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Happy Friday Beanies! This summer is passing by so quickly. I have a few visitors coming next month too so I’m really excited. I also got a lovely goodie box from Korea sent to me that mostly contained beauty products, and it all looks amazing (but I also can’t read any of the instructions!). But on to the reviews:
Hwajung Well, uh, things are not happening at the speed I thought it would but I guess it makes sense to have these new characters as we’re nearing the halfway mark. Obviously I know Injo had to show up but I was just as surprised as the king when he showed up with no warning. I'm just impressed with myself for keeping up to date on this show. I’m also really happy that our mystery third ‘flower boy’ was who everyone thought it would be. Not that our princess needs anymore guys, but he actually seemed like the most admirable and fleshed out of the options.
Hidden Identity Hmm. I really liked the first two episodes but episode three felt like a mess to me - there were a lot of holes in the story. Episode four seems relatively back on track though so we’ll see how this goes. I liked how Missing Noir M dealt with issues more than this show.
I Remember You I really enjoyed these two episodes actually! I have a lot of fun theories running around in my brain but I’m happy to sit back and just let it all unwind. I like the premise of playing with the idea of people becoming what others treat them as. I think this is definitely true to an extent in our lives. I have seen people be told that they were stupid when they clearly weren’t but it overtook them and so they started basically giving up in school because they were too dumb. I have seen people be told they were pretty to the point that it ended up completely defining them, etc. I still think there is choice (and I think this show is going to go that direction as well) but there’s also no doubt in my mind that the way a person is treated can definitely effect how they act or who they become. I also am enjoying the actors. I love our two leads anyway, and right now they’re pretty fun. I don’t necessarily see them as romantic (it’s early days) but there’s a lot of great energy between them and as individual characters.
Orange Marmalade And once again the pacing is so random!! This show always gets stuck with too much ground to cover in not enough episodes. I’m actually sort of dreading this episode 8 wrap up. I’m watching because there are things I enjoy but the pacing really kills any sort of emotional investment I have. I know a lot of people have issues with Jae-min, but I’m actually fine with him. I think he’s very realistically flawed and I don’t need perfect leads. However, again because of pacing, I think the show fails to make you invested in him because it doesn’t explore his emotional/moral arc in a convincing manor. Also our villainous teen girl is basically a cardboard plot device. Yawn. (And I know I sound like a broken record but just once would it have killed them to allow our lead heroine to have a friend? At least in one of the eras? Teenage girls need more than just love interests!)
The Lover Show complete! (Spoilers ahead) I admit that the subs weren’t completely when I watched the last episode so I’ll most likely re-watch it but I understand the gist of everything. Not really many surprises but I am super happy that they weren’t completely trolling the fangirls. Overall this show had a lot of potential but in the end it just felt like it didn’t know what to do with itself. I’ve started to like some new actors though so that’s a nice plus.
I haven’t watched this week’s Producer or Warm & Cozy. I also only have the final episode left in Arang & the Magistrate.
And on a random note, does anyone have any suggestions for some good nail art site? I've never gotten any but I feel like treating myself since I've been working a lot of overtime. I want it on my own nails (they're fairly long right now) and with no jewels or whatnot - just some fun/interesting design.
I'm really enjoying Arang so it won't take much for me to finish. It's more that every time I go to watch it I feel a bit guilty that I'm not catching up on one of the currently airing shows....but I find Arang more interesting than most!
And thank you for the Instagram rec! There's some really great stuff on there.
I loved Arang when I started watching it a year ago, but accidentally got spolied on the ending in a forum for another show a few eps in. It's been hard to finish it. I'll probably need to rewatch in a marathon once I've seen the ending the first time. Facing the same issue with Gu Family Book, although I haven't seen spoilers. Stuck in episode 20, not compelled to go back to it.
and I was just gonna say that no matter what, don´t try the nail art you see on the internet. Reality vs Ideal is like trying to get to Han river through a line of white trucks of doom
Well I don't intend to do the nail art myself! I have a friend who makes her living this way, but I've never gotten it done myself. The photos would be more a sort of reference point.
With you on The Lover. I usually just fast forward to find the 2 guys' weekly <5 minutes. I will have to rewatch the whole episode when it's actually 100% and find out the nuances. Very disappointed but not at all surprised that after the first 3-4 episodes the Dangerous Bromance went into a holding pattern for the entire series. Still... that's probably a huge stride for Korea, right?
That's mostly how I watched "The Lover", too. ::laugh:: I was a little disappointed in their ending, but I guess Korean television isn't quite ready for the cozy domestic ending that we should have gotten.
I watched it all but I was certainly partial to our 'bromance'. However that holding pattern you mentioned got really annoying. Still props to them not having another 'fake gay' moment. I knew just based on the show overall that they wouldn't go far with it, so I'm just happy that they went with it. While they liked to push sex jokes and whatnot, it wasn't really a show that was pushing boundaries on anything. Besides considering the backlash Seonam Detectives got for actually having a kiss scene, I think it will sadly be a while before anything is really going to go beyond this level.
Dad in I Remember You needed a fuller life. All work and no play makes forensic profiler dad lose all sense of balance. The man needed a best friend or a wife to help relieve his fears.
Yeah, the father was very frustrating. He was definitely too consumed by the world of his work. Not only was his young son taking care of him but his mind was already starting to have tunnel vision.
I also am really enjoying I Remember You. "I like the premise of playing with the idea of people becoming what others treat them as." - Me too. I don't remember seeing a drama that explored this theory; so this is gonna be something different and new. Excited! Also love the leads.
I LOVE Arang and the Magistrate so much!!!! I still go back and re-watch sometimes. It doesn't have any plot holes, which impressed me. Great writing, acting, bgm, and action :) Lee Jun Ki, Shin Min Ah, and Hwang Bo Ra are great too!
MY BEAUTIFUL BRIDE is just Daebak!!!! I've never been so excited in a drama. And the lead actor is perfect for the role, Kim Moo Yul is simply great! I'm in love now =)
Personally, My Girlfriend is a gumiho is my favorite piece. Shin Mina and Seunggi is so cute and heartwarming together. Or you can try Best Love to watch Cha Seungwoon being a jerk as a first rate actor. It's also good but sometimes a little over-the-top.
In terms of laughs and hilariousness of second female leads female, nothing really beats You're Beautiful for me. Best Love is also really funny, if you're after humour.
I really need to watch Misaeng as well. So many good reviews and it's bound to be better than most things I'm currently trying.
I know it gets mixed reviews but I really loved Master's Sun. It was one if the first kdramas I saw but it really stuck with me. At first I was non-plussed by the Candy heroine but then I realized how much they were playing with that trope. I dunno - I found it fun and like the actors.
@4D
Give Misaeng a try, especially if the dramas you are currently watching are below average. I started watching it last Friday and I got hooked with the 1st episode. You can’t help but care for the main character. I’m not too far along, barely in episode 6.
The Hong sisters' dramas are very flawed, but the area where they really excel is in choosing their leads and showing off their chemistry (they got the first part right in W&C, sadly they are playing push-and-pull with the second!)
So for Hong sisters recs considering those two factors, the best is Master's Sun (So Ji-sub and Gong Hyo-jin had fabulous and sexy chemistry, even if the skinship was chaste the innuendo and their gazes were so not chaste lol).
Also My Girl, if you don't mind the dated look of the clothes and hairstyles.
I liked Masters Sun quite well, but I wasnt very much a fan of SJS. Now greatest Love however... Chajumma was so friggin hot I sat there watching and the chair caught fire.
SJS was not an actor I ever pictured in a comedy, but he did a champion job of using his finely-honed melo leading-man skills to show a new side of himself in MS.
Any actor of his stature who allows the drama to make a visual joke of him the way Master's Sun did with his fussy pastel suits and equally fussy hair, is worth watching - I'm always a sucker for when actors chuck their image aside and go for it, and he really did. (same goes for Cha Seung-won as Dokko Jin).
I used to wish Lee Jun-ki would do a romcom with the Hong sisters again, but I cannot risk oppa getting saddled with another Warm & Cozy. Or even worse, Big!
I also want to see Lee Jun Ki in a romcom. He said in an interview that he chooses projects where he can show his acting skills. Maybe he considers romcoms to be easy; that's why he is not doing one?
+1, @redfox!
I do like SJS in almost anything but my very first love -plus unforgettable, korean style lol- will always be my Dokko Jin! My very first kdrama...my chair was on fire, too. Hottie+endless laughing---> LOVE4EVER ;-)
For me, the best Hong sisters' drama is Best Love. It was hilarious, and I loved the leads together. I really liked My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and Master's Sun as well. In MS though, I was invested more in Kang Candy and Little Sun than the main couple.
I don't want to watch My Girl coz Lee Jun Ki is the second lead in it. It will be too much to see him crying for a girl. Lol.
My Girlfriend is a Gumiho is my most fav Hong Sisters drama.I became a fan of both LSG and SMA after this one.
You Are Beautiful and Master's Sun are very fun too.
That’s right – Greatest Love is from the Hong sisters! That’s one of my favorite dramas; thank you beanies for your prompt replies. I will proceed with your suggestions.
My favorite of the Hong Sisters dramas is You're Beautiful, followed by My Girlfriend is a Gumiho (although I thought this drama started off slow but got much better as it went along), then Best Love/Greatest Love and Master's Sun (but this one more for the leads chemistry than the plot, but this does have the best second female lead of any Hong Sisters drama).
But whatever you do avoid Big - truly a disaster. I also didn't like Delightful Girl Choon Hyang (mostly because it featured "the H in love with OW" trope which is one of my least favorite tropes).
Orange Marmalade (Argghh, the pain of waiting for 1 episode per week!)
I Remember You
I like Jang Na Ra but not as keen on Seo In Gook.
SIG's character seems too Sherlock-esque
I am absolutely gobsmacked by D.O.'s acting so far.
Dude is creeeeeepy!
High Society
I'm only watching it for Park Hung Sik's hair.
Hidden Identity sucked me in even though I am not a fan of this genre normally.
Not watching Warm & Cozy. Blegh
Totally watching The Lover -OMFG That show is so funny I actually go back and watch it again to see the reaction comments. so. much. fun!
Also watching Hwang Jin Yi- not sure why I didn't watch it the first time around. Love Ha Ji Won...I am now at the end of Jang Keun Suk's role. I've already used quite a few tissues...should I buy more?
-CRIME SCENE S2: Bravo, show. I was expecting some twist for the last eps, but that thing you pull at the last minute is simply brilliant. So the casts found the victim slumped over his desk on his own pool of blood with stabbing wound on his neck, then they found out that the weapon is this giant clock's hand, and they succesfully arrested the criminal... Only to find out that the victim's cause of death is not excessive blood loss, but asphixia. Haha, that's one way to make your casts went riot when you insisted that the case ain't over and they got extra 1 hour to arrested the right criminal when it's freaking 5 a.m. And you even going as far as providing new site to investigate through. Thumbs up. Can't wait how they will played this out next week.
-PUNCH: Finishing this and it's really amazing, I can't praise it high enough. It's definitely one of the best drama I've ever watched. I love how everyone painted in a different shades of grey, how every situation can be peeled like onion and there is always something more behind all those layers, that there are always power shifts, that there is nothing certain about who will win this ultimate battle, and how every woman in this drama is actually a living character that can think and act, not just some unnecessary accessory. And the ending is surely brilliant and satisfying. Bravo, Punch. You are such a rarity.
-MASK: I was really frustrated with Jisook being meek and weak in front of everyone. She should just come clean with Minwoo about her identity when he already told her about his biggest secret so they can defeat Seokhoon together. Especially now that the crazy machinations is back in full swing. Please writer-nim, don't drag the misunderstanding unnecessarily. And please, let Jisook being a smart and resourceful woman we know in the earlier eps again.
-HIDDEN IDENTITY: Oooh, this show makes me giddy. It's slick and cool. Glad that all the police seems capable so far. I'm really invested on Geonwoo and Taein's relationship since they seem still have so many brotherly love left after whatever terrible things that happen back then.
Yes, it's kind of strange how Ji-sook went in an instant from a rather interesting character in the pilot episodes to a apathetic bystander for almost a month now.
It seems, however, that the show is going to start its plot any minute now. I mean, it's only episode 10.
Punch
I agree that Punch was a very well done show ... for the first half. Sadly, like so many other shows, it had enough plot for about 10 to 12 hours and that got stretched and padded to a 19 episode drama. Midway through, the same plot points got repeated over and over again. For me, it got very boring at that point (and the ending was dull to me, as it was foreshadowed so heavily and so many times before).
However, I agree that it had some potentially very strong characters, some of them female.
You're still watching Mask, Jon?I thought you were so disgusted, you gave up.
It did seem in episode 10 that she was about to get some traction and start setting up her revenge. Perhaps that was her strategy all along. Convince them that I'm weak and then come out like the lioness that I am.
I wasn't disgusted, actually. There wasn't enough of anything to be disgusted. Watching a fly hitting the window glass over and over again can be reassuring, because you know you can do whatever you want and come back anytime, the fly will still be hitting the window.
Oh yeah Punch! It's kinda underrated but it's the best drama I've ever watched this year for now. Really thrilling and tearjerking in some parts. It's writer got an award at the Baeksang Awards btw. Well-deserved.
@hyemin,I totally agree!
Punch had two of the best korean actors, each coming from a different generation but with the same artistic point of view. Especially JJH has a very long resume that includes several critically acclaimed films worldwide. And the writer's previous project was Empire of Gold. Not everyone's cup of tea, I might add...:-)
DB is recaping all the dramas that I am watching now. But there is not a single one that makes me wait for it's next episode *sigh* ... I was enjoying Mask but suddenly it's plot holes are becoming so evident that I am starting losing interest. But I am happy I have at least one drama for each day of a week :) .... I am now waiting for In Time with You.
And also waiting for the subs of My Beautiful Bride. I couldn't try it because of subs
Yes and sadly with schedule clashes, they had to drop Masked Prosecutor. But it's still some 6 shows to recap, plus Running Man and DB gives us lots of articles in between. :)
Glad to be here after missing last week. Experienced a horrible, summertime flu/cold. I felt really sick for a couple of days, but thank goodness I'm feeling a whole lot better! ....... I got behind a little bit on the drama-watching, but I'm catching up!
Watched this week:
Angry Mom - Finally finished this. It was good from beginning to end. Will certainly miss Go Bok-dong.
Hwajeong - Loving Cha Seung-won as the king.
Mask - Just started this and I've watched the first 4 episodes! ....... Oh my goodness, I'm so going to enjoy this one!
Divorce Lawyer In Love - It's cutesy, it's light. Just right for summer watching. ....... That new cheater divorce case with the "Korean Casanova", wow, what a disrespectful jerk!!
Masked Prosecutor - Decided to give it a chance and checked this out. Unfortunately, we didn't click right now, so the viewing lasted no more than 10 minutes. Don't think I'll be watching this at this time.
That's it for now. ....... Take care everyone and have a great Friday!
Angry Mom is such a gem, I never expected it to be that good. But it delivers real well and Bokdongiee.. That was seriously a beautiful one-side love ever (after Jung Ilwoo in Unstoppable High Kick). It's a pity that School 2015 can't live up to it's expectation.
Can you imagine the show if they hadn't switched second male lead at the last minute? It was originally the actor who was the male lead on Surplus Princess (the hapless art student). Instead, we got the evil dude from Ghost. I just cannot imagine him pulling it off. I am now suspicious that the "sudden illness" that made him drop out was an excuse to recast and save face for him. Don't get me wrong, I think he's a cool guy I just doubt he's at the level necessary for such a nuanced part.
Dear @Alessar, I think you are a bit confused. The "bad guy" in MP is the second male lead in Scent of A Woman. Many of us here have been waiting his reunion with KSA after that painful drama. Plus his level of acting has nothing to do with OJW's.
Don't get me wrong, I've watched practically every project of his (even a 50-ep. week-end makjang) but fair is fair...UKJ is a far better and versatile actor with theatre experience as well. So I seriously doubt the role went downhill when he was cast. It could very well be the opposite.
Of course, I completely understand anyone's personal taste :-). My life's motto is "de gustibus et coloribus..." for that matter!
Sorry to hear you were sick but glad you're on the mend!
CSW really is amazing in Hwajung. He gives him so much depth and nuance and you can really see al the mental debates going on in his mind. Love him. Stupid Injo.
Angry Mom is definitely on my list of shows to watch.
Yes, CSW is quite good in this role! You can see that certain decisions, or rather many decisions, weigh heavily on the king. ..... I'm not on the Injo part yet ..... I'm only up to ep 10 or so
Hi Korfan,
ewww, summer cold/flu, the woist. ! Feel better!
I had to laugh that out of your list of 5 kdramas, I'm not watching even one! Goes to show how kdrama tastes and watching lists can be so different at the same time.
The Lover
Miss Understanding and Sir Cumference (aka Warm & Cozy)
Orange Marmalade
High Society (I am extremely sick of UEE's family and the 2nd lead female character)
Hello Monster (my fav of the list)
rewatching Secret Garden and Love Rain
thank goodness there's enoough for all to go around!
Love Rain is better on second watch, because you can FF thru the whole adult drama to focus on the young kids romance. Sparkly snow! Hot springs! Ah ... now I want to go watch it again.
Thanks! I am feeling much better today after the awful week I had.
Ha! I know! Everyone's lists are so different. But that's what's so fascinating. ....... We all have different things that capture our attention, yet our love of drama-watching is what brings us together to share, both our good/bad experiences and our observations. ....... Sometimes our respective lists "match up" while other times they don't. But that's ok. ....... There is indeed something for everyone! Yay! :)
I'm looking forward to Hello Monster, but I'm going to have to finish one or two of the ones I'm watching now first. There are only so many hours in a day!
I'm so excited (I know it's silly) by the prospect of our virtual party for Ji Chang Wook's birthday next weekend with our fan-made Healer Kdrama Awards ... especially when I saw this cool page. Click and have fun on it by suggesting what you'd like for the party and of course you're invited to come to the party too!!!
LOL!! We even have a whole bunch of other Free Votes on the DB Healer Thread. On page 31 they are all collated, so you can vote there as well and they are just as challenging as the most life ruining moment. I wonder where the favorite lip licking moment vote is... maybe there too ... :)
Hi all
Hoping everyone is well.
Hard to believe that in two weeks we’ll have been in Albany for a year. Time flies!
Dramas:
High Society: Am hooked on this one. I had assumed this would be all high concept cheesy but the writer is doing a good job so far. The story might get messy at times but the characters are so well-made (all the characters) that right now the story seems to be flowing from character motivations rather than writerly plotting. Love Joon-ki’s mom, the Chairman, and the mistress/concubine especially. They seemed really horrible to begin with but now we see there’s more to them than bad manners and an inability to grieve about a dead chaebol son. And am totally loving that everyone in the drama seems to be “learning” something. Learning how to be unrepressed and violent after being a perfect chaebol wife all these years. Learning how to be “soft” if one is to be kept as a concubine. Love both of the romantic couples.
Mask: Oh my! This drama. Hadn’t realized how much I wanted a makjang! Big Bad Villain is so ruthless. So glad she developed a backbone AT LAST.
House of Bluebird: I had stopped watching this because the villain was so mean-spirited and cruel in such a visceral and sneaky way. I just couldn’t take it. But it kept whispering to me and I couldn’t shake it. So I watched episode 32 and yep I’m pulled in again. This is one villain I want to go down to the pit of hell.
I Remember You: I have a lot of hope for this. I like the way the writer takes us along with the clues. The possible romance doesn’t feel necessary but since it’s gonna exist no matter what, we’ll just have to suck up and accept it. There are some great feels in this drama, espec in the backstory. The darker scenes have more heart than the romance so am hoping for more heart in the present. And loved it when serial killer called up. Wondering if serial killer is working with hero’s “missing” brother. Or if missing brother was adopted by good parents and is now an investigator. Which would be best because if the story is about nature versus nurture and “the critical moment” when nurture affects nature..then we should see that becoming a serial killer isn’t one’s only option if one is a child genius who paints odd paintings.
Hidden Identity: Remembered once again why I dislike action spy/thrillers. I don’t mind unbelievable. I mind unbelievable when the main characters are supposed to be super-great. Events, timing, etc falling into place to help them in EVERY situation is just hard to accept.
Masked Prosecutor: I keep fast-forwarding because I want to see what happens when Prosecutor Kang realizes he has a brother. That is the main reason why I’m watching. Writer should’ve worked more of that into the story.
Producers Loved Cindy and felt sorry for her but wow, has there ever been a more self-involved “lover” in k-drama? I understand that the writer showed her as caring for the little starlets, and that she became famous as a child...
I keep debating whether or not I should try high society. I feel like response is very mixed.
I'm really enjoying I Remember You. It makes me sad that it had like half the viewers as the other shows in that time slot. I suppose the romance is unnecessary but I think it has the potential to be a lot if fun...so long as they keep this a fusion drama and don't ignore the other story elements.
I am watching Hidden Identity, but it is one of my genres. I don't think things are working too perfectly since I don't think one plan has actually gone correctly lol. Bit I also think this show isn't the best example of its genre....the writing is a bit weak.
I almost started High Society and then I realized how many shows started this week or in the upcoming week. I think I'll just add it to my watch later list and keep an eye reviews. I do love a good rom-com.
I'm not entirely sure Hidden Identity knows what it's doing to be honest. I mean, I like the way it's show but I've lost some faith in it.
I meant to watch Bluebirds house bc of my deep crush on Lee Joon Hyuk but started watching King of Mask singer instead and even though it has no subs, I am so hooked, I don´t think I´ll be watching much else. yes, all the songs sound the same in Korea, but the voices, the guessing, the fun, it is so great
btw, does anyone know where more than 2 ep are subbed of King Of Masked Singer? It is so confusing to try find my way through youtube clips or the viki ones. and they don´t all have subs. Some have them only in spanish.
I think it is such a great show. in Estonia all singers can do what they want we dont have that kind of industry, but we have a show where 8 singers interpret each others songs every week trying out styles they never tried before and it is pretty challenging. search "Laula mu laulu" if you want to hear some
I enjoy King of Mask singer too (sorry, I don't know who has the subs after ep2). I was shocked for all those idol singers' skills - Big yay for Jung EunJi (they assumed she must be in her 30-40's because singing had such a deep emotions)- just amazing, and loved Tae-gwang/SungJae.
maybe it is all in their heads? that´s a popular assumption lately. "oh I have a theory: he is imagining it!" I have heard that more than 10 times lately about dramas, films or books
Carole, glad to see you are in full swing with your Korean dramas. I felt like I hadn't prepared well enough for our lunch when I wasn't up on the latest dramas. However, I so enjoyed meeting you in person.
If you like, perhaps I can take you over to the Grafton Peach Pagoda. It is a beautiful and spiritual place. I think you would like it.
Hope you are well! Best wishes to your family. Gosh, it took me a whole year to make the journey over the mountain to Albany for a visit. How did the Korean cooking turn out? My aunt asked me to make her ramen on my next visit.
as a child so she never had a chance to grow out of that narcissist solipsistic cognitive phase but really??? If she truly loves someone, she should worry about how HIS day was, what concerns were on HIS mind, but everything was about her and her feelings and I just kept shaking my head hoping she would realize that other people actually have existences and hearts and troubles. Poor oppa manager. I suppose the ending was okay and realistic. People don’t go through major changes within the space of six months. At least not all people. So..increments….
Mask! Oh my goodness, the Big Bad! ..... I'm up to ep 4 and I'm just loving his scenes. ..... The actor seems to be totally into playing that character.
Honestly, Cindy in Producer has been raised since early adolescence in a highly dysfunctional hothouse of an environment where on one hand, she came first at all times but the pressures on her were massive and she was treated as a product and an image/star, rather than a person.
Add to that the weight of guilt over her parents' deaths (again, the loss of an influence that could have led to the injection of some normalcy in her life), are we surprised she is self-centred? How could she be otherwise? And she's not without consideration for others, when it counts - she was the one to instantly realise Ye-jin (whom she knew by then was Seung-chan's crush) was being harassed by her fans because of her injury, and SHE took the initiative to take the selca and post it online with a friendly message, to get people to back off Ye-jin.
This kind of reminds me of criticism of the mermaid from Surplus Princess.....another girl who was raised away from human beings or even other people like her, and has no real concept of how normal people behave. Of course they're going to be clueless and a bit selfish, even in love - they simply didn't know any other way.
not really, Carole. You said something to the effect of you understand that she became the way she was as a child star, but I don't think you quite did.
You're expecting her to behave like a normal, somewhat well-adjusted person (worrying about Seung-chan's day etc) when absolutely nothing in her environment post-puberty has ever supported that. She has been the centre of her own world for such a long time, and everyone in her team has supported that view for so long, that caring about others isn't really her priority any more - and that goes for her+Seung-chan too.
happy birthday to your granddaughter and to you, too, john!
are you not watching Tennou no Ryoriban? it's quite interesting, i like the characters and the story is true?
Kokoro ga Pokkito ne was cute and goofy - i liked all the actors, yamaguchi tomoko being my favorite since Long Vacation... it was interesting to watch G-Dragon's (big bang) girlfriend, mizuhara kiko...
I'm so excited Viki picked up Queen In-soo--I've been wanting to watch it since it came out, so it's like Christmas morning in dramaland for me. I think I'm going to sit back and wait for them to finish this time around, though. Hope you're enjoying it. :)
Happy Friday~ Jet lag aside, it's a wonder I've managed to start two new shows and a movie since yesterday hehe
Hwajung - I had nothing currently airing after School 2015, Ex-Girlfriends' Club and Producer ended so I went back to my first love: sageuks. Marathon-ed it but frankly, I'm hooked from E01. Naturally rooting for Jeongmyeong and Queen Inmok but Gwanghae makes me so conflicted. He's not straight up good but also not completely incapable of evil. You just see him wanting to be a wise and competent king although it doesn't help his closest people (Lady Kim Gaeshi especially) does all these unspeakable deeds on a regular basis. Hands down to Gaeshi, in any case, she's awe-inspiring for wielding that amount of power. Injo though, is already hateful from the get go. He crossed the line when he inconsiderately brought up Yeongchang's death in front of the still grieving dowager queen. Wow, just no. He can chop off his head next week, for all I care, and save us from all the damage history tells us he'll do when he gets the throne.
Reset - Maybe it's the withdrawal from Kim Sohyun but 10 episodes of messed up murders and hypnosis shenanigans was not that bad. Especially when her character, coincidentally another Eunbi, a redhaired teenage delinquent ends up with a precious found family after the male protagonist, played by Chun Jung Myung, left her in the care of his co-workers from the prosecutor's office because she looks exactly like his first love who died 15 years ago. I'm pretty sure there were vague one-sided (?) lovelines (Chief Han with Cha Woojin, Inspector Go with Chief Han) but aside from the intense mystery, the three being co-guardians over Eunbi was what kept me tuning in for the next episode.
Mask - I've heard everyone raving about it (and I've read the first db recap on it) so I told myself it wouldn't hurt to try. And boy, it didn't. Sure, all the makjang tropes you could think of are employed and yet, they play it so straight that the crazy's refreshing (yes, over the top, theatrical Evil Ahjussi, I'm looking mostly at you). Oh, let's not forget how awesome it gets when Jisook and Minwoo are acting all dorky and adorably cute. Since Eunha's dead dead, we might as well get Jisook finally taking charge of her own life decisions (and maybe helping her husband not have induced insanity) and I'm so okay with the developments.
Warm and Cozy - I'm currently on E04 but I can see why it's irritating to watch. The male lead's stupidly dense and hugely self-centered (except for fleeting moments of barely okay concern for Jungjoo); the lady he pines on is just, if not more conceited than he is. A little too bland but right now, I'm going to continue because ~Kang Sora~.
Also, revisited an old kdrama I first saw when I was still in elementary: The Legend (2007). I could only vaguely remember the animal guardian spirits magically looming over but what made me go...
... again through the entirety of it was seeing how Kiha would turn out since she's kind by nature but unwillingly controlled because she's the Phoenix guardian. The side romance of shy but discreetly skilled Dalbi and fierce warrior softie Jumuchi is undeniably the cutest, even the main character played by Bae Yong Joon kept on pushing for them to be together. No wonder they ended up together in real life (I've seen an interview where Shin Eunjung says her husband Park Sung Woong, though known for playing villains, would say "옴마 사랑해" the aegyo way all the time).
And the movie I watched was The Spy: Undercover Operation (2013). I went in without expectations but I left amazed by Moon Sori's comedic timing.
Whoa, you marathoned all of Hwajung?! Very impressive. I love Gwanghae. He's very layered and I think he's a good king (which doesn't always equate to a "good" man). As much as this show apparently advertised that he would be an evil character...he's definitely not. I also am liking how they're handling the politics. I'm not experienced with many sageuks but it's easy for me to get lost or overwhelmed with the political intrigue but in this one I feel pretty confident that I understand everything.
I'm on episide 12 of W&C and I'm still getting too irritated by things. I dint even know why I chose to stick with this one. It's certainly not the worst drama but beyond lady diver, I'm not really invested in anyone.
Maybe being into sageuks really helped. That and I got spoiled that the little prince dies so I just had to go on and watch the next episode to see what's so splendid about that morbid decision. Aghast but yeah, sitting or even the notion or wanting to sit on the throne does things to a person. I hope Cha Seungwon stays until the 30th episode, at least, he's so good in his role. I've done some readings and with the introduction of Neungnyang/Injo, it's sad the coup that will depose Gwanghae is not that far.
I Remember You/Hello Monster - An intriguing show, well worth the watch. We are getting a good childhood backstory... a little dark because it starts our thinking about whether it is nature or nurture / birth or upbringing/labelling that determines if a person becomes a monster or not. The child actor is so good and of course so is the adult version ie Seo In Gook.
There are side murders and the main mystery(ies) about why Jang Na Ra (Ji An) was stalking the Seo In Gook (Lee Hyun) character, and I hope that there'll be more than just one or two other mysteries/crimes that they will get to solve together.
I've always wanted to watch a show where crime/mystery-cum-romance (with or without the comedy) mash well together and develop both the mystery side of the story and the romance equally well. This one is doing a good job. Even the darker back-story and the lighter modern day story don't seem to clash. The former gives off a creepiness and the other makes me laugh. Yes, intriguing.
Masked Prosecutor - Actually got much better now. However the "getting the bad guys" part of the plot is overshadowing the romance. But the story is holding well together and moving forward.
High Society - This is the other intriguing show I'm watching, not because the story is intriguing, but because I'm trying to decipher what each person is really saying or meaning or believing and I'm trying to gel it with what they are doing. Maybe it's more hard work than it's worth. If I give up thinking too much, I'll just watch for the couples to see if they become mature, grow close or bite the dust.
My Love Eun Dong - It is a bit of a slow, melo, illicit romance triangle kind of story. Sure to be full of angst amidst the romance. I know a lot of people love the Joo Jin Mo smoulder and he does look good with the actress, Kim Sa Rang. I'm just watching it to see how it goes, but am not investing too much into it.
Mask - Still is compelling for the promise of much romance from reluctant quarters and the solution of the complex fraud of passing a 'dead-or-otherwise-to-be-arrested-for-murder' nobody off as a politician's daughter and chaebol wife. I want to see the female lead re-connected with her real family, really in love with her husband and free from the clutches of the delusional bad guy. At the same time (a few of us) want to see the latter fall hard for her and suffer!!! *add maniacal laughter*. Yeah, it's so much fun.
Orange Marmalade - I really wanted to continue with this somehow, but it lost me when Mask and High Society came along and I had to choose. The recaps also did not make it sound too promising. I'll check in on it from time to time.
:)
I wish they'd show Big Bad's love for heroine even more. Everything else he does is so over the top, why not show him falling apart behind walls?
That poor wife of his. Woman, lose your enslavement to love! The guy is using you. Women chaebol heiresses exist ONLY to be used or to be put into advantageous marriages. Why, oh why, did you marry for love?
With you on High Society - overall the plot (if there is one) is not making much sense, so I just keep watching it to see if I can make some sense of the motivations of the characters.
I am liking My Love, Eun Dong more than I thought I would. Intrigued by the mystery of how she got from there to here - apparently there were some dirty deeds in the past that are just now coming to light.
About My Love, Eun Dong - yes... that adoptive family and that husband seem to be in cahoots to hide her past because of something they've done. Maybe it's nothing more than just deceiving her that her first love was the husband and he's using the guilt-trip tactic to make her stay with him, claiming that she is the reason he's a cripple. (BTW I did not like his character both in Angry Mom and here, but at least here he's more human).
It might be that he is lying, in that he might have caused the accident which robs her of her memory and not that he was trying to protect her or whatever. The preview had shots of her wanting to break up with him, I think. If he had seen her with Hyun Soo that day in the park, he might have tried to run her down and caused the accident. All surmises, but plausible in our kind of makjang show.
Their son too might not be his. I don't normally ship a married woman with another man, but if she has been so deceived, I kind of want her to have the chance to start afresh with the family she was meant to have.
At the time she met her first love she was already engaged to the baseball player, though why is a mystery, unless she had just given up or was pressured by parents.
I suspect she told him she was calling it off, and he got road rage or something and crashed. ** But there is a mystery there also - way back I think in EP1, there was a 10 sec or so clip about her finding out that there was another woman in the car (or a different woman, not sure on the translation).
I am 99% sure the kid is not hers - I suspect it is from his (real?) (ex?) wife or girlfriend. But possible that it is hers, from first love, but the kids age does not quite match up.
So the gist of what I suspect is the he got into a wreck, perhaps with her in his car, or while she was in another car and while his real "wife" was in his car. She got killed, and left a kid. The evil mother and greedy parents agreed to some kind of deal where she would be brainwashed to raise the kid and take care of him.
I do not recall a car scene with another woman... But if that's so, it adds more makjang possibilities. This is one love story where the adage 'true love does not run smooth' is going to be milked to the very last drop !!!
@ Aigoooo
That's a good way of putting it. I felt the show was jumping around too suddenly from couple to couple, from mother, from mistress, from Ye Won... a bit of a strange salad tossed together but not really complementing the final taste.
I think with respect to Eun Dong that husband forced her in his car when she went to look for medication for Hyun Soo/Jin Mo and that she was already pregnant.
I think current husband was actually "not" boyfriend but just a friend. I think she told Hyun Soo that she was seeing someone else (current husband) to get Hyun Soo jealous because she thought that he only saw her as a little sister and she wanted to speed up things so that they would get married.
I think that current husband "kidnapped" her and that is when they got in the accident.... the same day she left Hyun Soo to get the medication.
When it was evident that she suffered amnesia and was pregnant, I think that current husband then colluded with parents to tell her a false backstory. The parents (or at least the mother) probably thought that she would have been better off with a baseball player who was being called to the States (not anticipating that he would become paraplegic) than an unemployed actor. And she was pregnant ... so you had the whole child out of wedlock scenario as well. The father probably did it because he gained something with a relationship with the baseball player... He became coach (or is it manager?) because of the relationship with the baseball players.
I hate stories about infidelity ... and normally, I would not watch this show. However, I absolutely think that the parents and the current husband are the bad guys here... they interrupted a fated romance and stole another man's fiance and his child. If they told her and she agreed to marry current husband knowing all the circumstances, then I think they would have a case for her staying at the current husband's side ... you make your bed, you lie in it. But I think they deceived her and would have continued to deceive her if Jin Mo had not found her.
I'm so with you on I Remember You! I hope they keep this as a genre fusion and we get both good mysteries and a fun romance. It's only two episodes in but I really like it so far.
Orange: What episode did you stop at? I've kept up mostly because it's only one episide a week. I'm kind if dreading episide 8 - I really don't want it to be like episode 4.
Hi 4D,
I Remember You - yup... fun mysteries and fun romance... my dream fusion show LOL! and now it's even a fusion of dark mystery and light cop show.
Orange Marmalade - I stopped at Ep 6. I was thinking that Jae Min was just going to cause Ma Ri so much trouble by pursuing her. I felt he was an arrogant, selfish brat and would cause her (and probably her family) great pain by his thoughtless interference. I decided I did not want to watch the pain being played out. :) How's it been for you?
I think this Jae Min is actually a lot less selfish than his modern depiction. I'm not having issues with him. I thought this section was only going to be four episodes so I'm surprised and now show how they'll be able to bring this full circle to the present in a satisfactory way. However, if I separate it and just look and the current storyline I like it a lot more than I thought I would. I don't struggle to get through the episodes and it keeps my interests. It's not great in anything though.
I think unlike others , enjoying high society the most, characters are really compelling :) ... It needs better better story telling or editing or direction. And yes, I think Uee is not best for this role. Yoon Ha is really not like typical k drama heroines (at least till now)
@fantasy
There are quite a few who are enjoying High Society... and lots more enjoying commenting on it LOL! at least it can be fun to praise as well as vent and rant and still be able to watch with some hope for better character growth and enlightenment.
Because the characters like Yoon Ha are quite 'different' in how they are rendered for a kdrama, dissecting them is interesting. By trying to figure out what makes contradictory thinking-acting characters tick, we may see a reflection of ourselves or others we know and come to understand people better. I find it is true that many of us are not necessarily all that consistent in what we think and do and say... I admit to hypocrisy as well ;) So we may fuss about the characters, etc but we may also know that it's possible to be self-delusional, misguided or just naive. :)
Hopefully the writer of I Remember You doesn't give us too many mysteries that it will become one giant mess. But definitely agree on how the genres are will put together. Hoping for the best!
Hello Beanies. I'm asking for a little help.
I am currently working on a K-Drama cartoon and I'm in the process of casting my actors and actresses. The (working) title is Convenience Store Clerk Vampire. The premise is that a young vampire works nights as a “P-Mart” store clerk.
A young woman has a crush on him and finds all sorts of excuses to come visit with him.
I think I want Lee Jong-Seok as my male lead. (He's always looked a little vampire-ish to me.) For my female lead I have to have a young actress who can play older than her actual age, because she has to look 18, but really be 26. I'm thinking about Ha Yeon So. (Mostly because she acted so mature when she did the radish kiss game with Kim Jong Kook on Running Man.)
But I'm open for suggestions. I also need other cast members. I am going to have cameo roles, where the clerk solves the problems of the people she brings in to see him. (He solves them by using his extensive knowledge of K-Dramas—because that is all he does. Work in a convenience store in the dark, sleep and then watch K-Dramas behind black out curtains during the day time.)
If you could cast ANYONE (it doesn't matter if they're currently in the army, I can draw them) in a K-drama, who would you cast?
And thank you. I'm on my way to a dr. visit--crossing fingers for luck, hoping my blood tumor markers have gone down this past month--so if anyone replies I won't respond for a couple of hours. Again, thanks.
I just got back. The numbers weren't great. But I feel so good. The doctor looked so guilty when I said, "I'm doing good, right? And he had to say, "no. Your numbers suck." (Well, he actually didn't say that, but it's what I heard. )
However, better to feel healthy and have bad numbers than to feel crumby and have good ones--right?
I hope your blood work comes out great this time. Being healthy is a job!
I vote for Kim Jae Joong for your male lead (since you mentioned the lead could be in the army). He is just so awesome and looks like he could easily pass for a vampire or even a zombie. I bet he'd enjoy reading your cartoon and appreciate that he hadn't been forgotten.
Oh, thanks. (I liked him in Protect the Boss.) He was good in Dr. Jin, too. (Even though that drama was so bizarre.) I won't have him do the lead, but I'll definitely let him do a cameo.
Thanks for the suggestion. I love Song Joong Ki, but I just had him star as a cop in my "The Amnesia Family" Makjang. (And the girl is not a vampire, but I agree about not wanting an overly dieted actress to play the part.) I know some women are naturally thin, but I'm not fond of societal pressures on woman requiring them to be stick thin.
I'm going to be weird and ignore the lead casting and just say I'd put in Kang Ha Neul as one of the dude characters. Not only is he great in cameos (Missing Noir!), but he can play a nice variety of roles. He also appears more like a person who might actually stroll into a convenience store than a lot of actors his age (I.e. Not a model or flower boy).
Park Ki Woong! ( wwaaaah when is he returning...)
Go Ara
Ninja Teacher
Kim Seul Gi
and it would be an art school premise. each a different field - fashion, theater, blacksmith (Seul gi can be the female blacksmith), and, um... film. it would be through the film girls´ eyes (Go Ara) and it would show one of them stepping on others to get a lead in life, but they come together in the end.
teacher would be the villainous architect and Ki Woongie would be an eccentric painter who is an undercover installation artist too, making provocative assamblations in city and campus. and he reveals the architects evil scheming through that
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1 4D
June 26, 2015 at 6:07 AM
Happy Friday Beanies! This summer is passing by so quickly. I have a few visitors coming next month too so I’m really excited. I also got a lovely goodie box from Korea sent to me that mostly contained beauty products, and it all looks amazing (but I also can’t read any of the instructions!). But on to the reviews:
Hwajung Well, uh, things are not happening at the speed I thought it would but I guess it makes sense to have these new characters as we’re nearing the halfway mark. Obviously I know Injo had to show up but I was just as surprised as the king when he showed up with no warning. I'm just impressed with myself for keeping up to date on this show. I’m also really happy that our mystery third ‘flower boy’ was who everyone thought it would be. Not that our princess needs anymore guys, but he actually seemed like the most admirable and fleshed out of the options.
Hidden Identity Hmm. I really liked the first two episodes but episode three felt like a mess to me - there were a lot of holes in the story. Episode four seems relatively back on track though so we’ll see how this goes. I liked how Missing Noir M dealt with issues more than this show.
I Remember You I really enjoyed these two episodes actually! I have a lot of fun theories running around in my brain but I’m happy to sit back and just let it all unwind. I like the premise of playing with the idea of people becoming what others treat them as. I think this is definitely true to an extent in our lives. I have seen people be told that they were stupid when they clearly weren’t but it overtook them and so they started basically giving up in school because they were too dumb. I have seen people be told they were pretty to the point that it ended up completely defining them, etc. I still think there is choice (and I think this show is going to go that direction as well) but there’s also no doubt in my mind that the way a person is treated can definitely effect how they act or who they become. I also am enjoying the actors. I love our two leads anyway, and right now they’re pretty fun. I don’t necessarily see them as romantic (it’s early days) but there’s a lot of great energy between them and as individual characters.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 6:08 AM
Orange Marmalade And once again the pacing is so random!! This show always gets stuck with too much ground to cover in not enough episodes. I’m actually sort of dreading this episode 8 wrap up. I’m watching because there are things I enjoy but the pacing really kills any sort of emotional investment I have. I know a lot of people have issues with Jae-min, but I’m actually fine with him. I think he’s very realistically flawed and I don’t need perfect leads. However, again because of pacing, I think the show fails to make you invested in him because it doesn’t explore his emotional/moral arc in a convincing manor. Also our villainous teen girl is basically a cardboard plot device. Yawn. (And I know I sound like a broken record but just once would it have killed them to allow our lead heroine to have a friend? At least in one of the eras? Teenage girls need more than just love interests!)
The Lover Show complete! (Spoilers ahead) I admit that the subs weren’t completely when I watched the last episode so I’ll most likely re-watch it but I understand the gist of everything. Not really many surprises but I am super happy that they weren’t completely trolling the fangirls. Overall this show had a lot of potential but in the end it just felt like it didn’t know what to do with itself. I’ve started to like some new actors though so that’s a nice plus.
I haven’t watched this week’s Producer or Warm & Cozy. I also only have the final episode left in Arang & the Magistrate.
And on a random note, does anyone have any suggestions for some good nail art site? I've never gotten any but I feel like treating myself since I've been working a lot of overtime. I want it on my own nails (they're fairly long right now) and with no jewels or whatnot - just some fun/interesting design.
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nasalhazel
June 26, 2015 at 6:23 AM
I still have 2 Arang eps to finish. Must. Do. It.
Nail art: I follow @yagala on IG for ideas, she has videos on YouTube for the how to.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:19 AM
I'm really enjoying Arang so it won't take much for me to finish. It's more that every time I go to watch it I feel a bit guilty that I'm not catching up on one of the currently airing shows....but I find Arang more interesting than most!
And thank you for the Instagram rec! There's some really great stuff on there.
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nasalhazel
June 26, 2015 at 7:46 AM
I loved Arang when I started watching it a year ago, but accidentally got spolied on the ending in a forum for another show a few eps in. It's been hard to finish it. I'll probably need to rewatch in a marathon once I've seen the ending the first time. Facing the same issue with Gu Family Book, although I haven't seen spoilers. Stuck in episode 20, not compelled to go back to it.
redfox
June 26, 2015 at 8:54 AM
and I was just gonna say that no matter what, don´t try the nail art you see on the internet. Reality vs Ideal is like trying to get to Han river through a line of white trucks of doom
4D
June 26, 2015 at 6:38 PM
Well I don't intend to do the nail art myself! I have a friend who makes her living this way, but I've never gotten it done myself. The photos would be more a sort of reference point.
Alessar
June 26, 2015 at 11:31 AM
With you on The Lover. I usually just fast forward to find the 2 guys' weekly <5 minutes. I will have to rewatch the whole episode when it's actually 100% and find out the nuances. Very disappointed but not at all surprised that after the first 3-4 episodes the Dangerous Bromance went into a holding pattern for the entire series. Still... that's probably a huge stride for Korea, right?
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harmonyfb
June 26, 2015 at 5:45 PM
That's mostly how I watched "The Lover", too. ::laugh:: I was a little disappointed in their ending, but I guess Korean television isn't quite ready for the cozy domestic ending that we should have gotten.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 6:42 PM
I watched it all but I was certainly partial to our 'bromance'. However that holding pattern you mentioned got really annoying. Still props to them not having another 'fake gay' moment. I knew just based on the show overall that they wouldn't go far with it, so I'm just happy that they went with it. While they liked to push sex jokes and whatnot, it wasn't really a show that was pushing boundaries on anything. Besides considering the backlash Seonam Detectives got for actually having a kiss scene, I think it will sadly be a while before anything is really going to go beyond this level.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 6:51 AM
Dad in I Remember You needed a fuller life. All work and no play makes forensic profiler dad lose all sense of balance. The man needed a best friend or a wife to help relieve his fears.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:19 AM
That father!!! I can't even.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:21 AM
Yeah, the father was very frustrating. He was definitely too consumed by the world of his work. Not only was his young son taking care of him but his mind was already starting to have tunnel vision.
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Lin_K
June 26, 2015 at 10:19 PM
I also am really enjoying I Remember You. "I like the premise of playing with the idea of people becoming what others treat them as." - Me too. I don't remember seeing a drama that explored this theory; so this is gonna be something different and new. Excited! Also love the leads.
I LOVE Arang and the Magistrate so much!!!! I still go back and re-watch sometimes. It doesn't have any plot holes, which impressed me. Great writing, acting, bgm, and action :) Lee Jun Ki, Shin Min Ah, and Hwang Bo Ra are great too!
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Beng
June 30, 2015 at 10:32 AM
MY BEAUTIFUL BRIDE is just Daebak!!!! I've never been so excited in a drama. And the lead actor is perfect for the role, Kim Moo Yul is simply great! I'm in love now =)
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2 yayabean
June 26, 2015 at 6:19 AM
Happy Friday, beanies.
I liked Kang So-ra so much in Warm and Cozy that i finally decided to watch Misaeng. I know, I know! What took me so long?! I'm really enjoying it.
Since Warm and Cozy is definitely not one of the Hoang sisters best drama, can you beanies suggest some of their best work for me to watch?
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gadis
June 26, 2015 at 6:33 AM
Personally, My Girlfriend is a gumiho is my favorite piece. Shin Mina and Seunggi is so cute and heartwarming together. Or you can try Best Love to watch Cha Seungwoon being a jerk as a first rate actor. It's also good but sometimes a little over-the-top.
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oftheshore
June 26, 2015 at 6:35 AM
In terms of laughs and hilariousness of second female leads female, nothing really beats You're Beautiful for me. Best Love is also really funny, if you're after humour.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 6:45 AM
yaya -
Try Best Love (also known as The Greatest Love). It's fantastic. It also has one of the best 2nd male leads to appear in a drama.
Check it out and see what you think!
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:29 AM
I really need to watch Misaeng as well. So many good reviews and it's bound to be better than most things I'm currently trying.
I know it gets mixed reviews but I really loved Master's Sun. It was one if the first kdramas I saw but it really stuck with me. At first I was non-plussed by the Candy heroine but then I realized how much they were playing with that trope. I dunno - I found it fun and like the actors.
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yayabean
June 26, 2015 at 9:14 AM
@4D
Give Misaeng a try, especially if the dramas you are currently watching are below average. I started watching it last Friday and I got hooked with the 1st episode. You can’t help but care for the main character. I’m not too far along, barely in episode 6.
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pogo
June 26, 2015 at 8:38 AM
The Hong sisters' dramas are very flawed, but the area where they really excel is in choosing their leads and showing off their chemistry (they got the first part right in W&C, sadly they are playing push-and-pull with the second!)
So for Hong sisters recs considering those two factors, the best is Master's Sun (So Ji-sub and Gong Hyo-jin had fabulous and sexy chemistry, even if the skinship was chaste the innuendo and their gazes were so not chaste lol).
Also My Girl, if you don't mind the dated look of the clothes and hairstyles.
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 8:56 AM
I liked Masters Sun quite well, but I wasnt very much a fan of SJS. Now greatest Love however... Chajumma was so friggin hot I sat there watching and the chair caught fire.
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pogo
June 26, 2015 at 9:13 AM
SJS was not an actor I ever pictured in a comedy, but he did a champion job of using his finely-honed melo leading-man skills to show a new side of himself in MS.
Any actor of his stature who allows the drama to make a visual joke of him the way Master's Sun did with his fussy pastel suits and equally fussy hair, is worth watching - I'm always a sucker for when actors chuck their image aside and go for it, and he really did. (same goes for Cha Seung-won as Dokko Jin).
I used to wish Lee Jun-ki would do a romcom with the Hong sisters again, but I cannot risk oppa getting saddled with another Warm & Cozy. Or even worse, Big!
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:28 AM
yeah wel SJS was good in acting but he just left me cold, in general.
Lin_K
June 26, 2015 at 10:22 PM
I also want to see Lee Jun Ki in a romcom. He said in an interview that he chooses projects where he can show his acting skills. Maybe he considers romcoms to be easy; that's why he is not doing one?
kalel
June 26, 2015 at 12:04 PM
+1, @redfox!
I do like SJS in almost anything but my very first love -plus unforgettable, korean style lol- will always be my Dokko Jin! My very first kdrama...my chair was on fire, too. Hottie+endless laughing---> LOVE4EVER ;-)
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Lin_K
June 26, 2015 at 10:29 PM
For me, the best Hong sisters' drama is Best Love. It was hilarious, and I loved the leads together. I really liked My Girlfriend is a Gumiho and Master's Sun as well. In MS though, I was invested more in Kang Candy and Little Sun than the main couple.
I don't want to watch My Girl coz Lee Jun Ki is the second lead in it. It will be too much to see him crying for a girl. Lol.
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pogo
June 27, 2015 at 4:16 AM
lol My Girl was actually the drama that introduced me to Lee Jun-ki and Second Lead Syndrome.
I can deal with him crying for a girl as long as I get to think 'here oppa, I'LL appreciate you even if she doesn't!' lol.
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Lin_K
June 29, 2015 at 3:06 PM
Haha.
pogo
June 26, 2015 at 8:40 AM
also, Misaeng is FANTASTIC, and the closest to flawless a drama has ever got imo.
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Narina
June 26, 2015 at 9:06 AM
My Girlfriend is a Gumiho is my most fav Hong Sisters drama.I became a fan of both LSG and SMA after this one.
You Are Beautiful and Master's Sun are very fun too.
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yayabean
June 26, 2015 at 9:10 AM
That’s right – Greatest Love is from the Hong sisters! That’s one of my favorite dramas; thank you beanies for your prompt replies. I will proceed with your suggestions.
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TAZ-mania
June 26, 2015 at 9:19 AM
My favorite of the Hong Sisters dramas is You're Beautiful, followed by My Girlfriend is a Gumiho (although I thought this drama started off slow but got much better as it went along), then Best Love/Greatest Love and Master's Sun (but this one more for the leads chemistry than the plot, but this does have the best second female lead of any Hong Sisters drama).
But whatever you do avoid Big - truly a disaster. I also didn't like Delightful Girl Choon Hyang (mostly because it featured "the H in love with OW" trope which is one of my least favorite tropes).
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okiejune
June 26, 2015 at 1:06 PM
Yup, me too - I'm finally (gradually) watching Misaeng, to see more of Kang So-ra and Byun Yo-han both!
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3 isnin
June 26, 2015 at 6:22 AM
Currently watching :
Orange Marmalade (Argghh, the pain of waiting for 1 episode per week!)
I Remember You
I like Jang Na Ra but not as keen on Seo In Gook.
SIG's character seems too Sherlock-esque
I am absolutely gobsmacked by D.O.'s acting so far.
Dude is creeeeeepy!
High Society
I'm only watching it for Park Hung Sik's hair.
Hidden Identity sucked me in even though I am not a fan of this genre normally.
Not watching Warm & Cozy. Blegh
Totally watching The Lover -OMFG That show is so funny I actually go back and watch it again to see the reaction comments. so. much. fun!
Also watching Hwang Jin Yi- not sure why I didn't watch it the first time around. Love Ha Ji Won...I am now at the end of Jang Keun Suk's role. I've already used quite a few tissues...should I buy more?
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4 gadis
June 26, 2015 at 6:27 AM
Happy OT beanies.. ;-)
-CRIME SCENE S2: Bravo, show. I was expecting some twist for the last eps, but that thing you pull at the last minute is simply brilliant. So the casts found the victim slumped over his desk on his own pool of blood with stabbing wound on his neck, then they found out that the weapon is this giant clock's hand, and they succesfully arrested the criminal... Only to find out that the victim's cause of death is not excessive blood loss, but asphixia. Haha, that's one way to make your casts went riot when you insisted that the case ain't over and they got extra 1 hour to arrested the right criminal when it's freaking 5 a.m. And you even going as far as providing new site to investigate through. Thumbs up. Can't wait how they will played this out next week.
-PUNCH: Finishing this and it's really amazing, I can't praise it high enough. It's definitely one of the best drama I've ever watched. I love how everyone painted in a different shades of grey, how every situation can be peeled like onion and there is always something more behind all those layers, that there are always power shifts, that there is nothing certain about who will win this ultimate battle, and how every woman in this drama is actually a living character that can think and act, not just some unnecessary accessory. And the ending is surely brilliant and satisfying. Bravo, Punch. You are such a rarity.
-MASK: I was really frustrated with Jisook being meek and weak in front of everyone. She should just come clean with Minwoo about her identity when he already told her about his biggest secret so they can defeat Seokhoon together. Especially now that the crazy machinations is back in full swing. Please writer-nim, don't drag the misunderstanding unnecessarily. And please, let Jisook being a smart and resourceful woman we know in the earlier eps again.
-HIDDEN IDENTITY: Oooh, this show makes me giddy. It's slick and cool. Glad that all the police seems capable so far. I'm really invested on Geonwoo and Taein's relationship since they seem still have so many brotherly love left after whatever terrible things that happen back then.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 6:48 AM
gadis -
Punch! ..... So great, right?
Glad to hear you enjoyed it. It's certainly one of the best this year.
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Jon G.
June 26, 2015 at 6:51 AM
Mask
Yes, it's kind of strange how Ji-sook went in an instant from a rather interesting character in the pilot episodes to a apathetic bystander for almost a month now.
It seems, however, that the show is going to start its plot any minute now. I mean, it's only episode 10.
Punch
I agree that Punch was a very well done show ... for the first half. Sadly, like so many other shows, it had enough plot for about 10 to 12 hours and that got stretched and padded to a 19 episode drama. Midway through, the same plot points got repeated over and over again. For me, it got very boring at that point (and the ending was dull to me, as it was foreshadowed so heavily and so many times before).
However, I agree that it had some potentially very strong characters, some of them female.
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ktiep
June 26, 2015 at 7:21 AM
You're still watching Mask, Jon?I thought you were so disgusted, you gave up.
It did seem in episode 10 that she was about to get some traction and start setting up her revenge. Perhaps that was her strategy all along. Convince them that I'm weak and then come out like the lioness that I am.
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Jon G.
June 26, 2015 at 9:37 AM
I wasn't disgusted, actually. There wasn't enough of anything to be disgusted. Watching a fly hitting the window glass over and over again can be reassuring, because you know you can do whatever you want and come back anytime, the fly will still be hitting the window.
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Alessar
June 26, 2015 at 11:33 AM
Yeah the latest way she was played by Vampire Prosecutor seems to have flipped her ON switch back to the active position.
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hyemin
June 26, 2015 at 7:07 AM
Oh yeah Punch! It's kinda underrated but it's the best drama I've ever watched this year for now. Really thrilling and tearjerking in some parts. It's writer got an award at the Baeksang Awards btw. Well-deserved.
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hyemin
June 26, 2015 at 7:07 AM
*Its
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kalel
June 26, 2015 at 12:17 PM
@hyemin,I totally agree!
Punch had two of the best korean actors, each coming from a different generation but with the same artistic point of view. Especially JJH has a very long resume that includes several critically acclaimed films worldwide. And the writer's previous project was Empire of Gold. Not everyone's cup of tea, I might add...:-)
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5 fantasy
June 26, 2015 at 6:27 AM
DB is recaping all the dramas that I am watching now. But there is not a single one that makes me wait for it's next episode *sigh* ... I was enjoying Mask but suddenly it's plot holes are becoming so evident that I am starting losing interest. But I am happy I have at least one drama for each day of a week :) .... I am now waiting for In Time with You.
And also waiting for the subs of My Beautiful Bride. I couldn't try it because of subs
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gadis
June 26, 2015 at 6:36 AM
Ooh.. Yes for My Beautiful Bride. Can't wait the subs so I can watch it. Seems like DB won't recapping this one.
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fantasy
June 26, 2015 at 6:39 AM
They are already recaping so many dramas, HS, IRY, WAC,Mask, Masked Prosecutor, Producer, HI etc
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:14 AM
Yes and sadly with schedule clashes, they had to drop Masked Prosecutor. But it's still some 6 shows to recap, plus Running Man and DB gives us lots of articles in between. :)
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6 korfan
June 26, 2015 at 6:34 AM
Hi Everyone!
I hope you are all doing well today.
Glad to be here after missing last week. Experienced a horrible, summertime flu/cold. I felt really sick for a couple of days, but thank goodness I'm feeling a whole lot better! ....... I got behind a little bit on the drama-watching, but I'm catching up!
Watched this week:
Angry Mom - Finally finished this. It was good from beginning to end. Will certainly miss Go Bok-dong.
Hwajeong - Loving Cha Seung-won as the king.
Mask - Just started this and I've watched the first 4 episodes! ....... Oh my goodness, I'm so going to enjoy this one!
Divorce Lawyer In Love - It's cutesy, it's light. Just right for summer watching. ....... That new cheater divorce case with the "Korean Casanova", wow, what a disrespectful jerk!!
Masked Prosecutor - Decided to give it a chance and checked this out. Unfortunately, we didn't click right now, so the viewing lasted no more than 10 minutes. Don't think I'll be watching this at this time.
That's it for now. ....... Take care everyone and have a great Friday!
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gadis
June 26, 2015 at 6:46 AM
Glad that you feel better now.. :-)
Angry Mom is such a gem, I never expected it to be that good. But it delivers real well and Bokdongiee.. That was seriously a beautiful one-side love ever (after Jung Ilwoo in Unstoppable High Kick). It's a pity that School 2015 can't live up to it's expectation.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 6:50 AM
gadis -
Thanks!
Regarding Angry Mom, exactly! I also didn't expect it to be as fantastic as it was, filled with interesting characters. I'm glad I watched it.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 6:53 AM
Masked Prosecutor is a muddle.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 7:14 AM
Carole -
I believe you. From the 10 minutes I saw, I can see that being the case unfortunately.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 7:33 AM
It's one of the dramas where I think the Big Bad should've been the main character.
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Alessar
June 26, 2015 at 11:35 AM
Can you imagine the show if they hadn't switched second male lead at the last minute? It was originally the actor who was the male lead on Surplus Princess (the hapless art student). Instead, we got the evil dude from Ghost. I just cannot imagine him pulling it off. I am now suspicious that the "sudden illness" that made him drop out was an excuse to recast and save face for him. Don't get me wrong, I think he's a cool guy I just doubt he's at the level necessary for such a nuanced part.
kalel
June 26, 2015 at 12:34 PM
Dear @Alessar, I think you are a bit confused. The "bad guy" in MP is the second male lead in Scent of A Woman. Many of us here have been waiting his reunion with KSA after that painful drama. Plus his level of acting has nothing to do with OJW's.
Don't get me wrong, I've watched practically every project of his (even a 50-ep. week-end makjang) but fair is fair...UKJ is a far better and versatile actor with theatre experience as well. So I seriously doubt the role went downhill when he was cast. It could very well be the opposite.
Of course, I completely understand anyone's personal taste :-). My life's motto is "de gustibus et coloribus..." for that matter!
redfox
June 26, 2015 at 8:57 AM
ah that is sad to hear. I would have enjoyed another campy adventure after KMHM. But I guess you cannot step twice into the same river
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:43 AM
Sorry to hear you were sick but glad you're on the mend!
CSW really is amazing in Hwajung. He gives him so much depth and nuance and you can really see al the mental debates going on in his mind. Love him. Stupid Injo.
Angry Mom is definitely on my list of shows to watch.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 8:06 AM
4D -
Yes, CSW is quite good in this role! You can see that certain decisions, or rather many decisions, weigh heavily on the king. ..... I'm not on the Injo part yet ..... I'm only up to ep 10 or so
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 8:11 AM
He's only just shown up. I'm just getting a jump start on my dislike of him because of history.
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fanwho
June 26, 2015 at 10:52 AM
+1 on CSW. I love the way they portraryed GwangHae in Hwajung. I heard EP.28 is when he leaves (and Injo/Kim JaeWon takes over. Yes Stupid Injo).
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 6:43 PM
Ah, that doesn't feel like many more episodes!! Sigh.
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owl
June 26, 2015 at 9:20 AM
Hi Korfan,
ewww, summer cold/flu, the woist. ! Feel better!
I had to laugh that out of your list of 5 kdramas, I'm not watching even one! Goes to show how kdrama tastes and watching lists can be so different at the same time.
The Lover
Miss Understanding and Sir Cumference (aka Warm & Cozy)
Orange Marmalade
High Society (I am extremely sick of UEE's family and the 2nd lead female character)
Hello Monster (my fav of the list)
rewatching Secret Garden and Love Rain
thank goodness there's enoough for all to go around!
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
June 26, 2015 at 1:29 PM
Love Rain is better on second watch, because you can FF thru the whole adult drama to focus on the young kids romance. Sparkly snow! Hot springs! Ah ... now I want to go watch it again.
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owl
June 26, 2015 at 3:44 PM
Diamond Snow!
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korfan
June 27, 2015 at 12:46 AM
owl -
Thanks! I am feeling much better today after the awful week I had.
Ha! I know! Everyone's lists are so different. But that's what's so fascinating. ....... We all have different things that capture our attention, yet our love of drama-watching is what brings us together to share, both our good/bad experiences and our observations. ....... Sometimes our respective lists "match up" while other times they don't. But that's ok. ....... There is indeed something for everyone! Yay! :)
I'm looking forward to Hello Monster, but I'm going to have to finish one or two of the ones I'm watching now first. There are only so many hours in a day!
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7 growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 6:35 AM
Happy Friday and OT and Weekend Everyone!!!
I'm so excited (I know it's silly) by the prospect of our virtual party for Ji Chang Wook's birthday next weekend with our fan-made Healer Kdrama Awards ... especially when I saw this cool page. Click and have fun on it by suggesting what you'd like for the party and of course you're invited to come to the party too!!!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qFeRjvV5I1FCUyR2sKQ9NJK4Ia2jBrKVlSzTQIKoKKo/viewform
Enjoy!
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 6:40 AM
Oh yes... the party is on the DB Healer Thread episode 20 - the last page (currently it's page 31 and counting)
And if you missed the link to the fun poll for the Healer Kdrama Awards, it's still on until the 4th July. The link is:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1DRKl7PBJqamTAJvwskoHTDr-tMoJ9oHrdjaHhxK4wPA/viewform?usp=send_form
:)
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fantasy
June 26, 2015 at 7:09 AM
@GB
By the way Favourite Life Ruining Moment????? Seriously???? How could someone choose???? Not Fair :(
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:32 AM
LOL!! We even have a whole bunch of other Free Votes on the DB Healer Thread. On page 31 they are all collated, so you can vote there as well and they are just as challenging as the most life ruining moment. I wonder where the favorite lip licking moment vote is... maybe there too ... :)
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Alessar
June 26, 2015 at 11:41 AM
That is so awesome. Healer was such an amazing show I imported a copy of the soundtrack from Korea so I'd have a physical object to hold on to.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 6:39 PM
LOL! Alessar. I'm hoping the DVD gets delivered in July like they promised!!! :)
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fantasy
June 26, 2015 at 6:44 AM
I finished poll :) waiting for the party :)
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8 CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 6:43 AM
Hi all
Hoping everyone is well.
Hard to believe that in two weeks we’ll have been in Albany for a year. Time flies!
Dramas:
High Society: Am hooked on this one. I had assumed this would be all high concept cheesy but the writer is doing a good job so far. The story might get messy at times but the characters are so well-made (all the characters) that right now the story seems to be flowing from character motivations rather than writerly plotting. Love Joon-ki’s mom, the Chairman, and the mistress/concubine especially. They seemed really horrible to begin with but now we see there’s more to them than bad manners and an inability to grieve about a dead chaebol son. And am totally loving that everyone in the drama seems to be “learning” something. Learning how to be unrepressed and violent after being a perfect chaebol wife all these years. Learning how to be “soft” if one is to be kept as a concubine. Love both of the romantic couples.
Mask: Oh my! This drama. Hadn’t realized how much I wanted a makjang! Big Bad Villain is so ruthless. So glad she developed a backbone AT LAST.
House of Bluebird: I had stopped watching this because the villain was so mean-spirited and cruel in such a visceral and sneaky way. I just couldn’t take it. But it kept whispering to me and I couldn’t shake it. So I watched episode 32 and yep I’m pulled in again. This is one villain I want to go down to the pit of hell.
I Remember You: I have a lot of hope for this. I like the way the writer takes us along with the clues. The possible romance doesn’t feel necessary but since it’s gonna exist no matter what, we’ll just have to suck up and accept it. There are some great feels in this drama, espec in the backstory. The darker scenes have more heart than the romance so am hoping for more heart in the present. And loved it when serial killer called up. Wondering if serial killer is working with hero’s “missing” brother. Or if missing brother was adopted by good parents and is now an investigator. Which would be best because if the story is about nature versus nurture and “the critical moment” when nurture affects nature..then we should see that becoming a serial killer isn’t one’s only option if one is a child genius who paints odd paintings.
Hidden Identity: Remembered once again why I dislike action spy/thrillers. I don’t mind unbelievable. I mind unbelievable when the main characters are supposed to be super-great. Events, timing, etc falling into place to help them in EVERY situation is just hard to accept.
Masked Prosecutor: I keep fast-forwarding because I want to see what happens when Prosecutor Kang realizes he has a brother. That is the main reason why I’m watching. Writer should’ve worked more of that into the story.
Producers Loved Cindy and felt sorry for her but wow, has there ever been a more self-involved “lover” in k-drama? I understand that the writer showed her as caring for the little starlets, and that she became famous as a child...
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:53 AM
I keep debating whether or not I should try high society. I feel like response is very mixed.
I'm really enjoying I Remember You. It makes me sad that it had like half the viewers as the other shows in that time slot. I suppose the romance is unnecessary but I think it has the potential to be a lot if fun...so long as they keep this a fusion drama and don't ignore the other story elements.
I am watching Hidden Identity, but it is one of my genres. I don't think things are working too perfectly since I don't think one plan has actually gone correctly lol. Bit I also think this show isn't the best example of its genre....the writing is a bit weak.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 9:32 AM
Give High Society a chance. it's one of the sole primarily love story on right now. We need rom-com sans Eun Dong angst.
still watching Hidden Identity but convenient plotting makes it hard to believe the team is great.
I Remember You invites us to solve the crime along with the heroes. Hidden Identity wants to save credit for itself. So it's hard to follow.
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4D
June 30, 2015 at 1:17 PM
I almost started High Society and then I realized how many shows started this week or in the upcoming week. I think I'll just add it to my watch later list and keep an eye reviews. I do love a good rom-com.
I'm not entirely sure Hidden Identity knows what it's doing to be honest. I mean, I like the way it's show but I've lost some faith in it.
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:00 AM
I meant to watch Bluebirds house bc of my deep crush on Lee Joon Hyuk but started watching King of Mask singer instead and even though it has no subs, I am so hooked, I don´t think I´ll be watching much else. yes, all the songs sound the same in Korea, but the voices, the guessing, the fun, it is so great
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:17 AM
btw, does anyone know where more than 2 ep are subbed of King Of Masked Singer? It is so confusing to try find my way through youtube clips or the viki ones. and they don´t all have subs. Some have them only in spanish.
I think it is such a great show. in Estonia all singers can do what they want we dont have that kind of industry, but we have a show where 8 singers interpret each others songs every week trying out styles they never tried before and it is pretty challenging. search "Laula mu laulu" if you want to hear some
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fanwho
June 26, 2015 at 10:54 AM
I enjoy King of Mask singer too (sorry, I don't know who has the subs after ep2). I was shocked for all those idol singers' skills - Big yay for Jung EunJi (they assumed she must be in her 30-40's because singing had such a deep emotions)- just amazing, and loved Tae-gwang/SungJae.
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fanwho
June 28, 2015 at 6:03 PM
I might add some summary in dramacool for this show.
elric
June 26, 2015 at 9:20 AM
I'm going with little brother is the killer and his partner in the police is the team leader hahahaha
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 9:26 AM
bro angst like in Pinocchio?
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elric
June 26, 2015 at 10:00 AM
He felt his father was neglecting him and was more focus on Hyun, still theories though.
But you're theory is interesting. Maybe little brother doesn't want his hands to get dirty and just supply the paintings hahaha
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:43 AM
maybe it is all in their heads? that´s a popular assumption lately. "oh I have a theory: he is imagining it!" I have heard that more than 10 times lately about dramas, films or books
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
June 26, 2015 at 1:27 PM
Carole, glad to see you are in full swing with your Korean dramas. I felt like I hadn't prepared well enough for our lunch when I wasn't up on the latest dramas. However, I so enjoyed meeting you in person.
If you like, perhaps I can take you over to the Grafton Peach Pagoda. It is a beautiful and spiritual place. I think you would like it.
Hope you are well! Best wishes to your family. Gosh, it took me a whole year to make the journey over the mountain to Albany for a visit. How did the Korean cooking turn out? My aunt asked me to make her ramen on my next visit.
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9 CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 6:44 AM
oops...
as a child so she never had a chance to grow out of that narcissist solipsistic cognitive phase but really??? If she truly loves someone, she should worry about how HIS day was, what concerns were on HIS mind, but everything was about her and her feelings and I just kept shaking my head hoping she would realize that other people actually have existences and hearts and troubles. Poor oppa manager. I suppose the ending was okay and realistic. People don’t go through major changes within the space of six months. At least not all people. So..increments….
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 7:02 AM
Carole -
Mask! Oh my goodness, the Big Bad! ..... I'm up to ep 4 and I'm just loving his scenes. ..... The actor seems to be totally into playing that character.
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windsun33
June 26, 2015 at 7:50 AM
Still liking Mask, but you can probably fast forward most of ep 8 and 9 and not miss anything. It starts picking up again in ep10.
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pogo
June 26, 2015 at 8:49 AM
Honestly, Cindy in Producer has been raised since early adolescence in a highly dysfunctional hothouse of an environment where on one hand, she came first at all times but the pressures on her were massive and she was treated as a product and an image/star, rather than a person.
Add to that the weight of guilt over her parents' deaths (again, the loss of an influence that could have led to the injection of some normalcy in her life), are we surprised she is self-centred? How could she be otherwise? And she's not without consideration for others, when it counts - she was the one to instantly realise Ye-jin (whom she knew by then was Seung-chan's crush) was being harassed by her fans because of her injury, and SHE took the initiative to take the selca and post it online with a friendly message, to get people to back off Ye-jin.
This kind of reminds me of criticism of the mermaid from Surplus Princess.....another girl who was raised away from human beings or even other people like her, and has no real concept of how normal people behave. Of course they're going to be clueless and a bit selfish, even in love - they simply didn't know any other way.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 9:38 AM
That's exactly what I said, isn't it?
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pogo
June 26, 2015 at 10:05 AM
not really, Carole. You said something to the effect of you understand that she became the way she was as a child star, but I don't think you quite did.
You're expecting her to behave like a normal, somewhat well-adjusted person (worrying about Seung-chan's day etc) when absolutely nothing in her environment post-puberty has ever supported that. She has been the centre of her own world for such a long time, and everyone in her team has supported that view for so long, that caring about others isn't really her priority any more - and that goes for her+Seung-chan too.
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10 john
June 26, 2015 at 6:45 AM
Summer ! Weeks of hot weather and thunderstorms.
My birthday on Sunday, and my granddaughter's birthday today, (2).
Not watching much, Hwajung (behind this weeks eps), Sound of the Desert and Cruel City.
Waiting on subs for Queen Insoo.
Cruel City is pretty good as far as cop dramas go.
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gadis
June 26, 2015 at 7:02 AM
Glad you enjoying Cruel City. Doctor's Son is the definitely one of the greatest character I've ever seen in kdramaland.
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Gladys
June 26, 2015 at 11:06 AM
I second that !!!!
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AJK
June 26, 2015 at 12:06 PM
If only this great character had not been saddled with the lamest of love interests.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 7:07 AM
John -
Wishing your granddaughter a wonderful birthday today and wishing you a great one on Sunday!
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:08 AM
Happy Birthday, John!
If you like crime/cop shows, have you watched Bad Guys? and Missing Noir M? Good stuff.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 7:58 AM
Happy birthday!!
Always nice to see people are sticking with Hwajung (or maybe I'm just in awe since this is the first time I've tackled a kdrama this big).
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:44 AM
Palju õnne sünnipäevaks! - that is Happy Birthday in estonian. And no, it aint unpronouncable
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spazmo
June 26, 2015 at 10:37 AM
happy birthday to your granddaughter and to you, too, john!
are you not watching Tennou no Ryoriban? it's quite interesting, i like the characters and the story is true?
Kokoro ga Pokkito ne was cute and goofy - i liked all the actors, yamaguchi tomoko being my favorite since Long Vacation... it was interesting to watch G-Dragon's (big bang) girlfriend, mizuhara kiko...
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owl
June 26, 2015 at 11:23 AM
Celebrate big! Cruel City gets better every time I rewatching it. Soo!~*
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revlow
June 26, 2015 at 11:48 AM
Happy Birthday to you and your granddaughter!
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juniper
June 26, 2015 at 8:59 PM
I'm so excited Viki picked up Queen In-soo--I've been wanting to watch it since it came out, so it's like Christmas morning in dramaland for me. I think I'm going to sit back and wait for them to finish this time around, though. Hope you're enjoying it. :)
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11 michyeosseo
June 26, 2015 at 6:58 AM
Happy Friday~ Jet lag aside, it's a wonder I've managed to start two new shows and a movie since yesterday hehe
Hwajung - I had nothing currently airing after School 2015, Ex-Girlfriends' Club and Producer ended so I went back to my first love: sageuks. Marathon-ed it but frankly, I'm hooked from E01. Naturally rooting for Jeongmyeong and Queen Inmok but Gwanghae makes me so conflicted. He's not straight up good but also not completely incapable of evil. You just see him wanting to be a wise and competent king although it doesn't help his closest people (Lady Kim Gaeshi especially) does all these unspeakable deeds on a regular basis. Hands down to Gaeshi, in any case, she's awe-inspiring for wielding that amount of power. Injo though, is already hateful from the get go. He crossed the line when he inconsiderately brought up Yeongchang's death in front of the still grieving dowager queen. Wow, just no. He can chop off his head next week, for all I care, and save us from all the damage history tells us he'll do when he gets the throne.
Reset - Maybe it's the withdrawal from Kim Sohyun but 10 episodes of messed up murders and hypnosis shenanigans was not that bad. Especially when her character, coincidentally another Eunbi, a redhaired teenage delinquent ends up with a precious found family after the male protagonist, played by Chun Jung Myung, left her in the care of his co-workers from the prosecutor's office because she looks exactly like his first love who died 15 years ago. I'm pretty sure there were vague one-sided (?) lovelines (Chief Han with Cha Woojin, Inspector Go with Chief Han) but aside from the intense mystery, the three being co-guardians over Eunbi was what kept me tuning in for the next episode.
Mask - I've heard everyone raving about it (and I've read the first db recap on it) so I told myself it wouldn't hurt to try. And boy, it didn't. Sure, all the makjang tropes you could think of are employed and yet, they play it so straight that the crazy's refreshing (yes, over the top, theatrical Evil Ahjussi, I'm looking mostly at you). Oh, let's not forget how awesome it gets when Jisook and Minwoo are acting all dorky and adorably cute. Since Eunha's dead dead, we might as well get Jisook finally taking charge of her own life decisions (and maybe helping her husband not have induced insanity) and I'm so okay with the developments.
Warm and Cozy - I'm currently on E04 but I can see why it's irritating to watch. The male lead's stupidly dense and hugely self-centered (except for fleeting moments of barely okay concern for Jungjoo); the lady he pines on is just, if not more conceited than he is. A little too bland but right now, I'm going to continue because ~Kang Sora~.
Also, revisited an old kdrama I first saw when I was still in elementary: The Legend (2007). I could only vaguely remember the animal guardian spirits magically looming over but what made me go...
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michyeosseo
June 26, 2015 at 7:01 AM
... again through the entirety of it was seeing how Kiha would turn out since she's kind by nature but unwillingly controlled because she's the Phoenix guardian. The side romance of shy but discreetly skilled Dalbi and fierce warrior softie Jumuchi is undeniably the cutest, even the main character played by Bae Yong Joon kept on pushing for them to be together. No wonder they ended up together in real life (I've seen an interview where Shin Eunjung says her husband Park Sung Woong, though known for playing villains, would say "옴마 사랑해" the aegyo way all the time).
And the movie I watched was The Spy: Undercover Operation (2013). I went in without expectations but I left amazed by Moon Sori's comedic timing.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 8:04 AM
Whoa, you marathoned all of Hwajung?! Very impressive. I love Gwanghae. He's very layered and I think he's a good king (which doesn't always equate to a "good" man). As much as this show apparently advertised that he would be an evil character...he's definitely not. I also am liking how they're handling the politics. I'm not experienced with many sageuks but it's easy for me to get lost or overwhelmed with the political intrigue but in this one I feel pretty confident that I understand everything.
I'm on episide 12 of W&C and I'm still getting too irritated by things. I dint even know why I chose to stick with this one. It's certainly not the worst drama but beyond lady diver, I'm not really invested in anyone.
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michyeosseo
June 26, 2015 at 9:16 AM
Maybe being into sageuks really helped. That and I got spoiled that the little prince dies so I just had to go on and watch the next episode to see what's so splendid about that morbid decision. Aghast but yeah, sitting or even the notion or wanting to sit on the throne does things to a person. I hope Cha Seungwon stays until the 30th episode, at least, he's so good in his role. I've done some readings and with the introduction of Neungnyang/Injo, it's sad the coup that will depose Gwanghae is not that far.
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12 growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:03 AM
OK, what I've been watching....
I Remember You/Hello Monster - An intriguing show, well worth the watch. We are getting a good childhood backstory... a little dark because it starts our thinking about whether it is nature or nurture / birth or upbringing/labelling that determines if a person becomes a monster or not. The child actor is so good and of course so is the adult version ie Seo In Gook.
There are side murders and the main mystery(ies) about why Jang Na Ra (Ji An) was stalking the Seo In Gook (Lee Hyun) character, and I hope that there'll be more than just one or two other mysteries/crimes that they will get to solve together.
I've always wanted to watch a show where crime/mystery-cum-romance (with or without the comedy) mash well together and develop both the mystery side of the story and the romance equally well. This one is doing a good job. Even the darker back-story and the lighter modern day story don't seem to clash. The former gives off a creepiness and the other makes me laugh. Yes, intriguing.
Masked Prosecutor - Actually got much better now. However the "getting the bad guys" part of the plot is overshadowing the romance. But the story is holding well together and moving forward.
High Society - This is the other intriguing show I'm watching, not because the story is intriguing, but because I'm trying to decipher what each person is really saying or meaning or believing and I'm trying to gel it with what they are doing. Maybe it's more hard work than it's worth. If I give up thinking too much, I'll just watch for the couples to see if they become mature, grow close or bite the dust.
My Love Eun Dong - It is a bit of a slow, melo, illicit romance triangle kind of story. Sure to be full of angst amidst the romance. I know a lot of people love the Joo Jin Mo smoulder and he does look good with the actress, Kim Sa Rang. I'm just watching it to see how it goes, but am not investing too much into it.
Mask - Still is compelling for the promise of much romance from reluctant quarters and the solution of the complex fraud of passing a 'dead-or-otherwise-to-be-arrested-for-murder' nobody off as a politician's daughter and chaebol wife. I want to see the female lead re-connected with her real family, really in love with her husband and free from the clutches of the delusional bad guy. At the same time (a few of us) want to see the latter fall hard for her and suffer!!! *add maniacal laughter*. Yeah, it's so much fun.
Orange Marmalade - I really wanted to continue with this somehow, but it lost me when Mask and High Society came along and I had to choose. The recaps also did not make it sound too promising. I'll check in on it from time to time.
:)
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 7:41 AM
I wish they'd show Big Bad's love for heroine even more. Everything else he does is so over the top, why not show him falling apart behind walls?
That poor wife of his. Woman, lose your enslavement to love! The guy is using you. Women chaebol heiresses exist ONLY to be used or to be put into advantageous marriages. Why, oh why, did you marry for love?
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 7:51 AM
Yes, I'd like to see Seok Hoon in active pursuit of Ji Sook, and Min Woo shaking off his drugged stupor to fight for her.
I hope Mi Yeon realises that the truly mad person is her husband and not her brother. Poor kid will be heart broken but better sad than sorry or dead.
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windsun33
June 26, 2015 at 8:00 AM
With you on High Society - overall the plot (if there is one) is not making much sense, so I just keep watching it to see if I can make some sense of the motivations of the characters.
I am liking My Love, Eun Dong more than I thought I would. Intrigued by the mystery of how she got from there to here - apparently there were some dirty deeds in the past that are just now coming to light.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 9:09 AM
About My Love, Eun Dong - yes... that adoptive family and that husband seem to be in cahoots to hide her past because of something they've done. Maybe it's nothing more than just deceiving her that her first love was the husband and he's using the guilt-trip tactic to make her stay with him, claiming that she is the reason he's a cripple. (BTW I did not like his character both in Angry Mom and here, but at least here he's more human).
It might be that he is lying, in that he might have caused the accident which robs her of her memory and not that he was trying to protect her or whatever. The preview had shots of her wanting to break up with him, I think. If he had seen her with Hyun Soo that day in the park, he might have tried to run her down and caused the accident. All surmises, but plausible in our kind of makjang show.
Their son too might not be his. I don't normally ship a married woman with another man, but if she has been so deceived, I kind of want her to have the chance to start afresh with the family she was meant to have.
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windsun33
June 26, 2015 at 10:13 AM
Here is my take on My Love so far:
At the time she met her first love she was already engaged to the baseball player, though why is a mystery, unless she had just given up or was pressured by parents.
I suspect she told him she was calling it off, and he got road rage or something and crashed. ** But there is a mystery there also - way back I think in EP1, there was a 10 sec or so clip about her finding out that there was another woman in the car (or a different woman, not sure on the translation).
I am 99% sure the kid is not hers - I suspect it is from his (real?) (ex?) wife or girlfriend. But possible that it is hers, from first love, but the kids age does not quite match up.
So the gist of what I suspect is the he got into a wreck, perhaps with her in his car, or while she was in another car and while his real "wife" was in his car. She got killed, and left a kid. The evil mother and greedy parents agreed to some kind of deal where she would be brainwashed to raise the kid and take care of him.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 6:18 PM
@ windsun33
I do not recall a car scene with another woman... But if that's so, it adds more makjang possibilities. This is one love story where the adage 'true love does not run smooth' is going to be milked to the very last drop !!!
spazmo
June 26, 2015 at 10:18 AM
i think the son is his, she was pregnant when she got into the accident... well, maybe that's how i hope it turns out...
; )
i am loving joo jin mo's expressions, he's so handsome!
interesting how the actor who plays the husband in the wheelchair is also chained up in Hidden Identity...
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windsun33
June 28, 2015 at 8:01 AM
After seeing the last two episodes I am 99% sure that you are correct - the kid is not her husbands.
But there is still the mystery of why did she change her name (or was changed/faked for her).
Aigoooo
June 26, 2015 at 1:09 PM
High Society is an interesting watch because it's like 2 dramas rolled into one. Melo for the main leads and rom-com for the second leads.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 6:15 PM
@ Aigoooo
That's a good way of putting it. I felt the show was jumping around too suddenly from couple to couple, from mother, from mistress, from Ye Won... a bit of a strange salad tossed together but not really complementing the final taste.
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hillarytnt
June 28, 2015 at 12:28 AM
Total speculation again ... so SPOILERS MAYBE
I think with respect to Eun Dong that husband forced her in his car when she went to look for medication for Hyun Soo/Jin Mo and that she was already pregnant.
I think current husband was actually "not" boyfriend but just a friend. I think she told Hyun Soo that she was seeing someone else (current husband) to get Hyun Soo jealous because she thought that he only saw her as a little sister and she wanted to speed up things so that they would get married.
I think that current husband "kidnapped" her and that is when they got in the accident.... the same day she left Hyun Soo to get the medication.
When it was evident that she suffered amnesia and was pregnant, I think that current husband then colluded with parents to tell her a false backstory. The parents (or at least the mother) probably thought that she would have been better off with a baseball player who was being called to the States (not anticipating that he would become paraplegic) than an unemployed actor. And she was pregnant ... so you had the whole child out of wedlock scenario as well. The father probably did it because he gained something with a relationship with the baseball player... He became coach (or is it manager?) because of the relationship with the baseball players.
I hate stories about infidelity ... and normally, I would not watch this show. However, I absolutely think that the parents and the current husband are the bad guys here... they interrupted a fated romance and stole another man's fiance and his child. If they told her and she agreed to marry current husband knowing all the circumstances, then I think they would have a case for her staying at the current husband's side ... you make your bed, you lie in it. But I think they deceived her and would have continued to deceive her if Jin Mo had not found her.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 8:09 AM
I'm so with you on I Remember You! I hope they keep this as a genre fusion and we get both good mysteries and a fun romance. It's only two episodes in but I really like it so far.
Orange: What episode did you stop at? I've kept up mostly because it's only one episide a week. I'm kind if dreading episide 8 - I really don't want it to be like episode 4.
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 9:15 AM
Hi 4D,
I Remember You - yup... fun mysteries and fun romance... my dream fusion show LOL! and now it's even a fusion of dark mystery and light cop show.
Orange Marmalade - I stopped at Ep 6. I was thinking that Jae Min was just going to cause Ma Ri so much trouble by pursuing her. I felt he was an arrogant, selfish brat and would cause her (and probably her family) great pain by his thoughtless interference. I decided I did not want to watch the pain being played out. :) How's it been for you?
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4D
June 30, 2015 at 1:21 PM
I think this Jae Min is actually a lot less selfish than his modern depiction. I'm not having issues with him. I thought this section was only going to be four episodes so I'm surprised and now show how they'll be able to bring this full circle to the present in a satisfactory way. However, if I separate it and just look and the current storyline I like it a lot more than I thought I would. I don't struggle to get through the episodes and it keeps my interests. It's not great in anything though.
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fantasy
June 26, 2015 at 8:24 AM
I think unlike others , enjoying high society the most, characters are really compelling :) ... It needs better better story telling or editing or direction. And yes, I think Uee is not best for this role. Yoon Ha is really not like typical k drama heroines (at least till now)
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growingbeautifully
June 26, 2015 at 9:22 AM
@fantasy
There are quite a few who are enjoying High Society... and lots more enjoying commenting on it LOL! at least it can be fun to praise as well as vent and rant and still be able to watch with some hope for better character growth and enlightenment.
Because the characters like Yoon Ha are quite 'different' in how they are rendered for a kdrama, dissecting them is interesting. By trying to figure out what makes contradictory thinking-acting characters tick, we may see a reflection of ourselves or others we know and come to understand people better. I find it is true that many of us are not necessarily all that consistent in what we think and do and say... I admit to hypocrisy as well ;) So we may fuss about the characters, etc but we may also know that it's possible to be self-delusional, misguided or just naive. :)
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elric
June 26, 2015 at 9:25 AM
Hopefully the writer of I Remember You doesn't give us too many mysteries that it will become one giant mess. But definitely agree on how the genres are will put together. Hoping for the best!
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13 Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 7:09 AM
Hello Beanies. I'm asking for a little help.
I am currently working on a K-Drama cartoon and I'm in the process of casting my actors and actresses. The (working) title is Convenience Store Clerk Vampire. The premise is that a young vampire works nights as a “P-Mart” store clerk.
A young woman has a crush on him and finds all sorts of excuses to come visit with him.
I think I want Lee Jong-Seok as my male lead. (He's always looked a little vampire-ish to me.) For my female lead I have to have a young actress who can play older than her actual age, because she has to look 18, but really be 26. I'm thinking about Ha Yeon So. (Mostly because she acted so mature when she did the radish kiss game with Kim Jong Kook on Running Man.)
But I'm open for suggestions. I also need other cast members. I am going to have cameo roles, where the clerk solves the problems of the people she brings in to see him. (He solves them by using his extensive knowledge of K-Dramas—because that is all he does. Work in a convenience store in the dark, sleep and then watch K-Dramas behind black out curtains during the day time.)
If you could cast ANYONE (it doesn't matter if they're currently in the army, I can draw them) in a K-drama, who would you cast?
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Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 7:12 AM
And thank you. I'm on my way to a dr. visit--crossing fingers for luck, hoping my blood tumor markers have gone down this past month--so if anyone replies I won't respond for a couple of hours. Again, thanks.
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korfan
June 26, 2015 at 7:38 AM
Wag_a_Muffin -
Hoping you receive the news you want to hear at the doctor's office today.
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harmonyfb
June 26, 2015 at 7:40 AM
I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. Here's hoping for a return to health.
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CaroleMcDonnell
June 26, 2015 at 9:48 AM
Hoping you're healthier and the doc will say "keep doing what you've been doing. you're doing great!"
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Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 12:26 PM
I just got back. The numbers weren't great. But I feel so good. The doctor looked so guilty when I said, "I'm doing good, right? And he had to say, "no. Your numbers suck." (Well, he actually didn't say that, but it's what I heard. )
However, better to feel healthy and have bad numbers than to feel crumby and have good ones--right?
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Lin_K
June 26, 2015 at 11:45 PM
Hugs to you! May you feel better soon.
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Julia the Berkshire Beanie
June 26, 2015 at 1:35 PM
Wag-a-muffin, sending you lovingkindness thoughts today. May you feel better soon.
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ktiep
June 26, 2015 at 7:34 AM
I hope your blood work comes out great this time. Being healthy is a job!
I vote for Kim Jae Joong for your male lead (since you mentioned the lead could be in the army). He is just so awesome and looks like he could easily pass for a vampire or even a zombie. I bet he'd enjoy reading your cartoon and appreciate that he hadn't been forgotten.
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Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 12:00 PM
Oh, thanks. (I liked him in Protect the Boss.) He was good in Dr. Jin, too. (Even though that drama was so bizarre.) I won't have him do the lead, but I'll definitely let him do a cameo.
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harmonyfb
June 26, 2015 at 7:43 AM
If you could cast ANYONE (it doesn’t matter if they’re currently in the army, I can draw them) in a K-drama, who would you cast?
As a vampire? Song Joong Ki. He looks like a baby (pinches his little-boy cheek) but can act older. He also has kind of an ethereal prettiness to him.
But for the girl - I've always wanted to see non-ethereal vampires. Cast somebody with a little meat on their bones.
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Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 12:06 PM
Thanks for the suggestion. I love Song Joong Ki, but I just had him star as a cop in my "The Amnesia Family" Makjang. (And the girl is not a vampire, but I agree about not wanting an overly dieted actress to play the part.) I know some women are naturally thin, but I'm not fond of societal pressures on woman requiring them to be stick thin.
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4D
June 26, 2015 at 8:17 AM
I'm going to be weird and ignore the lead casting and just say I'd put in Kang Ha Neul as one of the dude characters. Not only is he great in cameos (Missing Noir!), but he can play a nice variety of roles. He also appears more like a person who might actually stroll into a convenience store than a lot of actors his age (I.e. Not a model or flower boy).
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Wag-a-muffin
June 26, 2015 at 12:08 PM
Thanks. (I've liked him since Monstar.) And I agree with everything you said.
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:06 AM
if I could cast them as vampires or in general?
well, let´s see.
Park Ki Woong! ( wwaaaah when is he returning...)
Go Ara
Ninja Teacher
Kim Seul Gi
and it would be an art school premise. each a different field - fashion, theater, blacksmith (Seul gi can be the female blacksmith), and, um... film. it would be through the film girls´ eyes (Go Ara) and it would show one of them stepping on others to get a lead in life, but they come together in the end.
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redfox
June 26, 2015 at 9:07 AM
teacher would be the villainous architect and Ki Woongie would be an eccentric painter who is an undercover installation artist too, making provocative assamblations in city and campus. and he reveals the architects evil scheming through that
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redfox