If you're a fan of slow-burning romance, you'll love this!!

This drama beautifully captures the essence of love amidst social expectations and personal conflicts. I loved how the drama depicted the challenges faced by individuals pursuing their happiness and the effect of social class differences one faces while doing so.

The chemistry between the leads was intense and felt very authentic. Park Bo-gum's acting was phenomenal - his warmth, sincerity, and positivity made his character impossible not to root for, especially with that adorable smile. FL's acting was also realistic - you could see how she was battling her inner conflicts and vulnerability.
While the pacing may feel slow at times, especially in the early episodes, the gradual development of their love story is worth it. All the heartwarming moments intertwined with realistic reflections and struggles of life with its hopeful message about the power of love to overcome all, stand out for me.
The cinematography especially in the initial episodes set in Cuba, was breathtaking. I wished they had spent more time in there.

Overall, a must-watch if you love slow-burn romance.

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Healing Romance!!

Story - A slice of life with a unique premise and well-written story were one the strongest points of this c-drama. The pacing of the story was slow yet soothing and healing. It was full of life and will make your heart ache in a tragic way at the same time. The balance between the sombre and happy moments makes it stand out!
The dialogues and conversations between the leads healed something in me that they never broke!

Acting - Li Xian's portrayal of Chen Mai Dong and Zhou Yu Tong as Zhuang Jie was exemplary. Both ML and FL have an undeniable and ineffable - charm and chemistry.  The gradual affection with a lot of simmering tension between them was such a treat for the eyes.
Both the leads were not perfect, had flaws but were brave enough to acknowledge and deal with them. The acting had realism.
Chen Mai Dong truly defined "Healing yourself is connected with healing others!" And MY MAN DID THAT. Zhuang Jie was a bit indecisive and selfish at times but self-realisation dawns on her soon rather than dragging it, putting healthy dynamics on display. At times she was sheer embodiment of "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger!".
The side characters contributed to the story well. I liked the bond between the FL and her siblings and how CMD's grandmother played Cupid in the initial episodes. I liked how all the characters were pinning and conspiring for the leads to stay together (FL's mother was a hard cookie but joined the party).

The ending was on a happier note but a bit open-ended but also makes you realise how short life is to hold grudges!
The cinematography of the drama is noteworthy especially the location and the painting at the end was done beautifully! Though the editing and dubbing were a bit choppy in a few instances but wasn't distracting enough.

Overall, a heartwarming drama I would rewatch and recommend.

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Recipe of Only Boo: Sugar, spice and Everything nice!

The story is simple - Cute and endearing one meets the stoic and cool. They fall in love. Fluff...fluff..issues..fluff.
But in this case, it is executed VERY well.

It is sweet, heartwarming and a drama you watch when you want to snuggle up on rainy gloomy days to cheer yourself up!!

Moo and Kang are both green-est flags with adorable and entertaining chemistry.

Moo's conviction towards his goal was really cool to watch. I liked how his journey was portrayed. From him being naive and an irresponsible kid toward his studies to meeting Kang and falling in love and still not giving up on his lifelong dream for the sake of love !! *slow claps*
Kang was the opposite. Given up on his dream (sort of) but then him meeting Moo and falling in love gave him a much-needed push to start chasing his own dreams. And he does!!
He is the epitome of being understanding.

I loved how the motto of their relationship was - "WE GROW INDIVIDUALLY AND TOGETHER!"

The interruptions caused by the constraints of Moo's idol life and their separation later actually made sense (Though I did cry with Moo). It didn't feel out of place and was not an unnecessary plot device. The time skip was manageable and wasn't ridiculously dragged.

As for the acting by the leads, it is done well considering it is Keen and Sea's first main role. Looking forward to seeing them in more! The other side actors also delivered well. Though I was a bit confused at first for the 2nd couple's story but glad it worked out in the end. I thoroughly enjoyed the friendship and bond between Potae and Moo in the last few episodes.

While the ending did feel somewhat rushed and the story could have better connected it's loose ends but it didn't diminish the enjoyment it brought !

Overall, RECOMMENDED if you want to watch something light-hearted with overflowing cuteness and green flags!

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Finding Solace in Art!!

Art Heals! Art liberates! That's the whole review!

The movie beautifully portrays this idea through the journey of Sousuke Aoyama. Despite suffering an incomparable loss, Aoyama finds solace and purpose in art, in this case painting.

While the story may feel familiar, the execution is done pretty well.
The movie doesn't shy away from depicting the raw and real nature of loss, whether big or small. It emphasizes that how we deal with them defines and shapes our identity.
One of the movie's most poignant messages is about individuality in artistic expression. It reminds us that being an artist doesn't mean mimicking others; our perceived flaws may be beautiful to the world.

Aoyama's journey is heart-wrenching at times yet uplifting. As an apprentice, his struggles with self-doubt are tangible and relatable. However, the moment he receives encouragement from people around him and begins painting, his smile becomes a beacon of hope. Aoyama's determination to paint every day, even when exhausted, serves as a powerful reminder that giving up isn't an option. The supporting cast also delivered remarkable performances overall adding authenticity and warmth to the overall experience.

The film beautifully exemplifies the importance of confronting emotions and persevering through misfortunes and hardship.

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Finally a good action romance drama!!

I watched this drama as a part of recommendation challenge and I literally have to thank them for introducing me to this.

To outline the drama it was an absolutely wonderful and interesting watch.
There was a bit of everything for me that worked here - action, romance with both strong male and female lead and a bit of suspense and drama. The story kept me intrigued and invested till the very end. Each and every detail or clues in every episode somehow made sense at the end. I couldn't find any story loopholes. Tbh story isn't very unique but it is put together to almost perfection. You would really have to nitpick (which I am not gonna do :D)

The acting by all the cast members were perfect! The romance arc between the ML and FL is simply beautiful. The chemistry between them is FIRE! No nonsense! Just 2 adults trying their best to be together and handle things maturely. The OST was decent too. 

All is all , a great watch!

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Not my cup of tea!!

So contrary of popular opinion, personally I did not like the drama. I watched it after falling into your smile because of the same gaming - romance genre but I was disappointed.

Story wise it lacked character development of the male lead. Like at one point it kinda became frustrating. The gaming sequence was also tad bit boring and tbh I just skipped most part.

The main problem for me here was chemistry between leads , was just too forgettable and felt forced.
The OST was nice though.

Honestly this wasn't my cup of tea but again I would understand if anyone else loved it. :))

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Culinary Alchemy: Cooking up self discovery with side of food and formulas!

Fermat no Ryori—where culinary arts meet math, two things I'm about as skilled at as a fish on a bicycle. Yet, surprisingly, this quirky blend managed to hook me in with its mix of food and formulas.

Onto the main course—the food and math combo. The series isn't just about cooking up dishes as I expected but it emphasized more about cooking up some self-discovery. Our main leads Gaku and Kai are as complex as a recipe with too many ingredients.
Their attempts to adapt to each other's ways, followed by failures and subsequent self realizations kept me hooked. The narrative emphasizes on the importance of personal growth within any kind of relationship.
Honestly I came here looking for all the food talk (which I did get) but stayed for the stories of those who made it.

While it was an unconventionally tasty and intriguing concept, sometimes it felt forced and a bit gimmicky. And speaking of issues, the pacing was a bit like Swiss cheese—full of gaps. I don't mind a slow-paced drama, but at times it felt a little draggy.

The bromance between Gaku and Kai was the dessert! It was entertaining to watch especially the hug where Gaku comforts Kai. As for the ending, it was happy and melodramatic, but that smile while cooking in the last scene made me swoon.

Overall, the drama serves up a strong premise, with execution as uneven as a lumpy gravy, but with decent acting!
Bon appétit!

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Not your typical BL!

First thing first , the intro of this series was MASTERPIECE!
If you are expecting this to be your typical BL , it will disappoint you. I understand the rating on MDL. This is not a cup of tea for everyone.

The story does seem fragmentary at points leaving you with many unanswered plot holes but it has clever presentation.
The symbolism , the contrasting color frames , the angst , the hurt - You can feel it all in this 5 episode drama.
The acting by both the leads was convincing enough.

Not a fan of open endings but in this case it was justifiable. 
The conversation after their dinner was cruel yet realistically hopeful.
Yoon Dae needed to understand that " If you never heal from what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you."
For him to be Soo Hyuk's home and vice versa, he has to ground himself first. Finally someone teaching him self love without manipulating and scarring him.
Soo Hyuk was torn but held his ground this time. He wanted Yoon Dae to really be his home rather than being a liability.

The ending depicted they both finally broke from their same pattern and that counts as "sort of" happy ending (At least for me).
Though it's not a perfect 10 for me but still very close to it. I hope there is season 2 with longer run time.

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Cliche but Enjoyable!

The story was a bit cliche and inspired from all the other supernatural dramas but it is definitely a enjoyable watch. The supernatural fantasy moments are good though. The editing and VFX does adds upto the pros for this drama

But I think the main selling point of this drama are the visual appeal of the leads !! OH MY GOD ! The chemistry between them is comfortable, natural and sizzling.
The cute interactions does make you smile.

SONG KANG was exceptional in this. I watched some behind the scenes of both Song Kang and Kim You Jung and loved it. I really liked how Kim You Jung was improvising while shooting and gently directly Song Kang as well.
The villian does give you creeps.

Though the story was nothing extraordinary but the acting and chemistry does make it a very enjoyable watch. I would definitely watch it again.

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Lost in the Monologue Mayhem !?

The plot started strong but unfortunately *a long sigh* it lost its way in the second half and picked up in the finale. But a little too late!
The concept of two BL actors starring together and falling in love - This isn't new. Feels like the ongoing trend in J-drama BLs. But this series didn't quite live up to expectations, at least for me.

The characters, Shirasaki Yuki and Hayama Asami struggled with a FRUSTRATING lack of communication throughout. The fact that they both pinned on each other as they sipped coffee in the penultimate episode just pissed me off.
There were many times when I found myself shouting, "JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER !!" While I do under this can be a cultural nuance, stretching it to the finale was a bit much.

They relied 'too much' on internal monologues, that after a certain point felt distant and unclear especially Shirasaki's reflections on his self-esteem and feelings for Hayama. I expected a good/some character development where I could see his confidence building slowly and gradually but I got none.
Hayama's reserved nature, despite publicly expressing his affection for Shirasaki, was equally frustrating and confusing at times.
Honestly, individually both characters were well-acted and had potential, but together they seemed "too similar", creating a somewhat repelling dynamic.

The finale was sweet. I was glad finally one of them decided to break the ice and be brave!
The intimate scene was shot to utter perfection! *_*
I liked how Shirasaki became a bit too bold and brave after the confession. Honestly, it was a treat to watch him happy. Lol.
I wish this could have happened in one or two episodes prior so that the ending wouldn't feel rushed (They didn't even sit for the coffee! That rushed xD) and we at least could get a deeper exploration of them being in a relationship for more than 10 minutes!!
Talking about the standout scenes, The Gnocchi-making scene tops the hall of fame!! It was sensual and kept PG-13. (WOW!)

The acting by both the leads was another positive for this drama. I found it simple and sincere. They did their best with what was given to them!

In conclusion, If you ride and thrive on angst, frustration and introspective inner monologues, I would recommend this!
I could have rated it higher if I had binge-watched it!

Overall, 7.7/10!

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A story of longing and yearning from the Days of Disapproval !

Though this movie was released in 2020, it's reminiscent of a classic 1900s film, portraying the struggles of a queer relationship amidst societal repression and how homosexuality was not to be accepted by family and the society in the social unrest period.

The story follows the intricate relationship between Birdy and Jia Han.
 It was complex and intriguing at the same time. The depth and vulnerability of both the characters were heartwrenching and was portrayed beautifully.

The story is set up in an 'All boy's school' with Jia-Han and Birdy meeting and bonding immediately. There are subtle hints of their intimacy at the start. Even with the obvious hints, I liked how the romance was not rushed delivering a believable chemistry.

Ji-Han's struggle in trying to come out in a homophobic society contrasts with Birdy's attempt to suppress his feelings and be accepted into societal norms. (The famous star-crossed romance).
The acting was phenomenal by both the leads. The craving, the yearning, the constant push and pull for each other. Holding each other and crying during the shower and the telephone conversation scene were the peak for me.
The editing of this drama is also noteworthy. I like how the narration is done by Jia Han and how the scene seamlessly goes into flashbacks so effortlessly to tell us the story.

The story felt more of Ji Han's point of view and I would have liked more context of Birdy's thoughts. I felt his character was bit under developed. His decisions here and there defied reasoning.

However,  the ending was too abrupt for me. Abrupt won't be the correct word- Unsettling maybe. It serves as a realistic, sad and overpowered portrayal of lingering feelings and effects of societal repression. You can feel the tension, suffocation and smell the regret.

It could be considered a sort of a happy ending in the grand scheme of things.  It does show and give a glimmer of hope for the future generations.

This movie is like a harsh reminder of all the struggles faced by queer community and I do recommend this despite its minor flaws

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Uncomplicated and Light watch!

I'm pleasantly surprised with this mini-drama and its quality.
Despite being a two-episode drama, it isn't flawless, with some logical inconsistencies (like her bottomless pit bag) and plot holes here and there. But the inclusion of historical references, humorous moments and fun chemistry between the leads made it a delightful watch.

Both ML and FL did a fantastic job, with FL stealing the show for me!
- I loved how the FL thought jumping in the puddle was better than writing exams!
- All the math and science learning moments between the leads were easy on the eyes and fun!
- A special mention of the female lead's reluctance to not leave her damn world for the male lead. (You go girl! Come back, suffer and learn Maths and Science). I really liked how ML was also a rational being.
- Oh, and the final Kiss! It was perfect and a bit heartbreaking!

Overall, the simplicity was refreshing, although I wished it was longer.
Recommended if you are looking for an uncomplicated and light watch!

My actual rating was 8.8/10. Honestly, 9 felt too high and 8.5 felt too low. But with all the rounding system Math that I have learnt - 9 it is here.

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Misfits But Perfect Together!

This was thoroughly enjoyable with hilarious mix-ups and heartwarming moments causing the most unlikely couple to fall in love. 
The main leads provided comedic sparkle and delightful chaos to the story with their quirky personalities and adorable chemistry. 
Despite typically encountering pacing problems in short run-time BLs, this was perfectly balanced. 
The final 2 episodes are guaranteed to leave you smiling! *_*

The struggles faced by the second couple were highly relatable and handled with sensitivity. The angst was nothing new but their ending felt authentic, and not abrupt- out of a fairytale! 

Overall, it is a refreshing take on clichéd tropes, executed almost flawlessly. I would recommend this if you are looking for a light-hearted drama.

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Mixed feelings!

Well honestly I am not sure how I feel about this. When I read the synopsis and went to the drama I was expecting mystery and that amnesia plot but both of it lasted for few episodes.
The story kinda felt dragged to me like it could have ended 5-10 episodes before making it an interesting watch. The character of female lead went from independent strong headed individual to dependant and it did mess up the story for me.

The acting both of the leads are good. The romance is there , the kind of you expect from Luo Yunxi ( love is sweet , TTEOTM) was missing. Again their love story was sweet but it felt disconnecting at times when female lead decided to be ignorant most of the times.
I liked their past mountain experience and how they connected that to when she was buying the painting. A small moment but it did make me smile.

Antagonists were the suprise element for me in this story as to how FL'S sister and best friend were framed and it felt suprising but rushed and unnecessary.

I went into the drama with alot of expectations but was slightly disappointed.

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