Reviews

Overrated. Not worth the time. Unnecessary Long. Below par storyline.

I don't understand how it's rate 8.9/10 here. For me, it's 2.5/10.

The acting of the cast is good. The music is tolerable. The initial storyline is good. Initial 3-4 episodes are good. That's all the good part done.

Now for the bad part. The overall storyline is bad. I felt as if they dragged the storyline more and more. I don't know if they had less material or what. The story feels dragged after a certain point. It starts to feel repetitive and boring after that. Similar forced situation to bring the character together. The side characters are forgettable. The FL is annoying. Initially the FL was amazing but I guess after 6-7 episode, she start to feel annoying and do all these emotional drama. Maybe she is badly written. Her voice with sun-jae is still ringing in my head. Ahh.

The Villain is a joke in the storyline. He feel so disconnected out of story. I felt that he was not even needed. He is just used to drag the storyline. He have no motivation, no backstory, nothing. I don't even know why he is there. He is like game npc.

Not even a single side character is good. Not even a single one. I am trying to think but I can't even remember even one side character whom I can say is well written or you will remember.

Overall. It's just not worth it. It should have given only 5-6 episodes. It doesn't deserve 16 episodes. I don't even know how it have such a high ratings. Don't watch it if you can't handle same repetitive drama.

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Ugh, not again!!!

First the series:
The first few episodes are good (not great, but funny), as soon as they get home it takes a real downturn to just over the top, unrealistic glommy OTT affection with no substance or plot and there are a LOT of unanswered questions. 1. Kim's character is really pushed to the front in several episodes but there is no resolution shown or spoke about, the character just fades, WTF. 2. Jam's cat supposed to be important to him, but never seen in Sarm's house, etc.  It just seems like this was thrown together so Max and Nat would have a series this year to promote.

Now, the couple:
I love Nat, he is the cutest, but I have never been sold on MaxNat. The chemistry is all wrong, it just feels forced. I don't know what it is, but it has always felt off in every series they are in, so it is hard for me to be engaged. Max is just way too EXTRA, it takes away from everything else.

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MASTERPIECE ALERT

Wow, this series got me hooked from the very first episode until now. The characters are so interesting and the acting is so fcking good, especially Save.

It also contains a proper look behind the thai-BL-industry. The relationship that Nine and Third have, is something, that is really common in the real world I fear. So it is really refreshing to see it appear in such a series.

One thing to point out that is very negative to me, is that there are some scenes that destroy the mood. The fighting scenes between the make up artists are mostly unfunny and cringe.

I am so hyped for how the story continues. No matter how, it is a 100/10 already!

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Disgusting story that is normalising and romanticizing cheating.

Writer of this show has filthy mind and twisted view of the world.

FL has no sense of shame, loyalty, responsibility or accountability. A grown adult blaming others for her character and moral flaws. She doesn't face any consequences for cheating. She is playing victim card and acting innocent. Manipulating everyone into her pitiful act and using them. We are subjected to watching her lust for SML. We are forced to witness her filthy love and care growing for SML. And watch them being intimate and happy as they get closer each day. 🤢 She had a miserable life (which she blames on ML) but suddenly after getting one month snu snu licence with SML she becomes a strong woman with impeccable character. What absolute nonsense. She is just a random toxic sl*t who only knows blame shifting and lying.

ML is pathetic. He doesn't make her pay for cheating. Allows her to sleep with other man for one month with wedding still in sight. He is a spineless man who doesn't have self respect and dignity. A simp who is okay with being punching bag. A loser who is clinging to a woman who does not want him. I mean how many more hits do you need to realise that?

Overall FL is manipulating cheating trash. ML is a cuck simp.

(Oh and for all their 10 years of relationship she took advantage of him and he put up with her antics by choice. It was a toxic relationship.)

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A fun and funny romcom from start to finish with YEARNING!!!

If you're in the mood for a fun, hilarious, sincere romcom with elite yearning from the ML, this is for you.

==Breakdown==
Background plot- 25%
Romance - 60%
Misc comedy - 15%

Background plot - There were two: 1) FML character growth background plot was GREAT! 2) Rich family background plot was adequate/fine
Romantic chemistry - EXCELLENT
Misc comedy - Actually very funny
Production value and direction - Good

This was the most enjoyable, purely romcom I've watched since probably 'Business Proposal.' Why don't they make these anymore?!!? It was SO GOOD!!

A reviewer said Kim Young Kwang should do more romcoms and they are so, so right. But let's not skip over his elite YEARNING. I wish this actor did more dramas, period. He's so good at both comedy and drama. In this, his expressions cracked me up more than once, but then he had me tearing up in the next episode. Such a delight to watch every scene he's in.

Chae Soo Bin, as expected, was simply stellar as the FL. She always brings such a lovely sincerity to all her roles and I can always count on her to deliver heartfelt romance (and a moving story). She's phenomenal.

The direction, music, settings, etc. were all romcom coded, which I loved. No scenes were filler (which I also loved). The second male lead was almost too perfect and the second female lead was layered and flawed (and therefore an interesting, engaging character even if she was ultimately a "baddie.")

Enjoy!!

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Dubious plot and not worth it

This is not a detailed review, but others have written detailed ones. I found this drama distasteful. I accept there is a plot and issues were raised about sexism in employment and strong women characters. The female coach is attracted to the sponsor of a teenage football team, but becomes attracted to the sponsor's nephew, played by Perth, who is on the team. She and the gay assistant coach make remarks about the boys. In some countries teachers or coaches expressing attraction to minors could face disciplinary action. At the end of the long story, she and Perth's character get together, as if this is all fine. Perth was 20 when this was made, so IRL he was not a minor, and the female lead was 30, according to another reviewer. The main characters have belligerent unattractive personalities, so that I did not really care what happened to them.

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Well-produced and well-acted Family drama that could use more than 47 episodes

There are already many well-written reviews of “Against the Current”, so I am not going to repeat what the plot is and who is who. But I do want to share a few points that stuck out to me while watching this drama.

I initially thought this would be a story about Lan Xiang (FL)’s rise to power in the Lin Household (which is true) and her revenge story of actively reclaiming the innocence and name for her Shen family, with the assistance of Lin Jin Qi (ML). The latter point isn’t true. This is in no way a revenge drama. Instead, it has a central focus of women power. There are many dramas shedding light on the unfair treatment of women during those times, but what stood out in “Against the Current” is that almost every single female character has an arc/side story about their struggles. The drama spends quite a lot of time away from the story of Xu Lan Xian and Lin Jin Qi, but focuses on the daughters, daughters-in-law, female maids and other women. Their stories are definitely interesting in their own way, and I feel for them. Each of their stories could be a drama by itself and I would watch them all. However, because time was taken away from the leads, I felt that their story was impacted slightly and I am not getting the romance that I want. I know, I am a sucker for romance, so when it’s not done to my satisfaction, I notice and complain. Additionally, all the stories require a lot of time to tell and might have led to the many time skips in this drama. Central to all the women's stories, is our female lead Lan Xiang. She has a hand in all of them. It’s like she’s the mastermind (not intentionally) and one that everyone seeks out because she’s caring and intelligent. But is she too intelligent? Isn’t it better to have some setbacks? Aside from the first few episodes, she didn’t seem to have such a hard life growing up. I think it would make for a more interesting character if she moves two steps forward, and then one or half a step backwards. She’s a little too perfect here.

I know this is not a romance-centered drama going in and that’s OK. I know this is going to be a slow burn and that’s OK. But even after resetting my expectations, I am still disappointed. The romance feels very one-sided to me. I like how Lin Jin Qi slowly falls for Xu Lan Xiang. I like seeing how his view of her changes throughout the drama from indifference, to noticing and recognizing her talents, to admiration and love. I was surprised at how arrogant he was with the marriage proposal, but it creates a great story for the end when they speak about their different paths and beliefs. But I don’t think the drama shows us that Xu Lan Xiang is in love with Jin Qi. She definitely cares for him, loves him as a family, and even admires his decision in the end regarding his career choice. But she’s never in love with him. Is that really what the writer/director wants to convey? Is it the writing that’s not living up to what it wants to portray? I was baffled at the sudden change in their marriage after the time skip. All of a sudden he came home and you consummate your marriage? What happened? Did I miss a few episodes? I enjoy the initial attraction from Lin Jin Qi, and especially their openness in talking about their different beliefs and paths, and sharing of secrets. But somewhere in the middle, an important component is lost.

This is a well-produced period drama. It’s serious without additional and useless comedic moments just to brighten the seriousness. It has excellent acting across the board, ever-changing and beautiful costumes and hairstyles for the cast. Actors using their own voice and may even have some live recording (or very good studio recording). Everything feels grand and right. It’s one of the rare recent Chinese dramas that I felt didn't have much to complain about the production. Even the few action scenes are done well and hardcore. I love all the songs. I am not always a fan of Seven Tan’s singing, but when her song comes up, I totally get all the feels (though it was played too often). Almost forgot, I don’t think we need a heroic entrance music in this drama, but we have that not only for ML, but also his two bodyguards. Doh!

“Against the Current” tells the tale of Xu Lan Xiang and those around her for over 20 years. This is a long time to tell a story this long and 47 episodes didn’t seem enough. This is the first drama I watched that’s over 40 episodes after China revokes the censorship. Maybe the writer forgot how to write a longer drama, or they are worried that the audience needs time to re-adjust to watching a 70-ep “Story of Min Lan” or “Rise of the Phoenix”. But the amount of time skips is a constant complaint that most reviewers and viewers have voiced. By the last third of the drama, we either skip a month or two, or 6 months to a year, here and there. But what I want to point out also is the intelligent way the drama does these skips. Not only does it show on the screen the words of the time, but you can tell from the changing seasons, changing costumes, walking from one frame to another, and by what the characters are doing. Did you notice the little girl selling flowers who shows up ever so often? Did you see her growing up before our eyes from being a little girl, a teenager, an adult, a pregnant woman, selling with her baby and then her boy, and then an older woman with a son and daughter? What a smart way of showing us the change of times. Throughout the drama, I keep on looking out for her. In the drama, the young ones all grow up with older actors playing these characters. Yet, the adults are the same actors no matter how old they become. It’s somewhat weird to see the 5-year old is 15 and then married with kids and played by different actors, and then their parents and grandparents look just about the same with a few more gray hairs only.

If you watch enough period Chinese family dramas, you notice a pattern of evil parents, concubine fighting, cousin fighting and all trying to gain whatever fortune they want. The amount of in-fighting within the family is amazing. I just finished watching “Spring of the Blade” so to watch a totally different “Against the Current” is a breath of fresh air. I love seeing the two Madam Lins supporting each other. All the cousins are lovely and truly care and support each other. Big brother Lin Jin Qi steps up each and every time when his sister or cousins are in need. No cousin is jealous of each other, even the in-laws, except for one. We have two great mothers in Madam Lins, although their way of mothering is very different. The fathers might be useless, but they don’t cause much trouble. It’s lovely to see a family drama, where all family members do love each other.

Well, this review is getting long. If you like a serious, well-produced Chinese historical family drama, “Against the Current” is a great choice. It has excellent acting all around and interesting stories to keep you engaged throughout those 47 episodes. But the drama is not without flaws. If you are looking for romance, you will be disappointed. This is not a drama you casually watch as you might miss details that show up on the screen rather quickly.


Drama Completed: 10/11/2026 Review #729

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A Chaebol, a Human Power Bank, and Lots of Butterflies

I watched Take Charge of My Heart in one sitting, and honestly, I enjoyed it much more than I expected! Sometimes you just need a drama that doesn't take itself too seriously, and this was exactly the kind of feel-good rom-com I needed. It's cute, funny, a little ridiculous, and completely aware of what it's trying to be. As Bo-bae herself points out, people don't always watch chaebol romances for realism. Sometimes we just want the feels and butterflies. And honestly, I couldn't agree more.

The premise is wonderfully absurd. Na Bo-bae is an aspiring screenwriter whose body generates static electricity, making physical contact with others difficult. Baek Ho-rang is a wealthy corporate heir with an artificial heart that needs recharging. When they discover that Bo-bae's electricity can charge his heart, they strike a deal: she'll help him, and he'll become the inspiration she needs to write better romantic stories. Watching a CEO depend on a woman who can literally charge him like a power bank is as ridiculous as it sounds, but that's part of the charm. You either accept the silliness and enjoy the ride or spend the entire drama questioning the logic. I chose the former!

The leads and their chemistry were easily the biggest highlights. Kim Young-kwang and Chae Soo-bin made Bo-bae and Ho-rang such an enjoyable couple. Their banter, playful interactions, and romantic moments felt natural, and I loved how their relationship gradually developed from a practical arrangement into something more meaningful.

Ho-rang was a particularly pleasant surprise. I expected the typical arrogant chaebol who takes half the drama to learn basic manners, but he turned out to be an absolute sweetheart. Watching this reserved CEO become softer, sillier, and more affectionate as he falls for Bo-bae was genuinely endearing. Kim Young-kwang handled the transition from composed executive to completely smitten boyfriend beautifully.

Bo-bae was equally charming, with her warmhearted and energetic personality. Despite her unusual ability and professional struggles, she keeps moving forward. I also liked that she wasn't simply there to solve Ho-rang's problems. They both needed companionship, acceptance, and someone who could understand them. Their relationship helped them grow, and while their journey wasn't particularly groundbreaking, it was sweet to watch.

The second male lead deserves some love, too! Cha Woo-min brought so much warmth to Eun-ho, making him caring, supportive, and easy to root for. I didn't quite develop second-lead syndrome, but I certainly wanted good things for him. He was more than just a source of romantic tension, and I appreciated that the drama gave him a likable personality of his own.

The supporting cast was another plus. Bo-bae's family and best friend were lovely, and their unconditional support added warmth to the story. I also appreciated that the drama didn't overwhelm us with unnecessary characters or subplots. Even the antagonists were convincingly portrayed, although Ho-rang's aunt, uncle, and cousin became increasingly frustrating. Their greed escalated without much remorse or meaningful development, and I would have liked to see them face more satisfying consequences.

My biggest disappointment was the ending. Ten episodes felt like the perfect length for this story, and the pacing was generally good, but I wanted more time with the main couple once everything settled. After getting so attached to them, their final moments together felt a little rushed. And come on, a wedding in Bo-bae's script isn't the same as seeing the main couple's actual wedding! I would have loved that little bit of extra closure.

Overall, Take Charge of My Heart isn't trying to reinvent the rom-com, and it doesn't need to. The premise is ridiculous, the tropes are familiar, and some conflicts could have been handled better, but the drama delivers where it counts: charming leads, great chemistry, funny interactions, and a romance that makes you smile.

I finished all ten episodes in one sitting, and I can already see myself revisiting my favourite scenes when I need a pick-me-up. If you're looking for a cute, lighthearted romance with a lovable male lead and plenty of feel-good moments, give it a try. Sometimes a drama doesn't need to be realistic or groundbreaking. Sometimes it just needs to make you laugh, give you butterflies, and leave you happy you watched it.

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Satisfying from Beginning to End

I started Revenge from a Wife on a whim because I needed something to fall asleep to. The problem with starting shows on a whim is that I inevitably end up invested and binge-watching them. Luckily, this one is a mini-drama, so it’s a quick watch. It’s 30 episodes that last around 7-10 minutes each, including the opening and ending credits.

The show has one of the most impactful scenes, or as a friend said "that scene was crazy", to set the stage for a revenge story. Imagine your husband’s body being returned by palace staff, only for you to discover that his lower body has been replaced with straw. And as if this wasn’t enough, the same people set your shack on fire so that you and any evidence of what happened disappear. All because a jealous, delusional consort couldn’t handle something your husband while explaining his art because of her own inferiority complex.

Once I got invested in the story, I wanted only two things. First, I wanted Wanniang to actually carry out the revenge she set out to take. Second, I did NOT want a real romance to develop between her and the emperor. At least, not from her side. I just wanted Wanniang to get her revenge without the story pushing an unnecessary love story to weaken her resolve after all she endured to get to where she needed to be to carry out her plans. I was not disappointed. I am glad the story did not become one of two people who are devoted to ghosts, she to her husband and him to his late empress, Roujia, and who would find each other and comfort each other. I would have hated that so much.

While carrying out her revenge, she was decisive, unrepentant, and not once did she waver. She gave the consort a fitting punishment. The emperor was trash and I am glad she included him in her revenge. People like him always seem to think they can do whatever they want and not suffer any consequences, In this case, because he is the emperor and are the son of heaven and all that nonsense. Watching him get what was coming to him was just as satisfying as watching the consort get what she deserved.

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Korean BLs are always a wild card. You never really know what you're going to get. I had to blink twice and double-check that I was actually watching a Korean series because that opening scene was totally unexpected and ridiculously sexy! It’s definitely a lot bolder than what you usually see in Korean shows.

Honestly, I thought it was just going to be another classic best-friends-to-lovers cliché, but the real magic of this show is in the details.

Eun-ho and Do-hyeon are practically joined at the hip. They grew up together, live next door, and are best friends, so their chemistry feels super natural. But that bond means something completely different to each of them. For Eun-ho, Do-hyeon is just his ride-or-die who’s always been there. For Do-hyeon, though, it’s way deeper. He’s been in love with Eun-ho for ages, but has to hide his feelings because keeping their friendship intact means everything to him.

Things get completely shaken up with the arrival of Kwon I Hyeon, which brings out a more possessive side in Do-hyeon. I Hyeon feels like a direct threat to the one thing Do-hyeon has always claimed as his: being the closest person in Eun-ho’s life.

The absolute highlight of the show is the acting by Do Min and In Ho. Their performances are so genuine, and their micro-expressions say it all. They managed to strike the exact right balance between friendship and romantic tension. On top of that, In Ho played such a compelling character that it’s impossible not to root for him. I really hope they work together again!

I love how the show uses double entendres, letting Do-hyeon drop hints about his feelings without giving himself away completely. It made me feel like Eun-ho probably knew how Do-hyeon really felt all along. He just needed a bit more time to figure out his own heart. Plus, all the cute moments between them are just adorable.

The series also plays with a fun role reversal. At first, Do-hyeon is the jealous one over Kwon I Hyeon, but once they head off to college, the tables turn and Eun-ho ends up going through that exact same jealousy.

And no, it wasn’t all just a dream. Quick tip: episode 4 is super important for understanding how it all ends. During the dream sequence in the finale, Eun-ho goes back to their school days right before Do-hyeon’s birthday, and he finally tells Do-hyeon what he always wished he’d said back then.

The whole show starts and ends with a dream. The opening dream is subconscious, driven by Do-hyeon’s deep desire to take things past the friendship line. The final dream, on the other hand, gives Eun-ho a sense of emotional closure and reassures Do-hyeon that his feelings weren’t just one-sided. It’s basically a retroactive answer to what Do-hyeon asked Eun-ho on his birthday. By giving him that peace of mind about the future, Eun-ho turns that last dream into a direct reply to the yearning we saw at the very beginning.

Beautifully done.

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