Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching
by DB Staff
Hey, what’s everybody watching? Hope the Olympics pre-emptions haven’t put a damper on anyone’s drama-watching this past week. Time off from crack shows can be hazardous to your health, but I’m sure you used your time wisely and caught up on your backlog of episodes, or even started new shows. Or, I guess you could’ve gone outside. I hear that’s a thing. –girlfriday
javabeans
Age of Youth: I was holding this show at arm’s length because of the slow pace and terrible background music (what is this, an educational special on exploring the cosmos?), but Episodes 5 and 6 turned on the charm — funny, sweet, and adorable. I do think Park Eun-bin is pulling half the cast’s weight on the screen charisma front, though.
The Good Wife: I got into a whole thing with my mother about Jeon Do-yeon and how great she is — but not, say, amazing-great, I mean she’s good, but is she even really doing much?, I know she’s repressed but it’s not coming out like that, and you can’t compare her to Go Hyun-jung who is just so disgustingly good I can’t even bear to watch her, I don’t know maybe I never really liked Jeon Do-yeon, who might be good but not a god or anything. Lesson of the day: Just let mom feel what she feels.
After the Show Ends: I live for the tiny moments of realness, even when the entertainment has a cringey element to it. For instance, Bo-hyun is so into Yura it’s a little embarrassing to watch onscreen, especially since her reaction to the embarrassment of real feelings is to laugh and play things off as a joke. Aie! I’m pretty sure So-hee’s into Suk-jin for real, too; otherwise she’d never be as flirty or aware of him, such as when she said it was cold on the boat, he asked if she wanted him to hold her, and she replied right away, “Yeah.” Aie!
Doctors: What is even going on in this show. It’s the thinnest stuff, evaporating almost before it has a chance to land.
W–Two Worlds: I love this show and find it inventive and addicting, but the plot actually feels like it moves pretty slowly (which is a little odd considering how quickly things happen) — I keep glancing at the clock wanting the plot to speed up so I find out what happens next, and feeling the stress as the hour winds down and I still don’t have my answers and I realize, “They’re not gonna give it to us today, are they? ARE THEY?”
Uncontrollably Fond: Oh. My. God. Last week I felt the angst was frustrating in an enjoyable way, and then this week happened and was just too freaking much. I was so angry at everybody that I stopped giving a shit. Fine, characters! If you don’t want to be happy, YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE HAPPY. Just be miserable then, and suffer non-silently about the decisions you’ve brought upon yourselves, boo hoo. Run, Eul, run far away and listen to Jik, who is the only one in this drama who would never hurt you!
girlfriday
Currently recapping: W–Two Worlds
Uncontrollably Fond: I was SO going to catch up on this show, I swears it! But then I overheard javabeans and LollyPip talking to each other about how extra, extra angsty it got this week. Like hellfire angst. And then I chose to watch other things.
Doctors: Sometimes when the show remembers its overarching plot, it makes me laugh to realize we’re still doing that (like are we still digging into Grandma’s surgery, for real?), because more than anything, Doctors just feels like a collection of cute moments with no connecting narrative. Yunno, other than the characters being the same people. They’ve really gotten a lot out of these star cameos, but now that our resident puppy is ill, maybe the final arc might actually move me?
Police Unit 38: Truthfully, I think the last con was utterly dull and went on waaaay too long. But back when this show was firing on all cylinders, it was so fun, and my world is better for having witnessed Seo In-gook and Ma Dong-seok’s bromance. Overall Police Unit 38 was a little drier than I wanted, but it did do as advertised: I felt a sense of catharsis whenever our con artists stole from the rich and gave back to the people. You can never go wrong with a roguish Robin Hood, I say.
Bring It On, Ghost: There are feelings! But she’s a ghost! And he’s alive! It’s so obvious given the premise, but I like that we’re finally in the part of the story where we’re addressing this, because the setup was cute and all, but I was waiting a while for romance to complicate this ghost-exorcist partnership. I just love Kim So-hyun and want her to get everything she wants. Even if that’s Taecyeon.
HeadsNo2
Age of Youth: This isn’t the only thing I’m watching, but it’s a masterpiece. I did a marathon session to catch up to the show, and am completely floored by it. It’s a celebration of life, love, relationships, and friendships, all with an eerie twist. The ensemble cast is one of the best I’ve ever seen, and the writing is top notch. A++.
dramallama
Currently recapping: Doctors
Dear My Friends: I played catch-up this week and faced my fear of finishing this show. I was bracing myself for all the sad tears, but I was relieved and pleasantly surprised at the beauty of the ending. The show stayed true to its grim humor and made me look forward to the day that I can live life with such longing and joy.
Age of Youth: Missed out again! After my realization with Police Unit 38, I decided to pick up another show I dropped early on, and I was not disappointed. I love how our housemates are so different, each with their own charm, yet compatible. The first episode honestly dragged a bit, but I really got into the format and our girls’ stories soon after. I credit Park Eun-bin for bringing me back to this show — that girl is something special.
chickachunga
The Good Wife: W is all the rage these days (for good reason), but The Good Wife is the show that truly hits the spot for me. It’s my favorite drama at the moment, and I’m constantly impressed by the top-notch performances (naturally) and intriguing story developments. I just love it! Tae-joon is a big fat (hot) liar, and Hye-kyung deserves someone waaay better, perhaps Joong-won. Or maybe she doesn’t need a man because she’s so awesome. I now have the sudden urge to go get my bangs trimmed and search high and low for a perfect pair of hot pink stilettos.
Age of Youth: A pleasant surprise and an enjoyable watch. Maybe I shouldn’t be so surprised since I’m in their age range, but I’m liking this show a lot. I can see bits of myself in each of the girls. It’s refreshing to see young women being their complex, imperfect selves. Our twenties are a messy, uncertain, and unpredictable period of growth and self-discovery, but that’s why it makes for such good television!
W–Two Worlds: I get the hype, and the hype is well-deserved, but I’m not at the ZOMG/mind-blown-level just yet. It’s an immensely compelling show because it’s high concept and the trajectory is unpredictable, but I’d like for the pace to speed up just a bit.
mary
Age of Youth: This show is the sweetest, realest thing ever. Anyone who’s had an annoying sister, an exasperating girlfriend, a scary roommate, or a “cool” senior can relate to this show. Plus, five main girls means a minimum of five ships. So at only 12 episodes, you’re basically launching ships left and right every hour. Won’t you beanies watch this too and help us sail them all safely?
Police Unit 38: Police Unit 38, you had your ups. And by the time I noticed your downs, I was too far into your con to escape. Thanks for always keeping us on the edge of our seats. For that, consider the 1.6 episodes of fun and 14.4 episodes of mindfuck you owe us: paid in full.
W–Two Worlds: My heart hurts.
HappilyEverAfter
W–Two Worlds: I’m absolutely hooked. This show switches between its genres so well — the comedic parts have me chuckling along, the romantic parts make me squeal like there’s no tomorrow, and the thriller parts legitimately scare me. Kang Chul’s identity crisis is also a fairly interesting one, but something tells me he’s more real than we think; after all, how much of a fictional character can he be when he controls his own emotions and will?
RELATED POSTS
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (August 6, 2016)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 30, 2016)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 23, 2016)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 16, 2016)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 9, 2016)
- Team Dramabeans: What we’re watching (July 2, 2016)
Tags: 1 show to rule them all, After the Show Ends, Age of Youth, Bring It On Ghost, Dear My Friends, Doctors, Police Unit 38, The Good Wife, Uncontrollably Fond, What We're Watching, W–Two Worlds
![[K-drama Treasure Hunt] Heart-fluttery bottle opening](https://d263ao8qih4miy.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Kdrama-treasure-hunt.png)
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1 Arhazivory
August 13, 2016 at 12:13 PM
After years of delay, I finally started Giant after finishing my thesis. My expectations are met and I'm so into this that I don't care about any other drama going on right now. When W aired on Wednesday all I could think was that the one hour could have been for Giant. Lol. I really don't know if I'll be able to pull away until I'm done. And when I'm done I want to rewatch Salaryman and Incarnation of Money, both of which I adored, especially the former which is just priceless.
*sighs* Giant, thanks for waiting all these years on the shelf of my HDD.
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fayyyy
August 13, 2016 at 12:34 PM
I remember watching giant only to catch the story of HJE and jo sang wook lol.
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The other Kiara
August 13, 2016 at 2:00 PM
I still remember where I was, what was going on in my life when Giant came out. That's how good this show was lol.
I remember hosting a ramen/Korean BBQ dinner every Mon/Tues just to have my friends over so we can watch Giant together because no one was recapping it.
I felt like everyone else were on the Dong Yi train and it got all the attention. I even root for the rating to beat Dong Yi lol. (40.1% on the final episode. Yay! National drama).
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fan
August 13, 2016 at 3:01 PM
I had fun watching Giant too. My favorite character was Jewelry Jung (who received the acting award for the role, I believe). I learned something from that drama (I missed out huge opportunity that I could have been rich. sigh. lol).
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Kestrel
August 13, 2016 at 5:05 PM
I watched Giant before Sandglass and so I didn't realize how hard it was trying to be Sandglass. That said, I found it pretty riveting since it really peeled back the history for me for that time period (as a non Korean). Even if in fictitious strokes.
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lovehaydn
August 13, 2016 at 6:53 PM
i'm with you on re-watching Salaryman!!!!!!
nothing, NOTHING beats watching "Versailles Yoo".
i swear, there is no drama that beats the (good) crazy that is Salaryman... LOL
i hope Jung Ryeo Won reunites with Lee Beom Soo again one of these days (i miss her crazy red hair too ㅠ_ㅠ)
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Arhazivory
August 13, 2016 at 7:13 PM
Now I'm experiencing what you guys experienced. This show is just gold.
*goes back to Giant*
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adelaide
August 13, 2016 at 8:08 PM
+2 on History of the Salaryman.
It's been 4 years but still no Kdrama even came close to how wacky and crazily insane HOTS was. Such a fun watching experience. The chicken in hanbok! All the swearing and the epilogues!
I miss LBS and JRW!!!
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 12:30 AM
It maintains to have one of the best first episode I've seen in a kdrama. I still crack up just thinking about the epic slowmo fight on the golf course. ?
@adelaide, whenever I see the actor who played the chairman in another drama I always think of that chicken in hanbok. ?
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wonhwa
August 13, 2016 at 9:08 PM
Giant is wonderful! I nearly quit after the over-melodramatic initial episodes, but I'm so glad I stuck with it. If you had told told me a show about road construction, boilers and building permits could be gripping television, I would have said you were crazy, but surprisingly it works. I have some issues with the way the female characters were portrayed but the male cast is one of the best ensembles I've ever seen.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 10:22 PM
Giant is, for real, one of the greatest. I save it for when there's an active kdrama drought or much-hyped shows turn out to fall flat, and I need reminding of just why I'm hooked.
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lunatic4kd
August 14, 2016 at 9:54 AM
This is just one of the many reasons I love DramaBeans. I've lost count of the number of dramas I've been persuaded to watch just by comments in DB threads. Now I'm realizing I MUST move Giant and History of Salaryman to the top of my 'to-watch' list. Currently I started The Good Wife just because there's too much lag in current dramas - but I'm realizing I need to start Age of Youth as well. Oh, the total, unending joy of k-dramas!!!!!!!!!!!
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2 whimsyful
August 13, 2016 at 12:18 PM
Yay, so happy to see more and more people watching and enjoying Age of Youth! I think it'll probably end up like the writer's other drama White Christmas -- not a ratings success, but could become a cult classic.
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fab
August 13, 2016 at 12:42 PM
So chances of Age of Youth 2 being ever made is slimmmm *SOBS* but I hope to see more of Park Eubin and Han Yeri headlining their own dramas!
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jellybine
August 13, 2016 at 11:18 PM
A lot of the DB staff are watching Age of Youth now and after reading what mary has to say, I don't need any more convincing! I'm off to watching it now. :)
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thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 7:12 PM
Oh my god, it's the White Christmas writer??!! That show was fantastic!! (and very underrated, as you say)
No wonder I love AoY, it explains so much! I generally like ensemble pieces to begin with (like PU38), but this writer's so good at the thought-provoking, intensely human and vulnerable interactions of her characters. WC had such a powerful ending - the indescribable mood of it stayed with me for days afterwards!! I'm now all anticipation for the AoY series!!
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3 fab
August 13, 2016 at 12:28 PM
@chickachunga, that's my list of dramas!
W's missing episode really slowed things down. Wish MBC would air the three eps back to back. Or are they going to preempt next week too?? Shoot.
Just found out by accident that Cinderella and the Four Knights has premiered. The first episode was a delight, I'm already on pins and needles with the ships tho, Cinderella and Casanova are cute together. Just like Broody and the fashionista are.
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dramalatte
August 13, 2016 at 2:52 PM
Man how I wish mbc would that. I NEED W.
I also feel that cinderella and Casanova are super cute together. I already shipping even though I know they are not end game.
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fayyyy
August 13, 2016 at 4:56 PM
Oh Ahn Jae Hoon looks so adorable ! How am I going to save myself from the second lead syndrome again.This man needs to appear in more dramas! Also him and PSD have a very good rapport from the start damn...
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blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 6:25 PM
Yeah, I like him in this one. I liked him in You From Another Star and didn't like him so much in You're All Surrounded, and I heard he was terrible in Blood. He's pretty funny in Cinderella, maybe comedy is his thing.
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midflower
August 13, 2016 at 10:33 PM
I really didn't expect him to be so funny XD
jellybine
August 13, 2016 at 11:14 PM
Yes! Cinderella and the Four Knights are like dessert on my main dish which is W.
I am also shipping Cinderella and Casanova in this one. Ahn Jae Hoon is really nailing it and I must say he is a scene stealer in this one. Might as well steal the girl, pretty please?
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fab
August 14, 2016 at 7:54 AM
I'm glad I'm not the only one on this ship. I'm not feeling JIW at all. Casanova's honestly is refreshing. A bf who grants you any wish after a breakup?? I'M IN.
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Wasabi
August 15, 2016 at 9:51 AM
OK is it weird that I like him more knowing he's married? Because I can actually believe in him understanding the romance, the love .....
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4 Rani
August 13, 2016 at 12:30 PM
I'm still watching Doctors for the characters, if not for the barely-there plot. The characters are the only reason why I'm still watching this drama.
I've caught up with W and am watching for the plot, though I find it hard to relate with the characters. I almost feel sorry for LJS and HHJ because it's very hard to sympathize with Kang Chul and Yeon Joo. The colors and cinematography are pretty though. Unpopular opinion, but the twist is really easy to predict if one pays enough attention. Given the writer's history, I don't think there will be an explanation to this drama, except for probably characters realizing they're just characters.
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5 Sancheezy
August 13, 2016 at 12:42 PM
W- I think they made it slow and give happy moment because they'll have a hiatus and if it gone for too long, our theory may hit the nailed and the shock effect will come in a good way (looked, I insert my fave T drama title here), more hiatus can give me more time to draw kangchul (lol)
Cinderella - I watch this and pleasantly loved it. The drama feel differenct, maybe because they guys is not utterly jerk or they just a rich people with decent heart, so it more believable for them to change, besides I love the way PSD played her character, she is good and she has the right tone to showed her emotion. I feel her in both episode and ahn jae hyun is such a treat there.
ps: I am sorry for comment in OT, I got a bad headache and just recover this past hour so I'll reply my comment later m(__)m
(I think some commenter give me book suggestion so thanks ^^)
I hope you guys have a nice day
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Archer
August 13, 2016 at 2:44 PM
I'm currently watching W, Age of Youth and Cinderella. For Cinderella, there are only three cousins, right? So, who is the fourth knight? Is it Grandpa's assistant?
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eva
August 14, 2016 at 2:16 AM
There are four knights? Geess...three is already too much for me and they're all cute in their own way. How's she supposed to choose? I honestly can't.
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Sancheezy
August 15, 2016 at 6:04 AM
imo it is the grandpa's assistant since he is in the poster, hahaha
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6 Flightey Gazelles
August 13, 2016 at 12:47 PM
Currently watching Coffee House,Master's Sun and casualy rewatching Faith.
Kin Hee Sun is so beautiful. It was my first time seeing her and I still love her Eun Soo. Princess Noguk has this dignified presence,she's quiet but strong.
Coffee House: status ep 6.
I love the two female characters. I think its a testament of the drama's pull that am not put off by the clumsiness of the writer's assistant. Which is what made me bail from You Are Beautiful and The Producers. Go Mi Nyu/Nam was just too clumsy for me. I get the innocence since she grew up in a convent and all but throwing spit to put off a candle? Baek Chan should collect basic sense. I sound harsh but I might get back to those in the future in a drama slump. In Coffee house, I find my self rooting for the assistant and love the way her relationship with her boss is developing.
Park Shi Yeon is beautiful and sexy. I love that she's a successful woman of her own. Can't wait for her to ditch the jerk Ex.
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yayabean
August 13, 2016 at 2:38 PM
I was recently thinking of rewatching Faith for the fourth time! I TOTALLY agree with you, Kim Hee-sun is so pretty. And of course, there's also the many hairstyles of Choi Young to keep it interesting.
I love Master's Sun too -maybe I should rewatch that too ?
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Ema
August 14, 2016 at 5:20 AM
Oh god .. there are some crazy creature out there who is just like me ..
some time i just rewatch faith
I watch it whenever i cant figure what i need to watch from hundrets drama i haven't finish it.
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bd5
August 15, 2016 at 3:13 AM
CH is an underappreciated romcom, but has uneven writing (the writer couldn't decide whether it was to be a romcom or a sad drama).
Definitely had some fun, eclectic characters and as annoying Jung Woong-in's character could be at times, was also hilarious at times.
CH is also the drama where PSY's acting got noticed (good noticed).
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7 angieya
August 13, 2016 at 12:50 PM
Going outside? Pffft, I can get fresh air from an open window and sunshine causes hyper-pigmentation (besides it being cold and rainy here the whole week.) ?
But only having one ep. of W definitely brought a lot of free time because there are 700+ comments less to read. Lol
PU38: I'm surprised I'm still capable of forming somehow coherent sentences after my mind has been blown over and over again for the last two months. ? What a great ending to a great show, this is how final episodes should be written!
But I'm not falling for it production team, nope, not gonna put my hopes up there for a sequel (especially since we won't get SIG in one unless it's in 2-3 years).
And SIG, you better give us some lip action in Shopping King Louie. That's all. ?
The Good Wife: I think JDY is very impressive in her portrayal as HK though I kind of agree with JB about GHJ. She was absolutely amazing in DmF and is the best (kdrama)-actress to me this year.
But still this drama is killing me, I'm exhausted for HK, poor woman just can't catch a breath and has no backing (bring back my sisterhood!). And I'm so done with TJ, such a selfish bastard.
Btw since when did medical civil lawsuits become so thrilling? Lol
Age of Youth: Yay, so many of the DB team watching this now. I just love this drama and think it's very underrated. And Park Hye-soo (Eun-jae) is so freaking adorable, I wanna put her in my pocket, next to PBG. ?
Second To Last Love Trying to find your teenage daughter in a VIXX concert...yeah, good luck with that. Lol
Five Kids: At ep.10 now. Goodness, I've never watched a weekend family drama, didn't know they're really so soapy. Can only be taken in in small doses. Sung Hoon, the things I do for you. ?
Doctors: I'm sorry that I really jinxed it with the Subway PPL in last week's BoW. ?
But ack, not the puppy. ?
Bring it on, Ghost: Oh Em Gee, they're so darn cute, I can't stand it. Gimme a happy ending, show!
Uncontrollably Fond: or Uncontrollably Coincidental or Uncontrollably Angsty
12 episodes in, show turned from melo romance into a melo revenge drama. ?
I knew I signed up for makjang from the beginning but never imagined it'd be SO makjang lol, but of course I'm staying after that final minute of ep.12. *rubs hands*
W: I'm incredibly envious of a kdrama character who's in a relationship with a manhwa character...something's not right with me. ? And every guy should get a copy of that book and memorize it, just sayin', it's like the manual to a kdrama romance.
Btw is it too late to start drawing manhwas, I want my own Kang Chul(s) (I heard reverse harem is trending this month ?) but I can't draw for the life of me. Eottoke? Will stickman be sufficient? I could compensate the bad drawing with a wild fantasy. ?
To be continued...
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angieya
August 13, 2016 at 12:55 PM
I talk too much (and watch too many shows) lol
Cinderella Watched first episode. Umm...yeah, well...it's extremely pretty to look at, not just your usual kdrama pretty but heavy soft-focus pretty if you know what I mean. Story is as expected very predictable, not sure if I'm going to continue, will probably decide after ep.2.
YoF Iceland Caught up on all subbed episodes (waiting for the final one now), how I'm going to miss these adorable S4 (4 Stones) - "Hot Dog World", "We are water" and "Can I help me?" anyone? ? Such a happy go lucky group with so much talent. And KHN has one of the best laughs. I'm so pumped for Jealousy Incarnate now...And after watching this I'm convinced Sang-hoon and RJY ad libbed their scenes completely in LR. ? If only Jung Woo had a drama then we'd have seen all 4 on the small screen this year.
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harukogirl
August 13, 2016 at 1:22 PM
Yeah, tonely Cinderella ep 1 was all over the place for, and I was *wanted* to like it for the leads but was unsure....but ep 2 hooked me.
To me, it's like a sequel to the Flower Boy series - let's call it Cinderella's Flower Boys. It has the same manga-esque unreality to the set-up, and rather cliche-based characters. However, episode 2 really sucked me in with the execution. The leads have already started a bicker-cute (and he's been almost nice to her a few times) and her family circumstances just got me in the gut. Plus there was a scene with the youngest and her that sold me on his character as well - I wanted to pat his head and tell him what a good boy he was, hahaha.
IMO, Cinderella won't be W or Healer or that kind of awesome, but I think it will be engaging fun fluff like Flower Boy Ramen Shop or the Japanese Boys over Flowers. What it won't be - thank God - is the Korean Boys over flowers.
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angieya
August 13, 2016 at 2:21 PM
I have to admit I successfully(?) avoided watching BoF all these years despite the hype. I guess back then I was too put off by the hair. Lol And then after reading more into kdramas (i.e. DB ?) I thought I'm good with that lack of makjang knowledge although I still plan to watch the first episode one day with JB's and GF's "Mystery Drama Theater 3000", I bet it's going to be a hoot. ?
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celine
August 13, 2016 at 7:31 PM
You and me both. I still have not seen BoF and I have no plans of watching even though I have my own copy of all episodes. I am allergic to male characters like that of LMH in BoF.
I plan to watch Cinderella because I have a soft spot for JIL and dude has not been in a good drama for so long. However, the premise is all too familiar and I do get the BoF vibes from it. I still plan to check it out because I've read that the characters are not jerks (yet). I guess if the delivery is good, it'll be worthwhile to watch.
harukogirl
August 13, 2016 at 8:11 PM
The biggest problem wIth the Korean BOF was that the lead girl put in a very weak performance...and when you compare with the Japanese version, it seemed even worse. The Japanese BOF is one of my favorite dramas, and I highly recommend it, but the Korean had a lot of issues. Acting - with the possible exception of lee min ho, ever Korean character was completely outclassed by their Japanese counter parts. Hello, that ss501 singer was up against OGURI SHUN for second lead!!!! Pacing - the Japanese version was much better paced. Music -uuugggghhhh fnas still complain about that horrible "allmooooossstt paaradiiise" song on the korean version. In comparison, I adore the insert songs from both seasons of the Japanese version, and the instrumentals are absolutely gorgeous - they're a permanent part of my ipod collection, I bought both cds. Yeah. The korean version was a disappointment for someone who loved the Japanese version and had been excited about it....
harukogirl
August 13, 2016 at 8:14 PM
Celine - I don't think they are complete jerks. They are frequently thoughtless and immature, but they are - all, imo - completely redeemable. They have not crossed the line as of ep 2, and I don't think they will. On the contrary, I am now excited to see them get schooled by Cinderella, haha.
Ema
August 14, 2016 at 5:23 AM
I think you should check meteor garden taiwan series..so much crazy hair out there (but i love it)
angieya
August 14, 2016 at 8:54 AM
@Ema, that was also the reason why I refused to watch it back then. ?
And now I'm afraid I'm too old for these kind of high school dramas.
yayabean
August 13, 2016 at 2:43 PM
I TOTALLY got the same BoF vibe from Cinderella and 4 guys!
I agree with the comment about being pretty to look at but very predictable and a bit boring, but I will watch ep 2 because of the pretty leads???
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karin
August 13, 2016 at 4:45 PM
Thank God, I thought I was the only one complaining about Cinderella's editing. Everybody was praising it and I thought I was being bitchy and picky about it. Another issues I have on Cinderella is how they cut the scene and its background music. Haven't watch the 2nd episode, but if you said you're hooked by the 2nd maybe I'll give it ago!
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harukogirl
August 13, 2016 at 7:56 PM
Yeah, the first episode was a all over the place imo. But...even though like I said it's a very manga-ish drama, it tweaks the sterotypes juuust enough to be fascinating instead of annoying, imo. The main girl- can't remember her name -has an awesome personality, both strong and compassionate - she's a hard worker and humble but but takes no sh*t.
The second lead seems like a shallow arrogant jerk...but in the second ep it's hinted at that what we are seeing is a facade. He's totally gonna end up with his childhood friend, imo
The music direction is better in the 2nd ep, and pacing was better imo. Again, it's still very manga like-that's the genre - but I think it'll be a fun ride
CatoCat
August 14, 2016 at 12:59 AM
Same Here. Episode 1 had too much content advertised. I felt direction to Writing to Editing hastily done. Overly dramatic and forced emotional + forced interactions which are setup for romance has disappointed me.
People expected Cliches but this 1st episode was just too much and even episode 2 face the same problems.
As for Hana Yori Dango - It's awesome and It's OST always makes me emotional.
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harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 1:31 AM
I never get sick of HYD. In my opinion, it's one of the best examples of a perfectly paced drama - especially when you compare it to the source material and the 3 other adaptations of the original manga. The Japanese HYD did an amazing job remaining true to the spirit of the source material while creating an excellent DRAMA. Plus, it had one of the strongest casts I've ever seen in a "teen" drama. All serious actors, not idols, with the exception of Matsumoto Jun....who, in my personal opinion, is a better actor than singer anyways. He's one of the few Japanese idol-actors that I love to watch. And he was perfectly cast as Doumyouji.
And yeah...the music is so much love...'Planetarium' by Ai....'Flavor Of Life' by Ukada...and the piano instrumentals <3 <3 <3. 'Blue mind' and 'Kokou' are my favorites <3. If anyone is curious, search youtube for Hana Yori Dango OST and you'll find them :).
And as if all this wasn't awesome enough...the lead actors FELL IN LOVE, dated secretly for YEARS, and are getting married. <3 Some times the best ships do happen, haha.
CatoCat
August 14, 2016 at 1:49 AM
7.1.1.4.1 harukogirl Planetarium’ by Ai….’Flavor Of Life are my favourites.
Inoue Mao and Matsumoto Jun are getting married? There were always gossip rumours but no confirmation from anyone including their agencies.
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 1:50 AM
@harukogirl - WHATTTTT THEY'RE GETTING MARRIED??!!!
*breaks out party balloons* They're my favourite HYD OTP out of all the adaptations, their chemistry and general acting synergy was the best.
harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 1:57 AM
Well, my understanding from reading various articles (eng and jpn) is that they are engaged and discussing a wedding - and they've been dating for 9 years, so that would make sense. Fan speculation, of course, is that they haven't officially registered it yet because he's a Johnny's and Johnny's is stupid. LOL. they are 30 - what kind of backwards-ass fans/agency honestly expect a boy band member - in a band that is going on 15 YEARS - to be single forever???
I don't think their agencys confirmed anything, but they openly wear couple rings, don't deny wedding plans, and date openly...even though he's a Johnnys. That's enough for me ;)
harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 1:59 AM
@pogo Hahaha yup! (see above)
I know - I'm not a real-life shipper AT ALL, and I practically did cartwheels when I heard. It was cute enough that the cast has remained friends for the past decade - close friends, from appearances. But these two are just so adorable together, I was so completely stocked when I heard they'd confirmed that they've been dating SINCE THE DRAMA. :D :D :D
alua
August 14, 2016 at 12:46 PM
<All serious actors, not idols, with the exception of Matsumoto Jun….who, in my personal opinion, is a better actor than singer anyways
I think his singing is awful – he's a much better actor! He's perfect in Kimi wa Petto and shows his real acting chops in Smile. It's a pity his more recent dramas haven't interested me...
harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 2:03 PM
HAHAHA I know!!! I've watched a few Arashi concert dvds, but NOT for the singing - mostly because they are so obviously having a blast it's infectious to watch :D. He really is a terrible singer, and I say that with the greatest affection.
Funny enough, I have a friend that met him - she moved to Japan for a few years, and while she was there, she did a little bit of modeling. She was in a cell phone CF that Matsu-jun was in (as one of the extras/non-important people). She had always been a big fan, and she said it was funny - in real life he came across as so ordinary, like you could pass him on the street and not notice him. It's like when he was on screen, he charisma would just turn on, but off screen he was just a normal dude. But so nice and polite to everyone that she became an even bigger fan. Which I thought was pretty cool and made me more of a fan :D.
I adored him in "Kimi wa Petto" as well! (the Korean movie did not do this series justice either...). If you want him to totally slay you, watch "Myu no Anyo Papa ni Ageru" (Myu will give Papa her legs), a drama special he stared in. I was also a fan of "Natsu no Koi wa Nijiiro ni Kagayaku" - though I agree, other than that I haven't been very interested in his recent dramas, I keep waiting for him to sign on to something awesome.... :(
Here's the synopsis for "Myu" - The drama is based on a true story of Yamaguchi Hayato (25), a young man who learns he has a rare illness known as CIDP, which affects the nervous system. He begins to lose the functioning of his limbs, but he is determined to fight the illness with the support of his wife and his 2-year-old daughter, Myu-chan.
Yeah. Watch that and not cry. I dare you. But he is so awesome in it, it's a not a downer at all -it's a pretty feel-good special.
thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 7:18 PM
"Second To Last Love Trying to find your teenage daughter in a VIXX concert…yeah, good luck with that. Lol"
angieya: I just had to say, this show wasn't on my radar, but your description was so funny, you've just convinced me to watch it! :D
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 12:46 AM
Yeah, do give it a try, it's a light watch and the characters are quite funny. There's also a first episode recap here if you want to get an overall impression first before you start watching. ?
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purpleowl
August 13, 2016 at 10:16 PM
I've been meaning to start YoF season one. I was going to ask on OT but forgot: Where did you find it?
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 12:41 AM
Kshowonline.com yes please watch it, it's my favorite YoF season and Iceland is just ?
And there was actually another season before this, Peru/Laos which is available on dailymotion. ?
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 2:37 AM
Is dailymotion a safe site? I'm pretty sure it's legal but I've had bad experiences with it. Good ones too. But the bad ones make me wary.
Thanks for the information ? I've been missing my boys, especially RJY and Trash oppa.
angieya
August 14, 2016 at 4:40 AM
Afaik it is. The subbing fansites of season 1 and 3 (Africa) all uploaded it there first before their subs got ripped by the streaming sites.
purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:03 PM
Ok, thank you ?
redfox
August 13, 2016 at 1:11 PM
PU28: watch ep 17 with commentary and favorite scenes, it is hilarious, and it still feels as twisty and full of surprising things as the show itself
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redfox
August 13, 2016 at 1:12 PM
*PU38. it is dark I cant see the keys
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angieya
August 13, 2016 at 1:33 PM
Ha, I'm actually watching it right now, I never say no to BTS shenanigans. ?
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blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 6:27 PM
I think Ma Jinseok snorted bean sprouts out of his nose. :-)
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Namu
August 13, 2016 at 8:55 PM
Where did you watch it? Thanks
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redfox
August 13, 2016 at 10:25 PM
Drama4You and Dramacool.to
it is funny, but also very informative. You get to know what kind of hardships they faced and how many takes it took to film some scenes. The Playground fight looked so effortlessly clumsy, but they even had to rehearse the clumsiness several times. There was sand in their undies for the rest of the day and they still had to keep filming other scenes. and Ma Dong Seok´s poor knee...
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meowingme
August 15, 2016 at 12:13 AM
In the middle of watching this, but have to remark that I love that they chose the most hated villain to narrate it, and in a cute way too :)
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meowingme
August 15, 2016 at 12:15 AM
"I should have let him finish the jjajangmyun..." *cracks up again
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redfox
August 15, 2016 at 12:45 PM
it is like yet another twist! triple funny because of the static icon and ultra dry nasal voice. I would say ep 17 is the best episode ever!
Islander north
August 14, 2016 at 1:27 PM
If it wasn't for the secondary characters, I wouldn't force myself to watch Uncontrollably Fond. No Eul is self-absorbed and crass (plus the Fashion Police should arrest her!). I find no chemistry between the leads...at all.
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Alessar
August 15, 2016 at 8:32 AM
Five Kids - yes family dramas can really be soapy. If I recall right things were especially soapy for about the first 12-15 episodes before the lovelines got better defined and the plot kind of really got into gear. Sung Hoon's part keeps getting bigger, FYI!
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8 neener ~ Inside the Magic Shop ~
August 13, 2016 at 12:51 PM
It's official! I want a Ji Won in my life! That girl is a gem!
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akoreanfan
August 13, 2016 at 8:27 PM
@neener
I totally agree! I feel like Eun-Jae back in episode 3 where she was lovingly admiring Ji-Won all the time! LOL Queen!!
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9 gustave154
August 13, 2016 at 12:57 PM
I am actually happy with W's change of pace for Episode 7 because i thought the plot was moving waaay to fast with all the time skips and twists. Finally we get soke good ole romance going and the chemistry between our leads are so adorable i don't mind the "slow" pace.
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Tai
August 13, 2016 at 1:18 PM
It saddens me people think its going slow, cuz had ep 8 aired when it was SUPPOSED to *glares at MBC* then i'm sure the pace woulda been fine. a breather ep is necessary for us to process everything that happened before. likewise it was nice to be reminded this is also a romance and give us a reason to root for the couple (see how cute they are!).
the thing is kdramas are made to air two eps a week, and thus i presume are conceived that way, like each 2 eps feeds into the other directly. i just, i knew it would throw off the pace if they preempted it. and i highly doubt they will air more than one ep next week. so that will jsut make it WORSE and now the show's end date will be late by 2 weeks. so ridiculous. i mean,, the olympics arent exactly a surprise? why dont they think about their drama scheduling BEFOREHAND?
im so annoyed lol. i wish it was wednesday already..
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celine
August 13, 2016 at 7:35 PM
I felt the pace slowed down since EP 6 and like you said it's not that bad since we get to breathe and delve into the romance. However, I also understand those who feel a bit off with the slower pace. The show did a very good job in juggling different aspects of the drama (romance, action, comedy) from EP 1-5. It did not help that EP 8 was postponed and we will probably get more postponements in the following weeks. It ruined the flow for the viewers I think.
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10 Denali
August 13, 2016 at 1:09 PM
Five children: a scene on yt had piqued my interest and next thing you know I've watched ep 49 & 50 in a row. I'm sold, except for the actors playing Tae Min and So Young as well as the lack of PPL.
*looking at you the Company that sells Sand Which has been mentioned on Db a lot lately*
Other than that, I've grown too demanding (or old? jaded?) over the years in the drama-watching experience. Thus I thoroughly read recaps on Db then give a drama a try or not. Honestly, it's been more of the latter (especially since I don't have much time to myself except now with summer vacation - yayyyyy), save for Beautiful Mind - Bernard Park's "Dirt" song has been on repeat mode on my laptop/cellphone/work computer (but my boss didn't mind^^).
PS to Mary: I haven't added/omitted any unnecessary code this time, have I? If so, could our Queen of Bidet please fix my mistake? The Rim would be grateful, if, errrrr... he weren't so busy shooting a drama.
*waving to Gaeina Lee*
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cozybooks
August 13, 2016 at 1:16 PM
I like to pretend that someday I'll understand the PS to mary in what I'm guessing is fun tech speak. Until then I'll just enjoy the epic sound of it, and wonder how to bold words without a button. ^^
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Denali
August 13, 2016 at 2:04 PM
HTML code is pretty easy once you get the gist, however I'm afraid that my English skills aren't accurate enough. So instead, just go to the paragraph titled "Presentational markup indicates the appearance of the text, regardless of its purpose" on the following link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HTML
Skip everything up to the 2d line with the bold part. Copy/paste it [with the "brackets"] here, then replace the bold world with the word/sentence you wish. Then tadaaaaa. Likewise with italic which works with an "i" instead of a "b" for bold.
Hope it'll work for you. You're welcome. :-)
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mary
August 13, 2016 at 2:40 PM
I hope you're not getting weird ideas... you don't need a bidet to <b>bold</b> or <i>italicize</i> your comment!
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purpleowl
August 13, 2016 at 3:24 PM
I don't know whether to be happy I finally know how to italicize or sad that I never bothered to look it up *or you know, just figure it out*.
Thanks, mary!
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mary
August 14, 2016 at 12:22 AM
It's okay. :) A lot of html tags are stripped from the comments, so you'll probably have a more difficult time if you searched the codes and tried them all out one by one.
blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 1:34 PM
Queen of Bidet? Is that a typo/autocorrect? If not, please explain. :-)
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Denali
August 13, 2016 at 2:07 PM
Not a typo at all. Just a surname of mine for our dear Mary and her undying luuurv for Song Jae Rim who happens to like bidet very much. ;-)
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blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 2:43 PM
Oh, I totally forgot about Rim's bidet. Haha, thanks!
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11 NotAhjumma
August 13, 2016 at 1:21 PM
The Olympics are totally killing my drama watching time! Looking forward to Olympics ending and getting back to my dramas: Doctors and Mirror of the Witch.
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12 bd5
August 13, 2016 at 1:29 PM
Disagree w/ comments that PU38 and AoY are "slow"; yes, there are slower moments, but that's pacing (not every moment has intense drama or action going on), but those moments often bring revealing snippets of various character or the broader, underlying story.
Esp 3&4 are still my fave from AoY, but 5&6 have "loosened things up" and brought the fun (maybe to balance some of the darker moments).
Going to miss PU38 - overall, the best watch in terms of writing and acting in a K-drama since "Joseon X-Files."
But now will have the time to catch up on "Bad Guys."
BIOG is still fun and seems to be doing a good enough job (at least for now) w/ the broader story-line. If this continues, could finally be the romcom w/ the adorable non-human heroine in a story that makes sense and isn't full of the typical lame K-soap tropes (which is where the Hong sisters went w/ MGIAG) and has a more engaging male lead to boot (Taec no less); would have included OMG, but that gets murky w/ the non-human heroine not quite being that as it was PBY's character at times being possessed by KSG's ghost character.
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13 Paige
August 13, 2016 at 1:31 PM
I had the same reaction as Javabeans towards Uncontrollably Fond way back in episode 6. I was so upset and angry that I surprised myself. i mean I thought I knew what I signed up for-all the flaws and highs of a classic melodrama. But even the characters and their interactions couldn't save it for me. Actually they might infuriate me more than the plot. Everybody is set on being their most miserable self that to set any hope on being out of the tunnel of tears and angst is pointless. Now I just apathetically watch it and laugh when the angst bar is again reset to a new high; because it is the first thing subbed when I open my eyes every Wednesday and Thursday is the only reason I have even a clue what is going on next to wring tears out of the dying Joon Young. I hope Pororo got back into the house at least; the dog deserves more.
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14 sunnyl
August 13, 2016 at 1:39 PM
Best one among what 've watched this week is ....
Epilogue of Ep 8 of 'Age of Youth' heh
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The other Kiara
August 13, 2016 at 2:35 PM
I just finished watching it. I'm going to stop here before I accidently spoil it lol.
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sunnyl
August 13, 2016 at 2:43 PM
Oh I also loved PU38 special (ep 17). And enjoyed all weekend ones including new episodes of cheesy 'Ca4K'.
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okitokki
August 13, 2016 at 10:42 PM
yaaaassss ??
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15 wackycashew
August 13, 2016 at 2:25 PM
LOL GF, I am indeed at this place called outside today. Hence, I'm even more backlogged on my shows. XD
W--Two Worlds: Still my fave of the current lot of airing shows. I guess my love for LJS and HHJ is strong and I'm glad to see them having their cute fuzzy wuzzy moments before they face more of what reality delivers. The No-Face killer is really intriguing now and I wanna see more of the two worlds colliding.
Doctors: I haven't seen the past 4 ep's. I guess I started to lose interest after Jisoo's character was no longer part of the plot. It's just become one of those I'll-catch-up-when-I-have-time shows.
Uncontrollably Fond: Need to watch this week's ep's still. Kinda like Doctors for me, but I'll probably watch this first when catching up.
Bring It On, Ghost: Surprisingly enjoying this more than Doctors or UF and only need to catch up on the latest ep.
Cinderella and the Four Knights: Started this show that kicked off yesterday cuz I didn't know what to catch up on and I only have the energy to watch one ep. of anything. Need something mindless. LOL I like it so far and I'm curious if this series will be recapped. I wanna discuss the show with beanies here. XD
Upcoming watch list:
Moonlight Drawn By Clouds - 8/22
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart: Ryeo - 8/29
Fantastic - 9/2
I'm sure my priority list will change again by then. =P
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blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 2:48 PM
Yes, please recap Cinderella! Enjoying it a lot. When the 3 princes did their slo-mo Trenchcoat Walk, I squeed out loud. What can I say, I like cheese.
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Adal
August 13, 2016 at 4:16 PM
Me too. Yeah, me too.
It's a predictable plot, but the execution is damn fine. I too, hope Cinderella would be recapped. I like all five leads so far and their characters feel fleshed out not mainly one dimensional. I like the second lead female character as well. Hope it turns out better than "You're Beautiful", a drama with a similar concept. No offense to its fans but I was never really taken with that drama.
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Adal
August 13, 2016 at 4:32 PM
Oh! And the ratings for Cinderella is not bad. 3.5% for episode 1 according to Nielsen. Considering it's a new time slot created just for this drama, and it's so late at night, I'd say it's not a bad start at all.
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wackycashew
August 13, 2016 at 6:57 PM
Sometimes predictable is not bad. It's familiar and can be feel-good. XD I like all the cast as well--main reason for watching! I liked "You're Beautiful" and even watched the Taiwanese and Japanese remakes. =P Haha... No worries. We are all drawn to different things and find some more interesting/better than others. ^^
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inxomnia
August 14, 2016 at 4:18 AM
With a drama like Cinderella (and most Kdrama romcoms), you know they're not going to reinvent the wheel, but it all lays in the execution and a heroine that you can root for. I think Park So Dam is very likeable and spunky. I think her Cinderella would be more interesting (and maybe less naive) than YB.
thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 7:26 PM
I totally acknowledge the (huge, gaping) flaws in YB, but it was more a guilty-pleasure-cringe-watch than watching it for any actual solid storyline or acting.
Tbh, idol group + cross-dressing undercover nun + girl surrounded by flower boys ... there was waaay too much going on with the plot for it to have much hope of making sense!
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wackycashew
August 13, 2016 at 6:53 PM
Haha! Every flower boy show must have a slo-mo scene as they enter!! XD
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16 Jo
August 13, 2016 at 2:47 PM
"W–Two Worlds: I love this show and find it inventive and addicting, but the plot actually feels like it moves pretty slowly (which is a little odd considering how quickly things happen) — I keep glancing at the clock wanting the plot to speed up so I find out what happens next, and feeling the stress as the hour winds down and I still don’t have my answers and I realize, “They’re not gonna give it to us today, are they? ARE THEY?”"
YES! Like, I do feel that A LOT of things are happening! But, then, there are like maybe 5 main scenes, if that makes sense??? The days in the drama go by slow! IDK. BUT LOVE THIS SHOW
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celine
August 13, 2016 at 7:45 PM
Exactly! I also came to notice that we only get like around 5 major scenes in each episode! I have to admit that with EP 6 and 7 I was left wanting to see more because the developments were slower than the previous episodes, but I still felt that the time went by quickly. However, when I re-watched, that's when I really fetl the slowness and noticed that we were shown only around 5 or so major scenes BUT a lot happened in those scenes. I am not making sense, but there. hahaha!
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17 purpleowl
August 13, 2016 at 3:28 PM
Heads! I've missed you. Hope everything is going fine for you. Though, I can't help being extra curious because you said AoY isn't all you're watching in a post entitled What we're watching lol
Javabeans, I hope your recovery is going well.
Doctors – why did I have to catch up the week that my baby Kim Minsuk got sick?
Uncontrollably Fond - next ep 5. I'm in. Woob makes up for Suzy Bae. He might be becoming my acting bias again. Like whoa, he just lights up my screen. Not loving the use of the Ims.
W - next ep 8, still trying to process everything and reply to the comments.
TF38 – on ep 12 What is happening?!
The "fight" had me doubled over laughing. I've seen 2nd graders fight better.
Sorry to repeat my post from OT. Haven't watched anything Korean since Thursday. I'll try to keep them separate from now on.
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Rachel
August 14, 2016 at 1:16 AM
Yes that fight between Jung Do and Sung Il in episode 12 was one of my fave scenes in the show too. Especially the nipple bite. LOL.
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 2:41 AM
I had to pause watching right after the scene ended. So I rewound to when the detective dropped him off. That way when I get a chance to watch, I can start with the fight and enjoy it all over again.
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kaybee
August 14, 2016 at 7:00 AM
More than 1600 movies and a gazillion TV shows seen, including many of the action classics, and yet this was THE best fight scene I have ever seen. I mean, how can anything top Ma Dong Seok and Seo In Guk in a kindergarten-esque fight? LOL
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18 slo
August 13, 2016 at 3:29 PM
reading JB comments on atpends, perhaps I hope she can now understand the draw of a show like WGM?
Most people watch it for the chemistr, since it's fun to observe humans being put in a certain situation, and how pple deal with it, and even more fun when attraction is involved. ^^
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19 Loolu
August 13, 2016 at 4:24 PM
I binge watched a new show while waiting for W. Boy was it a mistake. I felt my eyes drooping and hurting from staring at my phone for a few hours. Though Mask was intriguing, i was watching one episode after the other just to get to the good stuff. It felt like forever for the heroine to stand up for herself. But it was satisfying in the end. I didn't know what was the hype on the show till now. You know, maybe I should have read the recaps instead of watching for 20 hours. (facepalm)
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20 michykdrama
August 13, 2016 at 4:25 PM
Oh yay! New shows to watch are always great.
I need time to watch Park So Dam in Cinderella! Im hoping hoping hoping it's good and ratings do well for her sake. Maybe kid and husband won't notice I'm not ard ?
I'm liking Age of Youth although I was a bit puzzled by the whole ghost thing. I could have done without it actually, but maybe this week's episodes will tie it in a bit more? (Haven't watched epi 7/8 yet, need time!) I have a friend who was like Ji Won in school, but we've lost touch so parts of her zaniness makes me wistful and sad though I'm laughing.
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21 Nanda
August 13, 2016 at 4:43 PM
This week I spend more time catching up to past dramas and not so much on the currently airing ones.
Liar Game : Season 2 please!
Squad 38 : After the Bang Family case, my interest goes down. I will catch up now that I finished Liar Game.
Doctors : KangSoo is sick and thus I am sick of this drama. This drama is too ambitious. Is this a revenge drama? Politic drama? Romance drama? if this is a medical drama, too weak..the cases are not interesting.
W: Skipping this because only 1 episode. I like watching 2 episode back to back for mystery/thriller.
Uncontrollably Fond : Geez, I thought Joonyoung said he'd be reckless if he had 3 months to live.. what is this contradicting action. I like the slow pace of the drama but this is not slow.. this is annoying. I just couldn't continue. Only watched half of wed episode.
Age of Youth : My drug. I live for this drama. I am so happy it lives to my expectation. I adore Eunjae like the magnae she is, I wish nothing more than for Jin Myung to smile freely , I don't care what she does, Yina is a total babe. Song Ji Won needs to be more upfront with Sungmin, I know.. I mean I want her with him. Ye eun.....? I don't know. I want her to love herself more.
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thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 7:43 PM
UF: yes, if he's only got 3 months left and he's opted not to get any treatment, and Eul is the love of his life (even though I've no idea why he suddenly came to that realisation), then pleez tell her already!!
At this point, I'm just mystified that the writer's giving them these lines, yelling "Why are you making them say this?!" at the screen. Can someone pls invent a script BS detector, like those lie-detectors that are so popular on tv shows (and which I've always secretly wanted to try)?
I'm mainly watching for Woobie, and for the Woobie-LJS ship (the fact that they've both got shows airing at the same time).
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celine
August 13, 2016 at 7:51 PM
I have seen some episodes of UF, but I resorted to only reading the recaps because it's way too makjang for my taste. I originally planned to let the show finish then just binge-watch it, but with what I'm reading on the story developments, I may have to pass on this one (despite my love for KWB).
And yes to LJS-KWB bromance even though they are not onscreen together. These BFFs need to reunite on the small screen STAT.
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thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 9:10 PM
Or even on the big screen!
Yes, even though they may not be sharing the screen, they're on the same airwaves ... a girl just takes what she can get, after all!
(would be epic if they could cameo in each other's shows ... even 5 mins ... heck, even just a photo ...)
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 10:42 PM
I wish they'd done it for Pinocchio, the reporter angle plus Woob's agency producing it would have been the perfect time for him to make a cameo. (plus bonus Park Shin-hye and Lee Yubi - both were past Woobin costars!)
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celine
August 14, 2016 at 3:29 AM
LJS said in his recent interview that he wanted to have a cameo in UF, but then their dramas are technically competitors so it was not possible. It would have been perfect for LJS to show up as KWB's character BFF. hehe!
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Alessar
August 15, 2016 at 8:35 AM
I think they should show an Uncontrollably Fond manwha cover in a bookshop inside W world. Worlds within worlds!
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 10:41 PM
Woobie needs a better drama. And, lbr, a better female lead (or even no female lead at all, just give him LJS!) - competent-in-certain-scenes, with a role tailored specifically to suit her abilities, is not going to cut it.
Also, wasn't three months the amount of time he had right at the start of the drama, in that very first hospital scene? How much time has passed in-drama anyway, or do these people not know the concept of time running out as it passes?
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thursdaynexxt
August 14, 2016 at 12:15 AM
1000% agree with you on Woobie not needing any other OTP other than LJS!
Speaking of a "role tailored specifically to suit her abilities", I also had to get this off my chest: was the Cinderella transformation complete with white lacy dress and makeup really necessary?
I was holding myself back from ranting on the UC thread, but here cos I don't want to ruin it, but at this point, I only care about Jik.
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 1:22 AM
I know a lot of people are still staying for KWB but I'm not even his fan, so why didn't I just stop watching after the first episodes? ?
I think it's because I really wanted to like it and hoped the acting would become better or at least just being touched by the characters somehow? Maybe my taste in kdramas has just changed (nah, I loved Marriage Contract, so it's not the genre that is the problem) and now we're more than halfway through, so might as well just finish it.
@pogo, maybe because everything and everyone are so incredibly slow in this drama that's why time also passes in slowmo? ? But yeah, I also raised that question in the recap.
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 1:32 AM
rant away, girl! I get that the actual recap thread might not be the best commenting environment, people seem to be getting defensive and that's not good.
I haven't watched it for a while now and neither do I intend to, but I have no patience for dramas trying to pretend to us that very attractive young actresses, who get cast in things specifically for their looks as opposed to their talents, and are presented to us with flattering and subtle makeup and hair and outfits from Day 1, are somehow 'ugly' or unattractive in that dramaverse. This is some (I am showing my age here) She's All That bs.
purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 2:49 AM
Woob needs a better drama and partner for sure.
I vote Kim Ji Won. Even though, I'm a Woob fan I know she's more versatile than him. But their chemistry was great in Heirs.
A reunion with any WC or S2013 cast is also a welcomed idea. Particularly LJS of course. Though I don't know if kdrama can handle writing 2 decent male leads without one playing second fiddle. Best bet is probably the big screen.
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mary
August 14, 2016 at 3:19 AM
OCN can do it. Someone in comments called them "sausage fest" LOL they do have a lot of crime/thriller/buddy type of shows.
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 6:10 AM
Kim Ji-won would be an absolute dream to have opposite Woob. I'm still mad they were robbed of their intended love line in Heirs, they could have been spectacular and we were robbed :(
In fact, I'd be good with any of his drama leading ladies - KJW, Park Shin-hye, Lee Yubi - getting a second go at it with him. They've all been excellent matches for him, acting and chemistry-wise (and yes, sometimes better than him).
purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:08 PM
@mary a drama on OCN would be amazing!
@pogo they were robbed their love line. I kinda also shipped Kim Ji Won and Kang Ha Neul though and I'm glad the ships stayed afloat but not sailed.
Shin Hye has great chemistry with her co-stars. I haven't seen Woob/Yubi but I imagine it was enjoyable.
I've got my eye out for his next project. As always.
thursdaynexxt
August 14, 2016 at 3:19 AM
@pogo: I'm actually still holding back! This drama is pulling out all the most annoying tropes - or maybe they're pulling out all the tropes in the most annoying way? I dunno which.
I think the only one we've skipped so far is amnesia (we've even had faux-cest, for heaven's sake)!
But alas, as @angieya said: "now we’re more than halfway through, so might as well just finish it." This is how kdramas get me past the point of no return!!
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 4:55 AM
I could go on a never ending rant similar to Heirs while watching this but people would jump on me and just tell me to GOJO which I would totally understand lol because why don't I just stay away from these train wrecks? Right, because train wreck = not being able to look away. ? Therefore I'll just continue practicing my holding back skills, at least it benefits my EQ (I hope). Peace. ?
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 6:07 AM
@Thursdaynexxt - LKH dramas are usually just the ticket for me but none of her previous dramas annoyed me to the point of being unable to watch any more, the way UF has done. And I clocked out weeks ago!
I was not really sold on the love story/chemistry either. Nice Guy also had an absurd kind of instalove beginning but the actors had the spark to get us past it and fully engaged in the couple. This one otoh is like Heirs, but with cancer.
celine
August 14, 2016 at 3:33 AM
KWB needs a new drama soon with better story, character, and co-star. He is doing great on the acting department in this one so that's something good to take away from UF. However, I hope to see him in lighter/brighter character next. Or just a different character from all his past works.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 6:21 AM
Amen to all that. I don't think he even needs a perfect costar, just a competent one - I've been wondering how he'd do opposite someone like Lee Sung-kyung or Kim Go-eun.
purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:12 PM
Oh and Lee Sung Kyung is so tall and unique looking. They would compliment each other.
22 Chandler
August 13, 2016 at 4:44 PM
While I heartedly agree that Park Eun-bin is the most charismatic of the bunch, I don't think I mind it? I attribute this to the kind of energy each girl needs to bring to their roles. She is very clearly the glue of the group, and I definitely think she is probably the only one who could pull this particular character off so winningly. But each girl has brought something special to their characters, to the point where I don't really feel as though PEB is carrying their weight. Park Hye-soo has a very understated, yet charming presence that works so well for her character and I can't imagine her any other way. If she were any more 'charismatic', I can't help but think she would lose what makes her so easy to relate to. Not everyone in the world oozes charisma, unfortunately. I'm also adoring Ryu Hwa-young's performance more and more and think she is super winning here. I think, together, her and Park Eun-bin are the mood-makers of the group. Really though, I just adore them all for each bringing something a little bit different to their roles.
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juniper
August 13, 2016 at 5:43 PM
Yeah, I think that most of the girls have done better than could be expected tbh. Park Hye-soo, Han Seung-yeon and Ryu Hwa-young all clearly understand their characters, and have shown a level of subtlety I didn't think any of them could pull off (to be very honest lol). The cast is not ideal, but I think they're generally doing okay, and there's no one bad enough that they take you out of the story. Besides, Han Ye-ri and Park Eun-bin in one drama, throwing themselves into two legitimately awesome roles? That's as close to spoiled we've gotten in a long time :)
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23 Kafiyah Bello
August 13, 2016 at 4:50 PM
I'm watching so many dramas.
Age of Youth - I think will be my favorite drama of the year. It is wonderful and I hope more people watch it. I love all of the characters.
Cinderella - Started it yesterday and was pleasantly surprised. The fact that (SPOILER) Park So Dam's character didn't sit down and take his abuse was so refreshing. Usually the lead girl's stand there in embarrassment or shame. I appreciate that she gave him every bit of what she got. Love it.
W - This will probably be an unpopular opinion, but I just like W. The fact that he shot her and her dad takes away a good bit of the romance for me. The drama doesn't wow me like others do.
Doctors - I just like how fluffy it is. It is like hugging a teddy bear. Also aside from the slightly creepy beginning, I like the fact the Kim Rae won's character is genuinely nice to her. It is such a rarity in K-dramas, that I am happy anytime it happens. Also I'm a Park Shin Hye fan girl so I like it when she branches out of her comfort zone.
Let's Fight Ghost - I like this drama. My favorite parts are the David Lee and Kang Ki Young's characters. They are hilarious. Anytime I see the romance between Taecyon and Kim So-Hyun I get uncomfortable. I just feel ickky and I'm a fan of both. I think Kim So Hyun is wonderful and I don't think Taecyon is as bad as people say but the the age difference makes me uncomfortable. HAha
The Good Wife - This is solid, but I'm with Javabean Jeon Do Yeon doesn't wow me. She is good, but not awe inducing. That say I was a big fan of the American version so inevitably make comparisons. That being said I really wish they hadn't done the Kim Dan sleepy with her husband thing. They did it in the American version because the actresses didn't want to work together and it honestly took away from the show. Hopefully they resolve it better in this version.
Squad 38 - I loved it. Seo In Guk is one of the most underrated actors, because he is always an unmitigated joy to watch. I also fell a little bit in love with Ma Dong Seuk.
Uncontrollably Fond - This drama is a mess, an utter mess. I still like it. Kim Woo Bin is doing a bang up job and Suzy is trying, so I will watch until the end.
Second to Last Love- Kim Hee Ae is a gem. I will watch anything she does since Secret Love Affair. Also this drama seems fun. I will say I couldn't get through Mrs. Cop, but I'm liking this drama so far.
Anyway sorry for the long post, but it's nice reading everyone's thoughts. Thanks Dramabeans
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cocolychee
August 14, 2016 at 6:29 PM
not an unpopular opinion!!! I feel the same way about W - I like it but I cant seem to love it. I'm a bit miffed that the whole incident of him shooting her went under the rug. She didn't even address it, so it makes me hard for me to ship these two completely. I can understand him shooting her dad, but not her. It just irks me that it was never addressed!!!
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24 alua
August 13, 2016 at 5:01 PM
Watched 15 min of Cinderella and then I bailed. I was bored. Too stock characters, too familiar story.
And I just couldn't suspend my disbelief – not when you start off with presenting us poor Cinderella that works a gazillion part-time jobs, who then in the middle of a job chases after a guy. No. If she's poor and struggling with money, there's no way she'd do this. And even if she were the queen of justice, how is she going to beat a guy who just beat up a whole bunch of guys? Why doesn't she call the police? And on what basis can she be so convinced the guy even stole the female handbag and the others were the good ones? – way too much assumption going on here.
Maybe the drama improves, but I can't handle lazy writing that early on. This scene was just too fake.
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Oshi
August 14, 2016 at 12:39 AM
I stuck it out by ff through the episode. There are moments of enjoyment and there is this kernel of a story there for the "Cinderella". The writing is cringe worthy though.
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CatoCat
August 14, 2016 at 1:13 AM
Jin Myung from Age of Youth has at best 3-4 parttime jobs and gets totally tired by the end of day or Morning!!? and here Cinderella has 10 parttime jobs. Cinderella is good in judo and kicks out guys. Yeah Forget about laws-of-motion.
I was expected mild disappointment but the show is just on another level of absurdity.
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Lana
August 14, 2016 at 8:12 AM
You should watch the last 15 minutes of the episode 1 of Cinderella and Four Knights. The part where Park So Dam forces Ahn Jae Hyun to kneel in front of his grandfather is the best.
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alua
August 14, 2016 at 1:35 PM
Ok... I tried... but I had to fast-forward because it was still so boring and cringe-worthy (an actor that can't act playing a character that is putting on an act to convince another character of something...noooo).
Her force-kneeling the guy was cute but the whole things is at a level of absurdity that I just can't handle :-/
It's just not my cup of tea. Not gonna try again!
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25 dramamama
August 13, 2016 at 5:01 PM
Loving W, but I want it to go further. I want us to discover that dramas also live in an alternate universe. In that case we can have the drama and manhwa worlds collide. Could we have the faceless killer from W kill everyone over at Uncontrollably Fond and put them out of their misery? Too much?
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26 sea
August 13, 2016 at 5:07 PM
UF is the third drama I was highly anticipating but ended up dropping midway this year, after Doctors and DOTS.
Instead I ended up watching Healer for the first time and loved it! I never watched it before because I thought it would be too similar to City Hunter, but it was very enjoyable and I now see what all the hype was about. Not only were JCW and PMY awesome, but so were Yoo Ji Tae, Ahjumma hacker, and Yeong Sin's dad. My only gripe is there were too many romance scenes that were too long. At times it felt like a melodrama rather than an action drama because the romance scenes were sooo sappy and over the top.
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27 Seo in guk, I'm now, at last, on ur boat
August 13, 2016 at 5:08 PM
U know a show has done it right when it makes u root for tax-collectors, and upset when the tax office is in danger of disbandment. I love that the drama stuck to its motto from beginning until end. It was never about the complex cons, but rather the complex motives of humans. Once u grasp that, u've got them in the bag. Loyalty, betrayal. Fight for money v. fight for what u believe is right. Papa bear v. desert on playground fight. Hee. One of the best quality dramas in 2016, with an all-around stellar cast, tightest writing I've seen in a while, well-written characters, particularly baddass females, and loads of fun and bromance. I will miss it.
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purpleowl
August 13, 2016 at 7:35 PM
Welcome to Seo In Good's fandom. He has another show starting in 30 odd days, Shopping King Louie.
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blnmom
August 13, 2016 at 7:56 PM
Lol, Seo In Good? I like it!
Seo In Gook --> Seo In Good --> Seo Is Good --> Is So Good
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 2:06 AM
Can I add another one?
Seo Is God because he's the god of Gukkiverse. Hee
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 2:51 AM
I have to admit it isn't mine. I believe fan mentioned knetz nicknamed him that during PF38.
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redfox
August 13, 2016 at 10:27 PM
that sounded like the beginning of marriage vows. Seo In Better & Worse, sickness and health till army us part. Someone is a little bit delusional....? LOL
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Oshi
August 14, 2016 at 12:42 AM
I've been contemplating some kind of voodoo ceremony that gets him just sick enough to avoid the army but leaves him capable of doing drams after a short period. The cloning experiment is on going. I want a pocket SIG. Anyone have any good curses?
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 2:03 AM
Hmm...if we somehow manage to resurrect Hong-joo, she might be able to help us? ?
thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 7:54 PM
There was actually a 2010 J-drama called
Ougon no Buta / Golden Pig with a very similar storyline (about a swindler working for the tax office to catch tax cheats). That's when I first realised I could love a drama about tax collectors.
But PU38 just upped the ante by throwing in a whole bunch of con artists and making it an explosive thriller - I mean, Seo In Guk by himself lights up a few fireworks anyway!!
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 11:01 PM
I REALLY don't want PU38 to be over - when episode 17 popped up, I had a second of wild hope that it was actually a jdrama-style special :(
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redfox
August 13, 2016 at 11:16 PM
pogo, the ep 16 comments at the end, we can talk about special episode and favorite moments!
watching the commentary ep somehow put my mind at peace, cause I knew they´d be working as hard in the future and everything that this crew gives us will be as good as 38 task force. But this will always be special, because it was so unique. there is no bow-tie wrap-up, and it didnt cover nearly ALL tax crimes, though included lots of background research and information from interviews... the work continues, was the message.
so, I think I have accepted there might be no season 2 now, and I can live with it.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 1:52 AM
@redfox - I haven't visited the episode 16 comments yet, I feel like the experience will really be over if I do! Maybe later today, or tomorrow?
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redfox
August 14, 2016 at 6:39 AM
It is ok, I know it would feel like fairies being crushes into smithereens in front of your eyes. I won´t force you.
azkaa
August 13, 2016 at 11:31 PM
Welcome to the boat!!
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Oshi
August 14, 2016 at 12:40 AM
Welcome to the club! YAY SIG!
I got dibs though.
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28 Missjo
August 13, 2016 at 5:08 PM
Yay I'm so glad so many of you are also enjoying Age of Youth it keeps getting better and better! Now I'm kind of sad it's only 12 episodes.
I just started Cinderella and the four Knights, the first episode was ok but after finishing episode 2 I think I'm hooked for next week.
I'm hanging on to doctors by a thread, mostly because I like the interactions Between the characters at least we are closer to the finish line.
Let's fight ghost! I love this drama is cute and easy to watch, please show give them a chance to get together for real :)
Who needs fresh air when there are dramas to watch, am I right?? Lol
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29 Kestrel
August 13, 2016 at 5:18 PM
So, JDY might not be wow inducing (although I thought she just owned episode 11 last night) right now, but you know who is? Yoo Ji Tae is crushing every scene with a masterful touch. You can understand exactly why he's been the hotshot, the young rising star, and has Congress critters chasing after him, but at the same time we're privileges as viewers to the other sordid side of the story. The way he and JDY are playing off each other is awesome.
As for W, I question how much free will Kang Chul actually has and how much force OYJ has over him and his world as his creator. Or, for that matter whether OYJ is herself real. There's a lot of comic book logic going on here and this writer strikes me as too good to fall back on comic book logic to shape her story. That said, I'm perfectly content to let the writer dole out the answers at her own pace in organic fashion. I don't need it all up front and center in flashing neon letters (hi, Doctors!).
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celine
August 13, 2016 at 7:56 PM
"I’m perfectly content to let the writer dole out the answers at her own pace in organic fashion. I don’t need it all up front and center in flashing neon letters"
Exactly! I felt the slower pacing in the recent episodes, but overall I'm still satisfied with how things are going. In another drama I'd probably be frustrated, but I have faith in W's writer that she knows where she wants to take the story.
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jozie
August 13, 2016 at 8:30 PM
I'm starting to questions OYJ reality a little more. Because I wonder about how much control Kang Chul has over her, it appears to be equal to her control over him in some ways (I mean, she gets pulled into the comic book based on his desire and he can follow her out? That's a lot of power for a drawing.) Still vested in how this will go, but I am hoping the writer doesn't fall back on amnesia like her last two dramas, which I loved, but she's already done that.
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mary
August 14, 2016 at 12:11 AM
Love your take on W. I think the same questions from a different writer would have me frustrated, but since I know this one, I trust her to reveal all in due time. Between this and PU38, I learned to be more patient in my dramas. :D
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Kestrel
August 14, 2016 at 3:04 AM
Most Kdramas don't require much patience, to be honest. The simplicity of the story telling and the earnest sincerity is one of the attractors, but at the same time, tends to keep the stories at a pretty shallow level in a lot of ways. The best stories, in my opinion, have a nice slow burn to them where all the pieces come together at the right time. Signal was one of those. Since we're talking about it here, Giant was too. Hopefully W ends up being, if not that good, at least similar in that sense.
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30 Rin90
August 13, 2016 at 5:46 PM
DOCTORS - i love ths drama and the romantic scene (hyejung and jihong looks so real) but i didnt like political issue. And when hyejung gt discplnry process, i want her to be brave. And lucky to see her so calm facing sae wo's father. He is totally trash. And kim minsuk gve me heartache. Why every episode md my heart drown? Nam goong min, lee sang yeob. Aigooh.
4 eps left. :( :(
W- i love ths show honestly. But tht unknown man who try to kill people tht kangchul love is ridiculous. I sometimes want to be the writer and draw kangcul grown the superpower like xmen (can fly or whatever) cz the antagonist also not feel real. Why he fight with those gun when his enemy is ghost? Is it ghost?
Cant wait ep 8 though.
UF- i dont know what will happen. I dont want sad ending seriously.
Should Hyejung jump to kangcul manhwa and save kangcul? And kangchul + hyejung jump to UF to save joonyoung? XD
Thn we hve new drama : uncontrollably fond with W -Doctors.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 11:05 PM
That would be the most amazing mix of Pinocchio and School 2013 with a dash of Heirs - we got Dal-po and In-ha as reporters-turned-doctor/superhero, off to save their old high school bad boy/bff formerly known as Choi Young-do/Park Heung-soo who's now a movie star.
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Rin90
August 14, 2016 at 3:32 AM
Gosh i love your amazing idea!! Kekeke..
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31 amy_hamidah
August 13, 2016 at 5:55 PM
Uncontrollably Fond - I'm not sure what it is but this show has been my crack since the beginning. I was really frustrated with ep 11 that I wanted to slap JY for doing exactly what he did to her 5 yrs ago but luckily in ep 12, he kinda redeemed himself with his understated cuteness overload ? I'm not a melo fan but somehow this show turned me into one ?
Doctors - I loved this show at first but nowadays, it's just not something that I'm watching religiously. Even my love for Kim Rae Won couldn't change the fact that the plot is kinda meh. It's like when you're having a 10 course meal but somehow they forgot to serve the main course ?
Yeah, that's how it is - I super love this family drama for its understated simplicity. Love all the actors especially the veteran actors. The grandma will always have a special place in my heart ?
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32 Sun
August 13, 2016 at 5:55 PM
I started Sandglass a few days ago after I found it on DF, and the show is amazing. The way it lets actions be louder than speeches, the way they integrate social issues and events into its story and, omg Lee Jung Jae. My heart hurts everytime I see him on screen. I wasn't even his fan before this. Is he the original puppy in the kdramaland?
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juniper
August 13, 2016 at 6:23 PM
You could say that lol. I liked Choi Min-soo myself, but a lot of girls watched for Lee Jung-jae.
Yeah, the early partnership between Song Ji-na and Kim Jong-hak is amazing because they complemented each other perfectly. There's no exposition in those scripts, and often no words in their most devastating moments, because she trusted his ability to tell their story, while he didn't resort to flashy camera tricks and showed a lot of restraint with the music, letting the scripts breathe and build moments on their own, because he trusted her to convey their vision.
Enjoy Sandglass :)
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The other Kiara
August 14, 2016 at 5:36 AM
I was totally in it for Choi Min-soo. He is amazing! My first ajusshi crush lol.
I thought Lee Jung-jae was cute back then but I'm just not into his acting. I mean 22 yrs in Chungmuro and I'm still not impress.
Hwang Jung-min on the other hand is the opposite for me. I always have that feeling that he is a great talent but it took a long time to get the recognition that he deserves. Now he is unstoppable and I couldn't be any happier.
Sandglass <3.
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33 plumwine
August 13, 2016 at 7:04 PM
Personally , I'm suffering Wanted withdrawal. Really - can no one use a calendar?
I stopped UF at ep 4 because I really don't need the angst of finding love only to die. ? Spoiler? Bring it on Ghost was bad enough with that during the last episode. ?Spoiler?
I'm also still looking for the eng subs for After the Show Ends, so if anyone can point me in the right direction I will light candles and do a swooshy dance in hopes you meet your Kcrush.
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34 August
August 13, 2016 at 7:50 PM
Currently Watching:
Uncontrollably Fond, W-Two Worlds, Wanted, and The Good Wife
Blast from the Past: Answer Me 1997 (Really enjoying it. It's my 1st time watching...yeah 4 years later but as the saying goes better later than never.)
I've come to the realization that the only reason I continue watching is because I'm trying my darnedest to support Kim Woo-Bin and Im Joo Hwan.
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harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 10:51 AM
I'm watching for IJW. Not only is he awesome here, I'm really liking his character. I'm rooting so hard for him to over come his money, parents, ect and stay a good person. If he succeeds - and the drama gives him ar least some kind of happy ending -I'll be happy. The rest of the characters are meh. Oh, except Jik. Ajussi and little brother should just leave everyone else and go be awesome together.
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:14 PM
I'm glad you're enjoying R97.
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35 inxomnia
August 13, 2016 at 7:50 PM
W - Two Worlds: Still my favourite. Since the news that Ep 7 & 8 were gonna be really good came out, then the news of the pre-emption was released, I knew that it would affect the drama a lot because I knew 7 & 8 were meant to be viewed together. Sad that we didn't get that. However, I'm glad the cast and crew get a break, because I do get a feeling that writing and filming would be tight since we are seeing quite a lot of recap at the start of each ep. I still loved the ep as it is building up the romance a lot more.
I get why everyone feels the pace is slow though, but I think it's just concise storytelling more than anything... kind of like in W, how the time just jumps to wherever necessary to tell the story. I really love how this writer and director doesn't waste time on over-explaining every little detail and allows the viewers to piece the puzzle together. I feel that there are a few main things that happen every episode, but I must say the execution is so well done that I never really feel like there is a drag. I'm always left wanting more. I do feel in a way that it's like there are different 'chapters' to the story and the first four were the set up of the premise, we're now reaching the calm before the storm (aka building up the stakes of the game) and then conflict escalation is going to be Ep 8.
Another Oh Hae Young: At a bit of the standstill... I'm nearing the latter half of the drama and slightly feeling the drag. I love both characters and I do like their chemistry but for some reason I'm not really sold on this romance tbh. I think they both need time to mature if that makes sense. They're both pretty self-destructive and toxic and ugh I want them to be happy but I find their relationship so tiring and exhausting.
Cinderella & Four Knights: Such fluff but very watchable. I love the light-heartedness and moments of self-awareness in this drama (where they make fun of the Cinderella story, and KHM does something typical of a k-drama lead, then gloats about it haha). Definitely a good drama to alternate between whilst waiting for W since it's cute and fluffy and I generally love the main five esp PSD, she does feisty yet fragile so well (though AJH is also really bringing it here)
Summer's Desire: One of my favs, with a love triangle so heart-wrenching that I always feel second-hand pangs of jealousy for the two guys. It's not everyone's cup of tea, but I love how intense and passionate the romance is here.
I kind of want a good Mon-Tue drama that can capture my attention and make the wait for W day more bearable... but none of them tickle my fancy, sigh.
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Oshi
August 14, 2016 at 12:43 AM
Mon-Tues seems to be one of those time slots where things can either blow up or blow over.
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inxomnia
August 14, 2016 at 4:08 AM
Thank god for all the good variety shows over the weekend that gets subbed for Mon/Tues viewing :)
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harukogirl
August 14, 2016 at 10:53 AM
Yeah the gloating cracks me up. He's constantly like "see that? See what I did there? Aren't I so cool???"
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bd5
August 15, 2016 at 2:57 AM
Also been saying that the lead romance (as well as all the others) never rang true for me in OHYA - which is a major flaw for a romcom.
Also a major fail for a romcom, failing on the comedy bits.
BIOG does both aspects so much better and that's all due to the writing.
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36 thursdaynexxt
August 13, 2016 at 8:03 PM
girlfriday: "Bring It On, Ghost: I just love Kim So-hyun and want her to get everything she wants. Even if that’s Taecyeon."
Oooh, snap!!! I almost spat out my coffee. Though I think Taec's not doing too badly in this one. : ) Not to mention, I just found out about his OkCats and think they're adorable (totally unrelated).
I feel like it's a bit of a break-out role for both of them, and can't wait for more shenaningans!
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Oshi
August 14, 2016 at 12:44 AM
KSH was always going to do well. Talent tends to rise and her's is obvious. If she gets grounded in some good melos and maybe mentored in a film she will go far.
Taec is...Taec. Maybe he can just marry a good actress?
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 6:24 AM
Kim So-hyun is the kind of actress who has the potential to be an icon in her generation, much the way Jeon Ji-hyun and Sohn Ye-jin (whom she resembles so strongly) are now. She's exactly one hit movie or cult drama away from blowing up even harder than she already has.
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bd5
August 15, 2016 at 2:58 AM
There are at least 5-6 actresses around her age who are hugely talented (all of whom who started off as much younger kid actors).
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The other Kiara
August 15, 2016 at 5:18 AM
So many talented child actresses. The most successful one so far in Chungmuro is Shim Eun-kyung. She is just raw which makes her a strong leading lady at a very young age.
I would love to see more of Seo Shin-ae and Jin Ji-hee but I think they are concentrating in school right now like Nam Ji-hyun back in her early high school days.
I'm just waiting for Kim Yoo-jung and Kim So-hyun etc to hit their 20s because they are ridiculously talented with star power to lead dramas over the "popular" idols and actresses with very little to no talent but keeps getting lead roles for some reasons.
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 15, 2016 at 8:58 AM
Sure, but barring Kim Yoo-jung, none of the others has the kind of name recognition and fanbase Kim So-hyun has built in the last few years. Though they all have the potential to render idol casting obsolete.
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 15, 2016 at 9:03 AM
@Kiara - there are so many incredible young actresses in Chungmuro who started off as child actresses - Go Ah-sung, Shim Eun-kyung, Park Bo-young... they all kill it. I can't believe Shim Eun-kyung isn't more celebrated considering not only her talent but the fact that she led TWO Chungmuro smash hits in the last 5 years.
Also Kim Sae-ron, whose talents seem to really shine in movies, not dramas.
The other Kiara
August 15, 2016 at 11:01 AM
Shim Eun-kyung is talked about more in film communities than drama blogs.
There is not a whole lot of roles for their age group in Chungmuro but she shows no sign of slowing down.
The rest are either doing a movie per year or a drama which is not a bad thing because being away from Chungmuro for long is not a good sign for their career.
I'm kind of worried more about Park Bo-young although I wouldn't mind seeing more of her in dramaland.
Moon Geun-young is one of a kind. Her career can survive bad dramas, a very public dating with another actor etc.It would've been the opposite for any other young actress. I'm very glad she is going back to Chungmuro.
37 anabear
August 13, 2016 at 8:44 PM
after PS38, the only thing I'm watching is Age of Youth. maybe if I was three years younger, I would find W, UF, and Doctors watchable. maybe if I was five years younger, I would have the stomach to watch Cinderella and Four Knights.
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38 Shannobi
August 13, 2016 at 10:04 PM
Age of Youth is so underrated, I almost didn't pick it up myself! I'm glad you guys are jumping on the train.
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39 Kay
August 13, 2016 at 10:09 PM
Listed in terms of interest and watch priority.
Age Of Youth: Still the best drama of the week for me.
W: Still not totally invested in the plot, I agree this show seems slow despite the mind bending plot. It begins slow every episode but throws out such dramatic endings to keep the audience interest. I love the super romantic Ep 7 and am actually glad Ep 8 is preempted, so our lovebirds can enjoy another precious week together, before danger and heartache arrives.
PU38: Watched half of this and read recaps to finish this. This show is way too slow for the general audience. I love the con jobs actions and SIG, but really disappointed he is not as reverting as his performance in IRY.
Cinderella : Just started, will see how it goes.
UF:dropped it and just reading recaps. The only interesting character and performance is JiTae and too bad Eul will never choose him.
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40 okitokki
August 13, 2016 at 11:00 PM
"Age of Youth: I was holding this show at arm’s length because of the slow pace and terrible background music"
Aw I actually really liked some of the background songs in Age of Youth, lol. I was actually trying to translate one this morning (순간) and am getting lost in some of the language. I guess this is what happens when you stop studying a language, haha. I knew my Korean had gotten worse but I didn't know it was this bad haha
"I just love Kim So-hyun and want her to get everything she wants. Even if that’s Taecyeon"
HAH. but yeah, pretty much my exact feelings. I think Taec is fine here, but I just love Kim So-hyun so much I want her to have a happy ending, so I'm pretty much on team "she's not actually dead" by default because otherwise the character is just too tragic lol
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Chandler
August 14, 2016 at 1:42 AM
To be fair, I think she's referring more to the instrumental tracks? I do find those a bit off-putting, but the rest of the ost is really good so it makes up for it for me.
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41 pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 13, 2016 at 11:08 PM
Now I really feel like I should watch Age of Youth, too. But I'm holding off until they get the majority of their episodes out of the way - W makes me nervous enough with the feeling that the plot could all crash and burn (especially since this is rather more plot-driven than character-driven)
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angieya
August 14, 2016 at 2:22 AM
But there's only 4 episodes left, so I guess it's safe enough to start AoY now? ? The problem rather is how to deal with the withdrawal because so far the show's getting better and better each week.
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pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 6:25 AM
ooh, it's only 12 episodes long?! I should start.
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rhiaa
August 14, 2016 at 8:48 AM
Start it, pogo! :D
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mary
August 14, 2016 at 11:43 AM
Yes, pogo. Do eeeeeeeeeet~
Come over to the dark side. We have cucumbers. *wink*
angieya
August 14, 2016 at 11:57 AM
Rofl, oh mary... ?
pogo - now sailing HMS Queen of Tears with Corn Salad on deck🍉
August 14, 2016 at 12:21 PM
cucumbers?! I may be just a little dead rn.
rhiaa
August 14, 2016 at 9:18 PM
Hahaha we do have cucumbers. And phallic shaped balloons...
42 jasmin
August 14, 2016 at 12:51 AM
Geez @Javabeans, please give Jeon Do-yeon a break! xD I mean it's okay not to like her but her acting is top-notch and I'm grateful for every drama that doesn't cast a idol-turned-actor. Jeon Do-yeon is doing an amazing job.
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The other Kiara
August 14, 2016 at 5:49 AM
If all you watch (mostly) is dramas then you'd prefer Ko Hyun-Jung. She is better in dramas than movies. No one is talking about her in the movie industry.
If you are a movie fan or a movie critics you'd know that Jeon Do-yeon is the best out there end of story.
She is amazing in the Good Wife. I do understand that most drama fans aren't used to her style. My mom is not into her either plus she hasn't seen any of her movies before.
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43 Yukiko
August 14, 2016 at 1:18 AM
W : good drama unlucky posponed episode seperated made mood affected and understanding.
Age of youth : my favorite
Doctors: later if have time
UF: better than what heard.
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:17 PM
How do you keep your comments so short? It's awesome.
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44 Rachel
August 14, 2016 at 1:19 AM
Re PU38, I'm glad to hear GF shares my thoughts on the final con. Overall the show was a really fun watch (really!), but I was somewhat disappointing by the simplicity of the con. So far I haven't read any comments from any watchers that expressed disappointment with the final twist in the plot.
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redfox
August 14, 2016 at 9:44 AM
it is because I wasnt disappointed. It was never meant to be the easy sailing swashbuckling ride the first ones were, they were all tired, beaten, doubting, and everything ran into sand, they couldnt do anything else. they were out of options and it looked like everything is going to fail no matter what. but there was no giving upo for Sung Il and Jung Do. so Jung Do made the only decision he could: to bring down the evil, he had to go down with it. he won a lot more, cause people he had started to care about stayed clean. when I had watched the final episodes in full, I understood and I wasnt disappointed at all (well at first I was wailing Jung Do had to go to prison again, but I am staying positive, he had a good appetite like a person who doesnt have to run on prison food for long.
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bd5
August 15, 2016 at 3:07 AM
Disagree about the final con.
A con can't be too complicated in order for it to work.
Too many variables and less of a chance for everything to go right.
And it wasn't so much whether a con was complicated as being the basis on whether it had a better chance of succeeding, but getting to know the "prey" and determining what would get them to do act a certain way.
And actually the last con ended up being more considerably more complicated than you think as the old man discovered their ploy, so they had to do a con of a con of a con of a con.
Basically, everyone was working their own con (doing things for their individual interest), so Jeong-do and Sung-il had to fit all the pieces together in order for their counter-con to work.
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45 Karuna
August 14, 2016 at 2:08 AM
I often ask myself the same q as JB. Is JDY that good and am I over rating her? And while not all of her work is mind blowing the final answer for me always is she does happen to be a damn fine actress. That said I haven't caught much of TGW, waiting for it get over and then marathon it.
Right now I watch W as it unfolds since it is that kind of show. And Second to Last Love. Nothing spectacular there but I like the cast and its an undemanding weekend watch.
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46 Greenhazel
August 14, 2016 at 3:18 AM
I watching [W] of course and feeling so much pain because i just got 1eps doze for this week, how can i survive until next week?? Oke actually that's true but also not true because this week drama blow me with all their own good. Uncontrollably Fond with their super duper angst, Doctors with their doctor story.. You don't know how much i care about wedding dress bride patient and her husband and also maknae doctor sickness.. Let's fight ghost with the mysterious and cute moments, even that i hate that hyun ji leave bong pal on his birthday, there is no manner for that you know.. Squad38 final and special, i say goodbye and thank you for the very unpredictable story telling.. And for the last join.. Cinderella & 4 knights welcome new season of F4, well i think handsome rich guy never lost the touch?
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47 Catz
August 14, 2016 at 3:33 AM
Age of Youth - I'm loving it, I can't think of another drama that really hits it with female friendships.
Bring it on Ghost - Dropped it since episode 7 I couldn't stand for Taecyeon's acting. There's moments where he falls flat and it really shows. I loved the comedy duo and side cases though.
W- Two Worlds - I'm loving it, I seriously don't know what's going to happen.
The Good Wife - I just want to see Hye Kyung soar high lol.
Cinderella - It's incredibly clique but I'm still watching haha. It must be Park So Dam.
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48 shine21
August 14, 2016 at 6:05 AM
Watching W and I am loving it, but seriously tht show makes me scared.. It has something unpredictable about it that I just sit and wait what the hell's gonna happen?
I am loving the characters as well as plot and I think they change pace according to the storm they want to create
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49 Oppyjcw
August 14, 2016 at 6:23 AM
please any body watching monster???
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50 kaybee
August 14, 2016 at 7:19 AM
Cinderella and the Four Knights: It's cute, cliché and fluffy, which I desperately needed. Not a fan of any of the actors and don't find the guys attractive (except for Ahn Jae Hyun, though he's not doing anything for me here, I adored him in MLFTS), plus the cinematography is simply dreadful. But TvN has a way of turning familiar plots into something slightly off-kilter, so I'll hang on for the ride and just enjoy the candyfloss and silliness.
W: Finally got me properly hooked with the latest ep, but only because LJS's charm finally came through (ahhh, was waiting the past many weeks for that, was wondering if I might be over my LJS-fascination. Definite no to that lol). The writing/characterization just feels so flat and I don't find myslf surprised that often.
PU38: Still missing the final ep, because my attention-span is awful atm and SO much is going on in this show. It's awesome. Simple perfection and I can't wait to watch the last one when my brain will finally let me focus LOL.
Queen In Hyun's Man: Meh. Don't get it. Watched 4 eps so far and I'm not even remotely interested or invested in characters or plot. Maybe it's the Sageuk-politics and the ignorant heroine? I never do well with either of those elements.
City Hunter: Tried twice before and never got further than the explosion of ep 1 (aka about 5 mins lol), but this time something just clicked and I bingewatched over a few days. First time I've ever thought LMH was remotely attractive or interesting. Definitely not perfect and the ending was so bad, but get the hype now. Although, why someone would recommend it when I asked for something without any deaths and disease I'm a bit puzzled by, as this has got to be the most death and disease infused show I've ever seen LOL. I was thouroghly entertained throughout though!
Also casually rewatching Kill Me, Heal Me, which might be a mistake as a rewatch is making me notice all the flaws. And the glamourization of mental illness, which to be fair is abundant in kdrama, but still a bad thing. Ji Sung really makes this drama with his brilliant acting. AND OMG LEE SI UN! And Park Seo Joon... Didn't notice him the first time watching, but after seeing him in Witch's Romance (*SIGH*), all eyes are on him! Also love Choi Won Young. But Hwang Jung Eum needs to stop screaming... My poor ears....
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purpleowl
August 14, 2016 at 10:38 AM
In my opinion, KMHM did a solid job of showing the actual traumatizing part of mental illness. Of course it's still to entertainment level but overall there's no room to envy Do Hyun's struggles. *maybe that's because I identified with some of his struggles having my own multiple diagnoses*
But I mean they did make a love story out of his healing so that's bothersome. Hmmm, I don't think that's glamourizarion. Just my thoughts on it though.
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kaybee
August 14, 2016 at 1:47 PM
I'm happy to hear that someone with a similar diagnoses doesn't find it to be glamourization! I thought the silly and the rebellious aspect of some of the personalities might lead people to find it merely entertaining and not happy about making it a love story either. I thought the way the showed how trauma can completely mess with your head was really good though and also how exhausted and scared Do Hyun was instead of most kdrama leads who walk around seemingly pretty much fine except for the occasional allusion to it and then it magically disappearing for the last half of the show.
I'd love to know what you (and others) would generally consider to be glamourization/romanticization of mental illness in dramas? (Especially since English isn't my first language, so I might be confusing it with similar, but different, expressions from my own language?)
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purpleowl
August 16, 2016 at 12:07 AM
I don't have disassociative identity disorder. I have Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Insomnia, PSTD in common with Do Hyun. I think KMHM had an advantage as a psychological, healing drama. Most heroes have traumas to fit the character. But KMHM faced them head-on and they weren't forgotten about magically disappearing for the last half of the show.
The personalities that were extreme make sense. They were created out of a need to shut down a certain trait. That's all the personality is based on. I could see why people would say they are overly silly but they were what he needed them to be.
I grew up watching movies like Sybil and The Three Faces of Eve. The movies portray it differently because they have a time limit. Eve had a shy side, a wild side, and a balanced side. The wide side was entertaining but also scary because no one wants to be her. In Sybil, she had at least 10 personality. They ranged from depressed to suicidal. They weren't jumping around chasing after oppadeul, well 12 year old "Vanessa" dated the neighbor. They also ranged from 1 to 60ish years old. The boy personalities cracked jokes. "Vicki" would talk in French and giggle. "Vanessa" played piano and liked to dress up.
If these stories were to be a show, and I think Sybil is, the personalities would have time to show all their different antics. The things that get on the nerves of the "owner" of the body (as well as us the audience). I think in being a drama, that yes had romance, KMHM did a good job of showing us who each personality was and what triggered them. They never pop out in a way that we couldn't understand.
Of course, this is just my opinion as someone who is interested in DID but most of my information comes from movies.
Mental health in dramas: I'm glad the research seems to be getting better. Nothing is more annoying than listing the wrong symptoms. Or having a character do something that doesn't fit their illness/the way they were raised/their relationship with others. Out of Character is an excuse. If the health concern the person has is treated right, I don't consider it glamouization. There is no glamour in a truth. If they leave out the struggles, then I think the writers missed the point and thus the audience.
Romanticization to me, is when a health concern leads straight to love. Fighting mental health with someone you like is heartwarming. It gives support most people with MHI don't have. Imo, if they are working together and showing progress, falling in love isn't bad. Maybe not your doctor but we can't choose who we like. People fall for physical therapy instructors. People fall MRI/CT technicians.
"I have issues" "Let me ? you" - no
"Thank you for being by my side while I went through this" "You're welcome. I know it's tough and symptoms won't leave immediately. But I'm there to help."
I'm going to analyzing Mental Illness in Films on...
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purpleowl
August 16, 2016 at 12:09 AM
Wikipedia. I shared my opinion on my website.
kaybee
August 16, 2016 at 2:27 AM
Thank you for the long and detailed answer! :)
My bad, thought you meant a "multiple" diagnosis as in having multiple personalities (*facepalm*). I agree with what you said 100%, but I still think the drama had a little too much "showmanship" overall. Ie the tattoos that come and go with Se Gi etc.
Maybe It's Okay, It's Love spoiled me? As in, it showed that things like showers, eating, sleeping, stepping outside your door etc can all be difficult things when dealing with MHI and that during bad times the person suffering from a disorder might not be doing any of the above things. Compared to that very unglamorous side of things, most shows would come out looking glamourized...
Didn't know there was a difference between glamourizing and romanticizing. Thank you for clearing that up for me! And yes, it's heartwarming to see shows where someone sticks around during the bad times :)
Do you perchance have a link to your website? I'd love to read what you wrote on this!
(Also, have you seen United States of Tara? Never did get a chance to see much of it, but it's an American TV show about a married woman with multiple personalities (don't remember the exact diagnosis, though from what I'd recall it's probably DID). Might be of interest to you?)
mary
August 15, 2016 at 4:08 AM
Kaybee, have you tried reading the recaps while watching QIHM?
The sageuk parts will tie in later (in heartbreaking and hilarious ways) to the modern era because the lead girl is acting in a drama based on that era.
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kaybee
August 16, 2016 at 2:28 AM
Thanks for the advice :) I think I'm pretty much about to give up on it now,, as I've reached ep 9 and still not feeling anything for anything in the drama. But will give the recaps a try!
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