an intimate gaze

I started watching this drama out of curiosity seeing it was one of the top airing shows in Thailand, I expected to see Love in the Air there but I didn't and thus I began watching a show I had never heard of: 180 Degrees Longitude Passes through this.

This show could end up being a masterpiece. I know that is a lot to say, but from the first episode alone this show is just brimming with potential and that has part to do with the cinematography, the script, the story, and the characters. Let me explain...

Watching at first I had to stop and readjust my settings so that the pixels would be at the smallest they could so I could Geta clearer image, because this show is just so crisp to look at. Each shot in high definition looks amazing, and the cinematography as a whole is nothing short of stunning. The camera work is done in a way that makes it feel so much more intimate as opposed to other Thailand dramas I have seen. I don't know whether to have the be credited to the genre, because but it definitely goes towards the direction. This drama could've been littered with zoom ins for the funny moments, and it could've been more dramatic with a lot of the editing too. Instead it is subtle, the camera pans longer on characters, and the scenery that they are in are displayed a lot better because of it. You are fully immersed in this sort of retreat that the mother and son end up finding themselves at, and it's relaxing and you can't forget that is completely on purpose. The lighting, the sound work, and most importantly the acting is just done perfect here. The approach taken by the director is balancing so well so far. And without even talking about the story this drama is impressive by cinematography and all the behind the scenes work that I constantly think about. How can I not when this drama is so beautiful?

The dialogue between Wang and his mother, Sasiwimol is great. I came into this without reading the synopsis so I questioned their relationship in terms of how close they are. Did the director know that she is acting youthfully in a sense that she could be mistaken as his sister? Yes, and that was addressed without it being blatant. They allowed the characters to have their relationship shown through acting rather than spitting it out for you. I was worried about that with the first few minutes of exposition from Wang, but I understand where that was coming from also. His father died and it is him and his accomplished mother, they have a really close and unique bond. So far Sasi and Wang play off each other well, I believe them as mother and son. I also am anticipating a clash between them because I am pretty sure there will be. I think that way because of what I am going to get into next.

In is Sasi's old friend who helps them out. So going into this without any knowledge of what this show was I really didn't expect In and Wang to look at each other so closely. It is by far the greatest thing to watch between two people. To get a sense of tension and wonder what type it is? God I love it so much. The Untamed does this very very well, these are two completely different dramas but they both have those intimate looks that have the viewer asking themselves .. are they into each other or am I looking into this in the wrong way? In and Wang's case I'm excited because they can explicitly be together with this not being made in Mainland China. So hopefully we will see their relationship get some sort of release, some explanation for the looks... honestly I don't need an explanation, their eyes really do tell.

In and Wang... you have to just watch to understand what I mean. At first I thought that Wang was just sort of arrogant, but he also comes across flirtatiously. I applaud the director and actors so much because I now know 100% that that is done on purpose. Now reading the synopsis I am sure of it, a little sad I spoiled that for myself, but I am still glad. They dynamic is unique also, and in the first episode In explicitly says that they should be sort of Nephew and Uncle, but instead he feels they are nothing like that. At that point they aren't flirting, or are they?

I like how it will be short, for now at least. I don’t see the premises dragging out and predict that it will take place within the time they stay there. I am also predicting a sad ending. Hopefully each episode continues to get better and better as so far they are using the small scale of the drama to their benefits, developing the characters that way.

Moral of the story here is that subtleness with relationships goes a long way. It is so much better than a coincidence or a forced kiss or another side character saying that the two leads would look great together when you know they will end up together. Instead let the viewer see the potential for themselves.

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One of Lee Joon Gi's best

Iljimae could've been standard, it could've followed the same formula, it could've had a cliche outcome with general and easy-to-read characters.. but it didn't.

Starting the show I knew a few things; Lee Joon Gi is the leading man, it's somewhat of a Robin Hood tale, and it has a slow start. I started the show for Lee Joon Ji, expecting to watch in my free time and only to keep full attention whenever he'd be on screen. After about 6 episodes the story really kicked off. The longer you watch this show the more interested you get and the more I realized just how captivated I was by the show in its entirety.


STORY

To summarize the story; it's about Yong/Iljimae (Lee Joon Gi) who's lost his memory as of the beginning of the story, with his father being murdered in front of his eyes he remembers years later just what happened and the promise for revenge he's made. First, he starts the Iljimae ordeal to find his father's sword and get some answers as to why his father was murdered, a few nights into this Iljimae is being recognized as a 'hero' for the donations, kind acts, etc. that he does for the common people. The King/Guards try to catch Iljimae, Iljimae keeps looking through higher ups houses, repeat repeat etc.

The first six or seven episodes go fast, but you have to pay attention to not get confused. I can't say I was too optomstic after watching some vulgar scenes (if you watched you know..). Scenes were funny, childish humor, stuff like that. But that's all surface value. The show really thrives when Yong puts on his Iljimae character, and it's exciting to watch.

The fight scenes were well done. Closer to the end I was left in awe by a few seeing the practical stunts and absense of what would typically happen in this day in age (CGI). The fights are clean and smooth and not afraid to show blood (even if at times it's really fake looking).

ACTING/CHARACTERS

Lee Joon Ji is by far my favorite actor. He is versatile and unafraid to put everything he has into his character. I didn't doubt for one second the validity of the character he portryayed because he did it so well. Lee Joon Ji cried A LOT during this drama, and I also cried a lot considering his skills to provoke emotion. He is talented, so so so good looking, charming, the best.

Yong/Iljimae was the best character. That's a good thing considering he is the title character of the show, but you'd be surprised the number of shows that are out there where you dislike the main character or feel they are lacking. So what does it take for a character to be good? Consistancy is a big one, the character is consistent with their actions, how they feel matches up to what they do.. vice versa. At the beginning I wondered a bit if Yong was just that out there and care free, and he might've been if not for his past. The thing is, the character to his core has always been the same. As a kid he was carefree and loving, and even growing up he was the same. There are drastic differences he has when Yong is Iljimae because he is so driven, his motives match up percectly to what happened and it makes sense. I like how the audience sees Yong's past and makes the connections themselves as to why Yong acts the way he does. At times he gets silent, reflecting on his actions and all the time he's felt he has wasted as he didn't remember the promise for vengance he's made. There are also times where Yong is over the top, putting a facade on to others to distract from his true personality and blend into how he's seemed to all the others before. It's golden, it's delectible, it's my favorite type of character. The character with flaws, an anti-hero, someone good to the core but lacking in a lot of ways and not afraid to push others out of their way to get what they want. A character who knows there motives and doesn't change them for anyone, because he's been wronged so much that it wouldn't make sense.

This drama just makes sense, That's the highest praise I can give it. I hate stories that don't add up or leave me feeling confused/disatisfied. Iljimae doesn't. The romance makes sense, with Yong/Iljimae falling in love with the girl he used to know, compared to the other girl he used to know the one he did choose made sense. He loved Eun Chae because of the moments they shared together, and she saw who he was before his fathers death and still loved him and admired him then. She knew who he was and notices Iljimae's good deeds now. A personal favorite of the two was their kiss scene, it's forever iconic to me and surprised I haven't seen more of it floating around the internet.

As for the other characters. I enjoyed all of them, I really liked Yong's father So Dol. He was honest, looked out for both of his sons even though he knew they weren't his. The whole dynamic with So Dol and any character he interacted with was so good. He's a fun loving guy and brings the best out of people RIP :(

Characters that I felt could've been better were Yong's real mother. She didn't show up too much until the very end so I forgot she was there and a whole thing. I don't even remember if she reconciled with her son.. if they met eachother again? I forgot. Ja Dol/Shi Hoo just needed more screen time. Personally I would've liked to see him shirtless more because the man deserves it. Shi Hoo was a stoic character and had his own motivations. Comparing him to Yong was always fun to do, there were so many instances to compare with him and Yong- it was just so smart and praise worthy to the writers.

DISLIKES/CONCERNS

The sets are outdated, with fake flowers and blood. The costuming isn't bad, but it's not spectacular. Again those first few episodes might leave a bad first impression. But it is worth it, this show is beyond worth it.

LIKES/LOVES/PRAISES

Lee Joon Ji is one of the best. He delievered in every scene, especially when his character was fully powered by revenge and/or the silent Iljimae. The OSTS in this drama are better than a lot of OSTS done today. They add so much to the scene and set the mood to distract from the lackluster sets.

The ending is very open, but I am glad they didn't just kill of Iljimae (and they could've, they proabably should've). I don't really like open endings either, because they leave me wanting more. 20 hours of this show still didn't feel like enough and I didn't want the ending to be rushed, in the end it was a little bit but it's better than being bored. Yong was still Iljimae-ing, and I would've hated to see him stop that.

Needless to say I loved this drama, I really loved it, I love Lee Joon Gi and he is amazing at crying.

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no this drama isn’t good.

I’m going to keep this short because this drama isn’t really worth explaining and explaining. This drama is just bad, the writing is so off and characters say and do things that don’t match up with who they are?

I swear everyone is just a bad person and there is no sympathy. I was interested in the parts with Da Mi, but now I guess she is just dead.. so what am I watching for… the revenge? I don’t get the whole plot with K, who and why does he show up? Why is is the blonde guy now? This drama just had plot twists just to have them and they make no sense. The first few times I was ok with it because it was interesting, but now I get that this drama is not only stupid, like it’s lazy.

To keep me engaged they want me to believe these twists and turns… I had to sit back and just call this drama dumb so I could keep watching. I wanted to have fun watching something so stupid, but at this point I don’t have anyone to root for and I feel a bit insulted being toyed like this. I’m serious when I say this drama isn’t one of those that I’m hating because I’m stupid, I simply hate the drama because it is the stupid thing. There is so much character shifts and doing things just for the sake of drama and I can’t do it anymore. This show isn’t too gritty or out there honestly, it’s just stupid.

Why are they all in it to begin with if it’s just a cover up for Mo Ne’s child? Why would K go that far? Kill someone? They want me to believe all these characters are entangle with eachother but at the base of it it is just for Mo Ne and the child thing? It isn’t that hard to get some truth out but oh a cop is involved so that’s why.. god it’s so dumb. It’s not worth starting even, no. I did it for kicks and giggles, now im dropping to start another drama. This drama was filling the empty space until another dramatic and gritty show came out, so I’m watching Vigilante instead of this hot garbage.

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The freedom that comes with loving you

This drama has a very promising start. Initially I thought it was going to be light and fun, a romcom that would be more of a slice of life. I was wrong, and it was a very pleasant surprise .

The first few episodes I’ve seen are gripping and the story is setting itself up nicely to be a revenge story focusing on Dylan Wang’s character. I’m interested in seeing to how he became to head Eunuch and I really like his attitude. He clearly isn’t swayed and intimidated by anyone, even with all the gaslighting within the palace he knows that others all have their weaknesses. He’s a cold man, but he isn’t mean- he’s off putting and scary but I believe he is just heavily misunderstood and a victim of circumstance. If this drama delivers with his backstory he could become an even better character and round himself- he has a lot of room for character development. Lots of potential with both the main characters here.

Bu Yin is also a good character. There isn’t too much I can say with it just being the few episodes I’ve watched. So far she claims herself to be dumb and not anyone to be obsessed over, so I like her self awareness. She really isn’t too stupid- it’s just the nice banter she has with Xiao Duo. She is refreshingly honest with herself and her feelings to Xiao Duo. Their chemistry is able to thrive with the playful nature of her character compared to Xuo Duo. He isn't too stoic, and he softens up but in an adorable and non cliche way.

So far he is pretty much using her for his benefit, as it seems he climbed his way up to his position. Their story should unfold nicely; and hopefully it won’t be filled with tropes. Maybe it will be a hate to love, but Bu Yin is only intimidated by Xiao Duo. I can’t see him hating her as he doesn’t have a need to, he is resourceful and doesn’t waste time.

The complaint I have is that I don’t think Dylan Wang is dubbing over his voice. That’s not his fault thought, I wish he could’ve.

What makes this drama better than others to me is the tone. It is a lot darker as I said before. The first episode shows how gruesome and brutal this show is willing to go. That goes to the world building of the king firing and all his consorts being sent to death with him. Honestly I thought Bu Yin could die, even though I knew she wouldn’t, I almost could see her firing in that situation. It was really keeping me on the edge of my seat. With that being only the first episode I can see a lot of trauma happening later also; and I can see our characters learning from each one. I’m genuinely intrigued by this drama because of the potential it has.

I love the tone of the show, it’s not too dark but it isn’t afraid to be. The humor comes and goes but for the most part this drama is surpassingly funny without that humor overstaying its welcome. It makes you wonder with all the fluffy moments if it will get really intense soon, which is good compared to thinking this drama is too fluffy to go deep into the plot. The sets are beautiful and the lighting is so good. It doesn’t look cheap and I can see this as an actual setting without telling myself it’s a drama. Dylan Wang comes in and is very handsome, but he isn’t just a cold and handsome face here. He is very intimidating and has a lot to work with here and he is giving what the script offers and makes acts so well. The same goes to his costar and the other supporting cast. This show is just well done and hopefully it fastens any loose ends to become truly one of a kind.

Beneath the surface of this drama I find it VERY dark. The transition of the second lead, Fu Wang, threw me off. In a good way. He is given some sort of reverse character ark, to become a twisted and possessive person. I find it to be one of the most interesting parts of this drama. To see this man changed by the position he is in, but it was always him. It just makes sense.

So I love the relationship between the leads. Still it isn't all romantic, it's scary that they pretty much are faced with dying for each other.

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And they called it puppy love

This is a highly anticipated drama that I am so satisfied with for once. I know the limitations that come with anticipation, and from the actors and all parties involved. I could either fully love or fully hate, this one I am stepping back and will just say that it’s not living up to expectations because I really didn’t have any.. but it’s actually really good.

for the first time in a while for me I’ve found a romantic comedy with an absurd idea but this time the drama does it right by going full comedy. This drama is truly a comedy and the ideas and scenes all meshing together make it a fun watch, and one where I still care about the characters and their relationships.

The music fits very well with the drama and so far the casting is perfect for me. The female lead has puppy like mannerisms in some scenes that I had to rewatch because she is too cute, Park Gyu-young is another actress I haven’t seen too much of. I hadn’t seen any romantic comedy of hers before but she is so fitting for this role. She has this energetic charm to her and her whole situation of being cursed is fun to see play out, especially how she got into that situation.

Cha Eun Woo is so wholesome and cute and I love him with all my heart. I can see his role developing and I’m looking forward to it. It’s not too much for him and he’s doing what he does, and I think that’s fine and I really enjoy it. He’s got this presence to him that is charming and lead male material, and he fills those shoes pretty well. Lee Hyun-Woo is finally back to a romantic comedy and is just how I remember him, a more matured and cute guy now-

This drama goes all in with its idea and doesn’t take it self too seriously. It balances everything nicely and I’ll add more as the show progresses, so far I’m looking forward to it and am so happy to finally have a good romantic comedy in 2023 that feels like a romantic comedy.

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Unfulfilled Revenge

The first 15 episodes of Eve are really good. The story is engaging and there are a few things that I dislike but overall it’s a good watch.

What I enjoy about Eve is the development of the characters and the constant questioning that the viewer has as to who to like or who to root for. Dramas that keep people guessing and thinking are entertaining, and the drama really succeeds on that end. As for wrapping up the story as a whole the series does, but the revenge and the goal for the characters aren’t fulfilled at all. I am really getting tired of drama endings falling flat- but this one is almost insulting.

Here’s where the spoilers start:

The whole idea of someone so close to happiness and peace but having that taken away isn’t good- I’m talking about the chairmen ultimately dying. That is a lazy way to write a quick ending, and it’s been done so many times before. I’m so disappointed because this drama does many things that others haven’t. It handles Ra Eli’s traumas so well, and Seo Ye Ji does a more than amazing job at portraying it all. I love how unhinged she is and how she wants revenge and will do anything to get it, but is still a good person and doesn’t completely wish those who don’t deserve pain any.

The story between Ra El and the Chairman was beautiful, it was something I didn’t expect to turn out the way it did. I didn’t think that the direction would have them both being in love. But the Chairmen undoubtedly loved her, not by seduction- there are subtle moments that shows he loves her to care for her. It’s the purest love to love someone enough to be able to vulnerable around them. The Chairman had his pain and he recognized Ra El did also, they grew closer through moments of sharing their vulnerabilities. I won’t list all the moments between them that displays this. But their story is done so much better than people are giving it credit for. And I’m really disappointed that the Chairman died, it was horrible honestly. I could go on and on about why I dislike it, but flatly I’ll just say I do. The moments between them aren’t all genuine, but there are a lot that are- they loved eachother and Ra El in the end understood he had no plans when it came to her families death- it was his wife’s side of the family. He isn’t even apart of his own family legitimately even.

What confuses me is why so many people like the lawyer. His character was ruined the moment he told Ra El he had loved her the whole time. So his motivation was because he loved her- and not like a sister. I find it really creepy how he knew her since she was a child and claimed he was living his life to bring her justice because he loved her. It disturbed me because he knew her since she was 14 and that’s when she suffered the injustice. His character is horrible and you don’t know anything about him at all. Unlike the chairman he doesn’t get a motive that has depth- the chairman wanted to be powerful because of the expectations he had. The constant pressure, with it all the more layered by him being illegitimate to the family and being the second child. But the Chairman wasn’t dumb and I loved that about him- the lawyer was dumb. The Lawyer just did every it for Ra El- his whole character revolves around her. Their whole relationship is weird to me. And it’s heartbreaking that the only person Ra El has is him- he is really bland.

It’s funny because I expected the Chairman to be the bland one, but his acting is down superbly and the writing for him is better. He is selfless in the end and isn’t selfish. As for the Lawyer- he is also a major simp- but he is a bad character. He doesn’t have the motive, he doesn’t have anything character traits I can think of really. I could go on and on about this guy also but he agitated me a lot. He’s kind of pathetic, I hated him for saying he was helping her because he loved her- not because of his integrity or own morals- he loved Ra El- since she was a child .. weird

Han So Ra was perfect if the idea was to get me to hate her. The twist around episode 5 when it was revealed she pretty much killed Ra El’s mother was thrilling. It made me instantly hate her and I grew to hate her more. I hate how arrogant she was even though she was losing everything. So for what the drama was trying to do with her worked and I give the actress a lot of credit. Her writing and overall story I’m really bitter about. She should’ve died- not the chairman. The ending really didn’t need Ra El to find herself again.. how many people have to die in her life? She finds someone she cares about outside her family, she undoubtedly loves him after so much time and development. So what is the point of killing him off? For drama? I guess this one is over the top, and I was liking all of the outfits and makeup and grand houses- but the grand ending idea of killing the chairman was dumb. It was so obvious how he could’ve gotten out of trouble because he wasn’t associated with the family in the first place. He was illegitimate and a victim himself- no he wasn’t perfect- he was human and had his flaws also- Ra El got out of many things she did.. don’t know how- but the Chairman’s ending was just insulting. The ending was insulting.

To sum it up this drama is painful. Not the good kind of death like in I’m sorry I love you.. I recommend to people that like a sort of soapy drama. But not for those who want a happy ending.. like for real- this is just cruel. What about their children? The sweetest kid Da Bi loved her dad and for some reason she kept her mom? This is a drama- like a flip of the coin who died and it was the chairman? So so dumb to me. No thank you- but as for what the drama was- it was fun until he drove off a cliff so Ra El would have a more peaceful life.

Not to mention I don’t know what role the company has. What role RA El has, what she does other than going to Buenos Aires. The lawyer didn’t even get her so why even have him bring up he love her. It just made him suck..

Long story short I hate the ending of someone dying when the characters already had been through too much pain.

I already had to accept that she was getting with the Chairman. If not why not just have her go for all the revenge? I can only say so much.. this drama could’ve been better

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Someone peaked in high school

This drama wasn’t magical to me at all. At first I was blindly watching but soon I realized all the problems in it, and specifically the problematic things.

It’s so weird that this girl really hated her life so much over some tiny that happened in high school. She hated it so much that she thought her life thereafter was miserable and there were no redeeming qualities compared to getting rejected in high school. Now it was a horrible rejection, but she was 29 and years out of high school.

The romance isn’t good. The lead actor is very pretty, the main girl is ok- but she wasn’t ugly at all so I can’t boy into the rejection at all. The lead actor was a jerk to her in a different timeline, but he is basically a different person in the new one- the guy really likes her for her looks and I found no reason that told me he didn’t other wise. He was weirdly possessive and their whole romance I wasn’t buying, neither was their chemistry. The acting is so stiff, but the dialogue wasn’t helping.

I seriously can’t understand why for 12 years this girl couldn’t get over a high school boy. She fantasizes about getting with a high school boy and I thought that was weird, but after he knew I really had to think- this is predatory at this point. He knows she is an adult but is ok with that? She is living in this timeline as her 29 year old self but just looks like she is in high school.. because she is wearing a uniform.. there is no difference in looks from 29 to high school. Like even if I was stupid and blindly watching- I can’t- the immersion is hopeless with this one.

The whole idea of love is so juvenile. I guess it’s because this is based off a manga… but there are things this drama could’ve done right but didn’t. That main point being the main actress not being ugly, not looking 29 when she should, etc. There is too much filler when this could’ve been straight to the point. The acting pauses for dramatic effect and characters act as if their whole life depend on romance. That is the main character; her personality is she is in love with male lead. I can’t support that with her being 29.. I am at a loss here. I watched just for fun but ended up being irritated.

This girl really wanted to give up her whole modern life so she could date a boy in high school. Everyone peaked so badly here. Male lead is so bland and is just pretty- off the bat she just likes him and we don’t get why? I’m so appalled and offended- this drama is for young kids- wait it isn’t because the main character is straight up grooming the male lead because she is actually 29. I wasted my time. Please don’t waste yours.


If you want a high school romantic comedy watch My School President. If you want a Japanese High School drama watch Keita Hatsukoi. If you want time travel with romance watch Scarlet Heart. If you want a straight Japanese Romance watch an anime because they adapt much better than this did.

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Your closest grocery store is run by idols

I picked this up because of the idols in it. I really like EXO, so I am obligated to watch since Xiumin is in it. To me I found this drama a very nice surprise. I put it on for leisure, but had started really watching.

The whole vibe of this drama is one that isn't taking itself too seriously and has a star-studded cast that is doing a fine job so far. The roles they are in are all unique, with each of them being an idol in their disbanded group. The story itself is something you wouldn't get out of an every day situation, but it is made for a k-drama, and I like that. To me, the unrealistic story is good, and they explain pretty quickly why and how they own this mart.

The acting is pretty good, not amazing or anything, but serviceable. It is fun to watch since it is k-pop idols, and since it isn't too serious that makes it all the better. There are some emotional beats that most likely will happen (I won't explain since that could spoil), so there might be a little weak spot. So overall this drama is easy and doesn't feel lengthy because it isn't. The story and scenes flow nicely and it's pretty funny too. The romance if any is something I see happening naturally and is there to develop the characters. The setting is perfect for funny scenarios and I can see myself staying entertained the whole way.

So far so good! I couldn’t finish this simply because it’s nothing I see myself needing to watch. It’s not bad though, it’s just sort of background fluff.

It’s just so average but a little worse? I don’t know.. I watch for the idols but it got lost for me and I don’t see a need to finish. Good while I just had it on in the background

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significantly better than season one

I remember watching the first season to this and not understanding the hype. A lot of the show overall I didn’t understand, so with this addition I wasn’t expecting anything amazing. This season adds upon what was their and makes it better, developing characters further and relationships as well

Hira and Kiyoi never had a perfect relationship and I understand that because of how it started. Hira worships Kiyoi and sees him as untouchable.. in the first season it was just that with them really getting together at the end. This season they are already together and instead of just them being in a relationship, it’s them growing together in their relationship.

Hira is finding himself with his work and how he sees Kiyoi, because it isn’t a one sided love anymore. I was frustrated about him but by the end of the drama that’s what kept me watching. Kiyoi honestly developed feelings for Hira and I don’t understand them completely but I get that I never will and maybe am not supposed to. They both have this love and appreciation for eachother that belongs to only them, it’s their bond and they barely can grasp their feelings themselves.

Kiyoi is much more likeable here when you see that admist him succeeding in life and ‘remaining the same’ he is very different. You see him really stay interested in Hira and blush with explicitly telling Hira that he liked him. The obstacle here is that Hira is stuck with the one sided love that he accepted, and the resolution to that was one of the best scenes to me. Kiyoi is just cute- and isn’t as hot headed, he’s humbled. He’s more open about his feelings and isn’t ashamed of how he feels either.

They both put effort into each others lives and opposed to season one, I now understand the first season a lot more. This drama had great acting, visuals, it’s just really good. I’m sad it was so short but am looking forward to the movie.

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Not very good.

this drama really didn’t need to be 36 episodes.

In short I skimmed through the last 12 episodes so this review won’t be the best. It’s just coming from someone who is hard to keep interested for long. Dramas have done it though. I watch many dramas and find gems that I am floored at how they keep me interested. This one didn’t…

At first I watched to keep up with the schedule but gradually lost track of it and then stopped watching all together. Now it’s just another drama that has been checked off the box for me. It went downhill after the first breakup.. the male lead character was frustrating me but I wasn’t paying attention anyways.it’s of cliches and situations that were just boring to me. Guy and girl are old friends and fall in love but oh wait- their other best friend loved him too? And they re meet? Yes. That is what I got from this. Not profound, not offensive. Just existing.

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Glamorous but not all Fabulous

I’ve been waiting for this drama for a while. I’m a huge Shawol as they are my ult and Choi Minho is a part of it. He’s such a charming guy on and off screen, and I am supporting his works where ever they are. All the content with him in it I will devour, he deserves that from me. For this drama I want it to be a 10/10 but it’s not. Still it’s not as bad as people are saying it is. People all have their different tastes but to rate a drama you have to think about what it is trying to do over what you want it to be.

This drama is about the fashion industry and right away is is very glamorous and pretty to look at. All the sets shine and there is not a bad angle for anyone in this show. If you want a gritty melodrama you will not find that here. At the beginning you know what you are getting into with the relationship drama, and if you don’t like that then don’t watch it. Personally I’m not a fan of that, but I’m rating based off what this drama accomplishes for itself. It tells the story of adults in the fashion industry and goes over their relationship issues- it’s not trying to be super dark or tell a big story. People being upset about the ‘slow’ or boring natures of the show just need to stay away from these dramas as a whole. It’s a slice of life type show without too much of an overarching plot unless you see it within the relationships of the characters.

The acting is good for who the characters are. Chae Soobin is given a character who is very ambitious but makes a lot of mistakes. She is too ambitious and chaotic for her own good at times. With that character she acts the role of Ji Eun very well. I don’t necessarily like her character too much, I don’t even like Minho’s character too much. Not all dramas are going to be about perfect people, they were an old fling and have a lot of chemistry. Minho’s character Woomin is charming for some of it, but he still is possessive for others. He’s not the total green flag that I really want Choi Minho to play. But he is Woomin, and he really sells that because I get disappointed in him even though his face is Choi Minho’s.

I am surprised no one is talking about the things this drama is showing that are very good for Korea. It has a successful gay male lead who isn’t a stereotype, he’s got talent and he isn’t looked down upon for his sexuality. It barely is brought up, he is an actual character other than a prop.

The OST’s are there. Especially at the end of the first episode. I really like the ending of each episode as they aren’t too much of a cliffhanger. You can binge this show easily as it stops the story and sets it up in the next episode, with that being said you can watch this any time without bingeing also.

I really don’t understand the whole acting complaints people have. It’s the characters you don’t like- not the acting. My favorite character is the supermodel Seonho. I can put past aside my major bias for Minho and realize he’s not perfect. I do like flawed characters because they are more human, the same with this drama. It’s not perfect- the only perfect drama I’ve seen is the Untamed- and that’s because I look past its flaws because I just love it so much. I can see all the flaws with this show but that doesn’t make me write it off as being unwatchable. This show is very watchable; it’s not very long, it’s not offensive, it’s got Choi Minho, and it’s pretty fabulous to look at. Not a 10/10, but it’s a good watch if you want a fashion drama, a young adult drama, a drama that’s not too dramatic.

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A guilty pleasure of mine

This show intrigued me because of Choi Minho, so let that tell you that this probably will be biased because that man is so multi talented and oh so very good looking. Even with that being said I don’t understand all of the overly negative reviews.

Looking into this drama outside of the stars from SM entertainment it’s clearly just supposed to be an adaptation, it’s fun, and a bit over the top with its music. Still it doesn’t diminish from anything, the campyiness of everything fits well with the absurdity of the story. So pretty much don’t expect anything outstanding, this is what it is and it’s about a girl cross dressing to go into an all boys school to help out Tae Joom who she pretty much idolizes.

With a first glance I could tell this drama is drama is going all out with its campy nature. And I like dramas that go one way completely, especially with the lightness and fun of the main plot. It follows things like I would expect from the source material coming from a manga, like Boys Over Flowers. Lets see if this drags on..

So what I like is Eun Gyeol, who develops a crush on Jae Hee who is played by Sulli. She does an amazing job at acting like a guy, because she knows not to take it seriously. The role her for her is done well and the credit of the likableness of her character is because of Sulli. She could’ve tried too hard to try and be like a man, but instead has her look and lets her feelings follow. She’s not into toxic masculinity where she’d hold back her feelings and act like a boy in an insulting way. That leads onto what I really like. Eun Gyeol and his gay panic moments are hilarious, and they are also not insulting. He just likes Jae Hee and it’s genuine, he isn’t trying to cover it up- instead he wants to get closer to her even if he thinks she is a guy. He has a very funny imagination, my favorite character that I could talk about all day. Tae Joon, although he’s more strict with how he acts, he still obviously cares about Jae Hee and is putting on some character at certain times.

I don’t like the trope of someone acting all serious, it’s a shame that Minho has to do that at times because I know he’s super charismatic.

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Cafe Minamdang … what was going on?

I watched this show because of the star studded cast, and as much as they do and as great as they are.. this show has its problems that are too distracting.

Maybe this show would’ve been good to binge, but to wait each week and watch I just found myself forgetting things and plot points and getting confused as each episode went on. And for some reason even though so much was happening- I was bored.

To the shows credit it is very good looking to watch. I really enjoyed it at the beginning and that’s because I could understand what was going on and the characters weren’t too difficult to like either. They are charismatic and campy and I understand the criticisms about how over the top this show can be at times but it’s a comedy. Honestly the show is pretty funny.. but I don’t understand the whole crime thriller genre and then the funny moments. The tone changes A LOT and it’s a bit jarring.

Seo In Guy is such an amazing actor, but whenever he cries or really shows how good he is- the story and script isn’t backing him up at all. I really tried to like this show, and I do like it.. but man it’s sort of a guilty pleasure. I like it for the cast and the funny moments. Either go all out in the thriller direction or all out in the comedy because at this point the two didn’t blend together well at all.

As for the character dynamics I really liked the sister and brother duo- that is where the funniest moments came from. The main couple’s timeline was so screwed up that I didn’t know whether to root for them or be creeped out. I had to loose a bit of my reality to take things seriously when I don’t even know if this show wanted me to take it seriously. That’s a major major problem. In the serious things that happen if I have to take a step back and be like “oh it’s supposed to be funny or over dramatic.” That’s an issue. A show that pulls crime and comedy together well is From Now On it’s Showtime. That show was really good because it understood what moments were serious, and what characters had their motivations. The female cop character was too much with her assaults and the way she did things were unethical and they were played for funny moments. In Showtime the magician is petty, but his dynamic with his female lead is better- even though she suspects him she doesn’t assault and she uses thinking and feels guilty for thinking.

There are so many things wrong with this drama. The timelines of characters are off.. the script.. the tone. But for the good is that it’s funny. I really don’t recommend. It’s too long to watch if you want to turn off your brain and enjoy because you have to memorize people and plot points. What slaps though is the outro, that was pretty cool.

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A Review in 2021- This Drama still succeeds

This drama has an impressive amount of depth to it.

The storyline is pretty easy to follow, but what adds a lot to the story is the characters. For me it's the Cha Moo-Hyuk that makes this drama binge worthy. From the first episode there isn't too much to know about him. He is unlikeable with the things he does, but the reasons behind what he does is heartbreaking. I haven't ever watched a drama with a male lead that has gone through so much pain and is consistent with his attitudes and actions because of them.

Cha Moo-Hyuk is such a complex character, and coming from 2004 it's impressive that this character is still so heartbreaking. The drama is a little outdated with the outfits, but looking past that I see that if this was made in 2021 with the same story the rating overall would be much higher. I know this drama ends in tragedy, I'm watching because with each episode Cha Moo-Hyuk's character is revealed to be more and more tragic.

Moving onto Song Run-Chae, she is adorable but she isn't annoying. Her character is a bit naive, but the focus is less on her and more on Moo-Hyuk. I'm sure she will get more development, but as for now as long as she isn't annoying I like her. She's super cute and Im Soo-Jung is super cute also. As an actress she does a great job, and overall the acting for this drama is on par, if not better than a lot of dramas done today.

This drama is worth the watch, watch it as fast or slow as you want and the impact will be just as lasting.

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This movie broke my heart

This movie I watched today and my heart is still pounding. I cried three times overall during this movie. The actors really portrayed what they needed to well, and what broke my heart specifically was when BamBam said that she wish she knew that liking boys (being gay) was inate. It is normal and isn’t something that people should be afraid for or ridiculed for. And Birdy’s life was changed because he wasn’t comfortable. The priest was an amazing character, and I hadn’t expected him to have a male lover. It was interesting to see how he was protecting Jia-Han by telling him his feelings were wrong. I could really feel the tension between the leads through the whole story. And was left in tragedy when Birdy left Jia-Han for those many years. Although it was bittersweet that they met at the end, with Jia-Han saying how them being gay is accepted now. He is proud and isn’t scared of who he is. I am glad I watched this and am going to come back to it for sure.

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