Not Quite the 'Affair' You’d Expect!

I wanna review both novel and TV adaptation here, so bear with me or you can simply scroll down.

Chao Planoy's books, like many GL novels, are full of red flags. Actually, it’s not just Chao Planoy—many GL novels often have similar issues cos not all novels will be like R4U or TLP. Anyways, in this case, the storyline of 'Affair' feels incredibly contrived, with several parts that making no sense at all.

While the TV adaptation made some changes, the novel still struggles with some questionable character dynamics. For example, Pleng, who is insufferably self-absorbed, becomes slightly more tolerable as an adult. Then there's Eak, another walking red flag. But because it’s a Chao Planoy novel, of course, there had to be a guy in the mix. Fast forward to the future, and after being apart for 13 years, Pleng still has no clue about Wan’s life. Yet, she decides to meddle again, pushing Wan to meet Eak—why? It’s baffling. However, as for Pleng, once she realizes her feelings, she tries to make up for her past mistakes, even chasing after Wan and stepping in to get slapped by Wan’s mom at one point. But despite these moments, Pleng is still far too self-centered to deserve someone like Wan. In fact, no one in this novel really deserves Wan—every character seems to fall short. Overall, while the novel tries to redeem its characters in some ways, the overwhelming number of red flags and questionable decisions make it hard to root for anyone, especially Pleng. Wan was quite clear about everything from the beginning and the girl had to suffer a lot due to some twists and turns!

Coming back to the drama, well the casting was great, no doubts here. The background music and OST are well-suited too. And yeah, I can see everyone hating Wan's mom (some are even calling her Lada's mom from TSOU) , portrayed by Um Apasiri Nitibhon, well, it actually means she is an amazing actress for she is playing her role quite well, making it realistic.

P.S.: Pleng and Wan - they could actually be sisters (don't panic, they are not) for they pretty much grew up together in the same house, raised by the same parents. I just don’t get why so many GLs choose these cringeworthy, off-putting storylines. I mean just go through 23.5, Reverse for you and reverse with me, you'll get my point!

Verdict: If you're just looking for some drama and steamy, love-dovey moments, go for it—the leads have undeniable chemistry. However, I do wish the storyline was more gripping and realistic.

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Moon, Magic, Mystery, a dash of Love, and what not!

In the world of GAP, Blank, TLP, Affair and Pluto, TSOU, MMDIY, Reverse 4 You stands out, it truly does. The cast brings depth to their roles, the title itself refers to one of the main characters for whom the other lead has to go back in to save her - that was a clever play on words! The leads have delivered such a layered performance that you might go rewatch some episodes and it will still feel less. The opening and ending songs are well suited as well, I mean why not; the songs capture all romantic, happy, emotional and suspenseful moments altogether and will leave you feeling both happy and sad!

And for a romantic drama with supernatural elements, the VFX is handled gracefully, nothing felt over-the-top, everything was tackled amazingly, so, well done to the production team. Of course, the special thanks goes to the director and yeah, can't forget the author Zezeho who wrote the novel. However, all the time turning and halting scenes reminded me of The Flash (I am a DC fan so the connection was easy to spot for me), but the way the fantasy elements are woven together with romantic plot, I've gotta say the author did an amazing job.

The novel itself is amazing, you can finish reading it in one sitting but the entire series having only 8 episodes doesn’t feel justified. If not 16, even if it had 12 episodes, we could see much more about the plot development and the growth of some characters. Since 8 episodes 40 min each are the limit, it might feel a bit rushed to watch the show. But anyways, like I said before, unlike the contemporary GL shows, this series offers a story that's worth delving into.

I know how the story ends but I will not (and should not) give any spoilers- all I can say is that if you do give this series a shot, you won't regret. You wanna see how hearts find warmth and solace in frozen time? Go watch the show ☺️

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Love will heal what's killing you inside.

I'm so glad that this drama exists. And I would never know that Ji Sung is an amazing actor if I didn't watch this one. I mean he's damn cool , how did he portray all 7 personalities I don't know but he was truly Daebak! Even Park Seo-joon was cool too and I have to say the interaction between Park and Ji Sung as Oh Ri-On and Ahn Yo-na in the cafe was a chef's kiss. The plot is well-written and the OST - Auditory Hallucination - still my most fav OST. Ji Sung has a great chemistry with Hwang Jung-eum but the FL's voice is quite irritating in some scenes. Anyways, I don't wanna give any spoilers, you'll never regret if you watch the show and if you don't watch it, you have a long way to go as a K-drama fan.

Fun fact: Both Lee Seung Gi and Hyun Bin were offered the role of Cha Do-hyun (name of the ML in series), but declined. I'm glad they did. Nobody could play this role other than Ji Sung and he proved it well.

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Love happens when you least expect it

Scarlet Heart: Ryeo or Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart. Ryeo is an externally magnificent and psychologically engaging historical drama with elements of romance, time travel, and political intrigue. Set in the Goryeo Dynasty, it follows Go Ha-jin, a modern-day woman sent back in time who becomes engaged in the complicated lives of royal princes competing for the crown.

One of the drama's most appealing aspects is its captivating cast. Lee Joon-gi (I LOVE HIM SOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH) gives an outstanding portrayal as Wang So, the 4th Prince, capturing his character's development from an outcast to a ruthless yet misunderstood leader. IU as Hae Soo exudes warmth and tenderness, while her portrayal occasionally struggles to match the drama of the historical setting. The supporting actors, particularly Kang Ha-neul as the 8th Prince and Hong Jong-hyun as the 3rd Prince, contribute to the intricate power dynamics and love triangle.

Visually, the drama is beautiful, with stunning photography and extravagant outfits that bring the Goryeo period to life. The soundtrack, too, is unforgettable, adding to the emotional impact of critical scenes.

However, in the later half of the series, the pacing is inconsistent and the characters are underdeveloped. While the early episodes are entertaining, the hurried pace to the finale leaves numerous plotlines seeming unfinished. The time-travel aspect, while intriguing, creates more concerns than it answers, and historical mistakes may irritate viewers knowledgeable with Korean history.

The romance between Wang So and Hae Soo is both a high point and a cause of frustration. Their chemistry is apparent, but the tragic, open-ended climax disappointed many admirers.

Overall, Scarlet Heart: Ryeo is a compelling drama, but its narrative problems and heartbreaking finale keep it from realizing its full potential.

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