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This review may contain spoilers
After having seen all the versions of Itazura na kiss existing (including the 1996 Japanese version), and particularly loved the “Love in Tokyo” version, saying I was waiting for this special would be an understatement. Though, I wouldn’t say my thirst was completely quenched. Let me explain.STORY (8). I won’t talk about the initial story here as I find it almost perfect. Still I want to comment some aspects of the special episode, and one in particular...
Until now, only the Taiwanese version has dealt with the honey moon (as I don’t recognize the Korean 7 minutes episode as a real adaptation), and as I thought the honey moon story was deserving a long episode (just like in TKA), I was really happy to see on the details the episode would last 3 hours… and here comes the trouble. I really found this special was too short, and most of all too HURRIED! I know announcing days is part of the “joke” with Mari-chan, but when the week ends up only being a list of days and short episodes, I only can be disappointed. I know the manga was like this too, but I found the liberties taken by TKA interesting, I wish love in Okinawa had taken some too!
(A detail that always annoys me in dramas… No one in the world kisses like that, please stahp…)
Bonus: As spoilers are forbidden, I won’t say too much, but I just LOVED the cross over, it made me laugh out loud, for real! (+1 for the music and the japanese by the way ~ !) [you’ll get it when you’ll see it].
ACTING/CAST (9.5). Miki is still a perfect Kotoko, cute, sweet, and… so in love! I discovered her in the first season, and couldn’t imagine a better actress to play this role. As for Naoki, I was a little disappointed as Yuki Furukawa acted the same way he did before Naoki and Kotoko’s wedding. I haven’t been able to see the love in his eyes for like ¾ of the episode. Sure Naoki Irie has to be Naoki Irie, but I was expecting at least a smile from time to time (Finally I’m just like Kotoko, I want him to love her so hard I can’t stand such a distant behavior, hihi).
MUSIC (7). The music is neither wonderful nor awful, I would say it was average. It was light, and perfect for the story. Though I didn’t appreciate the fact that there was music during all the episode, to my mind, the ost is here to improve the story, to accompany it and make it more alive. I had the feeling it was always trying to catch the attention. Seriously, some moments and some dialogue need their silence.
On the other hand, I HAVE to put a stress on the opening, because I just found it really cute, colorful, and loved the music. I’m listening to it again right now!
*43 minutes of re-watching, please wait…*
REWATCHING (8.5). After watching it again, I feel split between my first feelings, for some stronger than ever, and the joy of discovering things I had missed or misunderstood the first time (subtitles didn’t work and my Japanese isn’t that perfect).
Though I have to correct some things I wrote before. There ARE moments when Naoki smiles, even if they are discreet and short (watch out!). As for the music, it’s well and truly omnipresent, BUT it’s not that bad, as it stays behind the story, and it’s not that bothering finally.
OVERALL (8.5). I had a great time watching this, without any doubt, even the second time. The Itakiss series are parts of my favorite dramas ever, which explains the high score I gave (after all) and… why I was so critical :p. Though, as explained, my disappointment is real… maybe I was expecting too much from it? I have to admit I spent all the summer waiting for it to air, while expecting the Japanese version to go further than the Taiwanese (and obviously the Korean)… Well, after all, I still love it! To conclude, I would even say, hmmm…. WHEN IS THE SEASON 2 COMING OUT?? (pliz ;_;)
P.S. Sorry for the length of the review, I think I was inspired. It’s my first review here, so don’t hesitate, and comment !
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This review may contain spoilers
Epic and action are by a humorous ribbon tied together in a touching, gripping way. Go for it!
Set in a jaunty kaleidoscope of relationships, friendships, brothers in arms, blood ties, loyalty, heroism and heartbreak, the time of King Yeongjo, Crown Prince Sado and King Jeongjo is epicly (for a 2011 series production) portrayed."Warrior Baek Dong Soo" is full of fun, martial arts and of course: drama. There is politics, too, yes, butteh KDrama is definitely more on the drama and action side. I benevolently ignored some daring storytelling details and the selectively very optimistic choreographic freedom in the heroic staging. "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" balances between history and entertainment, between epic scope and personal tragedy, between deep, dramatic emotionality and airy, playful, humorous, good mood. The KDrama finds a rousing swell, in which the emotional waves are allowed to splash from all directions - with a story that sails between historically memorable facts, legendary heroes, steep (but by no means absurd) hypotheses, and colorful dramaturgical freedom. It offers great entertainment thanks to an exceptionally strong presence of all actors - whether young or old.
Baek Dong-soo himself is wonderfully portrayed by Yoo Jin-goo (young) and Ji Chang-wook (adult) in the sense of a largely impulsive jester who wears his heart on his sleeve. On the other hand, there is the introverted, somehow tragic, always serious and withdrawn Yeo Woon (Yoo Seung-ho as an adult and Park Gun-woo as a boy). The demanding life of the young warriors is sweetened by the unique charms of Hwang Jin-joo (cheeky, tomboyish: Yoon So-yi) and Yoo Ji-sun (stoic, reserved: Shin Hyun-bin). The by now veteran acting legend Choi Min-su as assassin lord in gothic style gives his very personal flavor throughout the 29-episodes long ride through time. And quite a few more there are.
In this KDrama it is rather the dramatic love story and love triangle of the older generation that pushes itself emotionally to the fore than that of the younger generation. This is probably due to the fact that Baek Dong-soo's generation is more dominated by humor and a cheeky mouth that wants to take on fate, while the older generation is dominated by the decades-long heavy burden of overwhelming life experience.
The historical hook of "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" is (as the title suggests) Baek Dong-soo, who went down in history as a heroic swordsman legend. He was one of three authors of the 'Muye Dobo Tongji' (= Illustrated Manual of Martial Arts), which is now officially classified World Heritage. This four-volume work summarizes the common weapon techniques of the Joseon period. (The book gained its extraordinary importance as a rare, valuable historical source on military affairs and Joseon martial arts, since older works fell victim to the destructive Qing invasions from the north.) However, swordsman Back Dong-soo first of all became legendary because he repeatedly saved King Jeongjo from being assassinated. And this juxtaposition of swordsmen serving the king versus assassins serving a however motivated client, originally inspired the 2010 KDrama comic entitled Honorable Back-Dong-soo.
The KDrama "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" thus also contrasts swordsmen and assassins - in terms of their ethics, their loyalty, their code, their mission, their training, their emotional world. This ambivalent and tragic dynamic makes the 29 episodes going and the time spent watching it worthwhile. They are so similar and yet they are worlds apart. One has to protect, the other has to kill. And yet, he who kills also protects. And yet, he who protects also kills. Both are henchmen. Both give everything. Risk everything. They're simply on different sides. Depending on the situation, the act of the swordsman is considered correct and honorable, while that of the assassin is considered a crime and vile. In my opinion, the KDrama reveals one of its strongest moments in the emotional explosiveness of the fatal bond between the first swordsman and the leading assassin lord (each of their own generation). They are so close emotionally and yet they live in different worlds: One in the light open, the other in secret. In tried and tested KDrama manner, the 'bad guys' (assassins) once again - despite the concentrated ambivalence of their characters - play their way taciturnly, but effectively into the hearts of the audience.
The framework for the plot is in beautiful continuity provided by sword fights and political intrigues. The flesh is made of fatal, ambivalent, intense relationship ties and feuds between the protagonists. History sets the direction. Epic and action are by a humorous ribbon tied together in a touching, gripping way. Go for it!
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Historical SIDE NOTE: --- Yangban of Joseon in the 18th century between conservative thinking and reformist, modern impulses. ---
The historical background of KDrama is shaped by three memorable decendants of the Joseon Dynasty. King Yeongjo, who holds the record-breaking 52-year reign on the throne, Crown Prince Sado, who went down in history as a tragic, possibly greatly misunderstood figure, and his son, who contributed to peace and prosperity as King Jeongjo. In addition to the serious efforts of the two kings for stability and progress, there are the divided camps among the nobles who fight by all means for their supremacy in political and social affairs.
Between 1674 and 1689 the Namin (Easterners) steered the administration of the country in their interests, followed by the Seoin (Westerners), who then entangled their position of power in disputes: the Noron representing the old, strict, conservative neo-Confucian doctrine and the Soron fighting for a new, modern, reformist, practice-oriented doctrine (Sirhak). It was probably King Yeongju's merit that despite the massive differences, the balance of power between the camps was well balanced for a long time. However, the price he had to pay for reasonably stable living conditions in the empire was his son, Crown Prince Sado, who favoured modern teaching and thus provoked the Noron. At least that is how one historical theory interprets the dramatic events surrounding Sado, who is said to have died locked in a box. The KDrama follows this theory (and not the annals, that present Sado as falling into insanity that could no longer be curbed, or a third theory that suspects a massive father-son conflict as the cause).
So, in line with the theory, which sees Sado as a progressive, reformist spirit, who wants to liberate his country from the supremacy of the Qing, "Warrior Baek Dong Soo" tells the story of the loyal followers of the ruling family, who are skilled in martial arts, and how King Jeongjo wants to live up to his father's modern visions. In doing so, with an open attitude the young king, too, always chose a balance and thus continued the proven political strategy of his grandfather, who in doing was able to stay alive more than half a century. In this way, King Jeongjo succeeded in the 24 years of his reign between 1776 and 1800 in building the Hwaseong Fortress as the center of his reign, in advancing education and science, in optimizing national defense and in creating the Royal National Library of Gyujanggak. However, he could never be sure of his life... at least seven assassination attempts alone during his first year in power are historically recorded. ... A striking reflection of the massive resistance against the attempted modernization of thinking in Yangban circles.
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A mix of slice of life, romance, mystery and some political intrigue
I finished "Are You the One" more than two months ago, so it's still somewhat fresh in my mind. Thankfully, I wrote down my comments and episode recaps, so I have references to refresh my memory as I write this.This drama tells how fate and circumstances brought two strong, determined and principled characters from opposing sides together, and how they worked through their problems and challenges, and emerged with a better understanding of each other.
The story has two major arcs. The first arc is when Liu Mian Tang had amnesia and there were many unknowns, and the second one is when she fully recovered her memory and the ensuing events that happened. What I like about the first part, among other things, are the mystery, the unknown details, and anticipating when the truth will be found out. The comedy also helps. I like Cui Xing Zhou and Liu Mian Tang's getting-to-know each other phase, the slice of life moments and how they are reviving their porcelain business. For me, this part is best watched without knowing major spoilers. I accidentally read one, which dampened some of my excitement, but at least, I was a few episodes away and was near to guessing it.
Episodes 20 to 23 contain some of the major turning points in the story. I think the transitions are well done. The second part's focus is on their growth and reconciliation, as well as the palace intrigue. It's more serious compared to the first arc, but still has sprinklings of humor. The politics is not heavy here, so don't expect heart-pounding scenes. One thing I wish they had shown (instead of just mentioning it) would be some scenes or flashbacks of CXZ and LMT as forces on opposing sides, fighting for their beliefs. Not sure in what part of the drama they could insert these, but just a thought anyway. The drama's ending wrapped things up nicely, although I have a question or two, but it's not a big deal.
Now on to the main cast. Zhang Wan Yi did a good job portraying Cui Xing Zhou. He was able to show the serious, in-love, torn, heart-broken, and funny sides of CXZ. And I like his voice! Wang Chu Ran gave a convincing portrayal as Liu Mian Tang, especially in the first arc, where she showed innocence, savviness, trust and vulnerability. Plus, I find her pretty and elegant. In addition, Zhang Wan Yi and Wang Chu Ran have great chemistry. The interactions between CXZ and LMT come out naturally and are believable.
As for Chang Hua Sen, I first saw him as Li Tong Guang in "A Journey to Love", and his performance left a good impression on me. Here, his character, Zi Yu, is multi-layered, with mysteries that were eventually revealed. His portrayal is good, though I think Zi Yu's character could have been developed further. Shi Xue Ji, played by Yuan Yu Xuan, is a very likeable character. She's the dark horse in the family, someone you would root for and would want to succeed. Her growth is played out well.
Zhang Chi as Marquis Zhennan is the proverbial best friend, who's supportive and also comical at times. Liu Ling Zi as He Zhen is average for me. I've seen her play a similar character - strong, smart, but initially not appreciated by those around her.
The soundtrack is nice. The songs are well chosen and suit the drama.
Final Verdict: The romance and slice of life aspects are good, and despite some touching moments, politics, and fight scenes, it's generally a fun, entertaining and light watch. So if these are what you're looking for, then go watch this drama.
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First let me start with saying that this drama is not perfect, it has its flaws, but the awesomeness will make you forget about anything else. It has an amazing cast, engaging story, and it just the right amount of romance and comedy to keep you glued to the screen.
THE CAST
You'll fall in love with the sassy, witty, and intelligent FL. She'll make you want to strangle her at times because she's just too curious and reckless at times and keeps getting into these dangerous situations. BUT in her defense she's an archaeology student who suddenly finds herself transported back in time to her favorite time period, as a history nerd myself I cannot judge.
The ML omg how can I describe this ball of fluff. He's just so precious, she drives him to the brink of madness and back but he can't just stay angry at her. His love is the purest thing.
There's is just too much to say about the supportive cast, second leads included. One thing for sure is that the acting is top-notch and this drama would not be half as good as it is without these amazing actors.
The main antagonist is not evil as portrayed by most dramas, that give you a Disney-like villain that is bad because that's just his only character trait. This guy has so many layers. He loves, he hates, he can be honest, he lies, he can be sweet, and he's pitiful. His major flaw is his greediness, though.
THE STORY
Not much to say besides that you'll learn a ton of Thai history. The drama setting is in a real time period with real characters that lived 300 years ago. This is the reason why the drama gets a little political at times but it's never overwhelming which often happens with Cdramas and Kdramas with historical setting. One thing I greatly appreciated is that the FL did not interfere with history. She let the events take their natural course, even if it broke her heart because some things were just sad but inevitable.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Watch this drama when you have time to binge it because it will suck you in. It is 15 episodes but they are 2 hours long which is 30 hours. I completed it in less than 3 days. It's 9:30 am right now and I haven't slept xD but it's oh so worth it.
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It feels like I was listening to a lovely song
This has been one of my most anticipated Korean movies ever since I saw the Cast line-up. So, I finally watched it and this totally reached my expectations. Infact, I feel empty now. I wanted more of this!A Year End Medley is simple yet overwhelms us with a bitter-sweet pleasure.
The movie starts from a full festive vibe where Seo Kang Joon is singing the Christmas song "Jingle bells, jingle bells… jingle all the way…" and everything is in like a happy to go state. Everyone can be seen gearing up for Christmas and finally when Christmas comes, we come across the other side of the coin. When most of the people are excited for Christmas and New Year with their friends or families, there are yet many people who have their own problems and loneliness to deal with… that's when this takes us on a "little" deeper ride but as the year finally ends, gladly everyone finds a "New Hope" in their life. It's like inspiring us to keep going on.
There are actually 5 different stories which are intermingled to each other. All characters were lovable. Yes! No negative or annoying character which makes this such a light watch. My favorite character was "Sang Hoon" (acted by Lee Kwang Soo) ~ a selfless, dedicated manager who supported a singer when he was in his down, he could have left him and signed up someone else but he became his pillar and made him a big star, when he was really popular, he didn't even try stoping him from signing into a bigger company so that he can get more opportunities. I loved how selfless and caring he was. They had a brother like bond which was truly precious to see. Infact, all 5 stories were special in their own way.
The Cast was the major factor that attracted me here and they all did a great job acting their own parts especially the Old duo – Lee Hye Young ( as Katherine ) and Jung Jin Young ( as Sang Gyu ) were great presenting a touching love story. It was the top notch acting that made this movie more memorable.
The best part of this movie is that it made us experience so many wide emotions in just two hours. All 5 stories gave me something. Then, the OST. Beautiful songs that match the situations. I didn't even realize how fast my two hours went and I was already done watching this movie. It's like a smooth ride perfect for a evening watch. I watched it alone this time but I would like to rewatch this with my family later…
Overall, just a bunch of ordinary stories wrapped up in colourful flavours which should be watched at least once.
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This review may contain spoilers
A Fresh Breath of Air (no more c-drama cliches)
Rattan introduces not only a new type of genre (science fiction/fantasy) but completely new character dynamics. We truly have a strong female lead here, someone whose backstory and motive drives the whole plot. In fact, the male lead is more a side character who simply accompanies her on her journey after her revival. Some people might be put off by the foreignness of the drama, the fact that there are no old tropes, and I implore those people to spend a couple more episodes watching before coming to a conclusion. At least make it to the halfway point before giving a critical rating.For those who are confused about what the plot is, or feel there is no plot, the drama is also of the mystery genre. Over half of the 30-episodes are focused around discovering who the female lead is and why she does what she does. When the audience finally does discover all the information, the second half of the drama leads the audience to a much faster paced plot where Si Teng meets her goal and deals with the obstacles (or rather people) that arise as well as her budding feelings for Qin Fang.
Even if you're not here for the mystery plot, there's still much to savor from the drama: the beautiful scenery, Si Teng's stunning wardrobe, and the adorable slow-burn romance. A lot of the scenery is very uncommon in Chinese dramas, where instead of the old traditional architecture or modern skyscrapers, they filmed in Xinjiang and remote places like Shangri-la City.
ACTING/PRODUCTION:
The main actors, Jing Tian (role Si Teng), Zhang Binbin (role Qin Fang) and Zhang Yichi (role Yan Furui) are all great at their craft and the interactions all feel very natural. Even the child actors for Wa Fang and young Si Teng act very well. If there are complaints about acting from second leads, I do want to remind that the production team for Rattan doesn't have the extensive budget of other dramas like Eternal Love or Ashes of Love, so please be more lenient. In fact, Bai Jin is even acted by the director himself. Even so, the team went through a lot to get good scenes i.e. for the first scene when Qin Fang revives Si Teng, they filmed at a very high altitude, where it's very cold and they had to bring oxygen tanks.
Not to mention, the two leads have great chemistry. Their off-screen interactions are absolutely adorable. When they first appeared in public together to promote the drama, they looked so happy together that the search Jing Tian and Zhang Binbin acting like newly-wed couple was one of the top 5 searches on Weibo that week. There's also a Happy Camp episode coming out soon if you want to see more of them together!
Interestingly, Rattan was a surprise drama, no one expecting the popularity that it currently has. On Douban (the Goodreads of Chinese cinematography), not only does it have a 7.8 rating, it boasts 140k reviewers (most dramas have around 60k and a 6.5 rating; anything over 7.5 is extremely impressive and rare). All of these are testimonies to the greatness Rattan is.
CONS:
Personally, the main issue I have is that the plot can be very confusing, which knocked down the overall rating from 10 stars to 9. The drama is based off of a novel written by Wei Yu and so sometimes knowledge on text doesn't translate well visually without narration. Especially near the end, where it picks up pace, it can get very confusing what is happening and why it has occurred. I feel like more time could've been taken to go over these scenes and the backstory. There are also some unanswered questions like: did Qin Fang ever realize who Shan Zhigang was? Why does Bai Jin hide the fact that he has powers and what exactly is even his role? etc. I didn't mind as much since I could get the general gist, but I can understand how that may be frustrating to others. The drama may have benefited from extra episodes or cutting out whole sections of plot, instead of following the novel religiously (like the last 2 episodes were kinda unnecessary and made me much more confused).
ENDING:
Finally, about the ending, some of you are worried about it having a sad ending. The director actually filmed two endings. The one in episode 30 is more "sad", i.e. Qin Fang and Si Teng don't end up together in the traditional sense (I still don't think its sad though, it has a nice cause and effect circular nature to it), but there's also a special, which provides another ending, which people have enjoyed much more, where Qin Fang and Si Teng do end up together, so no need to have qualms about that if you don't like tragedy.
CONCLUSION:
WATCH THE DRAMA. Whether or not it ends up following your preferences, I believe the freshness of the plot/setting/characters are all worth a try.
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Good drama
I was quite surprised when i started watching this drama.Love, drama, fighting, conspiracy everything in 12 minute episode. Congrats to whom ever did this.
I love the love hate relationships this drama has. Main characters are so good and their acting is superb. I really hope this drama continues. Music is pretty good and they have perfect moments for it.
It was my first Chinese drama but i think it wont be the last.
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Okay..now on to the substance: The other day at work I was describing to a friend the premise of this show. She does not watch any Asian Drama...but now she wants to watch Love Shuffle. I haven't seen a premise where 4 people meet, discussing love and its woes then decide to play a game where they shuffle partners. All of these people are pretty flawed, some way more than others. Each has their own motive for participating; some reasons are benign, some...not so much. Each character is written slightly off from normal which made them seem more real. Does that make sense?
It was fun watching the partners switch and wondering who would end up forming connections. Each partnership and how people related to each other kept me interested all through the drama's run. This show is unconventional which just gives me the warm fuzzies.
At 10 episodes the great thing about Love Shuffle is the story is tight. No room for filler and fluff.. 10 is all you get and the writer and director did a good job of making 10 all you need.
Watch Love Shuffle. It's grown up, it's silly, it's quirky and strange...And those are the elements that make it pretty Kick Butt!
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I Feel You Linger in the Air: Uncut Version
56 people found this review helpful
UNDOUBTEDLY THE BEST BL OF 2023!
When you cast the right actors and put them with the right director and writers, YOU WILL GET A MASTERPIECE!Highly recommend this show if you are looking for the following:
• Impeccable Period Drama.
• Impressive characters development.
• All types of couple (Has BL, GL, and even Straight).
• Complex and unpredictable storyline.
• Excellent acting of the cast.
• Amazing chemistry of the three couples and the whole cast.
• Realistic and un-sugarcoated life during the 1920's.
• Angsty and heavy drama.
• Right amount and right timing of comedy.
• Excellent songs and background music that fits a period drama.
Anyone who loves BL and Period Drama should watch this show. Nonkul and Bright are both spectacular in giving life to their characters.
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Part 4/4 isn’t needed
That ending ruined the purpose of the entire story. Day saying he’s having his “normal life” back after getting his sight is such a lame writing considering how the show tried so hard to tell the audiences that day was and had always been normal. As someone who’s living with a deaf little brother this series was such a huge deal to me, showing that people with disability can also be happy with what they have.Also them choosing to still do the one palm distance at the end felt ableist and lost its value too. Such a shame bc this could have easily been a 10/10 show.
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This is my first review of a series in months and boy, am I happy that it is with Bad Buddy, that was the perfect reintroduction into the world of BLs I took an unexpected break after Manner of Death. I felt a lot of things while I watched Bad Buddy, so I would break down my review into parts. To the best of my abilities, I would avoid giving you any spoilers in this review.
1. Introduction
2. General Review, Themes, Specific Issues
3. Story arc and Storylines
4. Characters and Casting
5. Acting
6. Misses
7. Production
8. Rewatch Value
INTRODUCTION
When I heard about Bad Buddy, I was excited because of Ohm and Nannon, I mean you could give them the most basic story possible, and I would still love the show because I like that much. But however Bad Buddy really came from west field to become one of GMM’s best BLs ever, competing with the best of them all (they for certain have one of the best GMM kisses hands down, I mean episode 5 kiss was top tier). In a lot of places, the storyline stayed safe and a little bit basic, but this did not take away from the overall enjoyability of the series in the least bit, heck I think it enhanced it further.
Coming into Bad Buddy, expect a lighthearted series, with a lot of fluffiness and cute flirting, a little bit of irritation from side characters (Wai walks in) and surprisingly, girls love side theme, which I very much loved about the show. But what stuck with me the most was how this series tackled stereotypes, I would handle this more under my general review, but I would just say this is what you get when a queer person directs a show, you get actual good content not based on exaggerated stereotypes. An example of this is the fact that Pran was the top in this relationship, I mean even I as a gay person lowkey started to fall into that stereotype of what a top should look like or be like.
So Bad Buddy really is that series that hit a lot of the right cords with me. Into the review we move now.
GENERAL REVIEW, THEMES, SPECIFIC ISSUES
1. Tackling Stereotype: I absolutely loved how bad buddy came for Thai BLs necks in this series, like they brought all their legs over fire, and I think that was one of the major themes of this series that it tackles so many stereotypes.
a. “I AM NOT GAY, I LIKE ONLY YOU”: You know in previous Thai BL series, it has always somehow seemed like they were scared to say the words “I am gay”, which Pat and Pa make fun of it in the episode where it became public that they were together. Not only did they acknowledge Bisexuality as a legit orientation, not that you just randomly fall in love with that one guy and no one else. They also introduced the possibility of Pran being gay, simple, and short. I love that because that is something GMM has lost me on for the past few years, like YOU CAN JUST SAY THEY ARE GAY OR BISEXUAL, IT WOULDN’T HURT YOU
b. “HUSBAND AND WIFE”: I love that they also addressed how weird it is that Thai BLs over the past few years have insisted on having this tag this is my “wife”, to refer to the person who is more likely to be the bottom (TharnType, I see you). When Pran called out Pat to realize how stupid it was to say “wife” and “husband” in a gay relationship, try to make a gay relationship heteronormative doesn’t make sense.
c. Another stereotype they handled, that ironically, I felt into this too, was the concept of a clear identified bottom and top in a gay relationship based on some physical traits and qualities. I wouldn’t lie it reminded me that we cannot just assume who the top in relationship and we fall into a dangerous pattern of profiling the LGBT+ community should be against as a community
2. The kisses and Fluffiness: if you have watched Bad Buddy then you would know that they now hold the crown for the best GMMTV kiss and now ranks in the upper echelon of BL kisses alongside MaxTul, TharnType, KinnPorsche, The History Franchise and My Day. I mean so many things about the series was right, but nothing gets me better than a kiss well executed, not disgusting, not looking like they were afraid to kiss or anything like that. So, they got me there
3. Shoving Ohm’s/Pat’s Package in our faces: why did I make this more than once😂😂😂😂😂 and at that point it was becoming a pattern and thus a theme. Like I am a hundred percent certain that someone in production intentionally did this, probably thought to themselves to rile up the fans a little bit. And I mean we are ever grateful for it, in the most non-perverted way possible
4. Social Media: So, this was not so much a major theme, but I loved a part of the series where Pat kept posting secret pictures of him and Pran, when Pran asked him, he was like “social media is for bragging”, I liked this because it kind off addresses a lot of the flaws that our society has come to be especially in the era of social media. But like I said this wasn’t a major theme, just something I noted on the side.
5. FRIENDSHIP: You know I got two contrasts of friendship in this show. The first were Pat’s friendship in this show, I mean there were Pat’s friends, especially Korn who were the ideal idea of what a friend should be, he was cool when everything came out about Pat and Pran, supported them and everything. Wai on the other hand is a plain b*tch about it, I mean outing your friend, I don’t care how angry you are, you don’t just do somethings.
On a closure of general review, I liked all the components that came together to make this show, I don’t think it could have been any better this.
STORY ARC AND STORYLINES
I liked the trajectory of this show, they didn’t waste time on some areas in terms giving us unnecessary scenes. What we basically get is two boys who have been trained to hate each other right from birth, overcome tons of obstacles and find their way towards each other. They show us that love is something you can control, it could be towards even your worst of enemies. The story is one of love, fluffiness, overcoming obstacles to be together.
The story had a few lessons like
1. We don’t and we can never control who we love, either in terms of sexual orientation or the person themselves. It really is an uncontrollable phenomenon of nature
2. The way we interact with our friends really matters. Because it can really make or break a person. An example is the fact no one in their friend group picked up that they were dating
I loved the story overall
CHARACTERS, CASTING AND ACTING
I love the characters, while they were core characters that make up the entire story, I love how they tried their best to give each character a little bit of something, they did not always succeed but it was great though, I love that they had 3D characters, no caricatures of characters though I wish they did more with some characters.
Alright I would take this character by character and how well I believe the casting fit and I would start in order of how well I liked the character.
The character I love the most was Korn, that man gave me so much joy, like he was so stupid and supportive, I loved him every bit for it. If we are being honest, we all know that Korn was the Captain of PranPat ship and no one will take it from him. Like I love that Drake was casted for this because I have come to realize it seems Drake always kills it as a side character. In this show he particularly brought out the essence of Korn. He was simply my overall favorite character, the part he particularly sold me was after he was an ass to Pat for dating Pran and didn’t allow Pat stay with them, when he brought food for Pat, I thought to myself, what a loveable fool😂❤️😂❤️😂❤️
Then Pat was next. I absolutely loved Ohm as Pat, I mean Pat is somehow dense and foolish, he moves with the flow (case in point how fast he accepted that he was in love with Pran) but he always had good intentions (him willing to pretend he broke with Pran so that Wai would talk to Wai again, I mean if that is not the epitome of love). Pat’s character was executed so well I absolutely loved it,
Then there was Pran, I don’t think I need to say much under Pran, except he gave us all the perfect vibes of Tsundere, a tsundere that was always in love with the other person. You know I loved that Nannon could capture all the emotions Pran was feeling in his eyes, which basically made his acting and character all the much better for me. He gave me the conflict of love but understanding the societal position they had and trying to create a balance between the two.
PaInk, it was nice to get a girls love theme in this. I mean I came to this for the BL, but who am I to say no to a good GL side story.
WAI…. NEVER IN MY HISTORY OF WATCHING BL HAS A CHARACTER MADE ME AS MAD ABOUT THEIR EXISTENCE LIKE WAI… LIKE DUDE WAS SO ANNOYING AND HE KEPT OVERDOING IT. I ABSOLUTELY LOST IT WHEN HE OUTED THEM, LIKE WHAT???????????????? I DON’T CARE WHAT PRAN DID TO YOU, EXCEPT HE KILLED YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY, YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO OUT HIM, HOW CAN YOU EVEN CALL YOURSELF HIS BESTFRIEND???? You know what, I don’t want to say anything further on Wai.
The friends and Parents, honestly, I was lowkey indifferent about them. I just felt they were all childish.
I think overall, the core 5 or 6 characters showed a little bit of depth, that they were thought out to some extents and to make us understand that humans are complex 3 dimensional people, we dong just fit into a one for all box... Though I wish they did more with side characters sometimes but it's fine
MISSES
I want to say Bad Buddy had no misses but one thing I was confused about, was the concept that their seniors in Architecture and Engineering asked them to boycott their friends just because they were dating someone from a different faculty. I mean the math was not mathing for me.
But there was no miss to this show that was detrimental though.
PRODUCTION
The production and direction of this was awesome to me, the fact that it didn’t feel rushed or forced at any point in time. I loved that about the show . The Pacing was generally okay, so I do not seriously have any issues with them.
REWATCH VALUE
I WOULD ABSOULTELY REWATCH THIS… EVEN TODAY
OVERALL
This was a series that was made with a purpose and they executed perfectly I am so grateful to everyone who was a part of this movement because you truly took us on a beautiful journey, one I would never forget, you made me care for people, made me happy, made me laugh, cry with someone in their pain if that is not arts at its best I don’t know what is.
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ONE OF THE WARMEST KDRAMA EVER
NAVILLERA will remain one of the warmest Korean Drama ever for all the nostalgic & happy vibes it gave through out the entire thing.Struggling with your age, when you're on the edge of your life and winning over all the obstacles with hard work and determination to soar within your dream and turning it into a gift, is the greatest message that the drama offers to us.
Such a wholesome and overwhelming drama to witness when you're seeking some comfort in your life. Character development of all the characters have been shown in very short yet in very handsome way. Hats off to Song Kang & Park In Hwan for delivering such a beautiful & graceful chemistry through out the show.
Portraying ballet, a form of art, and explaining life through it, is the major theme of this drama. You will smile widely, laugh, and cry from time to time. It indeed tugs your heartstring with its essence.
Apart from the final performance titled Navillera, the scene that touched my heart was when they hug each other for 1st time before the sepration The last scene was the most beautiful for me when Song Kang and Park In Hwan meet across the label crossing and greet each other through theor ballerina style.
Words might fall short but you will never be able to stop describing how beautiful a drama can be.
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Despite Flaws, How Many Minis Actually SHOW The ML Slowly Falling In Love?
This is NOT a perfect show. There absolutely are some editing issues and "mostly" minor plot holes but on the whole this show left me thinking "who cares".Why?
❤️ Because there was an almost entire episode SHOWING the ML falling in love with the FL.
❤️ Because there are scenes where they do NOTHING and yet you're holding your breath, not blinking your eyes and left feeling like you just watching the most intimate thing in the world.
❤️ Because she doesn't back down from his dark side and embraces his "visciousness and cruelty".
❤️ Because instead of hiding behind him like a weak-willed nobody she rises up as an equal, giving better than she gets.
❤️ Because they take no prisoners and leave no quarters when it comes to the other's life. Not even the MLs guard is exempt from punishment for messing up.
❤️ Because she tells him a story about a prince discovering his rose was an "ordinary" rose so he later turnsn it into telling her a story about a prince and his one and only Iris.
❤️ Because after an "attempted" scene against her he helps her process the trauma together.
❤️ Because even the antagonists, who had their own despicable and unforgivable actions, had their own love stories and were able to serve as a contrast to our leads choices.
❤️ Because even though this is a "simple mini" the Palace politics felt like some of the most real out there with EVERYONE double speaking and double plotting... BUT they actually EXPLAIN it all and break it down with inner thoughts and other character discussion cut-aways.
❤️ Because chemistry 🔥🔥🔥🔥🤣
SO...
This show is HONESTLY not perfect but it is going to stay with me for a while and I will absolutely be revisiting it in clips.
I already talked myself down from a 10...
Rating breakdown:
Full unobjective rating based SOLELY on plot and execution: 7
Dialog: 9.5
Chemistry: 9.5
Set and Clothing Design: 9
(I will defend the leads eye makeup as being that way for a REASON 🤣 "Evil eyes vs innocent/protagonist clothes")
Final Rating (still biased but lowered): 9/10
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