Reviews

came for Cherry Magic actors, stayed for everything else

I'm truly loving this series so much!

As in the title, I had originally started watching this for Eiji and Keita. However, I ended up staying for the many other great qualities of this series. Not only have the characters, acting, and plot continued to surprise me non-stop, but the romantic interests are also lovable.

The biggest aspect of this show that keeps me hooked is the main character Mamoru. As a woman CEO, she is a very refreshing representation of what all CEOs should strive to be: a hardworking, strong, and honest boss who sincerely cares about their employees.

Overall, I would recommend this drama to anyone who loves a funny, romantic, and surprising workplace series to enjoy!

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I started watching this drama because I was intrigued by the idea of body swap, and it turned out to be a nice funny story.  
That was until the last couple of episodes happened. It felt like the writer of this show just had a sudden idea at the end of making this story and they wanted to insert it no matter what, or just had the idea all along and couldn't mix it well with the rest of the plot. Either way, it is didn't work out and they were a lot of plot holes and unanswered questions. Also, the relationship between the princess and the other man bothered me.
But I'm going to look over all that since I'd enjoyed almost everything about this drama and don't want to ruin the experience. Besides, episode 20 went back to original funny vibes of the show and it was really entertaining. I'd love to see more about Ji Man and Da Xi.

Recommended if you want to watch a (mostly) lighthearted drama with a lot of funny moments.

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This is a movie that doesn't require a particular attention to details. If you like romantic comedies and are in this for a good laugh, then this will be entertaining enough for you. It's definitely not boring and a few chuckles here and there are assured. However, if you expect some more detail and inthrough in the life of a profiler/detective or burglar, then you won't get it. It just scratches the surface of both the justice and criminal world, but that was clearly not the point. The story is simple and enjoyable enough to watch, clearly cheesy but not to the point of cringing. The main couple is the focus from the beginning to the end of the movie and clearly wanted to put Ho Tae in a very ironical position, if listening to what type of policy he follows at the beginning of the movie. The humorous factor is exactly seeing the justice seeker getting comically corrupted by a foxy girl that he can't help but have a crush on. Overall, I recommend it to those that just want something simple that doesn't require lots of thinking but just get what is given to them.

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I really loved this drama. Recently I've been branching out of the BL Thai dramas into the 'straight' dramas and I think Thai dramas have a lot of potential, I can see that they work hard on them and I love them a lot more than K-dramas shockingly! Before I was more a fan of J-dramas but Thai dramas took the cake and this one was a main factor. I'm glad that I watched this, I mainly watched for Captain, Chonlathorn, but I loved the leading actress, actually, I loved everyone. I couldn't stop watching it, I actually forgot about my other dramas because of this. It was hard to find translated episodes, which made me take longer to finish but the 90s Thai music was a plus, I love Thai music and this really made me love it more. The suspense was great because every episode had you guessing and the ending didn't disappoint, well it did a little mainly because of my personal preference, in the guys. I loved the emotions and I actually felt like I was a member of room 305. I don't watch dramas more than once but if I recommend it to a friend and she/he was watching it, I'd watch it with them, yes it was just that great! I always love Thai drama's opening and ending songs like they always know what to choose and it's just so fitting! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS FOR ROMANTIC FANATICS! Even if you aren't this is filled with a lot of friendship and bonding plus it's comedic.

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Just watch Young Blood 2 instead.

Imperial Coroner 2 is a sequel that should not have been made. It is missing the charm and narrative focus of Season 1, which was a cool, largely plot-driven "how-did-it" kind of ancient crime-solving story. Season 2 attempts to better flesh out the beloved investigative team but fails to do so in a way that resonates. This character-driven digression comes at the cost of the cases, which lack tension and suspense and skimp on Season 1's stylish, visually impactful illustrations of forensic clues. The sloppy and juvenile writing is a rude shock after Season 1's narrative consistency and meticulous attention to detail.

This season picks up three years later, with Chu Chu now married to Xiao Jinyu—an unconventional commandery princess in name and a hardworking imperial coroner in fact. While I appreciate the attempt to flesh out and age the titular character, it is not done well. Chu Chu's mature styling is nice, but her lips turn down in a discontented expression that suggests she did not find marital bliss. She whines bafflingly about her unfulfilled aspirations to be a coroner—when that is actually what she does, with the full understanding and support of her husband. Her petty grievances ("oh poor me, I have to be a commandery princess when all I want to do is prod corpses and bask in the odor of rotting flesh all day") and pity party are not just boring; they are tone-deaf and at odds with the genuine suffering of the truly powerless women of low societal status featured in the early female-themed cases.

After three years of marriage, the romance is still stuck in the tiresome courtship and repeated misunderstanding phase. Just divorce already, please! As for Jing Yi and Leng Yue, if their henpecked husband/abusive wife routine is supposed to be funny, the misguided attempt at humor comes off as banal, and borderline offensive. While the full cast from Season 1 reunites, their dynamic and rapport are just not the same.

As for the cases, there is one overarching plot that ties together all the subplots. Of these, the only case that really stuck with me was the young monk's story. That child actor, Shi Hengyi, moved me to tears. The main Nanzhou arc is the biggest disappointment—it is much more spy vs spy than ancient CSI. There is no real mystery, as the identity of the allegedly hidden master spy is not hidden. And anyone who watched Young Blood 2 would immediately recognize this as a dumbed-down knockoff of that drama's main plot—down to the styling, culture and internal and external political conflict of the enemy kingdom. Minus the exciting action scenes, humorous dialogue, and top-notch ensemble rapport, of course. The finale is anti-climatic and unsatisfying.

So do yourself a favor and just watch Young Blood 2 instead. You can thank me for watching this so that you don't have to.

I rate this 6/10 for daring to so blatantly knock off something pretty good only to make it a lot worse.

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"A Royal Romance, A Timeless Classic - Feels Just Like First Love

Watching Goong (Princess Hours) felt like stepping into a modern-day fairytale,,,,but with a twist of reality and a whole lot of heart. From the very first episode, I was hooked by the unique idea of an ordinary high school girl suddenly becoming a crown princess. That simple girl, Shin Chae-kyeong, (My favourite ☺️) captured my heart with her innocence, goofy charm, and unshakable spirit. Her journey from confusion to courage inside the palace walls felt so real to me.

The story beautifully explores how two strangers ""Chae-kyeong ""and the cold, distant "Crown Prince Lee Shin" learn to understand each other after being forced into marriage. Their chemistry is slow-burning and heart fluttering but so worth the wait. Every stolen glance, every tiny moment of care between them made my heart flutter. I especially loved how their relationship shifted from annoyance to affection, full of emotional tension and tenderness.

Yoon Eun-hye whom I like very much was perfect as Chae-kyeong! Her emotions felt natural and relatable. And Joo Ji-hoon, as Lee Shin, carried that royal aura so well, but also showed vulnerability underneath his serious expression. Their performances made the love story believable and beautiful.

The cinematography was stunning the palace scenes were shot like paintings. Every frame felt elegant and dreamy, from the candle-lit corridors to the royal ceremonies. It honestly made me wish I could walk through those palace gardens myself.

And oh, the OST,,,,,it still plays in my head! The soft piano melodies and those emotional ballads added so much depth to the scenes. I could feel the sadness, the longing, the love... all through the music. It's one of the best parts of the drama.

Now... let’s talk about the second lead syndrome. Yes, I had it badly🥺! Yul (the second prince) was so sweet kind, caring, and supportive always looking out for Chae-kyeong. Sometimes I even wanted her to choose him. His eyes were full of silent pain, and I couldn’t help but feel for him😔

But nothing’s perfect ,,,,,there were moments I hated too. Some palace politics felt slow, and certain misunderstandings dragged for too long. Also, the Queen and the elders were so frustrating! I just wanted to scream, “Let them be happy!”

What I loved most was the emotional growth of the characters. They didn’t just fall in love,,,they earned it. Through misunderstandings, heartbreaks, and personal changes, their bond became strong and unshakable.

I’ve already watched Goong more than twice and I’m still not tired of it! Every time I re-watch, it feels just as magical and emotional as the first time. The characters, the love story, the palace setting… everything pulls me back in. It’s my most favorite drama, and no matter how many new ones I watch, Goong will always have a special place in my heart. I just don’t get bored of it,,,it’s like comfort food for my soul.


"" A fairytale that stays in your heart long after the credits roll"'

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By Far The Most Beautiful Yet Underrated Drama Of All Time

This drama had so much depth and rawness to it that you can’t help wishing it would never end.
The two female leads who started on the wrong foot turned out to be each other’s comfort and strength - what a beautiful friendship they had with so much love and respect for each other.

I applaud how Lee Sang Yeob and Park Ha Sun used their eyes and facial expressions more than dialogues to convey a wide spectrum of emotions - undeniably they are artists in the truest meaning of the word. Bravo to them and to the director and scriptwriters who brought out the best in them.

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Promising series cut short due to tragedy

My First Thoughts:
Being Miura Haruma's final work before his sudden and tragic passing, it was hard to watch without thinking that we have lost such a kind soul and great talent... but at the same time, I wanted to honor him by watching this through the end. And I think those in charge of the drama may have similar sentiment when deciding to air the series, albeit a shortened run and necessary changes/editing needed in light of the circumstances.

Thoughts on the drama itself:
Watching the drama for what is, I thought this was totally the type of drama I usually enjoy. Fairly light-hearted, great cast, an uplifting soundtrack and theme song, and the development/interactions among the characters. What stood out to me was how the drama addressed our relationship with money. While the main leads have different philosophies in how to spend money, we also see that other characters' relationship with money ranges from hatred of money, pressure due to money, sacrifices made for money, etc. It was an interesting theme that I was looking forward to the drama to explore, along with character relationships that had seeds of development.

The full potential of this drama will be lost due to the circumstances, but at least I got to know of it. And the loss of this drama pales in comparison to the loss of Miura... rest in peace, and thank you.

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Easily the emotional warming series of this decade to date ?

When episode 10 ended, it felt like saying goodbye to dear friends. The Hot Spot grabs you in a very subtle fashion and before you realise, you are completely enveloped in a warm, funny, quirky, friendly hug. If you love slice of life, ordinary characters, unusual plot lines and ... and a regular view of Fuji-San, then you're gonna LOVE this! So many laughs, and towards the end, it will totally hit you in the feels. Bakarhythm has written a superb script and every actor plays their role so well. Kudos to the director and entire cast and crew for creating this very special gem. ENJOY 😃🙏

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When I first found out about this drama I was pretty excited because Park Bo Young is one of my favourite actresses. I loved her in Strong Woman Do Bong Soon and Oh My Ghostess. I started watching this drama as soon as it was released on Netflix but after a few episodes, I couldn't watch anymore. I recently picked up the drama again as I do not like to leave shows unfinished (unless they are absolutely terrible). I hate to give a drama a bad review but here is why I gave it such a low score.

The plot itself is intriguing but I feel like it wasn't laid out as well as it could have been. It felt like there were so many things going on at once and so sometimes it felt like the focus wasn't on the main couple. Although there was always a lot happening in each episode, it still felt like the drama had a really slow pace. It didn't feel like there was enough romance between the main couple. Usually, I will watch a drama and be rooting for the main couple to be together. In this drama, although I did like the actors and their characters, I wasn't dying for them to be together. Some characters that I didn't like were redeemed in the storyline but it felt too forced. I think this is rather unfair since there was a really good cast and plot idea.

I am a big fan of drama OSTs. I will listen to the soundtracks of dramas and even add them to my playlists. Something about the music of Abyss felt off. There wasn't a special song linked to particular moments that stood out to me. When I think of certain dramas, I automatically remember certain songs that made me feel for a character. I didn't feel this with the music of Abyss. Usually, you can find me crying alongside the characters at their most pivotal moments and the music has a big part to play in that most of the time. I knew that Abyss had made that much of an impact on me when I didn't cry once for the characters.

I think overall this drama just didn't reach its full potential, which is a shame considering the cast involved. I am pretty disappointed that I have to give this drama a low score and negative review, but I just don't think this drama is worth the hype. As a big fan of Park Bo Young, I feel so bad that I am saying this but I look forward to her next work. I don't think I would rewatch this drama. I think the trailer and the plot summary were a bit misleading. There isn't much emphasis on romance in Abyss (even though there are many romance scenes, it felt forced). This is more of a thriller/mystery drama so if that is your thing, then maybe you should check it out.

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As entitled, "What's Your Blood Type" portrays the different blood types as characters and the traits that are stereo-typically assumed for each blood type. While the show is a web-drama, it's episode length is on the shorter end of the spectrum with an episode being less than one minute long. You can complete the series in about 5 minutes if you have the time to spare. Even though the show is short in both episode and time length, it's slightly re-watchable as it's very comedic with it's depiction of the different blood types. Ultimately, this is the perfect show to watch if you are wanting to pass the time away.

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Not really a season 2 but definitely worth watching

If you liked season 1, you should watch season 2. It's not a continuation but another version of the same story.
It has the same lead actress and same locations of the first season. The lead actor is different but he plays the character really well. And they changed so much the hair and wardrobe of the female lead that I almost didn't recognize her.
The plot is light, funny and sweet. I have to say I liked the second season more than the first. I think this second version of the story is more cohesive than the first one.
Because it's such a short drama, you will probably want to watch it all in only one day like I did.

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Average at best

Disclaimer - No hate for this drama! I swear! :)

I’m getting a little tired of the “we don’t know how to communicate” plotlines. And while I do love a good classic BL, I’m also increasingly fed up with the constant financial imbalance and the tired victim–savior dynamic. We all know I have a soft spot for red flags and a sprinkle of toxicity, but that’s a conversation for another day.

This did nothing for me and I want to know why! I felt like it was a bit dull, a bit cute (I HONESTLY THINK SO), a bit boring, and mostly uninspiring. Personally uninspiring. And sometimes my focus was all over the place.

I read the reviews and I am glad many people loved it, but I do not get it why I did not. This review isn’t meant to bash the drama, just sharing and maybe if you’re easily annoyed and don’t enjoy spending time on something that feels like you’ve already watched it three times before, you can safely skip this one.

That said, I will religiously watch season two. I did have my favorites in season one, and at the end of the day, this is just one story, so I’m willing to see where it goes.

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