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Romcom done write
Before starting I just want to add no "childhood connection" and romance that is built on "conversation" is an automatic ++++ for meRomcoms don't mean they're "brainless". Sometimes I nag about the crazy jerk ML or the naive doormat FL and people say "it's just a romcom" but that's not an excuse and this drama shows that
The ML was crazy and rude enough that I'd totally punch a person like him but this drama not only gave him a solid backstory, a great slow growth but also kinda showed how to him he wasn't unreasonable
Being vulnerable was his weakness so he put a wall to hide his nativity and it became normal to him
But it only worked out because of the FL. She didn't fix him but he saw his wrongdoings and how he can fix it because of her.
Now the FL is also the complete opposite of romcom FLs. She had enough bs so she took action. Whenever she saw injustice or unreasonable behavior she pointed it out. At 1st she needed the strength of her life being too short to realize literally life is too short for bs
This drama moved in steps. Amnesia, cohabitation, fake relationship, evil past girlfriend, revenge, misunderstandings, ML trying to control the FL, FL having her own dreams, revelation and redemption with a final touch of sweetness♡
Another usual move romcoms do is gloss over things too fast, the past is revealed and they get married but this dissected both and gave enough ingredients for the revenge to be turned into redemption and conclusion and marriage wasn't the end but the beginning of their love and I found that sweet
Actually the best part of this was the ML apologizing and realizing all of his wrong doings. Protectiveness and wanting the best for the FL never means control.
And the FL once she realized her worth knew how to choose her own path.
That's something I always hate in romcoms. The ML says I don't want you to leave my side and the FL gives up her dream and follows his orders.. ML forces a kiss but it's ok cuz secretly the FL wanted it..
But not here, they even showed the depths of their "villains" without an easy whoops they're ok now
Another thing I hate about romcoms is the past connection. 99% of the time it's just an excuse for writers to not build a step by step relationship.
But sometimes a fake relationship also is used for that reason. To casually show the vulnerable side they couldn't see before, and this was used well here
Overall as a romcom it's one of the best
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The story line itself is unique as it is based on the web-toon, but I think the writers and staff did a great job turning it into a drama. The story itself had the love story romance and a little comedy, but the twist of a lot of the character's personalities also made it a thriller. I also thought the acting by all the cast was just so realistic and professional. I haven't heard of many of these actors and actresses before, but they are now people that I am going to look out for in future dramas.
The music behind the story also fit in so well. It's not the typical high note, out of this world vocal with an intense orchestra playing in the background, but it's arguably the opposite. It's soothing, calm vocals accompanied with the acoustic piano and guitar. You can also get the comedy feel of the quirkiness of the background music as well. The music was one of the things that set this drama apart from others and also a factor into why I love this drama.
When the drama first came out, I re-watched the first 4 episodes over and over again because I couldn't wait to see the next episode a week later. It was that good to me. This is a drama that I will definitely re-watch and recommend to everyone.
I would also suggest reading the web-toon, which isn't finished yet. I think you can understand the characters more through the web-toon. You can especially learn more about Yoo Jung's character specifically. It's always good to read the original.
Cheese in the Trap, Fighting! ^.^
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Story: Well maybe for many the story is very "Robin Hood" like but it isn't like that at all.I don't know how to describe it but I haven't watched such a good drama in ages.The story was so beautiful developed....each character had her/his own episodes where their pasts was revelied which was very good in my opinion.I really loved the bond between the 4 main characters, which gets stronger and stonger with every episode.
Acting/Cast: The acting was amazing.It succeded in bringing me laughter and tears every time.The chemistry (which is very important for me) was always there between Huo Wallace and Lu Cecilia.I really think that they did a great job portraiting their characters feelings and such.I really loved the fact that here the main girl wasn't some lady who needed to be taken care of and could figt and protect herself without any help.Anyway the actor who really got to me was Siu Edwin...even if he was the bad guy...he really got under your skin making you hate him but at the same time pity him.
Music: I can't say much about it because it wasn't the main point in the drama but the OST was very beautiful and refreshing.
Rewatch Value: Even if this drama has 30 episodes I would definetely watch it again!I really think that by rewatching it the viewer will be able to underestand the story and the actions of the characters better than the first time.
Overall: In my opinion this drama is somethig you shoudn't miss, especially if you are in a drama slump because it helps oneself to regain the taste and joy for dramas...reminding you why you started loving them.
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This couple grows into you that you can't stop watching till the end.
One of the best.
Highly recommended.
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This review may contain spoilers
Welcome to Thunderdome - Challenge Accepted!
Wuxia, wuxia, wuxia! Score! To be honest, I wasn't even going to pick it up originally because other then Xing Fei a bit, I didn't know anyone in the cast. But the fact that recommended sources told me that if I wanted a real wuxia that was written by someone well known for the genre, this was it. And I'm so glad I did. This was close to absolutely everything I had hoped this genre would be. Welcome to Thunderdome - challenge accepted!Pros: Though I usually start this section with outlining my favorite characters, I have to begin by praising my favorite portion of the series; the martial arts! Absolutely fantastic and in just about every single episode or every other one. Every character performed very well when it came to those scenes, it made you just want to cheer for our heroes when they bagged another slime ball. I can't say enough about how much I personally loved the physicality of each sequence, each fight, each battle. I'd give those scenes 10s easily.
Favorite character was MRF; he was beautifully written and executed to perfection by his actor. This man was essentially living or existing in self-loathing and torture over the death of his sworn brother and wife. Running all over the world trying to find the truth of who the real killer was, was evident with every slump of his shoulders, every fruitless trip he made; seemed that with every betrayal, his eyes got gloomier and more despair filled. Only when he had his daughter did that ease a little bit but even until his dying breath he was protecting the ones he cared for and swore to protect and executing his revenge on the villain who sadly was right in front of him the entire time. A real man of honor. Didn't hurt that he looked like D'Artagnon from The 3 Musketeers with the long hair and goatee.
HF, our ML was also great especially as they showed him growing and maturing. Do wish he was less gullible sooner but those are small fries. As he traveled around and met more martial artists and just soaked up the knowledge and won each time he was put to the test, it was a cheerful moment, kind of like a goal at a soccer match. Probably the most touching moment for me in the entire series was when MRF knelt down and put his hand on HF's neck before he went to finish off TGN in episode 39. That real connection between sworn uncle and nephew, I wish it lasted forever. HF by that time knew MRF was innocent of his parents' deaths and MRF was finishing his vengeance and honoring the oath he made to HF's mother, to protect him. MRF's ultimate sacrifice to save HF and the others, I felt was a bit unnecessary as they could have escaped together as is. Though perhaps to him, death was actually more suitable to release him from all of the agony he'd lived with mentally and psychologically through the years knowing his daughter had her mother to take care of her. He could literally rest in eternal peace. So that one is a catch 22; what's better for the audience or the character.
Both of the female leads did very well. I really liked that though there were romantic feelings whirling around, romance wasn't forced into this series. It was a sad ending for all in that capacity but it did serve a purpose. I do wish things were written differently and that will be discussed below. If I had to choose, I do wish HF ended up with ZY as they had the most chemistry and there was no need to show sparks and whatnot; subtle love is fine too. Both women had their own strengths and helped HF grow while they were with him. Just like other people he met along the way, he became a hero in his own right because of the experiences ZY and CLS gave him.
Other favorite characters included official Zhou and his brothers; they were very smart when it came to their own self interests and when it was time to come and go; they were quite comical at times. The other sect leaders and brothers HF met along the way who taught him stuff and backed him up. I did like MCH but she really wasn't a smart person. In the absolute plethora of villains, the most convincing ones were vampire poison and TGN, though I do wish TGN had way less screen time.
Production was beautiful; from costumes, weapons, styling, sets and some of the OSTs. Very little to pick apart in this section.
Cons: This series nearly became the second costume drama to get a perfect score if it wasn't for the final episodes. This is where the really awesome pacing of the entire series became a runaway horse of we need to tie up every loose end somehow even if it looks completely bizarre. How did MCH know what was happening that she appeared on the gate tower to keep the gates open only to jump down and get shot with an arrow? They were so determined to kill her that this completely in-cohesive situation was created. Did she grow wings, learn telepathy, manifest a sword? It was so out of left field, one had no words. Also the swords vs rifles scenes just seemed very weird; bullets will kill a lot faster then a sword will unless you're a master martial artist or sacrificing yourself to protect others like MRF did.
Let's backtrack a bit to the idiot father-son duo whose arc took forever to end, the nun who essentially manipulated her disciple aka ZY into following her into becoming a nun too, instead of letting her follow her heart and be with HF. I hope the nun doesn't turn MCH's kids into monks but lets them choose their own paths as was decided by both their father and HF. There seemed too much heavy-handed approaches to situations that didn't need them. TGN and NL had way too much screen time and that was really the only time the drama got slightly boring; though she learned the truth in the end and chose the right path, she was too dumb for too long. Though TGN was one of the biggest villains, he was so annoying and childish, you wanted to shove him off a cliff the minute you met him. You knew immediately he was not a good person and that just snowballed from there.
Returning to the last episode, why couldn't CLS's death be written better? They literally waited until then to have her face off against vampire poison and his puny disciples; then when she starts to save HF who of course intervened to save her, she paralyzes him leaving him struggling, gaping like a fish out of water while she does her final monologue? It was all very inconsistent and haphazard. I think she deserved a better end since they decided on that. Killing vampire poison in a flashback HF has in the final maybe 5 minutes of the show was also very lackluster and unsatisfactory considering who he was and what he had done. Literally the last 1.5 episodes of this entire series botched what would have been a perfect score but otherwise the show was/is really great!
Would I recommend it? Absolutely, 100%! The last 1.5 episodes notwithstanding and a few parts in the middle, this series hit every aspect of a terrific wuxia. As far as I'm concerned, the challenge was met, accepted, and won!
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Yes, the movie definitely changed some things from the anime. But what movie doesn't? Especially for anime, some things would look a little weird without changing it while doing the live action. And this way, you're not watching the exact same thing. I found both the anime and the movie very entertaining, and i recommend both.
The acting in this was also really great! The actor who played Light was very impressive, I could see where he was coming from, and what type of personality he had easily. L was played really good too! I'm team L all the way, and never once was on Light's side!
So if your considering whether to watch it or not,here is what i suggest: if you are an avid anime fan keep an open mind that there are changes to the movie. If you've never seen the anime, i suggest watching that first. That way the movie won't spoil you with what will happen. Or vice versa. Whichever you prefer. Hoped this helped!
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a literal masterpiece
i’m not really sure if i can even put into words of how beautiful this show is because i’m honestly still speechless lol.i think this is the first time a show has had me hooked from the first episode. it has such a unique storyline and seeing the progression of tian and phu’s relationship was so heartwarming. this show is able to depict the purest forms of love which include patience and the fact that both of tian and phupha’s love languages are physical touch made me tear up. literally everything was perfect.
the chemistry was also fucking insane like the fact that they were able to show how much they care and love eachother without indirectly saying it is so beautiful :( the amount of symbolism too ugh theyre perfect
earthmix did an incredible job, i had no idea this was mix’s first acting role and he was seriously amazing. and earth was literally the perfect person to play phupha :’) i’m really glad he got to shine with a lead role he’s incredible!! i noticed that both earth and mix are always so hard on themselves, but i hope they know that all of their hard work payed off. their 7 years of friendship really reflected on how good they were in the show, and i love how they have such a strong bond in real life too. i’m getting to know both of them more through stuff on twitter and wow i adore them
the cinematography is something i could go on and on about but i loved it so much like there were so many pretty still shots of just the sky in the village and pretty shots of phupha and tian and i think the cinematography is the thing that makes this show even more emotional. i loved the ost’s too
also just seeing how much effort they put into making this show just makes me appreciate atots in a different way
all in all i recommend this show to everyone. we got to see a mature progression of their relationship that not many shows have. i don’t think i’ll get over this show LOL but yeah, i’m very happy :)
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This review may contain spoilers
What an outstanding chamber play with two extremely gifted, stellar actors
Father's House" has two episodes only.What an outstanding chamber play, though!
With two extremely gifted, stellar actors. Choi Min-soo, already living acting legend at that time, and Kim So-hyun, then just in the starting blocks for fame. Choi Min-soo and Kim So-hyun deliver an unforgettably intense, mature performance and thus the authentically touching portrait of a dear, profound, yet often clumsy father-son relationship over a period of more than 2 centuries.
Male feelings are the focus. The heroes in "Father's House" are men of simple, humble origin - with either a gruff, rough and rumbling or withdrawn demeanor of hidden feelings that are rather reluctant and probably seldom felt, let alone shown. However, having feelings and showing emotions is allowed in this KDrama. It's difficult to deal with, yes, but it's possible. Necessary even.
Emotional sincerity has a liberating effect. The three male protagonists - son, father (and his adopted father) - actually become role models. "Father's House" came as a distinct year-end television show at the turn of the year 2009 - with reruns after that...
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I am hoping and waiting for another season.
I finished this for just 1 day and that means it is that good.
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The cinematography is something you'd see in Fuji TV Dramas? Nothing exceptional however the lighting helps with the 'feel' or 'atmosphere' of the show, giving it a warm and lighthearted feel. Music-wise, it is a drama where nostalgic songs such as GreeeN's Kiseki would play..why? You'd have to find out for yourself.
That's right, this drama isn't just about the entertainment and thrill the three characters may give you on screen but it also displays a lot of morals for the viewers. What's true happiness? Does Money really matter? and so on.
Actors? The likes of Konihata Fumiyo is someone you will typically see in all sorts of drama but his portrayal of Richard leaves an impression! Truly, I do not think Richard will appear as a seemingly 'gentleman' if it weren't for the tone of his voice and his image. This is followed by Higashide Masahiro who has been gaining much popularity in the Japanese Acting Industry as of late, well.. what do you expect, Higashide will make a character as charming as he is! The gullible Boku-chan is one of the highlights of the show so do look out for him. Last but not the least ( as you'd have to consider the wonderful guests each episode offers), Nagasawa Masami. She has never been in my list of favorite actresses as her previous acting skills did not 'wow' me at all despite her long stay in the industry but if you have seen her acting or state back then, then you could pretty much see how much she's grown over the years. With that said, I can finally say Dako won't be as fun as Dako without her cheeky and bright portrayal. She truly shined in this role and she fits it 100%. No overacting from the three at all. so rest assured.
Overall, it was fun.. it was fun to the point that once the drama hit its final episode, I was too sad to bid goodbye to the three characters. The ending was well-played too.
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Finding Yourself
Aristocrats tells the story of two women from different social classes, family backgrounds, and outlook on life who embark on a journey of self-discovery and finding their place in the world, amidst the constraints of familial expectations, gender discrimination, class system and traditional values that are deeply ingrained in Japanese society, particularly amongst the upper class or, in the context of the film, the aristocrats.Based on the novel Ano Ko wa Kizoku by award-winning author and essayist Mariko Yamauchi, which was serialised in the monthly magazine Syosetsu Subaru in 2015 and published as a book in 2016. Yukiko Sode, who is a notable indie-film director, wrote the screenplay adaptation and directed the film. Yasuyuki Sasaki serves as cinematographer while Takuma Watanabe composed the original score. Aristocrats had its world premiere at the 33rd Tokyo International Film Festival in 2021.
What I Appreciated
The character-driven and female-centric narrative is told from the perspectives of the two women, Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki, structured in a converging parallel plot format. Certain flashback sequences are involved but, for the most part, a linear storytelling approach is adopted which preserves the overall cohesion and coherence of the multiple POVs. A number of themes concerning conservative social constructs, narrow mindsets and stereotypes are manifested while the concepts of marriage, friendship and love are also explored to a certain extent.
Running at just over 2 hours, this film covers quite an extensive scope but gives the impression of taking its time to allow the various elements to breathe and gradually sink in. Nothing ever feels rushed or abrupt as the tempo of the storytelling remains delicately poised all throughout. This aspect is complemented by the equally subtle cinematography technique that renders a series of exquisitely framed moments. A more subdued colour grading is employed with a slight textured effect that filters the warmer colour palettes. The gently imbued orchestral accompaniment that induces an introspective mood provides the finishing touches to the end product - a motion picture that showcases visual aesthetics and technical artistry.
Where the production truly shines lies in the exceptional cast performances, particularly that of the main leads. Kadowaki Mugi and Mizuhara Kiko are hugely impressive in their respective portrayals of Haibara Hanako and Tokioka Miki. Understatedly emotive and compellingly nuanced, these two fine actresses certainly possess the gravitas to utterly enliven the entire film with their commanding screen presence. My only qualm is that I wished both had more scenes together.
Final Thoughts
Aristocrats, at its core, represents an in-depth character study of the internal struggles of two young women against the backdrop of a deeply traditional society amidst the hustle-and-bustle of cosmopolitan Tokyo. It is bittersweet yet inspiring and the story eventually ends on a high note which provides a fitting closure where both leads finally discover their true worth and find their place in the world. This has been a truly evocative viewing experience.
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That having said, the movie touches some taboo issues, but take them in the most natural way possible. it shows a dysfunctional man whose life goes even further away from from what can be called normal as he starts to live with a girl who has lost everything due to natural catastrophe. There are very few supporting characters and the background story remains vague which adds to the mysterious character of the movie.
It is slow paced, so you've got to be prepared for this. The viewer is supposed to feel the climate rather than be shocked and rushed through series of events. So take a good time for this two hours of tragic drama. And try to get swallowed by the emptiness of the coldest parts of Hokkaido.
The acting is superb. We've got two very different actors, acting-style wise, age wise, who managed to create an amazing emotional blend that creates a kind of awkward harmony. Needless to say, Asano Tadanobu greatness is very much visible here and he suits Jungo's character very well. On the other hand, very young Nikaido Fumi proves once again how versatile actress she is.
The few supporting ones are good as well and create rather coherent background.
Music is again a background issue that basically helps to set the mood and proves it really well.
As a summary, one more time: do not expect fireworks, if you look for entertainment it hardly there. But if you don't mind that you might get tangled up in something disturbingly beautiful.
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This is the new STANDARD
I wasn't 100% sure what my overall rating would be but as I was ticking off all the marks, I realised that everything was near perfection and deserves a 8.5.The music in this show was incredibly diverse and although I appreciate Thai artists being used in Thai shows, the fact that they used English music kind of made it a deeper experience for me. I guess you don't realise how much the lyrics of a song makes a difference when it plays in the background. You unintentionally relate those lyrics to what is happening in the moment. For this reason, the music was a 9.5/10.
The acting and plot was phenomenal and original. There wasn't a boring moment in this show and it really hit all the right markers.
The scene where Yok is doing a nude portrait of Dan is one of my favourite scenes in the show. It was so vulnerable and really set this precedent for BLs to follow. Instead of it focusing on steamy scenes and desires, this show actually showed a deeper meaning which was perfectly worded when Dan said 'I feel like I'm confessing my sins'. 10/10.
Also, the relationship between White and Sean was so naturally introduced. No confusion in what they were feeling, no regret or worry. They just accepted it as naturally as one should accept feelings for another. They didn't hide it from anyone and were so open to what they were feeling. Also, I love that both of them made sure eachother wanted the same thing. Basically, I love the CONSENT.
Great representation of the qommunity (get it.. haha queer community... qommun... anyways you get it). We had some beautiful raindbow flags in some scenes which I love <3
However, it wouldn't be a fair review if I didn't touch on the negatives...
I was a little disappointed with how they reintroduced Black into the story once he woke up. He kind of left the gang after he woke up which just doesn't make sense since he's the one that started it. If anything, I would have liked him to see that what White had done was working better than his plan but it was a little disappointing how he then continued on his own.
The ending was a little disappointing as well. They spent the entire show trying to take down Tawi but in the end, all of their efforts seemed to just be a symbol for society to stand up. We didn't have an epic scene where Tawi got taken in by police which I was looking forward to.
Also, I didn't fully understand why Dan all of a sudden changed his mind and went to arrest them. Like I get that someone powerful told him that he needs to step in line but AS IF that would be enough to scrap all your efforts and the effort of someone you supposedly love.
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Surprisingly I loved it!!!
This is a bizarre series, slow-paced and sweet in its own -um unique- way!I will try to explain why I like this series so much, even though admittedly it had its shortcomings. Personally, I like the main couple and their dynamics. It is one of those rare times that we get the chance to see a couple of two similar personalities that suit and complement each other. Both MLs are introverted, quiet and a little bit depressed. I enjoyed how they seemed to attempt to achieve a more happy outlook and get some goals in their lives -especially Mon- through each other's influence. The dedication they both showcase to each other and the support and friendship that progressively turns into something else were the wining points for me. If you're looking for an intense romance, full of declarations of undying love or jealousy outbursts, this would not be your cup of tea. But if you like to see how a very closed off, nearly antisocial guy re-opens up his heart through the care and support of the one person that strives to help them resume following their dreams, then maybe you'd love this as much as I did.
Also, it is notable that the second lead here not only isn't annoying and exhausting as usual, but he's lovely and his intense feelings for the ML do not go unnoticed by the viewer. He is so lovable and honest that you find yourself supporting him and wishing to see him happy and loved as well.
The music was maybe the most bizarre part of the whole series. At times I tried to decide if it even fit the scenes or made them more awkward but after a point I got used to it. Also, having Soh being a music major and having his own band, I think maybe they could have developed their music choices more. This, however, in addition to the long pauses in several scenes. gave you the time to get into the characters' mentality and inner thoughts.
In general, this series is a breath of fresh air that will give you some time to think, relax and appreciate what most of us take for granted everyday. The cinematography is very well done, and the characters are complex and flawed. I got really invested while this series was airing and the excitement for what would come next never left me. They did follow some cliché patterns that could have been avoided, but as it was very mild in terms of the shock element, those moments gave us the chance to get to know the characters and their feelings better. The ending for me was the perfect way to end this series and suited both characters but also the reality of such a relationship! I hope more people give this series a chance and can enjoy it as much as I did!
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Story: Divorce lawyers of opposing sides find the love spot as they both work though the bad luggage they acquired from previous relationships. Not a new storyline, just a well acted and directed story.
Actors: Main leads chemistry was simply delicious and heartfelt. The side actors (and their stories) were well matched and performed.
Music: well matched and placed
This drama might resonate with any viewer who has been through any major life events and survived to be better on the other side. The leads have magnetic chemistry which make this so delightful to watch.
Rewatch: 46eps is long to rewatch but I might hop around to view episodes to keep these characters and their journey as a reminder on some key life points on love, marriage, divorce and smiles. Well done drama.
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