Completed in 2023 (Source included)

Completed - January 14th 2023 

Review

OP THEME - TOMORROW - [OPENING TITLE]

ED THEME [J.DON] - RED LIGHT 

Netflix International (Eng subs)

Completed - February 3rd 2023

I was pleasantly surprised by the story building and production. Although, I wasn't a fan of the shaky camera shots, the action scenes were enjoyable. That ending cameo was a nice touch to the film. 

Raw (Eng Subs via SUBS.CO)

Netflix Japan

Viki US 

Prime Video  

Completed - April 7th 2023 

Finally completed this series. I liked the episodic pacing and how the show didn't rush to conclude the subplots. Coming from an art major, this show has made me appreciate the arts and the various creative methods of uncovering cases.

It was cool to see Shen Yi take on situations outside of sketching. Despite not having a detective background, his character shows a lot of sharp observation and quick thinking. One episode that stood out to me was when he used an art book reference to let Du Cheng know of his direct contact with the suspect.

The final episode did seem a bit underwhelming. Probably cause I'm used to seeing action sequences during climax scenes. However, it was clever how the detectives used psychological techniques instead.

The series hints at a continuation, so overall my rating stands at 9/10.

Viki (Eng subs) 

Currently - 3/4 (Dec 22nd 2023)

Closely follows the webtoon's storytelling, however includes additional scenes for cameo characters. 

Brilliant camera shots (especially in the chase scenes)

Amazon Prime (Eng Subs)

Completed- March 13th 2023 

Wow, this show just end it like that...
Poor dude just wanted to study in peace. The plot was depressing, but the casts performance, action and ost came through.

Apparently there is a page created for S2, not sure if it's confirmed, but I am keen to see further continuation of the characters.

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - December 26th 2022  (First viewing)

Re-watched - January 5th 2023

Review  

AIB OST 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed- February 2nd 2023

From the village to the characters backstories, the series excellently captured the eerie tone of the cannibalistic storyline.  Each episode unravels the mystery behind the Kuge village and the cursed tradition that some are trying to escape. 

There is beautiful cinematography and film shots especially from the car chase scene in early episodes. What stood out was the unpredictable nature the story drives itself. Some scenes were foreshadowed however the reveal of the plot twists gave a chilling impact. 

Looking forward to where the series continues and concludes itself. 

Disney+ (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 30th 2023 

This was a feel-good short drama. It definitely shows the warmth of a coffee place and how their staff brings the people together. Hence standing out from the corporate coffee chains. The series showcases the coffee origins and the thought process behind the baristas.

I remember practicing coffee making multiple times during my high school spring break. Although at the time, I wasn't too enthusiastic about coffee, it was a great learning experience. I would be interested to relearn the process if the opportunity crosses my path.

ED THEME

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - March 12th 2023 

After finishing part 2, I will admit I prefer part 1 however, the conclusion and build-up of Moon Dong Eun's long-running revenge topped my ratings. The story execution was thrilling, but the episodes could have been cut down shorter as I found the pacing to drag out for too long. 

Recently, I found out that the bullying incidents in the series are based on true events. Not surprised, but disappointed that something cruel and bizarre turned out to be someone's reality. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 25th 2023 

Mentally strong FL with a highly determined goal of plotting her long time revenge. Its interesting to see a revenge style that focuses on the psychological approach. The story can be a bit draggy and slow paced, but it somehow adds a charm to the characterisation of the FL, Moon Dong Eun. 

The series will continue its story with a part two. Great ending episode for part one, the bullies are starting to understand how terrifying their former victim has become. 

SURAN - The Whisper Of Forest

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 28th 2023

The concept of a zombie having a consciousness and morals takes me back to my fondness for the film Warm Bodies (2013). Although the conscious zombie concept has been explored before, its refreshing to see the concept in a Sherlock Holmes type of comedy drama series...

Review

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - February 18th 2023

Well-paced story with a great performance from the cast. Although the culprit's identity was predictably clear (in my case in ep5), I found the dynamic between Jiwoo and Choi moo jin's mindset fascinating. The action choreography was also thrilling and reminded me of Atomic Blonde (2017).  

Netflix International (Eng subs)   

Completed - March 5th, 2023 

An intriguing story between a strong-willed lawyer and a popular actor with a broken heart. 

The first few episodes had consistent pacing with exciting action and comedic moments. However, when the pair got together it was sometimes hard to stay interested in the story without pausing every few minutes.  Although the visuals and yearning were there, the second pairing did not quite leave a lasting impression except for the last episode. 

Overall, the main pair had great chemistry and it was nice to see the perspectives of each character on the topic of relationships. There is this whole continuous debate about which gender is worse than the other, but this drama series shows "Love is not bad, but the people are bad".  

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - February 14th 2023 

This second film picks up immediately from the previous film. I appreciated the film for having a consistent pacing, along with how the story explored the mystery behind the three main trios' pasts.  Most of the plot twists were predictable, but overall it was an alright binge. 

Netflix US

Viki US 

Completed - July 10th 2023 

Brilliant duo with a plot that has a tug a war direction. The antagonist in this series is brutal af for sure. 

Netflix (Eng subs) 

Completed - February 26th 2023 

Interesting story structure and zombie concept. The romance subplot tied into the story nicely. In terms of characters, it was hard to keep watching due to majority of the characters being unlikeable. The show closely showcases the nature of human beings in a tense life or death situation. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - April 10th 2023 

Great character growth from the key characters. The story started to pick up its pace from ep3. There is still a lot of mystery regarding the spheres. Looking forward to part 2 to find out more. 

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - January 18th 2023

Exciting action scenes and cinematography! The plot was difficult to keep up with, but it all came together in the end. 

Blu-ray (No subs)

Oryo Crab House (Eng subs corrections) 

Completed - February 20th 2023 

Great cast with micro-expressions. The last three episodes excellently delivered the emotional factor. I also appreciate how there is no antagonist, but characters that gradually grow throughout the episodes. Despite the flaws in dragging the conflicts in some episodes, I think this was one of the few best GLs I have watched.

IDOL FACTORY (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 10th 2023 

The first three episodes had a strong beginning, but it got a bit much when the story drifted off to side arcs. It was starting to get obvious as to whom was involved in the FL's brothers incident before the big reveal. I enjoyed the action scenes from ML and the complex personal situation he is in. I was also expecting some action from the FL considering that's what is implied on the promotional material. It was quite a roller-coaster of a ride with a similar concept to 13RW, but done right.

ROO OST - Blue 

ROO OST - Lost Game 

Disney+ (Eng subs) 

Hulu International 

Completed - February 7th 2023 

Engaging action sequence and interesting character introductions. In regards to the story, there was a lot going on, so it was sometimes hard to connect with some of the characters. Especially when they've been introduced in a short amount of time.  

After the plot twist reveal, I'm looking forward to seeing where the story goes in the second season. 

Prime Video (Eng Subs/Jp subs)  

Completed - March 28th 2023

Consistent story pacing, interesting ML, and great production.  I found this show to have better executed the plot compared to Hell Dogs. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - April 22nd 2023

Excellent camera shots and action sequences. The plot was so-so, but I would have liked to see more backstory on the main protagonist. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 11th 2023 

Nagano Mei's performance was excellent in this film. First saw her in My love story/ Ore monogatari (2015), since then its been awesome to see her grow as an actress. Regarding this film, it was a bit short, but the emotional factor was conveyed from start to end.

ECOTV SUBS (Eng subs) - SOFTSUBS

Blu-ray (No subs)

Prime video (Eng subs) - PENDING 

Completed - March 27th 2023

Great casting and love triangle execution. The last few episodes was a bit anticlimactic, but overall it had nice character growth amongst the five characters. 

Namgoong was the ultimate MVP 

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 3rd 2023 

Beautiful cinematography and incorporation of Japanese history within the plotline. The main downside is that the story seemed to have a repetitive outcome to each episode. The last episode did not seem final nor have a high stake for any of the characters. 

ED Theme

sametakunai (Ep1-5 Eng subs) 

_animesama (Ep6-8 Eng subs) 

Completed - April 5th 2023

Promising pilot episode with interesting characters and setting. However, the episodes had inconsistent pacing which eventually made the last few episodes rush the climax between the protagonists and antagonists. There was also not enough gradual development for the main characters except for Khatha and Dome. 

Based on the last episode, it would be ideal for the show to have another season to cover unexplored areas. 

GMMTV (Eng subs) 

Completed - September 3rd 2023

Moral of the story, do the things you want to do while you are "alive"

Netflix (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 8th 2023

The 10-episode series begins with a laid-back atmosphere with various food-making processes. There is a gradual closeness between the two leads, but it's unclear on-screen whether if it's mutual. It was also a short series, so it would have been nice to see an expanded character development similar to Kinou nani tabeta? (2019)

Furritsubs (Eng subs)

Completed - February 19th 2023 

The story dragged out a bit too long, but it was nice to see additional scenes of characters backstories. Also, I liked the character development from the protagonists. However, some of the antagonists were a bit underwhelming  by the way the story concluded their ending. 

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - March 10th 2023 

Great cinematography, soundtrack, and engaging action scenes. The downside that impacted my rating was the story's direction and pacing. I believe the season took its time for the first half and quickly wrapped everything in the last two episodes. To save the argument of the series not covering the additional characters, they concluded with an open ending. It seemed underwhelming but leaves room for a possible season.

Prime Video (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 5th 2023

Review

Main/ED Theme

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - March 29th 2023

Interesting use of vibrant visual effects to capture the main protagonists psychological disorder. The psychological exploration reminded me of Zack Snyders Sucker Punch. 

In terms of plot, its straight-forward, and it delves into the main leads past and how it eventually comes full circle. 

I was a bit disappointed that the film focused only on one game, but its good to see there will be another film. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - February 21st 2023 

As a former art degree student, I was more interested in the game development story arc than the pairing. However, the cast had great chemistry and the SFL was a cool character. 

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - March 25th 2023

The editing and camera shots were great, but the antagonists motive was vague. I like how they changed a few things compared to the Japanese adaptation.

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 24th 2023 

A fun and simple rom-com drama. The drama has a great message of cherishing the bonds around you and to not dwell too much of the past. 

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - June 10th 2023 

A chill slice-of-life drama about an individual seeking a place of belonging. The story consists of overcoming past trauma and how a small gesture can open a door to strong connections. 

With the theme of family and food, it makes for a nice reminder to cherish those moments with your loved ones. Quite simple yet the series explores the complexities of overcoming doubts and fears of the unknown future.

Gagaoolala (Eng subs)

Completed - January 15th 2023

Excellent casting, however the plot did not keep my interest. I found the ending anticlimactic as the final boss was taken out quite quickly. 

The action on the other hand was interesting and the side arc of Mura's character. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - February 8th 2023 

I'm not a fan of idol-centered dramas, but I've heard great reviews on this series. Although, I ain't feeling the romance sub-plot, the characters have their interesting points. The story is a nice progression of starting out low and reaching high goals.

Additionally, the series makes you view situations from an idols perspective especially in the later episodes. It visually shows how people tend to forget celebrities are human as well.

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 21st 2023 

Interesting concept, but the combat project storyline seemed underwhelming. However, the mother-daugther bond brought the film together. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 2nd 2023

It was a chill slice of life comedy drama with slight romance. I appreciate how there is more dramas set outside of high school and they have new faces for the cast. I recently watched one of the main leads drama, eternal yesterday. It was nice to see this campy and silly drama considering their other role was quite bittersweet and sad (Their range is excellent). 

There seems to be a continuation to the characters journey, its possible to have another season.

Main/ED Theme

Furritsubs (Eng subs) 

Completed - April 25th 2023

Great action sequences and simple storyline. Not much to say, but admire the brotherhood bond.

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - April 15th 2023 

Predictable storyline and the mystery aspect was not too strong here. The interesting part about the series was Kiriko's character due to her anti-hero nature. It's an alright binge if you are having a boring or sleepless night.  

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - March 2nd 2023 

Short and fast-paced chill detective drama with a slice of comedy and mystery.  The dynamic between Sakamaki and Takimoto was an enjoyable one to see built throughout the four episodes. There is still a lot of mystery behind Sakamaki's character and his detective background including his sense of smell.

If you are looking for something short, but not too tense to watch, I would suggest this series. 

Crunchyroll (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 13th 2023

Cinematography, Costume, and set design was beautifully presented in this film. 

As a non-manga and anime fan of the original source, I found the plot direction to have inconsistent pacing and little character exploration. The theatrical acting approach made dramatic and crucial scenes hard to take seriously. With a longer duration and toned down performance the film could have had further breathing room for the friendship trio and Kamiki's characters search for belonging.

MAIN THEME - SEKAI NO OWARI [ Habit]

aoinousagi (Eng subs) - SOFTSUBS

Blu-ray (No subs)

Completed - January 16th 2023 

This was a fun and chaotic film. It had everything from family moments to action packed scenes. From a story angle it jumps from one arc to another, therefore it could have been better off as another season.  However, silly and inconsistent some scenes were made, the film came together in the end. 

Blu-ray (No subs)

Completed - December 26th 2023

Overall Summary: Bros before Hoes

Netflix (Eng Subs)

Completed - January 15th 2023

The story is paced consistently and there is a gradual build-up and growth of the enemies-to-lovers trope.  Although the storyline has been made multiple times in other forms of media, the characters have their own goals and passions which made the interactions and bond between the Main leads authentic. Although the comedic aspect was not to my taste, the great chemistry of the cast made the series worth watching.

Viki (Eng subs)

Completed - March 23rd 2023

Great visual effects workflow and story potential. Overall, it's a bit too short to make any further comments.

Youtube (Eng subs) 

Completed - Februray 16th 2023 

Fast-paced storytelling, there was a lot of unanswered questions on the origins of the red person. 

The six friends had a anime-like character development, but the overall theme of overcoming loneliness was a nice build up. 

Netflix International (Eng subs) 

Completed - May 29th 2023 

Cliche storyline, the cold and warm main pair balancing out one another. The drama atmosphere was so bright and visually beautiful. One of the aspects which made this show memorable was the performance from the actors. The second pairing didn't quite stick to me and the almost married pair were there as extras. 

There are some moments in the relationships depicted throughout the episodes that felt real. These include past trauma, moving apart due to work relations. The main leads mum's scenes hit hard emotionally. Overall, glad to see an extra episode which created closure for the main leads backstory. 

Viki (Eng Subs) 

Completed - February 1st 2023 

The story concept and the cast have potential however the ultimate downside would be the limited duration of each episode.

With the events of the two MLs taking place in the modern and ancient eras, I believe a longer duration would have highly benefited the character development and explored more potential plot areas. It would have also explained some plot holes regarding the implied antagonist. I believe this series has only scratched the surface of its story as the scale of its setting was quite broad.

Note: I found the ending to be poetic and hopeful (Open ending)

iQiyi (Eng subs)

Completed - May 15th 2023 

Heard some great responses about this series. The performance from the actors was alright, but the story didn't quite keep my interest.  Regarding the scenery, it was all visually beautiful. 

iQiyi (Eng subs)

Completed - June 28th 2023

Korean version of Restart after come back home

Despite the short duration of each episode, I found the cast's performance enjoyable and they seemed to have fun with their roles. 

iQiyi (Eng subs)

Completed - June 29th 2023 

The first 10 minutes of the film reminded me so much of the mortal kombat opening scene!

Action scenes were cool, the story wasn't as memorable though.

Completed - February 3rd 2023 

The series had a great start in the earlier episodes, but it was anticlimactic towards the end. The characters had potential, especially Song Meo Ru's foresight ability. However, not much character development throughout the episodes.

Viki (Eng subs) 

Completed - January 8th 2023

Found this short film while browsing on YouTube. The plot was a bit confusing at first. However, it seems to imply a longing or a reminiscent moment for the main protagonist. After seeing his high school buddy at the gas station, as a salaryman(?) he remembered his high school years and the crush he confessed to at the time. 

From my pov, it seems unrequited and the situation seems to have had no proper closure. 

The acting was alright, and the film with its editing and ost was able to convey a nostalgic presence. 

YouTube (No subs)