News 
Disappointing
This was very disappointing - I was especialy looking forward to this series, and by the latter part of the series I just wanted it to be over.The acting in this is excellent. Up as Gene, Bruce as Aoey, and Kenji as Hin were great. The production quality was very high.
But the writing is terrible. The central problem is that Gene is merely the writer inserting herself into the story as a self-indulgent fantasy where she gets the man of her dreams. Because of that, Gene doesn't really have a character, and almost no agency. Things just happen to him - whatever is necessary for the plot, or for a particular "moment" the writer wanted.
Sib is even worse, because his only purpose as a character is to be a hot guy that wants the writer and will do anything to get her - so there is absolutely nothing to his character except for his desire for Gene.
If the point was not clear to any viewers, the actual writer appears in the last episode to literally insert herself as Gene, and Gene & Sib indulge in insipid and stereotypical fantasies (although there's one that's dark but funny).
Gene's father has a small but important role, and Nu's performance was perfect - but his character's motivation was so baffling and stupid that it was a waste of a fine actor.
Aoey was the only person who acted like a real human being. A damaged and complicated human being, but at least a realistic person. Bruce deserves credit for breathing life and even some sympathy into what could have been a cardboard-cutout antagonist.
The plot is incoherent. In nearly the first half of the series, Sib hides who he really is for absolutely no reason whatsoever, because if he'd just told the truth he would have been extremely well-received. Gene's reaction when he discovers the deception is so OTT given how trivial it is, and if his reaction was that negative, he sure gets over it incredibly fast.
There's the usual Ep 11 drama, which is totally artificial, makes no sense, and has viritually no importance to the story, as there's a 4-month time-jump and it's more or less hand-waved away for the finale, instead of showing us the consequences of the drama and how the characters process it. But again, because Gene is just the writer inserting herself, and Sib is only there to want her, she has no interest in that. Sib relentlessly pursued Gene, until he didn't, until he did. There's no consistency to the character. I can't give away details, but you will say "WTF?" when the final episode starts. The plot crawled along at a snail's pace for the entire series, then a huge amount happens between the penultimate and last episodes, and we get to see none of it - we have no idea what any of the characters were doing that whole time, especially Sib.
The 11th ep drama itself is completely ridiculous. All they need to do in the situation presented is tell the truth about how they know each other, and it explains everything and would have satisfied everyone. Instead they do something totally unnecessary that makes no sense.
Also there are no stakes. Gene is extremely wealthy (Gene is 25 and he owns two residences, one of which is a large house. His parents live in a giant mansion that has an entrance so grand you're not sure if it's a hotel or a house.) Sib is even more wealthy. So both of them could be blacklisted by the BL industry and the worst thing that would happen to them is they'd have to choose which of their mansions to retire to to sulk. So the entire plot is meaningless. Whatever they do, they're set for life. I know Gene wants to be self-reliant, but he's already a successful author and he'll still be able to write. Sib is a college student and can go into any career he wants.
There are many, many characters that serve no purpose in the plot and just chew up time. Among these are Tum and Tiffy, who at first are intriguing, but quickly become tiresome (although I'm totally obsessed with Ken, who plays Tum), and there's never any resolution. Mork seems to have an intriguing history with one of the main characters, but it's never explored and then he disappears. Gene's brother has a mysterious conversation with Sib's brother, but nothing happens with that either (I love Poppy, but his character was a waste of time).
Even if you love this series, I don't think you'll like the ending - you may even be upset by it.
Finally, the show pretends to examine some of the darker aspects of the BL industry, but it doesn't. The tiny bit present (fanatical shippers of the real-life people) is merely a plot device, and when it has served its purpose, it's never mentioned again. Real BL actors need the money and have no choice but to go along with the machine. Sib doesn't, and doesn't even care about being an actor, so nothing matters, and Gene isn't an actor to begin with, so again, none of it matters.
Despite it's purported critique, the series is utterly formulaic & predictable and loaded with tropes. Gene is an extreme uke, totally useless without a seme to guide and protect him. Sib is an extreme Seme, who guides and protects Gene 24/7. He even has the power to teleport to whever Gene is to save him whenever the plot calls for it.
The first couple of eps are so loaded with silly sound effects that I had to turn off the volume and just read the subtitles. Fortunately, it stops after the first couple of eps. I think that was supposed to be parody, but it was just intensely annoying.
I think it's time to retire the expedient of adapting mediocre and formulaic novels, or at least there's a need for more skillful adaptation of the written medium into the visual. In any case, this was a missed opportunity for what could have been a great series. I wouldn't watch it again, but a lot of people liked it, and maybe you will too, so I have no recommendation. Just be aware that it starts as a comedy and ends as a very standard drama-romance.
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Just a Typical Romcom with badly executed cliches
My dearest nemesis fails to be the romcom it was promising to be with the trailer and the first two episodes.Good points for Drama:
Easy Watch when you're not looking for any deep story.
All Cliches included.
2nd Lead dynamic is fun.
Bad Points:
No innovation to the plot
Shallow Characters with no real motivation.
The drama forgets it's main focus midway and turns into tragic ml trauma thing.
It is fun till ep 6 and then goes downhill from that. Watch at your own risk, the main leads are a little childish and you probably won't get a satisfying ending, but it has some good moments.
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A pleasant surprise
I personally didn't have any expectations or set any standars on what a drama should or shouldn't have if its a fantasy and maybe that and other points where the reason i enjoy it so much.(I may be changing the rates because i'm very indecisive and correcting some of my spelling and wording mistakes, english isn't my first lenguage so please have that in mind if you want to skip this review)
What i love about this drama?
1) The characterization of the protagonists Tak Dong Kyung and Myul Mang.
I never felt they were cartonish or that there was a lacK or rushed development. They felt real and the combination of good writting and an excellent acting from both parts ParK Bo Young who made you cry in every scene she wants you to cry and Seo In Guk who is able to carry a scene with just his eyes make them as individual characters and their relationship probably one of the best things of this drama and what makes it worthy of your time.
2) It felt like poetry
Quoting George Lucas "Its like poetry it rhymes' thats the way i felt about this drama. When you have an audience engage and making theories after every episode, picking up the little clues you were leaving in every episode and that those theories become true in a way that fit the story and its true with the message that the story wanted to tell just tell me its good writting. Im Me A Ri did an really good job making common tropes their own and give the story a closure that feels like poetry.
3) The messages behind every episode
I never leave an episode feeling unafected once i start to care about this characters (something that happend slowly but for me that makes it even more satisfying) i always end up either crying or thinking about the quotes and messages behind every episode. I never felt the sadness was shadowing the story it has always a message of hope and kindness.
4) The romance between the main leads
The chemistry between both actors was on point and they could carry every scene no matter what dialogue you put them through i could watch only scenes of them for hour without getting tired. Writting a story that starts with the typical 'enemies to lovers' is not a easy thing and i think the writter nailed every aspect of the main romance. It didn't felt rushed or that it was throw in my face. I understand why they both felt that way and why they made sometimes such extreme decisions. It was entretaining and then beautiful and sad it was everything i could ask for a 'fantasy' romance and more because the best part of it was how human it felt.
5) The concepts of 'life' and 'death'
I don't want to go to much into the spoiler territory but the way this show captures the personification of life and death its very unique and interesanting. For me it was never a problem how poetic both deiditys speak in fact i enjoy the scenes between them a lot. Jung Ji So as the deidity who represent life does an amazing job and it takes you to a ride of emotions that's for sure.
6) I doesn't lose it charm but it gets better
Something i was hapily surprise is how some of my favorite episodes and in my opinion the best written and acted were torwards the end. I think episode 14 for example is brilliant and it gives closure in a good moment and leaves the story a moment to breathe on episode 15.
7) The Cinematography and OST
Something i love about this drama is how the cinematography doesn't distract you or i feels like you are watching a very expensive AD. In fact the most beautiful moments are without CGI and makes you appreciate the little things in real life like leaves falling or the flowers blooming. And the OST its beautiful its melancholic and every song felt very special "Breaking Down" its probably my favorite OST in the year and it may go as one of my favorites ever from a kdrama.
Now what i dislike and i will go a little bit in to the spoiler territory but not that much:
1) The 'love triangle' between the second leads, in one aspect it doesn't really take that much of the screentime (the romance between them) so it wasn't something that it stop me from watching the whole drama. I have a few problems with one is that it felt flat, compared to the main romance and in general it just wasn't my cup of tea. I think the reason was i couldn't understand why this people were even in love to begin with, i guess we can say its sort of realistic the childish romance between Ji Na and Hyung Gyu and by episode 14 i could see what was the intention behind this storyline (about how your first love isn't always your last and about two people living with the ghost of a relationship when love is no longer there) but the execution just wasn't for me. Between Ji na and Joo Ik it just felt flat in general and compared to the main leads. The "back story" was weird and not really well written. I didn't like or enjoy the romance between them. I honestly didn't like either male characters of the love triangle for various reasons (as some people said here if i re-watch i'm defently going to skip those scenes). Thats why i'm giving a 8 in story, this should had handle better (the actors were good so this is not on them at all).
In general i love the main leads, Dongkyung family and Jina, and i enjoy every scene with those characters. I fell in love with it by episode 3 and 4 and i wasn't disappointed i cry i laugh and i loved to read people theories and see them come alive.
It made (no pun ineed) my days better. So thank you for the cast and crew (and also the fans who write so many good theories and posts) i will remember this experience forever.
In addition: I read some reviews asking why peope are giving high reviews i can't speak on everyone so i'm speaking on myself. For me the drama was Dongkyung and Myulmang and the dynamics they have with each other and with other characters that was probably a 75% of the screentime and i enjoy that (Spoilers: I loved how the MMDk relationship envolve i didn't found it rushed they become one of my favorite main relationships in kdramas i loved the found family scenes with Myulmang i love the message of you aren't alone and the scenes with Dongkyung family being there for her also the emotional scene with Jina was brilliant and they are so many i could write an essay). I think the acting was impresive i had never watch anything with PBY or SIG and i was truly moved by their perfomances and on my personal view their acting and their characters elevate the drama for me. I spend my time doing video editing since 2012 and watched a lot of media to work with and i found a lot of scenes from those characters memorable they moved me inside and make me cry when i'm not a person who cries easily. This rating system is tricky but since as i mention before i dislike the love triangle and two characters of it i'm giving to the story for now a 8 who knows maybe i change it because i'm very indecisive. But in general because all that i mention above and again the acting of PBY and SIG is why i give it a 9. But that's just MY personal opinion.
If you haven't watch the drama yet and are wondering my opinion is you should try and see it for yourself at the end of the day maybe for one person was boring for other wasn't for one person suceed their expectations and for other didn't they are just opinions.
For me just because of Dongkyung and Myulmang i was entretained for the 16 episodes and i wait for every Mon/Tues to see the episodes. They will remain in my heart more because my country still in lockdown and sometimes every day felt the same but with DAYS (i just love the tittle haha) i have something to look forward too. I hope i manage to reply those people question a little.
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GAY GAY GAY
Skynani never fails to amaze me. I know this isn’t a BL but I swear to god it’s more romantic and deep than the majority of BLs atm, for me at least. Like, leaving the obvious plot aside, I MEAN SOULMATEEEESSS !! But their acting and chemistry is just on another level. Sky looks at Nani like it’s the only thing he sees and vice versa. I just love them so fucking much 🥹If you love supernatural things, this series is straight-up made for you. But even if you don’t usually go for fantasy, the way it wraps all that crazy world-building around the most devastatingly beautiful partnership between Pete (Nani) and Niran (Sky) will have you hooked from episode one.
The plot itself is addictive as hell. Every episode escalates and the action is actually well-choreographed and exciting (those fight scenes hit different when you’re emotionally invested in the two leads protecting each other). The mystery keeps twisting. But none of it would work without the emotional core, and that core is 100% SkyNani.
Also the eye contact in this series should be studied in acting schools. The protective touches. The way they are risking everything for one another without ever needing to say the obvious out loud. Like I don't even need a love confession. I KNOW THEY ARE MARRIED!!! They are one soul, and they even gave us an actual OST called “We Are One” sung by Sky and Nani themselves in the later episodes. GMMTV knew exactly what they were doing and I’m grateful.
LIKE SOUL BINDING SCENE?? HELLOOO???
What makes this hit harder than most BLs for me is how deep the emotional intimacy goes without needing labels or typical romance tropes. Their bond is built on mutual reliance, sacrifice, seeing each other at their absolute worst and choosing to stay anyway. Pete’s growth from this angry, unlucky guy who thinks he’s cursed to someone who learns to wield his power and fight for others is really beautiful.
And the found family vibes with Team Wu is pretty immaculate. The side characters add so much flavor and stakes without ever stealing focus from the main duo. I LOVE THE TRANS REPRESENTATION.
Anyway, end point is:
Skynani stans, we won. Again. After High School Frenemy already proved they have insane chemistry, Wu took it to a whole new dimension. I was already obsessed with them, now I am straight up in love. 🫶😭💖
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Story
The story is a combination of a romantic comedy with a grain of melodrama accompanied by a revenge subplot to spice things up. Tsundere male, seeking revenge for his destroyed family, meets the naïve and gullible female lead who tries to find her impeached mother. The two are intrinsically linked and form an ill-fated relationship that develops into a deep romance – havoc, tears, cheesiness and twists ensued.
The drama, despite its 75-minute-long episodes, was extremely easy to watch, enjoyable, not too basic plot-wise and not too complicated just enough to keep things interesting. Even if it was extended I can’t say it was dragged. The plotline was well-thought out making forward steps either on story or character-development.
My favourite part of the drama was the fact that it had a something for everyone. Mainly a romance-comedy, it was heavy on romance and even if I didn’t see any particular chemistry between the leads they shared some steamy, fan-servicy kisses, they looked great together and had good synergy.
Moreover, the comedy was kinda cheesy but cute and entertaining. While lastly, my favourite part, the backstory was not new but well-written and strong, implicating families, revenge, had twists and some melodrama, good for every taste and thorougly entertaining. I sincerely enjoyed the whole thing.
Continuing, the music was sensuous even if it was regularly repeated. Worth downloading, what I mainly enjoyed was the re-arrangement of the title song to fit many different situations, dramatic scenes, comedy scenes ect.
Character development and the concept of forgiveness and selflessness drives the story and gives significant lessons to viewers.
Acting
The acting wasn’t the drama’s strongest suit but I can’t say it prevented me from enjoying it.
Liu Eugene is probably the weakest link of the chain, maybe it was her character maybe not. It was kind of annoying to watch her being that defenseless at first, also her childlike attitude didn’t help, but it was part of the character, similar characters are usual in dramaland. In some scenes I was enjoying her performances some other times she couldn't convey her feelings properly tending to fall short or overact. Not bad overall, but a bit weak.
Hong Angel excelled in being a bad bitch with anger issues, I loved her, her role was a bit limiting, and she also couldn’t cry express any other emotion other than fury to save her life. She was good though as a raging mean girl and that was why she was there.
Yang Esther is probably my favourite out of the female characters, cute, funny and badass with a misunderstood emotional side. Beautiful as well.
I left my personal favourite for last; Chang Marcus wasn’t only the best actor in this but also he is easily the most handsome Asian actor that has graced my laptop screen. Extremely charismatic and charming he had the arrogant, mean bastard with a soft and kind interior act down. I’ll be stalking his next projects.
The full supporting cast did alright but the drama was mainly Eugene and Marcus, even the rest of the main cast didn’t really have a prominent role in this. –also thank god no unnecessary love triangles!
Recommend/Rewatch
As it was already mentioned, behind your smile has something for everyone. Rom-com fans will definitely enjoy this; the backstory makes this good enough for people who like more serious dramas too. It is a light-hearted drama, easy watch but still interesting with a strong plot. Even if there is nothing innovative about this drama, it is cliché done right. I will never rewatch this but I can see how it can hold some rewatching quality for some viewers.
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i don't rely on reviews but, “this one deserves all the love it can get.” so i had to do one
HERE ME OUT. I NEED HUGS. THIS IS SO BEAUTIFUL.i’m so happy i decided to watch this. i don’t usually enjoy dramas that focus solely on female independence because many tend to portray it as mere reckless underdeveloped character. but this one? hands down, THE BEST. it made me laugh. it made me CRY buckets. but in the best way possible. every little thing was perfectly executed.
they managed to capture the quiet struggles of womanhood—how societal norms can feel like an invisible cage, limiting women despite their ambitions. the female lead defies expectations, not through reckless rebellion, but with grace, intelligence, and resilience.
and the ml? a WHOLE GREEN FOREST. not a trace of fragile masculinity. such a rare gem. never once threatened by the fl’s independence—he respects it, genuinely. “he knows exactly when to step in and when to hold back, making decisions with careful consideration. he’s gentle, not because he’s passive, but because he understands her deeply—reading her in a way that feels truly intimate. this trait itself isn’t rare, but what is rare is his unwavering consistency in staying true to his values. and with this, he unintentionally creates a warmth of comfort—a place you’d seek refuge in. you feel safe, not just because of words, but because his actions stand as proof.
this is not just a story, but a mirror to reality. i feel for those who have read the novel because the writing is just as IMPACTFUL. i’ve saved so many screenshots of lines that tugged at my heartstrings.
PLEASE WATCH THIS. it’s a must. you’ll come to understand the different struggles of being a woman in a world orchestrated by men. maybe i resonated with it so deeply because i’ve watched my own mother suffer—belittled by relatives, by my father, by friends, all to protect their own pride at her expense.
this drama gets it.
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Good news, Bad news, which do you want first?
Looking for a beautifully shot film with a grounded, human story? This is it. I went in with no prior knowledge of the historical events that inspired Good News, yet I never felt lost or disconnected, the storytelling kept me fully engaged from start to finish.Though it runs for over two hours, the pacing is deliberate and rewarding, making every moment worth it. I especially enjoyed its subtle satire — how it invites you to observe events from the outside, finding humor even in the most serious situations.
The performances were exceptional, with Hong Kyung delivering a breakout role that truly stood out. Good News is the kind of movie that lingers after the credits roll , heartfelt, sharp, and beautifully made. I’m genuinely grateful that it exists, and I can’t recommend it enough.
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This review may contain spoilers
a funny, cute, romantic, sad and yet a chaotic show!
I really enjoyed the show. The direction, production, beautiful scenery, costumes and acting by the cast was 10/10 and so unique! Perhaps during the show I had some cultural differences (knowing that it is a drama set in the Joseon era) with respect to one of the couples, but apart from that, I liked the rest of the characters and couples that were formed thanks to our matchmakers Sondeok and Jungwoo. *SPECIAL MENTION* the intros of the characters speaking to the camera giving their opinion and point of view to the different situations made it so unique, fun and charming.The plot is interesting and in my case, captivated me from the first moment, that is why I looked forward to every Monday and Tuesday for new episodes!The first two episodes were not liked by many people but I gave it a chance, I continued watching it and thank god because it showed me that it is a good drama!
Rowoon and Yihyun showed such a cute chemistry during the show, their acting was so good and their love story it made me feel sad and curious at the same time because I really wanted to know if they would be able to be together.
I was expecting more romantic scenes from the leads but knowing the context (a historical drama) I really liked that their relationship was shown as two widowers hurt by the loss of their lovers but at the same time they allow themselves to love for the second time and be happy, having a beautiful, clumsy and innocent relationship.
I liked how it is a fun historical drama with its melodramatic touch but still not as structural as most set dramas. The cinematography, landscapes, and shots were very beautiful and remarkable throughout all the episodes, they showed and captured the traditions of that time very well.
So If you want to laugh and cry a lit bit, i super recommend this show! They worked so hard
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Worth the Watch… But Not Without Skipping
The acting was solid, and the leads were convincing in their affection...but I couldn’t fully buy into their chemistry. The plot felt stretched out, especially with 56 episodes, and I skimmed through a lot of filler. The whole immortal-god-falling-for-someone-way-younger trope felt off to me, even if it’s fantasy. I wanted a stronger reason for their bond, beyond power or old debts. I also wasn’t thrilled that the female lead had to struggle so much. That said, curiosity kept me going, and while I didn’t love the drawn-out misunderstandings, it had enough romance to keep me hooked...just not as much as “Eternal Love.”Was this review helpful to you?
A sweet loving and emotionally mature couple with great chemistry <3.
While the plot is kind of average and basic, the drama shines through its great acting, captivating chemistry, and sweet love story😍.The male and female leads delivered such an amazing performance, breathing life into their characters. The male lead, in particular, had an irresistible charm, and his smiles were genuinely heartwarming. The female lead was adorable and portrayed her role with great emotional depth (loved how much she was mature and had a lot of common sense). Together, their chemistry was just so heart-touching (I giggled so much watching them being lovey-dovey hehe). The slow and natural progression of their romance made it feel authentic, even in such a short drama. It was refreshing to see them fall in love gradually, supporting and understanding each other without unnecessary misunderstandings.
What sets this drama apart is the emotional maturity of the main characters. Unlike many other dramas, their decisions were thoughtful and realistic. The female lead, despite her deep love for the male lead, hesitated to be with him initially because of the traditional expectations surrounding the crown prince's future. She didn’t want to share her love with concubines, and the male lead only had eyes for her and chose to love only her for eternity (my sweet babies;-;). Both of their dedication to their love is such an amazing sight that it made me want to fall in love as well. Seeing them made me love love hehe.
The drama also balanced its narrative well, focusing more on the romance than on the villains' scheming. While the villains had their moments, they didn’t overshadow the romance, which is exactly what I love and want from a feel-good fantasy romance drama. The family dynamics, especially the female lead’s loving family, added a wholesome touch.
However, the ending left a mixed impression. While the drama concludes on a happy note for the leads, the last episode spent too much time on the villains’ tragic fate. Their self-destructive end felt unnecessary and took away precious moments that could have been used to showcase more romantic, heartwarming scenes of the main couple (I want more of the main leads scenes cause I love them so much ;-;). Despite this, the acting of the villains was good, and their characters, while annoying, served their purpose well.
This drama is a delightful and addictive mini-drama, elevated by its charming leads and heartfelt performances. The costumes, makeup, and production quality added to its appeal, making it a visual treat. For fans of sweet, mature, and escapist fantasy romance dramas, this is a must-watch. I’d happily give it a 10/10 purely for the chemistry, acting, and captivating moments between the main leads.
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I gave "Athena" 8.5 stars due to the glorious cinematography (the N. Italy mountain region was awe-inspiring/a magnificent location) and because once again Cha Seung-won's performance is mesmerizing. He's an outstanding physical Bad*ss and his voice... dark seduction. The action was good (not of John Woo's caliber of course, but acceptable) The so-called love story, no chemistry between Soo Ae and JWS, wasn't remotely believable and annoyingly boring. Like I wrote earlier, I watched it for CSW, and rarely am I disappointed in his performances.
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I wish this was a J-drama
Yes, I know the title will raise an eyebrow or ten. It is intentional because while the show is good, it has issues with pacing and the quantity and quality of plot materials. Please allow me to explain.The show starts with an odd couple trope. The mother had the FL when she was still in high school, and we see flashbacks of those trying years. It helps to illustrate her struggles and how she overcame the challenges to build a life for herself and her young daughter. Overall, it is impactful and well done but you have to paste the odd bits together to get the full picture. To say the duo have a love-hate relationship is an understatement.
There is no doubt this is a female centric drama. The mum is involved in about 60% of the plots. That is fine because she is a good actor in a strong role. However, if you expect the younger FL to be the focus then you will be disappointed.
Of course, there are male leads, and they are very good actors, but their roles are firmly in support. This is particularly true for the mum's partner. He is totally devoted to her and he is the nicest guy. Our younger OTP took a long time to get going. It definitely started as a love-hate thing. This is where my remark about j-drama becomes more pertinent.
The show did suffer from mid show drag. The pace slowed and our couples are dancing around each other in baby steps. On top of that, the show digs deep in the box of tricks and fishes out a murder mystery to fill the gap. This is why I said I wish this was a j-drama. Japanese usually do this type of female centric dramas better without having to shoehorn in unnecessary (aka murderous) side plots.
Let's call a spade, a spade. The heinous act was egregious. The poor victim is basically faceless and portrayed in a bad light. The murderer was just a shady figure in the dark. We never truly understood his motive. As soon as he is caught the plot terminates. They could have substituted any lesser crimes and still keep the plot flowing.
The use of such lazy devices is now my pet peeve. The target is always a young woman. It is mostly done to inject some (unnecessary) shock/horror. If we are lucky, it serves a purpose, otherwise it is just a momentary distraction. Of the 3 k-dramas I watched recently, this has one murder, Behind Your Touch has at least one and My Lovely Liar scored the trifecta. I don’t know how young Korean ladies can sleep peacefully at night.
If we take away the murder, we are left with a straightforward girl power motif. We certainly see good interactions between the female characters. Sisters united - will not be defeated! This extends to the unconventional ending. Yes, some are disappointed with the arrested OTP development and a lack of skinship but I can also see why they ended the show this way.
The writer used the last 2 eps to reinforce a couple of key messages. The found family you choose is more important than the family you were born into. The older ML rejected his manipulating parents, again. The sad passing of the grandma spotlights a brother who cared nothing for the old lady in life but wants her money in death. The final scene in the hotel is particularly poignant because the FL found out that the old lady actually adopted her mum so that she really is her grandmother rather than just a term of endearment.
The ML played the noble idiot card so that the FL can go back to the HQ without hindrance. It was a lie and it went down like a lead balloon. He knew it and so does the FL. The quick kiss from the FL on the day of her departure sealed the deal. He also said that he will wait for her. That is quite swoon-y without being too lovey-dovey. That's not his style.
The mum showing up at the airport was total self indulgence. She is happy to live her own life but it is a comfort to have a partner you can lean on at the same time. Win-win.
Our CP's giving each others space and respect their SO's decisions is enlightening. Yes, it wasn't quite the grand romantic gesture we had hoped, but in light of the prevailing messages, it is an appropriate and fitting finish.
Acting is solid from the experienced ensemble. OST is pleasant. Rewatch is possible but a low priority.
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The acting was submerging. Their acting really made me immerse into the mood of the scene. And the main character played two characters very well.
Music was good. There was one particular theme that stood out because it felt unique to this movie, but I feel like the soundtrack fit in pretty well.
About rewatch value... don't even ask. I know I'll be watching it second time this week again for sure.
This was one of the rare movies that I was fully satisfied with at the end in a long while. If you like historical theme with a tiny pinch of humor, watch it. Watch it now. Heck, I even got tear jerked around few times while watching it.
Why are you still reading? Go away and watch it!
You may find it here: www.kr-dramas.org/2012-masquerade
Enjoy~
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unique premise (same actors, different characters/stories)
Overall: this is not a reincarnation/time travel plot as all the stories happen in the present day. Instead, the actors play different characters in standalone plots (episodes 3 and 4 were 1 story, 5 and 6 were 1 story and then 7 and 8 tie everything together in a way). 8 episodes about 55 minutes each. Aired uncut on GagaOOLala (not Japan or South Korea) https://www.gagaoolala.com/en/videos/4812/every-you-every-me-2024 & WeTVhttps://wetv.vip/play/296rso568y0ryfg/m4100yjgyjz?ptag=3_5.16.5.13870_copy ; airing cut version on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvw0WLA6w9UQZrmUoifbNDO9S6yUS9ry7&si=JHVZI3-LAPw_9dev Note: watch after the initial end credits as some episodes have a separate plot
Episode 1 - I was a bit confused with the world building but then it made sense. I enjoyed the sweet moments, the friendship (potentially aromantic character as a bonus) and the intimate partner abuse felt realistic. Not a fan of the comedy sound effects and they could have made it a bit faster pacing-wise. Content warnings: intimate partner abuse/violence, manipulation, manhandling, past death
Episode 2 - typical cold CEO/nervous worker plot. That grandma way overstepped boundaries though her heart was in the right place. Enjoyed the sweet moments. Content Warnings: manipulation
Episodes 3 & 4 - I was going to rate this higher; however, I couldn't get into the moping/angst because they explained it much too late. Not a fan of silent simping for years and making a choice for someone without talking to them first. Liked the second couple and the supportive friends/family/coworkers. Content Warning: a major one but I'm keeping this spoiler free
Episodes 5 & 6 - there were peak visuals in this episode lol, I enjoyed the flirting and physical affection. I really disliked the invasion of privacy and the shoehorned plot with the female character. They spent too much time on the past in this episode as well. Content Warning: past death, manipulation
Episodes 7 & 8 - I'm trying to be spoiler free but I had the most issues with these episodes
Watch Suggestions
- end ep 5 at 45min
- watch ep 6 22-35:30
- skip ep 7
- watch ep 8 31 to the end)
What I Liked: I most enjoyed how the actors were able to play such different characters, the styling was great. The commentary on challenges of shipwork towards the end was also unique and interesting.
Room For Improvement: because I didn't see a key aspect of them as an established couple, it was difficult for me to root for them. The non linear storytelling at the end of episode 6 thru 8 made things needlessly confusing. They didn't actually show what didn't work, so I'm not convinced everything has been resolved and it won't happen again. The time jump felt like a cliche way to resolve the conflict.
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