A Glamorous Facade: A Review of Style Over Substance

An outdated storyline wrapped in dazzling costumes, stellar casts, and expensive product placements. Yet, these elements fail to hide the writer's lethargy, evident in antiquated tropes, an unengaging plot, and foolish characters. The villains, with their absurd and unconvincing motivations, were particularly disappointing. I wouldn't have made it to the end without fast-forwarding through most of the last five or six episodes.

However, I must commend actor Kim Soo Hyun, Jeon Bae Soo, and actress Kim Jung Nan. Their performances were outstanding, living up to their reputation for delivering great work.

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Review: Lee Junho Shines, But the Story Falls Flat

First and foremost, let me declare that Lee Junho has never appeared more dashing. From the moment he leaps from the helicopter, fans and even non-fans will undoubtedly swoon. His acting is impeccable throughout. However, this cannot mask the fact that the story lacks excitement and a compelling climax.

The drama aims to deliver a sweet romantic comedy, utilizing all the essential formulas while avoiding the typical pitfalls like childhood connections, unnecessary separations, or lurking killers. While I appreciate this attempt, it ultimately falls short. Around episodes 9 or 10, the drama begins to lose momentum, leaving me wondering, "Is this it?"

For instance, the synopsis presents Guwon, the male lead, as the third-generation heir of a hotel group, embroiled in an inheritance battle with his half-sister. Yet, there is hardly any screen time or intelligent strategy showing how he wins this battle. Throughout the drama, we rarely see him at work or displaying his professional acumen. We were eager to see how this Oxford/Cambridge graduate could lead and transform the hotel group, but that aspect is sorely underdeveloped. Even the subplot of his missing mother, which was supposed to significantly impact his upbringing, feels underutilized.

Every romcom has its sidekicks for both leads. Unfortunately, these characters aren't effective here. The comedy between No Sang Sik and Guwon feels forced, and the subplot involving Kang Da Eul and her husband/in-laws adds no value to the overall story.

As a Junho fan, I want to say this is a great drama, but sadly that is not the case. The first half was enjoyable, filled with charm and promise, but the second half fails to deliver on that initial potential. The plot becomes repetitive, and the lack of depth in both the main and supporting storylines leaves much to be desired. Ultimately, while Lee Junho's performance is a highlight, it is not enough to save a story that falls flat and struggles to maintain its momentum.

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A Mixed Bag: Classic Romcom Vibes with Outdated Tropes

For those seeking an old-school romcom-style K-drama, this one has certain enjoyable elements with plenty of sweet moments. However, it's important to note that this drama was filmed in 2018/19 and only released in 2021, so some of its tropes feel a bit dated, more like 2008.

Typically, I'd start by highlighting the positive aspects, but in this drama, the flaws are hard to ignore. The main female character, Lee Geun Young, played by Choi Soo Young, is full of contradictions. Losing her job due to the incident was tough, but her behavior afterward is childish, unprofessional, and hard to root for. She often makes poor decisions and lets people walk all over her.

On the other side, the male lead, Hoo Joon, played by Choi Tae Joon, fits the classic K-drama mold. He starts off as an arrogant jerk, but as we learn more about him, we start to empathize with him. Over time, he slowly warms up to the female lead. Nothing groundbreaking here.

As for the second couple, their relationship is undeniably abusive, filled with constant arguments, disrespect, and manipulation. This toxic dynamic affects not only the characters' mental and emotional well-being but also the viewers'. Honestly, I find myself fast-forwarding through all their scenes.

The second female lead, Oh In Hyung, played by Han Ji An, comes off as incredibly selfish. She desires the male lead but refuses to break it off with the second lead due to her own ambitions, trapping herself in a harmful cycle. And Chansung, you did a great job portraying such a one-dimensional jerk, but you deserve roles with more depth and complexity.

It's unusual for a romcom to feature such unlikable and unrelatable characters at the beginning. However, the middle part of the drama proves quite enjoyable for those who appreciate classic romcom tropes. Overall, if this is the type of drama you are interested in, it is not a bad watch. Although the characters may take some time to grow on you, the engaging storyline and romantic elements make it a ok watch for those seeking a light-hearted drama.

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Atypical Storytelling in a Typical K-Drama Setting

Unlike typical K-dramas, this story takes a unique approach by focusing on a superpowered family dealing with everyday issues that impact their abilities. With the addition of a found family of swindlers, they navigate challenges and save each other.

Initially, it took me a while to fully engage with this drama due to its slow pacing. The setup for each character was unusually lengthy, with excessive flashbacks. What kept me invested was the exceptional cast, as everyone acted well and none of the characters were annoying. I especially liked Park So Yi, who played Bok I-na. This young actress is full of potential and truly shined in this role.

The last three episodes were incredibly satisfying, tying everything together with an expected yet fitting ending. My only wish is that they had spent a bit more time on the finale. All characters had strong development and conveyed meaningful morals. Overall, this was a good and decent watch for me.

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A Heartwarming Journey Marred by an Unnecessary Ending

Honestly, I had no intention of watching this when it first came out. However, after seeing Byeon Woo Seok in "Lovely Runner," I couldn't resist his charm and decided to give it a go. This movie is a heartwarming coming-of-age romance, but inexplicably, the writer chose a sad ending. It felt unnecessary and out of sync with the film's overall tone and vibe.

Both Kim Yoo Jung and Byeon Woo Seok were perfect for their roles. Kim Yoo Jung's character is irresistibly lovable, embodying loyalty, charisma, and charm; she instantly wins your heart. Byeon Woo Seok’s character is equally captivating, portraying a loyal, observant, caring, and reliable friend. There is no doubt these two are perfect for each other. In contrast, their best friends are a bit more selfish, especially Roh Yoon Seo's character, but not in a negative way.

The movie will undoubtedly stir feelings of nostalgia, taking you back to your high school days. Who was your first boyfriend or girlfriend? Did you ever help your best friend approach their crush? And remember all that old technology, from pagers to VHS tapes? It's truly a walk down memory lane.

As mentioned earlier, the sad ending felt unnecessary. I don't understand why the writer chose this route. It doesn't make the movie more poetic or artistic; it only creates a sense of dissonance from the rest of the film's direction and tone. An avoidable disappointment.

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A Lackluster Decline: When a Script Goes Off Course

I couldn't help but wonder if the writer experienced burnout halfway through the script or perhaps became overly medicated, leading to a loss of clarity. The quality of the script undeniably plummeted. We tuned in for an intricate revenge plot and got a hot mess of nonsensical actions instead.

And let's talk about the female lead—what a letdown! Her performance was so lackluster, and her character felt like an afterthought. She had one expression the whole time, like a deer in headlights.

Here's hoping Lee Jae Wook picks a more promising project next time. We know he can do so much better!

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Hierarchically Challenged: A Series Best Watched While Multitasking

I wasn't planning to watch "Hierarchy," but curiosity got the best of me after seeing all the negative reviews. Initially, I almost abandoned it midway through episode one due to the silly and clingy dialogues. However, I decided to give it another shot while multitasking.

Unfortunately, "Hierarchy" is plagued by several issues:

* Poor acting
* Lack of chemistry between the leads
* Weak scriptwriting: the villains aren't menacing, the mean girls aren't mean, the romance is lukewarm, and the kiss scenes lack passion
* The story lacks a climax, with everything resolving abruptly

Given my low expectations, I wasn't too disappointed, but "Hierarchy" certainly didn't win me over either. If you're looking for a gripping, well-crafted series, this isn't it. However, if you need something to have on in the background while doing other tasks, it might fit the bill. Overall, I wouldn't recommend it unless you're as curious as I was. Be warned, though: you'll need to switch off your brain, as the dialogues and actions of both the kids and adults are often illogical.

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A Spellbound Drama: Intriguing Premise, Disappointing Execution

The premise of the story was quite intriguing, featuring two characters bound by a centuries-old curse or spell and their journey to overcome it. With two attractive and talented actors leading the cast, what could go wrong? Unfortunately, the same old issue arises: the script. Who approved it?

It seems the writer struggled to decide on the direction of this drama, or perhaps aimed to challenge herself by blending horror/mystery, fantasy, office romance/comedy, and thriller elements. While it's perfectly fine to mix genres, doing so poorly can lead to a confusing, repetitive, and disjointed story, which is precisely what happens here.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of the story, which explored the centuries-old curse and the main female lead's discovery of the spell books. While I do enjoy office romance, the excessive focus on her bullying colleagues detracted from the narrative and ventured into unnecessary territory. Additionally, the obsessive killer, who doesn't seamlessly integrate into the story, oddly becomes the central plot. The inclusion of bizarre side couples, such as her female boss with her bully supervisor and his mother with his best friend, further added to the confusion. In short, it's a mess.

One saving grace is Rowoon's visual appeal. He looks great in suits and portrayed a lovesick puppy convincingly. However, I feel sorry for Jo Bo Ah. Who was her stylist for this drama? Her hair color doesn't match her skin tone and washes her out completely. Her character is also way too weak and foolish, but I do enjoy the chemistry between her character and Rowoon. Truthfully, that's the only reason I stuck with the show until the end.

Final thoughts: The drama has an interesting plot, but sadly, the writing and execution didn't meet expectations. It is watchable, but don't have high expectations.

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Why 'The Red Sleeves' is an Unforgettable Masterpiece: A Fan's Heartfelt Review

I've been hesitant to write a review for "The Red Sleeves" because I fear my words won't do justice to this epic historical drama. I've lost count of how many times I've rewatched it. This show not only turned me into a fan of Junho but also introduced me to 2PM. To this day, it remains my all-time favorite K-drama, unmatched by any other.

The primary reason this drama is so cherished is its exceptional writing. The script is masterfully crafted, keeping viewers captivated from start to finish. While the story is based on a real, tragic tale, it skillfully incorporates light-hearted moments in the beginning to balance the overall narrative. And that ending—what a brilliant way to transform a tragic conclusion into something so poetic.

Additionally, the production quality is outstanding. It is beautifully filmed, capturing every detail not only with artistic finesse but also with meaningful precision. The music and original soundtrack perfectly match the mood and storyline.

Lastly, the acting from both leads is simply phenomenal. Lee Junho and Lee Se Young fully embodied their characters, delivering every emotion in a deeply believable way. Especially Junho—his quiet tears were not only beautiful but also conveyed the pain and internal turmoil his character was experiencing. No wonder he became the first idol to bag the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards.

It would probably take forever for me to cover all the things I love about this drama, but these highlights capture why "The Red Sleeves" holds a special place in my heart. If you haven't watched it yet, you're missing out on a masterpiece.

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A Mixed Cocktail of Charm and Flaws

When Moonshine premiered in late 2021, I was excited to check it out, especially since I loved Hyeri's performances in Reply 1988 and My Roommate Is a Gumiho. However, at the time, I was totally wrapped up in my all-time favorite sageuk, The Red Sleeve, and needed a break before jumping into another historical drama. As time went by, I noticed that the ratings and reviews for Moonshine weren't all that great, so I moved on to other shows.

Now that I've finally watched Moonshine, I found it quite enjoyable despite its flaws. The writer missed the mark in a few areas, but overall, it was a pleasant experience.

What Works:

Cast: A likable and talented ensemble of actors and actresses.

Complex Plot: The drama weaves together gangsters, smugglers, gisaengs/courtesans, ministers, police, inspectors, and the royal family, keeping you guessing about their connections. I especially enjoyed the second half, where the story got more intricate, moving beyond just drinking and making alcohol.

Second Couple: I absolutely adore these two characters and wish they had more screen time. One is a crown prince—sly, cynical (but not in a bad way), street-smart, skilled in martial arts, and educated. Opposite him is the witty and kind-hearted daughter of the minister of war, who surprisingly isn't a snob and mingles with people from all walks of life. I wouldn't mind a drama centered around these two. Their charm isn't just due to the writing but also to Kang Mi Na and Byeon Woo Seok, who portrayed them brilliantly.

What's Not Working:

Main Couple: Lee Hyeri and Yoo Seung Ho delivered commendable performances, but their characters lack depth and engagement. One is overly rigid and principled, while the other is too preoccupied with her livelihood. This disparity undermines their dynamic, especially given Hyeri's known comedic talent. Consequently, the romance feels uninspired, lacking passion and longing.

Illogical Actions: There are numerous instances of illogical behavior. For example, despite efforts to portray the female lead as intelligent, her actions often defy reason. She carries all her hard-earned money in a single bag, only to lose it, or someone falls off a cliff, hits their head, and inexplicably survives.

Uneven Plot Distribution: Particularly in the first half, too much time is spent explaining certain plot points in unnecessary detail, which disengages viewers. Toward the end, more time could have been used to develop characters and drive the climax. For instance, Han Ae Jin, the crown princess's father and minister of war, could have played a crucial role in supporting his daughter and future son-in-law against the villain. This was a missed opportunity.

Despite its flaws, Moonshine is a light-hearted sageuk that I enjoyed watching. It may not reach the heights of some other dramas, but its charm and engaging moments make it worth the watch.

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PR, Stars, and Awkward Plot Twists: A Rom-Com Rollercoaster!

Running an entertainment business is no easy feat, and managing artists adds another layer of complexity despite the outward glamour. This romantic comedy follows the head of the PR team and her relationship with the company's top star. The drama masterfully balances engaging and humorous moments with some frustrating and irritating segments.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:

𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗽𝗹𝗲: Lee Sung Kyung and Kim Young Dae deliver strong performances with excellent chemistry. Their early antagonistic interactions are particularly enjoyable.

𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘀: The pairing of Park So Jin and Lee Jung Shin as the no-nonsense duo stands out among the two side couples.

𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗼𝘀: Numerous funny appearances from various famous actors and actresses. Both Kim Seul Gi and Song Ji Hyo were scene-stealers, their performances exceptionally humorous.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴:

𝗚𝗲𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗵𝘆 𝗜𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘁: The Africa plot was extremely ignorant and equally offensive.

𝗨𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The drama starts light and fun, but the middle is marred by the sudden appearance of creepy anti-fans, abruptly shifting the mood. Towards the end, it gets sad and heavy with the "mom trying to reconnect" subplot.

𝗪𝗲𝗮𝗸-𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱: The male lead became way too weak. It would be nice if he could man up a little to face his demons.

Overall is a mixed bag that offers both delightful and frustrating moments. While the chemistry between the main couple and the humorous cameos are highlights, the uneven plot and problematic elements detract from the overall experience. Nonetheless, it’s worth a watch for fans of romantic comedies who enjoy a blend of humor and drama.

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Captivating Medical Fantasy Drama Fails to Maintain Momentum

This heartwarming medical fantasy drama weaves a captivating plot with a unique twist: a talented star surgeon falls into a coma after a traffic accident, finding his soul trapped in the hospital. He connects with a first-year resident who excels in medical theory but struggles with surgery. Together, they save lives, build a strong friendship, and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

The cast is fantastic, with Rain and Kim Bum convincingly portraying doctors. However, the story loses momentum early on and struggles to sustain interest over 16 episodes. The villains lack menace, the romance is minimal, and even the bromance feels subdued. Despite its potential, the drama doesn't fully engage viewers.

Overall, while the cast delivers great performances, the drama falls short in maintaining momentum and fails to capitalize on its initial promise, leaving viewers craving more plot development and emotional depth.

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A Nostalgic Journey with a Thrilling Korean Twist

When I first started watching this drama, I had no expectations. After countless fluffy romcoms, I was craving something different. I'm thrilled with my pick because this series brilliantly blends the best elements of Hong Kong gangster movies from the '80s to the 2000s within a unique Korean K-drama framework.

Set in the '90s, the show brings a wave of nostalgia. The era's charm comes alive with slightly oversized suits, chunky Mercedes S-Class cars, and the iconic Motorola StarTAC flip phones. It's just delightful.

This drama borrows a lot from Hong Kong gangster films. The main characters remind me of those in the 2002 film "Internal Affairs," where the protagonist pretends to be a gangster while actually working undercover as a cop. But the series takes that inspiration and makes it its own, with a distinctive style and story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Ji Chang Wook totally shines in this series. He nails the double agent character, making you feel every emotion and frustration he goes through. His fight scenes are spot-on, though some are so intense and violent that I had to look away.

The rest of the cast is great too, but I was especially impressed with Bibi. I'd never seen her work or even heard of her before this. I was shocked to find out she's actually a rapper, singer, and songwriter. Her portrayal of the daughter of a Mainland China gangster was so convincing it's hard to believe she's not a full-time actress.

With only 12 episodes, the drama moves at a good pace without any unnecessary fillers. I highly recommend it to anyone into crime thrillers or just looking for a change like I was.

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A Rollercoaster Ride: Fast-Paced Daytime Drama

I wasn't planning to watch this as overly dramatic daytime soaps are not my cup of tea. But with its rave reviews, curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to give it a try.

This drama may have its flaws, but it excels in delivering a fast-paced, intense, and captivating experience. Essentially a low-budget, daytime soap opera-style revenge drama, it stands out due to its brisk pacing and constant plot twists. The story moves swiftly, resolving conflicts quickly and keeping viewers eager for more. While some parts are absurd and defy logic, the rapid pace often leads viewers to overlook these faults.

The acting is inconsistent. Sung Hoon's unusually low-pitched voice feels unnatural, and both Jung Yoo Min and Lee Min Young, who plays her stepmother, often stare directly into the camera with overly wide eyes.

At the end of the day, this drama is not going to win any awards and has limited rewatch value for me at least. But it was a fun and satisfying watch, and you have to put away your logical lens to fully enjoy it.

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Charming Fantasy Romcom Alert

This drama is a delightfully enchanting fantasy romcom, full of likable characters and laugh-out-loud moments. You'll definitely develop a girl crush on both Lee Hyeri and her character, Lee Dam. Hyeri really shines with her well-written role, and what's great about her is how authentic she is. She plays her part with natural ease and isn't afraid to dive into the silly, embarrassing moments that others might shy away from. Her girl-next-door charm makes her totally believable as a college student, and it's easy to see why the male leads are so taken with her.

Jang Ki Yong nails it as the 999-year-old nine-tailed fox, Shin Woo Yeo. His cold demeanor perfectly shows the weariness of someone who's been around for centuries. His chemistry with Hyeri is electric, capturing the classic "opposites attract" vibe.

The second couple, played by Kang Han Na and Kim Do Wan, is just as fun to watch. Kang Han Na is especially impressive as an air-headed former nine-tailed fox with a heart of gold. Her comedic antics and sibling-like rivalry with Jang Ki Yong's character add an extra layer of fun to the show.

Like many fantasy romcoms, the "forced separation" part got a bit dull, but it didn't drag on too long. All in all, this drama is a must-watch if you're looking for a mix of humor, charm, and enchanting fantasy. It hits all the right notes, making it a delightful addition to the genre.

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