Reviews

A feast for your eyes! Not perfect though..

Love in Pavillion has to be the highest budget xianxia drama of the year, because the CGI! THE. CGI!! IS OVER THE ROOF! It's so good to the point that each episode felt like a movie! Not to mention the amazing CAST, filled with recently popular actors and actresses. What's not to love about this drama?

Liu Shishi (Dongfang Huai Zhu) is an actress that I've been watching since Chinese Paladin 3, granted there's a huge gap of her dramas that I haven't watched that I won't go into detail. I digress, I cannot picture much of her facial expressions in acting other than being stoic. Whether or not it's her character, the way she portrayed her character was quite boring for a lack of a better word. Her evil arc was good, but then it went back to be stoic expressions. I rarely see some microexpressions coming from her and I really expected that from a veteran in the industry. Unfortunately, her acting disappointed me. However, her martial choreography was beautifully done and I applause her for it! I even had to repeat a couple scenes, because it felt looked very crisp and invigorating.

Same goes for Leon Zhang's character. I mean his character was more expressive than Liu Shishi's, but there wasn't any acting that truly hit me as if, "WOW, this is amazing acting!" There was one scene that is suppose to be heartbreaking to watch, but I guess it didn't seem convincing enough for me? Granted, I did know he was heartbroken, and depressed, etc. But something was missing in that scene. I don't know if he improved in acting or not, as the one and only drama I've seen of his was from 2017. He is quite handsome though ngl. lol
With these two together as leads, I don't know if it's the acting or the script or even the directing, but the romance between them just fell flat for me. I did not see much chemistry between them, it just felt ilke two wooden planks talking to each other. I don't know, just a boring couple.
Aside from the main leads, I like to think the supporting cast filled with current popular actors and actress, carried this drama pretty hard.
There has to be something wrong if I prefer the secondary, tertiary, and even the VILLAIN'S love story over the main leads'.
My favorite couple from the beginning was Yang Yi Tan(Zhai Xiao Wan) and Wangquan Zui (Wu Xuan Yi These two fill the friends to lovers trope. I love how they met, grew up together, and one is always protecting the other, etc. It just uuggh I loved these two so much. LOL They had such good chemistry and bond. I demand another drama with these two together! The acting was very natural especially coming from idols to actors!

Another favorite couple is, I think it's everyone's fav at this point, Zhang Zheng (Ding Yu Xi) and Qi Muyuan (Meng Zi Yi). Their love story is more of a chasing after the one you love kind of story with some angst. It was cute when they do end up together and such. I don't want to spoil too much, but Meng Ziyi's is the more bubbly, outspoken character while Yu Xi's character is more stoic (except he displays microexpressions! ) and somewhat dark character.
Noteable mention is Charles Lin. Dude is handsome, his eyes can slice you within a second! Anyways, his acting was satisfactory imo. What stood out for me is his character's love story. It just felt like "US AGAINST THE WORLD" but make it dark and evil. I just loved it and wanted to mention that. lol

Shen Yue's character, Dongfang Qinlan, the younger sister of Dongfang HuaiZhu is pretty much a very bubble, incessantly annoying little sister - possibly overprotective -but-can't-protect-kind of sister. I suppose she's written to be a comedic relief? Regardless, there was something about Shen Yue's acting that threw me off every time she's on screen. It just felt like she's acting a screen play - that feeling when you know someone is just acting instead of embracing their character and acting naturally. I think this is the same acting style she portrayed in MG and ALSB. I just never enjoyed the way she acted, some may love it, but I did not.

Aside from the CGI and great ensemble of a cast, I think the music was really good, I'm definitely adding it to the list. The compositing of the scenery was nice to see, the directing of scenes was good as well. Post production did a great job here! :]
I think what kept me watching is how this felt like I was watching old xianxia dramas, just like a recently finished drama, "A Demon Hunter's Romance" both dramas felt like the early years of xianxia and it;s definitely my cup of tea instead of the usual predictable gods, goddess, endless reincarnation stuff.

Was it a happy ending? *spoilerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr* n *spoilerrrrrrrr* o *spoiler * p *spoiler e but I kind of expected this as not all xianxia are going to have happy endings.
Would I recommend it? If you want to watch it for main leads, I wouldn't think it's the best drama. But for the overall cast, yes definitely. And the martial arts choreography? Heck yes, watch it, The CGI?! FEAST FOR YOUR EYES!

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The Red River Valley ♥️ CaseBook ; Absorbing the Truth ?"

Only the valley remains knowing the truth, Missing Persons may have ended without closure, but its gripping storyline and suspenseful atmosphere left a strong impression. From the very first episode, the drama pulls viewers into a chilling mystery, layered with secrets, psychological twists, and well-developed characters.

The plot unfolds with a thrilling pace, never wasting a moment as it dives deep into disappearances that feel hauntingly real. Each episode builds suspense masterfully, keeping you on edge and guessing. The performances were subtle yet powerful, adding emotional weight to the already intense plot.

Although the drama remains unfinished, it doesn’t feel incomplete. Instead, it leaves you wanting more — not out of frustration, but out of hope. The unanswered questions and cliffhangers only add to its eerie charm, and many fans (myself included) are eagerly hoping for a second season to bring the story to a satisfying close.

If you’re into intelligent mysteries with a dark, emotional tone, Missing Persons is worth the watch. Just be prepared — it ends before it should, but the thrill is absolutely worth the ride.

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Hidden Gem

Now, I did not expect much from this show since it is a mini-series. However, it really surprised me and exceeded my expectations. Especially the plot was more tight than I expected it to be. No plot holes and understandable motivations.
First things first: its main focus is revenge, not romance. And it's doing the revenge part extremely well. You root for FL and it's very satisfying that she doesn't lose her focus, is smart and certainly is a (wo)man on a mission. ML is mostly there to help her along and to find true love. It's really sweet and I liked them together. I wish though, that they would've fleshed it out a bit more. But since it's a mini-series, one shouldn't expect miracles. It's also low-budget but the compelling story definitely makes up for it.

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Live action manga with great action and baby Jang Hyuk, Shin Min Ah and Gong Hyo Jin

It took me a long time to see this because it's hard to find but the Blueray version finally turned up on Internet Archive. It's hella fun and deserves a higher rating than 6.7. The film looks great thanks to high contrast color grading that makes it look like a live action manga. The action is silly and so is the acting but it's deliberate and you just have to let your brain go into neutral and enjoy the ride. It's fun to see very young Jang Hyuk, Shin Min Ah and Gong Hyo Jin. The action scenes were mostly done with wire work and practical effects which look amazing but were dangerous for the actors. JH was knocked unconscious during filming and you can see it happen in the behind the scenes video: https://youtu.be/jrxfzO4Q_wI

The Internet Archive also has the 2004 MTV edit of the film with voice overs by Method Man, Snoop Dawg and a lot of other hip hop artists. Unfortunately it's not as fun as it should be because Andre 3000 does a terrible job voicing Jang Hyuk's character. Better to stick with the original.

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Thrilling and worth watching!

Thrilling and exciting, from season 1 to season 2, this detective series did not fail to meet all expectations! 😱 🤩

The crimes and their investigations are very well explained and do not lack creativity and originality. It is truly impressive how the screenwriter were able to assemble such a tv show.
In addition, the viewers (especially me) are drawn within it at an emotional level without a doubt. When the firefighter Bong Do Jin died, I could not hold myself from crying. 😭 While I couldn't understand for a while the reason for this character's death to occur (which brought me to frustration for a while), it allowed the storyline to develop and to entrap the viewers within it. All actors executed their roles in perfection. 👌🏼

To sum up, this tv show left a strong impression. While I now know the plot, it is nonetheless worth rewatching eventually.

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If you have watched “Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact” and felt dissociated with reality, then the sequel “Love in Pavilion” will make you feel a pain of epic proportions!

The couples in this storyline are perpetually doomed, they go through trials and tribulations, their love is tested and yet in the end, they don’t necessarily end up together. Wangquan Hong Ye & Dongfang Huai Zhu should have been happy on the day they got married; but the ceremony was saddened by the loss of their near and dear ones, both numb and almost emotionally distraught. It is the way, this storyline builds up the love stories to end them tragically that leaves you devastated. Because the characters are intriguing, the actors literally embrace them and as audiences, you can’t help but fall in love with them. But the ending tears them apart and you never know what went wrong and where? It’s like torturing yourself for 30 or 40 episodes, expecting a “Happily Ever After” only to be met with a disappointing ending. I’m so exhausted after watching the finale episodes, maybe even numb myself!

Read the complete article here-

https://kcdramamusings.wordpress.com/2025/05/13/love-in-pavilion-series-review/#more-1800

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Everyone is a good seed in this!

This was really a sweet & enjoyable series. It's kind of unusual where you find yourself rooting for everyone in this, but I found it difficult to dislike any of the characters. Young Woo was great as usual. He matched perfectly with Joy. Even Ji Yeol's rival in this, Sang Hyun was likable and turned out to be a really good guy, looking out for just pure happiness for his true love, Ja Young. Sung Chul played the role perfectly, which made you hope for a happy ending for him, but you also knew things just couldn't go his way.
Lots of funny moments & a few very touching scenes, especially the old man & the bull. Any animal lover would find that an emotional spot in this . "As long as you don't forget about someone you yearn to see, they will come to you as the rain or even the wind"
Definitely a feel good series.

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It's historical and an absolute must watch for psycological horror fans.

I'm going to keep my review spoiler-free for the reason that you *absolutely* must not have any spoilers going in, it's so much better without, I can't understate that enough.
Cure is an absolutely fantastic film, and it's aged incredibly well, despite it being 28 years old as of me writing this. It's shot so spectacularly, there is so much to take in, so much great imagery, it'll be a very good experience.
It's very much for an audience that can go in with an open mind and not expect specific things going in, you need to just let it run its course, and experience it. Make sure you do it in a mind where you can sit down and think about it too, you want to focus on every bit of it you can. I mostly say this because it's a film where you can interpret many different things from it, and you'll want to come to your own conclusion.
The only criticism I would ever give it is that there is a little bit of a lack of a "definitive ending" that one would like, but the way it happens is also satisfying.
I just generally recommend it a lot, and I hope you have as much fun as I did with it.

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TOP FORMAT: A distant Black Cat finds shelter in a Puppy´s Warmth

WeTv hasn´t let us down with TOP FORM, especially in unwrapping the layers of emotions connected to such a heart-wrenching love story. Moreover, the on-screen chemistry between the actors is nothing short of electric. Portraying well-crafted, consistent characters, P´Boom and P´Smarts bring to life a vulnerable yet vibrant romance that stands as one of the most captivating I've ever seen. Their performances are a true gift, making "TOP FORM" a must-watch.

Initially, I harbored doubts about the series. Given the numerous shows already exploring the movie industry and the trials of showbiz, I wondered how "TOP FORM" could distinguish itself. However, the vision realized by the writers and directors is simply breathtaking, both visually and emotionally. I can't recall the last time a character, like Akin, especially in Episode 10, tugged at my heartstrings so forcefully: capturing such raw, intense emotions repeatedly is proof of TOP FORMs excellence.
P´Boom has brought his character, with all of his complexities and flaws, to life and made him a star to the audience. He left by far the biggest impact on me, as the character's struggles and fears were expressed in such a remarkable performance. The portrayal of Jin by P´Smarts was also top-notch; his movements never felt exaggerated or misplaced.
I also enjoyed the performance of the supporting cast, such as the mysterious character Jade and the cunning Johnny, who fell victim to the showbiz. I could go on and on, it´s that good ...

Minor Shortcomings: That being said, there are a few minor aspects of the story, perhaps related to the original manga, that left me wanting more. Some plot points could have benefited from further explanation or emphasis.

The Editors were in TOP FORM when editing TOP FORM:
Let´s also talk about the cinematography and editing of "TOP FORM", which I haven´t done in other reviews for a long time, because there seemed to be a consistent level of cinematography, to my eye at least. BUT, if we take out the scenes in costume, this series has TOPped the level that other series have reached, by a lot. Especially the creativity in editing and coloring has satisfied my aesthetic eye on a level I can´t comprehend. This isn't just about the NC scenes; it's about the entire palette of emotions conveyed through color, the vividness of each frame, and the meticulous selection of filming locations. I feel fortunate to have witnessed such a masterpiece in 2025. GIVE THE EDITORS an award or raise or something, please!

The choice of music and original soundtracks in the series is also worth special mention. The music seamlessly complements every scene, enhancing the emotional resonance without ever feeling out of place. In the context of Thai series, where this wasn´t always the case - sometimes you had the most goofy background music for emotional scenes, this achievement is truly remarkable. So that´s TOP notch again.

Overall, I count myself lucky to have been part of the audience of "TOP FORM". It's an experience I don´t take for granted, and I wholeheartedly recommend this series, hoping that others will be as enchanted by it as I have been.

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"If you stop the bleeding, you'll survive"

A Samurai’s Sorrow was a made for television movie directed by Inoue Akira. Set during the 8th shogun’s reign of the Tokugawa shogunate the special was embellished with ninjas, poison tongue needles, fratricide and possible matricide.

The castle is in an uproar because the shogun’s food has been poisoned. The leader has been subsisting on very little rice for nearly two weeks for fear of being felled by poison. Everyone is hoping Mondo will return and save the day. The poison taster and tester is also masterful with the sword and ladies. Mondo’s mother died when he was young leaving him heart broken. As soon as he returns to town to help the shogun, attempts on his life begin in earnest. Secrets revealed by rivals could unravel Yoshimune’s command and Mondo’s heart even further.

Mondo would have made Rurouni Kenshin proud. For the most part, Mondo didn’t kill those who attacked him, telling them, “If you stop the bleeding, you’ll survive.” Just being in Mondo’s presence could cause a woman to lose her sense of reason. He was said to be so beautiful and well dressed that he could be mistaken for a woman. Satoh Takeru, yes. Fifty-year-old Tamura Masakazu playing a character around thirty years of age, not so much. The actress who played his mother was only twelve years older than he was. All of the actors were subjected to horrendous wigs and exposed wig tape.

The problem I had with A Samurai’s Sorrow was that it lacked spark. With rival clans, concubines, allies, ninjas, and spies around every corner it could be hard to keep up with all of the characters jammed into 90 minutes, much less care about any of them. The basic premise centered around Mondo’s promise to protect the shogun with his life despite the shogun’s betrayal of his mother, rang hollow to me. His mother’s love and hatred for the shogun caused her to kill herself three times for the man. Her son was just as blindly loyal. An emo ronin who constantly mentioned his heart was full of sorrow and might be dead by morning just didn’t resonate with me.

12 May 2025
Trigger warnings:
Three goldfish died trying to save the shogun and this special. RIP little buddies.
Suicides, ritual and otherwise

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This series has a great plot

Well six episodes of a series is what most BL fans want especially when the series is short.
I have watched this series in one sitting and l literally loved it.
The first 5 episodes literally build the story, they tell the problems of the couple and how their love has manoeuvred through time.
But my dear the last episode ruined everything for me. The reason that Kim Min Joon gives for refusing to date Jin Hwan is just stupid and naive. How can you let go of a love so beautiful, of a man so perfect.
I really hated the last episode sincerely speaking because they had built up my excitement only to throw it in the mud.
Anyway it was a great series just that I feel the last episode should have been better 🤔🤔🤔

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Review: A Wonderful Korean Medical Drama

This is the first Korean medical drama I've watched, and how can I rate it? It's amazing in every sense of the word. From the action sequences to the music, direction, cinematography, and even the intense excitement—it completely blew my mind. Calling it amazing doesn't do it justice.

I enjoyed every moment of watching it. Every episode left me in a state of shock, excitement, anxiety, and awe at the brilliant execution of the story and visual effects. The cast was expertly chosen—each actor played their role with precision and passion. I was particularly impressed by how the drama highlighted the essence of the medical field.

What stood out to me most was the message that choosing a career in medicine isn't just about status or money, but also a deep commitment to saving lives. I was impressed by how the series emphasized this passion, especially through Dr. Baek Jang-hyuk's guidance, which encouraged the characters to reflect on the true reasons behind their choice of a career in medicine.

Dr. Yang Jae-won's role was a highlight for me. He brilliantly portrayed complex emotions—anxiety, exhaustion, fear, hesitation, and even phobia. I felt each one as if I were in his shoes, which is a clear testament to his performance.

All the actors portrayed their characters in captivating ways, sharing their personal motivations for entering the medical field, which made me care about each one of them. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the production of this drama.

Conclusion: I highly recommend watching it. It is powerful, moving, and unforgettable.

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A strong Female Lead escapes the Censorship Axe

This review will be Short, Sweet, and straight to the point,Just Like the Drama.

How do I describe Destined to Meet You, a drama I binged in one sitting? Let’s just say:

1. Good things come in small packages,think Tiffany rings and this drama.

2. Every now and then, C-drama writers seem to wake up, remember that weed is illegal ,creativity exists, and deliver something fresh, funny, and completely un-tropey. This is one of those rare gems.There was not a dull moment,the pace was perfect that a problem would be solved in one episode.

3. I may need Botox to fix the smile lines this show gave me because all those punchlines hit hard and a cold shower to recover from their chemistry.

4. The female lead? A revelation. She’s smart, bold, straightforward, and badass,basically everything the censorship bureau usually edits out. Somehow, she made it through untouched and ate without leaving crumbs.

5. If you’re in the mood for something quick, witty, with no angst or annoying side characters..this is your weekend binge. Honestly, I wouldn’t have minded 24 full episodes.

Famous quote by FL to ML:"Am asking you to help me bear a baby,no matter how talented I am,I can't do it by myself"(Viki translation)

Fun note: I called it the Chinese version of "When Life gives you tangerines" ..those who will watch will understand 😂

Important Passwords:

Director Zeng Wing Jie
Screenwriter Zhao Lin

These two must have connections in the higher-ups cos the "good things" they gets away with

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