When the Phone Rings (2024)

Drama was a 10 / 10 up to Episode 10

Unfortunately really detested the ending from Episode 11 onwards.

i was thoroughly enjoying it up to Episode 10. story had a great plot, twists were interesting, even a budding romance with supporting characters. Episode 11 started off okay but then went off track before finally collapsing into one big disappointing mess.

I overlooked the silly behaviour of the FL Hee Joo, as she was still in her 20s very emotional and controlled by an abusive mother. And hated the scene fillers with repetitive memories of previous events and day dreams etc.

But the ending did not make sense in anyway. to me it was illogical and absurd.

I’m begging screenwriters, if a story cannot fill the desired number of episodes please don’t pad it out with nonsense. For this reason I gave the drama an 8.

Park Jae Yoon should also have been given much more credit for the fantastic role he played as the villain.

Yoo Yeon Seok was brilliant and he gets better with age. So up to episode 11 he stayed in character but Episode 12 destroyed his character. I read in a review that he thought he was getting too old to play romantic leads. I disagree but the script will need to have a decent plot and the production a mature portrayal of romance right to the end.

Read More

MY HEART CALLS YOUR NAME

***DISCLAIMER: This is just my opinion. We don’t have to agree and I’m not here to argue with anyone.***

TLDR: My review is long so if you don’t have time, just skip to the final thoughts section.

OVERVIEW:

The drama begins with Baek Sa Eon and Hong Hee Joo, a couple married for three years but trapped in silence due to mutual animosity and Hee Joo’s selective mutism. Their fragile relationship worsens when Hee Joo is kidnapped by a masked assailant who threatens her life to get Sa Eon’s attention. After escaping, Hee Joo’s resentment towards Sa Eon intensifies. She uses the kidnapper's phone to communicate her demands of getting a divorce. As the story unfolds, the couple must face their unresolved feelings and decide if they can move past their grievances to navigate the crisis together. The drama delves into their emotional struggles, tackling themes of trust, love, and redemption amid various external challenges.

__________

IN MORE DETAIL (SPOILERS AHEAD):

Fist off, I liked how When The Phone Rings (WTPR) was able to captivate me in 2 episodes, usually dramas take 4-6 episodes to draw me in but this one did not. It felt like a breath of fresh air and after the first episode I went immediately to the next, without a break or hesitation.

The vibe of this drama is right up my alley; it’s a romantic suspense drama with mystery / thriller aspects, arranged marriages and a bit of tension between the leads. The transition from childhood friends to lovers adds a charming twist. I enjoyed it! It was the perfect antidote for those times when you’re in a drama slump, looking for something quick, bingeable, and effortlessly captivating. I found it especially revitalizing, as I was starting to feel that K-dramas were losing their spark.

The storyline was quite engaging, even if it leaned heavily on makjang tropes and required a hefty dose of disbelief. Flaws are a given in any show, and this one is no different. However, each character and far fetched plot line served a purpose, and in the context of this drama, it all somehow worked.

Honestly, sometimes, you just crave a cheesy, cliché drama that feels like a warm hug. Watching their slow-burn romance blossom into heartfelt confessions and breakthroughs was simply enchanting. Their unconventional love story touched my heart in ways I didn’t expect.


MIXED EMOTIONS:

Initially, In A appeared menacing but ultimately reveals a non-threatening nature. It seems unreasonable for her to expect Hee Joo to resume speaking just because her surgery was successful, allowing her to hear and talk again. That part annoyed me because it seemed selfish, especially after relying on her as a substitute for so many years.

It was disheartening to find out that Do Jae was scheming against Sa Eon, even though I had a hunch about it. While I might be able to brush off his treachery, the memory of him starting a fire and pushing Hee Joo off a cliff, leading to her serious injuries, is hard to shake. Moreover, the fact that Do Jae managed to survive after being beaten, stabbed, and nearly drowned stretches believability to its limits. In reality, both of those events should’ve left them severely injured or dead.

The second couple didn't resonate with me much; they seemed to lack the spark I was looking for. Their love was more subdued and comforting, unlike the fiery connection of Sa Eon and Hee Joo. Despite this, I was pleased that they revealed plans for marriage at the end.

While I recognize that Sa Eon should have learned sign language sooner to communicate with Hee Joo, it's important to consider his peculiar upbringing. To the Baek’s, he was only a spare, which positioned their marriage as a business arrangement. He maintained distance, feeling unworthy of genuine affection. Nonetheless, I commend his later efforts to learn, which showed his desire to connect with her on a deeper level.


DISLIKES:

The 5th episode was likely the weakest link in the series; it felt like a filler and earned a modest 7/10 from me. I was hoping for more excitement, but it just didn’t deliver.

I believe this drama could have reached greater heights if it had targeted a more mature audience. The 13+ rating restricted the depth of the romance earlier on. Still, I admire Sa Eon’s gentle approach; patience really is a virtue.

Sa Eon’s so-called family treats him like a mere pawn in their game, completely disregarding his humanity and identity. It’s heartbreaking to see him, an orphan, uprooted from his life simply because the grandfather chose him for his own agenda. His existence has never truly belonged to him. The flashbacks of his childhood, especially when he was forced to eat fish broke my heart. On the other hand, it was endearing to see how back then he offered his plate to Hee Joo when she was forced to restrict herself. These little parallels between past and present add to the story and highlight Sa Eon’s unwavering care and protectiveness towards her.

I really wish we had seen more of the mother taking responsibility for forcing her daughter into silence. Honestly, she came off as way too nonchalant, and it’s hard not to see her as a deeply troubled and insensitive individual. Everything seems to revolve around her, with her excuse being that she wanted a better life for Hee Joo than the one she experienced. Sure, but in doing so, you subjected her to a different kind of suffering! The mental and emotional scars are not something that just fade away. That’s my main issue, along with the overused trope of parents trying to make amends and seek forgiveness.

I also felt like the news report at the end particularly with the use of fictional country names mirroring real-life ones was unnecessary.


LIKES:

This series featured a stellar cast, the actors played characters with a sense of authenticity and realism. Yoo Yeon Seok delivered as usual, I don’t think I could ever imagine anyone else playing Sa Eon now. Chae Soo Bin brought her own unsuspecting charm and innocence to the role, while also being super flirty and daring when she was 406. I liked seeing her range. She deserves accolades for her impressive sign language performance.

Conversely, the kidnapper exhibited a commendable performance. Finally, there is a villain with a compelling backstory, clear motives, and justifications for his actions. While I did not feel sympathy for him, I appreciated the depth of his character. His troubled relationship with his parents nearly elicited pity. However, I found his demise somewhat too quick and simplistic but then again, you can’t always have it your way.

In my opinion, the finale was a total treat for fanfic enthusiasts. Given that this story started on Wattpad, everything that unfolded was spot on, and I’m not even a little bit sorry for enjoying every second of it. I swear, watching the last episode I was giggling and smiling so much. The people who get it get it and the ones who don’t, don’t. In my opinion they’re just out of the loop or above cliches altogether, but then again, everyone has their own preferences.

I’m glad there was no love triangle or 3rd person attempting to sabotage the couple. Additionally, the absence of a trivial breakup is refreshing. Sa Eon’s departure was indeed heartbreaking, primarily due to his difficulty in confronting Hee Joo after realizing he was the son of the person who inadvertently forced her to be mute following the accident which killed her brother. I think these events laid the foundation for their eventual reconciliation in Argan, similar to dramas with military themes.

I liked how Hee Joo engaged in conversations with those who had a deep connection to Sa Eon, as it allowed her to feel closer to him. It’s such a relatable portrayal of loneliness and confusion; those small interactions were her lifeline during those tough days.

That kidnapping scene where she was blindfolded, it felt like it was lifted straight from a romance novel. It had the essence of multiple shows and movies blended together, but honestly, I didn’t care because Sa Eon looked incredibly handsome while rescuing her.

The cinematography is impressive. While some may dislike the imaginative scenes, I find them endearing as they offer a glimpse into the characters' thoughts and showcase more charming moments between the couple. I also value the subtle hidden details they added that help’s to convey the emotions of the leads.

The OST is also amazing. The first time I heard the captivating opening track, "Hear Me Out," and saw the theme, I thought it was quite intriguing. The first experience hearing “See The Light” was thrilling, and Lim Hyunsik’s vocals are powerful. "Numb", for "May I Love You," and "I Feel It Now," are my top 3 song, as it expresses the emotions of our leads so well. Honorable mention for "Say My Name" which is beautifully sang by Yoo Yeon Seok and shows off his amazing voice.


LOVES:

The leads chemistry is off the charts! I was breathless by the end of episode 2 and again in episode 7. The way they match each other's energy was electrifying. Their intimate scene following the kidnapping was truly something. The filming was excellent; the directors captured the perfect angles and flow. While some viewers criticized the earlier kiss in episode 10's epilogue, I believe the final scene redeemed everything. As a romance enthusiast, their love story resonated with me, and their unwavering connection was evident. The last 15 minutes of the finale were everything, showcasing them as newlyweds finally experiencing happiness after 11 episodes of struggle. It was a satisfying happy ending.

I also appreciate how, in the jungle scene in Argan, Hee Joo initiated the kiss. It was refreshing shift in dynamic showing her taking control. After all of Sa Eon’s encouragement throughout the drama to pursue her desires without hesitation, she finally embraced his advice. Talk about a well crafted arc! And let’s not forget the scene that followed was absolutely sizzling!

What I truly admire is how they handle their issues with such gravity. The years of pain they endured were no joke. The moment between In A and Hee Joo, where she realizes that clinging to the past will only bring sadness, was particularly poignant. I loved how they both showed mutual respect, with Hee Joo letting go of her resentment towards In A. That was a genuine breakthrough that really tugged at my heartstrings.

I loved the character development of Hee Joo. She transforms from a timid and naive person into a confident, determined woman who pursues her desires. Her newfound courage to confront those who have wronged her is inspiring. Similarly, Sa Eon undergoes significant growth, enduring numerous challenges before ultimately finding his happiness.

Sa Eon's affection for Hee Joo stands out, especially considering he was brought up devoid of love. He was raised to be perfect, to make up for the faults of his fake parents and to preserve their legacy. Although he developed a reserved and distant demeanor, his tenderness towards Hee Joo is heartwarming and his sweetness shines through. While he may appear rough around the edges, his love for her is unmistakeable. From the start, their hearts have called each other's names; it was merely a matter of time.

The beauty of that final scene lies in the fact that there were no pretenses this time around. Hee Joo was honest about her feelings, simply wanting him to return home. The progress they have both made in these 12 episodes has been truly remarkable.


FAVORITE QUOTES:

“𝘞𝘦’𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺. 𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”

“𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘤𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘊𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.”

“𝘚𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘥. 𝘚𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘴𝘩 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥.”

“𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘺.”

“𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘵. 𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘵.”

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘶𝘱. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬. 𝘚𝘢𝘺 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.”

“𝘛𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘛𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘉𝘢𝘦𝘬 𝘚𝘢 𝘌𝘰𝘯 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘏𝘦𝘦 𝘑𝘰𝘰.”

“𝘐 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘐 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

“𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦. 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯𝘦-𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦.”

“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥-𝘪𝘯. 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘧𝘦.”

“𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘉𝘢𝘦𝘬 𝘚𝘢 𝘌𝘰𝘯. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”


FINAL THOUGHTS:

This drama was an absolute delight! As a fan of heavier and more emotional stories, it was a nice change of pace to watch something lighter that didn't leave me feeling drained. Some persons would beg to differ but for me, this drama was not that deep. It was simply a joy to watch.

All in all, I simply loved how they blended almost every genre together, the mystery, thriller, romance and romantic suspense which kept you on your toes and had you eager to watch the next episode.

This drama was made for yearners and slow burn lovers. Yu Yeon (formerly Sa Eon) and Hee Joo perfectly encapsulate that dynamic. I love the name he chose and their cozy little married life. The ending was so heartwarming, especially the scene where he tells her if she wants their home to be more lively they need to add to their family and then lifts her bridal style to the bedroom.

Is it a masterpiece? Absolutely not. Is it binge worthy and enjoyable? Definitely. WTPR may not be perfect, but it had me hooked! Although the last 2 episodes faltered a tiny bit, the show's overall excellence still prevailed. It provided a much-needed escape, lifting my spirits and making for a gratifying watch.

Would I recommend it? Yes, especially to persons who are beginners or just watching for a good time. I even roped in 4 friends to watch, including two who had never even watched a K-drama before. So far, they’re loving it, and it’s fun to have people to discuss the episodes with.

The romantic suspense and chemistry was brilliant. The leads were so captivating that they definitely earned some extra points in my book. I genuinely loved them, and I can confidently say there was rarely a dull moment in this drama for me.

I need to see YYS and CSB in another project together. Also, what is Yu Yeon up to at the end? He looks like he’s giving some secret agent vibes fr. I just can’t get enough! This drama definitely deserved more than 12 episodes. 14 or 16 would have been perfect. Fingers crossed for the possibility of a 2nd season!

My averaged episode scores put this drama at an 8.6/10. However, due to the review section being currently bombed, I'm generously giving it a 9/10. I'll reassess and adjust my score once the ratings normalize.

__________

SIDENOTE:

While some claim WTPR is overhyped, I believe its popularity is well-deserved. It captivates and entertains throughout. Everyone has different preferences, WTPR met mine. If you are still unsure, by eps 2 to 4, you'll know if it suits your taste; if not, it's best to move on. Manage your expectations to avoid disappointment, and remember it’s literally based on a Webtoon / Wattpad novel.

I tried to keep my review neutral, concentrating on the main points of the plot and my viewing experience. It is important that we maintain a respectful and focused conversation without any political biases or jumping to any premature conclusions.

Anyway, that’s my two cents lovelies.

As always,
Thanks for reading & happy watching!

˚ʚ♡ɞ˚

Read More

The best drama of 2024

First of all i like to appreciate the acting of the leads and all the supporting cast. Yoo yeon seok and chae sobin gave their best acting in their career. So good the sign language specially. Rest of the cast second leads, office staff, villain and parents all acted so well.
Story/production/screenplay/direction: the story is so enticing and captivating there is zero filler scene in this drama. Every episode feels like a roller coaster ride and a whole film. So many emotion are shown in single episode. The production of the drama is top notch. From the styling to the outfits every thing is outclass .
Chemistry: this is the best chemistry i have seen between the leads in any k drama. Even the behind the scene of this drama are trending because of their chemistry. All the kiss and hugs scene are so good and natural.
Ps the OST Are so good specially see the light is so amzaing is already in billboard global top 10. And the song sung by yoo yeon seok himself is just cherry on the top. He is so talented.

Read More

WTPR has everything can expect from a kdrama

Reviews are subjective but honestly I’ve never rewatched any drama as many times as this one while it was still airing… not even my beloved CLOY. For me, it’s perfect: the script, directing, camera work, the length, the tempo, no unnecessary or cringe scenes, and so many details are well thought out. The OST as well, and best of all, the acting and the chemistry between the main leads. We see a rarely seen nowadays top class acting from not only main leads but also supporting actors.
Of course it has a few parts in the form of illogical and slightly realistic consequences of various accidents, but this is a common technique in this genre and is no more miserable than in other dramas, and it does not affect the story or the pleasure of watching.
To be fair, I haven’t seen a lot of the iconic and older dramas yet, but I think I’ve watched over a hundred various dramas already, and this one has everything I expect from a kdrama. For me, it’s in my top 3 and I will rewatch it more than any other series for sure.

Read More

Full on tropes but are well executed.

It never promised a groundbreaking - oscar worthy masterpiece, but it was perfect on its own right.


For the future watchers and those starting the drama right now. The ways you can actually enjoy this drama.


1. Always think of the drama logic. The show is for pure entertainment, a guilty pleasure. If you are here thinking it would be a realistic drama, then you won't enjoy it. Abandon the technicalities and your personal projections.

2. It is a thriller romance, so both genres are entertwined. You will feel the angst and frustration, but you will also feel the intense chemistry of the leads.


3. Plot-wise, your questions will be answered as you go along the rest of the episodes. Any other "logic" you are thinking of, please refer to number 1.


4. Instead of thinking "how/what will I do in this situation" it should be "how/why did Heejoo & BSE do that". Then you will enjoy this more. Again, point number 1.



But seriously, as a long time drama watcher, I am easy to please. As long as the leads acting are great, intense chemistry and good communication are present, idrc about the craziness around them. So for those who are like me, you will enjoy it.

Read More

Turn your brain off and enjoy

This drama is super fun, if you set your suspension of disbelief at Max and come with your expectations in check.

You may love this drama as much as I did (contentious finale included) if:

1. You like soap operas, trashy romance novels, and/or wattpad fanfics (or if you're old like me good ol' ff.net)
2. You love romantic thrillers with a high tolerance for makjang plot points
3. You love angsty desperate romances
4. You aren't nitpicky about the smaller details

You may not like this drama if:

1. You want a green flag ML, everyone is unhinged here do not expect normal people behaviour from pretty much anyone
2. You have a low tolerance for miscommunication (or the complete lack of communication)
3. You have a low tolerance for batshit plot twists
4. You hate the time skip/separation trope

As a makjang tropey romantic thriller this is great fun. Absolute junk food of a drama. Grab some popcorn and buckle up.

Read More

Ring Ring, Real Romance is Calling

{ Remember this is just my opinion, don't take it personally 😊 }

I'm just going to say it: 'When the Phone Rings' is the drama equivalent of a triple-shot espresso – it's a wild, heart-racing ride that will leave you breathless and begging for more. The leads' chemistry? On fire! The plot twists? Expertly crafted to keep you on the edge of your seat. The romance? So cheesy and scrumptious, it's glorious.

It's a love letter to fans of clichéd, over-the-top romance – and I am HERE. FOR. IT. The writers leaned into every trope, and I devoured it like a starving person at a feast. I ravaged every scene, every moment, every swoon-worthy glance – it was like I'd been deprived of oxygen for years and finally found air.

Yoo Yeon Seok and Chae Soo Bin are absolute magic on screen. Their passion and chemistry is palpable and utterly captivating. This drama is filled with tension-filled moments that are steamy and delicious, making for a truly electrifying watch. The sparks between them are undeniable, with even a single glance igniting a fiery connection that's impossible to ignore.

Sa Eon's character, in particular, is a complex, flawed gem. Growing up without love or care, he learned to navigate life by following orders and playing a predetermined role. This upbringing has instilled in him a deep-seated sense of unworthiness, making him believe he doesn't deserve love.

Throughout the drama, Sa Eon's actions are a poignant reflection of his deeply ingrained emotional scars. Initially, he pushes Hee Joo away, fearing his own emotional inadequacy. Later, despite developing intense feelings for her, he falls back into the same pattern, attempting to shield her from his perceived flaws. He just wants to protect Hee Joo from any more hurt or pain. It's crazy to me why this aspect is so frequently misinterpreted.

People need to remember that not everyone has healthy attachment styles; some people quite literally run away from their issues. It's truly unfortunate that certain viewers struggle to accept complex, flawed characters. Nobody is perfect, after all. Our male lead, in particular, is still navigating his emotions and grappling with the aftermath of a tumultuous past. Can't we offer him some understanding and empathy?

Sa Eon's decision to leave wasn't a cowardly escape, but a desperate attempt to atone for his family's dark past. By donating his inheritance, quitting his job, and risking his life to help captives in Argan, Sa Eon sought redemption, punishing himself for the sins of his father. The revelation of his father's true nature shattered Sa Eon's sense of identity, leaving him reeling from the trauma and baggage of a lifetime of lies. His actions were a powerful reflection of his character, as he took responsibility for the harm caused by his father's actions, even though he was innocent. This poignant portrayal of guilt, shame, and the weight of legacy added depth to Sa Eon's journey, making his ultimate healing and love all the more satisfying.

On the other hand, Hong Hee Joo's character offers a poignant contrast. Forced into silence for most of her life, she was consistently ignored and belittled, despite harboring a depth of emotions waiting to be unleashed. Some critics argue that she should have prolonged her phone calls and blackmail, but the crucial point is that Sa Eon discovered her involvement and accepted her nonetheless.

His unwavering love and acceptance of Hee Joo, flaws and all, are a testament to the transformative power of their relationship. Sa Eon's desire to protect and ensure Hee Joo's happiness and safety underscores the depth of his emotions, and serves as a beautiful counterpoint to the trauma and pain they both endured.

Hee Joo's character undergoes a profound transformation throughout the 12 episodes, culminating in a remarkable display of resilience in the final two episodes. Despite being kidnapped, starved, and exhausted, she summons the strength to escape and flee for her life – a testament to her unyielding spirit.

I adore how both characters, despite their flaws, complement each other perfectly. They courageously look beyond their painful pasts and choose to love each other unconditionally. After being neglected and ignored for so long, they truly deserve this kind of love. To me, Sa Eon and Hee Joo are soulmates.

Their unshakeable commitment to each other is inspiring. No matter the distance or obstacles, they're determined to find their way back to each other and fight for their love. The promise they made to each other remains rock-solid until the very end exemplifying the transformative power of their bond.

The scene where Hee Joo believes Sa Eon has been shot may have sparked confusion among some viewers, but it's essential to consider the context. Having fallen and hit her head, Hee Joo is disoriented and not in a clear mental state. This pivotal moment is intentionally crafted to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, guessing what will unfold in the finale.

While the final episode was undoubtedly rushed and choppy, I'm willing to overlook its flaws. Why? Because I had an absolute blast watching it! The plot may have gone off the rails, but who needs coherence when you're treated to Sa Eon rocking a sexy military outfit, armed and ready to save the day? That scene was pure, unadulterated gold – straight out of a telenovela.

The reunion scene, in particular, was everything I could have hoped for. Although the drama took some liberties with the novel, it managed to capture the essence of the story while still delivering some delightfully bizarre moments. For me, it was a wild, entertaining ride that hit all the right spots.

In short, this K-drama was ridiculously bingeable and so much fun! I had an absolute blast each week, especially in the comments section, eagerly discussing the latest plot twists with fellow fans. I'm also fervently hoping for a season 2 – and to those who might protest, I say: you don't have to watch it but I will! I genuinely believe there's more story to be told, particularly with Sa Eon and Do Jae joining forces as an unstoppable duo. The prospect of them fighting crime as badass partners is absolute perfection, and I'm craving more!

I’m also eager to see Sa Eon and Hee Joo’s relationship blossom further, perhaps even expanding their family, iykyk. The possibility of Do Jae and In A exploring a romance, despite being an unlikely pair, also has me intrigued. All in all, I think there’s a wealth of untapped potential, and I, for one, would be thrilled to see more. So bring on season 2!

The naysayers can't ruin this drama for me. I'm ignoring the controversy surrounding that one 30-second scene – it’s, a minor blip on the radar of an otherwise phenomenal drama. This drama simply is a wild, emotional ride that will leave you breathless – finally a story with real romance. The leads' chemistry especially is on fire, and they take you on an emotional journey that will capture your heart. The show's writers bravely leaned into every trope, and I truly devoured each moment with gusto.

With its bold execution, good performances, and addictive romance, When The Phone Rings was an unforgettable viewing experience that will be ingrained in my mind for years to come.

If you are still skeptical, I urge you to ignore the noise and see for yourself!

Thank you for reading 🩵

Read More

One of the best kdrama I've seen in a long draught of mid kdramas

Don't get me wrong, every single cliche you know in the kdrama world happened in this drama:
Truck of non doom
Cliff of non doom
Chaebol paternity secret
Secret wife that no one knows
Secret wife that is the LOHL etc etc.

But it was still the best, in that the ML and FL acted out the part so well I forgot I was watching the same thing told in a different way...until I did and found myself cheering it on all the same, and the leads chemistry was 🔥, and after they started dating over the phone, I was officially won over.

Although fictional, this drama and most of the rest I've seen this year (including cdramas) have me seeing how difficult it is to be a woman from another woman's point of view. It looks to me that whatever y'all do invites scrutiny no matter how well y'all do it. Makes me want ask the women around me, 'how're you holding up? Are you okay?'

My hats off to the women who take it in strike and still step out winners at the end of the day regardless, y'all are the real MVPs. See y'all in 2025.

Read More

Very intriguing

I always wait until a drama has all the episodes available, but when reading all the comments about how good this show was, I was almost certain to be disappointed. But it was just as good as all the comments I read. Yoo Yeon Seok as Sa Eon and Chae Soo Bin as Hui Ju were excellent. I hated him at the beginning, as I was meant to, but once a couple of layers of the mystery were revealed, I loved the character. Chae Soo Bin doesn't have much facial expression (perfect for I Am Not a Robot), and that also gave me pause, but they were both perfect in their roles.

This is the first drama I've watched in a while that I did not fast forward through any of it. I was able to just enjoy it for what it was and not pick apart any logic or lack thereof. I looked forward to each episode, anxious to see what was going to happen next.

I have to say, I didn't care for the casting (or maybe it was the acting) of the SML. He had an odd look about him and I couldn't get past the feeling that he was a bad guy. Also, I felt that the role of In A, Hui Ju's sister, was miscast. She seemed entirely too old, more like her mother.

I don't give out a bunch of 10 ratings, but this probably would have been one of them, if it weren't for Episode 12. What the heck?!?! I couldn't suspend disbelief that far. Did they give a third string writer a chance to write the last episode? It had nothing to do with the rest of the show, was sloppy, and irritated me. If the main couple had managed to get together in episode 11, I'd just tell people to skip episode 12!

Read More

A Wild Ride From Start To Finish

I thoroughly enjoyed this K-drama, from the cliffhangers that kept me utterly absorbed to the natural chemistry between the leads and the comical moments that added a lighthearted touch. While it's not perfect – there are some plot holes – I still highly recommend it for its addictive storytelling and relentless pace that'll keep you guessing till the very end.

I went in with zero expectations, giving it a try after seeing someone mention it (spoiler free) on TikTok. It was surprising because episode one hooked me instantly. Like many great K-dramas, it started with a bang, ensuring viewers were glued to their screens. As a fan of fast-paced storylines, I loved how this series kept me entertained and engaged from start to finish.

The ending was extremely satisfying for me, but I do acknowledge some flaws. For instance, the Argan arc lacked explanation, leaving some viewers confused. To be fair, even I was unsure where the story was headed at times, but the expertly crafted buildup to Hee Joo and Saeon's reunion had me completely invested. And that kiss? Absolutely perfect. In that moment, all my previous questions and concerns melted away. Both characters surrendering to their feelings was incredibly satisfying, and I was thoroughly satisfied.

The intimate scene between the leads? Totally iconic. I mean, they're a married couple, so it felt super authentic and real. It was like, the culmination of all their pent-up emotions and desires finally coming to a head. And, tbh, it was a major payoff after all the anticipation built up throughout the series.

The way the scene was shot was like yummy perfection. It was passionate, but still sweet and tender. Not too extra, but just enough to make it feel real. And those slow-motion effects? The soft, romantic vibes? Everything about it just felt so right. It was, like, the ultimate slow burn payoff, which I just ate up.

I decided to just enjoy the show instead of overanalyzing it. And honestly, that's what matters most - it was a wild ride from start to finish! (pun intended 😉)

To all the critics out there writing think pieces and judging the show harshly, relax. From the start, it's clear what kind of drama this is - a Wattpad novel adaptation, duh! It's gonna be over-the-top, cheesy, and packed with clichés. Who cares?! If you're into it, great. If not, move on. Nobody forced you to watch.

The happy ending was totally deserved, and it wrapped up the story beautifully. Each character got the closure they needed, and it was super satisfying. So, let's just enjoy the drama and not overthink it, okay?

The major takeaways from this drama were:

1. Communication is KEY. Don't hold back, and always keep it real from the jump. Honesty is everything in any relationship.

2. Loving someone means accepting their flaws. Nobody's perfect, and that's what makes relationships real.

3. Forgiveness is EVERYTHING. Life's messy, people are imperfect, and we're all gonna make mistakes.

1. Knowing when to fight for love is crucial. Sometimes, it's worth putting in the work.


A/N:

I'm low-key laughing at the haters spreading lies and trash-talking the show instead of just enjoying it. They got my original review deleted, lol what a waste of time. Next time, they should just join a circus or something - it'd be a better use of their energy.

To all the trolls out there, let me say: Screw you. You just don't get it. Some of y'all were waiting for the perfect moment to spew hate, and when the show got too popular, you jumped at the chance. Newsflash: not everyone's gonna like the same thing, and that's ok. But what's NOT ok is review-bombing, mass downvoting, and getting people's reviews deleted. Get a life 🤡

Honestly, the 'woke' warriors are sucking the joy out of everything, including our favorite dramas. But you know what? I'm over it. I'm gonna sit back, kick my feet up, and rewatch this drama guilt-free.

It's a solid 10/10 from me, but if I could, I'd give it a 10000/10. That's how much I loved it. No apologies, no justifications. Just me, my snacks, and this delicious drama.

Let's be real: Activism ≠ A Review

It's exhausting to see people using review sections as a soapbox for their performative activism. You know, those who are more concerned with appearing 'woke' than actually contributing meaningful discussions. They're more focused on signaling their virtue than providing constructive feedback.

It's like, if you're genuinely passionate about a cause, put in the actual work. Volunteer, donate, educate yourself, and have respectful conversations. Don't just hijack online spaces to stroke your own ego and pretend to be an ally....

Performative activism isn't just annoying; it's also alienating and damaging. It creates a culture where people feel pressured to pretend to care, rather than genuinely engaging with issues. And it's especially frustrating when it happens in spaces meant for discussion and community-building, like review sections. Instead it's just WW3 all the time. Be so serious and look at yourselves.

Can we please just focus on the drama and the characters, rather than competing in some kind of 'who's the most woke' Olympics?

🫰😴

Read More

Cliche done right

Cold and possessive male lead with a mysterious past , check
Cute and silent female lead with a trauma , check

This has to be one of the best dramas of 2024. With such a strong start, it captivates you and keeps you on the edge.
Marriage of convenience , childhood acquaintances, estranged couple, ... these tropes were executed in a way they didn't feel cringy and further added to the plot. If you want to relive your wattpad days , its for you.

The acting, the plot, the chemistry ,the cinematography , pacing, dialogues, twists and attention to detail were so well done. The acting of not only the leads but also the supporting cast , especially the real Baek Sa-Eon amazingly done. From what you can expect from a romance thriller kdrama, it delivers. In most of the parts, there is nothing unnecessary and the plot flows seemlessly . The romance scenes also served.

Not to mention the OSTs , so beautiful . See the light has become one of my favourites.

It did a good job for most of the part . The start was impeccable . We get a couple who have been married for 3 years but just for name's sake , the male lead having liked the fl since the beginning and them slowly getting to know each other as they face problems that threatens their very being. We get angst, tension and intensity which dissipates in the later episodes. As we transition to the last few eps, they were a little underwhelming compared to the rest of the initial parts and becomes a little over dramatic and random , doing absolutely nothing to the plot . The logic flies out . But the ending make up for it so ...

Special mention to the second lead couple . They stole my heart . Their dynamic was fun and natural . I wish we had gotten more of them.

I am giving it a 9 for the overall job it did ,overlooking some subplots (*cough* argan *cough*) and for the terrific start.

If you love cliches that give you the feels , jump straight into it.

Read More