A Journey of Discovery
Growing up is a process of discovery. You discover what you like and what you don't, who you are, who you love….. A million questions asked. Some answered, some not. Hopefully with the few answered, you’re prepared to face the world. You may still be searching for answers throughout your life. And that’s how life goes. This is a story about three best friends growing up together in the same neighborhood, their friendship through high school, college and working life. This is one of the best youth dramas I have ever watched.The Chinese title Shàng Yóu means upstream, depicting also growing up is not easy, having to face challenges and making the right choices. The story is so well written, directed and acted - funny, cute, nostalgic - with characters elaborated with depth, from the main to the supporting leads. The attention to details is immaculate, capturing all the nuances of the era (Gameboy, concern of Y2K for computer systems, flip phones, huge bulky computers with floppy disks etc). The story has a span of 10 years from 1997 to 2007, starting from the characters’ final year in high school, throughout all 4 years of their life in college, and the final 2 episodes on their adult working life, marriages, relationship, each living a separate life. Nostalgic? This is life.
Xia Xiaoju (Hu Yixuan) has just moved into the neighborhood. She has no friends and hates her new home as she has to share a room and a bed with her little brother. She always feels her mother being unfair and always loves her little brother more (many Chinese families prefer boys to girls). Two boys from the same street quickly become her best friends as they help her adapt to her new environment and catch up with school work. One is gentle and kind, the other is rough and childish. Naturally Xia Xiaoju falls in love with the ‘nice’ boy. Little does she know that the other boy standing behind her, quietly doing everything for her, is the rightful one for her. Xia Xiaoju may be naïve and has overly low self-esteem at times, but she is determined and is always a friend one can count on.
I have liked Hu Yixuan’s acting. I find her very genuine and natural without having to try too hard. Her acting as a teenager in this drama is so impressive. I have always thought Tan Songyun (Seven Tan) the best actor who can look and act like a teenager. Here, Hu Yixuan is equally good if not better. As teenagers, Tan Songyun is tomboyish, whereas Hu Yixuan is a very convincing timid teenage girl who is not confident of herself and fearful of showing her inner feelings. I love her interactions with her friends and her family. Hu Yixuan has absolutely nailed the role.
Lu Shiyi (Richard Zhang), an aspiring doctor who is hemophobic (fear of blood), tall, good looking and intelligent, is playful when it comes to his childhood friends. He doesn’t miss an opportunity in teasing Xia Xiaoju whom he has a penchant in getting his satisfaction out of her misery by pulling her ponytail, palm-turning her head (watch this https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1hP4y1a7Uc), bear-hugging her under his giant armpit, bickering with her and calling her names (like Pig); he simply ‘roughs’ her up all the time like treating a boy and the bickering is non-stop. How Lu Shiyi treats Xia Xiaoju would have been called out in today's cancel culture, but here, his actions are cute, innocent and heart-warming. To me, that's how people, especially good friends, should interact with each other, sincerely and lovingly.
Richard Zhang has a very unique look with almond shaped eyes. He may not even be considered as good looking by many viewers but he embodies youthfulness, energy, mischiefs, rebellion that fit perfectly into the Lu Shiyi character; he brings the character alive.
Cheng Lang (Chen Bo Hao) is the gentle boy with straight ‘A’s in class. He is kind to everyone especially to his best friends to whom he would give up anything for. He always tries to mitigate between Xia Xiaoju and Lu Shiyi when they brawl, and Xia Xiaoju has a crush on him since she first meets him. I have never watched any of Chen Bo Hao’s work, but here, he aces his role making the Cheng Lang character so lovable, a perfect white horse prince for any girls.
Even though the romance is not the focus, the dynamics of the main leads are remarkable. I love how the main leads are smart and caring for each other. Their utmost trust between each other throughout the drama does not falter. Having said that, there are some slight misunderstandings between Xia Xiaoju and Lu Shiyi that lead to their separation for a rather long period of time after college.
Official Soundtracks (OSTs)
Despite this drama produces a number of new soundtracks, none as memorable as the two oldies:
“Do You Know I’m Thinking of You?” (你知道我在想你吗) by Taiwanese singer/composer Chang Hung-Liang (张洪量) in 1997. This song stirs up a lot of memories for many viewers. It also captures our lead characters’ feelings during those growing up years, from teenage to adulthood. It’s fun to watch how our character struggles to learn singing the song so that she can perform it to the one she loves.
“Love You”(喜歡妳) by Hong Kong musician Wong Ka Kui (黄家驹) / Beyond in 1988. Sung in Cantonese throughout, this is another well-loved song that took Asia-Pacific by storm during the era. It appropriately expresses the adoration of our characters for each other and the moments they have together.
The use of harmonica and guitar to play the background music, simple and nostalgic, further captures the mood and conjures up memories of the time by-gone.
My Verdict
Growing up means changes. Things may not always turn out the way we plan, and our plans may not be as perfect as we have hoped them to be. We all need to learn to adapt to changes. Our characters change over time as they begin to understand life better. Not only they become stronger, they also become better for themselves and others.
Everyone can relate to this story one way or another. If you're a youth, you'd love this drama because you can relate to almost all the characters here - they can be your friends, your family, even yourself. Whoever you may be, you'd love this story too because it helps bring back all those memories of youth. Superb acting and captivating writing bring you back to those by-gone years of innocence.
I don’t usually watch youth dramas, but this one is a gem. Everything is so natural. It is so funny that I laugh so hard, and yet, I cry when I see my characters struggle. However, I have to point out that, like in most other Chinese dramas, lazy writing towards the ending spoils the whole otherwise wonderful drama. I wish the writers have been more thoughtful towards this end. It's such a pity because the whole drama has been so good. The last 2 episodes are just not keeping up with the initial momentum and quality. There are so many lost opportunities that the production team could have made this drama so stand out.
Despite from the "less than perfect" writing for the last 2 episodes, I still love this drama nonetheless. All the scenes are tastefully shot. I particularly love the scenes when Lu Shiyi rides a creaky bike taking Xia Xiaoju at the backseat. That beautiful screen shot encapsulates the whole story, Shàng Yóu.
Must watch! TWO THUMBS UP! BRAVO!
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This review may contain spoilers
My favourite BL of this year
When the series has yet to come to an end, I said it's my favourite BL of 2021, and now that it's actually ended, I'm STILL saying that 'We Best Love: No.1 For You' is my all-time NUMBER ONE BL of 2021! I don't think I can move on from this series anytime soon...STORY
The two main leads, Shu Yi and Shi De, are in an unrequited love - SY is in love with one of his close lady friend who's in love with one of SY's close guy friend... and SD is in love with SY. Talk about tragic love. SY and SD knew each other for over 10 years since they were kids, but they aren't friends, oh no no, god forbid they become friends. They are rivals. Competitive rivals, at least according to SY. SD, on the other hand, does not really care. The only reason he competes is just so he could get SY's attention. Cliché af, but cute af. SY is frustrated and upset that he's always No.2 to SD. He never gets to win over SD. The only reason SD tried as hard to be No.1 is cause he wants all of SY's focus on him, even if it makes SY angry. Unrequited love is tough, ok? SD's gotta do what he gotta do with what he's got. So of course, when SD finds the opportunity to keep him close, he goes and makes SY his page-boy, in exchange for keeping SY's secret. At first, SY hates it, but as the episodes progress, SY begins to soften to SD. He even calls SD his friend!! At some point in time, over the 10+ years that SD has loved SY, SD thought that if he couldn't get SY to love him back, at the very least, he wanted SY to be his friend. And it was heart-breaking, to watch SD try to hide and bottle his feelings just so they can be friends... It's just, man, SD is so selfless with his love for SY. He only gives and doesn't ask for anything in return except, well, only for that they could become friends until graduation. Which is in itself bringing me to tears!!!
Unrequited love is a theme that's really popular in any love story, but in 'WBL: No.1 For You', it's just so captivating, to watch these two men side-by-side as one watches the other with love-sick expressions while the other figures out his emotions and come to terms with his newfound feelings. You cannot ever forget the way they bared their hearts and souls to each at that bridge... I've never seen anything so beautiful and heart-wrenching. You can say, even though SD loved SY longer, I feel like SY is the one that loves harder. Nobody can stop him now!
Also, the fact that we got an underwater kiss in the first episode itself, not to say in the first minute of the series... oof bravo! And that kisses in the last two eps omg people, it was everything I could've ever asked for and more!
CAST/ACTORS
The chemistry between SY and SD is hot and boiling, but at the same time, soft and sweet. I could watch them all day even if they were to do nothing but sleep. Their good looks are enough of an eye-candy to last me a good few months. Before officially watching this series, I looked up the actors that played SY and SD. The chemistry between Sam Lin and Yu is also as heated as SY and SD. The two actors looked so comfortable with each other, it all seemed so natural. I've watched their IG lives too, and they're always in their own little world, being so flirty and giggly all the time. According to Evan, who acts in this series as Bing Wei, he said the following to express how much Sam and Yu are always acting like they're the only ones in the room, "We're just air in the room. Don't mind us." Agreed. I feel like a third-wheel whenever I watch them.
Yu is actually half-Japanese and half-Taiwanese, and if you watch the series, you'll notice how SY incorporates Japanese words here and there, and I absolutely LOVE it! It's just so adorable. Also, it's supposedly Yu's first time acting, which blew my mind cause he acts so well in the series I couldn't tell he was a rookie. And then we have Sam, the man with the sexiest voice. I absolutely fell in love with his voice. The dynamic between these two is out of this world, you wouldn't have known that this series was the first time they've met. They behave like freaking long-lost soulmates omg. The 'WBL: No.1 For You' team couldn't have done a better job casting them to play the main lead roles. Forever grateful to the staffs responsible for bringing them into the world of 'WBL: No.1 For You', and making us fall in love with them.
MUSIC
The OSTs in the series are beautiful and I love them all~ I hope they keep giving us their music.
Kelly Cheng - 《Will You Be My Love》
YU - 《Aqua Blue》
Alex Chou - 《Hard To Let Go》
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Watch it, guys. To those who still haven't, I don't know what you're doing, but you're missing on a real treasure. Every part of this drama was everything I hoped for and more! We got a simple yet interesting plot, an amazing cast, mind-blowing chemistry with jaw-dropping kisses, and would you look at that, we're even having a second season! What's not to love?
Season 1 ended with a happy-ending (i love it here), but to those who haven't watched last ep to the end, hot dang, would never have expected that post-credit scene ;-; but all the same, here's hoping for a better Season 2!! I'm mad excited about it, and I just love seeing Sam and Yu acting together~ There's something about the both of them....
Fighting to WBL all the casts, staffs and fans! Let's cheer for an amazing Season 2!
FYI, WBL reached a new record on MDL scoring a whooping rating of 67. 1! Never happened before and I was proud of WBL for breaking MDL~
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This review may contain spoilers
I really enjoyed this much much more than I expected!!
I have not read the novel so all I know is the summary and the trailer, and I went in with pretty average expectations for the plot. But I am aware about how good Nanon's acting is after having loved him in The Gifted franchise, so I'm excited nonetheless.Having watched this week by week, I did not expect to love it so much!! I thought the end was clever too and found it realistic and hopeful. One of the most interesting endings to a BL if I may say. Sharing my weekly episode reviews below:
Episode 1: Very promising start! We got an introduction to the characters and the main plot point of why their families hate each other so much. Pat and Pran are shown to not be on friendly terms (at least on Pat's side, because Pran seems very polite and generally chill). The music is a BANGER! I might be biased because this is totally my type of music, but for some reason it totally fits the aesthetics of the shots and the cinematography. I also love the domesticity in the ending credits!
Episode 2: Pat and Pran's dynamic seems to be much deeper than what we were first shown. From the first episode I thought Pat couldn't tolerate Pran at all, but here it seems like he let himself more, idk, loose? Like he's comfortably bantering and bickering with Pran and it feels very natural, so I guess this is actually his true nature that he has been suppressing for quite some time. The flashback also confirms this, but there has to be more than that because I'm not convinced that the "playing in a band together with the son of our family's worst enemy" is the reason Pran got transferred. Also hats-off to Nanon's acting. Ohm is also very good, actually, but more so Nanon. Anyway in terms of the leads' acting, this by far is on another league compared to other Thai BLs.
Episode 3: OKAY I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO START. This episode basically confirms that Pat likes Pran somehow, and his antics are like a silly school boy having a crush. What was interesting to me was the episode opened with showing how Pran was Pat's "secret crush", but the scene was actually showing Pran doing something special for Pat, which is not something friends, or even bestfriends, would do! This episode was just full of heart-fluttering moments and there was no cheesiness or awkwardness at all, the acting and writing are so natural. I feel like the show is starting to bring out its big guns!
Episode 4: OH MY GOODNESS NANON. THIS GUY CAN ACT. LIKE /REALLY/ ACT. I have so many emotions during this episode and for me this episode went by the fastest compared to the previous ones; I just felt so empty after finishing it. I really like how they made the characterizations. Pran can't hate Pat no matter how much he wants to because he's already in so deep. Pat...wow idk where to start. Let's just say I feel so complicated about him and it says a lot at how Ohm and the crew put a lot of thoughts into his character. In any case, Nanon wins this episode hands-down. I literally felt Pran's pain. His character is so layered yet soft-spoken and I'm so glad we are able to fully experience this, all thanks to the role being in the hands of a very talented actor.
Episode 5: This is my favorite episode by far! So many things happened here without feeling too rushed -- from the "night after" and how Pran quickly bounced back after getting his heart broken, to Pat testing Ink's feelings, to Pat /finally/ realizing his true feelings, and so much more up until the climax at the end with the kiss. My favorite part is definitely towards the end with the Pat-Pran-Wai fistfight and how things are suddenly starting to explode. Pat is ready to risk it all while Pran, even without Pat saying anything explicitly, knows where things are going and he is not ready to deal with it. And finally during the rooftop scene. It was obvious how Pran has his walls built up but it has slowly crumbled down hearing Pat confess. When Pat kissed him, he just gave up and gave in and I love how this moment just feels so raw and intimate. I'm not lying if I said that I literally hear their feelings while kissing -- their emotions during that part was THAT good. Cue to after the kiss when Pran wakes up to his senses again and comes back to his demeanor of being "not ready" and walks away. The last time I cried for a BL was during ATOTS which says a lot; and all credits go to the director and especially OhmNanon, because it didn't feel like them at all, but PatPran coming to life.
Episode 6: I'll be honest and say that nothing major really happened this episode for me, but I still like the pace nonetheless because it's very realistic. Now that I think of it, while this is a romcom so far, I'm getting strong slice-of-life vibes from it which is different from other school BLs that have dramas every episode just for the sake of it. This episode we watch Pran avoiding Pat as he keeps his feelings in check, while Pat does all that he can to step into Pran's walls. The faculty rivalry (and Pran's friends planning to beat Pat up wtf?) is getting too tiring for me now tho, and my only hope is that there's a purpose for this conflict which can lead into a good character development that will help PatPran's relationship in the future. I also find the bet interesting because we know that they already know that they like each other, but their pride and competitiveness against each other that they had all their lives are getting in the way. Anyway I'm not too nervous about this because they'll eventually give up in one way or another, and seeing the preview for episode 7, looks like they're getting there soon! I really enjoyed this episode especially the new OST and ending credits! <3
Episode 7: PatPran boyfriends T-T Anyway before I go into that, this episode highlighted the chemistry between the actors from all the flirting up to their moment in the end. I'm not lying if I said that I was grinning from ear to ear the whole time because their domesticity and back-and-forth banter were so sweet, and if the acting wasn't this good it would have become cringy. Pran teasing Pat was definitely a delight to see after seeing him hurt in the previous episodes, and Pat as always is a very colorful character. What I did not expect to see though (or at least this early) was Wai. Him guilt-tripping Pran into helping him was so uncomfortable to watch and is definitely not a good thing to do even between the closest of friends. I'm interested to see how he would impact PatPran's already delicate relationship seeing how he seems to be a significant character. Finally my favorite part is the ending when Pat gave way for Pran and confessed his feelings. He set aside his pride for Pran and stepped up so they can stop wasting time on their little game, and now they're officially boyfriends T-T
Episode 8: This was the most emotionally-charged episode for me so far, and yes even more than Episode 5. The whole episode is filled with PatPran cute boyfriends scenes, but actually underneath all of that is a conflict that was brewing to happen with a secret that they literally have to hide from everyone, Pran's hesitations, and the differences betwen Pat and Pran's POVs. For me this episode is actually very smart because these sources of conflict were not presented in our face all the time -- it was sometimes masked with fluffy domestic moments, but actually if you watch deeper there is so much more under the surface. The big scene at the end was also a game-changer, and I think this is what will set the tone for the rest of the series.
Episode 9-12: These were a whole rollercoaster of emotions and I thought the ending was such a smart twist! I BAWLED during the end of episode 11 and what I loved is while you see this kind of thing coming, you also don't, so while waiting for the "will they separate will they not", it hit me a lot harder when it finally happened. Again, huge props to Nanon and Ohm's acting! And when the twist at the end was revealed, I LOVED it. It's always my main gripe with mid-show breakups, like how do these people not stay in contact with all these technology? But PatPran went beyond that and was brave enough to devise their plan, living up to their general theme of "fooling the world". I thought it was really smart and realistic too that the parents did not immediately approve, but still optimistic that they will surely get there :)
All in all, I highly recommend this show. A common plot made extraordinary with thoughtful acting and a writing that is full of heart.
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First things first. The music: Absolutely amazing. I love the way they make the music the epicenter of everything in this drama. Sure, it has a cast of wacky characters, but when it comes to the music, everything else just goes to the background. You forget the silliness and instead get lost in the musical atmosphere.
Secondly, character-wise I think Nodame is by far the cutest most silly and lovable female leads of all time. Chiaki, is just an absolute stud in this and I fell for this guy instantly. Some might complain about the romance between the two characters, calling them childish and what not. But I found it to be so entertaining and enjoyed ever minute! The rest of the characters are hard not to love and I found myself wishing a happy ending for each and every one of them.:))) (Especially disco guy! Hahaha.)
It was because of this drama, that I started playing the piano again. I had given up on it in high school, but this drama brought me back to it and helped me appreciate the world of classical music once again. :)
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This review may contain spoilers
Mankind's greed has no limits....
I've been anticipating this movie, for quite a while now and I have to say the wait was worth it.If you're one to get easily emotional, then get ready to grab your tissue box, because BoGum's doe eyes will make you cry and feel for his character, Seobok, who amid everything was still innocent and yet treated so unkindly by humans, through all his life. To never know kindness, love or trust, and see himself as nothing but a specimen with a purpose.
It truly depicts the lack of humanity when it comes to study and use animals for such, also the greed of those who fear death while seeking for a way to prolong their petty lives.
"It scare me to think of dying, but living forever is scary too."
Kiheon and Seobok both share something in common here, they both fear the unknown that lies in dying, and yet they are also afraid of living.
"What should I believe to not be scared?"
The symbolic value and moral grounds this movie works with are deeper than one can assume, and mainly questioned by the two main characters, along their journey, were their fears and doubts are exposed.
"Do you think dying... is really like sleeping?"
"Maybe."
"Then how come people aren't afraid to fall asleep? It's like dying for a while."
For some it might be the typical collaboration between Korean/American plot with the whole experiment and survival, however it's GongYoo and BoGum's acting that takes the prize.
Special effects too in a way when it comes to production.
The OST is nothing out of the ordinary for me, although quite right into the emotional scenes.
Not going to lie, it's quite an emotional ride.
The message in plot is more than it seems.
Its all about acceptance and resilience.
And knowing what's wrong and right.
"It's beautiful."
"What is?"
"To be alive."
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Despite billing itself as a medical drama which features a savant surgeon, Good Doctor evolved into quite a different animal. While it does feature bloody surgeries and a hospital atmosphere, this drama yearns to be an inspiring slice-of-life. Most patients serve as episodic cases and often provide the backdrop for the hospital staff to interact. Though the medical side was handled relatively well, it often felt gimmicky. Developments between the hospital staff seemed much more important to the writers. To their credit, character interaction is where this drama excels. The exchanges may elicit wide ranges of emotions from viewers, anything between sorrow and anger to warmth and joy.
Certain things did not work as intended. Hospital politics feature in most medical dramas, but they were boring and unnecessary in Good Doctor. A particular romantic red herring exists (as they always do), taking up a large chunk of episodes. When things are finally sorted, the "proper" progression initially feels jagged and too quick -- despite the pairing itself being very nice and even desirable. This phenomenon of sudden forward motion occurs also with the lead character, as he moves from extended developmental purgatory to huge successive change. Even these issues are somewhat forgivable though, due to the power and likability of the actors.
As you might have garnered, Good Doctor features an earnestly talented cast. Joo Won shines at the top as gentle-hearted savant Park Shi On. Everything about his performance, from the way he held his body to his speech, spoke of good research and execution. Prickly Kim Do Han is something of an internet sensation, lovingly dubbed Doctor Wook ("anger") by Korean netizens. Joo Sang Wook brings natural charisma to this role, believably building a man colored by both by hardness and secret warmth. Though she was handed a character with little back story, something about Moon Chae Won just clicks. Her Cha Yoon Seo might dole out less impact, but she serves her purpose well. All three have wonderful chemistry, in any combination. Of the supporting cast, nearly everyone involved with the hospital politic aspect of the plot felt wasted. This is especially true of Kim Min Seo, Na Young Hee, Chun Ho Jin (who always seemed thunderstruck).
Many musical tracks were great, especially instrumental pieces. Various themes adopt an ethereal quality and a nonsense language reminiscent of Yuki Kaijura; these are masterful. Unfortunately, traditional vocal pieces are far more numerous than expected. This led to many forgettable ballads; during a particular episode, they actually stuffed every single into the action -- and topped the final scene off with an entirely new song! Despite this slight overcrowding, most were at least decent. Standouts include "I Am In Love" (2BiC), "How Come You Don't Know?" (Kim Jong Kook), and late game offering "Love Medicine" (Joo Won).
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Great drama!
Story - very interesting and dynamic. World class military action series.Plot - without holes in the storyline, realistic, intensive and fascinating.
Acting - Yang Yang and Jiang Lu Xia are amazing and giving their all to the roles. This is Yang Yang best drama so far. The supporting actors are indeed great and have huge contribution to the drama. Until 45 ep no bad performance all actors complement each other.
Cinematography - very professional and impressive.
Costumes and make-up - unbelievable good and realistic.
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I just chose it without any thoughts. At the time, I was in "japanese dramas mood" so I watched many japanese dramas without being picky or impatient.
2) Storyline/Plot:
To start with, I am not familiar with the story since I haven't read the manga or even heard about it so this was my first time getting to know the storyline.
Positive points:
*This drama's story made me interested ever since the first 10 minutes and that's really rare to happen since I never care about first episodes because they don't make much difference yet this drama's story made me really invested in its events so waiting for the next episode was a real torture.
*Main Genres:
--->Humor: Yes, this drama was funny because it was hilarious all over, sometimes it felt like anime scenes that was funny and entertaining most of the time.
The comedy concept was present too, we get to see funny characters with funny scenes. I have to point that Nika's inside conversations were really awesome which can bring good laughter.
--->Romance: it wasn't that deep nor that light. The romance in this drama was equilibred in a way that would make you invested in the romantic development and the whole concept. The teenage love story was cool to watch since it was light enough.
--->School: The usual concept that you find in school dramas; friends, enemies, teachers, popularity, nerds and so on. I've seen many school dramas before so this wasn't something special yet Switch Girl was more enjoyable.
Negative points:
*I can't think of any, except that this drama was too damn short! They should've made it longer, it felt rushed sometimes but that didn't ruin the whole concept.
Story: 8.5/10
3) Acting/Cast:
*Nishiuchi Mariya:
I am not familiar with her as an actress, she was introduced to me through this drama and what a great introduction! I liked her acting skills and enjoyed her role in a good way. From now on, I will anticipate her new dramas.
The character was great: Nika made us sad sometimes, excited some other times and entertained most of the time.
The ON and OFF modes were really awesome, I couldn't choose since both of them were enjoyable and funny; everyone of us have that hidden side within himself yet here it was exagerated to make it look captivating and hilarious.
*Kiriyama Renn:
I only saw him in "Hana Kimi Remake" but here he was different so I didn't know what to expect yet I surprised myself by accepting his general acting and role.
The character wasn't enjoyable like Nika's but I liked it anyway. Arata's appearance was nice and great sometimes; he may sound stiff at some points but all of that was decided by the storyline so I haven't focused much on that fact.
Another point that I should mention: Arata with or without glasses didn't sound contradictory to me; it was the same character with a different look.
*Other Cast: The supporting roles were cool and well chosen even the school nerds; no complains.
*Relationships:
--->Romance : The chemistry wasn't that great because romance wasn't deep enough.
--->Nika's family: Her mother and sister were always good to look at plus their adventures as a family was always hilarious.
--->Nika's school: Friends were good and the Monkey Boss made events entertaining sometimes.
*In each episode there were new cast and that's exactly what I love about J-dramas because with different cast comes different events, there's no spinning around the same point.
Cast: 8/10
Acting: 9/10
4) The ending:
I appreciated the ending, I was glad because they haven't took it to the usual concept of hiding something yet it wasn't that special, only acceptable and cool to watch: Nice ending overall.
The ending: 8/10
5) My impression (How did it affect me):
*I realy enjoyed this drama, even the waiting for upcoming episodes was fun.
*I haven't skipped any parts and that's really rare since I am an impatient person, believe me if I don't skip parts that means there weren't any chance of getting bored (well, that could be explaned by the fact that the episode's length was only 27 minutes).
*Is this drama memorable: Yes definitely, I enjoyed it so much. Even though, I finished it weeks ago, I still remember each and every event.
My impression: 9/10
6) Overall:
*If you like funny romantic school dramas then you would like this.
*If you like girls dramas you will enjoy this.
*If you're looking for a great female lead you may actually like this.
Overall: 8.5/10.
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ITSAY = PERFECTION
ITSAY is that precious feeling that no one can ever steal from you. Never ever. I'm writing it to you.This drama, which has stirred all our emotions, is what you call EXCELLENT. The vibes it gives off are so deep & beautiful that it makes you feel nostalgic. The kind of storytelling done in the series is something that leaves no heart unprevailed. It is indeed the rarest of the rare Thai BL drama you'll ever witness.
Fabulous direction & screenplay, heart-warming dialogues, stimulating plot devices, awesome acting by the cast and most importantly, 'astounding' cinematography, oof.
Another fact that makes it unique is how incredibly they've introduced props like hibiscus, coconut, etc and utilized them well.
SPECIAL mentions to Bilkin and PP for offering their natural, simple and outstanding acting skills to this already precious story. Their dialogue delivery, accurate expressions, smiles, cries and everything made us smile & cry as if we were a part of their beautiful love story. Thank you so much you two. You guys have won over our heart and you along with the series will always be in our thoughts and dreams.
I really really hope THAI writers continue writing such beautiful stories and then the makers adapt them into series. How amazing that will be than watching the same cliché highschool/uni stories with romance and intimacy!
I swear "I TOLD SUNSET ABOUT YOU" is such a delightful thing to witness, I feel blessed. My life somehow feels complete. Eagerly waiting for I PROMISE YOU THE MOON- IPYTM (ITSAY part2).
THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE!
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This review may contain spoilers
Pretty decent drama for having that many episodes
I know what you're thinking. 41 episodes, that seems a lot and bound to have a lot of troubles. Even I was concern too but in honest truth, it wasn't all that bad.Before I continue with my review, I'm just going to pinpoint a couple of things about this drama and hopefully that will determine if you want to watch it or not.
1. If you're not a fan of the drama cliché of the leads meeting each other as kids, then you might as well skip this one. If you're not bother by it, then continue on. I considered this as a good drama cliché.
2. There are no evil parents or in-laws
3. There are a few misunderstandings, in the beginning and then right around Ep 31-32. However, these misunderstandings are cleared up pretty quickly, so if you're concern about long episode wait of solving the misunderstandings, you don't have to worry. The second misunderstanding doesn't lead to a break up but more of FL's concern and need of reassurance about ML's love for her.
4. Very minor love rival for our main couple. I said minor because the FL's rival doesn't show up until much later in the drama and even then, she's only in a few episodes but she is hecka annoying. There is a love triangle but that's within the secondary couple. There are 3 couples in total for this drama.
5. Some people may get annoyed by Yu Da, the guy that forms our 2nd couple and is part of the secondary love triangle. Either because of his actions or they seemly are rooting for the other guy in the love triangle. He doesn't really bother me but I can see the annoyance especially when it's with the SFL.
6. There is a main villain but it's more like the forming of a villain due to the greedy nature of wanting to win and to bring down the ML.
I personally like this drama overall and my rating of a 9 doesn't necessarily mean that you'll have the same opinion or taste as me. I gave this drama a rating of a 9 because for one, it's a 41 episode drama and I got to admit, it's actually pretty okay from start to finish for having that many episodes. There are some moments where it drags but that's what you expect with dramas this long. However, even with that, I still anticipate for the next episode so at least it kept me interested for the most part.
Story is nothing new here but it isn't bad either as the FL will play the key role to the ML's recovery process. This drama does a great balance on showing the GO competition and the building of relationships between our couples. Now there are some scenes where they do explain the movements of GO and how the play of this game works but not enough explanation for a newbie like me to understand. However, in replacement of that, the drama shows cool and awesome fighting scenes between our GO players to show who will win and I for one, really enjoy those cinematic scenes.
The one thing I wish that could've been better is at least having one of the character suspecting our villain throughout the drama. In terms of that aspect, the characters are too trusting which leads to the villain getting away with a lot of stuff until close to the end. Now the stuff he does just impacts the ML for the most part, as he is his main target so while his plans and actions are evil, there not as evil as other villains I've seen in other dramas. Also, I wasn't too fond of the secondary couple love triangle. That wasn't needed at all for this drama.
In summary, I'm very impressed with the quality of this drama being that it's 41 episodes. FL is a little bit annoying in the beginning but she's a strong character overall so that's a big plus for me. The drama OST for the intro and credit are amazing. I never skip it! It may not be everyone's cup of tea but I for one enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
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Jang Kiyong unconvincing as creative, Paris-based, free-spirited, rebellious, footloose photographer
"Now, We are Breaking Up" tries to tell a love story in reverse (e.g. it has been there already). This would be an interesting project in itself, yet...The plot is emotionally quite complex, the characters are in principle jucily interesting and ambivalent. If a KDrama can't take care of a multi-layered, complex mixture of feelings, then who can? Unfortunately, I have to say that (in my opinion) this project doesn't really work out so well with the casting.
Regarding her emotional intensity, Song Hye-kyeo is (as so often) a major factor for watching. As the heroine, here and there her reservedness, sobered by life, is perhaps a bit much. But in places this cracks open. It is this well dosed mixture and subtleness, that makes her role convincing - the experienced fashion designer in her late 30s has turned away from flirtation and rather concentrates on her work, into which she throws herself completely. Being the talented and experienced professional she is, hardly does she ever get upset by anything. ... until her encounter with the young photographer Yoon Jae-gook, that throws her (emotional) life (supposedly) upside down. Her reservedness so far operated as shelter and imprisonment at the same time. Circumstances don't really offer a chance to free herself from the corset of reason, which is protecting her deeply injured heart - never mind let herself fall and trust emotionally. This inner dynamic is not so nice to look at - or rather endure - for the viewers. But I don't think you can blame Song Hye-kyeo, as she handles this inner tension and the ambivalent moments of her complex role very well.
On the other hand (unfortunately) I don´t buy Jang Ki-yong in his role as a creative, Paris-based, free-spirited, a bit rebellious, footloose, and at the same time successful photographer. For me he behaves way too reserved, well adjusted, well-behaved - a sympathetic, dear, rich, successful boy. So unfortunately, HIS ambivalence doesn't convince me. Perhaps actor Jang Ki-yong lacks the life experience (on the rebellious side)? And since he can´t really fill this side with life, I am not convinced by the chemistry between the two leads. It doesn't get to me how the young man in his supposedly fiery manner, would be able to reignite on an EMOTIONAL level the fire of lust for life and joie de vivre (beyond work) that is still blazing somewhere deep down in Ha Yeong-eun... So the key to all further makjang doesn't really fit into the lock. Too bad. Thus the experiment of telling love in reverse didn't really work out that well.
The KDrama is not bad because of that (...though admittedly disappointing ...). On the pro side: There are freshening subplots, each with actors in good humour, who have actually won awards for their spirited performances. The setting in the creative industries is kind of charming, too. Finally, the Korean family values are (once again, but successfully as always) playing with fire on the drama front...
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Kim Hee Sun is perfect as loving and protective mom Jo Kang Ja as well as teenage friend Jo Bang Wool. I can't say enough about her acting. All of the actors were great from the young to the veteran actors. Regardless of Ji Soo's good looks, that boy can act. His emotional versatility as Go Bok Dong will take him a long way in the future. I look forward to seeing more of him. Kim Tae Hoon makes it easy and strangely sad to hate Do Jeong Woo. The person I felt the most conflict for was Kim Hee Won as Ahn Dong Chil. I wasn't sure what to think of him until the very end. I'm so glad the writer clears every thing up with him. His character was the link that held the story together. Besides the female lead, my favorite character is Go Su Hee as the quirky and totally lovable and ultimate best friend, Han Gong Joo. I adore her!!! I think the weak link is surprisingly Ji Hyun Woo as Park Noh Ah although I will say as the drama went on he got better. It may have been his character being that he seemed naive and weak that became stronger while remaining nice.
The music is really good.
I will probably rewatch this at some point.
I recommend this drama to everyone. It is really well written and acted,
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Jang Geum is not an ordinary drama because it was actually based in real life. In history, she is known to be a palace cook turned into royal physician but of course, like all history books made drama, producers has their ways in tweaking with the story line so a lot may have been changed. Setting that thought aside, I have enjoyed all 60 episodes of Jang Geum because in every episode, there are always different conflicts. In which will be solved on the next episode or the next. It keeps me on my toes and I just couldn’t help but get addicted to it. I like the thought that Jang Geum had great mentors so she could become the person whom the king trusted her to be. Then she also had different support systems: mainly King Jungjong, Capt. Min Jung Ho (the love interest), Yeon Saeng (her best friend), Lady Han Baek Young (her mentor) having this people around her she was able to survive the harsh world within the palace. Set things straight and become the Dae (meaning great) Jang Geum that she is known up to this date.
Oh and yeah, not to forget the romantic moments between Jang Geum and Jung Ho. Watching them in all those lovey-dovey moments was worth every tears I’ve shed for this drama.
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