Reviews

Part 3 of The Great Grandmother Reborn at 18 continues to excel!

I am a fan of this series because of the ensemble cast, refreshing storyline and the core theme (which is family). I was delighted to know that Chen Tian Xiang had joined the cast because I liked him a lot in She Is Only Three Points Well-Behaved. I watched this drama about two weeks ago when I was in the mood for no-romance vertical drama. I enjoyed it immensely!

What I liked:
1. Comedy - Part 3 had more funny scenes. I laughed out loud thanks to Chen Tian Xiang & Wang Pei Yan's antics. The parody scenes were also amusing. Doudou I never knew she had active imagination.
2. Acting - Superb performances by the cast. Wang Pei Yan had impeccable comedic timing. I also appreciated that Wu Tian Hao had more significant scenes in this round.
3. Styling - I liked San Ge's boyish outfits. Haha I was surprised to see Labubu figurine attached to his shorts / belt loop (I wrote a reddit post about Labubu appearance in vertical dramas). Overall I must say that the Ji brothers were really stylish.
4. Family - Core theme that continues to touch our hearts. It was great to see this theme being explored in Zeng Hui's character and his family.
5. Ending - I CANNOT WAIT FOR PART 4!
6. Supporting characters - I enjoyed the cameo of Ji grandpa's childhood rival. Their bickering was always entertaining. I also liked Meng Na's role in this drama.
7. Plagiarism - I liked this scene of big corporate plagiarism. It just shows that some companies / nations are insecure that they would resort to intelligence theft / plagiarism.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - There wasn't a big antagonist arc that covers the whole length of the drama. Instead, there were smaller antagonist arcs such as the scheming couple, money-hungry descendant of Tang & campus belle. That campus belle was mean & insecure.
2. Mini arcs - While I think it's great that several mini arcs were explored amongst the big arc (San Ge), I found Ji grandpa's love story out of place because Tang family didn't have significant connection with the Ji. I also wished Wang Pei Yan's character arc especially related to his personal growth (not related to his family) was given more screentime.
3. Teasing - As much as I loved the Fifth brother, I felt the teasing & hitting were too much.

Favourite scene
When great grandmother did acupuncture treatment to Ji Mo Han

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just a teeny tiny suggestion

TLDR; Story gives a wide range of emotions, even within the same episode. Acting is amazing, and chemistry is on point for the most part. Music is okay, and it's a short watch.

Story: each ep is emotional whiplash--I can laugh most of the time and then start tearing up the next minute. There's clearly a protagonist, but there's focus on the supporting characters as well. And some of the eps are dedicated to one character, which I rlly appreciate. There is some "scary" aspects i.e. blood, but as someone who doesn't like horror, it's bearable. Pacing is alright. The ending did seem like a lot, and I felt like I missed out on some things. I will say, the plot point that fl can turn into a male is an interesting analogy for someone being trans, and it'll probably be the closest to it in a cdrama that won't get censored by the Chinese government LOL

Acting/Cast: Love, love, love all the characters and their interactions. All the pairings and the chemistry between them are really sweet. The only character I have complaints about is the acting for Duan WR's love interest, who seemed a little too animated imo, and her eyes are scary..

Music: Intro music reminded me of the Mission Impossible theme, which I think is what they were going for. Outro music is a little catchy, but other than that, not a ton to go off of.

Rewatch value: easily bingeable. I was surprised about how short it was tbh.

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Half-half

My favorite part of this drama has to be the romance. Mi-joo is just such a lovable character, with so many heart-warming scenes between her and her kids. I loved every single time she was on screen and wish we got more romance — though I get it would've been difficult considering Kang-ho's amnesia and state of mind throughout most of the show.

The main selling point of this drama really is the relationship between Kang-ho and his mother, and while I do think it's written with a lot of depth and the gray area leaves you a lot to think about. I didn't quite connect with it on an emotional. The same could be said for the country-side gang in general, who are kind of your typical comic relief characters.

With that being said, I think I was actually much more intrigued by the high-stakes revenge plot, but it's pretty much glossed over by the end and the steps Kang-ho took to get there doesn't make much sense. I get it — this drama has a revenge plot but it's not a revenge drama; it's mostly a backdrop to the story of Kangho's relationship with his mother. So I'd just say to anyone going into this to have the right expectations.

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You've been warned! - Plot what plot?

Quick content warning first: Just in case anyone is thinking it will be like every other BL where the camera/ blanket is above the hips or they pan away when it starts to heat up - NOPE! - the tag saying full nudity is 100%. There may not be full frontal but if you are not ready for some very SPICY action then this is you warning to turn back now!

With that out of the way - the story could actually work as a fleshed out drama if they wanted to and definitely has potential to continue beyond the total run time of 15 minutes and could be very interesting. The reason I am marking it so low is that it just feels like it is a cover up for the real reason they wanted to make this *wink wink*. And the acting was good overall and great with the spice.

And the re-watch value IMO is 100%! ;)

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Finally a Yao Guan Yu performance that I love. Great chemistry & fabulous wardrobe

I like Yao Guan Yu's face card but his dramas can be hit or miss for me. I could never find a drama that I truly enjoy both his acting & chemistry with leading lady. Now Undercover Affair is one of my favourite mini dramas so I was pleasantly surprised that Han Le Yao has started vertical dramas. Oh, it's funny that when I started watching vertical dramas I thought Yao Guan Yu gave the same vibe as Leo Yang. Anyway I watched She's Fiercer than Gunfire last weekend and wow, I enjoyed it immensely. I finally found a Yao Guan Yu drama that I enjoy!

What I liked:
1. Styling - Yao Guan Yu looked utterly fabulous in floral, bright outfits. Great wardrobe too for FL and ML's right hand man.
2. Romance - Great push & pull dynamics and done in various scenes. I loved their kisses - fiery!
3. FL character - One of the characters with most growth I've seen in vertical dramas. She went from a desperate nobody to confident queen.
4. ML character - Cool, calm & collected. Confident leader.
5. Acting - My favourite Yao Guan Yu performance. Delighted to hear his real voice. Han Le Yao gave a superb performance too as she was able to portray 2 different people.
6. Training - It was fun to watch FL going for various training to impersonate ML's stepmother. I enjoyed the weapons training and the stakeholder meeting preparation.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - ML's rival was shameless. I also disliked ML's stepmother.

Favourite scene
When FL joined the stakeholder meeting chaired by ML

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Masterpiece

​"As You Stood By" is easily my favorite drama this year and ranks in my top five of all time. The gripping story held my attention from the opening scene to the finale.

​Mr. Jin stood out as the show's hero and the girls' steadfast ally. He provided essential support without ever overstepping, allowing them to take the lead when necessary. He, along with Hui-Su and Eun-Su, are my favorite characters.

​The core theme powerfully explored the cycle of abuse and the necessity of taking action to break it. Haunted by her own childhood in a violent home, Eun-Su refused to let the past repeat itself. She devised a drastic plan to stop Hui-Su's abuse by murdering her husband.

​The entire cast delivered phenomenal performances, and I was genuinely satisfied with the resolution. Hui-Su's transformation was particularly moving: she evolved from a broken character, unsure if she would survive the next day, to one who embraces life, eagerly anticipating the future with a smile.

​10/10!

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Absolute fun to watch

I generally do mot write a review after the first episode only but so much happened in the first episode, I felt I should share it here.

This story of Muteluv has started nicely with comedy with tinge of horror and suspense. All the characters and their comic timing are really good. What I really liked so far is that though this is based on comedy yet there are other elements too like a little suspense and horror which is blended with comedy perfectly.

Klairung, the character played by Sky Wongravee is shown as a tiktok influencer who do boxing just for fun and making videos. But from the way his father loves boxing, idolized a boxer and expect Klairung to do good, I feel there's more back story to it.
The trio at the boxing club are really fun to watch. I am already loving this trio.
The rivalry between Klairung and Sunrise, the character played by Mark, is the starting point of all the events. Eventually he met Malai, the character played by Prim. Prim's traditional attire and dance is really good. It's eye pleasing. There is some chemistry building up between Klairung and Malai, which will probably be shown more in upcoming episodes I feel. Also I wonder what is Malai's backstory with her grandmother.

Overall the first impression is very good specially Sky's expressions and acting are top notch.

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A Vertical Drama that is Actually Quality

It’s very rare that a vertical drama makes it onto my lists, and it’s even more rare that I review one. In fact, this is only my second time doing so. But this one deserves it. In a world of crappy writing, tropes, and sometimes amateur acting—but yes we keep watching because they’re our hidden pleasure lol—this one shines. It truly shines.

Why?

It feels like I watched a film that sucked me in entirely instead of a little cheap drama. It’s strengths line in:

• Cinematography that is beautiful
• Amazing acting/character development from our leads
• A story that feels fresh
• Fiery chemistry and Romance that actually has depth
• Happy (albeit rushed) ending

And bonus for me? ENEMIES TO LOVERS YES PLEASE.

It’s not perfect. Vertical dramas never are. But this one is excellent. Will definitely watch it again.

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A drama, comedy with a twist

The lead actor named Sky Wongravee Nateetorn, is not only an actor he is also a model and a brand endorsers and has been a Brand Ambassador of a 2 products. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years now and acted in a lot of series and also made a movie during those times. And this series made his remarkable comeback as solo after long years.This is well directed from the sound effect, cinematography, lightning as well as the cast acting powers. The director made sure it is perfectly executed and delivered well.They all good in their own characters and they perfectly excel.

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Left me Flabbergasted, Shocked and Spellbound!

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Wang Xiao Yi & LuShan Dong are FIREWORKS IN NEED OF DESTRUCTION! I mean to watch these two actors absolutely live up their characters was something that threw me off, because i did not expect what they would give me on this DARK, DARK OF A JOURNEY! How the hell did they do it!!!??? I bingewatched She is My Love Cage in one freekin go on Youtube and have been waiting for it to be uploaded here on MDL. Because this is a masterpiece done right in my book.

When you seek to draw in an audience craving a real dark romance where the ML borders on being the Villian and the Female heroine never backing away from his deathly grace, you need to show your cards right in every direction. LuShan`s performance as the Gang Leader Rong Ming is the epitome of distaste, hatred and violence. He seeks to destroy the one woman who infiltrated his Organization, but did not expect for her to be the Light to his Darkness. Eventually, he fell fast and hard. I mean i could not blame Shen Ning for being so wary of him, he was literally about to throw her to the Wolves, and she was afraid of what he stood for. These two on-screen together folks, YUM! When Rong Ming kissed her like he needed to breathe...the way he held her in fury & passion.So freekin sexy! I just can`t unsee it! Stole my heart and never gave it back to me!

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3-Star Michelin Chef in Joseon

Bon Appetit gave me strong Mr. Queen energy, but with its own flavor that sets it apart. While Mr. Queen leans heavily on rom com chaos, this one takes a more grounded approach. The romance has weight, the politics add tension, and the cooking scenes tie everything together in a way that feels thoughtful instead of gimmicky. It’s that sweet spot where you’re entertained but still pulled into the story’s layers.

The pacing sits right in the middle too. Not too simple, not too tangled, just enough suspense to keep you saying “one more episode” until you realize you’ve finished the whole thing in two days. What really hooked me was how several characters sat in that gray area where you’re not sure if they’re good or bad. By the end, that duality actually makes the entire drama feel richer and more memorable.

I genuinely loved this show, and it stays with me even after the final episode. My only tiny wish is that it had a standout OST I could cling to and replay whenever I want to relive the experience. Other than that, it’s a beautifully balanced watch that delivers charm, depth, and flavor all at once.

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A Delighfully Fun Fantasy Drama That Avoids Clichés

Starry Love is one of those rare Xianxia dramas that feels refreshing, warm, emotional, and beautifully balanced in every aspect. It sets a new standard for future C-dramas by giving us healthy family bonds, character growth for everyone, well-written female leads, and four realms that are actually interesting.

From humor to heartbreak to breathtaking visuals, this drama has everything.

One thing that I really liked was a focus on sisterhood, family, and women working to uplift each other, instead of sisters and friends competing for men, money, and power. Although, the drama also rehashes a jealous side chick trope, it's very minor and pretty forgettable. I really liked the chemistry between each couple, as they got to know each other, develop bonds which led to love. I liked that the story blurred some lines between good and evil and allowed some characters with a questionable moral compass a chance to grow and make good choices. Chaofeng started out an an anti-hero, not entirely bad but someone with questionable morality. Through his growing love for Qingkui and exposure to her purity and goodness, he developed a conscience. Youqin gaining back his feelings allowed him to realize that protecting the heavenly realm wasn't just an arbitrary duty but a desire to protect family.


⭐ A Drama Where Family Actually Loves Each Other

One of the most surprising and heartwarming aspects is the sisterhood between the twin princesses, Ye Tan and Qing Kui.
They are different in personality, morals, strengths, and dreams — yet neither is written to be “better.”

No jealousy.
No pointless rivalry.
No betrayal for a man.
Just pure love, loyalty, and growth.


⭐ Character Breakdown (All Four Realms + Key Characters)
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🌟 FL1: Li Ye Tan (Void Princess)

Ye Tan is unapologetically herself — sarcastic, sharp-tongued, chaotic, bold, brave, and secretly soft-hearted.
She is strong without being cruel, clever without scheming, and flawed without being naive.
Her journey from “misunderstood girl” to someone who saves the realms is beautiful and empowering.

🌟 FL2: Li Qing Kui (Heaven Princess)

A gentle, compassionate soul who embodies kindness without being a pushover.
Her strength comes from empathy, loyalty, and emotional maturity.
She proves that softness is not weakness — it’s power.

Together, they are one of the strongest sister duos in C-drama history.

👑 ML1: Shao Dian You Qin (Heaven Realm)

Starts cold and reserved, but gradually gains warmth, humor, and humanity through Ye Tan’s influence.
Their relationship grows slowly, naturally, and realistically — no instant soulmate proclamations, no forced push-pull romance.

Their emotional development is a highlight of the drama.

👑 ML2: Chaofeng (Demon Realm – 3rd Prince)

Chaofeng is chaotic, flawed, wounded, funny, dramatic, insecure, jealous, brave, and surprisingly tender.
He has one of the best character arcs — learning that love requires vulnerability, honesty, and sacrifice.

His dynamic with Qing Kui is sweet, emotional, and beautifully written.

Also, his friendship with his right-hand man? Legendary. 😂

⚔️ Wudai (General of Demon Realm)

Who knew this man would steal so many hearts?
He is loyal, brave, adorably clueless, and surprisingly emotional.
His relationship with both Chaofeng and Qing Kui adds depth, humor, and warmth.

⭐ Side Characters Worth Praising

Third Prince’s friend/wingman – absolutely hilarious and loyal.

First Prince’s right-hand man – calm, collected, and secretly comedic.

The queens of the realms – supportive, strong, emotionally complex.

Each realm’s siblings and generals – well written, meaningful, not disposable background figures.

Every character — even minor ones — feels purposeful and memorable.

⭐ Why This Drama Stands Out

✔ Female lead who is stronger than the male lead
✔ FL saves the day (finally!)
✔ No forced romance
✔ Character-driven story
✔ Healthy family bonds
✔ Humor that doesn’t feel childish
✔ Villains who are not evil for no reason
✔ Redemption arcs done right
✔ Immortal Realm not portrayed as entirely corrupt
✔ Beautiful visuals & great CGI
✔ Natural romance, slow-burn, and deeply emotional


🎯 Who Should Watch It

✔ Fans of xianxia romances with balanced pacing and strong world-building
✔ Viewers tired of cliché misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts
✔ Anyone who loves character-driven stories with emotional growth
✔ Fans of Chen Xingxu, Li Landy, or tightly written fantasy dramas
✔ People who enjoy romance with comedy, without silliness
✔ Viewers looking for strong chemistry and well-crafted relationships

🚫 Who Should Avoid It

✘ Those who prefer fast-paced, action-heavy wuxia with constant battles
✘ Viewers who dislike slow-burn romance or character-depth arcs
✘ Anyone expecting heavy political intrigue or dark palace drama
✘ People who want love triangles, angst overload, or villain-heavy plots
✘ Viewers who prefer short dramas—this one asks for emotional investment
✘ If you’re looking for a completely serious, tone-heavy drama, this won’t suit you—its foundation is clearly comedy-fantasy with lighthearted charm

⭐ Final Thoughts

Starry Love is stunning, heartfelt, funny, beautifully written, and full of depth. The story is emotional without being depressing, magical without being confusing, and romantic without being toxic.

It’s an easy recommendation for anyone who loves:
✨ Strong female leads(development takes time, I enjoyed the initial arc of the fl charachters more)
✨ Sisterhood
✨ Fantasy worlds
✨ Humor & heart
✨ Romance with development
✨ Well-written side characters
✨ Balanced storytelling

Starry Love isn’t just a drama — it’s an experience.

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it had potential, but...

Well, the story had potential. If you disregard the utter sht of the 2nd "half", and if you get rid of all that useless stuff (thats almost half of it :) ) from the rest.... maybe. So basically good idea, poor execution. The first couple of episodes really looked like something ok, but then : plot devices, plot contrivances, plot holes. Yeah, yeah, its a drama, I shouldn't expect much. I didn't and it still disappointed. Even the fact that the character has inner monologues got replaced with the annoying trope of talking outloud for themselves. Actually there are lots of tropes (even the one where the dying characters get a 1min "last breath" so that they hate time to say something "meaningful". *sigh*
Moving on, the acting is meh. Yeah, sure, there's chemistry between some of the characters and thats making it feel more "real", but most of the times is just meh. Also, the continuously expo-dump didn't help in making them more "natural".
Long story short: its a meh drama. You might enjoy it for a bit, but it is overly long when it didn't needed to be. And it feels even longer because of the non-sense fluff inserted. And then it gets boring.
It gets a rating of 4 for the tiny pieces of good story, some good acting, some decent cinematography.
Have a nice evening.

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