Skip Beat! is one of my favorite anime/manga that's why I was really nervous for this one. I was afraid that it wouldn't give justice to the manga, but I was so glad that it turned out to be good. The story was still the same with a little bit alterations here and there. One of these is the importance they gave to Mr. Du, Dun He Lian's manager. His character is a truly likable one. He supports his talent in everything and, of course, even Gong Xi. He is amusing because he is the one who always teases Lian and the one who, in a way, became a bridge for them to get closer. In this adaptation, Lian is kinder, though his professional aura is still there. In addition, they threw two characters who are for laughs, but I think they should not have added them because they're just flat characters. The ending is left open, inviting questions, but I guess it's because the manga was (and still is) ongoing, However, I think it's wrapped up nicely that it isn't irritating that it left the viewer to his imagination of what could have happened to the characters. There might be exaggerated scenes, but remember that this is adapted from a manga. The scenes aren't even that exaggerated compared to its original source. Anyway, I just wished that they animated the "animated" parts better, like the Gong Xi demons, because they may make some cringe. With regards to the acting, in my opinion, Siwon and Donghae did a good job portraying Dun He Lian and Bu Po Shang, respectively. I wasn't really expecting much from them since I only saw them as singers and dancers of Super Junior (I love them, BTW), so I was surprised of the act they did. Though Siwon didn't show a menacing or scary enough Lian, at least he managed to deliver the emotions well. Donghae, with all his adorableness, showed a truly likable Shang because of his portrayal, though I thought he didn't have that much air of pride as he should have had. Anyway, it's such a shame that it is obvious that their voices are dubbed. Ivy Chen, on the other hand, portrayed Gong Xi well, but I feel like it being a live action made it difficult to show fully how and who her character is. Also, she had some expressions which looked unnatural... or quite not right. Another notable character is Qin, who was portrayed very well by Bai Bianca. Her interactions with Gong Xi was pleasant to see because their friendship was clearly seen. Of course, there is Mr. Du as well. Part of why his character became likable is, of course, because of the actor. The child who acted as Marie was good, as well! The other casts did acceptable to good jobs. I love all the songs in this drama. The opening is catchy and is giving a good vibe, exactly like a good beginning. The ending song gives me a nostalgic feeling, just the right emotion I feel whenever something is coming to a close. The other insert songs and some instrumentals are placed just at the right moments to enhance the feels of the scenes. In all honesty, I couldn't remember how many times I've re-watched this series already. I guess I've really became attached to it. Anyway, perhaps this is good to re-watch whenever one just want to feel good or stare at the handsomeness of Siwon and Donghae. This is fun to watch, especially if you are able to disregard the exaggerations and some poor animation. I recommend this to: - those who want some lighthearted/rom-com shows - fans of Skip Beat! ('cause you may want to give this a try) - fans of Super Junior (particularly of Siwon and Donghae) Written: 11/10/12 Edited: 01/01/15