Now that that's out of the way:
First of all, Lee Da Hae is amazing in this drama. She really played out her character perfectly, and throughout the whole drama I kept swaying from oozing with hate to feeling a deep sense of pity for her (character). I didn't care much for her acting in My Girl, but her acting in Miss Ripley is absolutely brilliant. Overall, the casting was pretty nice but I don't think Yoochun really served a purpose in that drama (nor did it seem at all like he truly liked her, so Yoochun's acting in this drama wasn't that great although it was cute), and the other man was good, but I wasn't impressed. I was slightly disappointed by the overall acting of the cast, but Lee Da Hae's acting in this drama really pulled me in. I usually can't take melodramas, but I kept watching anyways.
The story is great, because it holds a good message and also stirs up several psychological/moral questions concerning topics such as corruption, motivation for actions, greed, and misanthropy. I hated what Lee Da Hae's character did in this drama, but I couldn't help but pity her at the same time, because there are some (although a bit overexaggerated) real-life issues that are presented in the drama.
The story's purpose (or at least what I analyzed it to be) is ingenious, but the story itself goes downhill. I admit, I stopped after episode 9. Half because I couldn't take the awful things that were happening, and half because the drama started dragging. The story overall was still pretty good though.
I would not rewatch this though, because although the first time was alright, if I rewatched it I'm sure I would feel like the drama was dragging 10x more than it was the first time, and I don't want to go through suffering from nightmares about it again. Although this isn't my type of drama (Out of the 80+ dramas I've watched, all of my favorites are happy-go-lucky fluffy ones), I still liked it. Not sure why.
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First of all the actors aren't that young and doesn't seem to be that experienced either? I mean maybe it was the script. I wouldn't say I completely hated. It was enjoyable for the most parts and it just didn't stand out I guess. There were some funny moments but most of the funny parts just didn't make me laugh out loud. I was actually smiling through the cute scenes. which is actually a plus point meaning I did't completely dislike it.The story isn't something unique at all but it's from a manhua. Hope I can find it somewhere. It might give me more insight to the story. For some reason the story was all over the place for me at certain times.
Anyways if you are into romantic stories to just pass time I would suggest this one.
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a hidden gem
This one was an unexpected gem.I never heard about it before, it suddenly appeared on my Viki ‚new release‘ list and then I got curious & how happy I‘m that I really give it a try because it became one of my favorite dramas this year so far.
Sure some Episodes lagged and I also did not like all of the actors acting (I‘m looking at the actor playing Fah) but they give their best, for many this was their first acting job they all were surprisingly good, especially the actor of Vee impressed me, hopefully we‘ll see him in many more projects in the future!
They show had three couples and at the beginning they all had quite good divided air time but later on the third couple was a bit moved to side, that was a bit sad. Also I liked the friendships we had, especially the basketball team.
Fah & Torn - the main couple, they were cute at the beginning, nothing special and as mentioned before I wasn‘t big fan of the actor playing Fah but I really liked Torn. Some things happened in the later Episodes which made me dislike Fah for a bit and I really hoped for them to break up. But in the end I‘m okay with how they ending this couple. But I do think their story was a bit too weak to be the main leads.
Aii & Saen - CUTE. That is the perfect word for these two. Loved them from the beginning, until the end. I could sympathize with their worries and thoughts.
Dome & Vee - the chemistry was so powerful in the first few Episodes, unfortunately there scenes decreased in the later Episodes and also because of the (necessary) time skips we missed some important scenes for them (the breakup between Pan & Dome and Vee dealing with his panic attack) Vee was my favorite character in the whole show and my heart felt heavy for him most of the drama. Wrong time, wrong place, right person - this described Dome & Vee the best. I‘m a bit disappointed with how the show ending the story of these two. And I do hope for a Spin-Off.
Also to mention I never disliked Pan, she also went through a lot & always was their to support her brother. She isn‘t at fault in any way, if we need someone to be at fault it was Dome & Vee themself.
Overall a really good drama which unfortunately is totally underrated. I wished more people would watch it. And if after the 1st Episode (which is the weakest of the whole drama) think it‘s nothing for you, stay, it‘s worth it, really ❤️
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story: as far as the story goes it isn't terribly original but thats normal in dramaland. There were a lot of refreshing differences in the plot compared to other dramas however and it wasn't riddled with cliches. If there was a misunderstanding in the drama like we so often see, instead of dragging it out for 4 or 5 episodes, the misunderstanding usually got resolved within the episode and so I was never so frustrated I wanted to rip my hair out. The story progressed in a believable fashion and I felt everything was realistic.
characters: All the characters were nicely developed. I loved that the main girl didn't fall for the rich handsome successful guy and actually broke dramaland tradition and went for the poor and not so handsome guy. Their romance was beautifully done and their interactions were adorable. I loved that he wasn't a jerk to her and I loved that they were honest with eachother and their feelings.
music: the music in this was so-so. nothing stood out really.
over all I give this drama a 9 because it kept you watching and didn't lose your interest. I was rather really happy with this drama and I hope you consider watching it to.
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See Hear Love: Mienakute mo Kikoenakute mo Aishiteru
9 people found this review helpful
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Best Love Story
Manga artist Shinji Izumoto has secured a movie deal. He should be celebrating, but he's going blind, his manga series has been canceled, and he can no longer care for his grandmother. All alone, Shinji makes the devastating decision to jump off a balcony. When Hibiki Aida, a deaf fan of his, saves Shinji, they begin an unusual life together.The best love story that I think, due to the fact Tomohisa Yamashita and Yûko Araki have a strong chemistry in this story.
A manga artist, Tomohisa Yamashita lost his eye sight and a beautiful cute woman Yûko Araki. A simple story, but beneath it has a meaning of a strong bonded relationship. It is incredible that I cannot stop and take break; it makes you wanted to continue watching it until it ends.
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parasite invasion!
In general I liked it! It's short, only 6 chapters! a dystopian story where parasites take over human brains in order to surviveI liked the characters, each one had their moment as the plot progressed
full of action and special effects, although I am not a fan of the latter, they knew how to handle it within the kdrama
I admit that at times some things seemed very predictable but that does not take away from the emotion and speed of the scenes.
I feel like it's perfect to watch when you have a blockage
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The topics for each episode were on point and super relatable to our everyday current lives whether or not you're a celebrity/idol/actor/actress/singer, etc. The cast was unbelievably funny and shared the same family type vibes that we continue to see every season. Shoutout to the OG trio (Zheng Kai, Li Chen and Angelababy) that are still around, they keep the spirit alive and continuing with new cast members. Hehehe love Kun Kun, watched him since his Idol Producer days and was so happy to see him a part of this cast. The guests for this season was also so awesome!! Just loved this season, 10/10 and so sad that it's already over!!
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The story of closeted lesbians in ancient history
Unlike many historical dramas that dive into politics and betrayal, Mhom Ped Sawan takes a refreshing turn of exploring the issue of เล่นเพื่อน, or ‘len pheuan'. This term translates to ‘playing with friends’ that refers to the intimate female companion or, in easy words, the lesbianism. Set in the 18th-century Rattanakosin era, this series follows a typical template of Thai historical drama with some politics, strong misogyny and sexism, but with a sapphic and gay twist. For those unfamiliar, ‘Mhom Ped Sawan’ is an ancient story penned by Khun Suwan, a well-known poet from that time.The series takes a wider look at how same-sex relationships were perceived and accepted in that time period, along with the complexities of love across different social classes, particularly within the palace walls and its social circles. It also highlights the presence of LGBT allies during that era. While the series is more focused on drama, it still has some interesting moments of romance and the tension that come with it. But with 30 episodes, some plots are a bit draggy and repetitive.
One worth noting feature of this series is its skillful incorporation of Thai culture throughout the plots. The elements of poetry, literature, dance and play, cuisine, and palace etiquette are beautifully represented through the characters and their arcs.
When it comes to acting, all the cast members did a fantastic job. If there's one problem, it's Film and Tubtim’s chemistry. While their individual performances are good, their on-screen chemistry isn’t strong enough. Some scenes come off as a bit detached and lack the warmth you'd expect from lovers. In contrast, Princess Vilas and Khun Suwan's chemistry stand out more. Their companionship is endearing, and even though they’re not romantically linked, their dynamic is way more fulfilling than Mom Kham and Mom Sud.
This series has a good production quality and stays consistent from the first episode all the way through. But one drawback, in my opinion, is the use of camera angles and certain framing for the kiss and intimate scenes between Mom Kham and Mom Sud rather than showcasing the real kiss/performances. I wonder if this was done for the actresses' comfort, perhaps due to their inexperience with such scenes, (which I doubted that was the case), or if it was the director's choice or the channel's restriction. But regardless, it really detracts from the authenticity and believability of their relationship and undermines the emotional depth of their characters.
Despite its LGBT+ theme, it’s quite noticeable that this series is crafted through a hetero lens. But taking into account the cultural context, the time and place setting, and the target audience of ThaiPBS, the overall execution is quite good. While certain aspects of the storyline may falter, it’s still a good drama for those who like historical drama with less complicated palace politics.
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So slow….
Glad this was only 10 eps. It was really slow and boring through most of it. I have a few hang ups. Na Bi really set the relationship for failure from the beginning. She listened to everyone and their stories of who Jae-eon is or who and what they think he is. She had a bad relationship right before that left her with a bad attitude to begin with. If you go into a relationship with a bad attitude and not really opening up and being honest to begin with then it really is doomed. I think they both were stupid in their communication! They never said what needed to be said when they had a great opportunity to do it. It was infuriating!! So many times I wanted to stop watching because I wanted to seriously smack them upside the head. He showed her so many freaking times how he felt but she was to stupid to see it! Even in the end she still talked about how he would disappoint her again and then saw Do-hyeok and almost let go of Jae-eon’s hand. She was still wavering!! Sheesh! If this is really the reality of how young people today communicate and have a relationship I feel bad for them!Story - so slow. It was agonizing just like a said above! It was not the best storyline for me.
Acting/Cast - the emotion was there. It was good acting. I was not disappointed in that. I was just disappointed in the story they had to work with.
Rewatch - probably not! I personally am not one for slow, boring, and poor communication shows. I like when people are honest and open. Like I said before if this is how young people date and communicate… I feel bad for them.
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Binge worthy show
STORY: During Qin Dynasty, a meteorite fell from sky which led some people to gain super natural powers, who are called the” Abnormalities”- Jizhong. The rulers used the power of Abnormalities for achieving great duties. But they feared that they may misuse their abilities to trouble the emperor. During the Ming dynasty, a department called “Chong Ming Wei” was created to exterminate Abnormalities.The abnormalities may have 9 kinds of super powers- “Fu Jiu You”.
I watched this drama in Rakuten viki, which in my opinion has best subtitles and translation, but I felt some of the words weird, so I am mentioning them here in case you couldn’t follow them. Also, I could only understand a few of them.
The super powers:
1. The dark clap of thunder- ability to kill target by discharging electricity.
2. Cloud and feather space- levitation.
3. Abstract law of collection- THE ABILITY TO TOUCH A CORPSE AND HEAR THE LAST SOUNDS THE DECEASED HEARD BEFORE DYING.
4. Connected imitation- the ability to impose the fears, an abnormality has, onto normal people and make them hallucinate.
5. Peach blossom spring- ability to make other abnormalities abilities momentarily ineffective.
6. Giver of life: ability to quickly heal external injuries.
This drama revolves around male lead’s investigation about Ting ji case (Zhang cha- an Abnormality- tried to assassinate the crown prince) that happened 10 years ago. He tries to find the truth and mystery about that case.
It has more fantasy elements than crime and investigation.
The pacing of story is good, no dragging. First half of the drama is very cool, with lots of fun but the last episodes have a bit of melodrama.
ACTOR’S PERFORMANCE: To be honest, there isn’t much scope for actors to exhibit their talent. Only the male lead has got a long screen time and he steals the show with his hilarious expressions.
EFFECTS: I felt this as a low budget drama, the effects aren’t very appealing, but I appreciate the crew’s efforts.
My verdict: This a 24 episode bingewatch worthy drama, with each episode having a duration of less than 25 minutes, if you skip intro and outro. I recommend you to watch it if you want a story not so intense and not so foolish either..
Finally, don’t miss the ramblings of the actors at the end of each episode, they are funny.
The crew announced that there is going to be a season 2 for this drama and I will watch it definitely.
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The Potential This Series Had...
Another BL that used the chef/cooking plot, and was honestly executed very well. I was so ecstatic to see that Mark was going to be in this -- a series that was finally going to show off his acting abilities (in which it did! Phenemonally!) This series had so much potential to be up there with the Greats, but unfortunately, it turns for the worst by episode 8. Bite Me is a cinematically beautiful series that was following along with a perfect storyline until it decided to ruin itself.Let's Dive In.
Firstly production. Had the plot been half as decent as the food shots, then this series would be the best BL to date. I mean, it's food p*rn on steroids. Mesmerizing shots, gorgeous colors, and left my mouth watering each and every time. Along with that, the cinematography was absolutely remarkable. The colors, the scenery, the framing, the lighting; it was wonderful. I would place this series in the same bubble as ATOTS and ITSAY in terms of production, it was just that good. The only thing I care to complain about is the excessive ad placements. In episode 2 or 3 alone, there's at least 3-4 ad placement in the span of 5 minutes. It's ludicrous. Even the delivery service is an ad placement, it's just way too much.
Onto the plot. I know a lot of people had a problem with the ridiculously slow pace of this series, but I think that was the best part for me. Sure, some scenes ran on too long, and there were a bunch of filler shots, but the slow burn of Aek and Aue built up so much chemistry between the two. I'm a sucker for slow-burn relationships. To see the small things like longing stares, and developing feelings, and the tiny moments when you see a character falling in love is the part that makes a series for me, and boy did they have a bunch. I think what they did best at was building up that tension. at some point in the series, the tensity becomes so much that you start to see that sexual tension between them. Too bad the execution was terrible. Kind of like Sun and Sky from Golden Blood, the screenwriters do such a good job at constructing these relationships, only for them to ruin them in the execution.
We all sit at the edge of our seats for something to finally happen between Aek and Aue, only for it to turn sour. It was so out of character for Aue to kiss Aek without consent. It was out of character for Aek to act so defensively the way he did. It was a cheap route for the screenwriters to take. Of course we needed Aek running in the rain and tripping and hurting his arm, for him to then go to the ER with a stranger he met days ago. So unbelievably out of character that it took me out of the story. I was upset from that point on. Instead of what did happen, I would've made Aek more nervous than defensive. I would've built upon that feeling of him being unsure of where things were headed but in a more calming manner so that when Aue does admit how he feels, they could've kissed consensually, and maybe Aek would've just left cause he's more confused and not sure how to handle his newfound feelings. I don't know, anything else than what did happen. From that point on, their relationship feels like a joke. They don't talk about what happened, kind of just pretend like it didn't, and then get a cutesy ending with a sorry kiss. Actually, the little use of physical intimacy usually doesn't bother me, but for this series, in particular, it was needed. So the final kiss is so underwhelming that I wanted to throw my phone. At least in ATOTS, we get an incredible finale kiss and see their relationship grow. In my personal opinion. this series shouldn't have been named "Bite Me", it insinuates that it was going to be high heat, but there's none to be found. Instead, it should've had a name like ITSAY to be somewhat aesthetic.
Onto the supporting characters. Aek's friend group had no chemistry. It was kind of awkward and like they were trying too hard at convincing us they were friends and not a bunch of actors (although Gameplay did good, even with his one-dimensional character). The employees at the restaurant were decent. I didn't care for Chompoo or her relationship with Lek. I was okay with Nuna, and her story was okay. Prem and Vich had zero chemistry. their relationship was so left-field that it was laughable. The only cute scene was the couple of moments in the last episode and that's it. The only supporting character that I loved was Nuan. Their scenes were enjoyable. Her conversation with Aek left me feeling somber, especially when he admits his feelings for Aue and she supports it.
The acting was pretty well done. The only actor I really had a problem with was Vich's actor. He was bland and awkward. Prem's wasn't that good either. Mark's acting felt so much more authentic here than in LBC. I think he did a really good job, some moments could've been better but overall, I loved watching him (other than the fact that he sometimes talked really freaking slow, but that could've been a character choice). Zung was good as well, I liked the longing look he gave and his mature presence. Allegedly, he didn't want to be in a BL but gave in. Why give a role to someone that doesn't want it? There are plenty of other people out there that would've happily accepted the role. Don't give it to someone who obviously has a problem with BL and playing a gay character. Most noticeably why we probably didn't get that physical intimacy that was needed.
Overall, this series was so good until it wasn't. I'm so sad that this wasn't the series that I so wanted it to be. I want to see Mark in more projects, I love him so much. Zung can stay very far away from any other BLs series as he pleases, we have no room for actors only wanting to grab attention and money from this industry.
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I have less expectations but I actually enjoyed it!
What I love:-Young Eun, Chi Sook and Mi Sook’s friendship.
-The FL and ML serendipitous love story. I love how the writer made it look like the leads are meant to be but not meant to be. WTH. The coincidences from the past that made their red string strong but love isn’t always easy.
-Fashion, Business- it’s one of those kdramas that didn’t bore me when they were just all talking about business. Some kdramas are boring when it comes to business part but this one entertained me.
-President Hwang- I super love his character. I love him as Chi Sook’s dad, as The One president and just his Character.
-I also love the OST!!!
What hurts me the most:
Is that how ML and FL are both trying to hold on and also trying to break up. The most painful thing is that they both love each other but the world seem to disagree.
What I hate:
-The mothers.
Jae Guk’s mom, I don’t hate her because she doesn’t want to support the FL and ML. I just hate her reasoning.
Young Eun’s mom, I hate the fact that it’s like she’s blaming Young Eun and her husband for living the life she chose. She did nothing but blame other people for what she is right now.
-Soo Wan- a jerk, two timer, drunk driver. But no one speak ill about him because he’s dead. I also hate the fact that people can’t get over him.
Additional things I love:
There were a lot of heart warming scenes that made me cry. Mi Sook’s condition made this drama and the friendship special. I also liked it when Chi Sook told her Dad that she doesn’t want to lose her friend because of him. And the scene when President Hwang said that Young Eun is like a daughter to him was just so touching.
The ending?
It wasn’t as satisfying as they really resolved none about the FL and ML love story. However, FL and ML proved that maybe, just maybe, two people can love each other even if they’re not together. And saying goodbye is not really the end. And that we can be happy by doing the things we love and by thinking of the people we love.
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It's Maya back with another overly typed out review! Overall, I really enjoyed this drama! It's entertainment value is good, but I just thought it was too long. After I go into details, I'll give you two ways to watch My Dear Warrior based on what kind of drama you want to watch.First, I want to go into what I really liked about My Dear Warrior. The reason I watched this series, to begin with, was because I saw Oab was in it. I'm a big fan of Oab, and the fact that he is portraying a cartoon character come to life and he just walks around in a kick-butt outfit the whole time... SIGN ME UP. I was also intrigued by the concept of cartoon characters coming into the real world and seeing what they will do.
2019 was really the year of characters from another world or time coming to our modern-day period and adjusting. One of the best parts of this series was seeing how Luna, Hoshi, and Kairo reacted to the real world. Finding out that Hoshi had no idea what normal bodily functions were was just hilarious and so unique.
There were some amazing action scenes, but the lack of them was one of the weaknesses. If you are looking for romance, the romance scale is through the roof on this series. There are also some hilarious side characters that are actually useful for once.
Alright, time for the dirt. As much as I love a good romantic drama, My Dear Warrior may have gone a little too crazy with the romance. As I said before, there are not a lot of action scenes throughout the series and those scenes are filled with a lot of staring into each other's eyes while the instrumental version of the theme song plays in the background. Of course, if that's what you want, then you're set!
The reason I gave the story a 7.5 is because it was just too long with not enough risk. You gotta admit that no good drama has a romance with no imminent threat lurking in the background just ready to pounce on our fragile hearts.. In My Dear Warrior, there are four risks that exist: Hoshi's romance with Luna, the evil beyond evil villain, the fact that Hoshi, Luna, and Kairo are cartoon characters and they have to disappear at some point, and something about a full moon. While all of these risks are mentioned throughout the series, the biggest threat to Hoshi and Sky's romance is him going back in the book. The other risks really do not have any importance even though the series wants you to think that they are. And like seriously what is that thing about the full moon, cause like they never come back to that, do they?
Alright, enough of that! Now you're wondering how you should watch My Dear Warrior. I'll cut to the chase:
1. If you want a nice drama filled with romance, action, and magic... Watch episodes 1-10, skip 11-14, and then watch episodes 15-20. You're not really missing anything in episodes 11-14.
2. If you want more of a romantic punch with your sprinkle of action, then watch all the way through.
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From the start of Seondal, I found myself hypnotised. The storyline played out beautifully, fully capturing your attention from the start. With a harrowing beginning of war and loss, it's hard not to feel for the characters at the start. The first thing I noticed was Seungho Yoo, playing the main character - Kim Inhong aka Kim Seondal. His acting as our main character shows within the first few minutes as his honourable character begins with his protective nature and charm. Seungho really creates a character that is likeable from the beginning - even though we know Inhong is written out and scripted, Seungho brings a truly amazing feeling to the character and truly makes Inhong his own.
Following on from Seungho as Inhong, there is also Kim Minseok as Gyeong. An idol that I have grown to be quite fond of over the past year, Gyeong was a character that I was very much looking forward to meeting in this film, and my expectations were definitely not let down. Kim Minseok brings to Gyeong a side of the character that felt playful, but still serious. Along with his own heroic and honourable actions, it's hard not to fall in love with this misshapen small family of crooks.
The storyline itself of family, loss, and revenge truly shows the spirit of this film. A storyline that's often overdone in a lot of genres and in many countries nowadays, this film truly brings to light how it all connects together. It's been a while since I watched a film about family and it was as connected and well done as Seondal is. There's a connection between all the characters, and as well done as the film has been made, it's obvious that they all had a lot of fun filming it. When you can see this, I believe it truly makes the film even better, showing that the actors truly enjoyed themselves.
Overall, this film truly has a lot of charm to it. With its mix of comedy but yet darker storylines, innocence and the ruining of innocence, and the reminder of war throughout, this touched my heart in ways I never expected this film to do. I found throughout this I felt every emotion that the producers wanted us to, and I found myself in tears numerous times. If you've never watched a Korean film before - I recommend this is your first one. If you are looking for another film to watch, I recommend this. It's a work of art, and I will definitely be watching this plenty more times in the future.
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