Reviews

Burden of Proof

Drama has been presented in a unique 'two' connected episodes format, alternating between past timeline(odd number episodes) and present timeline (even number episodes)..... As the episodes progress, viewers get a clear picture of the events in past that catapulted events in the present.... Each character is seamlessly woven in the tapestry of story, making it cohesive and interesting.... All characters' motivation is presented through their background stories leading to their present involvement.... In episode 19, even Wu Lian's past is dwelled into...Why he developed an interest in embroidery, although it is an unpopular choice of profession for a male........... However his past did not give even a remotely plausible explanation for his proclivity.


(Seven years ago - past timeline)

Meng Wan(Janice Wu) and Lin RuLan( Hu Yi Xuan) two young girls with dreams of bright future enroll in Yanyu Tower to learn embroidery from the prestigious Wu Lian(Qiao Zhen Yu)


Wu Lian turns out to be a predator, preying on young girls of his academy. He is a sadist and a narcissistic, his modus operandi remains the same for all girls, he first humiliates them by criticising their embroidery, making them feel inadequate and then under the pretext of guiding and teaching them, he touches them inappropriately and ultimately forcibly sleeps with them. These young impressionable girls who are probably underage are meek and gullible so none dare confront him publicly. He continues to take advantage and abuses numerous young girls. Wu Lian is a powerful individual who happens to have solid backing of rich and influential Mrs. Ning. Wu Lian's embroidered pieces are sought after and even the royal family commissions him. Hence nobody dares to offend him.

After sudden and mysterious death of Ding Ru, a young girl from Yanyu Tower. Wu Lian's truth is exposed in front of Ru Lan. She herself had been a victim but believed that Wu Lian loved her, now she realises that not just her but he has bespoiled countless other young women. Ru Lan decides to fight against him and lodges a formal complain in Yamen office. Meng Wan her close confidant and fellow victim advices Ru Lan not to file such a case.

Ru Lan who strongly believes that justice prevails, goes ahead with her formal allegations, to her disappointment she realises Wu Lian manages to distort her truth in the court and she lacks sufficient evidence to incriminate him.........As a recourse to sleeping with her, Wu Lian offers to take her as his concubine......After all doors are closed to RuLan, she decides to make a final move and agrees to marry Wu Lian as a part of her plan to fabricate evidence against Wu Lian.

On her wedding day she forcibly holds Wu Lian's hand and stabs herself with a golden pin leaving the bloody pin in Wu Lian's hand as proof of her murder, she also leaves a note to be delivered to Shen Mu after her wedding saying that she is in danger enabling two constables including Shen Mu to arrive at the exact moment she falls down from the tower to her death...... However her ultimate gamble also doesn't pay off, Wu Lian goes scott free inspite of such incriminating evidence and witnesses.



(Seven years later - present timeline)

Meng Wan who is very close to RuLan plots and plans for seven years to take vengeance and expose Wu Lian's deeds. She meticulously plans everything and patiently waits for Wu Lain to fall into her trap like a spider 🕷 weaving a web 🕸 to catch insects.

Including herself, Meng Wan gathers seven other people who were somehow affected by Ru Lan's case. She forms a team that is instrumental in bringing Wu Lian's downfall....

Meng Wan prepares handwoven lanterns and hangs them in a circle, metaphorically these lanterns hung in a circle are compared to a trap closing around Wu Lian... Each Lantern has a unique line written for all NINE people involved in this crusade, Ru Lan the torch bearer followed by Meng Wan and other seven allies....Meng Wan says that each lantern is wrapped in soft paper but tough and unyielding inside like 'the women'.


Name of all nine righteous 'justice seekers' and lines written on their lanterns mentioned below:

1.Lin Ru Lan's lantern....."An adult girl is fearless. "

2.Meng Wan's lantern....."wait in the boudoir for seven years, nothing is forgotten. " ........."Seven years in seclusion. Aspiration never forgotten. "

3.Li Jia Hang's lantern....."Give a treasure hairpin to the hero. Ignite a candle light. "

4. Liu Sanniang's lantern....."A leaf in the vast ocean, floating and sinking between heaven and earth. "

5. Shen Mu's lantern....."The young man goes with the wind and returns in time. "

6.Feng Da' lantern......"The wilderness also has emotions. "

7.Haung Jiao Jiao's lantern... "Pray to silk worm mother at the door, worship the God of wealth inside. "

8. Li Chun Feng's lantern... "The path to being an official is unpredictable as debts are hard to pay. "

9.Tian Xiao ling's lantern... "Troubled by wordly affairs, seeking tranquility in the mountains. "


Meng Wan's plan involves targeting Wu Lian's wealth. Symbolically breaking 'two legs' on which he is standing as he is accumulating wealth from two sources......First, by smuggling his work abroad, evading taxes with the help of Lou Yu Jian, a corrupt official in charge of Foreign office......Second, Mrs. Ning's backing who presents his work in royal court garnering him fame and building his reputation.... Meng Wan plans to expose him in front of the public to restore RuLan's good name.... She has brought to her district an upright and unbiased, Lou Ming Zhang to investigate the case of RuLan........Road to seek justice is difficult and full of pitfalls, Meng Wan faces many set backs along the way but she perseveres.....

After several failed attempts to corner Wu Lain, the group finally find some physical evidence...... In the beginning episodes Wu Lian told RuLan that ALL plum blossom flowers are different and unique(implying all girls are different)...... No wonder he had embroidered plum blossoms on a branch of a tree and written name of each of his victims under the flower embroidery...... It is rightly said that each crime leaves some evidence and a serial rapist would keep some kind of a trophy......This embroidered plum blossom tapestry was stolen by Li Cheng Feng without knowing its true significance, it proved to be a goldmine of evidence for the group.....Meng Wan and the team then had to find one person from all those victims who would testify against Wu Lian to reopen the case.

Liu Sanniang was captured by Wu Lian when she went to gather intel regarding his embroidery convention.. Wu Lian wanted an official position so that if he was implicated again, his case would be tried at a higher court of Dali where cases were piled up, delaying in his trial....Meng Wan and the group wanted to foil his ambition as well as save Liu Sanniang, decide to attend his embroidery convention at Yanyu Tower... However the group were tricked by Wu Lian and ended up stealing the wrong key to a lock that tied Liu Sanniang to a pole in a room... They were unsuccessful in rescuing her, Liu Sanniang decided to sacrifice her life and urged the group to continue with their campaign... The group burned down Yanyu Tower and Liu Sanniang perished in fire.

Wu Lian urged his wife Mrs. Wu(Rong'er) to ask her family's help for him to acquire the official position that he hankered after, in return he promised her a divorce and freedom from her unhappy married life.... Rong'er's family agreed.... Meng Wan approached Rong'er for help, guilt ridden due to being a reluctant but willing accomplice of Wu Lian, she informs Meng Wan that she kept a secret accounts ledger of Wu Lain's expenses for abortion pills, doctors, bribery to officials etc.... Li Chun feng decides to steal that account book, he is cornered and beaten to death. Before succumbing to death he gives Meng wan and Liu Xin a letter for Tian Xiaoling.... Tian Xiaoling, another victim of Wu Lian, had been living a guilt ridden life of self imposed exile finally decides to step up and testify against Wu Lian after her beloved Li Chun feng's death.

Meng Wan, Ru Lan's brother and Tian Xiaoling petition for a retrial of Ru Lan's case... Due to Meng Wan's clever manoeuvre, His Majesty also gives an order for severe punishment to be delivered to Wu Lian... Wu Lian is found guilt of sexual assault, bribery, tax evasion....As a result of everyone's combined efforts, Wu Lian gets his 'just deserts' he is flogged heavily as punishment and would be forever banished.... In jail Wu Lian swallows a needle and commits suicide.

At last justice is served but a hefty price is paid.... Ending is more bitter than sweet but it leaves a satisfactory aftertaste.... Justice may be delayed but not denied......salute to the people who make sacrifices and pave the way for a better future.




Special Episode 25 (alternate reality- what if, These characters could restart their lives )

What if life gave these characters a reset button and they could restart their lives anew......Life is full of choices that define us, our lives are the sum total of all our decisions... One wrong turn can plummet our life to hell and another right turn can elevate it..... This episode is in NO way "Redemption" of any character but a reflection of what ifs?...... I hope all these characters in some alternate universe made a befitting choice and enjoyed a lifetime of happiness.


All the actors performed wonderfully and were appropriately cast... However, a special shout out to Qiao Zhen Yu (who played the character of Wu Lian). He played the part of Wu Lian to such perfection that he became a character that the audience would love to hate. I saw a few BTS and the actor, Qiao Zhen Yu was rehearsing a very serious scene with his fellow actress, he seemed very cooperative and helpful... It is a great feat for an actor to play the character of a villan with such distinction.



This series deals with very sensitive issues like:

1.Abuse by a person in authoritative position. In this series Wu Lian was a teacher abusing underage girls, entrusted by their parents to learn embroidery at his place....

2.Exploitation of women(men) in the workplace.... 'Me too' movement..... Victims of such abuse remain silent as they are scared that either nobody will believe their allegation or mud will be slung on their character.

3.Humiliation and harrasment faced by a woman in the hands of corrupt official while proving she was 'Raped' .........The burden of proof is on the victim's shoulder.

4. Powerful and rich people bending, twisting and breaking laws and getting away with it... Justice system works differently for influential people, through intimidation or bribery they often escape unscathed.

5.Flickle public opinion 'mob mentality'..... People are often quick to judge another person bestowing 'guilty verdict' based on rumours without waiting for actual proof... public opinion spreads like wildfire and is quite changeable from time to time, even a person held in high regard once is dragged through mud by a single 'deemed' slip.


Overall, a thought provoking story presented beautifully.


PS: I wanted to include some more details but did not want to turn this review into a book😝 so I am writing them as comments to this review... If anyone is as deeply moved by this drama as me and wishes to read more, they can read the comments below.

*comments are about Liu San Niang and Li Chun Feng's deaths..... RIP to both unsung heroes.

*My opinion regarding the author's choice for characters of Li Chun Feng (episode 22) and Liu Sanniang (episode 20)

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Who knew forbidden love could be so romantic? On the way to the airport, or the way i want to see it, on the way to happiness was simply beautiful and so elegant despite the controversial concept it is about.



Let me break it down for you, the drama is about 2 beautiful loving soulmates who, by the time they meet, they already have settled down for the wrong people. The drama is about true and fated love, but in its core it talks about putting yourself, your needs first and choosing your own happiness over everything and everyone else. We deserve to be happy and nobody is entitled to strip us of this right!



Yes the drama, on the surface, presents 2 married individuals who, because of different personal circumstances, fall for each other. Don't let this drive you away from this drama. The affair is introduced in the most romantic way possible without being glorified. It's not filthy in any way, quite on the contrary i'd say.



What made the drama stand out was easily the chemistry between the leads. Not the best i've seen but enough to charm you and make you get lost in the sparks. However, the best of the drama for me was the characterization. Seldom do we see such 3D, deep and well-rounded characters that feel like real people. This is one of the dramas that you have to read between the lines to properly comprehend that is going on and why. Many's the time i felt frustrated by the characters' choices and decisions, but this is human nature, scarcely logical sometimes. Moreover, i loved how even the "evil" characters had many layers but if you tried walking in their shoes you could understand where they were coming from, even if you still disagreed with their course of action. Good writing.



Sadly the drama was cut 4 episodes shorts and significant part of the storylines along with some characters were left unexplored. Still the writers did their best to complete the drama is a fulfilling way.



The drama is so natural, based completely on emotions and feelings, the plot devices for the story to unfold are strong and it is never really dragged or anything considering you're into romance and melodrama. However, there are certain drawbacks that refrain me from giving it a higher score.



First and foremost, i feel that the writers were really scared to actually go for it. The build up is there, the reasons, the excuses, the plot that is getting thicker and thicker, the chemistry which is sizzling but there is no climax. Generally the drama lacked the intensity that was needed sometimes, but the drama was special because of its mellow and calm nature. That being said, this aspect of the drama may make some viewers feel a little bored.



Story wise, the drama was solid, i only wished it wasn't so subtle when it came to the affair and also that they wouldn't deem some characters so evil just so they make other character look favorable. Too fake in my opinion.



Continuing to the acting, the overall experience was quite spectacular.

I've seen Lee Sang Yoon in other roles, wasn't impressed. Apparently i hadn't seen his flawless puppy eyes that he so effortlessly demonstrates here. Emotional and passionate, he pulled of his character impeccably.



Gotta hand it to Shin Sung Rok, for being a complete asshole (jn yet another drama i've seen him in). Takes talent to become the perfect antagonist and act like a complete jerk so realistically. His character was rather unemotional and shut down. It takes talent to act as an unemotional jerk and still pour part of your soul in the role! Luscious performance. An actor for me to look out for.



My personal favourite is, hands down, Choi Yeo Jin; the actress deserves more credit, she's been amazing in every project i've seen her in, but she shines here. Loved her character and the friendship subplot that she introduced, she was strong and intelligent and yet so loyal and dependable. Relateable and loveable.



My only issue was with Kim Ha Neul. Not that she was bad or anything, but i did feel that she overacted a lot especially while crying to the point it was fake and, moreover, i couldn't really relate to her in certain scenes while the plot was crafted so conveniently that anyone should have been able to excuse her and identify.



Overall, this is a good watch. Considering this is a melodrama it's not overly heavy, just the right amount. I'd recommend this to melodrama and especially romance fans. Be warned that the romance is not cute and fluffy here, but it is fullfilling (the chemistry is one you don't want to miss out on) in case you want to see something more "serious" let's say. I doubt i'll rewatch this, but it deserves a try.

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Mild angst, major miscommunication.

Can I even call it miscommunication? Was it not just a reverse delulu - Shirasaki Yuki truly lived in his unfounded convictions and denied any possibility of mutual feelings between him and Hayama Asami. The only thing left for me to do was keep watching and keep sighing - little guy was chickenblocking himself.

Truth to be told, I actually loved the plot itself. I'd just tweak how Shirasaki Yuki was written to make him a bit less frustrating. His character effectively lowered my rating with each action he made. Dude kept acting as if he was rejected without being rejected. At some point his explanation of Hayama’s actions became so illogical all I could do was laugh. What the drama failed at was convincing me there was a valid reason for him not even thinking there is a chance Hayama might like him.

I do appreciate how it led to a nice pinning and angst from Hayama Asami tho, which was in fact the highlight of the show for me. With just two episodes focusing on his point of view, I somehow believe I understand his character and reasoning far better than Shirasaki’s. His hesitation made sense. How cautious and at times passive his behavior towards Shirasaki was - it was well explained and it was the most fun part of the drama to watch. I’m a connoisseur of mild angst and I was quite pleased with what I’ve got from 25 Ji, Akasaka de.

How about the chemistry ( which is undeniably important in romance driven shows)? Depends on which scene we are talking about. The first kiss the part shared was atrocious. It was not even a dead fish kiss. It was not a cute peck, they literally just put the lips together, barely touching, and stood there. The context of this scene made it even more ridiculous and I almost dropped the show when it happened. Luckily it only gets better from that point, so don’t give up hope (not that it could get any worse).

For the acting - it was good, just not my preferred style. I did not quite connect with Shirasaki Yuki’s character and Niihara Taisuke’s acting did not help either. I would not even say Komagine Kiita did an outstanding job either, but I just prefer the subtle ways emotions are shown, and that’s how the character was written and the performance directed.

Production wise I did like the drama a lot. Not only they wanted to present a cohesive story, but they wanted to do it in a visually pleasing way, that’s always a plus in my book.

Overall, it’s a nice show, but it’s not something I’m going to talk about and recommend after some time. I enjoyed it as it aired, and will have no issues quickly moving on to other new titles.

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Bad acting from FL and BAD STORY

I am very surprised that A LOT of people object to this drama's love triangle. After watching the trailer and reading the synopsis, there shouldn't be any surprise about the love triangle being part of the plot.
Although I am not against the predictable love triangle story, I find myself concurring with the majority in objecting the love triangle for a few reasons:
1) the FL is really not a good actress. She cannot emote feelings through expressions and eyes acting. Her eyes and face are expressionless, not because she's a stoic character, but because she cannot express her character's emotions. She's supposed to be a complex person: she has been abused by her mom, she's poor, she wants to get ahead; on other hand, she has feelings for the ML. She's not supposed to choose love and yet she did!

I tend to feel sorry for this type of character; and yet, I don't feel sorry for her. I feel sorry for the MLs though ... because they act out their characters convincingly. So far, she's not convincing.

You can do a comparison (for example the scene where she is being harassed by the gangsters) ... observe Tae Oh and her ... what a big difference. His face, eyes, and body are natural. Hers looked unnatural ... I couldn't tell what she was feeling.

2) There is so much going on with the MLs and their backgrounds that the writers didn't spend enough time to develop the FL's story. The blending of her into the team is not smooth. Maybe they should have let her join the team in a capacity of a smart girl who has some skills to help out. And then the romance starts to develop as the guys understand her better.

Instead she is reduced to being a cliche female in a love triangle ... It's ridiculous that in 2024, women are still being treated as a sidekick ... she's attending the best college in Korea, she's smart ... I don't see why she is being typecasted into a plot of a love triangle.

And I don't see why she has to depend on a man to move up to a better life???? Unless Korea as a society doesn't give women opportunities.

Disney should re-examine what they show on their channel! So much for their support of equality. The cinderella story is still being perpetuated in 2024!

Eps 3,4
Ep 3 is confusing ... things are just presented like a bullet points ... The whole episode is set up so that they can show the machinations of the stepmother and son #2 ... and how ML choreograph the take over step by step. Surprise surprise ... the FL continues to be a bad actress.

Ep 4
I don't like the way the story is presented. The viewer is tricked into believing a bad scenario only to be surprised that there was a plan that made everything ok again. You can only do this trick once ... They employed a couple already ... made the story flow confusing and disengaging.
Now the surprising conversation reveals the ML#1 cares so much ML#2 ... maybe something is lost in the translation ... "You are the reason ..."
If I were ML #2 I would be asking why ????

Ep 5-6
Story is getting predictable. Plot of double-crossing is getting old. Inha's father gave the biggest clue of all: Inha is like his father. LJY is a very good actor in this drama. His eyes ... wow ... show the psychotic and unpredictable tendency. It's easy to act as a straight good or a bad person. But harder to act as an evil/amoral person. He almost gives that Anthony Hopkins vibe in the Silence of the Lamb.
At this point I am indecisive as to continue to follow this drama any more ... It just doesn't make sense to me about the FL's fear of her mom. Maybe I don't understand Korean culture.
I don't feel the relationship between the ML1 and FL is logical or emotionally developed. There doesn't seem to be chemistry between them. I feel it's contrived.

7-8
OMG, I couldn't imagine the story could get any lower but it did. Nothing makes sense. Everything is contrived. Going to drop it NOW.
FL continues to be a drag. The only good actor is the 2nd ML who acts his role so well.
8-9
At this point I am just FF through to see how bad it can get. OMG, the actress is so bad at acting that I couldn't tell if she was hurting or happy when she discovered HTO had escaped the prison ... I thought ohh, maybe there's something there ... NOPE, just bad acting!
As predicted from last week, the Chairman came to the rescue.
My prediction this week: the chairman will wake up ... he's has 9 lives!

10-12
Sorry I had to go back and lower the score to 6 so that I can save some people from watching this ridiculous drama. I just saw the last 2 eps and omg, don't these writers know how badly the story is written? I hate it. It just doesn't make sense ... Yeh right ... like the heir miraculously turned to be the hero who is not related to the Chairman by blood. When does that happen IRL? NEVER! We are talking about Korean family run business here! And then that CM lives on forever... he has 9 lives ! As predicted (and this drama is so predictable) he wakes again!

FL remains the sore point all the way to end. Not sure what her role should be? Why do women always have to focus on themselves and stay lonely to get to higher places??? OMG, we are in 2024 right now and still have to choose either career or love???? This doesn't make sense and so outdated!

Another thing that's wrong with the ending is the suicide of the ML. Korean society already have one of the highest rate of suicides. Why put this in the drama ending to emphasize that dying is the only way to redemption. NO! Redemption is done through serving time in the prison!

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Who needs a plot?

There seems to be a spate of plotless Thai BL dramas. There's really not much to say about this series - the author apparently couldn't think of anything to write so she just used whatever she did that day. Everything that happens in this is mundane day-to-day activity - largely eating snacks and bubble tea.

There is zero romantic chemistry between the leads - it's not clear what their age difference is, because they're both children at the same time, but later Park is a doctor, so that would put him in his late 20s, while Tin is either in high school or maybe college - it's hard to tell because he never seems to go to class. I was surprised to hear he goes to school when it was mentioned in the finale. Tin behaves like a small child almost all the time, so there is something kind of creepy about their relationship, only saved by the fact that the actors are similar in age.

Since there's no plot, there's no dramatic tension - and it looks like the writer realized she'd reached the conclusion without any drama, so she threw in a long series of fights over absolutely nothing between Park and Tin - which likely cemented the feeling the audience had that they really shoudn't be together. Except as parent and child, maybe.

There are lots of side characters, but they're all pointless and their stories never go anywhere.

I didn't think it was possible to have less of the story than Physical Therapy, but apparently it is. I rated this a 3 because while it's a total waste of time, it's not aggressively awful.

I'd skip it.

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Remake of Novel NOT Drama

FULL DISCLAIMER:
Okay, first of all people need to know that this is a remake based on Zhao Qian Qian’s novel which is also clearly stated in the opening sequence so don’t come watching this thinking it’s gonna be a copy and past version of the Chinese drama. I’ve not read the novel so have no idea how close the drama is. My advise would be to lower your expectations, better still have none and don’t compare cos you will most likely be disappointed.

Secondly, whilst I did try the Chinese version I dropped it after one episode so I was kinda happy when I found out that there would be a Thai version especially one that’s not yet another Korean drama. I do love Thailand for remaking as many Korean dramas as they have but honestly, it’s so darn refreshing that they went with China.

As always, starting with the negatives which for me were the second leads. I tend not to like them if I’m being quite honest and this was no different. I found them both annoying until I didn’t anymore but I also didn’t like Pai’s so called friend Wawa. I found her to be selfish and her scenes always consisted of her moaning which resulted in my skipping most of her scenes unless she was with Pai or Pupaa.

STORY
This is pretty much the usual Cookie Cutter school love story for me, I’m not much of a School drama fan. Nothing really new to bring to the table but I guess for me, I found the fluff of it all refreshing….explained in my final thoughts. Also, whilst I did love the fact that the drama wasn’t just about the romance, I would’ve loved to get more light on the friendship between Ta and Pupaa. One thing I didn’t really like is how Pai always needed someone to come and solve her problems for her. Whilst the drama is made from China origin, I loved how they still managed to incorporate some Thai stuff into it to make it feel a bit more Thai. My favourite parts of the drama were definitely the Special Scenes.

ACTING/CAST
The acting isn’t anything groundbreaking but considering the actress playing Pai is a newbie, I personally think she did rather well. I enjoyed the main couple the most and what little friendship was used, I thought they had nice chemistry and fitted the characters well.

MUSIC
I only noticed the opening song which I loved. Oh and the lyric free background music.

REWATCH VALUE
For me, yes because I’ve probably enjoyed it more than I ever imagined I would.

I’m not usually into the overly fluffy romcoms but as far as Thai productions go, this is possibly the fluffiest I’ve ever seen which is a huge deal for me as most Thai I watch tend to come from Channels 3, 7 and One31 so you know there is a big difference. I didn’t feel out of my comfort zone which is strange as I previously mentioned, I’m not a fan of fluff or school and some scenes you could tell were a bit too cringey but somehow I didn’t cringe as much as I normally would from other countries. It’s been a nice experience watching a drama without fear of someone getting kidnapped, assaulted or stalked by some killer. This is a true romcom and I wish more were like this - danger free!

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Nam Goong Min Awakens One's Curiosity

Review based on episode three.

Nobody and nothing are what they seem in this drama, filled with mind games, mysteries, and eeriness. Awaken was a bit slow in its start-up, but once it got its groove, it's been nothing but one surprise after another. I love how Nam Goong Min plays Jung Woo. Everything, from the way he walks, talks, carries himself, and the carefree demeanor, belying his true feelings and thoughts. But what I like most is his uncanny ability to know what's going on around him and those he takes an interest in, be it his team members, the victims, potential victims, or the culprit(s). I got the sense there was more than one. Jung Woo makes this show worth the watch but then so do Jamie (Lee Chung Ah) and MJW (Yoon Sun Woo), who seem to mirror each other and are Jung Woo's other halves from an incident thirty years ago.

I like Hye Won's (Kim Seol Hyun) loyalty to Jung Woo; I hope she doesn't let her feelings get in the way. I get the sense Jung Woo picked her, knowing how she or, more so, her father connects to the village. I adore Yoon Seok Pil (Choi Dae Chul), Jang Ji Wan (Lee Shin Young), and Deputy Chief Hwang Byeong Chul (Kim Won Hae). I enjoy the humor and chemistry they bring to the team. I continue to be wary of Lee Taek Jo (Baek Ji Won) for her unscrupulous connections and Lee Ji Wook (Yoon Gyung Ho) for his self-serving reporting. As well as CEO Yong Shik (Jang Hyuk Jin) for his treatment of MJW, but think they are all just puppets playing to the tune of a more persuasive puppeteer. Awaken turned out to be a fun ride indeed.

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At first glance, the film may seem like a love story, but hides questions regarding human nature: Are people able to fill their own emptiness? What is the meaning of life? What is a human being?
This movie was exceptionally moving. A exquisite piece of Art by Hirokazu Koreeda, although the outcome is off of his usual genre I do think it convey his essence.
It's very rare, perhaps disturbing, mesmerizing movie.
The actress does a terrific work in interpreting a living doll, her roll was extremely believable.
The developing of the plot may be obscure for some people (I've read some harsh reviews about this movie) but I resolved to think that people CAN'T get the real meaning of the history: explore how people interact at a deep emotional level. The idea that someone's respiration could insufflate life to another person is a very intimate form of interaction and satisfaction.

All characters, whether their gender, they are alone.
For female characters, the keywords are "empty" and "absence". For the male, are "substitution" and "perversion." The men of the film didn't go straight to the object of his desire, but they choose alternative solutions. They are perverted men who want the death, not life.
These are the characters that KORE-EDA tried to to portray. It's a film about the solitude of urban life.


Overall, I think It's a worth-watching movie. You'll never forget it if you can find the meaning through the multiple metaphors inside and apply it to your own life. This is a philosophical essay... real poetry. A stirring rendition and superb images.

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Yin Yang Guardians

Less than 2 months after the release of The Yin-Yang Master: Dream of Eternity, Netflix finally aired The Yinyang Master on 19 March 2021, about a month after its cinema release in China on 12 February 2021. For fans of fantasy in general, and Onmyōji in particular, Christmas has come early with two adaptations within such a short period of time.

Rip-roaring fun and excitement with almost non-stop action, fantastical depiction of supernatural beings with magical powers in an enthrallingly beautiful other-wordly setting, along with a group of adorable characters that anyone would love to root for. That’s my enduring impression of this film.

(Note: There will be some comparisons made between this film and Dream of Eternity in this review due to the shared premise and proximity of their release)

The Story

The Yinyang Master is adapted from the NetEase game Onmyōji, which in turn is based on the original source material, the novel series Onmyōji by author Baku Yumemakura.

The story is about the Yinyang Master saving the world from apocalypse by preventing the return of the demon lord from the spirit realm in which he is imprisoned. The plot is uncomplicated, the motivation behind every character's actions is clearly defined and the mission is straightforward - stop evil at all costs, even at the cost of lives.

Screenplays that are adapted from video games usually reflect the richness and intricate details of the game world, which is very much the case here. Every aspect of the storytelling is executed to near perfection, in my humble opinion. The inclusion of deeply layered characters, each with its own fascinating backgrounds, and the many unique and colourful creatures, monsters and “guardian beasts” blend seamlessly with just the right dose of suspense, thrill, action and emotions.

Interestingly, there are a few elements that evoke memories of Marvel productions. Rocket Raccoon’s doppelgänger makes an appearance, while the Yinyang Bureau’s teleportation vortex is similar to Thor’s Bifrost Bridge dimension travel. In addition to that, the cute creature Red Ghost looks like a cross between Hellboy and Maui (as attested by several other users as well). Coincidentally, Dream of Eternity also shared some similarities with the Marvel-verse, notably the “magic circles” used by Dr Strange himself.

At 113 minutes, which is about 20 minutes shorter than Dream of Eternity, and despite the quick pacing of the story progression, the film does not feel at all rushed. There are sufficient introspective and evocative moments that convey the emotional depth and the intended themes of certain scenes and character arcs to the viewers. Dream of Eternity focuses primarily on the four central characters and the themes of love, friendship and bromance (perhaps even BL undertones). The Yinyang Master, on the other hand, has a bigger cast of characters with themes of friendship, camaraderie and teamwork, as well as childhood friends to potential romance dynamics.

Production

The production values are obviously of the highest order because this entire film is stunning to behold. From the A-list cast, top-tier production crew down to the top notch set design, visual effects and gorgeous cinematography.

The cast is headlined by the supreme talents of the award-winning Chen Kun and Zhou Xun (which is more than enough to elevate any production, really). The production designer is the experienced Yoshihito Akatsuka who has designed the sets for renowned productions notably Babel, Kill Bill, The Flowers of War, and Shall We Dance, among numerous others. The music director involved is the legendary Shigeru Umebayashi, famous for Yumeji’s Theme, and composing music scores for Wong Kar Wai films, as well as the original Japanese Onmyōji films.

Principal filming took place at Hancheng Film and Television Base in Xiangyang City (unlike Dream of Eternity’s filming location at the famous Hengdian World Studios) and the visual effects photography employed the use of an IMAX full-frame camera, with more than 2000 visual effects lenses, and real-time visual effects synthesis, which apparently is the technology of choice in big budget Hollywood productions.

Acting

Chen Kun is undoubtedly a fine actor. He is good in any role that he portrays but I always feel that he’s made for dramatic roles in historicals. Likewise Zhou Xun, she is perfect for epic period productions. Together they make everything look great and I believe have the potential to save any poorly made production too. The way they convey their emotions through nuanced micro-expressions, and articulate the essence of every scene is beyond words. I particularly love Zhou Xun’s voice, with the deep husky tones projecting a subtle quality of intrigue that further enhances her already formidable acting range.

Chen Kun’s Qin Ming is very similar to his Ning Yi in The Rise of Phoenixes. Devious, cunning with a hint of mischief and a big dose of self-confidence. Mark Chao’s version is somewhat more pleasantly charming but less dramatic. In any case, I quite enjoy both versions. Bai Ni is a more understated supporting character but Zhou Xun expertly delivered this role with finesse.

The rest of the cast were decent in their portrayals, through the limited screen time that they were given. Qu Chu Xiao, of Bloody Romance fame, depicted a more cheerful version of Bo Ya (as opposed to Deng Lun’s stoic version). William Chan’s Ci Mu is commendable but nothing spectacular. I thought Wang Duo characterization in Dream of Eternity was more compelling, but they both had their bare chested moments in a similar capacity, which some viewers may enjoy.

Music

In addition to the wonderful music score composed by Shigeru Umebayashi (incidentally Dream of Eternity had its own iconic Japanese music director in Kenji Kawai), Yinyang Master has no less than 6 OSTs, including the superb rendition of Where You Belong by the remarkable Zhou Shen as part of the ending theme.

Track listing as follows:
1. "Promise 侍约" by William Chan
2. "Where You Belong 归处" by Zhou Shen
3. "Cross Together 同渡" by Jin Wenqi
4. "An Enemy or Friend 宿敌亲启" by Feng Qinyuan
5. "Against the Shore 靠岸" by Zhi Ma Mochi
6. "Someone in the Heart 心有所主" by Jill Yan Qier

The Yinyang Master is an amazing production that should not be missed, especially by fans of Chinese fantasy. In comparison with Dream of Eternity which is probably somewhat slower-paced, and perhaps more contemplative, this film is considerably less emotionally convoluted and forward-thinking in its execution. Each is great in its own unique way and for that they both get the same rating from me (their ratings on Douban are quite close, at 5.1 and 5.8 respectively).

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It has been a while since I watched a drama, especially a melodrama, that has took my emotions and break my heart over and over again. I was truly invested in the drama's world and characters. You will need to tissues, a pillow near by and a certain mind-set since this is a true melodrama (and it can be depressing at times). Definitely my top 3 dramas of 2018!

Story: This story was very interesting about two people from different backgrounds connecting to each other mentally and emotionally after a few events and spending a lot of time together. The story was written in a way that was true to real life and can relate to either one or both of the leads in someway. One of the most realistic melodramas I have seen in a long while.

Acting: The acting was top-notch! I was speechless throughout this drama. I could not imagine any other people playing the leads. Kim Jung Hyun as Soo Ho was raw, real and intense with so much impact. This was the first time that I was truly invested in a male lead character in a melodrama (it usually takes time for me to get invested in them). I cried so many times because of his character. Seo Hyun as Ji Hyun was just as real, raw and intense as Soo Ho. She made me cry just as much too. . . Seo Hyun portrayed a woman who was going on with her life, but then, it just stops after a few events till Soo Ho show up in her life. The chemistry between them was so intense, electric, sad and sometimes sweet even. The other leads were people who you would love to hate so much with passion!

Music: Really hit the right spots for me. The background music was fantastic, and fitting for the tone of the drama. The best song in this drama is "Time" by Gaho. It is sad song that really brings the mood to the drama and fits the scenes that it was in.

Re-watch or Nah?: Would not watch this again because It was hard to watch. I scored a 8/10 because I did watch this twice. . . . I was hard both times. Maybe I would recommend a one-watch for people who are starting this drama.

Overall,
Do not let Kim Jung Hyun press conference controversy stop you from watching this drama! You would understand why he did what he did once you see this drama. You will not regret this. . . . The story is interesting, the acting is beyond expectation and the characters will hit you with so many feels that it is insane.

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This is an amazingly epic drama. I first watched this drama while it was on air and I loved it then but watching it again years later made me appreciate it more. Don't let 81 episodes discourage you from watching this wonderful saguek. I was thoroughly entertained by each and every one of those episodes. The story is fantastic, the writing, directing and acting is done so well. This drama really grabbed me from the first episode and then it took me along on a journey like I've ever experienced with any other drama. This is now my all time favourite drama.
I would highly recommend this drama to anyone who can appreciate a great story with action, romance, bromance and a great cause to fight for.

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Thou shalt not covet

I watched this movie twice and was very satisfied!!

I think “Thou shalt not covet” pretty much explains everything that happens in this movie, although the more I think about it, the more I feel like there's something much bigger going on underneath it. I was initially thinking about the socioeconomic divide between these two couples and how Mi-ok seems to want Ye-ji's life: the designer clothes, the luxury, the Porsche, the freedom that comes with not having to worry about money. Hell, she even seems to want the man. But I wonder if she actually wants Sang-woo himself or what he represents. When he talks about stripping at the beach, she describes it as freedom, and that made me rethink quite a few things.

Mi-ok is a woman who has spent most of her life adjusting to whatever circumstances she's been given. She did sewing work, married young, had a child, and settled into a life where she's clearly capable of so much more but doesn't necessarily have the means or opportunities to pursue it. She's outgoing, funny, resourceful, and has a personality that practically fills the room, but there's also this sense that her life has become smaller than the person she actually is. So maybe what she's coveting isn't necessarily wealth or another woman's husband, but the freedom that seems to come so effortlessly to someone like Sang-woo.

Meanwhile, Ye-ji and Sang-woo are living in a completely different world, and I think the movie is particularly interesting in how it approaches the whole idea of the 'haves' and the 'have-nots'. Ye-ji wants to make documentaries about ordinary workers, get close to them and tell their stories, and probably genuinely believes she's doing something meaningful. But there's something so unintentionally hypocritical about her existence. She's making a documentary about workers struggling with their livelihoods while benefiting from a husband whose wealth could actually make a tangible difference to those very people. She could help Ho-seok, but somehow that possibility never even seems to cross her mind.

Instead, she's taking grants and making documentaries about class inequality while wearing expensive clothes and carrying designer bags to a labor site. I don't think she's necessarily pretending to care, which is what makes her interesting. She's so comfortable in her own little bubble that she genuinely doesn't recognize the contradictions in her behavior. She wants to be on the side of the workers without giving up the privileges that separate her from them. She's almost cosplaying as someone from a different socioeconomic background, and the funniest part is that she probably doesn't realize how ridiculous it looks.

I also wondered whether her need to establish herself as a documentary director comes from some kind of inferiority complex. She's the daughter of a dry cleaner who grew up around the wealthy kids of Apgujeong, and I can imagine how years of comparing herself to people with more money, better backgrounds, and better opportunities might have affected her. Perhaps filmmaking became another way of seeking recognition and establishing an identity of her own. Recognition seems to be a much bigger motivation. And yet I don't think she's inherently unpleasant. She's quite casual, funny, and down-to-earth, but there's something incredibly naïve about her. I kept wondering why nobody had ever told her that wearing designer clothes to a labor site wasn't the most practical choice lol.

And then there's Sang-woo, who I honestly find even more fascinating because I think he's operating on a slightly different level from Ye-ji. Ye-ji is almost an archetype of the well-meaning, privileged person who wants to feel socially conscious without examining her own position, whereas Sang-woo seems considerably more aware of the world he inhabits. When he corrects Ye-ji about her father not belonging to the same class as the laborers, I found that particularly interesting. It's such a small comment, but it tells you a lot about how he categorizes people. To him, class isn't just about being rich or poor. There are levels to it, and he seems very conscious of where everyone belongs.

I also found his whole method-acting comment fascinating. When he accuses Ye-ji of getting too close to her documentary subjects and essentially performing a role around them, I wondered whether he was projecting his own behavior onto her. Because isn't that exactly what he does? He adjusts his behavior depending on who he's interacting with, performs a certain version of himself around people he considers beneath him, and enjoys moving between different social worlds without ever actually belonging to the less privileged one. Unlike Ye-ji, I feel he's much more conscious of the power he has. He knows money gives him options, freedom, and the ability to manipulate situations in ways that would be impossible for someone like Ho-seok.

Even his behavior towards Ho-seok feels particularly cruel because it's so casual. He can humiliate another man in his own house, offer unsolicited opinions, behave like he's doing everyone a favor, and then return to his comfortable life without thinking about the consequences. His almost fatherly attitude towards Cheol is another thing I kept thinking about. He's surprisingly gentle with the child, which feels quite different from the slightly condescending expression he often has around Mi-ok and Ho-seok. But there's something uncomfortable about how warmly he treats the child while casually humiliating his father. It's almost as though he can enjoy Cheol's innocence while disregarding the circumstances and dignity of the family he belongs to.

And then there's his growing interest in Mi-ok, which I think is one of the most interesting aspects of his character. I initially wondered whether he was simply attracted to her, but I think there's something more complicated happening there. Mi-ok represents a kind of life that he doesn't have. She's expressive, spontaneous, emotionally available, and seems to find joy in things that his comfortable existence has somehow made inaccessible to him. He's a man who has everything materially but seems strangely disconnected from his own life. Perhaps Mi-ok becomes fascinating precisely because she's so different from the people he usually encounters. There's something almost like curiosity in the way he approaches her, but it's also deeply entitled. He can indulge his attraction because he's accustomed to having the freedom to pursue whatever catches his attention.

The beach scene was particularly interesting to me because I initially struggled to understand Mi-ok's intentions. But looking back, I wonder if it was partly her way of getting even with Ye-ji. After seeing Ho-seok so vulnerable during the interview and Ye-ji shamelessly filming her in the woods, perhaps Mi-ok realized she could play the game too. She draws Sang-woo in, only to brush him off, almost using his interest in her to get back at Ye-ji, who remains completely oblivious.

I was also fascinated by the similarities and tensions between Mi-ok and Ye-ji. While Sang-woo and Ho-seok seem largely indifferent to each other, it's the women who are curious about each other's lives and actively seek something from that relationship.

And the way Sang-woo behaves when things don't go the way he wants, especially when he takes his frustration out on Ye-ji, is genuinely ugly. He has money, a successful career, a beautiful wife, and all the comforts he could possibly want, yet there's very little emotional connection in his life. Maybe marrying Ye-ji was partly an act of rebellion against his family, but even that doesn't seem to have given him much intimacy with her. He does what he needs to do as a husband because he can afford to, not necessarily because he feels particularly connected to her.

I also think the contrast between the two marriages is doing a lot of work here. Mi-ok and Ho-seok have this messy, genuinely affectionate relationship that feels almost like camaraderie. They bicker, tease each other, get annoyed, and sometimes behave like children, but there's an underlying familiarity between them that I really liked. Mi-ok can practically tell Ho-seok what to do, even stopping him from drinking when she wants to. There's a sense that they actually live together rather than simply occupy the same comfortable space.

Meanwhile, Ye-ji and Sang-woo seem to have a much more polished relationship, but I couldn't find that same warmth between them. When Ye-ji asks Mi-ok how she ended up marrying Ho-seok, Mi-ok has this whole funny story to tell, but when Ye-ji talks about how she and Sang-woo got together, all she really has is that they were classmates, met again in America, and the timing worked out. There's no particular shared memory that feels meaningful between them, nothing like the moon that Mi-ok and Ho-seok have.

Even their little interactions say so much. Ye-ji has to call Sang-woo and ask him for things, and when he does something for her, she has to thank him. She can't even comfortably tell him something as simple as not using his phone during dinner. Mi-ok, on the other hand, doesn't seem to have to negotiate for that kind of space with Ho-seok. It's such a small distinction, but it says a lot about the power dynamics in their marriages.

And I think that's where the title becomes particularly interesting to me. Possible Love. Maybe the love in question is precisely this imperfect, ordinary affection that Mi-ok and Ho-seok have managed to maintain despite their circumstances. But I don't think the movie is suggesting that being in love automatically makes everything okay. Both couples are deeply self-absorbed in their own ways, and neither marriage is presented as some perfect romantic ideal. They make mistakes, hurt each other, get jealous, become attracted to other people, and still somehow remain capable of loving each other. Having this possible love doesn't necessarily mean you'll have a happy life, but perhaps it means there's still something worth holding on to. Honestly, I found that quite bittersweet.

I also really liked the contrast between the families themselves. Mi-ok's family has this chaotic, messy affection that feels very genuine, whereas Ye-ji's family seems to know how to wrap itself in something that looks like affection without necessarily having much warmth underneath it. Even Sang-woo's relationship with his own family seems to have shaped the person he has become. There's this whole question of whether he married Ye-ji because he genuinely wanted her or because choosing her was a way of rejecting the world he came from. I don't think the movie gives us a particularly neat answer, and I like that.

Also, the way the movie uses seemingly insignificant conversations to reveal its characters is something I really enjoyed. I was basically collecting all these little throwaway lines and trying to figure out what kind of people they were. I spent a good three-quarters of the movie wondering what exactly it was trying to say 😂 and then suddenly all these little observations started coming together.

Jeon Do-yeon's performance was especially interesting to me after watching Secret Sunshine. I could recognize certain acting choices much more clearly, particularly the way she shifts between different emotional states. When Mi-ok takes the anger she's accumulated because of Ye-ji and directs it towards Sang-woo, I immediately recognized that kind of emotional transition. And Sang-woo getting caught in the middle felt like one of the few moments when his carefully controlled personality actually cracked. Although I guess his genuine happiness when he heard about the company targeted by the strike being sold was another pretty revealing moment 😂. The director is particularly good at creating these slightly goofy, warm, seemingly ordinary people who are ultimately quite difficult to hate, even when they're being frustrating. Jeon Do-yeon is just perfect for that kind of character.

Sul Kyung-gu's character also deserves a mention because I was trying very hard not to feel too sorry for him, but once he finally explained what had happened to him, that really hurt. It reminded me that Korea really wasn't all that long ago in a period when the police could unjustly beat and assault ordinary civilians. Peppermint Candy popped into my head, and then I started thinking about Save the Green Planet! and how much of that history is reflected in Korean cinema.

Even the way his character holds everything inside and can only really let it out after drinking feels familiar to a particular generation of Korean men.

The pacing was pretty quiet and patient in a way that requires you to meet it halfway.

That ending GOT ME. When the camera lingered on the full moon for so long, I immediately thought of the final scene of Secret Sunshine and just started crying. Lee Chang-dong really made a Lee Chang-dong movie. The full moon almost feels like the role sunlight played in Secret Sunshine, except its gaze here is so much warmer. There's something about the way he uses seemingly ordinary images to leave you with such complicated emotions.

I can absolutely understand why this movie might not work for everyone. It doesn't really build towards the kind of dramatic payoff you might expect, and the characters aren't necessarily there for you to root for. But I found them intensely interesting, and I honestly think the balance between the larger issues of class, capitalism, and labor exploitation and the much more intimate stories of these two couples was really well handled.

I also think there's something quite clever about how the movie explores the difference between being a good person and actually doing good. Ye-ji wants to believe she's helping people, Sang-woo wants to believe he's a decent person, and yet neither seems particularly interested in using their privileges to make anyone else's life better. Sang-woo might be more self-aware than Ye-ji, but that doesn't necessarily make him any less complicit. If anything, it makes him more unsettling because he understands the hierarchy and still chooses to enjoy the advantages it gives him. And Mi-ok and Ho-seok aren't necessarily morally superior people either. They're messy, selfish, and flawed, but there's something very human about the way they continue to find affection in each other despite everything.

Anyway, I think this is a really, really good movie. I've been watching so many foreign films lately, and this reminded me how much I love the particular warmth of Korean cinema. It genuinely felt like eating a massive bowl of gukbap and going YESSSS, THIS IS IT 😂. I can appreciate the warmth in films from other countries, but sometimes there's that last 10% that doesn't quite reach me in the same way. Here, nothing felt foreign. I understood all the little social nuances, the conversations, the family dynamics, the generational attitudes, everything. There's something incredibly comforting about that.

And perhaps that's also why I found myself so drawn to this movie despite its slow pace and unanswered questions. Personally, I think making a movie about hope and warmth is considerably harder than making one about despair, cynicism, or cruelty. It's much easier to show how terrible people can be than to show how, despite everything, they can still find reasons to love each other.

And one last thing: THAT MUSIC OVER THE END CREDITS WAS PERFECT.

Overall, I am giving this 9/10.

Sending so much love to everyone who stayed and read all of this! ❤️

Tysm for reading! ᰔᩚ

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Story: This is probably one of the fluffiest romance comedies I have ever seen. It's basically about a couple that coincidentally gets married due to some certain circumstances. Of course, along the way we have another couple who happen to be intertwined with the whole situation. It strongly focuses on the relationship of the main couple which I believe is the charm to the whole drama. Seriously... who cares about the overall plot... we're here to see this absolutely hilariously adorable couple - Wallace and Tiffany!

Acting/Cast: I love seeing Wallace and Tiffany on screen together! They made the most adorable couple ever! They were hilarious and had amazing chemistry. I enjoyed almost all their scenes together - from the hilarious bickering to the sweet lovey doveyness. Some parts were heartbreaking to watch though T_T But of course, we need all that drama - but sometimes I just can't understand how a guy can have the heart to act so cold and cruel to the girl he loves! *sigh* This couple and the way they acted kind of reminded me of Alec and Vicki in Princess Pearl - their personalities are actually both quite similar The second couple was actually a little boring for me to watch - again, very similar to Zhou Jie and Ruby in Princess Pearl. Even alot of the situations were very similar. I cringed though at Gong Mi's acting.. I'm not sure who she is but everytime she talks her eyebrows will move oddly O.o and that kind of bothered me. Thank god she wasn't on screen all that much!

Music:I loved the music in this drama. The opening theme was quite catchy and bubbly, whereas the ending theme was beautiful and and emotional. I loved the ending theme alot and I can still hear it playing in my head now. I also loved how they played the female version during the later episodes - it was a totally different feeling with the same emotions (don't really know how to explain XD) I remember a few other insert songs that were modernised with the oriental music. A type of genre I really enjoy actually. One particular song that cracks me up is the 'bouncy' background music that they play whenever they (I think it's mostly Tiffany) acts all goofy and stuff. It really adds on the comedic effect.

Rewatch Value: I don't usually have time to rewatch dramas but in this case, I would rewatch all the scenes between Wallace and Tiffany. It would be amazing if someone actually cut all their scenes and made it into one big video. I'm sure that video will bring a big smile to my face whenever I need that extra cheering up!

Overall: I know I mentioned love alot already, but I must admit, I LOVE this drama so much! I'm having some withdrawal symptoms already! The story wasn't anything spectacular, but I absolutely loved it from beginning to end. This was a very light and fluffy drama with lots of romance - and I loved that! From the very first episode I was quickly reminded of Princess Pearl and throughout the whole drama I could feel the same elements used. From the characters to the scenarios, I could see all the similarities... and since I loved Princess Pearl so SO much I couldn't help but adore this just as much - though the story was a lot weaker. Wallace and Tiffany are easily one of my biased couples now although Wallace and Joe are also my bias XD I'm torn!

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