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Good drama if you love main leads ❤️
I'm truly a big fan of drama especially Korea, so i just give overview, firstly it's interesting at the beginning but after 15 episodes you will find it a little bit annoying and just a waste of time. for me last 5 episode was boring so i skipped almost all 5 episodes 😁😁😁(it's just my. view)
Also support characters are good especially maids of princess and Kui Mulan
Devils are a stupid i think
especially when they defeated by main leads
good point i love female lead when they have power, i think Princess Qi Pa just did what she wanted and said what she wanted, i look forward to her next dramas ( I've already fallen in love with Kui Mulan)
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This review may contain spoilers
Regret. That's what I felt after wasting more than 3 precious days of my life binge watching this hot mess. But if you asked me how I felt, say, 28 episodes or so in, I would've gushed loudly and happily, rambling on about the great chemistry, suspenseful story and amazing atmosphere. Sure, I would've admitted to plot holes and glaringly obvious breaks of logic, but my love for the passionate romance would have made me gladly overlook the negatives.
What went wrong, then? What made me go from giving this show a solid 7.5 (or even an 8) to giving a measly 5 (which I have given very reluctantly, considering how I actually want to give it a 4)?
To start off, I'll say this: The female lead is utter bullcrap. I have never, in ANY of the dramas I've watched, seen such a fickle, pushy, entitled and naive female lead- she's about as frail and intelligent as a dandelion. There is a limit to how dumb you can be, but this heroine surprises me every time. I can't say anything without spoiling the show for you (if, you know, you're still adamant to watch the show), but she acts VERY immature and heartless sometimes.
She's beauty,
She's grace,
She's a COMPLETE waste of space.
The male lead is dense. There's no other way of saying it. He constantly pushes around the female lead, directly or indirectly dictating her life and clings like a vine. I get it, you like her (for reasons beyond my understanding), but, sheesh, get yourself under control, man. But I'd take him over her moody ass any day; he was at least likeable.
But despite the problems I had with the characters, the story was engaging. It made me stay up till 3:30 in the morning on weekdays, desperately trying to find out what happened next...
...which is probably what made the shit that went down after (maybe) the 30th episode feel almost like betrayal.
*SPOILERS AHEAD*
The heroine chooses, CHOOSES, to believe some random seedy looking dude she just met over the male lead (who she, by this time, already hooked up with and has his bun in her oven) that he killed her parents. She doesn't bother to confirm what she heard or to even ASK the male lead on if it's true or not. No, she just packs up and LEAVES.
And then, through some miracle of god, somehow ends up joining a group of rebels whose aim is to drive away the Japanese from Shanghai (and possibly, China). Yes, this chick, who has never held a gun in her life, got magically chosen to train with an elite group of rebels, who just happen to have the support of high-ranking officials in Shanghai, such as our male lead. Not only her, even the pissy and spoilt second male lead who just smells of bad decisions manages to snag a top spot with the group.
But maybe she's actually good? Maybe she actually learned some moves? WRONG! In the first fight we see her participate in, she comes in an expensive coat, loose hair and heels. HEELS! Not even practical block heels, but freaking 3-4 inch pencil heels!
Alas, somehow, I'm not even surprised at this point.
Final thoughts: Skip. Escape. This should go to the dustbin of Chinese drama history, where it should never rear its pitiful head again.
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HEALING COMFORTING RELAXING WITH GREAT VISUALS AND A BEAUTIFULLY CAPTURED ROMANCE....
This drama is truly a relaxing and healing experience, offering a comforting story centered around a woman who works as a hotel lobby manager and struggles with insomnia due to issues with her boyfriend. In her quest for help, she visits a TCM clinic and encounters a skilled and handsome doctor who assists her in overcoming her sleeplessness. After her breakup, we witness his journey of healing her heart as the narrative unfolds.I believe this drama successfully achieves its goals. It aims to be soothing through its beautiful color grading, stunning sceneries, and thoughtful cinematography. The characters and their stories are relatable, making it feel like we are watching normal people navigate their everyday lives. The way they manage their work, interact with friends and family, and handle personal challenges resonates with viewers, creating a sense of familiarity.
The drama excels at being comforting through the interactions between its characters, showcasing their growth and healing journeys. While the storytelling is simple and may feel slow-paced, it is effective in delivering a comforting experience. The plot may not be groundbreaking, but it works beautifully within its framework. It's reminiscent of a soothing song that invites you to sit back and enjoy the moment. Overall, this drama is a heartfelt journey that beautifully intertwines all these elements, making it a delightful watch.
With this drama, there's no need to rush; it's all about going with the flow. It gradually immerses you in its world. The romance is truly the heart and soul of the show, showcasing the slow and tender journey of two people meeting and getting to know each other, ultimately leading to a beautiful love story, all set against the backdrop of changing seasons.
The chemistry between the leads is the core of the narrative. Their interactions are both sensual and endearing, creating a comforting atmosphere. I love how they transition from being strangers to developing a deep connection. The male lead falls for the female lead at first sight, and his intense yet quiet crush pulls you in. He holds back, respecting her healing process after a breakup, and as they both learn more about each other, they heal and grow together. This is the true beauty of the romance in this series.
As I mentioned earlier, the characters feel like real people living ordinary lives. We see them at work, interacting with friends and family, making them relatable and likable. The female lead is an energetic, hardworking, and beautifully calm presence, while the male lead is understanding, quiet, and equally diligent. Their dynamic complements each other perfectly. Honestly, I have nothing negative to say about the show; it provided me with warmth and comfort, serving as the perfect escape. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a healing and comforting experience, filled with beautifully captured romance, stunning cinematography, and a lack of unnecessary drama.
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Off-kilter visuals, clever dialogue and ingenious music choices provide plenty of humor (don't miss the little bonus scenes tacked on at the end of each episode), but they’re in the service of serious themes. Without ever becoming overly didactic, the show notes the fragility of life and the importance of embracing the here and now. The protagonists may long for extraordinary riches (in this case, tons of hidden gold), but their everyday interactions are where true value lies. For the viewer, though, the biggest prize is getting to savor this underrated gem of a show. Like all treasures, it may be hard to find, but you’ll be well rewarded if you seek it out.
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Endearing Characters
Just like that the journey is over and what a journey it was.This was one of my most anticipated dramas this year and despite it's flaws it didn't disappoint me.
It's visually stunning with gorgeous costumes and beautiful cinematography. The OST is moving and memorable. The fight scenes are elegant and well executed. But above all else, we have a team of endearing and interesting main characters we can root for to overcome all obstacles thrown their way.
You will either love or dislike this drama, because like all dramas out there it has its flaws. Whether you can ignore the flaws and enjoy the drama is subjective.
The biggest flaws in this drama for me were the lack of explanation regarding some important details as well as some illogical choices regarding the plot.
Did those flaws ruin the drama for me? No, not at all. It left me with questions and a head shake here and there, but overall I still enjoyed this drama immensely.
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To those seeking answers if it's worth watching, what is it about or what can you expect. How is it? Well, it's lighthearted moments are fantastic and drama moments too. Sadly the writing, motivations of villains and overall frustration is something that you have to overlook to move on. Writers and villains will do everything in their power to make the drama frustrating just for the sake of frustration. The main cast tries to do everything but the GOD of this drama just plays with you and will frustrate you from the beginning till the end. Even the "redemption arc" is not enough to redeem these villains. Their actions and their writing is unacceptable. There was potential because you can see that people are actually mentally ill and should do something about it but you get only few mentions and nobody takes it seriously.
If you are looking for something where the main cast gets through the trouble by the first half and then will have happy moments, look somewhere else. People will be together and people will fight. Tears will be shed and blood shall be spilled (oh wait... I don't remember this part about blood being in the drama). The progress is really fast and mature and with that sadly comes the decision to make it frustrating even sacrificing some sanity and common sense. The frustration lasts till the end and it's not even frustration over the characters but more like frustration over writing stuff that will make you scream "how is this happening AGAIN! WHY! But you know what, I still have to say if you can watch some quality acting and magnificent chemistry, go for it and skip the parts you want to skip. You can sit through the hours of frustration and angst and unreasonable WTH moments and take it all in or you can just take parts of it and enjoy it by your standards.
Story: Feels like watching torture and degradation of main cast waiting for happy moments of insanely good chemistry and funny interaction.
Acting: Absolutely amazing. You might love some characters. You might despise some characters with passion. You might hate the writers but these people can act. Despite very questionable reasons, decisions, twists and whatsoever, these actors can act.
- If you hate angst, stupid decisions and don't want to be frustrated or don't like arrogant (and often rude) but strong female lead - avoid it.
- If you want just some sweet romance and skinship with good chemistry - avoid it or watch it and skip the parts you want to skip - make it your own experience.
- If you want to watch people burn - Go for it
- If you want some mature experience and are able to get through the frustration or are ok with skipping some parts - Go for it
- If you are a fan of one of the two main actors - Go for it.
Despite all my criticism here or down in the comment section, I had a blast. Maybe it was the acting, maybe it was the mature feeling. Maybe it was all of it and more. As I am writing this, only a few people on this site actually watched it and I wish these "hidden gems" could get more recognition.
More info and spoilers in the comment section.
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To be honest, at first i didn't really get it but then wow... so glad i choose to rewatch it. believe me, the time you spend watching this won't be for nothing. surely it will trully make your mood goes up and down!!!
Give it a try and you'll be so happy with yourself for doing so. :)
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An old concept portrayed in a creative way
The story is centred around CCW, a magician by profession. He is also predestined steward of great 2000 years old spirit. Endowed with ability to see spirits, he has become quite famous. He has learned to use ghosts (which obviously only he can see) in creative and ingenious ways to perform his acts.GSH is a hard-working, high empathy cop working to correct wrong done to people. In my opinion, Jin Ki Joo has improved her acting a lot compared to last KDrama I saw of her (Secret Life of my Secretary). I wish she goes on to become top league actress.
OST wise, it's nice. Just not noteworthy till now. Cinematography is quite good. As it's shows about magicians, of course, they would some eye-catching sequences.
Overall, a fun enjoyable drama. If you are fan of Park Have Jin, of course, you have to see. If you are looking for something moderate serious tone, please go ahead and watch.
It was a stellar show till episode 10. Post that it has become victim of predictability. The historical arc, I thought there would be more substance to it. But alas, it doesn't.
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Better read the novel, better life
At this point, everyone has already said everything. I'm gonna say the director shouldn't have messed with the original novel. Original storyline was far more better than the movie. Changing that only made the novel fans angry. The fans were hopeful that their favourite novel was getting an adaption. I was excited too. To see all my fav actors in my fav novel. But it all went in vain. They acted as if it was their first time acting. Why did they have to acte like that? Does this look like a zombie apocalypes??? They shouldv'e declined the role if they were not confident. Money hungry basta....Was this review helpful to you?
Story:
The story is nothing special. It is quite "safe" - a basic love story with predictable high and low notes. My biggest qualm was the attempt to boost the melodrama in the latter part of the drama by the characters making illogical decisions.
Acting/Cast:
Krystal and Rain were an okay couple, but their chemistry was lacking. Also probably due to their huge age gap the drama kept their skinship to a minimum and this further made their chemistry and romance lukewarm. Krystal is extremely young and although she did portray most of the emotions well, I still felt her character was less real compared to Rain´s. All in all the cast was okay, but most of the characters seemed hollow and not very interesting.
Music:
This drama is mostly about music so you would think they would pull out all the stops to push the music, but I only liked one of the songs in the drama. The worst song in the drama was unfortunately the one they played every time something romantic was going on. Of course music is very personal and someone else might enjoy the songs in the drama, but they just weren't for me.
Rewatch Value:
I don´t think I will be watching this drama again. There were no epic love scenes in the drama, nothing especially memorable or exciting.
Review Summary:
I gave this drama 7.5, because it was okay, but it didn't offer anything new. I would recommend this drama to anyone who really watches a LOT of dramas and enjoys either Krystal or Rain. This drama is also a good newbie drama, because it has most of the drama clichés, but it isn't too over the top and it doesn't delve into Korean culture as it feels very global and generic.
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Warm family time
The excerpt truly summarizes this drama perfectly. It is the exact plot of the drama. Nothing extra happens.This drama is a multi-starrer. I'm sure, every once in while watching those thrilling leads give their all of their love stories, we wonder what happened to the people around them, their friends and family? Like a running joke of where the parents are in all those young adult save the world novels. If you are one of those people, you would love this series. It is centered around romance, but with the context of marriage. There are 5 (and some extra) romance plot lines.
Every parent worries about what would happen to their children when they eventually pass away. Who would accompany them, care about them with sincerity when they are no longer around? Mrs. Li also has the same worries. Truly a tigress raising her children, while single handedly fending off packs of wolves. All of her precious 5 girls are domineering, far from the delicate traditionally feminine, 'demure' behavior that is generally deemed as acceptable then (even now). They're famously called the "The 6 Fierce Li Ladies from Louyang". The drama, essentially follows the Li family's daughters as they find a suitable partner, a perfect match to peacefully live life well.
Each Li lady as her own personality, her own attitude and quirks, and the story follows how they find a groom, marry, and then get settled into family life. There were some concerns about the ML being red flags, and while they arent unfounded, The story gives each one of them a redemption arc of sorts. The drama's idea of a perfect match is that ML and FL have complimentary personalities, so even the borderline red flag behaviors of the ML is kind of directed towards only outsiders, to protect the family (their + Lis). There is an element of FL 'taming' the ML. The FL are written to be extra fierce to make up for the naturally unbalanced misogynistic power gradient due to the nature of the historic setting. An important feature to note, almost all ML have a close female family member influence - a single mother, a dear sister, a grandmother. It was very lowkey tho, idk if it was intentional or to send a message to audience.
Watch this drama if:
1. You like Multi starrer, family drama
2. The brides family doesnt abandon her in any way. As long as their daughter is alive, she is welcome at home. Even if she comes sobbing on her wedding night. Even when shes a widow. Li family doesnt abandon their daughters.
3. Ladies making it big (living well) in a mans world. Fighting against the general ridicule and malicious attacks of people who deem them as a weak spot. They're able to fend them off by themselves, and later with more ease by help of the MLs.
4. Dutiful ML- The MLs stand for and are concerned about their wives family. They willingly actively participate in family meetings and help in major decisions. Its shown that its to get brownie points for their wives, but thats not the whole reason, they are really sincere.
5. Hilarious Li family Husband alliance - little bit of bromance (tiny bit). A support group of sorts.
6. Matraich family
7. Monogamy- MLs swear that in case of death of wife, shall mourn for atleast 3 years before marrying again, (or in one case, even follow to die). Shall not take any other woman while married to wife.
8. Crash course on how not to get bullied and preventing your daughter/ sister from getting bullied/ harassed after marriage.
9. All marriage problems and discord are solved by the interference of the Li family (not unwelcome - only when asked). Li daughters arent spoiled, they are scolded also, for being to harsh on their husband (in one case). All FL, and other ML give advice on how to solve situation without compromising on self's dignity.
Dont watch this drama if:
1. I seriously cant think of a reason.
2. All the usual c drama trigger warnings apply, but no cannon fodder. No side character dies.
3. I may have forgotten since i was watching this while airing.
4. Maybe if you dont like imperfect, borderline red flag (pre - redemption arc) ML. (Every ML becomes better except the 2nd)
5. If you watched this drama for Wang Xing Yue his role is quite little (cameo like) since this is a multi-starrer. I think it was strategically placed to seemed like he is solo ML, so that by the time 3rd couple is settled, we are grasped by Li Family and no longer care about Chai An (played by Wang Xing Yue).
Possible spoilers below. Recommended read at own risk if ur concerned about red flag MLs:
I'll briefly summarise the themes around romance of each Li daughter (by order of birth):
1. Age gap, substitution marriage, poor grounded ML, mature gentle FL. Mature romance. FL 2nd marriage. Older FL. Distant to close bond transformation.
2. this was the most bland and bleh. Ig fool- naive ML (sorry). But he means well at least. (He doesnt grow up)
3. Scheming ML and FL, battle of the wits, scheming to marry each other by tricks, misunderstandings - chemistry, rich- poor gradient.
4. Upright gentle stern (green forest) ML, gentle cute yet quietish FL. Flash Marriage. Aiding other through injury- strengthening bond. Older ML. Distant to close bond transformation.
5. Rich bratty ML (very bratty - red flag, but surprisingly has a turnaround with story arc), Domineering FL (red flag - beats everyone- husband beater). Out of all, has the most 'taming' element. Bride Kidnapping. ML supporting FL against in-laws. FL standing upto in-laws. FL beating up in-laws. FL straightening out ML to inspire him to become better person. ML becoming decent man for FL.
Idk if i missed out on anything 'cause i was watching this while it aired.
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want to see actors in something else (watch suggestions)
Overall: this is an old school Thai romcom/drama that should have been left in the past. 8 episodes about 45 minutes each aired in Thailand. I watched the WeTV version that had 10 episodes but most of episode 10 was the actors talking about the series. Aired on WeTV https://wetv.vip/en/play/e36k7s4okwtoesy-A%20secretly%20love%20(Uncut%20Ver.)Watch Suggestions (this avoids a lot of a guy harassing his ex-girlfriend, hazing and second lead syndrome)
- watch episode 1 from 5-19:20 (flashback to them in high school)
- start episode 4 at 37:40
- watch episode 5
- watch episode 6 from 23 to 34:20
- watch episode 7 from the beginning to 6, then GL at 16-17, watch 23-29 or continue to the end if you want to see a lot of music practice/performance
- watch episode 8 from 4-18:40 and then 41-42 has a nice message about funding rural schools
- watch episode 9 from 18:30-23, 26-29:40 and 34-39 (or can watch to the end)
- either start episode 10 at 6 minutes or you can watch the whole first 12 minutes (the rest is behind the scene stuff)
Content Warnings: slaps, manhandling, blood, beaten up, stalking, harassing, hazing, slaps played as comedy, non con touching
What I Liked
- clear premise
- supportive friends (the twins)
- the GL after they communicated/were honest with each other
- episode 8 message of the importance of funding rural schools
Room For Improvement
- for the majority of the series viewers saw an utterly unlikable character, he's harassed his ex, was immature, acted like a jerk, there were almost no redeeming qualities so I did not want him in a romantic relationship with anyone
- cliche (more than once) saw something and didn't communicate
- comedy sound effects that didn't make it funny, nor was the toilet humor in episode 9 funny
- was not a fun way to start a series (and I hope unrealistic)
- confusing parts, based on the summary and what was shown they first met in high school when Khon was a Freshman and Pluem a Sophomore, in the present they were a Sophomore and Senior in university, Khon didn't interact with Pluem for 2 years at the same university? he's just started the hazing/initiation stuff with Pluem?
- kind of a 'gay for you' trope
- episode 5 had a flashback montage of what we just saw in the episode
- very confusing subtitles (didn't take off points although it did negatively affect the ability to understand what was happening, Necklace was the ex-girlfriend)
- the title should have been "I Secretly Love You" or "A Secret Love" (didn't take off points)
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Good drama and would recommend
The ost is one of my favorite parts of the drama and the chemistry among the cast is pretty good ,romantically and non romantically. The characters and overall drama is funny. The ML and FL were good characters and I really like FL. Her reactions are valid for the most part ,in the situations she's put in. Their facial expressions are on point, especially FL , and ML is good with face expressions especially his eyes. They look pretty natural in a way and it looks like they're not acting when they are with each other. Would watch againWas this review helpful to you?
the dumbest kdrama I have ever watched
I’ve anticipated this drama since I heard Kim Min Gue would be playing the male lead. So far this drama is very funny and I’m enjoying it.The fish out of water story can either go right or wrong for me. And with the approach being more of a comedy than anything else I’m really enjoying that. I need a good feel good drama that isn’t taking itself too seriously and with the first two episodes it does that. This drama isn’t anything too spectacular, not saying it can’t though.
The thing I don’t like is the female leads character Kim Dal. She is kind of a sasaeng with the following of this male idol. I don’t really buy into the romance if there is one between the two. It’s sort of hinted but I don’t think I’d like it and it wouldn’t make sense since this guy is completely different than the idol she’s been well.. idolizing. Hopefully she’s more of a helper than a lover. This guy so far is the least interested in the world he’s put in so I really hope they don’t get together like that.
The whole backstory of her character is iffy for me.. hopefully they don’t make it offensive but there is only so much I can say. I don’t buy into the whole idea of a romance forming, that makes this show more dumb. I don’t like how she hinders his success by telling him what to do, it’s her image of the perfect idol. Instead I wish the show would do more of the fish out of water, but in all honesty I think that mind wear itself thin. I like the content of him going about idol life but doing it in his own unaware way. Kim Dal sucks the fun out of that, and overall sucks the fun from this drama. That’s how it is for me at least.
I haven’t read the webtoon so this is coming from that sort of perspective.
Kim Min Gue does a really good job with his role(s). The concept of him being some heavenly figure being put into the real world is working now because of the reactions of other people. It’s hilarious this guy Rembrary working his way around not only being a guy in the real world but an idol that is expected to be someone he just isn’t. I like his nonchalant attitude and how he doesn’t at all know the concept of the idol and also many things about the human world. And that’s the most interesting part for me. So if this drama keeps up with these funny scenarios I’d really like it all the way through.
The whole plot is so out there so I wish that the writing went all the way with that. Sometimes it takes itself too seriously and that’s when I start to get really bored. I REALLY don’t want a romance from this drama with the two leads but I guess I’m expecting it. The plot with the devil is so boring. Shows can be engaging in all parts of it, this show isn’t engaging with its subplots. I want more of the idol doing promotions, etc. and the reactions of other characters to that. I don’t need devil plot being shown as much as it is because I don’t understand it nor care because I do not understand it. It’s one dimensional villian and I’m not watching this show for that much cheap tension. I’m watching because of the over the top plot.. maybe I should watch Welcome to Waikiki instead ..
Let me emphasize. That if the plot is stupid, at least be funny. It is a funny show without the whole ‘other world’ plot. The female lead kills the fun, it’s just getting old after each episode with her draining and draining.
The whole plot threads about self hate and suicide or so wrongly interpreted. Especially when you have the ‘devil’ giving a character depression.. the representation there is used as a plot device and I find it offensive how it’s done. I hate the Rizzle sub plot, I hate the devil sun plot, I hate the other world sub plot, the cult, I only like the idol fun happy things going on because that’s why I started the show in the first place. The mental illnesses aren’t treated like that
, they are to move the plot along and are cheap ways to try and get sympathy.
Down to the whole idol life it gets dull. The interesting one was the singing competition and after that it became unbelievably unrealistic yet so cheap and unoriginal. Especially the awards show, there was hardly any build up and it just seemed to happen all at once.
I’m really impressed by the other idol characters and the writing there with them. The dorm life scenes are fun and his members also play off this new character really well. I can put myself in their perspective because the writing is done with me knowing that they all were a group with the real Woo Yeon Woo.
Each episode takes more and more years off my life. This drama is just plain stupid. I can’t :(
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This review may contain spoilers
Meh.
So this is a story of a guy who joins his comatose twin brother's thug gang members who take the law into their own hands and get hurt... a lot. Oh, and two gay couples emerge from it because, you know, that's what always happens within dangerous gangs. The End.Here are my pros and cons:
PROS
FLUKE (Dan). For me, he was the best actor in the show. And... he's GORGEOUS. He can pose naked for me any day.
CONCEPT. It was interesting, especially in the first half of the series.
OST. I liked the theme song.
CONS
GUN AS A GANG MEMBER. I'm sorry, but are we seriously supposed to believe that Gun is a dangerous gang member that could actually hurt anyone? Sure, he's a decent actor, but he's built like a fem twink and has no arm muscles whatsoever. Yeah... I'm sure everyone is REAL scared of him...
STORY. What started out as an interesting concept got tired very quickly. The characters were mostly unlikeable, the whole Tawi thing got boring and, in the end, I couldn't have cared less who got together.
I'm giving it a 6.0.
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