Can a man without conscience learn to love? The short answer is yes. The long answer is this unforgettable, zany drama.

I'll start off by warning you that there is no sugarcoating the fact that the main character, Otaro Dojima aka Eight (Yamazaki Kento), is a gigolo. If you are sensitive to that sort of thing, then you are in for a rude awakening. I don't think I have ever seen a drama character kiss and sleep with this many women. He does it with zeal, and obviously for money. It isn't like he is taking advantage of them, however. Everyone he is involved with is clear about his intentions. But there is no doubt about his profession. You'll need some patience and tolerance for the first two episodes. But once you start to get a clearer picture, you'll be awestruck by the clever plot and ready to immerse in all the craziness.

After learning that a strange woman, Sato Saiko (Kadowaki Mugi), who keeps appearing before him, can kill with a kiss, but also bring you back to life 7 days in the past, Eight begins to scheme to use her to land the biggest prize of his life: marry the wealthy heiress, Namiki Mikoto (Araki Yuko). The one endearingly known to him as "10 billion."

Here's where the really fun part begins. Eight's relentless attempts to woo Saiko so she would kiss him are both comical and cute. She isn't going to make it easy for him. There is this scene in the show where he asks her flirtatiously, "What kind of man is your type? Could it be...me?," as the camera zoomed in on his pretty, smiling face. What is even more adorable is her answer, because she shuts her eyes completely and points to an ugly stuff doll by the road. And I could not stop laughing at Eight's utter disbelief of: "That?!" This is the one woman who wouldn't get in his bed! It's an excellent example of their dynamic throughout the drama that is so entertaining to watch. Saiko is a little odd and that's because she grew up lonely from the burden of the curse. Unlike what we were led to believe in the beginning, she is actually very kind. Eventually, they come to an agreement. You should see the way he looks every time he is about to kiss her to go back in time, like he couldn't get enough of her. Don't be fooled though. It is his enthusiasm for money that is fueling this desire to kiss her. The kisses, of course, sends them back in time, for better or for worse. They are always accompanied by a montage of images and a vibrant soundtrack that got me excited in anticipation for a different story to unfold. Eight never strays from his goal of marrying rich and he does everything in his power, whether that be manipulating, lying, or blackmailing, in order to accomplish that. Nevertheless, I could not help liking him. All I could do was shake my head at his scheming, but I kept watching. Maybe it's Yamazaki Kento's charm but it works!

As they spend more time together, we started to see subtle hints that indicated Eight is falling in love with Saiko, like him stealing glances at her when they got close, or hug her instead of kissing her. It's ironic because despite the onslaught of kisses, it is these understated acts that are touching and sweet, and conveyed sincere feelings. But I guess it's hard to change a person fundamentally because despite Eight's obvious feelings, he proceeds to go ahead with the wedding even though he is clearly unhappy about it. His reluctance finally surfaces when it is time to kiss the bride and he simply cannot. At this point, Saiko arrives to protect him from a knife wielding antagonist and subsequently dies. Though this scene felt bizarre and lacking in emotion, the next scene of tearful Eight desperately trying to start their time traveling clock in the hopes of reviving Saiko was poignant. In the following days, the realization of his love for Saiko hits him hard. When he learns that there is a chance to go back 3 months in time, the choice is clear to him and for the first time, he shows his true self to Mikoto. With apologies, he tells Mikoto that he loves Saiko and all he wants is Saiko's happiness. And there, I melted into a puddle.

This is a zippy drama with peculiarities attached to it; I enjoyed it immensely. And in spite of the premise, it also portrays one of the sweetest romances I've ever seen. Though the ending is bittersweet, in a way, I get why it ends the way it does. After all the terrible choices he made, Eight deserves some time alone to reflect and pay for his sins. But I still wanted my happy ending after all the love I developed for these two though, which is why I'm glad we have Todome no Parallel, which is sort of like an extension to this, that will provide (in the last episode) the (happy) closure we wanted to see.

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I am of the opinion that many of us watch dramas out of what we can expect from them; that comfort in knowing how they'll make you feel, in as much as the novelty of the stories themselves. In that regard, Maiden Holmes may not have been the most original. In fact, it is downright predictable. But in the execution of all that we've come to love about historical rom-coms, it delivers a hundred percent.

From the very first scene, from the very first episode, I was hooked because the show doesn't make you wait around for all the good stuff to happen. The plot moves at a swift pace and just keeps the goodies coming along the way. There are conflicts to keep things interesting, but never anything too serious or frustrating, and all has satisfying resolutions. The cast is young and likable. And, of course, the romance is especially cute, and surprisingly passionate. The leads' interactions feel natural; I attribute that to good directing and acting. Also, I must confess, the male lead is so eye-catching. I'm almost always staring at his face whenever he's on screen! Seriously, he is so fine. I should also mention that he portrays an amazing character. Cold, arrogant male lead is a given these days but he totally proves being a nice guy from the beginning can be just as attractive. He is nurturing; always ready to support his love, as well as be kind to his subordinates and friends.

Hence, if you want to watch a historical drama that isn't too heavy on intricate plot or angst, and you want a high quality fluffy drama to enjoy and pass the time, then this one's for you.

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I came across this drama thanks to a featured article on mydramalist. Otherwise, I would not have picked it up myself, given how I tend to shy away from modern day Chinese dramas after having been burned multiple times. And the poster and synopsis do not do this drama justice. But lo and behold, here is a modern day Chinese drama that’s only 16 episodes long and kept my attention from start to finish!

We first meet our heroine, Ruan Nian Chu (Yilia Yu), going on blind dates and musing about boys and dating with her fashionable, wealthy best friend, like a typical city girl. But we soon learn she went through a traumatic experience five years ago with a man she cannot forget (hence why she's single). He saved her from drowning, and I must admit at first, her continued interest in this man had me rolling my eyes. I mean, this was five freaking years ago. As the story progresses, however, we discovered through flashbacks that this mysterious man and her spent a significant amount of time together following the incident, with him protecting her by disguising her as his woman to deter any would be rapists in a region controlled by a crime organization where she was held captive. Now THAT is understandable. I mean, who could forget an experience like that? The flashbacks have a way of revealing major, romantically intense memories in a way that had me fascinated.

After helping her escape, he appears to have perished in an explosion, along with the rest of the gang. She has been longing for him since. Now, five years later, suddenly, he's back. And here's where we meet our hero, Li Teng (Tsao Yu Ning), now head of a security company; a cold man with an assured authority. With the two of them meeting again after such a long time, in a setting so far removed from their first encounter, can they finally be together? Things are not so simple as he’s more mysterious than ever before and his motives unclear. One thing is for sure though, their feelings have only intensified.

This drama made me a fan out of Tsao Yu Ning (Where have you been all this time?). There were times when he reminded me of Lee Min-ki or Kang Ha-neul or Yeo Jin-goo but most of the time I just thought he was HOT. The dude looks seriously good from every angle. He's one of the most attractive men I have ever seen and even more so because he can act. He plays a man whose outside exterior is so cold but burning like charcoal inside for the heroine. I know that's a common character trope nowadays but he plays it so well I loved every minute of it. I loved, loved, loved his wolf-like, penetrating gaze. His chemistry with Yilia Yu is one of the best I've ever seen; whose character, by the way, is also easily likable. She is so delicate but so strong. Their characters’ sexual tension is palpable. A look here, a look there spoke volumes about their feelings. And their mundane, post confession romance is just as heart pounding and sweet. I couldn't get enough of their interactions that I rewatched for many days after finishing.

I was impressed with how the drama weaves the past and present together to help us understand the choices the characters make. The editing here is really top-notch. In a few scenes, the drama effectively conveys how the leads fall for each other before reluctantly parting ways. By the time they meet again in the present time, without much being said, we completely understood the characters' wants and the hidden layers. I do wish the flashbacks were longer; they spiced up the drama and gave depth to the story. Though not too many, there are some action scenes with excellent choreography. Li Teng felt like a real former special forces agent, capable and formidable. But at times you may feel as if you’re in a different drama because of how light the present story is. Overall though, it is a story that is a nice balance of light and intense. Thanks to its length, this was the perfect drama to binge on a long weekend and left me feeling satisfied.

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Uniquely compelling, modern adaptation; making it a worthy addition to the world of Hana Yori Dango

I'm astounded by how good this version is. It had been years since the arrival of the versions I loved that I thought this would simply be another uninspiring regurgitation of one of the most well-known stories in dramaland. But F4 Thailand provides a uniquely compelling, modern adaptation; making it a worthy addition to the world of Hana Yori Dango.

Before I go further, I wanted to mention that I adored Meteor Garden (2001) and Boys Over Flowers (2009) and it was to the point of obsession for both at the time I watched each. But looking back now objectively for the latter, I will admit it was a bad rendition. Having said that, I am certain that the praises for F4 Thailand currently are warranted that even when we look back 10 years from now, we'd feel the same way.

The heroine in this version, Gorya, is my favorite. Her introduction as an ordinary student on scholarship at an elite school otherwise attended by wealthy students convinced me, especially because of how pragmatic she sounds in her assessment of her environment. With disillusionment about the school after having learned the true nature of the students, with being well aware of her standing within this crowd and her purpose in attending the school, she had resolved to put her head down and focus on graduating without incident. But, of course, fate had other plans for her and so she ends up standing up to the most powerful person in school, Thyme, despite knowing full well the hell she'd face getting on that collision course with him, all because she does not have the heart to disregard a friend in trouble. She is courageous not because she is fearless but because she faces Thyme in spite of her fears. That makes her a rock star in my book; an ordinary girl who is extraordinary. That iconic kick to the chest WAS SO SATISFYING.

That leads me to Thyme. I will always be Team Thyme. This boy is such a brat but he's our lovable idiot. I LOVED how Gorya just renders him speechless on multiple occasions. We come to learn that he is a product of the upbringing by a mother who is less of a mother and more of a ruthless businesswoman molding Thyme to be just like her in order to run the family empire one day. Needless to say he changes to become a better person after meeting Gorya. He often looks incongruous in Gorya's world and yet is the perfect match for her. I enjoyed their bickering but it was the subtle, sweet moments between them that were so moving and dear to my heart (midnight birthday and zoo dates come to mind).

I was truly charmed by this group of F4. I'm at that age where I don't easily go crazy over hot guys but there is merit in all the girls fawning over their hotness here. I found them cool and hot and stylish that it is totally believable that they are the most popular guys in school. Aside from keeping with that aspect of the original, I thought the F4 boys are portrayed as an ensemble cast here compared to other versions. I mean, Thyme and Ren's characters hold significant roles being the main and second leads respectively, so it's no surprise that they get a lot of screen time. My reference here is more toward Kavin and MJ. They didn't feel like the 3rd and 4th members. They are vital to the story and so supportive of our leads and just plain awesome and I was happy to see them featured just as much as others.

As one of many who is extremely familiar with the original story, some of the main dramatic plot points could have turned predictable, as if I would need to patiently wait to pass so I could watch the "good" parts; in particular, in connection to the villains in the story, like the kidnapper. Often these tropes feel as if they were there to serve the advancement of the main characters, and the "villains" would then be disregarded or forgotten at the end of their time. But instead, I was at the edge of my seat here due to the gripping suspense felt throughout, thanks to the wonderful directing and editing, music and acting. Whenever there is a focus on the side characters, it transported me to their world. I paid attention. I listened to what they had to say. I did not have the urge to skip to move forward to the main characters. Everyone had a role to play and with purpose and each of their message is clearly conveyed. I particularly enjoyed Kavin and Talay's arcs. As an aside, I do want to note that I wasn't a fan of Lita, as I've never been a fan of this character no matter how good she is as a person as I've always been a steadfast supporter of our One True Pairing.

In terms of production, this team deserves just as much praise as the cast. I would consider the production team highly intelligent. They knew exactly what they are offering to us. Every detail is carefully crafted and marvelously executed. If you witnessed something on screen, even subtleties, it is because they wanted us to notice. I felt they are effective in influencing you; clever in how they use social media to contribute to the story without taking away the original feels. They pay homage to the original premise while modernizing it, as well as incorporate Thai cultural aspects into the story and all of this is seamlessly executed for such great entertainment for the viewers.

I'll end with this: if you really think about it, you have to admit that as much as we all love it, the premise of Hana Yori Dango is pretty superficial, and at times ridiculous. But somehow, F4 Thailand manages to paint this world in realism, with a lot of heart, through a smart script, amazing directing, evocative music, thoughtful characterization, and a talented young cast. I don't think any other version will ever top this.

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Firstly, I have to admit I did not pick this up initially because of the premise. I'm not opposed to age gap, only that a look at student/teacher relationships is not my first preference when there is a plethora of genres to choose from. Nevertheless, I decided to give it a try after having watched and enjoyed Watashitachi wa Douka Shiteiru and this drama stars the same lead, Yokohama Ryusei.

I was so pleasantly surprised by how tastefully the makers turned, what some would consider taboo subject, into a story with a lot of heart and laughter. Although this is mainly about the heroine teacher, Harumi, the star of the show is truly 17 year old student, Yuri, played by Yokohama Ryusei. The drama follows Yuri's transformation from a pink haired delinquent to serious student with aspirations to get into one of the most prestigious universities in Japan, and the teacher and all the adults who guide and support him as he rises to the challenge. The way he progresses towards that goal while having a major crush on his teacher, was a delight to watch. Not only does he have to battle Math, English and Modern Literature, he has to battle two other suitors for the attention of the leading lady. Yuri may be the youngest, but I found him the most mature out of all the characters in the story. His conviction and determination to reach his goal, his earnest, sincere feelings for Harumi, and his youthful simplicity in seeing things for what they are and acting on that (unlike the "adults" who choose to put up filters to fit the confines of their adulthood) had me rooting for him. I was so impressed by Yokohama Ryusei's nuanced performance, I am now a huge fan. And I will never see pink hair the same way again!

I liked Harumi as well, played by Fukada Kyoko, whom I thought was effortlessly charming. Her character is easy-going, understanding, and truly wants what is best for those around her. I can see why Yuri falls for her and though mostly platonic at first, there is no doubt she cares for Yuri from the very beginning.

You may be disappointed if all you came for is the romance. It is the driver of Yuri's desire to become studious but it is not the main focus. Regardless though, I still found that smaller part of the story extremely romantic. This is especially evident in one of my favorite scenes of the drama, where Yuri and Harumi finally opens up to one another. There is no music, no fancy editing; it is simply raw emotions on full display. I was struck by the superb acting on both fronts, especially from Yokohama Ryusei.

I found many of the other characters likable, if somewhat, cartoonish. But then again, this is a drama based on a manga and being a Japanese drama, has that quirkiness to it. There are many memorable and witty lines, with lessons to be learned from both adults and students alike. All in all, a great watch. Don't be put off by the premise and give it a try!

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I recall starting this drama a couple years ago and dropping it after the first episode that I was puzzled over the many praises from other viewers I'd come across since then. And then I watched Game Rai Game Rak recently and as I was trying to get into it (ultimately couldn't), I came across Pope Thanawat Wattanaputi and was immediately charmed by his infectious smile that I paused that drama and looked for one with him as the leading man. That's what led me to give Love Destiny a second look and this time, I finished it in a couple days. What I thought the show excelled in was in the portrayal of the two leads and the progression of their romance, as well as how the drama showcases the historical setting that is wonderfully integrated into the story. I truly felt transported to Ayutthaya in the 1680s as I watched.

The heroine, Karakade, is exceedingly likable. As a woman from modern times, she is unrestrained, extroverted, adventurous. But it was clear through flashbacks of her life in the present world that her behavior in Ayutthaya is largely due to her personality. The way Bella Ranee Campen played her, she was so charming. And she is gorgeous. It's rare to find an actress who is both talented and beautiful and she has the complete package.

Karakade would often get scolded or put down or treated with contempt, and yet, she never lashes out at anyone. She handles it with humor and a positive attitude. And this is what made what could have been heavy situations filled with laughter. She would shock folks into silence with her unconventional, quirky behavior. They really don't know what to do with her. Also, I thought it was ironic that it was the men who warms up to her first. I mean, she transmigrates to a conservative, patriarchal society where rules are made by men and women are taught to be obedient, prim and proper. Any behavior outside of that is reprimanded for it. Her cheerful, outspoken, inquisitive behavior is admired and praised by the men but not the women. I especially loathed the head servant, and to a lesser degree, Khun Pi's mother for their persistent refusal to acknowledge that Karakade is a very different and better person than she used to be. It is one of the central conflicts in the drama and too repetitive for my liking. They eventually see her in a positive light. However, that progression from hate to love wasn't satisfying. I didn't really feel the change, only that I was told a change of heart had taken place.

On the other hand, our wonderful Khun Pi’s journey from hate to curiosity to love and devotion was clearly and thrillingly illustrated. It was quite amusing seeing him crane his neck to try to catch a glimpse of whatever it is that the mischievous Karakade was up to. I'm still laughing thinking about the scene where she is doing morning yoga and she becomes aware he is watching her but promptly ignores him and continues on, as if she doesn't care how strange it would look to someone from 300 years ago. Meanwhile, he is so bemused by her activities and the way she speaks in modern tongue. And he is so serious at times that Karakade teases him often; she is adorably playful around him.

When I look at Pope as Khun Pi, all I could think is how handsome, kind, gentlemanly, refine he is; with a smile that could melt your heart. As a noble man in ancient times, Khun Pi grew up in the confines of such environment and understandably hold narrow views, which made him a bit of a douche in the beginning. He would often scold Karakade, stating that as a woman, she should behave herself. I liked how Karakade calls him out on that double standard. Fortunately, he more than made up for it. He chooses to be open-minded while fulfilling her wishes and protecting her as best he could in the position he is in. There isn't much skinship between the two and I would say theirs is a slow burn romance, but that didn't make it any less romantic. Most of the time, all they do is smile at each other or the heroine accidentally trips and falls into his arms (or lap, heh) or he gets thisclose, whispering into her ears but never touching; and all the while, I'm grinning like an idiot watching them. They are so sweet together. Also, the OST Aojaow (You) by Pete Pol perfectly captures the classy feel of their romance.

As mentioned, the ancient setting is one of the best features of this show. I would often pause the video to admire the aesthetically pleasing set designs. From the lush costumes, to the interior design, the wooden houses, the boat rides, the cuisine, even to the placement of vases and the arrangement of the ubiquitous but beautiful, bountiful lotus flowers throughout the grounds of the leads’ sprawling residence; all contributed to an authentic, elegant atmosphere. Aside from the backdrop elevating the story, the supporting cast breathed life into it as well; especially Khun Pi's father, Khun Pi's friend/second lead, and the two personal servants of Karakade. There are also many other real life historical figures interwoven into the story. When Karakade runs into one of them and gets super excited, I thought that’s what it must be like to run into people’s favorite Kpop idols nowadays. I'll be honest that I did skip around when the drama spent time on these figures. What’s strange is that I was interested enough to look them up and read about them on Wikipedia but I didn’t want to watch them in the drama. Learning of their fate via Wikipedia was enough for me and the drama did not deviate from history. I especially skipped scenes involving Constantine Phaulkon. I don't particular like the actor, and the rise and fall of his character even less.

In conclusion, I don't think this drama was as perfect as many reviews made it out to be. However, that doesn't mean it wasn't enjoyable throughout. I think the glowing reviews were due to how positively the watchers personally felt about the drama than an objective assessment of it. And I completely understand them now after giving it another chance. There was so much to appreciate, flaws and all. I left feeling happier than I did going into it.

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A hot mess in the best way possible.

This is my second Lakorn and if you've never seen this genre before, you should try it, just for the fun of it. From the acting to the music, the story, the makeup and wardrobe, they tend to get very dramatic, very fast, which makes for an entertaining watch. In Hua Jai Sila, they've got everything but the kitchen sink to amp up the story; kidnappings, bombs, sword fights, cat fights, gun fights. You name it, they'll work it into the story. If this were a kdrama, I would describe it as makjang. I had plenty of laughs watching the show, just because of the constant barrage of bizarre, WTF moments. There is no logic whatsoever. But the amazing thing is, I couldn't keep my eyes away. I got caught up in all the drama thanks to the actors who bring their characters to life. The standout of the show, hands down, is the male lead (Thor Thanapob Leeluttanakajorn). He gives a mesmerizing performance; one of the best I've ever seen. And that, comes from someone who has seen a lot of dramas; I mean, A LOT. Thanks in large part to him, I now consider this drama one of the best and one of my all time favorites. His embodiment of the role of Sila is exceptional. I do believe he carried the show to another level.

Sila is a man on a mission to mete out his revenge on those who left him for dead as a child. Now the head of several businesses, including casino and nightclub, he is charismatic, formidable, and incredibly hot. I recalled watching the beginning of the first episode and was getting ready to drop, until I saw him deliver a scathing remark and then walk off like he doesn't give a fudge, that I had to continue. He was so intriguing I wanted to see more and ended up staying for the whole drama.

Sila's romance with Min (Fern Nopjira Lerkkajornnamkul) is, of course, the most engaging part of the drama (besides him). I wasn't as bothered by Min as much as other viewers. I attributed her initial character flaw to the weak writing and looked past it; so it didn't distract me from the story. Her stupid assumptions about Sila creates conflicts as she would often seek him out to confront him, leading to intense arguments that are very compelling to witness. Their chemistry is fantastic. I felt like there were fireworks going off every time they are on screen together. The power dynamic always skew towards Sila but I did not find it aggravating. He is aggressive at times but never cruel, and their push and pull creates electrifying moments between them that made for an engrossing watch. It is the same reason why the rewatch value is so high for me. With the eagerness to know what would happen next out of the way, I was able to slowly appreciate Sila and Min's convincing portrayal of their complicated love and all the emotion, tension, and intensity that comes with it. The more I rewatched, the more I loved that it took me some time before I could move on to the next drama.

I'll say that there will be numerous occasions where you'll find yourself utilizing the skip button as you dive into this drama. It'll also require a good suspension of disbelief. But I assure you that what matters most will give you all that you need to stay with no regrets.

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Talented cast and production team makes for one unexpectedly mesmerizing drama

Conventional wisdom of C-dramas dictates that such a title, poster, and cast for this drama would all point to a fluffy romance we all flock to and then leave without another thought after finishing or dropping it. How wrong I was. There is nothing forgettable about this drama. In fact, I enjoyed this drama so much that I’d been rewatching as if I’m in a loop and spending hours writing down my feelings. I wanted to also make a note before I proceed that I wrote a rushed review immediately after I finished it. But after several rewatch, I felt it deserved a more detailed review, and I wanted to express more love for the drama, so I decided to write an updated review.

Even for a 36 episode Xianxia drama, it doesn't take long before we get to the meat of the story, so from episode 1, it easily pulls you in. The first thing I noticed was how visually stunning the drama is. It's obvious there was much thought and effort applied by the production team to create such an eye pleasing drama. In the first episode, we’re introduced to our leading lady, a young, low-rank flower fairy named Orchid (Esther Yu) from Shuiyuntian, who ends up unwittingly awakening and entangling herself with our leading man, Dongfang Qingcang (Dylan Wang), the demon lord of Changyan Sea who’d been locked up in Haotian Tower for the past 30,000 years. I still can’t move past Orchid and Dongfang Qingcang's first encounter. How stunningly colorful the galaxy like atmosphere is, the way Orchid at first panics, then freezes as if time stopped, fearful but mesmerized by the sight of the chained and unconscious Dongfang Qingcang. The way she inadvertently revives him, the kiss that completes the process as they're bonded as the music crescendos. What a spectacular start to their epic romance. I went diving into this drama without learning anything about it beforehand so the unexpected hilarity that ensues next with the temporary body swapping, we-are-one premise had me thoroughly entertained.

Dongfang Qingcang learns very quickly that he and Orchid are physically and emotionally attached to each other somehow by a seemingly unbreakable curse; so in other words, this little fairy is now his Archille's heel, much to his annoyance. For instance, every time Orchid starts bawling, Dongfang Qingcang reluctantly cries too, haha. For someone who literally has not been feeling emotions, these new out of control emotions are quite challenging for Dongfang Qingcang to manage. Orchid is unaware of the real identity of Dongfang Qingcang so she treats him like an equal, which just adds to the hilarity as they spend time together at Arbiter Hall, Orchid’s home in the fairy realm. All the chaos that results from their cursed connection and how it reduces this great lord's ego to the size of a peanut cracks me up endlessly. Esther and Dylan are fantastic together here that I couldn’t help liking both the actors and their characters immediately.

When the Immortal Emperor of the fairy realm finds out that Orchid is connected to Dongfang Qingcang, she’s tortured for information. It’s at this point that both Orchid and us bear witness to the immense power and position of Dongfang Qingcang in the three realm, as he appears from fire and smoke to rescue Orchid and then proceeds to almost annihilate the whole fairy realm before taking Orchid to Changyan Sea, his kingdom. This part was one of my absolute favorites and a highlight of the show. I also loved watching the way he is received by the people of Changyan Sea; this scene felt like the personification of the words feared and revered. Simply awe-inspiring.

For me, Changyan Sea felt like a medieval kingdom, with its darkened colors, lush velvety robes, middle eastern interior design, and the shadows and rays of lights through the windowpanes in the rooms, which all comes together to cast an aura of mystique and grandeur to this realm. Again, props to the production team for excellent set designs here. Each world is unique in its settings, colors, costumes, and background music, that there is clear distinction as to where we are in the story and these attributes lend a hand in helping you immerse yourself in the story.

At this point in the story, it's apparent that the deep impact of Orchid’s emotions on Dongfang Qingcang is no longer because of the connection from the curse, though he would not admit it himself. He has turned from figuring out ways to break the curse to ruminating about how to make Orchid happy. So he surprises her with a replica of Arbiter Hall, but that ends up exposing the chasm between them instead, namely how they’re from two different worlds; worlds that have viewed each other as enemies for hundreds of thousands of years. He seethes with anger; how he's hurt that she still wants to leave (him) to go "home." It's incredible how much he cares already; his "wei she ma" gets me every time.

Though having the freedom to roam around Changyan Sea but unable to leave, Orchid learns more about Dongfang Qingcang and the people of Changyan Sea, and it clears away misconceptions about the people and the lord himself. What stood out for me in these parts was in the way Orchid helps Dongfang Qingcang reconcile with his father and by extension, his humanity. How gentle she is as she hugs him as he breaks down. How he tries to hold it together on his own, then opens to her support and cries into her shoulder as he confronts his heartbreak of losing the father he loved.

As both Orchid and Dongfang Qingcang try to make sense of the happenings around them, they are led to the mortal realm, which covers the third act of the drama. Upon their return to Changyan Sea, it’s quite clear they’re both deeply in love and acknowledges their feelings. Each is willing to go through pain and suffering to keep the other safe, which showcases to outsiders that they truly love and deserve each other. It’s here I believe that their romance turns epic. A rush of emotions came my way as I watched these parts; how hauntingly beautiful and melancholic for these two lovebirds. As to how it all comes to an end, let’s just say I’m grateful for the short but happy ending.

I have to say I'm absolutely blown away by Dylan Wang's portrayal of Dongfang Qingcang. The assured authority, the majestic presence he carries with him held my attention at every moment. He looks MAGNIFICENT. What a grand performance as the most formidable, all powerful being in the realm. There isn't much change in his stoic expression and yet you see it, you feel it, this imposing character with complicated emotions come to life. It is evident in the way he's in complete control as he showcases his powers, or in the way he endures the burden of responsibility that comes with that power and position, or when he's seething with anger out of love. It is simply so satisfying to watch.

Then we have our adorable leading lady, Esther Yu. At first glance, her character fits the bill of female leads prevalent in C-dramas that we all hate: young, cutesy damsel in distress with high pitch baby voice. The only difference is that she's actually lovable even with all these attributes. I found her charming, genuinely cute, delicate and strong; the perfect opposite of Dylan's character, complementing him well.

I have seen Zhang Ling He as a lead in another drama that I was surprised to see him in the second lead role here. But he is perfectly cast here as the angelic Changheng. I also thought the actors who play the other major male characters like Xun Feng, Rong Hao, and Shangque did amazing.

I found the drama moves at a balanced pace. I never felt like there were fillers. Each scene has a purpose and contributes to the cohesiveness of the plot. We’re entertained by the complicated connection between Orchid and Dongfang Qingcang in the beginning. Then the story turns epic and heart tugging as it progresses. I swooned every time each saves the other. The dynamic story also allows the three talented young actors to flex their acting chops and further entertained us. As mentioned earlier, the CGI, the costumes, the set designs, and the background music all blends seamlessly together to create a truly magical world. Farewell Love by Faye Chan OST, in particular, perfectly captures the poignancy of this epic love story.

I acknowledge this is a long review but I think it just speaks to how good the drama is that it elicited such a flood of response from me as a viewer. And I'm no novice; I've been a seasoned watcher of C-dramas, and dramas in general, for years. And yet, this drama stood out as one of the best. I don't think I need to convince you to watch the drama considering the rating and the popularity it is receiving. I'm merely here to say unlike some other popular dramas, it's true what they say and the rating truly reflects the quality of this drama. Get on that bandwagon and embrace the hype; you won't be disappointed.

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I am an avid drama fan and have seen countless dramas; many of which I connected to emotionally. And yet, somehow, this show affected me far more than any other on so many levels. It touched my heart, then broke it into pieces, only to put it all back together to create an even bigger love for the show. I suffered from withdrawal for days in the aftermath.

There is a lack of substance about the show initially that appeared to support misconceptions that its popularity is undeserving. But let me tell you, as someone who had this exact thought, you'll miss out on a great and thrilling ride if you let that carry you away.

The drama begins with the unexpected meeting of a fairy named Jinmi (Yang Zi) and Phoenix (Deng Lu), heir to the throne of the heavenly realms. Soon after, she becomes sort of like his apprentice, and gradually, he falls in love with her. Jinmi is a cute, little airhead with a wide-eyed view of the world. Phoenix is playful, good-natured, and protective. There is something about his demeanor that gave me peace. I recall watching the first half passively and that's not to say the first half wasn't worth the time. It was certainly a pleasant watch, fill with beautiful people in lavish costumes; mythical creatures and characters rich in backstory to keep you thoroughly entertained. I think China's long, prolific history in art is to thank for such abundance of interesting fantasy material. And there are plenty of funny, sweet, romantic moments between our two leads to keep any romance buff happy. Add to that an exciting OST and you've already got a good show.

One of my favorite parts of the drama is Jinmi and Phoenix's time spent in the human realm, partaking in a "trial," which is kind of like a rite of passage for an individual as they seek permission to transform into an immortal god. As the story progresses and layers are peeled back from the rosy hued world, however, we begin to see the deadly and irreparable ramifications caused by the hero's seemingly good, godly parents. You'll start to question whether you were really seeing heaven when it felt like hell. This culminates in an episode that, for me, elevated the show from good to exceptionally amazing. It was a game changer. From here on out, there was no going back. You see, Jinmi is led to believe Phoenix killed her father, and in a moment of intense pain, confusion and anger, she stabs him, literally, in the back. And the most heartbreaking thing was, even at his last breathe, all he cares about is whether she loved him in return. And to which she coldly responds, "never." I was shocked by the turn of events, to say the least. Don't worry though, he will be back.

And back he is as the King of the Demon realm. Now jaded and debauched, Phoenix is unrecognizable (and super hot!). His hatred for Jinmi and revenge for what he had lost, plays out along side Jinmi's efforts to repair their relationship. The level of angst in this part of the story increases exponentially and had me completely fascinated. I pretty much plowed through the remaining episodes with zeal, no longer passively watching.

Now would be a good time to mention that Phoenix has a half brother, Runyu, who also loves Jinmi. It is his machinations that put into motion the events in the second half. After learning she has fallen victim to his trick, causing her to wrongfully "kill" the person she loves the most, in the depths of her despair as the realization hits hard for Jinmi, she confronts Runyu for all that he has done. If you thought you had any doubts about Yang Zi's talents as an actress, this would be the scene to see. You'll be blown away by her monologue; it was heartbreaking to watch.

After much hardship, Phoenix and Jinmi's reunion, which is made possible by the help of a trio of lovable characters, was so gratifying to see. But before the finale, there is an epic battle to be had (great watch in and of itself), in which Jinmi sacrifices herself for humanity, and here is where Deng Lu shines as an actor. As he sits staring into space in the immediate aftermath, you can clearly see how there's absolutely nothing left inside of him. Watching his anguish over losing the love of his life, I felt so sad for him in these scenes I don't even know how to describe it. That's why their eventual happy ending was a mend for my broken heart as much as theirs. And believe me, after what these two have gone through, they deserve every ounce of that happy ending.

I have never seen a drama with such high rewatch value before. I was amazed to learn I couldn't get enough of the scenes from the first half, the same ones I had watched without much regard the first time around. Knowing how the show would progress and conclude was in no way a detractor to enjoying it multiple times. In fact, the rewatch created opportunities to see things in a new light and appreciate the things I had overlooked. It's kind of like when you fall in love with someone you've known for a long time and you discover these wonderful things about them as a result that made you question how you could have missed it all before. The look back also made me marvel at how much change there is to Jinmi and Phoenix's relationship dynamic over the course of the story.

I cannot praise this show enough. It will forever go down as one of my favorite love stories ever, and if anyone ever ask me why I love dramas so much, I'll show them Ashes of Love and it would be more than enough to serve as an explanation.

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I'll preface my review to say that my evaluation of this drama is based solely on the story of the leads; I had no interest or patience for any other side story (especially the second leads') and mercilessly skipped over scenes that does not involve the leads.

I'm a huge fan of hate to love premise and this drama delivered in that respect. This is a really enjoyable watch because the leads are such strong actors oozing with chemistry. Their explosive arguments are like a guilty pleasure and I binged the whole drama.

The "hate" here is caused by the murder of Suree, the twin sister of the male lead, Suriyen (Athichart (Aum) Chumnanon), presumably by her husband, who's on the run. The female lead, Thantawan (Chippy Sirin Preediyanon), is the husband's sister. The story begins with Suree's funeral and the reading of the will and who would be responsible for her son, Pete. At one end of the spectrum, we have Suriyen, a relative stranger who has never been a part of Pete's life, suddenly here, with the law on his side (he is declared guardian of the boy in the will). He has every reason to suspect the father as the murderer since his sister left a telling voicemail. And he believes Pete's aunt colluded with her brother to murder the mother. The aunt on the other hand, whom the boy loves very much, sees in the man nothing but a mobster you would not want anyone close to, let alone her nephew. So there is much antagonism between the boy's aunt and uncle as a result and massive chasm between the two from the outset.

Aum is so good at playing bad boys. I recently watched an old drama of his and despite how terrible his character is, it kept me watching because he's such a good actor. He's even better here. He aged so well; simply exudes confidence and authority and looks real good while doing it. I also really liked the female lead. She displays mental fortitude in the face of many challenges brought upon by Suriyen. And boy, he is real rough on her in the beginning. I loved her bring-it-on attitude in response. It was amusing to see him get all worked up because of her. She is also mature and empathetic. When she discovers how scarred he is (literally), she begins to see that he is just a misunderstood, lonely soul. With patience and understanding (but telling it like it is), she helps him bond with his nephew, the only family he has left. There are some fun, comedic parts as he softens up ever so slowly. But when he finally opens up to Thantawan, you'll realize how much he has suffered and how lacking in love his life has been. And when he asks her to stay with him, that she and Pete are his only family, my heart broke. After the three of them bond, they are like a little family. It was so cute. When Pete hugs Suriyen, my heart just melted. And the date at the end was so sweet (I can't stop laughing at "love you, kiss kiss"). Also, I've never seen someone declare his love on a speedboat before. I loved it.

You can expect gun fights, violence and abuse against women and children here, as is typical of Lakorns. But as described above, there is plenty to love about this drama. In a way, it is about one man's journey to learn to love again and become human in the process.

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I'm a new fan of Lakorns and as I got more acquainted with this genre, I would often come across Sawan Biang on recommendation lists, even though it is relatively old. But I'd been putting off watching because of the subject matter; I didn't know if I could handle it. I finally mustered up the courage to watch it and I must say all the good and bad things folks have said about this drama is all true. It sounded horrible on paper and for the most part, the ugliness described is accurate. But you have to see it to understand why in spite of the train wreck that is before you, you can't look away. I ended up thinking that Sawan Biang is not just a great Lakorn but a great drama in general. It is one of those shows that gave me pause to say to myself THIS is why we watch dramas. I was blown away by the twisted love story and the incredible acting. The way Ken Theeradeth Wongpuapan portrays Kawee, he felt like a living, breathing person, not just a character. He is Narin's worse nightmare. He terrorizes her. He bullies and humiliates her. He is belligerent, reckless; he lashs out at anyone and everyone who gets in his way. And yet, he elicited sympathy from me. I don't know what that says about me. But that's honestly how I feel. You could see in him feelings of regret, remorse for what he has done as he is doing it, as poor Narin cries with heartbreaking despair. Even if those conflicting feelings are fleeting, it is there. But instead of clinging onto that thread of humanity, he ignores it and bulldozes his way down a destructive path, as if he doesn't know any other way of being. In the mist of all this, he somehow falls in love with Narin. It is an all encompassing love, one where without Narin, he wouldn't survive. This eventually leads him to the humble road to redemption. And despite all that has happened, I rooted for them all the same. I felt that the only way they could heal was through love. And when Kawee gets down on his knees to ask for a second chance and Narin gets down on her knees to accept him, my heart swelled with happiness for them. Many may wonder how Narin can forgive. I think it's simple: she has a big heart. It's the reason Kawee targeted her in the first place; it's also the reason for their salvation.

Sawan Biang is an unforgettable melodrama, filled with extremely flawed characters. It's also about love, forgiveness, redemption. I ask that you watch it first before passing judgement. It's one of the best dramas I've ever seen.

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This show is the perfect blend of all the genres I love: mystery, thriller, romance, historical, martial arts. There is a clear quality to this drama that sets itself apart from conventional martial arts shows we see nowadays. It reminded me of classic films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The fight sequences are well choreographed, and are actually there to serve the story, as well as pump excitement into the show.

The story revolves around murder mysteries in the vein of Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None. Tim Yu plays the titular detective, Jian Bu Zhi. Highly intelligent and observant, he commends respect with his calm, rational assessment of the puzzling, and sometimes supernatural, events in the drama. But unlike other famous detective characters like Sherlock Holmes, he is friendly, warm, and humble. And for that reason, he has not only the admiration and respect from those around him for his detective skills, but love and support, because they actually like him as a person. And because he isn't a martial artist in a world filled with skillful fighters, there are a number of characters that are fiercely protective of him. One in particular is his best friend, Zhao Wo Huan (Wang Yan Yang). The story begins with the two of them as strangers, crossing paths unexpectedly and becoming fast friends. I was not familiar with either of them as actors before this, but found they have excellent screen presence and carry the show with ease. Personality wise, they are complete opposites, but somehow, they complement each other. Their bromance is strong here and the two friends have a natural ease to their relationship that is fun to watch.

Along the way, the duo meet a myriad of characters. I particularly love the introduction to each new character. Though short and often plays in flashbacks, the show effectively lays the ground work for the role each would play in the current environment. I especially love the look back on Zhan Shi Qi (Rachel Wang), shown with a beautifully shot fight sequence, and a moving soundtrack and narrative that perfectly captures the essence of her character and the hopes and dreams she has. The scene evokes vulnerability and humanness to her assassin character that had me invested in her romance with Jian Bu Zhi right away. I don't agree with other viewers that their romance is unnecessary. Though not central to the story, it stands on its own and it was riveting. What I couldn't get behind is the romance for the second leads, between Zhao Wo Huan and Ming Yue (Miranda Ma). It's unfortunate because this is a story that had so much potential for a cute romance. But I just couldn't get pass the fact that for the majority of the drama, he is being lied to. Ming Yue is a spy; to infiltrate into the group without suspicion, she pretends to be a damsel in distress in need of a rescue and her easy target is Zhao Wo Huan. Though it is hinted early on that she may have sincere feelings for him, there isn't much development to their relationship except for the fact that she continues to pretend to be weak to take advantage of him. It isn't until the very end that he finds out. But fine, whatever, I've made peace with my disappointment in that regard.

I'll admit the culprits to some of the cases are easy to predict. What is done well, however, is in the presentation of the how and why. I loved watching Jian Bu Zhi get to that light bulb moment and then explains how everything works. Don't worry about what is often the case with long, drawn out Chinese historical dramas, where you may find yourself skipping to "get to the good parts," because I don't recall skipping a single scene here. The mysterious happenings are interesting throughout, and the reveals are clever and satisfying. Maybe that's also because it is 24 episodes in length, which is a lot shorter than others in the same genre. It is the perfect amount of episodes to flesh out the characters and stories, and still keep an exciting pace as we move along from one story arc to the next. The show's use of background music is also something that stands out. As I heard the music prepping for the next scene of action to start, it had me brimming with excitement for what was to come.

There is an amazing twist at the end that I felt blindsided by. This is one of those few dramas where I believe a second season will work. That's not to say the ending isn't satisfying for the hours I put in. We get sufficient closure, but simultaneously, there is opportunity for the next chapter to be written, which is something I am certainly looking forward to.

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After recently watching Hajimete Koi wo Shita Hi ni Yomu Hanashi and loving it so much that it rendered me to reacquaint myself with Japanese shows/films, I noticed they tend to get rated lower than those from other countries of the same level on this site. In a similar vein, I felt this film deserved significantly higher rating than it currently holds. This was not your garden-variety high school romance. It spanned beyond that to showcase the importance of friendship, self-love, and having the courage to face your fears, to live without regret; not just for yourself, but for those who you hold dear. The film follows a group of friends and how they come together in the hopes of changing the trajectory of a friend’s life to save him when given a second chance.

On the surface, Kakeru (Yamazaki Kento) appears like any other teenager. Though new to the school, he immediately connects with a group of classmates who welcomes him with open arms. They do not know, however, that he is putting on a veil of normalcy. I don't believe this is intentional; after all, he looks the happiest around them. And for this reason, they are oblivious to how dark his days can be, that he is grieving for a mother who has committed suicide. As an adult viewer, it is clear to me that his mother’s choice was years in the making, one who appears to have lost the fight with her internal demons. But how is a 17 year old boy who only ever had his mother as a parent supposed to make sense of that and move on? Kakeru is drowning in guilt and self-hate. And for his friends, how can they have the foresight to reach out to someone who is silently enduring and never voices his thoughts?

The answer comes in the form of mysterious letters to Naho (Tsuchiya Tao) from her future self, a decade from now, from a world in which Kakeru no longer exist. This is how the story of Kakeru and Naho begins. One of the girls in the group Kakeru befriends, Naho is soft-spoken, kind, and considerate. Their romance is sweet and filled with squeal-worthy moments. Set in a city in the valley of mountains, the cinematography beautifully captures the surrounding environment to create a warm atmosphere that complements well with the innocent and delicate nature of their romance.

As Naho learns more about the future and Kakeru, she realizes she needed to, and wanted to, break out of her reticent nature to reach him. This growth in her character is satisfying to see. But it isn’t a job she can accomplish alone, and so eventually, their four other friends partners up with her to be there for Kakeru before he is too far gone. This was the surprise element of the film that I wasn’t expecting, this wonderful display of group friendship. It was so heartwarming to watch them foster a supportive environment where Kakeru can feel comfortable opening up and sharing the challenges he faces; to show him that they care, that they will share his burden, that if there is a task he must do alone, they will be there to support him so he can accomplish his goal. And this outpouring of love and encouragement, and making memories together, are what ultimately shifts Kakeru’s mindset, saving him from the precipice. Watching these scenes made me feel a rush of emotions. Their elation was my euphoria; my feelings soared as I cheered alongside them, and for Kakeru.

I also felt traces of melancholy in the mist of the light atmosphere throughout the film, and this feeling never went away. But there is a message of optimism at the end. I read somewhere that the happiest people on earth are the ones surrounded by loved ones they hold meaningful relationships with. This film is evident of that, and that this belief is so powerful, it could even save a person’s life.

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This drama will always hold a special place in my heart. It was one of the most heart-warming, romantic, and funny shows I have ever seen. I have so much feels for this show it's hard to articulate with words at times. Whenever I watch it again, I have a goofy smile on my face.

The vast majority of the story follows the last few years of Jiang Chen (Hu Yi Tian) and Xiao Xi's (Shen Yue) high school days. Though this is set in China and I never attended school in China, I found myself reminiscing about my school days because of the show. There are wonderful display of simple, yet all consuming, life in high school; like making life long friends, excitement of sitting next to your crush, daunting task of trying to get into a good college, playing hooky and avoiding teachers, and dealing with parents who are also dealing with you (especially Xiao Xi's parents who made me laugh with how befuddled they are, not knowing how to handle the enigma that is their teenage daughter). The best part of all this of course is Xiao Xi's puppy crush on Jiang Chen. That's how I would describe her, like a little puppy following him wherever he goes. I really can't fault her for being such a little dummy because she is just so adorable. I'm a grown woman but watching their interactions had me feeling excited like a teenager for their innocent, budding romance. And Hu Yi Tian is so swoon-worthy. Both him and Shen Yue really embody these characters.

The show then transitions to college days, then adult days, as each character embarks on various new adventures. I enjoyed the whole show but it was the parts set in high school that were my favorites. Again, just such a heart-warming show; an instant pick me up. Sometimes I wish life were as simple and innocent as the days in high school. But thanks to this little gem, you get to live it again.

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With a picturesque town by the ocean as backdrop, this romantic comedy delivered a breezy watch with its tried and true story. I appreciate aesthetics as much as story in dramas and the cinematography perfectly captures life by the ocean and elevates the look and feel of the show.

As a fan of cold male, bubbly female trope, I found the pairing of Misaki (Kiritani Mirei) and Kanata (perfectly sun-kissed Yamazaki Kento) captivating. From the get-go, they have crackling chemistry and their bickering banter was one of my favorite parts of the show.

I have read criticism of Kanata's personality but I did not find it off putting. As an established chef at his family restaurant, he is focused, hard-working, and holds a no nonsense attitude. And into this world comes an outsider whom at first glance appears shallow, so I couldn't fault him for not being as welcoming as his brothers towards Misaki.

After the initial misunderstanding between them, he unexpectedly becames a friend and confidant to Misaki, albeit grudgingly. As they work together in the kitchen, spending days and nights creating dishes aiming to complement each other, it quickly becomes clear that he is the sort of man who shows affection with actions rather than words; the kind of person that is honest and would be there for you when you needed them the most. I loved watching his gradual shift from annoyance to growing attraction to thoughtful consideration of Misaki, all the while, never changing who he is. I was completely enthralled by those silent, smoldering looks he gives her!

Some may find Misaki's character unflattering and I'll admit I felt the same way at first. She is naive and her conduct is embarrassing. But you've got to understand that she is also a struggling pastry chef wishing for universal things in life, like a thriving career and love life. I merely felt her execution needed some work. We see she has what it takes soon after her arrival at the restaurant though, as she shows her strength by standing up to Kanata. Her determination to create the perfect pastry and the tenacity to not give up until she has accomplished that goal makes Kanata see her in a new light. He realizes her work isn't perfunctory, but rather, she loves her profession and is devoted to it. I found her enthusiasm for new things and love of cakes (me too!) endearing. I get a good laugh every time she adorably exclaims in excitement about something, only to be met with a silent stare from Kanata. Her character really shines at the juncture where Kanata faces an existential crisis as the family as he knows it appears to no longer exist. It is Misaki who patiently waits and draws Kanata out, to serve as the connector to bring the brothers back together.

Viewers may have been frustrated with the last arc of the story, and although I didn't agree with Kanata's approach, I understood nonetheless. We see earlier how he deals with the unexpected dilemma of his biological mother. Disregarding his feelings, he helps her without asking for anything in return. That shows character and maturity. I believe he thought the same way about looking out for Misaki's future. That said, I did want to knock some sense into him so I was relieved when he finally acts on his feelings this time to chase after Misaki.

As you can probably tell from my review, I have a lot of love for this drama and think it deserves a better rating than it currently has. Conventional it may be, but also refreshing; a true hidden gem with misunderstood characters. And the idyllic setting had me feeling nostalgic for summer. So don't mind the negative reviews and see for yourself!

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