✅ COMPLETED DRAMAS/MOVIES IN 2021

4-7-21 to 4-9-21 (3 days)

Original title: 斗罗大陆 (Douluo Dalu) = Douluo Continent

Story: Meticulous and mature for his age, with extraordinary talent and wit, Tang San was sent to Nuoding Academy to begin pursuing his dream of becoming a great soul master. There, under the tutelage of Yu Xiao Gang, he befriends an orphan by the name of Gu Xiao Wu, and together they begin the long and difficult journey of cultivation.  

What stands out: (+) action/fighting scenes; (+) Xiao Zhan; (+) friendship; (+) cinematography; (+) CGI; (-) plot; (-) OE

Actors and actresses to follow: Sean Xiao (ML), Gao Tai Yu (SML), Ao Zi Yi (SML)

Couples: Tang San ♡ Xiao Wu; Dai Mu Bi ♡ Zhu Zhu Qing; Oui Si Ke ♡ Ni Rong Rong

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYq-aBKLfJo

Note: recap

https://cyn-lynn.blogspot.com/2021/02/douluo-continent-recap-and-review.html

https://www.projectviajero.com/2021/02/19/douluo-continent-episode-1-2-recap-summary/

4-5-21 to 4-6-21 (2 days)

Original title: 운빨로맨스 (unppallomaenseu) = Lucky Romance

Story: Bo Nee, who wholeheartedly believes in superstitions, meets Su Ho, who believes in science and mathematics.  

What stands out: (+) funny misunderstanding of FL dating ML to save her sister and ML dating FL to fulfill her last bucket list before she dies; (+) funny acting of Hwang Jung Eum; (+) dorky ML; (+) bromance; (-) office

Actors and actresses to follow: Hwang Jung Eum (FL), Lee Soo Hyuk (SML)

Couples: Su Ho ♡ Bo Nee

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CC2PkwmrX_c

Note: recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2016/05/lucky-romance-episode-1/

4-4-21 to 4-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: 40万キロかなたの恋 (40 Man-kiro kanata no koi) = 400,000 km Kanata no Koi

Story: Astronaut Takamura Soichi, an antisocial, is spending a year in space happy living alone with the AI Yuri. Then one day, Soichi has an interview with his ex-girlfriend Ayuhara Sakiko through satellite connection.

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) reflection on love as social interaction; (-) cheap/boring setting (mostly satellite and controller)

Actors and actresses to follow: Chiba Yudai (ML), Kadowaki Mugi (FL)

Couples:  Soichi ♡ Sakiko

OST: Indigo la End "夜漁り" (Yoasari) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENG7KXI6Sb4 

4-4-21 to 4-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: 明治開化 新十郎探偵帖 (Meiji Kaika Shinjurou Tanteicho ) = Meiji Kaika Shinjuro Detective Pledge

Story: Set during the early Meiji era, Private Detective Shinjuro Yuki returns to Japan from abroad and attempts to solve some strange cases that have taken place. 

What stands out: (+) Meiji era historical background; (+) friendship; (+) costume; (-) makeup; (-) no English sub - subbed in Indonesian

Actors and actresses to follow: Fukushi Sota (ML), Uchida Rio (FL)

Couples:  N/A

OST: ???

4-3-21 to 4-3-21 (1 day)

Original title: 고호의 별이 빛나는 밤에  (gohoui byeol-i bichnaneun bam-e)  = Gogh's Starry Night

Story: An advertisement contractor who is unlucky in love, Go Ho works hard to be successful with her career. One day, her ex Ji Hoon shows up, taking on the role of her new boss, and suddenly it seems like every man is looking her way.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (-) draggy office plot; (-) seems no chemistry

Actors and actresses to follow: Kwon Yu Ri  (FL), Kim Young Kwang (ML), Lee Ji Hoon (ML)

Couples: Tae Ho ♡ Go Hoo

OST: 

Romantisco "Dreamer" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRhTdCVF7BA

Lee Daeyon "Starcandy" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElWnYrCVuco

4-2-21 to 4-3-21 (2 days)

Original title: ทะเลลวง (Thale lwng)  = Deceiving Sea

Story: A strange man with amnesia appears on an island; there he meets Moya, begins to fall in love and starts building her an island resort.

What stands out: (+) action; (+) chemistry; (+) bromance ML - Uncle Pas; (+) sismance FL - sister; (+) beach resort location; (-) draggy; (-) Uncle Pas died

Actors and actresses to follow: Mik Thongraya (ML), Sammy Cowell (FL)

Couples: Talay ♡ Moya; Chawin (competitor resort owner) ♡ Rin (FL's sis)

OST: 

Praw Kanatkul "Mai Ruk Kor Puad Rao" (Love Is Not Pain) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JrMvpzB3qI

Ice Sarunyu "Kwam Roo Seuk Mai Go Hok" (Feelings Do Not Lie) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yr2T6NJzZdQ

Note: summary https://lovefia.com/2021/01/26/it-all-begins-at-the-sea-talay-luang/

4-2-21 to 4-2-21 (1 day)

Original title: ホリミヤ (Horimiya) = Horimiya

Story: Kyouko Hori, a highschool student with great amiability and academic prowess, and her classmate Izumi Miyamura, a brooding, glasses-wearing otaku, cross paths outside of school. These seemingly polar opposites become friends, sharing with each other a side they have never shown to anyone else. 

What stands out: (+) directing; (+) ML conversation with his old self; (+) simply intimate and personal; (+) chemistry; (+) eye candies; (+) friendship; (+) supportive FL family

Actors and actresses to follow: Suzuka Ouji (ML), Kubota Sayu (FL), Suzuki Jin (Support - their bestfriend), Onodera Akira (Support - student union president), Inoue Yuki (Support - ML's friend)

Couples: Izumi ♡ Kyouko; Toru (their bf) ♡ Yuki  (their bf); Kakeru ♡ Remi (student union's committees)

OST: ending ""Akari" by Toketa Denkyu https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niB2i3yhLe4

4-1-21 to 4-1-21 (1 day)

Original title: 당신의 운명을 쓰고 있습니다 (dangsin-ui unmyeong-eul sseugo issseubnida) = Writing Your Destiny

Story: Shin Ho Yoon, a powerful god in charge of determining human fate steal ideas to write romantic fate from scriptwriter Go Chae Kyung. In his mortal guise, Shin Ho Yoon is Go Chae Kyung’s landlord, and little by little, he finds himself developing feelings for her.

What stands out: (+) eye candies; (+) cinematography; (+) CGI; (+) costume; (-) bittersweet ending; (-) copy of Goblin

Actors and actresses to follow: Ki Do Hoon (ML), Park Sang Nam (Support - ML deity friend), Ahn Woo Yeon (Support - God of destiny)

Couples:  Ho Yoon ♡ Chae Kyung (prospect)

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_YU7aJEVQE

3-31-21 to 4-1-21 (2 days)

Original title: 天国と地獄 ~サイコな2人～ (Tengokutodjigoku ~ saikona 2-ri ~) = Heaven and Hell - 2 Psycho

Story: Ayako Mochizuki is a 35-year-old detective, a hard worker and seeks out justice, but she lacks flexibility. Ayako Mochizuki investigates a murder case and targets Haruto Hidaka as the murder suspect. Haruto Hidaka is a chemistry researcher and he runs his own company. Right before Ayako Mochizuki arrests him, their bodies are switched. 

What stands out: (+) suspense; (+) acting after body swapping; (+) friendship; (-) gore prop

Actors and actresses to follow:  Ayase Haruka (FL), Takahashi Issei (ML),  (FL)

Couples:  N/A

OST: full instrumental https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmaC5FnuFU4

Note: recap https://n47xephfdfvtewonabzfltduem-jj2cvlaia66be-cinema-ne-jp.translate.goog/article/detail/45924

3-30-21 to 3-31-21 (2 days)

Original title: 경이로운 소문  (gyeong-iloun somun) = Phenomenal Rumors

Story: Tells the story of demon hunters called Counters who come to earth under the guise of being employees at a noodle restaurant in order to capture evil spirits that have returned to earth in pursuit of eternal life. 

What stands out: (+) action; (+) fighting scenes; (+) suspense; (+) friendship; (+) cinematography; (+) closures; (-) draggy in the middle; (-) politics

Actors and actresses to follow: Cho Byeong Kyu (ML), Kim Se Jeong (FL)

Couples:  So Moon ♡ Ha Na (prospect); Jang Mool  ♡ Mar Ok

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aAleL8hbCY

Note: recap https://www.seoulbytes.com/community/xenforum/topic/16611/the-uncanny-counter-sat-sun-2230-kst

3-29-21 to 3-30-21 (2 days);

Original title: 他来了, 请闭眼 (Tā láile, qǐng bì yǎn) = He is coming, please close your eyes

Story: Bo Jinyan, a brilliant criminal psychologist, has the ability to get into the minds of even the most mysterious and violent criminals. With the help of his young assistant, Jenny Jian Yao, Jinyan delves into the thoughts and intentions of the criminal mind. 

What stands out: (+) suspense; (+) chemistry; (+) cinematography; (-) plot holes; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Wallace Huo (ML), Sandra Ma (FL), Wang Kai (SML)

Couples:  Jin Yan ♡ Jian Yao; Zi Yu (ML's friend) ♡ Han Yu Meng (his assistant); Dr Barnes ♡ )Zi Qi (ML's sister)

OST: "Fall in Love with You" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5bWtKPxLMU

Note: recap https://dramaforreal.com/tag/love-me-if-you-dare/

3-28-21 to 3-29-21 (2 days);

Original title: 赘婿 (Zhui Xu) = "Son In Law"

Story: A modern businessman travels back to ancient times; he lands in the body of a man named Ning Yi about to be married as a matrilocal husband into a family of cloth merchants.

What stands out: (+) unique theme: gender reversal; (+) friendship; (-) second half politics and draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Guo Qi Lin (ML), Song Yi (FL)

Couples:  Ning Yi ♡ Tan'Er; 

OST: full album playlist https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8qsxJUPTIQ&list=PLjvHp_OgvnBWPq3UnKQPZdnclKJYsReay

Note: recap https://myasianartist.com/my-heroic-husband/my-heroic-husband-episode-1-recap

3-28-21 to 3-28-21 (1 day)

Original title: 知ってるワイフ (Shitteru waifu) = Familiar Wife

Story: Motoharu travels back in time, only to learn that he is unhappily married to another woman and discovers his love for his original wife. 

What stands out: (+) plot; (+) mystery; (+) life lessons

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Motoharu ♡ Mio; Naoki (ML's friend) ♡ Nagisa (ML's sister)

OST: ???

3-27-21 to 3-27-21 (1 day)

Original title: 가시리잇고 (gasiliisgo) = It's Thorny

Story: Min Yoo Jung is a 25-year-old woman who dreams of becoming a successful pop musician, but her musical dreams are a long way from coming true. Life takes a turn for the weird when Park Yeon, a talented musician from the past is transported from the Joseon Dynasty to the present day, where he meets Min Yoo Jung.

What stands out: (+) plot; (+) OST

Actors and actresses to follow: Chani (ML), Park Jung Yeon (FL)

Couples:  Park Yeon ♡ Yoo Jung

OST: Gaho & Jian "Lunar Solar" ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWVpzr5d6aQ

3-27-21 to 3-27-21 (1 day)

Original title: สาวออฟฟิศ 2000 ปี (S̄āw xxffiṣ̄ 2000 pī)= Office Girl 2000 years

Story: Momay is two thousand years old and has tried hundreds of methods to kill herself and always failing. One day her friend Krating, a fortuneteller, tells her that she will be able to age and pass on if she finds the love of her life within the year.  The problem is, there are four candidates.  

What stands out: (+) mystery; (+) plot twist; (+) FL;  (+) friendship; (-) cheesy Thai jokes

Actors and actresses to follow: Aom Sushar Manaying (FL), Toy Pathompong Reonchaidee (ML), Off Jumpol Adulkittiporn (ML)

Couples: Moo Tod ♡ Momay; Oab ♡ Jelly; 

OST: Katreeya English "Take A Risk" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cg_a3QWs3Z0

3-26-21 to 3-27-21 (2 days)

Original title: 玲珑狼心 (Línglóng láng xīn) = Ling Long Wolf Heart

Story: Ling Long was accidentally bitten by a wolf. Yan Qing mistakes her for a thief while she detests his arrogant nature.  

What stands out: (+) action; (+) investigation; (-) FL

Actors and actresses to follow: Jason Koo (ML)

Couples: Yan Qing ♡ Ling Long; Xuan Yu (ML's troop member/sword master) ♡ You Rou (ex ML's bethroted); Tong Ge (ML's troop member/servant) ♡ Xiao Jin (FL's maid)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-N2vYzsKMw

3-26-21 to 3-26-21 (1 day)

Original title:无量 (Wu Liang) = Wu Liang

Story: A Gushi named Feng Ren is given a task to protect Po Xiao, a blind boy for who he believes is the holder of the Sutra manuscript. 

What stands out: (+) martial arts; (+) bromance; (+) cinematography;

Actors and actresses to follow: He Chang Xi (ML), Ding Cheng Xin (ML)

Couples: N/A

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vt5Fwmkrabc

3-26-21 to 3-26-21 (1 day)

Original title: 画皮仙子 (Huàpí xiānzǐ) = Painted Skin Fairy

Story: Xiao Wei is a demon fox is taken in by a general Pei Rong and her husband Wang Sheng.Xiao Wei falls in love with Pei Rong and threatens Wang Sheng to kill her when he finds out Xiao Wei is a demon, in exchange with his heart so Pei Rong can love him. 

What stands out: (+) the creepiness; (+) chemistry; (+) cinematography;

Actors and actresses to follow: He Chang Xi (ML), Ding Cheng Xin (ML), Wang Chu Ran (FL)

Couples: Wang Sheng ♡ Pei Rong (both died)

OST: "Loss of Love" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vm9UMfqCn9s

3-25-21 to 3-26-21 (2 days)

Original title: 암행어사: 조선비밀수사단 (amhaeng-eosa: joseonbimilsusadan) =Amhaengeosa: Chosun Secret Investigation Division

Story: When caught gambling, Sung Yi Gyum, is punished and assigned to work as a Secret Royal  Inspector. He is tasked with uncovering illegal acts and rooting out corruption within the ranks of public officers. He solves cases with the help of fellow inspector Hong Da In, a female colleague and his servant Park Chun Sam, who is talkative, affectionate, and often teary-eyed. 

What stands out: (+) unique approach of the secret agents instead of royal families; (+) suspense; (+) friendship; (-) politics; (-) slow burn romance

Actors and actresses to follow: Kim Myung Soo (ML)

Couples:  Yi Gyum ♡ Da In; Yi Beom (ML's half brother) ♡ Soon Ae (ML's ex lover)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MB1UZPNNa7A

Ep 1 - 2 https://www.dramamilk.com/review-royal-secret-agent-episode-1/

Ep 3-16 https://www.kdramapal.com/royal-secret-agent-episode-3-kim-myung-soo-uncovers-truth-behind-mentors-death/

3-25-21 to 3-25-21 (1 day)

Original title: 라이브온 (laibeuon) = Live On

Story: Baek Ho Rang is the most popular girl in high school. But when a mysterious individual arrives online, she is caught off-guard. This person seems to know all of Baek Ho Rang’s deepest secrets, and is seemingly armed with all sorts of information about her that she’d rather was kept a secret forever!  

What stands out: (+) friendship

Actors and actresses to follow: Jung Da Bin (FL),  Hwang Min Hyun (ML)

Couples: Euk Taek ♡ Ho Rang; Woo Jae ♡ Jae Yi; Yoo Shin ♡So Hyun

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MosNAOfKXgg

3-24-21 to 3-25-21 (2 days)

Original title: เนตรมหรรณพ (Netr mh̄rrṇph) = The Blue Ocean Diamond

Story: When the cursed diamond worth billions of baht is stolen, security company owner Prompoom together with Lisa, the jewel owner’s daughter, must work side by side to find out the mastermind behind everything. 

What stands out: (+) action; (-) OTP doesn't get together until later since FL has a previous BF; (-) rushed ending

Actors and actresses to follow: Esther Supreeleela (FL), Son Yuke Songpaisan (ML)

Couples:  Prompoom ♡ Lisa

OST: "The Golden Song" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvGUvlMgcrg

Note: come here for romance, but it's a slight romance

3-24-21 to 3-24-21 (1 day)

Original title: 좋아하면 울리는 2  (joh-ahamyeon ullineun 2) = Ringing If You Like 2

Story:  Longing for resounding proof of her feelings, Kim Jo Jo sets out to uninstall the shield and make the app ring for her one true love.

What stands out: (+) closures; (+) character growth; (-) dark setting; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Kim So Hyun (FL), Jung Ga Ram (ML), Song Kang (ML)

Couples:  Hye Young ♡ Jojo; Sun Oh ♡ Yook Jo; Duk Goo ♡ Gul Mi (potential)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1CbRWv50wU

Note: recap https://www.thereviewgeek.com/lovealarm-s2e1review/

3-24-21 to 3-24-21 (1 day)

Original title: 좋아하면 울리는 (joh-ahamyeon ullineun) = Ringing If You Like

Story: Cellphone app Love Alarm is created. Kim Jo Jo is a high school student. Meanwhile, Hwang Sun Oh is a popular male student at the same high school where Kim Jo Jo attends. Hwang Sun Oh notices that his best friend Lee Hye Yeong likes Kim Jo Jo. 

What stands out: (+) past faced; (-) toxic relationship; (-) love square

Actors and actresses to follow: Kim So Hyun (FL), Jung Ga Ram (ML), Song Kang (ML)

Couples:  Sun Oh ♡ Yook Jo

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy2YoHczWeU

Note: recap https://www.thereviewgeek.com/lovealarm-s1e1review/

3-23-21 to 3-23-21 (1 day)

Original title: 고결한 그대  (gogyeolhan geudae) = Noble you

Story: CEO Kang Hoon is kidnapped and escapes from the bad guys, but he bleeds so much that he blacks out in front of an animal hospital in a rural town. Yoon Seo, a veterinarian, finds him and treats him to recovery. 

What stands out: (+_) fast paced; (+) chemistry; (-) lots of cliches

Actors and actresses to follow:  Sung Hoon  (ML),  Kim Jae Kyung  (FL),

Couples: Kang Hoon ♡ Yoon Seo

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffRn5NyHdec

Note: recap https://dr-myri-blog.blogspot.com/2015/10/noble-my-love-episodes-1-to-2-squeecap.html

3-22-21 to 3-23-21 (2 days)

Original title: 하이드 지킬, 나 (haideu jikil, na) = Hyde, Jekyll, me

Story: Gu Seo Jin is a third-generation chaebol who runs the theme park Wonder Land. He seemingly has everything — looks, brains, and fortune. But a traumatic incident in his childhood resulted in Seo Jin having a split personality 

What stands out: (+) doppelganger; (+) chemistry: (-) plot; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow:  Hyun Bin (ML),  Han Ji Min (FL), Sung Joon (ML)

Couples: Seo Jin ♡ Ha Na; 

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QToKrDL4JNs

recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2015/01/hyde-jekyll-me-episode-1/

3-21-21 to 3-21-21 (1 day)

Original title: 도시남녀의 사랑법 (dosinamnyeoui salangbeob) = How to love between men and women in the city

Story: A realistic portrayal of young people who pursue romance and happiness, while struggling to get by in a busy, competitive urban environment.  

What stands out: (+) chemistry ML-FL; (-) drag for first couple; (-) broke up second couple

Actors and actresses to follow: Ji Chang Wook (ML), Kim Ji Won (FL), So Ju Yeon (FL)

Couples: Jae Won ♡ Eun Oh; Kyun Joon ♡ Rin Yi (broken up) 

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbQeZuZlm_A

recap https://readysteadycut.com/2020/12/22/recap-lovestruck-in-the-city-episode-1-k-drama-netflix-series/

3-20-21 to 3-20-21 (1 day)

Original title: オー！マイ・ボス！恋は別冊で (Ō! Mai bosu! Koi wa bessatsu de) = Oh My Boss! Love is Separate Volume

Story: Nami Suzuki works with chief editor Reiko Horai. She is a devil like boss,  

What stands out: (+) SFL; (+) OST

Actors and actresses to follow: Kamishiraishi Mone (FL), Nanao (FL), Tamamori Yuta (ML)

Couples: Jun ♡ Nami

OST: Kis-My-Ft2 "Luv Bias" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeV55in5So8

3-18-21 to 3-19-21 (2 days)

Original title: แก้วลืมคอน (Kæ̂w lụ̄m khxn) = Glass forgot perch?

Story: Kaew and Chidchanok are twins who lived separate lives. Eventually, the twins meet and try to help each other get away from their uncle, who wants to kill them. 

What stands out: (+) action; (+) doppelganger; (+) costume; (+) historical setting; (-) draggy; (-) sexual assault

Actors and actresses to follow: Green Ausadaporn Siriwattanakul (FL), Kang Korn Sirisorn  (ML)

Couples: Noom ♡ Kaew; Diew ♡ Nok

OST: Alice "The Golden Song" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uKI89Vehyr0

3-18-21 to 3-18-21 (1 day)

Original title: 3Bの恋人 (3B no Koibito) = 3B Lover

Story: Kobayashi Haruka fell in love before finding out that her boyfriend was actually a married man. At that time, a regular customer predicts that she will wind up meeting 3 different men. 

What stands out: (+) eyecandies; (+) OST; (-) some cringey scene; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Baba Fumika (FL), Sakurada Dori (ML)

Couples: N/A

OST: Five New Old "Hallelujah" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSsgv0pZ1Y4

3-15-21 to 3-17-21 (3 days)

Original title: 终极笔记 (Zhōngjí bǐjì) = Ultimate Notes

Story: Curious about his uncle’s past, Wu Xie watched a mysterious videotape, only to find himself mixed up in an elaborate conspiracy. Together with his friends Pang Zi and Qi Ling, along with other people with different motives decided to band together embarking on a tomb raid.

What stands out: (+) good mix of action, suspense, and comedy; (+) mystery/secret; (+) bromance/friendship; (-) OE

Actors and actresses to follow: Joseph Zeng (ML), Xiao Yu Liang (ML)

Couples:  N/A

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JCktkQSLLY

Note: recap

https://grave-robbers-chronicles.fandom.com/wiki/Ultimate_Note/Content#The_mysterious_video_tapes

3-13-21 to 3-14-21 (2 days)

Original title: 풍문으로 들었소 (pungmun-eulo deul-eossso) = I heard it through a rumor.

Story: Han Jeong Ho and Choi Yeon Hee are a wealthy couple from a prestigious family. Their reputation is suddenly turned upside down when their teenage son, Han In Sang, impregnates his girlfriend, Seo Bom, who is from an ordinary family.  

What stands out: (+) theme: teen pregnancy/marriage; (+) teen couple; (+) supportive staff; (-) dark gloomy setting; (-) politics

Actors and actresses to follow: 

Couples:  In Sang ♡ Seo Bom

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhqTa8NzCL4

Recaps

Ep 1-2 https://www.dramabeans.com

Ep 3-10 https://www.soompi.com/article

Ep 11 http://enjoykoreawith.blogspot.com

Ep 12 - 19 http://unculturedcandies.blogspot.com

Ep 20 - 30 http://kramarecap.blogspot.com

3-12-21 to 3-13-21 (2 days)

Original title: รหัสริษยา (Rh̄ạs̄ ris̄ʹyā) = Jealousy Code

Story: Palai, the heiress of a billionaire family lost everything, her parents murdered. Her revenge starts with Siwa, a businessman who is the fiancé of her fathers  mistress's daughter, as he is a part of  her game. She blackmails him with confidential documents that shows his father's bad deeds. As the time passes eventually they end up falling in love.   

What stands out: (+) nice ML; (+)chemistry; (-) confusing editing; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Bank Artit Tangwiboonpanit (ML), Pinkploy Paparwadee Chansamorn (FL)

Couples:  Siwa ♡ Palai; Thana (FL's ex boyfriend) ♡ Dr Nichada (ML's friend)

OST: opening https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FczEOHtoTtU

Yoong "Secret Code" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NA2IiEpIRY

3-11-21 to 3-12-21 (2 days)

Original title: 옥탑방 왕세자 (ogtabbang wangseja) = Rooftop Prince

Story: Crown Prince Yi Gak finds that he has been transported from the Chosun Dynasty to modern-day Seoul. He meets Hong Se Na, who bears a striking resemblance to his dead wife, and is determined to solve the 300-year-old mystery of her death.  

What stands out: (+) culture shock jokes (Joseon vs modern Korea); (+) bromance; (+) manhwa made by Mimi (FL's friend); (-) plot holes in the second half; (-) odd ending - see note; (-) draggy; (-) PPL;

Actors and actresses to follow: Han Ji Min (FL), Park Yoo Chun (ML), Lee Tae Sung (ML), Choi  Woo Shik (ML), Jung Suk Won (ML)

Couples:  Tae Yong ♡  Park Ha; Tae Mu ♡ Se Na

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_PxJisTkA0

Note: recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2012/03/rooftop-prince-episode-1/

In the end Yi Gak went back to Joseon with his friends and revealed the mystery of the princess death (which is actually Boo Young the sister sacrifice for him so he won't die of poison). Princess Hae Young is exiled. In modern time, Park Ha met Tae Yong again.

3-8-21 to 3-9-21 (2 days)

Original title: 摩天大楼 (Mótiān dàlóu) = Skyscrapers

Story: A beautiful coffee shop owner Zhong Meibao suddenly dies in a condominium at the Horizon Tower. After investigation the clues point to three suspects - security guard Xie Baoluo, architect Lin Dasen and property manager Lin Mengyu. However in the midst of investigation, new clues begin to emerge.  

What stands out: (+) plot twist; (+) well paced/no fillers; (+) tackles social issues; (+) message; (+) sismance/friendship;

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples:  N/A

OST: Alia Gato & Philip Halloun "You and I" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2vkbM1BuB0

Note: for recap article

https://cyn-lynn.blogspot.com/2020/08/a-murderous-affair-in-horizon-tower.html

https://www.projectviajero.com/2020/09/10/a-murderous-affair-in-horizon-tower-episode-1-recap-summary/

3-7-21 to 3-8-21 (2 days)

Original title: 我就是这般女子 (Wǒ jiùshì zhè bān nǚzǐ) =  I Am this Type of Woman

Story: The beautiful  baroness Ban Hua her dreams have been forecasting danger around every corner,  She has interpreted them quickly in order to keep her family safe and to protect  those around her. Her life changes forever when she meets Count Rong  Xia, a young gentleman scholar whose family suffered a tragic fate. 

What stands out: (+) eye candies; (+) FL's family; (+) costume; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Gabrielle Guan (FL), Neo Hou (ML), Li Chung Lin (SML)

Couples:  Rong Xia ♡ Ban Hua;  Ban Heng (FL's bro) ♡ Xie Wan Yu; Du Jiu (ML's assistant) ♡ Mian Mian (FL's maid); Prince Akeqi ♡ Bang Bang (FL's maid); Jiang Luo (2nd prince) ♡ Fei Xian; ♡ 

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBA8WDQza5s

Note: recap

Ep 1 - 9 https://www.chinaattila.com/a-girl-like-me-chinese-drama-episode-1-recap/

Ep 1 - 40 summary https://www.globalgranary.life/2021/01/20/a-girl-like-me-chinese-drama-review-summary/

3-7-21 to 3-7-21 (1 day)

Original title: 一点就到家 (Yīdiǎn jiù dàojiā) = Get Home at One Point

Story: Wei Jinbei, Peng Xiubing, and Li Shaoqun are three young people with very different personalities who returned from the big city to the ancient village of Yunnan and  joined forces in e-commerce.  

What stands out: (+) bromance; (+) Yunnan setting/nature (+) rural life

Actors and actresses to follow: Turbo Liu (ML), Peng Yu Chang (ML), Yin Fang (ML)

Couples:  N/A

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cdu3PCA0K58

3-7-21 to 3-7-21 (1 day)

Original title: 唐人街探案 3 (Tángrénjiē tàn àn 3) = Detective Chinatown 3

Story: A  major crime occurs in Tokyo when detectives Tang Ren and Qin Feng are invited to investigate the crime by Noda Hiroshi.  

What stands out: (+) bromance; (+) Japanese modern culture

Actors and actresses to follow: Turbo Liu (ML)

Couples:  N/A

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok3M_60tUH4

3-6-21 to 3-6-21 (1 day)

Original title:唐人街探案2  (Tángrénjiē tàn àn 2) = Detective Chinatown 2

Story: When the case of New York Chinatown godfather's missing son turns into a murder investigation, the detective duo Tang and Qin team up again to hunt down the killer 

What stands out: (+) bromance

Actors and actresses to follow: Turbo Liu (ML)

Couples:  N/A

OST: end credit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1lo7if86-0

3-6-21 to 3-6-21 (1 day)

Original title: 唐人街探案 (Tángrénjiē tàn àn) = Detective Chinatown

Story: After being rejected from the police college, Qin Feng travels to Bangkok where he and his 'uncle' Tang Ren must solve a murder case. 

What stands out: (+) plot twist; (+) bromance

Actors and actresses to follow: Turbo Liu (ML)

Couples:  N/A

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7DKS7x1-RQ

3-5-21 to 3-6-21 (2 days)

Original title: 드라마의 제왕 (deulamaui jewang) = King of Drama

Story: Anthony Kim, a brilliant CEO of a drama production company who will do anything and everything for the sake of money, fame and success.  

What stands out: (+) unique topic; (+) parodies of the drama cliches; (-) ending (ML becomes blind)

Actors and actresses to follow:

Couples:  Anthony ♡ Go Eun; Hyun Min ♡ Min Ah

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXFC7ZyYNkY

Note: 

docked 0.5 point for the ending with ML, otherwise depicts pretty much comprehensive bts process of creating a drama, in a dramatic way.

recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2012/11/king-of-dramas-episode-1/

Quote: 

"Dreams aren’t made to be memories. They’re made to be achieved. And when tonight passes, the very likelihood of that will disappear. You can hate me. But don’t commit a wrongdoing to your own life. " (Anthony to Go Eun when she refuses to be his scriptwriter)

3-4-21 to 3-5-21 (2 days)

Original title: 여신강림 (yeosinganglim) = Goddess Advent

Story: Highschooler Lim Ju Gyeong rises to pretty girl fame after she masters the art of make-up from YouTube. She would rather die than reveal her bare face to anyone, bur Lee Su Ho is the boy that saw her without makeup.

What stands out: (+) dialogue; (+) funny FL; (+) bromance; (+) 'ugly' makeup; (-) exhausting plot of misunderstanding/jealousy/love triangle; (-) bullying; (-) tropes of piggyback, clumsy girl falling to be rescued, etc

Actors and actresses to follow: Moon Ga Young (FL), Cha Eun Woo (ML), Hwang In Yeop (SML)

Couples:  Su Ho ♡ Lim Ju Gyeong; Jun Woo (ML & FL's class teacher) ♡ Hee Gyung (FL's older sister); Joo Young (FL's younger brother) ♡ Go Woon (SML's sister); Tae Hoon (classmate) ♡ Soo Ah (FL's friend)

OST:

full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rQVaSfbBpc

3-4-21 to 3-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: 明天你是否依然爱我 (Míngtiān nǐ shìfǒu yīrán ài wǒ) = Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow

Story: A simple IT man Fei Li, a dazzling goddess Zhao Xi Man, on the Finnish snowfield, under the beautiful aurora, two people who could not be together, opened their heart and experienced a limited period of love. 

What stands out: (+) Finland

Actors and actresses to follow: Angelababy (FL)

Couples:  Fei Li ♡ Xi Man

OST: ???

3-4-21 to 3-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: อ้าย..คนหล่อลวง (X̂āy..Khn h̄l̀x lwng) = Ai, People Seduce

Story: After being left in debt by her ex-boyfriend, Ina hires Tower, a cunning con artist, to seek revenge against her ex-boyfriend by swindling him. 

What stands out: (+) acting; (+) comedy

Actors and actresses to follow: Nadech Kugimiya (ML), Baifern Pimchanok Luevisadpaibul (FL), Bank Thiti Mahayotaruk (SML)

Couples:  Tower ♡ Ina

OST:

BamBam GOT7 "I'm Not a Con Heartist" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2IaEXtXFdo

3-4-21 to 3-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: 이별유예, 일주일 (ibyeol-yuye, ilju-il) = Parting Grace, One Week

Story:   Ga Ram and Seon Jae who are about to get married, suddenly got into a car accident. The accident left Seon Jae in a coma, and for Ga Ram to lose her life. After leaving this world, Ga Ram finds herself in an unknown place where she receives a strange offer from a man named X. "I’ll give you a week. In order to save Seon Jae, break up with him in a week." 

What stands out: (+) life lesson

Actors and actresses to follow: Hyun Woo (ML)

Couples: Seon Jae ♡ Ga Ram

OST: 

Yuri "A Week Before Farewell" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEknoPDqMNY

Jang Hee Young "I'm Here" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7d3EwUeeGI

ONEW (SHINee) "Shadow" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=im-RRFt4DzU

3-2-21 to 3-3-21 (2 days)

Original title: 谢谢让我遇见你 (Xièxiè ràng wǒ yùjiàn nǐ) = Thank You for Letting Me Meet You

Story:    Living with social anxiety, genius Nan Xi has struggled all his life to find his place in a world. Xia Rui, on the other hand, an exuberant, talkative girl, surrounded by friends, and often the center of attention. Once living as strangers, the two are now the best of friends. 

What stands out: (+) witty dialogue; (+) kids' acting (young ML and FL); (+) FL character; (+) friendship; (+) FL's family; (+) 2nd couple; (+) no villain; (-) PPL

Actors and actresses to follow: Fiction Guo (ML), Wan Peng (FL)

Couples:  Nan Xi ♡ Xia Rui; Er Luo (classmate) ♡ Yi Shu (classmate); Liu Bin (senior) ♡ (schoolmate); Lao Yi (cafe owner) ♡ Professor Yang (PE teacher)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZGvHHy8x_s

3-1-21 to 3-2-21 (X days)

Original title: 我有特殊沟通技巧 (Wǒ yǒu tèshū gōutōng jìqiǎo) = I Have a Special Communication Skill

Story:   A story that follows Jing Chu, a detective in the major crimes division of Nan Xing City Police Department, together with Mian Mian, a woman who has super memory, he upholds the law one case at a time in solving murders, burglaries and bringing down a narcotics manufacturing facility. 

What stands out: (+) cases; (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Kris Fan (ML), Luo Yu Tong (FL), Miles Wei (Support - FL's doctor)

Couples: Jing Chu ♡  Mian Mian; Xu Zhe (ML's friend) ♡ Mu Qing (broke up); Zi Sheng (ML's colleague) ♡ Ru Yu (colleague)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_SsAq9oA0o

2-28-21 to 3-1-21 (2 days)

Original title: 我的小确幸 (Wǒ de xiǎo què xìng) = My Little Luck

Story:  Cong Rong secretly returns home to begin work as a legal intern. Taking on her first case, Cong Rong comes face-to-face with her childhood friend, Wen Shao Qing.  

What stands out: (+) chemistry; (+) second couple; (+) interesting cases; (+) cousin Zhong Zheng; (+) sismance/bromance; (+) no love triangle, no SLS, no mean in-laws; (+) costume;  (-) draggy

Actors and actresses to follow: Fair Xing (FL), Daddi Tang (ML), U. Lin Huang (SFL), Leon Li (SML), Fu Wei Lun (Support - FL's cousin), Liu Chang (Support - FL's boss)

Couples:  Shao Qing ♡ Cong Rong;  Wen Rang (ML's uncle) ♡ Cheng Cheng (FL's friend): Guan Yi (FL's boss) ♡ Jing Jing (FL's colleague)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgHJGe3lHn4

2-27-21 to 2-27-21 (1 day)

Original title: 오늘도 평화로운 중고'나라' (oneuldo pyeonghwaloun jung-go'nala') =  Another Peaceful Day of Second Hand Items  

Story:  A woman begins to think of herself as damaged  goods on the love market after her long-time boyfriend dumps her.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) life lesson

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Eun Ho  ♡ Na Ra; Nam Jin (ML's friend) ♡ Ri Ah (FL's friend)

OST: ???

2-20-21 to 2-21-21 (2 days)

Original title: 싸우자귀신아 (ssaujagwisin-a) = Let's Fight, Ghost

Story:  A cohabitation comedy about Hyun Ji, a ghost of a high school girl who has been dead for 5 years, and Bong Pal, an exorcist college boy with the ability to see and hear ghosts. 

What stands out: (+) action; *+) mystery; (+) chemistry; (+) bromance In Rang & Cheon Sang; (+) ghost prop/makeup; (+) happy ending for all

Actors and actresses to follow: Ok Taec Yeon (ML), Kim So Hyun (FL)

Couples:  Bong Pal ♡ Hyun Ji

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fk2bCqtQT3k

Note: recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2016/07/bring-it-on-ghost-episode-1/

2-18-21 to 2-19-21 (2 days)

Original title: 카이로스 (kailoseu) = Kairos

Story:  Living a precarious life as a part-timer at a convenience store to support her mother who is on a waiting list for a heart transplant, Ae Ri when she receives a phone call from Seo Jin claiming to be from the same world but 31 days in the future. 

What stands out: (+) plot; (+) thriller; (-) confusing time line needs recap to understand

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: N/A

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DosHNSG8Eqc

recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2020/10/kairos-episodes-1-2-open-thread/

quote: Seo Jin to Ae Ri when she asks if he regrets becoming connected across time with her (knowing his wife's adultery), “Whether in the past, present or future, I never expected a life without pain. But I’ve come to know that there’s no hope unless I face the truth.”

Watched when currently subbing ended 2-19-21 (6 days)

Original title: 奇妙之城 (Qímiào zhī chéng) = Wonderful City

Story: Follows in the footsteps of six stars and visits the six cities of Chongqing, Guiyang, Karamay, Qingdao, Xiamen, and Xi'an to show the cultural charm of each city.

What stands out: (+) nature; (+) China's real life/culture; (+) Chinese food

Actors and actresses to follow: Sean Xiao (Guest), Leo Wu (Guest), Johnny Bai (Guest), Timmy Xu (Guest)

Couples: N/A

OST: N/A

2-18-21 to 2-18-21 (1 day)

Original title: แฮงก์โอเวอร์เชียงดาว   (Ḥæ ngk̒ xowexr̒ cheīyngdāw) = Hang Over Chiang Dao

Story:  Follow Tor, Belle, Gunn and Ud as they reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai.  

What stands out: (+) nature; (-) no sub

Actors and actresses to follow: Tor Thanapob Leeluttanakajorn (Host)

Couples: N/A

OST: N/A

2-13-21 to 2-17-21 (5 days)

Original title: 百岁之好，一言为定 (Bǎi suì zhī hǎo, yī yán wéi dìng) = One Hundred Years Old is Good

Story:  A story that follows Zheng Han and Lin Xi's brave pursuit of love from their campus days to their humble beginnings as they enter the workplace to chase after their dreams together. 

What stands out: (+) healthy vs unhealthy relationship; (+) OTP strong/steady characterizations; (+) OTP seamless acting; (+) chemistry; (+) friendship; (+) no PPL;  (-) old tropes: mean MIL, obsessive SML and love competitors, (-) mildly rushed ending/time jump

Actors and actresses to follow: Wang An Yu (ML), Xiang Han Zhi (FL)

Couples: Zheng Han ♡ Lin Xi; Chen Yi Chuan (FL's cousin) ♡ Gu Xiao Man (FL's bestfriend); Zhang Huai Wu (HS classmate) ♡ Shen Wen Yue (ML's childhood friend); Qin Yue (FL's childhood friend) ♡ Shi Ying (OTP senior) 

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Crgqp-PnJYs

Note: recap for clarification https://cyn-lynn.blogspot.com/2020/12/forever-love-recap-and-review.html

2-10-21 to 2-10-21 (1 day)

Original title: 時をかけるバンド (Tokiwokakeru bando) = Time Bending Band

Story:  A story about Ryo, a mysterious and self-proclaimed music producer from the future, producing a girl band of three girls and leading them to stardom. 

What stands out: (+)sismance; (+) music/song; (-) no sub

Actors and actresses to follow: Miura Shohei (ML)

Couples: 

OST: 

Kouen "Orange" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0lNhfJQ9qA and Chāhan (drama ver)  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZl4p5LIxKM
Chāhan "Pray" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfM8cAI2v24 and Chāhan (drama ver) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATCVgf6y6qY
"Eisei" Chāhan (drama ver) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZQIri5R3Ww 

2-9-21 to 2-9-21 (1 day)

Original title: 언어의 온도: 우리의 열아홉 (eon-eoui ondo: uliui yeol-ahob) = The temperature of language: our nineteen

Story:  The story of growth of 11th graders, using the theme of the disappearance of the school's top student 100 days before the entrance exams. 

What stands out: (+) variety of school issues; (+) friendship; (+) chemistry; (-) not resolve the disappearance

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Chan Sol ♡ Jin Ah

OST: 

2-8-21 to 2-8-21 (1 day)

Original title: โลกทั้งใบให้นายคนเดียว (Lok thậng bı h̄ı̂ nāy khn deīyw) = The Whole World for You Alone

Story:  Because their family is poor, two brothers Mai and Mhen joined a car theft gang. They also fell in love with the same woman, Pond. 

What stands out: (+) car theft actions; (+) brotherhood; (+) chemistry

Actors and actresses to follow: Ohm Thitiwat Ritprasert (ML), Singto Prachaya Ruangroj (ML), Namtan Tipnaree Weerawatnodom (FL)

Couples: Mai ♡ Pond; Mhen ♡ Jane

OST: Ohm Thitiwat "I Give This Whole World To You Alone" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYX5UP6wmBM

2-7-21 to 2-7-21 (1 day)

Original title: 戒指流浪记 (Jièzhǐ liúlàng jì) = Wandering Ring

Story:  Yi Zhi lost an engagement ring planned to propose to Li Zha. In the process of retrieving the ring, they began to re-examine what love meant to each other. On the other hand, this ring also began to wander in this city and it also struck a love story after another. 

What stands out: (+) life lesson; (+) chemistry; (+) side stories

Actors and actresses to follow: Chris Wang (ML), Allison Lin (FL)

Couples: Yi Zhi ♡ Li Sha

OST: 

Eric Chou "Fortunate" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7CT4Tg1wOg

WeiBird "Marry Me" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JxLFB4UuyY

GJ "Love Mathematician" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ssyOfaN-II

2-6-21 to 2-6-21 (1 day)

Original title: 住在我家的花美男 (Zhù zài wǒjiā de huā měinán) =

Story:   Mo Yi, who is disappointed in her career and love life, accidentally reunites with her childhood benefactor You Yu, and they start living together, encouraging each other to become a better person and developing a love for each other, but she doesn't expect that You Yu comes from another time and space.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (-) tons of PPL

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: You Yu ♡ Mo Yi

OST: "The Gap of Time" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YTyQq4uGLk

Note: If it's not because of so many PPL, the drama willl be rated 7

2-5-21 to 2-5-21 (1 day)

Original title: 승리호  (seungliho)

Story:  The crew of the junk collector ship, The Victory, travels throughout space looking for saleable garbage. When they discover the humanoid robot named ´Dorothy’, a known weapon of mass-destruction, a risky business deal soon follows.  

What stands out: (+) acting; (+) international cast; (+) CGI

Actors and actresses to follow: Song Joong Ki (ML), Kim Tae Ri  (FL)

Couples: N/A

OST: Pitta "Universe" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4t1PWC8lNw

2-5-21 to 2-5-21 (1 day)

Original title: 晴雅集 (Hare Miyabi-shū)

Story:  Cosmologist Qing Ming and his friend Bo Ya, who he met whilst taking part in celestial rituals up in heaven, crack baffling and weird cases together.  

What stands out: (+) action; (+) bromance; (+) cinematography; (+) costume; (+) makeup; (+) CGI

Actors and actresses to follow: Mark Chao (ML), Allen Deng (ML), Wang Duo  (Support - Princess' guardian), Olivia Wang  (Support - princess)

Couples: Shou Ye (princess' guardian) ♡ Princess Zhang Ping

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cs1QUk4BQNE

2-4-21 to 2-4-21 (1 day)

Original title: 極主夫道 (Jí zhǔfū dào) =  Master Fudao

Story:  Immortal Tatsu, the legendary yakuza, who single-handedly defeated a rival gang with a lead pipe, soon after his sudden disappearance, he resurfaces and has given up violence and is trying to make an honest living as a house husband. 

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) seems like every gangster has a scar on the face; (+) women's club; (-) slapstick comedy

Actors and actresses to follow: Tamaki Hiroshi (ML), Kawaguchi Haruna (FL), Shison Jun (SML)

Couples: Tatsu ♡ Miku; Masa ♡ Yukari (coffee shop clerk)

OST: Da-Ice "Citrus" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAa_X95ypSE

Note: 

2-2-21 to 2-3-21 (2 days)

Original title: 因為我喜歡你 (Yīnwèi wǒ xǐhuān nǐ) = Because I Like You

Story:   Once a promising Taekwondo athlete, Chen Zi Tong gets debilitating knee injury that forced to take on a job as a delivery worker at a startup delivery company with Fang Zhi Sheng as the CEO.

What stands out: (+) mystery; (+) aunt-nephew; (+) bromance (ML-assistant); (+) office staff; (-) FL's mom

Actors and actresses to follow: Puff Kuo (FL), Jiro Wang (ML)

Couples: Zhi Sheng ♡ Si Tong; Tian Lin (FL's bro) ♡ Fang Qing (ML's aunt)

OST:

Note: 

2-1-21 to 2-1-21 (1 day)

Original title: 唐人街探案 (Tángrénjiē tàn àn) = Detective Chinatown

Story:   Strange crimes occur in Thailand as the ranking for the world's best detective sees a shift. 

What stands out: (-) first 2 stories are good but the last story is not related at all

Actors and actresses to follow: 

Couples: N/A 

OST: 

Note: 

2-1-21 to 2-1-21 (1 day)

Original title: 私がモテてどうすんだ  (Watashi ga motete dō su watashi ga motete dō sunda) = What Do I Do When I'm Popular

Story:   Serinuma Kae, a BL manga lover falls into depression when her character dies. It leads to significant weight loss and she becomes very popular at school. 

What stands out: (+) eye candies; (+) Tomita Miu; (-) not cool when FL looses weight also becomes someone else

Actors and actresses to follow: 

Couples: N/A (in manga she ends up with Mutsumi)

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJeL00VVTFA

Note: 

1-30-21 to 1-31-20 (2 days)

Original title: 보고싶다 (bogosipda) = I Miss You

Story:   15-year-old  Soo Yeon who is a victim of school bullying has Jung Woo who always protects her from the bullies. Soo Yeon and Jung Woo are in love, but due to an unexpected accident, they become separated. 

What stands out: (+) directing; (+) chemistry (kids); (-) plot twist; (-) bullying/assault/misparenting all the makjang stuff; (-) obsessive male leads

Actors and actresses to follow: Yoon Eun Hye (FL), Park Yoo Chun (ML), Yoo Seung Ho (SML), Kim So Hyun (Support - Young FL), Yeo Jin Goo (Support - Young ML)

Couples: Jung Woo ♡ Soo Yeon

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ii9qxIW0KMA

Note: 

recaps (Ep 1-4) https://www.dramabeans.com/2012/11/i-miss-you-episode-1/

Ep 5-13 : http://koalasplayground.com/2012/11/21/missing-you-episode-5-recap/

Ep 14-20: https://imsokdramacrazy.wordpress.com/2012/12/29/i-miss-you-episode-14-recap/

1-29-21 to 1-29-20 (1 day)

Original title: メンズ校  (Menzu-kō) = Men's School

Story:  A group of friends from Seihou Private High School, an Alcatraz-like, prestigious boarding high school, became upset that they will be losing their youths and try to get away and find freedom. 

What stands out: (+) eyecandies; (+) friendship; (+) island setting (-) plot; (-) acting; (-) no sub

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: N/A

OST: ???

Note: Watched raw

1-28-21 to 1-29-20 (2 days)

Original title: 好想和你在一起  (Hǎo xiǎng hé nǐ zài yīqǐ) = I Really Want to be With You

Story:  A young cartoonist Qi Nian intentionally gets near Ji Yan Xin, a cold and arrogant professor, with hopes that interacting with Ji Yan Xin would give her inspiration and creative materials for her comic plot.  

What stands out: (+) Qi Bao (the golden retriever; (+) friendship; (+) chemistry; (-) draggy; (-) some cringey scenes; (-) PPL

Actors and actresses to follow: Ji Xiao Bing (ML), Zhang Ya Qin (FL),

Couples: Yan Xin ♡ Qin Nian; Si Qi (ML's bro) ♡ Qing Wu (cartoonist); Shao Zui (ML's friend) ♡ Ji Qiu (ML's cousin)

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpnnLdDnZnQ

1-29-21 to 1-29-20 (1day)

Original title: 斗艳  (Dòu yàn) = Dou Yan

Story:  Shen is the CEO of Eachway fashion house and Nanqing, a wannabe designer and daughter of Eachway's cleaning lady.  Shen starts to interact with Nanqing after the latter replaces her mother when she meets with an accident. 

What stands out: (+) unique plot; (+) chemistry;

Actors and actresses to follow: Grace Wong (FL)

Couples: Shen ♡ Nanqing

OST: ???

1-27-21 to 1-27-20 (1day)

Original title: 플랜맨 (peullaenmaen) = Plan Man

Story:  Jung-seok develops a crush for a local convenience store's cashier who demonstrates a similar attention to order and cleanliness. He bumps into So-jung instead, a messy musician and free spirit who helps him wooing his dream girl. 

What stands out: (+) unique plot; (+) acting

Actors and actresses to follow: Han Ji Min (FL),

Couples: Jung Seok ♡ So Jung

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54YSPMzgIUE

1-25-21 to 1-27-20 (2 days)

Original title: 男排女將  (Nán pái nǚ jiāng) = Men's Volleyball Team

Story:  A few young people who love volleyball were rejected by the volleyball team because their height was not up to the standard. Later, they met Ka Yu, a former member of the Hong Kong women’s volleyball team whose volleyball dream was broken, and they awakened Ka Yu’s volleyball spirit with youth and passion. 

What stands out: (+) perseverance; (+) team work; (+) bromance/friendship; (+) practices; (-) draggy; (-) no sub

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Wong Kam  ♡ Ka Yu

OST: ???

Note: Watched raw. If I watch sub probably will rate higher

1-24-21 to 1-25-20 (2 days)

Original title: 너를 기억해 (neoleul gieoghae) = I Remember You

Story:  Genius profiler Lee Hyun, returns home to Korea after something from a case he’s been sent triggers a memory he thought he’d lost forever. Unbeknownst to him, one of his team members, Detective Cha Ji-an, has been investigating him for some time.  

What stands out: (+) mystery; (+) directing; (+) editing; (+) shady backgrounds of all the main leads; (+) dialogue; (+) bromance ML and SML; (+) chemistry; (-) open ending

Actors and actresses to follow: Seo In Guk (ML), Jang Na Ra (FL), Park Bo Gum  (ML), Choi Won Young (ML)

Couples: Hyun  ♡ Ji Ahn

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBuNLtDfSt4

Note: recap https://www.dramabeans.com/2015/06/i-remember-you-episode-1/

1-24-21 to 1-24-20 (1 day)

Original title: 姉ちゃんの恋人 (Nēchan no koibito) = Older Sister's Lover

Story:  Momoko Adachi has to support her family of three younger brothers by  working at a hardware store. One day, she meets Yoshioka-san at work. She is attracted to Yoshioka-san, but he has a secret. 

What stands out: (+) brothers-sister relationship

Actors and actresses to follow: Arimura Kasumi (FL),  Hayashi Kento (ML),

Couples:  Manato ♡ Momoko

OST: ???

1-23-21 to 1-24-20 (2 days)

Original title: 預支未來 (Yùzhī wèilái) = Advance the Future

Story:  Investigation into a series of strange cases leads police Zhao Xu Zhen to a mysterious website called "Futmalls.com," which claims to be from the future. 

What stands out: (+) concept of future malls that can sell anything with price of life; (+) intriguing plot; (+) acting; (-) draggy; (-) ending (FL in coma);

Actors and actresses to follow: Bryan Chang (ML), Eugenie Liu (FL),  Bruce He (ML), Ivy Shao (FL)

Couples: Xu Zhen ♡  Nian Jun  

OST: ???

Note: 

1-23-21 to 1-23-20 (1 day)

Original title: 家规  (Jiāguī) = House Rules

Story: In the father’s family rules, loans are not allowed, but the son bought a car for a private loan and bragged about it.

What stands out: (+) acting

Actors and actresses to follow: Sean Xiao (ML)

Couples: N/A

OST: N/A

Note: interview with the director https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPd4hR6Dl58

1-23-21 to 1-23-20 (1 day)

Original title: 买耳朵   (Mǎi ěrduǒ) = Buy Ears

Story: The takeaway boy who works in the city took advantage of the few minutes of free time during the meal to make a video call to his grandmother in his hometown.  

What stands out: (+) acting

Actors and actresses to follow: Sean Xiao (ML),

Couples: N/A

OST: N/A

Note: interview with Xiao Zhan https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hef5PNCLueo

1-23-21 to 1-23-20 (1 day)

Original title: 思い、思われ、ふり、ふられ (  Omoi, Omoware, Furi, Furare ) =    Love, Be Loved, Leave, Be Left 

Story:  Yuna and Akari are two high school girls with very different views on love. Meanwhile, high school boys Kazuomi and Rio also have different views on love. Will these four classmates end up leading a youthful romance that meets their expectations? 

What stands out: (+) friendship; (-) slow burn romance

Actors and actresses to follow: Hamabe Minami (FL), Kitamura Takumi (ML), Fukumoto Riko (FL),  Akaso Eiji (ML)

Couples:  Rio ♡ Yuna; Kazu ♡ Akari

OST: ???

Note: 

1-23-21 to 1-23-20 (1 day)

Original title: 香港愛情故事 (Xiānggǎng àiqíng gùshì) = Hong Kong Love Story

Story:  A family of five, each with their own love affair. The story tries to reflect the love, sweetness and difficulties of getting along with each other despite all the different ages. 

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) depicting real problem of HK in realestate market

Actors and actresses to follow: Joey Law  (ML)

Couples: Chan Chi Long ♡ Yau Hoi Kei; 

OST: 

Joey Law & Shiga Lin "The Things We Do for Love" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VA91je4GdPM

Vivian Koo "Crying" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoJZuYo6tZ0

Bryan Tse & Joey Thye "Against the Current" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qG3bK4fKuA

Note: 

1-23-21 to 1-23-20 (1 day)

Original title: 欢迎光临高中生  (Huānyíng guānglín gāozhōng shēng) =  Welcome to high school students

Story:  Follows several first-year students’ lives as they experience both humorous and serious situations.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced/not draggy; (+) comical scenes in every episode; (+) dialogue; (+) bromance/friendship; (-) architecture model school CGI

Actors and actresses to follow: Xiaojun (ML), Xie Xing Yang (ML)

Couples: N/A

OST: N/A

Note: 

1-22-21 to 1-22-20 (1 day)

Original title: 愛しのアイリーン (Itoshino airīn) = My beloved Irene

Story:  The film centers on Iwao Shishido, who at age forty suddenly leaves his rural village, but returns with a foreign bride from the Philippines, Irene Gonzalez, during his father's funeral.  

What stands out: (+) sad depicting of mail-order-bride theme; (+) sad depicting of immigrants to another country; (-) infidelity

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Iwai Shishido ♡ Irene Gonzalez

OST: N/A

Note: 

1-21-21 to 1-21-20 (1 day)

Original title: この恋あたためますか  (Kono koi atatamemasu ka) = Do you want to warm up this love

Story:  Kiki Inoue works part-time at a convenience store, spending the better part of her day reviewing sweets on her social media account. One day at work, she is introduced to the chain’s CEO, Takumi Asaba, who, as it turns out, is familiar with Inoue’s online reviews.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (-) slow burn romance

Actors and actresses to follow: Mori Nana (FL), Nakamura Tomoya (ML), Nakano Taiga (ML)

Couples:Takumi Asaba ♡  Kiki Inoue;  

OST: Sekai no Owari "Silent" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03Xa38nfhGw

Note: 

1-18-21 to 1-18-20 (1 day)

Original title: 핸드메이드 러브 (haendeumeideu leobeu) = Handmade Love

Story:  A romance fantasy featuring the cursed god Woven where he must design and create outfits that are comforting to humans, in order that he may regain entry into heaven.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) costume; (+) house/tailorshop

Actors and actresses to follow: Lee Soo Hyuk (ML), Lee Su Ji (FL)

Couples: Woven ♡ Sa Rang

OST: N/A

Note: 

1-18-21 to 1-18-20 (1 day)

Original title: 社内マリッジハニー (Shanai marijjihanī) =  Shanai Marriage Honey

Story: A young couple, Manatsu and Ami, got married almost immediately after meeting each other through a dating app and did not realise that they were working for the same company.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) chemistry; (+) skinship; (-) weak plot

Actors and actresses to follow: Itagaki Mizuki (ML),  Matsui Airi (FL)

Couples: Manatsu ♡ Ami

OST: 

Opening song: Anzai Kalen "Secret Love" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcInAI3Y6LM&t=0s

Ending Song: The Beat Garden "Marriage Song" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ova39xbrBAM

Note: 

1-16-21 to 1-18-20 (3 days)

Original title: ตราบฟ้ามีตะวัน (Trāb f̂ā mī tawạn) =   As Long as the Sky Has The Sun

Story: The story about Paeng who has to go live at Artit's house. An incident happens and she is exiled out of home for four years until the day they come across each other again. 

What stands out: (+) character growth for Paeng; (+) chemistry; (+) farm workers; (+) sismance; (+) friendship; (+) cinematography; (+) farm house and rose garden;

Actors and actresses to follow: Mark Prin Suparat (ML), Kao Supassara Thanachart (FL)

Couples: Arthit ♡ Paeng; Non ♡ Ling; Kot ♡ Nang

OST: full https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iV4P3UcVB8w

Note:

1-15-21 to 1-15-20 (1 day)

Original title: アプリで恋する20の条件 (Apuri de koisuru 20 no jōken) = 20 conditions to fall in love with the app

Story: Taeko Kase follows the recommendation and joins a dating app and decides to meet Makoto Hasegawa from the app. 

What stands out: (+) fast paced since there are 3 couples; (-) boring

Actors and actresses to follow: Sugino Yosuke (ML1), Nomura Shuhei (ML3)

Couples:  Makoto Hasegawa ♡ Taeko Kase

OST: N/A

Note: 

1-13-21 to 1-13-20 (1 day)

Original title: 데일리문스  (deillimunseu) = Daily Moon's

Story: Kang Ji Hoon is a man who lives with regret after committing school violence because jealousy was blind in the play.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) eye candies (+) friendship; (-) draggy/not much happening

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples:  Woo Jin ♡ Aerum

OST: N/A

Note: 

1-12-21 to 1-12-20 (1 day)

Original title: สปาร์คใจนายจอมหยิ่ง (S̄ pār̒kh cı nāy cxm h̄yìng) = Spark Heart, Mr.  Arrogant

Story: Sun, a famous YouTuber who has the ability to hear other people's thoughts and minds, usually wears headphones and doesn't bother with people. Anna, a young writer tries to investigate Sun for her writing. 

What stands out: (+) chemistry; (+) setting; (-) draggy; (-) PPL

Actors and actresses to follow:  Nine Naphat Siangsomboon (ML); Mild Lapassalan Jiravechsoontornkul (FL)

Couples: Sun  ♡ Anna; Peat ♡ Brownies

OST: Tor Saksit "Kwam Suk Tee Dtaam Haa" (The Happiness which I’m searching)
  https://www.dailymotion.com/video/k63CYGGjvW3yxawuLS2

Note: 

1-12-21 to 1-12-20 (1 day)

Original title: 터치 미 이프 유 캔 (teochi mi ipeu yu kaen) = Touch Me of You Can

Story: Yoon Ari is a Succubus who feeds off of human "energy". One day, she meets a masked man who seems to be different.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) real kisses; (-) Ep 6 not subbed (-) PPL

Actors and actresses to follow: Yoon Seo Bin (ML); Lee Hyun Joo (FL)

Couples:  Shi Woo ♡ Yoon Ari

OST: N/A

Note: it seems like in Ep 6 (unsubbed) after the kiss ML and FL exchanged personalities and the didn't know each other just thru the perfume smell she's wearing.

1-12-21 to 1-12-20 (1 day)

Original title: 드라마스페셜 2020-연애의 흔적  (deulamaseupesyeol 2020-yeon-aeui heunjeog) = Drama Special 2020-Traces of Love

Story: As Joo Young ends a short-term relationship with a very obsessive co-worker, her ex-boyfriend Ji Sub suddenly shows up as a new hire that she has to train. 

What stands out: (+) fast paced

Actors and actresses to follow: Lee Sang Yeob (ML)

Couples:  Ji Sub ♡ Joo Young

OST: ???

1-10-21 to 1-11-20 (2 days)

Original title: 我在香港遇见他 (Wǒ zài xiānggǎng yùjiàn tā) = I Met Him in Hong Kong

Story: Li Jia goes to Hong Kong to study psychiatry and he is desperate to escape the fate of schizophrenia.

What stands out: (+) plot twist; (+) cases; (+) several showcases of psych diseases; (+) mental health social view; (+) dialogues; (+) interesting supporting; (+) friendship; (+) bromance

Actors and actresses to follow: Joseph Zeng (ML), Cherry Ngan (FL), Feng Jian Yu (Support - Xiao Xi)

Couples: Li Jia ♡ Cha Cha

OST: 

• Joseph Zeng "Dark Night Rose" - main theme https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBfLtKyaHng
• Feng Jian Yu ending https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OM6S6A2cOQ
• Rao Wei "Listen to the Wind" Rao Wei (Cantonese song) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ybj5HN5otlQ

Note: recap Ep 1 -15 https://ninenovel.net/2020/09/25/the-journey-across-the-night-%E6%88%91%E5%9C%A8%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF%E9%81%87%E8%A7%81%E4%BB%96-episode-1-recap/

1-8-21 to 1-8-21 (1 day)

Original title: 나의 이름 (naui ileum) = My Name

Story: Ri Ae bought the painting of Cheol Woo who she met by chance, and they decided to complete the last work by borrowing each other's names. 

What stands out: (+) arts; (+) plot twist; (+) chemistry; 

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Meo Cheol Woo ♡ Seo Ri Ae

OST:???

1-8-21 to 1-8-21 (1 day)

Original title: 드라마 스페셜 - 도둑잠 (deulama seupesyeol - dodugjam) = Drama Special - Thief Sleep

Story: A once broken-up couple living together again and learning about each other. 

What stands out: (+) life lessons

Actors and actresses to follow: N/A

Couples: Yoon Yi Nam  ♡ Choi Hong Joo

OST: N/A

1-2-21 to 1-7-20 (6 days)

Original title: 心宅猎人 (Xīn zhái lièrén) = Heart Hunter

Story: Jiang Shuo is in the business of buying haunted houses and selling them. He crosses paths with Qin Yi Heng, a psychologist searching for his father, and Yuan Mu Qing who is the daughter of a warlord.  Together, they partner up to fight against mysterious forces.

What stands out: (+) subconscious layers; (+) bromance; (+) friendship; (+) cinematography; (+) costume; (-) confusing plot line;

Actors and actresses to follow:  Neo Hou (ML), Liu Dong Qin (ML), Bambi Zhu (FL)

Couples: Jiang Shuo ♡ Yuan Mu Qing

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoxGHyN1YZo

Note: recap https://ninenovel.net/2020/11/23/psych-hunter-%E5%BF%83%E5%AE%85%E7%8C%8E%E4%BA%BA-episode-1-recap/

Took longer since I wrote a recap article about it.

1-7-21 to 1-7-21 (1 day)

Original title: 一夜新娘 番外 (Yīyè xīnniáng fānwài) = One Night Bride

Story: A special episode where Hua Rong meets her lover from the past, during modern times. Now, Qin Shang Cheng is an overbearing CEO. 

What stands out: (+) chemistry

Actors and actresses to follow: Yuan Hao (ML), Zhao Zhao Yi (FL)

Couples:  Qin Shang Cheng ♡ Hua Rong

OST: follows the original https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlDD31ASsd4

1-6-21 to 1-6-21 (1 day)

Original title: 今際の国のアリス (Imawa no kuni no Arisu) = Alice in Borderland

Story: Arisu—a listless, jobless and video-game-obsessed young man—suddenly finds himself in a strange, emptied-out version of Tokyo in which he and his friends must compete in dangerous games in order to survive.  

What stands out: (+) fast paced; (+) action-packed; (+) acting; (+) makeup; (+) cinematography; (+) CGI; (-) confusing storyline/plotholes

Actors and actresses to follow: Yamazaki Kento (ML), Tsuchiya Tao (FL)

Couples:  N/A

OST: main theme https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmDotiQp0y8

Note: 

1-1-21 to 1-6-21 (6 days)

Original title: 狼殿下 (Láng diànxià) = His Royal Highness Wolf

Story: A boy who has been raised by wolves is adopted by a warlord who later becomes the first Emperor of the Yang Dynasty. The boy is named Chu You Wen and becomes a royal prince. At court, Chu You Wen forms a bond with a woman named Ma Zhai Xing, the daughter of a government official. 

What stands out: (+) directing; (+) dialogue; (+) fighting scenes; (+) competition between ML and SML; (+) acting ; (+) chemistry; (+) makeup; (+) costume; (+) CGI; (+) cinematography; (+) Xiao Zhan of course; (-) sad ending

Actors and actresses to follow: Darren Wang (ML), Li Qin (FL), Sean Xiao (ML)

Couples: Chu You Wen ♡ Ma Zhai Xing (both died); Ji Chong ♡ Bao Na

OST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4yox7f04tw

Note: recap https://www.globalgranary.life/2020/11/20/the-wolf-chinese-drama-review-summary/

“When you hate someone too much you will forget what is most important to you” - Ji Chong