sayratial

A Soft Angsty Ride, I Liked It!

This is one of those shows that takes the classic straight romance tropes, rich families, dramatic misunderstandings, self-sacrificial lies, a time skip, and of course, a wedding. And puts them in a GL setting. And honestly, It kind of slaps. The story isn’t groundbreaking, but the chemistry between the leads and the overall vibe make it really easy to get invested.

The main story is about Fahlada, a doctor from a wealthy background, and Earn, an actress trying to make it big. They fall in love and give us some genuinely sweet, soft moments. It’s cute. It’s warm. And then everything crashes. Earn’s mom gets seriously sick, and Fahlada’s mom swoops in to manipulate the situation. She promises to help Earn’s mom, but only if Earn breaks up with Fahlada. On top of that, she lies and says Fahlada is getting engaged to Dr. Wisanu soon, just to twist the knife. So Earn lies to Fahlada, tells her she was only in it for the money, and leaves.

It hurts. A lot. And both of them suffer for it. Fahlada’s heartbreak feels especially heavy, the kind that sits in your chest. Time passes, they both become successful, but the pain doesn’t really fade. When Earn finally finds out that Fahlada never dated Wisanu and was just as heartbroken, she decides to fix things.

In real life, this kind of situation would probably be unforgivable. Too much hurt, too much damage. But in the world of the show? The chemistry is so strong that it makes you want to see them get a second chance. There’s this quiet intensity between them that never really goes away, and that makes the drama hit harder.

Visually, the show is stunning. The cinematography is clean, the colors pop, and the styling? Gorgeous. Fahlada and Earn are both ridiculously pretty — like, it should be illegal how good they look. And the outfits? Chef’s kiss. Susi takes the crown there, followed by Earn and Fahlada. Every scene they walk into, they own it.

The side characters are also a huge part of what makes this show work. Fahlada’s friendship with Tan and Bow is genuinely heartwarming. Tan, especially, is there when it counts. Ingfa has this graceful, quiet charm. She liked Earn, but she never got in the way. She just wanted her to be happy. Ros brings in the comedy, and Susi? Susi is that girl. Loud, stylish, confident — every scene she’s in is instantly more fun.

Fahlada’s dad deserves a shoutout for being one of the few voices of support. He tells her clearly that being gay isn’t a flaw, which is such a needed moment in a show like this. Her mom, on the other hand, only has a change of heart after falling ill, and honestly, it didn’t feel like real growth, more like plot convenience. The whole redemption arc didn’t hit.

Rati was kind of annoying, kind of clueless, but honestly? Still kind of likable. Maybe it’s just the pretty privilege, but she didn’t bother me as much as she probably should have.

There are a few scenes that really stuck. One of the most memorable was when Earn goes under a table to pick something up, and Fahlada instinctively reaches out to protect her head. It’s subtle, but so full of emotion. And of course, the wedding at the end, yeah, it’s basic, but it still hits. Sometimes you just need a classic happy ending, no matter how cliché it is.

In the end, The Secret of Us works because it knows what it is. It’s emotional, dramatic, sometimes messy, but it looks good doing it. It’s about love that gets tested, broken, and pieced back together. And honestly watching two insanely beautiful women be stupidly in love while wearing amazing outfits? That’s always going to be a win.

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Weird show, but it had its charm.

The show was kind of weird and honestly a bit boring at times. That whole teacher-student relationship was a big no from me.

But it wasn’t all bad! Here’s what kept me watching:

1. The comedy had its moments and actually made me laugh.


2. The FL’s inner princess and her three dramatic male attendants(?) were hilarious and totally gave us what she was really feeling in a hilarious way.


3. Yaoyi, the second female lead, was great. I liked her a lot and her relationship with Shinri had some really nice development.


4. There were some super cute moments here and there.


5. The cast was very easy on the eyes.


6. The ending was sweet and cute.


7. And I appreciated the little touches of friendship throughout.


Overall I wouldn't recommend , but don't regret watching either. And probably forget about it in no time.

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Some Questionable Stuff but Entertaining Overall

I had read all the bad reviews and warnings, so my expectations were very LOW. But curiosity won, and I watched it. And honestly I liked it. No shame.

Both couples start off with one rich guy behaving in weird and questionable ways, but we’ll get to that.

Phayu and Rain’s story was fun. Their story was simpler and more straightforward. It definitely had its toxic moments.Phayu was overly confident and controlling at times, but somehow, I didn’t mind it too much. Their dynamic was playful, and the chemistry felt real. Rain was dramatic in a way that made things fun, and Phayu balanced that with his calm, almost smug energy. Their relationship developed fast, but it didn’t feel forced. Even with the red flags, it was entertaining and oddly charming. I enjoyed watching them grow closer, and in the end, they were a couple I liked.

Then we move on to the second half with Prapai and Sky, and that’s when I understood where all the warnings came from. Prapai was kind of a creep with how he pursued Sky, especially buying SIM cards just to contact someone who blocked him. The stalking and the sexual assault implications were uncomfortable. And yet, he did the bare minimum and somehow became a good guy, I guess. Maybe a bit more than the bare minimum, but still.

As for Sky, I loved him in the first half. He was sassy, sharp, and the reliable one in the friend group. Then in the second half, I couldn’t understand what happened. Why did he suddenly become so childlike?

And using rape as a plot device was just unnecessary. If someone has sexual trauma, the answer is therapy, not falling in love with someone who could also be a traumatizing experience. Apparently, love heals everything? Sure.
Despite all that, I didn’t hate their story.

I’d say the actors had great chemistry, but the characters didn’t. Or maybe they did, I don't know. it's complicated. Their relationship starts really messy but it turned into something more.

My favorite moment was when Prapai comforting sky after the SA from gun in the last episode.

This is one of those shows where you have to constantly remind yourself it’s fictional, because none of these things would be okay in real life.

I liked the friendship between Sky and Rain a lot too. Although it felt a but one-sided from Sky's side.

On a neutral note, I almost dropped it during the first episode because of the outfits. No one was really fashionable, which makes sense since they’re just regular guys, but Rain’s wardrobe bugged me for no reason. He didn’t have a single good outfit.

I hated Gun’s character so much I won’t even mention him.

Despite everything, this show was entertaining as hell. I was never bored, so I can’t rate it low. I liked it for all the wrong reasons, but I did.

And yeah, I talked more about Sky and Prapai, but I liked Phayu and Rain more overall. With Sky being my favorite character.

This is a total hot mess but I couldn't stop watching.

8/10, and that’s me being generous, delusional, and fully entertained.

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"Imperfect Game" (aka how a boy group survival show randomly blessed us with a whole drama?!)

Okay, so what in the side quest is this?! Imagine tuning in for a typical boy group survival show and then suddenly—boom—they drop a full-on one-hour drama on us. And not just a drama, but a genuinely good and heartwarming one?? Love that for us.
I gotta say, I started watching Debut's Plan when it first aired but kinda fell off...until I heard they were making a drama out of it. And honestly? Best decision ever to binge catch up because now I'm obsessed with both the survival show and this chaotic baseball squad.

The story's about a group of teenage boys chasing their dream of winning a baseball tournament—and of course, facing a big ol' crisis along the way (because what’s youth without a little disaster, right?).

Main boy Seo Jun Gi transfers to Woojoo High just for the (now disbanded) baseball club. He tries to recruit Han Il, the local baseball legend, and Han Il ropes in his childhood friend Baek Hoon and the newbie Seo Woo Bin.

Cue: emotional childhood friendships, jealousy arcs, and just a tiny sprinkle of suspiciously BL-coded moments. I mean… Back Hoon getting jealous of his bestie Han Il bonding with Seo Woo Bin? That tension?? I'm just saying.

Then we get the rest of the squad:
Jaehyuk: dropped baseball to support his little sibling after their parents passed (literal angel).
Otani Choi: the Japanese transfer student (and lowkey comic relief king).
Seon Ho: the perfect student whose secret love for baseball makes his strict parents go absolutely feral.
And other baseball team members.

I absolutely adored Seon ho and Jun gi friendship, wished there was more of this duo.

Despite being a random spin-off of a survival show, Imperfect Game managed to be a genuinely cute, touching, funny and surprisingly well-acted youth drama. The 7 main cast members (aka the trainees) killed it, and even the other 14 contestants got their little moments to shine as extras and side characters.

The upcoming group from Debut plan lore is going to hit hard in the future with this lol.

Honestly, even if I wasn't a little biased because I’m already rooting for these trainees, this drama would still hit.
Objective rating? 8.5/10.
Biased, heart-eyes, emotionally attached rating? 9/10.
Would 100% recommend if you’re in the mood for something sweet, inspiring, and a little chaotic (in the best way).

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A Surprisingly Fun Ride!

I went into this drama completely blind—not even knowing what it was about—but wow, I ended up loving it way more than I expected! It was such a fun watch that I never felt the urge to fast forward or skip a single scene. That alone says a lot.

The story follows a badass female general who gets betrayed and killed by someone she trusted. But instead of staying dead, she wakes up in the body of a comatose scheming wife in the Qin family—yep, a total timeline flip. And guess what? She handles it like a queen. You can totally tell she's used to being on the battlefield because she adapts fast and always has a solution up her sleeve. I loved that about her.

The Qin family siblings were such a fun bunch too! They slowly start warming up to her, and honestly, the dynamic turns into something really wholesome. She becomes the lady of the house, and the siblings kind of feel like her and the male lead’s kids at some point—it was lowkey adorable.

Romance isn’t the main focus here, which is fine by me. You can see the connection growing between the leads, but it’s not overly romantic. There’s even a moment where a romantic scene gets interrupted for comedy, which somehow made me like it even more. The balance between emotions and humor is just right.

My absolute favorite scene? The ending—hands down! The male lead is finally trying to confess his feelings, but the siblings totally misunderstand and think he’s about to divorce her. So naturally, they all take her side and start saying they’ll leave with her too. I was cackling and grinning like a fool.

Overall, it’s a drama full of heart, humor, and smart writing. If you’re into strong female leads, found-family vibes, and lighthearted fun with a dash of romance, give this one a shot!

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Love, Pain, Art And Holy Chemistry!

Well, well, well—what did I just watch? And more importantly, why was it so GOOD?! Holy thing!

This wasn’t just another recycled romance drama. Sure, I enjoy the usual tropes, but there’s something refreshing about a plot that dares to be different. This wasn’t just about two people falling in love—it was about what happens after. The challenges, the struggles, the raw emotions.

The chemistry? On fire. The romance? Not your typical, smooth-sailing love story. It felt one-sided for the most part, with the ML deeply in love while the FL had her guard up. And honestly, how could she not? With her difficult childhood, love and trust don’t come easy. As he said, “她心里没有爱，她就想赢”—her heart wasn’t filled with love, she just wanted to win. That line hit hard.

The ML’s breakdown after learning about her past? Absolutely gut-wrenching. You could feel his pain, his helplessness. That’s how you deliver emotions on screen.

The FL was such a complex character—good girl, manipulative strategist, and her raw, unfiltered self. I loved every side of her. And the fact that she was an artist? Perfect. She didn’t just paint; she poured her anger, her sadness, her scars onto the canvas. The symbolism behind her paintings made them even more impactful.

And the ML? Oh. My. God. A wealthy man who would do anything for his girl? YES, PLEASE. Ke Chun nailed this role—the facial expressions, the devotion, the pain—everything was top-tier. Also, let’s talk about his outfits. Every single one? On point. Stylish, sharp, and simply amazing. Who ever was in the charge of styling knew what they were doing!

The FL’s best friend was an absolute gem. Beautiful, kind, and honestly, one of the biggest reasons FL kept going. She was a true pillar of support. The ML’s friend and brother also added depth to the story, making it richer. And let’s not forget the art competition—so well-executed.

Final Thoughts
This drama wasn’t just a romance—it was an experience. The emotions, the struggles, the character depth—it all came together beautifully. And the visuals? From the paintings to the outfits, everything was stunning. If you’re looking for a drama that goes beyond the surface, this is it.

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Had So Much Fun watching

I had so much fun with this one! It’s about a girl who enters a drama world as the evil stepmom of a boy, and of course, she wins over both the father and son’s hearts. I’ve seen a similar story before, but in this one, the son’s an older high schooler (and the actor is the same age as the ML, which was great!).

The son’s reactions every time he walked in on his parents being all cute was just hilarious. The romance was sweet, but honestly, the family of three was the real highlight—they were unbreakable!

The moments with the ML’s mom were hilarious too, especially when she said, “How can you let her beat a man? What were you two men of the family doing when she was bullied?” Oh, granny... she's the real protector of both men, haha.

And that little exchange between FL and ML—"We’re in a contract relationship; it’s okay if you like other women, it’s not cheating" and then “Oh! It’s okay if you like men too” was priceless.

Overall, every moment was fun—there are so many to write. This was a perfect rom-com with a touch of family dynamics. Highly entertaining!

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A Sweet & Hilarious Vertical Drama

If you’re looking for a drama that’s as sweet as a bouquet of fresh flowers, this one delivers! This short and adorable vertical drama had me grinning the entire time. With just the right mix of humor, charm, and a sprinkle of romantic confusion, it was an absolute delight to watch.

The story follows Lee Jun, a flower shop owner still recovering from his last shop’s downfall—thanks to workplace romance. Determined not to let history repeat itself, he tries his best to keep his two employees, Eunho and Hyewon, from dating. But in doing so, he accidentally makes Eunho think he likes him instead! Cue the hilarious misunderstandings, unexpected emotions, and an adorable love story.

Eunho’s misunderstanding is a riot, but the real question is—does Lee Jun even understand his own feelings? Watching them figure it out was both funny and heartwarming.

And let’s not forget Hyewon! A non-cliché female character in a BL drama? Yes, please! She added so much to the story, making the dynamic between the three even better. I adored her a lot.

I also absolutely loved the setting—the flower shop was beautiful and added such a cozy, warm vibe to the whole drama. The flowers made every scene visually stunning and added to the charm of the story.

The drama also nailed the little things—stunning flowers, smooth perspective switches, and actual communication between the characters. The ending was satisfying, though I wouldn’t have minded a little more time with them. Overall, this was a fun, feel-good watch with lovable characters and a romance that blooms just right.

Would I watch more of them? Absolutely. Would I recommend it? 100%!

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A Delightful and Visually Stunning Short

Some dramas take hours to build a compelling story, but this 22 minute short managed to capture humor, charm, and warmth in such a compact yet fulfilling way. It was a thoroughly entertaining watch, blending lighthearted comedy with moments of unexpected sweetness.

One of the first things that stood out to me was the cinematography. The framing, camera angles, and shot compositions were all well crafted, enhancing the overall storytelling. Visually, the drama had a polished and well thought out aesthetic that perfectly matched its playful and whimsical tone. Every scene felt intentional, immersing me in the quirky yet heartfelt world of the characters.

The story is about the dynamic between Shen Jing Yu and Gu Sen He. Shen Jing Yu, a stubborn and easily flustered young man, finds his life thrown into disarray when he is forced to share his space with Gu Sen He, a cheerful and persistent presence who repeatedly asks, “Are you happy today?” Their interactions are nothing short of entertaining, Shen Jing Yu’s exasperation is met with Gu Sen He’s unwavering optimism, creating a dynamic filled with humor, tension, and an underlying sense of warmth.

What truly elevated the story for me was the supportive mother and the best friend. They somehow knew ther was something between them before the leads themselves knew!

As I watched, I couldn’t help but think how perfect this setup would be for a childhood backstory, one where the leads were close as children but got separated when one moved away, only to reunite later in life. The chemistry between them was so natural that I would love to see them in a full-length drama exploring their relationship further.

Overall, this drama was adorable, humorous, and visually captivating. Despite its short runtime, it made a strong impact, leaving me wishing for more. With its engaging storytelling, well-executed cinematography, and charming character dynamics,
Would I watch more of these two together? Absolutely!

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A Love That Needs No Fixing

There are stories that whisper, stories that shout, and then there are stories that simply exist—softly, beautifully, unapologetically. Between Complete and Incomplete is one of those stories.

This right here was so amazing—explicit ACE and poly representation? Omg. And done so well too. Minho, an asexual man, in a poly relationship with Seongjin and Gyutae. A love that is neither fractured nor forced to be whole, but simply is.

Seongjin, the calm and understanding one, bridges their love so effortlessly, holding Minho and Gyutae in his quiet strength. He understands them so well, helps them navigate their emotions, never pushing, always listening. The film does not stumble into the trap of "fixing" asexuality. There is no forced resolution, no expectation for Minho to "change" or "compromise."
Instead, his boundaries are honored, his love is understood, and his presence is enough.

And the terms—polyamory, ACE—used so naturally, woven seamlessly into the dialogue. The conversation with Minho's friend? A gift. They explain asexuality so well—not just as the absence of sexual attraction, but as something that can still hold love, connection, and even enjoyment in its own way. Asexuality is not a void; it is simply a different way of being, a different way of feeling.

The details made my heart ache in the best way. The way Minho takes pictures of his lovers, capturing them with quiet devotion. The way Seongjin and Gyutae never pressure him, always making sure he is comfortable. The way he loves, and shows it, in ways that are his own.

And the quality? Stunning. Every frame, every shot, intentional and intimate. The film breathes, lingers, lets the emotions settle in your chest.

As an asexual myself, this film spoke to me. For those who have longed to see themselves reflected, Between Complete and Incomplete is more than a film—it is a sigh of relief, a quiet revolution. Love does not always need fixing. Sometimes, it just needs to be understood.

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A Surprising Gem

Starting off as a 6.5, this drama slowly but surely proved its worth, climbing up to a solid 8—not a disappointing 8, but an "I loved this so much" 8!

The story follows Shion, who faced rejection from her first love, Hasegawa, in high school. That rejection became a turning point, pushing her to work hard, change her appearance, and become a beauty consultant 12 years later. However, the emotional scars remained—she never dated, fearing rejection again. But fate (or maybe a curse?) gives her a second chance when she tears a photo and gets transported back to her high school days, now armed with all the knowledge and confidence of her adult self.

This time, things are different. She knows how to communicate, understands makeup, and presents herself differently—and suddenly, Hasegawa likes her. But the real question emerges: Does she truly belong in this past world?

The drama's most powerful message is that her initial rejection was necessary—it was the catalyst that led to her growth. Shion's journey wasn’t just about winning her first love but acknowledging the 12 years of hard work and self-improvement she had gone through. Ignoring that struggle just to fix her past would have been a disservice to everything she had become.

The friendship between Mitsuki and Shion was a true highlight—heartfelt, strong, and genuinely touching. Their bond made the drama so much more meaningful.

The whole vibe of the drama was so dreamy, the kind you can only see in japanese romance. The ending was just as beautiful and couldn't imagine any better option!

What started as a potential hate-watch turned into a deeply enjoyable experience, with a beautifully executed ending that left a lasting impact. The emotional payoff was worth it, making this drama a surprising gem.

Final Rating: 8/10 – A heartfelt, well-executed drama with a meaningful message.

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Weirdly Good

This anthology series is a mind-bending journey through bizarre, surreal tales that seem like they came straight from the depths of dreams—ones that even my own imagination couldn't conjure. And yet, I absolutely loved it. Each episode presents a strange, twisted world where human nature, desires, and flaws are explored in unique and often unsettling ways.

Most of the characters were morally gray, adding layers to the stories and making it hard to fully judge them as "good" or "bad." Their actions reflected deeper human struggles and emotions, making them more relatable, even when they made questionable choices.

The cast was phenomenal, effortlessly shifting between roles with each episode, showing off their versatility. This added a sense of fluidity to the show, as you never quite knew what to expect next, making each new story feel fresh. What really stood out to me was how the episodes were interconnected thematically, while also leaving just enough room for the viewer to overthink and interpret the meaning.

The finale tied everything together in a way that felt satisfying but still left me pondering, creating a perfect balance of closure and mystery. The open-endedness made me reflect on the broader themes of human nature, desire, and consequence.

The episodes in the series were:
▫️Inside the Gate
▫️Molting
▫️Must-Do Planner
▫️Curtain of Rain
▫️Cultivation Game
▫️Memory Camera
▫️Headphones! Confession
▫️Backer Nesting Dolls
▫️Good Luck Meal
▫️A Nonexistent Boyfriend?
▫️Terrifying Rumor
▫️Back Track Remote Control
▫️House of Sin
▫️Share and Continue Your Life
▫️A Day, A Lifetime
▫️Idol Drama: Life
▫️The Vessel
▫️The Cocoon
▫️Random? Life
▫️Future Express
▫️My False World
▫️Long Lasting Love

Overall, it’s a beautifully strange and thought-provoking experience that makes you question what’s real and what’s just a reflection of our deepest fears and hopes. I’m glad I took the ride, It could've easily a 10 if it was with a higher budget!

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An Unexpected Binge-Worthy Ride!

Okay, so I accidentally ended up binge-watching this over the weekend, and honestly? No regrets at all. This drama follows T-pop group MARS, with their leader Thame getting ready to leave for Korea. Meanwhile, Po is given the job of filming their last concert footage. A setup that could’ve been predictable? Sure. But the execution? Absolutely nailed it.

The story itself might not be groundbreaking, but the way it unfolded kept me hooked. The pacing was just right—enough tension, enough emotional moments, and enough lighthearted fun to balance it all out. It took a very familiar storyline and made it feel fresh, which is not easy to do. I think what really pulled me in was how much I cared about the characters. It wasn’t just about the plot; it was about them. The dialogues were so well written.

So, the romance between Thame and Po? Look, I’ll be honest—it wasn’t my favorite part of the show, but I still enjoyed it. They had this awkward yet genuine chemistry that made them fun to watch. It wasn’t the most dramatic or swoon-worthy romance I’ve ever seen, but that kind of worked in its favor? They were so green together, and that made it oddly endearing. I could totally see why people would love them. Even though the romance was a major part of the plot, it never overshadowed the true heart of the story—friendship.

Now, this is where the drama shined. The relationships between the MARS members were EVERYTHING. The tension, the fights, the feeling of betrayal when Thame decided to leave—it all felt so raw. The anger from the other four members? Absolutely justified. But what made it so compelling was watching them all navigate their emotions, work through their issues, and ultimately find their way back to each other. I loved how Thame never stopped trying, even when it felt impossible. He wanted to bring them back together, and that effort really paid off.

Okay, let’s talk about Jun—easily my favorite character. He was that perfect mix of playful and annoying, but also weirdly mature when the moment called for it. Every time he was on screen, I knew I was in for a good scene. And listen, we can all pretend that his whole “pretending to like Po” thing was just a tactic to push Thame to confront his feelings… but are we really going to ignore the possibility that he might’ve had the tiniest crush on Po? Maybe! Who knows! But I loved every second of it.

Pepper was another standout for me. His relationship with Gam was one of those side plots that had so much potential. The fact that they had to break up for the sake of the group? PAIN. I wish they explored it a bit more, but even with what we got, it was heartbreaking.

And then we have Nano—oh man. His whole arc hit hard. Watching him struggle with his own insecurities, thinking that he was the only one in the group who wouldn’t be able to do anything outside of MARS? That was gut-wrenching. But seeing how the members helped him through it? Beautiful. I loved how his journey was about finding confidence in himself and realizing that he did have worth beyond just the group.

Dylan was another character I really liked. There were so many moments where I just got him. He didn't have a story as deep as others, but his presence was so important. His struggles, his emotions—they felt very real. He brought a certain grounding energy to the group, and I really appreciated that.

I can’t move on without mentioning Fern! She might have been a minor character, but I really liked her. Her being both a MARS fangirl and Po’s close friend was such a fun dynamic. She brought in some much-needed lightness at times, and I really enjoyed her scenes.

The Cast, Cinematography & Soundtrack—All So Good!
One thing that really impressed me? The cast. Considering that a lot of them were new, they did an amazing job. They made the characters feel real, and their chemistry was undeniable. You could tell they were genuinely having fun, and that energy made the show even more enjoyable.

The cinematography? Loved it. The colors were stunning, and the visuals really brought everything to life. And that final episode? The concert scene felt so real. It honestly looked like they used actual concert footage rather than filming something separately, which made it even more immersive.

And let’s not forget about the soundtrack. Absolute perfection. Every song fit the moment perfectly, and I can see myself listening to it on repeat.

Final Thoughts: A Drama That Sticks With You
Overall, this was such a great watch. I went in expecting a simple music drama, and I walked away completely invested in these characters. The fact that they got to stay together as a group in the end? SO satisfying.
The ending for both couples was happy and I'm so glad for them. And I'm really with Nano on shipping Jun Dylan, they were so good (Bickering) together!
Would I recommend ? Absolutely.

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A Warm and Unforgettable Journey

This drama starts off as a 9.5 to 10 experience—filled with warmth, sincerity, and emotional depth—before settling into a solid 7.5 to 8 by the end. While the latter half may not have hit as hard, the first half was truly something special, an experience I wouldn’t want to forget.

The story follows Asuka, a former teacher who once encouraged her student Dan to pursue music. Years later, she becomes the matron of 8loom, the struggling idol group he now leads. With the group on the verge of disbandment, Asuka once again becomes their guiding light, standing by them and helping them find motivation. The challenge? They must rank first on a music site to renew their contract.

What made this drama stand out was its heart. The warmth in its storytelling, the way it normalized queer relationships without making a spectacle of them, and the deep bonds between the characters made it feel like more than just another idol story. The performances weren’t just implied—they were fully shown—making it feel almost like a real group’s journey rather than just a scripted drama.

The 8loom members—Dan, Naru, Yuki, Eiji, Ryusei, Takumi, and Takara—each had their own strengths, insecurities, and struggles, bringing a realistic portrayal of the highs and lows of being in a group. Ryusei and Takara’s friendship in Episode 5 was a standout, truly wholesome and touching. Takara, in particular, was a character I deeply related to. He gave off aroace vibes, and as someone who has never been interested in romance or dating, that resonated with me. It’s rare to see a character like that so naturally integrated into a story.

Another standout moment was when Asuka threw a bunch of laundry on Dan when he was overwhelmed by the pressure of making 8loom rise again. She told him that responsibilities are not as heavy if you share them with others. As each member took a piece of clothing, they also took on a responsibility they could handle, reinforcing the idea that they weren’t alone in this fight. It was such a simple yet meaningful way to show teamwork and support

Asuka was a wonderful protagonist—kind, supportive, and someone you couldn’t help but root for. And Kousaka, the initially intimidating manager, had a surprising depth to her character, revealing that her "scary" demeanor was actually her own insecurity.

The romance was a subplot, but I honestly adored the main couple. Even though I'm not usually a fan of student×teacher dynamics, it was handled in a way that felt genuine and respectful rather than problematic. Their relationship wasn’t the main focus, which helped keep the story balanced.

One of the most satisfying moments was watching the group decide not to disband. Seeing them come together as a team, determined to keep going despite all the challenges, was incredibly heartwarming. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the bonds they’d formed and how much they meant to each other.

I'll have to mention the track "Come Again" as I can see myself cry to the song whenever i hear it from now on!

Overall, while the drama had some ups and downs in pacing and intensity, its heart never wavered. It’s a story about perseverance, passion, and the impact one person’s belief can have on others. Even with its flaws, it left a lasting impression—and that’s what truly matters.
Final Verdict: A heartfelt, warm drama that delivers an unforgettable first half and a solid, meaningful conclusion.

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A Fun Kickoff That Loses Its Game Plan

"FC Soldout" had such a fun and unique premise—imagine a struggling soccer team bought by an entertainment agency, replacing its skilled but "unmarketable" players with actors. It set the stage for an entertaining mix of sports, comedy, and romance, and for the first half, it delivered. But as the drama progressed, it lost focus, sidetracking into less engaging storylines instead of fully developing the relationships that made the show interesting in the first place.

Do Ji U & Yoo Gang Jae – The dynamic between a professional soccer player and his celebrity crush turned teammate was fun. Ji U secretly admiring Gang Jae while Gang Jae himself harbored a crush on him? Great setup! Their dynamic was enjoyable to watch. Especially when they were trying to hide the fact they were each other's secret fan!

Sun Bin & Taeyoung – Easily the best part of the drama! A former idol and a football captain? Perfect combination. Their chemistry was strong, their flirting was on point, and they definitely deserved more screen time. It genuinely felt like some of their scenes were cut, which is disappointing because they had so much potential. If anyone needs a spin-off, it's them!

The Third Couple – Were they even in the drama? They had a promising start but then completely disappeared. Instead of wasting time on unnecessary drama, the show should have developed their storyline. It feels like a wasted opportunity.

The Football Aspect
This is where things got messy. You don’t need to be a soccer expert to know that a proper match with only 7 players is unrealistic. The sports scenes felt cringeworthy, and it was clear that the focus wasn’t really on making the soccer aspect feel authentic. It was more of a background setting than a real part of the story.

The cast was undeniably handsome, but the acting? A bit stiff at times. Some emotional moments didn’t land as well as they should have, and while the chemistry was there for some couples, it wasn’t always convincing across the board.

Final Thoughts
FC Soldout was an entertaining watch with a fun concept, good romance, and great chemistry between some of the leads. However, it lost steam in the second half, and the lack of focus on certain couples was disappointing. The football scenes were also a bit ridiculous, and the acting could have been better. Still, if you’re looking for lighthearted fun with attractive leads, it’s worth a watch.

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