ryoato

now THIS is a romcom

I actually wasn’t planning on watching this, but I just finished up a rewatch of Weak Hero.. so I considered this as therapy since Choi Hyun Wook is leading. I’m no stranger to coming into things blind, and didn’t expect anything out of this other than background noise. To my surprise this drama is seriously entertaining, and the first episode hooked me in the first twenty minutes.

The story I thought was pretty normal for a romantic comedy, what threw me for a loop was the introduction of Ji Yeon irl. They set up the joke so well, with these romantic undertones almost look too good to be true for our FL played by Mun Ka Young. Without spoiling, I can say I see how she wouldn’t like the ML after their first interaction. It’s a great setup for their whole story, which I see playing itself at a nice pace.

The pace of this drama is what makes it enjoyable. Things move quick, not too quick, but even with it being a comedy it isn’t like it is too dumb. It’s got the right amount of wit and character, and is helped by the actors here. There is a lot of charisma with the leads, and they effortlessly are able to fit into their roles that it leads to a stress free watch.

So far so good. I’m happy to be enjoying this one.

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almost but not quite perfect

From the promotional materials alone this series is anticipated to be nostalgic and heartwarming. I still don’t know how emotionally driven this will be, but the content of this story tells me it will be.

What I can say now is I am optimistic though, and that’s got to do with the attitudes of the main characters, specifically Im Sol. Played by Kim Hye-Woon, at first I thought she was too moody, but quickly her views on life are changes and she’s quite likeable. her character is optimistic and loving, with a new perspective on life because of a touching message she heard from a newly debuted idol, Sun-Jae. This drama is refreshing for me right now and is perfect for the spring and summer combined.

Sun Jae’s character is complicated. I wonder if this series will portray his character of being an idol well, it’s tricky. I have seen dramas that fall right down with this, but they had idols in the cast that made it clear it was pretty much just a cash grab. Here, I was surprised to see that the cast has few idols. I loved to see the idols it did have as Cameo’s, it fit the time so well and the SNSD song Genie was wonderful to here.

This drama has a very triggering main theme, I pray it pays respects to the theme instead of using it simply as a plot device. Mental Health is much more than a plot device and is very layered in terms of a persons complexity, emotional, situation, relationships, etc. The situations are kind of stupid, but for now it’s all in good fun, it’s fiction so it’s not going to be 100% believable. I just hope it doesn’t get to the point where too much or too little happens that I end up not caring. So far this drama is full of fun and it’s a lot more cheerful than I thought. That’s a very good thing though! I love the bright scenes and youthful atmosphere.

The first episode thought is actually pretty smart in a simple way. With how Im Sol believed she’s dreaming instead of living, it makes her actions make more sense. She’s not crazy or in love, she’s a fan who is dreaming.

In short, the visuals are very good. Byeon Woo Seok has the type of face that makes me wonder how he hasn’t stood out to me before. I hope he thrives with his career as well as all who are in this. particularly with him, he’s very good looking- he’s talented, and this role could be a pivoting point in his career. Hye Woon has already shown her career to be successful with her roles, and she’s very sweet and I love her dimples. The two of them are adorable with the visuals and height difference, so I’ll see if they have chemistry beyond that. They are fun together and a few episodes in and I’m buying into this drama.


The story is a lot more layered than I initially thought it would be. That’s all I can say without spoiling, but trust me and watch this drama. It really is the best I’ve seen all year and is right next to Queen of Tears for me and is reaching to be much better.

Everything in this drama is done so well and is thoughtful for the most part.. up until the last two episodes. It was then that I realized that the potential this drama had to exceed everything else was actually wasted. I'll explain a bit, but I know most people see this drama has no flaws, but it really does. The problem for me mainly resides in Sunjae's character not being consistent. I didn't get how he still became famous even when he was going to college to pursue a different path. The whole idea of time travel wasn't consistent because of this. I didn't get it because Sunjae's character once had such a passion for swimming and athletics, and even was going to become a physical education teacher. I wonder what happened and why he would want to become an actor? Even if he injured his shoulder so much, it would've been more consistent if he continued that path without any obstructions and if he wasn't going to become an idol then we'd see him teach what he actually was passionate for.

It really didn't make sense how he was an idol to begin with, but they showed some of that with his songwriting and passion for Im Sol. Soon he became a shell of a character, because even without Im Sol you would think his passion was swimming. It was what was shown and built up at the beginning. It was written off but could've came full circle if he became a teacher and taught kids to swim. He even could have met Im Sol again if she was taking her brothers kid to swim lessons and met Sunjae. I really don't get why in every timeline he had to be famous. That is what lost it for me. It was like the drama was so focused on creating this fantasy, when it was doing really well and building Sunjae to be a real and fully developed person when he was initially just was saw as a famous person. Unfortunately in the end he didn't have much growth himself and that was put all to Im Sol, which is fine... it just could've really stood out as its own individual thing if it had rounded both of the main leads.

So that tells me this drama wasn't as smart as I thought, because in the end it was pushing too much into the romance. I get it, that is what the drama wanted. To be 'perfect' it has to do more. The drama has to be nuanced and go deeper than the surface. I give the drama credit, it is fun and definitely going to be known for a long time. It was huge, but I think it could've been better. Ok it could've been a whole lot better. It really wasn't the best drama this year at all, it was ONE of the best but not THE best. So I take back what I initially said.

I wouldn't watch this drama again because of the wasted potential and that frustrates me ok. Sunjae deserved some development. They took the cheap way out with all of it, the memory erasure and the sudden remembering. It was a waste of the two last episodes honestly and I had to skim through it because I knew what was going to happen. I am just so frustrated because this drama is really good, but it could be so much better and didn't have to make decisions of constantly rewinding time and changing things just to end up in the same place? Like being rich and famous is cool, but it was wishy washy in the end because I saw what could've been done and what just wasn't done. Fanservice is the only word I can use to describe the last two episodes. Still it is so good and I'm glad it is this popular, but I'm not going to paint it out to be something it isn't.

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Why is this show so fun

The original because it was campy and fun. I expected a more mellow tone only because the Thai drama add the sound effects and have this feel that is super over the top. I was surprised to see that the tone is just as hilarious and even got moments for me to laugh out loud. This drama is just as fun as the original for me and maybe it’s my deep love for the original but it could go both ways.

I was happy hearing about this remake but can understand the comparisons. Since I have seen the original series a million times I can’t help but compare. So far that double edged sword it a good thing. I am comparing how they are adapting rather than being a word for word remake. It’s a given it would be different because of the length being much shorter. With that I was worried about the chemistry and how some story beats might class. My only issue is the pacing, but they have title cards come up to break up the awkwardness.

Moving onto the chemistry I can already see it happening. I love the look of the couples. The sister is killing her role, and they cut characters who aren’t needed. I do hope they keep Sun Woo’s (Tutor’s) sister as she really helped with his character ark. I also am interested to see how Yoo Kyeom (Fighter) character will be. They are very similar to the originals and of course I have no problem with that.

Lee Won (Zon) is played wonderfully as someone who antigonizes Ji Oh (Saifah) to no end. Their dynamic might just be my favorite which I thought would be hard since I really really loved Fighter/Tutor in the original. Here Lee Won and Ji Oh are stealing the show, but I could see Sun Woo and Yoo Kyeoms story coming in and grounding this show down with a bit more emotional scenes because of their circumstances.

The freshman orientation scene was amazing and I especially loved to see Max and Nat. They weren’t in the original but they are a very famous BL couple from Thailand. It’s fun to see where they fit in and how it sort of ties this show back to the original. It’s a completely separate story with changes so far that work.

The switch from them being actors instead of in the music department is golden. Sun Woo still works his part time jobs and Yoo Kyeom still is clearly so interested in him. Here Lee Won and Ji Oh have more of a focus than their original counterparts. The original aired during COVID so they had little time together, here it’s just nice to see how that couple is working out. Their misunderstandings are hilarious and I’ll say it again, this show is hilarious

My complaints are going to be the short length and that it cuts a lot from the original that made me love it so much. The heart is gone in some areas, but it compensates with the amazing chemistry.

I could hate it as a WhyRU apologist. I could want them to keep the original untoutched. I see this remake as more of an adaptation and it’s done so well. I am having fun and reccommend.

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Headliner of 2022

Alchemy of Souls was one of those show that I at first was hesitant to watch. At first it looked confusing and something that I wouldn’t be too invested in, that it would just use its budget to entertain and not put much more effort into itself. But I was wrong and I’m so glad I was.

I’ve been looking for a new show to watch and just feel that I’d never be able to find anything like it. Alchemy of Souls is that show and it couldn’t have came at a more perfect time.

The story is easy to follow and I pick up on all the names of the characters because they are all interesting. So far I’m really liking the dynamics and relationships between the characters. There’s not a single one that I find written poorly and they all have a lot of potential.

As for the main characters it’s amazing how they are the best part of the show for me (as a lot of the times I watch more for a side character or the antagonist ) Jang Uk is so likable and a bit naive at times, but he is determined for very compelling reasons. He’s realistic and not over the top with his decisions, I find them charming because of his motivations and overall he’s my favorite characters. As for Lee Jae Wook who plays him, I’ve never a have saw a drama with him but now I really like the actor and an definetely going to keep up to date with his projects. None of the rolls seem out of place and the designs for the characters are stunning.

Mu Deok and Jang Uk are so good together in terms of the master-servant relationship and the the student-pupil. Mu Deok could’ve been one sided and flat, just wanting her powers alone. Instead she grows to care about others and realizes her actions have concequences. She’s not all evil but she’s not all good, I love anti-hero’s and to see a strong female lead come out of that trope is amazing.

I’m looking forward to each weekend for new episodes and for each one I just wish they only lasted longer. This drama isn’t perfect as none are, but it’s so good. It’s really really good. The idea of getting powerful and strong and being an underdog is always so entertaining. I can see how amazing this drama could be in the end and am positive about where it will go.

The slow burn is really amazing. To the last episode from the start it just gets better and better. And the finale episode was SO good. It was traumatizing and heartbreaking and tragic, I’m so excited for the second part !

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I watched this without watching the original movie first. With that being said I came into this without knowing anything. I was expecting a BL, and what I got was so much more. With themes of exploring sexuality they do it so well, with Nagisa really stealing the show for me. Some people have commented how they don’t like his behavior, with him coming across that he doesn’t care about how his actions affect people. He clearly does, he is so restrained and holds his feelings back in fear he doesn’t hurt others. He is trying to change for others, and it was heartwarming to see the two finally embrace each other. The acting for Nagisa is really good, I am surprised I haven’t seen more of him.

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Big Mouth = Big Mouse

One of the dramas that I have been waiting for is actually airing and I couldn’t be happier.

My favorite type of dramas are the kinds that make me feel something.. as someone who gets bored easily and is a pessimist about things.. but I always knew that this drama was going to be really good. Now will it be amazing?

The last drama that I watched like this was Flower of Evil, both have my favorite actors and both are thrilling and unpredictably. I’m betting Big Mouth will be just as refreshing of a drama. And so far everything is looking to be good, I don’t see how this drama could be screwed up, everything is all there for me.

You’ve got the pacing- which moves along smartly and doesn’t drag. The drama isn’t shying away from blood and is getting pretty heavy off the bat- and then you have the acting and chemistry between the actors.

Lee Jong Suk is a heartthrob, I know he can swoon and be charming. I also know he can be scary as hell when he needs to be. Here you’ve got everything coming from him. I love that he is doing a drama that is able to show his full range- from being a flirtatious husband to a money hungry man.. he honestly is questionable with his morals but is still so likeable. There aren’t many episodes yet, but this is such a promising role for Lee Jong Suk- and so far you can really tell how well and immersed he is in this role. I was waiting for his first project back from the military and this doesn’t disappoint. Im Yoon Ha plays his wife and is also likeable. So far they have an interesting and playful dynamic as a young married couple, and I’m interested to see how devoted they are to each other as the plot develops further.

Episode two is where things went in a completely different direction than expected. Changso is put in prison wrongly and his wife is insisting he is innocent. It’s the premise of the show in the description so I expected that.. but the execution was done so well that I was blinded really. The way he ended up there was shocking, and it’s not just for shock factor either. I really like the whole underdog aspect of being in jail, and by the end of episode two I like how strong we see Changso really could be.. he could honestly become some sort of leading figure in the prison if he wanted. He could be the bad guy if he needs to and I would still like him. Lee Jong Suk brilliantly plays him, especially in the scenes when he is questioned if he is Big Mouse. The writing is done well enough where it’s noticed that he never gives an exact answer.. so it makes me wonder if he really is the major criminal? All signs point to him and even in his personal moments he is never confirmed not to be Big Mouse- but we do know he’s a big mouth. (Honestly the guy likes to provoke others)

I am enjoying the whole persona that Changho is forced take on, and from the warning he gives about becoming a bad guy- you start to see things that could show him possibly truly becoming that. In the end big mouse may not be him (still wondering who..) but he has taken on that role and may be going to far to turn back. The acting of specific scenes floor me and more than that the whole plot twists and overall story are so entertaining that you don’t want to miss a second.

In short, Big Mouth is worth the wait. It’s impressive with its visuals and is something I can tell that I’ll feel bad if people look past and not watch. Watch it, it’s very good- be a part of the airing process and feel thrilled each week. This show is a serious contender to be a drama of the year, and for me personally it’s definitely becoming a favorite.

The ending might be controversial, but to me it was clean cut. This drama stayed thrilling and faced paced. To the end it really was that good. I loved it and have nothing to complain about outside of one glaring issue that I won’t spoil.

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Ready, Set, Go watch this !!

I decided to watch this because I saw it on Netflix and it looked fun. Everything you expect from the trailers and promo is what you get! More than that, there is a deeper story beneath that.

For what this show is I found it to be really fun. It’s a reality-game-show and whoever wins comes out with a husband. The idea is, all the men are dwindling down so it’s a huge event for this show to take place every year. Think hunger-games or squid games, but less dying and more fun and men.

To me, this drama excels beyond that main premise. I found myself staying entertained through the whole run, and I think that’s due to several things. The story is great and it doesn’t take itself too seriously with the melodramatic parts. In fact, it is so camp. It’s fun and colorful and funny also. The acting is amazing and everyone fits their role and is funny without being cringe. I loved Day, she was my favorite and is a female lead written so well. She’s fun, she’s got backbone, and she’s unapologetically herself. Lots of emphasis on the fun, she’s just great.

I love the sets and the colorful appeal, it’s got a certain style that’s sort of whimsical but carefully crafted to fit the game show appeal. Overall this drama exceeds what I thought it was and came together to be a very fun and entertaining watch. Enough so that I’d love a season 2!

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Naturally coming back to you, our youth brought us together

I was really surprised with this drama in every aspect. It's hard to figure out what you want to expect from a j-drama, as they are pretty much giving for everything. They are good at being camp, melancholic, just haven't seen it being done at one time. The way this drama is going is to be more mellow, and I find that completely correct based on the story that is being told.

So what is the story? Honestly I had no idea. I came into this hearing it was pretty good and expected to at least not get bored, I came out of it getting a lot more. The story is a lot more depressing and realistic than I expected, it was a punch to the gut when I first understood what this drama is really about.

You go into the drama the same way as the lead Jin, thinking Hirukawa is a delinquent and no good. Multiple people in his life warn him about 'ruining' himself by surrounding himself by the wrong people. It is sort of rich coming from the people that don't care to know him well enough, and as a result you can see just how lonely Jin is. From the outside you see a rich privileged kid that wants to succeed and is obsessed with getting good grades and appealing to the right people, on the other hand you have Hirukawa. Hirukawa is the textbook definition (from the outside) of the type of person that Jin should not be around. The drama gets this across several ways, so seeing the two of them get close admits all the internal dialogue just has the payoff of their scenes together leaving me on the edge of my seat. I understand that is why it feel so intimate, because you can see just how much is at stake for the both of them.

Jin has his whole life ahead of him, but he isn't selfish because he knows that. He recognizes the disingeuine acts of others.. especially when it comes to his parents. Each episode develops his character starting from that, as well as his relationship with Hirukawa. This drama is MUCH more than a romance, it's about a whole lot more than that. It isn't too on the nose with its themes, and the acting coming from the leads pulls the story along really well. Without the chemistry between the leads this drama would suck so bad, but luckily they are offering a lot more than just their visuals.

Hirukawa is abused by his father. He is clearly able to fight back for himself, but clears up why he hasn't and won't do that. Hirukawa isn't a delinquent or a scary person, he is misunderstood by everyone. The real story of this drama starts when Jin witnesses the abuse. Even when Jin knows this, he doesn't treat Hirukawa in any different way. Hirukawa is finding himself drawn to Jin because he doesn't have to put a wall up, he knows Jin has accepted him completely. Jin accepts the abuse is happening and doesn't push any boundaries, in fact the one who is holding himself back is Jin. It is sort of brilliant that Jin is the one still closeting himself so badly, where as he has nothing 'pathetic' happening to him in that way. Jin is just extremely tentative because of his privilege circumstances, where Hirukawa finds solace in his company because of his honesty.

The romance between them adds a whole other dynamic to this drama. It isn't cliche with how it does things, instead it is much more realistic. The attraction between the two is clearly there, and you can tell Hirukawa's lax attitude of it all is because he is trying to feign ignorance of his true feelings. He has been a 'nuisance' his whole life, so he doesn't want to get in Jin's way, but he also doesn't want to leave him alone? Why? Because he knows that Jin is a person in his life that makes him genuinely happy. It is when a story is able to be as simple as that, that the attraction doesn't have to spell it out for you, that it is just two people that make each other happy. The drama comes with the circumstances that are telling them to contradict their feelings. That they won't work for just as simple reasons. That they are both boys, that they have different lives, etc.

The tone of this drama handles the serious topics so well. I was also surprised to see that the abuse in Hirukawa's life is a strong part to the story, it wasn't there for shock value. It is shown how deeply that affects Hirukawa's attitude, but it hasn't made him a bitter person, in fact he wants to protect people.

Finishing up the drama I am happy to say it has stayed consistent with the tone. I was happy to see that nothing was rushed, and the story wrapped itself naturally. I was also more than happy at having an extra episode. The main romance continued to keep on theme with feelings of repression and doubt. I found every answer to these 'problems' as bitterly realistic. This drama as a whole depicts a very natural relationship, where in the end the communication between the two was pretty fulfilling.

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Lost in the fog.. I can’t see this moon

Oh where do I start... I really wanted to like this drama. I got into the productions schedules when I saw the leaks of the costuming. I have never saw styling done this way, especially with the male lead. The makeup and costuming is gorgeous. The art direction behind this drama is amazing, and unfortunately.. that is pretty much the best thing about this drama.

The writing is not good, it is very very lazy. In several instances the characters ask 'oh where is this guy'... 'why are we here'.. etc. Within a few minutes of Fan Yue's first appearance, the characters tell you exactly what he is. He is good looking- he is off putting.. I would have much rather they show it. The actors can only do so much when they have to spell out the plot every other line. It is just not realistic dialogue, and overall it limits what the actors can do here. It really is a shame, as the production value must have been insane for this.. but the direction and camera work is so horrible that this drama as a whole ends up looking shammy and cheap. The leaks were wonderful and I thought that the show would be more cinematic with unconventional directions style and camera work.. unfortunately whoever was behind the lens doesn't know what they are doing at all.

The directing is not good either. The first episode of this drama was one of the worst first episodes I have ever watched. I really liked the stop motion storytelling.. but again that is just the art direction. A drama is made up of many parts, and to be successful and pleasant they have to come together in harmony. The artistry is just dragging this drama the best it can, but the production team behind this lacks some sort of care. It feels cheap with the way the zoom ins happen with the demon characters, and doesn't look pleasant at all. The only bad thing about the art is that it isn't blending well together. Individually everything looks great, but together the costuming is a bit overwhelming. The makeup washed the FL up.. I am so sorry Bai Lu. She is a pretty girl, here I don't understand what the makeup is supposed to be doing for her other than making her look washed out.

The characters relationships are inorganic and are again just told to you. The character says he doesn't like this guy.. cut scene and that guy says why. I feel like I am being treated like a child and that the flashy and colors are just there to be stimulating visually. The sets are so over the top that I can't find myself being grounded in any part, they leave the whole world feeling congested. Like I know that the sets are made and the characters can't go elsewhere because anything organic isn't the set.. I understand it is xianxia, but have something grounded in reality please. I see the green screen and the keying and mats, I remember watching a trailer and thinking .. 'is this really it'. I thought in post production things would be cleaned up.. guess not.

So at least tell a captivating story. Here the story is generic and being spoon fed. The chemistry isn't effective because of the quality of the script, it feels forced. I've also seen a lot of physical violence between the leads and wonder how in the world I am supposed to actually want the two to be in a touching yet heartbreaking romance. The answer is I can't. The opening is beautiful.. but at some point I watch and think 'huh'. I think that they did in fact just show the best parts of the drama.. and every single episode I watch the first minute and then have some sort of shock moving onto the quality of the actual drama.

There is nothing for me to look forward to or to wonder about because the opening spoils it all. I wonder if this should've just been shoved into a corner and just show me the opening 40 times in a row and I'll understand that more than a whole duration. I don't think it's worth it to watch, I put on for flashy colors. I need to get through a bad drama to see if it has any resilience.. but this isn't looking good. I hate to beat a dead horse here but watch Blossom if you want quality, if you want Xianxia quality watch Ashes of Love.

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Exeeding Expectations... except the ending

Is this drama overhyped? Not at all.

The thing about this drama is the feeling it gives while watching. It's a one of a kind feeling, and one of the reasons I watch dramas in the first place. I honestly enjoy watching this drama so much, it does everything right and has so many different storylines all pulled together through Na Hee Do.

The main character played by Kim Tae Ri is Na Hee Do, and she is the most enjoyable lead I have ever seen in a drama. An girl with so many hopes, she's entertaining because she's honestly hilarious. This girl goes about life in her own way without being overly relatable, she's just Na Hee Do. Kim Tae Ri pulls off this youthful character so well, and for an actress over 30 she not it's not just about looking like a 19 year old. Kim Tae Ri portrays this character so well that the drama feels completely real, there's no doubt to her character. The other leads are not what I expected, seeing Yu Rim at first I never expected her to be either really mean or really nice. Again with this character she's someone you can root for or be against. There's not a villain in this drama, instead I'd call it a coming of age over calling it a romantic comedy.

This drama has sports, it has amazing comedic timing that even Jungkook had to put a moment on his story because it was just too perfect. The pacing isn't boring, but it's not too quick paced. This drama is one I've looked forward to every week and one I know I would binge watch if I could.

Now a controversies (if any) could come from the age gap between Baek Yi Jin and Na Hee Do. I don't see anything wrong with any of their story so far. Yi Jin looks after Hee Do but he isn't overbearing, he's protective but trusts her. The trust and communication they have in each other is touching, and again there's many moment with comedic timing between the two that is all too enjoyable to watch. The dynamic between the two is not only adorable, it's a word I can't find a name for so I'll call it scissors (if you watched you know :))

To sum this up, Twenty Five Twenty One is so good. I swear I see dramas and I can feel something change, I want to find other dramas like it but I know there won't ever be, and then more amazing dramas come out. Twenty Five Twenty One is an experience that I won't take for granted.

Now coming back after watching the whole show I am dissapointed with the ending. As it was open ended, ultimately they didn't need Present Day Na Hee Do to exist in the story at all, the show would've served much better taking place in the flashbacks the whole time without any present day story at all. That's because there was no closure at all, and there wasn't a resolution between Na Hee Do and Baek Yi Jin. In the end they loved each other a lot, and to me I don't understand why it was needed for them to stay apart forever. Sadness doesn't equal to a good ending, that's where the drama severely disappoints me. Nonetheless it was a fun watch.

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if only I could binge watch the whole series at once.

so I’m going to keep this short and sweet since there are plenty of other reviews here that reflect the same thoughts as me.

Only Friends was a show I didn’t expect a lot from, I don’t know why.. maybe because it’s very ambitious considering all the actors in this. Let me say though.. instead of shooting itself in the foot this drama is just so gritty and raw and graphic and it’s good!

Only Friends has a range of relationships and the characters are all weaved together with characters hooking up with eachother and being friends. The amount of stories and things going on isn’t overwhelming to me. Instead I am finding myself buying into the stories and commentating aloud about who is a red flag, who is getting the short end of the stick, and who I want to get together.

In short this drama is entertaining. It’s got so much it’s doing and it’s a lot more than I thought it would be. A lot more sexy, a lot more thought provoking, it’s got so many good things going for it. GMM isn’t getting stale at all, here they are thriving.

This whole drama from start to finish had twists and a plot running through and weaving through multiple characters and scenarios. My only problem I guess is blatant fanservice with pairings doing certain things and he last episode has a lot of fluff that some characters didn’t act in their right mind of like themselves.

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unthawing my love for you

I wanted to watch this ever since I saw the cast, and thankfully for me the premise was interesting.

The first episode throws you in the middle of a breakup and confused me as I was wondering if I missed anything. You are thrust into the ending of a relationship when you expect to see one bloom. So that gives this show a step up, it gives it the direction to have that relationship unfold and unravel through the duration of the show.

With one episode it gives off a bittersweet pace and it’s not quick but not boring either. By the end of the first episode it really started to slowly sink in as I realized that Ritsu forgot his memory of Fumiya. Although I knew that going in it honestly hurts. Thinking about how harsh their breakup was, and then to how gentle and sweet Ritsu is having never remembered at all. He doesn’t remember who Fumiya is to him and it’s setting up a very interesting story.

I anticipate a story of showing their relationship and how it got to that point. Fumiya getting frustrated with Ritsu because he’s falling in love with a person he gave up on.. there is so many good things this show can do. Honestly it might need more time to do it with as little episodes as it has.. but either way I think it will do well.

So far I’m just happy to see Honda Kyoya in a show that gives him hype. Visually he is stunning, and acting here he is perfect. Balancing innocence of being somewhere he doesn’t know or recognize, and an honest attitude. He is just a soft person altogether and Honda portrays it really really well.

The visual shots of this show keep up with the overall aesthetic, nothing is out of place. Suzuki Kazuke looks unrecognizable in a good way, I mean I know and recognize him from other dramas- but he really gets into this roll. The heartbreak of having this person you shared your life with for several years not remembering a single thing, it’s frustrating him but you can tell he’s hurt all together.

Overall this drama is really good and started off well. Watch it for a melancholic romance.

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“In the future we stay forever to the end”

Immortal Samsara is a very beautiful drama, the budget in this project must be a lot and it shows. The costumes are all beautiful and the designs with the colors particularly play off the next very well. When two characters are with each other the costumes never overpower the person next to them, so I would say the character design is also done very well.

Whats worth watching for Immortal Samsara is the stunning effects. This drama is so crisp to look at, especially with a 57 inch tv.. This drama is so beautiful, and that alone was the reason that I was intrigued. But is that all compensating for the story and acting? Is the drama overlooking cinematography because it has flashy effects? I would say it doesn't.

What I look for when I review things is if the drama is succeeding at what it's trying to do. Immortal Samsara is a romantic costume drama, and it is definitely above average. I wasn't expecting the story to be as easy to follow as it has been so far. Barely into the mortal realm as of episode 12, I'm excited to see where the story continues. I love the dynamics between the characters and they aren't written badly. In fact, each episode I get through I understand them better and am pretty impressed with how they are developing. Specifically the main pair: YanDan played by Yang Zi, and YingYuan played by Cheng Yi.

Yan Dan is the main character, and from a first glance I thought she was just typical.. the annoying and childlike type that is innocent. But Yandan isn't she has her motivations and her pride, and what really rounds her out is her counterpart sister who is pretty much a foil character to her, ZhiXi played by Meng Zi Yi. Both sisters come from a lotus flower, and one of them is the weak one while the other is the strong one. Zhixi so far is growing to be one of my favorite characters, knowing she is weaker as she was hurt before but she really holds her own. I understand why she is jealous of Yandan but doesn't really put it out there, instead she holds her pride and rejects her sister when she tries to help her succeed. Yandan isn't annoying or boastful when trying to help her sister, she is a bit more carefree and wants her sister to have the opportunities she deserves. Opposed to a character that gets in the way where there naive nature is used for comedy, Yandan grows from that pretty quickly.

From the first shot you see her falling from a cliff in what's assumed to be a self sacrifice. That sets up for the viewer to know that she can make impactful decisions and isn't playful and clumsy all the time. She is a deep thinker, and feigns that for her wish to live carefree most of the time. The drama moves quickly with her character and it is very satisfying.

What's even more satisfying is the development between YanDan and YingYuan, which is very natural. I've seen a lot of other costume dramas just have the female lead be naive with the male lead to be the grounded one for me to wonder why they would even like each other. Yandan and Yingyuan have there moments together that make me understand. Yingyuan is an emperor with a lot of responsibilities, and Yandan shows him how to be happier through her natural attitude. There aren't any coincidences pulled to keep them together, instead the characters themselves just want to be with each other.

Finally, this show wouldn't deliver if the acting wasn't there. Yang Zi is such a good actress, she is amazing. I've never seen a drama with Cheng Yi, but he is also very very good. They both play off each other naturally and unnaturally also when they need to be. The emotional scenes are where they both do there best at, and I'm looking forward to watching more so I can see their full depth of acting range.

The criticisms I have right away is that sometimes the effects are a little too ambitious. With the first long battle, the overlays were obvious and kind of an eyesore. The whole dragon fight was almost hard to watch, I much rather would have hand to hand combat over green screen effects. But I think when the characters get to the mortal realm that there will be more of that. So other than that I just have my concerns. Will the drama hold up? Will it bite off more than it can chew with it's very vast story and world? Will the story run out its time and become boring and cliche? I hope not. As for other peoples complaints, the one I’ve seen a lot is comparing it to Ashes of Love. Immortal Samsara is similar with its opening act, the immortal words and mortal realms. There aren’t two male leads with the same dynamic as in Ashes of Love and Yang Zi’s character although isn’t completely different- her character is much different in terms of writing, Yandan comes to terms with her surroundings a lot quicker and isn’t as aloof. She’s more grounded here.

So far this drama is really good, a solid 8.5-9/10. It is very much so above average in terms of acting, styling, effects, etc. I recommend this as it isn't bland. Give this drama a chance if you like romance with emotions, impressive fight scenes, and flawless visuals.

Finishing up this part I rate this even higher now. This drama truly is beautiful in every way. The story never fell flat and there were always interesting storylines to follow. Even into the mortal realm the dynamic between YanDan and Tengzhou was done very well. The whole tragedy between them is something I’m a sucker for, I love tragic and dramatic things. Yumo is my favorite character. He is selfless and I admire him for all the things he does for Yandan without expecting her love.

There is a lot going on in this drama but it is all interesting, beautiful, epic, and fun to watch. Overall very good and this drama is underrated so I recommend

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Sweet Spot for this drama

I’m always going to be disappointed by how short Japanese dramas can be. But that also has very good reasons, this drama doesn’t waste time and each minute is spent well.

Developing characters I care about than even 16 hours of any other drama is pretty impressive. Rather than staying safe and doing what’s commonly done by overplaying the BL aspect of this show, Old Fashioned Cupcake doesn’t. This show really takes its time developing the main relationship of the show, and while others might find it dragging- I think it’s realistic and a respectful story.

The relationship of Togawa and Nozue starts from respect. The main base holding it together is that they respect eachother a lot. What I’m saying here is that this relationship is healthy and I’m so happy to see it. It could’ve taken the route of obsession and possessive attitudes, trying to seduce your boss out of lust alone. That’s not the case here. Instead Togawa has a genuine respect for Nozue and had never became that way out of intimidation. It’s never blatantly said until episode 4 that Togawa likes Nozue, but the acting really is spot on here in showing that he clearly does. For both actors, I’m so glad that they have chemistry and I’m so immersed by their acting that I feel like I really am watching something real.

The stand out part of this drama is the tender moments between the two. It’s a slice of life, where Nozue is getting to his 40’s and lives day by day, he has his relationships and friends and is adored by his staff but he isn’t living as happily as he could. The potential happiness that could be fully reached when finding your person is amazing and so beautiful to think about. This drama tells that sort of story so well. Nozue and Togawa are happy together and they acknowledge and tell eachother that they bring out the best for eachother. Nozue does compare with Togawa in terms of his age but it’s not in a toxic way, they share their vulnerabilities with eachother and gradually that’s how they become closer and that’s how as a viewer you really care about their relationship.

This drama is subtle, but puts in the intense moments in the right parts that isn’t over stressed. Specifically episode four, after four episodes of watching their relationship become more tension, Togawa can’t sugarcoat his feelings by brushing them off, he admits he likes Nozue. He doesn’t want to burden Nozue with his feelings and is careful and respectful with his words, I really like how he never had forced anything on him. And in moments he felt he had he apologizes. It’s heartbreaking how they see the flaws in their relationships from their age, gender, and status as co-workers. But it’s realistic. Neither of them are homophobic, and instead Togawa believes that his kind of love is out of the normal for most, but normal for him. He’s not ashamed of his feelings, he’s only careful about them. Togawa cares about Nozue so much that he thinks about his feelings even when irrationally sharing his true feelings.

The music in this drama amplifies any feelings of worry, love, sadness, etc. Nothing in the drama overstays it’s welcome and I’m bitter about it only being 5 episodes, but as for what it is- this drama is amazing.

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Pure Entertainment

To sum it up, this movie is pure entertainment. There are moments of comedy, there are tender moments, action, thriller, tense. This movie really does have it all. For a movie viewing I’d almost say it’s close to perfect to sit down and watch but the catch is you can’t be someone with a feint heart.

Hwayi has a pretty easy to follow synopsis as well as simple on the outside character motivations that have much more depth and layers to pick apart if you want. As someone who likes a lot of depth I found this really nice, and considering it’s a movie I liked how it was easy to follow and you don’t have to really pick apart the characters as you’re only with them for a few hours.

There’s a lot of important themes the movie has, the main takeaway I found was the importance of family structure. It’s fine that they are all fathers, what isn’t fine is what they teach their ‘son’.

Kidnapping a boy and nurturing him under their gang activities and eventually encouraging him to kill others for their benefit isn’t a plus. But their are a few moments of payoff, where you can tell that they really care for him despite. They don’t want Hwayi dead and it’s interesting to see their dynamic as this family play out. I really like how coming into the movie after the time skip you believe they’ve all lived together for the years and it’s natural but definitely not typical or healthy either.

Now I’m not going to go into depth for this movie because I don’t find the need to. It’s entertaining. It’s really entertaining. The acting is beyond impressive considering Yeo Jin-Goo was 16 years old when filming. He’s the best of the best and I don’t doubt this movie when I watch. There are never moments where I sit and think “oh these people are just acting”. It’s a fully immersive experience. The amount of gore is a lot more than expected, the kill count is also more than expected. It could be arguable that some of the kills and gore are just for fluff, but I see this as a movie and movies I watch to entertain myself so I don’t see that as a bad thing.

This movie really made my night and I recommend it. It’s really good and I wish I could say more, but all I can do is emphasize it’s strength. The acting is superior, the action is very impressive, the story is easy to follow. This movie is very very good.

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