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This review may contain spoilers
Re. missing children: highly topical, soundly researched, superbly directed and masterfully acted
"Bring Me Home" is a KMovie full of raw reality and emotional impact that disturbingly brings you closer to present day human abyss.Perhaps it would be appropriate to describe this KMovie as a fine study in the nexus between humanity and inhumanity, with the scales being tipped by human compassion. Life becomes barren, cruel, brutal and hopeless when this compassion no longer finds a place among people. But it makes a difference whether a soul has already left the human body and only a cold shell remains, which already lacks any human compassion. Or whether a soul is deeply injured and has only withdrawn far from a dazed body, but at the decisive moment, when human compassion seizes this body and reaches the soul, unexpected energies are mobilized and thus in a kind of holy anger fighting their way out of the pull of gloomy abysses. ...It is compassion that makes a difference in human dignity.
In any case, it is appropriate to describe this KMovie as a highly topical, soundly researched, superbly directed and masterfully acted study about the subject of missing children, or child abduction and child abuse in South Korea.
Howsoever I describe it, the bottom line is the same: "Bring me Back" is a thriller about (in)human abysses. The KMovie unfolds its haunting power through an almost brutal, unimpressed realism, holding up a merciless mirror to a society that seems indifferent to the disappearance of children. "Bring me Back" is a family drama. But it is also rigorous social criticism that explains the particular drama of one (of an alarmingly large number) of South Korean families as a disturbing general social disaster.
Yoo Jae-myung surpasses himself here as dishonest, repellent policeman without shame or sense of duty. Also fantastic: Lee Young-ae. She has already proven herself as an avenging angel in the KMovie "Sympathy for Lady Vengeance". At that time it was about vigilantism as a concept based on principle and planned for a long time. Here it's more of a reflex in the heat of the moment.
Heavy. Gloomy. Still recommendable.
P.S.
Actually, in 2020 (the movie is from 2019) there was a nationwide campaign in South Korea. At that time, 661 children had been missing for more than a year, 638 of them for more than five years. So that they are not forgotten, their faces have now been printed on a wide parcel tape, which is used by the South Korean Post and larger shipping services and can also be used privately. The faces were digitally edited and adjusted to look as they could possibly look today. The central information about their case was also printed on it. (However, I do not know whether this has contributed to the clarification of individual cases yet.)
---------------------------------- SIDE NOTE: --- Missing children in South Korea ---
Human trafficking is not a specifically South Korean issue. However, the continent of Asia is the undisputed leader with 7 countries among the 11 countries with the most victims worldwide. One might not expect South Korea to be at the forefront, but human trafficking is an alarmingly profitable business here, and the trend is expanding - regardless of whether it involves women and children who are exported or imported from abroad, or as Transit country for human traffickers from China or Russia. This is largely beneath the public radar. Public officials are often involved or bribed. In addition, most of the victims here are under the age of 16. This means that they are initially treated 'only' as runaways - this was the case in 80 percent of the solved cases. Thus, the police and authorities are not primarily in charge, but the parents. If the children are among the remaining 20 percent - the kidnapped or abandoned - then unfortunately they are unlucky that they are not searched for with the necessary vigor. At the same time, these minors are among the weakest and most defenseless members of society. They have neither voice, nor life experience, nor strength to really oppose the perpetrators. This makes them easy prey for a lucrative business.
In South Korea, over 99 percent of missing children are found within the first two days. That sounds like a lot. However, for the 1 percent of families who do not find their child during this time span, a nightmare begins that has already driven many parents to even commit suicide. It has been proven that the pain, the struggle with guilt and hope, does not stop in the years and decades that follow.
A figure from 2016: of around 38,000 missing persons reports, half were minors who turned up again within the famous 48 hours. 285 of these missing persons cases could not be cleared up. Among long-term missing minors (according to a 2014 case study), 65 percent were later found dead, and 46 percent of resolved child kidnapping cases revealed they were victims of physical sexual violence.
The statute of limitations marks another problem. As a result, parents often devote their lives to searching on their own, far beyond their means, since no one else will. They however can´t help but keep searching and hoping. They are more likely to lose their job, their social life, their health, or their own life. A 2006 study found that 40 percent of parents who missed their child for years or decades lost their job and spent an average total of around $500,000 in the search. (By now, that sum is likely to be a lot higher.) This includes the money that had to be paid to the number of false informants, or the travel expenses to travel to a potential location where a tip sent the parents. More than once, someone played a prank. Such cases are well documented. But there are also (fortunately) case histories of donors and supporters.
In South Korea, the legal activities relating to missing minors have been tightened again and again in recent years. But the results are still not what one might wish for. A government study from 2021 identifies acute further needs in all areas: from prevention to investigation and prosecution to officials training. Between 2015 and 2020, South Korean women and children were trafficked in increasing numbers. There are always accomplices among public officials, in particular the cooperation between human traffickers and police officers is criticized, which robs the victims of any last hope of help. By the way, in this context, fishing industry on the coasts is also expressly mentioned as a crime scene. Numerous cases of human trafficking and exploitation of workers whose working and living conditions are sometimes disastrous are documented.
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The important think to know is that this is not a movie for everyone. It is slow paced, especially in the first half and I would definitely call the film raw. For me what Koreeda wanted to achieve was to tackle very important social issues, that foreigners and especially Japanese tend to hide in a corner knowing that they exist and at the same time smiling like nothing is wrong.
The acting was fantastic and if someone forced me to see the movie without knowing anything about it, I would probably say that it was a Koreeda film, not his best -from the ones I have watched- but certainly a good one.
This kind of movies are so realistic and at the same time unbelievable. Knowing that this kind of things are an issue not only in Japan, but I would dare say everywhere is heart-wrenching.
All in all this is not a movie someone should watch to just pass their time. The film needs your attention and your understanding.
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Hands-down best 2020 drama for me
It feels a bit unfair how this drama is so underrated relative to its awesome quality, because this has EVERYTHING that a great drama should have:1. Powerful and Meaningful Themes
This show revolves around finding your passion, facing and succeeding over obstacles, knowing and improving yourself, learning from one another, and friendship. Go may just be a "game", but we see the characters discover themselves a bit more through it and witness them grow for the better.
2. Character Development
Shi Guang, the main character, goes through a MASSIVE character development throughout the whole series. He isn't even bad in the first place, maybe immature at worst, so it makes the viewers root for him a lot. As mentioned by some side-characters, he is "like a sponge", and his willingness to learn from others and acknowledge his weaknesses significantly contributed to his improvements. Not only him, but we see other characters (actually, almost all of them) grow as well which is very satisfying.
3. Friendship
The amazing thing here is how fiendship is displayed in different ways: 13th High School Go Club friendship which is about mutual support, Yijianghu Go Club friendship which is about encouraging and strengthening each other, Fang Xu and Bai Chuan's friendship which is about making sure the other doesn't stray from the right path, Shi Guang and Yu Liang's friendship which is about rediscovering one's passion and setting an eternal goal to pursue, and of course Shi Guang and Chu Ying's friendship which is about finding a purpose to one's existence.
4. Acting
There is literally no blackhole in all of the characters despite most of them being young actors. Huge props especially to the lead actors: Juck Zhang who made Chu Ying impossible to hate but can also make you cry (I DARE you to watch episodes 32-34 without crying) and Hu Xianxu as Shi Guang who is undoubtedly THE STAR of the whole drama, one of the best actors of his generation to be quite honest. The young actor who played young Shi Guang also deserves a special mention as well.
5. Production Quality
The drama's timeline is from 1997-2006 so important details like clothing, appliances, places, even vehicles need special detail. There's definitely no weak point on that aspect. The cinematography and music are also very beautiful as well.
This drama may not be that famous internationally because there is no romance and doesn't ride the coattails of the ever-famous Hallyu wave, but you'll DEFINITELY miss out if you don't give this one a chance.
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A great undercover police drama that plunges us into a dark and dangerous universe.
This drama is different from most regular dramas. It takes place in a different region than popular dramas and plunges us into the world of drugs and crime.Story:
The story is pretty well written and the action and event sequences are thrilling. Sometimes an explanatory scene is missing for certain things but it remains a detail. The plot, the course of events, everything is well balanced.
The first two episodes, which serve as an introduction, would have deserved more clarity (apparently several scenes from the beginning of the drama have been cut) but remain correct in their introduction of the characters and the universe of the story.
The story really starts at the end of Episode 2 and from there it's a roller coaster ride. We live, like the heroine, the immersion in a sad, hard, cruel and dangerous world.
Characters:
The FL who, at first may seem like a hothead, will quickly find her way into our hearts with her ability to blend in with the surroundings, her resourcefulness and her badass attitude. She is different from the usual FLs. She knows how to fight, knows how to use her mind, has a lot of nerve. She also has a lot of empathy, strength of mind, and can be cute and innocent in certain situations.
ML meanwhile is more mysterious. It is difficult to truly understand who he is since most of his thoughts are not accessible to us at first. However, we are captivated by his charisma, the sensitive heart we feel under the mask he has created and, at the same time, just like the FL, we fear him and his intentions.
It's a drama that wants to portray life undercover and what it means to investigate. Therefore, the focus is on the FL. We also follow her whole team. It is the story of these police officers, of their courage, of their difficulty in arresting criminals that is told.
The bad guys are also important because the FL works with them and you have to feel all the danger that it represents to work in this environment.
The drama achieves the feat of humanizing the people living in this environment. There are the rotten ones, of course. We often have little empathy for them. But there are also those whom poverty and lack of perspective has thrown into this world. I applaud the writers for portraying human misery and the fact that we have to destroy drug trafficking for these people too, so that they have a chance.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend this drama to those who like action, police, crime and mafia stories. This drama is definitely worth it. If you like to try another kind of drama, go watch it! Its unique proposition in dramaland, its focus on a badass and resourceful FL and its subject made it a drama to be seen.
On the other hand, not everyone will appreciate this story given the subject and the way it is treated so don't waste your time if you don't like police drama or crime drama.
OST:
The OST is really good. It is not use at each episode like in most dramas but sublimates the scenes in which the songs are used. I have had chills and tears more than once thanks to the OST.
Conclusion:
It's one of the best dramas I've seen. From start to finish, I was glued to my screen. The story is interesting and the characters are well written and endearing. There is everything: action, investigation, romance, social painting.
What I liked the most:
- A strong and resourceful heroine who improves over time.
- A charismatic and enigmatic male character.
- An intense immersion in the world of crime.
What I liked the least:
- A lack of clarity during the introduction of the main characters.
- The dubbing of the voices, due to censorship and a rewriting of certain dialogues, is sometimes not perfectly synchronized in the beginning.
- Some somewhat confusing editing choices.
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Some think the female lead Sumaru is a bit over the top and thus annoying. I think she’s funny and just real. It’s her innocence and naivety. She’s refreshing if you’re a bit reserved or surrounded by people who are too self-conscious or scared to show tneir real selves. She loves and she wasn’t afraid to show it. Wouldn’t it be good to be like her, without fear and reservation. But alas, most of us are jaded and scared due to our life experiences. She meets things and situations head on, even if she knew it might hurt her. Yes, she’s a bit all over the place, but that’s what made her funny and endearing. She’s just what Mr Hirotmitsu/sensei ( the male lead) needed.
Sensei is a mathematician. He loves Math. Math is rigid, structured, consistent, driven by logic. Some find it difficult, boring or mundane. Yet Math brings order to chaos. And here is how the Sumaru and Mr. Hiromitsu compliment each other.
She brought unpredictability into his structured world and made him laugh. Her honesty and courage inspired him to face the things he was running from. And for all her naivety, she was mature enough to encourage him to face his fears and go back to France to finish his studies.
Whilst he taught her to focus on things she wants to do. When she thought she has no chance to gain his love, she still didn’t give up. She did cry a bit. He taught her the realities of adulthood. That we may not always get what we want no matter how much effort we put into it. And that if we love someone, we shouldn’t be selfish. That we should let the other one grow and not be held back by our love.
I probably made it sound like it’s a deep movie with profound or life-changing lessons. No, it’s not. It was meant to entertain.
I felt the last part was a bit lacking, not because there was no proper kiss. I wasn’t expecting one anyway. I like this taboo student-teacher genre but I still think it wasn’t right for him to kiss a previous student in the school.
I gave it 9, because it made me giggle and laugh, a lot. And I liked the heroine. She’s fresh, funny and brave. Her and sensei gave me the warm fuzzy feelings. Definitely will watch it again.
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I watched it when it was ongoing so that made me realize that I was eagerly waiting for another episode every week. I really love the chemistry of lead actors to the point that I really want them in another drama. That would be treat to watch. The surprising elements were supporting cast that stole the show especially Court Lady Choi whenever she was there in the screen that made me chuckle. And definitely, the OST were quite different from other Korean dramas.
Overall it is a must watch drama at least once and further, it makes us crave more
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There were a lot of clever, artsy, indy details built into this movie that I got a real kick out of:
1) They played up the fact that this is a movie with a movie in a very obvious and clever way.
2) So Ji Sub's name is Kang Pae (gangster) and Kang Ji Hwan's name is Su Ta (star).
3) The scripts for the "movie" in the shooting scenes were the actual script for the movie.
4) And the ending...
I loved the intensity of both Ji Sub and Ji Hwan, their acting and characters. I loved that Ji Sub always wore black and Ji Hwan wore white. I loved the spoiled angry child in Su Ta and the way he got in over his head so deeply. Kang Ji Hwan always impresses me..Always.
I loved So Ji Sub's anger...his pure rage. His character's desperation and desperate grab for something more in his life, something he wanted, to make a change. The frustration of his inability to understand what to do with it once he'd grabbed on. And how his past, his personality and his lot in life were like a greased palm that made it impossible for him to keep hold. And then the terrible acceptance...He doesn't have to say much. That is the beauty of his acting. (sorry fangirl)
Watch it for the punch...beginning, middle and end.
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Pure, Crazy Fun
Despite how some of the stills look, this is 100% a comedy from start to end & it’s a good one! I had no idea what to expect going in - all I knew was that the premise was beyond dumb and I had a sudden need to watch something crazy.Well this show is dumb! And it’s definitely crazy! But in the best way!
Knowing how bizarre the premise of a self-aware handsome zombie is, the drama doesn’t once take itself seriously and delivers comedy gold from the ridiculous situations the leads find themselves in: including the slapstick, the little skits they have and the wacky side characters.
Most important, like any good comedy it has heart. You’ll find yourself caring a lot about these characters, our zombie main lead and his tenacious & clever partner especially (hello awesome female character!) and when the time comes for serious moments, the drama delivers - best of all it doesn’t stay serious for too long & quickly returns to being lighthearted which is why I’m here!
The second main villain of the show is literally the worst actor I have ever had the misfortune to witness - how did this man get a role it’s not like he has an idol career to boost him - but aside from that (and plot threads which I wish were better tightened up or character beats more developed) this is basically a fun time to be had. Genuine laugh out loud moments scattered throughout. What more could you ask from a comedy!
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This drama is the BEST drama i have ever seen, and I'm seriously not exaggerating, the plot, the music and the cast...every thing was just perfect!the first episodes may not be the best thing i have ever seen, i really wanted to drop it but because my friend who recommended this drama to me kept nagging on me...i did, and now i know that i shouldn't judge dramas from the first episodes.
In many dramas wither its comedy, drama, thriller or any other Genres
u can know the plot of the story without watching u can know what is going to happen next, because simply it wasn't hard to figure out the next move, but i really couldn't read any thing in this one! i don't know if it was because i was really into the drama or because i was just stupid :)
anyway i really recommend this drama for all the revenge lovers! u will totally enjoy it! have fun!!!!! :)
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This review may contain spoilers
The idea it's great, as well the atmosphere. The acting was also amazing. However there's so many little stupid mistakes.1. Like when she was screaming to call him (to save the other girl), how did no one heard her? There were so many houses near by.
2. The last fight in the alley, how did no one saw it?? There were so many noise and so many people!!!
3. The police officer didn't deserve that happy ending, sorry, I get it that you are worried about your sister, but you didn't need him to find her, the deaf girl knew where she was, you could just search that area, since this is all in one night, the killer couldn't move. (and it was also inhuman). Also why didn't he ask for backup?
4. The mother could have done better in the police station, like push the suitcase to make noise and show the tools (but well she was too shocked to do something, what is understandable) , but how tf there's no cameras there?? And the police just saw a fight and let everyone go home??? bruh
5. And yeah lets let two people (covered in blood) running by the road.
But I'm not going to say, that I hated it. I love this fast thrillers movies. So I enjoy it for it.
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Incredibly Fantastic ! EMOTIONAL, EVOCATIVE and POIGNANTE !!!
ABSOLUTELY THE BEST MOVIE OF 2024 !!!My Name Is Loh Kiwan is an emotional rollercoaster romantic thriller that takes you on a thrill-filled journey in Belgium. The story runs smoothly from sadness to action-romance-beyond realism the harsh reality of refugees. The plot is well-paced, with the main characters developing progressively the dark tone of rom element keeps the audience entertained. Every one character's actions are legitimate and dependable on eachother, running with Loh Kiwan and Marie story, it represents story between Father-daughter, Mother-son. My Name is Loh Kiwan carries a wide range of all genres that can be really liked by anyone ( watchers). The cast of every character truly symbolizes their specific roles, delivering how the characters feel to life. Loh Kiwan triggers an indication on other cinematic brilliant works of the Korean film industry.
[ 10/10 !!!! ]
Outstanding Soundtrack, top quality Cinematography (Loh Kiwan Close-up shots are good) Visually amazing every scene by setting dark tone; the film displays beautiful atmospheres that reflect each character's existential experience.
[ SONG JOONG-KI ]
Song Joong-ki's physical appearance conversion, and emotionally charged makeover are certainly the film's standout paths. His physical appearance is the centerpiece that allows ourselves to emotionally. engage with the story in a deeper way. He again shown the versatility of his acting with this movie. Giving a chance to Debute director is really a good challenge. He took the challenge and deleveried his acting in new way proficiently. Song Joong-ki as Kiwan has won the hearts of the audience. His versatility is beyond words and after you’ve seen his other projects, it is proved how easily he molds himself as per the requirements of his role.
[ LEAD ACTORS ]
Loh Ki-wan's transformation from at risk to strength is prominent, while Marie's struggles with addictions and issues with her family throw depth to her character. Their on-screen chemistry surpasses geographical boundaries, and their love story narrates overwhelming feeling of mutual suffering and redemption that connects to watchers. As i expected the climax made me cry, especially Choi Sung Eun acting like suffering from outside circumstances and dealing with her own emotions Loh Kiwan feelings will make everyone emotional. And Song Joong-ki classic in climax leave good impression on his character development.
[ DIRECTION - WRITTING ]
Debute movie of Director Kim Hee-jin, she utilised her cast perfectly within the small looking big story, i really appreciate her work of Loh Kiwan, because it's her first movie and cast like Song Joong-ki Choi Sung Eun so I doubted there's a some pressure on her but after watching the movie I understand I was worng.
She carried masterfully every scene. Although it's an adaptation the movie writer brilliantly delivered the script with heart touching lines. Loh Kiwan standout with unique mix of traditional story telling with amazing scenes that make you enjoy and emotional feel in every moment.The performances of supporting actors such as Lee Sang-hee, Kim Sung-ryeong, and Cho Han-chul are also excellent.
[ Finally ]
South Korean Film makers never fail to deliver a movie from Intense battles to emotional tales, and western entertainment media appreciate Korean Film Makers as " South Korea is a goldmine of original ideas and storytelling talents ". And we can saw it from Loh Kiwan.
Definitely one of the most memorable films I've seen. This movie may inspire, sometimes horrify, or send you into an existential crisis, but it will make you think about something new by the time you finish it. Despite its dark underlying themes, the film ultimately delivers an appealing message of hope and endurance, leaving viewers with a sense of satisfaction and emotional ride..
brought by -- Shinnosuke_Lee
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Great Character Dynamics, Messy Plot, Fadel and My Mixed Feelings
After Episode 11, I read a comment saying, "This show reaches new levels of stupidity every week, but at least it's still entertaining as hell. Also, it has Fadel." That pretty much sums up why I like this show. Thanks for coming to my TED Talk—but stay with me for a second. Should you watch this? Refer to the final thoughts for a short answer.(⚠️ Point 4 contains ending spoilers.)
This isn’t exactly a review—more of a discussion and is being written for future viewers to understand that by watching this show, they’ll attach themselves to characters they won't ever forget. The love you’ll have for them will overpower the moments when logic takes a backseat.
When the trailer dropped, expectations were sky-high, which led to massive disappointment for some. Not for me, though, because I didn’t even know this show existed until Episode 2 aired.
So, I think I can explain how *NOT* to get disappointed and just enjoy it for what it is because, trust me, you WILL enjoy it.
1. Don’t expect BDSM.
There’s barely any. The few scenes that touch on it might not even be enjoyable depending on the context. (Or maybe they will be for some?)
2. Is this just pay gorn?
No. It might feel that way in the beginning, but it isn’t just that. Though, I did wish they would just yk HUG sometimes instead of going all the way. Lots of hugs after EP8 tho and most NC scenes were vague ‘going all the way’.
3. Crime and logic? Forget it.
You’d think a story about Hitmen brothers would be action-filled and kinda thrilling with Romance making it all the better? but… nope. This is a ROMANTIC COMEDY, guys. There is some police involvement, but don’t expect anything close to a real crime thriller or something of that sort. Also, if you killed people like Fadel and Bison do, you’d go straight from the crime scene to jail.
That being said, everything is unrealistic af if you really think about it. And I get that not every show needs to be realistic, but when your plot revolves around crime/ this sort of premise, some logic would help make the show better plot-wise. The show lacks that. It has moments that make you go, Really? That’s how GMM is handling this? But despite those moments, the story keeps you entertained throughout. And the characters? They make it all worth it!! Just don’t think about logic and watch it to not miss out on the fun ig.
4. The Ending (Spoilers Ahead!)
GMM tried to give Fadel & Bison a vague redemption arc in Episodes 11 & 12, but honestly? We would’ve been better off without it. And, this pains me to say, but the show might have been more impactful with a bittersweet or even sad ending but a realistic/ logical one. But, of course, it’s GMM. They treat sad endings like the plague.
Now, Let’s Talk Characters.
Fadel:
I thought I had a lot to say, but now that it’s time… I have no words. My love for Fadel is overwhelming. He’s easily one of my all-time favorite characters. Joong Archen Aydin is SO RIDICULOUSLY HOT that I wanted to punch my laptop multiple times. Fadel needs to shoot me ten times and then kiss the pain away—okay, I’ll stop. But seriously, GAWD, the things sweet-talker Fadel could get out of me, I’d be for the streets frfr.
"There must be something seriously wrong with you if you like the smell of gasoline."
"Really? I'm an addict then."
His smile, his hair, his grief, his sharp words, everything about him is beautiful. And Joong’s expressive eyes? They drive me batshit insane! Bonus: The Episode 5 garage scene. "Excuse me, my car broke down." The way he delivered that line made it my all-time favorite NC scene and EP11: “Can we just hug for 10 minutes straight?”
Style:
Alexa, play Diva by Beyoncé.
If I had to describe Style in one word? DIVA. In one sentence? A forever-empathetic, sensitive lover boy whom social anxiety is terrified of.
Style quickly became the most enjoyable character, giving us so many iconic lines:
- "I’m already thinking of opening an OF, and you (Fadel) can be my first bang."
- "SHIT, KANT, YOU MADE ME HIT ON A GUNMAN! I could've made the headlines: Handsome Man Killed in the Woods."
- "Gorgeous man with clear skin found dead in a crop top. My dad will recognize me right away."
- And the most iconic: "Good morning, Khub."
He’s flirty, wears his heart on his sleeve, and puts on a front of happiness—until Episode 11, when he ugly cries and breaks my heart. He’s the definition of a 'girl bestie' who will bring joy into your life.
Bison:
An actual puppy.
Bison is type of person who doesn’t have some grand ambition in life—he just wants a little bit of love and a home. The pain Khaotung expresses in moments of pure rage is phenomenal. His acting in this role was next-level, and his chemistry with First? Out-wordly!
Kant:
People want complex characters, but they can’t even understand Kant. Everything he did was for his brother. No, he couldn’t just leave Babe with Style’s family and let the kid wonder why everyone abandoned him. Kant was trapped in an impossible situation and did his best to deal with it. He’s smart and loving, and while you may not like him at first, you will eventually.
Final Thoughts:
This show? A fun, chaotic mess. The plot? not the worst—just illogical at times(Or maybe I’m just being biased here). The characters? Absolutely unforgettable. Would I recommend it? Yeah, IF you go in with the right expectations (the ones mentioned above) and don’t want to miss out on the fun and AMAZING characters, aka your new imaginary friends.
This is getting long, but I think you can tell that JoongDunk will stand out more to most because both Style and Fadel are simply iconic. This is my 3rd “review” so please bear with me if this is not good, helpful, and fun. Like Kant, I, too, tried my best:(
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Discipline, Punishment, Morality and Art
What do I even say cause I am left speechless by the brilliance behind season 2. While season 1's entire premise is moral chastatization of the individual and their place within a systemic cycle of abuse and revenge, season 2 does the brilliant thing of not brow beating it's audience into submission and cutting all that sanctimonious nonsense. It **BRILLIANTLY** highlights that the issue ***IS SYSTEMIC*** and not individual. Such an sentiment I'd like to say in retrospect was undergirding the brilliance of season 1 with season 2 bringing it forth and flourishing it into existence.DP's artistic direction is another thing worth noting. Too often I feel like K-dramas are retreading old ground and it's easy to feel like you've seen every plot line and every trope and every character archetype but goddamn do I have an immense respect for the directors and writers direction with this. An actual critique of the pejorative system facilitating the our society and the military industrial complex. From the Anton Chekhov story line to the gothic horror of EP 4 every single thing is a breath of fresh air. Artistically wonderful with a narrative that is spiritually animating.
This isn't a shallow over exaggerated look at things. From the opening soundtrack and film that shows the gradual fall into disillusionment and nihilism of the world as Jun Ho looks at you dead inside to Nina's determination, hopes, and dreams being crushed by the system just like how a seagull is shot down in Anton Chekhov's play, it's all wonderful. An interplay of art, politics, love, morality, and responsibility.
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Love Letter is an unconventional love story. Many people say it has slow pace but in my opinion it is perfectly paced. It seems boring first (I didn't find any part of it boring) but when story starts to unfolds it won’t seem boring. Unfolding of story is great. The storyline can be a bit confusing at first but stick with it and you will be amazed by it. It is touching and sometimes it is very funny also. You can feel the true love from this film.
Nakayama Miho is wonderful in double role. Sometimes I got confused between her double roles.
Its soundtrack is melodic and perfect.
Highly recommended!! Love Letter is an earnest, pure, sentimental, and undeniably moving film. In addition you can see really beautiful sceneries of Japan.
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This review may contain spoilers
Parallel universe and angsty love story that will make you cry a river
Time and space are illusions. Everything exists at the same time. But this story is about time travel. It's about the heroine who got to go back to her past. At first, she didn't know about the reason for multiple time travel. As soon as she realised, it's a tradegy. However, no matter what Lin beixing did, nothing's changed. The ending is different but the outcomes are same.I love the way this story developed the logical but beautiful plot though it's a sci-fi. It might be typical school love story which genius quiet boy and sloppy cute girl chasing each other, but I love the friendships that Lin beixing had whenever she travel to her past. Every story is different when every character is same. I'm cheering for Lin beixing and Zhang wansen's true love.
If you love angsty love with a very light romance and cute friendship, this is for you. But if time travel is not your alley, you can pass by this drama. This is romance drama but i promise that you will drain your eyes.
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