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Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching

So, what are we all watching this week?

What kept you reaching for more (or agonizing when there was no more), and what made you want to throw your remote through the screen? Time to weigh in…

 

SailorJumun

One Spring Night: Back in 2018, I was jump-up-and-down excited for the drama Pretty Noona Who Buys Me Food — that is, until word got out that it wasn’t so great. In fact, I’d read so many mixed and negative reviews that I didn’t dare touch so much as the first episode. So when I saw that the writer, director, and lead actor were coming together for a new drama called One Spring Night, I was naturally skeptical. It wasn’t until I had absolutely nothing to watch and Netflix started shoving the title in my face that I finally decided to give it a go. And I am so glad I did. Though I was invested in every character’s story (a rare feat for me), I was completely taken by Han Ji-min and Jung Hae-in’s stellar performances and adorable chemistry. This was an incredibly sweet, mature, real romance that I will not be forgetting anytime soon. That said, it was also incredibly frustrating, so I won’t be re-watching it anytime soon either.

The Light in Your Eyes: After realizing just how much I missed Han Ji-min, I thought I’d check out her previous drama. I’m only on the second episode as of now, and I’m a little scared… Because from what I’m seeing, it’s ridiculously funny. But from what I’ve heard, I have to prepare myself for a sobfest. Good thing I already have plenty of tissues from crying laughing at Han Ji-min’s onscreen brother Sohn Ho-joon.

 

tccolb

Search Query: WWW I finally got around to watching this and I’m so happy that I did. This has to be one of Im Soo-jung’s best performances drama-wise and Jeon Hye-jin is just wow! (Side note: I just remembered today that she’s married to Lee Seon-kyun! And Im Soo-jung played Lee Seon-kyun’s wife in the film, All About My Wife!) I love that the story is not driven by romance alone. There’s so much to unpack in all of the different relationships whether it be family, friendship, colleagues, or love. I love the different framing devices that visually capture moments. And I really love how powerful the dialogue is in so many scenes and how important language is in the drama itself.

Hotel del Luna: I really appreciate how the relationship between the two leads is developing. It’s not heavy on the romance, but I don’t mind because of how much the characters are growing as people due to each other’s influences. My only very minor gripe about the show is that I want to see more of the reaper! More scenes please, dramagods!

Be Melodramatic: I was really surprised, in a good way, by the slice of life feel of this show. And I’m really, really enjoying the dry humor. Ahn Jae-hong and Chun Woo-hee are fantastic, and I love Chun’s family dynamics. I do find Han Ji-eun’s character to be pretty frustrating, but it’s only been two episodes, so it’s still early days, and hopefully that means there will be growth in the coming episodes. Still, I think this may become one of my favorite dramas this year.

 
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I finally checked Dr. Johan... and I struggled with the first episode. I found it overdramatic and overheroic.... and yes, some scenes even made me laugh (unintentionally). But then at one point I realized that some frames look like being cut out from a manga... and so I changed my viewing lenses... and from then on I started enjoying the show and marathoned 8 episodes. It still keeps its manganess... but under that sometimes over the top story telling are interesting patients... and difficult questions with no easy answers...

(I also want to thank Michy for her medicaps, it explains and gives credibility to many things happening on the screen... and I also love and appreciate Michy's personal comments and views. Thank you @michykdrama !)

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Because of Dr. Johan, I only managed to follow Timpanist & Pianist - and so far it seems it is my new crack (and the thing I love and enjoy the most is the music). The show is definitely darker than what I expected... and full of chemistry between all main "players" 😉.

...what I can't say about Hotelier & Manager, my old crack. I'm still enjoying the show, but I wish it sparked a bit more between the two... It's like the dialogue says it sparks, but it often doesn't (for me)... and then... then Detective Yeon Woo just leans in the taxi window... and my ovaries explode... 😄

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❤️❤️❤️ thank you @dorotka

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I really appreciate your hard work! 😘

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Designated Survivor: 60 Days
It was disappointing to say the least with so many questionable developments: the handwriting analysis (why did them agents not do this earlier?), Moo Jin withdrawing the Discrimination Act (suddenly he’s a politician), the sudden reveal of Chan Kyung’s gay son, Agent Han walking into a trap and the police somehow nicely following Han to the river (with Agent Jung I could understand how it developed, though how did he save the evidence for the presentation later?). I’m not a 100% on Secretary Han being the mole but everything points to him: a twist is nice but it better be explained well.

A Moment at Eighteen
I honestly don’t want Sang Hoon to leave the show as it is clear with his arc that he also has some maturing to do even if he may be in the right but I guess this incident will bookend the 1st half and the 2nd half will be Joon Woo’s fight. I’m frustrated that the preview appears to be showing some misunderstanding between the main couple with an emphasis on the love triangle: this is needless angst viewers shouldn’t be subjected to in 2019. Give us proper character arcs: no girlfriends with loose lips and no boys with zero lines. Oh Je is like the only non-lead student getting a decent storyline.

Be Melodramatic
This drama places the focus on the three leading females: if I had to compare to the recently concluded WWW I would say that it is much more character driven rather than plot driven with all the monologues about life and love (as opposed to a battle over Internet censorship). I do have concerns over how Eun Jung’s arc is going to play out over the course of 16 episodes with phantom Hong Dae, but this is the first week and I hope we’ll get some new material soon. I have a feeling this show won’t be one that I like but one that I appreciate: that’s fine but of course both would be good!

Hotel del Luna
This week honestly felt like a filler week despite the four(!) procedurals thrown at us, because the main one that moves the plot forward (Ji Won and his eventual clash with modern Yeon Woo which is a test for Man Wol) was introduced the first with Yoo Na noticing the ghost in the trunk of the killer’s car but remains dragged until next week. I kind of see this as a necessary consequence of Man Wol’s noble idiocy as the show had to drag in Chan Sung’s mother to force her to change her mind. I do hope all the staff’s issues are resolved before heading into the climax which isn’t too far off now.

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I wonder how Eun Jung will let go of Hong Dae for good. She has to at one point and I'm curious which processus will help her.

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It’s been a while since I’ve had a drama to watch almost single day of the week. It’s nice to know that I can cozy up to an episode at the end of the day.

Moment at Eighteen- I’ve always been a sucker for youth/high school dramas and I still am. This drama makes me happy, conflicted, feel second hand embarrassment, and so many more emotions. I just can’t wait to see the end of each character’s growth and more cute moments between everyone. Also, Pil-sang with that hair and glasses was very cute.

When the Devil Calls Your Name- I want to like this drama, I really do. But something is off. Maybe it’s the editing or the characters that is making me start to tune out the whole drama. But for the Devil, Jung Kyung-ho, and Lee El, I will stay with it for another week.

Be Melodramatic- This drama has taken my whole heart and soul (without a contract, thankfully) and I’m living for it. I just 💛 EVERYTHING about it. That includes the wittiness, the melancholy underlay but still has a happy/hopeful tone, the characters, the direction it’s going towards, the writing, EVERYTHING. I just hope it’ll keep the pace and stay this good until the end because it just might be my favorite drama of 2019 too. *offers melonas to the Drama Gods and Goddesses*

Have a good weekend and happy watching, beanies!

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Be Melodramatic: Same! I'm giving my everything to this show (sorry Moment of 18!). The characters and the writing are delightful. Let's join our prayers to the Drama Gods!

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Haha now that you mention it, I feel a bit sorry to M@18 and Devil too.

Yay! Hopefully, more prayers means the Drama Gods&Goddesses might actually listen. *crosses fingers too*

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I'm looking for a new drama to watch after finishing stellar Search WWW and being badly burnt by the second half of Angel, Last Mission. Seriously after being burnt by the second parts of several dramas (Pretty Noona, "Piano" in the trap, and now Angel) I almost don't dare to start watching something live unless I know that it's really good. Would Be Melo be one to make it all the way through to the end? Should I start watching now or wait till it all came out. So hard to decide!!!

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Maybe wait till half way and slowly catch up? You'll see other Beanies reaction during that time too.

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That's a great idea! Thanksss! Will keep it in check!

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Ok, @riverj, which one is "Piano in the Trap"? I'm so curious! It must be something I didn't watching, since your hilarious title for it didn't ring a bell. Thanks for the chuckle, though!

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Oh it's Cheese in The Trap, which has been discussed over and over again in online forums at the time it was live. The first half was awesome and hit the 8% rating mark, while the second half the went downhill. The suspected reason was there was dispute between the male lead and the PD so his screen time was taken out and the second male lead, who is a piano prodigy ended up having most screen time playing the piano again and again and again. Audience were saying the title must change into "Piano in the Trap" or "Audience in the Trap". So much wasted potential for a drama that otherwise would have made it in history.

Hope this helps! :)

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Ok, I've seen Cheese in the Trap, and you're right about the wasted potential! I was so excited about CITT for the first few episodes but I missed the ML when his character got sidelined. I'd just never heard it called Piano in the Trap, so was trying to think of ANOTHER piano show that was a huge disappointment. Haha!

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I so agree about Be Melodramatic. I am obsessed. It is just so delightful!!!

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I feel like I'm avoiding Kdramas at the moment, at least the currently airing ones, as I'm not excited to catch up.

- Completed -

My Brother's Husband: I highly recommend it as it's a story about tolerance, acceptance and simple love of an untraditional family.

- Currently watching -

A Moment at Eighteen: I didn't think I'd be sad for SH but he's been going up again HY for many years and him leaving made my heart ache. He was even cute when he waved to HY. With its intelligence and annoying self, he can be successful in whatever he wants. Quite like HY's dad, just without the abusive part please. Speaking of him, I can't stand him and the mother in a lesser amount. JW's mom is so precious. I love her! Next time she should go to OJ's dad restaurant where she'll be well treated and enjoy the food more. I watched episode 9's preview and don't feel like watching next week's episodes.

And, Live: I went completely blind into it and didn't expect to have this announcement for our heroine. I'm curious to know if she'll still try to realize her dream after what happened. Not necessary soon but make an other attempt in the future. ML has issues with his mother and expectations. I was happy when he decided to do what he wanted. It will just be complicated once they'll see each other.

Class of Lies: Beom Jin is showing his cards and tries to stop Teacher Gi from investigating. With what we learned so far about BJ, it could hint at him knowing his father was the culprit or payed someone to execute the girl. An other possibility is he's the culprit. The thing I can't understand is the burning smell Tae Ra noticed on him in the theater. I presume the trap Teacher Gi fell for at the end came from him. I'm disappointed in our clever teacher/lawyer as it smelled fishy miles away.

Go Princess Go: ep 10. Still silly, still like it.

Melo Suits Me: ep 3. I didn't expect things to escalate this quickly with Jin Joo and jerk PD-nim but I like it. I really want them to work together and for her to show how far she can go with her skills to her ex-boss. Eun Jung is my favourite and the program scene with the annoying made me laugh a lot. No break needed for me haha. Han Joo... I'm reserved on her and the new guy's relationship (well it's mostly him!)

Natsuzora (Summer Sky): Week 7. After telling the whole family and mostly getting Grandpa's approval, Natsu will finally go to Tokyo. I'm really excited and nervous to know how her way to become an animator will shape up.

Rookie Historian Gu Hae-ryung: ep 19. Even if I love Crown Prince (♥️), I felt pity for the crown princess. Troubles are coming again for the royal family. Officer Min's backstory got me unexpectedly 😭 Meanwhile, Prince Rim is evolving slowly and positively after the disease crisis. It feels like we're getting soon to the "problem climax".

When The Devil Calls Your Name: I'm...

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When The Devil Calls Your Name: I'm getting tired of the first grade soul tests, people judging Yi Kyung's criminal record and Ha Rib's chasing after her to transform her to be a super star. However, I'm staying for the music side and Yi Kyung's passion for music. I'm more excited to know more about her connection with SDC than the devil deeds going on.

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I read the words - "avoiding kdramas" and then gasped at the list of dramas you're watching ;)

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I should have added "as much as I can" haha.

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I’m quite jealous. I hope one day I can have a list that long! Haha. 😝

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In the Devil... it feels to me that the music is a major character in the drama.

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Yes. Everything is about music. Be it a motivational purpose or the devil's temptation.

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Your critique feels are my critique feels with this one! I'm going to see how I feel after episode 6 or possibly one more week to decide if I'm going to continue on.

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I might give it one more too. It's quite hard for me because I still want to watch it for Lee Seol (Yi Kyung).

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SailorJumun, Han Ji-min totally charmed me in Dazzling... I hope that one day I will find the time to go back to Familiar Wife.

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I feel sad that @mary was busy taking down spams that we did not get to know what she was watching! Fighting mary!

This week, it was a roller coaster one... low on productivity and high on frustration.
Movies
Parasite Okay, I haven't yet collected my thoughts on it. But it was simply great.
Extreme Job BWAHAHAHHAHAHAHAH (that's it, it was really funny.)
Dramas:
Be melodramatic This is just plain awesome. I love all the girls, i need them... I think what I need in life is a girl gang in my neighborhood and every person I know in this new city is a guy ... my expectations and reality don't match, ...
Moments @18 Keep breaking my heart,... just keep doing that... you are doing very well...
When the devil calls your name I only watch it for PSW and JKH and Lee El.
Class of Lies I need to catch up...
Watcher Another Seo Kang joon drama ends up in pile of dropped dramas, this boy and me are not well fated!

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Is Parasite horror/mystery/thriller or balck comedy? I hear it's both but I am reluctant to watch because I don't want to be scared of a story that seemed harmless. Plus where did you see it?

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It is a genre defining movie as every one says. It is not horror at all, its a dark comedy and it keeps on getting darker with every passing moment, till you reach the climax which to increase the contrast is shot in full light on a sunny afternoon. In the film, a lot is said in its each shot and has a lot of meta reference to Korean culture. And the film, unlike what I have read, relies a lot on metaphor. This is why I can't wrap my head around it because I don't know that much cultural significance of many scenes and what they convey. To be honest, nor do any of the English reviewers get it. I have read over a lot of them.
Its wacky presentation belies of its depth. You will never be scared in this movie, its more like you will be shocked at the lack of humanity, which is what the film says, with all the class divide, there is one thing that makes us equal, in desperate situation we are all inhuman. You can't raise your fingers to point to say that they are root cause of all your problems... and neither of the class can live without the other. Although we see the other as a parasite.

I saw it on the standard alternate sites... and I hope that one day, somebody will be brave enough to scrape regional restrictions. They are just dumb...

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How to describe Parasite....

A dark comedy that begins with lots of laughters that get replaced by gasps before reaching the point of total exhaustion and last breadth drawn out of your body. And you couldn't get it out of your system for weeks.

So much thinking to sort out your own takeaway - even without the particular Korean context because there is certain universality there.

Thinking a rewatch to better gather my thoughts.

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Not horror. Black comedy. Has dark humor but not scary.
Very very good. Watch it! I did a review on my blog if you are interested. But has a bit of spoilers. But watch it! Riveting and deserving of its award!

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Thank you @mary, appreciate all your hard work in removing the spam!

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Spam comes and goes, but we were working on two major things behind the scenes this week so I couldn't watch any shows except for Hae-ryung T_____T

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Fighting mary!!

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A lot of jdrama for me.
Tokyo dokushin danshi - since episode 1 only was subbed, I'm watching the next episodes with Chinese subs and 1% Japanese skills.
And Live- I have to watch the first 2 episodes.
Gisou Furin- this is gonna end up as a melo, but I like the vibe.
Nagi's long vacation- This is so slow, but it takes a lot for a person to change, so I like it.
I will not work overtime - despite the preachy way it shows stuff, it's actually very addictive.
Lupin's daughter - This reminds me of 80s anime that I enjoyed. it's very nice.
Hirugao - I started this drama knowing what it was about, so it was not pleasing watching every review beating the main subject up. Maybe it's just me, but jdramas have a way with details that makes then enjoyable to watch.
And humans are humans there, not perfect beings.
dakara watashi wa oshimashita- this drama is going somewhere. Don't know how big or small that revelation will be, but I know the climax will definitely be worth it. I'm enjoying it.

Heaven - patiently waiting for episode 2 subs.

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Gisou Furin is that drama with a woman who lied to a man she met that she's married and they start an "affair"? How is the "melo" rate so far?
I thought of watching Lupin's daughter but didn't know what to expect exactly. It seems like I'll watch it soon.

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I highly recommend Lupin's daughter if you're into anime and manga.
Like @gledis-sotiri said, it's a well done homage to the 80's and yet it feels timeless and quite dynamic.
The first 2 episodes were pure candy/family friendly, but starting ep 4 the drama found its pace and episode 5-6 were clearly darker/mature.

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Ooooh it sounds like something I'd enjoy. Thanks for your recommendation :D

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the melo rate is annoying me a bit. I've never been someone for melo and the misunderstanding it's starting to become too much.

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Hmmm I will wait for your impression when it's finished. I'm not in the mood for too much melo.

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I don't Love you yet - 8 out of 10. Awesome. Be ready for frustration and tears.
I won't Work overtime - 8 out of 10. for those who are salty about marriage. ahem. Episode 07 is for you. Whom to support tAKUMI which is such a nice boyfriend or Taneda?

,B>And, live - Awesome 2nd Episode. I have seen the trailers so knew what gonna happen but that happened so soon. in 2nd episode itself.wow. 2nd episode is far better than 1st episode.

nAGI'S vACATION - 4/10 Award winning manga. Frustrating show. No progress and frustrating situations. DROPPED

Daughter of L - still funny 6/10
Kami Tunes - 6/10 I'm getting a bit invested
Welcome to our Home - 6/10 I'm feeling a bit frustrated.
I shared my Husband - Translate it please.
Chase - 6/10

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@gledis-sotiri haha I was writing about the same shows just about now.
13 Suicidal Teens - 7.5/10 Such a good movie. At 1st i thought its typical violent movie where teenagers get killed but at halfway i became sure that they all will live.

Friends Game - 7/10 - It was short but interesting watch. Manga has more. Now if someone translate those extra episodes too.

Taiwan -

Before we get Married - 6/10 So much nonsense but those last 10 minutes of episode 11 made for all the trash.

What is Love - 2012 drama. Playboy against a firm believer of love. 2episodes fun watch. 6/10

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I've been eyeing Welcome to our Home since the first episode and seeing your comment, it sounds better to wait for it to be fully subbed.

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1st of the year - A japanese Porn movie. why? Because its end is so funny. Schoolboy rapes his teacher and end scene is in classroom and other students finds out. he starts to cry and pt the blame on teacher for violating him. It would have been more fun if teacher went to prison but she was atmost fired.
(Much more plot than typical chinese+K rom porn)

School Porn - dropped. 3/10.

Melodramatic - 7.5/10. yeah this KOREAN drama is indeed good.
Vagabond - Yes September.
I want to Hear your Song 6.5/10 - too much around who did who. I think writer is bluffing the audience with Nam.
Devil - 7/10 - Ohh Kyung Ho. haha
Heroine in this and heroine in Song are cute in their own way.

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Hotel - 10% in ratings. Show is enjoyable but i'm not getting the romance part of it. Romantic kdramas usually are women fighting over a man. The show lacks logic which it compensate with glamour. Timepass but nothing to write about. Ma Go with all the nonsense of ACTIONS.

JOHN - worst trash. 3/10. This writer need to be sued by doctors association and that crap romance.
Mr. Fighting - way behind but this show is above average CHINESE drama. way better than those cheap chinese romances.

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I'm watching dramas casually..nothing really hooked me yet.

Devil ep 5-6: the editing and some characterizations are dampening my mood when I watch this. But I'm somewhat holding on. I want to see how they resolve Ha Rip's super messy deal with Ryu. I'm confused with Ryu/Mo Tae Gyang. Ryu is inhibiting MTG's body, so now Ryu is semi-human? But he does non-human stuff in a human body...at times it looks like he's invisible, at times he seems to teleport. But the editing is so off and no explanation is made when he suddenly appears out of thin air. Imo, it only makes sense if MTG is invisible and can only be seen by certain people or he is in another realm when he is doing his devil stuff....but he's in a human body 🤯. Also...I hope there's no romance. Romance between Ha Rip-YiKyung is a no. A big NO.

Be Melodramatic ep 1-3: it's okay. But I'm not really drawn to anyone. I might continue watching...or not.

The Last Empress ep 3: so many stuff happened. NWS's rocky transformation. Hyuk-Sunny musical. Hyuk proposed to Sunny.Hyuk one sided crush for Woobin started at the end of ep 3 🤣.

On hold: I Wanna Hear Your Song

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I don't there will be romance between Ha Rip and Yi Kyung. It looks more like mentor-trainee relationship as they knew each other when she was a teen.

Na Wang Sik's transformation will forever stay in drama records. Plus the Rocky bgm during his training.

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I hope so. A mentor-mentee relationship is better for them.

NWS's transformation is the best transformation scene yet. Magic haircut and rocky bgm!!!

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Let Me Hear Your Song The way Yun Woo Jin can go from charming to creepy, it's pretty good.

A Moment at Eighteen For me, it's a typical youth kdrama.

Designated Survivor: 60 Days The investigation finally became more serious! Secretary Cha is the best thing in this drama!

Rookie Historian Gu Hae-ryung So we reach the half of the drama, and ML is still reading, sleeping and learning life with his Eunuch... The best parts of the last episode were the one with Historian Woo Won.

Doctor Detective I'm behind.

Class of Lies The teacher is so frustrating. Can she leave the school and teach in elementary classes instead? Like that the ML will be able to find the truth.

When the Devil Calls Your Name The scenes when Yi-Kyung is singing are so great!

Be Melodramatic Eun Jung is my favourite character. The scenes when she's seing her past love are so touching.

Watcher The casting is great and we never know what will happen next.

Hotel del Luna A really well written drama.

I don't Love You Yet I really like the casting. It's a good remake.

Level Up They could have left out the love story to this point.

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I realised that only handful of dramas made eager to wait for the next episode:
MOMENT AT EIGHTEEN, I enjoy basically everything in this drama.
DESIGNATED SURVIVOR:60D, swiss cheese has less holes than plot in this one but I just love the cast, and I will be missed meeting them every week. All of the President team has great rapport, and had a great time together judging by their insta posts.
WATCHER, the mystery is gripping and keep me guessing and actors are on par, my money is on Det. Jang, he was baddie in so many other movies and dramas, he must be the one in this too?
HOTEL DEL LUNA, I enjoy procedural aspect of this show and this week delivered, plus Pink Mago antics, what's not to like.
BE MELODRAMATIC, as I predicted it filled void left by WWW, I already love all the female leads.

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I'm still playing catch up with Mother of Mine. Tae Joo learned the big secret so things are getting interesting. Hong Jong Hyun acted really well in those scenes. His shock and confusion were portrayed really well. I'm glad he's smart enough not to buy his uncle's lies. What bothers me is the number of annoying people in the series increasing. Now it's not just annoying step mom and her brother but ceo Kang's selfish family as well. I can't stand any of them and I still don't think this excuses her in any way.

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I'm one week behind with the Devil but intrigued with Ha Rip and Yi Kyung's past connection and the possibility that Ha Rip who stole her talent may be the reason she made music in the first place. So the person who helped her in her worst time is also responsible for so much of her misery. I'm intrigued by a comment that may be old Ha Rip was also similarly cheated out of luck.

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Melo Suits Me is a show for everyone. I think everyone can relate to a part of each and every character on a spiritual level. The part where the background music for Jin-joo’s story is being played by Hyo-bong was funny and creative. Also, they talk about the saddest and most frustrating things in a way that viewers can easily digest their conversations. I love love love the dialogues and the way the characters deliver them.

Reposting this here from my fanwall so many people can see how wonderful this show is!

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My Mom only watched Top Star Yoo Baek this week and she had Lots of fun with the show. I never saw her laugh so hard every minute of an episode with other shows but her giggles and screams with this one were LOUD. One moment she laughs like a little kid and the next she goes "Awwww" like a teenager. She loves Yoo Baek and Kang-soon so much that she even sacrificed her sleep on a holiday. I think this show might be one of my Mom's all-time-favorite.

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Has your mom already seen the newer version of 1% of Anything? The show shares the main heroine (Jeon Somin).

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She hasn't seen that one and I know she should since it is a fun drama! My mom doesn't have a watch list so she just watches whatever I give her or whatever she finds first on my external hard drive HAHA

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TWO WEEKS
I love the kdrama, but this jdrama remake is pretty good, too. I always like Haruma Miura.

PERFECT WORLD
I started this jdrama accidentally, but it has managed to keep me engrossed. Not to mention that I cry almost in every episode. I'm glad I get to see Tori Matsuzaka again after a long time.

JUSTICE
I'm liking this drama. An anti-hero, complex characters, a psycho, dirty old men, a beautiful prosecutor in a battle of wits. I'm wondering who will survive at the end.

MOTHER
I love it from the first episode. I like the tenacious police officer but don't want him to succeed in this missing child case.

CIRCLE : TWO WORLDS CONNECTED
Why can't there be more kdramas like this ?

I Wanna Hear Your Song - is Song Jae-rim really playing a villain ?

When The Devil Calls - getting a bit boring

Welcome 2 Life - I haven't seen Rain in anything after Full House decades ago. I"m enjoying his performance here.

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Mother is really a gem, isn't it? I loved it!

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Regarding Circle, that's a question almost all of us want to ask. But it's ratings were suggestive, sci-fi mystery isn't a popular genre. It was different, it was amazing but idk when we will have sth like that again in kdrama world.

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@cheekbones,
Thanks for mentioning the Jdorama remake of TWO WEEKS, which was not on my radar. I loved the original Kdrama with Lee Joon-gi. Miura Haruma as the protagonist? That ought to be daebak. He was terrific in THE HOURS OF MY LIFE.

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I just couldn't get myself to watch The Hours Of My Life.

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I can understand why. My tear ducts got a workout, IIRC. ;-)

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But it's really a great drama! You should try :)

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DS: 60 DAYS
Kang Hanna doing Zhang Xiao Jing action by driving cars full of bombs to the river was the highlight of this week. See everything I watch, I'd always find Chang'an connection in it. Michiyeota...

LAST
I finally finished this drama. I binge-watched the first 8 episodes in one weekend and after that I kinda lost my interest. I expected something like Story of A Man, plot wise is pretty similar but it didn't bring the same feels...or if I could borrow from the meme I saw on fanwall, it didn't make my heart flop. Nevertheless the team was great and the supporting actors were excellent. I would still recommend this drama for anyone who want to watch revenge and action. Score: 8⭐ out of 10.

GRANDPA FLOWERS INVESTIGATION
Silly silly silly and sometimes disturbing. I probably going to drop it soon.

EXTREME JOB
I reckon before I start Be Melodramatic I should watch the PD's blockbuster movie. it's hilarious. If you want to LOL until you stomach hurts, this is the right show for you. Score: 9⭐ out of 10

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I thought Extreme Job was hilarious, too! I watched it alone while my husband was trying to get some work done, but I ended up distracting him with all my crazy laughter. :)

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- HOTEL DEL LUNA: I'm loving it. It's not perfect (the well spirit was odd, and CS's mother lasted 10 seconds), but I'm enjoying every bit of it. The hug in the last scene was really beautiful! Can't wait to see this week's episodes.

- WELCOME 2 LIFE: I'm not a legal drama person, but I like this. Some scenes are very funny, while the murder cases give me goose bumps. The last was touching, too. Ah, and there is an adorable little girl!

- I WANNA HEAR YOUR SONG: I want to know who murdered Ian, but so far I don't care for anyone in the story.
I had thought Maestro Nam could be the murderer, but they showed him on the scene too early, so probably he isn't the culprit. I like some Beanies' theory that he could be the person Ian loved.

- LOVE AFFAIRS IN THE AFTERNOON: (ep.9/16) I thought it had only 12 eps, but they are 16 as usual. I hope the other eps won't be all full of disasters, even if I don't think the story will have a happy end.

- JUST BETWEEN LOVERS: (ep.5/16) I'm not in love with it yet, but the story is good.

- IF I CAN LOVE YOU SO: (ep.23/46) my mission (impossible?) is trying to finish the dramas I have on hold.
After the 60-eps-long Ashes of love, I shouldn't be scared by this 46-eps mess... but I am. This drama has the tackiest proposal ever (it was described as "romantic"...). And one of the worst character (Milan) that would betray everything and everyone out of envy.

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COMPLETED

- A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES: 7/10. It isn't bad, even if it has its boring and flat moments. It is more enjoyable from ep. 4.
I had forgotten it was only the first season, and the story will continue... aargh...

PILOT

- WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS: it's a mockumentary about vampires and seems fun (even if I found myself a little shocked when they killed people to eat...).

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I agree with your sentiments about A Discovery of Witches. I only finished because of Matthew Goode—and it took about 3 months to circle back for the last two episodes. But I don't think you could pay to watch anything else with Teresa Palmer. Lord, that actress is flat. Surely there were hundreds of other actresses who could've portrayed Diana Bishop with more verve.

What We Do in the Shadows is wonderful! I setting aside the 10-part TV series to watch during Halloween.

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I needed months to go from ep. 3 to 4 of Discovery, instead (I think I started watching last year).
So, I am not the one to find the actress flat! She was SO flat as Diana, that at a certain point I thought that the character in the books (that I haven't read) HAD to be described that way and perhaps she was doing a good job! ':)

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Just between lovers needs time. It is hard because it talks about so many difficult issues: trauma, Illness, dysfunctional behavior... injustice...
But there is so much heart.
Give it time and you will see...

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I will ;)

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Finally somebody who is watching Love Affairs In The Afternoon! Thank you🙏🏻
I thought I’m the only person on DB watching it!
I’m loving it and I’ve learned so much from it. It isn’t one of those dramas I watch to fill in my spare time.
The acting is wonderful and the OSTs are absolutely beautiful♥️
There won’t be a happy ending but the journey was worth watching.

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I'm loving it, too, its pace and cinematography, and the two female leads.
I stopped watching because I had read it had only 12 eps and I wanted to watch all at once, because I didn't want to suffer the waiting week after week (above all if the FLs will suffer).
I will be glad to read your comments when it will end :)

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Awww, yes! Its cinematography is great! There are some scenes I rewatch just because of the beauty of what that have been shown. The scenes they walk among those tall green trees are my fav..
O sure, I’d be happy to know about your feelings after watching the whole story too^.^

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Still stuck at ep 20 of If I Can Love You So. Is it 46? I thought it’s 50 ep drama.

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On Viki they are 46. Perhaps they were 50 when aired on TV with a different duration (Ashes of love was 63 on TV, but 60 on Viki).
Do you think you will restart watching? What do you think about the drama?

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Looked it up and yes it’s 46, my bad 😅. I will pick it up again sometime this month. I like the actress playing the FL.

It’s so cheesy, draggy, makjangish and with intolerable second lead. He’s so creepy!

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K-dramas:
Watcher: ★★★★★
still the best thing in k-dramaland right now. Two things continue to stand up and to impress me with no end: the fabulous charismatic cast with an amazing chemistry between every character (main and supporting) and the complexity of writing that makes the story more and more layered and labyrinthine and yet addictive and gripping.

Alone in Love: ★★★★☆
A litttle disappointed that the drama brought new romantic interests for the leads, instead of developing further their relationship or shed more light on their past. So i didn't binge watch the last half like i intend to do it.
But it didn't diminish my love for the drama: everything works so well from the acting, to the writing, to the cinematography that i'm a hopeless prisoner of this story and can't escape before the end.

J-drama:
Lupin No Musume: ★★★☆☆
It's pure fun but so well done. The story reached a pic of tension whith Hana's secret being out, but the story doesn't rely only on the twists: the family bonds have been compelling (though not enough developed for my taste). Especially for Hana and her father and with her grand mother. The chemistry between all the actors keep getting better. I'm waiting each episode impatiently.

C-drama Novoland Eagler Flag is on hold just because i didn't find time to catch up but i will: the reviews are too good to hold on it.

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LOVE AFFAIRS IN THE AFTERNOON – Dropping this after this week because, firstly I thought this was a 12 episode drama and secondly it went really self-indulgent in the last 2 episodes and it’s starting to annoy me. Because right now I just want to strangle the Ji Eun and Jung Woo. I can’t believe I was fooled into watching this crap and wasted so many hours of my life that could have been spent watching something else.

MOMENT AT 18 – Actually this is like any other school drama but what makes it so watchable is Ong Seong Wu. I came for Kim Hyang Gi but is finding her bland next to him. I don’t dig the romance only because I think high school romance is fluff. I prefer to watch the shifting dynamics and budding friendships between the students, teachers and parents.

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Designated Survivor: 60 Days: I like when the writer(s) bring up real life issues like the Anti Discrimination Act and lay out the politics in SK.

A Moment at Eighteen: Not really looking forward to misunderstandings. I was already frustrated by a few things this week, but I did like Pil Sang with his hairdo and glasses.

Doctor John: I'm not sure what the deal is with Dr. Cha's lawyer and the former Minister of Health, but I'm guessing their agenda is the opposite of the Prosecutor's.

Watcher: I figured there was more than one thumb cutter. I don't trust the Commissioner.

Melo is My Nature: I kind of regret seeing all the positive reactions to the first episode as it raised my expectations so high I was a bit letdown when I actually got a chance to watch. Still, I thought the first two episodes were good and am interested in where the drama goes from here.

Little Forrest: I like the cast, and I like kids, but I found this really boring. I find the majority of Korean variety shows dreadfully boring though.

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I think shows like Little Forest are popular is because marriage and birth rates have collapsed in Korea. It gives singles a vicarious look into how young kids act and how much work and patience it takes to be a parent or guardian. The hook is that the four adults have limited babysitting skills. How that plays out for an entire series will be difficult challenge.

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That Pil Sang moment with Ro Mi and his mom made me laugh! :D

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I finally got into the groove of Watcher. It was hard for me to follow for like 7 episodes, I feel so dim! Maybe I wasn't paying much attention.

Anyone watching this? I was placing my bets on one character being the original guy or the murderer who killed Young Goon's mother but some things just didn't gel until the latest ep.

Knowing that there are 4 more and not just one/two eps left tells you whoever is caught now can't be the real villain. I wonder if there's any mystery or thriller which manages to circumvent this?

Gonna start - At Eighteen, Be Melodramatic and Hear Your Song.
Wondering if I should continue with Longest Day in Chang An...meant to pick it back up but read some comments that it's becoming draggy.
Hoping for a good C drama.

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As I wrote in my post, I think it's Det. Jang, he has that bad guy aura ;)

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I don't think it's him. Exactly because he's got that typical bad guy aura, it's too obvious. I would go for devious - someone who looks like a good guy but is the devil.

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But there isn't anyone fitting for now, I think they would need to introduce some new character soon.

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Usually they won't introduce a new character. That to me is like a no-no although in real life, it's is more likely to happen. In a drama, viewers can't connect if they introduce a new character (one that's outside of the story) in much anticipated revelation.

I am placing my bet on Do Chi Gwang. I think he's got a split personality.

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@outofthisworld, that's something I didn't think of! But I prefer him as one of the good guys, so I still choose Det. Jang :)

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I agree in not wanting the bad guy to be Do Chi Gwang. All along Det. Jang has felt evil to me, but I was never certain he was the killer. Early on, I thought Det Jang quoted the sentence (or question) that the killer had said to Han Tae Jo when he cut off her thumb. It could have been my imagination though. It seems like the show is giving us lots of red flags toward Do Chi Gwang, but still, I just really really don't want it to be him. There have bee times he has won me over with his compassion towards others, so I want him to stay the "good" guy in my mind.

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C-drama: I still insist The Untamed is the best thing I've ever seen. However, the first few episodes don't seem like it's going to be "the best thing" but are light and rather ordinary. But there are small things that turn out to be important later.
The reason it's so good is they only had a small budget so they couldn't focus on big cinematography, huge scenes, etc. Instead it's a slow buildup with small moments of character, emotion, relationships and hits all the right emotional beats, especially the 2nd half.
It's a love story (not romance) but not just between the two main characters, but they story is so well told that almost every single character has such emotional depth - but as I said it's a slow build and by the 2nd half you're totally emotionally invested.
It takes place 16 years after the first scene (where he dies) and he's forced into a "reincarnation" to seek revenge for the one who forced him. After a couple of episodes it goes back to the previous 16 years and tells his story up to his demise. Then it's back to 16 years later and how they solve the mystery of why he was brought back, who was the ultimate manipulator.
I don't know how to exactly explain why it's different from anything else I've seen but it is because the original story is so thoughtful and clever.
The other thing I liked is when he's back after 16 years, the kids of his former peers are now the same age as he was 16 years ago: his nephew, the child he helped raise, etc.

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Longest Day in Chang'an came out the same time as Untamed and I tried both to see if either one would stick. I think I tried about 4 episodes each, but Chang'an I felt took itself too seriously for me and I didn't like the dark color scheme, dark browns and sickly yellows. I wasn't sure about Untamed until 4th or 5th episode, and I loved the interactions between the characters.
There was one scene in the 1st or 2nd ep (the 16 years later part) when he meets this cocky spoiled brat who's 16 and he says to him "what's the matter with you? Didn't you have a mother to teach you better?" which devastates the brat. Then he finds out a few scenes later that brat is his nephew - his mom was killed 16 years ago and it was partially Wei Wu Xian's fault. He felt so bad he slapped himself.

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The Untamed IS ❤️! My current fave and the highlight of my summer. Did you read the novel?

One of the things I really like about the drama (among many others) is that the story arcs and side plots are not boring. The Yi City Arc for example, is probably the most tragic side plot I’ve ever watched. The story of the trio, A-qing, Xue Yang & Xiao XingChen is just as engaging as the other side stories. I just wished the drama spent a couple more eps on them though.

The drama is not the greatest acting wise (main cast obviously lacks acting experience) but they still somehow manage to convey the right emotions their character is trying to convey.

And Wen Ning is my favorite zombie! ^^

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Yes to everything you said! I love the story arcs and the side plots (which actually come together with the main plot) are great, mostly because of the emotional beats and the actors were perfectly cast. First time I never ff thru anything.
I thought the main lead, esp Xiao Zhan acted his little heart out. Wang Yibo didn't really have that much to do or say but it was all with the eyes.
Wen Ning - so so good! Is he a zombie or a ghost? I thought he was more ghost-y. His last scenes with Lan Yuan as his family and then Wei Wu Zhan finding out that Ah-Yuan was that little boy and that Lan Zhan raised him to be such a good kid - be still my heart!
I've read most of the novel (I think at first I skipped the 90-100 chapters) and now I've followed 90-100 chapters along with the drama eps now. I plan to re-read at some point because it's such a good story and the translation is great.
We could go on and on...

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Same! It’s a 50ep drama but not a second of the 42 eps I have watched so far bored me or made me want to press the ff. I just love the story and the characters.

Zhao Shan definitely did a good job as Wei Wu Xian. He stood out among the young cast. Wang Yibo, though amateurish he made me believe of his love for Wei Ying! His gazes and actions speak for him.

In the novel Wei Wei Xian revived Wen Ning after those cultivators killed him. So he’s originally a concious zombie. He didn’t die in the drama, his conciousness is just damaged? lost? can’t really recall but WWX fixed him. Haven’t seen that scene with A-Yuan yet & excited to see their reunion.

I’ve read the novel twice already! And I read a few favorite chapters every night before I go to sleep. Yup, such a good story about love!

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Forgot to add.

Though the drama is dominated by male characters, its few females chars are awesome. Badass Madam Yu, Yan Li (love her, her sibling relationship with We Wei Xhan is my favorite) Wen Ning & Mian Mian. They are awesome characters!

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Wen Qing*, sorry!

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@giegie0384 Madam Yu, yes, she was badass. Even though she hated Wei Wuxian, she turned out to be so loyal to her family. So many characters who were unlikable at first, we got to see another side of them that made them sympathetic.
I haven't seen the ep with A-Yuan yet either but I've watched every single clip on YouTube that has anything to do with the last 4 episodes!
I can hardly wait to watch the last 30 minutes of ep 50 because I've heard so many differing opinions.
If all dramas could be about this kind of love and sacrifice, that would be so awesome. As I said, gazing into each other's eyes can be more sensual than any hand holding, hug or kiss.
Plus, the love of friends, family, loyalty, trust, all those issues were so wonderfully done in an emotional way.

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Madam Yu did hate WWX but she didn’t know anything to harm him either.

I saw that ending scene too many times already and I thought it’s a perfect ending. Having read the novel I couldn’t ask for a better and subtle ending, knowing the restriction and censorship.

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She didn’t do* anything...

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@giegie0384
"I saw that ending scene too many times already and I thought it’s a perfect ending. Having read the novel I couldn’t ask for a better and subtle ending, knowing the restriction and censorship." Thank you, this makes me feel 100% better!

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@giegie0384 Couple of questions since you've read the novel more than I have and I'm confused on a couple of things: Wei Wuxian gave up his core to his brother and now he's just normal, w/o the ability to cultivate. So how can he and Wang Ji become cultivation partners? Unless he uses the flute(?) Also, when Wang Ji sealed his powers in the temple, was that temporary or permanent?

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Wu Wu Xian cannot cultivate anymore. His body is just weak in comparison to a cultivator’s but he is still a skilled swordman and he has his powerful spiritual flute. Besides, only a few knows of him not having his spiritual power, which is I think why they still call them cultivation partners. But the truth is Wei Ying is Lan Zhan’s wife lol. Wei Ying is such a tease btw.

It’s just temporary. Iirc the seal is broken every 4? hrs, and if the cultivation power of the person is high (like Lan Zhan & his brother Lan ZiChen) they can forcefully free themselves from the seal even if the time is not up yet.

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I'm at this part in the novel where Jiang Cheng discovers that Wuxian gave him his core. It's too heartbreaking! I'm speechless.

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@giegie0384 I know they're married in the novel. so I'm also thinking they really did 3 bows while honoring his adoptive parents and in my mind imagination world that means they're married too, ha.
I'm on pins and needles about episode 50...

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In the drama or in the novel? Because in the novel they only did 2 bows, the third happened after they got together. It’s mentioned in one of the extra chapters.

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@giegie0384 In the drama they do 3 bows. Maybe you haven't gotten to that episode yet. I'm sure it isn't for marriage (unless the producers wanted to fool the censors) but in my mind that scene sealed it. Then the brother comes in and accuses them of being intimate. I don't remember the exact episode it's in right now.

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I think that scene is in ep 45-46? I’m still at ep 44, a WangXian episode. If they do 3 bows then that’s for marriage. Readers of the novel know what’s in WWX’s mind during that scene.

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@giegie0384 I remember in the novel they had only done two bows but they specifically talked about how they weren't really married yet as they'd only done the two. The novel only talks about it already being done, right?

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@newso I'm at that place too, only in the drama. I've watched it a half dozen times! I seem to remember it takes place at a different time in the novel when he finds out than in the drama, but it all works out so well and smoothly visually.
I cry every time I watch ep 46!
Speechless is right - there are many times I'm speechless at how amazing both the novel and the drama are. Kudos to the author and translator.

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Yes, 3 bows! But WWX did another 2 bows after, while in the novel WWX 3 bows first and him & Lan Zhan together 2 bows. It’s confusing me. Lol. What I don’t understand is his brother accusing them of dirtying his parents’ eyes with their actions and intimate friendship. They’re just paying their respects and he accuses them of fooling around.

I don’t get either how the sword found its way in the burial mountains but yes, WWX made the flute using the sword. The tiger seal as well. But in the drama WWX found it in the burial mountains. It’s part of the broken tiger seal, so there’s 5 parts instead of 4. Iirc Xue Yang is the one who hid the tiger seal.

@newso The Untamed writer is bolder than the Guardian’s, you will wonder how the drama passed the censorship. The writer tried to stick as close as possible to the original material. And a lot of my faves dialogues & scenes in the novel made it to the drama even those suggestive ones. I don’t know how to explain it but what the writer could not show in the drama because of restriction he/she replaced it with equally (though subtle) romantic and meaningful scenes. From WangXian’s gazes, body language & the things they say to each other. You will know what I & Linda’s talking about when you watch the show and see how WangXian interact with each other. Lan Zhan specially! He is so obvious lol.

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Yes, it’s slowly trying to take control which is why LZ keeps trying to convince him to stop using the flute. Of course he doesn’t know he doesn’t have a choice but to use his flute. He can see the changes in WWX. The “fight evil with evil” sorcery is foreshadowed in ep 2-3?. And he is right, he’s trying to eliminate evil with evil by controlling the dead using the flute. Unfortunately he lost control and got killed instead.

Characters’ songs are lovely. And both WenNing and LanZichen can sing!

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@giegie0384 I think the 3 bows then the 2 bows is a nod to the novel readers, and especially when right after Jiang Cheng accuses them of an intimate relationship - he could see the looks in their eyes and their body language! You could take his statement two different ways, but the novel readers (like me) know which way we want to take it!
I was trying to figure out how to explain to @newso about the more bold (but subtle) hints in Untamed - you stated it perfectly. After all, we don't really need to actually SEE what happens when lights are out!
I originally thought the sword in Burial Mounds was put there by the Wen clan, because there was one small sentence spoken when Wen took over Lotus that they'd found many objects of magic, so I thought maybe they threw everything in the burial mounds. Just a guess - it got there somehow! And thanks for the rest of the explanation re sword and flute. I thought WWZ said the tiger seal wasn't the yin metal though.

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@giegie0384 Just watched ep 47 (half subbed, half raw). Didn't think it would be so exciting since I already knew what happens from the novel.
Have you watched it yet? Seems to me they're definitely already acting like a married couple - er, I mean cultivation partners. Is it my imagination or do you notice the same thing?

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They are acting like married couple! I watched eps 47-48 last (WeTv app is awesome btw, watch it there if you have the app) and the tiger seal is explained in ep 48. Those 4 parts of the yin metal actually belong to the sword WWX found inside the monster’s body. The sword took him as its master when he touched it, and it saved him when the Wen clan threw him in the burial mounds. I think you’re right. Someone from the Wen clan did mention throwing some magical things they found in the mountain in the burial mounds.

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@giegie0384 Let me know when you've finished watching 50. I want to share some thoughts on the ending and my opinion!

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I can't believe you're talking about The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation! I'm reading the novel and can't put it down! I was actually going to message you if you're reading the novel or watching the drama, and I'm not surprised that you are. I love it! The Yi City story is so heartbreaking; only tears of blood can express its tragedy. I'm on Chapter 78 (how Jing Ling's dad died), and it's so sad!

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Yesss, the GDC! And I was going to ask you the next time I see you comment on here to try the drama/novel! But you’re already reading it. Lol. Are you not watching the drama?

So you already finished the chapter where the blinded folded kiss happened. I love that scene! It’s not shown in the drama of course but there’s Lan Zhan’s “Who am I to you?” to Wei Ying.

The Yi City arc broke me. Both versions. The story behind Xiao XingChen’s blindness, the candy, the friendship and betrayal and their story’s ending, And Song Lan’s fate. So sad and heartbreaking.

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Lol, we are of one mind! I was going to mention the blind folded kiss too. I was completely surprised and as shocked as Wei Ying. I knew it had to be one of your favorite chapters! I've read it a few times too :-D And the dried flower bookmark. Ice cold Wang Ji is such a romantic.

I started watching the drama and anime, but doing all three at the same time was confusing me, so I'll finish the novel first.

Last year was NIF and Guardian, and this year is GDC! Love love love.

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Welcome and share the love!
@giegie0384 Please let me know when you watch the episode with the 3 bows - I'm sure it was 3 because I counted! To heaven and earth, to parents and to each other, right?
When he and his brother did their bows in front of the parents it was only 2.
Be still my heart.
I love all the scenes you're talking about. The Yi City arc, how unusual we all loved that side story!
@newso: I decided to wait for the anime, 3 is just too much. I'm following along the same scenes with both the drama and the novel. I'm quite surprised they've followed the novel as much as they have. They've done a good job with translating the written words to a visual medium.
@giegie: another question I've always been confused about. The sword WWX finds in the tortoise shell - the same one in the Burial Mounds, right? Has to be. But how did it get there? And how did he make the flute? Is it from the sword itself? Not to mention the tiger seal...

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@newso After watching the amazing chemistry and gazes between WWZ and Langzhan, I went back and tried to watch Guardian. They don't have nearly the same intensity as WWZ and LZ!

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@lindapalapala
What?! More chemistry than Yun Lan and Shen Wei?! Impossible...lol...I'll have to check out The Untamed when I finish the novel.

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Lan SiZhui (A-Yuan) is the little radish baby?! It's too cute! No wonder he beams and lights up whenever WangJi (and WuXian) are around.

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@newso
Lan Zhan (Wang Yibo) always looks like a lovesick puppy when he sees Weiying.
We've built up the drama so much I hope you won't be disappointed when you watch it!

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@newso You’re almost at the most adorable chapter. Drunk Lan Zhan stealing chicken, (he’s so funny and adorable when drunk) bathtub scene and the scene after that. Brace yourself for the cute and steamy scenes. And yess, Lan Sizhui is A-Yuan. I was just watching his and Wen Ning’s reunion. Happy tears.

The Golden Core reveal is so well done in the drama. It’s not just about WWX giving his core to his brother that shock both Lan Wanji and Jiang Xiangchen but also finding out how that action affected WWX’s life. Why he chose the dark path and what made him do that. All that is explained in that one scene. It’s so heartbreaking. I was wondering what Wen Ning meant (novel) when he told Lan Zhan after the core reveal “If only there was another path.” I only understood it after I watched that scene in the drama. He was actually talking about WWX not having a choice but to cultivate the demonic way because he didn’t have a choice because he no longer had his spiritual power.

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@giegie0384 Love your most recent comment a couple minutes ago about the reveal in the drama. I'm re-watching and up to eps 20-21 where he uses the flute where the innocent Wen clan followers are being herded, and the black smoke is emanating from him. I get the feeling even at that early point in time the resentful spirits are trying to take control - is that a correct guess?

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@giegie0384 And in 22nd ep on the rooftop WWZ tells LZ he isn't cultivating evil but using "crafty sorcery" (to fight evil with evil). And it was the Lan sect that taught him to use music, so he practices music and cultivates talismans. So revealing at that point but no one understood simply because the only righteous way was sword cultivation.
You know what makes the drama even more special is everyone's personal theme song, and they're used so effectively throughout the drama. Adds so much emotion!

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@giegie0384 There were so many LOL moments, especially after their (finally!) impassioned scene. Jin GuangYao: “You two got two rooms?”, "...even today he hasn’t gotten his happy ending yet. Not only does Sect Leader Lan have a good reason to feel impatient, even an outsider can’t bear watching it.” Haha, then WWX’s public confession, which rendered everyone speechless!

Lan Sizhui and Wen Ning are so CUTE! Lan Sizhui: “Did Senior Wei really plant a two-year old child in the soil like a radish? Poor child.”

Yes, “If only there was another path” resonated with me as well. I knew the Golden Core and Spiritual Power were related, which was why it puzzled me that WWX still had some powers, so your explanation made it clear that the “Demonic Cultivation” isn’t connected to one’s Golden Core/Spiritual Power.

I also really love WWX and Jiang Chen’s relationship. I was all teary-eyed during the Golden Core chapter.

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@newso Yes, the Golden Core chapter in the drama is episode 46 - I've already watched it a dozen times. Must be my favorite episode so far!
Such wonderful and perfect emotional beats thruout the novel and drama both.
I watched the end scene of 50 on youtube a dozen times too, hoping by the time I watch the real ending (tomorrow or next day) I won't cry so much. If it's what it seems to be it will be the most perfect ending for a drama I've ever seen, especially considering the constraints and changes they had to make.

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@giegie0384 OMG, the reveals are killing me! So Jiang Cheng actually lost his Golden Core because he protected WWX, and WWX gave Jiang Cheng his Golden Core to protect him?! This is some crazy, twisted, mind-blowing storytelling. Let me just sit in silence for a moment.

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@newso You’re almost done reading the novel, yay! You’re fast! Try the drama next! WWX is so smart but when it comes to Lan Zhan’s feelings he’s the most dense and idiot lol. The confession scene lol, I love that scene. And their “hug me” “i am hugging you” hug me tight” “i am hugging you tight” exchange! Love, love that scene as well.

Jian Cheng is the most tsundre brother. More than the death of his family because of what WWX did, I think what hurts Jing Cheng the most is WWX leaving him alone after he lost his family. In their confrontation in the temple it’s so clear he’s mor hurt by WWX breaking his promise to stay by side no matter what. He is not really blaming him for his family’s death (him trying to save him from getting caught is a proof of that) but he hates him for leaving him alone. And he finds out WWX didn’t have a choice but to took the dark path & leave him, because otherwise he’d know about the golden core and WWX didn’t want him to find out. Such selfless boy. And Jing Cheng’s “why didn’t you tell me” & “I’m sorry” to WWX, and WWX wiping his tears while assuring him it’s ok... *tears*

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@giegie0384 Aargh - I've only watched 47, 48 was supposed to be up on Viki today but something got screwed up. Now I'll have to wait til later today (it's1:30am where I am and I can't sleep!) I can hardly wait to hear about the sword and the tiger seal! I love how there are questions early in the series that you think must be mistakes by the producers but then they're explained at the end, like solving a mystery.

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@giegie0384 *Sigh* The end has arrived; I am finished. I’ve always wondered exactly when WJ fell for WWX, so it couldn't have been a more perfect ending. And might I add that Guardian is rather PG-13 compared to GDC?! And Zhao Yunlan is more shameless than WWX.

I love Jiang Cheng because of everything you said! Sadly, the novel ended without showing their reunion (the temple scene was basically it and it was lovely and bittersweet), but they’re bounded by their brotherhood and Jin Ling, so no matter what, they’ll come back to each other. Because of his character, I liked how it turned out; it’s more meaningful and impactful to see his reaction to discovering that WWX gave him his Golden Core rather than WWX learning how JC lost his.

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@newso Re when did WJ fall in love with WWx. I think it was almost love at first sight.

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@outofthisworld: I'm watching Watcher, but mostly raw and ff. Seo Kang Joon needs to do more action dramas, he's really good at the physical stuff. Plan to go back and watch the whole thing after: 1) it's all done and subbed; 2) after Untamed is over this week. I'll need something else to replace the hole in my heart when Untamed finishes.

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Yes, I am impressed with SKJ. Never seen this side of him before. I also like his acting here, it's a lot more getting into the character instead of acting out the expressions. I can see how some people might criticise this and find it too subtle but it to me, it's good.

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I thought I was the only one. 10 eps of Watcher were like driving car with no purpose. I was cooking, showering, laundring, eating, whatsapp-ing cause I felt so detached. The only reason to watch is Han Suk Gyu. The rest, I can leave without. So many unnecessary suspicions than were proven wrong. I just want it to end and move on.

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I couldn't follow well but somehow it all clicked after ep 8 or so.

I do like how the show makes you suspect a character dismiss it and then go back to suspecting that character again. I also like that none of the main characters(besides Young Goon) is above suspicion - not necessarily murder but are flawed and ready to betray when it comes to serving his/her own purpose.

Han Suk Gyu is his usual self but the ending of ep 13 sent a chill down my spine. I'd say that the overall acting is very good. For this kind of genre, it's easy to fall into the trap of overacting. Especially with a script that is under dramatic. The actors are hitting at the right level - cool and detached but not overly so. Yet when emotions go raw, it's very visceral.

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Yes that ep really made me think twice who he really is. Show finally gonna disclose the real culprit.

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I guess working in this line and dealing with monsters does things to a man. No wonder many of them have mental issues.

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The Longest Day in Chang'an --- the only drama that I keep coming back to every week. Still gorgeous as ever. There are rare moments I feel connected to the characters, Tan Qi, for instance. So, I'm rooting for her as we go forward. I am looking forward to scenes in the Grand Auditorium as well. Now, there are some side plots I wasn't paying attention to (The Eight Squad), but I guess I should have as it seems to be important. But I don't know.

And I'll mention Hotel del Luna since everyone seems to be watching it. I do watch it from time to time.

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The Longest Day in Chang'an is a feast I continue to savor. Captioning is complete but RL is preventing me from strapping myself to my chair to binging the last 10 hours or so.

My only real frustration with the series is the director's tendency to skip transitions which show how one event led to another or how one character ends up finding another. But the production aesthetics, characters and general plot keep me riveted.

Like you, I'm especially rooting for Tan Qi's journey towards self-actualization. Her character is not merely a (low key) romantic foil for Zhang Xiao Jing—she represents real transformation. I wish they'd used her more in the series—TQ and ZXJ really crackle on screen together.

There was some buzz on mydramalist that the production team is planning to continue the story ...

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Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung is still my favorite drama of the summer. I laughed so much when the prince imagined Hae Ryung ogling and flirting with the royal guards, he was about to explode, haha!! that was equally fun and swoon-worthy 😃
Also following Watcher. Although I'm a bit tired that there is no real progress in discovering who's the killer. But the cast is amazing and I'm curious to see what happens, so I'll keep watching.

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Moment at Eighteen This is a lovely show because everyone feels so real. I don't know almost any of these actors except for the teacher and HY's mom and they are all good, I'm surprised some of them are idols. No fake angst please, SB is a smart girl, she wouldn't fall for silly lies.

Love Affairs in the Afternoon I think almost nobody talks about this show. Maybe the theme scared everyone or maybe it's a bit slow for most people. It's quite good. I will like it even more if they dare give everyone a nice resolution. Maybe the spouses are acting so unreasonably because the cheaters will manage to get free. I'm also wondering if show is exaggerating or if people over there still talk and act as if adultery was a crime and they came straight from the nineteenth century.

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If it follows the Japanese original then it does not end well for anyone in LOVE AFFAIRS IN THE AFTERNOON. But at least it is an honest resolution.

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I don't know the original but in this version I think all characters are understandable, everybody had their own reasons and only maybe SA's husband was a bit mean and manipulative, but even him could find a way for redemption.

They don't deserve any punishment for following their hearts. If it's a moralistic ending it will send a bad message and cheapen the story which has been realistic.

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The ending of the Japanese version is certainly not moralistic but rather realistic.

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I have to partially disagree with you about the ending of the Japanese original. As you say, it's an honest resolution, but I wouldn't say it didn't end well for anyone.

Won't say any more because I don't want to spoiler it for anybody watching the Korean version. We can discuss it after it's finished! I'm very curious to see how this version ends.

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adultery was a crime until just a few/couple years ago, right? the mentality still ostracizes adulterers, however. in japan, some women sound like they totally expect that their husbands cheat on them, and it seems the men seldom leave their wives for the mistresses... but you sure see alot of young japanese mistresses in places like hawaii -- shopping for designer goods like Gucci and Prada, of course...

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Everyone has their reasons, I think it's not wise to judge people for having an affair without knowing all their details and never something society should have any say in it. It's not just Japan, marriage still seems to be like a business in some countries, it's not something people can just leave quickly.

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@sailorjumun Jeon Hye-jin seems to have revived her acting career with a bang after years of laying low raising their kids. Lee Seon Kyun has gone on record saying how much better of an actor she is than he. Fighting to them both in their next projects.

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Hotel del luna : felt like filler episodes but i feel it would be better this week-end, so i'm still excited. I really loved the scene between Manwol and the cop. A part of me wish they talked, but it's better this way, it's more beautiful this way.

Moment at eighteen : Soobin's mum kind of reminds me of my dad, which makes me relate so much to this kid. I love how all the kids look so real. I hate Hwiyoung, but i also can't hate him ? I hope he will be able to evolve, soon. The next episode looks annoying though. I hope it won't be too much angst just to fill up the drama than to make them grow.

Let me hear your song : i'm strangely loving it so far. The mix of creepy romcom mystery is doing it for me. There's still so many unanswered questions, i'm just hoping those answers won't be disappointing. And i'm loving the fact i'm watching it in real time, because the comment section on dramabeans for this drama is just soooo interresting. I love your theories.

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I was too busy with Live Up to Your Name last week to keep up to date, but I'm back!

Rookie Historian: Less of Rim this week, which I didn't mind because taking down the corrupt infrastructure of working Joseon. But damn, they finally started using Lee Ji-hoon, he was really underutilised until now.

Doctor Yo-han: I love this show, it's saying some great things. Sure, writing arcs about the 1% of super rare diseases is unrealistic and unlikely to happen in succession, but it's actually INTERESTING.

Be Melodramatic: This is a masterpiece, and nothing has genuinely made me laugh like this in too long.

Let's Eat: Rewatch! I'm glad this is back on Netflix, I love this show, although this rewatch did allow me to point out little problematic things... But food! And music! And Lee Soo-kyung screeching, and Yoon Doo-joon being quirky and insufferable! I had such a good time.

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Rookie Historian: I'm happy we got more of Lee Jo Hoon too! He's really versatile and I thought they could give him more to do than being the serious sunbae. His story with his wife (how adorable was he!) warmed my heart and broke it. Lee Ji Hoon forever 😍

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When I first saw Officer Min's flashback scenes, I thought, "Who's that younger actor?" He was so light, happy and full of love. *sniff*

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But even older he's still cute! When he was trying to say her name "Hae...." :D

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Yes! He delivered equal parts of mirth and melancholy.

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He and Prince Rim's useless was cute too. Officer Min, what are you doing to my heart?

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Uselessness*

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If you want to watch a cute LJH, you should watch Your House Helper. He's a lawyer head over heels for Go Won Hee's character.

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I watched it!

I really like this actor since School 2013. He was the only character who really evolved and became more mature.

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'LEVEL UP' was such an odd duck. It was a screwball comedy that forget it was a screwball comedy, it was a romance that forgot it was a romance. It turned out to be a... 'business and leadership' drama. It wasn't merely set in a game design firm, it was ABOUT running a game design firm, in a way that similar K-dramas like 'Lucky Romance' and 'Strong Woman Do Bong-soon' weren't.

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I agree with you. Given that it was supposed to be a screwball comedy (with some romance, but not primarily a romantic comedy) the actual story has been a disappointment. Which is a shame because it was a waste of Sung Hoon's talents- he was in fact an excellent choice for a lead in such a comedy. While I am not as familiar with the actress playing the female lead she too seems to have the talent for such a comedy.

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Should not come as a surprise given how much time I spend commenting on it, but I'm currently obsessing about HdL; I am also working on a piano cover of Punch's "Done for me".

School is starting in a couple of weeks so I'll have to get back to dealing with real world problems much sooner than I'd like... Working up my courage for it. I also watched some Dr Qin M.E. to stop myself from overdoing the crazy.

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A part is out on youtube \o/ I'm still waiting for the full song :D

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"Done for me" is very beautiful, and it's wonderful you can play the piano!!
I started watching HdL because of the leads, and I didn't expect I would love it so much!

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I'm not doing a good job with keeping up with the dramas I want to watch right now, lol. Want to start on Be Melodramatic but haven't, I'm episodes behind on Moment at Eighteen, I vaguely remember there being another drama I wanted to watch but can't remember what it is now. The only thing I'm caught up with is I Wanna Hear Your Song, and that drama is weird and driving me a little nuts. Oh, and I watched an entire ten episode Jdrama from 2017 over the last few days, so I clearly have the time, lol.

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Hotel of the Moon / IU Fashion Show: A-/A-:

Welcome 2 Life: B+/B+: Liked everything this week except the loan sharks.

Designated Survivor: B+/A:

When the Devil Calls Your Name: A-/B+: That ramen quickie!! And now we know the true story behind anti-fans and the hate mail celebrities get :)

Doctor Detective: B-/B+: Tear-jerking 👎; historical epilogues & tie-in to real cases 👍; entertainment value a bit lacking.

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung: B+/B:

Doctor John: B/B: You have to watch it so you can appreciate the medicaps.

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I went back to watch "Mystery Queen' from 2017. I'm enjoying it but the show has the same problem as that other 2017 series about a petite woman with short hair and super-abilities, "Strong Woman Bo Dong-soon'. The crime plots are just too gruesome in the context of an otherwise light charming series.

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Rooky historian I just love it. I think this is my first Sageku... so far so good.

Wish list:

moment at 18, melo suits me and Doctor John

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A Moment at 18: This is actually the one I'm most excited about at the moment. I'm a sucker for school dramas, and I was most looking forward to this one this summer, hoping I'd enjoy it. I think it's one of the best I've seen. The acting and directing is truly phenomenal. I love the large cast of characters that we learn about. The parents participating/propagating/creating the toxic "#1 or die" culture is a very extreme depiction, but I know it exists. But more than anything the leads are just the most endearing, lovable characters. I like how they're both, in terms of their blossoming relationship, on an equal level. They can both be nerdy about it and it's adorable! It's so new for them, they're so naive, and are both equally insecure about their actions in front of each other, and equally like each other a whole bunch. It's too precious and I'm loving it!

Hotel Del Luna: I'm sure everything I can say has been said before but this remarkable drama is a feast for the eyes and for the mind! The mystical story is exceptionally intriguing and engaging, and the execution is strikingly beautiful and so much FUN! The plot, atmosphere, cinematography, soundtrack, effects, set design, wardrobe, characters, and amazing cast all contribute to this being one of the most unique and enjoyable dramas I’ve ever watched. I tried hard to get my friends and family to watch it with me, and surprisingly it was the one that my boyfriend finally tried! He got sleepy before finishing the first episode though :-O!

Rookie Historian Goo Hae Ryung: I really enjoy Hae-Ryung's character. I also like the bond between the females and that there isn't a female antagonist. I do like Song Sa Hee, and how she's a bit tsundere, and was hoping she'd stay that way. I like how some of the tropes are flipped. The only thing is...something about that Dowon. I think both the writing and Cha Eun Woo contribute to it but he seems like such a naive little kid. And I know that's sort of the point but he comes of as a bit dopey, and it makes it harder for me to feel romance between the two. Hae Ryung feels much, much older and more mature a well. But anyway it's for the most part light and fun. I'm enjoying it!

When the Devil Calls Your Name: I thought I'd give this one a try. I thought it would be dark but it turns out it's hilarious! I'm enjoying it so far but there does seem to be a lot of time devoted to conflict that I don't quite understand. The #1 Soul thing...I'm confused about the Devil's actual motive. Does he want Ha Rib's soul, but just want him to flounder about looking for another for his extra three months? Is that what it's about? Does Mo Tae Kang really want a #1 Soul? And what's Ha Rib's deal? He didn't want to do that to anyone, but he didn't hesitate for a second when he realized Yi Kyung was a candidate, even though he obviously cares about her. He wants to lift her up to make her more...

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I went to the theater for The Battle: Roar to Victory. It was a well made movie, but too gory for my taste. The beheadings were a little too frequent and it felt so inappropriate to crunch my potato chips while the entire theater was holding their breaths. It was another solid performance by Ryul Jun Yeol of course, bravo. The filming seems extraordinarily difficult because of the different terrains the actors had to run through. But frankly I can’t sit through that again. Also, the anti Japanese propaganda was too strong, not without reasons, but a movie to rebuild hatred is not my kind of thing.

Dramas:
Designated Survivor: 60 Days: 🤯
Class of Lies: 🤬
Hotel De Luna: 🤩
Rookie Historian: 😍
Mother of Mine: ⏩
When Devil Calls Your Name: 🤷🏻‍♀️

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@geliguolu sph_7,

Thanks for your comments on THE BATTLE: ROAR TO VICTORY / BONGODONG BATTLE. I spotted a notice about its premiere over on AsianWiki yesterday. Here's the entry:
http://asianwiki.com/The_Battle:_Roar_to_Victory

I was intrigued to see that Park Ji-hwan, who portrayed Donghak Judas Kim Ga in NOKDU FLOWER, has totally switched sides and plays Arayoshi Shigeru in this production. ;-)

I appreciate the heads-up about the gore quotient. From the background reading I did for MR. SUNSHINE, I gathered that the ruthlessness of the Japanese became even more brutal in the years following the execution of Jeon Bong-joon and the rest of the leaders of the Donghak Peasant Uprising. We only see a little of it in NOKDU FLOWER, which ends months before Queen Min's assassination in the palace. The following thread includes links to the eyewitness accounts of Scots-Canadian journalist Frederick Arthur McKenzie:

http://www.dramabeans.com/2018/10/mr-sunshine-episode-24-final/comment-page-2/#comment-3315730
63 PakalanaPikake - October 4, 2018 at 11:54 PM

I'll fess up that I still have yet to watch GAKSITAL / BRIDAL MASK, mainly because of the brutality of the times. As a Baby Boomer, I grew up with second-hand hatred of the Axis powers (and the Cold War opposition). Eventually I made a conscious decision to try to learn from the past while not hating The Enemy. (Whether I’ve succeeded is another question.) I know only too well what you mean about not wanting to reopen the can of anti-Japanese propaganda. Perhaps CSN&Y’s “Teach Your Children” provides an antidote?

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Loving Rookie Historian and A Moment at 18 at the moment. Decided to watch web drama Top Management and variety show Produce 101 S2 to see more of Lee Rim and Jun woo. Both are about idol life.
Top Management- funny drama. I love the songs and Ahn Hyeoseop is there too! Happy to hear CEW and AHS sing esp CEW I like his voice. I love S.O.U.L. but its just a temporary group made for the drama.
Produce 101 S2- Binged the 11 more than 2 hour eps in just 2 days. Now I finally know who is Kang Daniel lol. Always hear his name and group Wanna One before but I never bothered and now that they have already disbanded I regret it so much. My fave is ofc Ong Seong woo. I also like Min hyun and wink boy jeojang Park Ji hoon. OSW is slaying it in 18 while JH will be with my another fave Seo Ji Hoon in a JTBC drama. Others are also active in their respective groups. Wish them all the best!

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TOP MANAGEMENT was indeed a lot of fun and quite good! 😄

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If you like CEW voice, you might want to check out his group ASTRO. They have wonderful songs ranging from bubblegum pop to ballads

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What I'm currently watching: Nothing.

Dropped: Maybe Hotel del Luna idk.
I think it's about time that some brave drama fans admit that the Hong Sisters' dramas are never as good as they're marketed to be. Hotel del Luna is GORGEOUS and the main stars are awesome but...it's just not that interesting.
I was moaning about this with my friend and she pointed out that all of the Hong Sisters' dramas have the same formula. Beautiful set, talented cast, so-so cheesy script. (Legend of the Blue Sea anyone?)
We're not asking for them to reinvent the drama wheel. But at some point we have to admit that their dramas are grossly overrated.

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I would respectfully suggest that your reaction to HOTEL DEL LUNA and LEGEND OF THE BLUE SEA may simply reflect your taste in dramas- you may be watching the wrong shows. Clearly the Hong sisters do not touch a chord with you.

Jung So-min is one of my very two favorite actresses yet I could not bear to watch A HUNDRED MILLION STARS FROM THE SKY.

LEGEND OF THE BLUE SEA is still the only K-drama that my wife has watched twice. The picture which Dramabeans used to use as part of the header for the "Open Thread" was drawn from that drama- it has had that kind of an impact. We will be re-watching THE MASTER'S SUN as Halloween approaches- another Hong sisters drama.

The point that I am making is that you should look at watching some other kind of K-drama. The Hong sisters could never have made WOO HOO WAIKIKI- an outstanding comedy- nor GOBLIN, although I actually think that GOBLIN's writer drew some of his ideas from the LEGEND OF THE BLUE SEA; Just as the Hong sisters have drawn their version of a Reaper inspired perhaps by GOBLIN.

HOTEL DEL LUNA has actually been encouraging to me because it seems like the Hong sisters have regained their footing after some fairly disappointing, although still watchable, dramas.

Please do not take this as a criticism because it absolutely is not- it is rather simply a suggestion. Tastes simply differ and over time tastes change as well. There are some great shows out there,, including wonderful family drama's like FIVE KIDS or FATHER IS STRANGE. Or try the wonderful BECAUSE THIS IS OUR FIRST LIFE for a nice comedy.

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Here's a thought concerning the Hong Sisters: Perhaps audience expectations is getting in the way of how these dramas are perceived. Personally, I am out of the loop when it comes to even knowing which dramas were made by the Hong Sisters. BUT I am fairly familiar with Steven Spielberg movies and I know very well that each of them should be judged on their own merit without reference to his earlier movies. For instance, ET and Schindler's List have pretty much nothing in common (of course philosophers could probably come up with a whole list of commonalities, but really....) and should not be judged by the same expectations. I guess I am just a bystander here wanting to say to give the Hong Sisters a chance without holding their past movies against them or up to them for comparison. Over the past 3 or 4 months (probably longer) I have read so much criticism about the Hong Sisters it has made me feel that they really didn't stand much of a chance of pleasing the audiences no matter what they did. Although I only know a few of the titles of Hong Sisters dramas, I have really enjoyed the ones I have seen, including Hotel Del Luna and Hwayugi. Both have been entertaining and creative and something I will remember for a long time.

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Your point is well taken- I like the comparison to Spielberg.

In fact the Hong Sisters do have a style. When they do it well it is excellent story telling. But in some shows they have gotten sloppy. To suggest that at one point they 'defined' Korean rom-coms is, of course, simply silly. For instance, they did not write MARRIAGE, NOT DATING, which is one of my favorites.

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Legend of the Blue Sea criminally underutilized the wonderful Jun Ji-hyun who spent much of the second half the series just staring blankly at things.
Its easy to blame the Hong sisters but remember it 'takes a villiage' to create a TV series. Besides the writers, there are directors and producers and especially network executives and their focus groups. How much of those lesser Hong sister series were the Hong sisters and how much were guys in suits telling them to alter the storyline halfway through filming?

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Your point about 'the suites' telling the writers to alter things half way through has been true far too many times.

Still, I am my wife loved this show- and Jun Ji-hyun, who was unquestionable the most beautiful mermaid of all time.

I agree that Jun Ji-hyun was given far more range for her acting in the first half of the drama than in the second half. It would not surprise me to learn the 'the suits' were part of that,

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Years ago, I made the mistake of reading several books by Joyce Carol Oats back-to-back. Without any breathing room, I was more sensitive to her verbal ticks and have stayed away ever since. I know she's a great writer but I overdid it.

I've had a similar experience with the Hong Sisters. I'm relatively new to k-dramas and watched 3 projects by the Hong Sisters in the span of 18 months: A Korean Odyssey (Hwayugi) (2017), The Master's Sun (2013, and—my corny favorite—The Greatest Love (2011). While the rom-com genre is generally accessible, I feel like I will never fully grasp what makes the Hong Sisters' work stand apart. Despite the additional notes from Viki's English subs, most of the linguistic gymnastics and meta-references go over my head.

They once defined the direction of K-drama but now audiences are more discerning. Are they keeping up? They would go a long way just writing well-realized characters and finishing stories that don't go off the rails.

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Exactly my point! All the dramas you mentioned, I dropped halfway through tbh. Their style is simple, sure. And truly beautiful. But for a 'fairytale' to stand out, it has to have some depth. I haven't read any criticism of their work but I hope others are now beginning to question why they continue to be number 1.

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The Greatest Love wasnt my favorite of theirs, but thinking about Dokko Jin and Ding Dong made me smile.

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Ding Dong!

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My wife and I finished WHAT’S WRONG WITH SECRETARY KIM. We are now watching BOYS OVER FLOWERS. It is not as good as the original HANA YORI DANGO but our library does not have that one. In any case it is still a good show.

I finished LAUREL TREE TAILORS. The last episode is really just one long goodbye- but it was still nice.

I am also still slowly watching SEARCH: WWW. Let us say that I am taking the time to savor it.

We spent so much time with BOYS OVER FLOWERS that I have not been able to watch the final two episodes of LEVEL UP.

I am enjoying HOTEL DEL LUNA which has NOT sagged or wandered in the middle- a complaint about a number of recent Hong sisters shows. If anything, the most recent episodes have been tightly written and delivered a story which in turn is obviously setting up the final story arc. I think that the Hong sisters have shown considerable discipline in their story telling this time. They did this by concentrating on the developing relationship of our central couple Chan-seong and Man-wol. It has not been rushed nor overly romantic but rather gradual, as it should be under the circumstances. The ‘reveals’ have come as a progression as well. The costuming, sets and cinematography continue to be great and IU is just stunning.

TCCOLB: ALL ABOUT MY WIFE is a great movie. The actor who plays the Reaper in HOTEL DEL LUNA played the secondary character Secretary Yang in WHAT’S WRONG WITH SECRETARY KIM- the only secondary character I know of who gets his own (heroic) theme music- which is fitting since, I have been told, he has spent most of his career on stage in musicals.

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Hotel del Luna: Well. I was having fun with it until I read some of the Beanie predictions. Now I just feel sad. She can not live that static life for 1000 years and then just die. So we've just been watching her in purgatory? Depressing.

Moment at 18: Joon woo's date face is everything. I really hope that the previews are showing a turn in their moms' relationship with each other.

I Wanna Hear Your Song: This is....I dont know what it is, but I am here for it and the beautiful music. Is it weird that I dont want it to become too popular? I am having such fun with it that I dont want others to break it down too much.

Rookie Historian: Only midway through the available eps. I think this show has a great balance. We get romance, friendships, palace politics, and learn how to be a historian.

Theory of Love: The tonal shifts in this have been so interesting. The first part focused on Third was a bit heavy with lots of tears then we shift focus to Khai and it turns...dorky.

Heartland: Taking my time with this. When it ends I will have to wait forever for Netflix to pick up season 12. Just a nice warm family drama.

Before We Get Married: Need to watch this weeks ep. It's subbed! I'm surprised I haven't dropped this because I do find the pacing to be a bit off. But it feels like we might be on an upswing.

Be Melodramatic: the raves make me want to pick it up, but the apparent death and heartbreak make me cautious.

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HdL: I hope MW's time will start flowing again and she will have a normal life. It wouldn't be original, I know, but I prefer happy endings :)

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Me too. Then after a lifetime she can die and be escorted to the afterlife.

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Same... I just want them to spend a lifetime competitively eating rice cakes, laughing themselves silly, exchanging absurd presents... with some bickering for good measure. they deserve all that plus all the skinship that the director has been depriving them of.

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I NEED to see that leopard suit get worn!

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HDL is a rom com after all, so chances you'll enjoy the ending are well over 50%. I'd put them at 80-20, and that's taking into account the Hong Sisters sometimes less than satisfactory endings.

There are signs towards Man Wol passing, of course, but there are a hundred ways this can be overturned either before or after the event. So have hope!

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Currently Airing

HOTEL DEL LUNA: Words just aren’t coming to me right now very well, but what I can say is just how much I am adoring the instrumental music in this drama. It sounds so professionally done, like something you’d hear in a high-budget fantasy film. I’m already considering actually buying the OST when it’s released (or at least the non-vocal half). (ep. 1-3)

LET ME HEAR YOUR SONG: I am thoroughly enjoying this drama. I love the chemistry between the two leads. Their bickering is hilarious and I really, really hope it continues even after they (of course) get together. Not quite sure about conductor guy or the cheater girl yet. There’s definitely some odd things going on, and I can’t wait to unravel them all! (ep. 4-6)

Finished Airing

WEIGHTLIFTING FAIRY KIM BOK-JU: I just can’t seem to get into this one. Maybe it’s because of the dad or the mentally unstable ex-girlfriend. Whatever it is, it always seems like a bit of a chore to watch. (ep. 7)

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WEIGHTLIFTING FAIRY KIM BOK-JU is actually a very fun and touching drama about achieving goals and enjoying something we love.
Of course, it is a matter of taste as well. Maybe because of your age, circumstance or culture, you won't like it, not even until the end. Personally, I liked so much, I watched it twice, and I am not a teenager or very young adult... I am over 35😆
But I really enjoyed it.
I hope you can finish it.

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I feel like this should be the perfect drama for me. Don't know why I just can't get into it. Maybe it's because people have hyped it up so much? Or that I've seen so many spoilers? Either way, I will finish it someday. Thanks!

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Spoilers may be the reason. Whenever I have watched a drama where I already know, then it is not that fun anymore. It is even different, way different when I watch a drama second time that I watched first without spoilers, although... hey, I let myself be persuaded by good reviews many times, but I think spoilers is the ruin of a first watch 😂😂😂😂😂

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I would probably have to agree with your last statement, especially in the case of this drama.

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I am behind of Chinese/Korean drama. Therefore, I am already finish season Finale of The Handmaiden’s Tale. The season finale was truly great episode. My hubby hold my hands while I cried a lot. It was about June save 52 Kids. Martha’s and Handmaidens save all those kids lead by June. Karma was bitch for Serena Joy. I am glad that she no longer see Nichole. I was so happy that the kids got in the airplane and get to Canada. I am also happy Rita was there and she gave Luke a hug and told him it was June who did this. However, it was truly heartbreaking to see Luke look for Hannah. All the Handmaidens carry June due to her gunshot wound at the end. I can’t wait to see what happens on Season 4.

Have a great weekend everyone!!!

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A Moment at Eighteen:
Currently at the top for me. The plot is nothing special but it's done well and gives me School 2013 vibes. I like the 2 leads and the teacher, they feel like real, everyday people. Also, the male lead is similar to the one in My ID is Gangnam Beauty, except he's actually playing the role well.

Let Me Hear Your Song:
First 2 episodes were great but I felt like it went backwards in the 3rd. Still, I like the mystery and the leads are great. One thing that bothers me though...the male lead creeps me out, which is fine, but why isn't the female lead creeped out? Instead, she's really forward with him. It's like her stranger danger radar is busted.

Rookie Historian Gu Hae Ryung:
Light, fun, cute. Just going with the flow for now.

Be Melodramatic:
Strong 1st episode. I'm not connected to any of the characters yet, but this show is giving me the feels big time regardless.

Different Dreams:
I don't know about this one. Maybe I'm just not in the mood. I think the issue for me is the female lead. I just don't get her character. She's the main character, but also the most mysterious, so there's a disconnect there.

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@eden-figgo Figgo,

Re: Yeon Woo-jin's creepy vibe in LET ME HEAR YOUR SONG, you had me rolling on the floor with "It's like her stranger danger radar is busted."

By chance have you seen ARANG AND THE MAGISTRATE? YWJ played second male lead Joo-wal aka Young Master Choi with a memorably unsettling vibe. He was great, and looked totally fetching in hanbok. Lee Joon-gi as magistrate Kim Eun-oh is no slouch himself. They both have deep secrets. Just as we're being led to believe about Ian Kim and his hyung.

As to why Yi-young's stranger danger radar is out of whack, I have a hunch that it's because she already knows Jang Yoon, but has no conscious memory of knowing him. She could be recognizing his ch'i through the timbre of his voice, which might be why his terrible singing enables her to relax and fall asleep. Or he may use the same expressions and turns of phrase his brother did. Or he might exhibit very similar mannerisms, facial expressions, etc.

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PS: Maybe we have to ask ourselves why so many lullabies are murder ballads. Per Tim Minchin, chronic sleep deprivation may be one answer. ;-)
http://www.dramabeans.com/members/pakalanapikake/activity/855425/

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That's a great point, it makes a lot of sense as to why she goes back and forth between running from him and being drawn to him. But then again her stranger danger radar isn't working with the conductor guy either XD Although, he doesn't come off as creepy as much, just eccentric, and she's apparently known him for a long time.

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My week: I analysed lists and reviews and trailers and posters looking for something else to start but I still ended up watching only A MOMENT AT EIGHTEEN. 😂

NOVOLAND EAGLE FLAG: Dropped. The Sword in the Stone sequence was pretty epic, but I need more of that... and more character development! I’m at episode 20 and the leads are still acting like impulsive naive kids. I sense a love triangle coming and I do not enjoy all the sorcery so I’m bailing out now *cuts through Gordian knot*

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*whispers* love your metaphor!

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Hehe, it’s pretty dramatic no?

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I've only started watching Novoland at episode 28, where it isn't all dark brown and sickly yellow (and there are English subs). They're in nice green landscape for a change and it seems to be apparent that (forgive me I can't remember anybody's name) Liu Haoran's character is in love with the Princess who isn't really a princess, so that the 2nd lead will somehow end up with the dumb girl that Liu Haoran actually married - though I've no clue how that will work out...
What I don't like is Liu Haoran's character is at first sickly and then some thing (don't know since I skipped 27 episodes) goes berserk in him and he can kill anybody and never die. Invincible heroes are not my thing.
And I'm only watching when I simply must take a short break from rewatching Untamed ep 46 a half dozen times. I cry a lot during ep 46, not because it's sad but because it's so moving.

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I don’t know what happened between eps 21-27, but there was talk of a marriage between Asule (Liu Haoran) and the Princess who’s not a princess but is also quite dumb. So I haven’t met the other female character you mentioned.

You can watch ep. 16 for the Sword in the Stone bit. Asule is The Chosen One, but I didn’t know he’d become invincible and immortal. Hmm.

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At least it's hard to kill him no matter how many times he's been stabbed. Without subs, it's impossible to know if he just didn't die, was brought back to life, is a ghost - I don't know!
I did see the Sword in the Stone bit and laughed, because there's such a similar scene in The Legends (Xu Kai) and I could probably name more if I put my mind to it. Must be a wuxia thing.
I doubt he's really immortal, probably just some reincarnation of whoever The Chosen One is. I wouldn't be surprised if he sacrifices his life at the end for who-knows-what or who-knows-who.
Asule is already married to that lead "girl" (who I can't stand). I don't know what episode the new lady comes in but she's the Emperor's sister and he obviously likes her in more than a sisterly way, and I like her way better than that immature kid he married. If this new princess lady gets killed I won't be remotely interested anymore as they make a better couple.
If dramas could show relationships between men and women (or boys and girls or females and males or princesses and princes) as good as the relationship between the two male leads in Untamed, the dramas would be so much better. I think because two males are on more equal terms than male/female and they seem to be able to communicate better.
I don't usually like the way females are portrayed in dramas, esp if they're the "weaker sex". Cultivation partners are really good because then they are on equal terms.
Thought I'd just throw that out there as it's been on my mind...

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I'm watching ep 29 and he and the princess are in a cave at night, talking. He tells her he only married Yu Ran to save Ji Ye's life. It wasn't his idea at all. This was news to me since I hadn't watched the first two dozen episodes!

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I figured that would happen, because once again Ji Ye needed saving and that was the only way to save him, supposedly *sigh* The love triangle is stupid though because Asule has been engaged to Yu Ran since episode 1 when he was sent as hostage/guest, so I don’t know why any of them seemed surprised and indignant when they were reminded of the marriage.

Oh well. Maybe I’ll watch the last few episodes and then see if the rest is worth my time hehe.

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On my fast forward watching of the first couple dozen episodes it was like, 1) Asule is sick; 2) Ji Ye is being tortured; 3) Yu Ran is being annoying.
On to better things...

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and btw, there are a lot of sword in the stone bits in every wuxia I've watched.

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With regards to Level Up, I was surprised at that too. I wish they had focused the final episode more on character arcs. We only got a really brief update on people's lives after the launch, which felt rushed. I had hoped we'd get a little more character development, but oh well.

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Oh, so 'Little Forest' appears to have nothing to do with the recent movie(s) of the same name. I'm reminded of the K-drama 'BIG' that perhaps appeared to have something to do with the old Tom Hanks movie... if you squinted at it hard enough. And let's not even mention the K-drama "The Beauty Inside."

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When The Devil Calls Your Name: Brought me down a Jung Kyung-ho tunnel. I started rewatching Heartless City and then I think I'm going to watch Beating Again again LOL

Rookie Historian Goo Hae-ryung: Is actually the only drama that's been keeping my interest...I feel like I'm beginning to get a little fond of Cha Eunwoo, despite him being quite green, simply due to his selection of dramas to be in. Both this and My ID is Gangnam Beauty are very female driven and honest about the expectations society places on women. Coupled with the fact that I've heard Astro has some of the most refreshing answers for their ideal types that don't objectify women, I'd guess his drama choices aren't a coincidence.

Hotel de Luna: ...eh I'll catch up to it...unfortunately for some reason it's not doing it for me. As soon as the princess came out I lost all interest all of a sudden.

Let Me Hear Your Song: Yeon Woo Jin was my biggest draw, along with Sejeong but something is just off. I'll check it out when there are more episodes.

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Let Me Hear Your Song: Oh yeah I remember why I wasn't about it. She got dumb drunk in the first episode instead of just going out right to confront her cheating boyfriend. That was a turn off. I mean I'm ok with female leads getting drunk, but only after they've dealt with the issue. It seemed like she was avoiding it aka in my eyes the writer was lazy and filling time with something that wasn't the meaningful. Cause then they can write a drunk scene twice, one for before the break up and one for after, and then they've filled up time with this thing that doesn't contribute to the overall plot.

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Yeah, she's a bit of a mess and doesn't deal with things properly. I think it's just part of her character and it is annoying but it leaves room for growth.

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Lol The Light in Your Eyes is a trap. Keep your Kleenex box close.

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Yeh, TLIYE (Dazzling) is the only drama I know that went from 'This is confusing' to 'THIS IS THE BEST DRAMA EVER!' over the course of perhaps *10 minutes*. I imagine there were viewers who quit it 3/4 the way through without realizing the drama was just on the verge of turning into something amazing.

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This is exactly what I was like! It felt like it was going nowhere and I was confused. Then it happened. Oh gosh. I'm so glad I stayed.

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Melo suits me
Ok. Just between Saturday and Sunday I watched the premiere. I don't know what to think. I can't say I liked it, but I cannot say I disliked it. 3/4 of it was simply weird for me.
But I have to agree it feels also very real, but maybe because I am melancholic...
Maybe I will decide after the next two episodes....

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Dr. John - 💜Drop after ep 10.
Watcher - 💜💜staying for Detective Do. The others ...hmmm....
Designated Survivor - 💜💜💜💜
Be Melodramatic - This! 💜💜💜💜💜

It's been a long long while since I watched more than 1 drama simulatenously. After next week, will only have Be Melodramatic to focus on. Yippe!

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@sailorjumun I agree with you for One Spring Night, "This was an incredibly sweet, mature, real romance that I will not be forgetting anytime soon". I really loved their discussion, they were so honest with each other. It's so rare to see a ML who shows all his emotions and feelings.

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I finally got around to looking at 'Be Melodramatic' ('Melo suits me') and I immediately binged the first four episodes. This a very cheeky comedy and I'm liking it. I swear that celebrity antagonist to one of the housemates was made-up to look like Yoo In-na, which makes the 'frenemy' humor that much more pointed.

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