This review may contain spoilers
An epic love story meets time travel and destiny
A multilayer love story like this truly breathtaking. A modern man, Shen Buyan, is transported back to Ancient Sheng and watches the death of Demon Queen Lu Yuan, hated by the commoners but loved by her adopted son the Emperor. Upon her death, a jade pendant is smashed into five parts, each part giving Shen Buyan the opportunity to relive a different part of Lu Yuan's life. He quickly realizes history is not what was written and she is a woman motivated to protect her country, even at this risk of her own life and love.What's really unique about this is the freshness of the romance storyline. When Lu Yuan loves Shen Buyan the most, he treats her like a stranger. By the time Shen Buyan can't leave her and chose to protect her silently, she no longer remembers him. They symbolically layer flashbacks, mementos, and music to heighten the bittersweet love story. On rewatch, I bet more of these hidden nuggets will surface.
Although a low budget drama, the costumes, production quality, and cinematography were impeccable. The acting of Zhang Ya Qin as Lu Yuan was phenomenal - she played across a 30 year lifespan and somehow played each age convincingly. The ML started off a little weak but by the end, I was fully bought in to his role as a time traveling historian who fell utterly in love with a young peasant girl destined to be queen. Every lesson he taught pushed her closer to her destiny, despite his intention to merely protecting her from harm. Each time he travels he re-learns that he cannot change history and Lu Yuan will always chose protecting her country over her life and love.
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Wild and passionate
As a fan of Han Ji Hyun's character in this drama, I must say I was thrilled to see her return—even if it was within the world of her own smut novel.
These two short episodes offer a wild, fast-paced ride that cleverly connects the story of this spin-off to the main drama without altering its core plot. Instead, it simply enhances your enjoyment, providing additional layers to the narrative.
Plot: The female lead, a novelist, falls unconscious and, in her dream, finds herself trapped inside the world of her novel, living out the very scenarios she had written for her protagonist.
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This review may contain spoilers
I picked this drama without expecting too much, since the long synopsis already outlines the drama plot. But once I started I kept wanting to watch the next scene or episode, curious to know what the leads were going to do. Unlike other voluntary time-altering dramas that the protagonists fix the past problems, this drama gives freedom for the three male leads (who initiate the time altering) to do whatever they want to do to follow their hearts. I am also surprised that it is not like a typical Thai drama/lakorn, and definitely free of slap/kiss, attempted sexual assault scenes, or other overly dramatic plot. Also, no mean villains or 'in-laws', and not much of elders involvement. Although as the story goes it gets darker, but I feel like this drama is aimed towards young adults viewers, because of the casual advice given on how to choose wise decisions and no presentation of severe punishments of what they have done.About the ending. Along the drama, there were discussions in GMMTV official Youtube channel (where the English subbed drama was aired) until the final episode on who should end up with who or if someone should end up happily or not. I think the ending is more like a fan-service with satisfying ending, for this drama I am okay if the ending was different than what was presented.
Now the technical stuff. I think the director Dan did a decent job directing this drama with multiple main characters/couples and multiple stories. Lol, even if he did not do a good job there will be a Second Chance beer he can take (a cameo appearance of the director in the closing scene). Also to say the editing is not bad although the viewers are left with some confusions to figure out whether the scene we saw is the reality, the future, or just the dream or wish of the characters. Perhaps some confusing scenes were purposely done to leave the mysterious vibe of the drama.
Some acting are good as all main actors/actress are not newcomers. Some viewers commented that actors/actresses like Nanon, Singto, and Puimek have improved their acting skills in this drama, but since I have not watched lots or any of their works I cannot really judge them. The only thing that I like that some characterization are ambiguous, who can be villains and characters that you may hate at some point in this drama. I am glad that Tor character is remained mysterious: is he just a bar owner, a moonshiner who invented a secret beer recipe, a tarot card fortune teller, an angel, or God?
Whatever Tor is, I applauded Singto Numchok (who played as Tor) as a singer and musician, since the OST song "Second Chance" he wrote and sang is so catchy, a nice sing-a-long song with Caribbean tone. Here is the official MV link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWxjrGM_3WM
Rewatch value? Not really, since you already know how the leads decisions end then the magic is gone. The only thing I may want to rewatch is the OST music video.
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I want to stop everything… just to be with you
I was getting a lot of A Tale Of Thousand Stars vibes from the series when it started. And I was here for it, I absolutely loved ATOS. But I am also extremely glad that Sky In Your Heart took a different direction. I think the locations were beautiful. I love how we really get to see two extremes of the world in the two Star & Sky series – the sea and the mountains. I think it was a smart play on things from the perspective of creating the series.Fah & Prince: I didn’t want Fah to see Prince just as a rebound from his ex that he was still not really over. So as their relationship developed, I was glad that Prince was shown to be much more to Fah than just a rebound. Fah was taking things slow, and I do appreciate his reasoning behind it – their lives on the mountain are far from reality, so taking things slow is what they both needed. I like the sass that Prince threw at Fah. He might come from money, but he is a surprisingly down to earth person that cares deeply about everyone around him. And while he did appear to be afraid of letting people get too close too quickly, it does make a lot of sense why. I really like that the two had good communications (most of the time), which helped their relationship move forward nicely. Another thing I liked about the two is that just because they are opening to each other and getting closer, their fears and past experiences don’t just disappear. They are still valid, and they still have an impact on both. I like that while some things were shown in a romanticized version, we also saw some very realistic portrayals of situation. One that sticks with me is Fah’s personal live vs. work life dilemma that seems to be a constant struggle for him. Just like it often is for doctors in real life.
Kluen & Dao: The little clips of the two in each episode are adorable. Fah overprotectiveness might be a bit too much at times, but I like it how Kluen doesn’t really look too bothered by it. Actually, he is, but he doesn’t let it dictate his and Dao’s relationship. And the fact that Dao saw through Fah the moment he used the “I have a friend who…” lines was so funny. We all know that the friend is the person asking, but we don’t often see others calling people out for that silliness.
Other side characters were a lot of fun too. I am not really sure why Mesa and JJ had to be on the mountain as well, they weren’t driving, but at least Fah had some help when it came to dealing with his feelings. Even if they were not always helpful. Prince’s mom is an absolute icon! She had me fooled for a bit, even if it didn’t make much sense in relation to how Prince acts and who he is. The chief, the kids, Yayah and the rest of the villagers were a nice addition as well. I do admit Yayah was my favorite of them all. Sincere is basically Typhoon 2.0. I really wanted to hate him, but his actions do make a lot of sense. He loves Prince and he wanted the best for him. He failed to realize that Prince might be the one who knows what is the best for himself.
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Bad start but get's better
Sometimes you will see a cover and instantly know that this is just not for you.... but then you may look a bit closer and find out that Greg Hsu is the star and all of a sudden you just have to watch it for that smile.... But deep down inside you know that Greg is probably the only thing this movie has to offer.And well it started off just like it´s cover suggested, annoyingly bad silly humour... Greg Hsu as a homophobic over the top jerk (with muscles) slightly painful to watch second hand embarrassment making me rethink my choice to watch it, but since Greg Hsu is the star and they trowed in a bunch of open minded granny's I stuck to it and it actually got better. Showing me yet again the Greg is a versatile actor (having like 10 personalities in this) and more then just a pretty face. The other male lead did a really good job too. Some twists where more predictable than others, actually most of them where predictable. the character development was however lovely and I think I may almost have shed a tear.
So I am not going to say this is great, but if you are a Fan of Greg Hsu or ghosts, this is not a bad place to watch them just don´t judge the movie by its cover or first 30 minutes or so. It does indeed get better. But honestly it is probably worth a 6,5 or a 7 but the cast and moments of brilliance (few as they are), as well as the presence of a cute dog truly adds a whole lot of stars.
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The story is about our titular character forming a class with chosen students to conduct an experiment. With that we meet his students, the class 2-A and the problems caused that he and other teachers have to deal with. It takes us quite a while to find out what the experiment is about but it does add a bit of a mystery to keep your attention close to whats going on. What is most interesting in what is addressed here is trying to define maturity. Society has set up a certain age to it but from the beginning onwards we do observe how maturity varies from one person to another. Suzuki Sensei's mindset, like most teachers, is not ideal that's for sure, but what distinguishes him from others is his awareness of middle schooler's intelligence and maturity, and his ability to treat them seriously.
On the acting department, oh boy isn't it stunning. It is Hiroki Hasegawa's best role, from his expressions when we hear his thoughts, to his composure when addressing a problem. What's most impressive though are the students. Karin Ono, Honoka Miki, Kaoru Fujiwara, Takumi Kitamura, Yukito Nishii, and Tao Tsuchiya to name a few. That generation sure has a bright future if given the chance. On the teachers side Yasuko Tomita sure was impressive, but generally all did a very decent job.
This drama isn't only for those who enjoy school dramas, it's for everyone. We all can relate to it because we all went through similar phases and looked for a safe place to express our thoughts. Maybe we are all looking for a similar place even now that we grew older so we join clubs or online sites such as MDL for that reason as well. What is discussed here are things that left me thinking about even after watching each episode. It isn't preachy at all and doesn't give us a definite answer which is the beauty of it. The characters and the acting makes it most entertaining to watch.
;)
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The scent of blooming sakura
Yae no Sakura is the 52nd NHK taiga drama that was aired in 2013. It is a biographical depiction of Niijima Yae, also known as Yamamoto Yaeko, famed for her exceptional gunnery skills which she applied to great effect in defending the Aizu Domain during the Boshin War. This momentous event during the late Endo period forever immortalised her as “Jeanne d'Arc of Bakumatsu”. Subsequently during the Meiji era, she then became renowned for helping establish the prestigious Doshisha University in Kyoto, together with her husband Joseph Hardy Neesima.Released in 50 episodes, this drama is epic in every single aspect. The screenplay is written by 3 screenwriters while 5 directors were engaged to helm this mammoth production. Starring a stellar ensemble led by the charismatic Ayase Haruka who is superbly supported by the likes of Odagiri Joe, Hasegawa Hiroki, and Nishijima Hidetoshi among many other supporting and guest actors.
There is an inspirational backstory to the release of Yae no Sakura. It was chosen as the 2013 taiga drama as its central narrative of loss and hope was felt to be timely in the aftermath of the March 11, 2011 Tohoku earthquake.
Personally for me, I consider Yae no Sakura as one of the most endearing biopics that I’ve ever come across. From the profoundly colourful story filled with numerous illustrious historical figures, the intricate details of the events that unfolded amidst the traditions of the era, to the themes exploring in great depth the changing role of women in the new modern Japan, as championed by Niijima Yae.
This is a big budget and high quality production that features exemplary cinematography, elaborately authentic sets, exquisite costumes, decently-executed action choreography and battle scenes, as well as beautifully shot natural landscapes, among various other aspects. Principal photography took place at Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture and Tsuruga Castle, also known as Wakamatsu Castle, Aizuwakamatsu Castle, and Kurokawa Castle. In the drama it is translated as Aizu Castle. It is a Japanese castle located in Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture where the major battle between Aizu samurai warriors and government forces actually took place.
This drama is memorable for being the first production in 28 years since Haru no Hatou in 1985 where the actual person on which the main character is based remained alive until the Showa period. Additionally, it was the first time that a video footage of the actual main character of a taiga drama was used in the drama.
The performance of the entire cast is nothing short of remarkable where each of them gave a decent account of themselves. The real star of the show is undoubtedly Ayase Haruka. Her portrayal of Niijima Yae is testament to the immense talent and finesse that she possesses. Her captivating performance here garnered her the 10th TVnavi Drama of the Year 2013 leading actress award, adding to an already accomplished list of accolades. It’s worth mentioning the wonderful performance of the child actress Suzuki Rio, who played the younger version of Yamamoto Yaeko. She was both adorable and compelling in her depiction, despite the limited screen appearance that she had.
Special mention as well of the beautifully performed main theme of the drama, which was scored by the award-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, in what was the first time he had ever composed music for a taiga drama.
50 episodes represent massive viewing hours indeed, but for Yae no Sakura, it was utterly worth every second. This drama presents a truly compelling insight into Japan’s culture and history during the transitioning of the Edo period to the Meiji era. If you’re a fan of Japanese dramas, her beautiful culture and exciting history, I strongly urge you to give this production a watch. It will definitely be worth your time.
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What I loved most about Ji Sung's performance is that Dr. Cha is often very poker-faced and hard to read, and when he was emotional it was usually very subtle where just a simple look from him, or tap of his finger, could break my heart, or get me excited. He is matched with Lee Se Young as Dr. Kang Shi Yeong, who is pretty young in comparison, so I wasn't sure if they would match well or have any chemistry. I was definitely wrong about that and she was often great at matching his subtle intensity and definitely held her own in all of their scenes together. This is less of a cute romantic pairing and more about watching two people inspire each other to be better. I really enjoyed how they worked together and complimented each other.
As for the rest of the cast, there are supporting characters that I loved and others that were a little annoying. I absolutely loved the team of doctors in the Pain unit, especially Hwang Hee as Dr. Lee Yoo Joon (aka the poor man's Gong Yoo). It felt as if I was actually watching a team bond and come together. On the flip side, I was much less interested in characters like Nurse Chae and prosecutor Son Suk Ki. I thought their story was interesting and resolved well, and I did empathize with them initially, but eventually, their actions became way too repetitive for me to continue to care. A large part of the "mystery" in this story revolves around them and they became my least favorite part of the story. I did like how the story took its time in revealing what was happening, but I wished some parts weren't dragged out for so long once things were revealed, especially in the later episodes. The last few episodes were definitely the weakest.
What I surprisingly did like a lot were the random stories of patients. They were extremely interesting, and their diagnosis was like solving mini-mysteries. Some moments are a little graphic, but never without reason. Many of them also stuck to the show's main themes about what the role of doctors can/should be and the more controversial topic of euthanasia. All of the stories are handled with respect and without heavy-handed judgment, which I think is what makes this show so thought-provoking. Maybe that's why I liked it more than I usually like other hospital dramas.
Would I watch this again? Yes, I can see myself watching this again, although I may be tempted to just skip past a few parts. Some of the mystery would definitely be gone, but it's still entertaining enough to hold my interest. I also think the soundtrack generally complimented this drama well.
Overall, I think this is a great drama to watch, even if you're not into medically-based stories because the mystery element makes it all more entertaining. The love story feels real, although it may not satisfy fans who like a strong focus on romance. It's at times heartbreaking, and frustrating, but also inspiring. The patient's stories are strong enough to override the weak hospital rivalry stories, but overall the hospital atmosphere also felt very real. I am curious about the book this is loosely based on, but I think this drama definitely stands on its own. I also don't understand why Cha translates to "John" but no matter what you call him Ji Sung nailed the role! This is yet another drama that won't be added to my favorites list, but I can't deny what this drama does well and that I am glad I watched it. By the end, I felt good, without there being an extra cheesy feel-good resolution. If you don't think you have a high threshold for dramas like this, give this one a chance, and you may be surprised like I was. I prescribe at least 4 episodes of Dr. John before making a decision. Just like this drama's themes show repeatedly, you can't always go by your first impression, and Dr, John definitely deserves a chance to really be seen, especially if you are a Ji Sung fan. If you're not, I suspect you'll become one after watching!
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Story: It's based on a manga with the same name by Mizukami Wataru. But, even though it's based on a manga, I felt that it's original because I haven't seen any drama or movie with tumbling especially when it's about men tumbling. Some arcs are better than others, but not one of them was horrible.
Acting: The acting was amazing & top-notch. I was crying a least once in every episode. Everyone in the team have friendship chemistry. I've seen Seto Koji & Yamamoto Yusuke team up in Atashinchi no Danshi before this & they are great together. This would be a great bromance couple. In AND, they have comedic chemistry. In here, they still have that, but there are some scenes where they argued & I felt that. Some people acted better than others, but the plot saved that.
Music: I love the instrumentals. Not all the music was memorable, but it was still good.
Rewatch value: I have rewatched this drama 4 times already & I still love it.
Why watch?: the comedy, tumbling, the bromance galore & a heartfelt & feel good drama.
I have so many favorite scenes in this drama, but I can't spoil here, so this is where I stop. When you do watch it, you won't regret your tears or laughs or your time. It's one amazing Japanese drama.
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There were characters that were annoying and did questionable things, what looked like the antagonists weren't really antagonists because no one in this drama was really a "bad" person. They are just shown as human beings. The characters developed and changed for the better. There were a lot of really heartwarming moments and heartbreaking ones as well, a lot of heart in this drama. There were scenes and dialogues that were quite inspiring. I would say that if you are watching this for the romance then you better not stay for it because the romance wasn't the main focus, but character growth among the casts. And the cast did a great job playing the characters.
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I Felt Cheated, A Waste
The drama started with so much potential. At first I like the female lead coming from the country to the big city. She left her parents because they where forcing her to marry someone she did not liked. I thought WOW this will be a strong women character. I was fool. The lead character became a naïve innocent petty female who everyone's problem was on her shoulder and fell guilty about the wrong doing that everyone did. Even when people betrayed her and stab her in her back she still would take responsibility and trust them. Through all the episode the lead female character to me became pathetic and annoying. She had 3 men in her life that she said she love but showed very emotion. I even laugh that she sleep with the first 2 but with the 3rd, the leading male she had him sleep on the sofa. The friendship between the 3 leading female was also questionable. I really did not consider them friends. The leading male the only one that I fell gave us a good story was "Yang Ting Dong" who realized that the women he was chasing would never care fro him and allow someone else in his heart. The lead male was also annoying. He could not speak up and correct things and preferred for someone else take his love away. Instead he stay with the women he did not like and only wanted her as a friend. That was the 2nd lead female who would say one thing and do another. She never accepted "Yang Ting Dong" because they were friends and she would not want to break that friendship but like the "Xing Tian Ming" who was also her friend. Did she like him better because he had money. I did not feel he treated her that good for her to be in love with him. The worst is that the lead main characters do not get together until the last 2 episodes and then they still throw another problem that get s everything solve in the last 7 minutes. I wasted my time. This drama could have been shorter and a better script. I found episodes 9-35 boring with the same all thing. They leave everything for all the characters to be solve with in the last 5 episodes. The actors try their best for a good performance but the scrip stinks.Was this review helpful to you?
Watch this for the cool music, a very well choreographed set of fight scenes in each episode, and Kiriyama who has little speaking parts but lots of fast action, and a cool car. In fact, the action scenes are short and swift but that is what one looks forward to each episode. They are almost movie quality choreography and design, with each fight scene showing off Mirage's empty hand, or weaponed, or shooting prowess. Mirage is a mysterious killer who dispenses with his missions efficiently, stylishly, and without fail. Even though Kiriyama is not a martial artist, the fight scenes are quite convincing and intricate.
And if you can ever figure out who really are the good and bad guys in the Japanese government/police force, good luck...
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Love story
Warning: This review will contain spoilers!!!Plot: A woman falls in love with her boss at first sight.
For three years she works at his company, cherishing each moment they casually meet and interact, snapping and collecting pictures of him on the sly. (Not stalkery--just very cute). He, of course, is completely clueless to all of this to the point that...
....three and a half years later, he asks her help to "pursue" her best friend.
FL knows that her bff is in a relationship with someone else. Nonetheless, she seized the opportunity to get closer to the ML, so she agrees to "help" him pursue the bff. Using this excuse, the ML and FL begin spending time together, meeting and talking purportedly about the bff but eventually it reaches a point where they're almost like friends (despite him being her boss). Even after the bff gets married they still meet and interact.
The FL falls deeper and deeper until she decides to confess, whereupon the ML rejects her outright.
In his defence, her confession seems sudden, since he has no idea she'd had feelings for him for years. He just sees someone he knows as an employee and causal friend suddenly confess out of nowhere. When he asks her to explain why she likes him, our FL panics and lies, giving a very shallow response: "You're handsome and rich, of course I like you". The ML, who is the opposite of a playboy, naturally finds her response off-putting and tells her that they are not suitable.
The FL takes the rejection hard. But she accepts his decision and immediately begins taking steps to distance herself from the ML. As soon as she does, we can see the ML begin having doubts. From the start, her response ("handsome, money") strikes him as off, and out of character for the woman he's gotten to know over the past six months. But each time he tries approaching her again, she shuts him down hard. The FL is heartbroken and won't give an inch.
Now we enter our cat-and-mouse phase.
He does everything he can to pursue her, using work (offering to produce the movie for the book which the FL authored), proximity (he moves next-door to her), and support (financial and otherwise-putting his reputation and business on the line to ensure the development of her movie).
However, the issue is that he still has no idea that the FL has liked him for so long or how very deep her hurt is.
And she is not able to tell him. She can't open up and trust him.
So we go around in never-ending circles.
Many obstacles are thrown their way during this point, from online dating rumours, to a parent-pushed secondary love interest.
After a long (long, long, long!!) wait, the FL finally accepts that he truly does like her and they get together.
Once they get together it's a smooth walk down the aisle. Both of their families are happy and supportive. They live happily ever after.
My issue: The first half of the show built on chemistry, sexual tension, and heavy emotions. At one point I became annoyed with FL for putting off the ML for too long. But eventually we see her on-screen breakdown when he finds out that she's liked him for so long, and I forgive her. However, once they got together, the entire mood of them changed. She became less mature, more playful, and the sexual tension/chemistry seemed to vanish. We went from a heavy drama to a sweet romance--the transition was too abrupt and the mood shift was so extreme that I couldn't really connect the couple from part one of the show to the couple in part two of the show. This mood lasted up to the final episode. The final episode redeemed it. It was still playful and light, but the chemistry came back at least. Overall, I was satisfied with how it was wrapped up.
The secondary couple is the Director of the FL's movie and the ML's younger sister.
I'll say this: both characters are truly wonderful people.
The younger sister is cute, kind, and hard working.
The Director is dedicated, sweet, and also very kind.
In a sense, the younger sister who, by virtue of her age, always acted much younger and girlish than the FL, actually acted much more mature in her romance with the Director than the FL did in her own romance with the ML.
The chemistry between the younger sister and the director was wonderful.
I truly liked them together.
I loved seeing her gradually grow up and take control of her life. She made zero mistakes in her relationship with the director and I admire her so much for that. Since we'd seen her as a very young and cossetted girl, she'd have had ample opportunity to screw it all up, but she didn't. Truly, truly amazing of her.
As for the director, he admired her from the start, took his time, guided her as she entered his industry, supported her patiently, and confessed at the right time. Kudos to him for a job well done.
This couple was truly amazing to watch.
The music was fantastic!!!! The ost was one of the best I've heard.
The shooting was great.
The cast was wonderful.
I will definitely rewatch this show :)
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This review may contain spoilers
..THE STORY OF HALF-YANKEE AND HALF-NORMIE..
..yes, this is a story of delinquent family - but one of them decided to try and live a normal life, decided to go at school and be a member of art club showing his passion on paint and canvas...
..as always, life is not that easy - problems always enter, a change of uniform and appearance is a must, the conquering of city is a must by means of punching and kicking since his family expecting a lot for him - this will be his life revolves on daily basis..
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..a secret to be kept for a long year - and no secret will be stored forever and the truth will reveal as many people now knows it..
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..well, what I learned on this drama, well, even if I am not a yankee, it teaches us a lie either it is a white lie is still a lie - keeping it for a long time, only keeping us to hurt for a long time too - not only one's self but anyone too. . .and yes, truth will always set us free and continue to have a happy life with our loved ones..
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..I love the casting plus the talking dog dubbed by the legend VA (TsudaKen), the music, the pinch of love story and the overall lesson we can learn how important our family and friends as they teaches us how to live the way we want too..
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