therefore dull.
Hence Final Verdict:
SKIP IT! :(
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becoming the Devil to banish the Evil?
► What Makes it Worth a Watch+ Ji Sung acting as Kang Yo-Han (fall in love with his voice, acting and looks all-over again)
+ OST worth adding to your favorite playlist (one of the best in dramas, transitions well for scenes and characters)
+ The mystery behind Yo-Han's backstory (a little Who-dunnit?)
+ The visuals, the concept of the live court show & filming locations
► What Could Have Been Better
• Not a fist-pumping, victory lap worthy finish
The whole process of rooting out evil - the plot could have been a bit more tighter and edgy. The ending doesn't make you jump up and say they got what they deserved, unless you like more bitter-sweet, philosophical endings.
• The Antagonist - Jung Sun Ah & Co
The bunch of them were greedy with low-key plans for world domination. No chilling, blood curling performances.
They were not evil to the core, rather puppets at one point or the other and seemed just plain lazy with carrying out their evil plans. Jung Sun Ah - tries to be the psycho villain - but neither can you sympathize with how she turned evil, not can you say her deeds were pure evil. (Thought some of the Yoga scenes and facial expressions were trying to imitate Yoo Ji-Tae from Oldboy but no where the same impact)
• Kim Ga-On
Expectations: smart, young judge who will use the right path and bring justice, influencing Kang Yohan in his endeavor as well.
Reality: Confused, Naïve character - who was neither good throughout and changed characters around him, neither was a good-turned-slightly evil character to deliver justice cause the powerful don't play fair either. Should have been a Watson to Yohan's Sherlock, or Robin to his Batman - it just wasn't built well.
Flawed character, but Jin Young still shined in scenes where he had to show conflict of thoughts and anguish.
► What Could Have Been Avoided?
- Yoon Soo Hyun & the little-lived romance with Ga-On
The entire character was unnecessary and drama would have been better without it as well as the forced romance between her and Ga-On
- The Doppelganger Effect: Ga-On & Issac
While we see in the end, that it was to affect Yo-Han to take notice of Ga-On, but he would have anyways because of the show they were working on. Eventually because of Ga-On's past history, Yo-Han would have worked with him. Neither does the resemblance affect any of the family members or in the plotline, hence unnecessary.
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The Karmic Red String Weaves a Web of Misfortune & Revenge
TL;DR - This is story telling at its finest, go watch it. This is a 10/10 drama - Believe It!From the moment Karma 2025 was announced, it firmly secured a place on my 2025 watchlist. When it finally premiered on April 4th, 2025, I eagerly headed to MDL to check out the reviews, only to be taken aback by its modest 7.1 rating (so glad it is improved by the time I am typing this). Ordinarily, such a score might dissuade me from diving in, but thankfully, my instincts and excitement overpowered any hesitation. I began binge-watching this drama late at night—and here I am, writing this in the early hours of the morning, utterly captivated. It was impossible to stop!
The storytelling here is simply masterful. The narrative threads are intricately woven and interconnected in a way that feels as though the fabled Red String of Fate itself is at work. Credit where credit is due: the writer, director, and cast have all outdone themselves. Karma 2025 is a dark, raw, and enigmatic drama that will keep you guessing right until the end. Each story blends seamlessly into the next, with no gaps or jarring shifts. The format is exquisite—a tapestry of individual tales that interconnect into one larger, breathtaking narrative.
The main characters are delightfully unhinged, each to varying degrees, and watching their individual arcs collide with others is nothing short of mind-blowing. Their stories are fascinating in isolation, and they elevate the drama to greatness when they converge.
In every aspect—storytelling, acting, suspense, background music, cinematography, pacing, and even its concise format—this drama is a perfect 10/10. I wholeheartedly urge you to watch Karma 2025, especially if this genre aligns with your interests or if you're looking to explore something new.
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Need Season 2 of this Masterpiece & Unique Story!
This is one of the most unique narrations I've encountered across movies, dramas, and books. I'm drawn to genres with suspense, twists, and the supernatural, especially those exploring the fine line between life and death (e.g., Move to Heaven, Tomorrow, Along with the Gods). I was already excited for this drama - having seen the 2023 C-movie & knowing that my favorite actors Ju Ji Hoon and Park Bo Young were involved - but it EXCEEDED all my expectations with its supernatural intrigue, raw emotions - delivered by the powerful narrative, acting and cinematography.➥ Story Summary: The drama revolves around a mysterious light shop at the end of a dark alley, which serves as a bridge between the living and the dead. The shop's adamant owner, played by Ju Ji Hoon, encounters various enigmatic visitors, including a nurse with the ability to see spirits after surviving a near-fatal accident. The drama combines elements of suspense, horror, and emotional drama, with a talented cast delivering compelling performances. It's a mind-bending tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat, especially with its shocking revelations and intricate plot twists.
➥ Why I Love It & Recommend:
Love how the narration itself is suspenseful - what begins as a supernatural mystery takes a turn into something profound.
The first half of the drama is spooky and filled with supernatural intrigue, keeping the audience on edge with jump scares and a gloomy, rain-soaked atmosphere. As the second half unfolds, the mystery of the Light Shop, its owner, customers, and related characters is revealed, leading to mind-blowing revelations. As each character's story is explored, the fragile connection between life and death is poignantly highlighted, tugging at the heartstrings.
What aids this narration is the unique stories carried forward by brilliant acting, music & cinematography. While all were great in their respective role - my favorites were the Light Shop owner (Ju Ji Hoon), the detective , the mother, the mysterious woman. All of their stories had to showcase a range of emotions, in fact in one scene the mother had no lines and I do not understand Korean - but then even in the muffled voice I was able to understand through her anguished desperate facial emotions and action. Special note for the visual effects & transitions - it was a treat to watch on how it cut from one scene to another, matching the scene of one place/character blending with another. Execution, par excellence!
➥ Overall:
This drama is simply flawless & has left no stone unturned. It has everything needed in terms of story, message, acting, cinematography, pacing etc. If you enjoy mystery, suspense with a touch of the supernatural, "Light Shop" is definitely worth watching.
==================== Review Ends Here - But Here are some After-Thoughts ========================
➥ Difference from C-Movie:
Despite knowing the storyline, the K-drama has a slight edge over the movie, thanks to its extended time to flesh out the story, excellent transitions and cinematography, and brilliant performances by the cast. I have not read the novel, but I like the differences done in the K-drama from the Chinese movie. This is also helpful given people like me who have seen the movie earlier are not bored but still engaged & interested.
Observation:
• The Nurse storyline has been changed & I love how she and other characters are able to blur lines between the living & dead.
• New Characters (not in C-Movie) are introduced
• The stories that were common with the C-Movie, have either had a change in characters therefore the reason for their action/background has changed therefore offering a fresh perspective.
• Unlike the C-Movie, the characters are not all in a single apartment building but rather appear to be in a suburb.
This also opened the possibility of multiple light shops spread across the city/country.
• Introducing the detective is a killer move - as it add the dimension of having cold cases and extended supernatural characters
The end cliffhanger, incoming new residents, detective's cold cases, hint at spirits becoming vengeful all points in the direction of a possibility for S2. I feel this is great - given the story's unique world warrants further exploration & has much to offer especially after having seen how brilliantly S1 was executed.
➥ My Guess: Why Is It Called "The Light Shop"?
The tungsten filament in the light bulb is very fragile - perhaps similar to the line that separates life and death. Hence the bulb becomes a proverbial imagery/object to define that borderline & the Light Shop(s) become the symbol of hope. As Dumbledore from Harry Potter said, "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." The Light Shop provides this hope through the light bulb to those "who find the will."
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Directionless & Unconvincing Plot & Characters
I had wanted to watch this drama since its release but hesitated due to mixed reviews. When I finally gave it a try, I couldn’t get past Episode 10. I haven’t read the webtoon or seen the movie, so my opinions are based solely on the series.Issues:
(1) The ML: The ML’s motivations and character depth are unclear, making the plot feel slow. His portrayal came across as pained rather than cold and creepy, falling short compared to tsundere characters that we know and love.
(2) Sudden Affection: The ML's sudden affection for the Female Lead (FL) felt forced, with no gradual development. Their dynamic lacked believability, making it hard to connect with their relationship.
(3) Baek In Ha’s Character: Her erratic behavior remains unjustified, and it’s unclear why others tolerate it as there's not a convincing backstory.
Saving Grace:
(1) Baek In Ho (Seo Kang Joon): His performance as a passionate second lead chasing lost dreams stood out. While his affection for the FL was charming, it wasn’t swoon-worthy.
(2) Hong Seol (FL): She was endearing at times, but her sudden feelings for the ML and inconsistent traits undermined her “smart, hardworking” persona.
(3) Supporting Cast: Nam Joo Hyuk delivered his usual dependable performance, while Ji Yoon Ho convincingly played the obsessive, twisted Oh Young Gon.
Overall:
Despite its slice-of-life, coming-of-age premise, the message didn’t resonate in the first ten episodes, hence dropping it. Recommended to Skip.
© omo-omo-omo | Review #1
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a Saga comes to an End - or does it?
Review of Season 3 & Series Overall➥ About Season 3:
Seasons 2 and 3, for me are one story split in two, and Season 3 offers a somewhat satisfying conclusion. It was not perfect - I don't think it ever can be, but it at least concludes by answering major questions & storylines, while diving deeper into the show's grim theme: Do you still believe in humanity? Gi-Hun seems to give us hope—until the final scene flips that, leaving us questioning if real change is ever possible. It’s haunting, smart, and uncomfortably close to our own reality.
➥ Downside of Season 2 and 3:
While Squid Game Seasons 2 and 3 offered deeper emotional themes and philosophical reflections, they lacked the razor-sharp focus that made Season 1 unforgettable. The thrill of the games—the unpredictability, the nail-biting tension, the gut-punch reveals—was replaced with slower pacing and broader commentary. Unlike Season 1, where every game, scene and character is etched into memory, these later seasons faded quicker, more subdued in impact.
Characters like Thanos, Hyun Ju (#120), and Myeon Gi (#333) had intriguing setups but never got their full arc. The addition of the baby felt more odd than impactful, we all knew how the story would end given the baby's entry. And the unresolved arc of Jun Ho, after everything he endured, left a sense of disappointment - I mean he still did not get the answer from his brother. While Seasons 2 and 3 asked meaningful questions, they traded too much of the original's brilliance for introspection, resulting in something that felt more like a quiet epilogue than a worthy continuation.
➥ Overall:
Like many fans, I feel Seasons 2 and 3 were ultimately unnecessary. The story could have a fitting conclusion in Season 1 with Gi-Hun reuniting with his family, detective brother being lost having realized where his missing brother was.
The creators made good use of the show's hype to earn more money, which makes sense from a business point of view—but as someone who cared about the story, it feels disappointing. From what we’ve seen in the final scene, it looks like there will be more spin-offs and the Games might continue outside South Korea. I’m not too excited about that, but let’s be honest—anyone who has watched Squid Game, whether they liked it or not, will probably watch the next one too, just to see what’s different. And that’s exactly what the makers are counting on - it is a cash-cow for them at the end.
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This review may contain spoilers
Good-looking Cast, Decent Acting - Story Falls Flat
Why I wanted to watch this drama?• Jang Ki-Yong (wanted to see more of him after Kill It and Go Back Couple)
• Fantasy set-up, Gumihos/Kitsune are one of my favorite mythical characters
What WORKS?
• The actors are very good-looking and do a good job playing their characters well and staying true
• The set locations are very beautiful
• The clothes are pretty
What does NOT WORK?
• The Story Falls Flat and Too Draggy
• It should have been more fast paced given there is an underlying mystery of Gumiho, whether the lead pair end up together, will the lead accomplish his goal to turn human?
• Even with the murder mystery, the episodes don't have a cliffhanger, any sense of urgency that will keep you hooked
• The side characters' (Kang Han-na & Kim Do-Wan) budding romance is more warm and cute to watch
• The SML - totally unnecessary and cry-baby, whining - which is totally opposite of his narcistic personality. Even if you want to believe that he changed cause of the FL - nope, not developed
• The main leads are cute together, but its just lackluster - doesn't make you curl your toes and root for them
• Action is missing, big time
• ML - is just getting objectified as a model-turned-actor, you can feel he is an ancient being - but not romantic, or action-savvy. And when he tries to, it seems forced. :(
• FL - Hyeri's role seems like a 21st century version of her Reply 1988 role. :(
No matter the genre, I like dramas where stories are fast/mid paced, that urge you to watch one more episode.
Expectations from Rom-Com+Fantasy was that there would be great chemistry between the lead pairs and a mystery that keeps you at an edge - which is where in my opinion, this drama under-delivers greatly, sadly. Quite disappointed .
Would recommend only if you want to look at good -looking cast & don't mind a slow, dragged out storyline.
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Blockbuster Start, Slightly Lackluster Finale (still one of 2024's Best)
Supernatural merging with modern world, short length drama, one case per episode tying up to a larger storyline - these are the reasons why I started this drama. Right from the start it had me completely hooked, and the first 10 episodes were so captivating that I came on MDL weekly to discuss various theories with others. These engaging discussions made it one of the standout dramas in 2024 for me, but unfortunately, the ending didn’t quite meet my great expectations. Here’s the breakdown:➥ BEST PARTS
✦ Story & Pace: I like crisp, engaging story telling - & this had different cases per episode while tying it to a larger story involving the main & recurring support casts. (Think: Tomorrow, Move To Heaven, Signal etc)
✦ Acting:
(1) Kang Bitna/Justicia: Park Shin Hye is usually in damsel-in-distress roles, but here she’s a savage + showing vulnerability as her character grows humane. Applauding her acting—more roles like this for her, please!
(2) Han Daon: First time seeing him, and I’m wondering why I’m only discovering this gem now! Handsome & acted with conviction. Hoping he gets the popularity he deserves (like Byeon Woo Seok overnight)—excited for his future projects!
(3) Mando, Arong, Landlady, Police Officers: Often seen in support roles, they delivered perfection even in limited screentime. Especially Kim In Kwon—been a fan since Mr Queen, what a talent.
➥ What Could Have Been Better:
The Finale Episodes 11-14:
The initial 10 episodes had set the bar so high, the scale so massive with its action, mystery that when it came to unfold in the last finale episodes - I was expecting epic battles, emotional rollercoasters, that doubt that will they have a happy ending or not? While it was good and fell into place - it felt underwhelming to the point that what was meant to be blockbuster turned out to be lackluster.
Example: Bael's forced punishments, Justicia vs Satan Battle, Gabriel's Sacrifice*, etc. felt a bit flat & rushed. Also, they did not completely reveal the fate of human Kang Bitna (did she escape Hell or no?)
➥ Overall:
The shortcomings are due to the fact that my expectations were sky-high. Otherwise this drama is great - I am definitely adding it to my Wall of Fame, and I think it is one of the best dramas of 2024. Highly Recommend to BINGE - it is a short one with mystery, action, comedy and romance - so worth the time.
P.S.: Those who know PSH would be familiar with her fish face kissing scenes. I think the ML brought on the wild side - cause that kiss in finale was ROARRRR! FIREEEE!!!!!
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Sensational Masterpiece - Hard to Put Down!
If you're looking for a gripping, edge-of-your-seat mystery that will keep you guessing at every turn, *Nine Puzzles* is exactly the drama for you. With a carefully crafted narrative that makes you get involved in the story and hard to stop. This is binge-worthy drama and trust me—it is a must watch!➥ Storytelling & Pace:
From the start, *Nine Puzzles* pulls you into a gripping murder mystery where everyone seems suspicious. As the story unfolds, you become part of the deduction team, analyzing clues and second-guessing every character. Like a puzzle, each episode introduces a crucial piece—character/murder—gradually coming together like a completed puzzle. I love stories like these where every episode is a different story but it all ends up being part of a larger story that threads across all episodes. It is intelligent storytelling with immersive tension, so every scene makes you take note and revel as the pieces start making sense!
➥ Execution: Acting, Direction, BGM
The acting is top-notch, with the cast delivering performances that bring depth to their roles. Direction, cinematography, background score - enhance the suspense, heightens every moment, pulling you deeper into its world. The dynamic between the two leads is another highlight. Their camaraderie and witty exchanges add layers to the story, making their journey even more compelling.
➥ Overall:
Absolute Must Watch - this is exactly how you a great suspense/crime drama. It is a masterpiece!
There is literally no gap or negative about this drama. Even the ending resonates—it’s not just another case of senseless killing but rather a thought-provoking reflection on who was really wrong?
♥ Note:
In my decade of drama-watching, only a rare few have earned a perfect 10 across all parameters. Given how discerning I am with ratings, given only the most deserving should get it, this score speaks volumes about Nine Puzzles. Thoroughly enjoyed this drama ride and I hope others do too!
♥ Bonus: This story is complete but there is a hint at a possible sequel, another adventure perhaps for our detective/profiler duo. Given the high bar they have set, I'll be sure to watch it whenever it is made - without any doubt.
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