Reviews

Might Be the Greatest BL of All Time

The story. The cast. The acting. The freaking OST. Everything was amazing. This is probably the most well done BL we’ve ever had. I am just overwhelmed with how great this show was. I even loved the secondary couple, and I usually can’t stand them lol

Wow. Just wow!

That moment when you finish a masterpiece, be it a drama or a novel and are so lost because you don’t know where or when you’ll be able to get your next fix…

Is the novel this good? Excuse me while I go hunt down Chai Ji Dan’s novels…except Addicted, been there lolz

If we could get Thai BLs to be written and acted as well… 👀

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Good Chemistry, Weak Characters

I really wanted to love Hidden Love. I enjoy slow-burn romances, well-acted leads, and dramas where characters know what they’re doing. Age gaps and inexperienced male leads don’t bother me at all, and I usually binge dramas in 1–3 days. Yet, this one turned out to be a different experience entirely.

I first started watching it in 2024, and I was intrigued by the story. The first two episodes were enjoyable, with sweet chemistry between the leads, Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. But after that, I couldn’t get fully invested. Over time, I found myself watching sporadically—maybe one episode here and there sometimes taking months between episodes.


The strongest point of the drama is the lead chemistry. Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu’s interactions are natural and easy, and the romance has genuinely sweet moments. I found myself giggling, smiling, and even kicking my feet during their cute interactions. Sang Yan, Sang Zhi’s older brother, is another standout. His playful, protective personality adds humor, warmth, and depth, making me wish he appeared even more often. Sang Zhi’s parents are also well-portrayed a calm, mature, healthy couple, which is surprisingly comforting.

However, there were several issues that made it hard for me to continue. Sang Zhi’s early behavior in college felt overly childish, and the timid first interactions with Duan Jiaxu were a little cringe at times. The pacing was very slow, and repeated reminders that “Sang Zhi has grown up” felt unnecessary and repetitive.

The biggest problem for me was Duan Jiaxu’s sudden shift in feelings. While Sang Zhi’s crush develops naturally, his emotional change felt abrupt and came out of nowhere. It disrupted the slow-burn dynamic that I normally enjoy and made it hard to fully connect with the romance.

Side characters were also underdeveloped. Their stories felt cookie-cutter and bland, leaving large parts of the narrative feeling stagnant. Even after almost a decade passed in the story, character growth was minimal, which made the journey less engaging.

Over nearly 1.5 years, I tried really hard to keep up with the drama. I forced myself to watch an episode almost every day, but it felt more like a chore than an enjoyable experience. Finally, around episode 16, I decided to drop it. While I enjoyed the leads and their chemistry, the lack of side character depth, the slow pacing, and the abrupt male lead development were too much for me to continue.

Overall:

Hidden Love has sweet moments, excellent lead chemistry, and heartwarming family dynamics. Fans of slow-burn romance with a feel-good, calm atmosphere will likely enjoy it. But if you value consistent character development, engaging side characters, or a gradual emotional arc for all leads, this drama may test your patience.

Rating: 7/10

Tips for viewers:

Perfect if you love slow-burn romance and heartwarming family interactions.
Be prepared for very slow pacing in the early episodes.
Don’t expect strong secondary character development.
Requires patience, especially if you tend to binge-watch.

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Could Be A Hit If The Mystery Hit on Point

Let me tell you, this show is supposed to be great. The mixture between idol, mystery and romance is really fresh. The mystery itself is good, especially the twist at the end. The idea of the mystery involving idol, complicated relationship, ambitious officials; these all are perfect elements for a crime-romance show. The storyline also very focus and straightforward, no need any silly side stories. Unfortunately, the execution looks missing something. They failed to turn this combination into something big. It's not totally fail, just SO SO CLOSE to be on point.

The mystery is supposed to be the hotshot of the show, but it lacks sparks. I feel the murder case is dragged too long for nothing. It takes 11 episodes to resolve the murder, and the resolution is quite easily earned. The romance is just great, but I think it's because the highlight of the show is somewhere else. Some characters are left behind, especially Chung Jae.

Not much complain on the cast side. Jae Young and Soo Young were doing great, and their chemistry as well. Jae Kwang, Hee Jin, Hyun Jin and even our father Kim Won Hae all did well. However I think Jong Woo's anger looks a bit unnatural.

Weakest point of the show is the mystery resolution. Judging by how wet Hye Ju's hair and coat at that time, I don't think she was able to mop the scene squeaky clean. Also after that she searched the whole room for her earring, like she dropped fingerprints everywhere. What was the police doing??? Also it's bothering me how Se Na easily trusted everyone around La Ik, she trusted his manager, reached Hye Ju for attorney, etc.

For a show that involves a boyband, the soundtrack is little underwhelming. Overall it's still a good watch, but don't expect fluffy romance or complicated mystery.

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Pleasant and relaxing but not unforgettable

It is a good way to pass the time but it feels like many other romance shows. The mix of the virtual reality game and the real world at the start was very interesting. However the game part fades away and the show becomes a typical workplace romance. The main actors have good chemistry and their characters feel realistic. Chen Xing Xu is great to watch but some of his outfits look a bit strange. The female lead is very cheerful and independent which I liked. The pacing is good for most of the show but the last few episodes feel a bit slow. The conflict at the end could have been solved with a simple conversation. I wish the secondary characters got more development because they were quite interesting. Even though it has some flaws like a weak ending and some logical gaps it is still a pleasant watch. It is a cozy story where the good people win and the bad people are punished. If you want something simple and easy to watch you will enjoy this as its the kind of drama you watch to unwind and pass time rather than to be deeply moved.

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Everyone is crazy (in both way)

I watched this because i love all three actors in here and finally Yu Long is playing as antagonist (not with his real CP) so i can watch in ease. Zhang Jinyi acting was commendable and her chemistry with Liang Siwei is overflowing and the kisses scene were so playful.

Plot is about ML is released from prison and gives the FL a mission: to get pregnant with his brother's child to sabotage his arranged marriage. The female lead is shocked: "...What?" ( I am with FL in this time)

This drama reminds me of Zhen Ziqi-Zhao Xixi drama but with difference ML initially had feelings for the FL for the first time, leading to some regret, but this initial attraction wasn't enough to overcome his initial plans. Later, his feelings intensified, unable to resist. Liang Siwei can create portrayal of the changes in his feelings for the FL—his initial attraction and subsequent regret

Two crazy MLs, one is a tough-talking but soft-hearted god, the other is a ruthless person who pretends to be weak but actually strong. Poor FL is caught in the middle. She's already in a quagmire, yet she still has a kind heart. Forced to navigate between two dilemmas, she seeks survival and a new life.

Although FL is being held hostage by ML, she knows how to negotiate, resist, and even manipulate the MLs. FL's ability to discern the problem with the tea and use it to her advantage is commendable! Zhang Jinyi is such a perfect fit for the role.

ML's brother is a complex and multifaceted character, offering many twists and turns; you know he's bad, but he remains enigmatic. I like Yu Long quirky charm in this drama.

Personally the team want to give Hong Kong style cinematography but somehow ended using too many blue filter.

Recommended to Watch.

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Soft, Slow, and Emotionally Intimate

As Phansaeng said, “It pains me, whether she is near or far.” That line captures the bittersweet tenderness at the heart of “Captive Heart.”

I went into the drama expecting a tragic romance. What it delivers, however, is not an epic love story but something much more restrained. The romance unfolds in a soft, almost domestic way, and while the stakes exist on paper, the emotional experience remains intimate rather than overwhelming.

At its core, the story follows Phansaeng, a man who has sworn off love to master forbidden powers for the sake of his country, and Chawala, the woman he is forced to marry despite initially distrusting her because she is his enemy’s sister. Watching their relationship develop is one of the drama’s strongest elements. Instead of dramatic declarations or constant emotional turmoil, their bond grows through shared space, quiet conversations, and everyday intimacy. The progression is slow and understated, but it makes their connection feel genuine.

Although the drama presents itself as a high-stakes romantic tragedy, the romance itself never reaches an intense emotional peak. Phansaeng’s guarded heart opens gradually, and the story prioritizes tenderness over turmoil. What it lacks in dramatic impact, it makes up for in warmth, allowing the audience to settle into the relationship before the pain sets in.

The chemistry between the leads works best in these softer moments. When the focus is on comfort, trust, and emotional closeness, their connection feels natural. When the drama pushes overt passion or heightened sexual tension, the chemistry falters and those scenes can feel awkward. Still, the emotional foundation of their relationship is strong enough to keep the audience invested.

Chawala brings much of the heart to the story. She is warm, kind, and emotionally grounding, and her presence is essential to making the romance work. Even when the writing stumbles, her character carries much of the emotional weight and helps maintain the story’s gentle tone.

“Even if my bones shatter, my muscles burn like fire, and my spirit descends into the deepest hell, I shall love you still.” — Phansaeng

The first half of the drama leans heavily into softness and tenderness, while the second half gradually moves toward tragedy. Phansaeng’s vow—that falling in love will lead to his death—adds real stakes and casts a shadow over even their happiest moments. When the tragedy finally comes to the forefront, it remains intimate and restrained rather than explosive.

The broader plot also gains momentum in the second half, with greater focus on Phansaeng’s duty, his enemies, and the consequences of his forbidden powers. This added tension gives the story more drive beyond the romance.

That said, the drama has clear flaws. The CGI can be rough, the cinematography sometimes looks cheap, and the dialogue can feel awkward. These issues do hold the show back from reaching its full potential, but they don’t erase the warmth at the center of the romance.

Ultimately, “Captive Heart” is not a sweeping or epic tragedy. It is a soft, restrained love story that approaches heartbreak gently, favoring tenderness and quiet sorrow over intensity. If you adjust your expectations away from grandeur and toward something small, warm, and bittersweet, it becomes a satisfying and emotionally gentle watch.

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When you find your one, that's that.

I had this one on my watchlist for a long time. I finally watched and glad that I did.

However, I hated everyone around the couple...no, rewind. I disliked everyone around the couple and hated only ONE particular person. I also LOVED the few supporting folks around them, too, with the gist of my love going to the MVP, Mr. Teddy Bear driver. I had my fingers crossed in hope for him and his heart (I won't say what that means). I'll just hope that what we saw is them giving us that. Anyway, this was a good one. I usually don't care for older-younger romances, but this one ended up working out. I rationalized that his spirit just got in the line for his soulmate late, for a little spice in their next life. LOL!

P.S. I absolutely ADORED them visiting Cuba and allowing us to view in ways (beautiful appreciative ways) that many of us elsewhere aren't allowed to.

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Love Between Lines

It’s the kind of drama that doesn’t rush love or exaggerate feelings. Instead, it lets emotions grow naturally—through conversations, misunderstandings, and moments where characters almost say what they feel but stop themselves.
What stood out to me most was how realistic the relationship felt. The leads don’t fall in love instantly; they circle around each other, guarded but curious. Their chemistry is subtle—more about comfort and emotional safety than sparks. You can feel how their bond is built on understanding rather than grand gestures.
The cinematography matched the mood perfectly. Simple settings, muted colors, and quiet scenes made everything feel intimate and grounded. Nothing felt flashy, but nothing felt empty either. It suited a story about people who struggle to express themselves but feel deeply.
I also appreciated how the drama focused on communication, emotional distance, and timing. It shows how love can exist between the lines—unspoken, unfinished, but still real. Overall, Love Between Lines is calm, sincere, and emotionally gentle. It’s not a drama that overwhelms you; it’s one that slowly settles in your heart.

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Decent adaptation of a masterpiece

My Mister is my favourite kdrama of all time. Expectations were sky-high for this adaptation, and Loving Strangers mostly delivers. The core of the story is the warmth of the unconditional friendship that develops between the leads. While I don't think the leads have exactly as much chemistry or dynamism as the original, they have enough to make this a good watch.

The plot of this adaptation mainly mirrors the original with some story differences. The pacing feels faster, as many of the longer dialogues are shortened. There isn't as much philosophizing. The neighbourhood vibe is less important. Jiaqi doesn't introspect as much as Dong Hoon. The downside of all this is that Jiaqi is more difficult to understand as a character than his kdrama equivalent. He is a very withdrawn character and even colder to his wife than Dong Hoon.

Once the emotional sparks finally get lit, Loving Strangers became a really good drama. But for me, that took almost 20 episodes. The original starts slow as well, but it ramped up more quickly. A huge factor is the music, which doesn't do enough to set the mood and at times feels out of place.

The writer of My Mister, Park Hae Young, has a lot to say in her dramas about the mental health struggles that people go through. Loving Strangers has all the same events as My Mister, but the deletion of certain dialogues means that it doesn't answer the 'why' question. We simply don't get the same detail about Jiaqi's motivations and worldview that we get from Dong Hoon. He felt more lifeless and closed off.

To be fair to Mark Chao, I think he's playing his role very accurately and did justice to what was on the page. The script just makes it harder to grasp him. Similarly, I think Zhang Zi Feng also played her role well. Her character just wasn't written to have as much agency and fierceness as IU's.

Even the positive changes made in the adaptation are more about fixing possible plot holes than trying to write a deeper story. Both the CEO and the loan shark character are better sketched out here than in the original. I kind of expected this as soon as I saw Zhang Xin Cheng (imo the most talented actor in this cast) playing the loan shark, since he's great at playing these more raw characters. Unfortunately this isn't the type of drama where a villain's performance is critical.

For fans of My Mister, I think this is still worth watching to see a different interpretation of the roles.

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stunning

The slow burn of all slow burns. Watching them fall in and out of friendship while realising all their problems were out of love for each other was simply beautiful. The first 3 episodes set the scene perfectly for the last 2 where emotion comes pouring through. The rawness of the two exploring their own sexuality at an age where the world is so confusing. They are both young and controlled by emotion with their worlds revolving around getting into university.

all the small details that come unfolded as the story progresses makes it all the more interesting leaving you hooked. I was in tears by the end of it because some of it hit too close to home but that made it all the more special. I am so glad the cinematography was so beautiful and put together. I can safely say this is one of the better BLs I have watched. I can’t wait to watch the sequel.

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Even After a Lifetime of Loss, Coming Home Is Still a Beginning

Love Between Lines is already a widely discussed and well-reviewed drama, so there’s little need to reiterate its plot or summarize how it unfolds. Instead, I want to use this space to talk about what I haven’t talked/posted about during the watch!

This is not just about this drama, but a concise interpretation from all the projects I have seen…

Over time, I’ve come to see that a script is simply a story told from a particular perspective and angle, unfolding within a chosen span of time. However, knowing this doesn’t make it any easier to accept.

The wins, the losses, the injustices, the extent of forgiveness or the extent of allowed immorality, and even the emotional interests are all malleable—shaped by who is telling the story, what theme it serves, and where the storyteller decides to begin and end. They all change with perspective, with intention, with where the story is allowed to end. And how it ultimately reflects on the audience depends on how brave and candid the audience is willing to be.

For instance, I found myself unwilling to tread too deeply into my thoughts about the mother, the woman who married the man responsible for framing her husband and causing his death. When the truth finally came to light, what must she have felt? Disgust? Regret? Loathing? And directed toward whom—the villain, the circumstances, or herself?

The moment I begin to analyze the situation she was in when she made that decision, to consider the reasons behind it, to imagine what her son must have felt, or to question what alternatives she might have had—whether her choice was selective or truly the only route to survival—Is it wrong to think of oneself when one is helpless? — Stupidity is a crime, but to what extent does that hold? — Was it wrong of Xiao Yi to hide all of this from his mother? If yes, how so? And if not, then what? Which choice would have been more cruel? — What is she meant to do with the time she spent in wrongful hatred and misplaced trust—the time that has aged her, shaped her, and by now become an inseparable part of her being? – And what qualifies me to judge the morality or pragmatism of any of the decisions at all?-- these questions arise almost instantly. They take barely seconds to surface.

And yet, I deliberately refuse to pursue answers to any of them. Maybe I am not brave enough to face the answers and be able to determine the correct path.

But I want to end this on a gentle note. All’s well that ends well. Even if I’ve been lost for most of my life, it is enough to know that I am home now. From here, I can build—with what I have—the blocks of a future.

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