Reviews

Thought provoking journey with twists and turns!

I just finished watching Lesson in Love and it is quite an adventure! I'm writing this review because I think this drama is probably very misunderstood. I was initially drawn in because of reviewers talking about an important twist (there are like 4 twists!) and MDL comments like, "Leave behind your judgements for a while and give this series a chance. It is not what you think whatsoever!"

Lesson in Love sells itself as a teacher-student romance. Which it kind of is, so that's not entirely inaccurate, but also it really isn't. Yes, there is a teacher-student romance and it's critical to the story, but it's also very much about (perhaps more about):

- Thought provoking questions to explore
- Families and family dynamics
- Pasts, grudges, growth and forgiveness
- Mystery and suspense

I actually think it's best enjoyed by someone who is interested in thought exploration, interesting storytelling, mixed in with a little mystery and suspense with a core romance throughline.

THE WATCHING EXPERIENCE - we'll see if I can do this without spoilers

Episodes 1-5 are *very* cringy. It sets itself up as an (uncomfortable) romance. I watched those episodes with my finger on the 10 second skip button and would wholeheartedly encourage others to do that too.

Episode 6 starts getting very interesting when the drama poses some questions for the audience to ponder.

Then, from Episode 7 onwards it becomes a different drama. There's still a prominent romance throughline, the main couple is very important to the story, but it becomes also about family, society, expectations, wrongs, and mystery. Love is really more a theme that holds the drama together.

The drama does an excellent job at feeding the audience information in bits and pieces so that we can be surprised. It's good storytelling.

I actually didn't walk away "shipping" the main couple or feel any swoon with them (I know others out there did), but I also think it's very okay because it's not necessarily what the drama was about. That didn't make me enjoy the drama less.

Anyway, I think it's worth watching. Is it perfect? Nope. I'm giving it an 8/10. But, it is a super interesting journey!

Rewatch value is low because its appeal is in the surprises/twists. I'd encourage you to avoid all spoilers!

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First time watching a racing based drama and I’m hooked

First, I’m into cars so when I saw the trailer and synopsis about the drama I set a reminder to watch this and it’s better than what I’ve expected (in all c-dramas that I’ve watch, I really set my expectations low so I will not be disappointed).

What I really wanted to point out is that the setting was in Thailand, but its like, doesn’t say much about it. It’s like all of the people in Thailand were chinese-speaking and didn’t integrate much of it —they tried speaking in Thai but please, can the actors and the extras match the lips and the audio huhuhuhu it was so awkward while watching it 😭 I know they dubbed it because of the noise and all but yeah just my few pieces hehe

Another thing is that when Zhao and Mu were like in the driving scene, when MuMu was the navigator? (the one with emotional talk) I’m no race car driver but when they were talking, it’s like ZhaoZhao is not driving, the hands doesn’t move 😭 I know these are just little things but when little things are piled up, it becomes big.

But the actors tho? Especially, San Lai & Jin Zhao, they are damn great!!! The fighting scenes of He Yu? It was amazing! ✨

The cinematography when there’s like a racing competition was excellent, too!!! I was not expecting that level of production cos girl I am hooked every race scene AND THE SOUNDTRACK??? I LOVEEEE 💗

Lastly, I’ve been reading the novel and there’s some changes that I liked is that when MuMu and Snakey had the heart to heart talk? I AM WEAK WITH GIRL FRIENDSHIP I DEF LOVE THAT THEY MADE SNAKEY THE ONE WHO REVEALED SOMETHING NOT THE CRAZY FRIEND. The other scenes should not have been changed but oh well, censorship and all I think. It’s still a good watch tho.

and I think that’s all hehe will continue to watch tho because it really exceeded my expectations but probably will not rewatch it, but can watch some clips tho when it appears to my fyp.

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Honestly, I don’t really know how to feel about this series. I was super excited for it and overall I did enjoy it, but I have to admit I was expecting a lot more. From the start it really caught my attention because it tackled such a sensitive topic around mental health. Using the mirror and the idea of duality as a metaphor to talk about psychological struggles was really interesting, but at some point it felt like it turned into just a stylistic choice instead of actually digging deeper into the characters’ psychology.

The shifts between realities added mystery, but they also felt more like a “trick” than solid storytelling. The suspense leaned more on aesthetics than true psychological tension, and there wasn’t enough inner development to really carry the emotional weight. On top of that, the storylines of the other two couples : Nin and Alex, and Ophat and Pete, came across as pretty shallow and didn’t match the emotional intensity the series seemed to be aiming for.

Still, the final episode had me in tears because Alan and Win’s love story was just beautiful. An eternal love that overcame everything. And I have to give credit to the actors Tou Sedthawut and Top Sahatchai for bringing Alan to life so powerfully.

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so much drama...

after reading the reviews i thought i was getting myself into a really bad and a messy show but i was genuinely surprised with the pacing

this had me hooked till the end (atleast till ep 8)

the soap opera aspect of the show
everyone's hating on was the reason why i enjoyed it because thats what made it less boring!

the ending kinda threw me off cuz why didnt aunt nit tell than about pheem wearing a vest like why did she have to watch him suffer for 1 whole week?!

i know a more realistic story would have been than not forgiving pheem but we all knew how it was gonna end😭

and yeah ofc daouoffroad's chemistry never fails so this was a pretty good watch for me :)

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An Unmissable Masterpiece of Emotion and Action of Adopted Siblings Falling in Love

Wow, Speed and Love is an absolute gem. From the start, this drama captivated me in a way very few shows do. He Yu as Jin Zhao delivers a performance that is both quiet and commanding, a man shaped by hardship yet irresistibly magnetic. Every fight scene in the boxing ring feels visceral and real, each punch, kick, and move executed with precision and power that leaves you holding your breath.

Paired with Esther Yu as Jiang Mu, the chemistry is undeniable. Her innocence and charm perfectly balance Jin Zhao’s intensity, creating a pairing that is impossible to look away from. The racing car sequences are some of the most thrilling I’ve ever seen, wild, fast, and exhilarating, making your heart race right along with the characters.

This show is impossible to put down. The slow-burning romance, the emotional depth, and the breathtaking scenes in Thailand all come together flawlessly. It’s a story of courage, determination, and love that resonates deeply, making it one of my favorite shows of the year. With its perfect blend of action, emotion, and romance, Speed and Love is an absolute must-watch.

I binged over ten episodes in one sitting, and I can confidently say it is a 10/10. Every moment is unforgettable, every scene hits hard, and the story stays with you long after it ends.

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I honestly don’t understand these ratings. Are they high because people rated the drama before even finishing it?

The drama starts off fresh, cute, and light, but it slowly becomes very uninteresting. The second leads’ story was enjoyable, but even that lacked real romantic depth — they felt more like friends throughout.

The ending was rushed, and I’m still confused about what the main focus of this drama was. Was it the female lead? Her family? The drawing club? Nothing was fully developed, and everything felt half-done.

I ended up skipping a lot of scenes just to get through and finish the drama.

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Behold! The Mother of Revenge Has Entered the Palace!

Story of Yanxi Palace follows Wei Ying Luo, a young lady who enters the palace as an embroider to investigate the truth and seek revenge over her older sister's death. When her investigation leads to imperial guard, Fuca Fu Heng as the prime suspect, Wei Ying Luo decides to approach his sister, Empress Fuca Rong Yin, where she eventually starts working as her maid. The kindhearted empress then teaches her how to read and write. In the meantime, Fuca Fu Heng also develops feelings towards Wei Ying Luo and aids her in her investigation. After finding the real perpetrator and avenging her sister, her journey continues on in the palace as she navigates harem's conspiracies and eventually climbing her way up to power.

This drama features the intricate stories and conspiracies of the Forbidden City's harem during Emperor Qian Long's reign. Back then, it was no surprise that an emperor, or any able man of that time, would have multiple wives and concubines, inciting jealousy and rivalry among the women. It was interesting to see the schemes that the ladies came up with, as well as the devious incitements from third parties in the harem, all done for their own gains. I often question how they came up with such conniving ideas. The harem conspiracies in this drama are like a chain of conflict and retribution. Still, the never-ending conspiracies are well-paced and well-written enough not to drag the story out. All the conflicts are always solved right before it starts to wear you down. Not to mention, every devious scheme would always end with a sweet and painful payback, leaving you with a sense of relief. Compared to the many themes in this drama, the revenge plot definitely stood out and make you anticipate how it will all unfold. Despite the many conspiracies, this drama was well-written until the end, leaving no room for unanswered questions. On top of the well-written story, the characters also played a huge part in the success of this drama.

Wei Ying Luo is the embodiment of revenge. She is unlike any other women in the harem. Wei Ying luo is intelligent, witty, sharp-tongued, fearless, courageous, loyal, and playful. She refuses to accept injustice and always gives back what is given to her. If someone wrongs her, then she will hurt them back. If someone is nice to her, then she will do everything she can to protect them. Seeing her in this drama would give you a sense of relief. Although the conspiracies and schemes never ends, with Wei Ying Luo there, there is nothing to worry about! On the contrary, during the parts of the story when Wei Ying Luo is away, the effects of the conspiracies would leave you anxious, although it won't be long until injustice would be avenged. Wei Ying Luo is definitely the smartest most badass woman in the history of costume Chinese dramas. She is a character that empowers women. Although true, she also comes with some flaws that I find ironic.

[Spoiler]

I find Wei Ying Luo as a selfish character. She is a self loving character who, at the end of the day, always makes decisions that would benefit herself. Despite knowing Empress Fuca Rong Yin's love towards the emperor, as well as the emperor's romantic interest towards her, she still decides to seek protection from him by becoming his concubine after her death, which makes her come off as such a hypocrite considering the sincere bond she has with the empress. Her flirtatious and push and pull behavior towards the emperor makes me cringe at times to the point that it almost wears me out. In addition, the way she always take advantage of the emperor's affection towards her irks me in a way that I always remember Empress Fuca Rong Yin at the back of my mind whenever I see those scenes. Still, it is a relief to see how Wei Ying Luo does not fully give in to the emperor and always leaves him hanging whenever he tries to confirm her feelings towards him.

[Spoiler ends]

I can't imagine a better actress than Wu Jin Yan for the role of Wei Ying Luo. Wu Jin Yan's physique was befitting for the young and playful Wei Ying Luo. She possesses a different kind of beauty compared to other women in the harem. With her small figure, small face, round eyes, and plump lips, she was able to display the youthful and doll-like beauty of Wei Ying Luo that is different from the more mature, elegant, and poised beauty of other women in the harem. This, topped with her witty and sharp-tongue, easily catches the eyes of many people in the harem. Not to mention, Wu Jin Yan has always been great at teasing and acting flirtatious in her roles, to the extent that it would get annoying from a female audience perspective. Although Wei Ying Luo's personality remain constant, she did become more poised and elegant in the way she handles things and make decisions, which Wu Jin Yan did great at portraying as well. Wei Ying Luo's growth as a character was evident throughout the drama.

Compared to Wei Ying Luo, Emperor Qian Long is a character I dread watching the most. It got to the point that I had to take a break and almost dropped this drama because I felt so disturbed whenever he appears. He is by far the greatest hypocrite I have seen in all the costume Chinese dramas that I have watched. Emperor Qian Long is a hard-working and powerful ruler who is very masculine and strict. Just like many other emperors, Emperor Qian Long believes that he can get everything he wants. As a ruler, he sees the need to have many wives and concubines in order to guarantee a successor and for political alliances. However, I believe that these are just reasons to mask his sexual addiction.

[Spoiler]

Emperor Qian Long interest and affection towards Wei Ying Luo was very disturbing. Not only was Wei Ying Luo 16 years younger than him, but she also had mutual affection with Fuca Fu Heng. Noticing that her husband's growing interest, the Empress Fu Rong Yin even asked him for one dying favor, which is to leave Wei Ying Luo alone. Despite his wife's request and knowing that his brother-in-law, and trusted aid, was in love with Wei Ying Luo, Emperor Qian Long still sabotage their relationship by arranging another marriage to Fuca Fu Heng under the pretense that Wei Ying Luo is not good enough for him even degrading her status. While he constantly speaks ill of Wei Ying Luo to Fuca Fu Heng, it was distasteful to see that in the same time, he would pursue Wei Ying Luo, even enforcing himself on her and talking her into being with him. He was the embodiment of hypocrisy. It doesn't end there. Emperor Qian Long is a notorious womanizer indeed. Although the facts are unclear, Emperor Qian Long spent a night with Fuca Fu Heng's wife, which got me nauseous. Moreover, after making Wei Ying Luo his concubine, Emperor Qian Long's possessive and clingy behavior towards Wei Ying Luo was very hard to watch. The way he hugs her and goes to bed with her was so disturbing, considering their characters' age gap and how he snatched her away from Fuca Fu Heng.

[Spoiler ends]

Despite his capabilities in managing political affairs, he was nonchalant, persuadable, and rather naive when it comes to the harem. It often seems that he has no backbone when dealing with his many wives and concubines. He was easily persuaded and would easily soften up when it comes to dealing with his women's rants and antics. This was annoying considering that he was the one who brought all these women together to the Forbidden City. At least, take responsibility! Not to mention, it was sickening every time the women of the harem would do things to curry favor with the emperor. Nie Yuan was great at portraying Emperor Qian Long. Aside from his mature visuals that fits the 16 years age gap with Wei Ying Luo, he also exudes the charisma, vigor, and masculinity befitting for the role of Emperor Qian Long. His expressions were also above par in a way that it sends a chill down your spine whenever he expresses interest in a woman. It was satisfying to see how Nie Yuan's posture and gait would also support his role as Emperor Qian Long by imposing masculinity and vigor, even showing how he is in his prime.

In a place full of deceit, the Fuca siblings deserves better. Fuca Fu Heng is one of the most pitiful man I've seen in costume Chinese dramas. He got everything taken away from him and his life controlled by Emperor Qian Long. He even has to be responsible for a child that is not his. Yet, as expected from the kindhearted Fuca Fu Heng, he remains loyal to Emperor Qian Long as his most trusted aid. He is a character that you would root for the most. I wish he had a better ending, especially after everything he went through. Casting Xu Kai for the role was the right decision. Aside from his attractive face, his posture and built is perfect for the role of imperial guard, Fuca Fu Heng. He looks young, vigorous, strong, and dependable. Xu Kai was also great at displaying the lovesick side of Fuca Fu Heng towards Wei Ying Luo. He is the type of character that many would fall for in the harem. Aside from the revenge plots, I loved Fuca Fu Heng and Wei Ying Luo's scenes the most. Their chemistry was definitely special and would make you blush! His older sister, Empress Fuca Rong Yin, was a scene stealer in the drama. Empress Fuca Rong Yin is a character I loved seeing in this drama. Qin Lan's beauty surprised me as it tops all the other actresses playing this drama. Qin Lan exudes the elegance, maturity, and charm befitting for the role of Empress Fuca Rong Yin. She was the perfect actress to play Emperor Qian Long's first and probably, greatest love. She was perfect in every way.

Aside from the great casting, this drama is definitely in a league of its own with its production quality. The set was beautiful and iconic. The set of Yanxi Palace was surprisingly well-made. It was well suited for Wei Ying Luo's playful personality and it was unlike any other palace sets I have seen before. The costumes in this drama were also beautiful and graceful. Even the costumes of supporting characters were styled aesthetically. In addition, I love the color grading. As a 2018 release, the visuals of this drama made it seem like it's a new release. The color grading fits the overall setting of 18th century Beijing without making it look old but rather realistic. The colors of the costume and set also compliments one another, which adds to its aesthetic appeal.

Story of Yanxi Palace is a drama that tops other dramas when it comes to revenge theme. The conflict does not drag and the payback is sweet, so sweet that Wei Ying Luo deserves to be called, Mother of Revenge! This drama is a must-watch for those looking to see some satisfying revenge. However, do be aware that there are some disturbing age gap plots and hypocrisy going on.

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A story we have to talk about

First of all, this is definitely not a series that everyone can watch, as it deals with domestic violence.

Eun Su and Hui Su are two friends who have known each other since childhood. Each of them carries their own life trauma, but everything changes when a major event occurs.

I really enjoyed the series and the characters of Eun Su and Hui Su. You grow attached to them and genuinely empathize with their situations.

What I liked the most is how the series shows that domestic violence affects not only the victim, but also everyone around them. People see what is happening but say nothing, and that is what shocked me the most. Unfortunately, this reflects reality: abused people are often abandoned and not believed by those around them, not to mention the police.

The scenes where Hui Su is beaten by her husband are extremely violent, but the actors and the entire production team did an amazing job making them feel as realistic as possible.

Regarding the relationship between Eun Su and So Baek, I saw many comments hoping they would end up together, which really surprised me. Personally, I saw their relationship more as a father-daughter bond or a mentor-student dynamic. Yes, their first meeting is very strange, but it’s not like they were flirting or anything.

The negative point of the series, in my opinion, is the doppelganger plot. It honestly annoyed me. It was predictable, and I felt like it took something away from a series that was otherwise very strong.

Despite that, it clearly remains in my top.

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Wierd Ending, good acting

The plot was interesting but the way it went downhill after they brought Jang Kang back. A lot of things did not make any sense.
And the ending could've been much better instead of writing some "moral lessons for school kids".
Why did it look like Hui su was painted wrong for defending herself.
Also, Eun su was literally a child how was it her fault for not helping her mother like be for real, they ended the show on that note,,, like??!!??????
No doubt the actors did a great job which kept me hooked but honestly I was disappointed by how the story progressed

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A Masterpiece of Emotion and Visual Art / SUPPORT DAVIKA <3

This series is an absolute masterpiece and instantly ranks among the best GL shows ever. Words can’t fully capture how beautifully it’s shot – the cinematography, editing, set design, and the entire cast are all top-notch. Every frame feels deliberate, every scene carries weight and aesthetic, and the overall atmosphere is completely immersive.

What happens between Claire and Bell is exactly what I needed to see and feel. Their chemistry is electrifying, the character development is masterful, and their interactions feel natural and deeply authentic. These characters aren’t just a “cute couple” – they have vulnerabilities, insecurities, moments of joy and pain, making their relationship feel real and relatable.

The supporting cast is also exceptionally strong, adding depth and layers to the story. Music, sound design, and directorial choices perfectly complement the emotions, making scenes feel truly intense and touching.

I won’t go into the plot to avoid spoilers, but it’s important to stress that this series is more than just a visual feast – it’s an emotional experience that makes you feel alongside the characters. Every detail, from actors’ expressions to environmental symbolism, is thoughtfully executed, making ClaireBell a uniquely powerful experience.

I WANT TO GIVE A BIG SHOUT-OUT TO DAVIKA AND HER TEAM!! – they delivered work that deserves admiration and recognition. If you’re looking for a GL series that combines stunning visuals, profound emotions, and outstanding performances, ClaireBell is an absolute must-watch.

SO PLEASE WATCH THIS SERIES ON YOUTUBE, REWATCH IT, AND SHARE IT, BECAUSE IT TRULY DESERVES IT.

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this one pries you open.

⚠️ this review contains spoilers, albeit sometimes vaguely worded, in terms of plot and character dynamics. read at your own risk. originally posted in August of 2025. ⚠️

"of course... i'm sure that the truth, no matter what it is, isn't that frightening. what is most frightening is not knowing it."

i've been trying to watch this since 2022. parse that for a sec so you understand how everything came to a head to align and finally decide for me that now was the time

what clued me in to how much of an absolutely insane masterpiece of a film this one would be was not the cinematography (that opening silhouette. gorgeous. we begin and end where the world does) or the slightly unsettling dialogue Japanese media seems to have as its hallmark (see the entire conversation during the first eight minutes. cannot watch this with my mother under any circumstances that's for sure sksksksk). it was the moment i saw the rope snap on stage and i sat straight up in my chair bc hello. brief featuring of a multilingual production of Waiting for Godot eventually segueing into a production of Uncle Vanya is a hell of a way to tell me what the theme of this shit is don't you think. (seeing Okada Masaki enter the frame shortly after re:WFG [when my most recent reference of him is the creep in the Bad Kids remake] didn't exactly hurt now did it. DID however make me suspect his ass yet again which. well. trust your gut folks that's all i'll say on the matter)

anything that Nishijima Hidetoshi has ever been in ever needs to be watched and embedded in my brain now. i need to make it an event. lock the fuck in the amount of dramas and specials he's been in that were on my PTW but i kept getting distracted so i never got around to them (including the gay older couple j-drama that i recognized him for in the first place)? no longer. nope i refuse to allow it where the fuck have you been hiding him and why aren't there serious consequences for letting people walk around not knowing who he is. the absolute fuck. if Japan ever did a remake of My Mister and they asked for casting recs i'd put his name up for Park Dong Hoon immediately. immediately you're not getting it (i swear he laughed at one point in this film and i got so scared it sounded just like LSK. fuck). that scene with him and Okada in the car driving back from the jazz bar like it's a fucking confessional booth................. head in my hands. head in my fucking handsssssss the layers. the implications. the goddamn security camera. i could watch six more hours of those two just looking at each other and saying nothing. AND i'd give those six hours even more Oscars. God. their dynamic is insaneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee. pls do not get me started about Miura Toko or we will get in this car and start driving for an entire day without sleep to go to the place that does not exist anymore. iykyk

"Chekhov is terrifying. when you say his lines, it drags out the real you. don't you feel it? i can't bear that anymore."

if more multilingual (& multi-abled! shout out to Park Yoo Rim i love her and i'm so glad this was her film debut and not Ballerina. Jin Dae Yeon ily too may you forever be employed) productions of deliciously thought-provoking plays were done you would have to pry my ass out of the theatre hand to God. i would be broke as FUCK from all of the seasonal passes just heading in and out of that place like a revolving door. ain't getting no work done no assignments turned in barely eating sleeping living in the walls chewing on the electrical cords (gently. i know how hard the stage technicians have to work already) y'all about to be sick of me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

tl;dr: this film said what if you most likely needed to go very badly to therapy but you didn't want to do that so instead the therapist's office became the back seat of your red Saab 900. and every day you drive to work and your dead wife speaks to you and somehow it's the infection and the lancing both. what if that happened and you had to accept that and keep on living. 10/10 i haven't even scratched the surface in this review i'm just blabbering about shit. they're driving through tunnels and over bridges and down the long long roads and i have Sting's Fortress Around Your Heart + The Lazarus Heart + Why Should I Cry For You? playing on loop in my head like a broken record. (fitting since Japan is obsessed with the man and he's supposed to be on tour there for most of September. yes i'm showing my music taste again shhhhhhh) i will never be over this. watch it NOW

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Slow-Paced, but Full of Heart – and Laughs

Honestly, I was more disappointed by the reviews than by the series itself. Only You kept me entertained, even though at times the pacing was slow – their kisses sometimes felt like neither of them actually wanted to be there. Orm could have filled a whole bathtub with tears this season.

I really appreciated that the series focused more on the emotional side than on intimacy, which worked well for me. Honestly, 10 episodes would have been enough, but I have to praise the timing – just when I thought nothing more would happen, a big twist came, and the story moved forward.

The supporting roles of the three bodyguards were absolutely amazing! Every time they appeared on screen, I couldn’t stop laughing.

I recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind watching the slow development of a relationship, because the emotional journey was beautiful. I’d love to see LingOrm in something more serious in the future, and I wouldn’t mind a script with a passionate kiss or swapped roles – masc Orm and fem Ling could pleasantly surprise us. Both actresses are incredibly talented, and their chemistry still feels underutilized.

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