I found this movie extremely well acted. I was beyond surprised at Yoon Kye Sang. Not because I thought he was a bad actor but rather that he was able to make a complete departure from the lighter, more comedic roles he has portrayed in the past. As I watch High Kick 3, Revenge of The Short Legged, I barely recognize him. And I respect the heck out of him for that ability.
After this movie was over I realized I was tense the whole time and as the credits rolled my body finally felt able to relax. It is dark, angsty and joyless but for some reason, I liked it anyway. It was interesting and I've never watched a movie with a plot like this.
If you are in the mood for a tense, intense ride, Phungsan Dog might be something you like. For the acting alone, I recommend this film.
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It is one of the most beautiful dramas I've encountered. The acting, pacing, execution, cinematography... even music I can't find any mistakes. I never skipped the opening song even of one episode. The casting can't be more perfect not just leads (Who did a splendid job) but the guest roles who are there only for 1-2 episodes, portrayed their character with perfection.
What to say about the story is it is based on real people and their beautiful journey together... The road trip that you won't ever forget.. ups and downs, challenges, meeting new people, exploring new things, experiences good and bad both this trip has everything that any normal trip can have.... it can't be more realistic. Though before watching it, I prepared myself for a depressing journey but never expected this would be so inspirational and heartwarming, making me crave for every episode.
I'm not gonna write a long review as I really don't have words (I'm bawling right now)
I want to say only one thing Watch it!
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Dealing with trauma is hard. Using drugs as an escape only makes it worse. We aren't all fortunate to have good support during the hard times. But, we all are trying to live while we can. However, for some, it might no longer be about living but surviving.
Don't watch it expecting a love story. The movie is about pain, suffering, and trying to survive those sh*t. It's a hard-to-watch movie--dealing with things we don't understand always is. If you aren't up for a good challenge, then skip.
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This review may contain spoilers
To My Shore is not your typical "sweet" romance.
To My Shore is not your typical "sweet" romance. It is a heavy, psychological drama that explores how two very different men, broken by their pasts, collide in a way that is devastating yet deeply moving. It is a complex, emotionally draining journey that explores the thin line between love and obsession.First, there is You Shu Lang, a character who truly defines "resilience." After a traumatic childhood, he carries a crushing weight of guilt. He becomes a provider (to his ungrateful adoptive) and he acts more as a caretaker than a partner to his younger boyfriend. In my opinion, Shu Lang is a man who is "good" in the purest sense, but his goodness leaves him profoundly lonely. He is looking for a "shore" to land on someone to finally share his burdens with. Hao Yi Ran’s acting perfectly captures his transition from a weary caretaker to a man pushed to the brink of a breakdown.
Then there is Fan Xiao. His backstory is equally tragic and his trauma twisted his worldview. Unlike Shu Lang, who chose kindness, Fan Xiao chose manipulation, believing that nothing is truly good. When he meets Shu Lang, he assumes these "good" qualities are fake. He sets out to prove that Shu Lang is just as selfish and greedy as everyone else. However, when he realizes he is wrong and that Shu Lang is a genuinely caring person who wants him to be happy, he falls deeply in love to the point of obsession.
The most controversial part of the story for me is the length Fan Xiao goes to "own" Shu Lang. His systematic isolation of Shu Lang is chilling: he removes everyone from Shu Lang’s life—his family, his boyfriend, and (controles) his career, so that Shu Lang has no choice but to depend on him.
When Fan Xiao finally realizes his obsession has nearly broken the only good thing in his life, he shifts from destruction to self-sacrifice. By handing Shu Lang the evidence to destroy the Xiao family, he finally gives Shu Lang the power he had previously stripped away. (And when Shu Lang is too kind to use it, Fan Xiao takes the lead and sends it himself.)
His years of "protecting from the shadows" show a genuine change in character, but for me, it is hard to forget the toxicity. I found myself deeply conflicted. I wanted Shu Lang to find peace, and I wanted Fan Xiao to become a better person, but his actions were incredibly toxic and emotionally abusive. Even though he spent years atoning, the "scars" are deep. The ending gives them a "healthy" last chance, but it leaves me wondering if a relationship born from such manipulation can ever truly be happy. MAybe I feel that way because the "atonement" happens in the last 2 to 3 episodes, it feels like only weeks have passed rather than years. This makes the redemption feel a bit rushed and makes it hard for me to actually see the "atonement" and reasoning for Shu Lang (other than an unhealthy reason) to go back to Fun Xiao.
If you enjoy stories about complex trauma and the messy, dark side of human connection, To My Shore is a must-watch... just be prepared for a moral rollercoaster.
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Which is why dramas trying to portray real life are often slower and not as entertaining.
The writing for this drama is pure GENIUS, a lot more real and mature, definitely a lot less cringy-cliche than most dramas out there but still manages to keep it sweet, funny and entertaining.
There was no epic confession or slow-mo dramatic moments but I felt so much emotions watching this drama. The comedy is ON POINT, I laughed so hard.
The actors are phenomenal and were able to keep this bittersweet melancholy that adulthood can bring while remaining funny.
The emotional parts have a very mature/real impression which I loved because for once, it wasn't overdone.
This drama doesn't have to be relatable, you dont have to be in your 30's to understand its message, it's just a very beautifuly done and slightly different slice of life drama with an OST that will stay stuck in your head for the next month.
I totally recommend it.
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Great!
I have no complaints about this drama. I think it does lack music compared to most of the dramas I've seen but I understand why, I think a lot of music in scenes wouldn't suit this drama. I love the storyline, I feel like I have a reason to suspect almost everyone. The cast is also incredible! Any drama starring Ok Taecyeon is a masterpiece and he's one of my fave actors, he's so versatile and expressive. Ha Seokjin is new to me and he's very impressive, especially the way his acting flows naturally. EunJi is also new to me and she did really well and made her character feel very real. Overall, I love the vibe of the drama. I love how everytime a new episode comes out, I understand more of the story but at the same time I start suspecting more and more people. Definitely worth watching for me. the plot has a way of making every character suspicious but at the same time not suspicious. There's great details and the way the actors portrayed their roles just made it even better. 9/10 at least for me. I know many people dislike "loop holes" but personally I dont care about that stuff. the drama is thrilling so I love it. Personally I kind of hope Sungjun (male lead) has disassociative identity disorder or like a spilt personality because sometimes he seems very evil to me and sometimes he feels very sincere. I feel like he also doesnt remember much at some moments.I really like SungJun and SungHoon so far so I hope they expand on their relationship and I kind of want to see some wholesome moments between them. Anyway, I love how this show is going and I cant wait for next episode!
edit: after watching episode 4,5,6 I changed my mind. I dont like this show, I love it! I also love that Sung Jun always tries to joke around with his brother, I find that funny especially when his brother reacts awkwardly or seriously. I really like it, especially the scene when Sung Jun hugged his brother in episode 6 even though his brother didnt hug back. I hope to see more of their relationship and Im loving the story. Sung Jun is either the killer who had disassociative identity disorder and doesnt remember doing it OR he is just very unlucky and always just happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Edit: I finished this drama while it was airing but forgot to update my review. So my final thoughts are, I quite like teh ending. It did surprise me but I think it was fitting and I can easily conclude that blind is my favorite crime/mystery drama! Strongly reccomend. I know it has some plot holes, but it's a very fun and interesting watch for fans of murder mystery.
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Its a must watch for any psychological enthusiasts. Its littered with subliminal messages and symbolises throughout.
Story: First of, the story is absolutely flawless. Watching the main character slowly descend into the depths of madness as his deranged compulsions are motivated by the main villian. The writing here is insanely well done.
The show isnt over indulgent nor is it pretentious. All the set pieces are handled perfectly.
The ending aswell, without any spoilers, leaves much upto viewer interpretation. Many conclusions are feasible with this open ended plot.
Soundtrack: The soundtrack, nothing short of perfect. Its immersive, with theme sending shivers down my spine days after finishing the show. It fits perfectly with the eerie paranomical style of the movie.
Acting: The actors absolutely killed it. Lee Dong Wook nailed his role as the psychopathic serial killer, and i would expect nothing else from the highly acclaimed actor. But the one who shines the most here is the mc, Im Shi Wan. His potrayal of a man at the brink of insanity, while being reserved and submissive is oscar worthy.
The whole cast overall did an extremely good job here. All played their roles really well, and I dont think anyone else but them could've executed it better.
Directing/Visuals: Another aspect where Strangers From Hell shows excellence. All the scenes, be it the outdoors or inside the residence where shot with alot of care no doubt. Especially with the frequent use of tracking shots and well placed cuts, the momentum is never lost.
Overall, Stranger From Hell is masterclass in storytelling. With a solid soundtrack and a wonderful cast, it is nothing short of a masterpiece.
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I liked also that the plot was not concentrated just of Damdeok and Goguryeo, but the fight over power was well presented and for the main enemies of Goguryeo, Houyan and Baekje.
The strategies used in battle were amazing and gave me the impression that things could happen in this way.
From all historical dramas that I seen, Lee Tae Gon was the actor that fit the best in the role of a powerful king.
All the actors did a great job, especially that the act was centered on the gestures and facial expression.
The fact that the story is about a great man and a great ruler that really existed is another reason for watching!
A masterpiece of Korean history!
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The acting is typical Asian comedy acting, over the top but not bad. Yamamoto Yusuke is his same crazy self we know and love! I hadn't seen Nishiuchi Mariya in much else other than GTO, but she is quickly becoming one of my favorites.
I could defiantly watch this again. Who doesn't love a drama thats funny, over the top, cute and silly, yet still makes you feel alot of emotions!
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A rare romantic drama that is comfortable to watch..
It's a rare romantic drama that is comfortable to watch. The main leads are "normal people" with positive values. They communicate in time when encountered with problems without internal friction. ML supports the FL emotionally and shares the pressure (without violating her principles to succeed independently without using his influence and resources!) when she faces difficulties at work place and the FL shows she can feel his efforts with her love and gratitude. This is pure mature love! Love is not just sweet romance but requires joint efforts, mutual understanding and support of both partners to go hand in hand on the road of life.The second couple are everyone's favourites! They add more colours and storylines to the plot. There is a third couple as well. These characters show that everyone has issues/ obstacles/challenges they have to go through themselves. There will be mistakes and growing pains!
All characters and performances complemented each other. The family dynamics between the parents and in laws is a treat to watch!
Another highlight is the women in the workplace who are mutually supportive of each other and love their work (leave Tang girl). Their growth is entirely obtained through their own efforts and not by convenience or influence of a man.
Yes the drama may have certain shortcomings and some logical bugs but the flaws do not outweigh the merits! It's a profound theme exploration with insights on love/marriage, work and life in general for young couples. It's more realistic compared with other similar dramas broadcast recently and is definitely worth a watch.
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Outstanding characterization
What an amazing journey. The fact that ULS is an adapted screenplay, it really retained the soul of the manga. They also did a great job of picturing the script.The way the relationships between the characters are developed is great. And with strong direction, the characters were also expertly and carefully written. With this cast, they did fantastic job with their roles and their relationship has such great chemistry.
One could contend that this series lacks strength, which I could see on some parts, but most of all it was thoughtfully planned and well-written, addition of the excellent work from the cast with of course those wonderful ost/s.
A must watch for this show really exhibits that romantic feelings existed even before we realized it and how crucial trust is for a healthy love, be it love of intimacy or love of friendships.
P.S.
I guess they have the most sweet-comfortable-hug I'd ever seen in a kbl.
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2
1Forever in My Heart
Just like Zhu Yun will forever have Li Xun in her heart and Li Xun will forever have Zhu Yun in his heart, Lighter & Princess will always have a special place in my heart. This is my 4th watch and I don't know why it has taken me so long to write a review. Every time I watch L&P, I am stunned by the sizzling chemistry and the depth of love the leads have for each other. If you have not watched this drama, do not believe the criticisms against the ML and the FL's character. They could not be any further from the truth. Watch for yourself.The ML's character is one that if you come to understand him the way Zhu Yun did, you will love him. He is not the usual sensitive ML but rather rough on the edges due to his rough life experiences. The way Zhu Yun softened Li Xun made their romance even more compelling and believable. Li Xun’s dream was the basis of the company he founded called L&P. His dream was to build a system to provide medical service to the public in order to reduce the cancer death rate. But due to circumstances, Li Xun ends up losing it all. After a break up and time skip, the couple works together to regain all that was lost and it is through this collaboration that we see how the couple's romance develops in their love for each. I watched every minute of Lighter and Princess with no desire to fast forward except through Gao and his wife's marital problems. And as Li Xun's back story is revealed, I loved him even more and it was entirely convincing that Zhu Yun would love him because she understood him. She was the light in his life, the "princess" who is someone innocent yet also someone willing to take risks.
The chemistry between the leads sizzles...and sizzles...and sizzles. The match between Chen Fei Yu and Zhang Jing Yi is amazing. The person who selected this cast deserves an award. They are comfortable with each other. I am a big fan of Zhang Jing Yi since Lighter and Princess. She makes it all believable because she is a natural actress who looks comfortable in intimate roles. The way she hugs and cuddles with her ML made me believe she loved him. You can feel the connection. Chen Fei Yu's gazes as he looked straight into his Jing Yi's eyes conveyed deep emotions of love. There is this yearning that is a mix of love and regret but one that said he loved this woman with all his heart and soul. His eyes deserve a special award for L&P! It is this chemistry that left me with the feeling that I never wanted it to end and now over a year since I watched L&P, I cannot move on. I feel it calling to me all the time because I miss this couple when I am not watching L&P.
Lighter & Princess is a masterpiece. You can watch it on the surface or look deep into significant details. Lighter & Princess. Two words you might wonder how they go together. The lighter Li Xun carried with him was his father's. It was broken at one time but Zhu Yun had it mended. But perhaps he no longer needed it as she became his light drawing out of his painful past and bringing him into her innocent fairy tale existence of a "princess." I loved the way he called her "Princess." And yet he didn't treat her as if she was nothing but a princess. He allowed her to grow and learn on her own by guiding her and giving her hints on how to achieve her goals. And she understood him.
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