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…
missvictrix
Currently covering: Adamas
Alchemy of Souls: All caught up and no place to go. I loathe a drama hiatus! The only things to do while I wait are: a) not panic about the impending end; b) not panic about the impending cast change; c) keep making Chisu and Hwansu jokes; d) talk about Shin Seung-ho’s eyebrows to anyone that will listen. And not in that order.
mistyisles
Currently covering: Wild Boar Hunting
Alchemy of Souls: Amidst all the other ways this show has me by the heartstrings, something that particularly stood out to me this week was how much I’m warming up to Cho-yeon. I was proud of her for standing up for herself to her mother, even if she wasn’t quite ready for everything that would entail, and I find myself rooting for her and Mu-deok’s reluctant friendship almost as much as Wook’s and Prince Won’s (and that’s saying something!). As for the story overall, I’m trying not to think too hard about the end, or that second season, and instead just keep enjoying the ride for whatever it decides to be.
DaebakGrits
Today’s Webtoon: I can’t say that this drama is spectacular, but it’s just the kind of feel-good story that I’m in the mood to watch because I’m still all melodrama-ed out (Thanks, Why Her?). The mini-stories featuring the webtoon artists are cute and highlight the energy and magic Ma-eum adds to the team, but I’ve got to admit that I live for all the information about her past as a judo athlete. People keep underestimating her because she lacks the expected experience and education for the industry, so I love it whenever she’s able to bust out her athleticism to show that she has other strengths — literally and figuratively — and is an expert in a different field.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo: I’ve successfully converted not one, but TWO of my coworkers into Attorney Woo fans! As far as I’m aware, neither of them have watched a K-drama before, and they are the third and forth co-workers that I’ve successfully convinced to watch a drama. Slowly but surely I’m going to turn everyone in the office building into Korean drama lovers! Mwahahaha! Like everyone else, though, I’m a bit concerned with how the story will wrap up in its finale week. I swear, if this turns into another Twenty Five Twenty One situation, I’m going to breathe fire. I’d hate to think I introduced my coworkers to a good drama, only for us all to be disappointed by the ending. Sending positive vibes to the drama gods!
Unit
Currently covering: Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Poong the Joseon Psychiatrist
It’s Beautiful Now: This was a tough week! I knew it was coming, but the father-daughter reveal hit me hard. Poor Mi-rae and Hyun-jae! I feel bad for everyone involved in the situation, but somehow, it’s Min-woo I’m most worried about. Everyone in the family is concerned about grandpa, and rightfully so, but at some point I was expecting his wife and the boys to ask how their father feels about all of this. It doesn’t even help that the other aunt from upstairs is just harping on about blood relationships, inheritance and whatnots. Pfft.
Today’s Webtoon: I don’t know how she does it, but there is no Kim Se-jung character I don’t fall in love with. And now Ma-eum has joined the ranks of characters who have my whole heart. My heart also went out to the black and white comic guy, and I just want to protect him. I hope the webtoon team picks him and sends him to Ma-eum for mentoring. Lord knows she’s in a good position to add some color to his world.
alathe
Currently covering: Alchemy of Souls
Extraordinary Attorney Woo: I’m not quite up to date, but I’ve fallen hard for this show. It’s all down to the absolutely marvelous Park Eun-bin, who’s acting her socks off in every single scene. And wow, what scenes! Every episode is as thought-provoking as it is fun: it’s clear that whatever the topic, the writers have done their homework. Granted, it’s not always perfect; the child kidnapping plot was a real bust, for me. (Wow, what a sentence…! But really, my safeguarding instincts were blaring loud enough to drown out all willing suspension of disbelief.) Nonetheless, despite the occasional misfire, this show mostly leaves me delighted, giddily amused and full of surprisingly intense emotions about whales. Plus, full marks to them for doing one of the best moments of incidental queer representation I’ve seen in a while! That part’s small, but it’s nice to see a show that cares. And this show really does care about everything — above all, that’s the beauty of it.
RELATED POSTS
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (August 6, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 30, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 23, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 16, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 9, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 2, 2022)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (June 25, 2022)
Tags: Alchemy of Souls, Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Today's Webtoon, What We're Watching
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1 Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 6:01 AM
I am missing a happy place drama, so although I am finding the current on air dramas interesting they are not bringing the guaranteed warm fuzzies or many laugh out loud moments I knew I would get when I heard the theme tunes for the original Yumi’s cells, Mr Queen, Hospital Playlist, Twenty five, twenty one, Business proposal, Sh**thing stars and Love All, play.
If you wish upon me
Really intrigued to learn more about the connections between all the characters particularly the school girl who is never at school!
Poong Joseon Psychiatrist
I started to falter with the increase in thriller elements in episode three and I couldn’t do episode four having seen the preview. I am hoping I can watch most of it and just fast forward through the scenes that cause discomfort. I like these characters and want to watch them grow the clinic.
Today’s webtoon
Enjoying watching this alongside the Japanese version. The PPL in this show is a bit too ‘spotlight over here, please’ this week it was the beauty product which was too out there to be an every day item that the mum and sister would use but if the spoilt webtoon artist had been causally using it no one would have questioned it. The exercise bike in Junyeong’s house worked as I was immediately thinking ‘Wow how good does that look? I know they used that wheel concept for an electric motorbike now it’s on exercise bikes, bet it’s expensive’. I wasn’t thinking why is that there it just fitted for his world.
Sleeeper hit
The (2016) Japanese version of Today’s webtoon, there are some similar elements but as it is about the print version of Manga it focuses on other pressures on the staff. I am enjoying it so far.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 6:01 AM
Mimicus
Finally the backstory as to why the original boy’s mum was so annoyed about his move into the entertainment business despite her attempts to direct him away from it. I feel so sorry for the CEO’s son who feels he is inadequate in his mum’s eyes. The dad should have tried harder to save the boy from the emotional abuse which is summed up by his mum being calling him by the other boy’s name when she is drunk.
In the scoop: Friendcation
Sorry to see this end but it really was a lovely to watch. It was a glimpse into reality tv that was normal life rather than random people being forced to live together and do things as a concept for a show.
Page Turner
Just saw this recommended and decided to give it a go its only 3 episodes its part of the school, coming of age genre and so far I am enjoying it.
Healer
Continuing to pace myself with this one as the genre is outside of my comfort zone thankfully because it is so well acted and I like the characters I am invested in staying with it.
Cheer up
Still enjoying this one. There are some heavy topics in terms of the impact of the parents expectations on their children’s mental health and ability to enjoy the golden years of childhood. Also really sad to see how guilt and trauma can have long reaching effects on friendships and emotions.
Completed:
The temperature of language: Our nineteen
Another coming of age teen web drama where study pressure, finances, friendships and bullying influence the choices of the characters. Starting to see the value of these web dramas for the younger actors as Kang Minah has gone from support role in Cheer up in 2015 to part of ensemble cast in True beauty 2020 to part of the ensemble main cast in this drama also out in 2020 to being the female lead in Miracle 2022 which finished live airing last week.
On hold:
When my love blooms
Devilish joy
Sungkyunkwan Scandal
Your honour
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 6:02 AM
Predictive text keeps changing Soop to scoop😬
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 8:34 AM
I recommend watching Apinkation, it's another reality series with the famous Kpop group Apink. It's subbed in youtube. These women show what its like not to really care about keeping up their Idol image but are also mindful of it. I'd also recommend you watching Jessi's Showterview, it's subbed on youtube. She interviews various actors and kpop singers. She is not your normal stereotype Korean, she definitely stands out, which is why so many people love her and others hate her lol.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 8:46 AM
Thanks for the recommendations.
Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 8:28 AM
Ooh, you've been watching a lot of great shows. In Cheer up, it was Park Yoona, not Kang Minah. You've either gotten the names mixed up or the actresses. Which is funny because they both starred in True Beauty lol
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 8:45 AM
I just checked and Kang Minah was in Cheer up as was Park Yoona. But for me it was seeing her in all four of the dramas but I only knew of her in the three I watched recently with Miracle being her biggest role.
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 8:48 AM
Yeah I realized my mistake lol I kept thinking to myself, was she in this show to answer decided to look it up and she in fact was also in it. It's been awhile since I watched that show, I might go re watch it jejeje.
panshel
August 13, 2022 at 8:48 AM
Both Kang Min-ah and Park Yoo-na were in Cheer Up.
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books7time
August 13, 2022 at 11:21 AM
Is Mimicus worth a look? I was hooked by the prologue and then confused by the trailer. I couldn't even tell what it was about.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 11:36 AM
I like it basically two boys who look nothing alike to me are at the same performance school but the way they dance dress etc is seen as one copying the other. This is being used to promote one boy over the other. Over time we learn where the problem started and how it impacts on the boys sense of identity. Its a school based drama with coming of age/friendship themes.
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books7time
August 20, 2022 at 3:46 PM
Thank you
mmmmm
August 13, 2022 at 10:49 AM
I’m not sure why.. but I find recent and current dramas not to my liking. I feel like watching something like ABP or Sh**ting Stars but there is none now. I’ll probably rewatch or try some old dramas that I haven’t watched.
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books7time
August 13, 2022 at 11:14 AM
Have you watched Thirty but Seventeen? It is a mix of elements but at its heart is a discovered family and healing.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 11:38 AM
Yes i thought there would ways be something like that in each batch of dramas but alas no. We are definitely due at least one in the next batch.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:47 PM
Where do you find the Japanese version of TODAY'S WEBTOON? I understand that it is really good.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 12:52 PM
Its on Viki in the UK
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 1:08 PM
Unfortunately, not in the US. Licensing agreements are hell.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 1:28 PM
It’s so frustrating to know a drama is out there but not within your reach.
Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 7:29 PM
Did you find Sleepeer hit on Viki US? If so that’s great let me know what you think of the different elements they include. It’s only ten episodes so somethings are mentioned earlier than in Today’s webtoon.
Sorry, I assumed you knew it had another name as you had responded to my post which had the name included.
MikeyD signed up
August 14, 2022 at 6:53 AM
I just looked, it is available in Viki US (recently arrived) under the name 'Sleeper Hit'
books7time
August 20, 2022 at 3:48 PM
Comment was deleted
telzey
August 13, 2022 at 2:44 PM
The Japanese version is on Viki; it just has a different name. It’s called Sleepeeer Hit.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 8:50 PM
Thank you for the clarification- and this has now been added to my ever-growing watchlist. Must pay closer attention in the future
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2 miso
August 13, 2022 at 6:02 AM
Went on a binge of drama oldies this week with mixed results.
COMPLETED
Something About 1% (2003) - A beanie wall post made me curious about the OG version. I liked the drama overall more than the 2016 version but the ML was truly unbearable early on (even when played by Gang Dong-won).
Which Star Are You From - Loved Kim Rae-won and Jung Ryeo-won together but the makjang family drama was a bit much.
Wonderful Life - Leads who don't talk to each other + disturbingly clingy ex-girlfriend = meh. Eugene was good at least.
Attic Cat - Started well but became an endless loop of moving out of the rooftop room and moving back in 🥴.
Bottom of the Ninth with Two Outs - The pick of the batch. A friends to lovers story which felt natural and real in a way dramas rarely do. The conversations between the leads were so good and the ML gave me strong Kim Ji-seok vibes in the best way.
Last Scandal - Nice but also made me sad.
ONGOING
Café Minamdang - Still laughing at the age and casting thing.
Poong, the Joseon Psychiatrist - I like the mini-cases we get. May not be particularly new in terms of story but I like the execution and the leads are adorable.
Extraordinary Attorney - My mood while watching 😑.
Adamas - I can't get over how reckless both brothers are. Makes for exciting television at least.
Big Mouth - Ep. 3 was weak and kinda gross but I did cry, as always, with LJS. Ep. 4 with the fake ledger made things interesting again.
Today's Webtoon - I find Jun-yeong more interesting than Ma-eum because he seems more real and less out of a manhwa. The show needs more Choi Daniel.
The Good Detective S2 - I like that we don't know who in the chaebol siblings is more evil. Both are expert manipulators clearly.
Alchemy of Souls - What a cliffhanger (and preview!) to get before the break.
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Nefret
August 13, 2022 at 7:41 AM
Dropped the 2016 version of SOMETHING ABOUT 1 % when the ML told FL what clothes to wear.
After that, I didn't dare try the original version.
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 7:57 AM
Yes that was taken directly from the 2003 version 😤. One of the many things that made the ML unlikeable in both versions.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:45 PM
That is a pity. 1% OF SOMETHING (and the original 1% OF ANYTHING) are one of my favorite stories not least because it shows how our reluctant Cinderella causes not only the ML but also his mother, etc. to grow out of their arrogance- just as Grandpa intended for his grandson.
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Elinor, Team Glasses team co-captain
August 13, 2022 at 4:43 PM
I enjoyed the 2016 version by telling myself each time something like that happened, "oops, we just had a visit from 2003."
Seeing how awful most of the ML's wardrobe was, she should have been telling him what to wear.
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 5:08 PM
😆
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books7time
August 20, 2022 at 3:52 PM
I enjoyed the original for the chemistry of the couple (after he softens toward her--ugh). If you can get past that, try it out.
But for me the sticking point was the portrayal of a teacher. You have got to be kidding me. I was rolling my eyes hard. And then I had to go watch School 2013 to breathe.
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books7time
August 20, 2022 at 3:53 PM
Oops! I meant the 2016 version. 😅
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bbstl 🧹
August 13, 2022 at 8:30 AM
I really liked OG 1% at the time even though he was often simply abusive, she could have done SO much better, it dragged a lot and I feared for their digestive systems after drinking so much orange juice. But I would definitely rewatch the remake rather than the original.
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 8:33 AM
I think I liked the OG more because it had interesting supporting characters with complete story arcs while I don't really remember any from the 2016 version.
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bbstl 🧹
August 13, 2022 at 8:43 AM
Oh, like the cousin and the friend who became a couple? That’s a good point, they were interesting. And the older brother who wanted to marry a woman w a child, I think? They really streamlined all of that out of the remake, didn’t they?
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 8:49 AM
Yes exactly. The older brother esp. was cool. Don't know why they removed all that to make it a two-person world.
bbstl 🧹
August 13, 2022 at 4:20 PM
Do I remember correctly that the OG was 20 (or more) eps? Maybe that, plus it would be way cheaper with a smaller cast as well.
miso
August 13, 2022 at 4:31 PM
Yes it was 26 episodes in fact. Good point.
knewbie
August 14, 2022 at 12:06 AM
Yes I loved the original mainly because of the huge and interesting cast of characters. The FL's family members in particular were fantastic: not just the brother and the friend / adopted sister, but also the parents who must be the only parents in K-dramaland to disapprove of their daughter's boyfriend simply because he is from a chaebol family. Also loved the way the parents took in anyone who needed help and treated them like family.
Agree that the ML was annoying, but I guess he was supposed to become a better man under the FL's influence. Actually, it was this main relationship that interested me the least. The FL, a kind, sensible and independent young woman, really could have done so much better for herself, and certainly didn't need to be part of some old chaebol guy's plan to teach his grandson a lesson.
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miso
August 14, 2022 at 6:07 AM
Yup the FL was way too good for him. He was so shout-y in the earlier episodes - that was basically his entire personality.
bbstl 🧹
August 14, 2022 at 9:54 AM
What you said, @knewbie. Loved the parents, loved them trying to protect her from what entering a chaebol family would entail.
And he was so shouty and incapable of communicating, I remember wondering so much why she didn’t tell him off and walk away.
PYC
August 14, 2022 at 6:27 AM
I thought I was the only one noticing the excessive orange juice :)
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bbstl 🧹
August 14, 2022 at 9:56 AM
Hey 🙋🏼♀️ Thank you, now I know it’s not just me! It was weird! I was too new at the time to think of it maybe being PPL😉
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knewbie
August 17, 2022 at 2:00 AM
Could be a cultural thing. Maybe orange juice was the Americano of the noughties.
azkiya
August 13, 2022 at 4:21 PM
it's been a while since i heard someone talking about Bottom of the 9th with 2 Outs, I remember how satisfying that drama was, the friend to lover trope that felt so natural, i believe it's because of the acting and the script. And funny how I have this remake of 9th with 2 Outs on my mind when you mentioned KJS, because when AoS started filming there's news KJS sent coffee truck to JSM with adorable banner that listed JSM habits that only good friend would know,,now I can't resist to say that I want to see KJS + JSM in the remake of 9th with 2 Outs, dramaland pleaseeee granted my wish! <3
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 4:35 PM
I had it on my list for a long time and I've seen it mentioned on DB years back. Don't know why I never saw it when I love friends-to-lovers. I was so impressed with how natural and believable the progression of the relationship was. Their conversations were also so good!
A Kim Ji-seok - Jung So-min updated version would be great! They deserve better than Monthly Magazine Home for sure. Though maybe KJS has already given his best friends-to-lovers performance in My Unfamiliar Family 💖.
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Midnight
August 17, 2022 at 4:01 AM
This is so cute. I love that show too.
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bbstl 🧹
August 14, 2022 at 9:58 AM
I just loved both Bottom of the 9th and Last Scandal 🥰, they were both rewatches for me. Sad to see LS now, though.
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miso
August 14, 2022 at 11:32 AM
Yes LS made me sad for the same reason.
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Midnight
August 17, 2022 at 3:55 AM
Omo! Someone has gone back in time and watched 2 of my favorite oldies! I also love Jung Ruy Won and Kim Rae Won together, and I also LOVE everything you mentioned about Bottom of the 9th with 2 outs.
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3 books7time
August 13, 2022 at 6:02 AM
This has been a weird drama watching week for me because I have not caught up with live shows yet (AoS and EAW). Still I found a gem! I think this summer has been my Kim Dong Wook summer. Beanie encouragement led me to watching FIND ME IN YOUR MEMORY and it was a treasured watch for me, not least because it introduced me to KIM DONG WOOK. Then, I was told I needed to check out YOU ARE MY SPRING for more of cute KDW. A giant thank you to those recommendations. A cute AND flirty KDW is much appreciated.
YOU ARE MY SPRING (episode 12)—so so so glad I gave this a chance (and thank you @missvictrix for your delightful and enthusiastic weecaps). I am not done yet and already I want to rewatch it. The cinematography is not only stunning but includes shots and frames that make me sit up and notice. I want to give the DP and their team a standing O. The writing is some of the best character writing I have encountered with many memorable and wise insights on human nature and living after experiencing trauma as well as rib-aching humor. If that isn’t enough, the acting and characters are the top—a special shoutout to SEO HYUN JIN. Each character has a story and place within the story. So, I can forgive the tonal mismatch that occurs. While I am in the slice-of-life healing romantic story I am giddy and delighted and while I am in the psychological thriller mystery I am on the edge of my seat. But the execution of bringing these two tones together could have been smoother (FMIYM did it better).
CHIEF KIM—I’ve just hit the “waiting room” episode and my cheeks hurt.
I wanted a non-romance and tried VICENZO, which was too much for me, and so came back to my beloved wacky TQ AccountingTeam. I was grinning from the first episode anticipating the character and relationship developments. Seeing Lee Junho on screen doesn’t hurt either.
IMMORTAL SONGS 2—watched a Kings of Kings special episode for FORESTELA and KANG SEUNG YOON, but enjoyed all the performances immensely. I may be adding this to my K-variety watches. I enjoy expanding my appreciation of Korean pop music.
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wonhwa
August 13, 2022 at 7:21 AM
Vincenzo was too much for me as well, but I found Chief Kim consistently delightful!
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missvictrix
August 13, 2022 at 8:11 AM
So glad you are enjoying YAMS -- it is definitely a special drama!
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 9:19 AM
Your comment about YAMS couldn't have been said better. I've watched it twice, loved the acting and how well everyone portrayed their characters. I didn't quite understand where they wanted to go with the plot but other than that, it was a great show, definitely a 9/10.
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books7time
August 20, 2022 at 3:31 PM
I just finished and it is my top 5 of all-time favorites. It left an impression.
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4 miss h
August 13, 2022 at 6:04 AM
Extraordinary Attorney Woo: Well, this drama took longer than most to implode. I’m disappointed by pretty much everything about this week’s episodes. The writing was sloppy and characters had personality transplants. Somebody that researched hug chairs would not have so cluelessly sprung Young-woo on his family or thought the break up was because of dolphins. I hate the Attorney Jung stomach cancer storyline. Why couldn’t it have just been an ulcer? I loathe that they are forcing Su-yeon and Min-woo. Being his family’s breadwinner doesn’t excuse his behavior, and she deserves better. If Su-yeon must be paired with someone, why not have her see a different side to Hairy on the trip? Finally, I hate that Attorney Han exposed the birth secret.
Alchemy of Souls: It says a lot about the episodes this week that I spent most of the time wondering why we had the whole plot of Mu-deok trying to be hired by Songrim when she is never there. She’s pretty dumb not to put together the pieces that Mu-deok is Bu-yeon. The Crown Prince is no dummy, and I enjoyed his scenes with Uk.
Today’s Webtoon: I’m really liking this drama. It was nice to see Jun-young smile.
If You Wish Upon Me: I haven’t made it past the first two episodes of a Ji Chang-wook drama since Healer, but I may stick with this one for a little bit. It hasn’t grabbed me, but I think it could get better, especially if they would start focusing on the patient’s lives and stories.
Poong The Joseon Psychiatrist: Episode 3 was a drag. Why are the characters solving murders? I think this is a drop.
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 7:46 AM
@missh: Re EAW: I agree completely. Disappointing doesn’t even begin to describe my feelings about this week’s thematic sabotage.
And, in Alchemy of Souls, I have wondered that too but it allowed for the trio’s shenanigans so they could convince themselves that they got Mudeokie in (not confirmed she needed the cheat sheet), and as we know she is not dumb so they are dragging out her realisation of whose body Naksu’s soul is in. I have always thought Buyeon’s soul is still there and will emerge soon by hook or crook.
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5 Radily
August 13, 2022 at 6:05 AM
Wild Boar Hunting (Mid-series review)
Calling all Beanies: please do watch this show! Besides a rather predictable bullying scenario, the story really intrigued me with how its main character slowly spirals out of control after experiencing a high at the start. There’s the awkward hunting setup which I feel is somewhat unnecessary but it’s a minor quibble. I already know which BGM I’m waiting for!
Extraordinary Attorney Woo (Episode 13-14) - Mood: C+
As much as I was pissed off by the noble idiocy drama, what frustrated me more was the terminal illness trope: writer, I can’t believe you didn’t subvert it here: the buildup was begging you to blame it on assassination-induced stress?! And we got this weird noodle-hunting arc, when it should’ve been Attorney Jung’s character growth moment about whether he’s been working too hard (I’ll even accept the classic ex-wife scenes here!). But what’s even weirder is the transplant Min Woo’s brain seems to have received for the forced romance with Soo Yeon. Mother issue for finale is a major yikes.
Big Mouth (Episode 3-4) - Mood: C
Mayor Choi’s palpable panic in the cliffhanger seems to strongly suggest that he’s not Big Mouse or even knows who it is: given what he mentioned about betrayal, I now think it is more likely his wife is the one hiding secrets from him. But I can’t ignore the fact that he’s of equal status to the main OTP in the relationship chart? On another note, I facepalmed so hard seeing Mi Ho just reveal all her cards on her own accord: if you think that the hospital director will bite unto the bait, why tell her husband that it’s all bluff? I wonder who’s the third person with a wish: they’ve only shown two! Hmm?
Today’s Webtoon (Episode 3-4) - Mood: C-
I don’t know about that abrupt cliffhanger but I do know that this show is somehow piling on more annoying characters in the critical sister, the snivelling ex and the arrogant camp participant. It’s a pity that the show thinks that it needs an antagonist in the form of the scheming director who’s placed Jun Yeong at a crossroads now: it would’ve been better if the conflict was about the decline of webtoons in general and Neon’s need to rebrand itself to keep up with the times. I liked that we’re getting development on our two newcomers but I do wonder where we’re going with Jun Yeong’s ghost.
Cafe Minamdang (Episode 13-14) - Mood: D-
Maybe Han Jun and Auntie Im are real shamans, given that both have somehow not aged as others have grown from a child into adults? Casting blunder aside, this Gopuri wild goose chase couldn’t have been more terrible? 2 more weeks!
Adamas (Episode 5-6) - Mood: D
Of course the rich married jerk has a mistress, who would have expected that? The writer’s trying hard to obfuscate an uninteresting mystery in Min Jo’s death but I think the only thing that can really surprise me if he somehow still is alive?
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Linarrick
August 13, 2022 at 6:28 AM
Min-jo being alive? That would definitely be more interesting
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cat-cric-kat
August 13, 2022 at 6:33 AM
no young, soft skin nonsense - average people living boring ordinary life and that animal is what that start all the action - Boys missing - different feelings and that music makes up for what you are waiting for - This is some quality.
I'm still surprised to see someone trying hard to find rational in garbage. its for delusions. and i am happy to be right about it once more.
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6 Lord Cobol (Kdramas, like water, flow downhill)
August 13, 2022 at 6:07 AM
Extraordinary Attorney Woo: 9.5 Guess I'm in the tiny minority (according to the weecap comments) who liked this week. Day 13 was good, 14 was better except for the final scene. Or maybe it just caught me in a good mood.
Alchemy of Souls: 8.5
Today's Webtoon: 7.6
Big Mouth: 7.4
Cafe Minamdang: 5.5 Just once, can we try NOT rescuing the damsel?
Poong the Joseon Psychiatrist: 5.5
A Model Family: 0.5 I lasted about 5 minutes.
Stomach cancer has popped up in two shows this week, but still has a long way to go if it wants to rival Truck.
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Becky
August 13, 2022 at 8:07 AM
I liked this week's episodes of Extraordinary Attorney too. People get stomach cancer, couples hit rough spots, co-workers can feel attraction for fellow co-workers, and I'm happy that Min-woo has more dimensions to his personality than just jerk. I hope he comes to regret trying to get Attorney Woo fired. Just like I'm hoping that CEO Han has a plan up her sleeve to protect Attorney Woo's privacy.
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Kurama
August 13, 2022 at 9:28 AM
I liked the episode of EAW too! I think I never found Min-Woo being a total jerk, I didn't hate him. So for me, he was the same in these 2 episodes.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:38 PM
I really liked this week's episodes of EXTRAORDINARY ATTORNEY WOO and so did my wife. I thought that it fleshed out many of our characters really well and touched upon major themes.
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7 welh
August 13, 2022 at 6:07 AM
Lately, there were lots of puzzle pieces of information, but still no complete mythology picture. New concepts of "devine" over "mage powers; trapping souls; shaman sorcery powers; soul transfer without the ice stone, etc .
The main story was to be about Naksu but she has been dormant for too long. Is it Uk's story of becoming a master mage? That story has sort of stopped in its tracks after rushing to get to last ability. Now the story is focused on Bu-yeon, but no one really knows why everyone has been trying to find her for the last 20 years. Maybe she does not want to be found.
If the real story is about revenge, everyone has a motive. Jin clan against Songrim; Jin Mu against Jin clan; the palace against Songrim; Choi clan against everyone.
Shaman Choi’s (inside the Queen) sorcery probably exceeds the power of Songrim, which is why Jang Gang tried to kill her. The possible demise of the queen's body could lead to a civil war or bloody palace coup.
The CP and Uk doing their detective work in the shaman village was good, but all we are left with is the Star Wars cliffhanger that everyone chuckles about. (“Uk, I AM you father.”)
THE WITCH IS ALIVE (Becoming Witch) (Ep. 7) The fight scene in the church was fine but I was bothered by the underlying diss of Christianity by having a minister not forcefully disavow the adulterous wedding sacrament.
Woo Bin is such an idiot. Clearly his friend is running a ponzi scheme. Jin-A’s fortune will be lost. Nothing breaks up a couple faster than financial problems.
Baby Doc likes his patient/friend Hee-Soo which puts a sour tone in their professional relationship. He is looking for a good mother for his daughter since his ex-wife was not at the kindergarten show. The plot point about whose infertility is the cause of Hee-Soo’s woes seems to add another layer of confusion or dilution. Her husband is such a jerk, just let him go.
Just when Ma-Ri is having dreamy reservations about killing her husband, the face palm of the episode is Nak Gu moving in his girlfriend into the marital apartment. How stupid and silly. Of course we all knew their daughter would come home to this hot mess. Maybe she will be the adult in the room.
TODAY’S WEBTOON (Ep. 3-4) The show continues with its runner’s pace. Ma-Eum’s problem solving learning curve is at superhero levels. Ma-Eum conquers another crisis while Jun-Yeong gets caught up in company power politics. The concept of the webtoon camp brings in new characters with background and confidence issues. The darkness surrounding Shin’s life as an orderly and a glimpses of a bad childhood makes him an outsider whose traditional standards of artistry do not match the norm. He is a good choice for Ma-Eum to champion as she can channel her own judo adversity to give confidence to others.
THE BABYSITTER (2016 Rewatch): I read an article that stated after the first episode fans and critics HATED Jo Yeo Jeong’s character, but in the remaining...
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welh
August 13, 2022 at 6:08 AM
...three episodes of this psychological thriller, the audience was turned around by her “paragon” performance. JYJ won the best actress award for the short series. It was well deserved as the story and execution were excellent.
KBS ROCK FESTIVAL: IS went on the road to stage a Rock Festival in Gangeung. It was a really good show. Character actor Kim Chang-wan was a featured act. I was unaware that decades ago he was an experimental rock musician who still tours. Korea’s definition of “rock” is tame in comparison to the West genres.
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8 cat-cric-kat
August 13, 2022 at 6:08 AM
JAPAN
Ishiko to Haneo - 7/10 - All 3 episodes interesting event chosen, which actually happened. Episode 3 really goes for youtube videos too. relationship dynamics are quite good. 1st episode had its dramatic moments but show has become quite better now.
I fell in love with the Girl who gave me An eraser - 7/10 - oh ho ho - yeah.
tver.jp - quite quite good.
Sony gem picked up new shows. oh yes.
Still need to cover a lot of shows - too much translation activity but these translators are acting like its 2005 - join their discord - do thin n that - it really reminds me of those arrogant arashi nonsensical fan groups
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cat-cric-kat
August 13, 2022 at 6:19 AM
Big Mouth - 6/10 - entertaining. surely everything is a gimmick here. This truly is audience wish fulfillment. typical middle class bait. Characters, specially here is even less consistent now. easy fun parade - i'm gonna continue all episodes. Wife's value is decreasing. Hero's stock rose too fast, too easily.
diamond arrow - 6/10 everything is dramatic, soap opera level plots. Hero lettig everyone know except villain team and now have things turned like that, everyone is after everyone, everyone has to run - this is the most awesome action writer did. A lot is nonsense but what to do, when everyone has some important data in hand - negotiations, team change, little foolish action and more is waiting.
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cat-cric-kat
August 13, 2022 at 6:27 AM
China - more action dramas - oh ho
Turkey - 4 dramas cancelled - i was watching all of them - 2 hours + for each episode - low ratings. If we go by things 4 more dramas should have been cancelled but then you are left with nothing to air. heh.
Horrible horrible romance nonsense not making any sense or logic, typical stories seen 100 times before, remakes of korean romance, ideas taken from kdramas - if source is garbage then what else can you expect.
Turkish dramas often involve lot of dramatic events and violence with least of rational that even kdramas start to appear good. But this time around everything have to go. 2 garbage still airing better buy license of asian media and air it.
As for revenue - JP MEDIA revenues are huge - at that when japan tv as well as cinema isn't a force outside. ANIME - yes - still that can't make for that much
It's IDOLS - ahh - seriously.
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9 Blue (@mayhemf)
August 13, 2022 at 6:20 AM
Comment was deleted
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10 Blue (@mayhemf)
August 13, 2022 at 6:21 AM
Not sure if I am in a slump or just too tired to watch anything.
I dropped many dramas.
Adamas is keeping be entertained and I am enjoying it
Webtoon I don't love it. But I am watching for the cast. Rooting for our webtoon team to make it big. Kim Se-Jeong is truly a delight to watch. Anyone else I would be cringing at the aegyo-cute act, but somehow she comes across as charming.. Wonder how she does that!
Oh, I am also watching Astrophile (thai) at a snail pace. Just for Bright. I will finish it, eventually.
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11 Kurama
August 13, 2022 at 6:23 AM
Cafe Minamdang This show doesn't make any sense but I can't miss SIG as a shaman. After Jang Hyuk, SIG is the new muse for fan!
Poong the Joseon Psychiatrist This show didn't catch my interest. I don't know why, I like the actors and the story isn't worse than other dramas I'm watching...
Extraordinary Attorney Woo This drama is about Young-Woo's growth. It's not an easy journey.
If You Wish Upon Me JCW looked good but I don't undestand why they chose the most skinny actress to play a sportive... I didn't specially liked the FL. The 2 episodes were kinda messy in the introduction of the characters and the story.
Today's Webtoon A cute drama.
The Good Detective 2 I would like to watch the police catching the bad guys instead of a battle of ego...
Alchemy of Souls There are more questions than answers. I hope they will be able to answer them.
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Kafiyah Bello
August 13, 2022 at 6:28 AM
I noted Soo Young is really skinny without much muscle tone, and this is the second time she is playing a really athletic person. However, when she was planking in the first episode, there was some muscle there. Plus she dances a lot for GG, so looks can be deceiving. 🤷🏾♀️
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12 kellie
August 13, 2022 at 6:24 AM
XAW - Park Eun-bin is cute as a button. Love that little move she does before entering a room. She deserved a better script. The drama's a bore.
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13 Kafiyah Bello
August 13, 2022 at 6:24 AM
Cafe Minamdang: We are in the final stretch, huzzah.
Poong: The episodes are too long in this drama. It has a bit of a pacing problem. However, I enjoy our two leads interactions enough to continue.
Extraordinary attorney Woo: I feel so bad for Junho. Young Woo's inability to communicate is really tough at the best of times. That being said I wish they developed him more.
If you wish upon me: So we have childhood amnesia huh? Haven't seen that in a while. Otherwise why wouldn't he recognize his own father. Gyeo Rye and his dog are actually adorable, usually I find that sort of thing annoying, but it is very cute here. I also want to add hospice workers are angels on earth, because I would be crying all the time and be completely drained in the first year.
Adamas: I am glad Woo Shin's reckless disregard for that tracker got him caught, it was starting to get silly how he was running all over the house. Also although Hye soo isn't really shown a lot, I really like her character.
Today's Webtoon: I really enjoy how slice of life it feels. It is also an industry I don't know much about, so it is interesting to learn it's inner workings.
The Good Detective: That poor Harabuji, he just wants to know why his grandbaby was murdered. I wonder who did it? hmmm
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Linarrick
August 13, 2022 at 6:36 AM
Hye-soo is ruthless! And I LOVE her for it!
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asterell
August 14, 2022 at 3:45 AM
I also thought JCW was Sung Dong-il's kid, but @quirkycase says Sung Dong-il was the one being strangled by JCW's father. It'd make a lot more sense, but I thought their relationship looked pretty familial when they made eye contact 🤷🏻♀️
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Kafiyah Bello
August 14, 2022 at 1:05 PM
I thought he was his dad too, but I guess not.
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14 sorrynotsorry
August 13, 2022 at 6:25 AM
Extraordinary Atty Woo: I fell out of love with the kidnapping of the kids and have had trouble jumping back in because I now notice all the flaws that PEB's acting has covered. However, I am invested in the characters so will probably do some judicious skipping if necessary. This drama does have serious buzz because even my non-kdrama watching daughter is giving it a go. She has previously only watched to the end one k-drama (Faith).
Alchemy: On hold until the entire drama is done.
Never Give Up (??): Drama now on Netflix that I can't remember the name with the guy from Highlight about a family and other guy who end up staying in the home of a loan shark trying to return the collateral and atone for previous misdeeds. I like several of the story lines and skip the kid trying to be a hip hop celebrity.
Today's Webtoon: Nothing spectacular but easy to watch.
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bong-soo
August 13, 2022 at 8:19 AM
Re NEVER GIVE UP (2022) (Netflix US). This 16 episode comedy/drama is Yoon Doo-joon’s first project since his military discharge in April, 2020. I think he is doing fine with comedy. He was so wrapped uptight in my only other YDJ drama: RADIO ROMANCE (2018).
I have watched the first four episodes now and I am really enjoying it. Co-ML is film actor Kwak Do-won who I last say back in 2016 on the big screen in two heavy films: THE WAILING a and ASURA: THE CITY OF MADNESS so to see him successfully doing television comedy is delightful.
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15 YuKoSGP
August 13, 2022 at 6:36 AM
Extraordinary Attorney Woo
Well, I’m sad to say that I’m utterly disappointed in the storytelling and it’s really reflected in the falling ratings. After doing so fantastically well in the first 8 episodes, the story started to feel a tad contrived and then the magic bubble burst at episode. The excitement to quickly catch the next episodes suddenly dissipated. For me, the Haengbok land dispute was where the storyline started to feel uneven, and the next 2 cases made it worse. The 2 leads lovey dovey moments are hard carrying the rest of the drama which is also wearing thin. Throw in the office politics and a misconceived birth secret, the whole story seems to be going in circles with the usual k drama tropes. It started refreshingly well but just carry that through 16 episodes which is the most upsetting thing for me.
Contrast this with Move to Heaven or Juvenile Justice. Move to Heaven also touched on people with autism and delivered stories in episodic manner similar to EAW. But that’s where the similarities ended. Every episode was impactful and meaningful, giving the viewers gut wrenching realities. They touched on taboo subjects too but these were so well written that it felt so real. The PD, writer and the cast delivered it excellently.
I do hope EAW can redeem itself with the remaining 2 episode
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dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 12:58 PM
I’m so happy you mention Move to Heaven - it’s one of my favourites and because I didn’t watch it live, I have no idea whether it received the love I feel it deserves. It’s such a gem! People have been raving (justifiably) about Park Eun Bin’s acting in EAW, so I hope people also raved about Tang Jun Sang’s acting, which I thought was very good as well. (Although, I’m still learning about autism and do not actually know how his portrayal was received by those who have autism or have loved ones who are neurodivergent. I can only hope that it also brought more awareness of ASD, and how we can relate to and interact with those on the spectrum in ways that are respectful and inclusive.)
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bong-soo
August 13, 2022 at 1:48 PM
Fwir the answer is yes to both questions. Both MOVE TO HEAVEN and Tang Jun-sang’s performance received lots of beanie love.
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16 korfan
August 13, 2022 at 6:48 AM
Adamas - With the two brothers running around, just asking for trouble, this show has me hooked. You just don't know what's going to happen next.
Alchemy of Souls - The Crown Prince is certainly suspicious of a thing or two! And that episode ending! ..... Now a whole other week to wonder where this story is going to go.
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korfan
August 13, 2022 at 6:51 AM
And I forgot to mention, I gave Big Mouth a chance but unfortunately, things are not going to work out with this one. I only watched the first two episodes and half of the third and that was more than enough.
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17 Wise
August 13, 2022 at 7:10 AM
Adamas : The show can keep the suspense enough without it being overbearing or boring. The script also for me quite interestingly clever, especially the writer’s lines. I think the director of this drama (which also directed Kairos) is one of the most underrated.
Big Mouth : I don’t think this drama is playing “who is Big Mouth” game with us. I think what they are doing is gaslighting us through and through by making us keep doubting whether Chang Ho is the Big mouse or not when he absolutely is. At this phase, they portray him as Big Mouse so obviously we can’t believe the answer is that easy. It remind me of the first season of Stranger. *spoiler alert* I knew the prosecutor was shady af, it’s only him who have the power and around to do the crime but the show keep telling us he is on protagonist team, at the end when it is actually him is the culprit, I still shocked.
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la wants to feel liberated too
August 13, 2022 at 7:27 AM
I thought i was the only one thinking that the portrayal of Big Mouse reminded me of Lee Chang Jun from Forest of Secrets. Like, we all know it's him... Come on! It must be him!... but is he? Really?
The gaslighting is definitely there.
But rather than it's Changho, i think that Big Mouse is "this guy" because Gong Jihoon asked about his real identity to this person in ep 5 (i don't want to spoil here, just in case) and this guy has been running back and forth between good and bad.
And i agree with you about the show doesn't try to tell us who is Big Mouse but rather about showing Park Changho's journey as his own version of Big Mouse.
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18 Unaspirated
August 13, 2022 at 7:14 AM
Alchemy of Souls – I have faith that they are going to come back next week with some super cool special effects for some awesome action scenes, but oooph, it is hard to wait.
Cafe Minamdang – Pro: moving the case forward! Con: fewer shaman shenanigans. Odd: People are aging at such different rates that I wouldn’t be surprised if they introduced a time travel aspect.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo – I liked the case this week but most other things were disappointing. The writers decided to do everything I was hoping they would not do. Fresh and original and cute and fun have all been sacrificed on the alter of predictability and tropes.
Splish Splash Love – I fell down a dramabeans hole (honestly not sure where I even started haha) and found the recap for this, which I then skimmed through enough to want to try it out. Found it on youtube where the quality is not great, I’m confident they are skipping scenes, and the subtitles are riddled with mistakes, but it still manages to be pretty charming despite all that. I’ve only watched the first half hour or so, and am hoping to find something better quality. Any leads, Beanies?
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panshel
August 13, 2022 at 8:03 AM
Splish Splash Love – Is it available for you on Viki or Kocowa?
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mugyuljoie is preciousss
August 13, 2022 at 8:07 AM
Splish Splash Love is on Viki in the US.
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bong-soo
August 13, 2022 at 8:26 AM
If you enjoy Yoon Doo-joon in SSL (2015) then jump ahead to his NEVER GIVE UP (2022) which all 16 episodes recently became available on Netflix US. I have a micro mini review above at comment #7.
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Unaspirated
August 13, 2022 at 9:08 AM
Oooh, this is probably where my rabbit hole started! I was looking up this drama because it popped up on Netflix and that must be how I found SSL! Thanks for reminding me! I'm definitely adding Never Give Up/There is no Gu Pil-soo to my list.
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19 wonhwa
August 13, 2022 at 7:19 AM
A Dream of Splendor: Really enjoyed this - it was lovely to see a show full of complex, well-written, non-noble female characters who find ways to solve their own problems rather than being constantly rescued by men. The fact that there was a swoony romance in the mix didn't hurt either.
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dramalover4ever
August 13, 2022 at 7:55 PM
It was refreshing. Did you know it's adapted from a Yuan Dynasty play, Saving a Prostitute. It has been criticised because it makes the unrealistic distinction between women who were "prostitutes" (bad) and the "pure ones" (good), also that dishy ML would have already had a wife, but hey, let's not spoil a good watch.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2022/08/12/entertainment/movies/Korea-Carter-Joo-Won/20220812135109560.html
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wonhwa
August 14, 2022 at 8:30 AM
Yeah, I've read the play which was one of the reasons I really wanted to watch the show. I wondered if they would have the guts to keep the lead and her friend as prostitutes. Alas, no, but I did appreciate that they left the Empress's background generally unchanged from the historical facts, and heartily endorsed the idea that there was no shame in divorced women remarrying (not a totally authentic representation of Song dynasty culture, but a welcome one from a modern perspective).
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dramalover4ever
August 14, 2022 at 1:45 PM
Ha. You brought a well-informed critical eye to it.
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Alluvial_Fan
August 14, 2022 at 3:54 AM
Still enjoying and episode a day of DoS. Only FF'd through the episode about pippa-playing sister being "cared-for" by the smarmy official. Slowed down to see her get her mo-jo back and escape.
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20 Nefret
August 13, 2022 at 7:38 AM
EXTRAORDINARY ATTORNY WOO: I don't know what got into the writers, but the last two episodes were unsatisfactory. Maybe the rumour about season 2 is true and that threw the writers off.
In contrast, I thought the last two episodes of ADAMAS were really good. Intrigue, mystery, secret passages, murder, revenge - what more could you want?
ALCHEMY OF SOULS drags on. Although we are already on episode 16, I have the feeling that the plot could have been packed into six episodes. Season 2 will have to do without me as a viewer.
The first two episodes of IF YOU WISH UPON ME were not bad. Let's see how the show develops.
Maybe it's because I don't read webtoons that I'm not as captivated by TODAY'S WEBTOON as others.
POONG, THE JOSEON PSYCHIATRIST is still fun to watch.
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21 Scottie
August 13, 2022 at 8:32 AM
I really liked the legal arguments and the always smiling abbot in these two episodes of ATTORNEY WOO. Also the contrast with the group happily going to Jeju and the solemn return. Poor Jun-ho trying to find the reason for the break up - asking whether it could be because they did not see any dolphins. I still have every hope that next week he will get to the bottom of it all. Poor attorney Jung - I hope he will recover. The romance between the princess and the (adult) pauper feels a little forced, but I can go along with it, they might actually make a good match.
I really do not understand or even like the rivalry between the CEOs of the two law firms, it feels artificial and unnecessary for the drama.
BOAR HUNTING is worth watching! Very tense and beautifully done.
I was wating for ADAMAS to make more of the fact that there are identical twins who can easily outsmart any face or body recognition technology. Surely there will be more to come in this regard. I really like Hye-soo, I hope she will get her revenge on her father and the chairman.
I also enjoy WEBTOON and the rookie cartoonists, especially Kim-Do-hoon as the weird and dark Shin Dae-ryuk, he does the body language of his character so well. The PPL scenes of the sister and mother are very clumsy and annoying.
Started POONG and even gave it another try after yawning through the first episode. Sorry, I like the actors, but not the drama.
Managed only to watch the first episode of IF YOU WISH UPON ME. I am not sure Ji Chang-wook can do badass very well, even with a giant skull on the back of his jacket (somebody should have told him that this is maybe not appropriate in a hospice), but he will be able to show his soft side anyway and he is very good at that.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 9:05 AM
This comment made me laugh out loud.
…even with a giant skull on the back of his jacket (somebody should have told him that this is maybe not appropriate in a hospice)
Seriously, why is it that every dodgy character especially from loan shark gang buys their clothes from the same store who even makes those clothes now?
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:30 PM
I have a theory about the two CEOs in EXTRAORDINARY ATTORNEY WOO: It is not just because they are rivals in business but also because long ago in law school they were rivals for the love of Young-woo's father. In addition, Young-woo's CEO clearly sees that her mother simply does not have the character needed to be a good Minister of Justice plus she fears that as Justice Minister her mother could easily damage the firm, so that there is a fear factor as well.
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Scottie
August 13, 2022 at 2:05 PM
Thanks, that makes a lot of sense. I was not so interested in this and the birth secret plot line, because I do not think that the drama needs it. It distracts from what I see as the strengths of the drama which are the very interesting legal cases and how they tie in with the growth of attorney Woo as a person and her relationships.
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bbstl 🧹
August 13, 2022 at 4:25 PM
XAW, I think the side stories may be part of long-range planning as due to the success of the show there is now talk of sequels. I totally don’t get why her friend and Chef came along for the Jeju trip but maybe there will be a reason soon - ?
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22 DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 9:02 AM
I have been watching Hotel Del Luna and in Ep 10, there is a scene where Manwol sees her reincarnated foster brother, Yeonwoo (as Young Soo) across the street. A heart-rending moment which is a reminder of all that she has lost and has defined her mission ever since. Youngsoo, as though controlled by the intensity of her sorrowful gaze, turns his head slowly and they lock eyes. It is such a profoundly sorrowful encounter and so potent. I was really moved by IU’s and Lee Taesun’s acting. In that brief scene, their faces and eyes were evocative of so much loss, grief, affection and regret. It just gutted me and made me have one of those heaving cries where the sorrow rises from one’s chest to the throat and then it pours out if one is lucky to be able to have a good cry. I did.
Did anyone feel the same when watching it?
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 9:07 AM
Love this description, of the impact watching this had on you but unfortunately this is not a drama I can handle so I have not been able to test out the potential impact. I keep hearing good things about IU’s acting.
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 9:26 AM
@reply1988: Thank you. I feel you. It is a hard series to watch at times but also has a lot of humour. IU is womderful here.
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Unaspirated
August 13, 2022 at 9:13 AM
Totally. For me, it was also made more tragic by the fact that he is not the same person, but she is. So he sort of feels like he recognizes her, but can't quite figure out why she makes him feel they way he does. While she knows the whole weight of their tragic history and feels the whole force of the loss.
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 9:24 AM
@jls943: So beautifully put. This. This aspect magnified her sorrow and the tragedy. I marvel at how actors can create such scenes. It is as though a magic is created through the human gaze. A pared down scene without words and props. The music is the only extraneous factor. Just outstanding.
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Unaspirated
August 13, 2022 at 9:32 AM
There is a quote from Guillermo Del Toro (who I've admired since Pan's Labyrinth) where he says something like, "movies are made up of looks." It is so true of Pan's Labyrinth (one of my favs), and I think some Kdramas in particular are really good at this concept too. I agree they did an amazing job here.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:16 PM
PAN'S LABYRINTH is a rough story but also a work of art.
OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:19 PM
That scene demonstrates how great acting and direction can elevate a mediocre script into a masterpiece- which is exactly what happened with HOTEL DEL LUNA.
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miso
August 13, 2022 at 9:22 AM
Yup that scene was very moving. Lee Taesun and Lee Dohyun were my favourite things about HDL!
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panshel
August 13, 2022 at 9:36 AM
This scene in Ep 10 and another scene in Ep 14 are the top two most emotional moments of Hotel del Luna, and both involved Lee Tae-sun. His character had the best emotional connection to Man-wol out of all the characters.
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 9:39 AM
@panshel: Thanks for the heads up. I look forward to ep 14 even if my eyes and heart might bear the brunt of it.
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DancingEmma
August 15, 2022 at 11:16 AM
@panshel: Ahhh, this ep is also so tough to watch. Just gut wrenchingly sad yet also beautiful. The instrumental sound track to these scenes in HDL is so evocative and indelible.
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 9:43 AM
Well said 👏🏽 @dncingemma just reading this takes me back to how I felt when I first watched that scene 😭💔. She really did an awesome job in this series, her character development throughout the show was incredible. All the memorable scenes from that show all involve her in it.. I especially like the scenes where you see how she becomes more humanly and tenderhearted.. In the beginning she barely shed a tear when her last manager became a guest at her hotel to bursting into tears when it's the bartender's time to cross the bridge.. It's amazing when an actor can stir up emotions in your soul and captivate your heart..
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dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 1:13 PM
Have you watched Mystic Pop Up Bar? When you’re done watching Hotel Del Luna, and fancy something similar, it might fit the bill.
I actually enjoyed MPUB a lot more than HDL, but I think others may have had the opposite experience. It’s been a while since I watched HDL, but if I remember correctly MPUB has a bit more silly humour, which could go both ways for people.😁 Choi Won Young is excellent in it.
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ar_arguably romantic
August 13, 2022 at 1:23 PM
I felt that was one of the most memorable moments of Hotel del Luna. She finds out that Yeon-woo, who had lived the bandit lifestyle with her, ends up being a cop in this life and she was watching him chatting and smiling with a fellow cop, drinking in the image. He had a phone and an iced americano in his hands. There was a such a contrast between Young-soo who is so clearly modern and having a great time and Manwol who was still in the past. Two different worlds, and she wasn't going to approach him because he is also no longer Yeon-woo. Then they locked eyes and the whole mood changes. They're back in the same world where she was Manwol and he was Yeon-woo and she gives him a slight farewell smile. .
People were all about Lee Do-hyun's character and the sadness of the how that loveline ended up, but it was this moment with Yeonwoo/Young-soo that really got my tears coming out. I think her sorrow over his death was much stronger and impactful than Lee Do-hyun's character's "betrayal".
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Kurama
August 13, 2022 at 1:32 PM
I never understood why people like Lee Do-Hyun's character.😅 He was a jerk. He betrayed her, forced her to kill him...
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 2:02 PM
I completely agree. Her affection for and bond with Yeonwoo seemed overwhelming to me even if she had fallen in some kind of love with LDH’s character.
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23 Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 9:10 AM
Completed:
It was overall a cute friends to lover show. I enjoyed it very much, I liked the pace and how everything fit well together. The chemistry between the leads was very charming. The Fl is so pretty 😍 when she tilts her head a certain way definitely had me swooning lol
Discovery Of Romance:
I just finished this show today, loved the angst, it had just the right amount for me. Eric Nam, the ML was looking very 😍🥵 with his short hair. The 2ML got on my nerves a couple of times. If you don't mind love triangles, with a bit of heartache, then give this one a go.
Chocolate: All I gotta say is, WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON HERE. 🤯 This show was all over the place, half the time I couldn't figure out what was going on. I sat through 16 hours of pure confusion… 🙄😑
Currently watching:
Soshi Tam Tam (Reality Series) Starring Kpop Girl Group "Girls Generation"
I'm a fan of reality tv series that involve celebrities. We get to see past all the perfected images they portray and get to witness the person behind the fame.
If You Wish Upon Me:
For the first 12 minutes, I found myself bored out of my mind. Nothing caught my attention yet and based on the beginning, I could already predict a few story line plots that they are going to use in this show. It wasn't until my lovely Sooyoungsggshiiii 😘 showed up on my screen that my heart became at ease… I think if she wasn't in this show, I wouldn't be watching it.. JCW, I've only ever watched you in SP, but man, you got me cringing with your poor attempt at acting. I really think they should have recast his role to someone else, maybe someone that looks broody and bad boyish but also tenderhearted. I guess that's what the role is but I can't get behind JCW in this role. I will be painfully watching this show unless in future episodes he magically becomes bearable… I also thought it would be more melo than comedy, which is what is putting me off.
Currently Re-watching:
Reply 1988
Reply 1997
When The Camellia Blooms
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 9:28 AM
I noticed I didn't mention the name of the first show, it's "The time we were not in love".
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 9:57 AM
The Chinese version is called Evolution of our love and I thought it was the better version and it was only when they had the make up removal scene that I realised that the deja vu feeling was because I watching the same drama. I have since found out there are 4 versions with the Taiwanese being the original.
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 10:01 AM
That's good to know, I will have to check those other versions out. I wish they could make some of the newer dramas similar to the older ones. I find it hard now and days to actually stick to watching an entire series without dropping it 🤷🏽
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 10:15 AM
It seems that certain tropes do the rounds and show up in every drama and then we move on and something else shows up instead. So its hard to find one that is lovely and consistently good throughout.
OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:11 PM
Yes, the original version was the award-winning T-drama IN TIME WITH YOU. There is a very recent J-drama version under that same original name which may be the very best of all, although the original T-drama received awards for a reason.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 12:24 PM
I heard the Japanese version was good but I can only vouch for the two I watched and don't think I can handle watching it a third time, hence not trying the original.
chibi8535
August 13, 2022 at 1:20 PM
Having watched the original, the k-remake and the j-version, I can absolutely agree the j-dorama is the very best of them all. The climax of the song-reveal in the pre-finale just knocks your sock off, and the other 2 with their kinda similar scenes don't hold a candle.
Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 1:25 PM
@chibi8535 which order did you watch them in? Did you watch them intentionally or like me found out they were the same by chance?
chibi8535
August 14, 2022 at 12:41 AM
Answering your question under a different comment, lol...
So... the order I watched it in was:
Tw (dropped) > K-remake (2x) > J-remake (loved) > Tw (2x & f.fwd).
I watched the k-remake as a stand-alone drama, and only after finishing, was told that it was a remake of that one cult-favorite Tw drama that I ended up dropping long back (dated print, typical cringe office shenanigans & the FL who kept reminding me of her annoying character in ISWAK).
I watched Boku Mada, as the long-format version of You Drive Me Crazy, again w/o knowing it was a remake of either the Tw or Korean versions!! xD xD I was so busy drowning in the feels, that I immediately went back & watched the original!
Both the korean & japanese versions are their individual takes on the Tw original, but they couldn't be more different from each other in terms of characterization, pacing & minor plot points. Hence, I missed the connection! xD
I would say, given the plot & the final outcome, the slice-of-life take on the story in the j-version makes the most sense to me, than the slightly melo/ slightly rom-com vibes of the other 2. As a result, the punchy scenes were more powerful & I was more invested in the characters. The j-version also fixed all the gripe I had with k-remake & the weaknesses I could identify with the original, in hindsight, apart from this tiny one thing (the stupid ex).
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 14, 2022 at 12:51 AM
Thank you for that very thorough feedback I think I will add the Japanese version to my watchlist as it had such good reviews but feel torn as the Chinese one was good so I already know a version that was better than the Korean version. Hopefully the gap has been long enough for me to watch it without too much deja vu.
Having said that I am currently watching Today’s webtoon and the Japanese version Sleepeeer hit at the same time and finding them interesting in their own right.
Linarrick
August 13, 2022 at 5:21 PM
“looks broody and bad boyish but also tenderhearted”
Haha perfect descriptor of Jung-hwan in Answer Me 1988! If You Wish Upon Me should have casted Ryoo Joon-yeol instead!
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24 Elinor, Team Glasses team co-captain
August 13, 2022 at 9:13 AM
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25 Elinor, Team Glasses team co-captain
August 13, 2022 at 9:14 AM
Still loving Alchemy. Still worried about where it’s heading. (To hell? In a handbasket? The mere presence of multiple household handbaskets is worrisome.)
Meanwhile, I’m zipping through My Love From a Star. It’s so fun! I get only about 10% of the parodies of famous drama scenes, so thank goodness for the javabeans recaps and comments here. The only thing that doesn’t hold up is the ridiculously dramatic background music and especially the theme song (“Yoooou Are My DESSSS-tin-eeee!”). I would have assumed that was parody, too, except that it plays over what are clearly serious fated-love moments. It’s a minor quibble, though. The ML as a grumpy old cynic in a hot, handsome young body is a hoot.
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DancingEmma
August 13, 2022 at 10:23 AM
@elinor: I feel so out of the loop as didn’t realise MLFTS has parodies! This one sounds funny: https://www.kdramastars.com/articles/13872/20140106/you-who-came-from-the-stars-parodies-the-heirs-just-for-the-laughs.htm
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Kafiyah Bello
August 13, 2022 at 12:22 PM
I sing you are my destiny just to annoy my friends because the song is so unnecessary in that drama. We all laugh though because it is such a gem of a drama.
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26 FiyaShady
August 13, 2022 at 9:22 AM
Since hiatus week of AoS plus my hubby is working outstation, might have 2 days to catch up for new drama. Apparently, Lee Jae Wook's quite an interesting actor 😅.
Which drama of him should I binge? Dodosolsollasol? Extraordinary you?
Haven't catch up latest eps EAW (missed 3 episodes)...
Cafe Minamdang already dropped (might be picking up back after all of episode is done airing).
Currently, back to watching Sandman, Locke and Key, Purple Heart.
Am also looking forward to watch movies: Alienoid, Confidential Assignment 2, Hunt, Seoul Vibe. If only they have premiere slot here North America cinema 😓.
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Aroha Uaena
August 13, 2022 at 9:33 AM
Definitely Extra-ordinary you, stay away from Do Do Sol Sol La Sol 😅😂
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panshel
August 13, 2022 at 9:47 AM
Or only watch the first five episodes of Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol. Lee Jae-wook's character was love, and he and Go Ara was one of my favorite OTPs of the year... until the cursed plot twist.
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FiyaShady
August 13, 2022 at 10:26 AM
OMG, it was 32 eps? 🤯😱
I barely survived Search: WWW marathon within 1 full day (and tonnes of FF), imagine to binge 32 eps 😅😅😅 (such a luxurious for mother of 2 😉🤭)
Thank you for your affirmation.
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Warrior Ajumma
August 13, 2022 at 11:05 AM
It’s 32 half hour episodes. If you do DDSSLLS, go to episode 8 I think, for the first kiss. It was so well done. And the music was lovely.
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FiyaShady
August 14, 2022 at 7:50 AM
Unless the actress is taller (like Lee Da Hee), I find all LJW's kiss scene mostly weird ones 😅. Given that he is still young, he still have longgggggg way to go to become a pro-kisser later 🤭🙈.
OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 12:02 PM
NO NO NO to DDSSLLS- and no, it was not the fault of LJW. But do watch EXTRAORDINARY YOU.
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Kurama
August 13, 2022 at 12:17 PM
Yeah, like the others, run away from Do Do Sol Sol La Sol!
He was one of the worst male character in Kdrama world.
Extraordinary You is one of my favourite drama. Kim Hye-Yoon acted so well and she's one my favourite FL. There was one of the cuteste couple.
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ar_arguably romantic
August 13, 2022 at 1:31 PM
DDSSLS had a lot of great happy-pill moments and characters interactions, but it was also a drama that later acted like it got high on bath salts and came after us with a butcher knife. :( That's what makes our reactions to DDSSLS so intense.
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bbstl 🧹
August 13, 2022 at 7:52 PM
Whimpering at how hilarious I find this comment 😆
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FiyaShady
August 14, 2022 at 5:57 AM
Hahaha....
DDSSLLS wasn't that bad as everyone said 😅😅😅 (perhaps I watch it under different pretense/ anything that needs to use my brain a lot 🤭).
Gladly, there are no single antagonist that truly "ugly" except the stalker/psyco.
But, plot wise was a mess 🤣!
If this is a current airing drama, I totally avoid one 😬. Perhaps it IS a bad drama series 😂 (especially if my brain cell really activated)
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 14, 2022 at 6:08 AM
🤣 Love that turn of phrase ‘…but it was also a drama that later acted like it got high on bath salts and came after us with a butcher knife’. That’s going to be my go to phrase now for when someone is acting out of character!
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bong-soo
August 13, 2022 at 4:59 PM
If you would care to see what LJW looks like under all those robes in AOS go directly to MOVE TO HEAVEN (2021) (Netflix US). He plays a boxer and has a close connection with Lee Je-hoon’s character (also a boxer). They go at it in the ring in episode 7. There you get to see what kind of shape both those guys are in.
On the question of DODO. Fine until around episode 8 or nine then slow decent to a spectacular crash landing ending with one little exception: the beautiful epilogue to episode 15 where Joon (LJW) meets up with buddy Seung-gi (Yoon Jong-bin (1995)).
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Alluvial_Fan
August 14, 2022 at 4:13 AM
Another excellent supporting role for LJW was in When the Weather is Fine. He's the star-uni grad who returns to his hometown because he loves the place and the people.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 14, 2022 at 6:04 AM
Yes and the biggest pull was the girl he had loved from school that they kept teasing him about still being in love with. He was really sweet and did a great job in maintaining the town cohesiveness at the events and the book club, a lovely character.
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dramadillo
August 14, 2022 at 6:22 AM
I loved LJW’s character in this! His view on a happy life (and what he wanted out of life) really resonated with me.☺️
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27 john
August 13, 2022 at 9:57 AM
k drama: Attorney Woo, Fiery Priest, Boar Hunting. I might checkout Snowdrop, my wife is watching it.
C drama Love Like The Galaxy Palace Mean Girls trope 🙄Looked at Checkmate , based on Agatha Christie stories.
J dramas : All over the place. Ame ni Kieta Himawari (Mystery) Cinecon e Ikou! Comedy, Workers at a Cineplex , easy fun watch. First episode of Enka Gold Rush, Hirowareta Otoko, Sleeper Hit,Iryu Sousa mystery
YouTube : Mudlarking, motorcycle travel, zhuangzi videos
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john
August 14, 2022 at 10:46 AM
Picked up Taiga drama Kamakura dono no 13 nin /The 13 Lords of the Shogun.
Nice, lovely costumes. Mid to late 1100’s Japan power struggle.
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bong-soo
August 14, 2022 at 11:37 AM
@johnb, I wish Viki, being a Japanese owned company, carried more Japanese dramas in the historical/mystery/crime genres.
Earlier this year on VIki US I watched the excellent Japanese mystery DON’T CALL IT MYSTERY (2022) with a tour-de-force performance by Suda Masaki. I have been hoping that more dramas like that would be forthcoming but not so far.
Any suggestions for legal streams in the US where the jdramas you follow can be watched?
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john
August 14, 2022 at 11:54 AM
So many streaming sites now , not sure what everyone offers.
I would like to see a wider variety of Japanese shows on Viki.
Perhaps the networks aren’t offering their shows ? I am eternally grateful to the independent subbers who toil away.
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28 MikeyD signed up
August 13, 2022 at 10:12 AM
I'm currently watching a 2021 rom-com C-drama named 'Moonlight' that has nothing to recommend it except the apparent delight the male lead (Ding Yu xi) takes in playing an adult with the personality of an eight year old.
I'm grinding through the final episodes of several current dramas, more out of obligation than actual interest.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 10:20 AM
The pressing question is do we need a new bean category: bean of obligation or do the current categories of bean of shame and bean of disappointment cover it?
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29 zzthorn
August 13, 2022 at 10:34 AM
Is there any web site in the US to watch the special filler shows for Alchemy of Souls??
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Elinor, Team Glasses team co-captain
August 13, 2022 at 4:26 PM
Not with English subs, at least not yet. 😕 Yepdrama and other off-brand streaming sites have the first special episode up now but only in Korean. It seems to be a highlight reel of the whole series to date with commentary, but if you've seen the series to date, you're probably not missing much. The second episode this weekend is supposed to be a behind-the-scenes special. Netflix US doesn't show these specials on its 'upcoming episodes' page and doesn't yet show release dates for eps. 17-20. There's no reason for TVN to sub these in English as they're just filling an existing Korean broadcast time slot, and no reason for Netflix to carry them since it doesn't have the time slot problem. I would bet they'll eventually turn up on YouTube or other places with amateur subs.
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zzthorn
August 13, 2022 at 5:56 PM
Thanks so much for your awesome rundown of where or if these specials will be available to English speaking viewers in the US, @elinor I really appreciate your response!
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30 OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 11:38 AM
I am a little concerned about the upcoming cast change in ALCHEMY OF SOULS. No, I am a lot concerned. We have really enjoyed this show and I worry about what happens next. Will the Hong sisters be able to write a script that successful deals with this situation?
EXTRAORDINARY ATTORNEY WOO is still fabulous. A lot of people worldwide are discovering K-drama through this show- it is actually one of the top shows on Netflix- worldwide. I credit a very good cast and writing but above all the genius of Park Eunbin.
TODAYS WEBTOON is fun.
This last week’s episodes of the weekender IT'S BEAUTIFUL NOW were absolutely heartbreaking. At least our eldest brother and our lady lawyer are enjoying their married life- even if she turned out not to be pregnant after all. Everyone else is having a hard time. I actually wonder if there is even enough time left in the show for Yoona and our youngest son to find their way back to each other. But the plight of Mi-rae and Hyun-jae is the most tragic of all. But there is a real solution that is possible here: It is time for the two wonderful fathers in this show to step forward and shine. For 38 episodes these kind, competent, thoughtful men have largely stood in the background of the show but as absolute models of serious, mature men who love their families. They need to reach an agreement that the happiness of all depends upon Grandpa and Soo-jung NOT registering their biological relationship as a legal one- and then stand firm against any prejudice against the marriage of Grandpa’s biological granddaughter to his non-biological grandson. I think that both Min-ho and Jin-heon have sufficient gravitas to make that stick- even against their elders.
My wife finished the well rated Chinese Costume Drama A FEMALE STUDENT ARRIVES AT THE IMPERIAL COLLEGE. She enjoyed it. She continues to watch the currently broadcasting IMMORTAL SAMSARA and LOVE LIKE THE GALAXY, both of which are super good. She tried another well rated show: LOVE BETWEEN FAIRY AND DEVIL, but dropped it as simply too weird, which is an unusual response from her. So, she completed her re-watch of MASTERS SUN and then did a re-watch of LEGEND OF THE BLUE SEA, featuring the most beautiful mermaid of all time- and a perennial favorite show of ours. It is a beautiful love story.
She also watched a new dramatization of Agatha Christie’s DEATH ON THE NILE and really liked it. She loves mysteries as much as she loves Chinese Costume dramas.
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jerrykuvira
August 13, 2022 at 1:47 PM
A thousand amen to your solution to IBN's current saga. Even if they have this solution in mind, the question is how long will they take before they reconcile with this solution?
Grandpa doesn't want to lose either of his children, and he shouldn't.
With the kind of grounded person Soojung is, with her having this strong sense of character, I don't know what she'll do. The majority of the ball is in her court, and whatever decision she decides to make is entirely understandable, selfless and right. To think she'll have to sacrifice something again after meeting her father...it's unfair.
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OldLawyer
August 13, 2022 at 6:15 PM
The ball truly is in Soojung's court, as it should be. My solution requires that she listen to her husband - and there is no indication that she would not as she clearly respects him and, even more important, realizes that she can trust him as looking out for both her and her daughter. And she loves her daughter and desires her happiness.
I do not believe that a decision to keep the relationship 'unofficial' would mean that Grandpa had actually lost his daughter. The only reason for making the relationship official would really be pride and perhaps a misplaced sense of justice- misplaced because it would cause unnecessary actual harm to people that he cares about. Sometimes paper justice becomes an actual injustice in fact. But, as you noted, it really is not up to Grandpa.
And then there is this simple, less noble but very real psychological effect: Even if Grandpa did not intend more than a temporary separation when he left her at the orphanage the actual result was the same as a permanent abandonment that hurt her deeply. By refusing to apply to have the relationship legalized she can 'punish' Grandpa for his decision, which might actually make it easier for her to otherwise forgive him for her pain. And she can do this while claiming that it is for the happiness of her daughter (which would be true as well) and also for his grandson's happiness (also true). Given the remorse and shame that Grandpa feels over what happened I think that he could accept this as being his payment for his decision.
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31 tiredys
August 13, 2022 at 11:42 AM
Today's Webtoon - nah, Mr. Kwon could have still become the sales backbone and get off work everyday on time without without being a grade A donkeybutt.
Love Like the Galaxy - lmao @ chicken wing armor. All the little pieces of foreshadowing.
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32 dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 12:03 PM
I just finished In the Soop: Friendcation, and I really enjoyed getting to be a fly-on-the-wall. I’ve had both all-female groups of friends, and mixed groups of friends, so I’ve always wanted a peek inside what a bunch of men do on their own (not that it can be totally generalised, of course…😅). Turns out it’s not that different!
It did make me curious about their level of physical closeness - it was so nice to see them comfortably snuggling each other, and sleeping in a big puppy pile. Does anyone know if that’s culturally quite normal in Korea? Is it the same in any other cultures? I’m curious because I’m of the belief that non-romantic physical affection can be so beneficial for mental health (although perhaps not for all people), and it’s nice to see that amongst men. I’m lucky enough to have that with my female friends, and to have experienced it with my mixed groups of friends when I was younger (and unmarried), so I wish that everyone who wants friendships like that could have it - it’s such a gift.
It’s also interesting in the context of who they are and what they do for a living. I assume they all have to be very careful with any female friends because of scandals and things being misconstrued by the media. I’m glad they have each other with whom they can be intimate and vulnerable.
I don’t know much about V, but his sadness really touched me (although we don’t find out what it was about, he actually seemed sad to me throughout their 3 days together). I would never want to be famous because of the price you have to pay for it (and also because I lack any discernible talent!!), but it must be a lonely profession in many ways. So many people ‘love’ you, and yet they don’t really know the ‘real’ you, you have very little freedom, and it’s probably much harder to build relationships in the way us normals can.
I finished this series feeling so much affection for them - I want them all to be happy and well, and to be able to take rest and experience the things on their bucket lists. It sounds like their schedules are unrelenting - I would be gutted if my friends and I couldn’t get together for years at a time. May there be a second series soon, so they can do it again!!
I’m also watching Alchemy of Souls (waiting for new episodes), Extraordinary Attorney Woo (waiting for the finale before watching the last 4 episodes), and recently finished Dali and the Cocky Prince. I enjoyed the art museum side of things in Dali, and found the show generally enjoyable - nothing amazing or mind-blowing in any way.
*Dali and Bring It On, Ghost spoiler ahead* Does anyone have a Kwon Yul drama recommendation? The only other drama I remember seeing him in is Bring It On, Ghost, and he’s going to start turning up in my nightmares because he’s quite convincingly creepy as a baddie! Somehow, I have no recollection of him being in Let’s Eat 2 orMy Unfamiliar Family even though he was in both?!...
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dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 12:23 PM
I feel like I was a bit unfair on Dali - there were actually some laugh out loud moments, and I loved Dali’s relationship with Won Tak - such a great platonic male-female friendship. Some of the themes covered were interesting - for example, the relationship between art and commerce, although I wish they’d explored that more and with more nuance. Like, what is the role of art in society, and if we don’t want to have a system where art needs to be commercially viable, what can we put in place instead to protect its place in society? Dali as a character was interesting enough and not infuriating as an FL, although I found it hard to forget that it was Park Gyu Young playing the role of Dali - I’m not sure why. Maybe she was too good at the other roles I’ve seen her in and I can’t seem to forget them?
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Kittystanden
August 13, 2022 at 12:28 PM
He was the older sister’s enthusiastic lawyer friend in My Unfamiliar Family. So different than his other roles!
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dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 2:03 PM
I have no memory of this character at all - my brain has holes, apparently!!😅 This gives me a good reason to rewatch My Unfamiliar Family, though - I loved it so much, and the premise of one person in a relationship almost going back in time and becoming the version of themselves as they were when they first fell in love continues to intrigue me. Thank you for letting me know so I can give myself a Kwon Yul brain bath!☺️
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PYC
August 14, 2022 at 6:58 AM
It’s cameo in only the last two episodes of MUF.
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 12:39 PM
I love your reflections of In the Soop. If you haven’t left a review please could you write one so more beanies and visitors to the site can get an understanding of how great it is.
I wondered about the amount they could say on camera without feeling it would look ungrateful or could be used against them. I noticed how there was one point when one of them had to check if his logo’d hat could be used and quickly changed into a plain beanie. When off duty clothes can effect sponsorship deals it just becomes clearer how little control they have when they are working.
I think V had the most pressure as all the scandal at that time was about the military service issue and the BTS fans are no joke so I imagine he had a long list of do’s and don’ts. I think as it had the HYBE involved (probably with the production) they would have a lot of say over what could be released and expect there was a lot that was not shown. They covered the cameras at points probably for getting dressed so I expect that they were probably allowed periods off camera too.
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dramadillo
August 13, 2022 at 2:40 PM
That’s a great idea - will do! I never think to write reviews, as I never feel like I have much to say but apparently I did!🤣
It’s so sad but true that despite it being a lovely break for them, they were probably still on duty and on guard to a certain extent because of how tightly controlled certain aspects of their lives must be.
I didn’t realise the hat change was because of the logo! That probably also explains the matching clothes they were given to wear - makes things a bit easier for them when they’re just hanging out at the rental home. The irony is, the more human and less contrived they appear, the more people will probably like them. But maybe that’s just me - I’d rather see people relaxed with bed-head than super-polished any day, but I also live in athleisure wear and can’t be trusted to partake in fancy occasions so 🤷🏻♀️.
I didn’t know about the scandal at the time. For some reason, that makes me think of the conversation that they had where Woo Sik said he didn’t want to be seen as cute and would be bulking up in attempt to shift that image, and how Hyung Sik is perceived as cool, especially after having done his military service. I find it fascinating that military service is such a bright line of adulthood/manhood in many ways. Woo Sik is Canadian, so won’t be called to serve, and it would have been interesting to hear their views about (perceived) masculinity in the context of military service in Korea. That would probably not have made it to air, though! But I’m just so fascinated by these contrasts - this talk of bulking up, and then a ‘makeup lesson’ from PSJ (which surprised me because surely they know how to put BB cream on?!). Anyway, I digress!! I guess I’ve really appreciated gaining new perspectives about what is attractive, what is masculine, and what is desirable in a culture different from the one in which I was raised (i.e. dimples being a thing is kinda nice). Alas, I’m just sad that these standards are no less tyrannical, unhealthy and absurd.
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33 spazmo
August 13, 2022 at 12:44 PM
i don't know WHY... but i was so bored i started watching A Model Family.
i was hollering at the screen, pausing and pacing because of the tension... i did not want this sort of thriller, but got sucked into it because of the story - ludicrous as it is...
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Reply1988 -❣️Mother Bean❣️
August 13, 2022 at 2:53 PM
It would be worth sharing your views in'' the drama hangout to see if there are any others who got sucked in.
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34 ar_arguably romantic
August 13, 2022 at 12:57 PM
Alchemy of Souls: This stretch of episodes seem to be moving the pieces in place for a showdown and showing us the quieter side of the various relationships. The past is rearing its handsome Joo Sang-wook head and Naksu is thisclose to discovering her connection with the mysterious Bu-yeon, who pulled Naksu into her even more dramatic life.
Joseon Psychiatrist: I like rom-com historical procedurals, but it feels odd here considering I was coming in expecting slice-of-life stories about mental illness rather than dead bodies. Still, it's an interesting watch and Kim Min-jae and Kim Hyang-gi look adorable together.
Extraordinary Attorney Woo: Oh no, Myung-seokie is actually sick! I'm so glad he got to eat those noodles. I like how Young-woo's issues are also mirrored in folks are neurotypical, like the parallel between Young-woo and Attorney Jung. Hanbada CEO giving off villain vibes better be a misdirect!
Assassin Academy Budget web cdrama (18 episodes of 16 minutes each). I started watching it expecting the usual idol chinese costume drama hijinx, but it was a good mystery/thriller. Biggest complaint is that they really needed twice as many minutes to properly tell and close out the story. Ended on a cliffhanger.
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bong-soo
August 13, 2022 at 4:40 PM
Thanks for the tip on ASSASSIN ACADEMY. Mystery/thriller will always catch my eye. It is available on VIki US. It appears that it has been combined into 6 thirty five (ish) minute episodes.
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35 antonio83
August 13, 2022 at 2:52 PM
In 2022 Cdrama are better than Kdrama.
I'm watching
The Story of Xing Fu Masterpiece
To Fly With You Light and funny
Dating in The Kitchen Adorable FL
I Will find you a better home Masterpiece
I trust that Netflix cannot corrupt CdramaLand as well 😁✌️
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darwi
August 15, 2022 at 8:46 AM
I am also charmed by Zhao Lu Si (Love like the galaxie). The age gap with the male lead in Dating in the kitchen is making me hesitate.
Sport drama are not my thing (well... sport..) but Wang An Yu and Song Zu Er are so cute and funny. He might lead me to Falling into you because of the alluring trailer that is popping.
I might check The story of Xing Fu upon your recommendation.
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antonio83
August 15, 2022 at 2:14 PM
(Xing Fu) You will not regret. If the first episode does not convince you, wait until the sixth and you will see that you will be totally hooked.
Of course, if you like Zu Er you will also love The Bond, which is the best Cdrama I have seen
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36 jillian
August 13, 2022 at 4:48 PM
Today's Webtoon i really like how cheerful about life our On Ma Eun is. I particularly like her long overdue conversation with her father. I aplaud her for her bravery for attcking the unknown head on. i also like the look at the life of the webtoon artists and editors. The different characters amd the varous ways they interact woth each other. I particularly like the friendship between the rookie editors. This is another show I would not mind if there is no romance. I just want to see the webtoon team succeed under the pressure of corporate.
Flower of Evil rewatching this show with new eyes helped me appreciate what the writer was trying to do. I am still in awe of how amazing both LJK and MCW acting prowess are. I hope MCW will star in another great drama soon. Also I hope I get my Dexter and You kdrama version in the future.
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jillian
August 13, 2022 at 4:54 PM
I also binged The Sandman and I really like the story. I want to know more about Dream's journey and his relationship with the other siblings. S2 will be a looonnngg wait!
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FiyaShady
August 14, 2022 at 6:07 AM
Me too. Death is so cool in that series.
Curious about other siblings (and how many of them actually 😅🤭): Desire, Despair, Destiny, Derilium...
High hope for S2 to come along soon ❤️
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jillian
August 15, 2022 at 9:53 AM
We have yet to meet the other siblings Destiny, Delirium and the Prodigal.
I really like the character Death too. Her episode is my fave.
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37 axis3
August 14, 2022 at 12:15 AM
Big Mouth (Ep 3-6) - The elusive Big Mouse is really someone near to Chang-ho in prison I suppose. Everyone is playing a game of cat & mouse and anyone can be a puppet whether knowingly or unknowingly. Interesting drama so far, can't wait for next week's eps :)
Adamas (Ep 3-6) - So older twin didn't know the identity of their biological dad and younger twin trying steal the alleged murder weapon, the SIH with their agenda, the reporter with her pursuit for the truth, Team A, the cunning chairman with his entourage of weird housekeeper and staffs, the defiant daughter in law.....what else did I miss? :P Another interesting show to watch :)
Cafe Minamdang (Ep 11-14) - Ok so shamans showdown it is.....the story has been dragging on a bit now on all those silly slapstick comedy stuff. In a way it should have wrap up with two more eps to go but there is another 4? Unless there is a twist somewhere with an ultimate villain or else I don't see what's the extra 2 eps are for. Still watching this for the fun though so here's hoping there is some surprise in store
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38 Rose
August 14, 2022 at 2:13 AM
It's been a while since the last time I actually wanted to watch a drama, especially these days with Instagram everything gets spoiled quite easily, but weirdly I happened to get curious about two of the SNSD member's dramas, so I'm watching "Big Mouth" and "If You Wish Upon Me" and I have high hopes for both of them, I like the pace and storylines, so that's it. :D
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39 wandering spot
August 14, 2022 at 2:25 AM
Extraordinary Attorney Woo (13-14): Little disappointed. I am not if the whole cancer part of Attorney Jung was to give a reality check to WYW and Jun ho’s relation. I don’t find any other reason for the introduction of a disease this late. I am also confused with the U turn Min woo’s character took. It was sudden and so was the hint of a possible relation between sunshine and him. Why dram?? She definitely deserves better. And right when I was facepalming myself with all the surprises the drama drops the ultimate surprise in terms of the CEO. I was giving her a benefit of doubt so far, but its been clear now how WYW has been her secret weapon that she has been waiting to use when the time comes.
Today’s webtoon (1-4): Liked it. I fill the gap shooting stars left. And I love the FL. She is badass, hardworking and what not. The ML’s attitude irked me in the initial episodes but I still have hope that he will steer in the right direction soon since the mentors and FL already have their influence on them. Jun yeong’s senior is such a put off I get a feeling that he will be having a large part in the future troubles the team will be facing. The new addition is interesting. Can’t wait to see how the team motivates and bring the best out of Dae ryuk.
OLDER
Yumi’ cells (13-14): Finally finished off with this. Season never had the sparks of S1, so not sad that its over. I will always cherish S1 though.
Oh my Venus (9-16): Finished this. It was a light watch and I enjoyed it for most parts despite the flaws. The character Yi jin was the biggest irk I had in the series. She kept on crossing the boundaries, showing up in men’s locker room, pool, kissing him etc. And why was it portrayed okay? and eventually they made the guy fall in love with her. Imagine this happening in real life. She can be charged for stalking. Secondly the ending scene where the FL is pregnant and te ML said lets work out. Then the way Dad’s second wife and son were treated all through out the drama.
Coming to the better parts, I loved the way the drama handled few things. First one being the break up between U shik ang JE. They could have made it hysterical and over dramatic but it was portrayed maturely and the drama was open about how difficult it is to just forget that person who’s been Iin your life for long. I also loved how the characterisation of FL. I loved the side characters and the dynamic of their friendship. The chemistry between he leads was so on point. Its known already but SJS- He is just sooo HOTTT.
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40 la wants to feel liberated too
August 14, 2022 at 4:35 AM
My Liberation Notes: Have i said anything about MLN here in "What we're Watching"? I think i haven't. I do have expectations here especially to make me cry but i have not. But now i'm thinking about having my own liberation note just like Mijeong. Unlike Mijeong, i don't have many details about from what i want to liberate myself and where does it come from. Mijeong's discovery is quite fast though i think it's because this is a drama.
I'm with Mijeong about liberation note and how words can be powerful, but i'm with Changhee about his journey. I can't explain about what makes him so lovely, i'm not good with words. I'm definitely rooting for him the most.
Big Mouse: I'm happy to finally see Lee Jongsuk on my screen.
I don't have much to say about this drama. As a fan, i'm glad Big Mouse is doing well so far.
Earth Arcade: Na PD shows never disappoint. These four girls are fun to watch and they elevated some games from njttw too. "I'm grateful this show exists", I'm sure i can cry while trying to say those words.
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41 Give Me My Happy Ending
August 14, 2022 at 11:05 AM
Got busy in real life and don't have much time for dramas lately. Was hoping EAW would be the one drama I can follow but alas. Anyways..
Extraordinary Attorney Woo:
I got distracted halfway through episode 11 and didn't even feel the urge to come back and finish this episode and catch up on the rest. I think the show lost me when it tried to throw everything and the kitchen sink at it. I will not be surprised if Truck of Doom makes an appearance in the final episodes just so this drama can complete a grand slam of tropes.
Would you like a cup of coffee:
Only completed episode 1 but so far so good. Really liking the relaxed, meandering vibe. Feels like I'm on holiday and stumbled on a hole in a wall coffee shop. Will continue this.
To start - Joseon Psychiatrist and Big Mouth. Planning to pick one out of the two. Let's see which one will pique my interest and make me click on next episode. Somehow this seems harder these days with the current drama offerings. It's been a while since a crack drama came along for me.
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42 darwi
August 15, 2022 at 7:32 AM
Since we are watching Alchemy of souls and Extraordinary attorney Woo, we have not finished Moon lovers yet.
I finished Taxi driver and got a rush of energy that allowed me to continue Café Minamdang.
However, what I'm waiting for is Love like the Galaxy. I've fallen hard for this Cdrama.
In seach of fluffy romance I started Crush and Well-intented love. And then I read some review saying the ML is abusive. So I'll probably drop.
I'm torn between the tentation to start a new drama and the reasonable idea to finish what is pending.
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43 JillofAllTrades
August 17, 2022 at 11:07 AM
@unit THIS : I don’t know how she does it, but there is no Kim Se-jung character I don’t fall in love with!
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