Reviews

Second half explains it all

Well, I took notice that this drama had quite some divided opinions when it aired. I can't remember the content of those opinions, but I do have my own issues with it. Fact is, I was definitely swept away by the second half of the show.

Things, the first half lacked were that there was just not enough information about the characters which made me question their behaviour all the time. Esp. Hong Ye (ML) was a mystery to me. His actions, the fast change in his attitude towards Xiao Yao (FL) didn't have any explainable footing for a long time. Only way later it got explained (which was, after getting to know it, actually satisfying). Regarding him being the demon king, I believe some people found him a bit too "nice". I was never bothered by that, I must say. I liked the different approach and never expected some prejudiced stereotype.

I also kind of had a problem with the FL having a somewhat too childish behaviour at first. I did like her character and all, but it was difficult to feel that "fast blooming romance" between her an Hong Ye. Even more so because he was some thousand years old. The side stories conveyed more emotion and even the brother/sister relationship of Bing Zhu (SML) and Tan were more relatable. I was also very intrigued by his character development. He took quite a rough path which caused his soul to be quite torn. I enjoyed his encounter and relationship with Pian Pian (SFL).

Third thing that bothered me in the first half, was the somewhat chaotic and non organized storytelling. Then, the story of the Realm of Mist and Void began and they invested way too much time with that, almost bringing the story to a halt.

What kept me going? The two soul demon cat Xiao Ming/Xiao Mu! ...Just kidding. Though he was great, he wasn't the only reason. I don't really know actually. There were glimpses of it getting better in the early side stories. And maybe I just hoped that it would get better since Hou MingHao wouldn't chose total trash, right?

And suddenly the second half of the story started and it got so much better. Finally things were explained, the relationship of the main couple got a deeper bond and an understandable explanation for its weird speedy development in the beginning. Xiao Yao also seemed more grown up which made it easier to feel for her and Hong Ye. The more they showed the past of the characters, the more I got invested in the romance. So much, that it did made me shed a lot of tears in the end (which I didn't expect until a certain point in the story).

They also introduced more important side characters (the dragons) and made the story more interesting, since those new people were way too charming - each of them in their own way.

I might not agree with the outcome of some characters, and the closer I got to the finale, the more it felt like the writers were at a loss to find a suitable closure for everyone at some point. Somehow it still worked, but that didn't make me less angry about it (and I'm not talking about the ending). Though that might just be my very personal impression.

Visual contradictions:
CGI and make-up were quite well done sometimes, also the costumes of the leads and some side cast were stunning, yet other demon costumes and facial masks/add-ons were just junk. And don't get me started with those obvious fake flowers, leafs, branches. On the other hand, the fake snow was well made again.

Music was great. I love those pieces where you hear bells? Though I'm not even sure if it were those or some other instrument (a flute?). Wonder if you get what I'm talking about. Those sometimes eerie sounds that make you feel like you're in the middle of some ritual.

And I just loooooove Hou MingHao's voice in songs.

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Starry Love is one of my absolute favs that I rewatch

With themes of compassion, love, overcoming trauma & family (both blood & newfound) this drama is definitely one of my absolute favorites. Now while I do think objectively this drama is more of an 8 objectively, personally I would give it a 9. For me this drama was the right amount of fun, comedic, adventuristic, emotional, romantic & overall a good experience. To me it was a breath of fresh air from the overly cliche xianxia that exist out there.

Pros:
- Probably the best thing about this series are the 4 main cast members. The chemistry of these 4 whether it be between their love interests or their other ones there is something great to find. This drama gives us one of the healthiest (probably the only one) relationship between 2 sisters. These 2 sisters never once hate each other or are against each other & it works. Then there are the romantic relationships & when I say these 2 are some of the best I really mean it. Unlike so many that I've seen before these 2 romances I understand perfectly why each fell for the other, which is something I am always on the lookout for when I watch a romance happen.
- In terms of story, I'm also really impressed bcuz it managed to subvert a lot of tropes that are constant with xianxia series. For example I didn't expect Youqian to die & therefore needed to be revived by finding 3 Fragments of his soul. Other things like the Heavenly Emperor finally getting his karma is also another good thing.
- The OST is also very good & is always played at the most appropriate times. Especially the opening OST which works so well for the epic moments.
- Comedy gold & it is heavily due to some very good directing along with very good actors like Landy Li.
- The VFX is quite good & I do like a lot of minute details for some scenes.
- The cinematography is serviceable & nothing too bad.

Cons:
- I do feel the last few ep could really turn off viewers. An open ending like that could leave one wanting more. Then there is the unnecessary "end of the world" plot that just needed to happen. While it makes some sense it also could have been done a bit better.
- I do feel that the whole revive Youqian story line might've gone off for too long.
- Some characters were probably a bit too cliche or even comedic that they sort of lacked greater depth.
- Some props looked very fake & did break immersion a few times.

Overall, one of my favorites & something I think most people can enjoy.

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Goddess Bless You From Death (2025) – EP.10 Review

Finally caught up! 🔥

This series is an occult thriller BL that blends supernatural elements with a crime investigation storyline, and it’s been surprisingly engaging.

The story follows Singha, a detective investigating a bizarre serial murder case. The victims are found hanging from a tree inside an abandoned mall, with their eyes and mouths sewn shut using red thread—an unsettling and memorable visual that immediately sets the tone.

At the crime scene, he encounters Toop, a young man who can see spirits. Initially treated as a suspect, Toop gradually proves that his ability is real, and Singha has no choice but to accept it.

What makes their dynamic interesting is that Singha himself seems to be protected by some unknown force. Being near him allows Toop to live more peacefully, creating a subtle but compelling bond between them.

In the beginning, the series leans more toward the occult murder mystery, with very little BL focus. However, around EP.4, the BL elements become much more prominent, especially with the introduction of Singha’s ex-boyfriend, King.

The case itself is layered and spans across different timelines—incidents that occurred 5 and 10 years ago, eventually leading back to a key event 25 years ago in Sisaket province, which appears to be connected to Toop.

Despite having many suspicious characters and complex supernatural elements, the story doesn’t fall apart. It actually does a good job of guiding the viewer through the mystery without making it confusing.

EP.10 is particularly emotional. It reveals that King is not just a cruel or manipulative character, adding more depth to his actions and making the situation more tragic than it initially seemed.

Overall, this is a series that keeps you hooked with its mystery while gradually building emotional weight.

I’d say it’s definitely worth your time.

⚠️ Warning: The special effects (especially the “slit-mouthed woman”) are quite disturbing, so be prepared if you’re sensitive to horror elements.

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Mid-Tier in All Aspects

When this drama first came out, I was really excited. Chinese BL, no censorship... That's pretty much what most of us wanted, especially with China's increased censorship and regulations in regards with MLM oriented media.

However, watching this there was clearly something important missing: chemistry. The two leads had very little chemistry together and the entirety of the romance felt like a big nothing burger. I didn't feel like routing for either of them, actually, the more I watched the less I cared about the characters.

Both the main leads are bland with a sprinkle of "depth" that does little to really prove an impact in regards to the story. Whilst I sometimes complain about the length of most C-dramas, I did actually find myself appreciating those 50+ episode seasons watching this. The plot felt rushed and very little time was spent on what felt like should have been very key events and details to the characters. Honestly, nothing really "clicked" in place for me in the sense that I kept asking "why should I care?" everything was moving either too fast or too slow that I didn't feel attached to any of the characters.

The main characters were bland... I may have bias but I generally dislike whiny and "pathetic" characters. In this drama, that seemed to be enhanced with our protagonist. Honestly, he didn't really strike me as a protag, more of a comedic relief type character. I found the initial premise interesting until the plot was just about a whiny man who couldn't do anything aside from whimper and hide behind whatever shield he could find.... The other male lead? I didn't actually grasp whether he was actually meant to be "good" at anything. In terms of martial arts, he kind of seemed average... boring and without any significant growth that made me really care about anything to do with his past because again, this drama actually gives you no time to meet the characters properly. They're just thrown in and expect you to somehow care for them.

If you watch BL just for the "gay" this is a perfect drama for you because other than that is has no substance. The "sex" scenes to me felt so fan-service oriented which drove the point that these leads don't actually have any chemistry together.

Overall: I hated the entire thing. Even the acting in most episodes was jarring which made it feel more like a half-assed c-drama than the other ones available. Bromance C-dramas have more angst and heart-wrenching plots to offer than this.

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When the series loses it's plot

I know there's a lot been going on in idol factory lately and it doesn't surprise me either. With actors leaving and a new ceo etc. This is a series produced by 'copy a Bangkok' and honestly it was my second time hearing about them. I watched pretty much all of their series but most of them are dropped. Now let's talk about why I don't like this series. Please note that this is a personal opinion and I personally think you should watch it yourself to form an opinion.

I've seen Nuttapart in mutliple series and I used to be quite a fan of him. His acting skills are pretty good but this series seems to ruin it and worsen it. I wish Poom had a better chance in a different company. His acting skills are genuinely good but the script doesn't make it look good. Here's the thing: Poom plays this stupid innocent boy. It feels like a very stereotypical bl bottom. I feel like the show wanted to show an artistic way of emotions with Poom. Given the type of shots they used. It doesn't work at all and it feels irritating to see him on the screen like that.

Now over to Ki Niwat Naknuan. I have not yet seen him in a good bl. I have seen both this bl and Interminable. Didn't like both of them but that doesn't mean his acting is bad. Once again, I have the same opinion with Poom. I feel like his role is super forced into making him this 'cool nonchalant' guy.

Unnecessary AI is also a thing that irritates me. Couldn't they find artists to hire? I just find this sad and I feel like the quality goes down from it aswell. Another thing is that it's not only bad looking but also extremely unnecessary and the whole dialogue under it aswell is... bad.

After watching the first episodes I had quite some hope but the more episodes came out, the more lost the plot got. Like everything changed and no word was spoken about certain subjects. Ofcourse, this has to do with the writing. I love to write and I'm not hating on the original creator but I feel like a lot of emotions and important details get lost through the show. As if they put the novel in ai and just let it write a script for them (which they prolly didn't)

After all, please form your own opinion. I wouldn't recommend this series but if you really wanna watch it I would say, go for it.

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I was honestly more interested in the previous generation.

With themes of classic wuxia series like heroism, chivalry, justice, camaraderie, responsibility of power & of course love this series could've been good if not for the many problems it had. As someone who really likes wuxia series I was happy to get something like this over the many more famous genres of recent years. Unfortunately, this series was just lacking in too many aspects that some of the good stuff never really stuck with me. I felt they never polished what they had & it eventually led a somewhat lackluster series overall.

Pros:
- OST is really good, especially "Intoxicate by Gentle Breeze" by Li Yuchun. It gave not only a very wuxia vibe, but just a very nonchalant free vibe making it a very good song. The OST heavily elevated the drama at times.
- Zhou Yi Ran kind of carried the younger actors of this drama. I don't think the drama would've been very good if he didn't give such a strong performance. Granted he did get better material to work with so...
- The older cast are good & a lot of them do really good with the material they are given.
- The world building is actually quite interesting & ambitious. This world has a lot of interesting ideas & stories going. One of the shows greatest strength was the 2 generations it focused on. It was always interesting to get into the history of the generation that came before & see what they had to go through.
- The show is cinematically very pretty, especially when they are in real landscapes. Then there are the slow-mo moments where we see they costumes flow ever so beautifully. I really like those moments.
- The fights are okay & fun, but definitely not bad. I do want to praise the actors, especially Bao Shang En for doing some of their own stunts. And it isn't just simple stunts, it's actually some pretty complex ones too.

Cons:
- So if you haven't noticed by now, for me the biggest problem is that a majority of the characters feel underdeveloped or have little material to work with. Even Cai Zhao & Cai Ping Shu, 2 of the most important characters felt off as characters. Much of Cai Zhao's character is her relationship with her Aunt Cai Ping Shu, but the problem is that we never get to see enough of their relationship together & thus we never get enough of emotional anchor for both. There are also things like Cai Zhao not wanting to join the jianghu, but they never explore anything deeper than the intro of ep 1. Eventually this causes Cai Zhao to have no real story of her own & she is just following her Aunt's old stories or following Mu Qing Yan's. Sigh~ a pity.
- Then there is the over abundance of characters & why it is best to not have so many characters. I think bucz they had so many characters, they couldn't really focus on any one & that left most of them being not memorable.
- Editing & some shot choices are weird too. At times I had an immersion break bcuz it was that bad.
- Most of the younger cast including Bao Shang En are rather weak. Bao Shang En at times felt like she was just reading the script rather than actually acting. I do think is a case of bad directing though so I won't be too harsh.
- As for the story it is unfortunately hampered down by the fact that the previous generation's story was way more interesting than the current gen. Only the 2 Lead's story were remotely interesting (mainly Mu Qing Yan) & even the twist villain was boring & cliche. And the story itself was too much, go on a quest & not enough of a big cohesive breathing world.

Overall, I wanted to like it, but it didn't feel like it was a complete story. Add on top of that an overly ambitious story spanning generations along with lacking production & it would be expected that this is the end result. I would have preferred if they took more liberties with the adaptation & cut more characters or even fix how certain story points proceeded. Bcuz what we got didn't really work in my opinion. However, as an inspiring writer I did get a lot from this series in how to approach a story like this or even characters like Cai Zhao so I guess that is a plus. LOL! Anyways, it was a decent show, but I just wish it would've been better.

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yada carried the whole movie....

low budget movie, messy post production, old style humour, weak script… and it honestly feels like everyone is just being themselves with no script, except for yada (and krist later on). i genuinely don’t know how this made it to cinema screening.

the worst part is they didn’t even focus fully on mak and nak’s story. instead, we get too much random, kinda pointless comedic stunts from the crew gang?? like I get it, the gang (especially petchtai) is big in thailand, but still… it just way too much.

i actually feel bad for yada because her acting is way too good for this kind of script. she literally carried the whole movie from start to end. the chemistry between her and krist is more cute than heart-fluttering, but somehow they still made me cry in their scenes, so i’ll give them that.

overall, this movie had so much potential. it would’ve been way better if they just focused on mak and nak’s story, with only a bit of the trio instead of overdoing it. i know they directed and produced it themselves, but honestly… they should’ve chosen a different story to make their gang shine, and not this legendary tale.

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A breathtaking historical drama

I was completely captivated by *The Prisoners of Beauty*, a Chinese historical drama that enchants in every respect — every aspect of the production is meticulously crafted, creating a deeply immersive atmosphere. The direction is simply masterful: one can clearly sense the vision and precision with which every single moment has been constructed. The narrative pace is well-balanced, and the emotional evolution of the story unfolds with an elegance that captures the viewer’s attention from start to finish. Every shot, every movement of the camera seems designed to draw the viewer in, as if they were an integral part of the scene.

The acting is also extraordinary. The actors bring their characters to life with a rare intensity and an engaging naturalness. Every glance, every gesture, every variation in tone of voice conveys far more than what is actually said, rendering the characters complex, believable and deeply human. We are not merely watching a performance: we experience every emotion, every choice, every conflict alongside them.

The costumes are a true visual delight. Every outfit tells a story: historical accuracy blends with a refined, theatrical aesthetic that enhances the beauty and dignity of each character. The fabrics, details and colour combinations reflect with great sensitivity the social status, character and even the mood of the wearer. An explosion of elegance and visual richness that helps make the experience even more immersive.

The cinematography is simply breathtaking. The light caresses the faces, the shadows reveal more than they conceal, and the landscapes — whether natural or architectural — seem to have stepped out of a painting. Each episode is a visual journey in which the eye is gracefully guided through warm lighting, majestic scenery and intense close-ups. It is a beauty that moves the viewer and, at times, leaves one speechless.

The soundtrack is a fundamental element that binds everything together with harmony and sensitivity. It does not merely accompany the scenes: it inhabits them. The melodies seem to spring directly from the characters’ emotions, intensifying the feeling without ever overpowering it. They linger within you, like a whisper that continues to resonate long after the episode has ended.

The Prisoners of Beauty does not merely tell a story: it transports you to a world where history, art, emotion and beauty merge in perfect balance. It demonstrates just how powerful a production can be when guided by vision, sensitivity and a genuine passion for storytelling.

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Choppy Plot Flow

Having only seen six episodes so far, there's not much opinion to give on the complete plot. But I'm dropping this because the plot flow feels like a number of boxes being strung on a string with too much gap in between. This causes me to not really vibe with any of our mains.

- The ML starts off great but his personality shifts oddly shortly thereafter. He isn't too likeable.
- For a country who is well aware of the past with demons and the dangers of anything happening to this red pearl, they all seem pretty nonchalant about it. Especially when they are seriously weighing the retrieval of this pearl that can destroy the world to fixing someone's broken weapon just because of sentimental reasons. Makes zero sense.
- They are trying to group together a team of demon hunters but sudden bonding from individuals who should have complex backgrounds also feels unnatural.
- They try to incorporate lighthearted moments into the drama which I always appreciate, but it's not commingled well where serious events feel like it's all just brushed off quickly.

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Editing was annoying…..

I’m usually not someone who pays too much attention to technical issues, but I have to agree on one thing about this movie, the editing was kind of annoying. At times, it felt like I was watching one of those dramatic Chinese clips that randomly pop up on my Facebook feed.

Other than that, I actually enjoyed the movie… even though I didn’t fully know what was going on at first. I arrived a little late, so I missed the first 5–7 minutes, which probably explains my confusion.

But one thing about Chinese movies, they always have amazing soundtracks. I was the only person in the room, and it honestly felt like they were trying to hypnotize me with those poetic songs… even though I didn’t understand a single word.

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The wuxia spaghetti western

A riotously enjoyable mix of wuxia action, fantasy and intrigue, The Magic Blade tweaks otherwise traditionally Chinese cultural elements and gives it the vibe of a spaghetti western. A few dusty tumbleweeds here, a couple of crash-zooms there, all the while a poncho-clad antihero wanders through the film; all that's missing is the Morricone soundtrack. While the narrative beats are more than familiar, it's the way the film transcends them that makes it work so well. Breaking off from the Shaw Brothers formula just enough, offering a little bit of everything for everyone, including a cannibalistic vampire grandma. Rather than following a straightforward revenge or tournament arc, it all unfolds like a labyrinthine whodunit, filled with shifting loyalties, hidden identities and a constant sense that no one is quite what they seem. Director Chor Yuen has really outdone himself here. I love the dimmer lighting style he went with; it really amplifies the darker hues of the colour scheme, embracing a dreamlike aesthetic, which pairs beautifully with its tangled narrative. The action flows wonderfully with a tremendous amount of energy and pace that practically makes so many of his set pieces fly off the screen, especially with a lot of dynamic camerawork in play, yet it still retains those Shaw Brothers stylings, ornate, enigmatic and unapologetically theatrical. The performances all around are great, especially the leading duo of Ti Lung and Lo Lieh, both of whom play off each other brilliantly while also getting ample opportunity to strut their martial arts prowess; Ching Li isn't given much to do as her costars, but she handles it all with grace. Leaden with gothic mysticism and meticulously crafted, The Magic Blade is a truly wonderful piece of swashbuckling adventure, less about straightforward action and more about mood, mystery and an undeniably rich style which it more than delivers in spades.

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Nice chemistry! Fun and cute watch, nothing serious.

Enjoyed the dynamic very much, they did a great job with the characters, the chemistry was really felt. The plot got me intrigued. Nice start. Although, for some episodes, especially the last ones, felt very dragged + the pacing was not good. I just wanted to be done with it you know... (really my only complain)
It's not a show to take entirely seriously, there clearly were some plot holes or aspect that could have made the plot easily better imo, BUT personally didn't bother me that much it was a very fun and cute watch mostly.
I agree with the ones saying that the acting skills weren't the best, but it was barely a problem for this show, i feel. It was bearable.
I heard people saying they didn't like the FL attitude/personality, which I really do not agree with, bc it was very understandable with what she's been through with her best friend and it's not like she owed anything to humans, she's a being with supernatural powers and she'll use them as much as she likes, it's not like she was purposely hurting people + she definitely got a little character development progressively. AND their (the fl and ml) personalities really worked together which is why I do not complain!

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A little gem, don't miss it !!!

PLOT: A trio of childhood friends, Han Tuo and Jun Xi, reunite at university. To help his friend Jun Xi flirt with the girl, Tuo coaches him, and they kiss. Tuo then confesses to Jun Xi that he's always loved him. The duo gradually discovers sexuality, jealousy, builds their relationship, and learns to own it.

+++ The actors are talented and subtle enough to make this touching story feel authentic.
(⁀ᗢ⁀) Who's playing "top or bottom" in Rock/Paper/Scissors??? (⁀ᗢ⁀)

+++ A well-written, intelligent story with complex characters. For once, the parents are empathetic and love their children ♡╰(ﾟxﾟ​)╯♡ The girls, Xiao Yang and You Mei, bring a welcome touch of humor and eccentricity.
+++ The OSTs are pleasant and complement the emotions conveyed.

No FLAWS

=> I love the realism and sense of authenticity that Taiwanese dramas exude. This series is simple, without unecessary melodrama, and heartwarming.

*******************************************************
PLOT: Un trio d'amis, soudé depuis l'enfance avec 1 fille, Han Tuo et Jun Xi, se retrouve à la fac. Pr aider son ami à draguer la fille, Tuo le coach et ils s'embrassent. Tuo avoue alors à Jun Xi qu'il l'aime depuis tjs. Le duo va peu à peu, découvrir la sexualité, la jalousie, construire sa relation et être capable de l'assumer.

+++ Les acteurs sont talentueux, subtiles, assez pour rendre cette histoire touchante authentique.
(⁀ᗢ⁀) Qui joue à "top ou bottom" à Pierre/Papier/Ciseaux ??? (⁀ᗢ⁀)
+++ Story bien écrite, intelligente, avec des personnages complexes. Pour une fois, les parents sont empathiques et aiment leurs enfants ♡╰(ﾟxﾟ​)╯♡
Les filles, Xiao Yang et You Mei apportent la touche d'humour et d'excentricité.
+++ Les OSTs sont agréables et accompagnent les émotions transmises.

No FLAWS

=> J'aime le réalisme et le ressenti authenticité que dégagent les dramas taïwanais. Cette série est simple, sans mélo, réconfortante.

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"In this world, the weak are playthings to the strong"

Third Shadow Warrior showed how man’s desire for carnage and power wasted the lives and resources of the land. Whether a farmer dreaming of being a samurai or a samurai lord desiring to rule everyone, the greed sank deep into the hearts of the sword bearing warriors.

In 1564 the Hida area within the mountains escaped the large armies’ invasion. That didn’t stop smaller forces from desiring to rule the clans. Lord Yasutaka was winning the battles and close to being the ruler supreme of the Hida. A young farmer named Ninomiya Kyonosuke’s dream of being a samurai appears to be answered when Shinomura Saheita comes down from the castle to hire him. Ninomiya discovers he is to be one of Yasutaka’s three doubles, trained to exactly mimic the lord. Whatever troubles befall Yasutaka, befall the three doubles as well.

The message behind the film was strong. Samurai were not to be admired as they were blood-thirsty fighters who only desired more power and wealth never caring about anyone below them in stature or station. Each of the clans betrayed the other in order to move ahead. Betrayals were also rampant within the clans. Despite making strides forward, Ninomiya’s future burned around him with every step. Never clever nor ruthless enough, the farmer fell victim to others with more power. His own greed spelled his doom.

As much as I appreciated the bleak, disturbing story, the unfolding of the revelations felt perfunctory. I called out each disaster before they occurred. While I felt sorry for Ninomiya losing his identity, his impulsive actions also sealed his fate. His was not the sharpest katana in the drawer. The acting for many of the characters was also overly theatrical as if they were on a stage playing to the back row.

Third Shadow Warrior played out the ridiculous degrees of loyalty some samurai were called upon to enact. Not that the nobility and superiors were required to show the same loyalty, more often than not, those ranked below them suffered terrible consequences. Fate was not kind to those who did not understand their place and the sacrifices mandated upon them. Definitely worth a look if you enjoy anti-samurai or Jidaigeki films.

18 March 2026

Trigger warnings: Loss of eyes, loss of an arm.

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