Reviews

A Hidden Gem with Heart and Humor

I’ve been hooked on this drama since the first episode, mostly thanks to the comedy. It was hilarious watching the episodes where Liu Miantang still has amnesia. She’s just so purely naive, thinking she needs to work hard to support her husband, Cui Xingzhou—meanwhile, he’s actually the powerful Lord Huaiyang! Their chemistry is incredible; it literally radiates off the screen.

But honestly, I’ve found myself becoming a total fan of Shi Xueji, the future Empress. As the daughter of a concubine, she was constantly bullied and forced to step aside for her sisters. Even after becoming Empress, she stays kind-hearted. She knows the Emperor doesn't love her, but she doesn't throw tantrums or turn into a villain. She even helps Miantang, despite knowing the Emperor loves her, all while being considerate of his feelings. I especially love the scenes where she’s just genuinely happy enjoying good food.

Overall, the plot isn't too heavy, even with the usual palace intrigue and warfare of a period drama. The soundtrack might be simple, but it blends perfectly with every scene.

Read More

The Viewer Was the Real Victim

Puifai (Pahn Pathitta) dies suddenly at a party with her boyfriend Champ (Chimon Wachirawit) and her friends Cher (June Wanwimol), Jay (Ohm Thipakorn), Time (Prom Teeprakon), Tonka (Ashi Peerakan), Tar (Aungpao Ochiris), and Bell (Earn Preeyapat). Things start to get complicated when everyone else begins to be tragically murdered; the new inspector, Kamin (Dunk Natachai), and Captain Jade (Joong Archen) are put in charge of the case.
First of all, what the hell was that I just watched?
The beginning was good, really good—I was hooked, wanting to know what would happen, who would die, and who the killer was. AT WHAT POINT DID THIS GET LOST?
The focus isn’t on the romance—clearly not—but the romance actually unfolded quite well; their dynamic isn’t common, and I think it worked in this series.
But at some point in the narrative leading up to the end, it seems like they completely let go of the mystery they’d been building up. The mystery they wanted DOESN’T EXIST.
They see it and say, “The suspect wears glasses.” THERE’S ONLY ONE CHARACTER WHO WEARS GLASSES IN THE SERIES
Then they spend episodes building up to show the woman before the final episode—by that point, everyone knew Puifai was alive. The last episode was a chore to watch; they wrapped up the series in a 20-minute episode, and we spent another 20 minutes watching them being happy on the beach, with the romance and character development. Everyone spends the whole series dying, only to get to the end and have everyone kill themselves. It was so clearly careless and rushed that it really brought down the overall opinion. Not even the actors clearly liked the ending, because it didn’t have the care that the rest of the series had.
Jade and Kamin worked out; I’m not the biggest fan of JoongDunk, but I’ll admit they did well within the dynamic of the bottom being a tough guy and the top being this softie. I think both of their performances are weak, especially Joong’s; I don’t feel the authenticity in the way he acts and speaks because sometimes he’s face-to-face with someone and you can clearly see he’s staring into space. Dunk has been going through a major evolution since *Star In My Mind*, but I still believe he has a lot to improve on. I think the character’s style suited him well, and the script supported that.
The way their relationship was built was simple—a basic setup that worked—and I think it fit the dynamic; it felt as natural as possible given that they were solving a crime.
You can see how the director (Dome Jade) tried to balance suspense and mystery 50/50, and I believe that’s what led to this final result—those who want everything at the end end up with nothing. He spent most of the series focusing on the crime and the suspense, and when he tried to make up for it with the romance, this is what happened.
I really think the series could have been much better. As someone who truly enjoys investigation and murder mysteries, you can see that this one was poorly done. Anyone who figures things out early on doesn’t do so because they’re super observant—it’s just because the production was sloppy and handed the answer to you on a silver platter. The viewer was treated like an idiot, and that was basically it.

Read More

This Could’ve Been an Email

Jira (Gun Atthaphan) is a contemporary artist who, while struggling with a mental health relapse and desperate for a job, meets Pheem (Dew Jirawat) at a bar called Burnout—a man who sparks some deep reflections in Jira. Eventually, Jira lands an odd job with Pheem’s coworker, Ko (Off Jumpol), the CEO of a tech company. Suddenly, Jira finds himself in a love triangle and an ethical dilemma, torn between what he believes in and the one he loves.
The series is directed by Nunchy, who—for those who don’t know—is the same director as Not Me, so I’ll admit, I had extremely high expectations.
And they weren’t exactly met.
Come on, I thought the premise was interesting. A love triangle, one of GMM’s longest-running couples who starred in one of the company’s best BLs, and Dew is a great actor. We had every right to have expectations.
I’m not going to take away all the credit from the production. It’s a good series; it’s visually beautiful and the soundtrack is really good. I find the whole aesthetic aspect quite interesting—it was a good production.
The characters are real. Too real, even. So real that they bore me after a while. The critique in the series is super valid—Art vs. Artificial Intelligence and where we’ve ended up with all of this—I think it’s a super interesting topic. But Jira made me SO SLEEPY that the debate didn’t even hold my attention anymore.
The love triangle was interesting and fun to a certain extent, and I think it would have been more interesting if no one ended up together, but following the GMM, obviously Jira and Ko were going to end up together, and honestly I found the dynamic between the two characters a bit forced and codependent; the series had the capacity to bring the two closer without the cliché of Ko not being able to sleep without him.
The series is shot in the same style as Asian indie films, which prioritize overall aesthetics and continuous takes; it’s an interesting aesthetic choice for this series, as it values poetry and the aesthetic appreciation of everyday life. The friendship dynamics are interesting, both between Jira and Ing (Emi Tharsorn) and between Pheem and Mawin (AJ Chayapol). They’re cool and realistic—fights, arguments, help, and advice. I see friendships like this in everyday life (except for the part where Mawin throws urine at Pheem, but I think that’s more of a boss-subordinate thing). I found those parts entertaining. I believe Pheem was a more deeply written character than Jira and Ko. Pheem was created to be a character who makes sense and is profound on his own, while Ko and Jira were made to make sense and be profound in each other’s stories. You know what I mean?
Their relationship wasn’t exactly treated as something that adds to their individual lives as characters, but rather as something that defines them. If you analyze it deeply, you realize that both have their own individual problems that are resolved only by the other; neither learns anything on their own for their own personal growth. Even with the timeskip, which for some reason brought the two back together in the last 45 minutes of the second half, leaving an open ending. I mean, why did I even watch all of this?
In short, the series is visually beautiful, and even inspiring to a certain extent—the part where Jira pours wine on her shirt makes me want to pour wine on my own shirt and appreciate how poetic my daily life can be. But it wore me out quickly; I started getting bored and only kept watching because I kept putting off stopping, and before I knew it, I’d finished it. Ideally, everyone should end up alone, because clearly everyone needs therapy.

Read More

Beautiful Show

I went into this show not knowing what to expect, except some angst from what I've seen on TikTok. Boy, I was pleasantly surprised. I don't really understand some people's criticism when it comes ML stoicism. He's supposed to be that way. That's what makes him so charming and attractive as a ML. FL is a feisty little lady who demonstrates growth throughout the show. People complaining about the age gap need to grow up. Anyways, it's the perfect amount of romance and politics for anyone who enjoys those tropes. I ended up pulling an all-nighter to catch up to episode 21. Excited to see what the rest of the episodes have in store for us.

Read More

I finished it in only two days, and honestly, I completely understand why so many people become obsessed with it after just a few episodes. Twenty-four episodes sounded like a lot at first, but once I started watching, it became almost impossible to stop.

What impressed me the most was not necessarily the story itself, because if we are being honest, the relationship at the center of the drama is undeniably toxic in many ways. There are moments filled with manipulation, emotional tension, jealousy, possessiveness, and misunderstandings that would probably be unbearable in real life. However, despite being fully aware of all these problematic aspects, I still found myself completely invested in the relationship. And I think the main reason for that is the chemistry between the two actors. Their interactions carry the entire drama. Even during scenes where the characters are arguing, hurting each other, or making terrible decisions, there is still an intensity between them that feels magnetic. They know how to create tension with very small gestures: a look, a pause during a conversation, the way they stand close to each other without speaking. It never feels flat or forced.

One thing I appreciated a lot is that the drama does not try to present the relationship as perfect or healthy. The characters are flawed, emotionally damaged, and often selfish. Sometimes they hurt each other intentionally, and other times they simply do not know how to communicate properly.
The actors manage to give emotional weight even to scenes that, on paper, might have seemed ordinary. Their chemistry feels natural, and because of that, even the quieter scenes become memorable.

I also think the drama succeeds because it understands exactly what kind of atmosphere it wants to create. There is always this feeling of emotional instability around the characters, as if everything could collapse at any moment. The romance is not soft or comforting most of the time; instead, it is obsessive, emotional, and sometimes painful to watch. But strangely, that is exactly what makes it entertaining.
Of course, the drama is far from perfect. Some scenes are overly dramatic, and there are moments where the toxicity becomes exhausting rather than compelling. However, even with these flaws, I never felt bored.

If someone is looking for a healthy romance with mature communication and emotionally stable characters, this is definitely not the right series. But if you enjoy intense chemistry, emotional tension, messy relationships, and characters who are impossible to fully love or hate, then the drama becomes incredibly addictive.

Read More

The crime part is interesting, but the romance part is very lackluster

The 'crime story part' of this drama is actually kinda captivating. I really wanted to know who the murderer is and what their motives are - it's the reason why I wanted to finish the series. Unfortunately, the 'love story part' of the drama is not very well executed. The main characters seem awkward and there is zero chemistry between them. I have seen this pair in other series before, so I know they can do much much better... I think it's a combination of bad acting and bad directing here. There are also quite a few illogical details in the drama when it comes to their police work and to their private lives... GMMTV really needs to enhance their productions!

Read More

How awesome when the hero says : "This is where the law stops... And I start... Sucker."
Or maybe it was just some cheesy American guy wearing sunglasses in the middle of the night, I can't remember.

The premise of the series is good, but there are a lot of slow bits, far too many ! and a lot of repetition. I skipped loads of pointless scenes. As for the first two seasons, I don't think they're very well made or well-paced overall. And to be perfectly honest, Lee Je Hoon really isn't a very good actor. He has a likeable quality about him, yes, and I enjoy seeing him on screen, of course, but he acts poorly ; always overdoing it or not doing enough at all. And that's the case in his other roles that I've seen him in before.

The thing about this series and its seasons is that you can pause it at the end of each segment. Watch something else, then come back to it. That’s what it's designed for. So that's what I did. The overarching storylines add absolutely nothing. And it's a pleasure to catch up with this fine team of avengers. Always ready to take down the scum.

But at times, I could no longer indulge my lowest instincts for revenge. You have to know when to take a break. Especially since we always assume that criminals are driven by pure malice. They choose these cases for that reason, of course, but what about all those who are criminalised simply because they're trying to survive ? We don't see them and no one takes revenge on them ; that wouldn't fit with the spirit of the series.
We remain on the side of the victims, whose tormentors are set to get a taste of their own medicine.
The team is always one step ahead. Just when you think the protagonists are cornered, it turns out everything was planned from the start. At times, this is reassuring and comforting. Given my anxiety, I'll take it.

I get the feeling that every case is based on real events... People settle their scores here.

S01
_The part about videos uploaded to an adult website (filmed without the victim's knowledge) is discussed by Stephanie Soo in her podcast. The series even includes the boss who wants to kill chickens with a sword. (Yes, really) A boss who, in real life, apologised on camera by reciting a text he'd learnt by heart. Why ? Who helped catch him ? We'll never know. (Probably an employee...)
_Maria, the first victim the heroes come to the rescue of (and who returns in season 3), has her employers using her identity to take out insurance policies and launder money. It reminded me of that Chinese talent agency that used to do that. Their clients obviously have no idea. It happened to the sadly departed Yu Menglong (may he rest in peace); he was starving to death whilst his identity was being used to move colossal sums of money. (When Chinese celebrities are convicted of tax fraud, one can't help but wonder whether they themselves knew about it before the police arrested them and the courts convicted them...)
_The episodes about bullying at school, the same thing happened to me. Two bullies were waiting in my living room ; they were chatting to my mum as if they were my friends. Seeing them when I got home was really hard. You don't feel safe anywhere. I still tremble when I think back on it. I can easily imagine that these episodes are based on a real-life incident.

S02
_The bit about phone scams and people being held captive abroad: there’s also a Korean film on that subject. Citizen of a Kind (2024). A decent little film.
_The section on the cult, how can you not think of the JMS Church ? Not treated at all here as it has in Save Me. An extraordinarily intelligent series that perfectly captures the grip of religion. Watch Save Me !
_BlackSun, I don't think I need to go into detail. When the team started taking an interest in the club, I was pleased, even though they were throwing humour at such a serious matter. But actually, it's a good thing the sense of comedy is there, as it makes it bearable. With the courts unwilling to do anything, and the police equally unwilling as they're completely involved, the K-dramas are taking it upon themselves to punish them… a very small consolation for the many victims whose lives have been destroyed.

S03
_The Japan storyline isn't exactly gripping. I'd already watched season 1 of Tokyo Vice, and it wasn't great, so I'm not particularly excited about this "crossover".
_Ep.04, music from Paprika, correct ? That bit about the submerged cars wasn't very interesting.
_The section on the idol agency is by far the best. Sadly, all too many real-life stories fit the bill. They recruit very young women (or men), control every aspect of their lives, separates them from the world outside, shape their minds and bodies ; how on earth could that possibly go well ? Exploitation in its most basic form : making people believe that working hard to line the pockets of the rich is a privilege. "She's an idol, she can't say anything to anyone"
(Kang Na Eon is excellent as the tyrannical, manipulative manager. She reminds me of the one in the documentary about Katseye)
Go, Elements ! or not. Whatever.
_The episodes about fake adverts that turn into harassment, there's a Korean film on the same theme : Don't Buy the Seller. What a living hell. Absolute nightmare.
_On the island, I thought it was going to be about AHAE, but actually it wasn't. The whole phase of exploring the place works well ; you wonder what mystery awaits them. And the Rainbow taxis that waste the scammers' time were both funny and satisfying.
_The latest investigation involving the army… I hate the army. A profoundly disgusting institution that destroys even its most ardent defenders. Here's the proof. What's more, South Korea has a very dark history of people being killed on charges of communism, whether true or false. To justify its existence, the authorities see threats everywhere, and if they can't find any, they make them up.
"Unity !" behind the guys with guns, I guess.

_No ! I'll NEVER buy your "Kopiko" ! If I want coffee, I'll make it my-self.
_Why is the OST synthpop ?

Ready for a season 4, comrades.

Read More

Amazing Story made BORING, worth to watch in 2x Speed & Skips

Centered on Male Lead's Innovation:
Interesting AI device containing not only the voice of the person it's copying, but also the person's personality & memories.

What if you could TALK with the voice of a dead loved one, find out through their Memories what they truly thought and felt in past throughout various past moments??

Very interesting intersection of AI + Death, Memories and Healing...

But the slooooooooooooooooow pace unfortunately takes out 90% of the enjoyment, even with sped up watching speed and skips...
(I had to begin skipping since ep7, couldn't take it anymore)
So I can only ever give this one a 7/10, despite VERY interesting plot and the Sweet Love story of our Leads.
The Cinematography & directing is absolutely STUNNING though.

Plot idea 10/10
Pacing 1/10
Directing & Cinematography 10/10
Music 10/10
=
Overall 7/10

..........
Also the SYNOPSIS on MDL is SUPER UNCLEAR!
Here's a better Plot Description for this Kdrama:


PLOT:
ML is an AI Programmer, currently working on a
Mysterious Device, which will perfectly emulate a
real person's voice: It can save a Person's VOICE
AND talk about+/Hold conversations with the user, while answering Questions from the memory of the
person it's emulating.
FL is a sound engineer.
These two meet in the recording studio they both
rent at different times.

Enter Jisoo: The girl ML grew up together with in
Norway as the only 2 koreans in that area "We spoke each others's language", but she suddenly later as
adults chose to dump him suddenly.

FL: Why sound recordings?
ML: Sound or photographs... Both work just as well to keep a memory.
ONE WORD, Just a PIECE OF THEIR MIND...Can bring comforts/Be the only thing that makes one go on.

AS ML reminisces about Jisoo... FL gets emotionally invested in their story and involves herself.
FL: "Some people when you first meet them...Leave
such a strong impression that you remember them
forever. Some can walk up a hill in such a way..." (Her 1st meeting with Jisoo).
FL impression of Jisoo: I love that girl!
FL impression of ML: I love that guy!
....
Later: FL n ML connected by dead Jisoo, talking together w. AI Voice Jisoo

Read More

To the Screen Writer New Siwaj Sawatmaneekul.. BRAVO!!!

My thoughts regarding: "Until We Meet Again."
Deserves no less than 10 Stars
By the end of this drama... I flooded my room with tears.
Excellent Casting of Fluke, Earth, Ohm Outstanding connection with their characters and also
to the rest of the Amazing Casts Thank you for all your hard work.

Having previously watched the side story, "Between Us," I was initially undecided about starting this series. However, after completing it, I found the connection between the two stories deeply moving, though I believe watching them in chronological order would have offered a more seamless experience.

The casting is exceptional, and I would personally rate it ten stars. Sammy (Manow) brings a charismatic, bubbly energy that provides a wonderful sense of sunshine to the narrative. Furthermore, Earth (Intouch) and Fluke (Pharm) are perfectly matched; Earth’s portrayal of Intouch was heartwarming and bringing a unique color to the character that balances the emotional weight of the story.

***I wanted to take a moment away from my​ review to share some thoughts on a topic I frequently see discussed within the BL fandom. There is an ongoing conversation regarding the presentation of BL couples, whether in real-life pairings or within dramas, specifically concerning physical aesthetics and gender expression.
I have noticed many fans expressing that they find feminine-presenting males less appealing in these roles, arguing instead that muscular men are more "shippable" or visually preferable as a couple.
In my personal opinion, I don't believe that every BL relationship is looking for a traditionally masculine partner. There are many handsome, muscular men who truly adore and prefer their partners to have a more feminine expression.
My opinion that those who criticize gay or queer men for how they choose to express themselves are walking a very thin line. In my view, this criticism can lean toward homophobia, even when it comes from within the LGBTQ+ community. Those within the community should understand how difficult life can already be; there is no reason to make it harder for someone who is confident in their identity and proud of who they are. If anything, the most significant support should come from within the community itself. ***

Back to the drama review: The plot’s exploration of reincarnation and the tragic history of Korn and Intouch is incredibly poignant. The narrative successfully captures the heavy emotional toll of carrying memories from a past life, especially the sorrow and fear that radiate through Pharm. The series also touches on the profound impact of parental pressure, highlighting the injustice of restricting a child's identity and their right to love.
Despite the heavy themes, the relationship between Dean and Pharm is a highlight—the chemistry between Ohm and Fluke is captivating, making their scenes together genuinely heartwarming. While there were minor technical and sound issues throughout the production, the overall quality of the storytelling and acting makes this a series I highly recommend.
Thank you for taking the time to read my review.
Stay Healthy, Happy & Amazing 😁

Read More

Zhang Ling He and Tian Xi Wei Shine in The Pursuit of Jade

Another fantastic C-drama! I love Zhang Ling He and have seen multiple dramas with him. He is fantastic in this once again. Tian Xi Wei is also really good; she plays a strong-minded woman well. The chemistry between the main leads is fantastic.

The story is well-written and hooks you from episode 1 all the way through episode 40. I read some reviews saying the story was lacking and made no sense, but I didn't think that at all! I have definitely seen dramas that had very weak stories. Anyway, I had a fantastic time watching this, so I would highly recommend it.

Read More