Reviews

The Ghost Still Lingers

I am… flabbergasted.

Going into this, I didn’t expect much. After all, the first film (The Shortest Distance Is Round) was filled with NC scenes and minimal plot — not completely hollow, but definitely leaning more on sensation than story. So I braced myself for more of the same.

But this sequel?
It surprised me — in the most uncomfortable way possible.

It’s not just that there are NC scenes again (and yes, they’re plenty), but this time, the plot actually matters — and it completely shifts the tone of everything you think you’re watching. By the end, I was left questioning not just the characters' choices, but something deeper, something existential.

The plot twist twist threw me.
It’s like that eerie storytelling device: even when a character dies, their presence lingers like a ghost, narrating the story long after they're gone. That’s exactly how this felt. A character who’s not even physically present dominates the emotional and psychological weight of the film.

It’s disturbing. It's messy.
But it’s also the only reason this film stands out. Without the psychological twist, it would've been just another string of explicit scenes.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re expecting warmth, love, or healing — this isn’t it. But if you’re drawn to twisted narratives, psychological games, and stories that make you deeply uncomfortable while still pulling you in... this film unexpectedly delivers. Just be ready for the chaos.

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JUST READ THE NOVEL

"Omniscient Reader: The Prophecy" (2025) attempts to bring the beloved web novel to life but ends up as a cinematic misfire. Despite a hefty budget and a star-studded cast, the film struggles to find its own voice, leaning heavily on overused sci-fi tropes and flashy visuals that can't mask its narrative shortcomings.

The plot centers on Kim Dok-ja, portrayed by Ahn Hyo-seop, a solitary office worker whose favorite web novel becomes reality. While this premise holds promise, the execution falters. Critics have noted that the film fails to evoke genuine emotion, rendering the characters' struggles unconvincing

Director Kim Byung-woo's vision seems muddled, with the film borrowing elements from "Dune," "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World," and "Star Wars," yet failing to establish a unique identity. The result is a disjointed narrative that lacks cohesion and originality.

While the film's visual effects are polished, they can't compensate for the lackluster storytelling. The action sequences, though abundant, feel repetitive and fail to generate excitement. Moreover, the film's attempt to explore themes of fate and free will is undermined by its superficial treatment of these concepts.

In conclusion, "Omniscient Reader: The Prophecy" is a disappointing adaptation that squanders its potential. It may appeal to newcomers unfamiliar with the source material, but longtime fans are likely to find it lacking. For those seeking a compelling sci-fi fantasy experience, this film is best skipped.

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Oh.. nooooo..

Oh I did not like this.

As a psychological thriller - it was neither of that for me. I don't know if I wasn't in the right mood to appreciate this or.. no I just didn't appreciate it.

The story was incredibly simple - no complications of any sorts and relied completely on jump scares and gore to coast through. It wasn't scary but it was incredibly gross, so there. They tried to build this suspense by casting the lead as this extremely unlikeable character (more on that later) but the intrigue you want to build doesn't work when almost every detail of the story is revealed early on, and you don't do anything after that to develop it into something complex.
I waited and waited for it to get a bit more exciting or a even confusing but it every "twist", you can see coming clear as day, and those you don't see, rely on making you want to throw up.

And. Every. Single. Character. SUUUUUCKED. Not that the focus shifted from the female lead much but I just grew to dislike them all because they were basically terrible humans or became terrible humans through the course of the movie. There was maybe one character who was decent? Debatable even then, you just don't care about any of them at any point. In that regard though, acting was good because all of the actors were super convincing and I can appreciate that.

I just wanted a good psychological thriller - I didn't sign up for a borderline offensive, gore fest that couldn't keep my attention.

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Um? Blurred Porno

You know… I didn’t expect to watch a porno that had the private parts blurred. Didn’t expect to watch an actual porno. I wasn’t sure what was happening mostly because I skipped through it for their parts but probably why I was so confused. Wasn’t sure if I was watching a movie or a porno. I was very confused though.
Where I watched, it gave me like 15 dialog from each character in a whole paragraph so I wasn’t sure who was talking.
So did he not like the dude he was having funky time with? What was with the screaming? And then the random running with a limp and bruised face. I didn’t see any beat up scene.
My mouth was gaped the entire time because like I said, I didn’t expect to watch a porno. They had to have had their parts enter because they are completely nude touching very close to each other.
The kissing was hot lol

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A fantasy romance that ticked all the boxes

First, a confession, I have not read any of the novels and I'm only vaguely aware of the anime series on Netflix. My friend @Nelly recommended it to me and that is good enough. 👍🏼

As a standalone movie, it is fast paced and run through the extensive lore without a pause. That probably won't please the hardcore fans, but you roll with it as a casual viewer.

It is set in an alternate Meiji Japan circa turn of the 20th Century where “gifted” people with special powers try to hold off some kind of ancient evil. While the Gifted ones appears to be united in their noble task, it is far from the truth.

Our ML is one of them and a Captain in the special guards unit specifically tasked to hunt down the evil "insects". The FL is the daughter of one of the noble houses, but she doesn't seem to have any special power so she is treated like a servant as soon as her mother passed.

The similarity to Cinderella is obvious. That includes an evil stepmother and a nasty stepsister. Her life in that household is hellish. Her surprise betrothal to the ML offers her an avenue of escape.

If that is not enough, the Beauty and the Beast trope also joins the fun. The ML has a horrible reputation of being a beast to any female who tries to marry him in the name of political alliance. Just like in B&B, the FL tames the ML with her sincerity and "inner" beauty.

As a hopeless romantic, that is win-win right there. Throw in a handsome ML who looks dashing in uniform and a pretty FL who is vulnerable on the surface but has a backbone of steel, the movie can do no wrong.

But is it? I would be lying if I said the show is perfect. The world building is rushed and lack depth. No doubt a lot of lore and background information have been glossed over. It is understandable due to the time constraint, but you do occasionally feel that there should be more nuisances.

Speaking of the story, the Emperor's plot moves in mysterious ways. It is meant to be full of mysticism and symbolism but it is slow and stilted.

Also, the romance between our leads is very sweet but innocent. I'm sure they would die for each other but they always behave very properly. I'd love to see a bit of skinship. Fine, we'll just say their love is pure. (Grumble, grumble)

Finally, the production value is good, and the OST is very nice. The SFX is generally well done. There are many cinematic moments. However, its budget is limited, and it does show from time to time.

Don’t get me wrong, these are niggles rather than faults. In the end, the movie is an enjoyable romp with all the ingredients of a swoonworthy romance, Meiji style. The pseudo historical setting adds colour and novelty. Who can say no to some bonus fantasy actions?

The post-credit scene hinted at a possible sequel. I'd welcome that. More than anything, I want to see a traditional wedding ceremony. The bride in a fabulous kimono with all the trimmings and the groom in full dress uniform with a honour guard. Sweet!

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I forgot how I came across this title, but here I am — done watching it.

It's a story about Riku and Keita, who are in a relationship but keeping it a secret.

Riku is the popular guy in school, while Keita is just an ordinary student. Their secret relationship sometimes makes Keita feel insecure.

It turns out Riku isn’t hiding the relationship for himself — he’s doing it to protect Keita. As a popular student, Riku doesn’t know how their classmates might react if their relationship becomes public. He’s afraid that coming out could put Keita in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

By the end of the story, Keita’s growing insecurities force Riku to make a decision about where their relationship is headed. Will they finally go public, or will they break up? And how will their classmates actually react when they find out — will they be supportive, or will they mock them?

That's pretty much the story without giving too much spoiler.

Sometimes, the simplest stories are the most powerful. Riku and Keita don’t need grand gestures or complicated drama to make us root for them. Their love story quietly but deeply captures the internal struggle between true feelings and societal expectations.

At just 17 minutes long, it’s absolutely worth your time.

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May or may not change after I watch the film.

First of all, I just want to say that although I'm one of those who read the novel and the manhwa(webtoon), I can separate the novel, manhwa and adaptation. I tend to treat them as separate entity. And this is my take on this. I haven't watch the film yet but from what I can see from the trailers and the leaked videos, it's very disappointing and aggravating. For someone like me who likes this kind of films it's made very poorly. Don't even get me started with the acting. I'm not saying that their acting is bad, it's just kinda awkward to watch and I feel like their acting is lacking. There's this scene I saw where they first met Jihye. I'm so annoyed with the way she hold her weapon, the rifle. It's like she's hugging some pillow and it kinda ruin the scene of her being supposed to be cool. Now, I haven't really watch much of the film yet, just some leaked scenes from those who've watched it so I can't really judge them for that yet. I'm just saying that it's very annoying to watch(that scene).

Now, let's talk about the plot. We can get the gist of the plot just from watching the trailer right? And I can't say that I am okay with it. Okay, I get it. This is an adaptation. But to change the plot that much? Goodness, I can't even describe how I'm feeling. I've read an article in some site where the director is comparing this LA to the One Piece LA. And how that this LA is getting hated while One Piece is not although there are also changes in it. And let's be real. You can't compare them. This LA (based on the plot) is not even closed to the One Piece LA. There's not much changes in the One Piece LA you know? While this? No need to talk. I just can't grasp what the director is thinking by comparing the two. They changed so much of the ORV's plot by making this LA. And I understand why this film is getting so much hate. Just imagine Luffy dreaming to become the Fleet Admiral of the Marines, that's how we see the Dokja in this LA. Him being a hero and wanting to save the world? Don't joke around, sure he love some people from the world but that doesn't mean he wanted to save the world. He WANTED to save the protagonist not the world. He wanted to see the PROTAGONIST survive not the world. By changing this important part of the plot, you've earn yourself a lot of haters. I'm not even going to talk about the changing of the weapon and their characteristics that made them being loved by the readers because if I do, another long monologue will be added.

To those non-readers who watched the film or to those who watched the film just to support their favourite actors. Let me tell you this, you can get annoyed or get angry or be disappointed by us (novel and manhwa readers) for leaving such bad reviews even without watching the whole film but get this, what you're feeling doesn't even amount the rage and dissatisfaction we're feeling right now. we (novel and manhwa readers) can at least understand some of your feeling but you (non-readers) won't be able to understand ours. Because before the official release of the trailers, the plot and the whole film, we are the first one who are excited and anticipated such film. And that's why our disappointment after it's official release is also this bad. That's just what this is all about. You guys support the film however and how much you want and we will do our best to protect the novel where it all started.

This review is posted not to discredit the actors and their efforts in making the film but to express how much this film ruined one of the greatest novel I've read in my life. This novel is not just some novel for some of us. This novel has become our comfort when we are tired of the world and it's people. It save us from thinking to much and from giving up. And now seeing the novel that we cherished be brought to life and ending to be disappointed. We just can't accept it. Some of you may dislike this review but go on, I'll take it and just think of how much privilege you are.

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If you want to see Wen Ning kick ass in a fight, this was made for you

Basically what it says in the headline. I think this movie was made to show off concepts they developed for Wen Ning that didn't make it into The Untamed. This is a low production value TV movie with limited cast and a very, very cliched script. I saw the "twist" coming a mile off. However, I came here to see Wen Ning rattle his chains and kick ass, and I was not disappointed. The chains are pretty cool-looking in action and I don't feel like I wasted my time.

As for everything else: I thought the emotional hook with his character was sort of trite, but executed okay. I have problems with how Sizhui was written in The Untamed and while there's nothing much to complain about here, I think the actor who plays him is just much too bland on camera. There's a running gag in the movie about Sizhui calling Wen Ning Wen-shushu and him correcting it to Wen-qianbei that I just found odd. Lan Sizhui is actually a patrilineal relation of Wen Ning and that's also a big secret, so I thought he might object for that reason, but instead he's complaining that "uncle" sounds too "old". Wen Ning knew Sizhui when he was in diapers! Maybe it's a Chinese thing and I don't understand. It also doesn't fit his characterization of being long-suffering and socially timid. It does fit a pattern of a hastily written and cringe script. Get this, in one scene, Wen Ning delivers the badass line "There are no ghosts, just cowardice" (okay, it was more badass in Chinese where it repeats 鬼...鬼) to the camera. Okay, that was kind of cool. Then, in the very next scene, he's talking to Sizhui and repeats the same line to him. Sorry, Wen Ning, you now sound like that weird uncle who practices his lines in front of a mirror before trying them out on the unsuspecting. All that being said, this movie is infinitely more watchable than the Nie Family Special.

PS: I hate that you must give a numerical rating to give a review. I don't feel like it's fair. Yeah, this thing objectively kind of sucks but I *enjoyed* it. If you know what you're getting into and that's what you want, don't let the rating deter you.

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An Inaugural Dive into Fantasy, Live-Action Anime, and Meiji Japan

This review was first written in my head at 2 a.m., immediately after watching the movie. I re-enacted every line in my mind, whispering my own witty commentary like some possessed drama critic. If I’d done it out loud, in daylight, I would have been sent in for mental evaluation.. So for the sake of sanity and public safety, Lets get into it.

I have a what I call a “queue survival” playlist, movies I keep downloaded for those painfully long waits in life (airports, banking halls, waiting for friends who think “I’m on my way” means “I’m still in bed”). All I need is noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses and a strong OST. Because the fact that I’m outside doesn’t mean I need to see the world.
ALAWBSL sat patiently on that list. I don’t remember when I downloaded it, or if I even read the synopsis. I’m glad I didn’t because I might’ve skipped it if I knew it involved fantasy. And that would’ve been a mistake. Also, I had zero clue it was based on a manga, went in blind, no expectations, and this review reflects my first impression and personal opinion.

SETTING THE SCENE:
According to my post-movie Googling rituals, this film is set in the late 19th-century Meiji Restoration era, aka my new obsession. (If anyone has Meiji-era recommendations, slide them over) And so you know "A Calm Sea and Beautiful Days With You" just jumped higher on my PWL..Talk about commitment. The first part of the movie is what I'd call the appetizer, a gentle introduction to what would become the biggest, most mind-blowing display of power I've ever witnessed. It introduces us to the simple characters, the complex ones, and everyone in between. And amidst all the chaos, love subtly blossoms

And then… the real feast.

THE STORY & THE CHARACTERS:
In this universe, spirits and magic exist, but their influence is fading. Enter Miyo Saimori, our frail, painfully soft-spoken heroine. She was born without any supernatural gift, unlike the rest of her family. This unfortunate genetic hiccup condemns her to a life of servitude under her truly evil stepmother. She's weak, a total doormat, and for a hot minute, you might think you're in for another tired "bullying" trope. But beneath that broken exterior lies a beautiful soul who, if treated with kindness and love, would move mountains for the ones she cares about. And that, my friends, is where our magnificently white haired ML swoops in.

Kiyoka Kudou is elegant, mysterious, ridiculously powerful, BFFs with the Heir to the throne and raised by the Emperor himself (meaning his authority is unmatched). Also: coldest fish in the freezer. His reputation is so frosty that no respectable family wants to send their daughter to him. So naturally, Miyo’s family, ever the opportunists, ships her off to marry him like a lamb to slaughter. Little did she know this “slaughterhouse” might actually be her salvation.

Magic, power plays, emotional confrontations, and a love story blooming in the middle of chaos. Our “cruel” ML slowly softens towards Miyo. He may not fully understand why he feels empathy for her, but he does, and it transforms him. He makes it his mission to uncover her family’s abuse and protect her, even if it means burning the world down. Literally. (One of the most glorious scenes I’ve seen in a live-action fantasy movie, by the way.)

THE AESTHETIC:
The Japanese are gods of cinematography. Full stop. The opening scene alone felt like stepping into a living painting, like I had accidentally walked into a Windows 11 wallpaper, and I mean that as the highest compliment. The colors, the textures, the atmosphere, stunning. The voiceover in the beginning almost made me regret using my headphones that can produce 20,000Hz (because why did I feel that monologue in my bones?). Since this was my first real foray into fantasy and magic, and as someone who usually avoids even a mild horror movie, I almost bailed. But as the story unfolded and I grasped the narrative, I calmed down and just let myself be completely immersed.

FINAL THOUGHTS:
As Long As We Both Shall Live or Happy Marriage as it is popularly known, felt like more than just a movie, it was a beautifully shot story of resilience, and unexpected love. This isn’t just a romance. It’s a redemption arc. A misunderstood hero who’s more than his power, a woman discovering her worth, and a love that becomes their shared refuge. It took me by surprise in the best way, and I left with that strange, bittersweet feeling of wanting more. It was too short. So much of their time was spent battling enemies that their relationship didn’t get the growth it deserved. I wanted more stolen moments, more quiet intimacy, more space for their love to fully blossom. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. But don’t blame me if you finish it wishing for a sequel.

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One of the best I've watched this year

I love Yamapi and basically anything he is in.
This was a very lovely and romantic movie, story is very simple, rely mainly on raw emotions, represented very well and the cast was all very impressive.

The two leads chemistry is spectacular!! I'm surprised a little since I couldn't picture them together at first but once both are on screen, wow it's like they are meant for eachother, they carry their characters very well.

I just didn't like one thing, the FL had to cry a lot ... And I mean A LOT in almost every scene if she isn't smiling beautifully, she is bawling her eyes ~
Also the very last minute switch that solves all the problems just like that *snap fingers* I mean could you at least show us how and why everything had ended the way it did because it's a very last minute thing ~

I recommend this movie if you are a fan of romance and don't mind a little drama, with a very fitting couple and great acting ❣️

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A Historical Gem with Outstanding Performances

Harbin is not just a movie , it’s a powerful historical reconstruction that moves, teaches, and stirs the soul. Masterfully directed by Woo Min-ho (Inside Men, The Drug King), the film transports us to early 20th-century Manchuria to tell the story of Ahn Jung-geun, the legendary Korean independence activist.

But what truly elevates Harbin beyond a typical historical drama is the outstanding level of acting across the board.

Hyun Bin, portraying Ahn Jung-geun, delivers one of the most intense and heartfelt performances of his career. With eyes full of fire and conviction, he conveys the emotional weight, bravery, and sacrifice of the character without overacting. His physical transformation and commitment to both the action and dramatic scenes are remarkable.

Park Jeong-min, Jo Woo-jin, and Jeon Yeo-been also shine in their supporting roles. Each adds rich layers to their characters, who never feel like mere sidekicks. Jeon Yeo-been, in particular, portrays the quiet but powerful struggle of the women who also played vital roles in the independence movement.

Lee Dong-wook, in a more restrained and somber role, captivates with his subtle emotional control and magnetic presence. His character adds tension and nuance, proving that even ambiguous roles can leave a strong impression.

The film boasts stunning cinematography, capturing both the harshness of Harbin’s winter and the warmth of the ideals driving its characters. The soundtrack is subtle and epic, enhancing the emotional tone without overpowering it.

In short, Harbin is a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema, historical drama, and powerful acting. Beyond the political context, it leaves us with a profound reflection on sacrifice, justice, and legacy.

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He came... he haunted and he healed!

I genuinely thought this was going to be another campy adaptation but I am pleasantly surprised by the good execution.

Menn is a grumpy ex-thief turned undercover informant, who somehow ends up getting married to Titi, who is dramatic, clingy and very much dead. They embark on a journey of 'who killed Titi' and what could have been a paranormal disaster somehow morphed into this weirdly wholesome and emotional movie.

Their character dynamics felt very genuine. The evolving connection was handled with emotional depth, wit and a certain level of chaotic charm. It was a little cliche and slapstick at times but it never mocked or reduced their individual journeys. The humor never came from character's pain points. Their partnership is what drive the movie for me.

The movie juggles with too many threads at one time, from action (police investigating drug lord) to relationships to grief and finally some self-discovery. While it does justice to almost all the sub plots, it did feel a little chaotic at times. The pacing also suffered especially during the last closing scene between Menn ,Titi and his dad. It definitely had emotions, but it didn’t hit as hard as it could have. It felt like it was almost there, just needed a bit more weight. That scene had a better impact on me in the OG version. ( When I say better, it means I full on cried)
Comedy was hit and miss for me, but mostly hit. Action scenes were less but was decently done. Since I already saw the OG version, I knew what twists were coming, the reduced the shock value of key moments.

The cast delivers solid performances, especially the leads. They breathe life (and afterlife xD) into the characters that could have easily fallen into caricature territory. It's been a while since I saw Billkin and PP Krit on screen and honestly I missed them. Even though romance wasn't a focus here, but they had very comfortable and visible chemistry.

Overall, this was fun, chaotic and far more thoughtful than it looks on paper. The humor is loud but it sneaks up on you. It is not perfect by any means but a good one time watch!
I would definitely recommend it!

Side note : I wanted to title the review as 'Boo-hemian Rhapsody' but decided otherwise! 😂

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