Reviews

Two diametrically opposed characters

I will pre-cursor this by saying I only care the acting, characterization, and the overall storyline/plot progression. From these narrow areas of interest, I have come to two conclusions. First, Hu Yu was a god in this. He is the only reason I stayed. The love, compassion, devotion, and yearning pours from his eyes and from every motion of his being. It slowly fills up your soul and sets it alight.

On the other hand, Su Mu (using the character's name on purpose because it's not the actress's fault. I know her to be a good actress) is hands down the worst female character of her type I have ever seen. You say a 2 dementional character to describe a character that lacks depth. She was a 1 dimentional character. She was negative depth. There was no presence to even build depth off of. She was fluff if a piece of fluff had already been ingested and then regurgitated by an alley rat after a trip through the sewers. That's how the existence of her character made me feel. Truly gag-reflex-inspiring. The closest I could get to describing her character would be ditsy, but there was not enough of a presence to even build that claim off of. She would have had to carry out actions. She would have to move through space and create an effect on space and time, but space and time came across her and turned their noses up at her and gagged in disgust.

You read in the description that she became his navigator, but that's if you count 15 seconds of reading the directions off of google maps (or their equivalent). Some comments claim she was a metaphorical navigator, but you could have put a stick figure with her eyes across from him, and that wouldn't have changed the story one iota (actually, it might have been better). As long as he had something to direct his smolder, the show was heart-stopping. I wouldn't say she's the ultimate bad representation of womanhood because that would require her to represent something. But I did feel shame that she exists. And I am a woman.

It was such a conundrum because her character made me feel a combination of nausea and shame, and his character was compelling and mind-blowingly magnetic. But with that magnetism, you didn't need anything else. But it also meant that you didn't get anything else (character-wise).

I gave the story a 7.5 because the story was good, and it wasn't the story's fault she was negative presence. I gave acting 8 because she was just acting her character, and while she does often play annoying, ditsy characters, that doesn't mean she's a bad actress; it just means I don't like the characters she plays. Maybe, in fact, it means she's doing a great job because they annoy me so much.

Finally, I gave a 9 for rewatch value because I went back and replayed every time he looked at her. It wasn't just one type of emotion or look. They were endless. The depths his eyes held multitudes... and made up for her negative lack of presence! But in the end, her character brought the total down to a flat 7. Sorry, world! Hopefully, its popularity means He Yu is getting the accolades he deserves, while at the same time, no other producer ever considers a character like her again. It would be pretty hard, now that I think about it. She was certainly unique in that way.

Read More

Sealed with a tear

Because there was a LOT of crying in this one and those kisses were lackluster.

This was one of those where the FL really came off as stupid to me. Entirely too gullible and trying too hard to be everyone's hero. She's in this abusive relationship because of her uncle.

But unlike other abusive relationships, she really could have left at anytime. She wasn't kept locked up as she had freedom to leave whenever she wanted. She wasn't being followed all of the time, because the ML would ask her about her whereabouts if he didn't know. And that was only when he suspected she was with another man. Or lying to him about where she was going because she is a terrible liar.

So, she had plenty of opportunities to pawn all of the expensive jewelry and bounce. And if she was staying to protect her uncle, once she found out the truth, she REALLY didn't need to stay, but she was on some self -sacrificing martyrdom nonsense. Her woe-is-me personality worked my nerves after a while.

ML was abusive indeed, like a boy who mocks the girl he likes. He was mad jealous and possessive, so if you're looking for a drama with his type, he delivers.

BFF and My Second Master were my fav. Characters in the series. The MLs wife was mad obsessed and her scheming was entertaining. She was also someone who needed to get some business about herself.

Read More

Strong leads, Great Chemistry

I was really excited to watch this drama ever since I heard Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung were in it, and it honestly didn’t disappoint. Their chemistry was great and had me very excited from the first episode. The setting and shots of the foreign countries was also really beautiful, and made the drama have a different feel from others.

That said, I was pretty surprised by the direction the story took. I didn’t expect it to focus so much on another aspect instead of the interpreter and actress storyline, which was what I was most excited for. It kind of felt like two genres fighting each other, and I did lose interest a bit in the middle. I would say I enjoyed the first half of the series more than the later ones. The “will they, won’t they” part dragged on slighty longer than I liked, and got a little frustrating. I think I probably would’ve enjoyed it more if they had just focused on one main aspect.

While I was watching, I also felt that some of the cuts and transitions weren’t very clear. At times it felt a bit messy, jumping back and forth, and I wished it was clearer when things were happening, like if it was in the past, present, or months later.

Overall though, it was still a good watch. I really enjoyed the chemistry and the story as a whole. Kim Seon Ho and Go Youn Jung definitely carried the drama and made it shine in their own ways, especially when they were together. It’s a nice, slightly light-hearted drama to binge over the weekend if you’re into that like me!

Read More

Two lonely souls find hope with each other

After binging season 1, I had to go right into season 2 and it did not disappoint!

They just kept hitting every mark that I love about dramas. The twists and turns, humor, dark humor, anime silliness, age gap, tricky situations, communication, unwaving love... so many details and nuances. You have to let go of expectations/prejudice and feel this drama. It can be confusing, but it starts to make sense. You just have to get on both the main characters mindsets. 😅

I love flashbacks, when done right, and they tie them together over seasons of a series omg I'm all yours.

I feel like the switching from candy to smoking that Jin did was a way to show him using any means necessary to help suppress his desire push to be official with Mikaoto. Again, the details. Maybe it explains it in the manga. I'm still looking for a place to read it.

This is a fantastic example of a story that can have a whole range of emotions and a deep meaniful story, while bring in hope, and not toxic or gross. These two lonely souls find each other and become each others hope/future and its beautiful. No other way to put it.

I didn't find it weird, creepy, or cringy at all. It's a drama that doesn't have force or sa and so everything felt nautral and easy.

I love their chemistry and the story so much. The way they tied it all back together was just perfect. The ending made me want to rewatch season 1 again and it hasn't been even been 24hrs since I first watched it or heck even knew this story existed 😅. I wish, hope, pray, and grovel for a season 3 and 4.

In season 3, I want to see her graduate and them officially become a couple and do akward and cute couple things. For season 4, I want them to get married and have the family they both want and deserve. Why is it more taboo to show people progress in a full love story, than a teacher/student realastionship? 😭

Congratulations to everyone who worked on and made this. Thank you for making a wonderful drama that filled up my heart. What a fantastic jdrama!!! I will be rewatching these 2 seasons for a long time. ❤️

Read More

A Visually Stunning Romance That Struggles to Fully Connect

Story & Plot
---
This drama had a very strong start and immediately pulled me in with its atmosphere and presentation. The premise felt refreshing at first, especially with how language, culture, and emotional barriers were woven into the experience. I enjoyed the tone that the drama began with, which made it feel a little different from typical romantic comedies.

That said, the storytelling became increasingly frustrating as there was a lot of back and forth. With some miscommunication. While this fits Muhee's internal struggles, it was getting to the point where it wasn't so meaningful. I didn't find the pacing to be slow, but there was certain narrative choices that left me confused rather than emotionally satisfied. I was expecting more. The drama had a lot of good moments, but the resolution felt less impactful than it should have been.

Despite these issues, the story isn't that bad. It simply didn't fully deliver on the emotional depth it was clearly aiming for.

Characters & Acting
---
The acting was consistently strong throughout the drama. Kim Seonho and Go Youn Jung conveyed their characters beautifully through subtle glances, body language, and silence. Their chemistry feels gentle and authentic, particularly in the initial episodes.

Hojin, while likable, doesn't undergo much noticeable growth, which leaves his character feeling a bit flat by the end. Muhee, on the other hand, does experience growth as she slowly faces her trauma. However, her development feels limited due to the audience spending a considerable amount of time focused on Do Rami. While Do Rami is an interesting narrative device, her presence sometimes overshadows Muhee.

My favorite character was Hiro. His arc went from childish/petty to someone who was able to allow himself to love someone and even learning Korean. This is probably the best part of this drama. His effort to learn Korean in order to better communicate with Muhee is genuinely touching and adds depth to his role. His dynamic with Muhee feels natural, warm, and so sincere, making it hard not to root for him. Second lead syndrome strikes again!

Music
---
The OST is a highlight. "Lay Down Together" by off the menu, "Daydream" by WENDY, and "Promise" by WONSTEIN are all memorable tracks, that I enjoyed, that elevate the emotional tone of the drama. The music plays a crucial role in grounding scenes and enhancing the atmosphere. I felt that some of the background tracks—particularly English ones—felt oddly artificial??? Overall the main OST left a strong impression.

Rewatch Value
---
This isn't a drama that makes me want to STRONGLY rewatch it. While episode one, scenes with Hiro, and the breathtaking scenery are tempting reasons to return, the narrative confusion, random timeskips, and emotional frustration makes me less likely to rewatch it. The drama is best appreciated for its experience rather than revisited for comfort.

Overall
---
"Can This Love Be Translated?" is a well-produced, thoughtfully acted drama that doesn't fully live up to its potential, but still offers an engaging experience. Its strengths lie in its cinematography, international settings, strong performances, and memorable OST. While the script of Hojin and Muhee's romance sometimes feels forced and super back and forth—along with the confusing storytelling—the emotional themes and character dynamics keep it engaging.

This drama is easy to recommend to viewers who enjoy travel-heavy stories, co-productions, and stories centered on language, identity, and internal struggle. Polyglots and language enthusiasts, in particular, may find it especially appealing. However, those who prefer straightforward storytelling/romance or are easily frustrated by miscommunication may want to take their time with this drama.

In the end, this drama is true to its title—occasionally confusing, undeniably beautiful, and emotionally imperfect. It may get lost in translation, but for viewers willing to follow the storyline, it's a meaningful and visually rewarding watch.

Read More

Learning to Love Through Loneliness

Love Me quietly proves why character-driven melodramas hit the deepest. Maybe it’s the Seo Hyun Jin effect, but I came in ready to fall—and I did. The story isn’t about big twists; it’s about people. Every character is layered, emotionally complex, and beautifully flawed. They’re selfish at times, hesitant, and hard to fully root for—but that’s exactly what makes them feel real.

The drama explores loneliness not as a weakness, but as a shared human condition. The father carries regret and emotional distance, loving in ways he never learned to express. The brother masks his wounds with silence, while the sister struggles between independence and longing to be understood. Their imperfections hurt each other, yet also become the starting point for healing.

Some scenes quietly break your heart—helped by thoughtful cinematography and dialogues that linger long after. Love Me reminds us that everyone deserves loneliness, a second chance, and ultimately, happiness—on their own imperfect terms.

Read More

Kim Seon-ho is a Chameleon in Can This Love Be Translated? ???

I’m still trying to process that Joo Ho-jin and Kim Seon-ho are the same person. Seon-ho completely buried his bubbly, high-energy personality to play Ho-jin, and the result is a masterclass in subtle, grounded acting.
The real MVP move? The languages. He learned his foreign lines from scratch in just 4 months. He’s been praised by native speakers for his flawless accent and natural delivery.
It’s one thing to memorize lines, but Seon-ho captured the soul of a multilingual professional. His dedication is honestly unmatched. If you haven't started this yet, watch it for the romance, but stay for the incredible craft Seon-ho brings to the screen.

#CanThisLoveBeTranslated
#KimSeonHo
#JooHoJin

Read More

Very very cheesy cheese

- The story was very clearly a web novel adaptation, a lot of things didn't feel like they pass as something believable in a live action show, and a lot of the plot was quite ridicolous honestly. The pacing was tolerable most of the time, but I did skip some scenes especially in the middle episodes because they really dragged on. This is definitely a more "trashy" and cheesy romance show, nothing really feels realistic about it, but it still has a charm because of that. It's silly, mushy, but still kinda lovable.

- The mains were all right, I think they did what they could with this plot and writing, I think Chi Cheng's character was played the best, the actor really felt like this edgelord comic character, I liked his acting! The others had lots of under/overacting that didn't really fit with the vibe all the time.

- I really liked the lighting, and the camerawork and makeup was nice too. It reminded me of Taiwanese shows (I don't watch that many Chinese ones), which are also lovely and have a good taste in that department.

- I actually really liked the songs they used as the soundtrack, but there were only a few ones so they became quite repetative fast.

- The show definitely had a few soft "corn" parts, I'm not into erotic stuff, so I skipped those. Overall it was fun to watch when I wanted something kinda over the top lovey-dovey.

- The overdub of the whole show is pretty bad though. I mean it kinda works, but so many scenes felt odd, and it pretty much messed up all the crying scenes.

- I feel like my rating is a bit high, because it really was just a cheesy drama, but I also feel like it's a bit low, because I think in its own genre it did succeed making it how they wanted it to be, so I'm at odds about what to rate it.

Read More

Title: Back to the Beginning — D.C.

For ten years, he lived as someone else.

When Thontarn learned that the life he had been living as Photleng was never truly his own, he chose to walk away — even from Tankhun, the person who loved him the most. Not because he stopped loving him, but because he needed to find himself first.

What makes this finale powerful is not the resolution of the murder mystery, nor the answers to the long-buried secrets.

It is about identity.

Thontarn’s entire life had been shaped by other people’s sacrifices, lies, and desperate attempts to protect him. He carried guilt for surviving. He carried the weight of a name that was never meant to be his.

But when the truth finally surfaced, he also discovered something else:

He had never been alone.

Photleng tried to save him.
Mrs. Kang loved him as her own son.
His father committed an unforgivable act to protect him.
And Tankhun — from the very beginning — loved him as himself.

Not as a replacement.
Not as a shadow.
But as Thontarn.

The title of the final episode, “D.C. (Da Capo)”, means “back to the beginning.” It is not about returning to the past — it is about starting again, properly this time.

The previous episodes were heavy with revelations, almost overwhelming in their pace. But looking back, that density existed to clear the stage for this quiet, emotional restoration.

Tankhun does not rescue Thontarn.

He waits.

And that choice — to wait — might be the most romantic gesture in the entire series.

The lake that once witnessed tragedy now witnesses rebirth. The melody that once carried secrets now carries acceptance.

This drama was never simply about suspense. The murders and memory loss were mechanisms — painful ones — that forced the characters to confront who they truly were.

The ending is not a fairy tale. Loss remains. The past cannot be erased.

But Thontarn chooses to live as himself.

And that is enough.

Read More

the most infuriating bunch

every single man in this series is an absolute selfish lech. bad script where characters keep falling for terrible plot devices, male lead accuses female lead of infidelity every other episode and never lets her explain. prince zhou is a bully, and then in the end the nicest character just gets kidnapped??? are we supposed to laugh?? I’m all for court dramas with political scandals, and a lot of this has the makings of a very good show, but getting there was AGONY. The costumes are beautiful, for sure, and that’s the nicest thing I’ll say for this series. it shows off the beautiful textiles of the Tang Dynasty.

Read More

Why not finish the story?

This is a trauma survival story. Our female lead plays a fragile, talented, gorgeous young actress who struggles with ego, mental health, work, reputation, and relationships. We know early on that her childhood was tragic. Her parents died violently. The aunt and uncle who raised her seem to hate her. She is haunted by her zombie character, her break-out role, first with hallucinations, then with a personality split. We have two handsome potential love interests, a polyglot interpreter and a reality dating show co-star. Good stuff, right?
Tension builds on every front. And then a bombshell drops in the closing episodes. Her parents aren’t dead! What? She saw mom kill dad. She jumped from a balcony when her mom tried to make it a family group death (let’s all eat the poison cake!). But the aunt and uncle withheld the truth from her: the parents survived, had separated but were very much alive. And Aunt & Uncle were afraid of this child, the spitting image of her crazy? Murderous? Mother. Who is alive in America. No wonder she became an actress. No wonder the fragile ego. She’d been acting all her life to try to please these pathetic guardians.
This is at the very end of the drama: packs her suitcases to find mom, then she’s back, and no more personality splits.
No explanations.
It is refreshing to have a drama explore trauma and mental health challenges.
The lead actress particularly was compelling, extraordinary, great job (best actress trophy winner).
BUT it makes no sense to introduce a significant shift that heals our lead, but is not shared/explained/explored. Might as well have had her drunk a magic potion.
Could have been a very, very good drama. Flop of an ending.

Read More