From Island Solitude to Stage Spotlight : Castaway Diva's Resonant Tale of Music and Resilience

Castaway Diva, directed by Oh Choong Hwan and written by Park Hye Ryun, is a musical melodrama that intricately unfolds the journey of Seo Mokha, a girl striving to become a diva after her return to normal life from an uninhabited island.

Mokha, with her sole dream of singing alongside her idol Ranjoo faces a devastating setback when stranded on an uninhabited island for 15 years. The narrative unfolds as she returns and embarks on her quest to become a diva.
Upon her return Mokha's reality shatters upon discovering her idol Ranjoo has become a washed up diva, no longer in the limelight and forgotten by the audience. Ranjoo's decline is attributed to various factors including a damaged voice and betrayal by her loyal manager, Lee Seojin.
Mokha's journey is interwoven with the rediscovery of her childhood sweetheart Kiho, revealing shocking truths about his family's struggles during her absence. The show intricately crafts well written characters, each serving as the hero of their own story, reflecting a keen attention to detail.

Seo Mokha's character is finely nuanced, with the writer paying meticulous attention to small details. The portrayal effectively conveys her detachment from the real world during her years on the island. The writer skillfully employs parallels between her island life and her struggles in the real world, adding depth to the character. Park Eunbin's portrayal captures Mokha's 15 year disconnect convincingly.

Ranjoo, the washed-up idol, undergoes a compelling character arc, blending selfishness and selflessness. Her decision to choose Mokha over her own career, despite using her for lipsyncing, showcases a complex and well developed character. Kim Hyojin's performance impeccably captures the essence of Ranjoo's character.

Kiho/Bogeol stands out as one of the most captivating characters in the series, captivating viewers with his kindness and selflessness towards Mokha. His sacrifice and relentless search for her on various islands highlight his extraordinary dedication. In facing a situation reminiscent of Mokha's past abuse, he chooses her well being over his own, ensuring her dreams remain intact despite the harsh reality. Chae Jong Hyeop's portrayal brings an innocence and charm befitting this endearing character.

Woohak emerges as a personal favorite, a protective elder brother to Kiho/Bogeol. While Kiho shields Mokha's dreams, Woohak safeguards Kiho from their abusive father even losing his memory in the process. Despite harboring feelings for Mokha, he gracefully steps aside upon discovering Kiho and Mokha's destined connection prioritizing their well being. Woohak's character development, transitioning from a carefree individual to a protective brother, adds depth to the narrative. Cha Hak Yeon's portrayal skillfully navigates the complexities of Woohak's character.

Lee Seojin remains a complex figure throughout the series, oscillating between moments of goodness while caring for Ranjoo and instances of greed, hindering her career. Kim Jooheon's seasoned performance adds depth to this intricate role.

Other impactful characters include the Kang Family, particularly Papa Kang, whose angelic presence resonates. The portrayal of abusive father Jung Bong Wan is chilling with the actor excelling in depicting the character's disturbing obsession with his son Kiho. Eun Morae a rival of Mokha adds a gray shade to the narrative, not entirely negative. Manager Park Young Kwan, initially despised undergoes a transformative backstory that makes his story arc one of my favorites in this well written drama

This show stands out for its exceptional cinematography creating an immersive experience that makes you feel the proximity to the sea. The vibrant color grading enhances the visual appeal offering a truly pleasing watching experience.

In the music department, the show excels with outstanding OSTs. Park Eun Bin's vocals stand out as she not only delivers the best performances but can rival idols with her exceptional voice.

In summary, Castaway Diva emerges as one of the best dramas of the year, seamlessly blending genres like romance, life, melodrama and mystery. Its creative and well written storytelling deserves a solid 10/10.

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Burn The House Down: A Gripping Thriller with Some Missed Thrills

Burn The House Down is a thriller that kept me engaged with its gripping plot & numerous plot twists, although it lacked the desired level of thrill. Nevertheless I found it quite enjoyable.

The story follows Anzu, who returns to her childhood home as a maid in order to uncover the truth about a tragic incident that occurred thirteen years ago. Anzu's mission is to prove her mother's innocence, as her mother has been blaming herself for a fire incident that took place all those years ago. As Anzu begins to work as maid, she meticulously plans her path to revealing the truth, setting the stage for an intriguing thriller.

The acting performances of both the female lead and the supporting male characters were commendable, as they fully immersed themselves in their respective roles.

One of the aspects I appreciated about this thriller was of plot twists. The unexpected turns kept me intrigued throughout the story.

Additionally, the bond between Anzu and Kiichi was a highlight for me. I admired how Anzu made efforts to heal Kiichi's emotional wounds throughout the show.

The cinematography and overall production quality of the series were impressive adding to the visual appeal of the drama.

However, I felt that the thrill factor was somewhat lacking. While the absence of OTT moments was a positive aspect, it didn't consistently provide the thrilling experience I was hoping for. This could be seen as both a positive and negative point of the drama.

Another downside for me was the character of Anzu's father. I found him to be a hypocrite and hated him throughout the series.

Furthermore, the execution of the final plot twist could have been better. If Shinji was the main culprit throughout the drama, it left me wondering why Kiichi isolated himself from the world and portrayed himself as someone burdened with guilt throughout the story.

Despite these drawbacks, Burn The House Down is overall a nice thriller worth watching.

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Borrowed Brilliance: My Demon's Struggle to Forge an Original Path

When this show started, i wrote a review stating a new iconic show was in the making. Little did i know that this show would end up copying every other fantasy drama each of which had carved its own place in viewers hearts.

In this show, apart from the chemistry between the leads and their visuals there is nothing to look forward to. Regarding the storyline there seems to be none, the writer merely copied scenes from various fantasy shows creating a mishmash of fantasy elements.

While watching, you will be reminded of every fantasy show made in Korea after Goblin. It starts copying storylines from Goblin, whole OST having vibes similar to Goblin's intro. The trope of a beggar lady turning out to be a god is another thing copied from Goblin and even in episode 15, the show replicates Goblin's ending by making Guwon disappear.

Now lets talk about Strong Woman Do Bong Soon. The entire storyline is basically a reversed version of SWDBS. Here ML Guwon becomes a bodyguard to protect FL CEO Dohee from her adopted family. This mirrors SWDBS, where FL Bong Soon becomes ML's bodyguard to protect him from his family. Both main characters have supernatural powers but the difference is that in SWDBS Bong Soon uses her powers when needed whereas here Guwon, even as a demon cant use his powers when its crucial. The serial killer plot was also entirely borrowed from SWDBS. While both tracks took different approaches they still induced a strong sense of deja vu when watching that specific storyline. The assistant character and the subplot with thugs are also directly copied from SWDBS.

Next is overused past life trope. Last year many shows applied this trope and while some were webtoon adaptations making it necessary, this show being an original one still included the cliche past life trope when it wasnt needed. The past life trope is borrowed from various shows like SYIM19L and Kokdu with a significant influence from Kokdu's version.

Adding to that, they didnt stop at copying fantasy shows, they even borrowed scenes from makjang shows like Penthouse. The way Noh Seok Min survives a massive fall is reminiscent of how Joo Dan Tae miraculously survived a building collapse in Penthouse. Additionally, the car blast involving Dohee seems like a throwback to Logan Lee's car bomb blast from Penthouse.

In addition to the above mentioned shows, this one also echoes/plays out similar plots to series such as Doom at Your Service, Heartbeat and Destined with You etc.

Now lets discuss the characters. They werent properly written. Firstly Guwon, the demon, couldnt use his powers when needed even against a mere human enemy for 14 episodes straight. Some may argue he lost his powers but even if thats the case, he could have utilized them with Dohee's help. Even after his powers returned he didnt use them to catch the villain. For instance, in a scene where they send Joo Seok Hoon to the main villain's house they could have easily gone there using Guwon's magic but they didnt. When Joo Seok Hoon returns without information only then do they go to the villain's house. However, by then main villain has removed the demon book and hidden it elsewhere. Even when the main villain's body disappears after falling from the clock tower, Guwon doesnt use his powers to catch him. Later main villain tries to kill Dohee and to save her Guwon sacrifices himself. The writing seems questionable.

Moving on to Dohee, the young CEO, she is generally good except for when she gave up the chairwoman position due to fear of the main villain. Its perplexing, having a demon by her side, yet fearing a mere human. However one could argue she is right considering the apparent uselessness of the demon's powers.

Joo Seok Hoon, SML of show, is considered by many to be the main villain but he turns out not to be. Unfortunately he ends up being most useless character in the drama merely serving as a love sick puppy for Dohee. Its puzzling why an actor like Lee Sangyi took on this role when there is little for him to perform.

The main villain, Noh Suk Min is another poorly written character. He is your typical negative villain with a backstory of being greedy for property. While i understand he is meant to be negative, the writer takes it to the extreme portraying him to the point of being willing to kill his own son. I also dont understand why he was even after Dohee when she willingly gave him the chair position. In the end, the way he survives a significant fall is one of the most illogical aspects of the show. Moreover his decision to burn his face for some unknown reason is also quite illogical.

Besides these four main characters, the others werent well written. For example the demon's obsessive lover, Jin Gayoung lacked depth. The office characters were mostly useless and brought in for lame comedy that hardly made anyone laugh. The love angle between Dohee's assistant and Guwon's assistant was also cringe worthy. It seems the writer aimed for humor but it ended up being more cringe than entertaining.

Cinematography is initially impressive but production values appear fake after a certain point. The portrayal of super rich characters offices does not align with the expected opulence of conglomereate's offices.
The music department fares decently with the main OST, True by Yaori being a standout.

In conclusion, the show lacks originality in both execution and writing with poor logic and character development. My disappointment led me to revise my original rating from 9/10 to 7/10 and that is solely for the chemistry between the leads.

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A Dance with Destiny: See You In My 19th Life's Alluring Tale of Memory and Love!!

This drama stands out as the most beautiful and captivating production of the year, boasting top notch cinematography, mesmerizing OSTs, and exceptional performances from the cast.

Rather than being a direct adaptation of the Manhwa, the concept is taken from a webtoon, and the writers created their own world with beautiful characters. Although there were several changes from the webtoon, I found myself genuinely liking the drama, which left me spellbound. The storyline revolves around a female protagonist who recalls her past 18 lives, embarking on a journey to fulfill an unfinished love from her 18th life while uncovering intriguing mysteries.

One of the drama's standout elements is the portrayal of an unconventional relationship, where the female lead exudes strength while the male lead grapples with post traumatic issues. Their dynamic is refreshing as she takes the lead and he follows, creating a unique and endearing relationship.

The ending of the drama was satisfying, with the female protagonist starting afresh by forgetting all her past memories, putting an end to a 19-life-long curse.

The relationship between the female lead Ban Jieum and her 60+ year old niece Aegyeong from her 17th life was heartwarming to watch.

Among the many memorable scenes, the bridge scene in the 9th episode stood out for its creativity. It beautifully depicted all of Banjieum's past lives walking behind her, symbolizing the interconnectedness of her experiences across time.

Shin Hye Sun's portrayal of Ban Jieum was nothing short of phenomenal, impeccably capturing the emotional depth, strength, and love for her closed ones from past lives.

Equally, Ahn Boh Hyun's casting as Seo Ha initially raised doubts, but he skillfully displayed Seo Ha's vulnerabilities and romantic side, proving himself to be an excellent fit for the role.

The chemistry between the main leads was undeniable, making them my favorite on screen pair from 2023. While the second leads had limited screen time, they also did well, with Ha Yoon Kyung shining in the role of Cho Won.

A character that left lasting impression was Mingi, whose mysterious aura captivated the audience from the beginning until the end. Lee Chae Min's portrayal was stellar, much like his performance in his previous drama CCIR.

The chemistry between the actress playing Aegyeong and Shin Hye Sun was palpable, just as evident as their on screen chemistry in their previous drama, Mr. Queen.

The drama was masterfully filled with numerous plot twists, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. The character portrayal was praiseworthy, as none of the villains were entirely negative; instead, they were complex and shaded with grey, making them more realistic and intriguing.

The cinematography of the drama was simply breathtaking, elevating every scene to an awe inspiring level. Notably, Episode 9 stood out for its exceptional cinematography, making it an unforgettable visual experience.

The OSTs were perfect additions to the narrative. "Juicy Juicy" by Jo Yuri and "Star" by Colde has to be my most favourite OSTs of 2023.
However, BGM department could have been better as some scenes didn't align well with the background music.

In conclusion this drama is an absolute masterpiece, with brilliant performances and flawless execution. Fantasy lovers should not miss out on this mesmerizing series.

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Nothing really changed, but at least they tried, and they are still trying to change the system.

I don't know where to start because right now I am experiencing all kinds of emotions. D.P.2 didn't disappoint, it was actually a level up from Season 1.

I didn't watch Season 1 when it aired as I was very hesitant to watch military style drama, but when I watched it in 2022, it instantly became my favorite. After that, I eagerly waited for Season 2, and finally, I can say Season 2 was actually worth the wait.

Season 2 picks up where Season 1 left off, showing the aftermath of the Suk Bong incident and its impact on the lead characters, especially Han Ho Yul, who is dealing with PTSD. The incidents in Season 2 escalate to the point where our D.P. Jun Ho hinself becomes a deserter to expose the harsh realities of the military.

Each and every story left a very, very deep impression on me. I can relate to the main victims in each story and feel their pain. None of them deserved what they went through, and they all deserved a happy ending, but unfortunately, they didn't get one.
The perpetrators totally ruined the victims lives, and the last scene itself showed the reality of it when Suk Bong was still hospitalized while his perpetrator Jang Soo, was enjoying his life. That scene totally broke me.

My favorite story in Season 2 has to be Jang Seong Min's story, who underwent an identity change to become Nina. The guy was a theatre artist who used to play female characters, which led his seniors to bully him in military and eventually run away from the military. He was on the run for years, living a difficult life, and when he finally got chance to make his career outside the country to escape this hell, D.P. started chasing him. He got injured and died due to excessive blood loss. This story has to be one of the most heartbreaking in the D.P. franchise after Suk Bong's story.

All the stories in this season felt like they were speaking to the world, showing the suffering they endured. Every story made me teary eyed.
I have no prior experience of military service, but I can totally, totally feel the pain of those who have gone through such pain after joining the military.

I love how South Korea never shies away from showing the realities of the military. If some other country had tried this concept, Im sure this show must have been banned long ago for insulting the military. But honestly, we need such shows to shed light on the harsher realities of the military.

In this season, Captain Im Ji Seop's character saw significant development, from a grey character in Season 1 to a totally positive character in Season 2. He came a long way. The way he and his wife Lieutenant Colonel Seo Eun tried to expose the realities of the military and prevent such incidents from happening was commendable. I really didn't think he would go to such lengths to help the D.P.s. His bromance with Sergeant Park Beom Goo was damn good, which was another new aspect from Season 2 that I enjoyed.

Jun Ho's character also underwent significant growth, from being unable to do anything for victim deserters to finally trying to help them. It was a really big growth for him character-wise. Jung Hae In's acting in the last two episodes was exceptional. He is totally born for this character.
Han Ho Yul is definitely my favorite. Every time he mostly shows his comic side, but the Suk Bong incident left a big scar on him as he was dealing with PTSD, which showed how sensitive he is. But even with such seriousness, he really never failed to make me laugh in various situations.

The victim characters of the various stories actually stole the show, from Kim RuRi to his mother to Jang Seong Min to Ah Wi; everyone's acting was just a chef's kiss. All of them deserve to win awards for their performances.

Even the villain characters Gu Ja Woon and Oh Min Woo made you hate them to the core, which proves how good actors they are.

In the end, neither the deserters' victims get full justice nor do their pleas remain unheard. The case is not solved and our D.P. will continue to fight for them until the end.

In the end, I will say nothing has really changed, but they tried, and they are still trying.

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Snowflakes of Sweetness: "Amidst A Snowstorm of Love" Radiates Romance and Brilliance

It was a true romance of the year. Watching this drama felt like reading beautiful poetry, time flew without realizing it. The show hit all the right notes.

The story, though familiar was executed uniquely. The main couple's chemistry, the foreign locations and the absence of cliches made it stand out. No ex girlfriend, no third angle, no annoying side characters, a very relaxing show for romance lovers.

- What I liked:

•Chemistry between main leads: The standout factor of the show is definitely the chemistry between Zhang Jinmai and Wu Lei. Their on screen dynamic is captivating, making it the main selling point. Scenes that might have felt cringe worthy with other actors are handled seamlessly due to their undeniable chemistry. Yin Guo and Lin Yiyang, portrayed by the duo, are unquestionably one of my top three couples in modern Chinese romance.

•Locations: Following the impressive chemistry, foreign based locations emerge as the next selling point of the show. Shot mostly in Finland, the director's skill in capturing the scenery adds an extra layer of besuty to the drama. The combination of beautiful locations and outstanding chemistry makes it clear why this drama is destined to be a hit. The foreign settings provide a unique atmosphere compared to regular modern Chinese dramas, giving it a cinematic feel with scenic beauty and visual appeal for each character. Even when the focus shifts to China after Episode 16, the chosen locations maintain a distinct charm, setting it apart from typical Chinese dramas.

•Story/Plot: While the storyline might seem familiar, its unique execution sets it apart. The absence of cliches like ex gf/bf, third angles, lead separations, annoying supporting characters and family pressures makes it stand out. The show skillfully navigates away from predictable angles.
I appreciate the shift in tone between the first and second halves. The initial half is rich in romance while the latter half delves deeper into drama with a sports genre focus, exploring the intricate dynamics of the characters relationships.

•Supporting Characters: Its worth mentioning the standout supporting characters in the show, all of whom contribute positively. There are no annoying or negative characters, instead the drama is filled with mature and non childish supporting characters. Initially i expected some characters to take a negative turn and create obstacles for the leads but im pleased to say the show proved me wrong. Each supporting character is intricately written with depth and maturity making them endearing as the show progresses. Personal favorites include Meng Xiaodong, Jiang Yang and Wu Wei who have undoubtedly won the hearts of viewers with their charming portrayals.

•Acting: The acting truly stood out with Zhang Jinmai and Wu Lei delivering performances that felt incredibly authentic. As a fan of their previous work, this show has only deepened my admiration for them. I eagerly anticipate their future projects as they have consistently impressed me. The supporting cast without exception, seamlessly brought the written characters to life.

•Direction/Cinematography/BGM Score: The direction and cinematography were impeccable creating a visually stunning drama. It felt like watching a cinematic masterpiece and the OSTs/BGM scores, especially tracks like "Perfect Performance" by Yisa Yu and "Love and Shine" by Wu Lei elevated the viewing experience to another level.

•Visuals: The scenery and the actors visuals were seriously impressive. I know we shouldnt judge solely based on looks but every character looked good and its worth noting that these actors were not just good looking but also incredibly talented.


-What I didnt like:

Honestly there isnt much that i didnt like here. However, some romantic scenes between the leads felt a bit childish. If it werent for these two actors it might have been a tad cringy, but somehow they managed to convince me otherwise. Their chemistry and acting really worked in favor of the drama.


After a long time, i came across such a feel good modern Chinese romance drama with no cliche hurdles or tracks. Everything from the beginning was fantastic and it stayed that way until the end. This show is undoubtedly a treat for romance lovers and im sure they wont get enough of it. It will remain close to my heart for the longest time and the main lead pair has secured a spot in my top 3 Chinese pairs of all time.

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Unlocking the Path to Success : 3 #CheatCodes to Attain Fame

Plot : The story revolves around Seo Ari, a struggling woman who sells cosmetics door to door. After her father's company goes bankrupt, she & her mother are left penniless.
Drama follows Seo Ari's path to fame as she finds & employs 3 #CheatCodes to attain success.

What I Liked:
1. Captivating Cinematography : The visually stunning & glossy cinematography beautifully complemented the theme of the series & gives you wholesome experience.

2. High Production Values : High investments made by Netflix & Studio Dragon were evident in every frame of the show, showcasing their commitment to delivering a top tier production.

3. BGMs : BGMs were exceptional & went well with scenes. One particular BGM that played in the final scenes of each episode was especially enjoyable.

4. Impressive Acting : Main leads delivered commendable performances, bringing their respective characters to life & did justice to their respective roles.

5. Engaging Drama : From opening scene to the closing credits, Drama successfully captivated viewers attention, maintaining a high level of engagement throughout.


What I Didn't Like :
1. Story Development : While the direction & execution were great, the story was not really upto the mark. However, the overall quality of the production compensated for this drawback.

2. Characterization : The female lead's character & some supporting characters in the story could be better developed. There is a problem with the female lead's portrayal because her past wealthy background contradicts her surprised reaction to scandals involving rich people. This inconsistency makes her initial character description seem unrealistic because she appears overly naive in her responses.

3. Romance line : Makers tried to show romance between 2 main leads but it was not really convincing. Both leads have chemistry but romance line was weak but its ok as main genre of drama was not romance.

4. Lack of Relatability : Throughout the drama, I found it difficult to connect with the story & its characters, which detracted from my overall viewing experience.

Overall, the show is a worthwhile one time watch, especially for those who have a keen interest in fashion related dramas.

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Epic Romance and Hilarious Antics: Lovely Runner Took 2024 by Storm

"Carry Seonjae & Run!" is adapted from the web novel "The Best of Tomorrow" (내일의 으뜸) by Kim Bbang (김빵). Written by Lee Shi Eun and directed by Yoon Jong Ho and Kim Tae Yub, this drama is undoubtedly one of the best of 2024.

From its premiere, it quickly grabbed everyone's attention including mine. It has all the elements that make a drama a superhit, comedy, romance, time travel, well written characters (both leads and supporting ones) and an engaging plotline that never bores you. No wonder it became a superhit in no time.

The story revolves around Im Sol, a disabled fangirl who draws strength from her favorite idol during her toughest times. When he suddenly dies, she is given the chance to travel back in time to save him. This sets the stage for the main plot, filled with numerous twists and turns that keep the drama fresh and engaging. The combination of rib tickling comedy and sizzling romance between the lead pair makes every moment of the drama worth watching.

I have to commend the writer for crafting numerous comic moments that had me laughing until my stomach ached. Whether its past Im Sol embarrassing herself in front of her future self or Seonjae's peak loser moments that never fail to amuse, this show offers some of the best comedy i have seen in recent times, making it a delightful and relaxing watch after each episode. As for the romance, Seonjae and Im Sol's chemistry was electrifying. They transitioned seamlessly through various phases of their relationship, from sweet, innocent first love moments to melodramatic and angsty scenes later on. Both actors executed these shifts flawlessly.

The characters were one of the strongest points of this drama. Im Sol was a goofball, a sunshine character who never failed to bring a smile to your face with her antics. Hats off to Kim Hyeyoon, who portrayed this character with perfection. She truly showed her versatility as an actress, displaying impressive range across positive, negative and grey roles in the past. This character, however is giving her the recognition she truly deserves. She definitely deserves an award for this portrayal. While many of her characters, like those in Sky Castle or Extraordinary You were popular, this role will undoubtedly put her at the top of her game.

Ryu Seonjae was one of the most tragic characters for sure. Come on, who dies 3-4 times in just one drama?? But Ryu Seonjae did. Byeon Wooseok must have a knack for tragic characters. Despite the humor, Seonjae was the biggest loser in dramaland after long time. From old dramas, only Min Min from Strong Woman Do Bong Soon showed such peak loserism. Byeon Wooseok also carried this character with perfection, showing a stark contrast between his previous villainous role as Ryu Shi Oh in Strong Girl Nam Soon and this one, demonstrating his impressive range as an actor.

The second lead Taesung, was one of the most loved second male lead i have seen in a while. His character was finely written to avoid creating any conflict between male lead and second male lead fans. He was likable without causing second lead syndrome as he knew where to draw the line when he realized Im Sol was only in love with Seonjae. In Hyuk was another standout character, whose scenes with Seonjae, Sol and Taesang were hilarious. He was delightful to watch and never annoying, although i wish he had more screen time.
The supporting cast was also excellent, consistently providing humor with their antics. Whether it was Im Sol's mother, Seonjae's father, Im Geum or Hyunjoo, the ensemble cast made the drama even better than expected.

Regarding the time travel aspect, overall it was executed well though there were a few plot holes that i didnt fully understand. However, i overlooked them as long as the drama kept me entertained without going overboard. A few flaws are acceptable in an otherwise engaging show.

Special Note: The popularity this drama achieved while airing was unbelievable. No one expected its wild success but it became incredibly popular not only in South Korea but worldwide, breaking many records. This was one of the few dramas that crossed the 60+ mark in the Good Data buzz ranking. After The Glory 2, no other drama had crossed 60+ mark. The OSTs of this drama, featuring the fictional band Eclipse topped the Melon charts underscoring its immense popularity. No one expected the drama to achieve such wild success especially since it wasnt initially predicted to be this big. Due to actor Byeon Wooseok's rising popularity, his recent movie Soulmate is being re released in theaters which speaks volumes about its impact in South Korea.

In conclusion, Lovely Runner was undoubtedly one of the best dramas of 2024 for me. I will miss watching it after its conclusion but i am definitely going to rewatch its episodes whenever possible. Its a series that will stay close to my heart for a long time.

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Masks & Murders : Unveiling 3 Faces, 1 Life & Symphony of Murders

Mask Girl depicts the story of an ordinary office worker, Kim Mo Mi who despite not fitting societal standards of beauty, yearns for attention. Her journey takes unexpected turns, filled with violence and surprises that will leave you speechless.

As the story unfolds, you will be constantly astonished by its unpredictable twists. The seven episodes introduce fresh elements that make each episode feel like new narrative.

The main character portrayed by three actresses, convincingly conveys the notion that they are one & the same.

Noteworthy supporting characters such as Joo Oh Nam, Kim Kyung Ja, Kim Chun Ae, Kim Mi Mo, and Choi Bu Young add depth to the narrative with their fantastic performances.

If youre looking for an incredibly wild and captivating viewing experience, Mask Girl is a definite must watch.

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From Stricter to Stronger : A Tiger Mom's Path to Healing & Redemption

Watching this drama was an incredibly fulfilling experience that evoked whirlwind of emotions. From laughter to tears, anger to sympathy, I was fully immersed in this masterpiece.

The heart of the story lies in its emotional depth. Every aspect of the plot is driven by the characters' emotions creating a very captivating journey.

As an Asian viewer I felt an instant connection to the FL, who portrayed the role of a tiger mom. She exemplified the essence of Asian parents who deeply care for their children but often express it in unconventional ways.
Despite their flawed methods their ultimate intention is always the well being of their loved ones.

The drama also provided many humourous moments, particularly the scenes featuring of Mask lady & Samshik. Their antics had me laughing like maniac.

However the most emotional moment came during Young Soon's death scene. Having already endured so much in life witnessing her in such a vulnerable state shattered my heart.

The acting performances in this drama were exceptional across the board with Ra Miran delivering an outstanding portrayal. She deserves the Best Actress award at the next Baeksang Awards without a doubt.

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From Laughter to Chills : Tale of The Nine Tailed 1938 Delivers an Unforgettable Experience

The show captivated viewers from start to finish, delivering thrilling & satisfying experience. It stands out as one of those rare instances where the sequel surpasses the original. Although S1 was enjoyable to me, S2 gained even more popularity & favor among audiences.

When the show began, there were uncertainties surrounding the new Female Lead's romantic involvement with Yeon & revival of Rang who was easily most favourite character from S1. However, it gave satisfactory answers to all the curious viewers.

Season 2 transported Main lead Yeon back 82 years to time when South Korea was still under Japanese colonial rule.

The new season introduced plethora of new characters while retaining most of the original cast. Some characters remained unchanged, while one particular actress from S1 took on new & even more challenging role in S2.

Two new leads were introduced as frenemies of Yeon. The first was Hong Joo, the current West Mountain God, an owl & second was Mu Young, the former North Mountain God, Siberian tiger harboring deep resentment towards Yeon. Mu Young sets the stage for Season 2 by time traveling to the year 1938 from year of 2020.

Through time travel, Yeon reunites with his beloved little brother Rang, who is half fox & half human. Although their relationship remains love hate during this era, Yeon gradually wins Rang over.
Additionally new villain emerges in the form of Akira Ryuhei, powerful Japanese ruler & demon.

The show masterfully blended comedy & thriller elements. The comedic moments, primarily delivered by Yeon, Hong Joo, Shinjoo & Rang's loyal bandit boss were exceptional.
The comedy was so well executed that it often left viewers laughing for several minutes after each scene.

In terms of thrills, the show delivered exhilarating elements by incorporating Korean folklore inspired tracks. These tracks were engaging & kept viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the season.

The execution of various fantasy thriller storylines was absolutely fantastic. It exemplified what fantasy show should be in contrast to another fantasy drama that aired on the same channel the previous year, which failed to provide similar level of excitement. Other writers should take notes from the creators of this drama on how to craft a captivating fantasy drama.

Season 2 showcased strong bonds that had endured for centuries such as the brotherly bond between Yeon & Rang as well as Yeon's precious friendships with his past acquaintances. The scenes depicting these bonds were exceptionally well written & portrayed.

Since romance was not the central focus of this season, show was able to give equal attention to all the major characters. It was refreshing to see how Eunho became entangled in the main plot, even though she was not directly connected to the leads in this season.

Complex characters like Hong Joo & Mu Young were explored in great detail, adding depth to the storyline.

The standout character of this season was Ryu Hong Joo who is new female lead of new season. Her strength & portrayal left lasting impact on viewers despite not being involved in any romantic storyline. She was the most powerful mountain god among all the mountain gods & possessed rare combination of strength, badassery & intelligence. Such characters are rarely seen in other shows making her a refreshing addition.

Rang also underwent significant character development in this season. Initially harboring resentment towards his brother, he gradually softened & displayed more affection as the season progressed. His personal romantic storyline further added depth to his character.

Mu Young was a complex character in the second season, starting off as smart villain. However some of his later choices raised questions about his intelligence. It would have been satisfying to see him handle situations more cleverly, as he had great potential. The writers should have provided valid reasons behind his actions which would have greatly enhanced his character development.

In terms of acting, entire cast excelled in this drama, from the Baeksang Awardee Kim So Yeon to the minor Japanese mercenary characters introduced later on.
Kim So Yeon's portrayal of the character Ryu Hong Joo, the West mountain god, was particularly impressive. Her expressions & delivery were always on point.
Lee Dongwook & Kim Beom, as in the previous season, delivered fantastic performances, making Season 2 equally enjoyable. Their bromance was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the season.

The other actors who portrayed characters like Mu Young, Ko Shinjoo, Bandit Boss, Jaeyoo, Akira Ryuhei & Eunhoo also did a fantastic job.

The music in the season was great although personally I found S1's music & OST tracks to be even more memorable.

While Season 2 had some flaws I won't delve into them because the pros easily outweighs the cons.

All in all, this season was a truly enjoyable watch and exceeded my expectations. Now I will patiently wait for Season 3.

Fantasy lovers should definitely not miss this masterpiece.

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Exciting Action Packed Adventure with Intense Fights, Evolving Relationships & Solid Performance

The story was an enthralling, action packed thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. Although the plot itself was not extraordinary, the nail biting sequences made up for it.

The story initially revolves around two Male leads but as it progresses, several important characters come into the spotlight. The focus eventually shifts to the intense battle between Heo Joon Ho & Park Sung Woong's characters, with the latter being the villain. Both characters are determined to dismantle each other's gangs & inadvertently Both Male lead characters gets entangled in this conflict.

The action sequences were exceptionally well executed & exhilarating, although at times, the story might lose its momentum & become a bit monotonous.

I want to point out that this drama has a lot of violent scenes. If you're not fond of bloody violence, it might not be the best choice for you.

I initially loved the brotherhood between the two male leads but as the story progressed, focus shifted more towards the main plot & bromance took a backseat. Numerous new characters were introduced & received significant attention, which overshadowed the bond between two male leads.

Be prepared for the deaths of important characters throughout the drama. If you're not emotionally prepared for such sequences, you might want to skip this series.

In terms of acting, performances were outstanding across the board. Both main characters & even minor supporting roles delivered fantastic portrayals.

The action heroes were amazing in this drama & their performances were truly impressive. The action scenes were so intense that they made me really excited.

Episode no.6 & 8 were absolutely mind blowing & most thrilling of the whole series. The story takes a whole new direction in Episode no.7 with the introduction of some characters who had only appeared briefly in the earlier episodes.

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Beyond Ghostly Encounters: Revenant Shines Light on Human Evils

Revenant, the much anticipated comeback drama from the critically acclaimed writer Kim Eun Hee, known for works like Kingdom and Signal, delves into the depths of human greed rather than relying solely on traditional horror elements.

The first episode left me underwhelmed, expecting something like The Guest, but it lacked scary moments. As the show progressed, I gradually grasped its true essence and the message it sought to convey. Instead of focusing on evil spirits, the writer expertly exposes the horrors that lie within human beings, the darkness that surfaces when desires and greed take control.
The drama raises the question, Are humans any better than evil spirits? Unfortunately, my answer is no.

Throughout the series, we witness the sacrifices of innocent children by the male lead's grandparents, resulting in their own children paying a heavy price for these malevolent acts.
While revenant may not feature numerous terrifying or chilling moments, it excels in showcasing the evils hidden beneath the facade of human existence.

From the very first episode to the last, the show's storytelling captivates the audience, luring us in with compelling twists that keep us eagerly anticipating the next episode. It undoubtedly secures its place as one of the best currently airing horror thrillers.

Kim Taeri's performance is nothing short of exceptional, as she impeccably portrays the conflicted Sanyoung, desperate to understand and eliminate the evil spirit to save those around her from harm. Equally mesmerizing is her portrayal of the malevolent spirit Hyangi, making her character's transition captivating sight.
While the both male lead characters of Yeom Haesang and Lee Hong Sae may not have impressed me as much, they failed to create any big impact on my mind. I had loved Oh Jung Se and Hong Kyung's performances in previous dramas but here they were OK.

Kim Hae Sook's portrayal of Hae Sang's grandmother Na Byung Hee is a great addition, delivering a standout performance, especially in Episode 11. Here she is even more wicked than her previous character from Under The Queen's Umbrella, sparing neither her son nor husband from her malevolence.

In conclusion, Revenant captivated me by skillfully narrating the tale of evil residing within human hearts, ingeniously intertwined with ghostly elements.

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Elevating the Epic: A Vast Tale Tied Neatly

Season 2 exceeded all expectations delivering an exceptional storyline that moved forward seamlessly. The plot of whole show (combining both seasons) was so vast and it was tied up neatly.

The story was filled with thrilling plot twists and goosebump inducing moments. Whats truly impressive is the skillful utilization of every character not just the main leads but also the supporting cast. Each character had a compelling story arc and their development was well executed. One remarkable aspect of the show is the presence of strong characters, both main and supporting.

When I heard that Lee Joongi and Shin Sekyung were replacing Song Joongki and Kim Jiwon in the main lead roles i had mixed feelings since i loved SJK and KJW in Season 1. When I started watching Season 2, i watched three episodes in a row and honestly speaking, i didnt really like Lee Joongi's casting as Eunseom and Saya because I couldnt differentiate between both Saya and Eunseom. But from episode 4 onward, i truly liked his casting for adult Eunseom and Saya. Just within one episode, he convinced me that he is the best choice for these characters.

Coming to Shin Sekyung as Tanya, i honestly liked her as soon as i saw her first stills from tvN's account. She looked so pure and divine and i instantly knew that she is going to excel in this show. While watching her, i felt that the old Tanya, who didnt have much understanding of anything in the past has grown and matured a lot over the period of 8-10 years. Shin Sekyung is truly the queen of sageuk for a reason. Im eagerly waiting for her next sageuk, Sejak The Enchanted.

Jang Don Eun and Kim Ok Bin are, without doubt the souls of this show. In the first half, Tagon didnt get much importance but in the second half he simply rocked. Taelha was doing her best from episode 1 itself. I simply loved the episode where Tagon and Taelha teamed up to save Arok from the kidnapper tribe. That was definitely my favorite episode of the series. Kim Ok Bin really needs to do more female-centric shows, she is a fabulous actress.

Other various supporting actors also gave their best whether its Yangcha, Nunbyeol or anyone from the Ago tribe. They were simply the best.

Coming to the BGM/OSTs, i must say the OSTs and BGMs were simply the best in this season. They were much better than Season1 OSTs. My favorite OSTs are Chosen One by Forestella and Knock Down The Giant by Twlv. Whenever they played these two OSTs in the background, goosebumps were guaranteed.

Honestly speaking, i liked Season 2 more than Season 1 because not only were the performances the best but it also had the best conclusion possible.

This one was definitely the best historical series of the year for me.

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Visually Breathtaking but Storyline Leaves Room for Improvement

While the story may not offer much but the production quality of this drama is truly a visual extravaganza. The VFX effects, action sequences & sci-fi elements are absolutely breathtaking.

The plot revolves around SaWol's journey to becoming a deliveryman after enduring numerous hardships.

The male lead primarily serves as a legendary deliveryman showcasing some impressive action sequences. He comes off more as supporting character here except last 2 episodes.

On the other hand the main antagonist follows the typical sci-fi movie villain archetype, harboring a deep resentment against humanity. He is afflicted with an incurable disease and conducts tests on patients to find a cure.

The female lead plays an army officer role with limited significance in the overall narrative.

Although the characters may not leave a lasting impression they are passable.


The drama boasts several exciting action sequences with the deliveryman competition & climactic scenes being my personal favorites. If you are seeking drama with stunning action sequences, impressive VFX effects and an ok-ok storyline then this is definitely worth a watch.

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