Boys Before Flowers: Episode 16

287 February 24, 2009January 24, 2016

by javabeans

Thasswhatimtalkinbout. Good episode! The cute is back.

No, it wasn’t the best episode we’ve had, and there were still a few hard-to-buy logic points, but I think there’s a key difference from the frustrating inconsistencies of Episode 15. Episode 16 had points that stretched believability, but at least they worked in context.

See, I’m not against the idea of “check your brain at the door” fun — but even that has fundamental requirements. Like basic logic, continuity, flow.

SONG OF THE DAY

Casker – “아무도 모른다” (No One Knows). How thrilled am I that Casker is out with a new album (and that it rocks)? [ Download ]

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EPISODE 16 RECAP

Jun-pyo arrives at Ji-hoo’s, making an excuse rather than admit he just wanted/needed the company. He says he only dropped by because Ji-hoo’s house is closest, plus he had fought with Yi-jung in Macau and Woo-bin always has girls hanging around. Ji-hoo points out that Jun-pyo punched him too, so Jun-pyo tells Ji-hoo to hit him and they’ll call it even.

That’s a tacit apology, and Ji-hoo smiles. Jun-pyo asks roundabout-ly how “everyone” is doing. Ji-hoo replies, “If you’re wondering about Jan-di, she’s fine.”

Jun-pyo tries to pretend he didn’t want to know that, changing the topic to demand a birthday present. Ji-hoo hands over the bag Jan-di left behind, inside which Jun-pyo finds a doll with curly hair. It comes with a note from Jan-di: “Gu Jun-pyo, happy birthday. I’ll pray that your birthday isn’t lonely, and full of only happy things.”

(Ji-hoo’s act of friendly loyalty means he has again stepped back to help Jun-pyo and Jan-di. This is what makes him a good friend, but won’t get him the girl in the end, which is something he knows. Thus he broods as he eats his pancakes of sadness.)

At school, Jae-kyung recognizes Jan-di and greets her enthusiastically. She’s going to be enrolling at Shinhwa University and suggests that they be good friends (as “unni-dongsaeng,” or a big-sis-little-sis relationship).

Since she’s Jun-pyo’s fiancée, Jan-di’s less enthused but tries to be polite. When Jae-kyung says she’s here to see somebody, Jan-di guesses that’s Jun-pyo. Speaking of the devil, Jae-kyung spots him walking by with F3 and bounds over to him. Unfazed by his brusque demeanor, she grabs him in a headlock and calls him fiancé.

Jun-pyo breaks free, calling her a crazy monkey (again). Jae-kyung has accepted this engagement thing and intends to see it through, and declares: “I’m going to tame you.”

Jan-di watches quietly from the sidelines. Seeing her expression, Woo-bin approaches to explain that Jun-pyo’s starting at the university with the others. (I really love him for this; he’s a nice guy, and as we’ve seen, he’s always the biggest advocate for friendly harmony.)

Ga-eul hears about the encounter as they work, playing the supportive friend who’s indignant at “that other girl.” But Jan-di has to be honest, saying Jae-kyung is actually a cool person — which is when she shows up.

Jae-kyung cheerfully introduces herself to Ga-eul, looking around and saying their job looks like fun; she’s always wanted to try something like this. She then “borrows” the girls, leaving her bodyguard behind with Master.

Girl-bonding time. This is another thing Jae-kyung has always wanted to try — a day chatting and hanging out with the girls. Asked whether she doesn’t have friends for that, Jae-kyung says brightly, “I have no friends.” She’s moved around so much that she never had the opportunity.

Jae-kyung knows Jan-di is acquainted with Jun-pyo, but not the extent of their relationship, so she asks Jan-di for advice on the type of girls Jun-pyo likes. It’s an awkward question, and Jan-di answers a bit ruefully, “He’s so busy thinking about his own style that I’d bet he wouldn’t even remember what the girl wears.”

Jae-kyung decides, “I like him more and more,” and prods for more details.

Jan-di thinks, then answers that Jun-pyo is super arrogant and acts like he knows everything. Growing wistful, Jan-di starts to get lost in the memory: “If he likes something, he ignores everything else and goes for it all the way, like a bulldozer. He’s really scary when he’s angry, but when he treats you well, he’s tender.”

Jan-di snaps out of it, coming back to the present, and finishes by saying he’s childish and hot-tempered. Pleased with the detailed description, Jae-kyung says, “You know him well. Good, let me ask an official favor. I really want to get along well with him. Be my dating coach.”

Jan-di’s face shows just how much she doesn’t want to agree. Ga-eul, who has been standing by uncomfortably, shoots an upset look Jae-kyung’s way (though the latter doesn’t notice).

At the end of the night, Jae-kyung hands two shopping bags to Ga-eul and Jan-di, announcing that they’re her best friends now — she jokes that those are “bribes.” Ga-eul thinks Jae-kyung’s a little strange, but has to admit somewhat reluctantly, “She’s someone you can’t hate.”

Yi-jung and Woo-bin tease Jun-pyo about Jae-kyung and wonder when he got so chummy with his fiancée, after hearing about her biting his ear (which they point out is Jun-pyo’s “sensitive point”).

However, their initial joshing turns into worry — what if the engagement turns serious? Then Jun-pyo and Jan-di will be over for good. Ji-hoo tells them they can do something about it — are they Casanovas or what?

Jan-di’s family hear about Jun-pyo’s engagement and ask her dejectedly if it’s true. Jan-di confirms it, so they to find out as much as they can about this mystery fiancée who stole Jan-di’s spot as Jun-pyo’s future wife.

Jae-kyung makes an unannounced visit, introducing herself as Jan-di’s new friend. Not knowing that this is Jun-pyo’s fiancée, Jan-di’s parents welcome her to drop by at any time.

When Jae-kyung requests to spend the night, borrowing a tracksuit much like the one Jun-pyo once wore, the family pauses to wonder, “This situation feels familiar.”

Ever eager to try out new things, Jae-kyung enthuses over their impromptu pajama party. She says, “It feels like predestination, meeting you and Gu Jun-pyo in Macau.” She confesses, “I must have liked him from the first time I met him.” She would’ve normally been completely against the engagement, but “the moment I saw his face, my chest tingled. Do you know that feeling? Is there someone you like? A first love?”

At Jan-di’s expression, Jae-kyung guesses there is someone. Jan-di says there’s one person who had an effect on her: “When I looked at him, my mind would go blank.” (By this, she means that everything else goes dull and fades.)

Jae-kyung describes Jun-pyo as wine — the more you drink, it circulates through the blood and brings a tingling, electric feeling all over your body. It occurs to her that Jun-pyo may like somebody, but she figures, “It doesn’t matter. I’ll just have to make him like me now.”

Jun-pyo waits around campus for Jan-di, who’s she’s not happy to see him. She snaps at him when he starts to follow her; he asks why she doesn’t swim anymore. She merely replies, “I quit.”

Jun-pyo feels the need to clarify that the engagement wasn’t his idea; he has nothing to do with it. Jan-di retorts that it has nothing to do with her either, adding sarcastically, “You’ve gotten a lot kinder, to bother explaining that to the stain you want to erase.”

In the distance, Jae-kyung spots them and starts heading over. Jan-di takes advantage of Jun-pyo’s momentary distraction to hurry away, catching Ji-hoo as he’s about to leave. She asks for a ride.

Ji-hoo sees Jun-pyo following behind, assesses the situation, and hands her a helmet just as the other two arrive.

When Ji-hoo is introduced, Jae-kyung says knowingly to Jan-di, “This is him, right? The one you like?” Not registering the tension, Jae-kyung thinks this is great, and suggests that they all go out together. The other three respond immediately, “No.”

Jan-di excuses herself, tells Jae-kyung to have fun with Jun-pyo, and asks Ji-hoo to leave quickly.

Ji-hoo drops Jan-di off at the clinic, where Jan-di has taken on an assistant position. Nothing medical — mostly running errands and cleaning. Ji-hoo offers to help and accompanies her inside — but the instant he sees the doctor, his eyes bulge open in shock. Doctor-Grandpa recognizes Ji-hoo, shouting after him as Ji-hoo rushes out.

Yes, the doctor is Ji-hoo’s grandfather. Also the ex-president. At the restaurant, Master says that it wasn’t that the grandfather wouldn’t see Ji-hoo all these years, but that he couldn’t, and asks Jan-di to help.

Before he can elaborate, visitors stagger inside the restaurant: an exhausted Yi-jung and Woo-bin.

Taking Ji-hoo’s hint to do something about The Pesky Fiancée, they’d both sought to woo her away from Jun-pyo. Yi-jung tried impressing her with his art collection, while Woo-bin “rescued” her from gangsters. But their plan backfires — Jae-kyung is utterly exhausting, which they realize after following her around, eating, drinking, karaoke-ing together.

The plan failed, so they are down to their last resort: to forget about Jae-kyung and focus on getting the Idiot Duo together. (Not my words! Woo-bin calls them that.) For this plan, they require Ga-eul’s help.

First, Ga-eul calls Jan-di to tell her she has a date with Yi-jung. Dreamily mooning over Yi-jung has the intended effect — Jan-di freaks out about Ga-eul’s welfare, because a player like Yi-jung would completely use and abandon her friend.

She resolves to prevent this and calls Ji-hoo, but gets no response. I’m not sure why she doesn’t try Woo-bin next, but she finds him anyway when she bursts into Jun-pyo’s room to plead for his help.

Since this is a part of The Plan, Woo-bin tells her Jun-pyo’s in the next room, but doesn’t bother explaining that Jun-pyo’s getting out of a shower. And it’s a good thing for fans, too, since this leads us to our fanservicey moment of the day: bare-chested Lee Min-ho.

There’s a hilarious moment when Jan-di, all frazzled with worry (and from half-nekkid Jun-pyo), blurts out her concerns. Her words are jumbled up so it comes out like, “Need your help,” “I can’t do it alone,” and “You might have to get physical.”

By the last bit, she means he’d have to fight or use force with Yi-jung, but as she doesn’t explain that, Jun-pyo perks up in interest. Jan-di frets some more: “What if we have to go to a hotel?”

After that misunderstanding is clarified, Woo-bin intentionally plays on Jan-di’s fears about Yi-jung’s ladykiller tendencies, demonstrating Yi-jung’s Five Steps to Seduction on Jan-di in front of a jealous Jun-pyo. (I love jealous Jun-pyo.)

Jun-pyo scoffs because Ga-eul isn’t anything like Yi-jung’s type. However, Woo-bin fans the flames, countering, “No, he said he found her cute.” He wonders how long it’ll take to win over Ga-eul — it might only take one day.

That means Jan-di must stop them from having a successful date at all costs. She busily works out a plan and shares it with Jun-pyo. Woo-bin watches in satisfaction.

Together, Jan-di and Jun-pyo set out to save Ga-eul. Or rather, Jan-di drags along an indifferent Jun-pyo while she spies.

Aware of their audience, Yi-jung and Ga-eul commence their act. (It’s a good thing that Yi-jung and Ga-eul are faking and know that Jan-di’s there, because she is the worst undercover spy ever.) All day, Yi-jung plays the attentive, flirtatious boyfriend. Jan-di grows increasingly worried at the seemingly successful date.

After his unexpected encounter with his grandfather, Ji-hoo visits his parents’ graves, where he says with resignation, “Grandfather must still hate me. Everyone I’ve cared for has left my side. I decided to try living thinking I didn’t need anyone, but I keep wanting more.”

Unbeknownst to Ji-hoo, President Yoon had actually said in a separate scene that the accident had been his fault (not Ji-hoo’s). He says sorrowfully, “I killed them. It’s my fault he was made into an orphan.”

It’s clear that they’ve been kept apart by mutual misunderstanding and grief — and I hope there’s a better reason than both sides simply assuming the worst of themselves.

My first reaction was confusion at seeing Yi-jung leading Ga-eul onto the ice rink in regular shoes, but perhaps this is a result of Kim Bum’s recent accident and foot injury, so this awkwardness gets a pass.

At one point, Jan-di turns away to avoid being seen and stumbles against Jun-pyo. After the initial surprise, Jun-pyo holds her closer to him, until she moves away.

Watching Yi-jung shrug out of his jacket to give to Ga-eul, Jan-di mutters that he’s a total player. Jun-pyo counters, “Then would you prefer Ga-eul freeze to death?”

Noting that Jan-di’s freezing too, Jun-pyo tells her she should worry about herself too, and steps behind her to spread his jacket around her. Which reminds them of the last time he’d done a similar thing, back at the ski lodge.

From the ice, Yi-jung and Ga-eul notice that their plan is working, so Yi-jung brings on the big finish: Fireworks.

Jun-pyo and Jan-di watch the fireworks go off, with his arms still wrapped around her. Jun-pyo gives Yi-jung credit for the impressive display, and asks, “Was it this cool when I did it too?”

Maybe things are getting too personal, because Jan-di pushes Jun-pyo off and steps aside, asking what will come next in Yi-jung’s plan. To her dismay, Jun-pyo indicates a nearby hotel.

Thus they take a room next door to Yi-jung and Ga-eul. Jan-di imagines the worst, not knowing that they’re actually just standing around in the room and waiting to wrap up their plan. She’s a nervous wreck. In contrast, Jun-pyo sits back, impressed with Yi-jung’s romantic prowess.

Jan-di can’t hear anything through the thick walls, so she peers out into the hallway, and gasps. She motions Jun-pyo over to see a room-service cart (loaded with candles, dessert, the works) making its way to Yi-jung’s room.

Determined to put a crimp in their plans, Jan-di instructs Jun-pyo to steal the cart. She pushes him out into the hallway, where he intercepts the employee and pays for the cart. All the while, Yi-jung peers out of the peephole and watches as Jan-di directs the cart into her room instead.

That’s as much as the So-eul couple can do, so they call it a successful night and head out.

Next door, Jan-di and Jun-pyo sit in awkward silence for a few beats, until they both speak at the same time: She says, “Happy birthday” just as he says, “Thanks.”

Jun-pyo thanks Jan-di for the birthday present — it’s the shabbiest present he’s ever received, but he’ll let that slide because it’s the thought that counts. The statement is typical Jun-pyo (a light insult to cover the softer undertone), and Jan-di smiles a bit.

She wishes him happy birthday, and then, “Congratulations on the engagement.” Jun-pyo retorts, “I told you not to bother thinking about that.”

In a faltering tone, Jan-di says that Jae-kyung is a good person. She starts to tear up as she adds, “She really likes you a lot.”

Jun-pyo sighs, “Meddling as usual. Right, you’re not Geum Jan-di unless you’re throwing my insides into turmoil.” He asks, does that mean she’d be fine if he married right away, then?

Jan-di can’t answer that; uncomfortable, she needs some space and changes the subject back to Ga-eul, and steps into the hall to check on the other room.

It’s here that she is found by Madam Kang, who was downstairs in the lobby when an employee informed her that Jun-pyo had taken out a room. Mama Witch confronts Jan-di angrily and heaps abuse on her and her family.

At this point, Jun-pyo comes out looking for Jan-di, and stops short at the sight of his mother.

Madam Kang loses her temper — implying that Jan-di is a desperate slut, she accuses Jan-di of throwing herself at Jun-pyo even though he’s engaged, then raises an arm to strike. She says scathingly, “You ill-bred, audacious girl…!”

Jun-pyo blocks his mother’s arm and yells at her to stop. He repeats in a quieter voice, “Please, stop.”

So she slaps him instead.

Madam Kang orders her men to take Jun-pyo away, and stalks off. In stunned silence, Jun-pyo is escorted down the hall, while Jan-di sinks to the ground, in shock herself.

Down in the lobby, Jun-pyo shoves the men away and reaches for his phone. He hesitates as he starts to write a message to Ji-hoo — to rescue Jan-di, as usual — as though unwilling to step back and let his friend in his place. But he hits send… and then hurls his phone into the ground angrily. It breaks into pieces.

I LOVE THIS POINT. In the past, Jun-pyo had called Ji-hoo to help, to take his place as a friend, and Ji-hoo faithfully came through — not for himself, but for them. Now that Jun-pyo knows Ji-hoo has feelings for Jan-di, and that he himself can’t have her, it kills him to knowingly push the two together. But the alternative is worse — to leave Jan-di without anyone to lean on — so he does it, no matter how much he hates it. LOVE.

But Jan-di leaves before Ji-hoo arrives at the hotel, and when he calls to check up on her, she tells him that she’s fine and at home.

She’s lying, because she’s actually at the empty clinic, which she starts to clean. Ji-hoo, however, knows to find her here and says, “So this has become home to you.”

I really like this scene, which is nearly wordless and has all the more impact for it. Ji-hoo watches Jan-di mopping the floor, with a troubled expression his face (is that an actual flicker of emotion I see?), and steps in front of her to force her to stop. She mops around him, so he steps in front again to make her stop. She turns away, he follows.

It’s not Ji-hoo’s nature to push, so it’s like he’s waiting for her to come to her own breaking point. He grabs the mop and puts it away, and with nothing else to distract her, Jan-di lets her tears fall. He holds her as she cries.

Every time Jun-pyo gets near to his own breaking point (or breaking-free point), he’s rather forcibly reined in by Mommie Dearest, so the next time he crosses paths with Jan-di on campus, he’s back to being cold and distant. F4 walks past Jan-di, and he doesn’t spare her a glance.

Jan-di’s hurt, but doesn’t have time to dwell — her mother calls with dire news. Jan-di can’t understand what the problem is, and asks her mother to explain. Hearing the worry in her voice, Ji-hoo turns back and sees Jan-di rushing away.

When she gets home, the entire place is covered in red stickers, which denote items to be repossessed. Her mother is lying down from the shock as Jan-di’s father tends to her, trying to keep an optimistic face. Their financial woes were bad enough already — they can barely manage to pay off the interest on their loans — but now they have another problem, because a friend used Dad’s name to borrow money (with consent, made before their current troubles).

With both parents sunk in worry, they’ve failed to show up at their janitorial jobs. Jan-di tries to smooth it over with their boss, offering to take their place temporarily until her parents are able to return to work. Thus begins yet another job to add to her list.

COMMENTS

Granted, a few moments in this episode required a (sizable) suspension of disbelief. But the reason I was able to enjoy this episode — a lot, actually — is because once I made the leap in accepting the premise, the rest of the episode generally flowed, logically and emotionally.

For instance: I didn’t really buy how frantic Jan-di was to save Ga-eul from Yi-jung. Sure, he’s a notorious playboy, but she also knows him enough to know he’s not evil; he’s not the awful Su-pyo from an earlier episode. I could see her worry, but it wasn’t enough to explain her pushing aside all her issues with Jun-pyo to beg for his help. But once I decided to just accept that as the basis for this storyline, the rest of the events that followed made sense. I’d rather not have to make any logical leaps in the first place, but at least in this case it worked out. (This was not the case in Episode 15, which is why it made me so cranky.)

I like Jae-kyung, although it took me until this episode to decide — I’d been on the fence (despite liking the actress from Day 1). It probably helps that I don’t find her voice annoying, as many of you do. Normally, a girl who wants to fit herself to be a guy’s ideal type indicates a weakness of character, but with Jae-kyung, it doesn’t seem that way. Probably because it’s not so much that she wants to change herself to suit Jun-pyo, but that she strikes me as a blank canvas, which I find really interesting. I don’t mean she’s blank as a person because she obviously has a very strong personality, but it’s more that she’s a newly born animal who’s eager to try anything and everything. She’s willing to try something new — to BE something new — to discover whether it suits her. So she likes Jun-pyo and is trying to see if she can make it work with him; can’t fault her for that.

All the Jun-pyo and Jan-di scenes were a lot of fun. Like I mentioned, I find it a little unbelievable that they work together so soon after all the Angst and Drama, but once you accept that they do, the scenes are really cute to watch. And although it seems like Jun-pyo is still caught in his mother’s snare, I think we start to see that it’s a losing battle for him to be without Jan-di. He does okay when she’s out of sight (thus out of mind), but when he’s within reach of her, it’s all just a matter of time before his real feelings are pushed to the surface. Thank god for meddling friends who keep them within reach of each other, right?

As for the last scene between Ji-hoo and Jan-di, now THAT is something I want to see more of — a complex dynamic expressed in a simple way. Ji-hoo stepping in front of Jan-di to stop her from skirting around her problem. Taking away her (literal) crutch and leaving her standing alone in an empty room, with no facades left to hide behind. Not pushing her too quickly, but waiting for her to confront the truth, forcing for her to face her emotions.

I mean, how freaking beautiful is that? And we did it in one short scene, two actors in an empty room with one prop.

There is no need to get all convoluted and nonsensical with plot twists — i.e., all that wallet ridiculousness from 15, or random characters who do nothing — when such a little exchange can have so much more impact.

287

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151 ginko

February 25, 2009 at 6:30 AM

@ #4, I cant believe someone could say thing like that in someone else blog. Hope you learn the answer from others' comments !!!

#137 Hazel1282 , ha ha, count me there with you, I’m almost 30, a professional, but I also open Dramabeans every morning even before checking my office e-mail, LOL

I believe Sarah has never got distracted with those unfair comments, she knows what she's doing, and that's why I love her witty blog. Thank you Sarah.

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152 sara and nacho

February 25, 2009 at 6:32 AM

thanks for your recaps, I love them more than the drama...really! you improve the lack of plot and logic with your humor, I love it!

just one more think, I totally agree it is sometimes desperate to see what is the next idiot thing they are going to do (where are the scriptwriters when you need them?). But, aren't they suppose to be 17 years old or so?
I mean, I do not know about you all guys, but that was not my most logic time, I can tell: I lost wallets everywhere, changed my mind all the time, now mean then nice.. ...maybe we need to refocus the point, maybe the director is so great that reflect teen to perfection......haha

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153 bumpkin

February 25, 2009 at 7:01 AM

Thanks for the recap.

I actually had no plans to comment but someone's comment made me want to point out something.

I guess, this is a really bad time to see JanDi because it makes it easier to compare her to the fiancee--saying the fiancee is 'better'.

I don't hate the fiancee nor am I a complete JD fan---but guys, I think that it is easy for the fiancee to be 'spunky' or have a lot of 'character' because she seems to me like a person that has no worries or problems. Lucky eh? I believe that the only problem she has now is 'how to make JP like her'. As for not really having friends or anything like that, I guess it didn't really 'damage' her or anything.

As for JD, wow where do I start? Always thinking about her family and their problems. Could have still swam if she only had the money to get her shoulder properly checked. I agree with the comment that someone mentioned (sorry forgot who), she is also in love with a powerful guy and sees their future together is very bleak.

I feel JD is a little tired already---no, actually more like weary. People who have problems can probably understand this.

With that said, maybe I'll try to compare the fiancee to earlier episodes where JD didn't really have much problems yet. And the only problem she had then was how to get 'rid' of JP! :) hahhahah

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154 cecee

February 25, 2009 at 7:02 AM

as always great recaps. I like the Kdrama version of HYD but I don't like the fact that the "JD" character is so weak. This version is more about JP than JD when the story supposed to be mainly about JD strong character. And that is why I like the Jversion better because it stayed true to the story. Makino was strong from begininng to end. Character consistency whereas the Kdrama barely had any. I still love watching it though!

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155 elisa

February 25, 2009 at 7:08 AM

#148 sara and nacho...you do have a point that the director was probably showing how stupid we can get at that age. i was actually thinking that Jandi was like 15y/o if she was a junior in HS but someone corrected me about the korean school system. in my country we finish HS at 16 and can finish with university work at 20 y/o. JanDi is 19 and JunPyo is 20 in this drama. still, you are right...you can do a lot of stupid things at that age (we so enjoy the drama despite the flaws so we are now making excuses to keep on watching).

I could understand why JP didn't tell JD his "real" feelings on the bridge of Macau because of the mom's spies but i keep on wondering why JP didn't say anything while in the hotel room. he had every opportunity to get down on his knees...yeah grovel and beg the girl's forgiveness and explain the whole situation and maybe both of them can come up with a solution, right! with 8 episodes to go and i learned that YG's brother and ex-GF are going to be introduced...how the heck are the writers going to make it believable that JD would just go back to JP with a snap of the finger. JH is a real threat and I hope they come up with something interesting...bring back the cuteness please.

thanks javabeans....

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156 salt

February 25, 2009 at 7:14 AM

@#57 viviana

i know how u feel. i did the same thing too (scouring the net for any little bit of news/ info about KHJ) but way earlier... like efter ep5 or 6. i suggest u go n watch we got married starting from ep9. he's one of the participant n i promise u that u will definitely FALL for him in a big way ;)
(still trying to spread some joongbo LURVE and craziness- sorry....)

1. love the recaps.
2. amused that the monday-tuesday pattern still holds true.
3. happy that woobin is getting more screentime n more lurve from everyone here
4. ecstatic that KHJ is getting some props about his continous improvement
5. BWAHAHAHA!!!. someone said KHJ's new hairdo make him looks like a mushroom..

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157 KT

February 25, 2009 at 7:20 AM

Thanks Sarahbeans. I hate to admit it, but your blogs are my guilty pleasure. Love your comments. Put a smile on my face every time I read them. I started watching this series b/c of your blogs. Great job. Your writing skill is above and beyond excellent!

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158 Angela

February 25, 2009 at 7:34 AM

Man, I was trying to not read this recap to keep my mind clear of any "spoilers" before I watched the episodes (I haven't watched either of this week's episodes yet!), but I can't resist!

But, anyway, thanks so much for being so quick!

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159 Chocolatetree

February 25, 2009 at 7:41 AM

Favourite line: Pancakes of Sadness. I loled. :D

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160 Jellybean

February 25, 2009 at 7:46 AM

This was one of my favorites episodes because we finally started to see the plot move. Last week's episodes were the set-up for the second half of this drama, essentially season two of HYD, and I love all of the complexity that has radiated out of introducing Jae Kyung into the mix. Unlike others, I feel as if her character has created a new energy, and introduced a new dynamic, making the second half feel more different than the first (in a good way... i.e. evolution).

I loved the scene in the Shin Hwa courtyard between JP, JD, JH and JK. I guess they form a love quadrangle! I

In the previous HYD versions, I never really thought the JH/Rui character was a real contender for JD/Makino character, but in this version, they've really fleshed the JH character out (despite KHJ's acting chops, or lack thereof, sometimes). I hope in this version they make the JH character really make a run for it. The best scenes are the ones that contrast JH-JP's friendship and their respective scenes with JD; it's clear both of them respect one another as friends but they both love and care for JD deeply.

I think the cast has gotten more comfortable with each other, and it really shows in the various interactions. I really loved the scene in JP's room with WooBin (glad he's finally getting more screen time) as well as the stake-out scene in front of Ga-Eul's home. Yeah, Jandi, being spread-eagled against the brick wall isn't drawing more undesired attention to yourself. And I finally started to see some inkling of chemistry between LMH and GHS though I have to say as actors, they are much better when they have to play off of other actors in the same scene (such as WooBin, Jae Kyung and JiHoo, the So-eul couple, or Mama Kang).

But hands down, the best scene was at the end, starting with Jun Pyo and Jandi alone in the hotel room talking, and ending with Jun Pyo smashing his phone in frustration and anger after he decides, yet again to step aside, thus paving the way for Ji Hoo. It's heartbreaking how much Jun Pyo loves Jandi-- he's willing to relegate his emotions for her welfare. He knows how much Ji Hoo cares for Jandi, and in that tension frought scene, it's clear he decides that if he can't be with her (due to his family obligations), then the next best thing is for his best friend to be with her. <3 <3 <3 Jun-Pyo. All the brooding and passionate outbursts for some reason reminds me of Hamlet... muhaha.

I cannot wait for next week! I really love all of the drama and angst....Despite all of the inconsistencies and ridiculous leaps in logic, I love all of the characters and already, I'm starting to dread the end of this drama (which is a month away)? Do Kdramas ever do sequels like Jdramas if a show is particularly popular? I really really really want that to happen. Someone please make that happen!!!!

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161 GeeNie

February 25, 2009 at 7:47 AM

Ok...so I know that the fiancee is sorta "innocent" in all this because it's not like she's trying to break up Jandi and Junpyo's relationship but...God I swear I can't stand her. It takes a special...sometimes I think dumb...kind of person to completely not notice all the tension, all the glares that gaeul shoots her way...it's sorta depressing!

Anyway, thanks for the recaps.

And to #4, a recap without opinion is boring and tasteless. If that's what you're looking for, write your own.

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162 PILK

February 25, 2009 at 7:55 AM

Thanks for a great recap!
Fav scene was Jun-pyo's reluctant smile when he saw the doll from Jan-di. It's in one of your screen caps above. Very difficult to make half your mouth go North and the other half South. I tried but failed.

@4 - gee whiz, when in Rome, do as Romans do, y'know?

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163 plurals

February 25, 2009 at 8:22 AM

i've actually stopped watching since episode for but occasionally come back here to see how the drama is going and read some of the recaps. (all the hype it's getting and how bloated that is right now *__* keeps me curious). All I could think reading this one, was: the korean drama plushie has arrived. and it haz curly hair. (the plushie trope might have happened earlier but i wouldn't notice).

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164 MommieFan

February 25, 2009 at 8:25 AM

Ok time to admit that I am hopelessly and irrevocably addicted to this drama. There are just SO MANY holes requiring huge suspension of belief and logic and I like to think that it's all due to choppy editing but that notwithstanding this drama has me hooked, and giggling and sighing and crying as if I was 16 (MANY YEARS AGO) .

Also many thanks for the recap...you capture what we all feel here. which is intense addiction while seing all the flaws..I love it that you are incredulous but still enjoyin the drama.

On the acting, must say that I completely feel Jun Pyo's pain and Jeehoo's sadness (poor guy has to readjust his feelings so many times its a wonder he's not dizzy).

Ok enough comments. I am simultaneously looking forward to more episodes and dreadin the end....

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165 darenothope

February 25, 2009 at 8:25 AM

What do you think is the best episode so far?

I loved totally-made-of-fail Detective Jan Di. I also like your take on the Ji Hoo/Jan Di scene in the clinic. Makes me appreciate it more.

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166 snuffythemonkey

February 25, 2009 at 9:00 AM

It's great to indulge in good company. :D You guys are a fantastic bunch, some intelligent, some hilariously witty, some insightful and almost all delightful. Of course we have our fair share of nuts but that's what makes this comment section so fun to read!

Javabeans' site is on my Google Chrome list. Wahaha. I'll miss all the blog/comment interaction when this drama comes to its end. I've been "stalking" and F5ing this blog so often that I recognize names now from other forums and posts.

Anyhow, no rant today but I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who participates here and of course the biggest thank you goes to Javabeans for her recap and the mere existence for her blog which makes our "meetings" possible.

Cheers to Javabeans.

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167 Kirara

February 25, 2009 at 9:01 AM

Can I just say.. How this episode was just HILARIOUS.. I couldn't stop laughing. I think the reason for that is, since I've watched the other versions, the storylines are like a mix of the two and so I wasn't too depth in the story, just that again.. I'm impressed the way they spun it around in the craziest direction.

Every character was just going in all places... Woo Bin and his trying to hire people to attack the fiancee then, him and Yi Jung got dragged around, eating chicken feet, peuking.. I think i'm starting to like Woo Bin! He's super cute!! Then we got Jan Di acting super wierded out with the whole date with Yi Jung and Ga Eul, which by the way, even though they were acting, they were super duper cute..

Ji-Hoo had a difference in character, he was sad and so hurt.. and I know I'm probably the one of the few Ji Hoo fan out there, but I would so love for him to comfort me when I'm sad..I mean he's even cute when he's angry! Even if he doesn't end up with Jan-Di, he can hang out with me. (>_< but i'm sure i'm too old for him.. sadly) Al though, I wish I understood the storyline on what happened between Ji Hoo and his grandfather.. I get the main picture, just the details are cloudy a lil (guess in this case, it helps to be korean)

Can't wait to see what else is in store.. :D Thanks for your recaps as always.

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168 mariouma

February 25, 2009 at 9:07 AM

every time i said maybe this episode will be better than the precedant but it still the same booooooring , i don't like how jan di speak , her clothes everything about her . if the series succeed i think because "MIN LEE HO" HE IS THE BEST .
i watched the version japans and i loved but the version Koren it is the worse, i hope in the next episodes it will be better , i hope because the story is very funny so it must be that the writers do the best ,made the story more interesting.
i don't about yours ,are with me or not ,?but this my opinion .
finally , thanks javabeans you are the best .
i have a request for you : are you decide to do the recap of " cain and abel " ? i hope that because i love soo ji seop , and the story it is very interesting.
AND I LIKE READING YOUR RECAP MORE THAN WATCHING .

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169 Tangy

February 25, 2009 at 9:12 AM

@131 heejung: Oh, thanks! That explains it. I was debating between a sudden tie shortage in Korea or the PD attempting to find ways to cut corners XDDD
Weird fashion statements totally make more sense ;D

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170 pride or prejudice

February 25, 2009 at 9:21 AM

Loved Jandi rocking the Inspector Gadget glassess....too funny.

Jandi running t o Jun-Pyo for help didn't seem illogical to me. I can think of many instances when I've had arguments with close friends and siblings only to turn around and band together to confront a common problem. Sometimes, you only fight with the people you care about. Emotions such as anger, hurt, or jealousy aren't illicted by people we neither care about nor aren't close to.

Clearly panicked by the So-eul development, when Jandi couldn't reach Ji Hoo, she turned to the only other person she implicitly trusts, which is Jun Pyo. At this point, she's not thinking about their argument and the concomitant rift; she's supposed to be in sheer panic trying to *save* Ga-Eul. Running to JP is supposed to be a subconscious act on JD's part; one that also serves to reveal to JP that all hope isn't lost (due to his stain comment)

In any case, I always thought that there was a problem with Jandi always turning to Ji Hoo FIRST. At some point, for JP and JD's relationship to really work, JD has to turn to JP FIRST. I think this episode showed us the viewers, as well as JD, that emotionally, JP is capable of being JD's rock/fire alarm bell/whatever you want to call it. The appearance of JP's mom, of course, is the wrench thrown in the mix.

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171 kristin

February 25, 2009 at 9:26 AM

hi... just finished watching episode 15... when's the nest episode? i'm eager to watch it... thanks for the recaps...

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172 kristin

February 25, 2009 at 9:33 AM

next episode?

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173 ladyjumong1

February 25, 2009 at 9:41 AM

To #50 MoMo, #126 Akiddo, and #153 bumpkin-I couldn't agree with you more-With all those problems and situations heaped on her shoulders, Jandi is weary, but she still keeps going on with her life. Any other girl would have probably jumped into the Han river.

#64 Anna-I want one of those stuffed animals, too-just love the curly hair. Would also love to see Junpyo hugging it every night when he's asleep.

#148 sugarpunch-you took the words right out of my mouth-this may be brainless, romantic fluff, but I ALSO DON'T CARE, I LOVE THIS KDRAMA!

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174 vi

February 25, 2009 at 9:43 AM

Hi! I love your recaps especially your wittty, sarcastic comments. I stayed up until 1 last night to read you take on episode 16 even though i had a class at 8 am. #4 totally got it wrong. It's your personal comments that make your recaps so much fun ! :) Thank You!

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175

February 25, 2009 at 9:54 AM

i totally agree with whoever said this [sry, forgot the name]:

Instead of using the standard model of playing nasty tricks to get rid of one’s rival/enemy, which is Mama Witch’s style, Jae-Kyung used the “keep your friends close and your enemies closer” model on JD.

Being JD’s friend allows her to probe the depth of JD and JP’s relationship. It also allows her to keep tabs on JD and JP’s contact with each other. It also allows her access to JD’s knowledge about JP’s likes and dislikes, which will help her not to make a misstep with JP.

that fiance girl has got skills! Unless she's very ignorant and does not realize the growing tension between Jandi & Junpyo. I mean, it's pretty obvious from all the facial expressions that something is going on between those two. So "keep your friend close and your enemies closer" idea is perfect for this antagonist.
____________________

i also sorta agree with this:
This is the calm before the storm, we are being set up, based on just this episode, at least 3 mainpoints that need to ironed out: (1) JD role in reconciling JiHoo to his grandfather; (2) how JP gets out of his mother’s grasp with 700,000 families’ livelihood in his conscience and (3) how will JP win back JD (if i were her, i wouldn’t get back with him…too much emotional abuse…okay, okay am such a JiHoo fan).

YES, it is the calm before the storm. Some people say that this episode is such a waste of time with no developments but it's only getting us ready for what is yet to come. In the beginning, people complained about how the director/writer/PD/whatever is rushing the story too much, but now they're slowing it down, to let us breathe, laugh, cry, smile, etc.. They are only laying down the basis or foundation of the story that will later envelop. such as:: v

-Jihoo meeting his grandfather keeps us on the look out on how their misunderstanding will be resolved and how it affect the entierity of the story.
-Junpyo frequently forgetting about the 700,000 lives he has in his hand with his guilt-stricken conscience that continues to haunt him.
-Junpyo not knowing the reason why Jandi can't swim anymore keeps us on the look out. [it'll probably be very dramatic when he finds out] ='[
- and many more such as false hopes, betrayal, shattered economy, Yijung & Gaeul issues, etc.

^ that's what keeps me watching this drama. =]

*anyway, thank you so much for the recaps, your comments are quite interesting.

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176 khitee

February 25, 2009 at 10:11 AM

I just love your recaps. Thanks. ü

Id rather read all your recaps till the end of the show then ill go watch it. Its much more interesting.

Keep it up. ü

Ive enjoyed watching hanadan yet bbf give a lot of emotions. Mixed emotions. ü

Im still on hype! Thanks again.

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177 new-s

February 25, 2009 at 10:44 AM

I'm not a fan of Geum Jan Di since I don't think her character embodies Tsukushi and most of the time Koo Hye Sun's acting is rather contrived, but I really liked this episode! She was so funny as an undercover spy!!! Comic relief :)

And Woo-bin is hilarious. I really wish they would give him more screen time. Even with his small role, he shines through...right there on top w/ Goo Joon Pyo!

Dramabeans, I'm in agreement w/ your critique of this drama...exactly my thoughts as I'm watching it.

Thanks!

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178 MK

February 25, 2009 at 10:47 AM

Funny ... When I was watching this episode, I was thinking about how I bet you would love the whole Jun-Pyo-destroying-his-cell-phone part because I absolutely "felt" how torn he was at that moment. Lee Min Ho's acting is superb! =D

Thanks for the recap!

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179 lynn

February 25, 2009 at 10:49 AM

@ 103 Bérénice, i have to admit a little part of me can't completely let Junpyo go about the whole "stain" line too. lol. That was just so harsh. So I was glad that Jandi used it against him. go jandi! lol. but he is redeeming himself. =P

@ 117 Auntie Mame, i like your analysis about Jaekyung. When she asked Jandi about knowing Junpyo, I was thinking, "didn't you see her at the party? she was standing next to you?! 0_O" Given she doesn't know the full details yet, I don't think she's that oblivious to JD-JP's past/present relationship. If indeed so, this may seem manipulative on her part. (But for those who watched HYD, we know that she'll value friendship over love just like Rui.) Unless she really IS that slow and clueless. lol.

@175 yes, that would definitely be devastating once Junpyo finds out the real reason. TT__TT

Sometimes it's too sad to watch Jihoo comfort Jandi because you know he's just diving directly into a heartbreak in the end. :[ I can't believe just 8 episodes left and there's still so much things they have to show (wonder if they'll do the amnesia part...)

thanks Javabeans! I always read your recaps after I watched the episode. :]

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180 yubikiri

February 25, 2009 at 11:03 AM

I'm relieve and deceive at the same time for the last 2 episodes....I could even say for the last 4...Is it me or I just don't "feel/see" the love btw the main characters that mean Jun Pyo and JanDi even if they are far away from each other? Or is the writer just want us to have a "distance, lonely, rupture, departure" moment-emotion between the two of them? I mean, it seems that they will never ever get back together again... like NEVER! (and we wish that they would eventually....*spoiler*) Anyhow, that is what I feel for the moment and I hope things will get moving soon....-.-

But I have to admit : I really REALLY like the scenes where the two "idiots couple" are together spying on GaEul and Yi Jung. That was PRICELESS!! Actually, the way Jan Di drags Jun Pyo was just too funny! I couldn't stop laughing! And yeah, I though the same way as you dramabeans....about the fact that Jan Di know PRETTY WELL that Yi Jung is not as bad and that he would never ever bring Ga Eul and do something bad to her...but then again....I told myself that it was probably because she knew him too much that she didnt want both of them to be together...AND I really hope that Yi Jung and Ga Eul gets together at the end....we can see that he actually APPRECIATES her ...but I don't think he loves her (see, see, see, I understood more GaEul-Yijung "couple" than "JP-JD")....oh well...we'll see... maybe the directors will decide to change the end of the story.... -.- ...if so, i hope it's going to be a good one....anyhow, we'll discuss that later as the serie reaches ep24...

Also, i was wondering why she didnt go ask won bin( YEAH!cuty dancing on "paradise" ...another of my cute cute moment that I keep on rewatching over and over ahaha)....but then again, i told myself that maybe sometimes after she called ji hoon, she called won bin and he probably said it was okay for them to date or something like that or probable told her to come over to ask for juung pyo help....you know he was also in the plan...but damn, this episode was hard to follow with logic.....well for me...cause i had to imagine some "unshown" scene in order for me to accept the whole episode....again, anyhow....

But really, jun pyo and jan di scenes was priceless! it made my day! I'm really happy to see them back together....i was getting a bit annoyed by only seeing jihoo and jian di together...not that i don't like jihoo...but i really think jan di and jun pyo suit together and jihoo suit with whoever he has to be with). Jihoo seems like a great guy...in fact, he is! but please, even tho you re in love with jan di, you gave her up for jung pyo and now because jung pyo turned his back on jian di, you want to get her again or something like that? or maybe is it because he feels lonely and wants someone by his side? it's confusing there.....like i can't tell his true motive-feeling....maybe because i have watch the jap live action, jap anime, jap manga and chinese live action that make me having those confusing thoughts....anyhow again...

But thanks Dramabeans to give such recaps! Last week, I was just sooo busy with exam so I read you recaps instead of watching the drama....faster ahaha. But let's pray that before the serie finish, we will have a good monday episode! and that the next episodes are going to be more coherent and less confusing than the one we had...well that's what i hope...and i hope jan di will do something about jun pyo! come on, she a persistent and strong women! she looks weak right now.....like REALLY WEAK and she's giving me the feeling that "I-can't-do-anything-by-myself-anymore-and-I-need-a-savior" ! She wasnt like that at the beginning........I want her back!! and the happy cute Jun Pyo....but fanservice was good ahaha i didnt dislike it ...at all....:P

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181 yelibean

February 25, 2009 at 11:07 AM

Anyone know if the new OST has been released? I REALLY REALLY like the acoustic version of "Because I'm Stupid" by Kim Hyun Joong...

I WANT IT! ^____^

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182 CoffeeBean

February 25, 2009 at 11:36 AM

Hi dramabeans/all,

This is my 1st time posting although I've read all your recaps since BOF ep1. I love reading them and have made it a habit to drop by every Tue/Wed after watching the episodes. One thing I have to slightly disagree with you is I don't really find Mon eps worse than Tue ones. In fact my favorite ep so far is ep9 where there were lots of 'giddfiying' moments hehe :) And not contradicting myself, I loved ep13-16 almost the same even though the drama has become all serious (mind you I started watching this for all the fantasy it could sweep me into as it's a manga adaptation) Now I'm seriously deprived of JunDi moments.

Having watched the previous TW and Jap ones, to me all 3 versions have their own strengths and weaknesses. I like GHS as Jandi as much as I liked MG's Shanchai and HYD's Makino. Then we have LMH, who surprisingly is such an talented actor and is able to portray different sides of Domyouji's character wonderfully. Definitely the best out of the 3 (I thought Jerry Yan was charming but his acting was so-so. Matsujun was a pain to watch, and I made it through HYD solely because of Inoue and everybody else)

Oh and highfive to people in their mid/late 20s and professionals. Me is 28 and works for a bank. This drama is really an escape from reality, no? ^^

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183 lily

February 25, 2009 at 11:41 AM

"Id rather read all your recaps till the end of the show then ill go watch it. Its much more interesting."
LMAO I feel most of people feel like that

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184 pikopiko

February 25, 2009 at 11:45 AM

oh your comments at the end were really enchanting, especially the part about JiHoo and JanDi. I would love more scenes like that where the actors are just emanating emotion without words. I believe that most of audience watching BBF know of both HYD and Meteor Garden so hopefully BBF can utilize the familiarity to use the emotional boundaries seamlessly without words. i mean with the acting that has been portrayed so far, these guys have the potential. not to mention the kyute-ness ^____^

and for the sake of it...."almost paaradiiiis~e na naaaa nanaaa na..."

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185 lily

February 25, 2009 at 11:51 AM

"But hands down, the best scene was at the end, starting with Jun Pyo and Jandi alone in the hotel room talking, and ending with Jun Pyo smashing his phone in frustration and anger after he decides, yet again to step aside, thus paving the way for Ji Hoo. It’s heartbreaking how much Jun Pyo loves Jandi– he’s willing to relegate his emotions for her welfare. He knows how much Ji Hoo cares for Jandi, and in that tension frought scene, it’s clear he decides that if he can’t be with her (due to his family obligations), then the next best thing is for his best friend to be with her. <3 <3 <3 Jun-Pyo. All the brooding and passionate outbursts for some reason reminds me of Hamlet… muhaha."

LMAO Jun Pyo is not as determinated as I though. he is a melodramatic hero now.
Before it was strip romantic hero (they made Domyoji a stupid sexual thing). Look at his fake acting when Jan di punched him LOL. now it's a weak melodramatic Hero.

I think Jun/Domyoji maybe short but man He is DOMYOJI.

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186 lily

February 25, 2009 at 11:58 AM

@ 163 "all the hype it’s getting and how bloated that is right now *__* keeps me curious"

Lol seems I am not the only one.

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187 yumi-chan

February 25, 2009 at 1:00 PM

The last Hoo-di scene with the mop actually broght a tear to my eye.
I agree with you 100% about it.
It was easy to understand, had an obvious meaning, and it was simply heart warming.
I must admit that Hyun Joong's acting has improved, when he doesn't talk. xD

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188

February 25, 2009 at 1:21 PM

heheheh.

jealous JP in straight hair.. xDDD

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189

February 25, 2009 at 1:27 PM

Hi, javabeans! Thank God for Tuesday eps, eh? Couldn't stop getting annoyed by Ep15, even as I kept telling myself to just suspend all reality (had I played the drinking game, I too would have emptied my bottle). Seriously, no one understood Korean and/or could follow the conversation post "big announcement" so to realize that Jun Pyo grabbed Jae Kyung's hand by mistake????? wth?

Ah, Ep16 :D Loved Jun Pyo's expressions as Woo Bin's demonstrated Yi Jung’s Five Steps to Seduction (kudos to Lee Min Ho). Shame camera didn't stay a wee bit longer on him ;) Also, couldn't help but laugh at the sound effect played after first Yi Jung and then Woo Bin failed to "swoon" Jae Kyung.

*(resigned) sigh* Bad enough that Lee Min Ho is a baby compared to me, but seriously, his name has to be the same as my older bro??? Can't even enjoy the fanservice moment of the day...

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190 C_Janeth

February 25, 2009 at 1:41 PM

OMG!!
Just finished watching this chapter and it was so CUTE. I have to agree with a few people out there, Jae-kyung is so hard not to like. I mean, sure, she is a threat to JD & JP, but she is so addorable and kind that I just can't hate her.
Also, love that they are showing Ga-eul & Yi-jung. They are so cute I am hoping that they end up together too.
When Ji-hoo and his Grandfather saw eachother was great. Slightly emotional, but an encounter worth seeing.
So far i have to say that I like the drama. YES, even Mondays.
Maybe it's because I understand like one word out of every thirty minutes, but I like the WHOLE drama so far.
Can't wait until they have it out on DVD.

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191

February 25, 2009 at 1:42 PM

yay! thank you so much for your recaps :]
i wish jandi ran after jihoo when he saw his grandpa or at least tried harder to find out if he's okay. he always comes running when she needs him and jihoo really needed someone this time. poor guy i feel so bad for him. i hope he gets someone in the end..

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192 cucumbersandwich

February 25, 2009 at 2:10 PM

I want yo-yo-bros hairstyle back!

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193 cecee

February 25, 2009 at 2:13 PM

JK,JP's fiance, seems likeable but she is pretty selfish and deceitful. Why? She is pretty quick on the uptake so she should know that JD and JP has a history and yet she asked JD to help her with JP. JK is feigning ignorance in my opinion. Poor JD!

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194 Angela

February 25, 2009 at 2:18 PM

Now this is what they should have done with JH's character from the beginning. It's seems like the PD is shooting this backwards...for me after the last couple of episodes I can really feel the friendship and chemistry from JD and JH plus the F4 which was missing from the beginning. Now I'm torn between JD being with JH rather than JP. just like how I felt about Lei in MG.

I can't help but feel hurt that in the end JH will not end up with anybody. It's just sad. He's such a good person. I think the PD or scriptwriter needs to elaborate on JP and JD's relationship more because it seems like the sweet scenes between JP and JD is less than the sweets scenes between JH and JD so I think that it would have made more sense if JD fell in love with JH instead of JP.

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195 ladyjumong1

February 25, 2009 at 2:41 PM

I just re-watched ep. 16. javabeans, thank you for the recaps. Enjoyed the "5 steps to seduction scene"-Woobin and Jandi looked really cute together-but loved jealous Junpyo's expression (Woobin did it on purpose, right?)

"Pancakes of sadness"-LOL-may I add "covered with syrup of misery"

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196 popcorn

February 25, 2009 at 2:43 PM

-_- Man reading your recaps makes me want to watch the dramas....but i'm so busy I can only spare around 15 minutes....if i start watching from ep 6....i might not stop TT___TT

Anyway, thanks for the recaps!

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197 metella

February 25, 2009 at 2:45 PM

Hi ! Thank you for your wonderful recaps that have made my day so many times !
I'm a big fan of HYD (the manga), and I can't wait to see the end of this adaptation.
I particularly like Jun-pyo, and the way they develop the relationship between Ga-eul and Yi-jung.
I've been thinking of the japanese drama adaptation (I haven't seen Meteor Garden) ... I don't know which adaptation I like best so far. I wish the F4 were displayed a little bit more like the players they are supposed to be, that the whole story would become more focused on the way each character becomes an adult without getting swept by the crazy storyline.
I know I'm watching a drama but still, it's the third adaptation, we know the story, yes it's terrible seeing two lovers being torn apart and all ... I don't know, I guess this drama is probably closer to the manga than the japanese one. Yet, I wish it focused more on them being kids learning about love (and sex, but let's not get our hopes up, it's still a drama^^), responsibility, what they want to do in life and basically growing up and becoming young adults. I find that, so far, every adaptation lacks subtelty the way they display the interactions between the different characters ... I guess BBF is better at it than the j-drama in some ways.
For example, I reaaally liked Makino in the first season of the japanese adaptation of HYD, I thought she was really catchy, like the beginning of the manga. I liked her less in the second season. On the other hand, I think the actress playing Jan-di is doing a great job, yet I thought of her character as a little bit dull compared to Makino in the first part of the show. Now that BBF has reached the second part, I find her character is gaining some depth, something that Makino looses in the second part of the j-drama.

Still, BBF is a great show, can't wait to see the next episode!

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198 salt

February 25, 2009 at 2:50 PM

@195 and
@ any fans of WGM/ joongboers
i have a suggestion! we know how the storyline goes in HYD anime. in the end, Rui will leave for france (i think) to be with shizuka.

Now... let's imagine that instead of Han Chae Young (did i get the name right?) playing JH love interest and the one he's after, how about the drama shows that steps off the plane n meet up with Buin instead? and the last scene show that our Joongbo couple walk off together holding hands and cracking jokes and laughing together? or better yet, playing rock paper scissors to see who gets to carry the luggage...heh...heh.... :D

as the writer of BBF seems to be a fan of WGM and Joongbo, this scenario seems entirely possible doesn't it? at least JH won't be alone at the end.

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199 tokai

February 25, 2009 at 3:39 PM

I'm still hugely enjoying this show... thanks for the quick recaps.

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200 Jane-Jandi

February 25, 2009 at 3:41 PM

Thanks for posting this! Your recap posts every single scene!

i agree with some things:
Jandi always tells ppl to stop AFTER they get hurt
and Songwoobin is definitely the nicest character
and the last scene was definitely nice.

I LOVE THE F4

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