Reviews

Intense eye contact make-outs throughout the show

Watched it for Song Kang and Lee Jun Young and because the thumbnail is giving BL.
Turns out it's gay camouflaging and everything is "open to interpretation" - they were roommates though.

Plot: They kept themselves in the honeymoon phase of their bromance by chasing one another. Did not really understand why Jeong Yo had to leave after finally reuniting and making out- I mean making up with Pio.
Both took extreme guilt or desperation as the main motivator for their avoidant behavior. Peace is not in their vocabulary.
Felt bad for their friend Jae In, who third-wheeled the entire show to make Pio seem at least a little bit straight.

Honestly, when Choi Jeong Yo came back and revealed his revenge plan I was disappointed. How he acted around Pio vs around his mom got me questioning, whether he was aware that she was behind it all. But no.
Had he really that little trust in Pio, after seeing him having an existential crisis and almost giving up on his life's purpose?
What's also got me questioning is whether Pio was actually the illegitimate son of the teacher his mom had an affair with. Would have added more spice into the story.

Vibes: The music and the way the characters were captured by it was partly so intense, it got me wondering whether there's another world within ours, where music is the center of life and fulfilling to the point of becoming ones life purpose.
Got me listening to just classical music for a week straight. I liked that.

Read More

Storyline, acting, cinematography

I have mixed feelings about this drama, the storyline has a lot of potential, especially with the revenge plot, family conflicts and secrets

I like that the fl has her own goals and isn’t simply there for the romance. She was determined to find out the truth about her mother’s death, which is so much better than her just running behind ml with no other goal

Xu Kai as Shen Run is definitely the highlight for me tho

He was intelligent, calculating and difficult to figure out. You can tell that there’s more to his character than who he was shown as

Their dynamic is probably one of the biggest reasons I’d recommend this show

The chemistry between the leads is insane. The banter, the tension and the fact that the relationship doesn’t randomly pop out of nowhere

They have their own motives, and they’re trying to figure each other out while also working towards their individual goals was really good to watch

However, I do think the romantic development can feel uneven and I wish some moments had been given more time to develop cuz it felt hurried or cut out at some points, tho I understand it’s directed by a suspense eye

My biggest issue is the writing and pacing. There are parts of the plot that are genuinely intriguing, but sometimes the story gets caught up in family politics and side plots that is so unnecesary

Some character decisions could also have been explained better, because there are moments when I want to know WHY did they do this but nope, we apparently just move on

Visually, I enjoy the historical setting, costumes and overall aesthetic. I love love love how they’ve tried putting their outfits together/ color coordinating them

I would have preferred a tighter storyline with more focus on the characters’ motivations than just random drama

Do I like it? Yes, but would I call it a very good drama? Probably not

(also can we talk ab how shen run is always camping at fls house??????)

Read More

A Great Concept That Lost Its Charm

I went into this drama expecting something really good because the concept sounded interesting, and honestly, it started off pretty well. Kang Bitna as a demon punishing criminals who get away with their crimes was probably the most interesting part for me. I enjoyed the revenge scenes, and some of the punishments were genuinely satisfying to watch. Park Shin Hye did a decent job as Kang Bitna, and I liked her cold, confident attitude. However, as the story progressed, I started feeling that something was missing. The plot had potential, but the execution wasn't as good as I expected. The romance was also a bit underwhelming for me. I just couldn't feel that strong connection between the leads, and their relationship didn't have the emotional impact I was hoping for. There were some enjoyable moments, but overall, the drama felt like it could have done a lot more with its story. It wasn't bad, but I wouldn't call it anything special either.

Why I gave 6.5/10 to this drama.

For me, the biggest problem was that the drama had a really good concept but didn't make the most of it. I enjoyed watching Kang Bitna deal with criminals, but I wish the story had explored its darker themes in more depth instead of keeping things a little too simple. The romance didn't help much either, as I never got fully invested in the couple. There were times when I enjoyed the drama, but there were also moments when I felt it was losing its charm. I cn undearstand why some people loved it, but personally, it didn't live up to the expectations I had going in. It's worth a watch if you like fantasy and revenge stories, but for me, it was just an average drama with wasted potential.

Read More

Mild adaptation of manhwa, passable chemistry

So, as someone who read the manhwa this will be a very biased review.
I think we all kinda anticipated this outcome when they first announced that they were going to make an adaptation. I had also kinda hoped that it would get like a 10 episode run of 20-30 min instead of this. But now that this is what we got I do actually think they do a good job with what they can and are allowed to show.

In comparison to manhwa:
It's definitely not as risqué or explicit as the original manhwa, and that’s understandable. Its a VERY explicit manhwa so it does show a milder very watered down version of some of the scenes but its also more hinting at the actions rather than showing them. So it does mainly it sticks primarily to the dramatic elements and leaves out many of the aspects that the manhwa is known for, which is a bit disappointing. I would have loved to see another country pick it up though. Although, they would have to change the whole sageuk part and make the historical aspects fit there. But for what we got im actually okay with it. Its by far my favourite and it really doesnt feel the best but yeah its good for what we got of an adaptation.

Acting and he characters:
The acting is passable, its not convincing enough for me but it can go, but I noticed they rely a lot on camera angles for certain things in the show to make it seem more high mighty (not so mighty in a way) and slave/painter. They didnt have the best chemistry together but they do feel cute at the same time. They had some scenes where you can feel some intensity in the way they look at each other and their glances. It left me a bit puzzled since, while it's toned down, I wish they had at least included some more convincing kisses, more glances and more of those vibes from the manhwa. Its a dark manhwa but he does fall in love. In his own twisted way.

overall, If I’m looking at it just as a drama, I wouldn’t really recommend it; I’ve seen much better series out there that have a lot more energy in not that many hours more than what it takes to get through this one. However, if you loved the original and are curious to see a live-action version of the story, it’s worth a shot, just know that it definitely more family-friendly and less intense! A milder version of the manhwa. If you are into short dramas it might also be a good watch since it does have some good interesting plots

Read More

This show is probably one that i initially slept a bit on, it sounded interesting and the fact that it leans more towards a mystery-thriller vibe really made me want to watch it. I waited a bit so that i basically binge the show and boy this show is filled with intricate plotting, revenge.

Rating on MDL? yeah dont mind it.:
The show i will say yes it dark its not a romance, its a thriller, its mystery. So if that isnt your type of thing maybe it wont be for you and thats okay. Not everyone likes everything. I will say tough that these low ratings reflect the slow poorly. I watched on IQIYI and its scored at 9,6/10, at the point of me writing this, so take that as you will.

Plot:
I really loved the plot, the story plunges into some pretty dark waters and themes, so do be warned before watching it, think greed, betrayal, manipulation, murder. Yeah, a lot of these things actually, but it wasnt like it was bad or made it uncomfortable, at least not for me.
For me it felt like i was watching a bunch of smaller things all in one; this made me feel like the plot was remarkably fresh, since it basically resolved around all the schemes, deceit, and clever cons. It kept me on my toes at least, made me be intrigued and actually i googled my way into seeing if I could understand some of the plotpoints better.

Characters:
The cast truly nailed their roles; their ability to shift between different identities and portrayals of their characters is commendable, making the experience even more engaging. It felt so immersive when they went from one to another so that they could deal with whatever they are faced with.
What struck me most was the raw portrayal of human nature at its worst the show does a wonderful job at portraying these characters and how some people can be so deeply corrupt and manipulative. The characters who embodied that darkness absolutely deserved the fates they got; there was a sense of justice in their downfall that felt incredibly satisfying. So if you feel like that can be a reason to watch that can also be a great factor.

Read More

Strong FML, charismatic MML, good chemistry and overall fun show

I walked in blind to this series. I found out that it was a shared universe, i really love when they have interconnecting stories characters and all that so i started watching the first one. Now im on the second one finished and boy did this one not disappoint.

Chemistry:
The chemistry between Hiro and Yanna is electric maybe, the teasing , the yearning i love it. Its got some great interplay of playful banter and tender moments that draw you into their romantic journey. You can really feel that long before the days are over theres some great intense feelings. The way they challenge each other, tease and support one another, just great.

Cinematography:
And the scenery, the atmosphere of them travelling and being together, stunning. I would say that visually, the series dazzles with its polished, vibrant cinematography that captures both the beauty of the moments and the emotions behind them. The director really knew what he was doing there. And who doesnt love a gorgeous backdrop in a show.

Characters:
The writing also just is clever, i feel like it is at leats, flipping conventional expectations; i guess what i mean with this is that theres points where in like Yanna’s character arc, where the “bad girl” persona gradually reveals layers of vulnerability. The conflicts with her mum and the way that she acts in comparison to her, it was great to watch her unfold like this. It's always arefreshing feeling when i watch shows where its got a strong and empowering female lead who is allowed to be messy, playful, and unapologetoc in a lot of ways. I know i watch a lot of things and its not always where theres a female lead but man its lovely to watch strong women and not the "i need someone to take care of every move i make" type of woman. Yenna is everything but that. And i am all here for it.
Hiro’s presence in Yanna's life serves as a perfect counterbalance for all this lovely chaos that she brings; his charm and empathy create a relationship that feels genuinely passionate and emotionally connected. Their ups and downs are portrayed with a sincerity that makes you root for them wholeheartedly.

Overall, i would say that this is is probably going to be one of my favourtites in the series, i do have a lot left but its already a strong contender. This is because its nuanced interplay of characters and relationships, the series celebrates the complexity of love and friendship, it left me feeling enchanted and eager for more. MAde me look forward to seeing them again in the later shows,

Read More

A new confort show: it's simply sweet and romantic

Class Crush Crisis is my new confort show...it's amazing, cute and simply romantic. I guess the actors that are playing are actual teenagers and not adults that are playing a teenage life that makes it nore real and beautiful...

The story of Leethl (Lee) and Putter(Ter) always make me blush when I think of it...their chemistry is simply amazing...it's simply wonderful...8 episodes weren't enough for me, we need more...we need at least 80 episodes of them... because it's just amazing, heartfelt and wowwww...

I think if you want to watch a not to dramatic, romantic, simple and a little drama or if you're new to BL Class Crush Crisis is for you...before watching this I wouldn't recommend anything to new BLS watchers because I didn't know what to tell them because other BLS have a lot to endure...but Class Crush Crisis isn't like that...it's just perfect for beginners and has enough potential to be a confort show...

There is also one lesson I learned in Class Crush Crisis that true love isn't your first one... sometimes you need to break your own promise, your own rule yo live a peaceful, happy life... and that if your life is too perfect then your future won't be that perfect...like you need to have a friend war to stay real friends...and i'm not saying more(you need to watch it to know the rest)...all I can tell you is to watch Class Crush Crisis it's worth it, and worth your time. It's a story you'll remember forever...

Read More

The Prosecutor's Abuse

This genre of BLs for me is getting weary and tiresome. Frankly, I am sick of watching ‘shocking’ stories that in essence are not shocking at all. In fact, the thing I found ‘shocking was the fact that HE did not know. Of course, if you did not yet watch the series, you have no idea what I am talking about. For those that did, I thought HE knew from the very beginning. I get weary of dichotomy pairings where you have one smart person and the other pretending to be ignorant, naïve, dense, timid, wishy-washy, and demur to the other. Almost acting like a punching bag but all along falling in love with him. Again, the victim falling for the abuser. The same classic storyline with the same outcome. Eventually. Someone will get drunk and regret it and make sexual overtures. Then the next time, it is more candid and the two, who have always acted like they have never had a sexual relationship or encounter, then romp around like they are professional porn stars. Then get up, go to work and act like nothing happened. Both falling madly in love and yet pretending not to and acting all innocent. Meanwhile displaying eroticism at work when no one is around. We have seen this scenario before. This is a story where they tried to make a BL out of a detective story that just did not work. The premise was interesting; if they had done something to make it creative. They did not. They took an angry young man resentful towards the son of the murderer and tried to make him feel guilty for what his father supposedly did. Meanwhile the son of the murdered man, bumbling his way through life emotionally yet always trying to live down how his father had died by being superior to everyone else.

Read More