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Too many dramas, so I'm short listing them. I dropped Gu Family Book. =P I'm strict about story over pretty. And Mandate of Heaven is coming up. (My Sageuk Korean is still weak)
Cultural Note of the week: Given Names, but separate post, since there is a linky attached to it... I need to give credit. And it'll be a bit long. I debated trying something else, but it's come up a few times in the dramas/shows this week. (Like why is Phil Soon so funny? And why is Making it Kwang Soon make it funny? And why Jin Woo and Seon Woo share a part of their name?) Also for My Sassy Girl, Choon Hyang and the whole name book thing. You'll get all of that with the ginormous post.
On the Boston Bombings
I'm really sorry for all those who have suffered. In addition, I really, really hoped that the suspects would neither be Muslim or Middle Eastern. >.<;; I'm sorry about this turn of events as religious intolerance will probably raise higher. I'm really disappointed. Disappointed that this had to happen at all. Disappointed that only Muslims are going to take the heat for this crap. I'm hoping that my ominous predictions won't turn out like I think they will. A little education could go a long way.
And please ignore Fox News. I mean, really ignore their tripe.
Back to dramas.
Nine(No Spoilers)
I hate drawn out milked makjang for the sake of itself. As a viewer and a writer, I really have no patience for makjang for the sake of itself and don't find it sad one bit. So I disliked episode 14, but liked episode 13. Probably not popular opinion. =P I don't care if it's not popular.
(BTW, I hate it because it fails to anchor the heart in anything new and tries too hard. Both which I was told not to do with writing.)
I'm saying this now, they better have a change up next week from this, or I'm probably ditching. (And I am that strict).
Hwasin(Coded spoilers)
The switched formats permanently. It's like learning how to date Korean style. =P That given, I loved the first half, not so much the second. He's so innocent. Is he into the older women??? At 26 and the teacher and Hee Seon bit?
Galileo 2
So far, not as good as 1. But I'll give it a chance.
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku(No Spoilers)
There isn't much romance, though, thus far. Strong female character, who is intelligent and underestimated by her male counterparts. I like that. However, after watching Osen, and then a streak, not biting this one. Too soon.
Carole will probably like it, but for me, I've watched far too many of these type of dramas, so I'll probably not watch this one unless I'm really stuck.
Kazoku Game (Spoiler light, for first episode)
I like the actor, Sakurai Sho, I don't like the premise at all. I'll go over this for a length.
I think Sakurai Sho took this drama mainly as an extension of The Quiz Show 2, which was, pretty good. (Especially since his recent dramas have him acting "good") I don't fault him for that.
However, the show has several flaws that I can't swallow and is a bit atypical for a Japanese show.
- The premise that killing someone is worse than being teased and bullied until he feels like a robot.
Usually Japanese shows don't rank feelings. This one does.
- The stereotypical Japanese family. Including a flat female character (who doesn't pass the Bechdel test) Or pass much else either since she plays only one role--mother. May pass it later, but I really don't care to find out.
- The explicit child abuse by the main character which just turns out to be more bullying. (And the idea, somehow, that by making it worse than what he experienced, that'll make him stronger, which goes against every psychological study I know. PTSD is a truth for many bullied kids. Making it worse doesn't make PTSD get better.)
There is also the single person trying to reform a family motif, which isn't my favorite of Japanese theming. (I really like the Slice of Life the best). Kaseifu no Mita is in the same vein, if you don't know what I'm talking about. (Which was also wildly popular in Japan)
So this is a strong skip for me, though I somehow made it through the first episode. (Though I got unpleasantly triggered at the same time.) Anyway, strong warning against those who do get triggered for child abuse and bullying...
Anyway, this isn't to say a bad drama. I mean there are BAD dramas. This is to say, not my taste for the above reasons. Someone else may be able to stomach it, especially for Sakurai Sho's sake.
Doubles ~ Futari no Keiji
Skip for now. Meh, I like female dominated shows. And it starts that way, but then men take over and I lost interest. What? There are dramas out there marketed to men. Didn't find this one offensive though.
Sennyu Tantei Tokage
Backburner. Matsuda Shota--I tend to like his acting and he can do a range when he's given the chance. He also was good in Liar Game, but he tends to be given one note roles... I'd love to see him handle more range. Renbutsu Misako- this role isn't a stretch for her.
Has a lot of famous people as guests, though. And I have to admit I can pick their faces out with only their voice. TT I've watched so many of these.
So the weak point is the writing. It has a stellar cast not being pushed (yet). Making it a passable watch.
Strong backburner.
Barefoot Friends
A rough start, but it was funny. Probably be good for the 1 day 2 nights fans. Yoon Si Yoon features heavily in camera time, mostly because he's amusing. (He also says he was born in 1985 (In English), though his profile says he was born in 1986. ?.?) 27 in Western Years. 28 in Korean.
Still watching the same from last week, including Gu Am Heo Joon, Last Cinderella (Still hot), Running Man (Still funny, though I found the female guest weak...), Otenki Onee-san, All About My Romance (backburner though--the pacing grates against Nine's pacing, so never back to back.) and Lee Soon Sin (I hate the grandmother a whole lot. ^^;; Might be just me though. My own Korean grandmothers were never that narrow-minded. Strong, yes, but not annoying like her). Skipping/dropped: Queen of the Office. (Korean remakes of Japanese shows never do so well for me.), Gu Family Book (Nine is at fault for this), and anything that looked like melodrama.
I chose this topic after Hwasin, Nine, and Soon Sin all started to cover this topic.
References need to be gotten out of the way first. http://kluster.com.au/issue/seven/suk-kuhn-oh/
belectricground.com/2011/08/08/korean-language-and-culture-series-korean-names-part-4/ (read the previous parts too)
Huge credit to the second, a little credit to the first.
The second link covers the following:
- Conventional naming practices
- Hanja v. Hangeul names
- Generational names
- Japanese derived names
- Funny names (Why Pil Soon is funny, for example--meaning last daughter... also Soon is very feminine. From Hwasin.)
- And cultural names.
The first link is about Cheol Soo and Yeong Hee, which is referenced in the second link. (I haven't found a translation) It's pretty much like the Dick and Jane books for Americans. (Cheol Soo is also a very common male name)
So I'll cover what this post didn't cover.
- Generational names
- How to choose names
- Family fighting.
- Hanja eccentricities
- How to win naming your child what you want when the family disagrees with you.
- The naming dream.
- Naming superstitions (old ones)
First, a little history, (quick, since the series that was done covers the majority of it).
Korean names were originally three syllables (mostly) with no surnames. It wasn't until the importation of Chinese culture with probably Buddhism that changed this and made for the yangban, surnames, which eventually leaked into the lower classes, albiet quite slowly. This is why in Three Kingdoms historical dramas, you often get three syllable names, but they aren't really surnames. (And some people on dramawiki get confused about this.) For example, the name: Soseono (From Jumong) is one name. It does not contain a surname. It's a bit difficult to find these names though.
After the Three Kingdoms era, and the coming in of Chinese, derived names, many names also became Chinese-derived, following Chinese naming conventions. This included the importation of books to tell you which generational name you should use.
That given before the 1990's, most names, especially traditional ones followed this convention. So that all your cousins in the same generational line of the same sex (though sometimes also all the opposite sex) had the same name.
For example, my Korean cousin has the shared character "Yoon". If I had other female cousins, they'd all have the first generational name of "Yoon" So that anyone after us will also know that our generation is "Yoon" Any sisters underneath my father would also have Yoon.
My brother, however, didn't get "Yoon" since the Chinese character used for Yoon is girly, but it's likely that his first character of his name meaning "Sky/Heaven" probably would have been the generational name.
There are cases where it comes second, such as in Nine's characters of Jin Woo and Seon Woo.
This means in given names there is also a personal name to differentiate. "Seon" and "Jin" in this case are the personal part of their names. Meaning that the characters are named traditionally, which fits with the personality of their father.
Mine is "Mi" meaning "Pretty" or "Beauty" which isn't used in male names, typically. (Unless with something explicitly male. Such as Mi Nam. Nam, meaning man in this case).
Sometimes the nickname will come from the personal name, not the generational name, but that's only for people you're really close to. (You don't usually see this in K-dramas though)
Only difference against Chinese names that Korean names don't follow, is that they don't number the children typically.
However, in the 1990's after backlash against the loss of culture, etc, many people wanted to use Korean-derived names only. This includes "Haneul" which is a Korean word for "Sky" and also just chose names they just liked because of the historical context (such as Choon Hyang)
So about choosing names and Family fighting over them.
Koreans are very, very particular about names. You can get a taste of this in My Sassy Girl, Choon Hyang (which I refuse to call otherwise 'cause the title matches My Sassy Girl movie on purpose) When Choon Hyang is fake pregnant in a stunt, the father spends hours trying to write hanja characters (Chinese characters) for the name and repeat them over and over. You can also see this in Bad Family.
Koreans choose the following criteria (most of the time):
- Sound --softer-sounding consonants are usually used. ㅂㅈㄷㄱㅅㅁㄴㅇㄹㅎ over: ㅃㅉㄸㄲㅆㅋㅌㅊㅍ Korean culture has a lot of emphasis on sound of the language. (You can look up bright and dark vowels as an example.) Harder consonants/vowel combinations are also considered more masculine, I believe, as well. "Cheol" in "Cheol Soo" "Cheon" etc.
- Spelling-Sometimes the same hanja character can be pronounced two different ways. So for example, ryeong, v. yong, meaning "dragon" can be spelled with the same character, but the hangeul is different. So these things are also weighed. (Alliteration... for example)
- Meaning- Meaning is fought over a whole lot within a family. It gives the hopes of the family for that individual. You can see this for Yoon Eun Hye. She has a name that says pretty much gracious and forgiving. Do you remember how she had that streak of bad dramas because she was paying off favors? There you go. Her name says it all.
- Alternate meanings. (Where the whole name combined means something else in Korean, though the hanja, etc mean something else.)
- Hanja spelling- This comes from my own family history and overlaps with the whole family fighting over names thing.
- And usually historical context. (For example, if someone famous in their family has the name, or someone terrible has the name)
My Korean father named me as soon as he saw me calling me "Bright Beauty". However, since my grandfather from my mother's side is also a Gimhae Kim and also my father's paternal senior, was pissed off by this (from what I know of him--he was traditional and very, very stubborn.... but so are most of my family)
So when it came to naming my brother, Appa and my grandfather fought a whole bunch the entire pregnancy over the name. (Even though it's a little useless). Because it's a generational name, and sometimes you don't have the generational naming book, other people will also join in fighting, because it affects THEIR children too. It's not just yours you are naming. You are naming a generation.
So my grandfather and my father came to an agreement over what the sounds would be in Hangeul. Then agreed on the hanja meaning of the name of my brother, but then they endlessly fought over the SHORTENED hanja spelling. Not the actual spelling of the name in hanja, nor the meaning of the hanja, but they fought over how the hanja would be shortened so my brother could write it more easily since the second character of the name is a bear to write. Even if the shortened hanja was only there for sound purposes, Appa fought because his version of the hanja shortening was ONE stroke shorter than my grandfather and my grandfather was the one that finally won and that was the one that got associated with my brother's name. Probably because he was still bitter that I got named without being consulted. (I wonder if he had an alternate for me) and because he was older than my father. (My father was still bitter over it 20 years later--yeah...).
You can see a whole lot about Korean naming in that little family history.
My brother ended up with a super powerful Korean name, and super masculine, which is in contrast to my own name. (Which is super feminine) Even in Chinese naming conventions, I was told by someone who lives in Hong Kong that is a super powerful name.
Oh and you win by being older and being more stubborn than anyone.
On to Korean name dreams.
I was named Bright Beauty for two reasons. One was because I was smiling and Appa saw me and instantly knew that was my name. The other was the naming dream he had. This is the belief that dreams tell when someone is pregnant. He dreamed of the "Bong Hwang" which is kinda a Korean Phoenix (It's not the directional bird). (My brother was named after a dragon, which according to mythology, has a King connotation to it. The Azure Dragon--look it up... He was named after that. You can see the enormous pressure my family was trying to put on him.) Anyway, since I was born first, I think Appa was trying to emulate the "Bong Hwang" in my name. Also the Bong Hwang is associated with Princesses and Queens in Korea. =P Yeah, so you can see what the hopes of my family were in that whole thing.
Oh and Sook, Ja tell someone is in their 50's and up usually. (And female)
Soon is usually overwhelmingly female in the second position, which is why "Kwang Soon" was the joke on Running Man. This is a bit more modern, though, from what I understand.
In the old, old days before modern medicine, the first 100 days you gave your child a "demon" name so that the child would not get "stolen" by the evil spirits. Which probably has two facets. One is so the child won't cry, the other is so the child won't die. The official name would be given at the 100 day birthday ceremony, which was deemed old enough to give a good name. (But considering my own family, isn't it 100 additional days of arguing over what the name should be? kekeke) This was taken from a similar Chinese tradition, though. It's not done anymore... (though Korean pregnancy myths probably outmatch Chinese ones... Koreans are so superstitious--I was told that multiple times by Koreans who grew up in Korea.)
I hope you'll get more of the jokes on dramas with this. Also get that Koreans are really, really passionate about their names.
wow, that was fascinating to learn. I'd managed to pick up a few things out of dramas (I've never seen a drama boy/man with the character 'Hye' anywhere in their name, is all I retained) but having it explained like that is on another level altogether.
Mostly hard sounds make it sound like the person will end up "hard". Koreans can be superstitious.
That's what I know... the rest I'd have to take a crack at.
I have personal prejudices towards names that tend to match up with Korean aesthetics (though it took me years to figure that out) Some of my prejudices may or may not match. And some of them I know I got from L.M. Montgomery.
So, I would favor nasals such as m and n for transitional sounds. So if you have a hard consonant at the end of one, then a transitional sound such as m or n, would smooth it through. So for example, "Sook" I would want a "m" or "n" sound after it. Sook Mi. Sook Go I wouldn't like.
I tend to really dislike too many s type of sounds in a name. Kinda sounds slithery and can be grating.
I don't like hard sounds in the middle of a name most of the time, though I don't mind plosives such as b or p (softer p).
I tend to like y as a transitional sound. (ee) and bright vowels at the end of names. ^^;; (ah and Oh)
soft j, g, h, w, r, t I consider middle of the road sounds. Neither hard or soft. I tend to like them at the beginning of names.
k and ch I tend to consider harder sounds along with the usual aspirated... p' does show up in names as does ch, but I've very rarely seen k' and t' (t'ae is the only one I can think of in names)
Vowels, I would think follow the yin yang rules a little. (Dark and light) oh and ah being "bright" But I'm not sure how or if that plays in.
Some of my aesthetics with sound are definitely Korean-based. Especially since I didn't like my English name and it turned out that my Korean father didn't like my American name either for sound reasons too (name meaning reasons too). So some of my prejudices since I was in Korea until 5 years old and was fairly fluent (lost it later, though I still have it stored somewhere) still play into how I view English (and suffered with it) and what words I generally like =P. (Learning later that it's something you're taught and you're not that insane helps.)
I carry a lot of the same name prejudices too. I named my friend's baby because she knew my obsession with names. So I have her a long name list. I checked against meaning, sound and history. =P
Take your pick. Though I also think my prejudices are somewhat from being a writer too, and having a vested interest in language. Not sure how much is Korean, me, or just writer's obsession.
I would think, though, that name meaning is far more important. since that truly carries the hopes of the family.
Absolutely fascinating. And what a pain in the neck. My mom tacked on -lynn to the end of mine and my sisters names. I was the first one to have a girl and I refused to do so. My sisters had a fit. You thought I was betraying the country or something. Most of my nieces have a -lynn somewhere in their names. Even my brothers followed suit. However, the convention my mom used to find my brothers names doesn't appear to have been considered for the nephews. That my son's name does follow the convention is more a coincidence then any planning on mine and my exhusband's part.
Frankly, I'm not a big fan of conventions that just lead to fighting in a family.
I think Yoshitaka Yuriko is one of the better actresses from her generation along with Toda Erika, Ishihara Satomi and Inoue Mao. Tho I can take it or leave it for the latter two.
The new role isn't that much of a stretch for her. Mainly I'm against her for 1, because there was a love line in 1 I wanted resolved. ^^ I can understand why they did it from a story telling point, but I think taking a risk in changing format a bit wouldn't hurt.
Though the bit with the rock in Episode 1 made me laugh. Ham-fisted attempt on his part as it was. So nerdy.
Were there ever hints of loveline between them in the 1st season? It's been long since I watched the 1st season. I just think that he's too committed to his science to ever have romantic interest in her.
@lmk
There was a light loveline going, which is what ,made the rock scene work in 2.
*SPOILER*
He gives her the rock and explains long and hard about it's properties and how it's *like* a diamond, but far more useful. She then quips that he could have given her a diamond instead...
idk, maybe it really is me because honestly, her acting does nothing for me.
toda erika is very hit or miss for me. imo, sometimes her tendency to overact gets in the way. i do like ishihara satomi a lot though, and inoue mao i think isn't amazing, but is good and also extremely likeable, i find.
Yeah. I can kinda see why some would feel that way. I'm biased tho since I tend to like most of her dramas. And I love her personality when she was guesting in varieties. LOL. Same goes with Toda Erika. It's actually hard to find a really good young j-actresses nowadays.
i'm really conflicted when it comes to toda erika. i really liked all her dramas pre-2010 (LG/RnK/Keizoku/BOSS, and even code blue, which was a semi-snorefest but i loved her character). i just haven't liked her in any of her recent works lols.
It seems like there's a lot that most of you likely don't know about the bombing situation, but I know it's for the best that it stays out of the discussion here. Maybe it would be a good idea to stay on topic and avoid expressing one's views about news channels...unless they did a story on KDrama!
LizJ, I agree. Let's please leave politics and religion out of the thread. The assumption that people a) agree with you and/or b) enjoy your opinions is slightly offensive. There's so many other really critical things to talk about, like the real reason Jonghwa dropped out of Heirs or what is up with the mom in Lee Soon Shin.
ahhhhh, come on, I totally get the mom...poor thing.
First, she thinks her husband that she never had any reason to doubt, who died so unexpectedly, played a TERRIBLE trick on her 20 plus years ago, not to mention the terrible thing he'd have to have done in order to be able to do it. Not only that, but in her head 'everyone' knew but her. Mother-in-law, best friends, husband, all laughing at her.
I gave her a ton of credit for not taking it out on the innocent person involved and still being a loving person, but the minute I saw her with the very person Mom has terrible fears about, then it just twists that knife so deeply that how can Mom NOT react? And you know it's killing her to do it...but she must be wondering if that person knows, too.
Poor mom's heart is breaking, her whole world has been called into question. She tried not to listen to the suspicions she had, but the circumstantial evidence and coincidences just pile too high to make that possible, now.
@skelly
I am totally curious as to why Yonghwa dropped out of Heirs as well!!! The article I read said his agency and the production company couldn't agree on some character details... I wonder what that means??? I wonder who will replace him.
Anyways, even though I am a fan of his, he can't act very well, plus the whole Park Shin Hye thing, I'm glad he is not doing the project.
I think the problem isn't understanding Lee Soon Shin's mom - poor ahjumma, really - but it's more about tolerating her pain on screen. I mean, she's putting a bit of a damper on a drama which is supposed to be cute and fun xO. I mean, she's just there, wallowing in self-pity, and we all understand her pain but it's difficult to stay interested or keep rooting for her if she just keeps feeling sorry for herself x--x.
It's like when an acquaintance has suffered a terrible loss but you can't really do anything to comfort them. And they're just.. there, feeling sad all the time and they have every right to, but you just feel awkward because you don't know what to do.
@JoAnne... I understand the mom in the sense that obviously she's going to be all shaken up, but it's NOT LEE SOON SHIN's fault and she should not take it out on her.
Imagine if Lee Soon Shin was a baby or toddler... would she put her in front of the door? To me, this is a situation when an adult has to act like an adult and separate one's personal hurt from the individual that is part of what is causing the pain but has NO FAULT in that pain.
Of course, Lee Soon Shin is not a child, but an adult, which means Mom has had years to know what a wonderful daughter she is. It also raises the question whether Mom would have thrown out her "blood" daughters, or only the "adopted" one. Not a nice question to think about.
Bottom line: Mom needs to act like an adult. She has every right to feel hurt and betrayed, but she should not act it out on Soon Shin. She should TALK to her family (all of them) and let them know what is troubling her so deeply.
I agree with JoAnne. She is still dealing with the very sudden death of her husband, and she went from having guilt feelings about not treating him better to feeling she was betrayed all these years by him, so in essence her whole life was built on lies (I personally don't believe that the husband is Soon Shin's father - which may be why we're watching the Mom suffer now so to appreciate her relief more.)
She also feels betrayed by Soon Shin because she told her many times not to go into acting and she's doing it behind her back.
Harsh? Yes, but it my mind totally understandable. That poor woman has been through so much in such a short period of time. Also, I've seen the Moms in these things be a lot harsher on their kids for a lot less!
@ alua
I agree with joannne
feeling that you've been tricked and taken as a fool for SO MANY years, and taken advantage of you kindness kinda prevents one from acting "fair" or "adult". I'm with you its unfair to Soon shin, but since the father is already dead, and she can't take it out on him, soon shin the the constant reminder that she was fooled. Its still early on, and she needs much more time to move on. In real life, some ppl move on while others unfortunately DON'T.
I'm with you on Nine. Last episode was definitely not as enjoyable. I was like, "Okay, I get it. You two love each other and are having some fauxcest problems. Let's move on to solving the problems instead of all this moping and crying."
I was hoping more that SW would have to prove his love, since he seems a guy of few words but big action. I'd have liked that for the last 7 episodes. But nope.
Please, we already sort of had this Uncle/Niece situation. I mean, there is a difference in the sense that she remembers the past now, but other than that it felt a little bit like a deja vu situation.
Re Nine: I'm so annoyed with Min Young. I can't decide if it's because of the actress or the way her character is written. She just whines so much and it's driving me crazy
I didn't like the character much either. Too whiny for my tastes and she tries so hard to be cute when she isn't. She's also a grown woman and instead of assessing the situation, she just goes along with her feelings, doing things without thinking. I mean, hello, you have two memories....shouldn't you be a little more reserved in your actions considering the fact that Sun Woo is technically still your uncle? I felt like throttling and saying that to her, lol.
I saw the synop for Kamo, Kyoto he Iku and immediately thought: Darn it! Sounds like Rich man poor woman with the distant male figure the woman must learn to understand and lovingly tolerate. I just hate that kinda woman as Understander-of-the-male" kinda thing. The only time I liked it was in Legal High where the heroine stood up for herself but not in that (other) stereotypical way of being the new Japanese woman. So i might watch it, hoping I'm wrong. If it's like Legal High, I'll probably like it.
I might try Galileo but my impatience with Japanese eccentric crime-solvers with flaky robotic tics is amping up. I am somewhat intrigued that he has a true nemesis who might be a real meanie. That'd be interesting.
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku
It has an Alpha female character and is the show is dominated by females. It's just that for about the first 15 minutes or so, the men seriously think she's got no guts, nor intelligence. Instead of her proving herself insomuch, it's more about her kicking their misconceptions about women out the window. (They think she's a helpless woman with no commitment, etc. But she turns out to be practical and intelligent.)
For feminism, I like that.
For the plotline, I've seen it too many times so that's why it's not on my watch list. I tend to like the tone of something like Osen, over this one which is more like a reformation of the character and of the Inn where she works. (And I'm seeing a lot of reformation storylines--and BTW, the main person she's against is a woman, not a man. Men are in the periphery putting external pressure, rather than internal. Most of the drama seems like the pressure will be internal.)
Osen was more of an introductory to how traditional Japanese inns work, with a light romance storyline. No reformation of the inn itself, and a new character learning how it works with the viewer. It's also more slice of life and had a gentle tone. An easy summer watch with easy to like characters.
If you haven't seen that many reformation storylines, then Kamo, Kyoto he Iku, might work. If you have or have no taste for them, probably won't work.
Except that by the end of the episode the message is that she's a total failure.
Well, sort of. And I guess we'll have to see how the next episodes go, because while some of her ideas were obviously stupid, some, I thought (having the inn staff learn French), were actually good.
I also wonder if her main opponent(s) are going to be remain women, or whether it won't end up being the real estate (?) guy.
The stakes got higher and higher. The second to the last episode had the hero at an all time low, seemingly separated from the heroine forever, in the process of hanging himself.
I'm just wondering how all this can be repaired. I'm thinking these writers have honed their crafts so the story will even be better but...to make everything fall back into "pre-first incense stick" place seems like a total impossibility. I know it'll have a happy ending...even if he returns to having a tumor and a happy three months with his bride/niece. Brother will be alive. Dr Han will be happy with his wife (or not). But how are the writers gonna work out this puzzle without kinda cheating? This is what is intriguing me.
Nine didn't add much this week, so it wasn't all that exciting, but I still like it an awful lot. It's the only K-drama I'm watching at the moment.
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku I thought was good, although not amazing. I'll have to watch another episode or two to see if I'm into this.
Kazoku Game I did not particularly like this one. For me, Sakurai Sho fell flat. (The only Arashi member that works for me as an actor is Matsujun.) He's got an eccentric character, but I didn't feel he really make us feel that, acting wise. Plus, I don't like the premise much and I certainly didn't like the message they were sending with the first episode already. I understand the tutor is supposed to be a freak, but there is any parent that doesn't call up the police if their child's tutor SPOILER locks up their kid into his/her room for several days SPOILER END, I'm sorry, that's just bonkers.
I would enjoy this drama more if the psycho element was played up significantly, because then I would understand, but at the moment we've just got a weirdly eccentric tutor who is going to be the hero that turns the family around.
I'm watching for Kamiki though, and I'll give a few more episodes a try (if need be, only watching Kamiki's scenes :-D ).
Sennyu Tantei Tokage
Agree. I want to see Matsuda Shota in roles that stretch him to his full abilities. He's done the detective before.
Other dramas:
Soratobu Kouhoushitsu Didn't enjoy ep 2 as much as ep 1, which had largely to do with the fact the focus was on the female character and her background story. She's more difficult to relate to, because her "problem", I'm sorry, was of her own making, while Ayano Gou's crushed dream is truly tragic. I do get that part of the drama's purpose will be to make Gakki's character understand that she is inhumanely insensitive at times and losing sight of what is right and wrong. Will keep watching.
Itazura na Kiss-Love in Tokyo - I'm enjoying this way more than I think I should. I mean, the premise is dumb, love-struck heroine vs. super-genius, arrogant hero! But it's the best Itzura na Kiss drama so far – it's been written in a more charming way – and both leads are great, in particular the actress playing Kotoko. I just enjoy watching her!
Last Cinderella Episode 2 was meh, haven't watched Ep 3. Not very likely I will stick with this, there are things that bug me greatly about Rintaro's character, and I'm worried we'll get a Sakura make-over when she's fine as she is. We've got adults here, in their late 30s/early 40s, that should know better. I don't want a blindly lovestruck Sakura, I don't want her prettified, I would only ignore or walk out on a jerk like Rintaro. Miura Haruma isn't enough reason for me to stick it out, sorry.
Kogure Shashinkan Didn't realise this was only going to be a 4 episode mini drama. I liked and didn't like it. Mostly I felt the writers didn't give me enough reason to suspend my disbelief. I mean, why the hell should I believe in ghost photos? I would have needed more of an atmosphere a a la xxxHolic to buy that, but here everyone just thought ghost photos were a real thing, no questions asked. Also would have liked to have seen Hana-chan developed better – more insight into why he is such a sensitive and mature-beyond-his-age kid (was happy with Kamiki playing him though, again, the issue I had was with the way they had written is character, not the way he performed). I'm going to keep my eye on Narumi Riko from now on as well.
Waiting for subs on a great many dramas and only reading recaps for Gu Family Book and Lee Soon Shin (well, watching select scenes between LSS and JH. The mom's too upsetting for me.).
This is going to sound a little random but a while back you rated Japanese Drama 'Tatta Hitotsu no Koi' highly on an OT and so I decided to check it out and, well I just fell in love with it. It's a simple story but the acting, scenes and dialogues were wonderful.
Thank you so much the (indirect) recommendation. I was wondering if I may humbly ask about the other Japanese Dramas or movies that you have really liked. : )
Oh my, this is so generous. Heartfelt thanks and it looks like you have taken care of my Friday nights for a while. Thank you so much for categorizing them too because sometimes you're in the mood for something specific. I will most definitely check out your blog - I don't know why I didn't think of doing that!
Oh, I had that list already pre-pared. I was thinking of putting it on some corner of my blog at some point, since I hardly ever write about dramas but do watch them.
Kami-chan... Kamiki Ryunosuke? :D
/goes to look up the cast
I've liked that kid since Tantei Gakuen Q... and also Ninomae Jyuuichi from SPEC is one of my favorite characters. How's he do in this drama?
Yes, Kamiki Ryunosuke. I first noticed him in The Kirishima Thing and think he's one of Japan's young talents to keep an eye on (hence, watching all his doramas).
So far, he's hasn't really been given anything to do in Kazoku Game (other than standing there and watching the tutor character act like a psycho.) Maybe they are afraid that Kamiki will act Sakurai off the page? Because he'd definitely do that, given half the chance.
"think he’s one of Japan’s young talents to keep an eye on (hence, watching all his doramas)" << agree with this, doing the same. So far I've seen TGQ and Kokosei Restaurant. Haven't finished Keizoku 2: SPEC yet, I started watching that one just for him. :D
Because of TGQ I've been trying to watch Kamiki and Yamada Ryosuke's dramas (because Kyuu and Ryu!). Between the two I ended up liking Kamiki better though. He can play both light and dark roles very well. Ah, Ninomae...
I can't feel any chemistry with anyone yet. And I don't think Kotoko is particularly interested in Kin-chan – as they say, he's been friendzoned completely.
It's the actress's first drama, isn't it? She's definitely got some action chops for comedy.
Hi KimYoonmi :) I haven't watched this weeks episodes yet but I'm sad that u dropped GU Family. :( I rewatched MGIAG last week and it was even more dorky than I remember but I still love it, so it'll take a lot for me to not love this drama. Thanks for the name lesson, hopefully it'll help me remember some. :D
I like the actors, the pretty, the direction isn't too bad, and the blue lights. It's the writing I can't stomach. ^^;; I've watched a TON of sageuk. And it's hitting the tropes. Plus the repeating "This guy is bad because he rapes" kinda makes me sick for mostly personal political reasons about feminism and stats about rape.
That said, I don't begrudge people who do like it and I can understand the appeal. I mean Lee Seunggi is like a real life dork, which makes his roles often charming (well, for me, but I like dorks). It's a really good drama for those who don't mind plotholes and sageuk tropes because they don't know them. (Dae Jang Geum still persists in being my favorite) I have no particular hate of Suzy either, since I always like to give a chance for people to grow over time and find projects that suit them. (I like watching people grow in their craft).
But story always wins out for me over pretty and good actors. Or why I really love Yoon Eun Hye, but couldn't stand the dramas before Missing You from Coffee Prince forward. I didn't like Missing You either, but it wasn't the writing fault. It was my allergy against makjang and bad portrayals of adopted people. Paired with a good writer I'll watch again.
I'll keep hoping she gets a drama with Lee Min Ki on SBS, for a rematch on Running Man. =P (I can dream can't I?)
I would definitely watch her with Lee Min Ki. Actually scratch that, would watch Lee Min Ki in anything. Has anyone seen Temperature of Love his recent film?
hello brothers and sisters! I'm frolicking in the park, getting myself a likely sunburn. but it's getting as much sun as one possibly can this "spring"
Morning kakashi! which is probably evening for you now! I hope you get to enjoy all the warmth and sunshine after what seemed like a really long winter for you.
I wanted to comment above on Nine but feel I'm in the minority now! You know me, I love me some melo! How are you doing with it? What else did you finally decide to watch?
I like it very much so far (am on epi 8), even though there's a lot of impossible stuff in there. mainly: how can a person be in the same place/time twice?? duplication of matter?
not evening here yet: am at the park w/the kid, but now we need to go grocery shopping
oh: and did you hear?? I got my first DMCA notice yesterday!!
Wow, I did hear that! Geez, they're killing us kdrama lovers. So what does that mean for you now? Anything?
With your intellect and background, I'm sure it is very hard to swallow some of the stuff in Nine. But nearly every drama seems implausible - at least this one is labeled as a kind of fiction/fantasy!
I changed the post - guessing what the DMCA was about, cause they don't really tell you - and re-posted. Let's see what happens next!!! Blogger told me it would delete the post in a next step (if it still infringed on copyright). Repeat offenders' blogs will be shut down. But I must say, Google (=Blogger) was pretty cool and relaxed about it
And will you stop calling my "intelligent", lol. If you don't stop, I'll make you read a paper of mine and quiz you about it! hahahaaaa
Well, yes, of course it's fiction/fantasy ... but to be honest, if people do time travel, I'm somewhat expecting them to think about it thoroughly. There's so much on that already in scifi, you can't just really do anything you want. Or maybe you can - but don't be surprised if people go: "not possible"!
I am not a sci-fi fan so my watching is limited to Beam Me Up Scotty. I just take all of this with a grain of salt. You know me, I'm only interested in the relationships. I'm more upset about crazy unrealistic relationships than a little time travel fudging!
Maybe I'd attempt to read your paper if it was in French. That's the extent of me studying anything!
Korazy, I'm still watching 9 but behind a week. Any eye rolling from the time travel story is quickly eclipsed by how ugly the decor is. But I'm really into this drama. I love sci fi, even bad sci fi. did someone bring up Mystery Science Theater 3000 before? lol.
YESSS Spring has arrived!!!! I sit in my backyard listening to mp3's on my tablet, trusting bumblebees won't hurt me, and watching yellow jackets warily. So glad spring is here.
Glad you are enjoying the spring weather. The spring pollen season is waning now, although, being surrounded by fallow fields and a golf course meant minimum tree stuff this year.
You deserve some time off after the marathon session you did with the animated SqueeCaps of WAML on your blog! The acting is improved, IMHO, and the plot is moving along.
[waving hand in the air] Yeah yeah.
This one of WAML is full of absolutely cute couple moments, to balance out some of the SGO coming down the pike!
Of course that doesn't negate my interest in seeing our intrepid hero and our thistle-headed bad guy go one-on-one UFC style, in muscle T's and boxer shorts.
Me too! It kind of makes me want to go back and watch MK all over again. I will say though that something is a little off, it has the tone of a manhwa-to-screen project with the over the top acting, but none of the actions are crazy (like they were in skip beat), so it views like a standard romcom.
The Midwest created a group page on facebook called the Midwest Beanies. And we had our meet-up last Saturday April 20th in Chicago. We were 17 strong, we ate Korean food and drank soju! We had a blast so much so that we are planning another one July 20th and we will have Korean BBQ.
Trying to decide if I should take up Jang Ok Jung. Liked the first episode. Haven't seen Mandate yet, will not have time for both dramas. What does everyone think?
Hello everyone!!! How are you all? Hope you had a great week!
I’ve finally finished King of Dramas and while it wasn’t addicting it was one of the better dramas recently… so why did It have such super low ratings?? It’s not like it had much competition right?
Starting Gu Family Book and it looks fun! Does it stay good? I saw one Recapper mention it wasn’t that good… I’m looking forward to meeting Lee Seung gi and Suzy haha.
I’ve also started watching the Japanese Drama Last Cinderella. It’s interesting… it kinda makes me realise that I’m likely to be dealing with the same type of relationship problems when I’m 40 as I am now haha. Depressing thought really.
And my personal life… lol. Quiet as it’s still the Holidays (exams over whoot!!) but I do have some priceless conversations…
Firstly, a friend (umm… he’s like my annoying little Brother?) changed his location to somewhere near where I live… so I messaged him about this…
Me: Haha... why does it say you're in Teignmouth, Devon?
Him: wha... what?
Me: Look at the location of your last post?
Him: what the fuck?
whats that
actually im in trip now
Me: Haha it's a place in Devon, that's the only reason I noticed lol
Oh really? Where are you going?
Him: my last journey is exeter
Me: Wow... what a coincidence...
Tell me, what made you decide to go to Exeter?
Him: shit i was gonna surprise you
to see you <3
i love you
will you marry me
you know im serious
plz
i wanna be british through getting married with british women
we are aged enough to get married
Me: Sorry Sweetie... you're not my type...
Him: Im crying now
Me: Plus if you wanna be British though me you are NO USE WHATSOEVER as I need to get dual citizenship from my future Husband.
Him: Haha
So yeah… this is the strange type of conversations I have…
Also I managed to annoy him and pretty much every Korean guy by saying IU was my Twin and I was cute and adorable just like her LOL.
Although one of them did result in some actual decent advice…
Me: But seriously... I just don't think a relationship is worth it...
D: YOU ARE TOO YOUNG LEAF
AS A MAN, LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING
WHEN YOU DECIDED TO GROW A TREE
WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO FIRST?
Me: Umm... find a seed?
D: AND?
Me: Is this gonna be some weird metaphor...? haha
D: NO
IM SERIOUS
you probably need some manures right ?
you know
Me: HAHA. So rubbish guys serve a purpose?
D: no..... im serious Leaf
getting hurt from something is like manure to grow a tree
it could be looked like bad or disgusting
that makes us grown up in life
LOL… seriously… these guys -_-
And these aren’t even the weirdest convo… the weirdest one… well none of you would get how weird it was… and it involved Hot Korean Guy… which in itself is random… he just brought him up…
Anyway… I’m getting to the point where I honestly believe all guys should just be shot haha.
Oh and I’m thinking again I may date Scone guy… I may see what it’s like when I see him again.
Also who here has Tumblr???? Cause if you do follow me!!! (Link on my name at the top) And you can message me random questions!!! (None too obvious about Hot Korean guy and Scone guy though please… I have friends there who know HKG and Scone guy follows me haha)
I have more hilarious events from my drama of a life on there haha :P
So yeah! Have a great week everyone!! <3
Hehe I love your life story! So fun! ;)
Those are some weird convos but entertaining. As for scone guy, if you want to give him a chance and go on a date, nothing wrong with that. You won't know until you try and see if you are compatiable with chemistry together.
Good luck! Keep us updated!
I have no idea now my life became drama central... and contrary to what one of my friends thinks I DO NOT MAKE MY LIFE CRAZY!!
Seriously... my life used to be so boring... but since this year it's all drama drama drama...
But it's not just me to be honest... I was talking about this N and we both agreed it was weird that our small little Uni in the middle of nowhere was drama central.
Seriously... my friend at Uni in London is in awe of how dramatic things are here...
:-)
I just popped in and had to re read your whole post 3 times. And I still don't quite get it.
Ehm... good luck? I don't even know what to wish for you. You do have some random... conversation or is it life lessons.
What happened to just tutorials and essay deadlines? Or let's go for drinks for Friday night. Or are we having a pub crawl. Or which random K drama idols is in London for a concert?
I just share entertaining things which happen in my life haha. I hope I don't bore you all...
And yeah... I don't know what's going on either... if there are life lessons to be learnt I have yet to discover what they are haha.
Wait... I've already learnt one from all the drama... ^sigh^ that's depressing though. I don't like that lesson. And I pretty much already knew it.
And tutorials... deadlines... what are those...? I'm a student haha.
And no concerts coming up :'( Well except the Korea Rock Bands one... WHICH I REALLY WANT TO GO TOO :'( But everyone is too busy to come with me so I can't... ^sobs for eternity^
So yeah... I'm not sure there is anything to learn haha. I'm just wondering though life in search of The Great Perhaps.
Second actually... the first one was for April Fools lol...
A friend put a letter from Nigeria up saying he would get 100 million pounds if he got married and he was like 'Leaf! Marry me!!' haha
So yeah... two proposals in one month... and I haven't even kissed anyone yet lol
Try Gu Family. It's not super-perfect. There are many instances of plotholiness and a few moments of bad directing (usually the fights) have been cringing moments. But it's light and fun.
Hope your love life does wonderful wonderful things.
Lol... well I'm hoping I get a kdrama happy ending ;)
And I will of course always keep OT up to date with any new developments lol. I'm glad it entertains you all haha.
It's gonna be interesting when I see HKG again cause Im not talking to him and properly this time. I'm interested to see how he deals with this. N told me that although he may not show it he really actually does care about his friends. I'm not sure yet though... haha.
And yeah... I flip between I should date Scone guy and I should stay single the rest of my life because all guys are assholes who should be shot haha.
Sigh. It sounds asif we're about the same age and I somehow wish my life was as... eventful, as yours. But part of me is also glad it's calmer, and I mostly have to deal with other people's love lives and not my own lol.
So far Gu family book has been great~ In my opinion, at least, but you should definitely at least give it a try~
Hope your drama-life gets a happy drama-ending =)
also: I followed you on tumblr, if you don't mind~
And trust me... I have a love/hate relationship with all the drama...
One, IT'S A FRIGGING NIGHTMARE
Two, it does make things entertaining...
Seriously... before this school year I never had any drama in my life. So yeah... it's still quite new to me...
Hopefully something good comes from all of it haha
yay more Leaf life :D.. so HKG is still around? probably still a big tease. lol. yes, go on that date with scone. I once went on a date with a guy who didn't seem my type but was kinda sweet, anyway end of the date I could tell he was getting ready to give me a kiss, but then he pulled me to him and gave me one freaking hard hot kiss that i'll never get over. lol. Nothing ever amounted from that date but that kiss should be in the record books!!!!!!!
Sigh.... I was in drama slump a few weeks ago... now, i'm in much worse position, i cannot focus on watching any new drama at all or my favorite variety shows... it has been 3 weeks and all i could think of... is Bu Bu Jing Xin... is there a cure to let go of this series and focus on new drama...
It's called finishing the drama. =P After that, you rewrite the ending and you're set. I also watch Jade Locked Palace which has a slightly better ending.
OMG !! Bu Bu Jing Xin. Trust me it'll eventually fade but the after effects will always be there whenever anyone mentions the show. 4th Prince *dies*.
Did you know they are currently shooting a "sequel" to BBJX but it'll be set in modern times. I'm not getting my hopes up for it though just in case it doesn't meet my expectations plus alt of the princes won't be in it this time round (13th/ 14th/8th/Crown Prince)
Well I was reading the recap for another novel right?
Not by the same author but ? another drama involving a prince.
All I say is avoid Chinese historicals. That recap made me cry and I ain't not going near anymore of those tragic tales where EVERYONE has NO happy ending. :-(
hopeless me do not wish to rewrite the ending.. it was just so perfect for me.. will try to check out Jade Locked Palace... hope this version snaps me out of it...
also not too keen on BBJX sequel - no 13/14/ 8th prince... :( and it's not written by Tong Hua...
13th! They were so alike in so many ways,and whenever I think of the drama,I have nothing but fond feelings for the show. I read the novel,so naturally since the drama large stayed true to the originally story,I loved the drama. SIGH RUO XI IS SO LUCKY !
Greetings everyone! Just wondering if anyone else is dialed in on We Got Married Global Edition? I've only seen the first 3 eps (haven't caught anything else subbed get) but I love Gui Gui and Taec. I am also watching Nine and sorta half watching Gu Family (I like LSG but I think he is miscast here. I know he can do gravitas, LOVED K2<3, but he just is too wacky in the action scenes). What else is good?
me! me! me! omg! i loved the way gui gui always make taec speechless with her random antics. lol.
but fujii mina is so pretty; and ladylike. I think honggi gotta man up a bit. hahaha~ but i'd love to see more of them too! anyhows knowing honggi; once he's close with her; we'd be seeing his unpredictable crazy variety mode. (remembering his shows in their earlier years)
I can't say I have seen Honggi in much of anything outside of You're Beautiful so I don't really have a sense of his persona. When he dragged out all that luggage: one bag of just hats, one bag of his trophies (eye roll) I was like no. No good. He's clearly the princess in the relationship. I like Mina, she's smart and a little tom-boyish. I just don't see anything clicking with them. The language barrier is tougher on Gui Gui and Taec (and he is so cute for trying so hard). They are still a little awkward because of it, but even the awkward is cute.
(and I said "two less than three" in my head as I typed it, laziness won out over spelling it)
Yeah, that had me practically on the floor! He absolutely melts into goo whenever she says Oppa, and then she goes and throws a yeobo at him, and the poor guy literally just threw his arms up in the air and said I give up. The other part that had me rolling was when he just flatly agreed during the interview section that he was completely whipped.
...and its not like I watch a TON of variety? But I don't think I've ever heard the camera men laughing the way I do when Taec and Gui Gui get going.
I think that may be one of my favorite parts of the show. I do watch a lot of variety and you usually only get laughter from the crew on shows like Running Man and 1N2D.
OMG love these two couples. I thought HongGi would be more annoying but he's kind of sweet, and Mina is adorable. But Taec - man. Love him and GuiGui so much!
I MAD LOVE THE TAECYEON-GUI GUI COUPLE! They are simply too adorable together! Their interactions felt genuine,despite the fact that we are well aware that the we-got-married concept is pretty much staged up but I still mad love the chemistry between them. :D
AND AND AND FUJI MINA IS SO PRETTY! Tbh,I used to really adore Lee Honggi heheheh I used to a Primadonna(what FT Island fans call themselves) a few years back so getting him in the WGM global edition certainly feels like Christmas has arrived early although personally my heart is definitely swaying towards Taecyeon. I have a thing for guys with accented English,what more Koreans who can speak English so damn well. Gosh I cannot get enough of his sexy voice (Yes I am well aware that going gaga over a guy's voice isn't probably the most rational thing ever,but I SWEAR,his accent just makes me swoon. HEH. AND THE BEST PART OF THE WGM GLOBAL EDITION? I don't need subs when I'm watching the Taecyeon-Gui Gui couple because one Taec speaks fantastic English and two,I understand Mandarin Chinese(although technically Gui Gui speaks Taiwanese Chinese but it's pretty much the same). I just wish that I'd have more time to watch the latest episodes,my assignments have been keeping me away from any substantial chance of drama/variety show watching.
exactly! I'm also a sucker for British accents. Idk whether this statement of mine will come across as being offensive to Americans (if it is,I'm sorry!) but I usually prefer British accents over American accents. HEH Case in point would be Benedict Cumberbatch's voice. I know this is irrelevant to K-dramas but have any of you seen the BBC adaptation of Sherlock? I ABSOLUTELY ADORE THE SHOW. IT'S SUCH A MASTERPIECE I TELL YOU. It's a shame that they only have 3 episodes in a season! Am still waiting for the third season! I've rewatched the episodes so many times,I swear,Benedict Cumberbatch is phenomenal as Sherlock Holmes,and of course,our Holmes is never complete without Watson isn't he? Martin Freeman was pretty good as Watson as well,I loved their interaction with each other. Sherlock is by far the best adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes series that I've ever seen. LOL I just realised that I've totally disgressed from my main point,which was supposed to be on sexy voices. BUT ANYWAY,I LOVE TAECYEON'S VOICE. :D
As a west coast American, I can say I am not offended . . .I love British accents, Southern accents, mid west accents, Aussie accents, Kiwi accents. . . swoon at any of those. And I love Sherlock too :D
@Belle3005 - My husband is British, and he has this low, very soothing, just gorgeous voice that I love. This is kind of goofy to admit, but sometimes if I've had a really stressful day, I'll just close my eyes and he reads the Wall Street Journal out loud because the sound of his voice is so relaxing. Who knew "Derivatives suffered a loss in the international markets" could sound so sexy? :)
As for Sherlock, I loooove that show. That is the power of good acting. I'd seen Benedict Cumberbatch in other productions, and found him a good actor, but I'd never found him sexy (I thought he looked kinda like an alien, to be honest). Then, midway through Season 1 of Sherlock, all of the sudden I thought he was The Sex.
They're shooting Season 3 now, and my mother in law told me that one day she had the misfortune to be driving in an area where they were shooting, and it was a mess. Fangirls stalking the shooting all around. I think I'll have her record it for me because I can't hold out until it airs in the States. This and Downton Abbey - darn delayed U.S. air dates!
@lemonade candy : I so wish that I can have some sort of an accent whenever I speak in English,be it American or British, I just find mine rather dull lololol. How did you develop your slightly American skewed accent?
@Lisah : Lisah I've seen you around on Jomo's blog,and I've seen you commenting on recaps of Nine! MAN I LOVE NINE SO MUCH. LEE JIN WOOK IS SUCH A CATCH! :D
@Lovebug : I haven't really seen you around. (Maybe it's due to the fact that I seldom visit OT these days with all the assignments and workload piling up >..<) just for the sake of hearing their voices. I LOVEEEEE THAT SHOW. I am pretty much a sucker for the series. I used to think that his face structure is really weird too! (It's as if you've spoken my thoughts out loud when I saw the alien part HEH) After watching the series I was like "OHHHH now I get it,he really is THE SEX."
How did you develop your slightly American skewed accent?
My answer would be (but its totally non scientific because language; in this case "accent" acquisition is different individually)
1. I was exposed to a lot of media from AmericanTV since I started learning English (7years old)
2. I took a course in phonetics and phonology; learned how words are actually pronounced (the mechanics).
3. I listen and follow how actors in my favourite TV shows speak: the same way children would imitate adult talks. (I was ridiculed a lot by my sister. lol)
4. I sang a lot of English songs; memorized them (not just the lyrics but the way that singer pronounce each words as well)
This is just my opinion but , the purpose of a language is to communicate thoughts and it didn't matter how you sound; as long as you are heard and understood. How can the language you speak sound dull when the topics you're discussing are intriguing? There is no language that is better or sound better; because it is meant to connect one person to another~ and i'm sorry if i don't make any sense..okay?
p/s Learning phonetics was really fun! You get to play with your tongues a lot. My classmates and I had a great time. If you are really interested, you should join one! ^^
Isn't 'Taiwanese' the dialect they have in Taiwan which sounds completely different from Mandarin? At least, I couldn't understand Taiwanese when I was in Taiwan (elderly people seemed to have a tendency to use it D:). In the show, I'm pretty sure Gui Gui is just speaking Mandarin Chinese with her Taiwanese accent...
There is a Taiwanese language as well as a Taiwanese dialect.
Taiwanese dialect of Mandarin tends to have flatter tones to it than the mainland. (Though Hong Kong Mandarin also seems a bit flatter than the mainland. Particularly Shanghai.)
^^;; Again, not fluent, just really good at picking up sound differences.
I think you're talking about Hakka.
It sounds like Hokkien for some words which is why I understand some.
But yeah most TW have Mandarin and their version of satoori seems to be making the older cast members drop random Hakka sentences in.
Uhm it's a bit hard for me to explain over here but the Taiwanese actually have a different version of Mandarin Chinese as opposed to the one that is generally used. They actually use the same words which means the same thing but they pronounce it differently. I'll be refering to a few examples. For instance, 和 which gives the meaning of "and" in Chinese is usually pronounced as Hé but the Taiwanese actually pronounces the word as Han. Another example will be 垃圾桶 which means "rubbish bin/garbage can/trash can/waste bin" is usually pronounced as lā jī tǒng according to the standard Chinese Pin Yin but is pronounced as Lèsè tǒng if Taiwan Pin Yin were to be applied. Another example would be 悬崖,which literally translates to cliff. In the mainland people would say xuán yá and in Taiwan people say xuán ái.
I am not from Taiwan or the mainland but these are the few differences that I've noted in my years of listening to C-songs and watching Taiwanese dramas,and variety shows. So when I say Taiwanese Mandarin I am actually referring to the different pronunciation that the Taiwanese usually use. Actually,there isn't a lot of differences in both type of pronunciation for most of the Chinese words used anyway so it doesn't really bother me.
Yes,they do have a Taiwanese dialect. I believe it is known as Taiwanese Hokkien,more widely known as 閩南語 (pronounced as Min Nan Yu). Some of them speak Hakka too,which is one of the major Chinese language subdivisions.
I know,it can be confusing. Just in case you were wondering,yes I am a Chinese,but I'm from Malaysia,which would make me a Malaysian Chinese. From where I'm from,people speak a variety of dialects apart from Mandarin Chinese,so that's how I got lots of exposure to the various dialects. Not to sound boastful or anything,but if there's one thing that we're good at,I suppose that would be the fact that we are multilingual,everyone can speak or understand at least 3 languages. It's very convenient for us especially when we travel around Asian countries.
Oh by the way,I do not claim to be an expert on the subject matter,simply because I'm merely stating my opinions based on my observations, but I hope that this was helpful for you!
I did! Well the first 2 episodes anyway :p I must say I knew Taec spoke english, but damn does his voice sound nice and husk when speaking it! (or I'm just tired, could be that as well)
I find myself liking the Honggi and Mina couple more though.. Donno why, but GuiGui comes across a little childish to me. I could be in a minority though :p
I agree, Gui Gui seems childish. I am not sure how much of that is her English vocabulary (and Taec speaking to her somewhat as a child, not in a disrespectful way . . .just slower and using simpler words that she is more likely to understand) or if some of it is cultural, similar to aegyo.
I think Gui Gui is just trying to be overly funny and happy and cute, without having to say too much, because her english isn't that great. But it almost feels asif Taecyeon is just babysitting her and giving her everything she wants x3 She does seem way more mature in her interviews though. I was surprised to hear that Taec's english is probably better than mine lol, but then I realized he grew up in America.. so.. duh. He does sound very american.
As for the Hong-ki/Mina couple, here it definitely feels like Hong-ki is the child lol.
But I love watching the global WGM series~ because variety shows are a little different in each of these countries, so the humour is a little different than what they're used to too, and it's interesting to see how they interact~
I agree on the language thing. Also think she is playing the "cutesie" type of girl/puts on that persona. Which I find slightly off-putting in most people. I mean, some can pull it off, others I just find annoying
Haha, yeah I read somewhere that people were saying that Honggi and GuiGui should be paired together, and Mina and Taec, instead of the current couples. But not sure how communication would have happened then!
hello there :)
Just additional info, guigui natural habbit and her whole cute childish wild and cant be tampered is just her trueself. I've known her since her debut and heard all her weirdos stuff from her labelmates and coworkers
in k-world, we call them 4d, yes once you know guigui she is a true 8D indeed.
she is really weird and fake, is so not her.
but her hyperactive is something that makes ppl having a time to receive her but once you know her, she is really loveable.
Hi hi! I was a total couchkimchi this week and watched all these in order (yikes – I even scare myself!)
Bad Boys J (yum!)
IRIS 2 (in it for my bro~)
Last Cinderella (whoa–those hot bod shots!)
Sugarless (mindless yum!)
Kazoku Game – disturbing, unconventional, controversial – I liked the words to the song:
“In an endless world this crazy game repeats itself”
Otenki Onee-san – she has a Yamato Nadeshiko air about her…
Survival Audition Kpop Star 2, ep 16
You’re the Best, Lee Soon Shin
Barefoot Friends –Yoon Si Yoon’s awesomeness is the only reason to watch
I would have stuffed the baguette down Kang ho Dong’s throat on the bus or
filled his mouth with buckets of red sand~ he is so ringin’ noisy all the time!
I Summon You, Gold
Strong Heart 2 – a bit daytime talk show-ish, but there are always wow! fb moments
Coffee Prince – marathoned the whole thing to keep my kdrama sensibilities intact
Gu Family Book -kept up with the db recaps and posts for fun. Suzy gets lots of flack, ya!
SBS Kpop Star Dream Stage (season 1 and 2 get together)
Hello, Counselor: But wait! Woobin, Soohyuk, and Hyunwoo were on together for a super
fb line up (ep 115) Odd show, but Woobin♥ is always so uncomfortably cute on talk shows. When A Man’s in Love – this is one of those shows where a crucial turn took place that won
me over when I was otherwise wavering. *spoiler* I love that there is a threesome office
romance where one is real but secret and a the other is fake but public. What a cool twist to
have 3 ‘couple’ rings in the mix! *end spoiler* I wish db was recapping this, because there is
so much need for discussion on the web of misunderstandings that are, and that are sure to come.
But most of all, Tae Sang morning noon and night!
I’m pacing. No Siakou no Rikon or Sharehouse addiction hits.
?Is anybody watching Crazy Love?
Between dramas and reading cookbooks, the week flew! Work’s in there, too. With a warm weekend forecast (finally) I am going to prepare the garden bed for my herb garden and flowers. Happy spring!
I watched part of Ep 1 last night. There's plenty of fun to be had in just the interactions between the stars. Si Yoon is perhaps playing Enrique, unless that's really him. And I now have to admit that there is NO WAY KHJ didn't have work done to his face beyond the 'fix my injured nose' claim. I like him, but I liked him better before :(
So far my WTF person is EunHyuk. "I'm really popular"
LEE JIN WOOK IS SO HOT. SO SWOONWORTHY. HEH. I'm not even trying to pretend that my motive to watch Nine wasn't largely based on him. His attractiveness aside,the storyline's actually pretty good,as in you'll get hooked as each episode progresses. I also love how selfless and flawed Sun Woo's character was written as. It makes him all the more real,as opposed to the typical male leads that we usually get in dramaland. Jomo is doing recaps for Nine btw. I'm at episode 10,and am currently 4 episodes behind but I still adore this drama anyway. :D
I thought he was swoon worthy in INR2012 which is why I first started watching Nine. And I know I'm like a broken record here, but that guy can kiss! Definitely part of his attraction
He was unbelievably hot in INR2012! I had a terrible case of 2nd lead syndrome in that drama but still can't deny the incredible hotness that was Lee Jin Wook and his inexplicable ability to look Amazing in every hairstyle known to modern man!!!
UPDATE: You're right. I am so hooked~ As for me, I have a thing for time travel concept; but the story is good enough for me to accept. hahaha~ plus I like characters who are not *ahem*stupid*ahem*.
Also, damn; this guy CAN kiss! *bless cable show~*
Happy OT all!
Hope eveyone had a great week so far. Drama watching: must be spring in the air or something cause I haven't been watching much. Lol Been reading about news, casting and recaps but thats about it.
Nothing seems interesting right now. I'm keeping my fingers cross that something good comes up soon for kdramas. Haha
It's always good to see you on OT. How's the weather? Maybe you just need some warm weather to energize you. I'm kinda slow on the dramas too, but there's always hope that there's another one out there worthy of 16 or more hours of my life!
so, in my wait for mandate of heaven subs, i've picked up lee soon shin (slow start, but it's really to be expected for a series this long) and caught up on all about my romance (so i love the leads, sue me).
basically, are the other drama offerings worth starting or would my time be better spent, say, um, catching up on sleep?
yeah, from what i've heard on nine, i'm really considering picking it up. and i just looked up last cinderella and omg, shinohara ryoko's in it? that's definitely going on the list then.
Someone please tell me where Mandate of Heaven is with subtitles. I cannot deal if i cant see the first two eps this week.
Also im surprised that im loving lee soon shin more than gu family book. My king 2 hearts men faced off and jo jung-suk won. I kind of knew that would happen. But i am skipping over any scene that does not have a sister in it. Everything else is an anchor around the show's neck.
Dramas I dropped: You're The Best Lee Soon-Shin and I Summon You, Gold. They're not bad per se, but if I have to skip large portions of the episodes to get to the cute, fun, interesting stuff, then I don't think it's worth the effort of patiently buffering videos and running through a million ads. Might as well just read available recaps.
Dramas I'm watching:
1. Nine: Last episode was a bit slow and more focused on the romantic angst than I would have liked. Not against it but I hope things pick up in next episode. Overall though, this drama continues to be awesome. I wish Sun Woo would hurry up and fulfill his promise to this younger self. Younger Sun Woo might end up being the solution to the problems.
2. Giant: An arduous undertaking as I lose sleep and appetite trying to get through all 60 episodes. But it's my crack drama. Wonderful script, directing, characters, and acting. It also introduced me to the gem that is Lee Beom Soo whom I initially found unattractive and unsuited for a hero role but then he grew on me and even looks attractive. (It helped that halfway through, he sported a new hairstyle...like Hwang Jung Eum, he looks better without hair covering his forehead). At the moment, my heart keeps crying for Lee Sang-mo. I loved the character (kudos to Kim Soo Hyun and Park Sang-min) straight from the beginning and to see him suffer in the mouth of the lion throughout the series really made my heart ache. Then there's the character Jo Min Woo....his love story broke my heart too but honestly, I'd rather he not get a happy ending. Even if his father hadn't done so many awful things, Min Woo did so many unforgivable, wrong things too. He may be the most wonderful person to the woman he loves but he's such a bastard to other people. I'm so tempted right now to find out what happens to him but I shall resist all spoilers. It's bad enough that I read wiki's spoilers on what happens to Lee Sang Mo and almost had a heart attack. Anyways, once I finish Giant, I'm going to take on History of a Salaryman. At least I won't have to lose sleep over that...hopefully. (Who am I kidding? I'd be glad to! Ha!).
About ads: Adblock is a blessing. It's on multiple browsers. I use it to watch dramas. But then, I also have a cable line... so I rarely have to go through buffering. ^^;;
I just began following Giant as well. Someone recommended it...so I figured why not? Haven't started it yet. I really should finish History of a Salary Man.
I was gonna do Lee Soon Shim but after someone mentioned a birth secret, i kinda faded -- or my interest faded. I know birth secrets, incurable illnesses, and amnesia are the kimchi of k-dramas but they turn me off unless they're done really well.
Haven't tried I summon you gold. Might give it a try but i have so much work to do right now and mandate of heaven will be taking up my time. Gotta choose carefully.
Carole, I have four more episodes of Giant to go. It has been a roller coaster ride so far and I had so much fun watching it. Definitely get started on it; we'll have so much fun talking about it.
How was History of a Salaryman for you?
The birth secret stuff is definitely annoying in the drama. I think I'll wait until someone takes the Jun Ho-Soon Shin storyline out of the drama and make videos out of that so you basically only watch their love story unfold and leave the other boring stuff out without fastforwarding or anything like that.
I've got to marathon Giant. Been catching up on anime. Have you seen Aku No Hana (flowers of evil)? Talk about stress. I keep expecting something horrible and irrevocable to happen any second.
oops, forgot to answer this. History of a Salaryman was fun but I stopped watching it around the 13th chapter, i think. I really liked it and was really liking bad guy who might've been a good guy. The social/economic/union angle messed me up a bit. I've been meaning to go back and finish it.
Giant is one of my top 5 K-Drama. Amazing show, I watched it for Lee Beom Soo and Jung Bo Suk (Jo Pil Yeon), one of my favorite K-drama villain. I discovered him in Shin Don, another amazing sageuk and followed him to Giant.
I loved HotSM but Lee's last 2 dramas has been terrible. I forgave him for Dr Jin but not for Iris 2. I hope he'll pick a good show next otherwise I'll have to break up with him lol.
Its rare to find a show with amazing young and adult actors. The transition was well done, I didn't miss the young actors like I usually do with most K-dramas.
Nothing has topped Giant yet in that genre not counting Sandglass.
Giant is definitely an excellent epic saga. I was actually shocked to see Jung Bo Suk as the villain because I only had seen him as the adorably sweet but mentally handicapped father in Can You Hear My Heart. It just chills me how increasingly villainous he had become in the series.
Like you, I also hope Lee Beom Soo chooses better projects in the future. I didn't watch Dr Jin nor IRIS2 because I didn't like the storylines but his role in Giant was enough for me to be an avid fan of his. He truly showed me that just because a guy isn't attractive at first glance, I shouldn't easily write him off my list actors to look out for.
I am so into Cruel Palace: War of Flowers. Sometimes its hard for me to watch Kim Hyun Joo with Lee Duk Hwa. I need more Jun Tae Soo+ Kim Hyun Joo's romance.( i heard he is coming back to the filmset, which means his character is alive).
Damm Kim Hyun Joo is killing me with her excellent acting, her eyes expression is killing me too.
didnt expect her to be this good as an evil woman. I am all in for her to take different role like this.
yeah she is so beautiful and her acting is just WOW. i thought that she was good in Comedy and Drama only but she is good in this kind of crazy character as well, ahh am falling more and more in love with her.
It'll be 12am in another 15 mins here in Sydney so I'm going to say GOOD MORNING to one and all :)
I've been in such a Kdrama slump, haven't come across anything in which I want to watch it whilst it's airing. Nothing has grabbed me and made me want to go and hunt down subs and watch it ASAP, which hasn't happened in a very long time.
The only Asian dramas I'm watching currently are Itazura na kiss: Love In Tokyo which I'm absolutely loving so far and a Thai lakorn called Maya Tawan.
Only highlight of my week (which sounds kind of tragic LOL) is finally getting to see the trailer to a Bollywood film called Raanjhaana, been holding out to see how it would look like and now it has risen to my No.1 most anticipated Hindi film for 2013.
IKR. I've seen the Taiwanese version and even though I adore Ariel Lin, I was always left frustrated with how exaggerated the character was. I gave Playful Kiss a try and gave up on it so I pretend it never existed. This adaptation has a better balance on everything and is much more condensed, straight forward and put bluntly awesome on all aspects.
Itazura na kiss: Love In Tokyo is great! I highly recommend to fans of ISWAK. Agree that Naoki and Kotoko are more balanced characters here, they are not on the extremes as their previous counterparts and I notice that the humor is a bit more subdued and not so much slapstick compared to the 1996 version of the Japanese drama ...I could actually relate to Kotoko! She is no bumbling idiot! She actually has a backbone and is quite adorable.
I TRIED to force myself into liking Playful Kiss but I could not get past ep. 2...it was not doing anything for me and I find myself not caring at all what happens to both of the leads
I'm so into Game of Thrones, right now. Last episode was a blast! I'm officially Dany team now. And Jon Snow team. And Maergery team, and maybe Tyrion team, on some occasions. Sigh, It's so hard to choose.
I'm still struggling in reading the book. Medieval English is hard. For you who already finish the book, please don't spoil me. :)
I know, right? I like that there are a lot of strong female characters, there. Some even more badass than the males. I also find Margaery really interesting. Her influence is so frightening. But I still don't know her true intention, so I'm still on the fence, here.
Horrible week both nationally and personally but am hoping next week will be better.
Drama-watching:
Am stressing a bit about Nine. It is THAT good. I do actually worry about what's coming. I find myself actually having to force myself to watch it because the ramifications and the bad results of certain choices just disturb me so much. This is why I generally don't watch Melos/makjangs etc. My body does NOT react well to stress. But all that whining said, I love the perfection that is this drama. Still wondering why young Sun Woo dropped his former girlfriend whom he loved so much. Wondering who began this time-travelling escapade. Wondering why hyung doesn't have any memories of timeline changing. Perhaps one can so go back to pre-change that one totally forgets. Who knows? Villainous Dr Choi is sooooooooooo good.
Totally blissed out with the ending of Incarnation of Money. Sooooo good.
Gu Family Book: I love the fairytale feel. The way decisions made that affect the main character resonates with nature. The incredible goodness of Lord Park. The extreme villainy of the bad guy. I didn't think there'd be a venturing into political and national issues. But hey, I'll bite. Am just hoping the national stuff doesn't overwhelm the mythic stuff.
Waiting for Otome-San. I liked that drama a lot. It's truly different and I like it that I feel I haven't seen anything like it before.
Waiting for Yakou Kanransha. A great disturbing little thriller.
Waiting for subs on Ya no Sakura. Waiting for Then and Now. I like bullying stories. Waiting also for The Show Must Go On.
Waiting for Mandate of Heaven subs on DC. Is it subbed anywhere else? Sooo wanting to see this.
Have to get back to Bad Boys. Have to catch up with Cruel Palace Flower War
Last Cinderella: Ah gee, the cheating husband thing! I'll be fast-forwarding through all those scenes. Just seems so typical. Are there never any good marriages in j-dramas? Do Salarymen in real life always cheat? Haruma is just utterly adorable. I'm hoping that the writers really will give the story a chance and not overload it with preachiness. Yeah, currently our sweet hottie is a bit sleazy and aimless but I have hopes for him.
Liking Tsuma wa, Kunichi
Wondering if I should watch the second season of Galileo. Actually, am wondering if I should watch or avoid a lotta j-dramas. I really get overloaded on the eccentric person who changes the world by being so dang smart and unique they change everyone's life. I know it's a j-drama norm but seriously! Teacher who sees ghosts and changes students lives. 35 year old student. eccentric tutor. I dunno. ::rolling eyes:: Eccentricity done well is always good but if our eccentrics all follow the same pattern, are they really eccentrics?
Dropped Kogure photoshop and Ok Jang.
Trying to marathon Fugitive Plan B, Princess' Man, and Prosecutor Princess. That's bout it..i think.
The cheating husband storyline in Last Cinderella is the only thing I don't like about the drama. Everything else is A-okay for me. I can't wait to see Miura Haruma's character to fall in love with Shinohara Ryoko's.
Am I the only one who actually prefers the other guy haha.
Yeah he may be snarky and have some terrible views about women but... lol...
Hiroto is just a bit too... immature haha.
But we're only on episode 2 so things will change!!
I love both actors generally but I'm a sucker for noona stories. If this turns out to be realistic, then Haruma's character will of course have to go through some believable change for me to actually accept such a pairing.
I like snarky guy but in real life if he hadn't realized he was in love with her by now, he wouldn't fall in love with her in the future. Unless, he's always been in love with her and just couldn't express it.
Right now, i don't know what Hiroto's up to. IS he looking for someone to make his life meaningful? Is he looking for a woman whom he really can love? Is he totally unable to love? Is he heartless? Is he just helping out a friend/sister/former lover? Is he really in love with Choco-san and trying to win her love? I just want it all to be believable and to not be another j-drama experiment in "look how weirdly sexual and outre we can be!"
Rintaro (snarky guy) did have that bad relationship thing which may have kept him from being ready to love again ... but the man is talking about how you get old fast and you want someone with you and liking kids and wanting someone to share meals with and all sort of things to make me mushy/melty.
I sort of want to see the romance with BOTH of them. First the 24 year old Prince to get her hormones and heart back and then be stolen by Rintaro (if he proves good enough).
Plenty of room for both men to have personal growth thru relationship.
Hi Carole! I'm commenting on Nine under this post because you are a fellow Nine-lover! I could only watch 4 hours of drama this week, and watched eps 13 + 14 of Nine back to back and I loved it! I don't mind the crying and sadness because I love dramas that pull at the heartstrings. And I thought the suspense was awesome. The only thing that bothers me is that I just found out it was 20 episodes instead of 16. That gives it too much time to go down the tubes!
How are you enjoying Princess' Man? I'm not into sageuks, but that is by far my favorite!
The suspense in Nine is very very very good. It's just me. I love it but it really is part of my fibromyalgia issue. Any kind of stress affects me very badly. So the suspense was something i had to prepare my body for. I know..silly but true. I just am not wired for too much stress. So generally i avoid stuff that i know will be too much for me. Princess' Man I've started a couple of times but something always popped up to interrupt me. I just have to commit.
Seriously. If it starts going downhill I think I'll just write my own ending and call it a day. How can they go 6 more episodes with 1 incense stick? Hopefully they fool us :)
I think in this case the 20 episodes might be better. I agree that usually when it's 16 or 13 episodes, there isn't apt to be a lot of time to mess up the story with stupid filler. But So many things have been changed in the past and the present, I don't think one can easily get everything back to Prime/status quo/normalcy. How can his brother get the sticks hidden inside the Himalayan hotel, for instance? I really don't think things will get back to where they were at the beginning. . .if that WAS the beginning.
I'm also worried about Nine being actually longer than I thought it would be since I keep fearing that the plot will lose steam and with just one stick left, what's left to show in the remaining episodes?? However, I have faith in the writers too because so far they have been delivering unexpected twists that have been engaging thus far. I think the writers are going to give Sun Woo time to think about what to do next, as in collecting data on how the people in the past might act before taking a final action that will end up leading to happiness once and for all, lol. It's all about waiting for the other shoe to drop first. Whatever happened in the last use of the stick will set off a chain of unforeseen events that might pave the way to deciding how Sun Woo will finally use the last stick.
The cheating husband in Last Cinderella bit had a funny twist.
*spoilers*
He couldn't get it up both times...
And then he figured out he was dating his wife's best friend and they ended it, both very embarrassed.
I laughed so hard at that. Was like divine retribution on husbands cheating in dramaland. Also on the friend as well for choosing someone who was married. I like punishment of that sort. Made the whole cheating bit a lot more tolerable.
*end spoilers*
OMIGAD week after week I check out the OT just to hear your thughts on Nine. As much as I love the drama and HIS-ROYAL-HOTNESS Lee Jin Wook I can't help but wonder how are they going to make one incense stick last for 6 more episodes. Sigh. Park Sun Woo is such a swoonworthy character.
I know what you mean when you say it's a little hard to continue watching a drama when bad things are happening to the characters you love and you want their decisions/actions to bring out good results yet it doesn't happen. Same thing happens with me. I end up taking a little time off and then force myself to watch what happens next because I know eventually I'll be rewarded for my patience, lol.
It's crazy that you're marathoning three dramas. When I marathon dramas, I do them one at a time. Watch one until it's completed before moving on to the next one. So kudos for being able to manage so many. Anyways, how's Fugitive Plan B for you? Are you liking it?
Been trying to catch up on movies. I started Fugitive and stopped in the middle of the first episode. Liked it so far. Main character is slick and I like that. But been catching up on movies (King and the Clown, Runway Cop) and anime -- Aku no Hana being my current stressing favorite. I'm thinking I might have a counter-phobic personality when it comes to stressing stuff because Aku no Hana is just as st It's like... let's indulge character torture, put main character through the wringer and then really twist it once more. But here I am watching it.
A picture of our Korean dinner in Allston. Pitcher of Mango Soju helped to make the night merry. Korean Music videos played on the large screens, occasionally distracting us.
Of course the Boston Bombing was discussed along with KDramas, work, family, culture, and language. Wouldn't it be great to take a class on the Korean wave/culture/or language?
It suddenly occurred to me that maybe I should give a talk at our local library or Williams College about KDramas. Not that a year of watching makes me an expert. In fact, I was the newest to KDramas in our Boston gathering. Still ... I have KFever and maybe I could be a carrier for others to catch KDrama Addiction.
Hello Everyone! I hope everyone is doing well today.
Let's see .... so for this week's drama viewing, things are as follows:
Queen of Ambition: 4 episodes to go. Amazed I stuck with it, after what I thought was a very slow start to this story. ...... Why that wicked woman is still walking around in Seoul is beyond me.
That Winter, TWB: 3 episodes to go. That Fake Oppa, he needs a hug ..... *sigh* ......
The Moon That Embraces The Sun: Also 4 more episodes to go on this one. ..... Gosh, I love this one! I have no idea why I passed on it the first time is was shown. ..... what was I thinking back then??! ...... I still can't get enough of the King and his brother.
Started watching Dong Yi. Don't know what to think about this yet. Did any of you watch this? What did you guys think?
So I have 100 Year Inheritance a chance last weekend.... 2 episodes and I think I'm done. I already knew about the mother-in-law so that's not news ..... I just got bored. I'll see how I feel about this one this weekend.
That's about it for now. Everyone take care and have a great Friday!
Funny, the idea of "checking in" every 6 or so episodes ran through my head last weekend as I was giving this drama a chance. I just may do that ..... or not. Honestly not sure yet.
Episodes 3-6 were kinda blah to me. Then 7,8,9 were good. Then down again. Then up. It's like the mafia. "Just when you think you're out, they reel you back in. "
There doesn't seem to be many who are committed to AHYI. I keep saying I'm going to stop watching, but it's like some kind of weird love-hate relationship. It's just so over the top! But I'm still watching, even though something that I was looking forward to FINALLY happened and turned out to be a huge disappointment in my book! Don't want to be too spoilery, but let's just say cable does it so much better!
Yeah, I'm still on the fence on this one. But like I initially mentioned, it's barely been 2 episodes, so I admit it is a bit premature to be making judgements either way.
I'm sorry you were disappointed in whatever it is that happened in this drama, that you were looking forward to ..... don't you hate it when that happens?
I watched Dong Yi and really, really liked it. It's LONG, but I didn't really feel like the story dragged. And Ji Jin Hee managed to make the King not seem like a wishy washy playboy. I also thought that the actress that played Lady Jang was wonderful. Even with all the evil things she did, she could still wring some sympathy out of me. Really all the acting was pretty good in this one. The Evil brother of Lady Jang was a bit over the top. The romance between the King and Dong Yi was well told. I don't think you'll regret the hours you spend on it.
Yes, it is long indeed! But this is ok as long as it is done well. So far so good.
Ji Jin Hee is good here. Sometimes funny, sometimes serious, in just the right amounts. And what can I say, I think he also looks good. :)
My only little complaint, is about the Dong Yi character. At times she's presented as a bit of a bumbling character, always dropping things, running late, and sometimes like a little naive child. I hope this changes soon.
Oh boy! There is someone else who is watching it! Hi!!!
I like how the second lead male started out so rigid and pedantic, so unlikeable and has now shown to be a victim of his own noble idiocy. He has become likeable, I am sympathetic to his plight.
Every actor in this drama is talented and capable. This is a nice change of pace.
I just started watching it as well! Only watched the first episode, but I'm enjoying it so far. I love how all the politicians are portrayed as quarreling little children... except that the stakes are about the future of an entire country. The thing I like most about the show so far is that it basically doesn't seem to take anything seriously.
Yay! I am watching and enjoying as well. Finally a good old fashion romance done right (So far atleast). Shin Ha-Kyun is definitely growing on me at about the same rate he grew on Lee Min Jung (whom I love!!)'s character. And Yes he does have a killer smile. (I rather hate his hair and styling though).
Hello all! Love All About My Romance! I think it's a show that requires some thinking for the political backdrop, but the romance is light, fluffy, cute and hot at the same time. Wait, can all those four traits happen at the same time? Yes they can! Quoting female lead Noh Min young line, SHK smiles like he is in a toothpaste commercial :-D
I'm still trying to tweet while I re-watch an episode, up to episode 2 for now.
Agree with you, Lizzy4e. Shin Ha-kyun's smile is sexy. He looks so ordinary until he turns on that smile. Love the way he talks to himself and he is so honest with reporter Ahn. i hope Ahn ends up with the second lead. Hard to believe that she was Lala in Bridal Mask. Very good actress!
Annyeonghaseyo everyone, for once I'm on time for OT. :D It's been a while! I've mostly just been reading the recaps to catch up on stuff.
Just finished watching:
ToGetHer/ Superstar Express - Taiwanese drama. Didn't have a lot of expectations, but ended up liking it, so it goes on my "comfort dramas" list. Also, Jiro Wang where have you been all my life? I don't want to watch the T-version of Hana Kimi because I don't like to watch Ella Chen (no offense, but somehow Sulli's Jae-hee was still so cute I stopped short of wanting to whack her on the head-- with Ella I just wanted to whack her, period)-- Jiro played the Nakatsu (Eun-gyul) in that one, though, which has me interested in watching him as the Tae-kyung in the T-version of You're Beautiful later this year.
Watching:
Gu Family Book - currently on Ep. 4 so I won't read the recaps yet. :D I do like Suzy here though-- she might have a limited range, but Yeo Wool's interactions with Kang Chi make me laugh so much. There's a scene where her "sorry" gives me flashbacks to that scene in Dream High where Hye-mi flubs up dance practice with Jin-gook and goes "mian" matter-of-factly. :D
Hello Leaf! Mine too. I started out thinking it was "just another fangirl's dream drama"-- but I ended up rooting so much for MARS and Momo that I watched the ending three times and now I can't get that song out of my head!
Then I saw the MV Jiro did for the T-version of Zettai Kareshi and thought it was interesting how a guy with such a mobile face (witness his facial expressions in HanaKimi and Together) went on to play a robot. :D :D
I do love the songs from Absolute Boyfriend. Pity about everything else ^sigh^
But it is interesting he can do serious as well as comedic. I guess cause I've always heard he's not as clown like in real life as he protrays himself.
I think I had that ToGetHer song in my head for weeks and weeks after I finished watching the drama. I think I still know almost all lyrics by heart ; ; it's a good song. .
Haha no one, but no one, beats Ikuta Toma's handling of Nakatsu. The Japanese version of Hana Kimi was the only one I could finish. The rest just annoyed me too much.
And while I generally like Jiro on principle I wish he would stop overacting. Boy needs to calm down! Although perhaps he's getting better now? He generally seems like a nice kid on variety shows so he's endearing that way to me but I haven't been able to sit through most of his dramas (but also cos he keeps doing adaptations and I keep liking the original versions better!)...
I agree with you! Ikuta Toma will forever be Nakatsu, so much love for the way he did that character!
I know what you mean about Jiro Wang and overacting, but I can say that he is better in "Drama Go Go Go"! Just get past the initial episodes and into the storyline properly starting and you will see. (At least I thought he has improved)
I noticed in ToGetHer he did come across a bit hammy, but I thought it was more in the character of Mars than the actor. He toned down towards the end, and did the sadder parts well. So now I want to watch his other dramas and see how he does, generally. Maybe Drama Go Go Go? /puts on to-watch list. :D
Heh I started ToGetHer and never finished it as well although I did hear he got better in the later episodes. I just never got around to the other episodes HAHA. I do like Momo though. She reminds me of me. Back but I tried to pick it up three times now and never got past episode 4. Sigh.
Okay everyone keeps saying Drama Go Go Go is not bad so I might give it a shot and report back next OT on how much I like it.
Might as well start on Drama Go Go Go as well. Although I might need to prepare myself because I might get terribly jealous of the lead girl... it's a noona romance, after all :D :D
I say give Drama Go Go Go a chance! I started it then dropped it and got talked into starting it again last week's open thread. And I'm now finding myself slightly addicted xD
I might give ToGetHer another try if people say it's good :)
ToGetHer got me interested in MandoPop, and Fahrenheit was the first group I listened to.
Jiro Wang has improved between ToGetHer and DGGG, so I highly recommend watching it. For me, the older JW is better, although I am totally crunching on Hu Bing, who plays the older love interest in DGGG - the smile! The height! [fans self]
Jero Wang is 31? I did not know that assumed he was younger. Oh well, he is older than me, so guess I can look as much as I want without any guilt at all ;)
Never knew I loved a blue suit so much...you'll get this if you are watching When a Man Loves. Now I see blue suits popping out at me from every angle...not a bad thing, actually! :P
Nine - agree, this was slower in pace and the angst nearly killed me. It is so hard to wait to see next episodes.
Cruel Palace, War of Flowers - I am fast forwarding through a lot of this. Only one or two characters holding my interest.
Jang Ok Jung - still watching and waiting for the additional twists that are coming...
Gu Family Book - liked this last episode, but not sure if the turn of events was premature?
Gu Am Heu Jun - liking this :)
When a Man Loves - this was an interesting episode for me because I feel like I am going to get kicked in the gut (hard) and dropped on my head. Yeah, and those eyelashes are about to kill me...slowly...in a good way. :)
[Note: against better judgement, I marathoned Dr. Jin to see the "Hand Towel" in action. It was not as bad as I thought it would be but I was definitely fast forwarding. Will go back to read the recaps]
Mandate of Heaven - waiting on subs!
You're the Best Lee Soon Shin - still cute, still watching but am over the moping. CEO's sister is still a hoot to hate!
I Summon You, Gold - younger sister is pulling at my heart strings and hope that the younger brother comes to his senses. He seems to have a good thread in there some where.
Last Cinderella - my first Japanese show and I like it, though I can't get on the fangirl train that others have from ep. 2.
Running Man, Barefoot Friends and past episodes of Family Outing when I am waiting on new subs.
Thanks as always to the DB crew for the recaps, news and insights. Always entertaining! :)
Special thanks to Jomo and others for the recaps of Nine and When a Man Loves. The "When a Man..." series is too funny!!!
Funny - I noticed and loved the blue suits, too! (and crisply ironed shirts with initial cuffs, and close-ups of 'Tee Tee' in an oh so form fitting white shirt :))
It will be a sad day when this trend of tailored clothing swings back to baggy. I hope it does not.
If anyone is curious, check out the baggy tailoring in Hotelier. Bae Yong-joon (aka Yonsama in Japan - for the newbies) has a good body under all that fabric, but you'd never know until the swimming pool scene.
Thank you! We'll try to keep it up even through the sad days we know are coming!
For the WAML squeecaps, as Julia pointed out last week, all you have to do is google 'When a Man Loves JoAnne' We started with Episode 2. Episode 1 was done here by DB.
Most of the fan girling on Last Cinderella is the hot male bods. *^^* Ahhh... I thought I was immune... but it sizzles. And the backside shots don't hurt either. I don't think you need much as a straight girl to fan girl over it. Even previous knowledge of Japanese stars. raawrrr.
And the storyline is good too. Yeah, if you can remember it in between the other stuff. ^.~ <-- joking. Seriously joking.
NINE! We are so close to the finish and they honestly haven't f'ed it up yet so fingers crossed. LOVE this drama. LOVE.
When A Man Loves - honestly, I don't understand people who think this is bad. It's at least as good as the rest of the middle of the road stuff out there, and way better than a few things I can point my finger at - including 98% of Oppa's past work. It's cliched? HELLO, what isn't?
Itazura na Kiss - Love in Tokyo - this couple is terrific. Great rendition, moving fast.
Last Cinderella - OMG, Miura. I'm dying. DYING. DEAD. I watched Kimi no Todoke last week and now I'm watching that Taisetsu whatever one where he's the teacher who accidentally sleeps with a student. Miuuuuuuuuura. yum.
You're the Best, Lee Soon Shin - Hot Doc Oppa stepped up his game and I'm happy happy happy. I love everyone, honestly. Except the whiny wanna-be actress. Poor Mom, poor Soon Shin. That's a terrible situation, however it turns out, to have to go through all that pain and worry and uncertainty.
Gu Family - I liiiiike the gumiho. And Joon was better this week.
Actually, I'm really happy with pretty much everything I'm watching these days. And there's so much ELSE I want to see, Mandate of Heaven, Cruel Palace, etc etc
And MUSIC. No, I don't like Shinee's new song. But I'll watch Minho do that dance for a few hours if you want...but I did finally hear some stuff I'd been hearing ABOUT for a while: Zion T, M.I.B., Noel, Standing Egg...DUDES. You are awesome. All of you. Every single bit of you. Zion T, you are my new music crush.
I just ate a donut so I'm hyper. I can't sit still and type. Talk to me!
hello JoAnne. Was looking further up and thought you were missing out on OT - but here you are!
I need to cook dinner soon. It's raining hard outside (after a very warm day). I was very, very busy this week.
What else?
Oh yes!!!!! I'll start giffing for the squeecap soon ^^
I'm here! I'm here! Just a little slow start today.
I'll be working on the recap of ep 8 as soon as I do the filial daughter stuff, and help sweep up the maple helicopters and weed the flower beds.
These are the days I like living in the country with cornfields and grass, and not much else. On the other hand, the closest Korean restaurant is a 40-minute drive.
:-/
I watched two whole seasons of Bloody Monday because of Miura. Yeah and Kimi Ni Todoke was good. Have you watched Boku no Hatsukoi wo Kimi No Sasugu? He's not Miura but the movie was pretty good. Brought me to tears at the end sigh. And of course, followed the manga really closely too.
Unfortunately I'm not feeling it for Last Cinderella. I wish the topic was handled better - I thought Kimi wa Petto (Jdorama and not the Korean movie) or Anego handled such issues better but oh well...
I think I have that on a TBW list. And I'm planning to check out Bloody Monday soon. I had said I could watch this without subs because I'm not in it for the plot and then I changed my mind because some of the conversation is quite enjoyable but honestly, I can do without the cheating husband. And I don't get her salon friend...he can't really mean what he says? I assumed at first he was saying sh** to get a rise out of her, but he just never stops.
I only care about her and Miura, honestly. I want them to get it on and be happy, happy, happy. The rest of them can fade away quietly into the background. I am in love with her facial expressions and the hopeful look in her eyes. And his smile and his loose-limbed walk. When they frowned through the tennis rackets and then looked from the side and honestly smiled at each other, that might have been the best minute for me. I love them.
Please please just watch Bloody Monday. I sat through two whole seasons of computer hacking just for Miura but I thought they made hacking as exciting as it could possibly get (watching people hammer away on their computers haha).
Ya the cheating husband in Last Cinderella turned me off completely. I just couldn't continue. I would rather watch I Need Romance and I Need Romance 2012 again. Sigh.
Please go watch Boku no Hatsukoi as well! I thought it was quite thoughtfully crafted. On par with Kimi Ni Todoke!
OK, I'll be all alone in my love for 'Last Cinderella'. *sniff*
I'm hoping the cheating will stop because of the *thing* in episode 2 ...
Rintaro teasing her does come across to me like someone who is interested and that is the only way he knows how to interact (plus they have a history/friendship). He may not fully understand yet he is drawn to her - I'd be willing to bet he is slow on understanding that - but I totally see the looks he is shooting her and how he is always close to her (even if just to elbow her in the butt!) and how he is probing her for information about her dating.
Note how much he pays attention to Sukaro even when stunningly lovely young woman is in his chair getting her hair cut and desperate for his attention.
Of course the whole 24 year old Prince and her is fun too. A guy whose family thinks he is trash, then he meets this mature woman who fiercely fights for what is right and is still sweet and loving ... oh will that be catnip for him when he stops labeling her as the old hag and sees the emerging beauty.
(Note Rintaro ALREADY says to her she is beautiful ... awww. then starts teasing again, not ready to commit, but he is getting protective towards her)
I just pray that subs keep coming for this JDrama.
joAnne, this is not enough squeeing for my taste! i was expecting major squeeing session from you for OPPA. how can you leave it so tame and not wax lyrical over his beautiful lashes and his rosy cheeks, his bountiful chest that threatened to burst out of his tight, crisp white shirt. his small cute bum hidden by his too long jacket (they should be banned!!). etc etc...
oppa is too cute. i only want to see scenes of him playing cute.
thats all from me. gotta get to work thought its half past midnight here :(
I think SSH is really doing well in this drama. I didn't try Dr. Jin, mostly because I adored the JDorama, and I'm hesitant to try any other adaptations.
I think his CF background shows well in this one, when he has those tiny moments that make me rewatch a scene.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
The winks, the 'call me' gestures, even when he turns or puts a hand in his pocket are just so adorable!
*** END SPOILER ****
And, OMG, I'm fangirling aren't I... [whacks keyboard on head]
I haven't fangirled like this since gong yoo in coffee rinie about a year ago now, for me. :). I know the show is manipulating me but am happy to fall for it.
I am wondering how the character stands it. It's too unbelievable that everyone of us swoons and she is just TRYING her best to like him! Pppsshhawww! Ridiculous.. Never mind. It means he has to work harder, which means more squee moments for us.
If'm definitely squeeing over Oppa but am giving it hands down to Lee Jin Wook for the kisses. Of course we may still get some really good ones from Oppa in the future (I'm only up to 6.) I did vote for him as the one I'd most like to flirt with on MBS.
Hey everyone! I see some of you are celebrating spring, but out here it's so hot, the temperatures have hit 40 degrees (Celsius, that is) and I feel really sorry for anyone who has to work outside, in the sun. I'd gladly donate a few degrees of warmth to anyone who wants some, we could do with less!
This week, I watched:
Gu Family Book: Good, but not great. Like GF said in her recap, the seams are showing, and the worldbuilding is going just a wee bit wonky - I mean, Lee Soon-shin and using Daddy Park's money to arm yourself with battleships? SERIOUSLY? Also, Second Lead Syndrome strikes again - but this time it's for the second female lead, who has far more chemistry with Lee Seung-gi than Suzy does, and is a much better actress too.
(and Lee Seung-gi and Sung Joon together = <333333333)
Mandate of Heaven: I haven't finished watching the first episode, but I could swear that's the little girl from The Princess' Man, and she is ADORABLE. Also, a very good actress for a child that young - at that age, most child actors don't emote that well, but once again, Korea does it better - bravo! Also, Lee Dong-wook looks goooooood in sageuk gear. This is one I'm going to keep following, even if I'm not so sure about Song Ji-hyo yet - her voice sounds odd to me, maybe it takes some getting used to.
xxxHolic: I still haven't finished it. I refuse to finish it because I don't want it to be over. And I would kill to see Clow Reed onscreen, only I don't think he made it from the manga to the live action - he and Yuuko are one of my favourite CLAMP sorta-OTPs, and it would have been awesome. *sigh*
xxxholic--they didn't do the crossover--but I expected that. And they left it open to a second season, if they so wish... though I still dislike the ending of xxxholic, so I prefer the drama ending.
Happy Friday, folks. I'm on a drama slump simply from lack of time to watch anything. As soon as I getten or fifteen minutes into an epi something I my boring real life calls me away. Domestic life has really put a damper on my dreams watching. Super thankful for recappers!
oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!!! I just started watching Barefoot Friends and Kim Hyun Joong is in it!!!!! YESSSSSSSSSSSSS! Ovaries a-flutter! My fave j-actor is ji hyun woo but when it comes to lust.... ::sighing and holding heaving chest:: KHJ is sooooooooooo my fantasy perfect hottie. Okay..off to finish watching. Just had to blurt that out to folks here cause I know some of you would understand.
i feel like an extra on this open thread since everyone here seems to chat w/each other but wave wave hi hi my comment is about the SSH drama When a man's in love, i'm only watching this bcoz of SSH but not liking the lead actress at all! i'll bear this drama but seeing her in scenes makes me wanna arghhh all together! she can't act, her facial expression were almost always dull, boring! i usually grow with the charac or actress/actors but this one is THE most i'll remember to be the dullest actress ever!
Agree with owl.
But do not have really high expectations of it being groundbreaking in any way shape or form...
Unless the form is THT, then it is almost-shirt-breaking.
He is a-DOR-able in this, and nearing good.
Just not all the time, but some scenes he nails.
hubba, HUBBA. I am ALL for Gangster Oppa. Did you see Jae Hee's face? That made me laugh. Even Manager Yoon was a bit scared, and he used to be a gangster too!
The only thing was I thought he sat there with his eyes closed just a liiiiiiiiiiiittle bit too long, but from the moment he sat in the head chair and put his feet on the coffee table, I was thought: Oh it is ON, Grandpa Leeteuk. You are going to be VERY, very sorry that you're such a pathetic excuse for a man.
So will it be hot gansta or shy "I need a list of 50 ways to be a good boyfriend." Yeah, right. I don't think so. Is it really the same guy? And Jae Hee's face - (laugh). I don't really get him, a definite mismatch for a match with Tae Sang, don't you think? Another I don't think so.
Wasn't he doing an impression of his old boss?
I thought he was quoting a conversation he had overheard.
Which is why Troll Doll hair blanched. De-lavendered?
I thought that's what it was too, Jomo. It was just really, really, REALLY creepy. Didn't even sound like him. I was actually scared, but it was more like heads spinning around like an owl scared than bad guy scared.
I think he was channeling his inner boss, and yes, that was creepy. And yes, that was also hot, especially when he pinned Grandpa Leeteuk with his eyes.
On the topic of someone being cuddly adorkable one minute and then flipping a switch to be a killer.
I've seen this twice in my own life. Both times it was someone I love who flipped into aggression to protect me. It can be utterly shocking ... and effective. I did not lose any respect for Tae Sang in that moment.
I did wonder tho' ... when considering how best to handle PurplePeopleEater ... is intimidation the way to overcome his hatred? There are different tacks that TS could have taken. Intimidation seemed more like gas on the fire.
Hello everyone on dramabeans! I hope you had a better week than me (not very hard to achieve this goal, lol).
A mini rant now. I'm tired of commenters who pressure the owners of this blog for:
- recaps.
- shows to put on the currently airing section.
- what to post or not to talk about.
Those cases happen more and more frequently lately and that irks me to no end.
The ladies are more polite than me so they won't dare to say it (or maybe they are more zen and mature than me ;) ) but I will: Take it or leave it! Geez.
In dramaland: Nothing much. Dead calm even. I've started a ton of new J doramas and I have to sort everything out.
I don't disagree with what you are saying, Mystisith, but (I think this is what you are pointing to) there is a way to express interest for certain shows or types of stories versus a demand. And yes, I have seen people do both. There are things I have watched (or I am watching) that I wish were recapped here and occasionally I wish there was more coverage for non-drama things (like Kpop Star, the subs are woefully behind!) but I get that this is Javabeans blog and she has every right to limit its scope as she sees fit. I also know from her posts that her musical tastes skew more indie than kpop and I have loved things she has shared as well. So yeah, that's my two cents: love whats here, sometimes wish for more, but not at the expense of what is already great.
I must add that those comments are written in a colored language. Basically, "I don't care for this post about XXX ! Move your *** and give me my recap." I mean, seriously?
I can understand requests done politely (they are done mostly by people not familiar with this blog from what I can see) but even then, it must be depressing for the bosses when it happens again and again.
Umm.. I would say instead, supporting or hating an actor not on ability but on affiliations the actor has and looks alone rather than real acting ability--either direction. Hate or love.
For example: "I love Gong Yoo as an actor because he's hot"
"I hate Jeong Yong-Hwa as an actor because he's with Park Shin Hye."
"I hate X actress because she's dating whomever."
But I think it would be better to judge on things such as being able to express the character's emotions, the ability to hold the attention of the camera in the proper way for the character, subtle expressions v. deadpan v. overacting. The ability to change for the role. The ability to express a range of characters one can do. The ability to press oneself as an artist. Passion for the acting and ability to throw yourself into it. (Also, for me, the ability to create trust and work with other actors of all types and backgrounds. Trust is chemistry in acting.)
Rapid Vapid characters, for example, are really hard to act in comedy. 'cause if you're really that vapid, then you can't get the timing down. But being that smart, you need to be able to hold the expression.
I admire LJW for subtle expressions. Also Gong Yoo.
And while SSH isn't a great actor, I like that despite everything, he still tries to push himself and stays humble about his ability. He does have some comic timing. If he stuck to Rom Com he wouldn't have so many issues.
Kim Myeong Min, however, can kick everyone's butts. He modulates voice, mannerisms, facial expressions, and while he's passionate, he stays modest about it. His range is frightening too. He's the type that can move the air around him and I'd believe it. (Also modulate his charisma.)
The roles the actor chooses and is playing for the interim of their career now, I don't play in as much. I like seeing what they can do with what they were given and how they can translate script to screen.
Yah know, intelligent conversation about acting and why it does or doesn't work.
To some extent, to also not judge an actor on their acting based on an upcoming project. =P You can't see their acting yet, so how do you know if it's good or bad when it's not even in production? They might have hit a sweet spot.
And if someone disagrees, the wherewithall to be curious to ask why specifically they think that way without getting upset. Bringing your own opinions to the table.
Sometimes it is easier to be a wallflower than put yourself out there. I have deep admiration for anyone who takes the time to write a thoughtful blog post or recap.
No one who becomes a public figure will be completely free of criticism.
Heck, you probably couldn't even get a group of people to agree on the best flavor of ice cream, let alone more emotional or complex topics. It's a mantra of mine. "It's ok if this person disagrees with me. Maybe strawberry is their favorite flavor instead of chocolate." It releases my tension and leaves me with a sweet creamy aftertaste :-)
The majority of us Beanies are really happy and in awe of all the effort that goes into maintaining this website. Sending Girlfriday, HeadsNo2, Javabeans, and Gummimochi all my love.
To all Singaporeans: CHA TAE HYUN is going for Star Awards!! our drama industry is kinda crappy but a big kdrama star is coming and im so excited! except...i wonder how he's gonna communicate lol.
He'll probably speak in korean and then get a translator to translate. Or speak in English! I'm not sure, is he fluent in English? Or he'll just be his funny self. Humor transcends all language barriers. Ha ha.
I realise I have no tack. And I just offend everyone without meaning to. What do I do? Damn, who was it who said that being straightforward was a good thing?
And the thing is that now I'm always second guessing myself and holding back from saying anything and then I get called shy. Or haughty.
But the worst thing is that I'm not even sure if people are saying that about me or that I'm just hallucinating and being over sensitive. Sigh. Why are people so difficult?
Yeah, that's why I only go crazy with a handful of trusted friends. Because you know they won't judge you (or at least they know enough not to judge you wrongly).
Welcome to my world. :)
Thing is, I feel better when I say things the way I see them (I should probably work on the wording but I have no time for that). Walking on thin ice is exhausting in the long run and as popular wisdom says, you can't please everyone. I also prefer when people are direct with me: It can be hard to swallow at times but at least there is no misunderstanding.
Perhaps we should classify people depending on their verbal sensitivity? Good luck with that!
Yeah, but not everyone's honest. So I'm not even sure when I've pissed someone off.
I don't mind people ticking me off when I've done something they didn't like. In fact, I welcome it! Because then I know what works and what doesn't. But for "social grace" or "etiquette", not every one does that. Then I get so confused when they act differently and I start questioning myself. Argghhh!!!!!
I feel you. Despite having the best intentions, some people will always take some of the things you say very differently than what you intend to convey.
I often second guess as well and try to hold back on too much opinion with people I have not known for 10 years or more hehehe
Don't, don't be miserable. You are what you are. Just find a niche where you can be comfortable with yourself and who you are. I know that would not an easy task.
You get to second guess yourself, you get very lonely sometimes, and worst you may feel that none understand or love you.
But, if you stay true to yourself, you'll find those people who really care about you, respect you and sometimes rely on you to tell them the truth, although it may hurt.
I wrote a poem about that because I also struggle with that. Then I met Kindergarten teachers who have the job of telling kids the lowdown without making them cry. Ha!
Some people see life all fuzzy and warm
through lenses so lovely and pink.
Others wear glasses that magnify faults, and
they coldly proclaim what they think.
Somewhere in the middle’s the best of both views.
Watch with your heart and your mind.
It’s good to be honest when looking at things
but don’t forget to be kind.
Wow, love it. I wish I could say I've a fuzzy warm outlook, but that's not the case. ( It is interesting to note, though, that it's been proven that pessimists have a more realistic outlook on life.) But I am probably a little too straight forward for my own good!
Nice, jomo. Often a struggle though when one gets emo. But who was it that said, a wise person is one who thinks he might say something stupid and did not say it. A whole cottage industry of communication experts have cropped up, but things you learned from kindergarten or learned from the mouths of babes will sure save you the money and heartaches.
Ha, I have similar issues too. When I have certain thoughts but I hold back on them, later I', made to regret for not saying them. And then when I don't hold back on my thoughts, I'm later made to regret for saying them, lol. Damned if I do, damned if I don't.
Finally free from dissertation stress! (and just in time it seems, cause today the library caught fire...) HURRAY I can finally start catching up to stuff in dramaland! Trouble is where to start?
Nine - Why?! cannot say I liked this weeks episodes, especially the last one. Why this again? You better resolve it quickly show!
You're the best Lee Soon Shin - I get the mum character, I do. But I still find myself being jade off from her and fastforwarding her scenes. Might be my personal experience of being my mum's go to person for everything going on in her life, but I feel like I just don't want to be dealing with her. Soon Shin and Joon Ho are still adorable though, cannot wait for the relationship there to start up.
Drama Go Go Go - after talk about it last week I decided to give it a go again. Safe to say I've now gotten slightly hooked (I just watched from ep 5 and up to ep 22, that counts as slightly right? :p)
I must say, Jiro Wang have really improved from previous roles I have seen him in. Love the main female lead, and the older guy seems a nice addition to the conflict (and just at the right time as well..)
Gu family Book: still need to start this one. Liking the recaps though!
On another topic anyone have any good mandarin speaking dramas/movies to recommend? I'm going to work in China for a year after the summer, so should start getting used to the language, and maybe pick up some words as I go along as well :p
Which part will you be going to though? Different parts of China have slightly different sounding accents so you might want to watch, for example, a mainland drama rather than a TW drama. I have several to recommend but they mostly belong to the martial arts type cos I just happen to have a penchant for those. Not sure if you have watched them already though - e.g. Chinese Paladin? (Graphics a bit cheesy and I mostly watched cos I like the main actor and actress). There's another one called Strange Hero Yi Zhi Mei which I thought had pretty good plots throughout, and some cool comic strip animation, although some of their CG effects were just meh.
I am going to a city about an hour outside of Beijing, so mainland dramas I guess would be better (though most of the mandaring speaking ones I have seen have been from Taiwan)
I won't say know to a good martial arts drama! I do tend to be drawn to those as well! (reason I originally watched Ninja Assassin had nothing to do with Rain being in it. It was because of the martial arts :P )
HAHA Ninja Assasin. I can totally see where you are coming from ;)
Right, so in addition to the two I recommended above there's also Chinese Paladin 3 (no there's no 2, just 1 & 3 as it was based on a role playing game).
There's also the following
- Tian Long Ba Bu (Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils) - lots of martial arts here
- Bu Bu Jin Xin (Scarlet Heart / Startling by the Step) - time travelling drama about a history buff that gets transported back in time and falls in love
- Zhu Ge Nv You Hui Jia Guo Nian (Rent a Girlfriend Home for New Year) title says it all. Quite hilarious and light - check your brains in at the door
- Shen Diao Xia Lv (Condor Heroes) is a classic and you must watch if you haven't already
Let me know which types of dramas you prefer cos I recommended a variety up there. I can point you to more if you need ;)
Woho that quite a list! :D I'll check them out they do sound interesting! Especially Bu Bu Jin Xin and Tian Long Ba Bu :)
Haha, Ninja Assassin indeed :p What can I say, it had a fancy cover and promised me ninjas and martial arts, I didn't even notice Rain was in it until later! Then I discovered that many watched it because of him xD
One tdrama I'm waiting/hoping for subs for is "Two Fathers" read the plot summary and it seems interesting, and just enough cute and fun to go around.
Haha I saw Two Fathers around but haven't gotten around to investigating it in depth.
Personally Condor Heroes is my favourite martial arts story but the drama doesn't convey the complexity as well as actually reading the novel and/or comic. Unfortunately both are actually in Chinese so...maybe after you've been in China for a year? ;)
You should check out Strange Hero Yi Zhi Mei if you like martial arts too. Its kinda like China's version of Iljimae (sounds almost exactly the same) but there's a good twist to the story. Ignore the cheesy effects -I got over those pretty fast haha
I saw the first episode, and it seemed cute and funny enough, even though I didn't understand a word :p So hoping that it'll come with subs, or that I'll manage to pick up enough mandaring to understand it! :p
Ah, I know how sometimes books beat the dramas by a long shot. We shall see how much written chinese I can pick up, though I think the spoken version will be my main learning interest ;)
I will have a look at the drama though!
Hm, I never got around to watch Iljimae. Think I started one of the versions once but never finished the first episode. I'll put this drama on the list in any case :D
Haha I did give in! Thank you for putting the pressure on though! I am definitively not regretting giving in another chance!
I am liking the older male person! [potential spoiler alert!!] I was soo hoping that the manager wouldn't be the last part of the triangle for him though. Fingers crossed that gets resolved quickly!
Haha, I suppose you did claim him first ;) He has a very very nice smile though ;)
Yeah I was waiting for the older lead to come in the last episodes before he turns up properly. Who is she ending up with in the end? I'm guessing Eason simply because he is written after the female lead in the overview.
Happy OT everyone! Celebrating my birthday today (and nope, still not revealing my age) and had a great time at dinner followed by some singing so I'm in a particularly great mood. :)
Managed to do some drama catching up but must admit to being somewhat disappointed at GFB - am still debating whether to drop it so it all depends on how good next week's episodes turn out. Any more poor editing, ham-handed music interludes and weak storytelling and I'm outta there. Must admit though I'm looking forward to Mandate of Heaven. Also...I miss having rom-coms since FBND ended! I mean yes the last 2 or 3 episodes for the drama felt superfluous but I enjoyed the cute...current run of dramas all seem overly serious to me.
Don't really like any of the new Japanese dramas except Senryu Tantei Tokage. Really wish Itazura na Kiss was better but I keep seeing Ariel Lin instead of the Japanese actress acting...and I feel like the original Japanese version was better. At least Kotoko felt different! More sincere. And they came up with a twist on the kiss portion. This one felt like the TW drama on wash, rinse, wring and repeat, without a fresh take on the material. Thats just being lazy.
Anyone watching TW dramas recently? Any to recommend? Not sure what's good to watch in the recent runs. Something light and cute, preferably.
How is GFB? I haven't been able to watch it but read the recaps. I want that show to be good. Also looking forward to Mandate of heaven!
Know what you mean about lacking a good rom-com and that the current drama weather is serious, serious and with an added sparkle of depression. I'm counting on "You're the best Lee Soon Shin" to carry on the cuteness!
GFB has been kind of uneven. I loved the parents back story and was quite patient with the current unfolding developments but I hated the last episode. I'm waiting to see if that was just a one-off thing though so will still watch the next two episodes. If they don't do the job I might stop watching it, which is a pity. I WANT GFB to be good!
Haha I'm following YTBLSS through recaps cos I usually can't take the pacing of a weekend drama. Luckily DB is doing recaps for it! I hope they continue with the recaps for Mandate of Heaven too cos it looks promising but I know what they mean by too many recaps and too little time. I'm amazed that they manage to cover as many dramas as they currently do!
Yeah I know what you mean! The girls behind DB is doing an amassing job covering all that they do!
People seems to be having mixed responses to GFB, though everyone seems to love the parents :P I want this show to be good! Been putting off watching it untill after my dissertation was written (though I couldn't keep myself from reading the recaps)
The recap of Mandate of Heaven seems promising indeed, cannot wait for subs to I can check it out myself. I want this one to be good as well cause it sounds like it has so much potential!
The humour is indeed a big plus! not to mention that the recaps are always of a good quality. I've read some horrible examples where I got nothing of the story, but know waaaaay to much about how the writer liked two of the male character and hated the female lead.
Testimony to how much time I spend reading recaps here: I have a couple of times had dreams that have happened in Javabeans & Girlfriday's "1N2D" recap format xD
Haha yeah! It's kinda like with the split of opinions it makes me want to see for myself what people are on about.
I really like YTBLSS - it is definitely carrying the cuteness factor. Even though it's 50 episodes, the story is easily picked up when you have the time. I also really, really like Jo Jung Suk and IU (surprisingly) in it.
I've always liked IU even in Dream High, but the birth secret thing was awfully makjang and a bit too much so for my taste so I'll stick with the recaps for now. Baker dude sounds like a hoot though!
Happy Birthday! I have birthdays on the brain, too - my oldest turns 18 on Monday, and I am having trouble wrapping my brain around the fact (18? Really, How did that happen?) - even though the last few months have been all about applying for and choosing a college. It was such a shock to look at the calendar and realize she's leaving home in four months...
For me, it's all the time devoted to the mom 's story in YTBLSS that drives me crazy -ff puh-leeze! And the chicken couple remind me of the parents in L7CS - just too too! But the couple story is adorable (and the sisters' side stories are cute too!)
Library was on fire indeed! Quite fittingly when thinking that today was the deadline for handing in your dissertations.
I agree on the time being devoted to the mom's story is a main factor in why I feel detached from it. And the chicken couple I still can't get my head around why they crop up all the time! (Must say I saved myself from watching L7CS though I followed the recaps)
The sisters stories are cute. Awkwards breadman for the win! Not to mention the adorable jealousy thing between Joon Ho and Chan Woo over towards each other over different sisters (although they don't know that!)
What a week it's been, with tales of heroism, witticism, schisms, and prison. lol
In R/L
- My boys at the precinct saved the life of a man hanging upside down in a burning car.
- My mom's 80's went off with only a few hitches (Lesson Learned: do NOT expect a husband of 56 years to keep a secret, even for a lousy 24 hours. :-)
- Spring pollen is done, but the strawberry season is slow, so no fresh picked until May.
- My favorite nephew has a final interview with the Police Department in a nearby city, which means I won't be working with him, but I'm proud of his decision to be in public safety.
- National Poetry Month - I've posted the first three weeks, and I have to say kudos to anyone out there writing a poem a day (or really anything creative). "My brain be fried / there's nothing inside!"
In Dramaland:
- I'm up to episode 23 on Drama GoGoGo, and the older male lead could give JIS a run for his money for height and well-place couture. I have to find more stuff that Hu Bing has been in. It's gotten bogged down a bit, like many a TWDrama with 30 episodes, but the cute 3 male leads make up for it, since there's always one of them on the screen.
- When A Man Loves -- What can I say? The cute continues! No shirtless scenes, but I have to say Hand Towel is rocking the adorkable look, especially in white shirts and jeans.. The SqueeCapping hosted by the lovely kakashi is going swimmingly well, and episode 7 should be out this weekend!
- I've peeked in on Gu Family Book but after the first two episodes, it hasn 't gripped me like I hoped. Still, it's on the list for possible marathoning at a later date.
****
Did anyone watch Mandate of Heaven? What did you think about it?
I'm glad you are enjoying the SqueeCaps! I don't know how my squee-sisters feel about the effort (especially kakashi), but it's been a blast doing this project la!
And Hand Towel is very swoon-worthy. And I find our Grape-headed Villain has some pretty shoulder muscles...oh gosh, did I just say that???
yeah ... how does kakashi feel ............ I'm thinking about a programme that automates giffing. you know: I show it the squeecap and it does all the gifs for me. hahahaaa
no la!!! grape headed villian has a tight body but too burly for his frame. or maybe just for my taste. he is all muscles though. that was a surpirse when he was at the baseball ground breaking them bats. wearing a hairband. waht a strange sight that was.
Shukmeister! Didn't want you to be lonely here at the bottom of the page!
I am struggling with GFB, and for the life of me I can't figure out why. I've started watching eps 3 4 times now but never make it through--I always get distracted by Twitter or some show in real TV. So not sure I can give you much of a recommendation there.
Lol about the husband of 56 years. I don't think mine listens to half of what's being said so he's very good at keeping secrets!
I love my dad beyond everything, but, yeah, the saving grace was that my mom didn't pay attention either.
ShukStory:
This was the first time in about 5 years we had all my siblings together (Oldest sister lives several states away, the three left work medical / public safety jobs with all those crazy hours).
So, when the three of us were leaving for the restaurant, my dad yells to my mom, "Don't forget the camera! All the kids will be there!" I hissed at him: "DAD!"
But luckily, my mom thought he meant the GRANDkids (meaning my sister's brood) and dismissed the statement. CRISIS AVERTED
I feel you with the pollen season starting! I have it wonderfully with reacting to pretty much everything from the season starts and till its end. Also, I love strawberries!
The older male lead id DGGG is indeed a looker. I just hope the manager crush gets resolved quickly, though I guess it's another reason for her to push Eason and Ming Ming together :p
I must admit to tuning in to your SqueeCaps last week, and they make me want to see the show! (must admit having been drawn to the plot before it started airing). How is the drama?
This is my first almost-live recap (I've been recapping older dramas that need love), so it's a bit exhausting, but fun!
So far, I am enjoying it! Will it solve world hunger or make safe cold fusion? Um, no. But it's a good way to spend two hours (or in my case, many more)!!
Ah one of what my mum would call "30 degrees in the sun non thinking entertainment" in other words. Enjoyable when you watch it and then you can leave it alone afterwards?
Hi~ Just a quick short post because I'm ridiculously late (but still early enough to post~ it's still friday!)
Right now... I'm almost out of dramas to watch D: I've been cutting the drama-load lately but now I'm starting to feel the emptiness.
I'm currently watching:
You're the best, Lee Soon Shin! (just ador(k)able)
Gu Family Book (so far, so good~ I'm impatient enough to follow with Chinese subs rather than English ones because they come out earlier xO)
All About My Romance (Just started watching it, and it's funny enough so far. I'm glad Lee Min Jung is playing a more assertive character again~)
And... that's it. Three dramas. I need moreeeee... Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm thinking of picking up Heaven's Mandate but I don't know yet...
hello everyone!
I'm watching Gu Family Book and somehow find myself kind of bored despite my love for LSG... I will continue watching it because I want to see how he and Suzy fall in lurve. Sidenote: I think Suzy's acting is pretty good! This is the first project of hers I've seen and I am impressed. What do you guys think?
Also I've been trying to find somewhere to watch Mandate of Heaven since its not on dramafever or viki... which by the way is very disappointing, why no love for mong ji and lee dong wook?? Has anyone seen the first ep, what did you guys think?
I've liked Suzy since Dream High, robot Hye-mi and all :D Well, deadpan comedy ftw. And so far I'm liking Yeo Wool too.
And yeah, love the song. And CNBlue. Ticket sales to their Manila concert starts tomorrow--- hope I'm able to buy one before they all get sold out, even if I have to sit on a plane on two hours just to get there.
Hola and Happy Friday Beanies!
Things are going very well for me because I finally quit my job!!!! And have found a job that it seems like I will actually enjoy and care about which is a novel idea for me. Hoping the work life balance will result in a more balanced drama viewing experience. Also dramas got good again, or at least I am enjoying them again!!!
Finished Incarnation of money, and thoroughly enjoyed it though it often was crazy unrealistic. I am not familiar with the Korean Legal system but I am pretty sure you can't be the lead prosecutor for the same person that accused you of murder and sent you to jail for a month who only recanted his story after you framed him for stabbing you in the gut. Just guessing you might have a slight conflict of interest. But the revenge story and cat and mouse games were so compelling that i didn't mind how unrealistic it was. Still don't see what the point was regarding the fat storyline, but did appreciate how he thought she was beautiful no matter what on their wedding day.
watching:
All about my romance - Super cute good old fashion romcom. Its a refreshing watch! And the romance is believable! (love lee minjung!)
Lee Soo Shin - Adorable, adorable, adorable. Loving all the sisters and their romantic partners! Mom is slightly annoying but trying to have patience. Could do with out all the drama around the birth secret but the drama otherwise is hitting all the right notes for me and looking forward to watching the remaining 30+ episodes (Its my first simulcast 50 ep drama).
Nine - So good!!! Excellent even, have no idea whats going to happen and I like it! Lee Jin wook is fantastic in this role!
Also completely and utterly addicted to the madness that is Substitute Princess (King Flower) and the charisma that is Chris Wu. He is totally killing it in the role, praying that he gets Da Hua in the end because otherwise WHY Drama Why!!! Sigh i can't say that this show is spectacular but its my current crack for sure! Damn you T-dramas and your practice of only airing one episode a week!
Lastly watching and loving Itazura na kiss. Playful kiss was my second drama ever and though i was frustrated the entire time by Oh Hani i enjoyed. Experiencing the same phenomenon with the Japanese version! Totally engaged and amused but frustrated because oh her blind devotion despite his lack of interest. Good thing I know whats going to happen and looking forward to it.
So this weekend going to pick up another Drama because why the hell not. Considering Gu Family book (But hear its not that good). When a Man loves (people seem to be enjoying it, who knew!) and Mandate of Heaven (but may wait for more episodes before I embark on that one).
Also cant wait to start Ten 2! Love watching Dramas!!!
*Also shout out to the Midwest beanies who had our first meetup last weekend here in Chicago! it was lovely meeting you lovely ladies and great to talk dramas and kpop with people who Understand!! Can't wait for the next one!
I totally agree with you about Substitute Princess!!! Chris Wu is doing such a fabulous job, I just want everyone to step back and let him take over the show and be the hero. I don't know of anyone who doesn't totally prefer his Terry over that ridiculous lout Guan Jun.
I wanted to discuss something that's Korean culture-related, albeit not K-drama related. Apparently there's a Hyundai commercial where they tout its green advantages by saying it has such low emissions, you couldn't even committ suicide with it if you tried. I was horrified by it, but a Korean friend shrugged it off and said Korean culture was just more blunt and direct. I was aware of that, but it still just seemed really . . . awful, to be honest. Any Koreans here who could comment on it? I was curious to see if it was a "cultural differences" kind of thing or not.
Well, I'm not Korean at all (maybe in a previous life) but I think that Koreans have a vision of death globally less tragic and scary than us Westerners who "rebel" against it. Maybe because of the Buddhist notion of reincarnation and also because of a hollistic vision of life.
As shocking as it can be for us, suicide is one of the main causes of death in SK, for every age range. It seems to be seen as one valid option among many others to solve insurmountable problems.
And finally, I guess it depends on how you sense of humour works. I personally dig black humour. In some crazy situations that happened to me, laughing was the only way I could react (or I could have killed myself but I would have missed all those juicy dramas).
Hmm, yes and no to this. I actually don't shy away from discussions of death, perhaps due to my religious culture, the fact that unfortunately I've had to deal with the unexpected deaths of immediate family members at young ages, and my upbringing by immigrant parents who have a different, non-American perspective. That being said, the idea of using suicide to sell a product, however jokingly -- *especially* in a country where the suicide rate is so high (which I was aware of) -- is just a little off-putting to me. I think because suicide is such a different kettle of fish from "regular" death (even sudden, tragic deaths like the ones I've seen close by).
Korean culture tends to be more blunt and direct AND there are a ton of references to dying as part of slang. (I'll go over how to communicate in Korean some time)
So for example, there are threats such as "Chugo" If you don't do *whatever* You'll die.
Or being so tired, you think you'll die.
Or being so in love you think you'll die.
If your friend should do something they've been putting off you can go hwak Chugo~~. You'll hear this often among CLOSE friends. Also the offer of death in Sageuk, which no one seemed to get the parody of in Hong Gil Dong (though I get this was a kinda sick joke on the Hong sisters' part.)
Besides, statistically, it's said that openly talking about suicide is better for those who will commit suicide than trying to hush it up. The West has a culture of hushing it up, but psychology tells you to actually talk about it openly if you want to prevent it.
South Korea also doesn't take suicide lightly since according to WHO, suicide is a lot more frequent than people who go to mental hospitals due to stigma, with those in mental hospitals often after a suicide attempt. (Making the stat in All About My Romance sadly true.)
Hello Beanies - hope everyone's Friday is going okay.
I was wondering whether anyone knew whether King of Dramas will release an OST any time soon? I haven't been able to find one for purchase anywhere, and it's been several months already since that drama finished airing.
Over the past few weeks I have been making my foray into K-movie watching, having mostly stuck with dramas to this point. Been catching up with some movies I have wanted to see for a while, with mixed results. I started with "Little Black Dress" starring Yoon Eun-hye, and left it wondering what the point of the movie was. None of the main four were particularly sympathetic, and it was unclear to me how they were even friends. What a mess.
I fared somewhat better with "Sunny", which also traded on the concept of female friendship but did so with a bit more heart than Little Black Dress. It was more melancholy in tone than I expected - I went in thinking I was going to get a feel-good comedy, and while it did have its laugh-out-loud moments, it was much more reflective and bittersweet than I was prepared for. I loved Kang So-ra here, since the only other role I have seen her in was in Dream High 2 (a drama I'd like to forget). I would love to see her play more charismatic characters like that - I think she would do really well.
The third film I watched was "The Crucible" (though there doesn't seem to be a consistent English translation of the title). I was prepared for it to be a dark film, considering the subject matter, and a difficult film...but I strongly question the directorial choices made in terms of the scenes with the child actors. The scenes I think were done well were the courtroom scenes, the most powerful of which when the judge yells at the audience members who are deaf to be quiet. It illustrates the great disconnect between him and the case he is meant to be evaluating.
I just watched The Crucible too (for those who are looking for it under "Crucible" its on Netflix under the title "Silenced"). Oh man was that sad. I cried a lot. I would have liked there to have been a post script in the film that talked about what was real and not and what had happened after the end of the film. I've tried looking but I haven't had much luck finding information on the real events in English.
The Crucible: I remember reading an article on a Korean news site (Chosun Ilbo or The Korea Time news, I think) when the movie aired: Netizens were outraged and asked for a new trial because some of the culprits had done only months of prison and then returned to work in facilities with kids... Don't know what happened after that.
I also read an interview of the Director who confessed than in fact he hadn't shown the most horrible things done to the children. I just can't and won't try to imagine but I would like to treat those bastards like in Sons of Anarchy. Huh!
I think they changed a law on child abuse after the movie came out and the subsequent outcry from the public lead to a petition that went all the way to parliament.
I had the same problem with hydrangeabloom. I wondered how they filmed those scenes without traumatizing the child actors themselves.
I don't know the full extent of the legal changes, but I remember reading somewhere that one law that has been recently changed involved boys under the age of thirteen...that it previously wasn't possible to file a rape charge if the victim was male. I would really need more resources and verifiable information on that though.
I've had the same problem, but the New York Times did do an article on the film (and the school) that at least expands upon some points. Like the sentencing and the school not being closed until the release of the film. Crazy stuff.
I watched the Crucible too. It was definitely disturbing but very eye-opening. I'm glad that it managed to make an impact in Korea. About the child actors, I think there may have been ways of doing those scenes that won't be traumatizing to the actors themselves. But I can't say for sure...
Javabeans doesn't watch Japanese shows (She's made that quite clear with things like Queen of the Office). She also doesn't know Japanese. Same with TW and HK shows.
Heads does watch Japanese shows, so doing the recaps on Jin and the remake of Propdai made sense for her to do.
Haven't seen the other recappers mention it beyond that.
JB and GF have a Korean background and language knowledge, meaning they can recap before subs are out. They probably couldn't do that with J or TW dramas.
Plus, there are only so many hours in a day! (Sends *thank you vibes* towards the whole Dramabeans team.)
I've been really into it although I don't really like any of the characters except the main guy. I don't understand why he likes her - she's kinda bitchy and not very nice, although she's finally getting into the relationship. I don't understand the second lead's totally devastated and hurt reaction since she was pretty clear from very early on that they didn't have a relationship and she was seeing someone else. It's not like she was leading him on.
Others here seem to think that this isn't going anywhere happy which is too bad because I'm enjoying the cute a lot.
내생애 최악의 남자/The Worst Guy Ever Rating: ★★★★★
Sweet and stick around for the ending.
무영검 (無影劍)/Shadowless Sword Rating: ★★★★★
You can watch with a BF/guy, strong romance.
여선생 vs 여제자/Love Rivals Rating: ★★★★★
It turns sweet later on.
영어완전정복/Please Teach Me English Rating: ★★★★★
This is a great intro into Korean movies.
도마뱀/domabaem/Love Phobic Rating: ★★★★★
Sad. So prepare tissues. But well done and I like the premise.
빈집/Bin-jip/3 Iron Rating: ★★★★★
This is more on the literary side. Has Jae Hee in it.
친절한 금자씨/Sympathy for Lady Vengeance Rating: ★★★★★
Scary, I would say, but you can learn about the tofu thingie off of this and It's not a bad movie.
야수와 미녀/The Beast and the Beauty Rating: ★★★★★
This remains one of my top favorites. The guy is a dork and I like the message of the movie. When I'm feeling like there is nothing to watch I'll rewatch this a few times. Plus the "blind" part isn't played out for laughs negatively and it ends up being sweet.
여고과담/Yeogo goedam/Whispering Corridors Rating: ★★★★★
Scary in the Korean way.
아라한 장풍 대작전/Arahan Rating: ★★★★★
For the movie your men can also watch. Funny.
번지점프를 하다 Beonjijeompeureul hada/Bungee Jumping of Their Own Rating: ★★★★★
A bit strange and mind bending in a lot of ways. More intellectual watch.
왕의 남자/Wangeui Namja/The King and The Clown Rating: ★★★★★
Well-done. Not 100% on homosexuality, but considering this started much of what is the homosexuality rights movement in South Korea, I'd mark it as "important"
늑대의 유혹/Temptation of Wolves Rating: ★★★★★
Squick, a little, but I still think Bungee outdoes this one in similar tone...
내 여자친구를 소개합니다 Nae yeojachingureul sogae hamnida/Windstruck Rating: ★★★★★
I liked this better than My Girl, but I know I'm probably in the minority.
내 사랑 싸가지/Nae sarang ssagaji/100 Day With Mr. Arrogant Rating: ★★★★★
Another comfort film I watch with my other two comfort films--Please Teach me English and The Beast and the Beauty.
에스다이어리/S Diary Rating: ★★★★★
It's a fun watch. Not for young children though.
내 남자의 로맨스/How To Keep My Love Rating: ★★★★★
It's not one I'd repeat watch... but it does have appeal for me.
역전에 산다/Reversal of Fortune Rating: ★★★★★
I rather liked this one.
Others: Il Mare It did terribly in the box office, but I like it as it forces you to think over timelines and things. (Uses branching timelines.) Might break your brain if you're looking for a relaxing watch though.
Also, consider All about my Wife, which I found ultimately sweet.
The Kiss Up Project, which was just funny as anything....
Lots of these are very enjoyable, I agree. I'd add Castaway on the Moon, Ahjussi, A Time to Remember, I'm a Cyborg, but That's Okay, Werewolf Boy...hmmm...Finding Mr. Destiny, Rough Cut...
The ones that score highest are, other than 3-Iron, are Come Rain Come Shine, This Charming Girl, Duelist, Late Autumn and Take Care of My Cat. All kind of artsy/slow films though, so I don't know if that's your taste.
If you want something plain fun, Woochi is great (need to review it!). I also second KimYoonmi's recommendation of The King and the Clown.
Yes, Alua, you do! I can't wait to hear what you think of it. I've seen it 3 times so far...maybe 4? Twice without subs and at least once with. Gorgeously filmed, with really strong acting, and although I know that plenty of others found it differently, for me it's an incredibly sad movie.
That's kinda nice to hear that you "can't wait" to hear what I think of it :-D
I'm pretty sure I'll like it. I am not expecting a life-changing movie, but I'm guessing something I'll end up rating 7 or 8.
I'm holding out for a while, I'm still hoping for it to appear at one or another festival, the Terracotta Far East one in June or the Korean Film Festival in October. If it doesn't get screened at either one of those, I'm going to have to watch it by other means.
I'm probably the only one who probably didn't like Werewolf Boy as much. I mean, not much really happened or it probably did but the slow pacing or subdued manner of events made it easy for me to feel sleepy while watching. The cinematography was beautiful but at times it was too dark to discern what was happening; seemed more like they were trying not to show Song Joong-ki look less pretty as a werewolf.
On the other hand, I loved Ajhusshi. It was compelling and engaging. Anyone who hasn't watched it yet should read the review done on it on this site. It will definitely do a better job of selling this movie than I ever could attempt.
Haha, I watched Please Teach Me English the other day and it was such a hoot. This is a case where actors use English not for trying to sound cool/intelligent and that's why it didn't make me cringe but laugh so hard instead. The story was also very cute.
As it's been over 5 hours since anyone posted here most likely no one will see this but I've got to get it off my chest anyway. I just watched the first Drama Fever awards results and, the other people that watch dramas at Drama Fever are idiots.
I mean come on I like Yoon Eun Hye too but to pick her over, Ha Ji Won, Moon Chae Won, or Jung Ryeo Won as best actress. Rooftop Prince over Answer Me 1997 or Shut Up Flower Boy Bans for best ensemble, really. Dream High 2 over What's Up, Shut up Flower Boy Band and Answer Me 1997 for best soundtrack, again really? Lee Min Ho and Kim Hee Sun over Seo In Guk and Jung Eun Ji as best couple? Yeo Jin Goo over Sung Joon, Jung Eun Ji or Jo Jung Suk for breakout performance? But the biggest grievance is The Moon that Embraces the Sun as the best drama of the year over Answer me 1997 or Bridal Mask.
It struck me as an advertisement. Look investors, let's pound into your heads that we get over 500,000 people visiting our site. Like they gave the award winners talking points.
Hi Everyone, I'm not usually in OT but have to get it out there since I don't see anyone mentioning All About My Romance. I'm loving All About My Romance. It's so good. And the main lead male isn't that great looking but oh buy am I loving him here. He have he smile of a goddess. :D
Doubt anyone will see this now but I am ridiculously excited for Special Affairs Team TEN Season 2. The first episode just got subbed on Dramacrazy! Just got absolutely mindblown...
More like your WTH is going on?? What was I watching during the whole last season?? Its just impossible to know whats going to happen next. Totally mindblowing!!
![[Cast Away] A psychometric marries his enemy to foil her plans](https://d263ao8qih4miy.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/castaway_header1.png)
![[Beanie Recs] Dramas about fangirling](https://d263ao8qih4miy.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/BeanieRecs.jpg)
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1 KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:22 AM
안녕하세요, 친구들
This week:
Too many dramas, so I'm short listing them. I dropped Gu Family Book. =P I'm strict about story over pretty. And Mandate of Heaven is coming up. (My Sageuk Korean is still weak)
Cultural Note of the week: Given Names, but separate post, since there is a linky attached to it... I need to give credit. And it'll be a bit long. I debated trying something else, but it's come up a few times in the dramas/shows this week. (Like why is Phil Soon so funny? And why is Making it Kwang Soon make it funny? And why Jin Woo and Seon Woo share a part of their name?) Also for My Sassy Girl, Choon Hyang and the whole name book thing. You'll get all of that with the ginormous post.
On the Boston Bombings
I'm really sorry for all those who have suffered. In addition, I really, really hoped that the suspects would neither be Muslim or Middle Eastern. >.<;; I'm sorry about this turn of events as religious intolerance will probably raise higher. I'm really disappointed. Disappointed that this had to happen at all. Disappointed that only Muslims are going to take the heat for this crap. I'm hoping that my ominous predictions won't turn out like I think they will. A little education could go a long way.
And please ignore Fox News. I mean, really ignore their tripe.
Back to dramas.
Nine(No Spoilers)
I hate drawn out milked makjang for the sake of itself. As a viewer and a writer, I really have no patience for makjang for the sake of itself and don't find it sad one bit. So I disliked episode 14, but liked episode 13. Probably not popular opinion. =P I don't care if it's not popular.
(BTW, I hate it because it fails to anchor the heart in anything new and tries too hard. Both which I was told not to do with writing.)
I'm saying this now, they better have a change up next week from this, or I'm probably ditching. (And I am that strict).
Hwasin(Coded spoilers)
The switched formats permanently. It's like learning how to date Korean style. =P That given, I loved the first half, not so much the second. He's so innocent. Is he into the older women??? At 26 and the teacher and Hee Seon bit?
Galileo 2
So far, not as good as 1. But I'll give it a chance.
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku(No Spoilers)
There isn't much romance, though, thus far. Strong female character, who is intelligent and underestimated by her male counterparts. I like that. However, after watching Osen, and then a streak, not biting this one. Too soon.
Carole will probably like it, but for me, I've watched far too many of these type of dramas, so I'll probably not watch this one unless I'm really stuck.
Kazoku Game (Spoiler light, for first episode)
I like the actor, Sakurai Sho, I don't like the premise at all. I'll go over this for a length.
I think Sakurai Sho took this drama mainly as an extension of The Quiz Show 2, which was, pretty good. (Especially since his recent dramas have him acting "good") I don't fault him for that.
However, the show has several flaws that I can't swallow and is a bit atypical for a Japanese show.
- The premise that killing someone is worse than being teased and bullied until he feels like a robot.
Usually Japanese shows don't rank feelings. This one does.
- The stereotypical Japanese family. Including a flat female character (who doesn't pass the Bechdel test) Or pass much else either since she plays only one role--mother. May pass it later, but I really don't care to find out.
- The explicit child abuse by the main character which just turns out to be more bullying. (And the idea, somehow, that by making it worse than what he experienced, that'll make him stronger, which goes against every psychological study I know. PTSD is a truth for many bullied kids. Making it worse doesn't make PTSD get better.)
There is also the single person trying to reform a family motif, which isn't my favorite of Japanese theming. (I really like the Slice of Life the best). Kaseifu no Mita is in the same vein, if you don't know what I'm talking about. (Which was also wildly popular in Japan)
So this is a strong skip for me, though I somehow made it through the first episode. (Though I got unpleasantly triggered at the same time.) Anyway, strong warning against those who do get triggered for child abuse and bullying...
Anyway, this isn't to say a bad drama. I mean there are BAD dramas. This is to say, not my taste for the above reasons. Someone else may be able to stomach it, especially for Sakurai Sho's sake.
Doubles ~ Futari no Keiji
Skip for now. Meh, I like female dominated shows. And it starts that way, but then men take over and I lost interest. What? There are dramas out there marketed to men. Didn't find this one offensive though.
Sennyu Tantei Tokage
Backburner. Matsuda Shota--I tend to like his acting and he can do a range when he's given the chance. He also was good in Liar Game, but he tends to be given one note roles... I'd love to see him handle more range. Renbutsu Misako- this role isn't a stretch for her.
Has a lot of famous people as guests, though. And I have to admit I can pick their faces out with only their voice. TT I've watched so many of these.
So the weak point is the writing. It has a stellar cast not being pushed (yet). Making it a passable watch.
Strong backburner.
Barefoot Friends
A rough start, but it was funny. Probably be good for the 1 day 2 nights fans. Yoon Si Yoon features heavily in camera time, mostly because he's amusing. (He also says he was born in 1985 (In English), though his profile says he was born in 1986. ?.?) 27 in Western Years. 28 in Korean.
Still watching the same from last week, including Gu Am Heo Joon, Last Cinderella (Still hot), Running Man (Still funny, though I found the female guest weak...), Otenki Onee-san, All About My Romance (backburner though--the pacing grates against Nine's pacing, so never back to back.) and Lee Soon Sin (I hate the grandmother a whole lot. ^^;; Might be just me though. My own Korean grandmothers were never that narrow-minded. Strong, yes, but not annoying like her). Skipping/dropped: Queen of the Office. (Korean remakes of Japanese shows never do so well for me.), Gu Family Book (Nine is at fault for this), and anything that looked like melodrama.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:24 AM
Korean Given names
This will be unbearingly long. Sorry.
I chose this topic after Hwasin, Nine, and Soon Sin all started to cover this topic.
References need to be gotten out of the way first. http://kluster.com.au/issue/seven/suk-kuhn-oh/
belectricground.com/2011/08/08/korean-language-and-culture-series-korean-names-part-4/ (read the previous parts too)
Huge credit to the second, a little credit to the first.
The second link covers the following:
- Conventional naming practices
- Hanja v. Hangeul names
- Generational names
- Japanese derived names
- Funny names (Why Pil Soon is funny, for example--meaning last daughter... also Soon is very feminine. From Hwasin.)
- And cultural names.
The first link is about Cheol Soo and Yeong Hee, which is referenced in the second link. (I haven't found a translation) It's pretty much like the Dick and Jane books for Americans. (Cheol Soo is also a very common male name)
So I'll cover what this post didn't cover.
- Generational names
- How to choose names
- Family fighting.
- Hanja eccentricities
- How to win naming your child what you want when the family disagrees with you.
- The naming dream.
- Naming superstitions (old ones)
First, a little history, (quick, since the series that was done covers the majority of it).
Korean names were originally three syllables (mostly) with no surnames. It wasn't until the importation of Chinese culture with probably Buddhism that changed this and made for the yangban, surnames, which eventually leaked into the lower classes, albiet quite slowly. This is why in Three Kingdoms historical dramas, you often get three syllable names, but they aren't really surnames. (And some people on dramawiki get confused about this.) For example, the name: Soseono (From Jumong) is one name. It does not contain a surname. It's a bit difficult to find these names though.
After the Three Kingdoms era, and the coming in of Chinese, derived names, many names also became Chinese-derived, following Chinese naming conventions. This included the importation of books to tell you which generational name you should use.
That given before the 1990's, most names, especially traditional ones followed this convention. So that all your cousins in the same generational line of the same sex (though sometimes also all the opposite sex) had the same name.
For example, my Korean cousin has the shared character "Yoon". If I had other female cousins, they'd all have the first generational name of "Yoon" So that anyone after us will also know that our generation is "Yoon" Any sisters underneath my father would also have Yoon.
My brother, however, didn't get "Yoon" since the Chinese character used for Yoon is girly, but it's likely that his first character of his name meaning "Sky/Heaven" probably would have been the generational name.
There are cases where it comes second, such as in Nine's characters of Jin Woo and Seon Woo.
This means in given names there is also a personal name to differentiate. "Seon" and "Jin" in this case are the personal part of their names. Meaning that the characters are named traditionally, which fits with the personality of their father.
Mine is "Mi" meaning "Pretty" or "Beauty" which isn't used in male names, typically. (Unless with something explicitly male. Such as Mi Nam. Nam, meaning man in this case).
Sometimes the nickname will come from the personal name, not the generational name, but that's only for people you're really close to. (You don't usually see this in K-dramas though)
Only difference against Chinese names that Korean names don't follow, is that they don't number the children typically.
However, in the 1990's after backlash against the loss of culture, etc, many people wanted to use Korean-derived names only. This includes "Haneul" which is a Korean word for "Sky" and also just chose names they just liked because of the historical context (such as Choon Hyang)
So about choosing names and Family fighting over them.
Koreans are very, very particular about names. You can get a taste of this in My Sassy Girl, Choon Hyang (which I refuse to call otherwise 'cause the title matches My Sassy Girl movie on purpose) When Choon Hyang is fake pregnant in a stunt, the father spends hours trying to write hanja characters (Chinese characters) for the name and repeat them over and over. You can also see this in Bad Family.
Koreans choose the following criteria (most of the time):
- Sound --softer-sounding consonants are usually used. ㅂㅈㄷㄱㅅㅁㄴㅇㄹㅎ over: ㅃㅉㄸㄲㅆㅋㅌㅊㅍ Korean culture has a lot of emphasis on sound of the language. (You can look up bright and dark vowels as an example.) Harder consonants/vowel combinations are also considered more masculine, I believe, as well. "Cheol" in "Cheol Soo" "Cheon" etc.
- Spelling-Sometimes the same hanja character can be pronounced two different ways. So for example, ryeong, v. yong, meaning "dragon" can be spelled with the same character, but the hangeul is different. So these things are also weighed. (Alliteration... for example)
- Meaning- Meaning is fought over a whole lot within a family. It gives the hopes of the family for that individual. You can see this for Yoon Eun Hye. She has a name that says pretty much gracious and forgiving. Do you remember how she had that streak of bad dramas because she was paying off favors? There you go. Her name says it all.
- Alternate meanings. (Where the whole name combined means something else in Korean, though the hanja, etc mean something else.)
- Hanja spelling- This comes from my own family history and overlaps with the whole family fighting over names thing.
- And usually historical context. (For example, if someone famous in their family has the name, or someone terrible has the name)
My Korean father named me as soon as he saw me calling me "Bright Beauty". However, since my grandfather from my mother's side is also a Gimhae Kim and also my father's paternal senior, was pissed off by this (from what I know of him--he was traditional and very, very stubborn.... but so are most of my family)
So when it came to naming my brother, Appa and my grandfather fought a whole bunch the entire pregnancy over the name. (Even though it's a little useless). Because it's a generational name, and sometimes you don't have the generational naming book, other people will also join in fighting, because it affects THEIR children too. It's not just yours you are naming. You are naming a generation.
So my grandfather and my father came to an agreement over what the sounds would be in Hangeul. Then agreed on the hanja meaning of the name of my brother, but then they endlessly fought over the SHORTENED hanja spelling. Not the actual spelling of the name in hanja, nor the meaning of the hanja, but they fought over how the hanja would be shortened so my brother could write it more easily since the second character of the name is a bear to write. Even if the shortened hanja was only there for sound purposes, Appa fought because his version of the hanja shortening was ONE stroke shorter than my grandfather and my grandfather was the one that finally won and that was the one that got associated with my brother's name. Probably because he was still bitter that I got named without being consulted. (I wonder if he had an alternate for me) and because he was older than my father. (My father was still bitter over it 20 years later--yeah...).
You can see a whole lot about Korean naming in that little family history.
My brother ended up with a super powerful Korean name, and super masculine, which is in contrast to my own name. (Which is super feminine) Even in Chinese naming conventions, I was told by someone who lives in Hong Kong that is a super powerful name.
Oh and you win by being older and being more stubborn than anyone.
On to Korean name dreams.
I was named Bright Beauty for two reasons. One was because I was smiling and Appa saw me and instantly knew that was my name. The other was the naming dream he had. This is the belief that dreams tell when someone is pregnant. He dreamed of the "Bong Hwang" which is kinda a Korean Phoenix (It's not the directional bird). (My brother was named after a dragon, which according to mythology, has a King connotation to it. The Azure Dragon--look it up... He was named after that. You can see the enormous pressure my family was trying to put on him.) Anyway, since I was born first, I think Appa was trying to emulate the "Bong Hwang" in my name. Also the Bong Hwang is associated with Princesses and Queens in Korea. =P Yeah, so you can see what the hopes of my family were in that whole thing.
Oh and Sook, Ja tell someone is in their 50's and up usually. (And female)
Soon is usually overwhelmingly female in the second position, which is why "Kwang Soon" was the joke on Running Man. This is a bit more modern, though, from what I understand.
In the old, old days before modern medicine, the first 100 days you gave your child a "demon" name so that the child would not get "stolen" by the evil spirits. Which probably has two facets. One is so the child won't cry, the other is so the child won't die. The official name would be given at the 100 day birthday ceremony, which was deemed old enough to give a good name. (But considering my own family, isn't it 100 additional days of arguing over what the name should be? kekeke) This was taken from a similar Chinese tradition, though. It's not done anymore... (though Korean pregnancy myths probably outmatch Chinese ones... Koreans are so superstitious--I was told that multiple times by Koreans who grew up in Korea.)
I hope you'll get more of the jokes on dramas with this. Also get that Koreans are really, really passionate about their names.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 12:09 PM
wow, that was fascinating to learn. I'd managed to pick up a few things out of dramas (I've never seen a drama boy/man with the character 'Hye' anywhere in their name, is all I retained) but having it explained like that is on another level altogether.
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Gaby
April 26, 2013 at 6:36 PM
This is really cool, thanks! You mention alliteration -- are there any connotations with it in names that make it bad/good or popular/unpopular?
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 7:55 PM
Mostly hard sounds make it sound like the person will end up "hard". Koreans can be superstitious.
That's what I know... the rest I'd have to take a crack at.
I have personal prejudices towards names that tend to match up with Korean aesthetics (though it took me years to figure that out) Some of my prejudices may or may not match. And some of them I know I got from L.M. Montgomery.
So, I would favor nasals such as m and n for transitional sounds. So if you have a hard consonant at the end of one, then a transitional sound such as m or n, would smooth it through. So for example, "Sook" I would want a "m" or "n" sound after it. Sook Mi. Sook Go I wouldn't like.
I tend to really dislike too many s type of sounds in a name. Kinda sounds slithery and can be grating.
I don't like hard sounds in the middle of a name most of the time, though I don't mind plosives such as b or p (softer p).
I tend to like y as a transitional sound. (ee) and bright vowels at the end of names. ^^;; (ah and Oh)
soft j, g, h, w, r, t I consider middle of the road sounds. Neither hard or soft. I tend to like them at the beginning of names.
k and ch I tend to consider harder sounds along with the usual aspirated... p' does show up in names as does ch, but I've very rarely seen k' and t' (t'ae is the only one I can think of in names)
Vowels, I would think follow the yin yang rules a little. (Dark and light) oh and ah being "bright" But I'm not sure how or if that plays in.
Some of my aesthetics with sound are definitely Korean-based. Especially since I didn't like my English name and it turned out that my Korean father didn't like my American name either for sound reasons too (name meaning reasons too). So some of my prejudices since I was in Korea until 5 years old and was fairly fluent (lost it later, though I still have it stored somewhere) still play into how I view English (and suffered with it) and what words I generally like =P. (Learning later that it's something you're taught and you're not that insane helps.)
I carry a lot of the same name prejudices too. I named my friend's baby because she knew my obsession with names. So I have her a long name list. I checked against meaning, sound and history. =P
Take your pick. Though I also think my prejudices are somewhat from being a writer too, and having a vested interest in language. Not sure how much is Korean, me, or just writer's obsession.
I would think, though, that name meaning is far more important. since that truly carries the hopes of the family.
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Wendilynn
April 26, 2013 at 8:38 PM
Absolutely fascinating. And what a pain in the neck. My mom tacked on -lynn to the end of mine and my sisters names. I was the first one to have a girl and I refused to do so. My sisters had a fit. You thought I was betraying the country or something. Most of my nieces have a -lynn somewhere in their names. Even my brothers followed suit. However, the convention my mom used to find my brothers names doesn't appear to have been considered for the nephews. That my son's name does follow the convention is more a coincidence then any planning on mine and my exhusband's part.
Frankly, I'm not a big fan of conventions that just lead to fighting in a family.
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acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 6:31 AM
uhg, i loved galileo 1. then i saw that they were casting yoshitaka yuriko and idk if it's just me, but i don't get the hype over her.
on the other hand, might try that shota drama if not only because it's a shota drama :3
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 6:41 AM
I think Yoshitaka Yuriko is one of the better actresses from her generation along with Toda Erika, Ishihara Satomi and Inoue Mao. Tho I can take it or leave it for the latter two.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:49 AM
The new role isn't that much of a stretch for her. Mainly I'm against her for 1, because there was a love line in 1 I wanted resolved. ^^ I can understand why they did it from a story telling point, but I think taking a risk in changing format a bit wouldn't hurt.
Though the bit with the rock in Episode 1 made me laugh. Ham-fisted attempt on his part as it was. So nerdy.
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 6:59 AM
Were there ever hints of loveline between them in the 1st season? It's been long since I watched the 1st season. I just think that he's too committed to his science to ever have romantic interest in her.
KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 7:34 PM
@lmk
There was a light loveline going, which is what ,made the rock scene work in 2.
*SPOILER*
He gives her the rock and explains long and hard about it's properties and how it's *like* a diamond, but far more useful. She then quips that he could have given her a diamond instead...
So there was a light loveline going...
*END SPOILER*
acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 6:54 AM
idk, maybe it really is me because honestly, her acting does nothing for me.
toda erika is very hit or miss for me. imo, sometimes her tendency to overact gets in the way. i do like ishihara satomi a lot though, and inoue mao i think isn't amazing, but is good and also extremely likeable, i find.
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 7:04 AM
Yeah. I can kinda see why some would feel that way. I'm biased tho since I tend to like most of her dramas. And I love her personality when she was guesting in varieties. LOL. Same goes with Toda Erika. It's actually hard to find a really good young j-actresses nowadays.
acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 7:14 AM
i'm really conflicted when it comes to toda erika. i really liked all her dramas pre-2010 (LG/RnK/Keizoku/BOSS, and even code blue, which was a semi-snorefest but i loved her character). i just haven't liked her in any of her recent works lols.
alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:06 AM
Inoue Mao is wonderful in the film Rebirth. I hope her performance in that will earn her better, meatier roles in the future!
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 6:34 AM
I thought they already caught the suspected bombers? And seems like they are Muslim emigrants from Russia.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:37 AM
That's the point. Muslim. They turned out to be Muslim. And people over here (at least on Fox News) are showing their religious intolerance. >.<;;
Like there aren't religious extremists in every religion...
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hhisc
April 26, 2013 at 6:45 AM
I am not sure this topic should be discussed here.
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:58 AM
I second this haha.
We had a crazy religious person post on here last year and... well... that wasn't fun...
Memo to self: DO NOT GET INVOLVED lol
lmk
April 26, 2013 at 6:46 AM
Urgh Faux News. I would rather read the news from internet than to depend on them.
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LizJ
April 26, 2013 at 7:42 AM
It seems like there's a lot that most of you likely don't know about the bombing situation, but I know it's for the best that it stays out of the discussion here. Maybe it would be a good idea to stay on topic and avoid expressing one's views about news channels...unless they did a story on KDrama!
skelly
April 26, 2013 at 9:06 AM
LizJ, I agree. Let's please leave politics and religion out of the thread. The assumption that people a) agree with you and/or b) enjoy your opinions is slightly offensive. There's so many other really critical things to talk about, like the real reason Jonghwa dropped out of Heirs or what is up with the mom in Lee Soon Shin.
Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 10:09 AM
ahhhhh, come on, I totally get the mom...poor thing.
First, she thinks her husband that she never had any reason to doubt, who died so unexpectedly, played a TERRIBLE trick on her 20 plus years ago, not to mention the terrible thing he'd have to have done in order to be able to do it. Not only that, but in her head 'everyone' knew but her. Mother-in-law, best friends, husband, all laughing at her.
I gave her a ton of credit for not taking it out on the innocent person involved and still being a loving person, but the minute I saw her with the very person Mom has terrible fears about, then it just twists that knife so deeply that how can Mom NOT react? And you know it's killing her to do it...but she must be wondering if that person knows, too.
Poor mom's heart is breaking, her whole world has been called into question. She tried not to listen to the suspicions she had, but the circumstantial evidence and coincidences just pile too high to make that possible, now.
renzillag
April 26, 2013 at 10:59 AM
@skelly
I am totally curious as to why Yonghwa dropped out of Heirs as well!!! The article I read said his agency and the production company couldn't agree on some character details... I wonder what that means??? I wonder who will replace him.
Anyways, even though I am a fan of his, he can't act very well, plus the whole Park Shin Hye thing, I'm glad he is not doing the project.
saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 11:00 AM
I think the problem isn't understanding Lee Soon Shin's mom - poor ahjumma, really - but it's more about tolerating her pain on screen. I mean, she's putting a bit of a damper on a drama which is supposed to be cute and fun xO. I mean, she's just there, wallowing in self-pity, and we all understand her pain but it's difficult to stay interested or keep rooting for her if she just keeps feeling sorry for herself x--x.
It's like when an acquaintance has suffered a terrible loss but you can't really do anything to comfort them. And they're just.. there, feeling sad all the time and they have every right to, but you just feel awkward because you don't know what to do.
alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:17 AM
@JoAnne... I understand the mom in the sense that obviously she's going to be all shaken up, but it's NOT LEE SOON SHIN's fault and she should not take it out on her.
Imagine if Lee Soon Shin was a baby or toddler... would she put her in front of the door? To me, this is a situation when an adult has to act like an adult and separate one's personal hurt from the individual that is part of what is causing the pain but has NO FAULT in that pain.
Of course, Lee Soon Shin is not a child, but an adult, which means Mom has had years to know what a wonderful daughter she is. It also raises the question whether Mom would have thrown out her "blood" daughters, or only the "adopted" one. Not a nice question to think about.
Bottom line: Mom needs to act like an adult. She has every right to feel hurt and betrayed, but she should not act it out on Soon Shin. She should TALK to her family (all of them) and let them know what is troubling her so deeply.
korazylady
April 27, 2013 at 12:11 PM
I agree with JoAnne. She is still dealing with the very sudden death of her husband, and she went from having guilt feelings about not treating him better to feeling she was betrayed all these years by him, so in essence her whole life was built on lies (I personally don't believe that the husband is Soon Shin's father - which may be why we're watching the Mom suffer now so to appreciate her relief more.)
She also feels betrayed by Soon Shin because she told her many times not to go into acting and she's doing it behind her back.
Harsh? Yes, but it my mind totally understandable. That poor woman has been through so much in such a short period of time. Also, I've seen the Moms in these things be a lot harsher on their kids for a lot less!
mrmz
April 28, 2013 at 2:38 PM
@ alua
I agree with joannne
feeling that you've been tricked and taken as a fool for SO MANY years, and taken advantage of you kindness kinda prevents one from acting "fair" or "adult". I'm with you its unfair to Soon shin, but since the father is already dead, and she can't take it out on him, soon shin the the constant reminder that she was fooled. Its still early on, and she needs much more time to move on. In real life, some ppl move on while others unfortunately DON'T.
DayDreamer
April 26, 2013 at 6:45 AM
I'm with you on Nine. Last episode was definitely not as enjoyable. I was like, "Okay, I get it. You two love each other and are having some fauxcest problems. Let's move on to solving the problems instead of all this moping and crying."
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:56 AM
I was hoping more that SW would have to prove his love, since he seems a guy of few words but big action. I'd have liked that for the last 7 episodes. But nope.
Hoping there is a turn around, though.
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:19 AM
Please, we already sort of had this Uncle/Niece situation. I mean, there is a difference in the sense that she remembers the past now, but other than that it felt a little bit like a deja vu situation.
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:37 AM
I meant "Plus" not "Please"!!!
Manin
April 26, 2013 at 8:36 AM
Yeah I'm with both of you! I wanted him to take action and not just go "we'll do as you say" because it feels like the conflict is being recycled.
On the other hand we still have one stick left so hopefully something will get the move on!
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SH
April 26, 2013 at 7:03 AM
Re Nine: I'm so annoyed with Min Young. I can't decide if it's because of the actress or the way her character is written. She just whines so much and it's driving me crazy
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DayDreamer
April 26, 2013 at 9:39 AM
I didn't like the character much either. Too whiny for my tastes and she tries so hard to be cute when she isn't. She's also a grown woman and instead of assessing the situation, she just goes along with her feelings, doing things without thinking. I mean, hello, you have two memories....shouldn't you be a little more reserved in your actions considering the fact that Sun Woo is technically still your uncle? I felt like throttling and saying that to her, lol.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:15 AM
I saw the synop for Kamo, Kyoto he Iku and immediately thought: Darn it! Sounds like Rich man poor woman with the distant male figure the woman must learn to understand and lovingly tolerate. I just hate that kinda woman as Understander-of-the-male" kinda thing. The only time I liked it was in Legal High where the heroine stood up for herself but not in that (other) stereotypical way of being the new Japanese woman. So i might watch it, hoping I'm wrong. If it's like Legal High, I'll probably like it.
I might try Galileo but my impatience with Japanese eccentric crime-solvers with flaky robotic tics is amping up. I am somewhat intrigued that he has a true nemesis who might be a real meanie. That'd be interesting.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 9:01 AM
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku
It has an Alpha female character and is the show is dominated by females. It's just that for about the first 15 minutes or so, the men seriously think she's got no guts, nor intelligence. Instead of her proving herself insomuch, it's more about her kicking their misconceptions about women out the window. (They think she's a helpless woman with no commitment, etc. But she turns out to be practical and intelligent.)
For feminism, I like that.
For the plotline, I've seen it too many times so that's why it's not on my watch list. I tend to like the tone of something like Osen, over this one which is more like a reformation of the character and of the Inn where she works. (And I'm seeing a lot of reformation storylines--and BTW, the main person she's against is a woman, not a man. Men are in the periphery putting external pressure, rather than internal. Most of the drama seems like the pressure will be internal.)
Osen was more of an introductory to how traditional Japanese inns work, with a light romance storyline. No reformation of the inn itself, and a new character learning how it works with the viewer. It's also more slice of life and had a gentle tone. An easy summer watch with easy to like characters.
If you haven't seen that many reformation storylines, then Kamo, Kyoto he Iku, might work. If you have or have no taste for them, probably won't work.
On the feminism scale, not so bad.
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 1:09 PM
Except that by the end of the episode the message is that she's a total failure.
Well, sort of. And I guess we'll have to see how the next episodes go, because while some of her ideas were obviously stupid, some, I thought (having the inn staff learn French), were actually good.
I also wonder if her main opponent(s) are going to be remain women, or whether it won't end up being the real estate (?) guy.
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LizJ
April 26, 2013 at 7:46 AM
Regarding Nine...
Take a look at the model of the plot in QIHM.
(spoilers for that show)
The stakes got higher and higher. The second to the last episode had the hero at an all time low, seemingly separated from the heroine forever, in the process of hanging himself.
Yet it turned out to have a happy ending.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 8:06 AM
I'm just wondering how all this can be repaired. I'm thinking these writers have honed their crafts so the story will even be better but...to make everything fall back into "pre-first incense stick" place seems like a total impossibility. I know it'll have a happy ending...even if he returns to having a tumor and a happy three months with his bride/niece. Brother will be alive. Dr Han will be happy with his wife (or not). But how are the writers gonna work out this puzzle without kinda cheating? This is what is intriguing me.
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jiabu
April 26, 2013 at 9:31 AM
Technically, they cheated on QIHM, they could do it here too :D
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:04 AM
Nine didn't add much this week, so it wasn't all that exciting, but I still like it an awful lot. It's the only K-drama I'm watching at the moment.
Kamo, Kyoto he Iku I thought was good, although not amazing. I'll have to watch another episode or two to see if I'm into this.
Kazoku Game I did not particularly like this one. For me, Sakurai Sho fell flat. (The only Arashi member that works for me as an actor is Matsujun.) He's got an eccentric character, but I didn't feel he really make us feel that, acting wise. Plus, I don't like the premise much and I certainly didn't like the message they were sending with the first episode already. I understand the tutor is supposed to be a freak, but there is any parent that doesn't call up the police if their child's tutor SPOILER locks up their kid into his/her room for several days SPOILER END, I'm sorry, that's just bonkers.
I would enjoy this drama more if the psycho element was played up significantly, because then I would understand, but at the moment we've just got a weirdly eccentric tutor who is going to be the hero that turns the family around.
I'm watching for Kamiki though, and I'll give a few more episodes a try (if need be, only watching Kamiki's scenes :-D ).
Sennyu Tantei Tokage
Agree. I want to see Matsuda Shota in roles that stretch him to his full abilities. He's done the detective before.
Other dramas:
Soratobu Kouhoushitsu Didn't enjoy ep 2 as much as ep 1, which had largely to do with the fact the focus was on the female character and her background story. She's more difficult to relate to, because her "problem", I'm sorry, was of her own making, while Ayano Gou's crushed dream is truly tragic. I do get that part of the drama's purpose will be to make Gakki's character understand that she is inhumanely insensitive at times and losing sight of what is right and wrong. Will keep watching.
Itazura na Kiss-Love in Tokyo - I'm enjoying this way more than I think I should. I mean, the premise is dumb, love-struck heroine vs. super-genius, arrogant hero! But it's the best Itzura na Kiss drama so far – it's been written in a more charming way – and both leads are great, in particular the actress playing Kotoko. I just enjoy watching her!
Last Cinderella Episode 2 was meh, haven't watched Ep 3. Not very likely I will stick with this, there are things that bug me greatly about Rintaro's character, and I'm worried we'll get a Sakura make-over when she's fine as she is. We've got adults here, in their late 30s/early 40s, that should know better. I don't want a blindly lovestruck Sakura, I don't want her prettified, I would only ignore or walk out on a jerk like Rintaro. Miura Haruma isn't enough reason for me to stick it out, sorry.
Kogure Shashinkan Didn't realise this was only going to be a 4 episode mini drama. I liked and didn't like it. Mostly I felt the writers didn't give me enough reason to suspend my disbelief. I mean, why the hell should I believe in ghost photos? I would have needed more of an atmosphere a a la xxxHolic to buy that, but here everyone just thought ghost photos were a real thing, no questions asked. Also would have liked to have seen Hana-chan developed better – more insight into why he is such a sensitive and mature-beyond-his-age kid (was happy with Kamiki playing him though, again, the issue I had was with the way they had written is character, not the way he performed). I'm going to keep my eye on Narumi Riko from now on as well.
Waiting for subs on a great many dramas and only reading recaps for Gu Family Book and Lee Soon Shin (well, watching select scenes between LSS and JH. The mom's too upsetting for me.).
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sebsob
April 26, 2013 at 11:32 AM
@alua
This is going to sound a little random but a while back you rated Japanese Drama 'Tatta Hitotsu no Koi' highly on an OT and so I decided to check it out and, well I just fell in love with it. It's a simple story but the acting, scenes and dialogues were wonderful.
Thank you so much the (indirect) recommendation. I was wondering if I may humbly ask about the other Japanese Dramas or movies that you have really liked. : )
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:59 AM
For films I would recommend looking on my blog (Go to ARCHIVE --> FILM REVIEWS and you'll find all the J-films together).
My list of J (&K) -dramas that I like a lot (and some more than a lot):
Slice of Life/Realistic
Tonbi (J)
Nagareboshi (J)
Kazoku no Uta (J)
Priceless (J)
Osozaki no Himawari (J)
Slow Dance (J)
Bromance Galore
Shut Up Flower Boy Band (K)
Hakkyo 2013 (K)
Waterboys (J)
Romance
Pride (J)
Tatta Hitotsu no Koi (J)
From the Quirky to the Totally Bizarre
Nodame Cantabile (J)
Kimi wa Petto (J)
Q10 (J)
Love Shuffle (J)
Yokai Ningen Bem (J)
Hana Kimi (J)
Other Good Stuff, Just Because
City Hunter (K)
Lucky 7 (J)
Dream High (K)
Smile (J)
Hopefully recommendable (= Dramas I haven't yet watched or completed, but that I have high hopes for)
White Christmas (K)
Arang and the Magistrate (K)
xxxHolic (J)
Orange Days (J)
I'm 99% sure the currently airing Nine (K) is going to go onto this list as well.
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sebsob
April 26, 2013 at 4:41 PM
Oh my, this is so generous. Heartfelt thanks and it looks like you have taken care of my Friday nights for a while. Thank you so much for categorizing them too because sometimes you're in the mood for something specific. I will most definitely check out your blog - I don't know why I didn't think of doing that!
I am truly most obliged. Once again thank you.
alua
April 26, 2013 at 9:16 PM
Oh, I had that list already pre-pared. I was thinking of putting it on some corner of my blog at some point, since I hardly ever write about dramas but do watch them.
Hope you have fun watching! :-)
john
April 28, 2013 at 5:42 AM
Tatta Hitotsu no Koi has Erika Toda too? What a treat.
john
April 28, 2013 at 4:39 AM
I'll have to check out Tatta Hitotsu no Koi.
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john
April 28, 2013 at 4:47 AM
Wow, Haruka Ayase is in Tatta Hitotsu no Koi ? I'm sold.
alua
April 28, 2013 at 9:13 AM
John, you're so funny. What does your wife say to this? ;-)
Momopeach
April 26, 2013 at 11:54 AM
I like the brother in Kazoku game though.
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 12:00 PM
Which brother?
I like Kamiki... that older one :-D
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Laya
April 27, 2013 at 9:49 PM
Kami-chan... Kamiki Ryunosuke? :D
/goes to look up the cast
I've liked that kid since Tantei Gakuen Q... and also Ninomae Jyuuichi from SPEC is one of my favorite characters. How's he do in this drama?
alua
April 27, 2013 at 11:05 PM
@Laya
Yes, Kamiki Ryunosuke. I first noticed him in The Kirishima Thing and think he's one of Japan's young talents to keep an eye on (hence, watching all his doramas).
So far, he's hasn't really been given anything to do in Kazoku Game (other than standing there and watching the tutor character act like a psycho.) Maybe they are afraid that Kamiki will act Sakurai off the page? Because he'd definitely do that, given half the chance.
Laya
April 28, 2013 at 2:11 AM
"think he’s one of Japan’s young talents to keep an eye on (hence, watching all his doramas)" << agree with this, doing the same. So far I've seen TGQ and Kokosei Restaurant. Haven't finished Keizoku 2: SPEC yet, I started watching that one just for him. :D
Because of TGQ I've been trying to watch Kamiki and Yamada Ryosuke's dramas (because Kyuu and Ryu!). Between the two I ended up liking Kamiki better though. He can play both light and dark roles very well. Ah, Ninomae...
Momopeach
April 26, 2013 at 2:18 PM
The actress playing Kotoko is gonna go places i think. She's really good imo.
The chemistry between Kotoko and Kin-chan is AMAZING imo.
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alua
April 27, 2013 at 1:50 AM
I can't feel any chemistry with anyone yet. And I don't think Kotoko is particularly interested in Kin-chan – as they say, he's been friendzoned completely.
It's the actress's first drama, isn't it? She's definitely got some action chops for comedy.
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KimYoonmi
April 27, 2013 at 7:00 AM
As lead, yes. As minor characters, no.
john
April 28, 2013 at 4:34 AM
Itazura na Kiss-Love in Tokyo – I’m enjoying this way more than I think I should.
Hah! It's pure and sweet. Honoka Miki is adorable as Kotoko .
I like how Naoki's mother is all for a Kotoko-Naoki romance.
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:11 PM
Hi KimYoonmi :) I haven't watched this weeks episodes yet but I'm sad that u dropped GU Family. :( I rewatched MGIAG last week and it was even more dorky than I remember but I still love it, so it'll take a lot for me to not love this drama. Thanks for the name lesson, hopefully it'll help me remember some. :D
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 8:07 PM
I like the actors, the pretty, the direction isn't too bad, and the blue lights. It's the writing I can't stomach. ^^;; I've watched a TON of sageuk. And it's hitting the tropes. Plus the repeating "This guy is bad because he rapes" kinda makes me sick for mostly personal political reasons about feminism and stats about rape.
That said, I don't begrudge people who do like it and I can understand the appeal. I mean Lee Seunggi is like a real life dork, which makes his roles often charming (well, for me, but I like dorks). It's a really good drama for those who don't mind plotholes and sageuk tropes because they don't know them. (Dae Jang Geum still persists in being my favorite) I have no particular hate of Suzy either, since I always like to give a chance for people to grow over time and find projects that suit them. (I like watching people grow in their craft).
But story always wins out for me over pretty and good actors. Or why I really love Yoon Eun Hye, but couldn't stand the dramas before Missing You from Coffee Prince forward. I didn't like Missing You either, but it wasn't the writing fault. It was my allergy against makjang and bad portrayals of adopted people. Paired with a good writer I'll watch again.
I'll keep hoping she gets a drama with Lee Min Ki on SBS, for a rematch on Running Man. =P (I can dream can't I?)
Episode 200 is coming... Can I dream???
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Deliane
April 26, 2013 at 11:34 PM
I would definitely watch her with Lee Min Ki. Actually scratch that, would watch Lee Min Ki in anything. Has anyone seen Temperature of Love his recent film?
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2 kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 6:24 AM
hello brothers and sisters! I'm frolicking in the park, getting myself a likely sunburn. but it's getting as much sun as one possibly can this "spring"
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:31 AM
Hot Weather should always be celebrated <3
So glad to be feeling more summery finally!!
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:07 AM
it's raining now. hard. haha. see, I was right to get as much sun as possible!
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:20 PM
Kakashi! lets do a house swap vacation, but you may never get rid of me. :D
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:17 PM
Hi Leaf! well not if u live in the tropics. HOT all the time here. :) miss the nippy cool weather of Seoul.
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 7:10 AM
Morning kakashi! which is probably evening for you now! I hope you get to enjoy all the warmth and sunshine after what seemed like a really long winter for you.
I wanted to comment above on Nine but feel I'm in the minority now! You know me, I love me some melo! How are you doing with it? What else did you finally decide to watch?
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 7:18 AM
I like it very much so far (am on epi 8), even though there's a lot of impossible stuff in there. mainly: how can a person be in the same place/time twice?? duplication of matter?
not evening here yet: am at the park w/the kid, but now we need to go grocery shopping
oh: and did you hear?? I got my first DMCA notice yesterday!!
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 7:26 AM
Wow, I did hear that! Geez, they're killing us kdrama lovers. So what does that mean for you now? Anything?
With your intellect and background, I'm sure it is very hard to swallow some of the stuff in Nine. But nearly every drama seems implausible - at least this one is labeled as a kind of fiction/fantasy!
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 8:58 AM
I changed the post - guessing what the DMCA was about, cause they don't really tell you - and re-posted. Let's see what happens next!!! Blogger told me it would delete the post in a next step (if it still infringed on copyright). Repeat offenders' blogs will be shut down. But I must say, Google (=Blogger) was pretty cool and relaxed about it
And will you stop calling my "intelligent", lol. If you don't stop, I'll make you read a paper of mine and quiz you about it! hahahaaaa
Well, yes, of course it's fiction/fantasy ... but to be honest, if people do time travel, I'm somewhat expecting them to think about it thoroughly. There's so much on that already in scifi, you can't just really do anything you want. Or maybe you can - but don't be surprised if people go: "not possible"!
korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 9:52 AM
I am not a sci-fi fan so my watching is limited to Beam Me Up Scotty. I just take all of this with a grain of salt. You know me, I'm only interested in the relationships. I'm more upset about crazy unrealistic relationships than a little time travel fudging!
Maybe I'd attempt to read your paper if it was in French. That's the extent of me studying anything!
kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 12:23 PM
oh! I have something in French! haha, I'll send it to you. If I don't forget.
Merry
April 26, 2013 at 2:38 PM
Oh dear. No wonder I had to wait a while before your site got going. Hope they don't stop your gifs. You're tops on that one. Fighting!
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:31 PM
Korazy, I'm still watching 9 but behind a week. Any eye rolling from the time travel story is quickly eclipsed by how ugly the decor is. But I'm really into this drama. I love sci fi, even bad sci fi. did someone bring up Mystery Science Theater 3000 before? lol.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:18 AM
YESSS Spring has arrived!!!! I sit in my backyard listening to mp3's on my tablet, trusting bumblebees won't hurt me, and watching yellow jackets warily. So glad spring is here.
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:00 AM
nice ....... here, there's think clouds now and it's going to rain soon! there might even be a thunderstorm
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 9:32 AM
kakashi!
Glad you are enjoying the spring weather. The spring pollen season is waning now, although, being surrounded by fallow fields and a golf course meant minimum tree stuff this year.
You deserve some time off after the marathon session you did with the animated SqueeCaps of WAML on your blog! The acting is improved, IMHO, and the plot is moving along.
But I want more shirtless scenes!!
lol
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:43 AM
what, no shirtless scenes in episode 7 and 8?!
duh. I was looking forward to some skin.
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:44 AM
oh. and "time off"? You know I will have to start giffing again in a few hours, don't you??
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:15 AM
[waving hand in the air] Yeah yeah.
This one of WAML is full of absolutely cute couple moments, to balance out some of the SGO coming down the pike!
Of course that doesn't negate my interest in seeing our intrepid hero and our thistle-headed bad guy go one-on-one UFC style, in muscle T's and boxer shorts.
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 10:26 AM
Who do I pay for that?
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 11:49 AM
me?
Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 12:05 PM
I'll happily contribute to your legal defense fund, you internet rogue, you.
Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:35 PM
lol...cha-ching
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3 myweithisway
April 26, 2013 at 6:24 AM
Happy OT!
Also, SoCal beanies! I'm putting together a meetup, head over to the SoCal meetup page for the sign up sheet! Thanks!
Lastly, who's loving the new MK from Japan? I'm so addicted!
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meanrice
April 26, 2013 at 6:34 AM
Me too! It kind of makes me want to go back and watch MK all over again. I will say though that something is a little off, it has the tone of a manhwa-to-screen project with the over the top acting, but none of the actions are crazy (like they were in skip beat), so it views like a standard romcom.
Still adorbs though.
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rozitasmak
April 26, 2013 at 11:55 AM
Good Luck with your SoCal meet-up!
The Midwest created a group page on facebook called the Midwest Beanies. And we had our meet-up last Saturday April 20th in Chicago. We were 17 strong, we ate Korean food and drank soju! We had a blast so much so that we are planning another one July 20th and we will have Korean BBQ.
So I am wishing you much success for your meetup.
MAK
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:38 PM
wow, that sounds awesome.. were are all the Asian Beanies? ya Enz! we need to get us some more Asia Beanies!!
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Roggy
April 26, 2013 at 10:16 PM
Soo Jealous! Is anyone doing an Australian meetup? Especially in Sydney??? I know some awesome Korean BBQ spots!
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4 RockPaperScissors
April 26, 2013 at 6:24 AM
Happy Friday fellow beanies!
Trying to decide if I should take up Jang Ok Jung. Liked the first episode. Haven't seen Mandate yet, will not have time for both dramas. What does everyone think?
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ilikemangos
April 27, 2013 at 12:08 AM
Take it up -- it's not perfect but the romance is really blooming and the sexual tension gets you hot and bothered!
It's also becoming cracktastic.
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ilikemangos
April 27, 2013 at 1:26 AM
Also: you can watch a nice, pretty mini mv created for our OTP up to the most recent episode --
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k23ug1k8rE4
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5 leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:28 AM
Hello everyone!!! How are you all? Hope you had a great week!
I’ve finally finished King of Dramas and while it wasn’t addicting it was one of the better dramas recently… so why did It have such super low ratings?? It’s not like it had much competition right?
Starting Gu Family Book and it looks fun! Does it stay good? I saw one Recapper mention it wasn’t that good… I’m looking forward to meeting Lee Seung gi and Suzy haha.
I’ve also started watching the Japanese Drama Last Cinderella. It’s interesting… it kinda makes me realise that I’m likely to be dealing with the same type of relationship problems when I’m 40 as I am now haha. Depressing thought really.
And my personal life… lol. Quiet as it’s still the Holidays (exams over whoot!!) but I do have some priceless conversations…
Firstly, a friend (umm… he’s like my annoying little Brother?) changed his location to somewhere near where I live… so I messaged him about this…
Me: Haha... why does it say you're in Teignmouth, Devon?
Him: wha... what?
Me: Look at the location of your last post?
Him: what the fuck?
whats that
actually im in trip now
Me: Haha it's a place in Devon, that's the only reason I noticed lol
Oh really? Where are you going?
Him: my last journey is exeter
Me: Wow... what a coincidence...
Tell me, what made you decide to go to Exeter?
Him: shit i was gonna surprise you
to see you <3
i love you
will you marry me
you know im serious
plz
i wanna be british through getting married with british women
we are aged enough to get married
Me: Sorry Sweetie... you're not my type...
Him: Im crying now
Me: Plus if you wanna be British though me you are NO USE WHATSOEVER as I need to get dual citizenship from my future Husband.
Him: Haha
So yeah… this is the strange type of conversations I have…
Also I managed to annoy him and pretty much every Korean guy by saying IU was my Twin and I was cute and adorable just like her LOL.
Although one of them did result in some actual decent advice…
Me: But seriously... I just don't think a relationship is worth it...
D: YOU ARE TOO YOUNG LEAF
AS A MAN, LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING
WHEN YOU DECIDED TO GROW A TREE
WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO FIRST?
Me: Umm... find a seed?
D: AND?
Me: Is this gonna be some weird metaphor...? haha
D: NO
IM SERIOUS
you probably need some manures right ?
you know
Me: HAHA. So rubbish guys serve a purpose?
D: no..... im serious Leaf
getting hurt from something is like manure to grow a tree
it could be looked like bad or disgusting
that makes us grown up in life
LOL… seriously… these guys -_-
And these aren’t even the weirdest convo… the weirdest one… well none of you would get how weird it was… and it involved Hot Korean Guy… which in itself is random… he just brought him up…
Anyway… I’m getting to the point where I honestly believe all guys should just be shot haha.
Oh and I’m thinking again I may date Scone guy… I may see what it’s like when I see him again.
Also who here has Tumblr???? Cause if you do follow me!!! (Link on my name at the top) And you can message me random questions!!! (None too obvious about Hot Korean guy and Scone guy though please… I have friends there who know HKG and Scone guy follows me haha)
I have more hilarious events from my drama of a life on there haha :P
So yeah! Have a great week everyone!! <3
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cv
April 26, 2013 at 6:48 AM
Hello Leaf!
Hehe I love your life story! So fun! ;)
Those are some weird convos but entertaining. As for scone guy, if you want to give him a chance and go on a date, nothing wrong with that. You won't know until you try and see if you are compatiable with chemistry together.
Good luck! Keep us updated!
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:56 AM
I have no idea now my life became drama central... and contrary to what one of my friends thinks I DO NOT MAKE MY LIFE CRAZY!!
Seriously... my life used to be so boring... but since this year it's all drama drama drama...
But it's not just me to be honest... I was talking about this N and we both agreed it was weird that our small little Uni in the middle of nowhere was drama central.
Seriously... my friend at Uni in London is in awe of how dramatic things are here...
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ck1Oz
April 26, 2013 at 7:27 AM
:-)
I just popped in and had to re read your whole post 3 times. And I still don't quite get it.
Ehm... good luck? I don't even know what to wish for you. You do have some random... conversation or is it life lessons.
What happened to just tutorials and essay deadlines? Or let's go for drinks for Friday night. Or are we having a pub crawl. Or which random K drama idols is in London for a concert?
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:42 AM
I just share entertaining things which happen in my life haha. I hope I don't bore you all...
And yeah... I don't know what's going on either... if there are life lessons to be learnt I have yet to discover what they are haha.
Wait... I've already learnt one from all the drama... ^sigh^ that's depressing though. I don't like that lesson. And I pretty much already knew it.
And tutorials... deadlines... what are those...? I'm a student haha.
And no concerts coming up :'( Well except the Korea Rock Bands one... WHICH I REALLY WANT TO GO TOO :'( But everyone is too busy to come with me so I can't... ^sobs for eternity^
So yeah... I'm not sure there is anything to learn haha. I'm just wondering though life in search of The Great Perhaps.
ck1Oz
April 26, 2013 at 7:48 AM
Wa...ait
Was that your first proposal? :-)
leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:54 AM
Second actually... the first one was for April Fools lol...
A friend put a letter from Nigeria up saying he would get 100 million pounds if he got married and he was like 'Leaf! Marry me!!' haha
So yeah... two proposals in one month... and I haven't even kissed anyone yet lol
ck1Oz
April 26, 2013 at 8:04 AM
:-) :-)
There. Your life lesson.
Kiss before proposal.
Or the lesson being... Korean drama style.
Proposal before dating and kissing.
Night. It's almost 1am here and I am catching up on my subbed dramas from last weekend. Ended up watching 4 weekend dramas and only 1 weekday series.
CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:21 AM
Hey there!
Try Gu Family. It's not super-perfect. There are many instances of plotholiness and a few moments of bad directing (usually the fights) have been cringing moments. But it's light and fun.
Hope your love life does wonderful wonderful things.
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:32 AM
My love life is not very wonderful haha.
Dramatic and entertaining.
Not wonderful.
And yeah... I'm gonna stick with Gu Family Book for now...
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myweithisway
April 26, 2013 at 11:03 AM
Not to sound too stalkerish but 동생, your love life is pretty amusing! It definitely brightens our weekends to read about it on OT =)
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 7:30 AM
I love listening to your stories! It reminds me of being young again (and why maybe I'm glad I'm not, haha!)
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:43 AM
Yeah... being young is overrated haha.
And I'm glad you enjoy my stories :D
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 7:47 AM
Hey, Leaf! Your life is like the OT's personal kdrama, only less predictable - what a funny lot of people you've described up there!
(and give Scone Guy a chance, if you feel like it - if you do, then there's nothing to stop you)
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 8:00 AM
Lol... well I'm hoping I get a kdrama happy ending ;)
And I will of course always keep OT up to date with any new developments lol. I'm glad it entertains you all haha.
It's gonna be interesting when I see HKG again cause Im not talking to him and properly this time. I'm interested to see how he deals with this. N told me that although he may not show it he really actually does care about his friends. I'm not sure yet though... haha.
And yeah... I flip between I should date Scone guy and I should stay single the rest of my life because all guys are assholes who should be shot haha.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 9:49 AM
hey, you could hang out with Scone Guy - on a date, even - and not be capital-D Dating him if you don't want to, just saying ;)
But yeah, college boys are assholes sometimes, I will agree. Even my friends were!
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saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 9:57 AM
Sigh. It sounds asif we're about the same age and I somehow wish my life was as... eventful, as yours. But part of me is also glad it's calmer, and I mostly have to deal with other people's love lives and not my own lol.
So far Gu family book has been great~ In my opinion, at least, but you should definitely at least give it a try~
Hope your drama-life gets a happy drama-ending =)
also: I followed you on tumblr, if you don't mind~
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 10:07 AM
I FOLLOWED YOU BACK!!!
You like K drama and like Daisies... I love you already <3
(Yeah... I have obsession with Daisies... haha)
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 10:27 AM
I'll follow you too, but don't bother to follow me back. I only have it so I can have a dashboard to collect all my lovely things to look at.
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 10:57 AM
And trust me... I have a love/hate relationship with all the drama...
One, IT'S A FRIGGING NIGHTMARE
Two, it does make things entertaining...
Seriously... before this school year I never had any drama in my life. So yeah... it's still quite new to me...
Hopefully something good comes from all of it haha
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Pillowhead
April 26, 2013 at 3:51 PM
yay more Leaf life :D.. so HKG is still around? probably still a big tease. lol. yes, go on that date with scone. I once went on a date with a guy who didn't seem my type but was kinda sweet, anyway end of the date I could tell he was getting ready to give me a kiss, but then he pulled me to him and gave me one freaking hard hot kiss that i'll never get over. lol. Nothing ever amounted from that date but that kiss should be in the record books!!!!!!!
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6 ♪♪ ♥ bu bu jing xin sickness ♥ ♪♪
April 26, 2013 at 6:31 AM
Sigh.... I was in drama slump a few weeks ago... now, i'm in much worse position, i cannot focus on watching any new drama at all or my favorite variety shows... it has been 3 weeks and all i could think of... is Bu Bu Jing Xin... is there a cure to let go of this series and focus on new drama...
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:35 AM
It's called finishing the drama. =P After that, you rewrite the ending and you're set. I also watch Jade Locked Palace which has a slightly better ending.
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Kath
April 26, 2013 at 7:21 AM
OMG !! Bu Bu Jing Xin. Trust me it'll eventually fade but the after effects will always be there whenever anyone mentions the show. 4th Prince *dies*.
Did you know they are currently shooting a "sequel" to BBJX but it'll be set in modern times. I'm not getting my hopes up for it though just in case it doesn't meet my expectations plus alt of the princes won't be in it this time round (13th/ 14th/8th/Crown Prince)
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 8:14 AM
Ah... I still don't understand everyone's love for 4th Prince...
13th Prince all the way yo!!! <3
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:00 AM
14th!!!!!
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Kath
April 26, 2013 at 6:46 PM
I loved 4th Prince for Ruo Xi but personally my guy would've been 14th Prince.
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Shae
April 26, 2013 at 9:38 PM
I gotta vote for 14th also
ck1Oz
April 26, 2013 at 7:29 AM
Well I was reading the recap for another novel right?
Not by the same author but ? another drama involving a prince.
All I say is avoid Chinese historicals. That recap made me cry and I ain't not going near anymore of those tragic tales where EVERYONE has NO happy ending. :-(
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♪♪ ♥ bu bu jing xin sickness ♥ ♪♪
April 26, 2013 at 7:59 AM
hopeless me do not wish to rewrite the ending.. it was just so perfect for me.. will try to check out Jade Locked Palace... hope this version snaps me out of it...
also not too keen on BBJX sequel - no 13/14/ 8th prince... :( and it's not written by Tong Hua...
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Belle3005
April 26, 2013 at 8:51 AM
13th! They were so alike in so many ways,and whenever I think of the drama,I have nothing but fond feelings for the show. I read the novel,so naturally since the drama large stayed true to the originally story,I loved the drama. SIGH RUO XI IS SO LUCKY !
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7 Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 6:32 AM
Greetings everyone! Just wondering if anyone else is dialed in on We Got Married Global Edition? I've only seen the first 3 eps (haven't caught anything else subbed get) but I love Gui Gui and Taec. I am also watching Nine and sorta half watching Gu Family (I like LSG but I think he is miscast here. I know he can do gravitas, LOVED K2<3, but he just is too wacky in the action scenes). What else is good?
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lemonade candy
April 26, 2013 at 6:43 AM
me! me! me! omg! i loved the way gui gui always make taec speechless with her random antics. lol.
but fujii mina is so pretty; and ladylike. I think honggi gotta man up a bit. hahaha~ but i'd love to see more of them too! anyhows knowing honggi; once he's close with her; we'd be seeing his unpredictable crazy variety mode. (remembering his shows in their earlier years)
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lemonade candy
April 26, 2013 at 6:47 AM
btw, I read that as "King Two Less Than Three"
bwahahaha~ I blame higa for this
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Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 6:58 AM
I can't say I have seen Honggi in much of anything outside of You're Beautiful so I don't really have a sense of his persona. When he dragged out all that luggage: one bag of just hats, one bag of his trophies (eye roll) I was like no. No good. He's clearly the princess in the relationship. I like Mina, she's smart and a little tom-boyish. I just don't see anything clicking with them. The language barrier is tougher on Gui Gui and Taec (and he is so cute for trying so hard). They are still a little awkward because of it, but even the awkward is cute.
(and I said "two less than three" in my head as I typed it, laziness won out over spelling it)
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katmoo
April 26, 2013 at 11:08 AM
~~~~~SPOILER~~~~~
I loved it when Gui Gui called him "Yeobo" and he freaked out with "WHO IS TEACHING HER THESE WORDS!!!"
My husband thought I was dying I was laughing so hard!
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 11:34 AM
Yeah, that had me practically on the floor! He absolutely melts into goo whenever she says Oppa, and then she goes and throws a yeobo at him, and the poor guy literally just threw his arms up in the air and said I give up. The other part that had me rolling was when he just flatly agreed during the interview section that he was completely whipped.
...and its not like I watch a TON of variety? But I don't think I've ever heard the camera men laughing the way I do when Taec and Gui Gui get going.
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katmoo
April 26, 2013 at 2:38 PM
I don't hear the camera men laughing because I'm laughing to hard.
hannah
April 26, 2013 at 2:40 PM
I think that may be one of my favorite parts of the show. I do watch a lot of variety and you usually only get laughter from the crew on shows like Running Man and 1N2D.
Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 7:37 AM
OMG love these two couples. I thought HongGi would be more annoying but he's kind of sweet, and Mina is adorable. But Taec - man. Love him and GuiGui so much!
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Belle3005
April 26, 2013 at 7:50 AM
I MAD LOVE THE TAECYEON-GUI GUI COUPLE! They are simply too adorable together! Their interactions felt genuine,despite the fact that we are well aware that the we-got-married concept is pretty much staged up but I still mad love the chemistry between them. :D
AND AND AND FUJI MINA IS SO PRETTY! Tbh,I used to really adore Lee Honggi heheheh I used to a Primadonna(what FT Island fans call themselves) a few years back so getting him in the WGM global edition certainly feels like Christmas has arrived early although personally my heart is definitely swaying towards Taecyeon. I have a thing for guys with accented English,what more Koreans who can speak English so damn well. Gosh I cannot get enough of his sexy voice (Yes I am well aware that going gaga over a guy's voice isn't probably the most rational thing ever,but I SWEAR,his accent just makes me swoon. HEH. AND THE BEST PART OF THE WGM GLOBAL EDITION? I don't need subs when I'm watching the Taecyeon-Gui Gui couple because one Taec speaks fantastic English and two,I understand Mandarin Chinese(although technically Gui Gui speaks Taiwanese Chinese but it's pretty much the same). I just wish that I'd have more time to watch the latest episodes,my assignments have been keeping me away from any substantial chance of drama/variety show watching.
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Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 7:53 AM
Oh I get the hottness of a sexy voice. Even when I don't understand the words they are saying lol
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Belle3005
April 26, 2013 at 8:15 AM
exactly! I'm also a sucker for British accents. Idk whether this statement of mine will come across as being offensive to Americans (if it is,I'm sorry!) but I usually prefer British accents over American accents. HEH Case in point would be Benedict Cumberbatch's voice. I know this is irrelevant to K-dramas but have any of you seen the BBC adaptation of Sherlock? I ABSOLUTELY ADORE THE SHOW. IT'S SUCH A MASTERPIECE I TELL YOU. It's a shame that they only have 3 episodes in a season! Am still waiting for the third season! I've rewatched the episodes so many times,I swear,Benedict Cumberbatch is phenomenal as Sherlock Holmes,and of course,our Holmes is never complete without Watson isn't he? Martin Freeman was pretty good as Watson as well,I loved their interaction with each other. Sherlock is by far the best adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes series that I've ever seen. LOL I just realised that I've totally disgressed from my main point,which was supposed to be on sexy voices. BUT ANYWAY,I LOVE TAECYEON'S VOICE. :D
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lemonade candy
April 26, 2013 at 8:25 AM
Agreed. But I'm so hooked on house that even my accent is skwed towards American. lol~
Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 8:25 AM
As a west coast American, I can say I am not offended . . .I love British accents, Southern accents, mid west accents, Aussie accents, Kiwi accents. . . swoon at any of those. And I love Sherlock too :D
Lovebug
April 26, 2013 at 10:24 AM
Also a fan of the new Sherlock Holmes. Benedict Cumberbatch (awesome name!!) is also going to be in the Star Trek movie! love him
Faye
April 26, 2013 at 10:58 AM
@Belle3005 - My husband is British, and he has this low, very soothing, just gorgeous voice that I love. This is kind of goofy to admit, but sometimes if I've had a really stressful day, I'll just close my eyes and he reads the Wall Street Journal out loud because the sound of his voice is so relaxing. Who knew "Derivatives suffered a loss in the international markets" could sound so sexy? :)
As for Sherlock, I loooove that show. That is the power of good acting. I'd seen Benedict Cumberbatch in other productions, and found him a good actor, but I'd never found him sexy (I thought he looked kinda like an alien, to be honest). Then, midway through Season 1 of Sherlock, all of the sudden I thought he was The Sex.
They're shooting Season 3 now, and my mother in law told me that one day she had the misfortune to be driving in an area where they were shooting, and it was a mess. Fangirls stalking the shooting all around. I think I'll have her record it for me because I can't hold out until it airs in the States. This and Downton Abbey - darn delayed U.S. air dates!
Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 3:12 AM
@lemonade candy : I so wish that I can have some sort of an accent whenever I speak in English,be it American or British, I just find mine rather dull lololol. How did you develop your slightly American skewed accent?
@Lisah : Lisah I've seen you around on Jomo's blog,and I've seen you commenting on recaps of Nine! MAN I LOVE NINE SO MUCH. LEE JIN WOOK IS SUCH A CATCH! :D
@Lovebug : I haven't really seen you around. (Maybe it's due to the fact that I seldom visit OT these days with all the assignments and workload piling up >..<) just for the sake of hearing their voices. I LOVEEEEE THAT SHOW. I am pretty much a sucker for the series. I used to think that his face structure is really weird too! (It's as if you've spoken my thoughts out loud when I saw the alien part HEH) After watching the series I was like "OHHHH now I get it,he really is THE SEX."
lemonade candy
April 28, 2013 at 4:19 AM
@ Belle3005
How did you develop your slightly American skewed accent?
My answer would be (but its totally non scientific because language; in this case "accent" acquisition is different individually)
1. I was exposed to a lot of media from AmericanTV since I started learning English (7years old)
2. I took a course in phonetics and phonology; learned how words are actually pronounced (the mechanics).
3. I listen and follow how actors in my favourite TV shows speak: the same way children would imitate adult talks. (I was ridiculed a lot by my sister. lol)
4. I sang a lot of English songs; memorized them (not just the lyrics but the way that singer pronounce each words as well)
This is just my opinion but , the purpose of a language is to communicate thoughts and it didn't matter how you sound; as long as you are heard and understood. How can the language you speak sound dull when the topics you're discussing are intriguing? There is no language that is better or sound better; because it is meant to connect one person to another~ and i'm sorry if i don't make any sense..okay?
p/s Learning phonetics was really fun! You get to play with your tongues a lot. My classmates and I had a great time. If you are really interested, you should join one! ^^
saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:51 AM
Isn't 'Taiwanese' the dialect they have in Taiwan which sounds completely different from Mandarin? At least, I couldn't understand Taiwanese when I was in Taiwan (elderly people seemed to have a tendency to use it D:). In the show, I'm pretty sure Gui Gui is just speaking Mandarin Chinese with her Taiwanese accent...
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 4:15 PM
There is a Taiwanese language as well as a Taiwanese dialect.
Taiwanese dialect of Mandarin tends to have flatter tones to it than the mainland. (Though Hong Kong Mandarin also seems a bit flatter than the mainland. Particularly Shanghai.)
^^;; Again, not fluent, just really good at picking up sound differences.
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ck1Oz
April 27, 2013 at 1:53 AM
I think you're talking about Hakka.
It sounds like Hokkien for some words which is why I understand some.
But yeah most TW have Mandarin and their version of satoori seems to be making the older cast members drop random Hakka sentences in.
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Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 2:53 AM
Uhm it's a bit hard for me to explain over here but the Taiwanese actually have a different version of Mandarin Chinese as opposed to the one that is generally used. They actually use the same words which means the same thing but they pronounce it differently. I'll be refering to a few examples. For instance, 和 which gives the meaning of "and" in Chinese is usually pronounced as Hé but the Taiwanese actually pronounces the word as Han. Another example will be 垃圾桶 which means "rubbish bin/garbage can/trash can/waste bin" is usually pronounced as lā jī tǒng according to the standard Chinese Pin Yin but is pronounced as Lèsè tǒng if Taiwan Pin Yin were to be applied. Another example would be 悬崖,which literally translates to cliff. In the mainland people would say xuán yá and in Taiwan people say xuán ái.
I am not from Taiwan or the mainland but these are the few differences that I've noted in my years of listening to C-songs and watching Taiwanese dramas,and variety shows. So when I say Taiwanese Mandarin I am actually referring to the different pronunciation that the Taiwanese usually use. Actually,there isn't a lot of differences in both type of pronunciation for most of the Chinese words used anyway so it doesn't really bother me.
Yes,they do have a Taiwanese dialect. I believe it is known as Taiwanese Hokkien,more widely known as 閩南語 (pronounced as Min Nan Yu). Some of them speak Hakka too,which is one of the major Chinese language subdivisions.
I know,it can be confusing. Just in case you were wondering,yes I am a Chinese,but I'm from Malaysia,which would make me a Malaysian Chinese. From where I'm from,people speak a variety of dialects apart from Mandarin Chinese,so that's how I got lots of exposure to the various dialects. Not to sound boastful or anything,but if there's one thing that we're good at,I suppose that would be the fact that we are multilingual,everyone can speak or understand at least 3 languages. It's very convenient for us especially when we travel around Asian countries.
Oh by the way,I do not claim to be an expert on the subject matter,simply because I'm merely stating my opinions based on my observations, but I hope that this was helpful for you!
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 8:57 AM
I did! Well the first 2 episodes anyway :p I must say I knew Taec spoke english, but damn does his voice sound nice and husk when speaking it! (or I'm just tired, could be that as well)
I find myself liking the Honggi and Mina couple more though.. Donno why, but GuiGui comes across a little childish to me. I could be in a minority though :p
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Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 9:41 AM
I agree, Gui Gui seems childish. I am not sure how much of that is her English vocabulary (and Taec speaking to her somewhat as a child, not in a disrespectful way . . .just slower and using simpler words that she is more likely to understand) or if some of it is cultural, similar to aegyo.
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saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:04 AM
I think Gui Gui is just trying to be overly funny and happy and cute, without having to say too much, because her english isn't that great. But it almost feels asif Taecyeon is just babysitting her and giving her everything she wants x3 She does seem way more mature in her interviews though. I was surprised to hear that Taec's english is probably better than mine lol, but then I realized he grew up in America.. so.. duh. He does sound very american.
As for the Hong-ki/Mina couple, here it definitely feels like Hong-ki is the child lol.
But I love watching the global WGM series~ because variety shows are a little different in each of these countries, so the humour is a little different than what they're used to too, and it's interesting to see how they interact~
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:14 AM
I agree on the language thing. Also think she is playing the "cutesie" type of girl/puts on that persona. Which I find slightly off-putting in most people. I mean, some can pull it off, others I just find annoying
Haha, yeah I read somewhere that people were saying that Honggi and GuiGui should be paired together, and Mina and Taec, instead of the current couples. But not sure how communication would have happened then!
saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:48 AM
Just imagine everyone resorting to body language and awkward laughing.
Chanelboy loves Jang Ki Young Argh
April 26, 2013 at 12:02 PM
hello there :)
Just additional info, guigui natural habbit and her whole cute childish wild and cant be tampered is just her trueself. I've known her since her debut and heard all her weirdos stuff from her labelmates and coworkers
in k-world, we call them 4d, yes once you know guigui she is a true 8D indeed.
she is really weird and fake, is so not her.
but her hyperactive is something that makes ppl having a time to receive her but once you know her, she is really loveable.
8 owl
April 26, 2013 at 6:32 AM
Hi hi! I was a total couchkimchi this week and watched all these in order (yikes – I even scare myself!)
Bad Boys J (yum!)
IRIS 2 (in it for my bro~)
Last Cinderella (whoa–those hot bod shots!)
Sugarless (mindless yum!)
Kazoku Game – disturbing, unconventional, controversial – I liked the words to the song:
“In an endless world this crazy game repeats itself”
Otenki Onee-san – she has a Yamato Nadeshiko air about her…
Survival Audition Kpop Star 2, ep 16
You’re the Best, Lee Soon Shin
Barefoot Friends –Yoon Si Yoon’s awesomeness is the only reason to watch
I would have stuffed the baguette down Kang ho Dong’s throat on the bus or
filled his mouth with buckets of red sand~ he is so ringin’ noisy all the time!
I Summon You, Gold
Strong Heart 2 – a bit daytime talk show-ish, but there are always wow! fb moments
Coffee Prince – marathoned the whole thing to keep my kdrama sensibilities intact
Gu Family Book -kept up with the db recaps and posts for fun. Suzy gets lots of flack, ya!
SBS Kpop Star Dream Stage (season 1 and 2 get together)
Hello, Counselor: But wait! Woobin, Soohyuk, and Hyunwoo were on together for a super
fb line up (ep 115) Odd show, but Woobin♥ is always so uncomfortably cute on talk shows. When A Man’s in Love – this is one of those shows where a crucial turn took place that won
me over when I was otherwise wavering. *spoiler* I love that there is a threesome office
romance where one is real but secret and a the other is fake but public. What a cool twist to
have 3 ‘couple’ rings in the mix! *end spoiler* I wish db was recapping this, because there is
so much need for discussion on the web of misunderstandings that are, and that are sure to come.
But most of all, Tae Sang morning noon and night!
I’m pacing. No Siakou no Rikon or Sharehouse addiction hits.
?Is anybody watching Crazy Love?
Between dramas and reading cookbooks, the week flew! Work’s in there, too. With a warm weekend forecast (finally) I am going to prepare the garden bed for my herb garden and flowers. Happy spring!
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 6:34 AM
oops, somehow the format got super messed up!!
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:27 AM
owl -
Have you checked out our SqueeCaps on kakashi's blog? We are having a blast recapping WAML. I've got links on the top of mine if you are interested.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 11:08 AM
oh, thanks, will connect with ya'll there !
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:36 AM
Umm... you scare me...
But well done!!! That is impressive none the less haha.
I bow before your drama watching skills!
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 7:13 AM
Wow! I'm envious! I think I only had enough time 3 nights out of the past week to watch anything. Hate it when RL interferes!
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:23 AM
oh my gosh...wait...Yoon Shi Yoon is in barefoot friends? Okay...now i've got to watch. I've been ignoring it. Thanks.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 7:35 AM
He is so adorable, even acting like Enrique in real life!
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 8:12 AM
Am watching it now. And discovered Kim Hyun Joong is in it. Much joy here. Thanks.
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:20 AM
I watched part of Ep 1 last night. There's plenty of fun to be had in just the interactions between the stars. Si Yoon is perhaps playing Enrique, unless that's really him. And I now have to admit that there is NO WAY KHJ didn't have work done to his face beyond the 'fix my injured nose' claim. I like him, but I liked him better before :(
So far my WTF person is EunHyuk. "I'm really popular"
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 9:35 AM
Ho Dong's adorable! Yeah, KJH seems a bit different. Can't put my hand on it. Or maybe he's just aged a bit.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:36 AM
Yeah, like that and two bucks will get him a kpopsicle.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:37 AM
or should that be 2000 won?
alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:24 AM
"Coffee Prince – marathoned the whole thing to keep my kdrama sensibilities intact"
I like how you phrase that :-D
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9 lemonade candy
April 26, 2013 at 6:33 AM
I'm so riding on Nine all night along~ hee^^
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lemonade candy
April 26, 2013 at 6:51 AM
OMG! I didn't check this before but I'm also on spot no.9
lol~
*I have just finished the first episode; and back to dramabeans for a break! whoa! this show is fun!*
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Belle3005
April 26, 2013 at 8:59 AM
LEE JIN WOOK IS SO HOT. SO SWOONWORTHY. HEH. I'm not even trying to pretend that my motive to watch Nine wasn't largely based on him. His attractiveness aside,the storyline's actually pretty good,as in you'll get hooked as each episode progresses. I also love how selfless and flawed Sun Woo's character was written as. It makes him all the more real,as opposed to the typical male leads that we usually get in dramaland. Jomo is doing recaps for Nine btw. I'm at episode 10,and am currently 4 episodes behind but I still adore this drama anyway. :D
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 9:48 AM
I thought he was swoon worthy in INR2012 which is why I first started watching Nine. And I know I'm like a broken record here, but that guy can kiss! Definitely part of his attraction
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Lovebug
April 26, 2013 at 10:28 AM
He was unbelievably hot in INR2012! I had a terrible case of 2nd lead syndrome in that drama but still can't deny the incredible hotness that was Lee Jin Wook and his inexplicable ability to look Amazing in every hairstyle known to modern man!!!
Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 9:34 AM
OH YESH THE GUY KISSES WELL ALRIGHT.
Don't you just love it when our male lead kisses well? Ahhh what I'd give to be in Sun Woo's arms. *swoons*
korazylady
April 27, 2013 at 12:18 PM
Belle, loved the "Words I'd like to say to Park Sun Woo!"
lemonade candy
April 28, 2013 at 4:25 AM
UPDATE: You're right. I am so hooked~ As for me, I have a thing for time travel concept; but the story is good enough for me to accept. hahaha~ plus I like characters who are not *ahem*stupid*ahem*.
Also, damn; this guy CAN kiss! *bless cable show~*
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10 cv
April 26, 2013 at 6:35 AM
Happy OT all!
Hope eveyone had a great week so far. Drama watching: must be spring in the air or something cause I haven't been watching much. Lol Been reading about news, casting and recaps but thats about it.
Nothing seems interesting right now. I'm keeping my fingers cross that something good comes up soon for kdramas. Haha
Enjoy youe weekend all! ^^
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:34 AM
cv!
It's always good to see you on OT. How's the weather? Maybe you just need some warm weather to energize you. I'm kinda slow on the dramas too, but there's always hope that there's another one out there worthy of 16 or more hours of my life!
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11 acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 6:35 AM
so, in my wait for mandate of heaven subs, i've picked up lee soon shin (slow start, but it's really to be expected for a series this long) and caught up on all about my romance (so i love the leads, sue me).
basically, are the other drama offerings worth starting or would my time be better spent, say, um, catching up on sleep?
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 6:40 AM
Nine and Last Cinderella are my top picks for this season (so far).
Waiting on Mandate of Heaven since my sageuk Korean isn't that great.
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acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 7:05 AM
yeah, from what i've heard on nine, i'm really considering picking it up. and i just looked up last cinderella and omg, shinohara ryoko's in it? that's definitely going on the list then.
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nomad
April 26, 2013 at 7:33 AM
ME TOO! (I mean on Nine and LC)
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12 meanrice
April 26, 2013 at 6:40 AM
Someone please tell me where Mandate of Heaven is with subtitles. I cannot deal if i cant see the first two eps this week.
Also im surprised that im loving lee soon shin more than gu family book. My king 2 hearts men faced off and jo jung-suk won. I kind of knew that would happen. But i am skipping over any scene that does not have a sister in it. Everything else is an anchor around the show's neck.
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acejihyo
April 26, 2013 at 8:05 AM
i believe only darksmurfsubs is covering it atm. hoping the licensing issues work out so that another team can pick it up.
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13 DayDreamer
April 26, 2013 at 6:41 AM
Dramas I dropped: You're The Best Lee Soon-Shin and I Summon You, Gold. They're not bad per se, but if I have to skip large portions of the episodes to get to the cute, fun, interesting stuff, then I don't think it's worth the effort of patiently buffering videos and running through a million ads. Might as well just read available recaps.
Dramas I'm watching:
1. Nine: Last episode was a bit slow and more focused on the romantic angst than I would have liked. Not against it but I hope things pick up in next episode. Overall though, this drama continues to be awesome. I wish Sun Woo would hurry up and fulfill his promise to this younger self. Younger Sun Woo might end up being the solution to the problems.
2. Giant: An arduous undertaking as I lose sleep and appetite trying to get through all 60 episodes. But it's my crack drama. Wonderful script, directing, characters, and acting. It also introduced me to the gem that is Lee Beom Soo whom I initially found unattractive and unsuited for a hero role but then he grew on me and even looks attractive. (It helped that halfway through, he sported a new hairstyle...like Hwang Jung Eum, he looks better without hair covering his forehead). At the moment, my heart keeps crying for Lee Sang-mo. I loved the character (kudos to Kim Soo Hyun and Park Sang-min) straight from the beginning and to see him suffer in the mouth of the lion throughout the series really made my heart ache. Then there's the character Jo Min Woo....his love story broke my heart too but honestly, I'd rather he not get a happy ending. Even if his father hadn't done so many awful things, Min Woo did so many unforgivable, wrong things too. He may be the most wonderful person to the woman he loves but he's such a bastard to other people. I'm so tempted right now to find out what happens to him but I shall resist all spoilers. It's bad enough that I read wiki's spoilers on what happens to Lee Sang Mo and almost had a heart attack. Anyways, once I finish Giant, I'm going to take on History of a Salaryman. At least I won't have to lose sleep over that...hopefully. (Who am I kidding? I'd be glad to! Ha!).
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 7:02 AM
About ads: Adblock is a blessing. It's on multiple browsers. I use it to watch dramas. But then, I also have a cable line... so I rarely have to go through buffering. ^^;;
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 3:55 PM
Lucky you; I just happen to have a sucky wifi connection at times. I will definitely check out adblocker; thanks for the heads up. :)
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:27 AM
I just began following Giant as well. Someone recommended it...so I figured why not? Haven't started it yet. I really should finish History of a Salary Man.
I was gonna do Lee Soon Shim but after someone mentioned a birth secret, i kinda faded -- or my interest faded. I know birth secrets, incurable illnesses, and amnesia are the kimchi of k-dramas but they turn me off unless they're done really well.
Haven't tried I summon you gold. Might give it a try but i have so much work to do right now and mandate of heaven will be taking up my time. Gotta choose carefully.
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:01 PM
Carole, I have four more episodes of Giant to go. It has been a roller coaster ride so far and I had so much fun watching it. Definitely get started on it; we'll have so much fun talking about it.
How was History of a Salaryman for you?
The birth secret stuff is definitely annoying in the drama. I think I'll wait until someone takes the Jun Ho-Soon Shin storyline out of the drama and make videos out of that so you basically only watch their love story unfold and leave the other boring stuff out without fastforwarding or anything like that.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 28, 2013 at 4:21 PM
I've got to marathon Giant. Been catching up on anime. Have you seen Aku No Hana (flowers of evil)? Talk about stress. I keep expecting something horrible and irrevocable to happen any second.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 28, 2013 at 4:25 PM
oops, forgot to answer this. History of a Salaryman was fun but I stopped watching it around the 13th chapter, i think. I really liked it and was really liking bad guy who might've been a good guy. The social/economic/union angle messed me up a bit. I've been meaning to go back and finish it.
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Kiara
April 26, 2013 at 8:16 AM
Giant is one of my top 5 K-Drama. Amazing show, I watched it for Lee Beom Soo and Jung Bo Suk (Jo Pil Yeon), one of my favorite K-drama villain. I discovered him in Shin Don, another amazing sageuk and followed him to Giant.
I loved HotSM but Lee's last 2 dramas has been terrible. I forgave him for Dr Jin but not for Iris 2. I hope he'll pick a good show next otherwise I'll have to break up with him lol.
Its rare to find a show with amazing young and adult actors. The transition was well done, I didn't miss the young actors like I usually do with most K-dramas.
Nothing has topped Giant yet in that genre not counting Sandglass.
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:07 PM
Giant is definitely an excellent epic saga. I was actually shocked to see Jung Bo Suk as the villain because I only had seen him as the adorably sweet but mentally handicapped father in Can You Hear My Heart. It just chills me how increasingly villainous he had become in the series.
Like you, I also hope Lee Beom Soo chooses better projects in the future. I didn't watch Dr Jin nor IRIS2 because I didn't like the storylines but his role in Giant was enough for me to be an avid fan of his. He truly showed me that just because a guy isn't attractive at first glance, I shouldn't easily write him off my list actors to look out for.
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14 Lizzie
April 26, 2013 at 6:44 AM
I am so into Cruel Palace: War of Flowers. Sometimes its hard for me to watch Kim Hyun Joo with Lee Duk Hwa. I need more Jun Tae Soo+ Kim Hyun Joo's romance.( i heard he is coming back to the filmset, which means his character is alive).
Damm Kim Hyun Joo is killing me with her excellent acting, her eyes expression is killing me too.
didnt expect her to be this good as an evil woman. I am all in for her to take different role like this.
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john
April 26, 2013 at 6:56 AM
Lizzie ~
Kim Hyun Joo is awesome.
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Lizzie
April 26, 2013 at 7:05 AM
yeah she is so beautiful and her acting is just WOW. i thought that she was good in Comedy and Drama only but she is good in this kind of crazy character as well, ahh am falling more and more in love with her.
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15 barsha barsha
April 26, 2013 at 6:45 AM
I watch the drama of IU and suzy and i like IU acting so much.
happy friday every one
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 6:59 AM
My twin IU is adorable <3 Love her.
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16 Kath
April 26, 2013 at 6:51 AM
It'll be 12am in another 15 mins here in Sydney so I'm going to say GOOD MORNING to one and all :)
I've been in such a Kdrama slump, haven't come across anything in which I want to watch it whilst it's airing. Nothing has grabbed me and made me want to go and hunt down subs and watch it ASAP, which hasn't happened in a very long time.
The only Asian dramas I'm watching currently are Itazura na kiss: Love In Tokyo which I'm absolutely loving so far and a Thai lakorn called Maya Tawan.
Only highlight of my week (which sounds kind of tragic LOL) is finally getting to see the trailer to a Bollywood film called Raanjhaana, been holding out to see how it would look like and now it has risen to my No.1 most anticipated Hindi film for 2013.
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john
April 26, 2013 at 6:54 AM
Katherine ~
Love In Tokyo is cute.
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Kath
April 26, 2013 at 7:11 AM
IKR. I've seen the Taiwanese version and even though I adore Ariel Lin, I was always left frustrated with how exaggerated the character was. I gave Playful Kiss a try and gave up on it so I pretend it never existed. This adaptation has a better balance on everything and is much more condensed, straight forward and put bluntly awesome on all aspects.
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JJie
April 26, 2013 at 7:31 AM
Itazura na kiss: Love In Tokyo is great! I highly recommend to fans of ISWAK. Agree that Naoki and Kotoko are more balanced characters here, they are not on the extremes as their previous counterparts and I notice that the humor is a bit more subdued and not so much slapstick compared to the 1996 version of the Japanese drama ...I could actually relate to Kotoko! She is no bumbling idiot! She actually has a backbone and is quite adorable.
I TRIED to force myself into liking Playful Kiss but I could not get past ep. 2...it was not doing anything for me and I find myself not caring at all what happens to both of the leads
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:29 AM
Agree with both of you regarding Itzura na Kiss!
Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 9:38 AM
Do give Nine a try! I really think that Nine is seriously underrated. I MAD LOVE THIS DRAMA. Oh come on,the team behind QIHM is doing this drama. :3
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17 john
April 26, 2013 at 6:53 AM
Friday !
I like Cruel Palace: War of the Flowers. Jo So Yong is so evil. When she laughs, it's a sure sign she's up to no good.
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 2:55 PM
John, as a Lee Mi Sok fan, I wondered if you're watching You're the Best Lee Soon Shi. She's nice and low-key in it and incredibly gorgeous as usual.
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john
April 28, 2013 at 6:32 AM
I am watching You're the Best Lee Soon She .
So many pretty women in that show. Is Lee Ji-eun (IU), going to sing in this show?
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18 snow_white
April 26, 2013 at 6:57 AM
Hi everyone....
completed Incarnation Of Money....enjoyed it a lot!!
Can anyone give me suggestions regarding God Of The Workplace?? I have seen only episode 1 and not sure if I should continue or not....
I'm watching You're the best Lee Soon Shin (so cute and adorable)
and Ad genius...have seen up to ep 3
and My Name Is Kim Sam Soon for the second time....with mom :)
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19 kaka
April 26, 2013 at 7:06 AM
Happy Friday, all!
I'm so into Game of Thrones, right now. Last episode was a blast! I'm officially Dany team now. And Jon Snow team. And Maergery team, and maybe Tyrion team, on some occasions. Sigh, It's so hard to choose.
I'm still struggling in reading the book. Medieval English is hard. For you who already finish the book, please don't spoil me. :)
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 7:09 AM
Which book are you reading now?
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kaka
April 26, 2013 at 7:25 AM
I started last week and I'm still in the 1st book. lol, I'm a slow reader.
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 7:35 AM
Just brace yourself when you get into the 3rd book. That's all I'm saying. LOL.
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kaka
April 26, 2013 at 7:47 AM
lol. I'll keep that in mind. Thanks.
leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:52 AM
That would be TV series 3 right... so the current one...
WHAT HAPPENS???? Omg... it should be epic <3
lmk
April 26, 2013 at 8:03 AM
@Leaf
That actually depends on which character you love or hate.
For Robb, two words: Red Wedding.
There's something on Joffrey too. Tbqh so much awesome stuff happened in the 3rd book that makes the other books pale in comparison.
leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:10 AM
DANY WAS EPIC <3 She won all my respect!!
But Margaery is quickly become one of my favourite Charactors... and probably would be my fav if Dany hadn't become such a badass then.
Best things on TV at the moment <3
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kaka
April 26, 2013 at 7:38 AM
I know, right? I like that there are a lot of strong female characters, there. Some even more badass than the males. I also find Margaery really interesting. Her influence is so frightening. But I still don't know her true intention, so I'm still on the fence, here.
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:50 AM
I almost don't care what Margaery's true intention is.
That Woman is smart. She knows how to play her cards. I love her simply for that.
And yeah... the Women are totally outshining the guys at the moment <3
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20 CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:07 AM
Hi all:
Horrible week both nationally and personally but am hoping next week will be better.
Drama-watching:
Am stressing a bit about Nine. It is THAT good. I do actually worry about what's coming. I find myself actually having to force myself to watch it because the ramifications and the bad results of certain choices just disturb me so much. This is why I generally don't watch Melos/makjangs etc. My body does NOT react well to stress. But all that whining said, I love the perfection that is this drama. Still wondering why young Sun Woo dropped his former girlfriend whom he loved so much. Wondering who began this time-travelling escapade. Wondering why hyung doesn't have any memories of timeline changing. Perhaps one can so go back to pre-change that one totally forgets. Who knows? Villainous Dr Choi is sooooooooooo good.
Totally blissed out with the ending of Incarnation of Money. Sooooo good.
Gu Family Book: I love the fairytale feel. The way decisions made that affect the main character resonates with nature. The incredible goodness of Lord Park. The extreme villainy of the bad guy. I didn't think there'd be a venturing into political and national issues. But hey, I'll bite. Am just hoping the national stuff doesn't overwhelm the mythic stuff.
Waiting for Otome-San. I liked that drama a lot. It's truly different and I like it that I feel I haven't seen anything like it before.
Waiting for Yakou Kanransha. A great disturbing little thriller.
Waiting for subs on Ya no Sakura. Waiting for Then and Now. I like bullying stories. Waiting also for The Show Must Go On.
Waiting for Mandate of Heaven subs on DC. Is it subbed anywhere else? Sooo wanting to see this.
Have to get back to Bad Boys. Have to catch up with Cruel Palace Flower War
Last Cinderella: Ah gee, the cheating husband thing! I'll be fast-forwarding through all those scenes. Just seems so typical. Are there never any good marriages in j-dramas? Do Salarymen in real life always cheat? Haruma is just utterly adorable. I'm hoping that the writers really will give the story a chance and not overload it with preachiness. Yeah, currently our sweet hottie is a bit sleazy and aimless but I have hopes for him.
Liking Tsuma wa, Kunichi
Wondering if I should watch the second season of Galileo. Actually, am wondering if I should watch or avoid a lotta j-dramas. I really get overloaded on the eccentric person who changes the world by being so dang smart and unique they change everyone's life. I know it's a j-drama norm but seriously! Teacher who sees ghosts and changes students lives. 35 year old student. eccentric tutor. I dunno. ::rolling eyes:: Eccentricity done well is always good but if our eccentrics all follow the same pattern, are they really eccentrics?
Dropped Kogure photoshop and Ok Jang.
Trying to marathon Fugitive Plan B, Princess' Man, and Prosecutor Princess. That's bout it..i think.
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 7:12 AM
The cheating husband storyline in Last Cinderella is the only thing I don't like about the drama. Everything else is A-okay for me. I can't wait to see Miura Haruma's character to fall in love with Shinohara Ryoko's.
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:23 AM
Am I the only one who actually prefers the other guy haha.
Yeah he may be snarky and have some terrible views about women but... lol...
Hiroto is just a bit too... immature haha.
But we're only on episode 2 so things will change!!
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lmk
April 26, 2013 at 7:31 AM
Naahh. I like the other guy (Fujiki Naohito) too. It's just that I love Miura Haruma more. LOL. I'm okay with whoever she'll eventually choose.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:33 AM
I love both actors generally but I'm a sucker for noona stories. If this turns out to be realistic, then Haruma's character will of course have to go through some believable change for me to actually accept such a pairing.
I like snarky guy but in real life if he hadn't realized he was in love with her by now, he wouldn't fall in love with her in the future. Unless, he's always been in love with her and just couldn't express it.
Right now, i don't know what Hiroto's up to. IS he looking for someone to make his life meaningful? Is he looking for a woman whom he really can love? Is he totally unable to love? Is he heartless? Is he just helping out a friend/sister/former lover? Is he really in love with Choco-san and trying to win her love? I just want it all to be believable and to not be another j-drama experiment in "look how weirdly sexual and outre we can be!"
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 10:15 AM
Lee Jin Wook, you know, dated a noona older than him by 6 years. Just sayin'. Muhahaha. He's 31.
Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 1:03 PM
Rintaro (snarky guy) did have that bad relationship thing which may have kept him from being ready to love again ... but the man is talking about how you get old fast and you want someone with you and liking kids and wanting someone to share meals with and all sort of things to make me mushy/melty.
I sort of want to see the romance with BOTH of them. First the 24 year old Prince to get her hormones and heart back and then be stolen by Rintaro (if he proves good enough).
Plenty of room for both men to have personal growth thru relationship.
snow_white
April 26, 2013 at 7:13 AM
Fugitive Plan B is so much fun :)
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 7:20 AM
Hi Carole! I'm commenting on Nine under this post because you are a fellow Nine-lover! I could only watch 4 hours of drama this week, and watched eps 13 + 14 of Nine back to back and I loved it! I don't mind the crying and sadness because I love dramas that pull at the heartstrings. And I thought the suspense was awesome. The only thing that bothers me is that I just found out it was 20 episodes instead of 16. That gives it too much time to go down the tubes!
How are you enjoying Princess' Man? I'm not into sageuks, but that is by far my favorite!
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:38 AM
The suspense in Nine is very very very good. It's just me. I love it but it really is part of my fibromyalgia issue. Any kind of stress affects me very badly. So the suspense was something i had to prepare my body for. I know..silly but true. I just am not wired for too much stress. So generally i avoid stuff that i know will be too much for me. Princess' Man I've started a couple of times but something always popped up to interrupt me. I just have to commit.
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nomad
April 26, 2013 at 7:47 AM
@korazy lady How I'm with you with the fear of Nine going down the tubes because of 20 epi instead of 16...
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:17 AM
ah CRAP. I thought it was 16 too and now there's room to screw with it. Da**
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 10:07 AM
Seriously. If it starts going downhill I think I'll just write my own ending and call it a day. How can they go 6 more episodes with 1 incense stick? Hopefully they fool us :)
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 27, 2013 at 11:14 AM
I think in this case the 20 episodes might be better. I agree that usually when it's 16 or 13 episodes, there isn't apt to be a lot of time to mess up the story with stupid filler. But So many things have been changed in the past and the present, I don't think one can easily get everything back to Prime/status quo/normalcy. How can his brother get the sticks hidden inside the Himalayan hotel, for instance? I really don't think things will get back to where they were at the beginning. . .if that WAS the beginning.
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:19 PM
I'm also worried about Nine being actually longer than I thought it would be since I keep fearing that the plot will lose steam and with just one stick left, what's left to show in the remaining episodes?? However, I have faith in the writers too because so far they have been delivering unexpected twists that have been engaging thus far. I think the writers are going to give Sun Woo time to think about what to do next, as in collecting data on how the people in the past might act before taking a final action that will end up leading to happiness once and for all, lol. It's all about waiting for the other shoe to drop first. Whatever happened in the last use of the stick will set off a chain of unforeseen events that might pave the way to deciding how Sun Woo will finally use the last stick.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 9:08 AM
The cheating husband in Last Cinderella bit had a funny twist.
*spoilers*
He couldn't get it up both times...
And then he figured out he was dating his wife's best friend and they ended it, both very embarrassed.
I laughed so hard at that. Was like divine retribution on husbands cheating in dramaland. Also on the friend as well for choosing someone who was married. I like punishment of that sort. Made the whole cheating bit a lot more tolerable.
*end spoilers*
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:28 AM
(spoiler follow-up* majorly dousing out your fantasy just desserts moment (becauser there is no dessert for you, buddy)
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 9:38 AM
ooooh..that sounds better. Thanks.
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Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 9:42 AM
OMIGAD week after week I check out the OT just to hear your thughts on Nine. As much as I love the drama and HIS-ROYAL-HOTNESS Lee Jin Wook I can't help but wonder how are they going to make one incense stick last for 6 more episodes. Sigh. Park Sun Woo is such a swoonworthy character.
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Belle3005
April 27, 2013 at 9:44 AM
oops I meant thoughts. I guess my excitement got the better of me. HEHEHEH
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:14 PM
I know what you mean when you say it's a little hard to continue watching a drama when bad things are happening to the characters you love and you want their decisions/actions to bring out good results yet it doesn't happen. Same thing happens with me. I end up taking a little time off and then force myself to watch what happens next because I know eventually I'll be rewarded for my patience, lol.
It's crazy that you're marathoning three dramas. When I marathon dramas, I do them one at a time. Watch one until it's completed before moving on to the next one. So kudos for being able to manage so many. Anyways, how's Fugitive Plan B for you? Are you liking it?
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 28, 2013 at 4:34 PM
Been trying to catch up on movies. I started Fugitive and stopped in the middle of the first episode. Liked it so far. Main character is slick and I like that. But been catching up on movies (King and the Clown, Runway Cop) and anime -- Aku no Hana being my current stressing favorite. I'm thinking I might have a counter-phobic personality when it comes to stressing stuff because Aku no Hana is just as st It's like... let's indulge character torture, put main character through the wringer and then really twist it once more. But here I am watching it.
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21 Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 26, 2013 at 7:19 AM
Putting on my sparkly jewlery, a new red dress, and heels for my dinner tonight in the Boston area with other KDrama fans. Want to look pretty :-)
Happy Friday to all you Beanies!
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:24 AM
Whoot!!! Have fun!!! <3
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 7:40 AM
Kiss Boston for me and give it a great big hug, Julia!
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 7:49 AM
A picture of our Korean dinner in Allston. Pitcher of Mango Soju helped to make the night merry. Korean Music videos played on the large screens, occasionally distracting us.
http://jreidy.tripod.com/db/index.album/boston-area?i=15
Of course the Boston Bombing was discussed along with KDramas, work, family, culture, and language. Wouldn't it be great to take a class on the Korean wave/culture/or language?
It suddenly occurred to me that maybe I should give a talk at our local library or Williams College about KDramas. Not that a year of watching makes me an expert. In fact, I was the newest to KDramas in our Boston gathering. Still ... I have KFever and maybe I could be a carrier for others to catch KDrama Addiction.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 28, 2013 at 4:40 PM
Mango Soju...ooh, i like the mango part. I don't drink but who knows? When i meet some k-drama addicts in the city, i might try a sip.
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22 korfan
April 26, 2013 at 7:22 AM
Hello Everyone! I hope everyone is doing well today.
Let's see .... so for this week's drama viewing, things are as follows:
Queen of Ambition: 4 episodes to go. Amazed I stuck with it, after what I thought was a very slow start to this story. ...... Why that wicked woman is still walking around in Seoul is beyond me.
That Winter, TWB: 3 episodes to go. That Fake Oppa, he needs a hug ..... *sigh* ......
The Moon That Embraces The Sun: Also 4 more episodes to go on this one. ..... Gosh, I love this one! I have no idea why I passed on it the first time is was shown. ..... what was I thinking back then??! ...... I still can't get enough of the King and his brother.
Started watching Dong Yi. Don't know what to think about this yet. Did any of you watch this? What did you guys think?
So I have 100 Year Inheritance a chance last weekend.... 2 episodes and I think I'm done. I already knew about the mother-in-law so that's not news ..... I just got bored. I'll see how I feel about this one this weekend.
That's about it for now. Everyone take care and have a great Friday!
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 7:40 AM
I might go back to 100 year inheritance. Like peek into it every 5 or so episodes. So many folks gave up on it then returned... will see also.
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korfan
April 26, 2013 at 7:51 AM
Carole -
Funny, the idea of "checking in" every 6 or so episodes ran through my head last weekend as I was giving this drama a chance. I just may do that ..... or not. Honestly not sure yet.
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 8:09 AM
Episodes 3-6 were kinda blah to me. Then 7,8,9 were good. Then down again. Then up. It's like the mafia. "Just when you think you're out, they reel you back in. "
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korfan
April 26, 2013 at 10:50 PM
Ok, I'm totally laughing at the mafia comparison comment!
korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 8:12 AM
There doesn't seem to be many who are committed to AHYI. I keep saying I'm going to stop watching, but it's like some kind of weird love-hate relationship. It's just so over the top! But I'm still watching, even though something that I was looking forward to FINALLY happened and turned out to be a huge disappointment in my book! Don't want to be too spoilery, but let's just say cable does it so much better!
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korfan
April 26, 2013 at 11:06 PM
KL -
Yeah, I'm still on the fence on this one. But like I initially mentioned, it's barely been 2 episodes, so I admit it is a bit premature to be making judgements either way.
I'm sorry you were disappointed in whatever it is that happened in this drama, that you were looking forward to ..... don't you hate it when that happens?
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Rashell
April 26, 2013 at 11:06 AM
I watched Dong Yi and really, really liked it. It's LONG, but I didn't really feel like the story dragged. And Ji Jin Hee managed to make the King not seem like a wishy washy playboy. I also thought that the actress that played Lady Jang was wonderful. Even with all the evil things she did, she could still wring some sympathy out of me. Really all the acting was pretty good in this one. The Evil brother of Lady Jang was a bit over the top. The romance between the King and Dong Yi was well told. I don't think you'll regret the hours you spend on it.
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korfan
April 26, 2013 at 11:19 PM
Rashell -
Yes, it is long indeed! But this is ok as long as it is done well. So far so good.
Ji Jin Hee is good here. Sometimes funny, sometimes serious, in just the right amounts. And what can I say, I think he also looks good. :)
My only little complaint, is about the Dong Yi character. At times she's presented as a bit of a bumbling character, always dropping things, running late, and sometimes like a little naive child. I hope this changes soon.
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23 Lizzy4e
April 26, 2013 at 7:25 AM
Is anyone else watching All About My Romance?
I love this show. So funny and the otp are cute. It is a "political" romance but in reality it is just devise to keep the otp apart.
Lead male is fully grown man (not a flowerboy) with a killer smile. Shin Ha-kyun
Lead female could be Park Shin-hye older sister. Lee Min-jung.
These actors are talented and have comic timing.
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kaitlyn
April 26, 2013 at 7:46 AM
I AM! I am loving it right now! I am so happy to see another viewer on here cause not that many people seem to be tuning in.
I needed a good rom-com after all the melodramas this past season.
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Lizzy4e
April 26, 2013 at 8:15 AM
Oh boy! There is someone else who is watching it! Hi!!!
I like how the second lead male started out so rigid and pedantic, so unlikeable and has now shown to be a victim of his own noble idiocy. He has become likeable, I am sympathetic to his plight.
Every actor in this drama is talented and capable. This is a nice change of pace.
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saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:29 AM
I just started watching it as well! Only watched the first episode, but I'm enjoying it so far. I love how all the politicians are portrayed as quarreling little children... except that the stakes are about the future of an entire country. The thing I like most about the show so far is that it basically doesn't seem to take anything seriously.
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Lovebug
April 26, 2013 at 10:35 AM
Yay! I am watching and enjoying as well. Finally a good old fashion romance done right (So far atleast). Shin Ha-Kyun is definitely growing on me at about the same rate he grew on Lee Min Jung (whom I love!!)'s character. And Yes he does have a killer smile. (I rather hate his hair and styling though).
Really enjoying the show!
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Damselfly H
April 26, 2013 at 11:33 AM
Hello all! Love All About My Romance! I think it's a show that requires some thinking for the political backdrop, but the romance is light, fluffy, cute and hot at the same time. Wait, can all those four traits happen at the same time? Yes they can! Quoting female lead Noh Min young line, SHK smiles like he is in a toothpaste commercial :-D
I'm still trying to tweet while I re-watch an episode, up to episode 2 for now.
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Jenna
April 26, 2013 at 1:38 PM
Agree with you, Lizzy4e. Shin Ha-kyun's smile is sexy. He looks so ordinary until he turns on that smile. Love the way he talks to himself and he is so honest with reporter Ahn. i hope Ahn ends up with the second lead. Hard to believe that she was Lala in Bridal Mask. Very good actress!
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24 Laya
April 26, 2013 at 7:26 AM
Annyeonghaseyo everyone, for once I'm on time for OT. :D It's been a while! I've mostly just been reading the recaps to catch up on stuff.
Just finished watching:
ToGetHer/ Superstar Express - Taiwanese drama. Didn't have a lot of expectations, but ended up liking it, so it goes on my "comfort dramas" list. Also, Jiro Wang where have you been all my life? I don't want to watch the T-version of Hana Kimi because I don't like to watch Ella Chen (no offense, but somehow Sulli's Jae-hee was still so cute I stopped short of wanting to whack her on the head-- with Ella I just wanted to whack her, period)-- Jiro played the Nakatsu (Eun-gyul) in that one, though, which has me interested in watching him as the Tae-kyung in the T-version of You're Beautiful later this year.
Watching:
Gu Family Book - currently on Ep. 4 so I won't read the recaps yet. :D I do like Suzy here though-- she might have a limited range, but Yeo Wool's interactions with Kang Chi make me laugh so much. There's a scene where her "sorry" gives me flashbacks to that scene in Dream High where Hye-mi flubs up dance practice with Jin-gook and goes "mian" matter-of-factly. :D
How is everyone?
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 7:47 AM
LOVE TOGETHER!!!!!
Seriously... Jiro as Mars may be my favourite thing ever! <3
If I had the time I would totally rewatch that drama.
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 8:13 AM
Hello Leaf! Mine too. I started out thinking it was "just another fangirl's dream drama"-- but I ended up rooting so much for MARS and Momo that I watched the ending three times and now I can't get that song out of my head!
Then I saw the MV Jiro did for the T-version of Zettai Kareshi and thought it was interesting how a guy with such a mobile face (witness his facial expressions in HanaKimi and Together) went on to play a robot. :D :D
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 8:19 AM
I do love the songs from Absolute Boyfriend. Pity about everything else ^sigh^
But it is interesting he can do serious as well as comedic. I guess cause I've always heard he's not as clown like in real life as he protrays himself.
But still... I just think he's great <3
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 8:24 AM
*hums the melody for Mo Mo which keeps running through my head* :D :D
He had me when Mars cried the first time. :D I suddenly went from "jerk!" to "poor baby..."
It will be interesting to see him in the Tae-kyung role. :D
saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:32 AM
I think I had that ToGetHer song in my head for weeks and weeks after I finished watching the drama. I think I still know almost all lyrics by heart ; ; it's a good song. .
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saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:31 AM
Agreeed~~ Jiro as Mars was adorable.
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:29 AM
Haha no one, but no one, beats Ikuta Toma's handling of Nakatsu. The Japanese version of Hana Kimi was the only one I could finish. The rest just annoyed me too much.
And while I generally like Jiro on principle I wish he would stop overacting. Boy needs to calm down! Although perhaps he's getting better now? He generally seems like a nice kid on variety shows so he's endearing that way to me but I haven't been able to sit through most of his dramas (but also cos he keeps doing adaptations and I keep liking the original versions better!)...
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:40 AM
I agree with you! Ikuta Toma will forever be Nakatsu, so much love for the way he did that character!
I know what you mean about Jiro Wang and overacting, but I can say that he is better in "Drama Go Go Go"! Just get past the initial episodes and into the storyline properly starting and you will see. (At least I thought he has improved)
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 9:45 AM
I noticed in ToGetHer he did come across a bit hammy, but I thought it was more in the character of Mars than the actor. He toned down towards the end, and did the sadder parts well. So now I want to watch his other dramas and see how he does, generally. Maybe Drama Go Go Go? /puts on to-watch list. :D
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:55 AM
I'm currently watching Drama Go Go Go and as I mentioned above he seems to tone down the overacting as you get into the plot after the first episodes.
I started on ToGetHer but never go around to finish it though. Is it worth giving another try?
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 9:59 AM
Yup yup give it another try. :D
I never thought I'd finish it either. Then I realized it was 4 am and I was already on the last episode. :D
rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 10:01 AM
Heh I started ToGetHer and never finished it as well although I did hear he got better in the later episodes. I just never got around to the other episodes HAHA. I do like Momo though. She reminds me of me. Back but I tried to pick it up three times now and never got past episode 4. Sigh.
Okay everyone keeps saying Drama Go Go Go is not bad so I might give it a shot and report back next OT on how much I like it.
Laya
April 26, 2013 at 10:05 AM
Might as well start on Drama Go Go Go as well. Although I might need to prepare myself because I might get terribly jealous of the lead girl... it's a noona romance, after all :D :D
Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:18 AM
I say give Drama Go Go Go a chance! I started it then dropped it and got talked into starting it again last week's open thread. And I'm now finding myself slightly addicted xD
I might give ToGetHer another try if people say it's good :)
shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:46 AM
ToGetHer got me interested in MandoPop, and Fahrenheit was the first group I listened to.
Jiro Wang has improved between ToGetHer and DGGG, so I highly recommend watching it. For me, the older JW is better, although I am totally crunching on Hu Bing, who plays the older love interest in DGGG - the smile! The height! [fans self]
Laya
April 26, 2013 at 11:20 AM
Hello Shukmeister! :)
I liked him already in ToGetHer (soooo cute!) but older Jiro is HOT. <3 [MINE!] :D :D :D
Laya
April 26, 2013 at 9:56 AM
Also... no longer a boy. He's 31 now, so... jie-jie/noona ain't feeling no guilt. :D :D
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:20 AM
Jero Wang is 31? I did not know that assumed he was younger. Oh well, he is older than me, so guess I can look as much as I want without any guilt at all ;)
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 11:49 AM
Oh my Lord. Less than 15 minutes into Ep. 1 of DGGG and I'm already ROFLing. Are those shoutouts to ToGetHer? :D :D :D
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25 Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 7:28 AM
Happy Friday!!!
Never knew I loved a blue suit so much...you'll get this if you are watching When a Man Loves. Now I see blue suits popping out at me from every angle...not a bad thing, actually! :P
Nine - agree, this was slower in pace and the angst nearly killed me. It is so hard to wait to see next episodes.
Cruel Palace, War of Flowers - I am fast forwarding through a lot of this. Only one or two characters holding my interest.
Jang Ok Jung - still watching and waiting for the additional twists that are coming...
Gu Family Book - liked this last episode, but not sure if the turn of events was premature?
Gu Am Heu Jun - liking this :)
When a Man Loves - this was an interesting episode for me because I feel like I am going to get kicked in the gut (hard) and dropped on my head. Yeah, and those eyelashes are about to kill me...slowly...in a good way. :)
[Note: against better judgement, I marathoned Dr. Jin to see the "Hand Towel" in action. It was not as bad as I thought it would be but I was definitely fast forwarding. Will go back to read the recaps]
Mandate of Heaven - waiting on subs!
You're the Best Lee Soon Shin - still cute, still watching but am over the moping. CEO's sister is still a hoot to hate!
I Summon You, Gold - younger sister is pulling at my heart strings and hope that the younger brother comes to his senses. He seems to have a good thread in there some where.
Last Cinderella - my first Japanese show and I like it, though I can't get on the fangirl train that others have from ep. 2.
Running Man, Barefoot Friends and past episodes of Family Outing when I am waiting on new subs.
Thanks as always to the DB crew for the recaps, news and insights. Always entertaining! :)
Special thanks to Jomo and others for the recaps of Nine and When a Man Loves. The "When a Man..." series is too funny!!!
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 7:38 AM
Funny - I noticed and loved the blue suits, too! (and crisply ironed shirts with initial cuffs, and close-ups of 'Tee Tee' in an oh so form fitting white shirt :))
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korfan
April 26, 2013 at 7:59 AM
All I want to add is that suits and shirts are never, ever a bad thing.
A properly tailored suit and shirt are simply amazing!
It's a little sad that more men don't wear this.
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Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 1:48 PM
Yes! The tailored white shirts!
It will be a sad day when this trend of tailored clothing swings back to baggy. I hope it does not.
If anyone is curious, check out the baggy tailoring in Hotelier. Bae Yong-joon (aka Yonsama in Japan - for the newbies) has a good body under all that fabric, but you'd never know until the swimming pool scene.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 2:40 PM
omw - I am watching Hotelier right now- yes!
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:38 AM
Thank you! We'll try to keep it up even through the sad days we know are coming!
For the WAML squeecaps, as Julia pointed out last week, all you have to do is google 'When a Man Loves JoAnne' We started with Episode 2. Episode 1 was done here by DB.
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:48 AM
And episode 7 should be out soon!!!
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 10:06 AM
Most of the fan girling on Last Cinderella is the hot male bods. *^^* Ahhh... I thought I was immune... but it sizzles. And the backside shots don't hurt either. I don't think you need much as a straight girl to fan girl over it. Even previous knowledge of Japanese stars. raawrrr.
And the storyline is good too. Yeah, if you can remember it in between the other stuff. ^.~ <-- joking. Seriously joking.
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Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 1:50 PM
I will be sure to pay more attention...:)
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:29 AM
Thanks for the mention. You are welcome!
I can't hide my love for THT. I need to shout it from the top of a mountain.
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26 Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 7:32 AM
Ack, I'm late! Greetings, all you wondrous beans!
NINE! We are so close to the finish and they honestly haven't f'ed it up yet so fingers crossed. LOVE this drama. LOVE.
When A Man Loves - honestly, I don't understand people who think this is bad. It's at least as good as the rest of the middle of the road stuff out there, and way better than a few things I can point my finger at - including 98% of Oppa's past work. It's cliched? HELLO, what isn't?
Itazura na Kiss - Love in Tokyo - this couple is terrific. Great rendition, moving fast.
Last Cinderella - OMG, Miura. I'm dying. DYING. DEAD. I watched Kimi no Todoke last week and now I'm watching that Taisetsu whatever one where he's the teacher who accidentally sleeps with a student. Miuuuuuuuuura. yum.
You're the Best, Lee Soon Shin - Hot Doc Oppa stepped up his game and I'm happy happy happy. I love everyone, honestly. Except the whiny wanna-be actress. Poor Mom, poor Soon Shin. That's a terrible situation, however it turns out, to have to go through all that pain and worry and uncertainty.
Gu Family - I liiiiike the gumiho. And Joon was better this week.
Actually, I'm really happy with pretty much everything I'm watching these days. And there's so much ELSE I want to see, Mandate of Heaven, Cruel Palace, etc etc
And MUSIC. No, I don't like Shinee's new song. But I'll watch Minho do that dance for a few hours if you want...but I did finally hear some stuff I'd been hearing ABOUT for a while: Zion T, M.I.B., Noel, Standing Egg...DUDES. You are awesome. All of you. Every single bit of you. Zion T, you are my new music crush.
I just ate a donut so I'm hyper. I can't sit still and type. Talk to me!
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 8:17 AM
*talks to you* :D :D
Hi JoAnne!
Now you've got me interested in Itazura Na Kiss because of your comment. :D
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:12 AM
Do check it out, Laya - he manages to convey social awkwardness AND humanity, and she is neither an airhead nor a pushover.
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 9:46 AM
Ahhh. Sounds good.
/adds to to-watch list.
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:12 AM
hello JoAnne. Was looking further up and thought you were missing out on OT - but here you are!
I need to cook dinner soon. It's raining hard outside (after a very warm day). I was very, very busy this week.
What else?
Oh yes!!!!! I'll start giffing for the squeecap soon ^^
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:14 AM
Nope, just had a long early meeting and by the time I got free, I'm wayyyy down here in the boonies!
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:14 AM
Beanies, these are two more squeecaps of JoAnne and Shukie/Shukmeister (where is the woman today?)
Episode 5: http://dr-myri-blog.blogspot.ch/2013/04/when-man-loves-episode-5-squeecap.html
Episode 6: http://dr-myri-blog.blogspot.ch/2013/04/when-man-loves-episode-6-squeecap.html
And we'll post Episode 7 tonight.
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:52 AM
I'm here! I'm here! Just a little slow start today.
I'll be working on the recap of ep 8 as soon as I do the filial daughter stuff, and help sweep up the maple helicopters and weed the flower beds.
These are the days I like living in the country with cornfields and grass, and not much else. On the other hand, the closest Korean restaurant is a 40-minute drive.
:-/
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:18 AM
I watched two whole seasons of Bloody Monday because of Miura. Yeah and Kimi Ni Todoke was good. Have you watched Boku no Hatsukoi wo Kimi No Sasugu? He's not Miura but the movie was pretty good. Brought me to tears at the end sigh. And of course, followed the manga really closely too.
Unfortunately I'm not feeling it for Last Cinderella. I wish the topic was handled better - I thought Kimi wa Petto (Jdorama and not the Korean movie) or Anego handled such issues better but oh well...
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:34 AM
I think I have that on a TBW list. And I'm planning to check out Bloody Monday soon. I had said I could watch this without subs because I'm not in it for the plot and then I changed my mind because some of the conversation is quite enjoyable but honestly, I can do without the cheating husband. And I don't get her salon friend...he can't really mean what he says? I assumed at first he was saying sh** to get a rise out of her, but he just never stops.
I only care about her and Miura, honestly. I want them to get it on and be happy, happy, happy. The rest of them can fade away quietly into the background. I am in love with her facial expressions and the hopeful look in her eyes. And his smile and his loose-limbed walk. When they frowned through the tennis rackets and then looked from the side and honestly smiled at each other, that might have been the best minute for me. I love them.
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:56 AM
Please please just watch Bloody Monday. I sat through two whole seasons of computer hacking just for Miura but I thought they made hacking as exciting as it could possibly get (watching people hammer away on their computers haha).
Ya the cheating husband in Last Cinderella turned me off completely. I just couldn't continue. I would rather watch I Need Romance and I Need Romance 2012 again. Sigh.
Please go watch Boku no Hatsukoi as well! I thought it was quite thoughtfully crafted. On par with Kimi Ni Todoke!
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 12:43 PM
OK, I'll be all alone in my love for 'Last Cinderella'. *sniff*
I'm hoping the cheating will stop because of the *thing* in episode 2 ...
Rintaro teasing her does come across to me like someone who is interested and that is the only way he knows how to interact (plus they have a history/friendship). He may not fully understand yet he is drawn to her - I'd be willing to bet he is slow on understanding that - but I totally see the looks he is shooting her and how he is always close to her (even if just to elbow her in the butt!) and how he is probing her for information about her dating.
Note how much he pays attention to Sukaro even when stunningly lovely young woman is in his chair getting her hair cut and desperate for his attention.
Of course the whole 24 year old Prince and her is fun too. A guy whose family thinks he is trash, then he meets this mature woman who fiercely fights for what is right and is still sweet and loving ... oh will that be catnip for him when he stops labeling her as the old hag and sees the emerging beauty.
(Note Rintaro ALREADY says to her she is beautiful ... awww. then starts teasing again, not ready to commit, but he is getting protective towards her)
I just pray that subs keep coming for this JDrama.
enz
April 26, 2013 at 9:32 AM
joAnne, this is not enough squeeing for my taste! i was expecting major squeeing session from you for OPPA. how can you leave it so tame and not wax lyrical over his beautiful lashes and his rosy cheeks, his bountiful chest that threatened to burst out of his tight, crisp white shirt. his small cute bum hidden by his too long jacket (they should be banned!!). etc etc...
oppa is too cute. i only want to see scenes of him playing cute.
thats all from me. gotta get to work thought its half past midnight here :(
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:39 AM
the way he grabbed his chest when she winked at him! his little hesitant 'op-pa?'
Every single time he looks at her, I melt. How does that girl stand it? Not the character, the actress.
She must thank God every morning when she gets up to go to work.
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:02 AM
I think SSH is really doing well in this drama. I didn't try Dr. Jin, mostly because I adored the JDorama, and I'm hesitant to try any other adaptations.
I think his CF background shows well in this one, when he has those tiny moments that make me rewatch a scene.
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
The winks, the 'call me' gestures, even when he turns or puts a hand in his pocket are just so adorable!
*** END SPOILER ****
And, OMG, I'm fangirling aren't I... [whacks keyboard on head]
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Enz
April 26, 2013 at 11:58 AM
I haven't fangirled like this since gong yoo in coffee rinie about a year ago now, for me. :). I know the show is manipulating me but am happy to fall for it.
jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:05 AM
The wink and the grab ♥♥♥
Seriously.
How am I supposed to not love Oppa 5ever?
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Enz
April 26, 2013 at 6:15 PM
I am wondering how the character stands it. It's too unbelievable that everyone of us swoons and she is just TRYING her best to like him! Pppsshhawww! Ridiculous.. Never mind. It means he has to work harder, which means more squee moments for us.
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 10:18 AM
If'm definitely squeeing over Oppa but am giving it hands down to Lee Jin Wook for the kisses. Of course we may still get some really good ones from Oppa in the future (I'm only up to 6.) I did vote for him as the one I'd most like to flirt with on MBS.
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 10:31 AM
oh, Lee Jin Wook gets best kisser in dramaland in just about ANY country.
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 2:59 PM
Let's see him paired in a drama with YEH, shall we? On cable, no less. Woman would be sighing all over the world.
27 pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 7:39 AM
Hey everyone! I see some of you are celebrating spring, but out here it's so hot, the temperatures have hit 40 degrees (Celsius, that is) and I feel really sorry for anyone who has to work outside, in the sun. I'd gladly donate a few degrees of warmth to anyone who wants some, we could do with less!
This week, I watched:
Gu Family Book: Good, but not great. Like GF said in her recap, the seams are showing, and the worldbuilding is going just a wee bit wonky - I mean, Lee Soon-shin and using Daddy Park's money to arm yourself with battleships? SERIOUSLY? Also, Second Lead Syndrome strikes again - but this time it's for the second female lead, who has far more chemistry with Lee Seung-gi than Suzy does, and is a much better actress too.
(and Lee Seung-gi and Sung Joon together = <333333333)
Mandate of Heaven: I haven't finished watching the first episode, but I could swear that's the little girl from The Princess' Man, and she is ADORABLE. Also, a very good actress for a child that young - at that age, most child actors don't emote that well, but once again, Korea does it better - bravo! Also, Lee Dong-wook looks goooooood in sageuk gear. This is one I'm going to keep following, even if I'm not so sure about Song Ji-hyo yet - her voice sounds odd to me, maybe it takes some getting used to.
xxxHolic: I still haven't finished it. I refuse to finish it because I don't want it to be over. And I would kill to see Clow Reed onscreen, only I don't think he made it from the manga to the live action - he and Yuuko are one of my favourite CLAMP sorta-OTPs, and it would have been awesome. *sigh*
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 9:13 AM
xxxholic--they didn't do the crossover--but I expected that. And they left it open to a second season, if they so wish... though I still dislike the ending of xxxholic, so I prefer the drama ending.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 9:35 AM
I know, a crossover would have been impossible if they didn't have the rights for the Tsubasa characters.
(and I really do want a second season, this cast and writing are flawless)
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 9:16 AM
hello pogo! Yes, please donate some of the warmth to Europe. We really need it. This has not been spring.
thanks ^^
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 9:52 AM
If only I could, bb!
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 11:36 AM
*Fesses up*: I still haven't watched the last two episodes of xxxHolic either.
It's nice to have something to look forward to.
On a related note, looking forward to subs for All Esper Dayo, for a continued weekly dose of Sometani Shota!
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 3:12 PM
I'm so disappointed that it was only 8 eps that I can't talk about it.
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28 z
April 26, 2013 at 7:51 AM
Happy Friday, folks. I'm on a drama slump simply from lack of time to watch anything. As soon as I getten or fifteen minutes into an epi something I my boring real life calls me away. Domestic life has really put a damper on my dreams watching. Super thankful for recappers!
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29 CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 8:01 AM
oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!!! I just started watching Barefoot Friends and Kim Hyun Joong is in it!!!!! YESSSSSSSSSSSSS! Ovaries a-flutter! My fave j-actor is ji hyun woo but when it comes to lust.... ::sighing and holding heaving chest:: KHJ is sooooooooooo my fantasy perfect hottie. Okay..off to finish watching. Just had to blurt that out to folks here cause I know some of you would understand.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 8:24 AM
i know :)
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30 phjfever
April 26, 2013 at 8:02 AM
i feel like an extra on this open thread since everyone here seems to chat w/each other but wave wave hi hi my comment is about the SSH drama When a man's in love, i'm only watching this bcoz of SSH but not liking the lead actress at all! i'll bear this drama but seeing her in scenes makes me wanna arghhh all together! she can't act, her facial expression were almost always dull, boring! i usually grow with the charac or actress/actors but this one is THE most i'll remember to be the dullest actress ever!
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CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 8:11 AM
Waving back!
Am not watching When a Man's in Love. Might try it, though.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 8:26 AM
Carole, this kdrama gets better along the way-t least is has so far - which is a big plus, for, as you know, it is often the opposite in kdrama land.
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:08 AM
Agree with owl.
But do not have really high expectations of it being groundbreaking in any way shape or form...
Unless the form is THT, then it is almost-shirt-breaking.
He is a-DOR-able in this, and nearing good.
Just not all the time, but some scenes he nails.
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 8:15 AM
If you guys don't want to watch, I totally get it...but you should check out our squeecaps at least. Kakashi does TONS of gifs.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 8:28 AM
*spoiler* the scene with the 4 men around the coffee table where Tae Sang reverts back to gansta mentality - loved his slow, cold eyes (*pant pant*)
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 9:42 AM
hubba, HUBBA. I am ALL for Gangster Oppa. Did you see Jae Hee's face? That made me laugh. Even Manager Yoon was a bit scared, and he used to be a gangster too!
The only thing was I thought he sat there with his eyes closed just a liiiiiiiiiiiittle bit too long, but from the moment he sat in the head chair and put his feet on the coffee table, I was thought: Oh it is ON, Grandpa Leeteuk. You are going to be VERY, very sorry that you're such a pathetic excuse for a man.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 10:01 AM
So will it be hot gansta or shy "I need a list of 50 ways to be a good boyfriend." Yeah, right. I don't think so. Is it really the same guy? And Jae Hee's face - (laugh). I don't really get him, a definite mismatch for a match with Tae Sang, don't you think? Another I don't think so.
Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 10:16 AM
You know what, Hot Gangster or Earnest Oppa...if EITHER one shows up in my bedroom, I'm good. Really, really, REALLY good.
Plus I will feed you a snack after, Oppa.
shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:07 AM
#WhenAWomanSneaksA"DETOUR"SignInFrontOfJoAnne'sHouseAndDirectsSSHToHers.
[walks away whistling]
jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:10 AM
Wasn't he doing an impression of his old boss?
I thought he was quoting a conversation he had overheard.
Which is why Troll Doll hair blanched. De-lavendered?
Sooooooo good.
Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 11:40 AM
I thought that's what it was too, Jomo. It was just really, really, REALLY creepy. Didn't even sound like him. I was actually scared, but it was more like heads spinning around like an owl scared than bad guy scared.
owl
April 26, 2013 at 1:00 PM
like my head spinning around (grins)?
shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 1:02 PM
I think he was channeling his inner boss, and yes, that was creepy. And yes, that was also hot, especially when he pinned Grandpa Leeteuk with his eyes.
Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 12:11 PM
On the topic of someone being cuddly adorkable one minute and then flipping a switch to be a killer.
I've seen this twice in my own life. Both times it was someone I love who flipped into aggression to protect me. It can be utterly shocking ... and effective. I did not lose any respect for Tae Sang in that moment.
I did wonder tho' ... when considering how best to handle PurplePeopleEater ... is intimidation the way to overcome his hatred? There are different tacks that TS could have taken. Intimidation seemed more like gas on the fire.
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shukmeister
April 27, 2013 at 7:02 PM
Julia -
I'm not convinced anything else will work. He's already admitted he's a unmitigated bad guy except for his affection for Seon-joo.
CaroleMcDonnell
April 26, 2013 at 9:44 AM
I might try it if it gets better. Might.
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31 Mystisith
April 26, 2013 at 8:04 AM
Hello everyone on dramabeans! I hope you had a better week than me (not very hard to achieve this goal, lol).
A mini rant now. I'm tired of commenters who pressure the owners of this blog for:
- recaps.
- shows to put on the currently airing section.
- what to post or not to talk about.
Those cases happen more and more frequently lately and that irks me to no end.
The ladies are more polite than me so they won't dare to say it (or maybe they are more zen and mature than me ;) ) but I will: Take it or leave it! Geez.
In dramaland: Nothing much. Dead calm even. I've started a ton of new J doramas and I have to sort everything out.
Have a nice weekend folks!
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Lizzy4e
April 26, 2013 at 8:23 AM
[golf clap] @ Mystisith.
Hear hear! (Hear, all ye good people, hear what this brilliant and eloquent speaker has to say.)
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 8:40 AM
YEAH!!! Javabeans, Girlfriday and the others do an absolutely fantastic job with this blog!! <3 We love you <3
Don't listen to the annoying people...
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 12:10 PM
Agreed, we LUFF dems.
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Lisah
April 26, 2013 at 8:46 AM
I don't disagree with what you are saying, Mystisith, but (I think this is what you are pointing to) there is a way to express interest for certain shows or types of stories versus a demand. And yes, I have seen people do both. There are things I have watched (or I am watching) that I wish were recapped here and occasionally I wish there was more coverage for non-drama things (like Kpop Star, the subs are woefully behind!) but I get that this is Javabeans blog and she has every right to limit its scope as she sees fit. I also know from her posts that her musical tastes skew more indie than kpop and I have loved things she has shared as well. So yeah, that's my two cents: love whats here, sometimes wish for more, but not at the expense of what is already great.
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Mystisith
April 26, 2013 at 9:03 AM
I must add that those comments are written in a colored language. Basically, "I don't care for this post about XXX ! Move your *** and give me my recap." I mean, seriously?
I can understand requests done politely (they are done mostly by people not familiar with this blog from what I can see) but even then, it must be depressing for the bosses when it happens again and again.
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:12 AM
Yeah, I saw that one.
Classy, wasn't it?
Love to be in front of that person in a queue somewhere...
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
April 26, 2013 at 9:57 AM
I will add to that list (though this happens a little less frequently on here, at least)
- people having tantrums when we criticise the acting of their biases. Particularly when said biases are known to be terrible at acting.
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KimYoonmi
April 27, 2013 at 7:27 AM
Umm.. I would say instead, supporting or hating an actor not on ability but on affiliations the actor has and looks alone rather than real acting ability--either direction. Hate or love.
For example: "I love Gong Yoo as an actor because he's hot"
"I hate Jeong Yong-Hwa as an actor because he's with Park Shin Hye."
"I hate X actress because she's dating whomever."
But I think it would be better to judge on things such as being able to express the character's emotions, the ability to hold the attention of the camera in the proper way for the character, subtle expressions v. deadpan v. overacting. The ability to change for the role. The ability to express a range of characters one can do. The ability to press oneself as an artist. Passion for the acting and ability to throw yourself into it. (Also, for me, the ability to create trust and work with other actors of all types and backgrounds. Trust is chemistry in acting.)
Rapid Vapid characters, for example, are really hard to act in comedy. 'cause if you're really that vapid, then you can't get the timing down. But being that smart, you need to be able to hold the expression.
I admire LJW for subtle expressions. Also Gong Yoo.
And while SSH isn't a great actor, I like that despite everything, he still tries to push himself and stays humble about his ability. He does have some comic timing. If he stuck to Rom Com he wouldn't have so many issues.
Kim Myeong Min, however, can kick everyone's butts. He modulates voice, mannerisms, facial expressions, and while he's passionate, he stays modest about it. His range is frightening too. He's the type that can move the air around him and I'd believe it. (Also modulate his charisma.)
The roles the actor chooses and is playing for the interim of their career now, I don't play in as much. I like seeing what they can do with what they were given and how they can translate script to screen.
Yah know, intelligent conversation about acting and why it does or doesn't work.
To some extent, to also not judge an actor on their acting based on an upcoming project. =P You can't see their acting yet, so how do you know if it's good or bad when it's not even in production? They might have hit a sweet spot.
And if someone disagrees, the wherewithall to be curious to ask why specifically they think that way without getting upset. Bringing your own opinions to the table.
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 12:01 PM
Sometimes it is easier to be a wallflower than put yourself out there. I have deep admiration for anyone who takes the time to write a thoughtful blog post or recap.
No one who becomes a public figure will be completely free of criticism.
Heck, you probably couldn't even get a group of people to agree on the best flavor of ice cream, let alone more emotional or complex topics. It's a mantra of mine. "It's ok if this person disagrees with me. Maybe strawberry is their favorite flavor instead of chocolate." It releases my tension and leaves me with a sweet creamy aftertaste :-)
The majority of us Beanies are really happy and in awe of all the effort that goes into maintaining this website. Sending Girlfriday, HeadsNo2, Javabeans, and Gummimochi all my love.
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32 karecity
April 26, 2013 at 8:18 AM
To all Singaporeans: CHA TAE HYUN is going for Star Awards!! our drama industry is kinda crappy but a big kdrama star is coming and im so excited! except...i wonder how he's gonna communicate lol.
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
April 26, 2013 at 9:04 AM
He'll probably speak in korean and then get a translator to translate. Or speak in English! I'm not sure, is he fluent in English? Or he'll just be his funny self. Humor transcends all language barriers. Ha ha.
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33 PeepsLeAwesomePotato
April 26, 2013 at 8:32 AM
I realise I have no tack. And I just offend everyone without meaning to. What do I do? Damn, who was it who said that being straightforward was a good thing?
And the thing is that now I'm always second guessing myself and holding back from saying anything and then I get called shy. Or haughty.
But the worst thing is that I'm not even sure if people are saying that about me or that I'm just hallucinating and being over sensitive. Sigh. Why are people so difficult?
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leaf
April 26, 2013 at 8:38 AM
^hugs^ People are super annoying.
And being straight forward really can be a good thing. My friends really like that I'm very honest. Means they trust what I say.
But yeah... social stuff is difficult...
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
April 26, 2013 at 9:01 AM
Yeah, that's why I only go crazy with a handful of trusted friends. Because you know they won't judge you (or at least they know enough not to judge you wrongly).
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Mystisith
April 26, 2013 at 8:45 AM
Welcome to my world. :)
Thing is, I feel better when I say things the way I see them (I should probably work on the wording but I have no time for that). Walking on thin ice is exhausting in the long run and as popular wisdom says, you can't please everyone. I also prefer when people are direct with me: It can be hard to swallow at times but at least there is no misunderstanding.
Perhaps we should classify people depending on their verbal sensitivity? Good luck with that!
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
April 26, 2013 at 8:57 AM
Yeah, but not everyone's honest. So I'm not even sure when I've pissed someone off.
I don't mind people ticking me off when I've done something they didn't like. In fact, I welcome it! Because then I know what works and what doesn't. But for "social grace" or "etiquette", not every one does that. Then I get so confused when they act differently and I start questioning myself. Argghhh!!!!!
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am
April 26, 2013 at 8:53 AM
I feel you. Despite having the best intentions, some people will always take some of the things you say very differently than what you intend to convey.
I often second guess as well and try to hold back on too much opinion with people I have not known for 10 years or more hehehe
You'll get by :)
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PeepsLeAwesomePotato
April 26, 2013 at 8:58 AM
I'll get by... miserably... TTT___TTT
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MEalways
April 26, 2013 at 10:00 PM
Don't, don't be miserable. You are what you are. Just find a niche where you can be comfortable with yourself and who you are. I know that would not an easy task.
You get to second guess yourself, you get very lonely sometimes, and worst you may feel that none understand or love you.
But, if you stay true to yourself, you'll find those people who really care about you, respect you and sometimes rely on you to tell them the truth, although it may hurt.
Please stay strong.
Hugs, ME
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:20 AM
I wrote a poem about that because I also struggle with that. Then I met Kindergarten teachers who have the job of telling kids the lowdown without making them cry. Ha!
Some people see life all fuzzy and warm
through lenses so lovely and pink.
Others wear glasses that magnify faults, and
they coldly proclaim what they think.
Somewhere in the middle’s the best of both views.
Watch with your heart and your mind.
It’s good to be honest when looking at things
but don’t forget to be kind.
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Kiara
April 26, 2013 at 11:49 AM
My favorite part and so so true.Thank you Jomo :).
"It’s good to be honest when looking at things
but don’t forget to be kind."
Working on it starting with my own family.
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 1:07 PM
Reminds me of one of my fav children's books - "The Honest-To-Goondess Truth" by Patricia McKissack. Similar sentiments of your poem. jomo.
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korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 3:03 PM
Wow, love it. I wish I could say I've a fuzzy warm outlook, but that's not the case. ( It is interesting to note, though, that it's been proven that pessimists have a more realistic outlook on life.) But I am probably a little too straight forward for my own good!
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Merry
April 26, 2013 at 4:22 PM
Nice, jomo. Often a struggle though when one gets emo. But who was it that said, a wise person is one who thinks he might say something stupid and did not say it. A whole cottage industry of communication experts have cropped up, but things you learned from kindergarten or learned from the mouths of babes will sure save you the money and heartaches.
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:27 PM
Ha, I have similar issues too. When I have certain thoughts but I hold back on them, later I', made to regret for not saying them. And then when I don't hold back on my thoughts, I'm later made to regret for saying them, lol. Damned if I do, damned if I don't.
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34 Manin
April 26, 2013 at 8:50 AM
Happy Friday everyone!
Finally free from dissertation stress! (and just in time it seems, cause today the library caught fire...) HURRAY I can finally start catching up to stuff in dramaland! Trouble is where to start?
Nine - Why?! cannot say I liked this weeks episodes, especially the last one. Why this again? You better resolve it quickly show!
You're the best Lee Soon Shin - I get the mum character, I do. But I still find myself being jade off from her and fastforwarding her scenes. Might be my personal experience of being my mum's go to person for everything going on in her life, but I feel like I just don't want to be dealing with her. Soon Shin and Joon Ho are still adorable though, cannot wait for the relationship there to start up.
Drama Go Go Go - after talk about it last week I decided to give it a go again. Safe to say I've now gotten slightly hooked (I just watched from ep 5 and up to ep 22, that counts as slightly right? :p)
I must say, Jiro Wang have really improved from previous roles I have seen him in. Love the main female lead, and the older guy seems a nice addition to the conflict (and just at the right time as well..)
Gu family Book: still need to start this one. Liking the recaps though!
On another topic anyone have any good mandarin speaking dramas/movies to recommend? I'm going to work in China for a year after the summer, so should start getting used to the language, and maybe pick up some words as I go along as well :p
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:06 AM
see 36 :)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:17 AM
What's it about? :)
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owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:33 AM
Oh, it's my misplaced reply in comment 36 to your comment about You're the Best, LSS. The comment should be here instead :)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:35 AM
Ah, yeah I discovered it later! :p
rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:09 AM
Which part will you be going to though? Different parts of China have slightly different sounding accents so you might want to watch, for example, a mainland drama rather than a TW drama. I have several to recommend but they mostly belong to the martial arts type cos I just happen to have a penchant for those. Not sure if you have watched them already though - e.g. Chinese Paladin? (Graphics a bit cheesy and I mostly watched cos I like the main actor and actress). There's another one called Strange Hero Yi Zhi Mei which I thought had pretty good plots throughout, and some cool comic strip animation, although some of their CG effects were just meh.
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:20 AM
I am going to a city about an hour outside of Beijing, so mainland dramas I guess would be better (though most of the mandaring speaking ones I have seen have been from Taiwan)
I won't say know to a good martial arts drama! I do tend to be drawn to those as well! (reason I originally watched Ninja Assassin had nothing to do with Rain being in it. It was because of the martial arts :P )
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:50 AM
HAHA Ninja Assasin. I can totally see where you are coming from ;)
Right, so in addition to the two I recommended above there's also Chinese Paladin 3 (no there's no 2, just 1 & 3 as it was based on a role playing game).
There's also the following
- Tian Long Ba Bu (Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils) - lots of martial arts here
- Bu Bu Jin Xin (Scarlet Heart / Startling by the Step) - time travelling drama about a history buff that gets transported back in time and falls in love
- Zhu Ge Nv You Hui Jia Guo Nian (Rent a Girlfriend Home for New Year) title says it all. Quite hilarious and light - check your brains in at the door
- Shen Diao Xia Lv (Condor Heroes) is a classic and you must watch if you haven't already
Let me know which types of dramas you prefer cos I recommended a variety up there. I can point you to more if you need ;)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:00 AM
Woho that quite a list! :D I'll check them out they do sound interesting! Especially Bu Bu Jin Xin and Tian Long Ba Bu :)
Haha, Ninja Assassin indeed :p What can I say, it had a fancy cover and promised me ninjas and martial arts, I didn't even notice Rain was in it until later! Then I discovered that many watched it because of him xD
One tdrama I'm waiting/hoping for subs for is "Two Fathers" read the plot summary and it seems interesting, and just enough cute and fun to go around.
rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 10:09 AM
Haha I saw Two Fathers around but haven't gotten around to investigating it in depth.
Personally Condor Heroes is my favourite martial arts story but the drama doesn't convey the complexity as well as actually reading the novel and/or comic. Unfortunately both are actually in Chinese so...maybe after you've been in China for a year? ;)
You should check out Strange Hero Yi Zhi Mei if you like martial arts too. Its kinda like China's version of Iljimae (sounds almost exactly the same) but there's a good twist to the story. Ignore the cheesy effects -I got over those pretty fast haha
Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:26 AM
I saw the first episode, and it seemed cute and funny enough, even though I didn't understand a word :p So hoping that it'll come with subs, or that I'll manage to pick up enough mandaring to understand it! :p
Ah, I know how sometimes books beat the dramas by a long shot. We shall see how much written chinese I can pick up, though I think the spoken version will be my main learning interest ;)
I will have a look at the drama though!
Hm, I never got around to watch Iljimae. Think I started one of the versions once but never finished the first episode. I'll put this drama on the list in any case :D
shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 9:29 AM
Manin!
Yay! Slightly hooking on DGGG is great! Glad you gave in to the pressure! [just kidding ;-)]
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:34 AM
Haha I did give in! Thank you for putting the pressure on though! I am definitively not regretting giving in another chance!
I am liking the older male person! [potential spoiler alert!!] I was soo hoping that the manager wouldn't be the last part of the triangle for him though. Fingers crossed that gets resolved quickly!
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:13 AM
Manin -
Nonono! He needs to come to America and I can show him that older is better... lol.
I'm glad I'm up to the 3rd lead. I know, in the end, who she will pick, but I'm totally shipping Fu Yun Cai.
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 11:28 AM
Haha, I suppose you did claim him first ;) He has a very very nice smile though ;)
Yeah I was waiting for the older lead to come in the last episodes before he turns up properly. Who is she ending up with in the end? I'm guessing Eason simply because he is written after the female lead in the overview.
Still liking Fu Yun Cai though.
35 rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:02 AM
Happy OT everyone! Celebrating my birthday today (and nope, still not revealing my age) and had a great time at dinner followed by some singing so I'm in a particularly great mood. :)
Managed to do some drama catching up but must admit to being somewhat disappointed at GFB - am still debating whether to drop it so it all depends on how good next week's episodes turn out. Any more poor editing, ham-handed music interludes and weak storytelling and I'm outta there. Must admit though I'm looking forward to Mandate of Heaven. Also...I miss having rom-coms since FBND ended! I mean yes the last 2 or 3 episodes for the drama felt superfluous but I enjoyed the cute...current run of dramas all seem overly serious to me.
Don't really like any of the new Japanese dramas except Senryu Tantei Tokage. Really wish Itazura na Kiss was better but I keep seeing Ariel Lin instead of the Japanese actress acting...and I feel like the original Japanese version was better. At least Kotoko felt different! More sincere. And they came up with a twist on the kiss portion. This one felt like the TW drama on wash, rinse, wring and repeat, without a fresh take on the material. Thats just being lazy.
Anyone watching TW dramas recently? Any to recommend? Not sure what's good to watch in the recent runs. Something light and cute, preferably.
Enjoy your weekend Beanies! :)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:26 AM
Happy Birthday!
How is GFB? I haven't been able to watch it but read the recaps. I want that show to be good. Also looking forward to Mandate of heaven!
Know what you mean about lacking a good rom-com and that the current drama weather is serious, serious and with an added sparkle of depression. I'm counting on "You're the best Lee Soon Shin" to carry on the cuteness!
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 9:34 AM
Thanks!! :)
GFB has been kind of uneven. I loved the parents back story and was quite patient with the current unfolding developments but I hated the last episode. I'm waiting to see if that was just a one-off thing though so will still watch the next two episodes. If they don't do the job I might stop watching it, which is a pity. I WANT GFB to be good!
Haha I'm following YTBLSS through recaps cos I usually can't take the pacing of a weekend drama. Luckily DB is doing recaps for it! I hope they continue with the recaps for Mandate of Heaven too cos it looks promising but I know what they mean by too many recaps and too little time. I'm amazed that they manage to cover as many dramas as they currently do!
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:45 AM
Yeah I know what you mean! The girls behind DB is doing an amassing job covering all that they do!
People seems to be having mixed responses to GFB, though everyone seems to love the parents :P I want this show to be good! Been putting off watching it untill after my dissertation was written (though I couldn't keep myself from reading the recaps)
The recap of Mandate of Heaven seems promising indeed, cannot wait for subs to I can check it out myself. I want this one to be good as well cause it sounds like it has so much potential!
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 10:12 AM
The amazing recaps and of course witty humour here is what keeps me coming back.
Good news about holding off until your dissertation is finished is that you will officially find out how much GFB rocks/sucks. Silver lining? ;)
Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:30 AM
The humour is indeed a big plus! not to mention that the recaps are always of a good quality. I've read some horrible examples where I got nothing of the story, but know waaaaay to much about how the writer liked two of the male character and hated the female lead.
Testimony to how much time I spend reading recaps here: I have a couple of times had dreams that have happened in Javabeans & Girlfriday's "1N2D" recap format xD
Haha yeah! It's kinda like with the split of opinions it makes me want to see for myself what people are on about.
korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 10:29 AM
I really like YTBLSS - it is definitely carrying the cuteness factor. Even though it's 50 episodes, the story is easily picked up when you have the time. I also really, really like Jo Jung Suk and IU (surprisingly) in it.
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 7:58 PM
I've always liked IU even in Dream High, but the birth secret thing was awfully makjang and a bit too much so for my taste so I'll stick with the recaps for now. Baker dude sounds like a hoot though!
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saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 11:12 AM
Happy Birthday~
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:22 AM
Happy Birthday to you!!
What's Up Fox is a nice one. You get PIE being super adorable and a second lead who is very pretty.
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skelly
April 26, 2013 at 1:03 PM
Happy Birthday! I have birthdays on the brain, too - my oldest turns 18 on Monday, and I am having trouble wrapping my brain around the fact (18? Really, How did that happen?) - even though the last few months have been all about applying for and choosing a college. It was such a shock to look at the calendar and realize she's leaving home in four months...
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rainerust
April 26, 2013 at 8:00 PM
Thanks guys!
Ya the birthday thing creeps up on you. I barely blink an eye and its like, a year already? Really? Where did last year go!
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36 owl
April 26, 2013 at 9:05 AM
the library caught fire - ha! hot reads!
For me, it's all the time devoted to the mom 's story in YTBLSS that drives me crazy -ff puh-leeze! And the chicken couple remind me of the parents in L7CS - just too too! But the couple story is adorable (and the sisters' side stories are cute too!)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 9:31 AM
Library was on fire indeed! Quite fittingly when thinking that today was the deadline for handing in your dissertations.
I agree on the time being devoted to the mom's story is a main factor in why I feel detached from it. And the chicken couple I still can't get my head around why they crop up all the time! (Must say I saved myself from watching L7CS though I followed the recaps)
The sisters stories are cute. Awkwards breadman for the win! Not to mention the adorable jealousy thing between Joon Ho and Chan Woo over towards each other over different sisters (although they don't know that!)
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37 shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 10:03 AM
Good morning, my fellow beanies!
What a week it's been, with tales of heroism, witticism, schisms, and prison. lol
In R/L
- My boys at the precinct saved the life of a man hanging upside down in a burning car.
- My mom's 80's went off with only a few hitches (Lesson Learned: do NOT expect a husband of 56 years to keep a secret, even for a lousy 24 hours. :-)
- Spring pollen is done, but the strawberry season is slow, so no fresh picked until May.
- My favorite nephew has a final interview with the Police Department in a nearby city, which means I won't be working with him, but I'm proud of his decision to be in public safety.
- National Poetry Month - I've posted the first three weeks, and I have to say kudos to anyone out there writing a poem a day (or really anything creative). "My brain be fried / there's nothing inside!"
In Dramaland:
- I'm up to episode 23 on Drama GoGoGo, and the older male lead could give JIS a run for his money for height and well-place couture. I have to find more stuff that Hu Bing has been in. It's gotten bogged down a bit, like many a TWDrama with 30 episodes, but the cute 3 male leads make up for it, since there's always one of them on the screen.
- When A Man Loves -- What can I say? The cute continues! No shirtless scenes, but I have to say Hand Towel is rocking the adorkable look, especially in white shirts and jeans.. The SqueeCapping hosted by the lovely kakashi is going swimmingly well, and episode 7 should be out this weekend!
- I've peeked in on Gu Family Book but after the first two episodes, it hasn 't gripped me like I hoped. Still, it's on the list for possible marathoning at a later date.
****
Did anyone watch Mandate of Heaven? What did you think about it?
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enz
April 26, 2013 at 10:30 AM
shukie! saya menunggu dengan Hati berdebar squeecap engkau bersama Joanne Dan kakashi :). when a man is in love makes many women swoon
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:16 AM
Sama-sama, enz!
I'm glad you are enjoying the SqueeCaps! I don't know how my squee-sisters feel about the effort (especially kakashi), but it's been a blast doing this project la!
And Hand Towel is very swoon-worthy. And I find our Grape-headed Villain has some pretty shoulder muscles...oh gosh, did I just say that???
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kakashi
April 26, 2013 at 11:51 AM
yeah ... how does kakashi feel ............ I'm thinking about a programme that automates giffing. you know: I show it the squeecap and it does all the gifs for me. hahahaaa
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 2:01 PM
If you could do that, it would help enz' fast-beating heart! And make you a mint.
:-)
enz
April 27, 2013 at 8:10 AM
no la!!! grape headed villian has a tight body but too burly for his frame. or maybe just for my taste. he is all muscles though. that was a surpirse when he was at the baseball ground breaking them bats. wearing a hairband. waht a strange sight that was.
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shukmeister
April 27, 2013 at 8:33 AM
enz -
Yeah, but still compelling. I think that was a surprise for a lot of us!
korazylady
April 26, 2013 at 10:32 AM
Shukmeister! Didn't want you to be lonely here at the bottom of the page!
I am struggling with GFB, and for the life of me I can't figure out why. I've started watching eps 3 4 times now but never make it through--I always get distracted by Twitter or some show in real TV. So not sure I can give you much of a recommendation there.
Lol about the husband of 56 years. I don't think mine listens to half of what's being said so he's very good at keeping secrets!
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:23 AM
Korazy -
I love my dad beyond everything, but, yeah, the saving grace was that my mom didn't pay attention either.
ShukStory:
This was the first time in about 5 years we had all my siblings together (Oldest sister lives several states away, the three left work medical / public safety jobs with all those crazy hours).
So, when the three of us were leaving for the restaurant, my dad yells to my mom, "Don't forget the camera! All the kids will be there!" I hissed at him: "DAD!"
But luckily, my mom thought he meant the GRANDkids (meaning my sister's brood) and dismissed the statement. CRISIS AVERTED
:-)
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 10:35 AM
I feel you with the pollen season starting! I have it wonderfully with reacting to pretty much everything from the season starts and till its end. Also, I love strawberries!
The older male lead id DGGG is indeed a looker. I just hope the manager crush gets resolved quickly, though I guess it's another reason for her to push Eason and Ming Ming together :p
I must admit to tuning in to your SqueeCaps last week, and they make me want to see the show! (must admit having been drawn to the plot before it started airing). How is the drama?
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:27 AM
Manin -
This is my first almost-live recap (I've been recapping older dramas that need love), so it's a bit exhausting, but fun!
So far, I am enjoying it! Will it solve world hunger or make safe cold fusion? Um, no. But it's a good way to spend two hours (or in my case, many more)!!
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Manin
April 26, 2013 at 11:30 AM
Ah one of what my mum would call "30 degrees in the sun non thinking entertainment" in other words. Enjoyable when you watch it and then you can leave it alone afterwards?
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 1:54 PM
Except a little daydreaming regarding that cute pink jacket, and reminiscing about the beauty of his feet...... oh where was I???
Manin
April 26, 2013 at 6:39 PM
Pink jacket? feet? What have I missed, though it was all about the abs?! :p
leaf
April 26, 2013 at 10:46 AM
Wow... episode 23 of Drama go go go?
I need to start episode 4 haha. So behind :'(
But I was enjoying it :D
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:28 AM
For DGGG, I'm pacing myself to WTIHS2 subs, so it's an episode a week, more or less.
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:27 AM
Hu Bing is gorgeous.
He hasn't been in a lot of shows but he does a ton of ad work.
Designers love him.
I also love him!!
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 11:31 AM
He is not bad in the role, either. Not bad at all.
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38 saturtledaisy
April 26, 2013 at 10:41 AM
Hi~ Just a quick short post because I'm ridiculously late (but still early enough to post~ it's still friday!)
Right now... I'm almost out of dramas to watch D: I've been cutting the drama-load lately but now I'm starting to feel the emptiness.
I'm currently watching:
You're the best, Lee Soon Shin! (just ador(k)able)
Gu Family Book (so far, so good~ I'm impatient enough to follow with Chinese subs rather than English ones because they come out earlier xO)
All About My Romance (Just started watching it, and it's funny enough so far. I'm glad Lee Min Jung is playing a more assertive character again~)
And... that's it. Three dramas. I need moreeeee... Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm thinking of picking up Heaven's Mandate but I don't know yet...
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39 Lilly
April 26, 2013 at 10:46 AM
So far Jang ok jung is good
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40 renzillag
April 26, 2013 at 11:08 AM
hello everyone!
I'm watching Gu Family Book and somehow find myself kind of bored despite my love for LSG... I will continue watching it because I want to see how he and Suzy fall in lurve. Sidenote: I think Suzy's acting is pretty good! This is the first project of hers I've seen and I am impressed. What do you guys think?
Also I've been trying to find somewhere to watch Mandate of Heaven since its not on dramafever or viki... which by the way is very disappointing, why no love for mong ji and lee dong wook?? Has anyone seen the first ep, what did you guys think?
Also I love CNBLUE's Hey You
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Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 2:18 PM
Hi Ren,
Gooddrama has Mandate but no subs yet.
Love CNBlue, too! :)
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Laya
April 26, 2013 at 11:23 PM
I've liked Suzy since Dream High, robot Hye-mi and all :D Well, deadpan comedy ftw. And so far I'm liking Yeo Wool too.
And yeah, love the song. And CNBlue. Ticket sales to their Manila concert starts tomorrow--- hope I'm able to buy one before they all get sold out, even if I have to sit on a plane on two hours just to get there.
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41 Lovebug
April 26, 2013 at 11:10 AM
Hola and Happy Friday Beanies!
Things are going very well for me because I finally quit my job!!!! And have found a job that it seems like I will actually enjoy and care about which is a novel idea for me. Hoping the work life balance will result in a more balanced drama viewing experience. Also dramas got good again, or at least I am enjoying them again!!!
Finished Incarnation of money, and thoroughly enjoyed it though it often was crazy unrealistic. I am not familiar with the Korean Legal system but I am pretty sure you can't be the lead prosecutor for the same person that accused you of murder and sent you to jail for a month who only recanted his story after you framed him for stabbing you in the gut. Just guessing you might have a slight conflict of interest. But the revenge story and cat and mouse games were so compelling that i didn't mind how unrealistic it was. Still don't see what the point was regarding the fat storyline, but did appreciate how he thought she was beautiful no matter what on their wedding day.
watching:
All about my romance - Super cute good old fashion romcom. Its a refreshing watch! And the romance is believable! (love lee minjung!)
Lee Soo Shin - Adorable, adorable, adorable. Loving all the sisters and their romantic partners! Mom is slightly annoying but trying to have patience. Could do with out all the drama around the birth secret but the drama otherwise is hitting all the right notes for me and looking forward to watching the remaining 30+ episodes (Its my first simulcast 50 ep drama).
Nine - So good!!! Excellent even, have no idea whats going to happen and I like it! Lee Jin wook is fantastic in this role!
Also completely and utterly addicted to the madness that is Substitute Princess (King Flower) and the charisma that is Chris Wu. He is totally killing it in the role, praying that he gets Da Hua in the end because otherwise WHY Drama Why!!! Sigh i can't say that this show is spectacular but its my current crack for sure! Damn you T-dramas and your practice of only airing one episode a week!
Lastly watching and loving Itazura na kiss. Playful kiss was my second drama ever and though i was frustrated the entire time by Oh Hani i enjoyed. Experiencing the same phenomenon with the Japanese version! Totally engaged and amused but frustrated because oh her blind devotion despite his lack of interest. Good thing I know whats going to happen and looking forward to it.
So this weekend going to pick up another Drama because why the hell not. Considering Gu Family book (But hear its not that good). When a Man loves (people seem to be enjoying it, who knew!) and Mandate of Heaven (but may wait for more episodes before I embark on that one).
Also cant wait to start Ten 2! Love watching Dramas!!!
*Also shout out to the Midwest beanies who had our first meetup last weekend here in Chicago! it was lovely meeting you lovely ladies and great to talk dramas and kpop with people who Understand!! Can't wait for the next one!
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jomo143
April 26, 2013 at 11:24 AM
PICTURES!! Where are the pictures?
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skelly
April 26, 2013 at 12:58 PM
I totally agree with you about Substitute Princess!!! Chris Wu is doing such a fabulous job, I just want everyone to step back and let him take over the show and be the hero. I don't know of anyone who doesn't totally prefer his Terry over that ridiculous lout Guan Jun.
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 8:29 AM
@Skelly: Ditto!
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42 Faye
April 26, 2013 at 11:23 AM
I wanted to discuss something that's Korean culture-related, albeit not K-drama related. Apparently there's a Hyundai commercial where they tout its green advantages by saying it has such low emissions, you couldn't even committ suicide with it if you tried. I was horrified by it, but a Korean friend shrugged it off and said Korean culture was just more blunt and direct. I was aware of that, but it still just seemed really . . . awful, to be honest. Any Koreans here who could comment on it? I was curious to see if it was a "cultural differences" kind of thing or not.
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Mystisith
April 26, 2013 at 11:49 AM
Well, I'm not Korean at all (maybe in a previous life) but I think that Koreans have a vision of death globally less tragic and scary than us Westerners who "rebel" against it. Maybe because of the Buddhist notion of reincarnation and also because of a hollistic vision of life.
As shocking as it can be for us, suicide is one of the main causes of death in SK, for every age range. It seems to be seen as one valid option among many others to solve insurmountable problems.
And finally, I guess it depends on how you sense of humour works. I personally dig black humour. In some crazy situations that happened to me, laughing was the only way I could react (or I could have killed myself but I would have missed all those juicy dramas).
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Faye
April 26, 2013 at 12:07 PM
Hmm, yes and no to this. I actually don't shy away from discussions of death, perhaps due to my religious culture, the fact that unfortunately I've had to deal with the unexpected deaths of immediate family members at young ages, and my upbringing by immigrant parents who have a different, non-American perspective. That being said, the idea of using suicide to sell a product, however jokingly -- *especially* in a country where the suicide rate is so high (which I was aware of) -- is just a little off-putting to me. I think because suicide is such a different kettle of fish from "regular" death (even sudden, tragic deaths like the ones I've seen close by).
Different strokes, though, I acknowledge :).
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Enz
April 26, 2013 at 5:38 PM
I would say not just Koreans. Asians in general
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 4:01 PM
Korean culture tends to be more blunt and direct AND there are a ton of references to dying as part of slang. (I'll go over how to communicate in Korean some time)
So for example, there are threats such as "Chugo" If you don't do *whatever* You'll die.
Or being so tired, you think you'll die.
Or being so in love you think you'll die.
If your friend should do something they've been putting off you can go hwak Chugo~~. You'll hear this often among CLOSE friends. Also the offer of death in Sageuk, which no one seemed to get the parody of in Hong Gil Dong (though I get this was a kinda sick joke on the Hong sisters' part.)
Besides, statistically, it's said that openly talking about suicide is better for those who will commit suicide than trying to hush it up. The West has a culture of hushing it up, but psychology tells you to actually talk about it openly if you want to prevent it.
South Korea also doesn't take suicide lightly since according to WHO, suicide is a lot more frequent than people who go to mental hospitals due to stigma, with those in mental hospitals often after a suicide attempt. (Making the stat in All About My Romance sadly true.)
Hope that makes sense.
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43 hydrangeabloom
April 26, 2013 at 11:34 AM
Hello Beanies - hope everyone's Friday is going okay.
I was wondering whether anyone knew whether King of Dramas will release an OST any time soon? I haven't been able to find one for purchase anywhere, and it's been several months already since that drama finished airing.
Over the past few weeks I have been making my foray into K-movie watching, having mostly stuck with dramas to this point. Been catching up with some movies I have wanted to see for a while, with mixed results. I started with "Little Black Dress" starring Yoon Eun-hye, and left it wondering what the point of the movie was. None of the main four were particularly sympathetic, and it was unclear to me how they were even friends. What a mess.
I fared somewhat better with "Sunny", which also traded on the concept of female friendship but did so with a bit more heart than Little Black Dress. It was more melancholy in tone than I expected - I went in thinking I was going to get a feel-good comedy, and while it did have its laugh-out-loud moments, it was much more reflective and bittersweet than I was prepared for. I loved Kang So-ra here, since the only other role I have seen her in was in Dream High 2 (a drama I'd like to forget). I would love to see her play more charismatic characters like that - I think she would do really well.
The third film I watched was "The Crucible" (though there doesn't seem to be a consistent English translation of the title). I was prepared for it to be a dark film, considering the subject matter, and a difficult film...but I strongly question the directorial choices made in terms of the scenes with the child actors. The scenes I think were done well were the courtroom scenes, the most powerful of which when the judge yells at the audience members who are deaf to be quiet. It illustrates the great disconnect between him and the case he is meant to be evaluating.
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TG
April 26, 2013 at 12:41 PM
I just watched The Crucible too (for those who are looking for it under "Crucible" its on Netflix under the title "Silenced"). Oh man was that sad. I cried a lot. I would have liked there to have been a post script in the film that talked about what was real and not and what had happened after the end of the film. I've tried looking but I haven't had much luck finding information on the real events in English.
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Mystisith
April 26, 2013 at 12:58 PM
The Crucible: I remember reading an article on a Korean news site (Chosun Ilbo or The Korea Time news, I think) when the movie aired: Netizens were outraged and asked for a new trial because some of the culprits had done only months of prison and then returned to work in facilities with kids... Don't know what happened after that.
I also read an interview of the Director who confessed than in fact he hadn't shown the most horrible things done to the children. I just can't and won't try to imagine but I would like to treat those bastards like in Sons of Anarchy. Huh!
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Enz
April 26, 2013 at 5:35 PM
I think they changed a law on child abuse after the movie came out and the subsequent outcry from the public lead to a petition that went all the way to parliament.
I had the same problem with hydrangeabloom. I wondered how they filmed those scenes without traumatizing the child actors themselves.
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hydrangeabloom
April 26, 2013 at 7:01 PM
I don't know the full extent of the legal changes, but I remember reading somewhere that one law that has been recently changed involved boys under the age of thirteen...that it previously wasn't possible to file a rape charge if the victim was male. I would really need more resources and verifiable information on that though.
hydrangeabloom
April 26, 2013 at 6:56 PM
I've had the same problem, but the New York Times did do an article on the film (and the school) that at least expands upon some points. Like the sentencing and the school not being closed until the release of the film. Crazy stuff.
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DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:36 PM
I watched the Crucible too. It was definitely disturbing but very eye-opening. I'm glad that it managed to make an impact in Korea. About the child actors, I think there may have been ways of doing those scenes that won't be traumatizing to the actors themselves. But I can't say for sure...
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44 okiejune
April 26, 2013 at 11:36 AM
Has anyone watched Super Rookie? Is it good? I'm looking for a comedy to fill in my free time between YTBLSS episodes...
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45 Momopeach
April 26, 2013 at 11:57 AM
I've always wondered, why doesn't dramabeans review any non-Korean dramas?
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 6:03 PM
Because it's about sharing her K-Drama obsession, I guess?
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 8:15 PM
Javabeans doesn't watch Japanese shows (She's made that quite clear with things like Queen of the Office). She also doesn't know Japanese. Same with TW and HK shows.
Heads does watch Japanese shows, so doing the recaps on Jin and the remake of Propdai made sense for her to do.
Haven't seen the other recappers mention it beyond that.
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alua
April 27, 2013 at 2:02 AM
JB and GF have a Korean background and language knowledge, meaning they can recap before subs are out. They probably couldn't do that with J or TW dramas.
Plus, there are only so many hours in a day! (Sends *thank you vibes* towards the whole Dramabeans team.)
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46 TG
April 26, 2013 at 12:35 PM
When a Man Loves
I've been really into it although I don't really like any of the characters except the main guy. I don't understand why he likes her - she's kinda bitchy and not very nice, although she's finally getting into the relationship. I don't understand the second lead's totally devastated and hurt reaction since she was pretty clear from very early on that they didn't have a relationship and she was seeing someone else. It's not like she was leading him on.
Others here seem to think that this isn't going anywhere happy which is too bad because I'm enjoying the cute a lot.
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 1:57 PM
TG - I'm glad you are enjoying it. It needs more love!!
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 8:11 AM
I'm mad in love with WAML no matter what anyone else says. This reformed gangster has me melting.
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47 Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 2:31 PM
Beanies,
I am going to have some recovery/downtime on my hands soon and wanted to ask....what are your favorite k movies?
Thanks in advance! :)
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 3:52 PM
So far? or of a certain flavor?
내생애 최악의 남자/The Worst Guy Ever Rating: ★★★★★
Sweet and stick around for the ending.
무영검 (無影劍)/Shadowless Sword Rating: ★★★★★
You can watch with a BF/guy, strong romance.
여선생 vs 여제자/Love Rivals Rating: ★★★★★
It turns sweet later on.
영어완전정복/Please Teach Me English Rating: ★★★★★
This is a great intro into Korean movies.
도마뱀/domabaem/Love Phobic Rating: ★★★★★
Sad. So prepare tissues. But well done and I like the premise.
빈집/Bin-jip/3 Iron Rating: ★★★★★
This is more on the literary side. Has Jae Hee in it.
친절한 금자씨/Sympathy for Lady Vengeance Rating: ★★★★★
Scary, I would say, but you can learn about the tofu thingie off of this and It's not a bad movie.
야수와 미녀/The Beast and the Beauty Rating: ★★★★★
This remains one of my top favorites. The guy is a dork and I like the message of the movie. When I'm feeling like there is nothing to watch I'll rewatch this a few times. Plus the "blind" part isn't played out for laughs negatively and it ends up being sweet.
여고과담/Yeogo goedam/Whispering Corridors Rating: ★★★★★
Scary in the Korean way.
아라한 장풍 대작전/Arahan Rating: ★★★★★
For the movie your men can also watch. Funny.
번지점프를 하다 Beonjijeompeureul hada/Bungee Jumping of Their Own Rating: ★★★★★
A bit strange and mind bending in a lot of ways. More intellectual watch.
왕의 남자/Wangeui Namja/The King and The Clown Rating: ★★★★★
Well-done. Not 100% on homosexuality, but considering this started much of what is the homosexuality rights movement in South Korea, I'd mark it as "important"
늑대의 유혹/Temptation of Wolves Rating: ★★★★★
Squick, a little, but I still think Bungee outdoes this one in similar tone...
내 여자친구를 소개합니다 Nae yeojachingureul sogae hamnida/Windstruck Rating: ★★★★★
I liked this better than My Girl, but I know I'm probably in the minority.
내 사랑 싸가지/Nae sarang ssagaji/100 Day With Mr. Arrogant Rating: ★★★★★
Another comfort film I watch with my other two comfort films--Please Teach me English and The Beast and the Beauty.
에스다이어리/S Diary Rating: ★★★★★
It's a fun watch. Not for young children though.
내 남자의 로맨스/How To Keep My Love Rating: ★★★★★
It's not one I'd repeat watch... but it does have appeal for me.
역전에 산다/Reversal of Fortune Rating: ★★★★★
I rather liked this one.
Others: Il Mare It did terribly in the box office, but I like it as it forces you to think over timelines and things. (Uses branching timelines.) Might break your brain if you're looking for a relaxing watch though.
Also, consider All about my Wife, which I found ultimately sweet.
The Kiss Up Project, which was just funny as anything....
So those are my top favs.
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alua
April 26, 2013 at 3:59 PM
I second 빈집/Bin-jip/3 Iron. 10/10 in my book. The sort of film I watch movies for!
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Mama J
April 26, 2013 at 6:07 PM
Lots of these are very enjoyable, I agree. I'd add Castaway on the Moon, Ahjussi, A Time to Remember, I'm a Cyborg, but That's Okay, Werewolf Boy...hmmm...Finding Mr. Destiny, Rough Cut...
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 8:36 PM
[jumping up and down] Werewolf Boy!! Definitely!!
alua
April 26, 2013 at 9:18 PM
Need to watch Werewolf Boy....
Waiting
April 26, 2013 at 10:16 PM
Thank you all! I am tucking this list away in a safe place.
Werewolf Boy has been viewed...loved it!
alua
April 27, 2013 at 1:57 AM
If you want more, I've got a section dedicated to Korean films on my blog:
http://alualuna.wordpress.com/archive-index/film-reviews/#Kor
The ones that score highest are, other than 3-Iron, are Come Rain Come Shine, This Charming Girl, Duelist, Late Autumn and Take Care of My Cat. All kind of artsy/slow films though, so I don't know if that's your taste.
If you want something plain fun, Woochi is great (need to review it!). I also second KimYoonmi's recommendation of The King and the Clown.
Mama J
April 27, 2013 at 6:14 AM
Yes, Alua, you do! I can't wait to hear what you think of it. I've seen it 3 times so far...maybe 4? Twice without subs and at least once with. Gorgeously filmed, with really strong acting, and although I know that plenty of others found it differently, for me it's an incredibly sad movie.
alua
April 27, 2013 at 11:28 AM
That's kinda nice to hear that you "can't wait" to hear what I think of it :-D
I'm pretty sure I'll like it. I am not expecting a life-changing movie, but I'm guessing something I'll end up rating 7 or 8.
I'm holding out for a while, I'm still hoping for it to appear at one or another festival, the Terracotta Far East one in June or the Korean Film Festival in October. If it doesn't get screened at either one of those, I'm going to have to watch it by other means.
DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 5:03 PM
I'm probably the only one who probably didn't like Werewolf Boy as much. I mean, not much really happened or it probably did but the slow pacing or subdued manner of events made it easy for me to feel sleepy while watching. The cinematography was beautiful but at times it was too dark to discern what was happening; seemed more like they were trying not to show Song Joong-ki look less pretty as a werewolf.
On the other hand, I loved Ajhusshi. It was compelling and engaging. Anyone who hasn't watched it yet should read the review done on it on this site. It will definitely do a better job of selling this movie than I ever could attempt.
DayDreamer
April 27, 2013 at 4:46 PM
Haha, I watched Please Teach Me English the other day and it was such a hoot. This is a case where actors use English not for trying to sound cool/intelligent and that's why it didn't make me cringe but laugh so hard instead. The story was also very cute.
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48 Sajen
April 26, 2013 at 6:28 PM
As it's been over 5 hours since anyone posted here most likely no one will see this but I've got to get it off my chest anyway. I just watched the first Drama Fever awards results and, the other people that watch dramas at Drama Fever are idiots.
I mean come on I like Yoon Eun Hye too but to pick her over, Ha Ji Won, Moon Chae Won, or Jung Ryeo Won as best actress. Rooftop Prince over Answer Me 1997 or Shut Up Flower Boy Bans for best ensemble, really. Dream High 2 over What's Up, Shut up Flower Boy Band and Answer Me 1997 for best soundtrack, again really? Lee Min Ho and Kim Hee Sun over Seo In Guk and Jung Eun Ji as best couple? Yeo Jin Goo over Sung Joon, Jung Eun Ji or Jo Jung Suk for breakout performance? But the biggest grievance is The Moon that Embraces the Sun as the best drama of the year over Answer me 1997 or Bridal Mask.
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KimYoonmi
April 26, 2013 at 8:12 PM
I ignore Dramafever these days. Don't see the point when they haven't been playing fair.
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shukmeister
April 26, 2013 at 8:32 PM
Sajen -
It's mostly a popularity contest by netizens, so any idol/actors are going to be heavily favored in the voting.
It has all the fluff entertainment of an episode of MNET Countdown, and that's how I take it.
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alua
April 27, 2013 at 1:59 AM
I think Shukmeister is right.
I have yet to find any Korean drama or film awards that use anything other than popularity/celebrity to give out prizes.
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shukmeister
April 27, 2013 at 8:40 AM
alua -
LOL - when I first read that, I thought you said "Pizzas", and I thought that was a good analogy:
Something yummy when it's hot, but not so good once it cools down, and if you microwave it, a bit doughy in the middle.
8)
hee hee he
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alua
April 27, 2013 at 11:25 AM
Would be fun if they gave out pizzas at award ceremonies! Especially since most trophies are way ugly.
I like cold pizza, although piping hot out of the (stone fire) oven is best of course. Ahhh, that crust... (thick crust for me).
Darn, I haven't eaten pizza in ages......
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
April 27, 2013 at 8:09 AM
It struck me as an advertisement. Look investors, let's pound into your heads that we get over 500,000 people visiting our site. Like they gave the award winners talking points.
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49 Onees
April 27, 2013 at 12:42 AM
Hi Everyone, I'm not usually in OT but have to get it out there since I don't see anyone mentioning All About My Romance. I'm loving All About My Romance. It's so good. And the main lead male isn't that great looking but oh buy am I loving him here. He have he smile of a goddess. :D
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50 Deliane
April 27, 2013 at 2:47 AM
Doubt anyone will see this now but I am ridiculously excited for Special Affairs Team TEN Season 2. The first episode just got subbed on Dramacrazy! Just got absolutely mindblown...
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mrmz
April 28, 2013 at 6:37 PM
More like your WTH is going on?? What was I watching during the whole last season?? Its just impossible to know whats going to happen next. Totally mindblowing!!
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