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Overly dramatic. Too much pull and push making it too dragging
Usually, I don't write reviews but was very dissatisfied with this version. I liked the original version more even though the ML was a jerk since the story developed better. I was expecting quite a bit with this version as I love the ML but was quite disappointed. The only thing I liked better is the begining and that it wasn't the medication that made him sleep with her instead they spent time together and got drunk. This version was too much drama for me. It wasn't as light as the Korean or Taiwanese version.I felt the middle part where he felt in love with her was lacking like too bleh/flat and he found out I like you cuz we are living together and you are my hommy wife (getting used to her making lunch and cleaning).
The ending was were got very draggy and I'm mostly disappointed with. More than 8 episodes deciding to get back together or not. Push and pull too much. I love you but hurts too much to get back together but they kiss (again and again), and it got like that for the last 6 episodes. I was like oh my gosh, get it over with already. She finds out everything he has done for her home, helping her mom and being Mr. W and the baby's room/diary but she still leaves on her trip. What was that for? No love there. Ok, he catches up to her at the airport and again, I love you but I'm leaving you. Gosh... No words.. until Ana texts her and tells her the truth about the divorce papers... Not realistic.. she was so stubborn and trying for the past 3 years without any remorse and decides at the end she can let go and explains it to the FL?? The original, she told grandma about it and she told the ML and they got the misunderstanding done. The other disappointment is no post recovered period in this version. They got back together and went directly to the wedding so no sweet moments together after such dramatic dragging 6-7episodes.
Overall, I didn't like it as much. I was excited and anticipated so much about this version but too dramatic for me. I had to fast forward some parts as I was getting too bored and uninterested. I wouldn't watch it again.
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Somebody left the writers keyboard in a baby's room.
I really wanted to enjoy this but......the writers lost me. So much was missing. They could have save this around episode 6 or 7. It just seemed like they really didn't want to make it worthy of us watching. I really hope they get better roles. Especially Sung hoon i hope thats correct ...the ML. Whoever suggested his last few roles must really hate him. 😒. His last few roles didn't fit him.It was like watching a horrible accident in the making
All in all i was disappointed for the cast it got to a point were you know it must have been felt weird on set to finish.
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Fast pace drama with satisfying ending
At first, the drama seems focus on domestic/family issues, then boommm, it becomes politics wich is great without bring confusing. The story and reasons for all the things in the drama are believable and makes sense.The positive things about the drama is all the revenge are ended up satistying. No mercy for all the villains and villainess.
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Started this for Ji Chang Wook & Finished/Loved for Song Yoon Ah ❤️
I have known about this drama since it released in 2016 - but while the action scenes & chocolate abs of JCW were encouraging, the whole angle of romance & Yoona's acting was simply terrible that I did not pick this up. Finally in 2024, I relented and decided to give it a go. As expected - the best thing was JCW and all his action and solo scenes. But the biggest surprise and hooking factor was his electrifying chemistry with female antagonist/second lead - Choi Yoo Jin played by the talented - Song Yoon Ah. They redefined "frenemies" & left me wanting for more . . .❤︎ LOVED:
➥ Je Ha (ML) & Yoo Jin (SFL):
I can understand why there are so many fanfictions and petitions hoping to have a spin-off to have them together as the leading romance pair. They are enemies-turned-allies in the show and every interaction is so well acted sometimes simply without words, that you just want them to rip each others clothes off and make steamy love that generations would write/read about. They were literally too hot to handle and this is without any actual romance between them. Both, in a single frame were just too mesmerizing, the chemistry off the charts - perhaps one of the best ever, and definitely the best between such roles.
➥ Action Scenes & JCW:
Those who are aware of his other works know what a great actor JCW is and the action sequences were directed well. They may/may not have gone with the plot, but it was entertaining to watch though gets repetitive over the latter part of the drama. Pure blockbuster effects, and with JCW executing it - it was flawless. The time that I delayed watching the show was compensated over the years by unhealthily rewatching the "bathhouse fight" and "shirt changing" scenes - and I am going to continue doing that on YouTube, without the need to rewatch the show.
❌ DISLIKES:
➥ The FL and Romance:
Yoona was completely useless - in terms of her character usage in the story, acting, chemistry with JCW - basically everything. JCW was carrying the romance, she was the stiff cardboard with no inputs - being used as a ragdoll. Personally - I would have liked this drama more if she was a minor character [e.g: just a young girl (aged 3-4)] and needed protection from JCW's character OR just done away with her character + romance altogether.
➥ The Plot:
It was too generic - not engaging or without unique twist/turns, with boring political talks/drama and of course the unnecessary romance. The acting of JCW, Yoon Ah, Sung Ha, Gab Soo and Dong Mi were the ones that carried the drama but they were caught in a mediocre storyline. It had a promising start but faltered from the middle.
➥ SUMMARY:
This is a delectable guilty pleasure drama - to be indulged for Ji Chang Wook's acting, action scenes and fan-service. He's one of my ultimate bias and he served. The soul of this show was Song Yoon Ah - her acting making me want to rip her mouth or feel pity for her character was flawless. And of course their sizzling chemistry was everything. This drama is over and I would not rewatch it except for their scenes, but am going to read the fanfictions about them, maybe even write one myself to satiate this unmet desire this drama has given me. They were THAT good.
So if you like all the above - with some blockbuster action, go ahead and give it a spin.
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The story is about how Mel Be, a science geek gets dumped by her boy friend who is also a science geek. His reason for his break up was that they were too much alike.
Hippy witnesses the break up and comes to talk to Mel Be and asks for her Beatles T-shirt as he's a fan of the band. After that Mel Be decides that she wants to prove whether her ex-boy friend was right about dating similar people by asking Hippy, a singer who is quite the opposite of her, to date her for five days in exchange of the shirt.
This is a great story about falling in love with the 'seemingly wrong guy' in college.
The five days are full of trips and stories that is full of fun and drama that just touches your heart.
And the way they meet and fall in love is believable and touching.
The songs were actually really written and produced by Kun the main actor in real life which makes them even more meaningful.
Loved it!
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An excellent drama
Ripe Town is a thoroughly watchable, neo-noir-style mystery thriller set in a prosperous rural area during the late Ming dynasty. The drama follows the investigation, by multiple official and semi-official actors, into what appears to be a ritualized serial killing spree. As the mystery plotline unfolds, so do multiple intricate backstories filled with bad behavior, conspiracy, outrageous social inequalities, and additional unsolved murders. We follow the action through a group of young sleuths (constables and their friends) connected to one of the murder victims, but other interesting characters (a brilliant but traumatized judge, prostitutes, local mobsters, well-to-do businessfolks with questionable backgrounds, and a seemingly inept magistrate) play critical roles in the action. The acting is excellent all around, and the mystery plotline is exceptionally logical, unfolds at a good pace, and is unveiled gradually so that the ultimate resolution is both eminently plausible and yet still a surprise.It's impossible to review this drama without commenting on its superior production value, which greatly exceeds that I've seen in any comparable piece (and even that of larger-scope historical dramas). The sound, visuals, cinematography, and editing are all top-tier. It's also worth noting that this drama has a very unusual tone for a Chinese historical piece. It's very sober and ultimately quite bleak, but not oppressively so (there's a surprising amount of fairly dark but genuinely amusing humor, as well).
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Perfect blend of romance, medical, and military
I’ve been writing paragraphs after paragraphs every week, so I’m not even going to lie to myself. I’m really easy to please and this drama is a perfect 10 for me.Mi Ka and Xing Kelei are equal - smart, capable, and successful in their own fields. They have respect, trust, and communication in their relationship. They know the demands of each other’s jobs (a doctor and a special police officer) so they have never had a problem with the lack of time together. They always make up for it, apologize with no excuses, and have been very supporting and understanding of one another. I remember having a problem with one of the leads’ decision making, and the drama actually managed to address it and let them talk it out by the end of that specific episode. They are learning and growing (as a person) together. Definitely one of the healthiest relationships in recent dramas. Ma Sichun and Bai Jingting is quite an unexpected pairing so I’m glad they chose to work on this project and show their great acting and even greater chemistry.
The story has a lot of sweet, cute and comedic moments but it also has some heavy and serious ones. Fortunately, it never got boring nor frustrating because the things happened have been realistic, minus whenever they always get into life-threatening situations together (that's too much of a coincidence lmao). There is no exaggerated nor unnecessary drama for the sake of creating tension. All characters, both main and supporting, calmly deal with the problems and solve them through civilized means (ex. Mi Ka vs Xu Yanshan, Xing Keyao vs the Shen sisters) as soon as possible. No dragging out. I can’t even recall any confrontation wherein someone raised their voice.
Besides from the romance, all relationships have been pretty solid as well. The student-mentor relationship of the doctors and soldiers, the long-standing friendship of Mi Ka and Ruan Qiangxia, and the sibling relationship of Xing Kelei and Xing Keyao have all been highlighted in the drama.
The second couple’s storyline may have been dragged out but it got better eventually and not to mention, both are great as individuals. Ruan Qiangxia is another successful, smart, and sweet female lead. She knows how to reject and how to accept rejection. Shun Wenbo is quite dense when it comes to love, but when he gets decisive, he acts on it quickly. As Xia said, he is a very simple-minded person who wears his heart on his sleeve. I didn’t hate him like how some viewers did.
As for the third couple’s storyline, natural-flowing and subtle. If Mi Ka and Xing Kelei are growing together, then Xing Keyao and Shao Yuhan are already two grown adults. There is an unspoken understanding in their undefined relationship, as shown in their actions and conversations. Their scenes together are always a pleasure to watch.
Overall, a well-written and a well-acted drama brimming with chemistry, good characters and relationships. Bonus: the drama used their real voices and is not dubbed.
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I’ve been meaning to watch this drama long time ago but obviously I forget about it (I have no idea why) then I found its thread in MDL and decided to give it a chance.
Note: I agree with most points mentioned in the two reviews below but I had to state my opinion.
2)Storyline/Plot:
*Generally speaking this is a smartly written storyline that revolves around the world of crime while having romance as the center of many plot changes.
Positive Points:
*Honestly speaking, twists are the most important part of the storyline since you can’t lose interest while watching; those unpredictable events are the reason that catches the audience attention (especially me).
*Main genres:
--->Crime/Thriller: This is not a detective drama hence don’t be scared by the intensive police meddling into the storyline; it had some crime elements into it but they weren’t that deep to be fully considered as a “Crime drama”.
Thriller was simply astonishing here; it had many great suspense moments which prohibit you from predicting anything. There were a lot of mind-blowing events that you can’t see it coming therefore I have to give writers credit for many “What? When did that happen?” Scenes.
---->Romance: Though it was a little annoying when it comes to changing the spoken language, this was a well written Japanese-Korean romantic story; there were magnificent cultural interactions within the romantic story which made it more and more fascinating.
Other than that, romance had many charming and dangerous turns thus it will never make lose interest while you’re following its events and development.
Negative Points:
*Even if there were some negative points, they didn’t ruin the story’s aspect; they’re acceptable overall.
Story: 9.5/10.
3)Acting/Cast:
*This is a Korean Japanese drama consequently there were actors from both sides which made it more interesting than any other Japanese drama cast.
*Takenouchi Yutaka was always a very respectable actor; he was brilliant as this drama’s lead male because the role matched him so well. As you watch his acting, you’d feel depth which makes you want to see more of him on screen.
I am not familiar with Choi Ji Woo but she made through; her acting was believable and full with feelings which made her completely fitting for this type of role.
The rest of actors were good but not too great; in general, they were up to standard.
*As for characters, Sho/Takumi wasn’t an unusual character (discovering the truth behind the death of his father) still it felt creative and very absorbing no matter what sort of events he went through; whether it was action, romance, suspense, the character conveyed many fascinating feelings.
Yuna was a typical character until unpredictable twists took over. On the whole, the character was appreciated mainly because it leaded an unusual path.
*Other characters were important for the story’s development; I couldn’t imagine this kind of story without their presence.
*Appreciated character: Kim Young Jae because he added a special taste to the storyline plus he was one of the most unpredictable characters out there: More mysterious, more fun!
*Relationships:
--->Romance: One of the most charming chemistries that I’ve seen so far; it’s one of those romantic stories that you want to see more of it on screen but no matter how much you see it, you feel that it’s not enough. The lead actors had a mesmerizing relationship indeed because every scene they have together was absolutely attractive.
--->Sisterhood: I appreciated the relationship between Yuna and her sister; it felt natural and special in many ways.
Cast: 8/10
Acting: 9.25/10.
4)The ending:
It may have fallen into Japanese detective style endings but I haven’t seen it coming no matter how much I think about it, I was thrilled to find out the out-coming of the story.
The ending: 8.5/10.
5)My impression:
*For me, this was a joy ride of pleasant events. I loved this drama simply because it was way too far from my predictable sense; it was really absorbing especially near the end.
*I’ve fallen in love with Yukata in this drama; aside from his astonishing look, I felt a great actor in here: I will definitely watch more of his dramas.
*I was bothered by the bilingual characters in here. Though, I stated that I liked the Korean Japanese interactions but I can’t say that I enjoyed changing the language because I watched this drama Raw which made me get a little lost when they spoke Korean, I can understand Japanese but Korean is just a no (My Korean lingual skills are far behind from my Japanese) but fortunately they translated some of them into Japanese.
*Is this drama memorable: Yes it is, simply because of its unpredictable twisty events that made me enjoy it to the extremes. Nonetheless, I don’t think this is the greatest drama out there since there are many others of the same genre that suppresses it.
My impression: 9/10.
6)Overall:
*If you like crime Japanese dramas with many twists then you will enjoy this.
*If you like great romantic chemistries then you would like this.
*Rondo is a great drama that’s full of enjoyable twists and great actors who knows how to deliver amazing feelings.
Overall: 9/10.
Note: If you were already spoiled, don’t watch this because it makes you lose the taste of its suspense. Another point, I hope you can find subs for this drama because I heard that there weren’t any; it’s a shame that this amazing drama doesn’t get the appropriate attention.
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May This Level of Love Never Locate Me
SU HYEON is dumb as rocks. No really, he’s a stupid-head. Knowledge was chasing this fool but he was faster. Cuz what the eff you mean you made a contract with some dude that forbid you from dating the guy you’re in love with, who btw likes you back?? Make it make sense Sharon. Then this doo-doo head honoured the contract for 11 years. Eleven effing years!!! Like?? WHY Bob? WHY? I legit thought he was gonna be a smart villain cuz dude showed up in ep1 already mad like the audience owed him money, with anger issues the size of Antarctica, only for him to be two feathers short of becoming a chicken nugget.Anywho, what do you think happens when a psychotic professor, a bad-tempered rich boss and a persistent, loving co-worker falls in love with a hard working and charming boy-next-door fella? TOXIC CHAOS. There’s stabbing, manipulation, horror movies, attempted murder, abuse, threats, stupidity, kidnapping, forced marriage, did I mention the bread knife? Oh and a very cute photo booth date. This drama was an absolute, complete and utter shit-show, and I enjoyed every single moment of it. Let me explain.
SEONG HYEON is lovely, yes, but at what point does the embarrassment reach your ancestors and brings shame to you and your family's goat? That co-worker was so sad to look at, worrying, crying, begging and still Daon refused to date him and kept pushing him away. Even so, this dude kept coming back like a puppy playing fetch until he got stabbed and almost died. Susan, do you have a humiliation kink, is that it?
JAE MIN is a manipulative psycho and needs rewiring, yes. But he’s also a pathetic sore loser. Dude kept Daon on the hook for 11 years, only to lose him to a guy who wears couple outfit to work, and then for sympathy points, this loser went and stab himself with a bread knife. And of course when his arse was rejected, this mfker kidnapped Daon and forced a ring on his finger to marry him, then tried to burn himself and Daon alive so they could die together. His reason? He saw Daon first during break at school one Tuesday so he belongs to him. Bitch ass!
DA-ON. I mean what was the appeal? The poor-ness? He was like a lighthouse, attracting every boy in a five meter radius to him. No, really, why everyone and their mama wanted him? Sure he’s hard working, sweet doe eyes dude, knows how to ignore calls he don’t want to answer and stand up for himself-ish, but literally the only thing interesting about him was that he was a poor person who wore expensive cloths. Plus he was also sort of dumb with some of the decision he made. Or was it that his face gave off protect me vibes? What was it? He couldn’t possible be the only Mary Sue these dudes came across in that country.
Listen, the short end of the matter is, 3/4 of these people are crazy, dumb and psychotic. And the last one has a humiliation kick and seems to be immune to rejection, together they make one heck of a dramatic, enjoyable show, so you know me, I was sat. As always, I went into this show knowing nothing. In the first episode I was like, so love triangle got too boring huh? now we having a love square, alright sign me the eff up, I am ready for some drama. And drama I got.
Before we go further, 3 things...
Seong Hyeon = Puppy Co-Worker
Jaemin = Professor Psycho
Su Hyeon = Angry Director-nim
THINGS I LIKED:
- When Angry Director-nim punched Professor Psycho. Wished he'd have added four more during the finale.
- That sweet movie date and photo booth scene... so cute.
- Every time Puppy Co-Worker stood up for Daon.
- Every time Daon stood up for himself.
- When Daon rejected Angry Director-nim
- When Daon left Professor Psycho's arse at the hospital after he stabbed himself.
- When the ring Professor Psycho forced on Daon's finger didn't fit during that insane wedding/marriage. Dude wore white and everything. Psycho.
- When after Angry Director-nim apologised for everything he did to Daon, Daon didn't say one single word back to him and left. Yes, Daon did not owe him even a word or a second more of his life, my man left his arse immediately and I clapped.
- That one year gap between Puppy Co-Worker and Daon while he was in Dubai. Thank you for that, Daon needed some alone time from all three men to be with himself for a bit, and I think he might have gotten that in that year, which was good for him,
That being said, you know me, I've always got my rubber chicken ready to slap some folks, so, imma say it...
EVERYONE ON THIS SHOW HAD THE IQ OF AN UGLY POTATO
Yes everyone was crazy, toxic and giant red flags in their own way, we've established that, no need to get into it. instead, let's talk about the decisions they made that made me feel like they really really not smart enough for the Hunger Games. Cuz:
DAON:
- He allowed himself to be tossed around by Professor Psycho and Angry Director-nim for ELEVEN YEARS during their sick games. 11! Boy? Professor Psycho kept him on the hook and he seemed all too happy to be dangling there when we met him.
- Yes, Daon was poor and needed the money, but staying in a work where the boss constantly harass you is a choice, even if said job was your dream. Sure he stood up for himself, but really, all that hand pulling couldn't have been healthy. And at what point does the threats and angry outburst that leaves you injured become too much? Quit Sharon, quit. Find a new dream,
- And how the hell is him putting yourself up to be forcedly kissed the right choice to saving Puppy Co-Worker? I'm still going WTF at the kissing scene. Like? Sure he needed to get Angry Director-nim away from Puppy Co-Worker so he doesn’t crack his skull with a beer bottle, but what was the need for that effing kiss? They couldn't talk? What gives?
- Literally, Daon is an adult, he could have Communicated the situation with Angry Director-nim to Puppy Co-Worker and both could have come up with a solution, instead of trying to play some sort of unnecessary hero. That decision vex me pass.
- I get that Professor Psycho hid his claws very well, but why the eff did Daon rushed over to Professor Psycho’s house when he found out he’d been manipulating and hurting him this whole time? And that too ALONE? Child? I’d have changed my number and blocked him everywhere. Heck, I’d have moved to a different city, but no no, not our mary sue, he wanted face-to-face answers cuz he trusted the psycho, so he matched in there and almost got assaulted. Child use that coconut head of yours would you? This dude literally put your sister in the hospital like three seconds ago.
- I feel so sorry for Daon especially when he was ready to open up to Puppy Co-Worker and got shut down, but dude speak. Open your mouth and say your peace, the worse he can do is put his fingers in his ears or still ignore you after he hears it, but really, SPEAK.
- Letting himself get kidnap: Sure he didn't ask for it, but even me who didn't spend over 11 years with these dudes knew something like this was gonna happen. I wasn't even shocked he was kidnapped, though I was that it took that long for one of them to do it. Daon is too trusting and forgiven cuz I'd have told Professor Psycho to burn whatever he had for me instead of meeting him in that underground garage.
- Not seeing that none of these 3 boys deserved him. Like, dude, let them go and heal then start over. Edit: Alright, in the finale after the stabbing and telling him to go to Dubai at least Puppy Co-Worker earned his place by Daon's side.
PROFESSOR PSYCHO
- His first mistake was manipulating a dumb dude who was unstable and had a short temper, really did he think he could keep it up for forever? I'm shock Angry Director-nim didn't snitch like a day later.
- Dude had Daon to himself for eleven years and didn't make a move. Sure he said he didn't want to date him and then lose him if they broke up. Then what was the point of liking him at all? Like did he want to put Daon in a glass case and stare at him? How is you hiring people to get him drunk, take compromising pictures and then to hurt his sister something you do to the person you love? He wanted Daon to learn his place, and this was his way of punishing him, and then being the one to be there for him at the same time. The asylum is too good for him.
- And did he seriously think Daon would forgive and still like him after he learned everything and his answers to everything was 'Cuz I love you?' idiot.
- Trying to assault the man he claims to love right after shouting 'I love you.'
- Stabbing himself. Like? Who was that supposed to hurt? No really, what was the play here? Let us be serious in this life peoples. Then of course he had the audacity to blame Daon cuz apparently he'd done so much for him and he wasn't allowed to leave him. Child if you don't go sit down! And why the hell did the hospital let him go after that? Dude should have been in the psych ward.
- Thinking the audience a fool and saying he's given up Daon. LMAO, you is the devil, aint no way I'm believing that. I don't know who kidnapped Daon, but I won't be surprised one bit if it was him. Heck, I'd be surprised if it's not him. Edit: Was right, it was his crazy arse that kidnapped Daon. Loser.
- His reasons for all the bad things he did being because he saw Daon first. HAHAHA if that's how it works then someone owes me a man cuz I saw some of these people first. Then it turns out he didn't even met Daon first, it was Puppy Co-Worker, so I guess his reasoning was right... cuz Puppy Co-Worker did end up with Daon. Oh well, his arse is in jail so...
ANGRY DIRECTOR-NIM
- Sabotaging his own company because of the guy who didn't even want to breathe the same air as him. Again how was this the solution?
- Making that contract with Professor Psycho. Even if that psycho had something on him, it was still dumb as hell to say yes and then honour it for 11 years. 11!
- Pulling out a ring the night after forcefully kissing the boy who can't stand him. LMAO. Brotha go sit down.
- Again: Saying yes to that contract. He must have been feed stupid pills since elementary school, cuz ain't no way.
- Only punching Professor Psycho once and not shoving him out that nice window behind them. Wasted opportunity if you ask me.
- Using threats and violence to try and win Daon's love. Bish are you new to this whole love and romance nonsense?
- Whatever the hell deal he made with the mother.
- Trying to form another alliance with Professor Psycho. Like that 11 years contract wasn't enough? dumb as dirt that one.
- Again trying to ruin the reputation of his company for someone that didn't want him. He should have went to work on Professor Psycho when he got him away from the cops, few punches and slaps, what good did talking do?
PUPPY CO-WORKER
- Kept coming back to be hurt: He kept saying I just want to stay beside you, and then expected more. Sure they both knew that was his end game, but really after the 100 rejection dude should have taking a hint. At what point does the hand pulling stop being romantic?
- Tirelessly fighting to be together with Daon, a broken guy who clearly have emotional issues, family issues, trust issues and too much pride and didn't really accept help. Sometimes we need to forget love for a second and think about the end prize, cuz...
- Letting Daon go when the dude was finally ready to love him back. Yes, I understand the hickey was suggestive, but he waited all those time, and couldn't spare Daon like 3mins for him to explain? See nonsense. Watching himself be heart broken when he didn't have to vexed me. All he had to do was listen to what Daon had to say.
- Looking at it, Puppy Co-Worker might just be the smartest of the bunch, at least all he did wrong was humiliate himself by falling in love with an emotionally unstable cute co-worker, and got stabbed. At least he didn't waste 11 years of his life like those three fools. Plus in the end he got the guy, so...
PLOT:
The premise of this drama wasn’t anything new, we’ve seen plots of everyone being in love with that one special lead, so basic at best. What made this good was the execution. This drama was good at confusing us for a while. In the beginning I thought Professor Psycho was the knight in shining armor. Sure I knew he was cray-cray the moment he switched up and rejected Daon like he was a last week's meatloaf. Still, I thought he was the good guy and that love letter and gift was for him, but as it turned out, Daon had a thing for Angry Director-nim all along, was honestly shocked at that. The little reveals in this drama made it interesting and kept me watching. I enjoyed the plot cuz although it wasn’t new they added elements that entertained and held my interest every episode.
DAON NEEDS TO BE ALONE
Up until the finale of this show, I believed Daon needed to be alone. These three stressed him out so much, our boy was on those stairs at work having a panic attack, then he got kidnapped on one of the most important days of his life. None of these boys deserved him. Yes, we can argue about Puppy Co-Worker but think about it, isn't his constant persistent a problem of his own, his stressing our boy who have enough problems of his own out. He means well, but he needs to take a chill pill, like stop saying you want to just be by his side and then lowkey pressuring him. Edit: But in the finale they had me with the cake to the nose and the saving him by getting stabbed, and then I'll wait 100 years for you so go live your life scene. So I guess, if one person could end up with Daon, I'm glad it was Puppy Co-Worker .
No, I will not be shipping Daon and Angry Director-nim, Sure he was a fool and got himself manipulated by Professor Psycho and his mother, which made him hurt the boy he loved and then lost him, so yeah, poor loser, but his personality is not one to cheer for. He’s a giant red-flag and our poor Daon has been through enough, both with his family and Professor Psycho, so I won't come add this abusive dude to the list. Let us be serious in this life peoples! Sure in the finale he came to his senses, but after everything I am so very very glad he did not end up with Daon.
As for Professor Psycho, yeah, imma need him to take a drive off a cliff, dude is doing too much all in the name of love. That's not love, that's craziness, get professional help or like therapy. Or even better, join an asylum. Glad his crazy arse ended up in prison in the finale, he deserved it and so much more.
So yes, before the finale I thought Daon would be better off single, cuz what he had was not love. The manipulative psycho wasted 11 years of his life, the foolish angry boss caused him his first love, and the persistent love puppy needed to take a breather. To me, Daon needed time to himself until he truly learnt to trust again. He needed to find himself after the 11 years of mind-eff the two guys put him through. But after everything that happened in the finale, and that one year gap where he was apart from Puppy Co-Worker, I am okay he ended up with Puppy Co-Worker cuz they both deserves to be happy, but really, if he'd ended up alone, I wouldn't have complained either. Though I legit thought they were gonna surprised us by going off the predictable plot and killing Puppy Co-Worker, you know, give us something different, but no such luck. At least they happy, so yaay?
Overall, a very enjoyable drama, the best bl out of SK this year. Highly recommends to all bl lovers looking for some toxic drama with lots of headache, you won't be disappointed. One of my favs this year.
Anywho, I hope to see the cast in more work in the future.
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A MUST WATCH! Very wholesome drama that keeps me wanting for more!
This drama is that good that makes me decide to create an account to rate and give a review for it. A very wholesome drama that's filled with teamwork, friendship, romance and comedy! 🥰If you're into esports romance, this one is for you!
This is a light, hilarious and sweet drama, if you're into that, this is for you! Love all the cps chemistry though! The music for this drama is so good, I can't help but keep it on repeat.
One thing about this drama was at first, the updates are really slow. Was really really looking forward to more episodes but we got to wait for it. This was the first-ever drama that made me anticipate future episodes. Sadly, this season has come to an end :( Hoping that there will be a second season for it!
Let's just say the teammates teasing of Lu Sicheng and Tong Yao was really funny af, it was one of the things that I look forward to more in the future episodes and let's say I'm not disappointed! Lu Sicheng keep teasing and being mean to Tong Yao those scenes are too sweet and funny at the same time, he is just one hard on the inside but a softie on the inside for Tong Yao!
Love that they did show more gameplay in the future episodes, I find the gameplay portions pretty interesting.
I would say that the story is really good, all scenarios in the drama happen for a reason which is to give characters developments. Love how there's no break-up with the main cp, most of the dramas I watched there will be break up and that's kind of clichés for me.
I like how this drama covered different life aspects like relationships, friendships and teamwork. There were some team conflicts but I liked how they tried to sort out their differences especially how Tong Yao made Cheng ge realized that they're all a team and even though he may be the leader, they can go through difficulties together as one. Love the way they showed the different friendships in the drama. This drama portrayed characters of different personalities of characters, passions of youths and also on the cruelty of the reality regarding online and fans toxic kind of behaviour which many celebrities faced in today's society.
Comedy wise, there are too many funny scenes in the drama. Too many puns, Fatty's reactions, ZGDX teammates reactions, Tong Yao and Lu Yue's immature bickering and Lu Sicheng and Tong Yao's bickering as well- I LOVE IT!
I don't get what's with the controversy with this drama and the 2.9 rating on the Chinese website Douban. Despite that, i think this is a really good drama. Even though there's much hate on the drama in china but at the end of the day it's a drama, don't take things too seriously is just for entertainment purposes. Not everyone has the same preferences in dramas, I may love this drama but some may not. But it's still a great journey for me with this drama, with the endless waiting and the anticipations for the new episodes. Hope y'all will give this drama much love, it deserved it!
Definitely strongly recommended to watch it! This is one drama that shows different things in life aspects like relationships, friendships and teamwork. This has become my top no.1 drama as for now, rewatch value is 10 for me.
Well, looks like see you next year <3 (HOPEFULLY!)
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This review may contain spoilers
Rebirth For Idiots....The Delusion is REAL
Pros: Main leads and third leads chemistry/relationships/happy ending for both sets.That is literally it. This 40 episode series had no other pros. This is absolutely the worst costume drama I have ever seen; it was an unmitigated disaster. Actually it was the worst drama I have seen from any country. After crawling to episode 30, I waited until the finale aired to decide whether to just watch that or maybe a few more episodes.
Though I'd never read the novel, people in the comments section were excited because the novel had a great antagonist and a flowing storyline. Unfortunately, the screenwriter and director butchered the novel and threw most of it out. What followed was a spiral into a world of jealousy, delusion on a scale that literally went on until the final episode, and just really horrible content.
They wasted a great antagonist by turning him into a Gaston-like (from Beauty and the Beast) joke who laughed evilly, just about kissed his own muscles and walked around like he was Gods gift to existence. Furthermore, out of all 40 episodes, he maybe had one episode worth of screen time. The real "villains" were all over the place and their evilness could only be justified as boredom and jealousy.
The story began with about 4 or 5 men all in love with the female lead who was clever though she pouted so often, I always wondered how she didn't swallow her own chin. The male lead was a righteous man though not without flaws. I personally started watching this only for WZC who played SML. Turned out that his character was the real "villain" but not one that you even wanted to watch. The writers made him so delusional with his unrequited love towards the FL that, even before the halfway point of the show, you wanted him and those like him to just fall off a cliff.
I feel really bad for the actors of this horrendous mess. The SFL somehow ended up getting the most screen time than both leads combined and she was so delusional with her unrequited love towards the ML that she was willing to kill children even to pin things on FL. Both SFL and SML didn't take no for an answer when the ML and FL repeatedly told them they didn't love them, never had, and never would. It was an extremely sloppy script. Even the "battle" at the end I would equate to a fight between two gangs not an actual war. It was so puny, it was laughable.
There was no character development and those that created the most havoc in the show got half-assed redemption arcs in the last two episodes. It was heavy on palace politics and delusional jealousy that went so far beyond the norm that most people couldn't remain sane watching it without fast forwarding the majority or skipping whole episodes altogether.
This is the first time I had ever seen any comment section on any rating site spend weeks actively plotting characters' deaths because of just how deplorable they were. I have absolutely nothing against any of the actors but they deserve better than a disaster of these proportions. The screenwriter and director need to stop taking drugs and go back to school, because they basically failed miserably at doing something actually extremely simple. They had a story. All they needed to do was copy it into a workable script; it's not like they had to reinvent the wheel. But instead, they took maybe 20% of the original book and created this debacle.
I truly wish more novelists would step up and stop selling their rights and instead write the scripts themselves. It would increase the number of scripts as well the quality of them. But to all those reading this review, please avoid this hot mess if you cherish your sanity.
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This review may contain spoilers
Some comparisons between the novel and the drama
I don't hardly ever write reviews, but I really love this drama. So much so I went and read the novel (I can understand about 90%), and then watched the drama again (okay maybe even twice more!) Just wanted to point out a few things...Beware lots and lots of spoilers so don't read on if you don't want to be spoiled.
- Lots of reviewers didn't like the second half of the drama because they like the ML's personality in the first half more. In fact I think his personality remains quite consistent, it's just how he actions his thoughts and feelings that had changed, and in fact the drama has stuck true to the novel. In the novel ML does become a lot more assertive and dominating in actions (in fact even more so in the novel than portrayed in the drama IMHO) Throughout the story ML is quit rigid and likes things a certain way (his autism traits), it's just that in the first half in the drama he was lacking in self confidence because of his challenged vision, preferring to withdraw and felt unable to assert himself. In the second half his business dealings (and in the drama his new ability to see) gave him the confidence to act on this thoughts and feelings. Even though his actions changed I felt he stayed true to character.
- I think Evan Lin actually did an amazing job as our ML. He conveyed the tortured emotions as well as the confused first love and then the dominating boyfriend all quite well without making it cliched. I could see the layers of emotions as the ML grew through the drama. I already feel the drama has toned down the ML"s character quite a bit to make it more palatable as a drama. In the novel he smoked and drank A LOT and was even more forceful. In fact at times the narrative called him a "Bo Guan" which is a term for "violent/forceful dictator" usually used for a king/emperor.
- The scene where ML steals a kiss from FL whilst she was asleep made quite a few viewers unhappy. In the novel he actually goes a bit further, tries to taker her top off but stops himself in time, which is why he stomps off and splashes cold water on his face whilst he admonishes himself for his bad actions in the bathroom.
-Ditto the scene where he comes out of the shower in a robe and they make jokes about it falling down. In the novel he was half naked only with a towel around his waist. Remember in the novel his is still visually impaired so he can't see his towel. They joke back and forth about the towel falling and the FL says "she has seen him in less" and embarasses his secretary.
- The resolution of FL's hallucinations of conversations with her friend was not very clear in the drama. In the novel the FL is quite heavily pregnant and is presumptively in premature labour , her waters burst and ML rushes her to hospital. (In the drama where she was getting tummy pains whilst ML's scandal broke) She becomes unconscious as she is wheeled into ? surgery. That's when she sees her friend who says good bye to her, that now FL has her husband and baby she won't be needed any more. FL asks if she will see her again and her friend answers "probably not" and FL wakes, which in the drama is where ML grabs her hand as she wakes up.
- The relationship with between the ML and his step mum is also only alluded to but not explicitly clarified in the drama. They were presumably in some sort of a relationship before she married his father. FL finds this out from her the senior braodcaster woman she works with at the station, who in the novel also likes the ML. This is one of the major factor that causes the ML and FL to break up. FL is really quite jealous of ML's step mum and is a big point that was stopping her from getting back with him, because she felt that she would always come second to her. The scene where she gets drunk and hugs the beer bottle like a baby, in the book she questions if ML likes "her" better, and the reason why she makes him say "you only love me". When the scandal broke about ML being the mysterious lyricist there were also rumours about him having an illicit affair with his step mum which is why they were swamped by journalists.
- On second watch of the drama you get to pick up little things that make you appreciate the production team even more. When he becomes the CEO, the ML always has one single white rose in a vase on his desk. This alludes to the one single white rose he gives the FL, even when she thinks he should be romantic and give her a large bouquet. The MP3 the ML listens to, with all the songs and memories of her reading to him, is an old style airpod, and in line with that it always has the wired headphones attached, whereas when he listens to her radio show on his phone he is shown to be wearing airpods. The lyrics to the songs ML writes are also perfect, especially the one he writes just after she leaves him.
Despite the differences I've pointed out the drama team did an amazing job sticking to the plot and feel of the drama. I found the secondary couple a bit boring and the FL's mum hard to watch sometimes, but this is the only drama I have ever given a 10 to on MDL. Thanks for reading!
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Characters here are never out of tricks
And finally a great female lead that stands out unique to other female characters strongly…The female protagonist here Mu Wan Qing (acted by Jingyi Zhang) suggests them ideas, shows bravery when needed & do not hesitates to help or take risks to get something. She's cool, gives answers to insults, not your typical crybaby. Male lead & second male lead are there to help her but she isn't a burden on anyone. She knows many languages, is hardworking & knowledgeable not only for problems in life but also in business. The way she deals with her evil step sister is so pleasing to see like originally female leads must be sobbing in some corner but this female lead makes that evil one cry instead. The way she supports Xuan Lin unconditionally is also amazing.
Male lead — Tan Xuan Lin (played by Chen Xing Xu) is also a good character. He is always cool, fun & cracking jokes. Even when situation is complicated, he has the time to joke around & bicker with other leads. But the deeper part is that he has an emotional side too. He has his own reasons & rules. He is quite intelligent too as he tackels his problems in the best way possible. His relationship with his sister is adorable.
Another Male lead — Xu Guang Yao (played by Evan Lin) my poor boy Evan, it's just his second work as an actor & he has been really acting so well but why you gave him a second lead role. Poor him T_T… then this character Xu Guang Yao is a righteous man who doesn't know much to play tricks but he's still intelligent. He is like the definition of Nice male lead. He's caring, kind & protective towards our female lead, Wan Qing… he has 2 best friends who try their best to support him. I liked their bond too.
The positive part of this drama is that though there's a lot of politics but it's not so boring, I was actually enjoying people tricking each other like that. Every character is important, has their own background story & are clever. No one accepts defeat easily & comes back with new ideas. Overall, the drama gets more interesting as we go ahead… well, everyone wants to save their position but who will save the people? That's a nice point presented here…
MUSIC / OSTs
♪Eyes like star♪ — by Si Nan (the lyrics is beautiful, so is the voice and music. Soothing & slow… it's the opening theme song)
♪Clearly know♪ — Cai Yisheng (I liked this song too)
♪Horse ride♪ — Zhang He Xuan (this is the ending theme song)
♪Your promise♪ — Dai Yutong
♪Swaying♪ — Liu
Rewatch value… No, I am not rewatching this again. Well, I am not a frequent rewatcher and It's kinda lengthy so… though I enjoyed it, its a one time watch drama only.
TO CONCLUDE… it's a 9.5 out of 10 overall. There's politics for getting power, good supporting roles who keep us entertained throughout. Interesting characters with their own story & stuffs to deal with & how the leads make their bond more stronger while sorting out the complications is what the story is about.
Reasonable characters knitting a wonderful story…!!
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This review may contain spoilers
Why do people like this drama so much?
This drama is highly talked about and recommended so I thought checked it out and wow...Beware of Rant.
Worst Romantic-Gaming drama I have ever seen:
1st - The FL is a stalker. Let's just put it out there. She is. She follows the ML around & sends him weird spam-like messages from a fake internet cafe account & follows him places. How he doesn't block, ghost her and file a restraining order I really don't know.
2nd - The FL is famous on her own but for some reason, she's still incredibly stalker-like & timid. She has her own fan base but has 0 confidence. I can't tell you how many times I was cringing at her behavior towards the ML.
3rd - The ML's reason for leaving his old team... I was waiting for this big reason why he left his old team. The captain must have done something pretty terrible for the ML to cry & whine so much about his old captain choosing to leave the team right? Wrong! Turns out the ML is crying & whining over the captain leaving FOR HIS CHILD!! The captain chose to take care of his child over the team. In what world does a grown man guilt someone else over taking care of their child??
4th - If you love dramas with gaming this is not the drama for you. The "gaming" is poorly portrayed. "Here's a black screen with boxes and code, & OH we won!" It's just poorly poorly done.
5th - The Chinese nationalism. Nationalism is fine but this was way overboard.
Honestly, I had such a hard time getting through it. The only saving grace is how absolutely handsome the ML & his cousin are. It does get better after episode 30 or so but I do not understand the hype of this drama. At times its absolutely painful to get through.
Would not recommend.
Would never re-watch.
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