Loved this series.

So well put together. You really get to hate him at the beginning and as the first episodes unfold - you'll find yourself getting anxious about if she will start to like him too early. He is so good at being bad that you fear anything good will be taken away the next time he is angry. That is good writing and great acting.

I don't want to dive into any of the details since so many other reviewers do that well so, I will just stick with that it is something to put and leave in your watch list. You will have favorite moments and go back to them often.

A little side note. In some dramas you can tell the actors/actresses aren't in to each other in the kissing scenes. They are just going through the motions. Not these two - the little details in how they kiss are perfect. Think Korean Odyssey when they kiss each other in the library or, when they finally spend a night together - those kisses/moments are perfect. Same with this series. They are trying so hard not to fall in love but, just can't help it.

You will enjoy this one.

Leggi di Più

Very well done - relatable - enjoyable

Update: I have seen this three times now. I still love it. My only qualm is that there is an appearance that the ML likes guys because of the trauma he went through. That is a dangerous road to travel and feeds into the nonsense that there is some choice involved. Forgivable but, would have liked to have some of the lines altered to show that what he felt younger was confirmed after working with him so closely. What saves it is how much they always care for each other - and - it feels real.

I thought this one was very well written. Also, no real wasted time on sideline stories. The extra "stuff" always supports the main story. I loved and appreciated how the Mother had a believable transformation. Time and seeing for herself was all she needed. I could and most likely will - watch this again when I am in the mood for a story of two polar opposites finding what they need in each other. And, finding out that they are worthy of love - loving others and well as learning to love themselves.

Leggi di Più

Great to watch with your finger on the fast forward button

I actually liked/loved the characters enough to stick with the whole series. For an English speaker - it was tough only getting translations of what was said - nothing written was ever translated but, I would eventually, be able to figure it out.

I agree with many reviews in that Pat took too long to mature. For being a 25-26 year old there were times his actions mirrored childlike. Understandable for someone who was babied/coddled but, when you enter the workforce - you do need to take steps to grow past your safety zones. The writing reflected the times - they mentioned safe zones many times.

I agree the writing was a little off. Plot points were introduced and never followed up on. The whys and hows of character choices were never fully explained. Side characters remained blank canvases and only used when needed. Many times you will find yourself asking "Who is that?".

I appreciated the reality of the whole story. Controlling Dad finally realizes he can't control his son but, has nothing against him - dad even mentions his performance for the past two years has been near flawless. It was a nice shot of him throwing away his son's resignation and basically, letting him do what he wants - relationship wise. The mother appeared to like Jaab over Jeng though, that is never explained.

Being a standard BL - you can fast forward through the fluff and waste of time scenes. So predictable and just by paying attention as you zip through the scenes - you can still see what is happening and not miss a thing. Overall, I really loved the characters enough to where I will be watching favorite scenes/episodes again.

I loved when Jeng is slowly watching and paying attention to everything Pat likes and dislikes. His reaction to Pat not liking the shrimp nuggets is perfect. For someone who loves to cook and wants to share his creations - it goes to your soul when you want someone to like what you prepared. It bothers him so much, he changes the recipe so, Pat would be able to eat if ever offered again. I have watched the submitting the peer review to the scenes of them working together several times - they are real enough to completely believe.

Again, worth a watch but, don't feel bad for fast forwarding through the things you don't like. I am not a fan of screaming queens - never have been. I can't even stand to watch that horror film Mama Mia - even with the Abba music as bait.

Leggi di Più

Wasn't sure what I was going to say...

I read a very positive review before writing this because, I wasn't sure how to approach this series. We do get a sense of timeline based on the length of stay Nubsib is going to be a roommate. But, I still had to wonder why they had to make Gene's character so continuously abrasive. If more people would have reminded him to back off a little or, to apologize when mean - it would have been easier to connect with him earlier in the series.

This series is pretty well written. Because it is mentioned so much - without looking to the credits - I have been trying to guess if this was written by a woman or, a man or, a collaboration. I can usually tell it is a woman when they have the gay character make it sound like they are gay just for one person and are deciding at that very moment. There are so few BLs out there that show that those feelings and whom you are drawn to start at a very early age - whether in the closet or, not. Anywho.

Overall - well done. Love the detail. Love the uncomfortableness some episodes create. Love the reality. Love that many types of LGBT personalities are represented. This is one series where you will watch several of the episodes repeatedly. I would have scored it higher if they would have given the director's and Gene's manager less screen time - both of them are so irritating. LOL

What you will notice in this series is a lack of character development. Instead of spending more time to get to know everyone - we have to sit through meaningless boring, time consuming scenes that almost mean nothing. Great - they go to a temple before the series shooting begins - that could have been covered in a flashback conversation. And, the day to day scenes weren't strong enough to hold up on their own. In other series - those hanging out together moments show true friendship and bonding doing normal things. Here - it can clearly be seen as time filler - even though the episodes are so short. It's okay - that is what the fast forward button is for.

Let's look at the characters:

Nubsib - the kind of guy both women and men would love to have. Caring, patient and honest.
Gene - in the closet only because he has kept himself isolated most of his life - not daring to even see where his feelings lie.
Tum - an appreciated character - assumed gay because of the world/career he is in but, feet firmly planted where he knows who he is. Refreshing that he never gets as angry as Gene does when people "assume".
Aoey - my least favorite character for all the reasons we see. Even though Nubsib goes out of his way to avoid him - he still feels he has a chance at a relationship with him (sad but, with that character's personality - I can understand it). We needed this character to represent that large segment of the LGBT population. Happy he was part of the series.
Loved Korn's character - always left you wondering.
The director and Gene's manager hold the place for typical over the top annoying characters. There were several times when the director was speaking that I yelled at the TV for him to stop talking. Gene's manager is pretty awful. If I were Gene - when it came time for contract renewal I would ask for her replacement or, move to a better company.
Tiffy - pretty cool character - loved her transformation.
Hin and Mhok were cool - would have loved more time with them.

Leggi di Più

This one intrigues me...

Chinese subbing of a Thai drama. I wasn't sure how I was going to like it but, I got hooked. Love the casting - it is strong. Love the music. Love how the characters interact with each other. And, I appreciate that even though they don't know each other well enough - they still look out for each other's wellbeing. I saw we can't find the original Thai version but, I will stick with the Chinese one to finish it.

One major irritation: The female chosen to voice for the FL was pulled off her anime duty. Typical grown women voicing in a way to make our FL sound like she is 7 years old with a mentality to match. The more she is on screen the more you hate her.
How do these people even get into college?

Leggi di Più

Eye Candy, Good Casting and Learning to Live with Frustration

Warning: If you get emotionally invested in your Asian dramas - install a acrylic panel in front of your TV or, computer screen before you start watching this. The way the writers handled this story and its characters - you may find yourself throwing things at the screen when the bad people keep getting away with everything they do. Or, keep trying to manipulate your favorite characters.

Better than most Chinese dramas. I thought they spent some major bucks on this one until I started seeing them use the same stock shots/scenes over and over. Basically, time filler while they make you listen to the soundtrack. Gotta stretch 16 episodes of story into 30! I guess if you think of this as more soap opera and less drama - you will be more patient.

While some dramas have made the food another character, this one keeps food as a backdrop. It is discussed as if it is important to everyone but, while we do learn some things as the too many episodes plod along - we just watch people cut, prep, cook and eat while they go through the motions. There are some amazing moments between the main characters when he is teaching her. He is such a good actor and so into the part, you can see how she falls for him through these cooking lessons. I still wish the food was more than something to be judged and consumed. Compare to Bite Me where food scenes were sensual, gorgeous and presented to be as important as the characters themselves.

I agree with some of the other reviews that this story has too many bad people getting away with what they've done. I figured out the main evil person (who cares why she is doing it) so early that I've grown frustrated with the revelations and hoping/waiting for her to get hit by a bus. At least in The K-2 we see the villain have to take responsibility for all the evil he has done - by his own hand - and, accepts it.

After 25 episodes, I have finally stopped yelling at the TV "Stab her in the heart." every time Elise has screen time. Why does this pyscho not get anything coming to her. The Chinese society is very well known for corruption and letting money talk but, you don't see any of that here. In fact, evil is glorified unless you are a small business. Use food additives to your fish? You are going to jail. Poison, embezzle, steal, lie, cover up, coerce - you're fine. In fact - we'll reward you!!!

Love the main characters and a couple of the side stories. This was clearly made to be a travelogue type story for the upcoming Olympics. Get people interested in visiting the area and trying all the different kinds of food. It takes time to get used to Song Zu Er - she can be quite annoying and immature - her growth takes much longer than traditional Asian dramas - she seems to backslide into the childish realm a bit too often - petty. Ethan Juan is at his best at both when he is in control and when he is most vulnerable. The in-between stuff gets a bit messy. Loved the main characters interactions when they were just normal and their guards were down.

I'll stick with it through all the episodes but, I am starting to fast forward through the time filler stuff so, I can focus on the main stories. I don't care if a character has to look at outfits and pick out products for 20 minutes. I get that you want us to believe they have an important job. You can do it in five minutes. LOL Love the side story of the immature heir coming to grips with having to mature. Love seeing his growth and struggle and his fiancé is a perfect casting choice - in today's Chinese society - should she have to put up with him?

Just finished episode 25. Still love the main characters and after reading reviews - I have an idea of what to expect. So, I don't think I will be throwing anything at the TV anytime soon.

Leggi di Più

Hard to Watch...but, it has its moments (strong cast)

The family of the lead girl borders on abusive. They constantly tell her she is ugly. They won't let her eat. The mother constantly praises the son and insults the daughter. They treat the daughter like a servant. The mother actually tells Gui Hui that her boyfriend is too good for her. It is just awful. They should have had the daughter tell the family off in the episode she "ran" away. No - instead - the writers continue to treat her like trash and have the family not even notice she was gone.

On her birthday - they wait until the end of the day to even mention it. And, no real gifts. The worthless brother temps her with a gift and then, gives her nothing. But, all is right with the world if they give her a cake and sing...ugh.

I stuck with it because it has a good storyline and strong cast. If they could only get that Korean White Truck to run over the mother and brother - just to get them off screen for most of the episodes - it would have been a great series.

Leggi di Più

Well done...Not sure why others didn't like it...

I am not going to go into spoiler territory or, retell the story...I just want to say that I really enjoyed this series. It was believable. It stayed in its lane and used every character. While we could see what may happen, the writers handled it well enough so, we weren't yelling at the screen when things went wrong for a character or, characters we cared about.

Loved the grandmother. She had heart and watched everything unfold and only occasionally stepped in to guide it. The father didn't understand and gave up too early. But, with everyone else's help - found his way. You could see why people did what they did and where their mistakes were made - loved that we got to see them own it and learn from them.

This one will stay in my library so, I can go back to favorite episodes. It isn't easy to open yourself up when you have spent so long protecting yourself from hurt. Happy to see this one unfold in an acceptable timeline and while they may have gone too far in the current trend of let's everyone be gay by time the credits roll - it's forgivable since we end up liking everyone involved.

Leggi di Più

Ehhh. This could have been so much better...

Since the writers felt a need for some comedy and the director is not the best - the first few episodes are pretty hard to watch. Have your fingers on the right keys and zip through all the overacting, bad dialogue and near afternoon soap opera writing. They used a teenage kpop storyline to set everything up but, it is a little weak. Lead female - public defender - not developed well as a character. I found her irritating most of the time. Then, the writers drop all of that and she suddenly becomes a normal person. There wasn't a believable transition from a pretty awful person to one we are supposed to care about and root for.

As per usual, the first several episodes are disposable. I stuck with this all the way through because I KNOW Lee Jong Suk is an amazing actor. He didn't disappoint.

As for a "review" I am going to stop here. Why? It wouldn't be fair for me to go on. I expected a drama. Unfortunately, I realized this was a soap opera made to look like a drama. It tries to be too many things. Bad rom-com vibes that they drop and never bring up again. An irritating almost to the point of unredeemable main character where - again - all of that is dropped and forgotten and they are presented as normal - what you would expect characters. The villain is so lucky that the law is so inept - everywhere. Wanted posters, eye witnesses, etc. mean nothing - so, we get stuck with a villain who only shows up here and there to move the story along through all 18 episodes. Again, soap opera. Not a bad thing but, I wish I would have known going in.

Leggi di Più

Tough Watch for Several Reasons

This may be a tough watch for some people. Why?

- Great cast - overall - great casting - they found some solid actors/actresses.
- Characters - they could have been a little more polished. Storylines had rough transitions. Characters change of heart weren't handled well. Two main ones go from annoying and mean to better but, we don't know why and it takes so long to get through a sentence - you forget that they are nicer or, more relaxed.
- Pacing - watching paint dry is faster. I skipped two entire middle episodes because nothing was moving forward. Nothing - plot wise - was changing.

I will finish this with the fast forward button just so I can move on to something else.

Leggi di Più

Hmmm...

I am going to take this one slowly. Right now I am two episodes in and while more than half the cast is already dead - I want to add the sound effects guy to the list but, not have him show up in the afterlife. He needs to go straight to sound effect Hell where every move anybody makes is accompanied by a soundtrack designed by a three year old.

Like other reviews have stated - are the effects there to make this appear to be a horror-comedy? Is the pacing glacial because they didn't have enough material? When you have a good cast but, are missing some time filling material - that is when the ML needs to take a slo-motion shower or, greet someone at the door with hair still wet and wet towel still wrapped around him. Easy.

Anyway, not what I was looking for this evening so, I will park this one for a later viewing. Reviews show that this has promise. Maybe, the sound effects guy bites it by the end of episode 2 and makes the series instantly better...

Leggi di Più

I just don't get it...

What is it about certain Chinese shows that show the FL be in college yet have the intelligence of a rock? Sorry to all the rocks I just insulted. Clumsy, inept, near special needs, just awful.

The blessing here is the fast forward button. I have been able to zip through whole episodes in a matter of minutes and see that I did not miss a single thing. Certain characters pop on screen? You know it has nothing to do with the main story - zipppp. Female lead interacting with classmates? Zipppp.

Being that this runs for over 30 episodes - there will be lots of repeating since the audience is expected to stick with this for over half the year - again - zippp.

I will take the time to come back to either drop the title or, finish the review. If the characters - as expected - gain brain cells and start acting like adults - I will give it a chance. We'll see...

Leggi di Più

Great concept - Binged it - Rewatch? Yes.,..but,

Spoilers - but, maybe it will help you follow and figure it out.

Binged this because there was enough detail to make this an interesting and compelling series. But, with the choices made by the writers/director - it created issues that will have you reaching for the fast forward button - often.

With any time travel story - you will have issues. People still argue the existence of the pocket watch in Somewhere In Time (a movie you see on the shelf at the DVD store in this series). Where did the watch come from - originally - if the person from the past gets it from the person from the future but, the person from the future got it from the person from the past - in the present? See what I mean?

We see the DVD store owner becomes integral to the story. He initiates the contact and allows it to unfold - each time (three times). He is always there for guidance - a wonderful mentor/guide. He even makes a decision when the characters finally get it right.

Here's the issue...because we have been fed so much information, when the story moves through the second phase - we already know the outcome - there are almost entire episodes that are a waste of your time. Does it really matter that we get to see their relationship develop when we know the outcome? And, while I understand a time traveler choosing a moment - why wait until a week before the event to make an appearance? Love and sacrifice are already established and understood.

I would have preferred to see where Ongsa went before Suansoon rejoins the present than to see the relationship develop - in detail - the second time (a given that could have been handled with references and a few flashbacks). Create a story where we want to follow what everyone is doing. Not waiting while they have their five minute stares at each other while the soundtrack plays.

Spend less time in phase two and expand phase three/the end. I loved how every character realized that they went through this before but, couldn't quite put their finger on it. Let's see more of that.

I really liked this series for going so deeply into a thought/story that others have not gone before. Would love to see this done by the Koreans with their larger budgets and stronger writers.

Leggi di Più

Give this one a shot...

I ended up really liking this one - agreeing with others that there are parts and people you can fast forward through and not miss anything.

This is a multi-episode commercial for 7-Eleven with a story thrown in. My biggest surprise was seeing 7-Eleven avoiding offering a full on espresso selection along with their smoothie bar. This would truly make them a one stop shopping for quick needs both going to and leaving work.

A little grating from the Thai group - why do you feel it necessary to always make all the sons in the family gay? Why can't one brother be straight and the other not - and, as in all these - have everyone be okay with it. Anywho - small complaint.

Love Venus. Strong character who understandably is very guarded. At the very least - he knows he is being taken advantage of - work wise - and leaves. Through his brother's 7-Eleven ownership - he meets Sky - three years after being rejected by him. Sky, trying so hard to get back together with him keeps whitewashing the past and that makes Venus bothered even more. This is the strongest storyline in the whole series. The secondary storyline with the brother is badly done and usually ignored by the director and writers - it shows. The third storyline could have been left out completely - busy people not connecting and drifting apart. Yawn. Cute characters though - nice eye candy. LOL

I grew to really like Sky and Venus and really LOVED the behind the scenes stuff we saw between the episodes. So nice to see such good hearted people get the work and appreciate being in the series.

Leggi di Più

Frustrating

God I really hate how they portray the system in this series. True or, not - I cannot see how any of the bad characters can have any kind of redemption beyond having them jump off their famous suicide bridge you see in every other drama. I will stick with this all the way to the end and then, write of the overall feeling and such but, at the end of episode 5 - my only wish is to have all the bad guys go off a cliff in a bus together. LOL

Let's kill all the good people and have anyone who has half a soul have a miserable life. Everyone else who has money and control - let them be happy and only worry about where they are going to spend their money. Jeez - you ended up having more compassion for the crazy rich girl in My Absolute Boyfriend than any of these villain losers. And, whether it happens or, not - if the villains are turned into good guys/people - I would just place that as lazy writing. In the real world that just doesn't happen.

Leggi di Più