Reviews

B grade production, barely passable, catchy title song, spirited FL

tldr; OTT acting all around. passable plot, FL is not passive but shown taking lead in romantic scenes. Can get through with 1.5x and help from FF buttons. If you want something cozy with your wife/GF, this one will work because the romance will work for the girls and unintended hilarity will work for the boys.

There's a barely passable excuse of a plot. Undercover policeman infiltrates a shady business group. Tries to turn the bad guy brothers against one another, evil mob boss wife has own scheme & FL's aunt was murdered by her to tie all characters' motivations. It ends well. They tie all loose ends together and managed well in the time/budget they had

As many viewers have pointed out, the FL is written as a spirited girl who knows what she wants and will take steps towards it. Once she takes an interest in the ML she's shown to be doing most of the pursuing and initiates the romantic encounters more than once. Had they made her a damsel in distress along with all the cliché tropes they added here I would have rated it a 1 or 2. It's the only "special thing" this run-of-the-mill B grade web drama has going for it. The acting is so OTT it's hilarious. You end up laughing even in supposedly dramatic/suspenseful scenes too.

The acting from all parties is in the "so bad it's good" category. It's one of those mini 15 min web dramas where if you deduct the two title sequences, the story is +/- 8 mins. At 1.5x-2x speed you can get through.

The title song's catchy/hum worthy and subtitling is hilarious ("deducting like Sherlock Holmes" while the term never comes up in her song! LOL, really!?). The OCR they used for transcribing english titles for chinese film crew was unintentionally hilarious "Pedolicer" for Producer, "Propaganda" instead of "Publicity and Stills" and so on.

Watch if you have nothing else to do.

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Because even in unrequited love, I loved myself - Hye Ri

I added this to my list because of Shin Hye Sun, I know not a lot of people enjoyed her in Welcome to Samdalri but that was my second Shin Hye Sun drama and I liked it. So far this one is even better. I have always enjoyed dramas, movies, and books that tackle dissociative identity disorder, so this was bonus for me.

With the way their relationship unfolded I wouldn't have been surprised if they hadn't ended up together. What I wanted to see was the moment the other personality (Hye Ri) came into existence.

Eun Ho & Hyeon O's relationship was such a tangled mess, both stuck in that love-hate relationship since they can't get over each other. Poor Kang Ju Yeon, I like him better because he has been much kinder to Eun Ho (Hye Ri), but at the same time Hyeon O is kinda fun to watch. I like watching Kang Ju Yeon & Hye Ri together, they are so adorable but with the intense feelings between Hyeon O and Eun Ho, he might loose and it is going to be sad. I am okay with her ending up any one of these two as long as they decide to communicate well in the future.

When it comes to Shin Hye Sun's characters here, I do prefer Eun Ho to Hye Ri. But all of them are interesting.

The one thing that I can't get over is Hyeon O being unnecessarily mean to Eun Ho.

Is it absolutely necessary to humiliate her like that when she is already down?

If you have broken up, then move on and stop dragging her down. If her work is not up to the mark then whatever critic he has, he can do it officially instead of going mean girl outside office hours.

At times, I want to dissect Jung Hyeon O's brain so bad, we get that you are trying to help her in your own way but my boy it doesn't hurt to say nice words. It is so easy to say all those mean things why not just put in some effort and say something nice to her.

Eun Ho and Hyeon O are such a hot mess. They have such a strange and toxic dependance going on, on the plus side, at least he was there for her after the breakdown she had while anchoring. What he said wasn't wrong, since they both wanted different things in life, it made sense to break up. But they were together for 8 years, none of them thought to sit and talk about where there life was headed? He was harsh when breaking up but that seems to be his personality trait.

I might have liked Hyeon O a bit better if the creators had showed her more of his side after the breakup, we barely got a glimpse. I wanted to see how his life went on after their break up, the raw emotions and not the mask he puts on. But we can't deny that whenever she was with Hyeon O she seemed more like Hye Ri than Eun Ho.

I would have rated it 10 if not for the sloppy hair on Hye Ri, it bothers me so much I feel as if it were on my own face. Also, I just feel that they should have discussed all the hurtful words he threw at her, it just seemed like that was glossed over.

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A legal drama that speaks softly but stays with you long after.

Beyond the Bar is more than just another legal drama; it’s a beautifully woven story about ambition, morality, love, and personal growth. Every case, every decision, and every quiet moment carries weight, shaping the characters in ways that feel deeply authentic. Unlike many courtroom dramas, the narrative flows seamlessly, with each episode connecting like threads in a larger tapestry.

The romance is subtle yet powerful, built on unspoken understanding rather than flashy gestures. Kim Soo-hyun and Han Hyo-joo deliver performances full of restraint and quiet intensity, and their chemistry feels natural and mature. The supporting cast adds depth, making the world of the drama feel lived-in and layered.

The writing balances legal tension with emotional storytelling, keeping you invested without overwhelming you with technicalities. While a few side characters could have been explored more and some cases could have had stronger dramatic weight, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise beautifully crafted series.

Beyond the Bar stays with you long after it ends. It’s a thoughtful, emotionally intelligent drama that blends legal battles, personal struggles, and heartfelt connections into a single, memorable journey.

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Finally, a Japanese BL That Gets Intimacy Right

I have watched every Japanese BL released this year and honestly the kissing and NC scenes have been disappointing across the board. But this one is easily the best I have seen. The NC scenes in episodes 2 and 3 were hot, steamy and beautifully done. Japanese BL is finally stepping up and shining in this area.

Since I only watched the Thai version a couple of months ago, it is still fresh in my mind. This remake is almost identical, about 90 percent the same, right down to the lines and even the NC positions. That said, I did not mind because the chemistry here really works. The male leads are handsome, comfortable with each other and their intimacy feels genuine instead of forced.

Overall, it is a solid and enjoyable watch. If you loved the Thai version, you will enjoy seeing this story retold through a Japanese lens. For me, it is a well deserved 8.5 out of 10.

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Charming Start but Slows Down

The first few episodes were really enjoyable. I especially loved the height difference between the two male leads, and the light plot made it easy to watch. However, there was not much chemistry between them, which left me wanting more. The show mainly focuses on Tojo-san as a 40-year-old man trying to tick off life goals, which worked well in the beginning.

But is it just me, or is this show going downhill? The early episodes were fun, and I honestly thought we would see Suzume and Keishi working through a list of things together before he turns 40, just like the title suggests. Sadly, that idea never really happened. Even up to the finale, and still there is little to no chemistry between the leads.

Instead of focusing on their bond, we got random distractions: first a work colleague drama, and now Suzume suddenly babysitting three kids who appeared out of nowhere.

My favourite scene was in episode 9 -
I know many people are angry with Keishi for saying, “Even if I was gay, it wouldn’t be with Tojo-san,” but my heart honestly aches for him. Those words were cruel, but I cannot forget the situation he was in. He was cornered, forced to respond in an instant, and out of fear he chose to protect himself the only way he knew how. It was not right, but it was very human.

Maybe he was also trying to protect Tojo-san in that moment. What if Tojo-san himself was not ready to come out? They never even discussed it, and they are not officially a couple yet. Saying something quickly, even if harsh, might have felt like the safest choice in that situation for both of them.

In Asian culture, especially with strong family values and generational expectations, being in a same sex relationship comes with enormous pressure. It is not as simple as just being honest, like it might be in some Western cultures. Keishi is so young, ten years younger than Tojo-san, still trying to find his place in the world. His fear of rejection and shame is understandable, even if the way he handled it caused pain.

The fact that he later called to apologize, and the way he visited Tojo-san when he was sick and cared for him, shows that his feelings are real. If this is not love, then what is.

I feel deeply sorry for both Keishi and Tojo-san. What happened between them is heartbreaking, but it is also painfully real. Many people in real life go through the same struggle, torn between love and fear, truth and survival. All we can do is hope that together they find the strength to face it, because their love deserves that chance.

My favourite moment in this series was when Tojo started deleting each item on his list. With every deletion, memories of Keiji came flooding back. The way he missed him so deeply, realising he could not live without him, was heartbreaking yet so beautiful. In that moment he found the courage to finally confess his feelings, crossing off the very last item on his list, to not be alone before turning forty. It was here that the title of the series came to life, carrying its full meaning, and it touched me so deeply to see love win in the end.
The ending was sweet and adorable, the kind of soft happiness that makes your heart swell. I only wished it lasted a little longer, perhaps even a special episode devoted to the two of them simply being together after everything they went through.

Overall, I rate it 8/10. It has charm, a light and easy start, but the lack of consistency and emotional build-up holds it back from being truly great.

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Will catch you off guard!! ?

💖 Spoiler Warning of course 💖

Since there are 4 couples to talk to, I am going to talk about the plot in general.

Starting this series, I have very low expectation because the actors are from the new generation of GMM actors so I was just watching it for fun since I have nothing to watch and oh my it caught me by surprised. While the plot is seem fairly simple on paper and actually it is, it works. The production caught the feeling of the high school vibe really well, with the teachers, the students, the music, the costumes and the filter. this weirdly bright and colourful filter they use for this series work so well in their favour. there is not one character from the main/support role that I do not like, I truly feel for every characters here which is new for me because I don't like BL series where they have like a dozen couple in one series.

the casting here also is so good because surprise surprise, they actually look like a bunch of high schoolers and the casting of Pod and Papang as the teachers also work surprisingly well. They all look like their characters which you can't say a lot in the industry where they snatch every good looking person off the street to be on tv no matter the character. (these kids highkey act better than some of the seniors from the company ngl) 🎉

One thing I appreciate the most from this series is it is in the universe where being gay is so normalized for high schoolers and everybody that we as a viewers can focus more on the trope like jealousy, etc, we need to bring that energy more to in real world.

🎨 Kit (Luke) & Shane (Mick): The story of Shane and Kit is fairly cliché as one is the smart kid that needs to tutor the not so smart kid which is an overdone trope at this time of era but for me personally, I do love a little bit of cliché in the world where every BL series try hard to stand out with their out of the box plot. Each characters bring the best of each other's which is nice to see as its not only one sided character development. their struggles as a couple and individual slowly unveil as the series go on and none of it feels rush from my view and I appreciate that a lot. (also I almost chocked on myself when I learnt that Mick is Win Metawin biological little brother)

🍦 Chokun (Kim) & Aston (Mon): this pairing is absolute fluffball, they are so cute together and both of the actors look very natural doing the characters they were assigned for which brings a very smooth watching experience. Their story is actually really weird to analyse because they became a couple really quick even before they knew each other that well which actually happened a lot among teenagers so their whole deal is they learning about each other and facing struggles together such the possibility that Mon is Bisexual or Kim is very paranoid as a person. at some part you would be like "ugh miscommunication" but then they actually talk like talk talk and not I am sorry and that is which I appreciate (this also intended to the other couples as well). Overall I love their dynamic I would like to take a second to applaud Chokun's acting improvement since I first saw him on My Love Mix Up.

🧸 Ken (Rer) & Paul (Tar): their story is even weirder to analyse because they actually did not officially became a couple like the other two BUT for some reason I like it because they actually do care for each other and have feelings for each other but there is this silent agreement that they will not leave each others side and I interpreted their dynamic that both of them are not ready for relationship yet but neither wants to leave the other side so I hope they make a little mini series in the future to see everyone in the university setting instead to show their growth.

🥂 Pod (Nut) & Papang (Tan): making an older couple among these teenagers is such a smart move because it gives the viewer a break from watching teenagers for 12 episodes straight and also it shows that adult also has a relationship and self problem and that being adult does not just instantly remove the problems teenagers face. anyways, these two as pairing work surprising well and I don't have a lot to say since their story is very straightforward so it's easy to understand.

overall, the plot resonates to me a lot especially the plot where they all struggle what path they want to take for their future. this for me is the definition of adorable to the max, everyone I just want to pinch their cheeks and this might be my comfort series in the future. I highly recommend it 🏫

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Short but Sweet, a must watch!

Way to go, season 2! It really took everything from season 1 and leveled it up into such a sweet, heartfelt watch. The chemistry, the story, the overall vibe—it all just clicked so much better. If season 1 hooked me, season 2 totally sealed the deal.

I’m really glad they finally paired BMine and Mashii together—choosing her as the partner was the right call because their chemistry is undeniable. BMine has that dominant, quiet vibe, while Mashii brings this clingy, energetic energy, and the contrast works so well. Both of their looks also improved 100% this season—the styling and makeup were on point.

I’m also relieved they didn’t go down the threesome route and instead stuck with one solid pairing. The jealousy scenes were a nice touch too—short but very real. And that love scene? Honestly, superb. They didn’t have to show much skin; their expressions, the way their lips met, and even the little hand movements made it all feel so believable. What really sealed it for me was the final moment—both of them in bed, hugging each other. That’s exactly how you’d hold someone you love after making love. For me, that was the best, most authentic moment in the whole series.

Overall, this was an excellent watch, and I’m excited knowing BMine and Mashii will be starring in another series together. They better, because their chemistry is just too good to waste. Hopefully, their next project won’t be a short one but something more mainstream—they really deserve that spotlight.

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The Stars Have Spoken, Falling All Around Us

This drama was such a rush!! And so brilliant! The actors really made this a work of art! There’s your average run-of-the-mill dramas, then there’s THIS, and I was not disappointed! This drama had cohesion and consistency in this well-composed story of love, betrayal, and manipulation.

This drama focuses on Da-On, who works for the Strategy Dept of a large company in Korea. For the past 11 years, he’s held long-time romantic feelings for Jaemin, who’s been his friend and colleague since their days in University. He’s made multiple attempts to profess his feelings to Jaemin, much to no avail for the fear of rejection outweighs the urge to come clean with his desire to be with him.

Seong Hyeon is a new colleague that just joined Da On’s dept. Hyeon has just arrived the scene, and he is already very curious about who Da On really is. Even though he’s in the dark at the start, he starts developing a special interest in Da On, wondering what makes him tick, and doing his own homework on his new favorite subject…

Su Hyeon has known Da On for 7 years, and has been weaving himself in and out of Da On’s life over the years with his volatile and demanding attitude. But behind all that anger, he’s been hiding a secret that no one else knows about…

Throughout the series, it tells a vivid narrative of how the most unsuspecting individuals have the most to hide, and how easy one can be moved like a pawn with just the right twisted strategies. Friends are not always who they pretend to be, but you’re in so deep with them already, they’re like a snake ready to devour you.🐍

This drama was so immersive in the way these characters interact and flow with each other. The chemistry amongst these characters is so palpable its static that’s felt though the screen. The acting was so strong, it was inspiring and made this series that much more elevated. Also, i love the music in this series, greatly contributed to the drama.🎵


This would be the 2nd time I’ve watched a drama and it felt like an exclusive event that only a select few get to experience(the first time was Tempted). Watching characters be possessive with each other has never been so enticing nor as delicious as this…💜

A quote from the series:-
Love isn’t about levels, it’s about heart. As long as we have unwavering trust, and offering sincerity to each other, that’s all that matters for love.




P.S. the ending reminds me of the premise for the manga Boys Abyss iykyk🥲

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A unique storyline that will keep you CAPTIVATED.

This series is actually pretty surprising for a low-budget mini web series. The actors aren’t well-known in the Thai GL industry, but they pulled off their roles really well—honestly, even better than some mainstream GL actors. The music was spot on too, perfectly matching the emotions in each scene. If I had to point out a downside for season 1, it would be the makeup and overall look of the cast, which wasn’t as polished compared to season 2. But I’m glad they really leveled up in season 2.

The story only has 3 episodes, each under 30 minutes, but it really makes an impression. The plot is unique yet very realistic—it’s about a young wealthy woman who’s lonely and ends up finding companionship through an app. Honestly, if that kind of app existed in my country, I’d probably give it a try too, which is why it feels so relatable.

What I like is how the series shows both sides: the loneliness of someone who just wants a bit of happiness, even if it means paying for it, and the perspective of people who see it as a way to make money, almost like escort work. Despite that, the story never feels dirty or cheap—it just feels real and very in tune with modern life. And for a GL series, that’s a pretty refreshing and interesting angle.

Now, about the actors—BMine is such a refreshing presence. She gives off a bit of that Freen vibe, with this quiet but strong, dominant energy. And the fact that she’s only 22? Just imagine how many more projects she can take on and how much her skills will grow. She was already good in Unlock My Love, but in this series—and even more so in season 2—you can really see her improvement. Her eyes are super expressive, and the way she handles facial expressions and even the kissing scenes feels so natural and believable. Honestly, kudos to her—this kid definitely deserves more spotlight.

I can’t say much about the other two main cast members since this was the first time I’d seen them. What stood out more to me was the chemistry between BMine and Mashii—it definitely felt stronger than with the others. I’m glad the series decided to focus on pairing them up in season 2 instead of going sideways with some kind of threesome angle. Honestly, I was a bit worried it might head that way, but thankfully it turned into a story of love growing from something a bit deceitful into something real. And the improved chemistry between the two made it all the more worth watching.

Overall, this series is such a good watch. With only 3 episodes, there’s really no reason to skip it—and honestly, none of the episodes feel boring. If you’ve seen this one, definitely check out season 2 too—it takes everything up a notch and is absolutely worth it.

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Love the chemistry, acting and emotions

I started watching this series without expectations. I wasn’t hooked from the first episodes, however, I still wanted to give it a go and I don’t regret it. I believe from episode 8 I was already very invested and without realizing I started crying and feeling all the emotions. Noth actors did a great job! I was a bit frustrated with Shu He for being so stubborn and caring so much about a brother that wanted to kill him and a father that wasn’t there for him and couldn’t see how much Duang did for him and how he struggled and suffered just to be with him. But even like that, my favorite is still Duang for how involved he was in his role and how expressive in his pain, love and obsession.

I wish to see them both in another series. What actually touched me even more was their interview where they cried thinking back on their characters. It made me realize how much they have invested in this series.

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The price of power, love, principle and loyalties.

Legend of the Female General attempts to blend individual struggles with the wider currents of power, love, and morality, and what stands out most immediately are its characters, though their depth and narrative treatment leave space for critique.

He Yan emerges as the most compelling figure, shaped by her unusual childhood where she was forced to stand in for her brother. The drama portrays her as perceptive, practical, and painfully aware of the restrictions society places on women, yet also fiercely determined to challenge them. What complicates her is the contradiction she carries—resenting her brother for reclaiming the identity she built, while never fully acknowledging that this unconventional upbringing granted her resilience and clarity far beyond her peers. Her tragedy lies in endless pretense, forever wearing a mask, yet her triumph is the way she never allowed that disguise to fully consume her essence. Her advice to women around her, urging them to remain themselves even when life demands sacrifice, echoes her own journey and lends the character extraordinary poignancy.

Xiao Jue, on the other hand, feels underwritten despite being her counterpart. While the drama gives him gravitas and presence, it denies him vulnerability and layered humanity. His interactions in court and in romance reveal little beyond his attachment to He Yan, reducing his arc to a reflection of hers rather than a narrative of his own. His elder brother’s remark that he suppresses emotion is left unexamined, and instead of growth we are given a static portrait, handsome but hollow.

Xu Jingfu and Chu Zhao require joint consideration, because their fates intertwine like mirror images across generations. Xu Jingfu is drawn as an authoritative father whose principles begin noble—placing national welfare above selfish desire—yet years of power corrode this idealism until he can no longer distinguish patriotism from corruption. His desperate defense during the banquet, insisting his misdeeds served the country, felt less like persuasion of others and more like self-justification. Chu Zhao, the younger counterpart, initially rebels against this decay, even cooperating with He Yan and Xiao Jue. However, his transformation into a ruthless figure after Xu Jingfu’s death reflects how principles, when warped by ambition, can erase clarity. Together they embody the cycle of idealism twisted by circumstance, revealing how conviction without reflection becomes dangerous.

Yet, to fully understand Chu Zhao, one must bring Ying Xiang into the discussion. Deprived of unconditional affection after his mother’s passing, he craved a love that did not demand achievement. Xu Jingfu’s care, though present, was transactional, always requiring proof of worth. Ying Xiang offered what he longed for—an unspoken warmth that asked nothing in return, quiet yet constant. Tragically, Chu Zhao failed to notice the sanctuary beside him, seeking validation in harsher places, until her absence revealed what had been sustaining him all along. This dynamic not only enriches his downfall but also underscores how emotional neglect can shape destructive choices.

He Rufei’s arc is drenched in quiet sorrow. A boy robbed of recognition, raised in isolation, watching his name become a vessel for another’s survival, he grew into a man consumed by bitterness. For him, identity itself was contested, every honor claimed under “He Rufei” felt stolen, and the only way he could preserve sanity was by convincing himself he deserved all that was attached to his name. His father’s greed only deepened this resentment, and when parental support turned into complicity in wrongdoing, the fragile foundations of his selfhood cracked further. The tragedy is not simply his envy of He Yan, but the loss of any authentic sense of who he truly was.

In the end, Legend of the Female General delivers remarkable individual sketches, yet struggles to balance them with cohesive execution. Characters brim with potential, their contradictions fascinating, their wounds deeply human, but narrative choices often leave them underexplored. It is a story that shines brightest when it lingers on internal battles rather than political games, reminding us that the greatest wars in history dramas are often the ones fought within the heart.

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A nice adaptation but could be better ??

✨ Spoiler Alert ✨

As someone who absolutely loves the Japanese adaptation, I could not help myself by comparing every nanosecond of the Thai adaptation to the Japanese one because for me the Japanese version is pure perfection. While it is unfair for them that I am comparing the two adaptations, I know they mostly based the series from the manga which is the original source and I kept trying to remind myself that while watching this series because some elements and decision makings in the Thai version I am not that fond off that the Japanese adaptation did better. 💁‍♂️

Let's start with what I like: 🙃

GMMTV choosing Tay and New as the pairing for this version and for me that's probably the smartest because the pairing has the this kind of faces that just suitable for office set up/environment (and if not them, the second pairing I can see is Jimmysea but that's just me). New's acting here is not his best acting to be honest but he did a really good job portraying Achi's clueless and innocent expression and Tay as Karan is where I am a bit confused with because Tay looked like he held back a lot from doing so much more but that is probably just me because I knew what Tay is capable off.

The adding of the much more side characters (the boss and the female manager(?) really bring the office environment much more livelier than the Japanese version and I appreciate that even though the characters are not necessary at all for plot in my opinion.

The casting of Junior and Mark as the second couple. this for me is probably my favourite part of the whole series because I have mixed feeling of the casting they did for the second couple for the JPN version. their chemistry is really nice to see as a couple and not realizing it, I mostly stay for them instead of the main couple.

Let's move on to the what I dislike: 😔

One main problem of this series is the pacing, watching it, I did not expect them to cram the plot where Achi had to go to another department and Achi and Karan getting married because the JPN production made a whole movie for that. This is a problem because for some reason Achi's character development in this version is much more tone down for my liking. this is just a miss opportunity because they didn't need to cram the whole plot in 12 episodes that some characters' growth are cut short. The pacing was really nice until episode 7 I believe where every drama and climax got thrown at the same time.

talking about cramming, I HATE the choices to make Rock and Pai a thing because in the JPN version Fujisaki(which is JPN version of Pai) decided to be single because that is what best for her and that idea alone is such a fresh air in this story where everyone ended up with someone. one thing about gmmtv I don't like is they keep making having a partner is the end off all thing, which is stupid. This whole subplot of Rock and Pai is just so unnecessary personally because they could have spend those time improving Achi's growth as a person instead

one finale little thing is how Karan(Tay) somehow got overshadow a lot in this series by other characters, maybe it is a me problem but I just can't get involved with his as a character which is weird because he's there for like every second of the series.

Personally, I prefer the JPN version and if you never watch it, I highly recommend it BUT this version also is nice even though there are a lot of improvement that could've been made which is a bummer because this is like first TayNew BL series in three years I believe since Dark Blue Kiss. my final say is it is a cute adaptation and they did a fine job with what was given (the time limit, the script, and stuff). would I recommend, sure if you are curious, watch it but if you are someone like me who adores the JPN version, do not expect much. 👔🐳

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A Parody of Cliches, That is Full of Overused Tropes

I finally got around to watching The Lost Romance after hearing it hyped as one of the best Taiwanese dramas, especially since I’m a sucker for transmigration into a novel stories. And… I have so many mixed thoughts.


On paper the premise is brilliant: a meta drama that parodies cheesy romance tropes, pokes fun at cold CEOs, second male leads who never win, and evil “perfect” heroines. It seems like it’s going to be self-aware and subversive. But here’s the thing: while it laughs at clichés… it also indulges in every single one of them.



The show calls out how Situ Ao Ran (ML) and Qing Feng (SML) both being in love with Chu Chu (the “novel FL”) is just writer convenience — but then makes Xiao En (our actual FL) fall for Ao Ran in exactly the same way. Honestly, their romance feels forced. There’s no reason they’re in love besides because the script says so.

Qing Feng + Xiao En pairing would’ve made far more sense. Qing Feng’s feelings were natural, his growth believable, and his interactions with her felt grounded. Instead, we got Ao Ran: a cold, personality-less CEO who magically softens once he “loves” her. It doesn’t read as romance, more like obsession.


For a drama that mocked the “evil SFL” trope, it was disappointing to see Chu Chu become the villain by the end. The satire collapses when it falls back into the exact mold it was mocking.


The Real-World Subplot was easily the weakest part. Tian Xing’s sibling rivalry and chaebol family politics were so boring I ended up skipping them. The “real world” added little, except showing that Xiao En is basically a stalker, she literally spies on her crush via cameras, sees him get thrown off a building, and doesn’t call the police. Make it make sense.

So in short..

ML (Ao Ran / Tian Xing): Bland. Never really developed.

SML (Qing Feng): The MVP of the entire show. His feelings made sense, his sincerity stood out, and honestly, he deserved the better. But I would've liked him to be better in the second half.

Xiao En (FL): Equal parts frustrating and entertaining. Embarrassing at times, but I couldn’t stop watching her antics.

Qiutian & the Lilies girls: Absolute gems. Their friendship with Xiao En was heartwarming and way more “romantic” than the actual romance. The comedy relief duo where actually fun.


The Ending is predictable, tropey, and unearned. The “happily ever after” felt like the drama ticking off boxes instead of giving us closure that made sense.

Overall

Despite all the plot holes, hypocrisy, and tropes it mocked but also embraced, The Lost Romance is still fun. The novel-world hijinks were the highlight, the friendships were delightful, and even the frustrating characters were entertaining. It’s one of those dramas you’ll rant about non-stop, and yet still keep watching.

Worth watching if you like meta set-ups, don’t mind cliché overload, and enjoy ranting while being entertained.

Rating: 7.5/10

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