SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL
Oh my, the movie is the highlight of the entire series! Finally, the toxicity from the previous seasons are dissolvedThe acting is good too, despite it being Kiyou's earlier works. We don't get those cringey moments where you get exactly only one expression for entire show. Yes, if you watch enough BL, you'll know what im talking about haha
Blessed us that we have great visuals, good acting and sparkling chemistry here.
really enjoy the show!
We have 2 mature men, loving, supporting and growing together in their imperfect perfect love
Kiyou is really the beautiful man, omg. It fits the title so well. I love their chemistry and their bond. The intimate scenes get better too, I can feel they really desire each other.
Also, love seeing how they are both pursuing their dreams and a beautul life awaiting our beautiful men
As much as I would love to see them more, I feel this movie is such a great wrap that it's perfect as it is
I wouldn't mind a special episode thou, say....a wedding episode or sth? :P
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Both male and female leads are so awkward in acting that I had a hard time watching it. I did feel the intense part and also the story is really great. You could really see how much love they have for each other through their relationship, which was the way really long. But there were "off-putting" parts for me especially if it really is about "true love"
The ending is not what I expected but it's fine.
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O:G2 - A worthy part 2!
Outlaw: Gangster VIP 2 takes place shortly after the first film ends, and is very closely tied to its story. I do feel as though it attempts to tie up loose ends from the first, however, the formula sort of ruins that a bit. And let me tell you, this thing is formulaic as it can be. Basically every story beat from the first film is repeated here, with only some slight differences. This includes the ending, which is pretty much exactly the same. It's not a bad thing, because the first one is amazing, but it does keep it from ever hoping to be better.A few things have improved. The direction is better overall, with music placement and action scenes being markedly improved. We see a few familiar actors from this genre pop up too, which is nice. There's a potential love triangle that doesn't overstay its welcome, further holding up mirrors to the previous instalment.
If you like the first one you're going to like this, but the formula is very persistent, and I've read that much of it carries over though all six movies.
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This review may contain spoilers
Sammo takes on a hopping vampire!
Sammo Hung took on all sorts of things that go bump in the night in Spooky Encounters. This was a combination of horror, comedy, and kung fu with mixed results.Bold Cheung’s wife is having an affair with the local wealthy guy, Master Tam. Unwilling to share or be exposed Tam hires Chin Hoi, an immoral priest to kill Cheung by magical means. Chin Hoi’s apprentice, Priest Tsui, refuses to go along with the murderous plot and secretly helps Cheung. Another of Chin Hoi’s apprentices tricks Cheung into spending the night not once, but twice in a locked temple. Not scary, you say? Locked inside is a hopping vampire! When the hopping vampire fails to kill him, the bad guys frame Cheung for the murder of his very much alive wife. Eventually the simple Cheung is convinced that the man he trusts and the wife he loves are plotting to kill him. It will all come down to a no spells barred priest against priest and Sammo against the rest ultimate magical fight.
This is considered a kung fu horror classic and many people love it. I struggled to connect with it. I love a good hopping vampire story and this one scored on that account. But if Sammo is in the movie, I want more action. The first fight didn’t take place until 43 minutes into the movie. And most of the action took place after the 1-hour mark. The story wasn’t compelling enough to keep me interested during the first half. I was happy to see Lam Ching Ying, one of the martial arts directors, have a nice little fight against his own men when they were possessed. Chung Fat played a lot of bad guys early in his career so it was fun for him to play a heroic character. The final fight had Sammo possessed by different characters including the Monkey King. The action and dialogue were cranked high in fast motion. Once Sammo started fighting the film took on more interest for me. Fair warning there were some gruesome images-insects, rodents, a decomposed corpse, and a decapitated chicken.
Encounter of the Spooky Kind was one of the first movies to combine kung fu, comedy, and horror. It started out slow, finally finding its footing. The humor could be hit or miss, but when it came to fighting, Sammo rarely missed.
10/4/23
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Don’t watch this unless you want to ugly sob
Lads, I did not think this movie would be so sad, I BAWLED the last 30 minutes😭 This was absolute bliss: the acting was so natural and good, the chemistry between the leads so magnifying✨✨ like there were actual sparks, actual love in their eyes, so good! The music was fitting throughout the whole movie. Either super fun or heavily emphasizing emotionally loaded scenes, and therefore complimenting the story perfectly. The ending left me broken hearted and sobbing in my bed at half past midnight😭Was this review helpful to you?
A fantastic epic ‘War at Sea’ movie
Hansan: Rising Dragon is a thriller movie and is near perfect all around.There have been great historic war battles which have been fought throughout history. One such war battle took place near Hansan Island in Korea, during the Joseon era in 1592 CE. Two great tacticians of War went up against each other in a chess game of wits. They were Admiral Yi Sun Sin of Korea (Played by Park Hae-il from Decision to Leave) and Admiral Wakisaka Yasuharu of Japan (Played by Byun Yo-han from Six Flying Dragons). While the Great Battle at Hansan Island was replayed out on the big screen, a great acting battle was wonderfully delivered by these two great actors playing their prospective Admirals. Those looking for the quintessential offerings of Korean Film and Drama do well to follow the movies and dramas of these two gentlemen. (Fans of Ok Taec-yeon from Vincenzo, see if you can spot him in this movie)
This decisive Battle at Hansan Isalnd took place during the invasion of Korea by Japan, and it was a Naval battle. Of course, liberties were taken with history to produce this nail-biting cinematic experience. However, from the imaginations of writers Kim Han-min and Yun Hong-gi and direction of Kim Han-min, the viewers see a perfect chess match played out at sea, accompanied by a great movie score. The movie is written from the prospective of both men and it imagines the challenges they might have faced to try to obtain a victory at sea. Hansan : Rising Dragon was a movie that took my breath away as I observed the chess match depicted in this strategic battle. It’s beautifully recreated miniature sets, cinematography through the roof, and gorgeously loud sound effects added greatly to this high quality movie. With any war victory, one pauses to recognize the loss of life as grunts are sacrificed for glory, however, this movie takes a behind the scenes look at the cost of victory.
An important quote paraphrased from the movie is “They prepared themselves for offense, but they neglected to account for defense too”.
‘Hansan: Rising Dragon’ is another movie from 2022 staring Korea actor Park Hae-il which garnered many post production accolades and awards, as did his second film ‘Decision To Leave’, which won the Baeksang Arts Awards (Korean Oscars) for Best Film for 2023 (Competing against Hansan: Rising Dragon). In addition, Byun Yo-han (Mr Sunshine) won the Baeksang for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Admiral Wakisaka Yasuharu. Much of the movie was delivered in the Korean language and the rest of the movie was delivered in Old Japanese. Byun Yo-han had to deliver all his lines in Old Japanese and he did an award winning job.
Admiral Yi Sun Sin of Korean from Bansan: Rising Dragon (Played by Park Hae-il from Decision to Leave)
Admiral Wakisaka Yasuharu of Japan from Bansan: Rising Dragon (Played by Byun Yo-han from Mr Sunshine).
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Almost identical to the Spanish movie The Invisible Guest
Ok.... the movie is highly "inspired" by the Spanish movie The Invisible Guest(2016) which was very popular in China, the plot twist is almost identical. I'm very disappointed as I was expecting something different from this Chinese movie. Acting wise...IMO except for the main male actor the rest felt awkward and unnatural, this is the feeling I usually get from many Chinese actors, maybe their acting is different. Please make sure to watch the Spanish movie before watching this one, even better don't watch it at all. Is this a remake? Hope so, because I personally hate copycat movies.Was this review helpful to you?
Refreshing, nostalgic & lively!
A young woman moves to her hometown in the countryside to heal her emotional wounds with the help of her childhood friends, nature and food…This movie captures a realistic countryside life; it’s simple, refreshing, aesthetically pleasing, and particularly nostalgic for me, since I was living alone for a few years in a countryside during my study, before moving to a capital city for work. Watching Little Forest brings me back to those idyllic days, when I feel my absolute best in my favorite habitat. I relate with Kim Tae Ri’s character, living a seasonal life in a simple place.
Aside from my personal attachment, I truly recommend this to all. The leads characters are all inspiring, their moments are never mundane… just the right amount of friendship spice. No angst, no cringe, no tears. Seeing Ryu Joon Yeol here remind me of Jung Hwan from Reply 1988 and I can’t be more grateful J. I love that the director put focus on seasonal appreciation and friendship besides romance, unlike the usual stereotype movie tropes.
Also, you'll be mesmerized by the food shots, so maybe grab something to eat while watching! The cooking scenes were shot with care, they will sooth your souls like an ASMR aesthetics. The thing that I was anticipating is something more intense beyond cooking or gardening. But then, it makes up a great "feel good" bedtime story, feel free to just simply watch and love it!
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a cinematic revelation that compelled to step out of comfort zone
The Point Men is a cinematic revelation that compelled me to step out of my comfort zone, primarily driven by the magnetic presence of Hyun Bin as the lead actor. While not my usual genre of choice, this movie managed to captivate me from start to finish.However, what truly sets it apart is the electrifying chemistry between the lead actors. Their performances infuse the characters' struggles with palpable emotions, allowing the audience to connect deeply with their plight. This synergy between compelling acting and a well-crafted narrative elevates the film above the typical confines of a hostage drama.
Although the storyline is fictionalized, it sheds light on a remarkable real-life event where Korean hostages were held by the Taliban. The movie delves into the intricate negotiations between a Korean diplomat and a Taliban representative, resulting in a dramatic narrative filled with tension and intrigue.
It is a testament to the power of storytelling, offering a gripping tale that keeps you at the edge of seat throughout. It's an inspiring reminder that cinema has the capacity to take us on unexpected journeys, exploring the human spirit even in the most challenging circumstances. This movie is a must-watch for those seeking an exhilarating and emotionally charged cinematic experience.
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A very tasteful film, in terms of processing, the story (although it was not suitable for me, but interestingly done, how an adult Oat remembers the period around his age of around eleven), the choice of actors is absolutely luxurious for the eye of not only a European.
The acting is also decent, including little Oat, no affected whining, as we are used to in Asian productions. And finally, the topic of the "draw" was already familiar to me, I had already seen the documentary Draft Day by the same director presented here before ...
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a must-see for history enthusiasts and cinephiles alike
The Night Owl is a cinematic gem that transports audiences back to the tumultuous era of In Jo's reign, with Crown Prince So Hyeon's tragic death woven into its narrative tapestry. This sageuk masterpiece is undoubtedly one of the finest historical films I've had the pleasure of witnessing.What sets apart is its commitment to historical accuracy. The movie meticulously adheres to documented events, even referencing King In Jo's death certificate, which attributed his passing to Malaria. It's a testament to the filmmakers' dedication to authenticity.
The film introduces an intriguing twist with the character of the acupuncturist, adding a layer of fiction that seamlessly integrates into the story. The cast's remarkable performances breathe life into their respective roles, making the characters relatable and emotionally engaging.
Despite its dark and somber cinematography, reflecting the period's ambiance, it is undeniably beautiful. The film's straightforward storytelling approach ensures that it remains focused on its central narrative, both a strength and a limitation.
It is an inspiration, not only for its historical accuracy but also for its heartfelt portrayal of characters navigating a turbulent era. It serves as an educational journey through history while reminding us of the power of storytelling in cinema. This movie is a must-see for history enthusiasts and cinephiles alike, offering an unforgettable and enlightening experience.
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an indie production that missed the mark
Overall: too much of the story took place off screen. I watched all episodes together in a now deleted video, here is the official playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlpSUv8-x1mCRDCXRB4T7gHLWJxelv2Gy&si=JZNSs5NuiPy2hhbNNote: around 15 minutes of ep 1? there is a very intense strobe lighting/effect
Content Warnings: manipulation, violence, held against will, stalking
What I Liked
- the premise
- beginning seemed spicy but that all vanished which is extra strange considering the setting
Room For Improvement
- we don't see relationships develop, just suddenly they are in a relationship
- no characterization other than their names and they wanted to make money
- rough subtitles hindered my understanding of what was happening (note: 'brother' doesn't mean biological brother, it means friend, I think the only people related were the woman, her brother/cousin? the club owner and someone's mom or aunt)
- that open ending/cliffhanger was bad when a 2nd season isn't guaranteed
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This review may contain spoilers
Puk! Puk! Puk! Puk! Super Chicken!
Before men landed on the moon in real life, people were headed to Mars in The X from Outer Space. The previous missions to Mars had ended in disaster when UFOs from Mars or Venus diverted or destroyed the Earth ships. AAB Gamma aka Astro Boat had strapping Capt. Sano at the helm which meant the aliens didn't know what they were in for or maybe being constantly distracted by two women, he didn't.Capt. Sano, Lisa, Miyamoto, and Dr. Shioda begin their mission successfully until the apple pie shaped UFO appears and AAB Gamma barely makes it to the moon base intact. Michiko works at the moon base and is in love with Sano as is the buxom blonde bio scientist, Lisa. Shioda is suffering from space sickness and is replaced by a continually complaining Dr. Stein. Back into space the intrepid team goes but are stalled when strange luminescent pods become attached to the ship. Lisa and Sano collect a sample and dislodge the rest. Back at home the sample appears to have been stolen from the lab. The crew finds chicken-like prints leading to a hole in the floor. Before the team can have a nightcap, a giant monster appears crushing buildings and blowing things up. The chicken-like monster is named Guilala. They need a secret weapon to destroy it---Guilalanium! Guilalanium will prevent the monster from absorbing energy. But first the team has to return to the moon base, make more guilalanium, avoid the UFO and arrive back at the Astro Development Center before Guilala destroys Japan. No problem for this super crew if they can get everyone to stop lusting after Sano.
The miniatures and space craft were comparable to movies of this genre during the 1960's. The buildings were better than some of Godzilla's cardboard downtowns. Where the movie failed was the monster, it didn't hold up against Toho's guys in rubber suits productions. The acting was average but not the worst for a monster movie. Lisa and Michiko spent a lot of time mooning over Sano. The space jaunts eventually amounted to nothing, they never reached Mars nor made actual contact with the aliens. All they managed to do was bring back the lethal Guilala spore and set it loose. It took an hour before the monster showed up to relieve us of the lackluster love triangle and useless space trips.
This was not a classic Kaiju film though it does have a cult following. You could put it in the so bad it's fun category if you don't look too closely at it, especially the hilariously bad alien chicken. Although I'd take the super chicken over the tepid love triangle any day.
10/3/23
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