Reviews

This drama was a representation of the Japanese trend of detective dramas during the time period it was aired, with those like Ataru and Nazotoki... dramas. Taking away bias because I am an Arashi fan, I didn't really appreciate this light-hearted drama. I felt like it was trying to show some morals in the mix of comedy but it was a bit subtle for my taste. The story didn't get me hooked, and frankly I just watched it for the sake of finishing it. In one word to describe it, it was lukewarm. It was great for passing time with nothing else to watch, but I wouldn't call this a great drama. The music was great though. I felt like the lyrics somewhat related to the main character and the song at the ending was very soft and melodic, which was nice to hear. I just wish the story delved a bit more into the plot rather than just crack the surface and made the story into its own, rather than just another detective drama.

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“All wars are civil wars, because all men are brothers.” –Francois Fenelon

In the United States, that conflict which came to be called “The Korean War,” holds another designation besides: “The Forgotten War.” Several reasons exist for this, but chief among them is actually timing. Wedged between heroic World War II and hellish Vietnam, amassing fewer American casualties, and yielding little accomplishment, these hostilities are often overshadowed and thus rarely remembered (unless someone mentions M*A*S*H, of course). And yet for Koreans, that this war could be “forgotten” is unthinkable. Its effects are likened unto wounds that ache even today, dividing an entire people along the scar known as the DMZ.

So why stop to talk history? Because, when it comes to a powerful drama like Comrades, it just seems necessary. As many among us have come to know and love South Korea (and not just for excellent entertainment, but its culture and people also), we ought to be aware of the painful history which has molded it until now. After all, that sentiment seems to be at the heart of Comrades: the fervent wish for the viewer to understand.

What’s more, this drama helps one to do so in an entertaining and sincere manner, without the heavy-handed ideology, pointed fingers, or macho-man heroism which might muddy its message. The plot unfolds tightly, abandoning exposition and filler to allow characters and events to stand for themselves. The viewer is never spoon-fed or told what to think, and thus free to see Comrades as it is: a story of ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. That means that even soldiers from the North are portrayed humanely, whereas not everything in the South comes across as noble. A drama which pulls no punches with any aspect, and never insults the intelligence of its viewers is all too rare.

And so we see The Korean War from a uniquely Korean perspective, following various participants (from South and North Korean soldiers, to guerrilla fighters and even deserters). We learn their stories, each unique and fleshed out, and often come to feel for them no matter the “side.” Not only men are represented, either, with female combatants frequently appearing in the narrative (and well-handled, at that). Yet the best thing about Comrades might be the fabulous characters of 1st Squad, and the deep bonds which form between them. Viewers spend most time with these men, growing to adore them as they fight and survive together. The term “bromance” was invented for such touching male friendships, and I'll never use it lightly again.

Despite the fact battles often occur on screen and action plays an important part in Comrades, the involving and personal nature of the story is what will stick with viewers. Though it might make you cry from the gut, pump your fist triumphantly, or cover your mouth in disbelief, it’s a chance worth taking. For war film and history lovers, you’ll doubtlessly adore Comrades. But if you’re hesitating because this is not your usual type of show, stop! You’ll never see a drama quite like this again, as mature, well-made, and without fear. And the only regret you’ll have after? How pale it makes others seem in comparison.

Perhaps no better Korean ensemble cast yet exists than the one in Comrades. Ever-immaculate Choi Soo Jong headlines as devoted and fatherly Lee Hyun Joong, the sergeant in charge of 1st Squad. This character’s love and care for his men exceeds that of his own life. As I told a friend, Choi appears slight, yet his presence looms large and vibrant; more impressive is that he manages this with a surprising humanity and straightforwardness. I’m extremely attached to Sergeant Lee, even now: an incredible role for an incredible actor.

From Choi Soo Jong, it becomes difficult to single out anyone, but not because they flow together. On the contrary, each character is so well-defined and acted that should I stop to name everyone that stood apart, we’d be here for many more paragraphs. Instead, I’ll list some of the best: Kim Roe Ha (complicated Sergeant Park), Lee Seung Hyo (brash Private Jung), and Ryu Sang Wook (pious Medic Joo Yong). Kim Myung Soo and Jung Tae Woo are notable from the North Korean side, while Lee In Hye and Lee Tae Ran do the ladies proud.

Nothing is more delightful than finding a cinematic soundtrack in a drama. Well, being able to find every track with its title translated might be (as was possible with this one). Almost everything is memorable, with nary a false note to be heard from tense and exciting themes (“Kyrie”) to those equally quiet and painful (“Salute to the Deceased”). Many of my favored Korean dramas tend to include Insooni on the soundtrack, and here her soulful voice haunts the shattering ballad “I Will Come Back.” Among other important vocals are “Requiem for the Unknown Soldiers,” (Gloomy 30’s), and the enduring, folksy “Friends,” offered by Kim Jang Hoon—and on occasion, the boys of 1st Squad. After the final episodes, this is a song that might burrow its way into your heart forever.

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Shitsuren Chocolatier is a story about love and heartbreak; it says it in the title. You pretty much know what you're going to get once you start watching. It is very conventional, but also unconventional in a sense. For once, we get to see a man making a fool of himself and chasing after a woman in the name of unrequited love. This is something refreshing since we usually see it the other way around. It also refreshing to see characters that have flaws that are open and not hidden. We can feel free to hate the characters for these flaws, or appreciate the way in which these flaws are put in the forefront, and perhaps even learn from them. The story is conventional in that there is the typical love triangle and the various entanglements that are a result of that love triangle.

Usually in J-dramas the topic of sex is one that is not addressed at all; in this drama, it is there and openly seen, but not in a lewd and raunchy manner (unfortunately which is seen far too much in American dramas) so that is a relief. We see characters actually acting like adults and not middle school students that are afraid to hold hands. There are actually kiss scenes that are quite believable and not overly awkward to watch. The romance scenes are not too steamy to the point that you would get uncomfortable if someone were to walk into the room when you were watching.

Another positive point is the music, setting, and atmosphere. This drama was beautifully shot and has a great soundtrack of memorable songs that get stuck in your head for the entire week after watching an episode. I myself have been listening to the soundtrack a lot. Ken Arai did a great job in capturing the perfect compositions for the various moments in the drama. I also like how the theme of chocolate was included in the drama. It is not strictly a food drama but the importance of this beloved treat in the various love interest's lives is an interesting and apt addition, without overriding the other aspects of the plot and making it another culinary porn type of series.

Things I did not like about the drama were the lack of characterization for certain characters, especially Rikudou and Sekiya , and to an extent Saeko. Rikudou could have been a very memorable character if utilized properly, but unfortunately his presence was one that contributed very little to the drama as a whole. Sato Ryuuta did a great job in all of the scenes that he was in. Sekiya was just a pointless throwaway character. The actor's performance was not memorable and neither was the character. As for Saeko, I feel like we could have seen more what makes her the person she is, like a bit of her past, her hopes, dreams, ambitions. Instead, she is regulated to an empty manic pixie dream girl who really is defined by the men she is with. Sure, there were some good instances of female bonding with Kaoruko , but the character was not developed enough. The same can be said about Olivier as well.

Also, the drama does a poor job of addressing heavy subjects such as domestic violence and infidelity. I feel the characters have done things that are taboos and generally accepted as wrongs, but very little repentance is shown. It really sends a clouded message. As for the ending, I very much though that it summed things up nicely, apart from certain unrealistic and overly optimistic aspects. I'm glad the ending wasn't the typical drama ending, but this opinion may not be shared by others.

All in all, it was a entertaining drama from start to finish, though definitely not perfect. So for that, I give it an 8 overall.

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This drama was great! I loved seeing these 40 year olds act like mature men and then change to 18 year olds in the blink of an eye.

The story was interesting and I will admit that when I started the first episode, I thought to myself, "What am I watching?", but that soon changed, since it made me laugh so much. I definitely don't regret watching this.

It's hilarious and there will be moments of laughing mixed with moments of sweetness and romance. There are parts where I yelled at the screen (like they could hear me) when the drama wasn't going the way I wanted it, but thankfully any problems that the characters had was resolved within a few episodes and wasn't drawn out. I loved this and it allowed for more cuteness to happen.

So, I would recommend this drama to everybody.

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The following is an Everything HONEST review. Sarcasm up ahead. You have been warned.


From the network which has brought Death Note and Ataru to television sets all over Japan and computer screens all over the world comes Bloody Monday. Not a girl's period day.

Meet Takagi Fujimaru(Miura Haruma), a legendary hacker nicknamed Falcon for hacking into something by chance during junior high which happened to lead the police to prevent a possible terrorist act. And my friends were watching porn on their laptops, the culture difference is appalling. He promises never to hack again because its NOT like he didn't help save a lot of people. But when his friend is sexually harassed by a hentai sensei Takagi hacks into his computer to expose his sadist and masochistic ways to the school. Good thing because things were turning into a cliche, disgusting, hentai scene. Too bad his kind act causes the sensei to seek revenge along with a emerging terrorist group set on becoming kamisamas by destroying Tokyo. Which basically uses him and other people as a pawns to satisfiy their need of destruction. Fathom at how are hero miraculously surivive hostage siutations and deadly showdowns, but how his sister keeps letting strangers in their house. Seriously you almost got killed because of it. A story with so much twists and plots it'll have you guessing who is on the terrorist side, but still have plot conviences for the main characters. Kinda like a book.

Starring
The Yellow Falcon(Falcon)
Rookies player(Otoya)
MILF(Maya)
Yankee J(J)
Bloody Monday... I understand why everyone was complaining that the police unit missed ample opportunities to just shoot the terrorists, but is it necessary to post spoilers along with your comment. Really took away some of the mystery.
Cliche Counter:
Annoying sister cliche
Single parent household cliche
Pervy sensei is from the science department
Pervy sensei is into bondage
Pervy sensei is into dressing like a girl
Only one person knew about "the plan"
The boss is the least expected person
Japanese high school uniform...wait they didn't wear uniform! Not a cliche
Good guy with a troubled past
Bad guy with a troubled past

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Even though Her Lovely Heels only had 10 episodes and each episode was 10-15 minutes I was unable to keep from skipping at times in this mini drama.

Seung Yoon's acting was bland. She plays a girl who has fallen in love with a co-worker who doesn't believe in love. I felt bad for Jong Hyeon (He plays her co-worker she falls in love with.) you could see he was trying to make the drama more exciting and more interesting acting wise but it just didn't work out.

Jong Hyeon and Seung Yoon were a very awkward lead couple. During some scenes I couldn't help but cringe. I don't know why it was like that...maybe it was because Seung Yoon had the same type of expression throughout almost the whole drama? I don't know.

Now on to the plot. Hmmmmmm....how can I really put it into words? Well I felt it lacked something. The whole plot was basically about there romance and the only thing which kept the story going was there trust issues with each other. Even till the last episode they still were worried the other person was getting involved with someone else (That's never a good sign in any relationship).

The ending was cute. I will say that.

Do I recommend watching this mini drama?
Not really. I would say there are a lot better mini dramas out there.

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So, it's been a while since I watch YB, that being my first drama. Even so, I just /had/ to watch the Japanese version!

Considering it's much shorter, with only eleven episodes and the average length being 45 minutes, a lot of the scenes were cut, though honestly, I didn't mind, as most of it was the comedy. Some great scenes were cut though, sadly.

The story is obviously the same, and it's a great story. It was faster-paced, and while it was natural in some points, at others it went by far too quickly.

The character development was differeing in comparison to the Korean version, obviously due to the time constraints. Something I really didn't like was Shu's character though.

We all know how heartbreaking Shin Woo's scenes were in YB (it's really ridiculous how much that guy made me feel so heartbroken), but I didn't get the same impact for Shu as I did with Shin Woo. I think it's due to the huuuuuuugggee lack of Shu-Mio talk time. We got a ton of adorable talks between Mi Nam and Shin Woo in YB, but there just wasn't enough sweetness coming from Shu. I didn't get that super adorably nice feeling from him.

The acting was pretty good, but nobody can beat Jang Geun Suk's experience. I think the Korean actors were better, putting all appearance biases aside.

A majority of the music was the same, except in Japanese, and while they were good, I like the Korean version better. A few songs were not translated/included from the original though.

I personally wouldn't rewatch it, but I can see watching some parts of it over. Maybe just for Jang Geun Suk's cameo in episode eight. ;P

Overall, it was pretty good. If you liked YB, you should definitely try watching this version out. It's fun, and it puts a Japanese spin on some of the scenes we all know and love.

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This drama is pretty good as a medical drama. All the medical dramas I've watched, I would say this drama is the most realistic one out of all of them, When I usually stumble upon a medical drama, there is only 1 table death or no deaths at all. Doctors there are magically powerful and can save everyone. Realistically that is not the case. This drama however, displays how doctor can't magically save everyone but they try their best through their trial and error. This drama also gives me the excitement of people trying to be saved. I do not suggest people watching this if you are looking for people to get together,kissing,or any lovey doves stuff. This is only for the sake of medical dramas. If you are starting to watch medical dramas. I suggest to watch to watch this drama first because it's the least gory out of all of them. I gave this drama a low rematch rating because i don't usually rewatch dramas unless it's really funny to rematch again.

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I LOVED Orange Days!!!

What a sweet and touching drama this is. It's the type of drama that will have you feeling nostalgic, and it'll make u want to hop on the phone or send a quick message to friends you haven't talked to in awhile. I was going to call this a coming of age drama, but it's not really, since all the characters are adults in their senior year of college.

The story is so much more than some deaf girl and the challenges she faces while trying to fit normally into society. It's all about deep friendships, forming bonds, creating memories, finding your way. Most of all, taking value and worth in yourself.

I just have so many feels just thinking about Orange Days. After I finished this drama for the first time, I wanted me and my friends to get a notebook and write in it just like in the drama. Omg this drama will have you missing simpler times (if you've already graduated from high school or college), or make you really appreciate the times you have now (if you haven't).

Overall, I rate this drama a 9.5 because it's not something I could watch over and over again, back to back. And the music, although nice and fitting, doesn't make me want to run and download it. Everything else is pretty much perfect to me. I recommend this drama to everyone honestly. It's really that good. I thoroughly suggest u give it a chance.

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Granted, I watched this drama only because of Ninomiya, but am very glad I did. I thought it was slow at first; the basis of the plot was very mellow, as was the visuals, that didn't have a pop of colour but rather just a meld of the warm and the cool undertones. But, I think that is what added to the feeling of it. It was refreshing not to see the bright lights and instead using a subtle mature tone. The plot was light, but sufficient. In terms of acting, I appreciated their work. The opening music was great and it took me to the setting of the drama and that mindset very quickly. When watching the first few episodes, one might think it to be a bore, that there is no action or flavor, but some scenes are quite fast-paced. If I have to leave it with anything, as a fan, I would say the best part was Ninomiya. I feel that out of all the dramas that Ninomiya acted in, this one suited him the best so far. It was made for him and he acted quite naturally.

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The story: I appreciated the fact that the story showed a different view of the complications of love as compared to other dramas that are more idealistic. I am also glad that the drama didn't do what I feared the most when starting this drama: the dependence on the visual aesthetics. The show could have shown a lot of pretty chocolates and the image could have been glossy and dreamlike. However, much of the story was driven by the plot instead of the visuals, which was a relief.Other than that, I was left wanting something more. The plot itself was lacking, and half-done. The cast did the best they could with the plot so I won't say much there. I don't even remember the music being that intertwined in the story. Therefore, due to the lacking plot, I give it a 4.

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Don't get me wrong- I enjoyed watching this drama as it aired. It was a nicely written drama, not too long and the storyline was good enough to have me want to watch it each week.

The story is a fairly basic one, but I thought the actors in the show played their parts very well. I haven't read the manga, but I thought each of the actors looked great (love you MatsuJun!) and at no point was I cringing due to wooden acting. I really hated Saeko, and I thought Ishihara Satomi played her part to perfection. However, I felt the strength of this show was in it's supporting characters- Rikudo, Sekiya, Kaoruko etc. They provided the comedy when the main storyline got a bit too much.

The music was great- not only did I LOVE the Arashi song, the other music was very well suited to the show.

I probably won't rewatch this show again- hence the low rewatch value score, but overall I enjoyed this drama. It's definitely a great one to watch when you want an interesting mix of melodrama and comedy.

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