After finishing My Ajusshi, I marathoned Mother. I kid you not, I was bawling my eyes out in every single episode. You may question the masochistic tendencies but I regret nothing. So after two of the most strongly-written and directed dramas of the year, I am now looking for recommendations. Dear trusted beanies, please help me out and vote. Should I continue this masterpiece streak with:
1. Marathoning Live (Admittedly the only Noh Hee-kyung’s drama I watched was That Winter, The Wind Blows and I thought that was meh and forgettable. I only finished it because I can’t believe how flawless Song Hye-kyo and Jo In-sung looked on screen, so I was like “Let’s keep watching just in case they became more human-like in later episodes.” Nope, still gorgeous till the end.
2. Live-watching Come Here and Hug Me (with a new writer so no experience at all, and no idea how it will turn out; however it’s a risk I’m willing to take for Jang Ki-yong and Jin Ki-joo as I’ve enjoyed their recent performances in My Ajusshi and Misty respectively).
3. Putting my faith in Lee Soo-yeon and just wait it out until Life airs in July (squealed so loud when the teaser came out and caught a glimpse of Jo Seung-woo looking like he’ll once again put his A-game on. But what do I do between now and then?)
Beanies seem to love Come Here and Hug Me so maybe try that out first? I was emotionally wrecked after Mother so maybe your brain and heart need a breather before Live, afterall you’ve been binging on some very melo dramas.
Thanks! You’re right, marathoning Mother means my tear-ducts were working overtime and are now demanding a holiday. So here I come, Jang Ki-yong’s perfect bone structure!
Couldn’t continue Live because of Real life but the few episodes I saw were great. Moreover, it isn’t like the police dramas we get in kdramaland but a slice of life police drama of sorts.
I am currently watching CAHM and its amazing. I feel like it’s a mixture of JBL and I remember you but holds its own too. So yeah maybe, marathon LIVE first and catch up on CAHM after finishing that.
It looks like I’ve got to follow this combo, even if in different order. I’ve just watched the first two episodes of Come and Hug Me; it’s engaging so far and the acting performances of both leads are very promising. I’ll catch up slowly, while filling the gaps between episodes with Live.
I’m currently watching Live and I love it! I’m a fan of writer Noh because of It’s OK and Dear My Friends. I think her work is great when it doesn’t involve overly convoluted plots (although It’s OK had a pretty complicated plot, but not as outlandish as That Winter.. heh).
I have Mother next on my deck, but I think I might need to watch something light and fluffy as a commercial break after finishing Live, judging by what you said about each ep making you cry
My Ajusshi’s ending is so perfect I’m crying in gratitude to the writer, PD, actors/actresses and all the crews involved. Wait, scratch that. They’ve all done such a marvellous job that the whole drama from beginning to end is flawless. The relationships depicted in this drama are some of the deepest and most profound ones I’ve seen in a K-drama, and I want to drown in these feels for a little longer.
Second that! This is one drama that has me reassured with the steady writing. I’ve not felt jittery about the ending at any point of time because the show has delivered consistently. Having been burnt by some shows this year *cough*hwa*cough*yugi , I’m thankful for the wonderful ending. Its not even the ending I’ve wanted because i still think they should be together 😝 but am totally okay with this because i feel it was well explained. ❤️
If I hadn’t watched Jun-ho in Chief Kim and Just Between Lovers before, I would’ve easily dismissed him in Greasy Melo as just another idol stinking up the joint. Oh my gosh, I’m so embarrassed on his behalf. In every single scene, he’s over-acting. He does not seem to understand what he wants to do with this Poong character, and the direction certainly doesn’t help either. The camera always captures his face when he happens to wear the most awkward expressions. Where did the deliciously evil Yul and sensitive Kang-doo disappear to?
I know that writer Seo Sook-hyang’s work has a quirky vibe and not all PDs can bring that to life while maintaining the quirkiness without veering towards really awkward. I thought I quite like the final product of Jealousy Incarnate but that might also be my love for Jo Jung-seok talking. This Greasy Melo PD however, makes me question everything. Is this supposed to feel intentionally weird?
I didn’t know who the heck Junho was in Chief Kim. I just assumed he was a seasoned actor, and a good one at that. Then I found out who he was and was super impressed. When Just Between Lovers rolled around, I couldn’t help but think that he was that much better in Chief Kim. He was still good, but not as good. Then, in this drama, I feel like he’s constantly dipping into his tool pan of expressions and actions. I’m constantly reminded of Junho, and not the character he’s playing. To put it a different way, it might as well be Junho as Junho if you get what I’m saying. To make matters worse, I don’t like Wok of Love as a whole. So much doesn’t click with me. I think that’s regrettable because I respect Junho so much for taking on such disparate roles. Funny enough, they can somewhat be compared by his acting alone.
Oh no! I’m not watching but noooo!!! Junho was at his best when playing serious evil Yul next to wacky Chief Kim. He could just use deadpan expressions in Greasy Melo and let Jang Hyuk do the crazy faces maybe?
He’s been pretty one-note, but I blame the writing and especially directing. I wish they’d gotten the PD who did Jealousy Incarnate. I think the PD of Shopping King Louis could have also fit with the writer’s quirky vibe. This PD worked on Suspicious Partner, and I had issues with that drama too.
Thank goodness I’m not the only one who feels that way. I wasn’t feeling the first couple of episodes and this was part of the reason why. I’m just not here for Junho or his character. I’m hoping the show and he will get better as it goes on, but right now I am thisclose to dropping it.
Not ashamed to say how much I enjoyed \”You Drive Me Crazy\”. An adorable Kim Sun-ho (Dimples!), my catnip \”friends to lovers\” story, sizzling chemistry with Lee Yoo-young, four short and sweet episodes, plus a pet hedgehog. What’s not to love?
As I’ve been on a Jo Seung-woo high, today I ventured to watch Inside Men: The Original (2015), a 3-hour long political crime thriller which reminded me of Forest of Secrets in the constant twists and turns and shifting allegiances. A word of warning though, the movie’s R-rated, and you should expect gory violence, nudity and sex scenes. The casts consist of the usual reliable movie heavy-weights and familiar faces so I get a bit confused at first, it was a bit like “If you were evil in that project, are you going to be evil here too?” The exception is Lee Kyung-young of course. He’s almost always evil, regardless of whether or not his face is plastered on a prosecutor’s white board of web of culprits.
As always, JSW is fantastic here (even though his co-star, He Who Must Not Be Named, gets more recognition), and makes me appreciate his acting in FoS even more since even though he plays a righteous prosecutor, he bears no resemblance to Shi-mok bot whatsoever, and is hot-headed and potty-mouthed to boot. Being so expressive, he also gets to flash his “pretty smile” every so often. Anyway, my point is I LOVE JO SEUNG-WOO!! Who’s with me?
Lee Kyung-young is everywhere. He’s so good at playing the baddie that I worry he may be type-casted now. Because everytime I see him on screen, I already half-expect that he’ll be the big bad (See: almost every project he’s in), that I’m surprised when he’s not (See: Misty). I kind of want to see him play a kind, warm-hearted grandpa; or a grumpy one ala Shin Gu now.
Name a more iconic trio?
Congratulations to Jo Seung-woo for a much deserved Best Actor win at the 54th Baeksang Arts Awards for his performance in Forest of Secrets. I love that his acceptance speech is humble and shows that he himself is the biggest fan of the drama.
JSW: “Everyone, did you watch Forest of Secrets a lot?””
Me: Me!! Me!! *arm shooting up Hermione-style*
JSW: “Personally, I would like it if it goes to Season 5, what do you all think? I hope that everyone would cheer for and support us so that Forest of Secrets, a project that I had a great time shooting, could have multiple seasons”
Me: *immediately submits a petition to TvN*
Dr Ye is sweet and all; I still can’t get over this guy though: the corrupt prosecutor with the perfect eyebrows, exposed forehead and well-fitted suits. I hope Lee Joon-hyuk would re-live his role as Seo Dong-jae if Forest of Secrets ever got a second season. Our Shi-mok needs his frenemy.
His role as Dong Jae was unforgettable! Dr Ye is a bit stiff for my taste but I’d love to see him as a corrupted prosecutor again! Every time he was planning something shady I was amused and furious at the same time 😀
At one moment I really thought Seo Dong Jae changed for the better when Lee Chang Joon killed hinself, but nooppeeee he’s still shady Seo Dong Jae😂😂😂 what did I expect seriously
It says something that my sister’s comment on the last episode of FoS boils down to “Seo Dong-jae is hopeless”. She’s happy with the other threads, and probably like all the other viewers, expected better of him. LOL, not happening.
I love him playing shady; the thing is he’s so ineffective at being bad, so at some point in FoS the viewers start laughing at his ineptness and he ends up being endearing instead.
What do you do when you watch a Behind The Scene episode and the villains are being all sorts of adorable? I mean, they both have such gentle and innocent smiles
sending heart ahaha. Kim Young Min… He is soooo handsome GOD! I actually think Joon Young is surprisingly a soft heart villain. Like I actually quite surprise he doesn’t bother getting all the blame and get insult from Ji An and Yoon-Hee as “piece of trash” LOL. His reaction is surprisingly quite calm after getting robbed by Ji An. Bwahaha… I love some villain like him LOL
Episode 12 of My Ajusshi is as perfect as it can be. We finally got that long overdue painful conversation between Dong-hoon and Yoon-hee, and also some insight into her side of the story, even though it doesn’t excuse her cheating. Ji-an took Dong-hoon’s advice and started to bond with her colleagues over working overtime and sprinting to catch the last train. She also gained herself some loyal life-long Avengers (who are such warm people that the icy Ji-an just melts when she’s surrounded by them). Her sincere “Thank You” was all the more meaningful since now she not only has Dong-hoon caring for her, she belongs to his community as well.
We also got hints of Gwang-il’s back story; that he’s so very conflicted when it comes to Ji-an and that once upon a time she was dear to him. I wish we would get some flashback scenes to affirm this, and how Ji-an viewed him before it all went wrong. However, they’ve come too far in this twisted relationship and for every suffering that Gwang-il has put Ji-an through, he will not get his redemption, nor will he ever be able to forgive her. He’s stuck and theirs is ultimately an ill-fated connection.
Every time I’m amazed at how smart and cunning Ji-an is. She just screwed over Joon-young in one fell swoop by openly bringing Yoon-hee into the equation and forcing him to fold as he risked facing her wrath. She took his money but was able to get out of her assigned jobs with no consequences. She put a whole new definition in “Dine and Dash”. And finally when she was picked to testify in the Director interview, Joon-young’s faction thought by bringing her in, they’d be able to dig up and expose some dirt on Dong-hoon; little did they know that Ji-an is Dong-hoon’s biggest cheerleader. I just love how she turned all the accusing questions upside down and made them more and more speechless with every well thought-out answer.
If past records of PD Kim are any indication, Episode 13 will be even better and my expectations are sky-high since Episode 13 of Misaeng and Signal are my favourites of the series. And now I have to wait 2 weeks for it (*cries*), so the wait better be super worth it. Fighting, all crew and actors, and sending you some Ajusshi-style hearts!
OH MY HEART, stop swinging like a pendulum! Now that Min-ho has snapped out of his childish mode, Poetry is so worth the shipping war. I can’t help channelling my inner Dae-bang by going “Dr Ye…? or Min-ho…? Dr Ye…? or Min-ho…?” This is how you do a love triangle, folks.
Never thought that one day I would analyse an actress’s crying scene but this one is just too good to ignore. First it was evident that she was trying to hold back her tears. But with every grunt, punch and kick she heard, those silent tears flowed anyway. Her legs started to give way. Then despite trying her damnedest clenching her jaws to stop any sounds from coming out, it proved futile, and she started sobbing out loud and pretty much ugly-crying thereafter.
In this particular moment I no longer see an actress acting out a crying scene. It becomes Ji-an’s pain. I can feel the release of emotions. I can feel her relief, that there was someone who, instead of judging her for what happened in the past (as everyone else before him has done), he unconditionally took her side, willingly stood by, and defended her. That was a raw, moving performance that touched me.
When asked to comment about Lee Ji-eun (IU) during the initial press conference, PD Kim Won-seok said this “I better save my breath since I will only end up singing her praises. But I’ll just say this one thing. Compared to the Lee Ji-an that Ji-eun has in mind, my Lee Ji-an is always a little inadequate.” When I first read it, I thought that was a really nice compliment coming from the director, and now I know why.
It was a really moving and powerful scene. It’s a point of no turning back. And we just know that Dong-hoon will forever has Ji-an’s unwavering loyalty from now on.
Actually, this scene kinda reminded me of Uee’s crying scene in Marriage Contract. So raw and painful, and she just completely embodied the character instead of acting as one.
I just watched a snippet of him defending her and I was already in tears….I am not even watching the drama. This shows to say she really nailed her character as Ji an….IU did a great job honestly….I have always been her fan and always be….
My Ajusshi has been gaining steam and is now running in full throttle. The development of the story and character growth is believable and I’m curious for more. One thing I’ve noticed in terms of production value is that despite the bleak colour palettes, the background sounds and actors’ voices are all so HD. They sound so crystal clear; I just love hearing them speak. Of course, having The Voice matters, but also IU, who personally is my female version of The Voice. Or maybe the sound editor is just a genius.
PD Kim Won-seok has worked with the same music director duo Kim Jun-seok and Park Seong-il back in Misaeng and Signal and as expected they’ve delivered again in My Ajusshi. You just can’t go wrong with this combination.
some years ago, when I play IU song, My housemate ask me “how can someone can have soft voice when she sing and deep voice when she talk?”. I just really like her
Min-ho\’s going to hurt sooooo goooodddd now that he realised Bo-young has moved on from him. It\’s cruel but I kind of enjoyed seeing him being in denial at first, and then followed by the petty jealousy, because later the realisation that he liked her would hit him and it would be so delicious! Bring it on!
What a great episode for Min-ho! It would be lovely if you would like to Join us at our discussion of this week’s episode on my “fauxpen thread”, @m3lon4!
After 4 episodes of Pretty Noona, here are my thoughts on what I loved about the drama:
1. It captured the giddiness and fluttery feelings of the initial stage of dating and being in love, really well. The music and OST were spot on, and enhanced the overall mood of the drama.
2. Son Ye-jin and Jung Hae-in. Their chemistry and the resulting fireworks romance. At times easy and comfortable, other times sweet and innocent, but they can also turn on the sexy at a moment’s notice. Everyone and their mother are currently in love with sunny-smile Jung Hae-in for being so swoon-worthy, but since it takes two to tango, the romance will not blossom without of Jin-ah’s reaction to Joon-hee’s courting; so credit to Son Ye-jin too.
3. Jin-ah and Kyung-sun’s friendship and support for each other.
What I hated:
1. Kyu-min. Go die and burn in hellfire, bastard.
2. Jin-ah’s mother. Oh my goodness, this lady and the things that came out of her mouth. Your daughter’s being cheated on and instead of kicking said bastard to the curb, the first thing you said to her is “It’s because you’re not being good enough (to him) that he strays!” And then she blamed her husband for taking an early retirement because it may risk the kids’ future prospects. Then she kind of looked down on the Seo siblings for having a dead mother and a runaway father. I just want to strangle her. The actress is good; in fact she’s so natural and realistic that she could easily be my own mum, a neighbourhood auntie, or 99% of Asian mums out there with the same twisted point of view.
3. Jin-ah’s sexist and perverted manager, plus the irresponsible and cowardly director. Go die and burn in hellfire, bastards.
4. The office drama. Or more accurately, non-drama that bored me to death. Every time they start showing workplace scenes I just go on sleep mode. Who cares about the coffee supplies? Give me back the cute couple.
I have also seen all 4 episodes but since my understanding of the Korean language is limited to the most common kdrama phrases and words, most of the more complex discussions are lost to me. Although I have rewatched the first 2 episodes now with subs and I’m rather proud that I did get the gist of most of the conversations.
So here are my thoughts:
1. I also really like the music… but at some times it’s to prominently featured. It makes me notice the music and that is usually not where I want my attention to be. *squee for the cute couple* His smile just kills me every single time.
2. I enjoyed their slow progeression from friends into more… although looking at the timeline it’s actually rather fast. But it doesn’t feel rushed. I also like that for Jin Ah his age is not an obstacle. I’m sure it will come up since no Noona-Romance would be complete without it but I’m fairly certain it won’t come from her. Probably that hateful mother of hers will bring it up… urgh. But to be fair I do believe that mom is doing what she thinks is best for her daughter… it’s just outdated.
3. How cute was that drunk goodbye scene between Jin Ah and Kyung Sun when Joon Hee drives her home!
4. I don’t get why Kyu Min is even still in the story. He cheated and now he is being clingy. I don’t get it. Does somebody have an explanation?
5. I also tune out all of the workplace stuff. It’s just so offensive and boring. But it looked like Jin Ah stood up for herself in episode 4. Go girl! Also beyond being an active topic in Korea right now, it doesn’t actually seem connected to the main story. I’m actually rather surprised that a real company gave permission to use their name in a way that is not flattering. I mean the man in that company don’t look clean…
2. They’ve actually known each other for around 20 yrs or so. I think the romantic feelings were always on the surface until the timing was right for them? I don’t know, it’s a bit vague but maybe we’ll find out later when he actually think of her as woman (Korean style).
4. I think Kyu Min played a double role in driving the couple together with his obsessive behavior and at the same an obstacle. He’s not wrong at all in suspecting that there is something going on between them.
I think the person who would have the most difficult time accepting their relationship will be Joon Hee’s sister.
From her point of view it’s a betrayal of a long friendship. They are as close as real sisters can get. Jin-ah just crossed a line that will break years of bond and trust.
5. I’m probably alone in thinking that the workplace stuff has its purpose in keeping this show grounded in reality.
I’m not sure who I’m in love with more. PD Ahn’s directing or our couple.
They are very well directed down to the small details. Every turn, every shots from every angle has a meaning and purpose, every word and how it’s delivered etc.
The music selection and the timing is perfectly done. I was worried that I would be sick of it from being overplayed but it does its purpose in highlighting certain scenes between being a woman at work etc and a woman in love.
Everything feels natural and sincere.
The realisms on the culture and everyday life makes this show interesting and relatable. Usually my fav part in every K-drama and PD Ahn just tells it the way it is. No sugarcoating.
When my mind wanders into fantasyland with our couple’s growing romantic moments the workplace drama brings me back to reality.
Love is all fantastic and stuff but we still have to wake up and go to work no matter how unpleasant the workplace maybe.
In recognition of Jung Hae-in’s noona-slaying prowess in “Pretty Noona…”, please be reminded that he’s been slaying noonas since the Joseon era. I love that Yang Dong-geun speaks for all of us.
Question: How many standing ovations are allowed for Go Hye-ran in a single episode of Misty?
Hint: She’s an evil, evil witch but so, so terribly awesome.
Answer: What the Waikiki boys said.
I just finished watching ep 3 and my jaw is still on the floor. Kim Nam-joo is killing it as Go Hye-ran. I want to be that fabulous while being cold, calculating and plotting someone’s downfall.
Kim Nam-joo is SO GOOD here. Hye-ran is somehow spitting fire from her eyes yet also gives out such a chilly aura, that if you see her in real life, you’ll probably shrink away, hoping that you don’t cross her path. You definitely want her to be your friend, and not your enemy. 3 episodes in and there have been so many moments where I just automatically stand up and slow clap.
I just wrote on my wall about kim nam joo..god she is brilliant! I can’t decide if i hate her or love her, she plays Go Hey-ran so well. The scene where she gave it to the coniving junior at work was epic!
Melona
May 31, 2018 at 2:00 AM
After finishing My Ajusshi, I marathoned Mother. I kid you not, I was bawling my eyes out in every single episode. You may question the masochistic tendencies but I regret nothing. So after two of the most strongly-written and directed dramas of the year, I am now looking for recommendations. Dear trusted beanies, please help me out and vote. Should I continue this masterpiece streak with:
1. Marathoning Live (Admittedly the only Noh Hee-kyung’s drama I watched was That Winter, The Wind Blows and I thought that was meh and forgettable. I only finished it because I can’t believe how flawless Song Hye-kyo and Jo In-sung looked on screen, so I was like “Let’s keep watching just in case they became more human-like in later episodes.” Nope, still gorgeous till the end.
2. Live-watching Come Here and Hug Me (with a new writer so no experience at all, and no idea how it will turn out; however it’s a risk I’m willing to take for Jang Ki-yong and Jin Ki-joo as I’ve enjoyed their recent performances in My Ajusshi and Misty respectively).
3. Putting my faith in Lee Soo-yeon and just wait it out until Life airs in July (squealed so loud when the teaser came out and caught a glimpse of Jo Seung-woo looking like he’ll once again put his A-game on. But what do I do between now and then?)
fencejumper
May 31, 2018 at 2:07 AM
Beanies seem to love Come Here and Hug Me so maybe try that out first? I was emotionally wrecked after Mother so maybe your brain and heart need a breather before Live, afterall you’ve been binging on some very melo dramas.
Melona
May 31, 2018 at 2:48 AM
Thanks! You’re right, marathoning Mother means my tear-ducts were working overtime and are now demanding a holiday. So here I come, Jang Ki-yong’s perfect bone structure!
fencejumper
May 31, 2018 at 4:19 AM
Perfect bone structure pftt. 😂 Based on the premise CHM might also induce tears tho.
wapz
May 31, 2018 at 5:00 AM
Couldn’t continue Live because of Real life but the few episodes I saw were great. Moreover, it isn’t like the police dramas we get in kdramaland but a slice of life police drama of sorts.
I am currently watching CAHM and its amazing. I feel like it’s a mixture of JBL and I remember you but holds its own too. So yeah maybe, marathon LIVE first and catch up on CAHM after finishing that.
Melona
May 31, 2018 at 5:09 AM
It looks like I’ve got to follow this combo, even if in different order. I’ve just watched the first two episodes of Come and Hug Me; it’s engaging so far and the acting performances of both leads are very promising. I’ll catch up slowly, while filling the gaps between episodes with Live.
jaderjylsk
May 31, 2018 at 10:49 AM
I’m currently watching Live and I love it! I’m a fan of writer Noh because of It’s OK and Dear My Friends. I think her work is great when it doesn’t involve overly convoluted plots (although It’s OK had a pretty complicated plot, but not as outlandish as That Winter.. heh).
I have Mother next on my deck, but I think I might need to watch something light and fluffy as a commercial break after finishing Live, judging by what you said about each ep making you cry
Melona
May 18, 2018 at 4:08 PM
My Ajusshi’s alternative title: Live Up to Your Name, Ji-an.
mushroomsoupie
May 18, 2018 at 7:37 PM
What a fantastic way to end the show. Not a single bit of dialogue is wasted in this drama. Brilliant writing.
Melona
May 18, 2018 at 3:39 AM
Lee Ji-eun appreciation post: The Girl With The Pretty Face, but doesn’t know it (and may she remain unaware of it forever)
Melona
May 18, 2018 at 3:11 AM
Lee Sun-kyun appreciation post: The Many Faces of My Ajusshi
Melona
May 18, 2018 at 2:55 AM
My Ajusshi’s ending is so perfect I’m crying in gratitude to the writer, PD, actors/actresses and all the crews involved. Wait, scratch that. They’ve all done such a marvellous job that the whole drama from beginning to end is flawless. The relationships depicted in this drama are some of the deepest and most profound ones I’ve seen in a K-drama, and I want to drown in these feels for a little longer.
delphy
May 18, 2018 at 7:36 AM
Second that! This is one drama that has me reassured with the steady writing. I’ve not felt jittery about the ending at any point of time because the show has delivered consistently. Having been burnt by some shows this year *cough*hwa*cough*yugi , I’m thankful for the wonderful ending. Its not even the ending I’ve wanted because i still think they should be together 😝 but am totally okay with this because i feel it was well explained. ❤️
Melona
May 16, 2018 at 4:54 AM
If I hadn’t watched Jun-ho in Chief Kim and Just Between Lovers before, I would’ve easily dismissed him in Greasy Melo as just another idol stinking up the joint. Oh my gosh, I’m so embarrassed on his behalf. In every single scene, he’s over-acting. He does not seem to understand what he wants to do with this Poong character, and the direction certainly doesn’t help either. The camera always captures his face when he happens to wear the most awkward expressions. Where did the deliciously evil Yul and sensitive Kang-doo disappear to?
I know that writer Seo Sook-hyang’s work has a quirky vibe and not all PDs can bring that to life while maintaining the quirkiness without veering towards really awkward. I thought I quite like the final product of Jealousy Incarnate but that might also be my love for Jo Jung-seok talking. This Greasy Melo PD however, makes me question everything. Is this supposed to feel intentionally weird?
하데스
May 16, 2018 at 5:32 AM
I didn’t know who the heck Junho was in Chief Kim. I just assumed he was a seasoned actor, and a good one at that. Then I found out who he was and was super impressed. When Just Between Lovers rolled around, I couldn’t help but think that he was that much better in Chief Kim. He was still good, but not as good. Then, in this drama, I feel like he’s constantly dipping into his tool pan of expressions and actions. I’m constantly reminded of Junho, and not the character he’s playing. To put it a different way, it might as well be Junho as Junho if you get what I’m saying. To make matters worse, I don’t like Wok of Love as a whole. So much doesn’t click with me. I think that’s regrettable because I respect Junho so much for taking on such disparate roles. Funny enough, they can somewhat be compared by his acting alone.
WishfulToki
May 16, 2018 at 5:41 AM
Oh no! I’m not watching but noooo!!! Junho was at his best when playing serious evil Yul next to wacky Chief Kim. He could just use deadpan expressions in Greasy Melo and let Jang Hyuk do the crazy faces maybe?
miss h
May 16, 2018 at 8:01 AM
He’s been pretty one-note, but I blame the writing and especially directing. I wish they’d gotten the PD who did Jealousy Incarnate. I think the PD of Shopping King Louis could have also fit with the writer’s quirky vibe. This PD worked on Suspicious Partner, and I had issues with that drama too.
Shek
May 16, 2018 at 8:45 AM
Thank goodness I’m not the only one who feels that way. I wasn’t feeling the first couple of episodes and this was part of the reason why. I’m just not here for Junho or his character. I’m hoping the show and he will get better as it goes on, but right now I am thisclose to dropping it.
Melona
May 16, 2018 at 3:57 AM
I don’t know about you, but I hear the angels sing at this exact moment
🧛♂️ 💔💔 but 👧💔💔💔💔
May 16, 2018 at 6:24 AM
for me it was Cotton candies raining around and stomach full of butterflies…
Waadmay
May 16, 2018 at 9:13 AM
It felt organic like watching 2 real people 😍😍😍😍
Melona
May 11, 2018 at 11:26 PM
Not ashamed to say how much I enjoyed \”You Drive Me Crazy\”. An adorable Kim Sun-ho (Dimples!), my catnip \”friends to lovers\” story, sizzling chemistry with Lee Yoo-young, four short and sweet episodes, plus a pet hedgehog. What’s not to love?
Melona
May 5, 2018 at 5:50 AM
As I’ve been on a Jo Seung-woo high, today I ventured to watch Inside Men: The Original (2015), a 3-hour long political crime thriller which reminded me of Forest of Secrets in the constant twists and turns and shifting allegiances. A word of warning though, the movie’s R-rated, and you should expect gory violence, nudity and sex scenes. The casts consist of the usual reliable movie heavy-weights and familiar faces so I get a bit confused at first, it was a bit like “If you were evil in that project, are you going to be evil here too?” The exception is Lee Kyung-young of course. He’s almost always evil, regardless of whether or not his face is plastered on a prosecutor’s white board of web of culprits.
As always, JSW is fantastic here (even though his co-star, He Who Must Not Be Named, gets more recognition), and makes me appreciate his acting in FoS even more since even though he plays a righteous prosecutor, he bears no resemblance to Shi-mok bot whatsoever, and is hot-headed and potty-mouthed to boot. Being so expressive, he also gets to flash his “pretty smile” every so often. Anyway, my point is I LOVE JO SEUNG-WOO!! Who’s with me?
kiara
May 5, 2018 at 6:13 AM
“Inside Men” is one of those critically acclaimed movies that I can’t watch.
Lee Kyung-young is super awesome in that kind of role.
Melona
May 5, 2018 at 4:28 PM
Lee Kyung-young is everywhere. He’s so good at playing the baddie that I worry he may be type-casted now. Because everytime I see him on screen, I already half-expect that he’ll be the big bad (See: almost every project he’s in), that I’m surprised when he’s not (See: Misty). I kind of want to see him play a kind, warm-hearted grandpa; or a grumpy one ala Shin Gu now.
Key🍜
May 5, 2018 at 7:36 AM
I’m totally share your main point, and after your post really want to rewatch it))
Melona
May 5, 2018 at 4:49 AM
Name a more iconic trio?
Congratulations to Jo Seung-woo for a much deserved Best Actor win at the 54th Baeksang Arts Awards for his performance in Forest of Secrets. I love that his acceptance speech is humble and shows that he himself is the biggest fan of the drama.
JSW: “Everyone, did you watch Forest of Secrets a lot?””
Me: Me!! Me!! *arm shooting up Hermione-style*
JSW: “Personally, I would like it if it goes to Season 5, what do you all think? I hope that everyone would cheer for and support us so that Forest of Secrets, a project that I had a great time shooting, could have multiple seasons”
Me: *immediately submits a petition to TvN*
mrsdimple
May 5, 2018 at 6:15 AM
Dr Ye! And Haeronggie! Side by side . lots of loveeeee
Melona
May 4, 2018 at 5:38 PM
Dr Ye is sweet and all; I still can’t get over this guy though: the corrupt prosecutor with the perfect eyebrows, exposed forehead and well-fitted suits. I hope Lee Joon-hyuk would re-live his role as Seo Dong-jae if Forest of Secrets ever got a second season. Our Shi-mok needs his frenemy.
cherry 🍒
May 5, 2018 at 5:58 AM
His role as Dong Jae was unforgettable! Dr Ye is a bit stiff for my taste but I’d love to see him as a corrupted prosecutor again! Every time he was planning something shady I was amused and furious at the same time 😀
faraway
May 5, 2018 at 7:56 AM
At one moment I really thought Seo Dong Jae changed for the better when Lee Chang Joon killed hinself, but nooppeeee he’s still shady Seo Dong Jae😂😂😂 what did I expect seriously
Melona
May 5, 2018 at 4:22 PM
It says something that my sister’s comment on the last episode of FoS boils down to “Seo Dong-jae is hopeless”. She’s happy with the other threads, and probably like all the other viewers, expected better of him. LOL, not happening.
Melona
May 5, 2018 at 4:19 PM
I love him playing shady; the thing is he’s so ineffective at being bad, so at some point in FoS the viewers start laughing at his ineptness and he ends up being endearing instead.
Melona
May 3, 2018 at 5:08 AM
What do you do when you watch a Behind The Scene episode and the villains are being all sorts of adorable? I mean, they both have such gentle and innocent smiles
missjb
May 3, 2018 at 7:08 AM
sending heart ahaha. Kim Young Min… He is soooo handsome GOD! I actually think Joon Young is surprisingly a soft heart villain. Like I actually quite surprise he doesn’t bother getting all the blame and get insult from Ji An and Yoon-Hee as “piece of trash” LOL. His reaction is surprisingly quite calm after getting robbed by Ji An. Bwahaha… I love some villain like him LOL
Melona
April 27, 2018 at 5:29 PM
Episode 12 of My Ajusshi is as perfect as it can be. We finally got that long overdue painful conversation between Dong-hoon and Yoon-hee, and also some insight into her side of the story, even though it doesn’t excuse her cheating. Ji-an took Dong-hoon’s advice and started to bond with her colleagues over working overtime and sprinting to catch the last train. She also gained herself some loyal life-long Avengers (who are such warm people that the icy Ji-an just melts when she’s surrounded by them). Her sincere “Thank You” was all the more meaningful since now she not only has Dong-hoon caring for her, she belongs to his community as well.
We also got hints of Gwang-il’s back story; that he’s so very conflicted when it comes to Ji-an and that once upon a time she was dear to him. I wish we would get some flashback scenes to affirm this, and how Ji-an viewed him before it all went wrong. However, they’ve come too far in this twisted relationship and for every suffering that Gwang-il has put Ji-an through, he will not get his redemption, nor will he ever be able to forgive her. He’s stuck and theirs is ultimately an ill-fated connection.
Every time I’m amazed at how smart and cunning Ji-an is. She just screwed over Joon-young in one fell swoop by openly bringing Yoon-hee into the equation and forcing him to fold as he risked facing her wrath. She took his money but was able to get out of her assigned jobs with no consequences. She put a whole new definition in “Dine and Dash”. And finally when she was picked to testify in the Director interview, Joon-young’s faction thought by bringing her in, they’d be able to dig up and expose some dirt on Dong-hoon; little did they know that Ji-an is Dong-hoon’s biggest cheerleader. I just love how she turned all the accusing questions upside down and made them more and more speechless with every well thought-out answer.
If past records of PD Kim are any indication, Episode 13 will be even better and my expectations are sky-high since Episode 13 of Misaeng and Signal are my favourites of the series. And now I have to wait 2 weeks for it (*cries*), so the wait better be super worth it. Fighting, all crew and actors, and sending you some Ajusshi-style hearts!
gadis
April 27, 2018 at 5:54 PM
Ji-an deserved the genius title that dramaland loved to use for its heroes.
Melona
April 24, 2018 at 5:53 AM
OH MY HEART, stop swinging like a pendulum! Now that Min-ho has snapped out of his childish mode, Poetry is so worth the shipping war. I can’t help channelling my inner Dae-bang by going “Dr Ye…? or Min-ho…? Dr Ye…? or Min-ho…?” This is how you do a love triangle, folks.
Melona
April 19, 2018 at 4:20 AM
Never thought that one day I would analyse an actress’s crying scene but this one is just too good to ignore. First it was evident that she was trying to hold back her tears. But with every grunt, punch and kick she heard, those silent tears flowed anyway. Her legs started to give way. Then despite trying her damnedest clenching her jaws to stop any sounds from coming out, it proved futile, and she started sobbing out loud and pretty much ugly-crying thereafter.
In this particular moment I no longer see an actress acting out a crying scene. It becomes Ji-an’s pain. I can feel the release of emotions. I can feel her relief, that there was someone who, instead of judging her for what happened in the past (as everyone else before him has done), he unconditionally took her side, willingly stood by, and defended her. That was a raw, moving performance that touched me.
When asked to comment about Lee Ji-eun (IU) during the initial press conference, PD Kim Won-seok said this “I better save my breath since I will only end up singing her praises. But I’ll just say this one thing. Compared to the Lee Ji-an that Ji-eun has in mind, my Lee Ji-an is always a little inadequate.” When I first read it, I thought that was a really nice compliment coming from the director, and now I know why.
missjb
April 19, 2018 at 6:02 AM
Love her as Ji An. She is amazing!
KSKalways
April 19, 2018 at 6:03 AM
your description is so vivid that I truly might give this tough cookie of a show a try.
gadis
April 19, 2018 at 6:10 AM
It was a really moving and powerful scene. It’s a point of no turning back. And we just know that Dong-hoon will forever has Ji-an’s unwavering loyalty from now on.
Actually, this scene kinda reminded me of Uee’s crying scene in Marriage Contract. So raw and painful, and she just completely embodied the character instead of acting as one.
KSKalways
April 19, 2018 at 6:24 AM
so well said! UEE in Marriage Contract was pure gold !
Safeenah
April 19, 2018 at 10:03 AM
I just watched a snippet of him defending her and I was already in tears….I am not even watching the drama. This shows to say she really nailed her character as Ji an….IU did a great job honestly….I have always been her fan and always be….
Melona
April 12, 2018 at 3:40 AM
My Ajusshi has been gaining steam and is now running in full throttle. The development of the story and character growth is believable and I’m curious for more. One thing I’ve noticed in terms of production value is that despite the bleak colour palettes, the background sounds and actors’ voices are all so HD. They sound so crystal clear; I just love hearing them speak. Of course, having The Voice matters, but also IU, who personally is my female version of The Voice. Or maybe the sound editor is just a genius.
PD Kim Won-seok has worked with the same music director duo Kim Jun-seok and Park Seong-il back in Misaeng and Signal and as expected they’ve delivered again in My Ajusshi. You just can’t go wrong with this combination.
Eries be the Light
April 12, 2018 at 5:44 AM
some years ago, when I play IU song, My housemate ask me “how can someone can have soft voice when she sing and deep voice when she talk?”. I just really like her
Melona
April 11, 2018 at 3:38 AM
Min-ho\’s going to hurt sooooo goooodddd now that he realised Bo-young has moved on from him. It\’s cruel but I kind of enjoyed seeing him being in denial at first, and then followed by the petty jealousy, because later the realisation that he liked her would hit him and it would be so delicious! Bring it on!
🍙 kimbap noona
April 11, 2018 at 5:27 AM
What a great episode for Min-ho! It would be lovely if you would like to Join us at our discussion of this week’s episode on my “fauxpen thread”, @m3lon4!
http://www.dramabeans.com/members/kimbapnoona/activity/439507/?nid=591925&nidwpc=440024#acomment-440024
bam 🐢🐌💖~
April 11, 2018 at 7:02 AM
I’m nervously ready to see what happens next! *covers my eyes with my hands but peeks through nevertheless*
Melona
April 9, 2018 at 3:01 AM
After 4 episodes of Pretty Noona, here are my thoughts on what I loved about the drama:
1. It captured the giddiness and fluttery feelings of the initial stage of dating and being in love, really well. The music and OST were spot on, and enhanced the overall mood of the drama.
2. Son Ye-jin and Jung Hae-in. Their chemistry and the resulting fireworks romance. At times easy and comfortable, other times sweet and innocent, but they can also turn on the sexy at a moment’s notice. Everyone and their mother are currently in love with sunny-smile Jung Hae-in for being so swoon-worthy, but since it takes two to tango, the romance will not blossom without of Jin-ah’s reaction to Joon-hee’s courting; so credit to Son Ye-jin too.
3. Jin-ah and Kyung-sun’s friendship and support for each other.
What I hated:
1. Kyu-min. Go die and burn in hellfire, bastard.
2. Jin-ah’s mother. Oh my goodness, this lady and the things that came out of her mouth. Your daughter’s being cheated on and instead of kicking said bastard to the curb, the first thing you said to her is “It’s because you’re not being good enough (to him) that he strays!” And then she blamed her husband for taking an early retirement because it may risk the kids’ future prospects. Then she kind of looked down on the Seo siblings for having a dead mother and a runaway father. I just want to strangle her. The actress is good; in fact she’s so natural and realistic that she could easily be my own mum, a neighbourhood auntie, or 99% of Asian mums out there with the same twisted point of view.
3. Jin-ah’s sexist and perverted manager, plus the irresponsible and cowardly director. Go die and burn in hellfire, bastards.
4. The office drama. Or more accurately, non-drama that bored me to death. Every time they start showing workplace scenes I just go on sleep mode. Who cares about the coffee supplies? Give me back the cute couple.
peachnita
April 9, 2018 at 6:42 AM
I have also seen all 4 episodes but since my understanding of the Korean language is limited to the most common kdrama phrases and words, most of the more complex discussions are lost to me. Although I have rewatched the first 2 episodes now with subs and I’m rather proud that I did get the gist of most of the conversations.
So here are my thoughts:
1. I also really like the music… but at some times it’s to prominently featured. It makes me notice the music and that is usually not where I want my attention to be. *squee for the cute couple* His smile just kills me every single time.
2. I enjoyed their slow progeression from friends into more… although looking at the timeline it’s actually rather fast. But it doesn’t feel rushed. I also like that for Jin Ah his age is not an obstacle. I’m sure it will come up since no Noona-Romance would be complete without it but I’m fairly certain it won’t come from her. Probably that hateful mother of hers will bring it up… urgh. But to be fair I do believe that mom is doing what she thinks is best for her daughter… it’s just outdated.
3. How cute was that drunk goodbye scene between Jin Ah and Kyung Sun when Joon Hee drives her home!
4. I don’t get why Kyu Min is even still in the story. He cheated and now he is being clingy. I don’t get it. Does somebody have an explanation?
5. I also tune out all of the workplace stuff. It’s just so offensive and boring. But it looked like Jin Ah stood up for herself in episode 4. Go girl! Also beyond being an active topic in Korea right now, it doesn’t actually seem connected to the main story. I’m actually rather surprised that a real company gave permission to use their name in a way that is not flattering. I mean the man in that company don’t look clean…
kiara
April 9, 2018 at 7:34 AM
2. They’ve actually known each other for around 20 yrs or so. I think the romantic feelings were always on the surface until the timing was right for them? I don’t know, it’s a bit vague but maybe we’ll find out later when he actually think of her as woman (Korean style).
4. I think Kyu Min played a double role in driving the couple together with his obsessive behavior and at the same an obstacle. He’s not wrong at all in suspecting that there is something going on between them.
I think the person who would have the most difficult time accepting their relationship will be Joon Hee’s sister.
From her point of view it’s a betrayal of a long friendship. They are as close as real sisters can get. Jin-ah just crossed a line that will break years of bond and trust.
5. I’m probably alone in thinking that the workplace stuff has its purpose in keeping this show grounded in reality.
kiara
April 9, 2018 at 7:00 AM
Love this! Thanks for sharing :).
I’m not sure who I’m in love with more. PD Ahn’s directing or our couple.
They are very well directed down to the small details. Every turn, every shots from every angle has a meaning and purpose, every word and how it’s delivered etc.
The music selection and the timing is perfectly done. I was worried that I would be sick of it from being overplayed but it does its purpose in highlighting certain scenes between being a woman at work etc and a woman in love.
Everything feels natural and sincere.
The realisms on the culture and everyday life makes this show interesting and relatable. Usually my fav part in every K-drama and PD Ahn just tells it the way it is. No sugarcoating.
When my mind wanders into fantasyland with our couple’s growing romantic moments the workplace drama brings me back to reality.
Love is all fantastic and stuff but we still have to wake up and go to work no matter how unpleasant the workplace maybe.
Melona
April 1, 2018 at 12:33 AM
In recognition of Jung Hae-in’s noona-slaying prowess in “Pretty Noona…”, please be reminded that he’s been slaying noonas since the Joseon era. I love that Yang Dong-geun speaks for all of us.
cherry 🍒
April 1, 2018 at 12:38 AM
LMAO that was funny 😂 I’m that girl who ran to touch his body before he put on clothes!
Melona
February 9, 2018 at 6:32 PM
Question: How many standing ovations are allowed for Go Hye-ran in a single episode of Misty?
Hint: She’s an evil, evil witch but so, so terribly awesome.
Answer: What the Waikiki boys said.
DoubleFault
February 9, 2018 at 11:29 PM
I just finished watching ep 3 and my jaw is still on the floor. Kim Nam-joo is killing it as Go Hye-ran. I want to be that fabulous while being cold, calculating and plotting someone’s downfall.
Melona
February 9, 2018 at 11:41 PM
Kim Nam-joo is SO GOOD here. Hye-ran is somehow spitting fire from her eyes yet also gives out such a chilly aura, that if you see her in real life, you’ll probably shrink away, hoping that you don’t cross her path. You definitely want her to be your friend, and not your enemy. 3 episodes in and there have been so many moments where I just automatically stand up and slow clap.
korfan
February 9, 2018 at 11:41 PM
Misty is absolutely fantastic and Kim Nam-joo is all kinds of awesome.
dramaDee
February 10, 2018 at 4:46 AM
I just wrote on my wall about kim nam joo..god she is brilliant! I can’t decide if i hate her or love her, she plays Go Hey-ran so well. The scene where she gave it to the coniving junior at work was epic!