This review may contain spoilers
This is the spinoff of Boss Koi and it has a better plot than the main series.
Honestly, I do like the storyline of this spinoff because it mainly focuses on Nakazawa, Kazumi Wada, and Izumi Haruka. At least, in this drama, Nakazawa is no longer the 2nd lead because in this spinoff, he is the main lead. The 2nd lead in this drama is Kazumi Wada despite how brief it is for her to be the 2nd lead. The story of the said spinoff was well created despite the shorterepisodes and shorter runtime provided and it is expected that Nami and Junnosuke won't be featured in this drama because they are not mainly the focus of the story.The music used is still the same as used in the main series so it is good but I did like how the confession part has its turned around the tables elements like for example, in one of the episodes of the spinoff, Izumi was supposed to confess to Nakazawa but Nakazawa happened to do it anyway and this is an example of a drama that shows that not all things will go according to plan but it may possibly lead to better results.
What I like the most in this drama is that it has its mixture of funny and romantic moments that were well done and/or executed. Despite the said mixture, there will come a time when you might feel sad in some parts of the spinoff but not everyone will feel that kind of element anyway so sometimes, the sad parts in this spinoff is too plain or uninteresting at all because the sad acting lacks connection to the viewers because of how generic and/or too common the sad elements of the spinoff when it comes to love. Well, maybe because I have seen some romantic dramas with the same sad elements in my country so I can say that those things are no longer new and/or fresh to me.
In overall, this spinoff drama is still worth watching despite the flaws that can be seen as you progress through this drama.
Was this review helpful to you?
36 episodes isn't enough. No amount of episode would be enough. 9.0 rating is well-deserved.
If you are looking for a drama that has intense romance, good friendship, and rich in plot then TPOB won’t disappoint you. Watching a few clips of this drama in tiktok convinced me that this drama would be worthy of my time. I initially don’t get excited over dramas that have enemies to lovers trope due to the fact that often times the female gets too annoying or sometimes both couple are to focused on keeping scores against each other that they are becoming way to toxic for my taste.However, this drama executed the perfect way to show an enemies-to-lovers trope by planting enough and valid reason why they must hate each other and they also gave them enough time to fully build the trust they have on one another. They enemied really well and they fix their fights really well by compromising, giving assurance, and what other married couples do.
I also remember that there are viewers who are not into the concept of someone giving up revenge for the sake of love. But rest assured that this drama would make you think that often times hate and grudges would actually keep everyone stagnant and instead of thinking that they are being blinded by love know that it takes great courage and maturity to be able to consider the bigger picture rather than drag everyone down with your revenge.
Going into details as to why I loved this drama:
1. The romance was top tier, they have great chemistry, and the second romances in this drama are also worth watching. This drama showed how you can turn an enemies-to-lovers trope into the most healthiest couple. From having doubts and being wary of each other to pledging loyalty and protecting one another. No drama could show the very same build up of romance as TPOB. Outside their bedchamber both are very eloquent and reliable. Inside the the bedchamber they are very adorable, their quarrels make me giggle because these are the only time where they show other admirable side of them.
2. Manman was by far the most unique female character I have ever encountered. Unlike other dramas where they make the FL strong by making them excel in military, martial arts, scheming, or making them smart. Manman ability to overcome challenges is mainly shown by letting her magnanimity and sincerity shine through in times of situations that challenges their personal interest and greediness. I also liked how she strategized on what she is most familiar of which is water and river. I was actually amazed that the first thing his grandfather said to her in the first few episode would actually be the biggest hint for them to be able to win some battles. In addition to that, I like the fact that they used nature in beating the enemies. Because although Manman was always told that her softness, beauty, and femineity would solve everything, she instead took advantage of the flow of water, manipulating nature which alone is much smarter and more powerful than a thousands of soldiers. The way they reference water was actually something I didn’t foresee and enjoyed the most. You’ll most likely to see a lot of water, rivers, and canal being talked about by the characters.
3. Zhonling isn’t the red flag character that everyone looks for a ML and he isn’t exactly a green flag either. But rather his character is feared by many people given that he is good in fighting battles alongside his generals and also strictly upholds justice. He also became lord at such a young age hence everyone respects and follows him. His childhood isn’t normal like other kids and this justifies why he became brute, fearsome, and lack of that warmth you often see at someone’s complexion. His character is actually the most realistic and closest to being a human character one could encounter. He gets mad when his patience is tested, demands justice when someone is wronged, when provoked he retaliates and when his lines are crossed he would destroy. At the same time he is very considerate of the majority, bends his principle when needed to be, and is filial no doubt. He can forgive the mistakes his family commit against him and also protects and defends them when the situation requires defending. He may be oblivious to love and how to please his wife but he surely shows it well when he is not trying to appear one. He fails when he tries to be sweet but succeed well when he is unaware that his gestures is romantic. Example is defending her wife’s honor by investigating thoroughly and preserving her dignity by making sure no one slanders her.
4. The conflict is interesting, I like the fact that there was no unnecessary spies hidden in their mansion and I also like the fact that together they are able to grow more than what they aspire to be. Their personal goals are aligned hence they were able to agree on a lot things when making important decision. As for Manman’s cousin her love for Bi Zhi isn’t less than what Manman and Zhonling have. Her love is justifiable, one could choose to be selfish and protect what she can may it be one or a community, what counts is the intention and not the result.
5. The way this is filmed i good, if you closely they try to make it pleasing in the eye as much as possible and it delivers. One thing I want to mention is that on the scene where there are battles there actually no flaws in it. Often times other drama has a battle scene where other soldiers are fighting but very scripted as if every move is numbered and they would fight like they are practicing which takes away the thrill. The number of troops also, there are dramas wherein when they are positioned to go for war some have a poor cgi skills and it shows that other soldiers are cgi, in TPOB you wont see a flaw in their battle scenes.
36 episodes isn’t enough in my own opinion. Even if it is 40 or 50, it still wouldn’t be enough. The hype and the attention this drama received is well deserved no boring episodes unnecessary character or mini conflicts. Everything is like a puzzle that fits well when put together.
Was this review helpful to you?
Story: Predictable but it had a lot of heart. It never got draggy and the pacing was well done. Since the OTP had a straightforward romance with no misunderstandings, it made for a really enjoyable watch. The ending was =)
Acting/Cast: Well of course I knew Jo In Sung going in and how well he could act, but I was kind of unsure about the lead actress. I found her portrayal of Sora spot on but her character is kind of loud and annoying in the beginning. When you get used to her, you will come to accept her for who she is. I was also completely surprised by the amazing chemistry between the leads. It was soo good and worth watching just for their romance. I really liked the side characters that were apart of their posse. I didn’t however, like the second female and male leads. Their characters were so not redeemable and it made ALL of their scenes a waste of screentime in my opinion.
Music: What you would expect from an oldie.
Rewatch: Definitely would watch again in the near future cause the pacing was good and I loved the leads together.
Overall you should watch this is you’re a fan of JIS or if you like heartwarming dramas with lots of romance.
Was this review helpful to you?
First I have to say that I was in love (and completely heartbroken) by the young actors. They really drew me in and made my decision to stay and watch.
The story was overwhelming in all the best ways so I guess the only complaint I really have is the way I felt it dragged on towards the end. It really wouldn't stop me from watching again, though.
Was this review helpful to you?
BL Fans and Lovers, this is basically a Clickbait BL Drama that is a straight drama.
I really loved the music, the cinematography, and you can tell they had the budget to make this series good. Though I love how it showed every characters' side stories in their own lives, this very thing was the reason why the series became confusing and lacking of structure.And also, you may expect this to the BLs, however my expections were not met. The straight couple in this drama had more romantic scenes and seemed like the focus of this drama rather than the Seungwon and Heesu.
To the "conservative" and LAME writters and director, why make Heesu the "Main character", and make his name the title of this series when you'd just end up putting the focus on te straight couple instead? ITS ANNOYING. The slow burn was too much. The characters only got to show their initmacy by the end of the drama, while in the middle of all that, Chan young and Ji Yu were already showing how lovey dovey they were.
Are Seungwon and Heesu the main couple, or is it instead Chan Young and Ji Yu? (The straight couple) Like be so for real. It seems like Seungwon and Heesuu (The alleged MAIN GAY COUPLE) were overshadowed by the straight couple instead.
Because the way I see it, with how the Straight couple had more screentime, more affectionate scenes compared to the "MAIN COUPLE", they just Queer baited people.
Nonetheless, DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND DO NOT WATCH THIS SERIES. (Unless you have time to waste)
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A refreshing version of Boys Over Flowers
I started watching k-dramas/c-dramas because of Boys Over Flowers (the Korean version). So, this story has a very special place in my heart. When I heard about the Thai version, I was excited, yet I was fearful of how the story would be portrayed, since it's quite a problematic love story in theory.Nevertheless, I decided to try and watch it. This version became my favorite. I loved the way they followed the basic storyline but also made it their own. This version turned the series into a coming-of-age story, with complex characters and an interesting and coherent narrative. The friendship between the F4 members was really well portrayed. I could see how they supported each other and how much they cared about their friendship. This series also has a lot of character development, which, in my opinion, wasn’t really there in the Korean version (specially regarding the romance/male lead’s attitude). Thyme was a really likeable character. He truly started to behave differently, treating people better and took responsibility for his actions.
The romance was much healthier and believable. How they fell in love and how Thyme actually acknowledged the fact Gorya wasn’t dating him in the beginning and that he wanted her to like him, but he wasn’t going to force her into a relationship was really refreshing. I could understand why he loved her and why she loved him.
Highly recommend watching this version, whether you have watched the previous ones or if you are new here.
Was this review helpful to you?
One of the best!
I didn’t have much expectation with this drama but I didn’t expect that it will be this good. Not boring, not lame and it’s so entertaining. It will make you laugh and cry hard especially in episodes 29 and 30, so heart-wrenching. Added to my fave list. Not that much romance but the friendship is so good. Overall, one of the best!!! If you're in doubt, give it a try and surely you will be hooked. A must watch for sure. Did not regret that I watched this. I will rewatch this for sure. Good job! Good job! Good job! Love it! Love it! Love it!Was this review helpful to you?
I guess the bottom line is, don't bother watching it unless you're a diehard Charlene fan or Mike fan more than I am (which I highly doubt).
Was this review helpful to you?
The story begins from a veeery good idea and as usual the first "discovering" episodes are great and interestingly introduce the concepts. But the story is getting looong and loopy as the show goes on. Some characteRs else than the main ones seems not that interesting to me
The cast is awesone. Be it Hyun Bin, and his amazing skills to change himslef into another self. I almost thought there were 2 actors. As for the actress, I did not know about her, she disappointed me in some ways but overall did well. Sung Joon as usual was very good and could turn himself in different character, which was really convincing!
Overall this drama is worth watching but without too much excpectations as it's sometimes plainer that what we would like! I had a great time though!
Was this review helpful to you?
Over the top, on crack and hyperbolic, but somehow extremely relatable.
I’m not going to lie, semi-pro alcoholism is not exactly my cup of tea, but somehow, I did not mind it here. It might be the fact that realism went out of the window with the sea of alcohol they were drinking - it was both scary and impressive. I don't think I've drunk as much alcohol in the last 10 years of my life, as they drink in a week.It’s all about these eccentric ladies and their daily struggles as they hit their 30s. Each of the 3 ladies presents a truly unique perspective and approach to life. At times, you might even question how they became such close friends, since the differences are so obvious. That’s one of the best parts of the show - watching them understand each others’ ideas, goals, views and opinions and accepting them.
The comedy is good, well placed, fitting the situation and built on characters' personalities and relations. It’s not all fun comedy though. Each of the female leads have to deal with either past or present traumas and problems, which adds a layer of depth I did not expect when I started the show. These stories also serve as a great social commentary about several issues. All the tears, all the used tissues.
It’s a drama that finds a perfect balance between friendship, work, party and romance. The writer and director knew exactly how much screen time each of these aspects needed to feel like a cohesive picture with no underdeveloped plotlines.
The cast did an amazing job with the characters they played. Were they slightly type-casted based on the real life personalities of the actors? Yes. Being a fan of A Pink, Secret and Super Junior in the past, I can clearly see some similarities between the characters and people who played them.
Overall, I just loved it so much. Being more or less the same age as the main characters, I could not stop myself from relating to a lot of situations they had to deal with, feeling nostalgic about their past, that often was similar to my past experiences. It’s not a perfect show, but for me it was. There was truly nothing that bothered me or I would change.
Was this review helpful to you?
Japanese and Korean horror, the two powerhouses of Asian horror, often feed through the same ideas consistently throughout their media but this Filo horror feels very. Different.
This is very regional, almost very proud that it comes from the Phillippines and it catches my attention. I've seen another Filo film (Aurora, Yars Lamaras, 2018) which was also a 6/10, but both movies really caught my eye and made me sit still. They demand my attention in a way that I haven't really experienced before. Their plots are hauntingly and devastatingly beautiful to a degree I have not known in horror.
If you haven't come across Filo horror before, I recommend giving this a try to ease yourself into it (after all, every country has its own format of horror and its something one must get used to as they delve into it to truly appreciate).
Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
Could Have Been Great, but Instead Annoyed Me
Are You Pregnant with My Child? looks like it tried to tell a thought provoking story, but failed miserably.I don't understand everyone in the Youtube comment sections praising the video. It makes all lesbians look bad.
STORY:
A few months prior, Hyunsoo's ex-girlfriend Yeoni had an odd request for him. She asked for his sperm donation so she could try IVF since he had all of the qualities of a perfect man. He asked her if they could do it the more natural way and get back together and she refused, but was adamant about the IVF.
In the present, Hyunsoo meets up with his crush Mihee at a cafe. She has some special news for him... She is pregnant with his child. Hyunsoo is confused until Mihee tells him to remember what happened with his Yeoni. He gets even more confused until Yeoni arrives at the cafe. Mihee and Yeoni reveal that they are getting married and that through IVF, Mihee is carrying Yeoni's egg and Hyunsoo's sperm. Hyunsoo is now heartbroken, but gives them his blessing.
Honestly, this film is annoying and a waste of time. I'm not even sure what angle the film is going for. At a glance it looks like a pro-Lesbian film, but I feel it does the opposite of that. The entire film is about the lesbian couple having a relationship behind this man's back, then tricking him into giving them his sperm for them to have their happily ever after. How is that acceptable? Even if he was dense and didn't notice that they were in a relationship, they should have told him about who was involved with the IVF and why. They blindsided him with the whole pregnancy and their lesbian relationship. He is their friend for crying out loud! Why didn't they tell him?!
Like I said earlier, I don't understand why people in the youtube comment section are praising this lesbian couple and saying it's cute. It's not. It's toxic. They baby-trapped him with no consideration for his feelings. Even if we ignore the fact that they tricked him with IVF, they really have no consideration for him at all. When he excuses himself to take a break and try to understand the situation, they instantly start a make-out session and don't even stop when he comes back. Rude!
OVERALL;
I feel this film is trying to tackle a hard subject and failed miserably. The way that the lesbian couple went behind Hyunsoo's back the entire film really cemented the fact that the girls are toxic people and they deserve each other. I just feel really bad for Hyunsoo since he was deceived in so many ways. I hope that anyone who watches this doesn't try to copy the girls and trick any unsuspecting man like that. If you want to use IVF then go to an agency, or be honest with the guy you are asking sperm from. Realistically speaking. I think if there isn't paper work for this kind of thing, I think the guy can sue the women for custody if you lie to him.... Anyways, back to the film. Don't bother to watch it unless you are delusional or you hate men.
Was this review helpful to you?
Want Season 2
Although it wasn't on my original watchlist, the trailer immediately grabbed my interest. I had initially planned to finish the dramas already on my list; however, reviews and engaging reels convinced me to watch this one first. And I must say it was worth it.The most important thing is finally, my boy, Liu Yu Ning, had a happy ending. He is not dead but has a happy family of his own. Just like he said, "He is very good at playing dead." Finally, Wei Shao broke that curse of his.
Qiao Man is a remarkably intelligent, calculative, and scheming young woman. Her primary loyalties lie with her country, its people, and her family. Through her quick thinking and clever strategies, she ensures her clan's safety and well-being. Song Zu'er, who portrays Qiao Man, is exceptionally beautiful and cute; moreover, her acting is truly on point. I have become her fan.
Wei Shao, on the other hand, is driven by revenge and often slow-witted when it comes to matters of romance. Although he may appear cold, he possesses a soft heart. He finds himself torn between his quest for revenge and his love for his wife, yet the safety of his people always comes first. Liu Yu Ning's portrayal of Wei Shao was not disappointing; in fact, he did complete justice to the character.
Loved the chemistry between Song Zu'er and Liu Yu Ning; they were truly "on fire." I sincerely hope they will work together again in future projects.
Loved how even when misunderstandings arose between Qiao Man and Wei Shao, they were always swiftly resolved. They had hater to lover relationship. Once they started to trust each other they had a very wonderful relationship. I love them together.
One remarkable aspect is that Qiao Man was never bullied by the people of Wei State; instead, they consistently showed her respect. On the other hand, Qiao Man's maids repeatedly commented on Wei Shao's cold and rude persona towards her. However, it's understandable why he might act that way, as her grandfather is directly responsible for the deaths of his own grandfather, father, & brother. While I am not suggesting that people should pity Wei Shao, they should at least acknowledge the mistake of Qiao Gui or other members of the Qiao clan in these tragic events.
How can Qiao Man accept Wei Shao to let go of his deep-seated hatred? The fact that he married his enemy's daughter and subsequently fell in love with her is truly significant. Personally, if I were in Wei Shao's position, I would have chosen to eliminate my enemies rather than develop romantic feelings for one. His actions, however, clearly show that the Wei Clan is nothing like the Qiao Clan; they would never betray their family or people, nor would they break their promise. Furthermore, he displayed his kind heart by sending half of his army to fight for the Qiao family, despite their past betrayal of the Wei family, which resulted in the deaths of three generations of Wei men.
Lady Qiao said that Wei is a deathtrap & there, Wei general, Wei Liang, Wei Qu, Wei Xiao & Wei Duo are sharpening their knives to eat meat. What a dangerous place it is!
Although Qiao Man had made up her mind long ago to marry into the Wei family, I disliked how Lady Ding and Qiao Fan emotionally manipulated her. While not directly, every word they uttered hinted at Qiao Man's impending marriage to a peaceful place, while implying Qiao Fan's inevitable suffering.
Loved how Schemer scheming the schemer 🤣😂
Qiao Man fakes crying in front of Liu Yan is funny. Such a drama queen she is!
When Wei Liang said to Wei Shao “Lord won’t you say anything to Qiao Man”, he just said “come here” & Wei Liang said "It’s better you didn’t say anything". That was hilarious.
Qiao Man looked so cute with a crying face; she slapped Wei Shao & then sat down. Laughed at how Wei generals reacted to the scene.
The way Wei Shao broadened his shoulders upon hearing Qiao Man praising about his dashing & heroic looks that she was smitten.
Laughed my asses when Qiao Man faked a cough to stay in Wei Shao's room & Wei Shao's expression was priceless.
Wei Liang recreating the K-Drama "Moon Lover" scene with Xiao Tao.
Loved how Qiao Man defended Wei Shao in front of his mother. It’s true that his mother doesn’t take care of him. Her full attention is on her niece.
The way Wei Shao went straight to bed to avoid getting scolded by Qiao Man is so cute. Totally opposite of what he said to his generals, that I'd fight with her.
I truly appreciate Lady Xu's realistic words to Wei Yan. How could she possibly trust him when she knew who his father was? She feared he would turn out just like him, and even though she understood that day might never come, she was deeply scared. Furthermore, I admired how she managed to raise him despite her hatred for his father, a portrayal that stands in stark contrast to what is typically shown in most dramas.
I find cute how it was Qiao Man first realized her feels for Wei Shao & quickly started to work on it.
Wei Shao avoided being alone with Qiao Man or her approaching him. Also, him spending time with Yang instead of Qiao Man is hilarious.
Laughed so much at Wei Shao's expression & his hand gesture when Yuan Wang said his daughter likes General Liang.
The way three generals were staring at Liang giving his gold dart to Xiao Tao was so funny.
Wei Shao is so clueless about romance. He couldn’t even get that Qiao Man to approach him to get closer to him by extending their journey to wanting to share food with him.
Loved how General Liang & Qu worked together to bring Qiao Man & Wei Shao closer, but it got backfired.
Whenever Wei Shao wants to avoid Qiao Man he could trouble four generals & Gongsun Yang. Also visiting Gongsun Yang's mother or wife.
Wei Shao jealous of Mr. Zhen Shi scenes are quite hilarious.
Laughed how Liang pushed Qu & Gongsun Yang from the path to stand beside Xiao Tao to offer her rice grass, but the way she refused him and the way everyone laughed at it was hilarious.
Laughed how Wei Shao searched for lanterns from the river to see what Qiao Man wished was; that to with his generals' help & their expressions after knowing his intentions. The way generals look at Wei Shao after reading Qiao Man wish is hilarious.
Drunken Qiao Man is so cute.
Wei Shao came for Qiao Ci's aid, but instead he got the heat from Qiao Man.
Initially, Wei Yan was irritating, but he gradually grew on me. He consistently offers useful advice to Wei Shao and, significantly, he never blamed his grandmother after learning the truth about his mother's identity. Instead of seeking protection, he desires to be scolded or even beaten whenever he makes a mistake. Ultimately, his sacrifice was profound: he cut off his own finger to pledge his loyalty to the Wei family and sacrificed his happiness for the sake of Wei Shao and Qiao Man's happiness. Moreover, he consistently prioritizes Wei State above all else.
Wei Shao's shocked face after seeing Mr. Zhen Shi biceps & kept on thinking about it all day & also training to build muscles was hilarious.
Episode 29 & 32 are full on fire. My boy Liu Yu Ning can kiss. He ate her.
Qiao Fan is the same as his father, Qiao Yue, selfish. Didn't feel a little bit of sadness when they passed away.
Loved the scene where Wei Qu carried Wei Liang to fight & rescue Qiao Ping. I'm gonna miss General Squad. How they used to tease each other & trick each other to do work.
Overall, it was worth my time. Loved the show. Also, the chemistry between main leads.
Was this review helpful to you?
If I could, I would give this a 0.
It’s heartbreaking to see a novel that moved so many get an adaptation that completely strips away its soul. The depth, meaning, and nuance are all gone. Author Sing N Song must be devastated. Imagine watching characters you created with love get flattened, mischaracterized, and turned into people they are not. It’s insulting.Was this review helpful to you?
Seriously at first I didn't had much interest in this drama . I started this drama becz of the song what I want by NiiHwa.
The story is based on Kim Min Join ( Woo Doo-hwan) and Choi Kang ( Yoo Ji - Tae) who lost their family members . Basically they are fighting for justice. And about romance which is very less mainly slow romance and teamwork is well depicted in it And brotherly love between Seong and Cheetah . In most of the drama we get to know what's going to happen next but here seriously u can't imagine what's going happen in the next few minutes . At the end of each episodes there will be a suspense waiting for u. End of the drama is the best.
Thumbs up for the casting .All of them played their role very well. I actually like Kim Hye-Seong (Noo Ri) even the negative roles were also played well . The chemistry between Min joon and Jang Hang Ri was perfect . Affection of Cheetah towards Oh Seo Ra was also perfect .
About the songs , there are 3 songs in which WHAT I WANT by NiiHwa is the best song for me.
I recommend everyone to watch this drama .It will definitely make u to rewatch it .One of the best drama of 2017
Was this review helpful to you?
Recent Discussions
-
BL Drama Lovers Club8 minutes ago -
Thai Watch Challenge FAQ, Questions & Discussion11 minutes ago -
-
Role Reversal (RR) Drama Lovers Club1 hour ago -
