Slow burn romance + old money family cdrama

Initially I started watching One and Only because according to synopsis, this modern series is tied to the historical drama series. I am not a fan of historical drama and honestly strugged with One and Only after 6 episodes in. I immediately switched to Forever and Ever.

What I like
1) Romance - I like the pairing of Ren Jia Lun & Bai Lu. Even though there are not many kissing and intimate scenes, two scenes (they got wet due to rain, and bathtub) are quite exquisite.
2) Male lead characterisation - I like that Zhousheng Chen is intelligent, quiet and inexperienced in love. Those qualities made him endearing. Ren Jialun played his role very well - just look at his facial expressions. Ren Jia Lun with bangs & wavy hair reminds of zb1's Matthew.
3) Female lead characterisation - I like that Shi Yi is smart, capable & have high EQ. She knows the type of men she likes and goes after him. Bai Lu also played her role very well.
4) Supporting chracters - Uncle Lin, what would have Chen done without you? Ren, Chen's cousin - it's cute that he looks up to Chen so much. I also like Chen's grandma.
6) Snippets from One and Only - Right amount at right time. Despite sharing the same names, I feel the historical couple are different people from the modern couple.

What I dislike
1) Chen's mum - haughty and snob. She never gave Shi Yi a chance. That's why karma bites her really bad.
2) Zhou Wenchuan - I feel that his character is underdeveloped despite being assigned a baddie. I don't understand why his romance with the tailor was given screentime. I fast-forwarded their romance because I don't think it adds value to the story.
3) Shi Yi's parents when she was in coma - I know they were angry at the circumstance but they shouldn't prohibit Chen from caring for his legally wed wife.

Favourite scene
Bathtub scene. Ren Jialun gave a raw performance of being very deep in pain and almost catatonic.

Leia Mais

Amazing dynamics between 2 main leads elevated this crime/mystery & romance drama

Great execution of crime/mystery drama with romance. The dynamics between Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won's partnership elevated this drama.

What I like:
1) Romance - Palpable chemistry between Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won (a true partnership). Intimate scenes were hot. That first scene surprised me and I didn't expect a sexy but conflicted scene.
2) Acting - wow great acting by overall cast but Lee Joon Gi and Moon Chae Won's acting impressed me a lot. The scene when he confided in his wife broke me down in tears,
3) Male lead characterisation characterisation - wow just wow I dislike him in first episode as I thought he was stiff but my views changed when he protected his wife and confided in his wife.
4) The ending - the separation and doubts saddened me.
5) Plot - Gosh, unpredictable from episode 1. I also like how the current police cases were written most of the time.
6) Kim Ji Hoon - not much screentime but memorable.

What I dslike:
1) Baek parents were something else,
2) I think at one point I was lost in the plot because of too many red herrings in the current cases.

Favourite scene
When he confided in his wife in episode 10 & 11. I cried so much!

Leia Mais

Brilliant crime/mystery similar to "Broadchurch"

I watched this series after watching Flower of Evil. I thought Lee Joon-gi was superb in the series but was puzzled that he lost to Shin Ha Kyun. So I watched Beyond Evil to satisfy my curiosity.

Beyond Evil is highly recommended if you are looking for crime/mystery with brilliant writing and phenomenal acting. This drama is in my top 5 kdrama list.

What I like:
1) Sublime acting by Shin Ha Kyun. I was mesmerised by his performance (various facial expressions - he even once fooled me!) and and handsomeness. I sound silly but my gosh, he was very handsome in this series.
2) Brilliant writing - there were many twists & grey areas. It's hard not to side with Dong-sik despite some of his dubious decisions. This series reminds me of British drama series called "Broadchurch" because of the similar premise (murder in small town). Supporting characters were well-written too,
3) Han Joo-won's characterisation - I enjoy seeing his character development and conflicts that he faced,
4) The score - one of best scores for a drama series regardless of country of production. I love 'Who is Monster', 'Beyond Evil opening theme', '2000 Mayang' very much that they are in my music playlist.
5) I love the interrogation scenes. Interesting to see strategies deployed to get statements or info.
6) I learned about makgeolli from this series. When I travelled to Busan in 2023 and saw makgeolli, I thought of this series.

What I dislike:
1) I think at one point, I thought there were too many red herrings that I was slightly lost in the plot.

Favourite scene:
The arrest scene in the final episode remains my favourite scene. Emotional punch!

Leia Mais

Heartfelt drama about marriage of convenience

Marry Me! is a warm Jdrama about marriage of convenience.

What I like
1) I watched many Jdrama about marriage of convenience. Expected fluff but I cried in episodes 3 & 4.
2) Rinka Kumada portrayed Himari's sweetness & naivety very well. Himari is childlike because she lacked opportunity to socialise with people her age. However she is not dumb and does not want to be treated with kid gloves.
3) I like that supporting characters play role in enriching Himari's life.
4) I like the male lead Shin. He was empathetic towards Himari. The actor Toshiki Seto resembles D.O & Lee Dong Wook.
5) Slow burn romance - I like how the relationship progressed from strangers who married for convenience, to confidant and true life partners. When Himari told Shin that she was to become dependable so Shin can rely to her more, wow I was touched by the growth of her character.

What I dislike
1) I dislike that the boss prioritise the experimentation more than male lead's welfare. He and Himari should be able to withdraw from the research without being threatened.

Favourite scene
When Himari had a heartfelt conversation with her in laws during their first visit to her house. I cried a lot!

Leia Mais

Frustrating second half

I really like Lee Min Ki's performance in Because This is My First Life so I was curious to check out this drama.

What I like
1. Oh! Master was fun watch in the first half of the series. I really like the scene when he saved Jooin.
2. Bisoo & Jooin relationship development. Kissing & intimate scenes were hot
3. Heartwarming interactions between them & their mothers
4. Record store scenes - I would love to have dates in that store.
5. Dialogue about closing doors, death
6. Kang Min Hyuk's styling is impeccable. Surprised to know that he's a drummer.
7. Oh I like the score 'Running to You' so much!

What I dislike
1. Bisoo sabotaging their relationship
2. The second half of the series especially the Ending

Favourite scene
Dating in the record store

Leia Mais

Exciting science-y non-romance Jdorama

Once upon a time, I considered a career in forensic science but didn't pursue. I find Jdrama Unnatural exciting watch!

What I like:
1. Writing - I love the cases that were presented in this series. My favourite episode is the death by drowning. I didn't expect the fiancee/boyfriend to go ahead with his intention. What a sad moment for him and humanity! The father-and-son arcs in death in burning building was awesome great. Tearjerker.
2. Love story - I like that romance was hinted at the start of the series but never explored. Instead the writers focused on the love between Mikoto and her mum and brother.
3. Acting - Fine acting by cast especially from Satomi Ishihara and Arata Iura.
4. Mystery - Three main characters have mysterious background (Mikoto, Kai & Rokuro) and I like how it's related to their work.

What I dislike:
1. I am unclear about Mr Kibayashi's connection to Nakado. Why is he so willing to help him out?
2. Shishido is a despicable man!
3. The arc of the serial killer. It feels rushed.

Favourite scene
When Mikoto informed parents of burnt victim about how their son died saving people from burning building.

Leia Mais

Predictable but main leads' chemistry kept me interested

This series is featured in a top drama list on YouTube. I think it was about contract marriage oh well I was intrigued hence I watched it

What I like
1. Romance - Wang Zi Qi & Wang Yu Wen have beautiful partnership that their characters look like a real couple. They are affectionate with each other. The morning after scene was so sweet.
2. Si Chen's characterisation - mostly about his personal side not professional side. I like how he acknowledges his growing feelings for Xixi and tries to win her heart. He did not deny his feelings.
3. Handbag drama - This occurred during grandma's birthday party. I like this story because it demonstrated Xixi's resilience.
4. Wang Zi Qi - I like that he looks like a normal businessman not a movie star. I find him attractive once his character opens up to his wife. He looks like Kim Sungkyu from Infinite especially with fringe/hair down.
5. Chen Xun - arresting visual. He looks like he is part of Twilight's Cullen family. Pale skin contrasting with dark brown hair. Bloodshot eyes.

What I dislike
1. Over the top stories - some stories/scenes are too dramatic and unnecessary. For example, the attacker.
2. Fashion - for a fashion shopper/designer, Xixi has horrible fashion sense.
3. Xixi's characterisation - childish & klutz.

Favourite scene
Xixi's birthday celebration scene.

Leia Mais

Rival secret agents with sizzling chemistry

This is the fourth mini drama directed by Zeng Qing Jie that I watched and I enjoyed it immensely.

What I like
1. Romance - Wow, Yang Ze and Smile Hu's chemistry translated well on screen. It's evident whenever they were kissing, having a playful banter or expressing their feelings for the other.
2. Yang Ze's acting - I've watched him in Destined to Meet You and I must say I love him in this role so much more because Yan Wu Ming is a better written character. Yang Ze played this character with depth and vulnerability. I like that he is a secret agent but with a kind/boyish face.
3. Smile Hu's acting - brilliantly cast. She looks tall and athletic therefore believable as a secret agent/assasin but with grace and poise. She also demonstrated vulnerability quite well.
4. Costumes - Lord Yan and Xiao Nian wore beautiful clothes. I love Lord Yan's black work outfit, tailored robe in final episodes, Xiao Nian's red work outfit and pink robe. The fox mask is also pretty.
5. Writing - Male and female main characters were well-written. I like the inject of humour at the start though at times seem too much (I think because of the music).
6. Directing - Beautifully shot especially fight sequences.
7. Duration and length - Perfect for bingeing.

What I dislike
1. Villain - I think the villain character was underdeveloped.

Favourite scene
The duel between Yan Wu Ming and Si Xiao Nian. Beautifully choreographed fighting scene that was perfectly captured on screen.

Leia Mais

Wow, a lot of kisses!

Ok I watched this jdrama after watching clip on Asian Crush's Youtube channel & reading the synopsis.

What I like
1. The kisses - I was pleasantly surprised by the quantity & quality. Hase had insatiable appettite for Momo. The actors did these scenes well.
2. Female lead's characteristic - I enjoy seeing her growth. She was assertive at the end but still remains compassionate.
3. Pacing - Fast-paced and I had to binge!
4. Music - This is one of the few eastern dramas that I enjoyed the opening song. Dreaming night is so catchy.
5. Colleagues - I enjoyed watching camaraderie amongst Calico Cafe staff.

What I dislike
1. Plot - There isn't a proper plot for this drama. I was wondered a lot about the direction of the series throughout.
2. Supporting cast - I wish Fukami's relationship with Hase was elaborated further.

Favourite scene
Cafe lesson no. 3 because I never expected it!

Leia Mais

Sweet love story

This series was recommended on reddit for its story & romance scene. I enjoy it & would say that it's one of the few good mini series.

What I like
1. Romance - I love it when male lead is attuned to female lead's needs and always prioritise her first. Love the scenes when he did housework. They are quite affectionate with each other. I also like second lead romance though I wish there were more scenes focusing on their growing romance.
2. Butterfly slave plot - Fascinating though I wish the writers had not gotten rid of it so viewers can see how characters accept the condition and become more empathetic.
3. Rain Lu - great acting. She conveyed various emotions well from innocence, delight to upset and disappointment.
4. Length & duration - I don't fancy historical drama but I like this series because it's short & concise.
5. Cameo - I like cameos from The Killer is also Romantic. Already have it in my watch list so I am going to watch that series next after completing this review.

What I dislike
1. The 3rd act - I feel it is too rushed especially the last 3 episodes. I'd like to know more about Lord Wu'an struggles.
2. Flashbacks - I know it's important as viewers got to learn about how Chengfeng & Qianyue's relationship developed but those episodes did not excite me.
3. Chemistry - There are many romantic scenes between 2 main leads but I don't feel much sexual chemistry coming from the actors.

Favourite scene
When Qianyue appeared as butterfly slave to Princess Baozhu. Beautifully shot & highly suspenseful.

Leia Mais

Another side of Song Jihyo

I only watch Running Man whenever my favourite Korean groups are guests so I got to know Song Jihyo from there. This drama introduces me to Song Jihyo the actress.

What I like
1. The writing - It has the right balance between the characters' personal and professional lives, the drama & comedy. I enjoy medical aspects. Reminds me of Grey's Anatomy earlier seasons when the episodes were so engaging.
2. Main characters' development - It's wonderful to see
Jinhee & Changmin grow as individuals and as doctors. Jinhee especially. Changmin is so cute whenever he is cheeky.
3. Romance - Glad that this second chance romance develops slowly. Jinhee especially needs to understand her worth first before committing to a relationship. There aren't many kisses but when they kiss, I feel their love and longing for each other. Their intimate scenes are quite sexy.
4. Changmin's father - his kindness reminds me of my late uncle. That quiet but wise character.
5. Songs - I love the opening track and the other song that always accompany sad scenes.
6. Death & bereavement - humbling is the best word to describe those moments.
7. Choi Jinhyuk - my first drama starring him. This role was meaty role and he nailed it. His hairstyle made him look like a flower boy but he is manly.
8. Song Jihyo - I enjoyed her acting too. She conveys Jinhee's doubts very well.

What I dislike
1. The overbearing mother
2. The length - 21 episodes are a lot for kdrama. Nevertheless I hardly felt bored watching the episodes.
3. Gossipy colleagues

Favourite scene
When Jinhee informed Changmin why she kept in touch with his father. It's very touching that I cried a lot.

Leia Mais

Fast-paced & enjoyable romantic thriller

Destined to meet you is one of the best mini dramas I have watched.

What I like:
1. Lu Yan Qi - great actress with brilliant comedic timing. She also did vulnerable scenes very well. The watching movie together scene was hilarious! She also portrayed the different ages of Rong Rong quite well. She looked pretty & youthful in the photo.
2. Jin Rong Rong characterisation - love girlboss , no-nonsense & take charge attitude.
3. Writing - Brilliant comedic scenes. The villain's characterisation is also good, not a cliche, 2D character.
4. Directing & editing - Brilliant for a mini drama of 20 episodes with each episode lasting less than 15 min. I like the pacing of the story.
5. Supporting characters - I like Jin Xi Chen & her executive assistant.

What I dislike:
1. Age difference between both main characters - 5 years seem to big considering real life age gap is 3 years. Wish Cong Bei was working adult instead of university student but then some scenes wouldn't work that well.
2. Grandpa - small issue. Got the impression that he's known Cong Bei for awhile. Not sure why Grandpa likes Gu Cong Bei so much.

Favourite scene:
When the aircond in Rong Rong's room malfunctioned. Rong Rong showed her vulnerability to Cong Bei.

Leia Mais

Started great then it fizzled

I was excited to watch this mini drama after seeing it featured in a few top mini drama lists on YouTube. The drama started off great but then it fell flat.

What I like:
1. Intriguing start - The 1st 3 episodes were intriguing. I was delighted to see a "smart" female lead who managed to escape from interrogation. I was also pleasantly surprised with the bed scene. Cunning!
2. Right hand man - General Liu was the smartest character out of the bunch.
3. Dai Gao Zheng - A lot of reviewers mentioned him so yes, I agree. He has good looks & body. Acting wise, he's ok.

What I dislike:
1. Female lead characterisation - I mentioned earlier she was "smart" but my gosh she became unbearably silly as the series progressed. I can't get over her decision to pursue Tian yi when she already willingly agreed to become Yu Ze's fiancee. What a silly girl!
2. Writing - was bad. I almost stopped at episode 19 but persisted because there is fast forward button. I chose 4x option just to make sure I complete this mini drama. I think the episodes could be reduced to 24 or even 18. The conflict was dragged too much.
3. Ending - omg what a silly one. How can a stupid, cowardly girl become menacing to gangsters? And that very last scene I really don't understand
4. Physical abuse - You experienced and witnessed beatings but omg why stay in abusive household???
5. Chemistry between main characters - to me, lackluster.
6. Fashion - I dislike the clothes worn by Tiangyou, female lead. Pink dresses made her look childish and with her characterisation, she was indeed a baby. The last qipao she wore had weird colour combination and doesn't look nice.

Favourite scene:
The bed scene between Tian yi & Tian yao. As I said earlier, cunning!

Leia Mais

Deceit & scheming - what a mess!

Fake relationship and contract marriages are my favourite tropes. I was intrigued by this drama after reading many positive reviews on MDL. Boy was I disappointed! I couldn't stand the immature behaviour so I dropped this series after episode 10.

What I liked:
1. The cooking - I like cooking & food scenes from quatro cheese kimchi to samgyetang and fried chicken.
2. Yeo Reum - he has great body and smile. Despite the lie at the start, I liked his character the most. He always thought of Jang Mi's welfare.
3. Jang Mi's kindness.

What I disliked
1. Jang Mi's characterisation - she's too nice until people took advantage of her (Hoon Dong, Gi Tae, Gi Tae's mum, Hyun Hee). Girl, it's OK to decline phone calls especially when you are in loo.
2. Gi Tae's characterisation - he's bland for a male lead. I dislike him for berating Jang Mi whenever she was in trouble even when she was locked in his building.
3. Every character, from Gi Tae' s family to second & third leads, is deceitful and always scheming. The only ok character is Jang Mi's father.
4. Childish behaviour - I stopped after 20 minutes of episode 10 because Jang Mi & Gi Tae still avoided each other. Too much push even when halfway though the series.

Favourite scene
When Jang Mi saved Hoon Dong from embarrassment at the auction

Leia Mais

My advice to FL - "Trust yourself!"

I was excited to watch this series because older woman, younger man is one of my favourite tropes and a few of director Ding Zi Guang's dramas are in my watchlist. The series started off great (I love episode 1) but after 10+ episodes, I became frustrated. I dropped this series because I couldn't watch a self-pitying female lead and refused to waste almost 720 minutes on this mess.

What I liked:
1) He Can Yang - He is the reason why I pushed through until episode 24. He is easygoing but dependable and caring. I like that he always offer to listen to one's concerns.
2) Best friends Song Xue and Yang Xiao Yu - I like scenes where three of them hang out. Song Xue gave great advice most of the time.
3) Song Wei Long - Wow, so handsome. I love his smile. He resembles Taehyun of kpop group Tomorrow x Together.

What I disliked:
1) He Fan Xing characterisation - She is hardworking, independent, level headed when it came to work. I liked her character at first but when she lied to her school friends about her boyfriend, I was livid! I also despice her for feeling sorry for herself even though she was the one that ended the relationship. I also dislike Fan Xing for confiding in Ye Lu Ming rather than in her best friends whenever she had relationship problems.
2) Ye Lu Ming - I liked him at first and understood his sadness about "the one who got away". However I don't like once he schemed his way into Fan Xing's family. Devious!
3) The romance - I enjoyed romance between Fan Xing and Yuan Song before the breakup. Since their relationship is secret / "forbidden", I think the director could have done more romance scenes e.g. in the store room, hidden touches, surprise kisses. Anyway I am disappointed by choices made by Fan Xing - she totally not believing in herself, that's why she dictating how her first love should be.

Favourite scene
When Fan Xing took care of Yuan Song when he was ill

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