News 
This review may contain spoilers
Best ever romance story
A very subtle and charming love story. I really like the acting of the two main characters. There is no significant violence. A mother-in-law and grandmother who really love the female lead. The positive value of this drama is: that every human being has their own destiny. Past trauma and the divorce that happened to her parents made her reluctant to marry. But when she found her true love and the man treated her very well. Then the trauma slowly faded, and she was sure to have a very good married life, and protect and love him throughout his life. Wang gege and Wang Kaimu...hmmm they both did it very perfectly. Success to both of you.Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Try it, it's fun if you turn your brain off!
This is another one of my favorite types of shows, the best/worst short dramas to watch! And I can't believe it looks like I'm the only person watching this in the world? Spoilers ahead (though it won't matter to the story at all, trust me).The Pros
The cast is very good looking. The hair, costumes, and accessories, for the most part, are excellent. The sets and scenes are beautiful, and if you watch a lot of cdramas you will see some familiar places. The wirework that the ML and FL performed was excellent, you can tell they must have done a lot of practicing to make the flights look so effortless. The music was really fun in some places, like the series couldn't decide if it was a light romcom or an exciting costume drama and the music showed that. The ML and FL are both really good actors and they could almost pull off this trainwreck of a show, but not quite!
The Cons
What the heck is up with the editing. The scenes go like this: they are in the middle of town in the daytime, no they are in the forest at night, wait, they are now in a dungeon? wait no they are in a bamboo forest in the daytime, no night time, where the heck are they now? No transition just flittering back and forth between times and locations. You could make a fun drinking game out of this. Every time there is a sudden confusing switch take a shot!
I never did really figure out what the story was. They were all looking for a chart and then somehow said fck it all we'll forget about that aspect of the story and it wasn't mentioned again. And the ML and FL were married (contract/temporary?) but how/why we'll never know. The FL and ML were both in disguise, one was an assassin and the other a marquis? Maybe? The fight scenes were so bad they were like a high school production. Keep that FL away from a sword please!
The villain was over the top cheesy and not in a good way. Even his wig was bad!
All in all I had fun watching this one. Try it, you might like it too. I have found that I really enjoy these short series, where you never know what you are going to get. The episodes are only 10 minutes long, less then that if you don't count the pre and post credits.
Was this review helpful to you?
First, the story: I gave it a ten, because this is definitely one new plot in Korean Drama Land... Just reading the initial description of this show made it immediately into my plan to watch..... Young Handsome Guys turning into Wrinkly Old Grandpas trying to solve the mystery to return Young Handsome Guys again. So we have mystery, police getting some bad guys, a little notch of romance, a huge bucket of bromance (my fav), and so many ROFLing. The ending was just heartwarming. I wouldn't mind a couple more episodes :D
Second, the acting: Seriously, old, REALLLY OLD, men acting 30's, you don't see that everyday, do you?!!
the acting was spot on, for our F4... You really gotta watch to know.. That's all I gotta say.
Finally, I am gonna wrap up by music, which was synced beautifully, and not to forget the little noises popping every once and a while (make you laugh even more)
So.... WATCH THIS DRAMA PLEASE, it's just 12 episodes... not much time wasted
Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best art/story/drama of 2020
Its been a while since I have cried buckets watching a drama. Iam a fujoshi so I was well aware of this novel getting made into a series but was really hesitant to watch it because its china and for sure, the plot would be altered to exclude anything homosexual. But then when I realised that the script writer is the same as the original writer, I felt like the characters will be given justice. And boy I was right. Iam so glad I watched this show. From production to direction to acting to storytelling....and the mesmerizing portrayal of art, war and history..everything about this show is beautiful and full of emotions. And the best part, it did not hurt my fujoshi heart as did some of the other chinese bl adapted novels.... The first thing I fell in love with is the characters. Mr Cheng and Boss Shang will forever live in my memory. Even the supporting characters hold a special place in your heart...you laugh when they laugh, you cry with their sorrows...you may hate some of the characters but still cannot dislike them. Like a relative of yours that you hate but cannot exclude them from your lives. Second, the actors......Ill flip my brains if Andrew Yin is not nominated for awards this year. He became Boss Shang!!. His dedication is amazing and I have utmost respect towards him for portraying Shangs love for opera, his work, his madness, his devotion towards Cheng and so much more. So did Huang Xiaoming . His portrayal of Cheng as a wicked in a good way, full of love but typical rich guy and maintening the emotions flowing from certain corners and his devotion towards Shang was on point. I must say every actor/actresses in this show have done a wonderful job. I really felt like they were the real characters....need I say more?. Next the production and direction, I was so happy that the production did justice to this show. Every antique, clothing, jewellery, architecture,scenary was so beautiful and did not look artificial. You feel like you are actually living in that era. The direction was clean, pacing of scenes and the storytelling was as if you are reading the novel. And yes beijing opera.....i did know a bit about it before watching it so it was easier for me but never did I thought I would love listening to opera tbh. Also the amount of knowledge they have portrayed via this medium is amazing. Yes... Opera is dying and I really wished people would pay more attention to it. And this show places this emotion/concept into the younger generation in such a subtle manner. Claps. And the music...I have always been into ballads, and traditional instruments so this was a heaven for me. I could listen to this music for ages. For me, I know that Iam really into a show, when I actually pay a lot of attention to each and every dialogue. I could not miss any.... And thats whats beaitiful about this show. Now the only issue I had with this show was the portrayal of the japanese. I know they did really really really horrible stuff and its something none of us can revert. Sadly this world is a cruel place and war makes you into a horrible beast. I can understand the emotions of the people as my own country had several attackers too but I really wished they would put some effort in bringing some emotions in the japanese cast which was probably chinese. I felt like i was watching robots sometimes(thats just a typical japanese stereotype)...and had trouble when they spoke in japanese...did they use vocaloids hah..jk.It was very plain be it fighting or their cruel actions. I could only feel emotions from kazuma at the end episodes. And let me mention that reporters wife too while iam at it who seemed to come out of a horror show featuring fox possesed humans. I also regret the ending a bit.... I wished they would provide us a ending scene with old shang and cheng after their separation..and a bit of post war insights and the opera culture impacts. I feel that would be wholesome. But yes, I knew i had to deal with such an ending in the first place before begenning so iam fine.Now my biggest take from this show...... The light fluffy heart warming interactions between cheng and shang. So basically they are lovers in the novel but because of you know who, they made it soulmates and brought in a wife to fortify it. But it dint upset me becuase the writer gave us all the implied feelings and emotions. I personally hate the word bromance.... And frankly speaking, this story does not give you bromance nor BL.....it gives us more than that, the bonds. The bonds between soulmates...which cannot be broken be it in this life or other. Love can be in different forms and need not be just between lovers or friends. Its hard to explain what I feel but iam sure you guys will feel the same watching this. Its not empty, nor satisfying nor dirty.......its just pure beautiful in so many levels. Emotions and bonds, not just between shang and cheng but also the bonds with the shui house, cheng family, the opera circle and lives basically...is what holds this show together. Hatsoff to the writer, the creators and the actors.
I just hope in future we live in a place where the writer does not have to alter their contents to fit the society however iam just glad for now that BL novels are getting more achkowledged for their art and plots. Lets support the novel too. And Andrew Yin....I love you...you tore my heart apart during this whole show. Boss Shang and Mr. Cheng will forever remain soulmates in my heart.
PS: Everytime boss shang ran my heart skipped a beat thinking that he would trip.
Was this review helpful to you?
Watered down tea...
Tea that look like cocktails brighten up this otherwise bland, and I mean really bland Altdif commercial, yes I checked there is such a brand and they have a tea house you can visit and probably try all the tea you see in this show if you ever go to Seoul.The tea house is as sterile as sterile gets feeling more like a lab than a cozy place to drink tea.
However being completely starved by lack of GL it is nice to see girls interact, and slightly awkwardly flirt in what I would not go as far as call enemies to lovers as it is more of a slightly disagreement to flirt kind of deal.
The 3 characters seem to do what they are supposed to do without much drama, as the supporting character truly is there to support the leads to get closer and does not really do much more.
There are no annoying elements here, but then again there is not much of anything here... having the highlight of the show include some foam on the lips and an indirect kiss...
It is not bad, it is not good, it truly just is a cup of water someone dipped a tea bag in for like 2 seconds leaving some colour but not much taste...
Still since it takes about 30 minutes to complete this, I will say go watch it support the little GL we get, as there is nothing wrong with it, nothing annoying and it is a pretty smooth watch. Just do not expect much of anything and all will be fine!
Was this review helpful to you?
So Sweet It Can Never Turn Sour!
The comment section is on point for this series - It's Crack in an oven turned to a 1000 degrees.What ties this short series so beautifully; The Acting and definitely the Chemistry. The two leads held a 3 episode series with practically no assistance from side characters, and no actual "plot-line" to go by.
This series went all in on the concept "HaHaHa! Rolling on the Floor Laughing" type of feel;
With it's well known fourth wall breaks from the first season, the numerous parodies of romance tropes, the bonus of having us the viewer as one side of a hilariously insane love triangle, making fun of blatant product placement and using it to their advantage, and of course using current world events - In their case the I-TOW virus - as a means to a successful end.
But more than that, and under all that crack there is an absolutely heartwarming message; Be genuine, speak your truth and make sure to let the people in your life know that you undeniably love them.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
"We're moving forward albeit slowly. We're standing side by side."
When I found out I was getting a Season 2 of Utsukushi Kare S2 I was over the moon. Seriously, I literally squeeled! I missed my boys so much and it was a joy watching these 4 extra episodes although I wish we had more. But, I digress.I love how the writers kept this realistic in both story and characters. Both Kiyoi and Hira are still pretty much the same but have also changed quite a bit. Kiyoi is more confident in himself. He's also more content & secure in showing his feelings for Hira. He's even mastered a way to get Hira to listen to him when he wants him to love himself more. It's a cute method, pretty much old "nasty" Kiyoi but with good intensions. Hira, although his character development is not as obvious it is there. He can see that he needs to get better and that he's stuck in the same place. While before, he refused to even acknowledge those problems. Let's face it the type of self-worth and mental health issues he has are not going to go away overnight. He needs help, I wish it came in a professional way, but he gets the second-best way: in a mentor that's been there and can be the light he needs to get better. With Kiyoi's love being the guiding force, I have no doubt that with hard work and hopefully therapy his issues will be able to go away. And there is where the title of my review comes in.
To be honest, I'm glad the writers didn't give Hira a magical cure because that is just not realistic, it's gonna take time. Sure, I would have liked more happiness and intimacy but that's not who Hira and Kiyoi are. Their love is strong and getting stronger every day, no matter the issues. I can't wait to see what the next chapter brings for Hira and Kiyoi in Eternal.
Hagiwara and Yagi brought their a game especially in the big confrontation scene in ep 3. They are so good at what they do. And it was obvious how happy they were to be working together again. There was this sense of happiness in all their scenes together. Made this even more of a joy to watch. Chemistry? 10+
I'm giving this a 10 because I loved everything about it. Even when the story may have seemed repetitive, it was important to be told that way. I'm gonna be rewatching this and S1 over and over until I can watch the movie. Highly recommended of course.
Was this review helpful to you?
I didn’t expect to get this attached to The Rise of Ning✨
At first, I thought this would just be another “pretty average” historical drama—you know, noble family, internal conflicts, slow-burn romance. But somehow… it’s addictive?The story itself isn’t something super groundbreaking, but the way it’s delivered is what makes it so engaging. The pacing is neat—not too rushed, but never boring either. And most importantly, every conflict actually feels like it matters, not just thrown in for the sake of drama.
And the chemistry… honestly, this is the slow-but-hits-hard type. It’s not explosive right from the start, but as the story progresses, it gets deeper and deeper. The interactions are subtle, but that’s exactly what makes it feel real. The glances, the small gestures, the quiet presence they have for each other—it hits more than just sweet dialogue. Visual-wise? Very safe. Costumes, sets, color tones—everything is pleasing without being overwhelming. It’s not overly extravagant, but it’s enough to make you believe in the world.
Of course, it’s not without flaws. Some parts feel a bit dragged, especially in the middle when conflicts start piling up. And if you’re someone who prefers fast-paced plots or big shocking twists, this might feel a bit slow. But honestly, that’s where the charm lies. This is a drama meant to be enjoyed slowly. Not something you rush through, but something that keeps pulling you back because you’re curious about the characters’ growth.
So in conclusion… this isn’t a drama that screams for attention, but one that quietly makes you fall in love with it. “okay… just one more episode” and suddenly it’s already dawn 😭
If you enjoy historical romance with family intrigue, well-developed characters, and a slow but deep chemistry… this is definitely worth watching.
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Another Xianxia drama that will bring tears so get your tissues out. The story/plot was well written. Wasn't predictable and the plot flowed smoothly. I found myself counting down the days and waking up excited for another episode. The acting. One word. Awesome! As I said in the first sentence, you need tissues. The crying scenes did their part well. The acting was a little rough on some parts but overall, the acting was amazing. I'll be honest, I didn't really pay much attention to the music, but on the parts I did notice, the music fit the scene perfectly. For the re-watch value, I give it a 10. I will definitely find myself re-watching this drama until I find another drama that's as good as this one (which is unlikely). Overall, This one was spectacular. Give it a go and I PROMISE you won't regret it. Was this review helpful to you?
Drama Special Season 7: The Legendary Lackey
12 people found this review helpful
First of all this is very short (only one episode!) but that does not mean that you are left confused and unsatisfied at the end (which happens very often in case of drama specials). Also it is a story set in high school and is all about Bromance (who needs romance when the bromance is this good!). And if you need another reason for watching then there is the amazing acting especially by the lead trio. Lee Ji Hoon was so good here as a high schooler that I was very surprised when I found out his age (how can he be 28?!). That man deserves to be a lead in a comedy(soon...please).
So I would to recommend this adorable drama special to everyone because this is a very very funny show which manages to be cute and warming at the same time.
Was this review helpful to you?
This movie concentrated on the heroine who wanted to get revenge for the murder of her family. The portrayal of her desperation to get the murderer was well done by Kim Sun Ah. I liked her really much and understood her desperation. I could identify with her. On the other hand there was the villain who was a real creep. He gave me the shivers and I certainly hope I will never ever meet someone like that (actually I hope such a guy will never ever exist).
To get the villain the heroine needs help because she is sitting in a wheelchair and that makes it difficult to chase after a perfectly healthy young man. That is when the Five are formed. 3 men and 1 women who help the heroine to get the murderer in exchange for the heroines organs. Each team member does have someone who urgently needs an organ transplant. It is a situation where you will get a live if you offer another. The movie gives us to every character an introduction. So that you can actually see their loved ones and understand their desperation.
In this situation obviously their must be some conflicts and the movie shows us glimpses of those. But overall it is mainly about the chase.
And I think that is actually the point that made this movie for me not a great movie. it is still good. Thrilling and entertaining. But I actually would have wanted to see more of the conflicts in the group. I would have liked it if the process of bonding between the heroine and the 4 team members who only want her organs was shown in more detail. I know what you will say: to show that in a 2 hour movie is just wishfull thinking. The time girl, look at the time. And you're right. That is why i hereby declare that I will root for more screen time in form of a drama series. Where all of the characters can shine and enter our heart on an emotionally level. I really do hope this takes place because I really want to know more about The Five.
Considering my wanting of getting more of the story maybe you shoud give this movie a try. It may not be perfect but it is certainly a good movie.
Was this review helpful to you?
It's super duper average and cliche it gets a 5.5 for me.
Was this review helpful to you?
Really fun to watch
Not only is the acting really well done -- we really get the sense that Amano Yashiro is in Tendou Kagura's body and vice versa -- but the storyline is pretty creative. I love Kami-sama and Ukon and the comedic relief they provide (I also loved Kami-sama's backstory).I also really enjoyed the questions this show poses. If Amano took over Tendou's body, what does that mean for Tendou? Can Nanahara really fall in love with Amano if he is now a girl, or is it just that he sees his friend as just his friend? Does a person like someone for just their personality or does their body play a part in that? Super interesting stuff. I don't think there's a clear answer. It's different for everybody, just like it is in real life.
There's only eight episodes total so the pace moves quickly (which I actually like, it means that misunderstandings don't last very long), and it's a refreshing and fun story.
Also big thanks to Furritsu for the subs <3
Was this review helpful to you?
And it also great to see the handsome Lee Dong Wook, although i didn't think that he acted well but who cares, he got the face hehehe and the character that will melt you down..
The story is not like any other drama i had watched, the woman was older than the man so maybe that's what make it interesting but other than that the story is quite the same that a rich man in love with poor woman who grateful for her life. I love the ending it is quite unexpected but so happy about it.
If you like being drag with tears then here is the one for you! Totally recommended :)
Was this review helpful to you?
With that being said, Anna felt like an afterthought. She barely showed up in the first few episodes and never really had an active role in the plot (No, K2 watching her cook ramen badly through the CCTV doesn't count). All that fashion show stuff and the Barcelona Angel stuff...it felt unnecessary.
A lot of the political terminology went over my head (STONKS?) and I honestly felt like the reason for "revenge" really wasn't strong enough. I never felt connected or cared about the girlfriend that was killed, and I think all the Kumar-gate talk was confusing. It probably could've been stronger it had been connected with CYJ/Anna's backstory.
Was this review helpful to you?
