Quantcast
Completed
The Legend of Taotie
14 people found this review helpful
Dec 27, 2024
40 of 40 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 7.0

A Story of Emotions and Life Lessons

This drama has done something for me. It has proven (to me) a bit of a formula for what a show needs to have to be a 10/10 FOR ME.

-Multiple storylines
-People that are written like REAL people - (not perfect people, not idealized people, but nitty gritty, do the wrong thing, say yes when they mean no, REAL people)
-Romance that is present throughout but is not the major focus
-Love "tri"angles that are dirty and messy and emotional are a plus

-This show is long.
-This show takes a LOT of detours NOT focusing on the "Main" plot, most of it consists of side plots
-This show's ML is VERY VERY VERY rigid in his beliefs and this is often at the expense of his relationship with the FL.
-FL does NOT explain herself to ANYONE until after the fact (and then only sometimes)

Ultimately, because the show focuses so much on the side stories, the main story does fall to the background with the thread popping up again every few episodes to move something forward an inch. What this means though is that if you DON'T like the side stories the show will fall flat.

Personally, I think the first was the weakest but with each subsequent one I slowly got more invested. I had tears in my eyes by the end.

----
Do you like/ not mind:
angst?
misunderstandings and doubts?
slowest of snail romance?
Low/no physical intimacy
older cgi, costumes, hairstyles/ wigs

---
Fully biased 10/10
Unbiased... 7.5 or 8 probaby

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
My Golden Blood
14 people found this review helpful
by zyna
Aug 1, 2025
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 10

the main couple has A LOT of chemistry

Tong, a young man who believes he has hemophilia, but actually possesses a rare and potent "golden blood" that vampires find irresistible. The series follows his encounter with Mark, a centuries-old vampire who is tasked with protecting Tong from other vampires who crave his blood. As they navigate the dangers and complexities of this supernatural world, their relationship evolves from a protector-protected dynamic to a romantic one. -The series is good. of course the cgi is not the best but i fell in love with the couple and just ignored that. the storyline is not bad either, i enjoyed watching the series, that was fun.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
The Tuxedo
14 people found this review helpful
Mar 5, 2022
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 3
Overall 7.0
Story 4.5
Acting/Cast 8.5
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 3.0
This review may contain spoilers

a jerk and an idiot with good chemistry

Overall: We managed to get not just 1 but then a 2nd jerk main leads (well Aioon was maybe more of an idiot). They had good chemistry, but things just didn't make sense. Watched on Gagaoolala.

Content Warnings: physical violence, fight scene, threatening violence to employees, manipulation, mental health issue, bullying

What I Liked
- Aioon and Nawee had good chemistry (they looked comfortable in intimate scenes, I would like to see these actors together in another series)
- Jeff Satur is singing the OST
- pretty good production value (I liked that mirror reflection shot in the last episode)

Room For Improvement
- I really didn't like Nawee's behavior/character. Past trauma doesn't give you an excuse to be a total a**hole - if they had shown his dad/step brother being abusive in the past and then Nawee had character growth, I would have been better with that
- the cliche wannabe wife/girlfriend plot*
- *this just made me dislike Aioon for stringing her along for who knows how many years, so Aioon is a jerk too
- I don't understand why Aioon had such a sudden change of heart. Nawee treated him terribly and then one finger suck and he's in love???
- Aioon is also an idiot, who tries to cure anxiety/phobia like that? If it were that easy, then people wouldn't have anxiety/phobia.
- cliche drama at the end and then a rushed ending with a flashback montage
- that dad's character didn't make sense. Why would he have Nawee run the company only to then later switch it to his step brother? If the dad hates Nawee that much he would never have let him run it in the first place.
- I think they should have cut the adopted brother character and made Nawee's assistant and Aioon's brother be romantic or used that time to develop the Nawee/Aioon plot more
- the mullet (I didn't take points off for this, but I dislike mullets)

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Who Rules the World
14 people found this review helpful
May 18, 2022
40 of 40 episodes seen
Completed 8
Overall 8.5
Story 8.5
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 8.0

A good but not great drama that is more political than wuxia.

Completed - 5/18/2022

"Who Rules The World" was my most anticipated drama in 2022 because I am a fan of Yang Yang, Zhou LuSi and wuxia dramas. Though I wouldn't say the drama exceeded my high expectations, I thoroughly enjoyed it for the most part. At first glance, this seems to be a wuxia drama (or it's advertised as such), but it's actually more political.

What I Enjoy:

1. Smart Characters - It's rare to find a drama where almost all the main characters are smart and strong (emotionally and physically) from beginning to the end. Our Black (Hei Feng Xi) and White (Bai Feng Xi) lead characters are established and well-known martial artists in the pugilistic world. We don't have to wait for them to grow stronger throughout the drama. They are already two of the most powerful people. This creates an interesting dynamic between the two that is fun to watch as they compete and fall in love. We also have a strong supporting cast in Feng Qi Wu (badass female general), Huang Chao (intelligent and cunning crown prince), and Yu Wu Yuan (the two-faced Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of the drama). No one needs to be saved all the time, and no one becomes dumb all of a sudden. I wish there are more dramas out there with such strong and intelligent characters.

2. Mature Main Romance - It's fun to see our leads bicker all the time, yet slowly fall in love. I quite enjoy watching our ML being the smartest cookie in the show, yet so clueless when it comes to courting our FL. A shy and embarrassed Yang Yang is a treat. This is a romance without misunderstandings, break-ups, or evil unrequited love rivals. Our leads love, support, and trust each other. A comfortable romance to watch and one to die for.

3. Costumes/Styling - I am usually not a big fan of the bun hairstyle for the male characters in historical dramas. But in this drama, I would say almost all of the guys look pretty dashing in their costumes. I think Yang Yang looks the best when he's ill with his hair down. He even looks great with white hair! Zhao LuSi is made for historical dramas. She is so beautiful here and her particular hairstyle as Bai Feng Xi suits her so well. All the ladies have beautiful dresses and hair accessories. Nothing is too overdone, but just natural and complementary. I also like how they color coordinated ML and FL's costumes in many scenes when they are together.

4. Acting - Though many criticize Yang Yang's acting and his role selection, I do feel that his role here provided him the ability to be cool, sweet, romantic, serious and heartbroken. He might not be as amazing as he was in "Glory of Special Forces", but he's not bad either. He's great in Ep 28 - heartbreaking palace scene with the emperor. Zhou LuSi can also be typecasted into the cute female lead. Similar to Yang Yang, her role here also provided her an opportunity to show the different sides of Bai Feng Xi - from the carefree girl, to the elegant queen, and finally as a commanding ruler and soldier. The rest of the supporting cast is pretty good as well.

What I have mixed feelings about:

1. Leads Chemistry - For some reason, I don't feel that Yang Yang and Zhao LuSi have amazing chemistry in this drama. They seem like good friends or siblings. Maybe because their romance is so calming and understanding? There's no sizzle, no longing, no real heartbreak or super fluffy moments? Perhaps that's why I am not feeling it quite as much, even though they have some romantic, fun bickering and cute moments.

2. Fight Scenes - I was quite happy with the first few episodes of the drama. It was so fun to see FL fighting with that long ribbon. The fan that ML uses might not be as entertaining but the fight scenes are pretty good with no slow motion movement or posing. But the number of fight scenes decreases throughout the drama when the plot becomes more political. The few fight scenes that we got are short and not well-done at all. The last two big fight scenes in ep 39 and 40 - war battles and the final one in the palace - are just actors flying here and there with very little actual fighting.

3. Sets/Props/Lighting - This is a very subjective category and it probably only bothers me. I am expecting a pretty decent, if not big, budget production where money could be spent on props and sets. For some reason, it was irritating me throughout the show to see 'fake' sets and props. The color of the furniture/decorations and inside the palace don't seem right, compared to other historical dramas or similar caliber, such as "Novaland: Pearl Eclipse". I am not expecting the quality of "The Rebel Princess" but still, something is off and it bothers me. Another area that bugs me is the lighting of the drama. I am not expecting awesome lighting or cinematography like in "Luoyang" or "The Longest Day in Chang'an", but the drama could use more candles and lanterns for NIGHT scenes, instead of bright light from the window or artificial lighting. On the positive side, there are many beautiful aerial shots over different kingdoms.

4. Pacing - I would have placed this in the "What I Like" category if not for the last few episodes. For most of the drama, the pacing is really good and the story moves along smoothly. I was not bored and the drama kept my attention for the most part. However, in the last 5 episodes or so, there are many war battle scenes. I get confused about the city names and the repeated back-and-forth advancing and retreating, making these episodes feel rushed. I think the two time skips also affected the pacing as well.

Other Random Observations:
1. No one commented that the eldest prince (ML's older brother) can walk again?
2. Songs are not overplayed in this drama.
3. Does anyone find Zhao Lu Si's weirdly-shaped eyebrows distracting? No? Maybe it's just me. LOL
4. Where did teenage Han Pu find ingredients to make drugs in the war zone?
5. It's cool to see the soldiers waving the flags in a battle to communicate war strategies.
6. CGI is not good.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Ashita no Joe
14 people found this review helpful
Jun 5, 2013
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 4.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 7.0
On a super crazy Yamapi nostalgia which propelled me to re-watch almost all he's been acting in, I have finally come around to watch this movie. I was hesitant because, honestly, among all the combat sports, boxing is definitely not my favourite.

Being the movie adaptation of a legendary manga, the plot of this live action would need a 1 page discussion at least. But here's the rub! The movie does absolutely no justice to the cultural reality it was born in. Tomorrow's Joe is originally a story of social redemption that features a very self destructive antihero; it's not your average story of poor guy becomes rich and popular thanks to his fists and strength of will. It is, or I'd better say it SHOULD BE, the mirror of a period, a true social condemnation embodied by a derelict guy who can express himself only on the ring. This is where the film fails big time. The character of Joe is so scantily written one needs to be a seer to understand his motives – unless you've read all 20 volumes of the manga, in which case you'll probably be disappointed anyway by its brevity.
The direction seems to have been so preoccupied with the tiniest visual detail that it completely forgot to tell a story. The same applies to all the characters, whose arc is touched so superficially I had to appeal to my imagination to fill all the glaring voids.

Not to mention the boxing aspect itself. While the actors have done an amazing job at preparing for a difficult athletic task, the combats themselves are visually beautiful but tremendously repetitive. Since so much time is dedicated to the fight, I was hoping for more moves and tricks that never came. Once again, in their anxiety to be loyal to the manga they concentrated on the outer picture, instead of creating a movie which could stand on its own feet, for viewers who weren't yet born in the 60ies or have never heard of Yabuki Joe.

So why am I giving this film such a high overall rate?
Let's say this is my way to pay homage to the cast, mostly Tomohisa and Yusuke Iseya, and the director of photography. As you may have inferred from the premise of this review, I do not belong to the group of those who think Yamapi's just another pretty idol who can't act. On the contrary, I maintain he has what in theatre jargon is called the "physique du role", regardless of the part he plays. He does not express much with his face, he actually uses his whole body to enter the character. From Akira who flaps his arms like a weird butterfly to the über cool flying doctor, from the basketball court to the boxing ring he's always extremely believable. I could mention more roles, but it won't be necessary, I stand my ground: here, he IS Joe. If he had been given the chance, he would have created an unforgettable character.
Iseya did an amazing job too, despite the sad lack of depth the character he portrays is condemned to by the terrible script.

As for photography, it's absolutely stunning. Colours, angles, close-up shots and flashbacks are spot on. It does have a flaw, though, directly related to the abovementioned necessity to stay visually true to the manga: at times it looks as though the story took place in the 20ies, when in fact it's the 60ies and 70ies, as proved by the fact that people watch television, among other things.
The music falls into the same trap, but I'm willing to forgive this detail, since it's very beautiful and suits the atmosphere perfectly.

I may rewatch this movie in the future, just for the visual. I'm not sure I'm willing to recommend it, unless you're familiar with the characters and don't care for the plot.
Let's say that this movie has done nothing to ignite my interest for the sport, but it has confirmed my undying love for Yamashita Tomohisa – as if that ever needed validation.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Zettai Kareshi Special
14 people found this review helpful
by Emmers
Apr 12, 2012
1 of 1 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 5.0
Story 3.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 6.0
Rewatch Value 1.0
I really wish I hadn't watched this special. I got all emotionally worked up about the ending of the series only to be dragged through all the same junk over again! It just made me really sad. I also felt like there was a tiny bit of inconsistency in a few of the characters and that bugged me. I would recommend just sticking to the ending of the series and forgetting about the special. Not worth it.
Was this review helpful to you?
Jan 23, 2021
1 of 1 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.5
Story 9.0
Acting/Cast 9.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 3.0

A Delightful Pregnancy/New Parent Story

This is a follow-up special to the excellent 2016 J-Drama Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu and if you enjoyed that series, then this special is absolutely a must-see. The film is a tad didactic about pregnancy and new parenthood, but I think that even people who have not seen the original series can enjoy it as a standalone movie.

The special continues roughly three years after the end of the series. Mikuri and HIramasu are now happily and genuinely (if not legally) married, and working hard at their jobs. Mukuri's Aunt Yuri has broken up with Ryota, and facing her prospects as a successful business woman with no life partner.

The story largely focusses on Mikuri and Hiramasu as they discover that a child is on its way, and have to deal with the usual issues of first-time parents in Japan which are complicated by the birth occurring immediately before the first Covid lockdown in Japan. The show deftly addresses the systemic resistance to the legally mandated parental leave by Japanese businesses, and places the two on the front lines of trying to change the work culture to reasonably accommodate pregnancy.

Most of the side characters return for the special, and the series continues to be unusually LGBTQ+ positive in comparison to most J-dramas. Hiramasu's gay previous boss Numata is now living with the guy he met in the final episode and there are a couple of other good solid moments of inclusion as well.

All in all, this special is a happy story about a young couple facing the challenges of pregnancy and new parenthood. It is a test for their relationship, but it is one that they work together to face, and in the end they have a loving, growing family in the new normals of life in Covid times and the acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Aoshima-kun Is a Bully!
14 people found this review helpful
Sep 22, 2024
9 of 9 episodes seen
Completed 3
Overall 7.5
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 7.5
Rewatch Value 7.0

How to make a noona romance work for 2 sweet and caring individuals

Subjective Gut Rating - 7.75

This is a simple Jdrama with a very common plot. If you like older women/younger men and fake relationships, then this is a decent watch. The plot is really nothing special but it’s comforting if you like certain tropes.

The leads have pretty good chemistry and the acting is decent. I would have liked to see Mizuki’s cold personality last a little longer before he falls so in love with Yukino. Afterall, the English title of this drama is “Aoshima-Kun is a Bully!” Well, he wasn’t really a bully and even if he was, it didn’t last long.

The drama focuses on two kind and considerate individuals at different stages of their lives. When they get together, their approaches to romance and relationships are quite different. There’s a lot of back-and-forth guessing each other’s feelings and getting stuck in their own thoughts, instead of communicating. I would not say there are many misunderstandings, and they do talk eventually and resolve conflicts quickly.

What I like about Yukino (FL) is that she is a regular, working woman. She dresses appropriately for work and also at home in her casual wear and PJs. I act just like her when I am lounging at home! LOL Her reservations of love given her past experiences, are totally understandable and age-appropriate. What’s not age-appropriate is the typical shy and somewhat coy behaviors for an experienced 35-year old who had multiple relationships in the past. She might take the initiative to reach out for a kiss or two, but for the most part, she appears inexperienced in PDA.

My biggest complaint is probably the side plot about the family member introduced in the last couple episodes. I don’t think that storyline is needed and it was not well-written.

This is a quick and OK watch. I enjoy the fake relationship trope (though it’s not really a big focus) and seeing how two sweet and caring people try to make the relationship work.


Completed: 9/21/2024 - Review #487

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
The Art of Negotiation
14 people found this review helpful
Apr 17, 2025
12 of 12 episodes seen
Completed 2
Overall 9.5
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 9.5
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 6.0

In all forms of art, "The Art of Negotiation" is my new favorite!

Yoon Jun Ho, the face of a man who shows no fear, has nothing to lose.

The storyline was full of wonders and intricacy that kept me on my toes with all the political intrigues and calculated machinations by Yoon Jun Ho. The way the M&A team side-stepped attempts at their goals and thwarted their potential ruination was exciting to watch.

I have noticed that except for Yoon Jun Ho, all the M&A members ask questions a lot! Mr. lawyer, Sun Yeong, explained judicial terms and conditions and the financial advisor, Min Jeong, let the intern, Jin Su, know about the financial terms, problems and awareness in a way that you can't help but listen and try to understand every bit of it.

That intern was not there for no reason. He was there in every situation as a representative of the audience. Just like the viewers, he was also a newbie in this industry and learning things. So, whenever he questioned terms, he also questioned for normal people like us, and naturally, that's how we got our answers out of curiosity without wasting time in storyline.

They didn't do wish-whoosh-wash extravagant camera angles, stunt work and over-the-top pop bgm but they slowly but steadily built the plot with intricate details of how the corporate world works. This was a drama of great mindwork. Fighting with people not with fists but with knife-sharp brain skills.

The twists and turns had me open-mouthed and several times I found myself gasping in frustration and disbelief. Every time I thought "there's no way out of this situation", they proved me wrong in every episode, leaving me in awe of the characters as well as the plotline and how well it was written. I couldn't even imagine how it would end till the end of the episode. They made sure episodic problems were solved and characters from there were well-used when needed; what an intelligent move!

Just the way I like brainless shit comedies, I also like smart, clever, intriguing plots like this. Loved how the camera and storyline span from one character to another character seamlessly. The little, unnoticeable details they put in and made a bigger purpose out of it was brilliant!

Last but not least, the choice of soundtracks was also intriguing. They retained a suspenseful tension throughout the series.


When the mood got tense, the lyrics-

"The world is a deep, dark ocean

Of greed, loss, and betrayal

Hang onto your sweet emotions

'Cause money takes the heart

Money takes the heart"

-filled the air with utter satisfaction!


Overall, if you are looking for a fast-paced business drama, it's definitely not for you, but if you're looking for an out-of-the-box thrilling ride of how negotiation in the business world works, then you're welcome to the world of betrayal, greed and revenge of "The Art of Negotiation".

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Hyde, Jekyll, Me
14 people found this review helpful
Apr 1, 2015
20 of 20 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 8.0
Story 7.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 8.0
Rewatch Value 6.0
This review may contain spoilers
I just finished the drama and i was somehow disappointed with all the hate comments i have been reading even before i see the ending.

I cannot say that the drama was perfect but it was not bad afterall. I am a psychology major student and i guess it was the main reason why i enjoyed the drama.(doesn't mean that the symptoms or cases of DID shown are possible because it was just fictional )

Hyun Bin was Hyun Bin. He was a great actor that could make us cry a river with his crying scenes. Until the end i still see seo jin and robin as different person and he did a well in portraying both characters. On the other hand, han ji min who was highly bashed for her acting skills in this drama was reasobable. there are maybe some parts she lacks emotions but not until the last episodes (with robin ) that made me cry like a baby.

I understand that the hate and disappointment of all the other reviews rooted from their own expectations. they are asking more of the scenes they wanted like more seo jin and hana scenes. blaming han ji min for bad character when she was only portraying her role according to the script.
Unlike the majority, I loved this drama. One of the dramas that made me weep and flood my room.

Somewhat SPOILER:
For the bias part. . until the end i was hoping robin would overcome seojin and hana and him would be together, I liked robin more because i see him as another seojin not just a mere symptom of his illness. I see his pain and i love how he is able to give love and protect people beyond all their hate of his existence.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Jark Sadtroo Soo Hua Jai
14 people found this review helpful
Dec 19, 2020
19 of 19 episodes seen
Completed 9
Overall 9.5
Story 9.5
Acting/Cast 10
Music 10
Rewatch Value 9.5
This review may contain spoilers

Enemy to the heart, turns out the direction to become lovers isn't too far.

Since I have nothing better to do, why not make a whole review revamped about my favorite lakorn Jark Sadtroo Soo Hua Jai (English Translation: From Enemy to the Heart)

Something to make clear: This is a slap kiss lakorn but sometimes people don't think so, imo definition in slap kiss there are forced kisses, forced seduction, and some sort of makjang, male chases female first. Don't turn back though, since you'll find yourself relaxed even if there are forced kisses, the slap kiss level on this is medium (more bolder than Kluen Cheevit, but less than Hua Jai Sila). So don't get warned with all of the slap kiss tags on there.

I'm deciding to make my review medium sized since it was a long one and I decided that making another review for my favorite lakorn is the best.

One word since I'll use this A LOT: Chemistry.

That's right chemistry makes it. The chemistry between Aum and Mik is burning hot that it burned my soul and body. They have the best chemistry in Channel 7 and though this is subjective, many people did love their chemistry and I might be the number one fan that loves the chemistry, of course again chemistry is subjective and people may have their picks.

If you somehow decide to torture yourself and miss out on this lakorn, by dropping it don't. Stay until at least episode 7 and if you don't feel the chemistry, your a tortured soul (Just Kidding, Am I? LOL).

Mik Thongraya as Jett I'll give 5 words since this is supposed to be a short review: Caring, Protective, Possessive, and madly in love with the female lead, oops I went over limit.

Aum Patcharapa as Sophita this time I will really give 5 words: Cold, Protective, Business Minded, Family Minded and oh a professional in rejecting Jett's feelings. (Just so you know there is a good 10 episodes where she decides that she likes the male lead, while he falls first in episode 5 or you think of it as 1 LOL).

Both of them have done the best, of course many Aum lakorns aren't subbed but she is the queen of lakorns in Thailand I don't know how well she acted in other lakorns but to this day I consider this as her best lakorn and Mik's as his best and my favorite, along with their best performance to date of what I saw with them. Mik thongraya is my second favorite actor in Thailand, and Aum is one of my favorite actresses due to this lakorn, that's how much chemistry lasts.

I don't think anyone could replace their chemistry and they are my top OTP in lakorn land and one of my top's in all of Asian drama land.

Supporting characters did what did they, gave us relief since there were many intense moments here. The villain's were stiff although I'd say Rawin did make a impact on me with his acting, and the twist to the villain is great. Rin did a great job as well.

Even after this airing in 2020, and now 2021 I still think this has a very unique plot, I LOVE IT! Hmu if you find something like this.

There were many sweet moments between the leads and I would say this did really focus on romance but with a touch of the action with the side. Jett imo, is a very twistable character so if you get annoyed or fearful of him at the start, understand that he is nothing compared with normal lakorn male leads, despite the forceful kisses and there isn't rape here although a uncomfortable almost willing.

The music is chef's kiss like the lakorn is, the title song represents the lakorn. The song by Nam Kula I had it on repeat, the first one just showed that Jett felt like he was in a one sided love waiting and waiting for the Sophita, and I outright loved it. The song by Lula shows Sophita's wavering in hate from love and I loved it.

This has a happy ending and I don't want to spoil more I already gave off plent.

Watch this give this a try, it's my favorite lakorn it can become yours too. There's nothing wrong with trying this, I mean I even made a review twice you can see my dedication into getting you to watch this, and usually Moonlight is the laziest person on earth.

I've rewatched this about 30 times so far and yes I'm crazy, I feel shy admitting this, I need wine now. The rewatch value is high for me and the chemistry doesn't die down EVER, oh and this has steamy kisses in lakorn world where we get half as**d kisses.

Have a glass of vodka because the starting is very hyped up and enjoy watching!

(Wait this got too long, OH SORRYZ (it was supposed to be short at first T-T)

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
The First Jasmine
14 people found this review helpful
4 days ago
40 of 40 episodes seen
Completed 2
Overall 8.0
Story 8.0
Acting/Cast 8.0
Music 8.5
Rewatch Value 6.5

The Heart Will Go On

Ye Li is summoned from the elite Lishan Academy to prepare for her wedding to Mo Xiuyao, a crippled and unfavored prince. Her younger sister Ye Ying is now engaged to her former fiancé, Prince Mo Jingli. Ye Li is unfazed by the groom swap and blithely oblivious to her new husband's frosty glowers and suspicious side-eyes. True to Xiuyao's suspicions, there is more to Ye Li than meets the eye. She has secrets and has returned to the capital with a higher purpose than marriage—one focused on righting injustices against the former Prince Ding and Lishan Academy. As it turns out, both Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao were collateral damage in a power play at the highest level of imperial authority. Their common cause draws them together, but in order to truly work together, they must confront the past and put it behind them.

Though set in the fictional dynasty of Dachu, the setting for The First Jasmine is clearly inspired by Wu Zetian's controversial ascent, and the costumes, political dynamics, and social structures are distinctly Tang dynasty. While the political plot is not particularly special, the past intrigue is revealed in a way that draws you in, like pieces of a puzzle gradually falling into place. Everyone is an unreliable narrator, divulging their own role in the multiple betrayals eight years ago from their own point of view. The plot does not bother to fully explain itself, leaving the audience to speculate on and eventually piece together what happened with a growing sense of dread.

The problem is that the drama reaches its emotional peak a little too early, and after that, there is a sense of anticlimax heading into the finale. The final plot arc is rushed and fails to deliver a sense that justice was served or that the country is in better hands.

That said, this is a very solid character-driven story about healing. Both Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao are deeply damaged by past trauma, and the way their relationship evolves makes sense given what they endured. Ye Li is a deeply traumatized and complicated protagonist who appears functional only because of the coping mechanisms she relies upon to get through her difficulties. As a character, perhaps Ye Li is too capable, but she embodies the ethos of the elite Lishan Academy, and through her, the heart will go on. That said, the Lishan backstory unveil took too long and left me emotionally exhausted.

While Bai Lu pulls off a memorable and heartbreaking portrayal of Ye Li's trauma, her final showdown lacked sufficient impact. Her cold, resting-death-face missed the mark, and I felt that Xiuyao—no less a victim—deserved to be in on the final confrontation. I am fine with sidelining the male lead in the finale of female-centric storylines, but the actress has to be able to rise to the moment. That didn't happen here.

There were many interesting character arcs that didn't play out. I expected Han Mingxi to play a more consequential role and saw potential in his hilarious interactions with Ye Ying. But to me, Mo Jingli was the biggest missed opportunity. He is a cunning and layered character who pursued a just cause via questionable means. I did not like how the narrative diminished his cause, his motivations, and his intelligence heading into the finale.

Ultimately, this drama tries to combine too many themes. It is difficult to mix romance into a heavy revenge story, so I didn't mind so much that they didn't really try. Where it falls down most for me is how the main revenge plot failed to deliver closure or transformation. The story introduces so many interesting characters who seem to have agency and free will, only to have them go down the path of tired tropes. Screenwriter Zhao Na strikes again - her dramas always start well on the inspiration from borrowed works but she is really building a track record in not knowing how to end her plot arcs properly.

This starts out as an 8.5-level drama, but with the ending, it only earns an 8.0+. Still, it has enough unique aspects to make it an enjoyable and recommended watch.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Cursed in Love
14 people found this review helpful
Oct 2, 2020
8 of 8 episodes seen
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 10

This is one of those dramas that is truly flawless.

Watashitachi wa Douka Shiteiru (aka Cursed in Love) is a drama based on the manga of the same name. It tells the story of a girl named Nao, who enters Kogetsuan, a traditional Japanese confectionery shop, under a false identity in order to investigate her mother’s death and prove her innocence.

Honestly, I was initially reluctant to give this drama a chance, as I’m generally not a big fan of J-dramas. Plus, I wasn’t sure how the story would unfold or if it would be worth my time. But I finally gave in, and once I started watching, I just couldn’t stop. This drama was so addictive that I watched seven episodes in one sitting, which was a first for me.

What I especially liked about this drama is that it offers a little bit of everything—romance, murder mystery, a strong female lead, interesting side characters, and an evil matron. On some levels, it feels like a typical soap opera, but what makes it truly stand out is the way it was executed. The plot, the cast, their chemistry, and the overall pacing were all just perfect. Plus, if you're into kimonos and Japanese cuisine, you’ll enjoy this show even more. Kudos to the entire cast, crew, and writers of Cursed in Love for creating such an amazing drama.

Finally, this drama is probably one of the BEST Japanese dramas out there, and I can definitely see myself rewatching it in the future. To anyone contemplating whether to watch or not—definitely check it out. I'm sure you won't regret it.

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
Chains of Heart
14 people found this review helpful
by pcain3
Apr 30, 2023
10 of 10 episodes seen
Completed 1
Overall 2.5
Story 2.0
Acting/Cast 4.0
Music 3.0
Rewatch Value 1.0

Awful! Awful! Awful!

I Really wanted to give this show straight zero's, my rating is being kind.

I think someone with a good idea wrote a horrible script and maybe they had money to throw away so they produced it, or had ties with someone in the industry, I don't know.

I did watch the whole thing, all though I watched other shows in between, but I really wanted to leave a review and I won't do that unless I watch it all.

It really is a convoluted mess. It's not really what I would call a BL since there wasn't really any romance, unless you want to count a couple of flashbacks that were pg rated.

I can't recommend this, but I know some of you will watch it out of curiosity, which is ok, as long as you understand it's all confusing, a bit creepy in places and the ending is as disappointing as the entire series.

This definitely goes to the bottom of my list - I certainly won't watch it again. In one review someone mentioned they hoped for a second season so they could get some answers???? There are no answers - and the only question I have - is WHY was this even produced?

Read More

Was this review helpful to you?
Completed
A Werewolf Boy
14 people found this review helpful
Apr 14, 2014
Completed 0
Overall 10
Story 10
Acting/Cast 10
Music 9.0
Rewatch Value 10
This movie is so emotional. The story line is great and the chemistry between the leads are just perfect. Of course, i have to admit that i watched this for Song Joong Ki but i now so glad that i watched it. it delivers a beautiful yet innocent love story as well as evoke the feeling of viewers. i'm sure that many will agree with me and of course some won't but for sure, most of you will love this movie as much as i do because it will make you cry nonstop...
Give it a try and all you'll be saying after watching it is wow, what an exceptionally good movie this is.
Was this review helpful to you?