Emotional rollercoaster!
Oh my God. this one played my emotions like a yoyo, i swear. the flashbacks made me smile, laugh and be giddy and then the present time made me sad and i even cried. when i heard about a 2nd season, i was like "oh, here we go *eyeroll*" because lets face it, usually 2nd seasons kinda suck. but this one, was so real and raw. everyone gets overwhelmed at one point or another in a relationship, mostly so when its a busy life. and if you lack some maturity or have some past trauma and issues- you make the poorest decisions. And i really felt this in this drama. they played well on it. And the acting was marvelous. i lived all the sadness and cried as if i was the one there. the story went smoothly, didn't feel any confusion at any point...the character development was nicely done and their reconciliation didn't felt cheesy or forced. simply 2 people who admitted their mistakes, understand eachother and love one another so much they wanted to make it work. I'm beating myself up for not giving this drama a chance earlier. i kept skipping it and now i feel like a fool.Was this review helpful to you?
A little disappointed.
The story picks up a little later where we left off, except that we realize that Han Ji Woo just left leaving a letter, disappearing for over a year and leaving behind a confused Kang Seo Joon.I'm disappointed because I didn't expect this kind of script. I know the story has to tell something but honestly, I wanted a sequel to discover more about the couple, their relationship, I find myself not only having more scenes where they argue and throw harsh words at each other, specially Han Ji Woo, rather than a storyline that deepens their beautiful relationship.
At one point they also lost me in their chemistry which seemed more awkward at times (during the flashbacks). Speaking of flashbacks I was a bit confused how they introduced them, not very smooth for the audience.
It's such a shame that this sequel was more about Kang Seo Joon running after a reluctant Han Ji Woo to even consider him properly, rather than giving them a proper story.
So, really disappointed with this sequel and also a little with the actors who may have lacked chemistry at one point.
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Even better than the first season
Absolutely a 10. Excellent writing, directing, editing, casting and acting. Good sound track. A carefully crafted story with nuanced depictions of characters and their emotions. Lots of details for side characters resulting in a richer, more realistic/life-like experience. Does a good job of portraying aspects of the media business without intruding into the story. The first season is light and fluffy by comparison.Pay close attention in the first few episodes to place the flash backs/flash forwards to different time periods in the correct order. Narrative voice-over by different characters gives it a literary feel, and the juxtaposition of different voices emphasizes the different ways characters are experiencing the same situation. Don't be afraid to back it up if its a little confusing.
Some reviewers have made negative comments regarding the credibility and emotional inconsistency of the Ji Woo character . Is Ji Woo actually credible as a character that would exist in the real world? Since when do we require our fiction to be 100% realistic? Ji Woo epitomizes the emotionally stunted, those who are unable to understand and communicate their own feelings and emotional pain. To some extent all of us can be that person. This movie is about how we struggle with facing bad feelings. The emotional discontinuities in Ji Woo that some complain about, I interpret as merely shorthand. This is not a "how to" to resolve communication problems; it isn't showing us how they resolved them. It is pointing out the high cost of these communication problems. I can attest from personal experience the high cost of failing to communicate and the extended amount of time it takes to get to a position of acceptable communication. So maybe I rate this season so highly because it most closely matches my own experiences.
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it really holds the untold story ?
it's a must watch!!! I personally feel that the entire plot was really sweetly plotted after the season 1. I didn't expect this season to be this much great(honestly).. i underrated this season before watching it, but when i actually started watching it i just couldn't stop myself. This drama had me going till the very end in a one go (i watched only after it was released completely).If you all are not sure whether to watch it or not, then please do it! I promise you all won't regret. It's worth watching!
THANK YOU FOR THIS SEASON !
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This review may contain spoilers
Getting together is easy, staying together is hard... but not impossible if you learn to communicate
I've watched many bl drama, but this one is really on another level. The first season was already great and cute, the characters were really well written, they have their virtues, they have their flaws. Flaws that appear at top energy in season 2, because it's easy to get together with a lover, it's hard to mantain a relationship.Seo Joon and Ji Woo love each other and try their best for their partner in their own ways. Seo Joon is often busy with his job, he's wanted by everyone, surrounded by all sorts of people, from fans, to co-workers. He still does his best to go home to his lover and spend as much time with him as possible. Ji Woo, on the other hand, is alone, literally, even in season 1. His only "friend" was the owner of the restaurant who tried to trick him and now at the beginning of season 2, the only person close to Ji Woo is Seo Joon. This situation is too heavy on Ji Woo, for him, his lover is everything, while Seo Joon meets all sorts of people. Ji woo's frustration grows even if he knows that Seo Joon did nothing wrong at all, his low self-esteem makes him think he's just one of the many people in Seo Joon's life, he will soon forget about him anyway so he chooses to disappear from his life.
At first I couldn't understand Ji Woo's choice, but after the end of the season I was able to understand why he did what he did. Ji Woo moves to his native village, where he finds an old friend with her daughter and has also the chance to meet with his ex-girlfriend. Finally, Ji Woo has a background, friends around him and his own restaurant and even if things don't work perfectly (his restaurant is always empty, he doesn't have a great relationship with most of the people of his village) we can finally see Ji Woo as a character, with his own story, disjuncted from Seo Joon.
While Ji Woo builds his new life, Seo Joon is left confused, with no clue and with no explanation. Eventually he manages to find Ji Woo and he tries his best to get closer to him again. Seo Joon befriends the people of the village and with several excuses he's often there.
We also meet Ji Woo's ex to add a bit more of drama (as if Ji Woo himself wasn't enough), she is still in love with him and in the past she left Ji Woo all of a sudden to study in America. She basically did what Ji Woo is currently doing to Seo Joon. She had her own issues, her own weakness and she felt her boyfriend didn't care enough about her. It is the kind of behaviour that can seem extremely selfish, but sadly it happens when we are in a negative moment. Her presence helped a lot to put some order in many characters: Seo Joon misunderstands a conversation and believes Ji Woo still likes her and decides to give up on him, Ji Woo on the contrary starts to think more carefully about his situation with Seo Joon. So yes, now it's the time to turn the table and it's Ji Woo who (after some other events) understands that he wants to go back to Seo Joon.
Seo Joon doesn't make much resistance because he's a big simp, so 9 episodes of angst are solved relatively fast once Ji Woo explains him what went through his mind. And I'd say that also the audience understands him and forgives him pretty quickly, at least I did. His best ability is to build walls around himself (as Seo Joon himself mentioned in season 1) and this time he just chose to build higher and thicker walls, to protect himself and his lover from his own dark feelings. And Seo Joon is the only one stubborn (or crazy) enough to crash against those walls to the point of hurting himself. But eventually he managed to break them.
For half of the season, Ji Woo's behaviour was a complete mystery, just like it was a mystery to Seo Joon. In some parts, he is almost cruel in his attempts to push Seo Joon away. And I personally believe that breaking up without giving a real reason is really immature. But I can see what the author wanted to do with Ji Woo. He was pretty confused by his own feelings, he felt lonely, he felt gulty for feeling jealous of his boyfriend. His low self-esteem and the idea that he didn't count much in Seo Joon's star life did the rest. His biggest limitation was, in season 1 like in season 2, his inability to communicate properly. Ji Woo's negative feelings grew so much because he never expressed them. "I have such a great boyfriend while I feel like a piece of trash", what can you even do in this situation? What can Seo Joon do more for him, even though he's already been perfect? This was probably what was going on in his mind, so he chose to leave.
Leaving was probably very good though because not only he found friends, but also because it allowed him to face properly his problems and even have the first fight with Seo Joon.
The feeling is that after this big crisis they can now have a more balanced relationship. Ji Woo has learnt to be more open and honest, Seo Joon has learnt more about Ji Woo.
Ji Woo doesn't wait lonely anymore for Seo Joon to come back, he has his own restaurant, he didn't run back to Seoul, but they try to meet as often as possible, if Seo Joon is free he goes to Ji Woo's village, otherwise it's Ji Woo who goes to Seoul. They are two individuals who chose to share a path together, they're not a couple that has to be tied at all costs to the point they lose awarness of who they are.
Kudos to the way the first episodes in particular were handled. Flashbacks overlapped with the present time, for example Seo Joon goes back home and Ji Woo is there, but it's only a memory, he's actually alone, adding to the confusion regarding Ji Woo's choice. The overlaps happens also while Seo Joon is acting in his drama. Fantastic the scene when he floods Ji Woo with calls to meet him and the scene moves to him on set, shooting a scene of a character making a phone and saying to have some pride and not call so often.
Kudos also to the side characters who weren't just npc rooting for the mc, but people with actual stories. Pyl Hyun is just amazing, this guy makes me laugh so much, as well as the poor manager who has to handle Seo Joon's (and Pyl Hyun and Ji Woo's) personality. Ji Woo's neighbour and her daughter were also nice characters who got some background on their stories, as well as his ex-girlfriend.
BL are usually stuck in overly cute and fairy plots, To My Star on the contrary manages to give some realism, as painful as it is.
Let me finish this very long wall of text by expressing how much I love Seo Joon. He isn't perfect, but god he's so genuine, cute, and honest that it is literally impossible not to fall in love with him (only Ji Woo could resist this much lol). It's been a while since I've last felt such an affection toward a character in a drama.
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BEST 2ND SEASON EVER MADE OF ANY BL!!!!!!
Everything about this show is just amazing! , the story, the cinematography, the supporting cast, the direction, the acting, and of course The main leads, wow they were just so good!, I loved how it was not completely different from season 1. A very beautiful sequel that made us sad, cry, smile and happy. Hugs are the most powerful thing in the world that solve everyone's problems. The character traits didn't change at all from S1 and came on board they did an amazing job taking what was already there and starting new storyline with hints of the old ones. Son Woo Hyun and Kim Kang Min did wonderful job in their respective roles.I could just go on and on , so on and all this is a must watch show and both seasons. try it you'll love it!
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This review may contain spoilers
S2 Was Better Than Season 1
Oh, let me gush about "To My Star S2"! This is hands down the best season 2 of any BL series I've ever seen. It's not just a typical BL, but a deep and emotional adult gay drama that left me utterly mesmerized. I couldn't believe that after being in a relationship, we got to experience an unrequited love story between the two leads. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, and I was completely hooked from start to finish.The chemistry between Kang Seo Joon and Han Ji Woo is off the charts, and their love story truly tugged at my heartstrings in ways the original series couldn't quite match. That kiss under the bridge had me reaching for the tissues like I was cutting an onion!
The series takes us on an emotional rollercoaster as we follow Seo Joon and Ji Woo's journey through happiness, heartbreak, and everything in between. After their careers took different paths, the couple faced unexpected challenges that put their love to the test. The moment when one of them disappears, leaving only a note behind, had me on the edge of my seat, anxiously waiting to see if they could find their way back to each other.
I couldn't believe that the catalyst for their breakup was Ji Woo being in an unresolved straight relationship. My heart ached for Seo Joon, and I wanted to smack some sense into Ji Woo for leaving him so senselessly. The path of their relationship felt so real, and I found myself relating to Seo Joon's journey to find closure after the breakup.
But oh, how their reunion warmed my heart! Their journey back to each other was beautifully portrayed and really tugged at my heartstrings. The series delves into the intricacies of adult relationships, showcasing the struggles and joys of love in a way that resonated with me deeply.
"To My Star S2" is a true gem among BL dramas, breaking the mold with its compelling storyline and emotionally charged performances. If you haven't watched it yet, you're in for an unforgettable ride of love, heartache, and ultimately, a heartwarming reunion that will leave you gushing with joy. This is a must-watch for all BL fans, and I can't recommend it enough!
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This drama is like a box of chocolates
This whole drama surprised me positively a lot!I decided to binge-watching it with season one and I didn't have any expectations about both seasons but I ended up speechless. As far as the 1st season was very entertaining, has an easy plot, and left me in a good mood wanting more, the 2 season was an emotional rollercoaster. I cried a lot.
"To My Star 2" left us with the mysterious disappearance of one of the main characters - Jiwoo, and lead us to understand and solve the questions that appeared in season 1. We were able to understand him better and see each episode his entire point of view within the relationship. This season was very realistic showing that we meet and love people with different experiences and sometimes the conversation is needed, but sometimes very hard to do because of the past. I personally think the director and screenwriter made a great job.
The drama has incredible, very natural acting. Kim Kangmin made an amazing job in portraying the character of Jiwoo. For the whole season, I could feel the pain, sadness, and uncertainty that Jiwoo faced because of his worries about the relationship. Also, I could naturally understand his past and everything he went through, and what made him who he is today.
Moreover, we have Son Woohyeon who once again made me fall in love with Kang Seojoon. He is a fantastic actor. His charisma and style during many scenes made a great break from the heavy and hard main plot but not making him annoying or unfunny. I think that he is one of the funniest and best k-bl drama characters so far.
What I would say that I didn't like about the series was the opening song. I don't know why the director decided to change it. I enjoyed "I'll be there" a lot and I think the song would still suit season 2.
To sum up, I think the drama is definitely worth watching and worth rewatching as well.
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This review may contain spoilers
Portrayed complicated emotions better than expected
I have to say this because I did not see many viewers talking about this.Ji woo was not bad or evil. The life he lead and people he met before meeting SeoJoon was also a part of reason why Jiwoo acted like the way he did. And same goes to Seojeeon persistent behaviour to get his BF back.
Jiwoo was introverted and quiet from his childhood.But after the scam, the way villagers must have treated his family and the sudden death of his parents must have left a huge traumatic impact on him, undoubtedly. He is not the kind of person to handle his emotions very sensibly and to consider he was young back then. Regarding his relationship with Soonyong, he did made mistakes by taking her granted many times. Because he was so closed off after his parents' death, he accepted only himself and his cooking in it. It was hard for him to let Soonyong get in, thus it ended up hurting her. And this failure in his first relationship added up to his trauma. He believed he did not deserve this love and affection.
And then SeoJoon entered his closed off world. I believe he never recieved therapy. So he was not aware he was severally depressed. He tried to keep those depressing emotions depe down, but one day they got so overwhelming he left. One of the factor that added to this event was hum not expressing himself to his BF.
He did not leave SeoJoon. But he left the miserable state he had created around him. I am sure back in his mind he wanted to leave but come back to SJ again. The terrible thing was he needed more time. Obviously a year he needed because his trauma was never treated since his teen years.
Another theory I have is he went back to his village because of his friend who was a single mother. Perhaps the village might not have been welcoming of a single mother. So he went with her so that most of the attention would be on scammer's kid rather than a single mother with no father present in picture.
He did do some good.
He pushed away SJ because he believed it is no use to be back together but still the way he treated SJ was not pleasant. And the show in no way glorified it. I could see they did not say that such behaviour is correct.
The past life of SJ also explains alot on how he reacted when he got JW's address. He came back to him time and time again because he knew JW loved and cared for him. He can give SJ the care and affection he never recieved from his parents .
I loved the female friendship which was not dependent on main leads. The way the mother cared for YooHa was adorable. There was a slight development in mother daughter relationship after YooHa attempted to hide.
I did not agree with the plot of a little kid exposing JW's past or maybe I left some part which explained it.
I loved the CEO'S character. A fun relief he was that I loved to see him on screen everytime.
Overall I loved the show. Some part were too heavy to understand for me also but i liked they showed instead of telling it.
I realised in the end the show was not just for JW or SJ, it told stories of each character involved. The story telling was in bigger extent like Sooyoung or CEO or in smaller extent like that female assistant director or newcomer actor.
Though, i did disagree with some parts but it was a good show which dares to include complicated emotions and portrayed it right.
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This review may contain spoilers
”So why did we break up? I don’t know. I don’t remember it”
It only took me two years to finish this.
I like To My Star, the actors, the story; I understand its popularity completely. Before watching season 2 I knew it would be heartfelt and deep so my thoughts were ”hell, if anyone would enjoy a storyline like this one, it’d be me.” I survived I Promised You the Moon and I liked it. But this? A movie version possibly would’ve fit me better because maybe then, these two would’ve solved things a LITTLE quicker.
This was too dragged out for my taste. It was frustrating to witness yet another season of an insecure guy resorting to be cold and distant while the other one fought alone to keep him by his side. I do get why he pushed him away, his struggles are valid. But the instant ”let’s forgive, forget and hug” is what I found the hardest to appreciate. Their issues were solved so easily after a whole long drama fest.
To compare it to IPYTM [minor spoiler], yes, Teh did some very bad stuff, worse in fact. But he got karma. Ji Woo got a hug. It was an okay series, but I wouldn’t hype it up as much as others.
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Love finds its way
My review might seem over the top and biased but that's what I think about it.A true masterpiece, and it will indeed remain to be one for years to come.
When I watched season 1 I didn't actually felt like I was watching some people act, it looked like it was happening for real. And when it ended a part of me was just convinced that they are real in this world or any parallel world. When the news of season 2 came flying I was so excited but also scared that it will take the turn of every season 2 where the writing and acting just becomes so sloppy and boring that one might have to just act like the season 1 was the end and season 2 never happened.
But boy this was not the case with 'to my star'.
The story became more real, insted of giving us lovey-dovey moments we got to see what actually happens when you are in a relationship. How small matters can affect you and how those small matters are not small at all. That was truly the harsh reality of relationship and I loved it
Some people may not like the ending but I think according to their personalities and development that was more than better and justified ending.
And please I want a season 3 with then against their families and world. Also hoping to see them get married. If that happens I would certainly get an heart attack.
Well for the music it's very nice and soothing. Not over exaggerated at all. Support roles are awesome. And I hope we can know more about the side actors cause they seem so interesting.
Do watch it once. You will love it❤️❤️❤️
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This review may contain spoilers
love is about adapting to each other
i feel like the story was unnecessarily dragged and that there were too many filler scenes, especially considering this was a 10 eps drama with very short runtime. i ended up fast forwarding eps 7-9, but obviously watched ep 10 in normal speed. i loved it very much, the chemistry between the leads was just as good as in s1 and the fluff filled my heart, but one ep of fluff will not make up for the dragged story that the rest of the eps were. i feel like it was unnecessarily angsty as well, although i definitely understand where jiwoo's feelings came from.i have some complaints about it and i prefer s1 a thousand times more, but i liked how they resolved their issues by healing themselves on their own first and facing their own fears and complexes. i really liked the line that said "there is no perfect person or and there is no perfect form of love, it's just a matter of understanding and adapting to each other through love. it's about learning to speak one's mind rather than putting one's pride ahead." i've always felt like this is the most accurate definition of love and the way they portrayed it was very beautiful.
still, i don't think i can give it more than 7.5 because the story felt too dragged.
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