Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching
by DB Staff
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.
RELATED POSTS
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (August 10, 2019)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (August 3, 2019)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 27, 2019)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 20, 2019)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 13, 2019)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 6 2019)
Tags: Be Melodramatic, Hotel del Luna, One Spring Night, Search Query: WWW, The Light in Your Eyes, What We're Watching
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1 Dorotka
August 17, 2019 at 4:01 AM
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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Dorotka
August 17, 2019 at 4:03 AM
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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michykdrama
August 17, 2019 at 7:53 AM
❤️❤️❤️ thank you @dorotka
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Dorotka
August 17, 2019 at 8:55 AM
I really appreciate your hard work! 😘
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2 Radily
August 17, 2019 at 4:03 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:31 AM
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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3 bea
August 17, 2019 at 4:06 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:16 AM
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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bea
August 17, 2019 at 4:58 AM
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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riverj
August 17, 2019 at 6:21 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 6:24 AM
Maybe wait till half way and slowly catch up? You'll see other Beanies reaction during that time too.
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riverj
August 17, 2019 at 7:27 AM
That's a great idea! Thanksss! Will keep it in check!
CS
August 19, 2019 at 8:41 AM
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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riverj
August 19, 2019 at 5:00 PM
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! :)
CS
August 21, 2019 at 10:23 AM
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!
Kafiyah Bello
August 17, 2019 at 11:30 AM
I so agree about Be Melodramatic. I am obsessed. It is just so delightful!!!
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4 mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:07 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:08 AM
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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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 17, 2019 at 5:13 AM
I read the words - "avoiding kdramas" and then gasped at the list of dramas you're watching ;)
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mango
August 17, 2019 at 6:26 AM
I should have added "as much as I can" haha.
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michykdrama
August 17, 2019 at 7:54 AM
I’m quite jealous. I hope one day I can have a list that long! Haha. 😝
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FlyingTool
August 17, 2019 at 5:41 PM
In the Devil... it feels to me that the music is a major character in the drama.
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mango
August 17, 2019 at 11:28 PM
Yes. Everything is about music. Be it a motivational purpose or the devil's temptation.
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pickledplumtree
August 18, 2019 at 11:48 AM
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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mango
August 20, 2019 at 3:51 AM
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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5 Dorotka
August 17, 2019 at 4:09 AM
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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6 oppafangirl
August 17, 2019 at 4:11 AM
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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wapz
August 17, 2019 at 6:08 AM
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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oppafangirl
August 17, 2019 at 6:25 AM
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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PYC
August 17, 2019 at 7:03 AM
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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michykdrama
August 17, 2019 at 7:56 AM
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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KeikoAnn
August 18, 2019 at 5:20 AM
Thank you @mary, appreciate all your hard work in removing the spam!
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mary
August 18, 2019 at 10:02 AM
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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oppafangirl
August 18, 2019 at 11:37 AM
Fighting mary!!
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7 Diraito Teson
August 17, 2019 at 4:12 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:20 AM
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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coolgirl
August 17, 2019 at 4:56 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:58 AM
Ooooh it sounds like something I'd enjoy. Thanks for your recommendation :D
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Diraito Teson
August 17, 2019 at 10:10 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 10:37 AM
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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8 cat-cric-kat
August 17, 2019 at 4:16 AM
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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cat-cric-kat
August 17, 2019 at 4:22 AM
@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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:22 AM
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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cat-cric-kat
August 17, 2019 at 4:30 AM
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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cat-cric-kat
August 17, 2019 at 4:36 AM
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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9 Kairoskat 💐
August 17, 2019 at 4:22 AM
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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mango
August 17, 2019 at 4:27 AM
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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Kairoskat 💐
August 17, 2019 at 4:33 AM
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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10 Kurama
August 17, 2019 at 4:24 AM
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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11 shach
August 17, 2019 at 4:40 AM
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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12 Moonbean
August 17, 2019 at 4:44 AM
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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Moonbean
August 17, 2019 at 4:48 AM
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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13 liar song #PuppyNotPuppyLeeJaeWookIsBack
August 17, 2019 at 4:47 AM
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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liar song #PuppyNotPuppyLeeJaeWookIsBack
August 17, 2019 at 4:52 AM
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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Dorotka
August 17, 2019 at 4:58 AM
Has your mom already seen the newer version of 1% of Anything? The show shares the main heroine (Jeon Somin).
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liar song #PuppyNotPuppyLeeJaeWookIsBack
August 17, 2019 at 6:25 AM
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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14 cheekbones
August 17, 2019 at 4:57 AM
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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 5:32 AM
Mother is really a gem, isn't it? I loved it!
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wapz
August 17, 2019 at 6:16 AM
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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PakalanaPikake
August 17, 2019 at 9:17 PM
@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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cheekbones
August 17, 2019 at 11:37 PM
I just couldn't get myself to watch The Hours Of My Life.
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PakalanaPikake
August 18, 2019 at 4:33 AM
I can understand why. My tear ducts got a workout, IIRC. ;-)
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Kurama
August 18, 2019 at 1:43 PM
But it's really a great drama! You should try :)
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15 mano
August 17, 2019 at 4:59 AM
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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CS
August 19, 2019 at 8:58 AM
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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16 Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 5:16 AM
- 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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 5:22 AM
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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tsutsuloo
August 17, 2019 at 12:26 PM
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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 1:02 PM
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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javinne
August 17, 2019 at 10:36 AM
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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 1:03 PM
I will ;)
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marina
August 17, 2019 at 11:02 AM
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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 1:12 PM
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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marina
August 18, 2019 at 11:31 AM
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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 12:01 PM
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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Karmen ~ 🍜🏢🎭 ~ 📚☔🦋 ~ 🪂🌱💘 ~ ✨🍊💫 ~
August 17, 2019 at 1:15 PM
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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 2:45 PM
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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17 coolgirl
August 17, 2019 at 5:29 AM
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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pickledplumtree
August 17, 2019 at 9:20 AM
Comment was deleted
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18 PMSahjumoni
August 17, 2019 at 5:35 AM
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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19 miss h
August 17, 2019 at 5:40 AM
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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welh
August 17, 2019 at 6:10 AM
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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pickledplumtree
August 17, 2019 at 9:21 AM
That Pil Sang moment with Ro Mi and his mom made me laugh! :D
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20 outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 17, 2019 at 5:42 AM
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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shach
August 17, 2019 at 6:00 AM
As I wrote in my post, I think it's Det. Jang, he has that bad guy aura ;)
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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 17, 2019 at 8:25 AM
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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shach
August 17, 2019 at 9:11 AM
But there isn't anyone fitting for now, I think they would need to introduce some new character soon.
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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 17, 2019 at 9:48 AM
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.
shach
August 17, 2019 at 10:00 AM
@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 :)
zzthorn
August 17, 2019 at 2:11 PM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 10:08 AM
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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Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 10:40 AM
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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 11:54 AM
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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Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 12:06 PM
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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 12:40 PM
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!
Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 12:44 PM
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!
Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 12:45 PM
Wen Qing*, sorry!
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 1:17 PM
@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.
Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 2:35 PM
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.
Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 2:36 PM
She didn’t do* anything...
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 3:19 PM
@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!
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 2:00 PM
@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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 2:27 PM
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.
news
August 18, 2019 at 12:25 PM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 3:17 PM
@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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Giegie
August 17, 2019 at 3:30 PM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 17, 2019 at 4:06 PM
@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.
Giegie
August 18, 2019 at 6:59 AM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 8:59 AM
@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?
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 1:01 PM
@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.
Giegie
August 18, 2019 at 5:07 PM
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.
Giegie
August 18, 2019 at 5:36 PM
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!
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 5:50 PM
@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.
Linda Palapala
August 19, 2019 at 11:22 AM
@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?
Giegie
August 19, 2019 at 10:51 PM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 20, 2019 at 3:16 PM
@giegie0384 Let me know when you've finished watching 50. I want to share some thoughts on the ending and my opinion!
news
August 18, 2019 at 6:18 AM
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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Giegie
August 18, 2019 at 6:49 AM
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.
news
August 18, 2019 at 7:19 AM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 8:55 AM
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...
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 10:26 AM
@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!
news
August 18, 2019 at 10:39 AM
@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.
news
August 18, 2019 at 10:43 AM
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.
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 11:16 AM
@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!
Giegie
August 18, 2019 at 4:29 PM
@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.
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 4:35 PM
@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?
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 4:43 PM
@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!
news
August 19, 2019 at 5:28 PM
@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.
Linda Palapala
August 19, 2019 at 6:07 PM
@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.
news
August 19, 2019 at 6:55 PM
@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.
Giegie
August 19, 2019 at 11:15 PM
@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*
Linda Palapala
August 20, 2019 at 1:38 AM
@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.
news
August 20, 2019 at 7:15 PM
@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.
Linda Palapala
August 20, 2019 at 9:12 PM
@newso Re when did WJ fall in love with WWx. I think it was almost love at first sight.
Linda Palapala
August 18, 2019 at 1:17 PM
@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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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 18, 2019 at 10:20 PM
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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Meheartisamusicbox
August 18, 2019 at 5:51 PM
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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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 18, 2019 at 9:52 PM
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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Meheartisamusicbox
August 18, 2019 at 11:33 PM
Yes that ep really made me think twice who he really is. Show finally gonna disclose the real culprit.
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outofthisworld 不愧是我 🏍
August 19, 2019 at 1:55 AM
I guess working in this line and dealing with monsters does things to a man. No wonder many of them have mental issues.