Reviews

This was my first Chinese drama. I had been reluctant to watch them mainly because of the dubbing that drives me crazy, but thankfully was not present in this show. I decided to jump in after watching a clip online that intrigued me. I was immediately hooked on the characters, and I thought the cinematography was nicely done, as well as the music. There was a slow burn on the romance that built up steadily until a little over halfway through the show.

Jian Yao started off as a smart, independent female that was in control of her life. Bo Jin Yan was this enigmatic man whose cold exterior was gradually warming up to Jian Yao and drawing closer to her. I enjoyed the episodic cases they solved together and the growth of Jian Yao as Bo Jin Yan's protégé in criminal profiling, not to mention the blossoming of their feelings toward one another. There was some quiet humor in there as well that I enjoyed immensely. But in the end Jian Yao was just a damsel in distress, and Bo Jin Yan was running away to "catch the bad guy" immediately after telling her he'd be with her "24/7" -- more than once. She was left out of the loop completely.

So....why the 6.5 rating you say? Well, that's because the last 1/4 of the show, the story, once it moved from China to America, went downhill in flames for me. I raced to the finish of this show expecting things to get back on track, but they never did. It was almost as if they changed writers because the whole tone of the show changed completely. Jian Yao and Bo Jin Yan were hardly in a scene together afterwards, and their dynamic changed as well. The chemistry and romance was lost as they pursued "one" big bad villain. The plot got too twisted and convoluted. The actors playing the Americans were atrocious. The stilted speech was one thing, but there were several goofs as well. One text was sent out - with a misspelling of "steel" instead of the word "steal" that was meant....but on the receiving end, the text was completely different than what was sent out. The actors playing the Americans had a few flubs in their delivery of lines, as well as changing the names of the other characters a few times. There were a few that also could not hold their American accents. It was horribly distracting. Also, the Americans would speak in English, and the Chinese would reply in Chinese. This seemed very unrealistic, as how many Americans are fluent in Mandarin? And apparently New York police officers really need to wear their bulletproof vests. Yikes!
The 7.5 score for acting goes entirely to the Chinese cast in this case, points deducted for the "Americans". (Edited to add: Although, I do realize that English speakers are NOT the target audience, I hope that this information is helpful for those that it would make a difference to.)

Poor Jian Yao and Bo Jin Yan were almost completely different characters by the end of this show. Not the same one I was captivated by in the beginning. That disappointed me a lot and the only reason this is getting a 6.5 is for all the scenes in China. I feel bad hating on a show that most seemed to really love, but there it is. They could have fleshed out the story and the characters better if they had stayed put and continued in the direction they started. The switchover to New York also had the undesired outcome of not completing the setup they started in China. Many things were dropped and not explained.

Despite my utter letdown in the ending of this show, Huo Wallace has gained a new fan in me. I hope to one day see him act in something that will "wow" me like the start of this did.

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No more feeling blue

Ok so we were all a little disappointed by the abrupt ending to the first part of this KBL. So it needed this one to tie up lose ends. It's definitely worth watching part 1 first as you see a different side to both characters as well as some immaturity and growth.

The episodes are short (8 minutes with the last being 15 mins) and there are extra scenes available to members which week. IF you watched in real time then you would assume some things about the main couple which aren't necessarily true.

Overall the chemistry is amazing. The dilemma faced by one of them interesting and their dialogue was well written

I would recommend as a binge watch to avoid the weekly angst Jaemin caused us all. You're left feeling less blue than you did at the end of part 1 and that's good enough for me.

Oh! OST was good on this one and helped give depth to a very short series. Would like to see more from this couple as well as from this production company

Enjoy

Chelsea Black

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I'm an absolute nut when it comes to investigative shows. I started this mini-drama series to procrastinate writing my lab report. The cinematography is not very good, but I liked the story plot. They start off by smacking you in the face with a crapload of background and character info (which doesn't surprise me, seeing how this drama was only 4 episodes). I just wish they had done it more tactfully.

They put every character in overdone cliches: the abrasive female detective, the arrogant prosecutor, and the bumbling officer. The writers came up with corny lines that made the acting feel uncomfortably awkward. BUT as the short drama pushes forward, you can start getting more into the plot and watch how Haesol's character develops. I've seen the actors in other dramas (mostly supporting roles) and I'm glad that they were given a chance to show their chops in this drama.

The story has a pretty good plot and gets a little convoluted, but that's what makes investigative shows so fun to try figuring out. I was pretty quick to figure out the culprit (bc I've unfortunately watched and read every murder plot in the history of mankind), but there was a part in the end that was an unexpected surprise. Romance was sparsely scattered throughout the mini-drama, so if the reason you like watching dramas is for the romance, you'll be a little disappointed with this one.

As for the cases, they pretty much stuck to the basic "crime, events leading toward/after crime, investigation, deduction". Because it was only 4 episodes, they did a good job of making the main plot flow through but still leaving room for you to think about who-dun-it. (It's not really like typical dramas/anime/manga where they stretch it out with fillers to fill their 16+ episodes--I'm looking at you, Detective Conan)

The music was pretty typical of detective genres. Jazzy music riddled with suspenseful (and also lighthearted) ditties. (I also like trying to hear what kpop songs pop out in the background in coffee shop scenes. "Troublemaker" was one I caught.)

If given the time, I would probably watch this again. (But it would probably be because of Kim Joo Young more than anything. So cute!)

If you like investigative shows with endearing characters, heart-pumping moments, and a strong plot/story, this might be the drama for you. ^^
(I gave it an 8 because it actually managed to make me say "what the?!" at least once...which is a feat in my eyes)

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ROM COM with mystery in built

Like any other rom coms with tough ceo and innocent secretary this drama too starts with same trope but from the second episode entire setting is changed it like watching a thriller but after watching 6-7 episodes it ll again go back to romance but there is some mysterious characters in the drama which are not revealed till episode 12 so the story goes on still 16 episode writing wise this drama offers u different experience.
so this is typical rom com for sure but the mystery element stays till episode 16 lead actors chemistry worked comedy works for most the scenes.
typical cliches exits but don't blame the because it comes with the genre.
so finally this drama exceeded my expectations i thought it's just a typical rom rom but it's not.

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My first review ever because OMG, the dumbest lawyer ever!!!!

Story: 9/10
The overall story (not the delivery) is really interesting. This is the 2nd reason why I watched this, even though it only has an 8.0 overall rating here in MDL.

Acting/Cast:5/10
Cast: 8/10
Acting: 5/10
My first reason why I watch this drama is because of So Ji Sub, I love him in Oh My Venus and The Master's Sun, BUT his acting here was a letdown. He has the same expression the whole time. The scrunching of his eyebrows is always there even when he is happy, sad, or angry. Why?

Music: 4/10
I do not remember any of the music, maybe because I was frustrated the whole time I am watching the drama.

Rewatch value: 2/10
I will never watch this again because I know every time I read this title I will always remember my frustration at episode 4.

I do not understand the reasoning behind the writer when he/she wrote the character of Han Yi Han. The character was supposed to be a man with a brilliant mind who was able to become a lawyer. But why was HYH so dumb????? I mean, he is a lawyer, and he was the first lawyer I saw who signed a document without reading it thoroughly; he just took what Michael Young said as true and did not confirm it by reading the whole document in episode 4. I wanted to drop the drama at that time, but I really like this type of story, so I wanted to see the end of it, so I just clenched my fist and grind my teeth every time there is a scene that infuriates or frustrates me. Also, he wants to do revenge, but how he is doing it makes me so angry; I mean, the conviction or the delivery is not that satisfying! And that really frustrates me because So Ji Sub's acting here is subpar (sorry to all his hardcore fans). He has the same expression all the time.

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The story might seem a cliche but it's full of surprises...really entertaining...cute and heart warming...I totally loved it...actually while watching it I wished If it was a 16 eps drama not just 1 ep...things go really fast and I never felt bored ^^

The acting with brilliant...even though I've never seen most of the actors before...I loved them all...they fitted their roles will...and the KISS was so good

There were only 2 songs but they fitted the story pretty well and liked them a lot :)

Once I'm bored, or in need for a nice loveable moments in my life...I'll definitely watch this and I'll enjoy it again...even though what happens won't surprise me again...I'll still enjoy the cute/funny/romantic moments :D

If you haven't watched this special yet...start it now...it will only cost you an hour and you won't regret it :*

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Hye Seon gave justice to the role. Best casting choice.

GOD no wonder Hye Seon was nominated (although it is much better if she won). Honestly, this is the genre I love watching Shin Hye Seon. She got a wide range of acting capabilities, but I like her best in female-lead dramas or movies. Though she still got limited filmography yet, she always outshines her previous works. She got the aura that easily captures the viewers. I bet if she will eventually be paired with a male who has a weaker personality, Hye Seon would probably eat him up. Lol.
Regarding the story, that's where I gave the movie an imperfect score. I think I need to rewatch the movie to totally grasp the strategy employed in the trial (sorry I know I might be looking for something technical, but maybe as a producer, they must at least deliver even the simplest, correct procedure). I was just confused how the case shifted to another murder suspect in the same case being heard. But I think it was just wise to shift the 'blame?' to another. Nevertheless. they still had circumstantial evidence (meaning weak case) for the prosecution, making it easy to refute.
Overall, the execution of the cast, especially Hye Seon, is really good. Hats off.

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Some dreams should just stay dreams

I've seen this a few years ago, and maybe I can somewhat understand the direction this drama was trying to take, but it doesn't convince me in the very slightest, and shouldn't even be called a romance, maybe a sad, ill-intentioned drama with themes of romance. I dont know what it is with writers and romanticizing bullying and abuse, but to put it plainly, its sick and not normal. ML is consistently a constant trainwreck, treating the FL like sh*t, then realizing he has feelings, apologizes, takes her out, then treats her like shit again. in all honestly, if a fortune teller told me that this drama was my future, i'd tell her right back that i'm just gonna have to die single then.

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Sine, cosine, Mentaiko!
I always like quirky shows so this was right up my alley.
Although there is a series ARC of trying to become the "Math Boss", each episode is pretty much a standalone. Each episode presents a "rival" (emboldened by their signature "move"), quirkiness ensues, as well as various math problems and explanations - leading me to revisit my own high school math past and shudder lol. (I have NO clue what they were talking about with the math - didn't hinder the fun though.)

I think the story is what it is. It seems to try too hard sometimes to be *squeeee* and doesn't quite pull it off. It is definitely lacking in something. I honestly can't put my finger on what it is lacking, perhaps it's that there really doesn't seem to be a connection to the main character.

The acting cast is pretty one dimensional. They do an ok job at their roles, but the roles are so flat that there really isn't much room to do anything with them. (read as if each one is nothing more than a catchphrase). Nina doesn't really have enough pull on the audience. There is no investment. There are so many characters (both main and supporting) that it's like going to a random party and meeting everyone. It's overwhelming and kinda fun but you know you're never going to see them again, so there is no deeper connection.

The music is fine. They have random little let's burst into song times, but they could have done more with it.

Rewatch - can't really see the point.

Overall this is an ok show. It's cute. It's the kind of show you can watch one episode at a time as "filler". Got 25 mins to spare - catch an ep. Want a little laugh - watch an ep.

What is the probability that you will like this? I have no clue I stink at math lol. But go ahead and give it a try - and please remember to SHOW YOUR WORK! (partial credit will be awarded.)

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Suckseed is a realistic, but lighthearted representation of how growing up changes people; finding out what you are best at, making friends, falling in love, and sometimes even making some trouble are all part of this.

When I read the plot, I didn't think it was anything surprising or special. Although, I began to watch the film and realized that there was so much more to the story and the plot was much more interesting than I thought. Many twists and turns occur along the band's journey and there are lots of laugh to be had. I really enjoyed the sweet moments too!

In terms of acting, I thought it was well done. I never really realized how young the actors were until I read their profiles on MDL! They are still quite young so it is surprising to think about what age they would've been when this came out! Either way, kudos to them! Also, they fit their characters nicely and it was easy to relate to them. As I just stated, relating with the characters happened a lot as I felt how they may have felt in that moment and I really like that.

The music was pretty good! I have not heard music all that often in Thai films I have seen before, but since this film includes a lot of it I was in for a good treat! I really enjoyed it and I thought it was funny how they would always have the singer follow whichever character was listening to a certain song... because music is like having a friend by your side, right? Anyway, I do not rewatch movies all that often so I gave it an 8, but I feel like I would rewatch it maybe if I was in the mood for some music genre film!

Overall: 8/10 ! Enjoyable!

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Accurate Lgbtq+ Representation

I feel like I found put a review for this film, since no one else has.

I absolutely loved this movie, it had accurate sapphic representation. It’s pretty hard to find decent wlw films/dramas that don’t fetishize those relationships... I was balling my eyes out near the end because it’s accurate, and a ton of non-straight people experience similar thoughts and relationships. It kinda makes you snap back to reality after watching happy ending, always perfect relationship romances.

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THINGS I LIKED
1. accurate lgbtq+ representation // they showed how it can be difficult for some lgbtq+ people to be in a relationship. (ex. being scared of other’s thoughts, not trusting anyone)

2. the soundtrack // absolute perfection. I was on YouTube listening to the main song and I was sobbing ahaha. It’s calming yet heartbreaking at the same time.

3. the plot // the plot isn’t messy, it’s not confusing, and it makes sense.



THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE
1. that it’s underrated // I have seen NOBODY talk about this film. I found it because I was looking for sapphic films in mydramalist.


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I promise this movie is worth the watch :D

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This show was an interesting and cute watch. While it is episodic, the viewers feel compelled to keep watching because of a single background mystery which is counting down to the show's climax. The characters are amusing and one could easily say the series mostly is putting a set of foils into different situations and seeing what occurs between the characters.

The main con that I had with this show is that occassionally it just fell flat. The acting, the script, or the pacing tended to be at fault--and I usually blame the pacing. Because the show's running time is short and the series is episodic, I always felt as though things did not get to develop "naturally", and it bothered me.

That aside, I still give this show an overall rating of 7, because the overarching plot and characters were interesting.

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If you love to watch misunderstandings jealousy spicy drama.. Then This is a good drama

Actually i liked it cuz.. I don't like drama which shows that luvey duvey,Cute drama....i just get bored when drama shows they are happily staying nothing bother them in life.. I ... Cuz life is not that simple as they putting in all cute drama...but i liked this cuz it have some spicyness
It's a good happy ending.. But there is something missing in logic when they fly Shanghai to Beijing so fast .
If you like to watch misunderstandings, jealousy, reality, then yes you can give it a try...
Unnecessary :yes some story plots they gave unnecessary they just put some cringe scenes which made drama unnecessarily lengthy..

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Sweet, light and funny drama!

It is an unpretentious drama, a simple story, without big surprises but a delight to watch. If you are looking for a drama to watch without any sorrow or stress, this is the one!

Song Ha Yoon is an excellent actress and has a great comedy timing, I really enjoy her reactions. On the other hand, Dong Hae is wonderful in this return to dramas playing a successful CEO, but inexperienced in love. I hope this comeback to acting is to stay!

This drama is a classic cliché, but it's still a pleasure to watch two people who love each other in such a pure, naive and true way. I loved it in all episodes!

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